The impact of gender and physical environment on the handwashing behaviour of university students in Ghana.
To establish levels of handwashing after defecation among students at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, and to test hypotheses that gender and washroom environment affect handwashing behaviour. Data on students' handwashing behaviour after defecation were collected by structured observations in washrooms. Eight hundred and six observations were made (360 female students and 446 males) in 56 washrooms over 496 observation periods. Observers recorded gender, duration of handwashing, use of soap, and physical characteristics of the washroom (cleanliness, availability of soap, tap flow and presence of handwashing posters). Fewer than half the students observed washed their hands or bathed after defecation. Of these, only two-thirds washed both hands and a minority (20%) used soap; only 16 students (all men) washed their hands for the recommended 15 s or longer. Female students were more likely to wash their hands at all, and were more likely to wash both hands, than males. Cleanliness of the washroom was strongly associated with improved handwashing behaviour for both women and men, as was tap flow quality for female students. Handwashing behaviour is generally poor among UCC students, mirroring results from North American Universities. The findings underline the plasticity of handwashing behaviour among this population, and highlight the need for ensuring that the physical environment in washrooms on university campuses is conducive to handwashing.


RIFM fragrance ingredient safety assessment, 2-propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis-, CAS Registry Number 102-60-3.
The existing information supports the use of this material as described in this safety assessment.2-Propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis- was evaluated for genotoxicity, repeated dose toxicity, reproductive toxicity, local respiratory toxicity, phototoxicity/photoallergenicity, skin sensitization, and environmental safety. Data from the target material and read-across analog 1,1',1''-nitrilotripropan-2-ol (CAS # 122-20-3) show that 2-propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis- is not expected to be genotoxic. Data on 2-propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis- provide a calculated margin of exposure (MOE) >100 for the repeated dose toxicity and reproductive toxicity endpoints and show that there are no safety concerns for skin sensitization under the current declared levels of use. The phototoxicity/photoallergenicity endpoints were evaluated based on ultraviolet (UV) spectra; 2-propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis- is not expected to be phototoxic/photoallergenic. The local respiratory toxicity endpoint was evaluated using the threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) for a Cramer Class III material, and the exposure to 2-propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis- is below the TTC (0.47 mg/day). The environmental endpoints were evaluated; 2-propanol, 1,1',1',1'-(1,2-ethanediyldinitrilo)tetrakis- was found not to be persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) as per the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) Environmental Standards, and its risk quotients, based on its current volume of use in Europe and North America (i.e., Predicted Environmental Concentration/Predicted No Effect Concentration [PEC/PNEC]), are <1.


Lumbar disc herniation causing focal expansion of the spinal canal.
A case of disc prolapse expanding the lumbar spinal canal by eroding the dorsal aspect of the body of L4 vertebra is reported. Despite no previous reports this condition is not considered to be extremely rare.


Glutamine protects cardiomyocytes from hypoxia/reoxygenation injury under high glucose conditions through inhibition of the transforming growth factor-β1-Smad3 pathway.
Activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-Smad3 pathway aggravates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). We previously showed that glutamine (Gln) protects cardiomyocytes from hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury under high glucose (HG) conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Gln exerts its protective effect in H/R via inhibiting TGF-β1-Smad3 pathway. In vitro, H9c2 rat cardiomyocytes were treated with Gln with HG (33 mM) and/or H/R. We also performed in vivo experiments in which we treated normal and diabetic rats with Gln or solvent control following IRI. We assessed protein levels of TGF-β1, total Smad3, phosphorylated (p)-Smad3 and cleaved caspase-3 in H9c2 cells and rat myocardium by Western blotting. H9c2 cells treated with HG + H/R exhibited high apoptosis rates, as well as a highly activated TGF-β1-Smad3 pathway. TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor (SB431542) or Smad3 inhibitor (SIS3) reduced HG + H/R induced apoptosis. Similarly, Gln supplementation alleviated apoptosis and decreased p-Smad3 levels. However, Gln's protective effect was significantly weakened by TGF-β1. Diabetic rats treated with Gln had improved hemodynamics, smaller infarct size after IRI, and a significant decrease in TGF-β1-Smad3 pathway activation. We conclude that Gln inhibits HG + H/R induced activation of the TGF-β1-Smad3 pathway and decreases cell apoptosis in cardiomyocytes.


