Dextran/glucan binding by Streptococcus mutans: the role of molecular size and binding site in agglutination.
1) S. mutans strains of serotypes a, d and g were strongly agglutinated with soluble glucans and dextran T2000. Homologous glucan did not in all cases produce agglutination. 2) The quantity of low molecular weight dextrans bound (T20 and T70) does not correspond to the agglutination induced by glucan or T2000. 3) The agglutination and binding of high molecular weight glucan by B13 cells was sensitive to heat, trypsin, dextranase, EDTA, SDS and urea, whereas no inhibition of binding of T20 and T70 was seen. 4) Pretreatment of B13 cells with anti-d, or anti-glucan sera, or Con A, RCA I, or RCA II completely inhibited agglutination by T2000 and caused a significant reduction of the binding of glucan. No reduction in the binding of T20 and T70 occurred. 5) An agglutination-negative mutant was agglutinated by sucrose but not by T2000 or high molecular weight glucan. It bound normal levels of T20 and T70. 6) The results indicate that B13 cells possess multiple glucan binding sites and that the site responsible for agglutination consists of both polysaccharide and protein. 7) Inhibition studies on agglutination and adherence using B13 cells indicate that the two processes involve different mechanisms.


Phencyclidine: effects on motor activity and brain biogenic amines in the guinea pig.
Previous reports suggesting that the behavioral response of the guinea pig to phencyclidine (PCP) administration is more similar to the effects of PCP observed in higher animals than those observed in mice and rats prompted us to investigate the effects of PC on spontaneous motor activity and brain biogenic amine levels in the guinea pig. Doses of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg PCP were found to significantly elevate spontaneous motor activity; however, 7.5 mg/kg PCP produced highly variable results which were not significantly different from control. The concentrations of tryptophan, serotonin, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, and norepinephrine were measured in the forebrain and hindbrain of previously drug naive animals 30 min after administration of 5 mg/kg PCP. As compared to saline injected control animals, PCP was observed to have no effect on any of the neurochemical determinants measured. Contrary to previous reports, these data suggest that PCP produces behavioral effects in the guinea pig which are not unlike those observed in mice and rats. Furthermore, the effects which we report on spontaneous motor activity are not related to changes in the regional concentration of any of the neurochemical variables which were measured.


Retraction Note: Forearm Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
The Editors-in-Chief have retracted this article [1]. Serious concerns have been raised about the data presented [2], and after careful consideration and additional investigation the Editors-in-Chief no longer have confidence in this article.


Characterization of activated sludge abnormalities by image analysis and chemometric techniques.
This work focuses on the use of chemometric techniques for identifying activated sludge process abnormalities. Chemometric methods combined with image analysis can improve activated sludge systems monitoring and minimize the need of analytical measurements. For that purpose data was collected from aggregated and filamentous biomass, biomass composition on Gram-positive/Gram-negative bacteria and viable/damaged bacteria, and operational parameters. Principal component analysis (PCA) was subsequently applied to identify activated sludge abnormalities, allowing the identification of several disturbances, namely filamentous bulking, pinpoint flocs formation, and zoogleal bulking as well as normal conditions by grouping the collected samples in corresponding clusters.


Amnestic MCI future clinical status prediction using baseline MRI features.
Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) individuals are known to be at risk for progression to clinically probable Alzheimer's disease (AD). The objective of this work is to measure the accuracy of an automated classification technique based on clinical-quality, single time-point structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for the retrospective prediction of future clinical status in aMCI. Thirty-one aMCI research subjects were followed with annual clinical reassessment after baseline MRI. Twenty subjects progressed to probable AD within an average 2.2 (1.4) years [mean age 76.6 (4.7) years, MMSE 27.1 (2.3)], while 11 remained non-demented on average 5.6 (2.6) years after baseline [mean age 73.3 (7.2) years, MMSE 28.2 (1.8)]. Leave-one-out classification was performed within a multidimensional MRI feature space built from intensity and local volume estimate data of a reference group of 75 probable AD and 75 age-matched control subjects. Prediction using aMCI data reached 81% accuracy, 70% sensitivity and 100% specificity. This automated and objective method has potential in helping predict future clinical status in aMCI.


Sex differences in factors influencing recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery.
Many factors affect recovery from arthroscopic partial meniscectomy, including patient sex. However, sex differences in time to maximal recovery of knee function and factors influencing differential rates of recovery are unknown. We determined (1) preoperative sex differences, (2) sex differences in rate and extent of recovery through 1 year postoperatively, and (3) clinical and fitness variables that could explain potential sex differences in recovery from partial meniscectomy. The study sample consisted of 180 patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. Sex, age, body mass index, history of prior injury, length of time between knee injury/impairment and surgical evaluation, weekly exercise frequency, and self-reported fitness were assessed preoperatively, and extent of osteoarthritis was recorded postoperatively. We used the Tegner-Lysholm scale to assess knee function preoperatively and postoperatively at weeks 1, 3, 8, 16, 24, and 48 followups. Females had worse knee function and delayed maximal recovery, requiring 1 year, compared with males, who required only 4 months. History of prior knee injury and lower self-reported fitness were associated with slower recovery in females but not in males. Osteoarthritis was associated with slower recovery but not related to sex. Body mass index, length of time between injury/impairment and surgical evaluation, and weekly exercise frequency did not influence rate of recovery. Females have delayed recovery after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. Prior knee injury and self-reported low fitness are associated with delayed recovery for females but not for males.


Review of ecologically relevant in vitro bioassays to supplement current in vivo tests for whole effluent toxicity testing - Part 2: Non-apical endpoints.
Whole effluent toxicity (WET) testing uses whole animal exposures to assess the toxicity of complex mixtures, like wastewater. These assessments typically include four apical endpoints: mortality, growth, development, and reproduction. In the last decade, there has been a shift to alternative methods that align with the 3Rs to replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in research. In vitro bioassays can provide a cost-effective, high-throughput, ethical alternative to in vivo assays. In addition, they can potentially include additional, more sensitive, environmentally relevant endpoints than traditional toxicity tests. However, the ecological relevance of these endpoints must be established before they are adopted into regulatory frameworks. This is Part 2 of a two-part review that aims to identify in vitro bioassays that are linked to ecologically relevant endpoints that could be included in WET testing. Part 2 of this review focuses on non-apical endpoints that should be incorporated into WET testing. In addition to the four apical endpoints addressed in Part 1, this review identified seven additional toxic outcomes: endocrine disruption, xenobiotic metabolism, carcinogenicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity. For each, the response at the molecular or cellular level measured in vitro was linked to the response at the organism level through a toxicity pathway. Literature from 2015 to 2020 was used to identify suitable bioassays that could be incorporated into WET testing.


Synergism effects for Escherichia coli inactivation applying the combined ozone and chlorine disinfection method.
Water disinfection assays were carried out using ozone and chlorine in non-sequential steps--the individual method--and in sequential steps--the combined ozone/chlorine method. Escherichia coli strain ATCC 11229 was used as the indicator microorganism. For the assays using the individual method, the applied dosages of ozone were 2.0, 3.0 and 5.0 mg/L, and 2.0 and 5.0 mg/L of chlorine were used. For the assays applying the combined method, the dosages (dosage combination) were, in mg/L: 2.0 O3 + 2.0 Cl, 3.0 O3 + 2.0 Cl2, 5.0 O3 + 2.0 Cl2 and 2.0 O3 + 5.0 Cl2. The applied contact times were 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes for the individual method as well as for the combined method. For all used dosages and contact times, E. coli inactivation was superior to the inactivation obtained in the individual method, indicating the occurrence of synergism for E. coli inactivation in the combined method.


Design of liquid-crystalline gold nanoparticles by click chemistry.
Mesomorphic alkyne-based first- and second-generation dendrons were grafted onto gold nanoparticles carrying azide groups under click reaction conditions. The nanoparticles decorated with the dendrons displayed liquid-crystalline properties and good thermal stability.


TransTok - An analysis of surgical gender affirmation content on TikTok.
Social media platforms are popular sources of medical information but may harbor harmful misinformation. This study aims to evaluate the effect of TikTok on the transgender population, which may be more likely to seek information from non-traditional sources because of high medical mistrust. Twenty gender affirmation related hashtags were queried, with the top 25 videos per hashtag included for analysis. Videos were categorized based on the content and creator. Variables included likes, comments, shares, and video views. All "educational" videos were analyzed for reliability of information using a modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) score and the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PMAT). Kruskal-Wallis H tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and simple linear regression models were used in analysis. A total of 429 videos amassed 571,434,231 views, 108,050,498 likes, 2,151,572 comments, and 190,9744 shares. Patients were the majority of content creators (74.88%), with patient experiences being the majority of videos (36.07%). Non-physician creators had significantly higher likes and comments when compared to physicians (6185 vs. 1645, p = 0.028; 108 vs. 47, p = 0.016 respectively). Sixty "educational" videos were included in information reliability analysis. There were no significant differences between video characteristics of different content creators, even after stratifying according to physician status. Significant differences were observed in the reliability of information according to PMAT and mDISCERN scores, with physician created videos being significantly higher rated than non-physician created videos (0.90 vs. 0.84, p < 0.001; 3 vs. 2, p < 0.001, respectively). Lower quality information is associated with non-physician content creators. We encourage physicians to be continuously involved in creating quality information on TikTok.


Mechanisms of N-oleoyldopamine activation of central histaminergic neurons.
Histaminergic (HA) neurons located in the tuberomamillary nucleus (TMN) of the posterior hypothalamus fire exclusively during waking and support many physiological functions. We investigated the role of the endovanilloid N-oleoyldopamine (OLDA) in TMN, where dopamine synthesis and its conjugation with oleic acid likely occur. We show that several known targets of OLDA including TRPV1 and cannabinoid receptors are expressed in HA neurons. In contrast to capsaicin, which failed to increase firing of HA neurons in TRPV1 knockout mice (TRPVI KO), OLDA was still able to induce excitation. This excitation was not sensitive to the blockade of cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 and could result from OLDA interaction with GPR119, as the ligand of GPR119, oleoylethanolamide (OEA), also increased the firing of HA neurons. However, we ruled out this possibility as OEA- (but not OLDA-) excitation was abolished by the PPAR (peroxisome proliferator activated receptor) alpha antagonist MK886. The dopamine uptake blocker nomifensine blanked OLDA-excitation and dopamine receptor antagonists abolished the OLDA action in TRPV1 KO mice. Therefore OLDA excites HA neurons through multiple targets suggesting a central role of the histaminergic system in the behavioral stimulation seen after systemic OLDA application.