Optimization of production yield and functional properties of pectin extracted from sugar beet pulp.
A central composite design was employed to determine the optimum extraction condition to obtain higher yield, better color attribute as well as better rheological and emulsifying properties in pectin extracted from sugar beet pulp (SBP). A second-order polynomial model was developed for predicting the yield of sugar beet pulp pectin (SBPP) based on the composite design. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to quantify the integral effect of three processing parameters (extraction temperature, time and pH) on yield, yield stress, color attribute (tint value) and emulsifying activity index (EAI). Through the frequency analysis it was found that the optimal temperature, time and pH value of the extraction were 93.7 °C, 3 h, and 1.21, respectively. The yield, yield stress and tint value of the SBPP extracted at the optimal condition were 24.45%, above 0.1 Pa and -6.0, respectively.


Cladocalon, a new genus of net-winged beetles from Central America and Mexico (Coleoptera: Lycidae).
Cladocalon gen. nov. is proposed within the tribe Eurrhacini in the subfamily Lycinae including five species: C. chiriquense (Gorham, 1884) comb. nov. and C. histrionicum (Gorham, 1884) comb. nov. (transferred from Calocladon), C. bugabense sp. nov., C. mexicanus sp. nov. and C. guatemalense sp. nov. Lectotypes and paralectotypes of the two previously described species are designated. A key to species is provided and illustrations of diagnostic features are given.


Involvement of ERK AND p38 MAP kinase in AAPH-induced COX-2 expression in HaCaT cells.
Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) appears to play an important role in inflammation and carcinogenesis, and 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH) is a hydrophilic azo compound known to generate free radicals. Because reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to elevate COX-2 expression, we evaluated the effect of AAPH on the expression of COX-2 in a human keratinocyte cell line, HaCaT. When cells were exposed to AAPH, marked COX-2 induction was observed. To clarify the signaling mechanism involved, we next investigated the effects of AAPH upon three major subfamilies of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). AAPH caused an increase in the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK). Furthermore, we found that PD98059, an ERK pathway inhibitor, and SB203580, a p38 MAPK inhibitor, diminished AAPH-induced COX-2 expression and PGE(2) production, whereas JNK inhibitor did not suppress COX-2 expression or PGE(2) production by AAPH. These findings suggest that the ERK and p38 MAPK pathways, but not the JNK pathway, are involved in AAPH-induced inflammatory progression. In addition, we found that both the water-soluble Vitamin E derivative, Trolox, and the green tea constituent, (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), diminished AAPH-induced COX-2 expression and p38 activation.


Vibrational spectroscopy with neutrons: Recent developments.
In this short review, we will briefly summarise the differences between INS spectroscopy and conventional infrared and Raman spectroscopies. We will illustrate these with the current state-of-the art, using C70 as an example. The main focus of the article will be on the key advances in INS spectroscopy over the last ten years or so, that are driving new areas of research. The developments fall into three broad categories: (i) new sources, (ii) new and/or upgraded instrumentation and (iii) novel uses for existing instruments. For (i) we summarise the new neutron sources that are now, or will be, operating. For (ii) we show the capabilities of new or upgraded instruments. These offer unprecedented levels of sensitivity: sub-millimole quantities of hydrogen can be measured and millimole quantities of low cross section materials. Recent work on hexahalo metallates and adsorbed CO2 is used to demonstrate what is now feasible. For (iii), instruments that were designed for studies of magnetism, are now being used for molecular spectroscopy, especially for catalysts. This is illustrated with work on CuH and methanol synthesis catalysts.