Hunger and satiety: a multidimensional assessment of responses to caloric loads.
The assessment of hunger in human subjects is complicated by the variety of response systems involved. In the present study, hunger was tracked by subjective, physiological and behavioural responses after identical-tasting high or low calorie preloads. The contribution of nutritional and psychological factors was evaluated by giving half the subjects false information about the caloric content of the preload. Ten women took part, with all subjects participating in each experimental condition and a control condition, in counter-balanced order. The results showed that ratings of hunger symptoms, preferred foods, global hunger and satiety in the inter-meal interval were sensitive both to deprivation effects and to differences in the energy content of the preload. No effects of the psychological manipulation (beliefs about caloric content) were observed. At the test meal two hours later, all the subjective responses converged on a single point and physiological and behavioural responses likewise failed to discriminate the different preload conditions. The results are discussed in terms of a loosely-coupled multidimensional model of hunger.


Stability of fluorinated surfactants in advanced oxidation processes--A follow up of degradation products using flow injection-mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-multiple stage mass spectrometry.
The advanced oxidation process (AOP) reagents ozone (O3), O3/UV, O3/H2O2, and H2O2/Fe2+ (Fenton's reagent) were applied to the anionic and the non-ionic fluorinated surfactants perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and N-ethyl-N-(perfluoroalkyl)-sulfonyl-glycinic acid (HFOSA-glycinic acid) or N-ethyl-N-perfluoroalkyl sulfonylamido-2-ethanol polyethoxylates (NEtFASE-PEG), their methyl ethers (NEtFASE-PEG methyl ether) and partly fluorinated alkyl-ethoxylates (FAEO) dissolved in ultrapure water. To monitor the efficiencies of destruction samples were taken during the treatment period of 120 min. After sample concentration by C18-solid phase extraction (SPE) and desorption MS, coupled with atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation (APCI) or electrospray interface (ESI) was applied for detection. No elimination of PFOS was observed while HFOSA-glycinic acid and AOP treated non-ionic surfactants were eliminated by oxidation. Degradation products could be detected and identified. So PFOS was observed during HFOSA-glycinic acid oxidation. Polyethylene glycols (PEG) and PEG methyl ethers were generated from non-ionic fluorinated surfactants beside their oxidation products--aldehydes and acids--all identified by tandem (MS-MS) or multiple stage mass spectrometry (MSn). AOP treatment of FAEO blend resulted in a mixture of partly fluorinated alcohols, separated and identified using GC-MS.


A Retrospective Analysis of the Effect of Subretinal Hyper-Reflective Material and Other Morphological Features of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration on Visual Acuity Outcomes in Eyes Treated with Intravitreal Aflibercept over One Year.
A retrospective study of 176 treatment-naïve eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) that had undergone intravitreal aflibercept treatment (2.0 mg, 7-8 times over one year) was performed to correlate the effect of aflibercept on the morphological features of nAMD-subretinal hyper-reflective material (SHRM), pigment epithelial detachment (PED), subretinal fluid (SRF), and intraretinal fluid (IRF)-with visual acuity at baseline and at one year. Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline and at one year were obtained. The relationship between visual acuity and the presence of morphological features at baseline and at one year was statistically analysed. The proportion of eyes with PED (p = 0.01), SRF (p ≤ 0.001), and IRF (p ≤ 0.001) reduced at one year. SHRM (p = 0.002) and IRF (p = 0.0001) were associated with poorer baseline BCVA. The presence of SRF at baseline was associated with better baseline BCVA (p = 0.004) and 5.3 letters of improvement of BCVA after one year of treatment (p = 0.0001). For each letter increase in BCVA at baseline, 0.25 fewer letters were gained in BCVA at one year. While aflibercept can improve morphological abnormalities in nAMD, this is not always accompanied by a corresponding improvement in visual acuity.


Corrigendum to "PLOD2 Is a Potent Prognostic Marker and Associates with Immune Infiltration in Cervical Cancer".
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/2021/5512340.].


Phosphorylation of elongation factor 2 in the rat superior cervical ganglion.
Elongation factor 2 (EF-2) and its associated kinase, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase III, have recently been identified as a major protein phosphorylation system in mammalian tissues. We have measured the phosphorylation of EF-2 in 32P-labeled superior cervical ganglia. Phosphorylation of EF-2 was increased by preganglionic stimulation or by treatment of the ganglion with dimethylphenylpiperazinium or veratridine. Increases in EF-2 phosphorylation presumably reflect the activation of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase III by nicotinic stimulation and depolarization. The phosphorylation of EF-2 may help to coordinate neuronal protein synthesis with neuronal activity.


Following the course of pre-implantation embryo patterning by non-linear microscopy.
Embryo patterning is subject to intense investigation. So far only large, microscopically obvious structures like polar body, cleavage furrow, pro-nucleus shape can be evaluated in the intact embryo. Using non-linear microscopic techniques, the present work describes new methodologies to evaluate pre-implantation mouse embryo patterning. Third Harmonic Generation (THG) imaging, by detecting mitochondrial/lipid body structures, could provide valuable and complementary information as to the energetic status of pre-implantation embryos, time evolution of different developmental stages, embryo polarization prior to mitotic division and blastomere equivalence. Quantification of THG imaging detected highest signalling in the 2-cell stage embryos, while evaluating a 12-18% difference between blastomeres at the 8-cell stage embryos. Such a methodology provides novel, non-intrusive imaging assays to follow up intracellular structural patterning associated with the energetic status of a developing embryo, which could be successfully used for embryo selection during the in vitro fertilization process.


[A rare triple combination of mesenteric panniculitis, acute appendicitis and König´s syndrome in a patient operated for acute febrile intestinal obstruction: a case report].
Mesenteric panniculitis is a primary inflammation of the mesentery with variable necrosis, inflammation and fibrosis of the fatty tissue. It can be idiopathic (primary) or secondary (associated) to other diseases, asymptomatic and accidentally discovered or revealed by abdominal pain or complications (intestinal obstruction or peritonitis). We here report the case of a 53-year-old patient, admitted with acute abdominal pain, cessation of the transit of materials and gases, in a febrile context. Patient's history included chronic abdominal pain suggesting König´s syndrome and epigastralgia lasting several years. Physical examination showed sore face and abdominal examination revealed mild bloating, marked tenderness in the right iliac fossa (RIF) and in the periumbilical region, without guarding or rigidity and borygms heard on auscultation and with normal rectal examination. A diagnosis of bowel obstruction and fever was made, with suspicion of meso-celiac appendicitis. Abdominal X-ray without preparation and ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of bowel occlusion. Exploratory laparotomy revealed functional stenosis of the ileum (König´s syndrome) at 1.20m from the ileocecal junction, with multiple adhesions. Adhesiolysis revealed hyperemic appendix measuring 15cm long, whose anatomo pathological examination showed a mucous membrane with inflammatory infiltrate and a wall rich in polynuclear cells. Infiltration of the ileal mesentery causing color change (reddish and greyish in some areas) and small nodosities with friability and tearing on simple handling led to suspicion of mesenteric panniculitis, then confirmed by anatomopathological examination, showing inflammatory reaction in the fatty tissue specimen with infiltration by macrophages, associated with necrotic patches and degeneration. Treatment was based on bowel emptying, anterograde appendectomy, and a combination of corticosteroid (Dexamethasone 24 mg/day) and chymotrypsin (10000 IU/day). The patient´s outcome was good and he was discharged in the 10th postoperative day. The patient underwent clinical and paraclinical follow-up (3 months) for another unknown associated pathology or a pathology that may have occurred early.


The outpatient management of acute hemorrhoidal disease.
A procedure for the outpatient management of acute hemorrhoidal disease is presented. Treatment, using local anesthesia with hyaluronidase, is directed to (1) relieve pain, (2) decrease edema, (3) treat appropriately the internal hemorrhoidal disease, and (4) treat the external thrombosis if present. Adequate treatment of the acute disease will, in a significant proportion of patients, avoid further surgical intervention. Eperience with results of this modality of treatment in patients is presented.


Staged Versus Simultaneous Bilateral Knee Arthroplasty: Does Minimal Cost Difference Justify Risks?
Simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA) is associated with a higher risk but can be perceived to afford faster improvement and mitigated costs versus staged BTKA. We aimed to explore (1) health care utilization, (2) surgical supply costs of simultaneous BTKA; and (3) 1-year improvement in patient-reported pain, function, and quality of life (QOL) versus staged BTKA. A prospective cohort of 198 simultaneous and 625 staged BTKAs was obtained (2016-2020). Simultaneous BTKA cohort was propensity score-matched (1:2) to a similar group of staged patients (simultaneous = 198 versus staged = 396). Outcomes included length of stay, discharge disposition, 90-day readmission, 1-year reoperation, surgical episode supply cost, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)-pain, KOOS-Physical Function Short Form, and KOOS-QOL. Rates of attaining minimal clinically important difference and Patient Acceptable Symptomatic State were calculated. Compared to both staged BTKA surgeries combined, simultaneous BTKA demonstrated shorter median net length of stay (2.00 [2.00, 3.00] days versus 2.00 [2.00, 4.00] days; P < .001) but higher rates of nonhome discharge (n = 56 [28.3%] versus n = 32 [4.04%]; P < .001), 90-day readmission (n = 20 [10.1%] versus n = 48 [6.06%]; P = .047) and similar reoperation rates (P = .44). Simultaneous BTKA afforded slight reduction in net surgical cost compared to that of both staged BTKAs combined ($643; P = .028). There was no significant difference in 1-year improvement and minimal clinically important difference attainment rates with simultaneous versus staged BTKA for KOOS-pain (P = .137 and P = .99), KOOS-QOL (P = .095 and P = .81), or KOOS-Physical Function Short Form (P = .75 and P = .49, respectively) or Patient Acceptable Symptomatic State (P = .12). Staged BTKA is associated with similar 1-year pain, function, and QOL at a better safety profile and minimal surgical supply cost increase compared to simultaneous BTKA.