The analysis and quality assessment of translation strategies in subtitling culturally specific references: Feathers.
Subtitling poses significant challenges, particularly when dealing with culturally specific/bound source texts (STs). This research paper aims to identify and assess the strategies employed by professional translators in rendering culturally specific references from Egyptian Arabic into English in the award-winning Egyptian movie, Feathers. In this study, Pedersen's (2011) typology of translation strategies was utilized to identify the strategies employed, while Pedersen's (2017) functional equivalence, acceptability, and readability (FAR) model was employed to assess the quality of the subtitles. The findings revealed the utilization of Pedersen's suggested strategies, excluding the use of official equivalents, with a prevalent adoption of target-text-oriented (TT-oriented) strategies, such as substitution, generalization, and omission. Additionally, the results indicated that formality represents an additional translation strategy that coexists with other strategies, rather than being a media-specific constraint. Moreover, the quality assessment demonstrated that the majority of the subtitles exhibited high quality, with only a few minor errors observed, primarily related to functionality.


A microdosimetric model of astatine-211 labeled antibodies for radioimmunotherapy.
Astatine-211 is an alpha-emitter with a short half-life (7.2 hr). This paper discusses the potential of 211At targeted by antibodies for tumor therapy and the possible advantage of 211At over beta- and gamma-emitting radionuclides such as 131I currently employed in the field of radioimmunotherapy. Since the longest range alpha-particle from 211At is only 67 microns and the rate of energy loss is high (track averaged linear energy transfer LT approximately 120 keV/micron), a disintegration of 211At produces a large and extremely localized deposition of energy. A Monte-Carlo model has been developed for studying the stochastic fluctuation of alpha-particle hits and energy deposition in cell nuclei in an attempt to determine the efficacy of 211At-labeled antibodies for tumor cell inactivation. Calculations have been performed for 2 extreme conditions: (a) the case of 211At retained in the capillary, and (b) for a homogeneous distribution of 211At-labeled antibody in the tumor. The results of these two calculations represent the boundary conditions between which any real solution must lie. Finally, developments to the model to include antibody transport across the capillary membrane and through the tumor tissue are discussed.


Fast maximum intensity projection algorithm using shear warp factorization and reduced resampling.
Maximal intensity projection (MIP) is routinely used to view MRA and other volumetric angiographic data. The straightforward implementation of MIP is ray casting that traces a volumetric data set in a computationally expensive manner. This article reports a fast MIP algorithm using shear warp factorization and reduced resampling that drastically reduced the redundancy in the computations for projection, thereby speeding up MIP by more than 10 times.


Detection of DNA Methylation by Whole-Genome Bisulfite Sequencing.
DNA methylation plays an important role in the regulation of the expression of transposons and genes. Various methods have been developed to assay DNA methylation levels. Bisulfite sequencing is considered to be the "gold standard" for single-base resolution measurement of DNA methylation levels. Coupled with next-generation sequencing, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) allows DNA methylation to be evaluated at a genome-wide scale. Here, we described a protocol for WGBS in plant species with large genomes. This protocol has been successfully applied to assay genome-wide DNA methylation levels in maize and barley. This protocol has also been successfully coupled with sequence capture technology to assay DNA methylation levels in a targeted set of genomic regions.


Observation of hapten-induced sensitization responses for the development of a mouse skin sensitization test, including the elicitation phase.
The only official method that can detect the skin sensitizing potential of chemicals, including the elicitation response, is the OECD test guideline (TG) 406. However, this guideline uses guinea pigs, which requires complex procedures. Since a simple and complete test method for evaluating skin sensitization is needed, especially for mechanistic studies of skin sensitization, this study confirmed the reactivity of mice to skin sensitizing substances. We set up a protocol involving one induction exposure of the test substance to the back skin, followed by three challenge exposures to the auricle (Protocol 2), and compared their skin sensitization responses with the results of two exposures to the auricle and back skin every 2 weeks (Protocol 1) and a local lymph node assay (TG442B). A hapten 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene caused significant auricular thickening, skin inflammation, and enlarged auricular lymph nodes in Protocols 1 and 2. These changes were more pronounced in Protocol 2. Plasma IgE and IgG1 and gene expression of IL4, IFNγ, and perforin were significantly increased in Protocol 2. Cell proliferation in the auricular lymph nodes was observed in both protocols as in TG442B. These results indicate that Protocol 2 can be a good candidate for a relatively simple skin sensitization test.