3-O-acetyloleanolic acid induces apoptosis in human colon carcinoma HCT-116 cells.
The cytotoxic effect of 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid, an oleanolic acid derivative isolated from the seeds of Vigna sinensis K., was investigated in human colon carcinoma HCT-116 cells. 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid dose-dependently inhibited the viability of HCT-116 cells. Apoptosis was characterized by detection of cell surface annexin V and sub-G1 apoptotic cell populations. The number of immunostained cells with annexin V-FITC was increased after treatment with 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid. The sub-G1 cell population was also increased. Expression of TRAIL-mediated apoptosis signaling-related death receptor DR5 was increased in 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid-treated HCT-116 cells. Activation of caspase-8 and caspase-3, critical mediators of extrinsic apoptosis signaling, was also increased by 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid. The results indicate that 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid induces apoptosis in HCT-116 cells mediated by an extrinsic apoptosis signaling cascade via up-regulation of DR5.


Anthrax: Where Margins are Merging between Emerging Threats and Bioterrorism.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has classified all the emerging infectious diseases agents under three categories. Among Category A priority pathogens comes Bacillus anthracis -the causative agent of Anthrax. It is a gram positive spore bearing bacteria, and the disease is typically associated with grazing animals, and affects the people as a zoonosis. The disease can be classically transmitted by three routes namely: cutaneous, gastrointestinal and pulmonary, with a fourth route recently identified as "injection anthrax", seen in intravenous drug abusers. Cutaneous anthrax is the commonest form in humans, accounting for 95% of all the cases. There are two main virulence factors of this bacteria, a capsule and an exotoxin, each carried by a separate toxin. Two models have been used for explaining the pathogenesis of this infection. The earlier one or "Trojan horse" model is now replaced with "jail-break" model. Centers for disease control (CDC) has issued updated guidelines for diagnosis, post-exposure prophylaxis and treatment. For immunization, anthrax vaccine absorbed is available.


Population prevalence, attributable risk, and attributable risk percentage for high methylmalonic acid concentrations in the post-folic acid fortification period in the US.
Serum methylmalonic acid (MMA) is regarded as a sensitive marker of vitamin B-12 status. Elevated circulating MMA is linked to neurological abnormalities. Contribution of age, supplement use, kidney dysfunction, and vitamin B-12 deficiency to high serum MMA in post-folic acid fortification period is unknown. We investigated prevalence, population attributable risk (PAR), and PAR% for high MMA concentrations in the US. Data from 3 cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted in post-folic acid fortification period were used (n = 18569). Likelihood of having high serum MMA for white relative to black was 2.5 (P < 0.0001), ≥ 60 y old persons relative to < 60 y old persons was 4.0 (P < 0.0001), non-supplement users relative to supplement users was 1.8 (P < 0.0001), persons with serum creatinine ≥ 130 μmol/L relative to those with < 130 μmol/L was 12.6 (P < 0.0001), and persons with serum vitamin B-12 < 148 pmol/L relative to those with ≥ 148 pmol/L was 13.5 (P < 0.0001). PAR% for high MMA for old age, vitamin B-12 deficiency, kidney dysfunction, and non-supplement use were 40.5, 16.2, 13.3, and 11.8, respectively. By improving serum vitamin B-12 (≥ 148 pmol/L), prevalence of high MMA would be reduced by 16-18% regardless of kidney dysfunction. Old age is the strongest determinant of PAR for high MMA. About 5 cases of high serum MMA/1000 people would be reduced if vitamin B-12 deficiency (< 148 pmol/L) is eliminated. Large portion of high MMA cases are not attributable to serum vitamin B-12. Thus, caution should be used in attributing high serum MMA to vitamin B-12 deficiency.


Management of complications of distal radius fractures.
Treating a fracture of the distal radius may require the surgeon to make a difficult decision between surgical treatment and nonsurgical management. The use of surgical fixation has recently increased because of complications associated with conservative treatment. However, conservative action may be necessary depending on certain patient factors. The treating surgeon must be aware of the possible complications associated with distal radius fracture treatments to prevent their occurrence. Prevention can be achieved with a proper understanding of the mechanism of these complications. This article discusses the most recent evidence on how to manage and prevent complications following a fracture of the distal radius.


The role of family history of cancer on cervical cancer screening behavior in a population-based survey of women in the Southeastern United States.
Our objective was to determine the association of self-reported family history of cancer (FHC) on cervical cancer screening to inform a potential link with cancer preventive behaviors in a region with persistent cancer disparities. Self-reported FHC, Pap test behavior, and access to care were measured in a statewide population-based survey of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer (n = 918). Random-digit dial, computer-assisted telephone interviews were used to contact eligible respondents (adult [ages 18-70] women in South Carolina with landline telephones]. Logistic regression models were estimated using STATA 12. Although FHC+ was not predictive (odds ratio [OR], 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55-2.51), private health insurance (OR, 2.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-4.81) and younger age (18-30 years: OR, 7.76; 95% CI, 1.91, 3.16) were associated with recent Pap test behavior. FHC and cervical cancer screening associations were not detected in the sample. Findings suggest targeting older women with screening recommendations and providing available screening resources for underserved women.


Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography: pitfalls in interpretation.
Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) has become a widely accepted noninvasive diagnostic tool in the assessment of pancreatic and biliary disease. MRCP essentially exploits extended T2 relaxation times of slow-moving fluid and delineates the outline of biliary and pancreatic ducts on T2-weighted images. In order to maximize the clinical implication of MRCP, it is of utmost importance for radiologists to optimize the acquisition technique, be aware of patient-related factors and physiologic changes than can affect its performance and interpretation. It is critical to understand the most common artifacts and pitfalls encountered during acquisition and interpretation of MRCP. We provide a general overview of the different pitfalls encountered in MRCP and pearls on how to manage them in real-world practice.


Piezoelectric Size Effects in a Zinc Oxide Micropillar.
In this work, the dependence of piezoelectric coefficients (PE) on the size of artificial fabricated ZnO micropillars on Si substrate is investigated. ZnO full film is grown with c-axis orientation and an average grain size of 20 nm at a substrate temperature of 500 °C by pulsed laser ablation. The micropillars with the size range of 1.5 to 7 μm are formed by top-down semiconductor device processing. The PE, characterized by piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM), is found to increase from 18.2 to 46.9 pm/V, when the ZnO pillar size is reduced from 7 to 1.5 μm. The strong PE dependence on ZnO pillar size can be explained by local changes in polarization and reduction of unit cell volume with respect to bulk values. These results have strong implications in the field of energy harvesting, as piezoelectric voltage output scales with the piezoelectric coefficient.


A primary standard for the measurement of alpha and beta particle surface emission rate from large area reference sources.
A large area windowless gas flow multi wire proportional counting system for the calibration of large area reference sources has been developed as a primary standard at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). The counting system consists of a multi wire proportional counter (MWPC), vacuum system, gas flow system and pulse processing units. The MWPC detector assembly consists of a vacuum tight aluminum enclosure, multi wire grid and sliding source tray. Various detector characteristics like operating characteristics curve, Fe-55 spectrum for beta discriminator threshold setting and dead time of the measurement system were studied and determined in order to achieve an optimized detection capability. The surface emission rates of different source strengths were measured and their relative combined standard uncertainties were determined. Large Area Sources Comparison Exercise (LASCE) was organized by International Committee on Radionuclide Metrology (ICRM) working group and coordinated by National Institute for Ionising Radiation Metrology (ENEA), Italy, to demonstrate equivalence of surface emission rate measurements at the international platform. BARC participated in the programme and the results of LASCE are also discussed in this paper.


Synaptophysin and chromogranin A immunoreactivities of Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease brains.
Lewy bodies commonly observed in brains with Parkinson's disease (PD) histochemically contain both protein and lipid as chemical components. Ultrastructurally, they are composed of filamentous, vesicular and granular structures. We investigated PD brains with light and electron microscopic immunohistochemistry using antibodies against two marker proteins for neuronal secretory vesicles, synaptophysin and chromogranin A. Both antibodies immunolabeled the peripheral zones and occasionally central cores of Lewy bodies of the classical and intraneuritic types. In addition, the diffuse immunolabeling was observed in Lewy bodies of the cortical type. Furthermore, the ultrastructural immuno-decoration was found mainly in the vesicular structures, and also in the filamentous and granular structures of Lewy bodies. Immuno-blot analysis of each antibody showed no difference between PD and normal control brains. The present observations suggest that vesicular profiles of Lewy bodies represent presynaptic and dense core secretory vesicles, and therefore that the lipid elements of Lewy bodies are derived from membrane lipids of these vesicles.


Fatty acid and vitamin interventions in adults with schizophrenia: a systematic review of the current evidence.
Current psychopharmacological approaches to reduce psychotic phenomenology in schizophrenia are associated with adverse effects including extrapyramidal and metabolic side effects. In view of the emerging data on nutritional supplementation interventions in schizophrenia which are not entirely consistent, we aimed to review existent studies focusing on fatty acid and vitamin interventions and summarise current evidence on such nutritional supplementations in schizophrenia. We searched the digital databases (ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLINK, PubMed/Medline) for relevant studies pertaining to fatty acid and vitamin supplementation interventions in the management of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia up to February 2015. Overall, there were more studies conducted on fatty acid over vitamin supplementations in patients with schizophrenia. There were more positive findings in support of fatty acid supplementation compared with vitamin supplementation in the context of specific intervention features (dose of nutrient supplementation, single versus combination nutritional interventions, specific antipsychotic), subject features (older age, long duration of illness, baseline polyunsaturated fatty acid levels) and clinical outcomes (improvements of psychotic symptoms and/or extrapyramidal side effects from antipsychotics). However, investigations of both supplementation modalities were limited by relatively small study sample sizes, short study duration, which precluded further segmentation of impact on more diverse patient subtypes and symptom profiles. Future studies may consider examining larger samples over a longer time period, recruiting younger subjects with shorter duration of illness, examination of different clinical features including specific cognitive domains, and use of single versus combination nutritional interventions.


Nucleoside analogues for the treatment of animal trypanosomiasis.
Animal trypanosomiasis (AT) is a parasitic disease with high socio-economic impact. Given the limited therapeutic options and problems of toxicity and drug resistance, this study assessed redirecting our previously identified antitrypanosomal nucleosides for the treatment of AT. Promising hits were identified with excellent in vitro activity across all important animal trypanosome species. Compound 7, an inosine analogue, and our previously described lead compound, 3'-deoxytubercidin (8), showed broad spectrum anti-AT activity, metabolic stability in the target host species and absence of toxicity, but with variable efficacy ranging from limited activity to full cure in mouse models of Trypanosoma congolense and T. vivax infection. Several compounds show promise against T. evansi (surra) and T. equiperdum (dourine). Given the preferred target product profile for a broad-spectrum compound against AT, this study emphasizes the need to include T. vivax in the screening cascade given its divergent susceptibility profile and provides a basis for lead optimization towards such broad spectrum anti-AT compound.


Hypoxia increases serum amyloid A3 (SAA3) in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Hypoxia has been implicated as a possible cause of adipose tissue inflammation. Furthermore, the acute phase protein serum amyloid A (SAA) has been associated with the modulation of the adipogenic process, and it is well-known that obese individuals have increased levels of SAA. The effect of hypoxia in the expression and production of SAA was examined in murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Hypoxia leads to a substantial increase in SAA3 mRNA and protein level, apparently in a time-dependent manner (threefold in 48 h), in fully differentiated 3T3-L1, followed by reestablishment of gene expression to basal levels after 24 h of reoxygenation. Hypoxia-induced SAA may be one of the key molecules to the development of the inflammatory response in adipose tissue.


Nursing history: from conformity to challenging practice.
Elizabeth Rosser, Deputy Dean (Education and Professional Practice) and Professor of Nursing at Bournemouth University, considers the lessons that the nursing profession has learned since its early days.


Pre-mRNA splicing mutants of Schizosaccharomyces pombe.
A collection of temperature sensitive (ts-) mutants was prepared by chemical mutagenesis of a wild type Schizosaccharomyces pombe strain. To screen the ts- mutants for pre-mRNA splicing defects, an oligodeoxynucleotide that recognizes one of the introns of the beta-tubulin pre-mRNA was used as a probe in a Northern blot assay to detect accumulation of intron sequences. This screening procedure identified three pre-mRNA splicing mutants from 100 ts- strains. The three mutants are defective in an early step of the pre-mRNA splicing reaction; none accumulate intermediates. The precursors that accumulate at 37 degrees C are polyadenylated. Analysis of the splicing of another pre-mRNA showed that the mutations are not specific for beta-tubulin. The total RNA pattern in the three splicing mutants appears to be normal. In addition, the amounts of the spliceosomal snRNAs are not drastically changed compared to the wild type and splicing of pre-tRNAs is not blocked. Genetic analyses demonstrate that all three splicing mutations are tightly linked to the ts- growth defects and are recessive. Crosses among the mutants place them in three complementation groups. The mutants have been named prp1, prp2 and prp3.


Enhanced flavour extraction in continuous liquid-liquid extractors.
Continuous liquid-liquid extraction is a versatile, reliable and robust sample preparation technique, but there is a tendency for the solvent to make channels through the sample, causing uneven and incomplete extraction. A simple, cheap magnetic stirrer that prevents channelling improves extraction efficiency by between 2.8 and 17.6 times.


Cationic amphiphilic macromolecule (CAM)-lipid complexes for efficient siRNA gene silencing.
The accumulated evidence has shown that lipids and polymers each have distinct advantages as carriers for siRNA delivery. Composite materials comprising both lipids and polymers may present improved properties that combine the advantage of each. Cationic amphiphilic macromolecules (CAMs) containing a hydrophobic alkylated mucic acid segment and a hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) tail were non-covalently complexed with two lipids, 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) and 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP), to serve as a siRNA delivery vehicle. By varying the weight ratio of CAM to lipid, cationic complexes with varying compositions were obtained in aqueous media and their properties evaluated. CAM-lipid complex sizes were relatively independent of composition, ranging from 100 to 200nm, and zeta potentials varied from 10 to 30mV. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the spherical morphology of the complexes. The optimal N/P ratio was 50 as determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. The ability to achieve gene silencing was evaluated by anti-luciferase siRNA delivery to a U87-luciferase cell line. Several weight ratios of CAM-lipid complexes were found to have similar delivery efficiency compared to the gold standard, Lipofectamine. Isothermal titration calorimetry revealed that siRNA binds more tightly at pH=7.4 than pH=5 to CAM-lipid (1:10 w/w). Further intracellular trafficking studies monitored the siRNA escape from the endosomes at 24h following transfection of cells. The findings in the paper indicate that CAM-lipid complexes can serve as a novel and efficient siRNA delivery vehicle.


Scale-up impacts on mass transfer and bioremediation of suspended naphthalene particles in bead mill bioreactors.
Scale-up effects on mass transfer and bioremediation of suspended naphthalene particles have been studied in 20 and 58L bead mill bioreactors and compared to data generated earlier with a laboratory scaled bioreactor. The bead mill bioreactor performance with respect to naphthalene mass transfer rate was dependent on the size and loading of the inert particles, as well as the rotational speed of the roller apparatus. The optimum operating conditions were found to be 15mm glass beads at a loading of 50% (total volume of particles/working volume of bioreactor: v/v%) and a bioreactor rotational speed of 50rpm. The highest naphthalene mass transfer coefficients obtained in the large scale system under these optimum conditions (19.6 and 22.4h(-1) for 20 and 58L vessels, respectively) were higher than those determined previously in a 2.5L bead mill bioreactor (0.7h(-1)). The acute toxicity tests indicated that the bioreactor effluent was less toxic than the untreated naphthalene suspension. Biodegradation rates obtained in these large scale bead mill bioreactors under optimum conditions (36-37.4mgL(-1)h(-1)) were higher than those achieved in the control bioreactors of similar sizes (11.4 and 11.6mgL(-1)h(-1)) but were slower than those previously determined in a 2.5L bead mill bioreactor (59-61.5mgL(-1)h(-1)). The limitation of oxygen in the large scale systems and damage of the bacterial cells due to the crushing effects of the large beads are likely contributing factors in the lower observed biodegradation rates. The optimum conditions with respect to naphthalene mass transfer might not necessarily translate to optimum performance with regard to bioremediation.


Effect of prior sternotomy on mortality and morbidity after heart transplantation. Cardiac Transplant Team.
A retrospective analysis to evaluate the impact of prior sternotomy on the outcome of cardiac transplantation was undertaken. Some 165 patients who received primary heart transplantation were classified into three groups. There were 102 patients in group 1 (no prior sternotomy), 47 in group 2 (one prior sternotomy), and 16 in group 3 (more than one prior sternotomy). The three groups were demographically similar. Coronary artery bypass was the indication for prior sternotomy in 77% of patients in group 2 and in 94% in group 3. Mortality within 30 days post-transplant was significantly different among the three groups (group 1, 7.8%; group 2, 8.5%; group 3, 31%; P = 0.0148). The 1-year actuarial survival was also significantly lower in group 3 (52%) compared with groups 1 (83%) and 2 (81%) (P = 0.0311). Multivariate analysis identified more than one prior sternotomy and pulmonary hypertension as risk factors for death within 30 days post-transplant. Patients who had prior sternotomy also had a higher incidence of coagulopathy (group 1, 17%; group 2, 49%; group 3, 38%; P = 0.0002), and re-exploration due to excessive bleeding (group 1, 5%; group 2, 11%; group 3, 25%; P = 0.0225). Requirement for blood products for transfusion was also higher in groups 2 and 3. There was no significant difference among the three groups in the incidence of early infections (50% versus 53% versus 44%), renal failure (6% versus 11% versus 19%), or allograft rejection in patients who survived the first 30 days (95% versus 86% versus 82%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Defining success in multiple birth.
Where you sit defines success in the world of multiple births. One person's success is a failure to others. Comments and observations come from years of working with parents of multiple clubs and presentations to and discussions with obstetricians and neonatologists.


Management and long-term complications of pediatric cancer.
The impact of recently intensified and novel therapies for the treatment of childhood cancer has been an increased number of survivors and an increase in the number of treatment complications among survivors. Thus, it is important for the primary care practitioner to be aware of not only acute but chronic complications of therapy, including the possibility of second malignancies. Long-term follow-up is essential, and continuous education of patients and health care personnel is an important aspect for the complete success of treatment. Primary care practitioners also need to incorporate other subspecialties in the management of these patients to ensure that they receive complete evaluation and treatment.


Blood circulation in rat lungs under conditions of reduced oxygen level in inhaled air.
According to some authors, reduction in oxygen level in the lung alveoli results in constriction of afferent vessels, while others observed no vessel constriction. The issue is of principle importance in relation to the lung involvement in body adaptation to hypoxia. Conventional methods are inefficient to solve it, therefore we used a contact microscope allowing observation of lung circulatory system structure and condition of the lung circulatory system in whole, virtually intact animal, on whole undamaged lungs in situ, at normal physiological lung position in the thorax. We found that large vessels carrying blood to the alveoli do not constrict or dilate at reduced Po(2)in lung alveoli. These vessels with a diameter of 15 to 40 μ and more are the only blood source for alveoli.


Embryonal sarcoma of the liver in pregnancy, associated with HELLP syndrome.
After cesarean section, a 30-year-old patient with HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count in association with preeclampsia) had fever, jaundice, loss of ascites, and a cardiac murmur. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a tumor extending from the left lobe of the liver into the inferior vena cava, right atrium, and ventricle. The biopsy specimen revealed an embryonal sarcoma of the liver. On the second day of chemotherapy, the patient died of intra-abdominal hemorrhage from the tumor.