Do developmental initiatives influence local attitudes toward conservation? A case study from the Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, India.
We evaluated the conservation attitudes of the local villagers living adjacent to the Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in southern India 6 years after implementation of a World Bank funded eco-development project. We assessed attitudes towards three facets of conservation: the tiger, an emblematic species signifying India's commitment to wildlife conservation; the forest, a principle source of fuel-wood and other products; and the Forest Department, which manages the forest. More specifically we predicted that (i) attitudes would be an effective predictor of resource use interest in the forest and (ii) benefits obtained from the EDP would create more favorable attitudes towards conservation and the protected area employees. Twelve villages located within 3 km from the reserve boundary were chosen and 2-3% of the households interviewed with regard to their attitudes towards these three facets of conservation, their household resource use patterns, wealth, sex, age and length of residency. We found significant associations between wealth, sex, age and both tiger and forest conservation. Providing benefits has not changed the underlying attitudes of the communities. The poorer sections of society, whether receiving benefits or not, tended to support tiger conservation because conserving wildlife did not affect their livelihood in any way, whereas both the rich and poor had misgivings about forest conservation due to dependency on forest products. We conclude that the eco-development project has not effectively addressed the most important of the local concerns.


Lack of tachyphylaxis to methacholine at 24 h.
To examine for tachyphylaxis to methacholine at 24 h and to use these data to assess the repeatability of the provocative concentration of a substance causing a 20% fall in FEV1 (PC20) for methacholine and to obtain statistical power calculations. Retrospective review of four double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with two methacholine PC20 values measured at 24-h intervals. Tertiary university hospital bronchoprovocation laboratory. Thirty-two subjects with mild-to-moderate well-controlled asthma. The placebo arms of the four studies were examined. Methacholine PC20 (using 2-min tidal breathing method) initial determination and repeat testing at 24 h. The geometric mean PC20 values were 1.57 mg/mL (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0 to 2.4 mg/mL) and 1.62 mg/mL (95% CI, 1.0 to 2.6 mg/mL NSD; p = 0.64). The mean absolute difference between the two measurements was < 0.4 doubling concentrations, and 31 of 32 measurements had both values within one doubling concentration. These data provide a statistical power of 92% for 10 subjects to show a one-half concentration deltaPC20 and a mean power of 99 +/- 1% to show a one-concentration deltaPC20. There is no evidence for methacholine tachyphylaxis at 24 h in subjects with asthma. At 24 h, the average repeatability was well within a one-half concentration change, and individually 31 of 32 measurements (97%) were within one doubling concentration.


The effects of the spatial pattern of defoliation on regrowth of a tussock grass : III. Photosynthesis, canopy structure and light interception.
The spatial pattern of foliage removal from a tussock grass can influence regrowth through effects on daily carbon gain (CERd). This field study examined the extent to which tussock photosynthetic responses to different defoliation patterns were associated with changes in whole-canopy attributes (e.g., foliage age structure, canopy light microclimate). During the spring growing season, 60% of the green foliage area was removed from individual Agropyron desertorum tussocks with scissors in different spatial patterns. These patterns represented extremes of defoliation patterns that might be inflicted by natural herbivores. Tussock photosynthesis (per unit foliage area) at high light (2000 μmol photons m-2 s-1 between 400 and 700 nm; P2000) increased following clipping with all defoliation patterns. The increases in P2000 were greater when leaves were removed from low in the tussock (older leaves) than if leaves high in the canopy (younger leaves) were removed. These relative changes of P2000 among clipping patterns paralleled the responses of CERd and regrowth from an earlier study. Furthermore, the changes in P2000 corresponded with increases in the proportion of foliage within the tussocks that was directly illuminated at midday. The greater photosynthesis of tussocks after lower-leaf removal was directly related to a higher proportion of younger foliage and a smaller fraction of foliage shaded within the tussock. In a dense canopy, such as these grass tussocks, the influence of defoliation on whole-canopy attributes may be of primary importance to whole-plant photosynthetic responses.