Surgical risk factors in total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.
Eighty-three patients underwent surgical correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) between 1973 and 1986. There were 46 boys and 37 girls. Median age at operation was 60 days (1 to 240) and median weight 3.9 kg (1 to 22). The anatomic types encountered included infracardiac connection (16 patients), supracardiac connection (32) and pulmonary venous drainage connected directly to the coronary sinus (27). Mixed anomalous drainage or pulmonary venous return connected directly to the right atrium occurred in 8 patients. Diagnosis was established by cardiac catheterization and angiography (56 patients), clinical examination (3) and cross-sectional echocardiography alone in 24 of the last consecutive 28 patients. Pulmonary hypertension was present in 26 (55%) of those who underwent cardiac catheterization. The median pulmonary vascular resistance was 4.2 units/m2 (body surface area) for all the patients, whereas in those with infracardiac pulmonary venous connection the median value was 10 units/m2. The median interval between admission and operation was 72 hours. Surgical correction was performed using profound hypothermia and circulatory arrest in 68; for the remainder, conventional cardiopulmonary bypass with profound to moderate hypothermia was used. Ten patients developed 1 or more pulmonary hypertensive crises during the early postoperative period. These were diagnosed in 8 by direct pulmonary artery pressure measurement and in 2 by clinical examination. Late reoperation was necessary in 6 patients (10%). Analyses of risk factors for 30-day survival for all patients showed that the risk of early death was associated with the type of anomaly (infradiaphragmatic), occurrence of pulmonary hypertensive crises, year of the operation, set of the patient and pressure of preoperative congestive heart failure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Penetrating injuries involving the anterior cranial fossa.
Penetrating injuries of the anterior cranial fossa may result in permanent neurologic changes or even death if injuries are unrecognized and remain untreated. The diverse etiologies of such injuries are reviewed, as well as their diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.


Gait dyspraxia as a clinical marker of cognitive decline in Down syndrome: A review of theory and proposed mechanisms.
Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability in children. With aging, DS is associated with an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The development of AD neuropathology in individuals with DS can result in further disturbances in cognition and behavior and may significantly exacerbate caregiver burden. Early detection may allow for appropriate preparation by caregivers. Recent literature suggests that declines in gait may serve as an early marker of AD-related cognitive disorders; however, this relationship has not been examined in individuals with DS. The theory regarding gait dyspraxia and cognitive decline in the general population is reviewed, and potential applications to the population with individuals with DS are highlighted. Challenges and benefits in the line of inquiry are discussed. In particular, it appears that gait declines in aging individuals with DS may be associated with known declines in frontoparietal gray matter, development of AD-related pathology, and white matter losses in tracts critical to motor control. These changes are also potentially related to the cognitive and functional changes often observed during the same chronological period as gait declines in adults with DS. Gait declines may be an early marker of cognitive change, related to the development of underlying AD-related pathology, in individuals with DS. Future investigations in this area may provide insight into the clinical changes associated with development of AD pathology in both the population with DS and the general population, enhancing efforts for optimal patient and caregiver support and propelling investigations regarding safety/quality of life interventions and disease-modifying interventions.


Laparoscopic transperitoneal ureterolithotomy: a single-center experience.
This study aimed to evaluate success and complications of laparoscopic transperitoneal ureterolithotomy at our center. From November 2008 until September 2011, 33 patients, including 22 men and 11 women, with a mean age of 45.3 years (range, 19-67 years), underwent laparoscopic ureterolithotomy at our center. Locations of stones were the upper, middle, and lower ureter in 29, 1, and 3 patients, respectively. Ten patients had a history of previous abdominal or pelvic surgery. Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy was performed via a transperitoneal approach. Complications and outcomes were evaluated. Mean operation time was 85.48±15.11 minutes. Except for one stone migration and one conversion to open surgery, all the ureteral stones were extracted laparoscopically (94% success rate). A double J stent was inserted antegradely during the procedure and remained for about 1 month in all cases except in 1 patient in whom both antegrade insertion and ureteroscopic relocation were used. Postoperative hypercapnia was detected in a young patient, who recovered with conservative treatment. No visceral complication occurred. The mean hospital stay and the drain installation interval were 4.1 days (range, 3-9 days). The mean return to full activity was 11.91±4.65 days. Preoperative hydronephrosis resolved at follow-up ultrasonography (3 months later) in all patients except 2 cases, in whom intravenous pyelography showed no obstruction (memorial hydronephrosis). Laparoscopic transperitoneal ureterolithotomy is a safe and effective treatment modality for skilled surgeons and a convenient option for patients. Challenges, such as lower ureteral stones, redo cases, and antegrade double J stent insertion, can be overcome by experience.


RBM33: A new regulator of N-6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation.
In this issue of Molecular Cell, Yu et al.1 identify RBM33 as a previously unrecognized m6A (N-6-methyladenosine) RNA binding protein that plays a critical role in ALKBH5-mediated m6A demethylation of a subset of mRNA transcripts by forming a complex with ALKBH5.


Compression-fusion of the first carpometacarpal joint (rizarthrodesis) in the treatment of disability arising from neglected Bennett's fracture: a new surgical technique.
A new method of trapeziometacarpal fusion is described. Its essential features are compression using a new device, rigid internal fixation with an AO small-fragment T-plate with or without cancellous bone grafting, no postoperative external fixation and early active movements.


Sequence and phylogenetic analysis of a novel alphaendornavirus, the first virus described from the oomycete plant pathogen Phytophthora heveae.
Here, we report the discovery and complete genome sequence of a novel virus, designated as "Phytophthora heveae alphaendornavirus 1" (PhAEV1), from a single isolate of the plant pathogenic oomycete Phytophthora heveae (kingdom Stramenipila) isolated from a tropical evergreen lowland rainforest in northern Vietnam. PhAEV1 was detected by both cellulose affinity chromatography of dsRNA and high-throughput sequencing of total RNA, and its presence and sequence were confirmed by RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. The PhAEV1 genome, 12,820 nucleotides (nt) in length, was predicted to encode a single large polyprotein with the catalytic core domain of viral (superfamily 1) RNA helicase (HEL, amino acid [aa] positions 1,287-1,531), glycosyltransferase (GT, aa positions ca. 2,800-3,125), and RNA-directed RNA polymerase (RdRp, aa positions 3,875-4,112). PhAEV1 is the most similar to Phytophthora cactorum alphaendornavirus 3, sharing 39.4% and 39.1% nt and aa sequence identity, respectively. In addition to the first 5'-terminal AUG codon, three additional in-frame methionine codons were found in close proximity (nt 14-16, 96-98, and 176-178), suggesting potential additional translation initiation sites. Conserved RdRp motifs (A-E) similar to those detected in related endornaviruses were identified in PhAEV1, as well as in several previously described alphaendornaviruses from other Phytophthora species in which these motifs had not been identified previously. Phylogenetic analysis showed that PhAEV1 clusters with members of the genus Alphaendornavirus in the family Endornaviridae and is basal to two other alphaendornaviruses described from another oomycete, Phytophthora cactorum. PhAEV1 is the first virus reported in P. heveae.


Antibiotic resistance in a very remote Amazonas community.
In a very remote human community of the Peruvian Amazonas with minimal antibiotic exposure, high levels of acquired resistance to the oldest antibiotics (ampicillin, tetracycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, streptomycin and chloramphenicol) were detected in commensal Escherichia coli, with remarkable diversity of resistant clones and of resistance genes and plasmids. This pattern was similar overall to that previously observed in a very remote community of Bolivia. It was also similar to that observed in the nearest urban area, except for a lower dominance of resistant isolates and the absolute lack of quinolone resistance in the remote community. Present findings suggest that antibiotic resistance observed in remote communities with minimal antibiotic exposure is a general phenomenon contributed by complex mechanisms and provide new insights into the mechanisms involved in this phenomenon.


Preoperative T Staging of Potentially Resectable Esophageal Cancer: A Comparison between Free-Breathing Radial VIBE and Breath-Hold Cartesian VIBE, with Histopathological Correlation.
To compare the T staging of potentially resectable esophageal cancer using free-breathing radial VIBE (r-VIBE) and breath-hold Cartesian VIBE (C-VIBE), with pathologic confirmation of the T stage. Fifty patients with endoscopically proven esophageal cancer and indeterminate T1/T2/T3 stage by CT scan were examined on a 3-T scanner. The MRI protocol included C-VIBE at 150 seconds post-IV contrast, immediately followed by a work-in-progress r-VIBE with identical spatial resolution (1.1 mm × 1.1 mm × 3.0 mm). Two independent readers assigned a T stage on MRI according to the 7th edition of UICC-AJCC TNM Classification, and postoperative pathologic confirmation was considered the gold standard. Interreader agreement was also calculated. The T staging agreement between both VIBE techniques and postoperative pathologic T staging was 52% (26/50) for C-VIBE, 80% (40/50) for r-VIBE for reader 1, and 50% (25/50), 82% (41/50) for reader 2, respectively. For the esophageal cancer with invading lamina propria, muscularis mucosae, or submucosa (T1 stage), r-VIBE achieved 86% (12/14) agreement for both readers 1 and 2. For invasion of muscularis propria (T2 stage), r-VIBE achieved 83% (25/30) for both readers 1 and 2, whereas for the invasion of adventitia (T3 stage), r-VIBE could only achieve agreement in 50% (3/6) and 67% (4/6) for readers 1 and 2, respectively. Contrast-enhanced free-breathing r-VIBE is superior to breath-hold CVIBE in T staging of potentially resectable esophageal cancer, especially for T1 and T2.


First record of Dissomphalus Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) from Russia, with description of a new species.
Th genus Dissomphalus Ashmead is recorded from Russia for the first time. The new species Dissomphalus oksanae sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on males from Krasnodar Territory of Russia. This is the first record of the Western Palaearctic Dissomphalus based on males.


N-acetylcysteine Ameliorates Prostatitis via miR-141 Regulating Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling.
Chronic prostatitis was the most common type of prostatitis and oxidative stress was reported to be highly elevated in prostatitis patients. In this study, we determined the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on prostatitis and the molecular mechanism involved in it. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control group (group A, n = 20), carrageenan-induced chronic nonbacterial prostatitis (CNP) model group (group B, n = 20), and carrageenan-induced CNP model group with NAC injection (group C, n = 20). Eye score, locomotion score, inflammatory cell count, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expression, and Evans blue were compared in these three groups. The expression of miR-141 was determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Moreover, protein expressions of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1 (Keap1) and nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its target genes were examined by Western blot. Luciferase reporter assay was performed in RWPE-1 cells transfected miR-141 mimic or inhibitor and the plasmid carrying 3'-UTR of Keap1. The value of eye score, locomotion score, inflammatory cell count, and Evans blue were significantly decreased in group C, as well as the expression of COX2, when comparing to that of group B. These results indicated that NAC relieved the carrageenan-induced CNP. Further, we found that NAC increased the expression of miR-141 and activated the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling. Luciferase reporter assay revealed that miR-141 mimic could suppress the activity of Keap1 and stimulate the downstream target genes of Nrf2. In addition, miR-141 inhibitor could reduce the effect of NAC on prostatitis. NAC ameliorates the carrageenan-induced prostatitis and prostate inflammation pain through miR-141 regulating Keap1/Nrf2 signaling.


Microvirga splendida sp. nov., bacteria isolated from soil.
Two bacterial strains, BT325T and BT690, were isolated from soil samples collected in Korea. Both strains were Gram stain-negative, short rod-shaped, and formed light-pink colored colonies. The 16S rRNA sequence similarity of strains BT325T and BT690 shared a sequence similarity of 99.7%. Both strains shared the highest 16S rRNA gene similarity of 98.6% with Microvirga arabica SV2184PT, followed by Microvirga ossetica V5/3 M T (98.5% and 98.2%, respectively), Microvirga soli R491T (98.3% and 98.2%, respectively), Microvirga aerilata (98.2% and 98.08%, respectively), Microvirga makkahensis (98.08% and 97.8%, respectively). Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain BT325T and BT690 were positioned in a distinct lineage within the family Methylobacteriaceae (order Rhizobiales, class Alphaproteobacteria). The genome size of strain BT325T was 5,200,315 bp and the genomic DNA G + C content was 64.3 mol%. The sole respiratory quinone of strain BT325T was Q-10 and the predominant cellular fatty acids were summed feature 3 (C16:1 ω7c/C16:1 ω6c) and summed feature 8 (C18:1 ω7c/C18:1 ω6c). The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylcholine. Polyphasic taxonomic analysis of biochemical, chemotaxonomic, and phylogenetic analyses suggested that strains BT325T represents a novel bacterial species within the genus Microvirga, for which the name Microvirga splendida is proposed. The type strain of Microvirga splendida is BT325T (= KCTC 72406 T = NBRC 114847 T).


Multiple halide anion doped layered bismuth terephthalate with excellent photocatalysis for pollutant removal.
In order to improve the photocatalytic activities of layered MOF bismuth terephthalate, five multiple halide anion doped bismuth terephthalate composites were prepared by doping three or four halide anions each with a molar ratio of X-/Bi3+ (X = F-, Cl-, Br-, I-) at 0.25. The F-, Cl-, Br- codoped and F-, Cl-, Br-, I- codoped bismuth terephthalate composites exhibit 41 and 35 times higher photocatalytic degradation activities for RhB, 7 and 6 times higher for salicylic acid than that of bismuth terephthalate. Excellent photocatalytic activities could be ascribed to the microstructure of multiple halide anion doped composites, large specific BET surface area and effective separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. Incorporating multiple negatively charged F-, Cl-, Br-, I- into layered bismuth terephthalate can improve the photocatalytic and electrochemical activities of bismuth terephthalate. The composites presented in this study can be potentially applied in photocatalysis and electrochemical fields as multifunctional materials.


In vitro binding and utilization of lipoproteins by luteal cells from ferrets treated with dopaminergic drugs during pseudopregnancy.
The effects of administration of dopaminergic drugs in vivo on the binding and utilization of lipoproteins for progesterone synthesis in vitro by ferret luteal cells were investigated. Pimozide, a dopamine antagonist, and bromoergocriptine (CB-154), a dopamine agonist, were administered to pseudopregnant ferrets to alter prolactin (PRL) concentrations daily beginning the day after ovulation. The control group received the vehicle solution only. Corpora lutea taken on Day 13 after ovulation were dissociated and the cells were incubated with canine lipoproteins, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and 5-cholesten-3 beta-25-diol (25-OH-cholesterol). Canine high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) stimulated progesterone accumulation by luteal cells from pimozide-treated animals but not from CB-154-treated ferrets. However, when 25-OH-cholesterol, which bypasses the LDL receptor, was provided as the substrate, steroidogenesis was stimulated in all groups. Together these observations suggest that dopaminergic alteration of PRL levels preferentially affects the utilization of lipoproteins. The uptake of canine HDL and LDL by luteal cells was saturable, and a high degree of cross-reactivity was observed. Heparin released surface-bound HDL and LDL, suggesting that HDL was binding to the LDL receptor. The quantity of LDL which could be released from luteal cells by heparin treatment was greater in animals treated with pimozide and decreased by treatment with CB-154, relative to luteal cells from control animals. It was concluded that the chronic administration of pimozide or CB-154 alters serum PRL levels in vivo, and influences the subsequent binding and utilization of lipoproteins by luteal cells in vitro. PRL may increase the number of LDL binding sites in luteal cells, thereby enhancing lipoprotein uptake for progesterone synthesis.


Administration of necrostatin-1 ameliorates glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head in rats.
Glucocorticoid (GC)-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a serious complication of glucocorticoid treatment and is characterized by dysfunctional bone reconstruction at necrotic sites. Our previous study confirmed the protective potential of necrostatin-1, a selective blocker of necroptosis, in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. In this study, rat models of GC-induced ONFH were established to evaluate the effects of necrostatin-1 on osteonecrotic changes and repair processes. Osteonecrosis was verified by histopathological staining. An analysis of trabecular bone architecture was performed to evaluate osteogenesis in the osteonecrotic zone. Then, necroptotic signaling molecules such as RIP1 and RIP3 were examined by immunohistochemistry. Histopathological observations indicated that necrostatin-1 administration reduced the incidence of osteonecrosis and the osteogenic response in subchondral areas. Additionally, bone histomorphometry demonstrated that necrostatin-1 intervention could restore bone reconstruction in the necrotic zone. The protective mechanism of necrostatin-1 was related to the inhibition of RIP1 and RIP3. Necrostatin-1 administration alleviated GC-induced ONFH in rats by attenuating the formation of necrotic lesions, recovering the function of osteogenesis, and suppressing glucocorticoid-induced osteocytic necroptosis by inhibiting the expression of RIP1 and RIP3.


Rapid Ngn2-induction of excitatory neurons from hiPSC-derived neural progenitor cells.
Since the discovery of somatic reprogramming, human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have been exploited to model a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Because hiPSCs represent an almost limitless source of patient-derived neurons that retain the genetic variations thought to contribute to disease etiology, they have been heralded as a patient-specific platform for high throughput drug screening. However, the utility of current protocols for generating neurons from hiPSCs remains limited by protracted differentiation timelines and heterogeneity of the neuronal phenotypes produced. Neuronal induction via the forced expression of exogenous transcription factors rapidly induces defined populations of functional neurons from fibroblasts and hiPSCs. Here, we describe an adapted protocol that accelerates maturation of functional excitatory neurons from hiPSC-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) via lentiviral transduction of Neurogenin 2 (using both mNgn2 and hNGN2). This methodology, relying upon a robust and scalable starting population of hiPSC NPCs, should be readily amenable to scaling for hiPSC-based high-throughput drug screening.


Changing the Paradigm of School-Based Physical Therapist Service Delivery: Using Evidence to Support Intensive Intervention.
The purpose of this article is to highlight the paradigm shift away from the typical model of direct service delivery of consistent frequency and duration in the school setting to accommodate an intensive progressive resistive exercise intervention. School-based physical therapists describe how they applied an evidence-based intensive intervention with multiple students in an urban public school district. The school-based physical therapists had to modify the typical service delivery model and overcome other challenges to implement this intensive intervention approach. Substantial improvements in strength and functional activities were observed in multiple students and measured across several months. An intensive intervention model appears effective and feasible in the school setting. Evidence-based intervention approaches should be considered when the student could benefit. For more insights from the authors, see Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/PPT/A339.


Effects of sublethal UVA irradiation on activity levels of oxidative defense enzymes and protein oxidation in Escherichia coli.
When bacterial cells are stressed by a change in the environment, they respond by changing the activity of enzymes at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. The UVA component (400-315 nm) of solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface is one of the most common stresses encountered by bacteria in their environment. Bacteria have evolved various antioxidant defense systems to increase survival when subjected to the deleterious effects of UVA irradiation. Recently, UVA-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative damage have been shown to be dependent on radiation intensity and dose distribution, not just total energy dose. We now report that when Escherichia coli is subjected to continuous sublethal, low-fluence UVA irradiation (7.4 W/m(2)) while growing to stationary phase, it responds by changing the activity levels of hydroperoxidases (HPI, HPII), glutathione reductase and manganese superoxide dismutase. This leads to an attenuation of the growth-delay response and an increase resistance to lethal UVA irradiation. When E. coli is given a UVA dose of 135 kJ/m(2) delivered at a fluence rate of 50 W/m(2), extensive protein oxidation occurs which may contribute to the inhibition of key cellular enzymes, leading to cellular dysfunction, DNA damage and eventually death. Changes in antioxidant enzymes induced by low-fluence UVA irradiation do not confer greater protection from protein oxidation after a challenge dose of UVA irradiation delivered at a fluence rate of 50 W/m(2).


Management of acute ear infections.
The differential diagnosis between the usual acute otitis externa and acute suppurative otitis media is presented. Other important and sometimes frequently seen entities that present as infections in the ear are also discussed. It is emphasized that a patient complaining of ear pain with normal findings on examination must be more thoroughly investigated because of the possibility of a more ominous condition such as carcinoma of the pharynx.


The cytotoxic and immunogenic hurdles associated with non-viral mRNA-mediated reprogramming of human fibroblasts.
Delivery of reprogramming factor-encoding mRNAs by means of lipofection in somatic cells is a desirable method for deriving integration-free iPSCs. However, the lack of reproducibility implies there are major hurdles to overcome before this protocol becomes universally accepted. This study demonstrates the functionality of our in-house synthesized mRNAs expressing the reprogramming factors (OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, c-MYC) within the nucleus of human fibroblasts. However, upon repeated transfections, the mRNAs induced severe loss of cell viability as demonstrated by MTT cytotoxicity assays. Microarray-derived transcriptome data revealed that the poor cell survival was mainly due to the innate immune response triggered by the exogenous mRNAs. We validated the influence of mRNA transfection on key immune response-associated transcript levels, including IFNB1, RIG-I, PKR, IL12A, IRF7 and CCL5, by quantitative real-time PCR and directly compared these with the levels induced by other methods previously published to mediate reprogramming in somatic cells. Finally, we evaluated chemical compounds (B18R, chloroquine, TSA, Pepinh-TRIF, Pepinh-MYD), known for their ability to suppress cellular innate immune responses. However, none of these had the desired effect. The data presented here should provide the basis for further investigations into other immunosuppressing strategies that might facilitate efficient mRNA-mediated cellular reprogramming in human cells.