Climatic adaptation in Svian standard metabolic rate.
The standard metabolic rate (SMR) of birds correlates broadly with climate of origin. SMR tends to be higher in birds from cold climates and lower in tropical forms than would be expected from the bird's mass. SMR changes, on the average, 1% per degree change in latitude. The influence of climate on SMR is, however, subject to modification by other aspects of the bird's life history. For example, in tropical species adaptive modifications in SMR correlate with thermal microhabitat. Tropical birds which forage in the sun have SMR's averaging 25% lower than expected, while SMR of species which forage in the shade is normal. Species of penguins which undergo prolonged fasts during the breeding season do not show elevated SMR's typical of high latitude birds.


Envisaging the role of pharmaceutical contaminant 17-β estradiol on growth and lipid productivity of marine diatom Chaetoceros gracilis.
In the recent past, the presence of steroid hormones in marine bodies has led to the eruption of endocrine - disrupting molecules which have detrimental effects on aquatic life. However, the resilience and robustness of diatoms to adsorb and grow under the multitude of nutrient stress allow them to utilize the plethora of such compounds. Hence, in this study, we have implemented this unique ability of diatoms to sustain on simulated steroidal wastewater made of estradiol pills and analyze their corresponding impact on growth, biomass production, and lipid synthesis. We hereby report that with an increasing concentration of estradiol (0.5-2.0 mg L-1) there was an increment in cell numbers, and a 1.5-fold increase in the dry cell weight and lipid content (up to 29.5% DW). Thus, culturing Chaetoceros gracilis in the optimized media had a significant impact on biomass productivity which could further promote the untapped potential of diatoms.


Triphasic waves: a reassessment of their significance.
Electroencephalograms and case histories of 50 patients with triphasic waves were reviewed. EEGs were studied for slowed dominant activity, anteriorly dominant triphasic waves, anterior-posterior lag time and bursts of triphasic waves. Etiologies of triphasic waves were: hepatic (28), azotemia (10), anoxia (10) and hyperosmolarity (2). Sixteen hepatic and two azotemic patients showed all of these characteristic EEG features. Triphasic waves demonstrating all of these features are highly characteristic of but are not pathognomonic for hepatic encephalopathy. Prognosis correlated best with the type of hepatic injury and deteriorating renal function. We postulate that triphasic waves are generated by the same thalamocortical volleys which normally induce spindles.


Effects of occlusive and semiocclusive dressings on the return of barrier function to transepidermal water loss in standardized human wounds.
Clinical observation and histologic examination of excised wounds have confirmed that occlusive dressings promote rapid wound reepithelialization. However, normalization of barrier function has not been routinely assessed in studies of occlusive dressing effects on wound healing. We examined the effects of occlusive dressings on the reestablishment of the cutaneous barrier to transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after standardized skin wounds were produced in human subjects. We confirmed previous observations that occlusive dressings augment reepithelialization. No significant improvement in the rate of reestablishment of the barrier to TEWL was measured between the covered test or uncovered control sites in each subject, however. TEWL declined in an exponential fashion after wounding. Measurements of TEWL were over twice that of adjacent normal skin when epithelialization was judged to be overtly complete and did not return to normal until 4 weeks after wounds were produced.


Functionalized analogues of an unnatural amino acid that mimics a tripeptide beta-strand.
This paper introduces polar and hydrophobic variants of the unnatural amino acid Hao, which mimics the hydrogen-bonding functionality of one edge of a beta-strand. In these variants, the methyl side chain of Hao is replaced with acidic, basic, and hydrophobic groups. These modifications can impart improved solubility and additional side-chain interactions to peptides containing Hao.