Revision of Asian Upper Blepharoplasty.
Revision of Asian upper blepharoplasty can be extremely challenging to surgeons when encountering cases with multiple complications and very limited tissue sources. In this article, the author is going to guide the newcomers or revision Asian upper blepharoplasty by showing the theory of double-fold formation to help them to make a workable surgical plan when dealing with revision Asian upper blepharoplasty cases. The pathogenesis of complications of upper blepharoplasty can be classified systematically and the solution to each individual complication is also illustrated. Typical clinical cases of revision Asian upper blepharoplasty are then sampled as integrated practice.


Atrial strain and occult atrial fibrillation in cryptogenic stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Cryptogenic stroke (CS) remains a significant cause of morbidity. Failure to identify the underlying pathology increases the rate of recurrence. Atrial fibrillation (AF) seems to be responsible for a substantial proportion of CS. Thus, there is an unmet need to identify and properly treat those with silent AF. To investigate the association between left atrial strain and newly diagnosed AF in CS patients. We searched major electronic databases for articles assessing the relationship between either peak left atrial longitudinal (PALS) or peak contractile (PACS) strain-quantified using speckle tracking echocardiography-and the incidence of occult AF during the diagnostic work-up of CS patients. Eleven studies (two thousand and eighty-one patients) were analyzed. Incidence of occult AF was 19%. Both PALS and PACS were significantly lower in patients with newly diagnosed AF (MD - 8.6%, 95%CI - 10.7 to - 6.4, I2 86.4% and MD - 5.5, 95%CI - 6.8 to - 4.2, I2 80.8%). According to the diagnostic accuracy meta-analysis, PALS < 20% present 71% (95%CI 47-87%) sensitivity and 71% (95%CI 60-81%) specificity for the diagnosis of occult AF, assuming a prevalence of 20%. The corresponding values for PACS < 11% are 83% (95%CI 57-94%) and 78% (95%CI 56-91%). Both PALS and PACS are significantly lower in patients with CS and silent AF. It seems that the cut-off values mentioned above could help physicians in identifying patients who may benefit more from prolonged rhythm monitoring. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.


Case factors for selection of femoral component type in canine hip arthroplasty using a modular system.
To describe a femoral stem selection process based on case features in dogs treated with total hip replacement (THR) by an expert surgeon, compare complications between implant types, and develop an algorithm for stem type selection. Retrospective study. 128 dogs, 135 THR. Data collected included breed, age, weight, canal flare index (CFI), and implant type: cementless (BFX), cementless with a collared stem (BFX-C), hybrid (cementless acetabular component with cemented stem), and cemented (CFX). Of the 135 THRs, 69 BFX, 47 hybrid, and 18 BFX-C were performed. Dogs receiving hybrid (mean 5.5 years) were older than those receiving BFX (2.5 years, p < .0001) and BFX-C implants (2.5 years, p = .0014). The mean weights of dogs with hybrid, BFX, and BFX-C implants were 40.0, 31.0, and 35.3 kg, respectively, with dogs receiving hybrid heavier than those receiving BFX (p < .0001). Mean CFI for hybrid (1.52) was lower than for BFX (1.79, p < .0001) and BFX-C (1.76, p = .0021). Total complication rate was 14.0% with catastrophic complications in 1.5% and no association between implant type and risk of complications (p = .36). Femur fractures occurred in 2.9% of all cases and 1.1% of cementless THR cases. Dogs receiving hybrid THR were older with lower CFI than dogs receiving BFX and BFX-C and heavier than dogs receiving BFX. There was no difference in complications between groups. Catastrophic complications and femur fractures occurred less frequently compared to recent studies of BFX THR. Careful preoperative assessment and implant selection can reduce complications of canine THR.


Evaluation of the long-term treatment effects of intravenous idursulfase in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis II (MPS II) using statistical modeling: data from the Hunter Outcome Survey (HOS).
Mucopolysaccharidosis II (MPS II; Hunter syndrome) is a rare, life-limiting lysosomal storage disease caused by deficient iduronate-2-sulfatase activity. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with intravenous (IV) idursulfase can stabilize or improve many somatic manifestations, but there remains a need for further analysis of long-term treatment outcomes. Using data from patients with MPS II enrolled in the Hunter Outcome Survey (HOS), mixed modeling was performed to evaluate and predict the effects of IV idursulfase treatment on selected clinical parameters for up to 8 years following treatment start. The modeling population comprised male patients followed prospectively in HOS who had received IV idursulfase for at least 5 years and who had data available for two or more time points (at least one post-ERT). Age at ERT start and time since ERT start were included as covariates. In total, 481 patients were eligible for inclusion in at least one model. At 8 years post-ERT start, improvement from baseline was predicted for each age group (< 18 months, 18 months to < 5 years and ≥ 5 years at treatment start) in the following parameters: mean urinary glycosaminoglycan levels (percentage changes of > -75% in each group), mean left ventricular mass index (decreases of ~ 1 g/m2) and mean palpable liver size (decreases of > 2 cm). Improvements in mean 6-min walk test distance (increase of > 50 m) and stabilization in percent predicted forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (decreases of ~ 4 and ~ 9 percentage points, respectively) at 8 years post-ERT start were predicted for patients aged ≥ 5 years at ERT start (these assessments are unsuitable for patients aged < 5 years). Predicted changes over time were similar across the three age groups; however, overall outcomes were most favorable in children aged < 18 months at ERT start. These findings suggest that the previously reported positive effects of IV idursulfase on the somatic manifestations of MPS II are predicted to be maintained for at least 8 years following ERT initiation and highlight the value of statistical modeling to predict long-term treatment outcomes in patients with rare diseases.


The effect of intravitreal botulinum toxin on rabbit visual evoked potential.
Intravitreal injections of botulinum A toxin in two doses, 1.25 and 25 units, were performed in two rabbit eyes. The fellow eyes were injected with an equal volume of saline to serve as controls. The visual evoked potential was unchanged at one and two weeks post-injection when compared to pre-injection recordings in both botulinum and saline injected eyes.


Socioeconomic inequalities in access and use of skilled birth attendants during childbirth in Ghana: a decomposition analysis.
Equitable access to skilled birth attendance during delivery is vital for reducing global maternal deaths to 70 deaths per 100, 000 to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Although several initiatives have been implemented to reduce maternal mortality in Ghana, inequalities in access to skilled birth attendance during delivery still exist among women of different socioeconomic groups. This study assesses the socioeconomic inequalities in access and use of skilled birth attendants during delivery in Ghana. Research was conducted through literature reviews and document reviews, and a secondary data analysis of the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS), a nationally representative survey. A total of 1305 women aged 15-49 years, who had a live birth the year before to the survey in the presence of a skilled birth attendant were analysed using concentration indices and curves. The indices were further decomposed to identify the major socioeconomic factors contributing most to the inequalities. The results found that access to skilled birth attendants was more among women from rich households showing a pro-rich utilization. The decomposition analysis revealed that household wealth index, educational level of both mother and husband/partner, area of residence and mother's health insurance coverage were the major contributing factors to socioeconomic inequalities in accessing skilled birth attendants during child delivery among Ghanaian women. This study confirms that a mother's socioeconomic status is vital to reducing maternal deaths. Therefore, it is worthy to focus attention on policy interventions to reduce the observed inequalities as revealed in the study.


Basic fibroblast growth factor released from synthetic guidance channels facilitates peripheral nerve regeneration across long nerve gaps.
Basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) has been shown to enhance the in vitro survival and neurite extension of various types of neurons including dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cells. Alpha-1 glycoprotein (alpha 1-GP), an acute phase reactant, has been reported to enhance the in vitro neuritic extensions of chick DRG cells. In the present study, we investigated the ability of synthetic nerve guidance channels, which release sustained controlled amounts of b-FGF and/or alpha 1-GP, to support the regeneration of a transected peripheral nerve over a 15 mm long gap, a distance that does not permit regeneration in conventional polymeric tubes. Tubes releasing bovine serum albumin (BSA), cytochrome C, BSA and b-FGF, BSA and denatured b-FGF, BSA and alpha 1-GP, or BSA, b-FGF, and alpha 1-GP were fabricated by a dip-molding technique. In vitro kinetic studies of protein release from these channels showed an initial burst during the 1st day, followed by a linear release for at least 2 weeks thereafter. In vitro studies indicated that the b-FGF released from the polymer was biologically active as assessed by the ability of channels releasing b-FGF to induce neurite extensions in PC12 cells. For in vivo studies, the various types of tubes were used as nerve guidance channels for the repair of a 15 mm nerve gap in the sciatic nerve of rats. Four weeks postimplantation, only the tubes releasing b-FGF or b-FGF and alpha 1-GP displayed regenerated cables bridging both nerve stumps, which contained nerve fascicles with myelinated and unmyelinated axons.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Transfusion-associated fatalities: review of Bureau of Biologics reports 1976-1978.
Review of the 70 transfusion-associated fatalities reported to the Bureau of Biologics (BOB) between 1976 and 1978 revealed 44 acute hemolytic reactions, two delayed hemolytic reactions, five fatalities associated with acute respiratory failure, two cases of bacterial contamination, one graft-versus-host reaction (GVHR), ten cases of hepatitis, and six fatalities not associated with transfusion. Thirty-eight of 44 acute hemolytic reactions were due to ABO incompatibility. Clerical confusion was the cause of 33 of 37 cases in which error could be defined.


Presence of polyclonal Pseudomonas aeruginosa in an intensive care unit: a 27-month prospective study on molecular epidemiology.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated in 22.2% of 305 intensive care unit environmental cultures. A high genetic heterogeneity (18 pulsotypes) was evident. Taps and related surfaces were a stable reservoir for certain pulsotypes. The 15.4% of the P. aeruginosa-positive cultures were polyclonal. Different colony morphotypes should be assayed in surveillance studies.


Mucous gland adenoma of the trachea: case report and literature review.
Adenoma arising from bronchial mucous glands is extremely rare. Such tumors are truly benign, in contradistinction to other tumors previously grouped under the term "bronchial adenoma." We present the first case reported of mucous gland adenoma arising in the trachea. This case was initially misdiagnosed as asthma, a common error with obstructing tracheo-bronchial lesions.


Atypical UV Photoproducts Induce Non-canonical Mutation Classes Associated with Driver Mutations in Melanoma.
Somatic mutations in skin cancers and other ultraviolet (UV)-exposed cells are typified by C>T and CC>TT substitutions at dipyrimidine sequences; however, many oncogenic "driver" mutations in melanoma do not fit this UV signature. Here, we use genome sequencing to characterize mutations in yeast repeatedly irradiated with UV light. Analysis of ~50,000 UV-induced mutations reveals abundant non-canonical mutations, including T>C, T>A, and AC>TT substitutions. These mutations display transcriptional asymmetry that is modulated by nucleotide excision repair (NER), indicating that they are caused by UV photoproducts. Using a sequencing method called UV DNA endonuclease sequencing (UVDE-seq), we confirm the existence of an atypical thymine-adenine photoproduct likely responsible for UV-induced T>A substitutions. Similar non-canonical mutations are present in skin cancers, which also display transcriptional asymmetry and dependence on NER. These include multiple driver mutations, most prominently the recurrent BRAF V600E and V600K substitutions, suggesting that mutations arising from rare, atypical UV photoproducts may play a role in melanomagenesis.


Monoclonal proteins in neuropathy.
The presence of a monoclonal protein in the serum of a patient with peripheral neuropathy raises the suspicion of systemic amyloidosis, POEMS syndrome, macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma, or lymphoma. If these conditions are excluded, the patient is classified as having a monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) with an associated neuropathy. Approximately one half of patients with peripheral neuropathy and IgM monoclonal gammopathy have IgM antibodies that bind to a myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG). In addition to MAG, other antigens such as glycolipids or gangliosides represent other target antigens. Monoclonal gammopathies and motor neuron diseases have also been reported. Sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy occurs in about 15% of patients with primary amyloidosis but is uncommon in multiple myeloma.


Chromosomal localization of sixty autosomal loci in sheep (OVIS ARIES, 2n = 54) by fluorescence in situ hybridization and R-banding.
Sixty autosomal loci (5 type I and 55 type II) from 24 bovine syntenic groups, and previously FISH-mapped to goat and river buffalo chromosomes, were localized by fluorescence in situ on sheep (OVIS ARIES, 2n = 54) chromosomes, thereby notably extending the cytogenetic map of this economically important species. Caprine BAC clones were hybridized to R-banded chromosome preparations. FITC-signals and RBPI- banding (R-banding by late BrdU-incorporation and propidium iodide staining) were simultaneously visualized and captured by a colour CCD-camera. All mapped loci were localized on homoeologous chromosomes and chromosome regions (bands) of sheep, goat and river buffalo, further supporting chromosome and genetic (loci) homoeologies among bovids.


Low Rank Matrix Factorization Algorithm Based on Multi-Graph Regularization for Detecting Drug-Disease Association.
Detecting potential associations between drugs and diseases plays an indispensable role in drug development, which has also become a research hotspot in recent years. Compared with traditional methods, some computational approaches have the advantages of fast speed and low cost, which greatly accelerate the progress of predicting the drug-disease association. In this study, we propose a novel similarity-based method of low-rank matrix decomposition based on multi-graph regularization. On the basis of low-rank matrix factorization with L2 regularization, the multi-graph regularization constraint is constructed by combining a variety of similarity matrices from drugs and diseases respectively. In the experiments, we analyze the difference in the combination of different similarities, resulting that combining all the similarity information on drug space is unnecessary, and only a part of the similarity information can achieve the desired performance. Then our method is compared with other existing models on three data sets (Fdataset, Cdataset and LRSSLdataset) and have a good advantage in the evaluation measurement of AUPR. Besides, a case study experiment is conducted and showing that the superior ability for predicting the potential disease-related drugs of our model. Finally, we compare our model with some methods on six real world datasets, and our model has a good performance in detecting real world data.


The prevalence of Corynosoma parasite worms in the great cormorants and the Baltic herring in the northern Baltic Sea, Finland.
During 2014-2019, the prevalence of Corynosoma spp., a parasite species in great cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo spp.) and in Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras), was studied in the Archipelago and the Bothnian Seas of the northern Baltic Sea. These results suggest that cormorants may act as a definitive host for these acanthocephalan parasites. Adults were more infected with the parasites than juveniles, which could be due to their larger size. A lower prevalence of Corynosoma spp. in juveniles may be because smaller cormorants eat smaller fish that have less parasites. We found that the most abundant corynosoma species in both the Baltic herring and cormorants were Corynosoma semerme, whereas only a few individuals of C. strumosum and only one C. magdaleni were found. The prevalence of corynosoma in herring increased from 2014 to 2018, and individuals in the Bothnian Sea were infected less frequently than herring in the Archipelago Sea. Results also showed that infected herring individuals were generally larger than non-infected individuals, which could be explained by their size and their feeding habits. Currently, the changing environment of the Baltic Sea may cause an effect on the herring making them more susceptible to infections. Our results, therefore, emphasize the importance of the regular monitoring of infections and the parasite-host relationships in the Baltic Sea.


Arrested tubal pregnancy.
This communication presents a small series of patients operated on for tubal occlusion resulting from undiagnosed tubal pregnancy. In three of the five patients, tubotubal anastomosis after the resection of the affected tubal segment was performed on a single tube. Two of these three patients achieved viable pregnancies. This fact supports the value of reconstructive tubal microsurgery in arrested tubal pregnancy. The histopathologic findings suggest that chorionic villi are capable of surviving in a recognizable form for at least 15 months after the demise of the tubal pregnancy.


[Hospital pharmaceutical practice in prison].
Since 1994, hospital pharmaceutical teams have been in charge of pharmaceutical tasks in "unités de consultation et de soins ambulatoires" (UCSA), which are hospital consulting care units in French prisons. In 2008, pharmaceutical team in Parisian prisons received 6500 prescriptions and prepared 85,000 nominative bags containing drugs. Prisoners were 1.3% to receive treatments against HIV, 8.2% cardiovascular drugs, 7.2% opioid substitution treatments, and 52.9% psychoactive drugs, including 39.3% hypnotics, 40.5% anxiolytics, 11.3% antidepressants and 12.2% neuroleptics. In prison, the dichotomy between somatic and mental care is marked, attitudes of prisoners about their medicines are complex (important claims, embezzlement, etc.) and it is difficult for law defendants to maintain treatment confidentiality and to prepare prison outing in terms of health. To attenuate the heterogeneity of drug distribution systems in French prisons, we propose pharmaceutical analysis of prescriptions and nominative dispensation, computerization in UCSA in coordination with hospitals, a better contribution of prison medical and pharmaceutical staff in hospital "drug committees" and the redaction of pharmaceutical guidelines. Acting in concert with multidisciplinary medical staff in UCSA, pharmaceutical teams have to develop epidemiological studies to improve knowledge in prisoner's health and also prevention and health care in prison.


Current status of academic palliative medicine in Poland: a nationwide study.
To assess the current status of palliative medicine (PM) education in medical students in Poland. Data on PM teaching were obtained from a 16-item questionnaire sent to the heads of PM and palliative care (PC) departments at universities or university authorities. In cases in which there was no PM or PC department, the questionnaire was sent to authorities of a given University. Eleven PM and PC departments were included in the analysis; 7 at the medical universities, and four at collegium medicum at universities. Among these there were two chairs of PM (at the Medical University of Poznań and the Collegium Medicum at the University of Zielona Góra) and one chair of PC (in Bydgoszcz). Most of the Departments were part of faculties of medicine, and a minority were part of faculties of health sciences. There were no PM or PC departments at 2 medical universities, three at collegium medicum at universities, and 6 at faculties of medicine; two at public universities and 4 at non-public universities. All programs of PM teaching included the philosophy of PC, and pain management. The majority included management of other symptoms, emergencies, communication, ethical issues and psychological issues in PC. Of 12 programs, 9 included practical (bedside) teaching. The numbers of hours allocated to PM ranged from 15 to 45 (median 20). Half of the universities that educate medical students in Poland had PM departments and provided obligatory PM teaching. Establishing departments of PM and PC at all medical universities, collegium medicum at universities, and faculties of medicine at universities with a common PM program as an integral part of undergraduate education is suggested through including PM as a separate subject to the Regulation of the Ministry of Education and Science and initiatives of National and Provincial Consultants in PM.


Nanoscale wide-band semiconductors for photocatalytic remediation of aquatic pollution.
Water pollution is a serious challenge to the public health. Among different forms of aquatic pollutants, chemical and biological agents create paramount threat to water quality when the safety standards are surpassed. There are many conventional remediatory strategies that are practiced such as resin-based exchanger and activated charcoal/carbon andreverse osmosis. Newer technologies using plants, microorganisms, genetic engineering, and enzyme-based approaches are also proposed for aquatic pollution management. However, the conventional technologies have shown impending inadequacies. On the other hand, new bio-based techniques have failed to exhibit reproducibility, wide specificity, and fidelity in field conditions. Hence, to solve these shortcomings, nanotechnology ushered a ray of hope by applying nanoscale zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and tungsten oxide (WO3) particles for the remediation of water pollution. These nanophotocatalysts are active, cost-effective, quicker in action, and can be implemented at a larger scale. These nanoparticles are climate-independent, assist in complete mineralization of pollutants, and can act non-specifically against chemically and biologically based aquatic pollutants. Photocatalysis for environmental remediation depends on the availability of solar light. The mechanism of photocatalysis involves the formation of electron-hole pairs upon light irradiations at intensities higher than their band gap energies. In the present review, different methods of synthesis of nanoscale ZnO, TiO2, and WO3 as well as their structural characterizations have been discussed. Photodegradation of organic pollutants through mentioned nanoparticles has been reviewed with recent advancements. Enhancing the efficacy of photocatalysis through doping of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles with non-metals, metals, and metal ions has also been documented in this report.