Norway at ICPD+10: international assistance for reproductive health does not reflect domestic policies.
Norway has a long history of good reproductive health care, with some of the world's best reproductive health indicators. Early reduction of maternal mortality, good services for abortion, contraception and sexually transmitted diseases, a low rate of adolescent pregnancies and a low number people with HIV are examples, achieved through an integrated, publicly provided and funded health care package. Official Norwegian development assistance started in 1952. Emphasis on family planning assistance dates back to 1966, making Norway one of the most consistent donors to family planning and reproductive health programmes. Norway also had a high profile at the International Conference on Population and Development and strongly supported the Programme of Action. Since then, while multilateral support in these areas has stayed high, bilateral support has been downscaled. Overall, international assistance does not reflect the domestic approach to reproductive health services. Norway has given little development support to improvement of maternity services, avoided the issues of abortion and post-coital contraception, and passed up opportunities to support adolescent services. Prevention and treatment of infertility has hardly been an issue. Revitalisation of the reproductive rights discourse in Norway could provide a basis for the protection of reproductive health care domestically, and for policy discussions and decisions in relation to Norway's development assistance.


The direct effect of drinking to cope on alcohol problems is not mediated by alcohol consumption: Invariance across gender and countries.
Drinking to cope with negative affect confers a direct risk of alcohol problems independently of greater alcohol consumption (i.e., confers susceptibility to the alcohol harm paradox). However, it remains unclear whether this risk is common across gender and countries. The current study applied path analysis to two cross-sectional samples of 18-25-year-old undergraduate hazardous drinking students recruited from the UK (Study 1; N = 873) and internationally (Study 2; N = 4064 recruited in Argentina, Canada, South Africa, Spain, Uruguay, USA, and England). The Drinking Motives Questionnaire (DMQ) measured drinking to cope with negative affect and drinking to enhance positive affect (i.e., enhancement motives). The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) measured alcohol consumption and problems. In both studies, drinking to cope with negative affect had a direct effect on alcohol problems (S1: β = 0.259, SE = 0.031, p <.001; S2: β = 0.255, SE = 0.017, p <.001), and only a negligible proportion of this effect was mediated by alcohol consumption (S1: 2.58 %, p =.550; S2: 0.79 %, p=.538). By contrast, drinking to enhance positive affect had a smaller direct effect on alcohol problems (S1: β = 0.000, SE = 0.033, p =.989; S2: β = 0.044, SE = 0.017, p =.009), and a substantial proportion of this effect was mediated by greater alcohol consumption (S1: 99.76 %, p <.001; S2: 60.36 %, p <.001). Crucially, in both studies, the direct effect of drinking to cope on alcohol problems was invariant across gender and countries. These findings suggest that individuals who endorse drinking to cope with negative affect are uniquely susceptible to the alcohol harm paradox, that is, greater alcohol problems which cannot be explained by greater alcohol consumption, and this susceptibility is common across gender and countries.


A new insole measurement system to detect bending and torsional moments at the human foot during footwear condition: a technical report.
Stress occurring at the feet while wearing footwear is often determined using pressure measurement systems. However, other forms of stress, such as bending, torsional and shear loadings, cannot be detected in shoes during day-to-day activities. Nevertheless, the detection of these types of stresses would be helpful for understanding the mechanical aspects of various kinds of hard and soft tissue injuries. Therefore, we describe the development of a new measuring device that allows the reliable determination of bending and torsional load at the foot in shoes. The system consists of a measuring insole and an analogue device with Bluetooth interface. The specific shape of the insole base layer, the positions of the strain gauges, and the interconnections between them have all been selected in such a way so as to isolate bending and torsional moment detections in the medial and lateral metatarsal region. The system was calibrated using a classical two-point test procedure. A single case study was executed to evaluate the new device for practical use. This application consisted of one subject wearing neutral shoes walking on a treadmill. The calibration results (coefficients of determination R(2) > 0.999) show that bending and torsional load can be reliably detected using the measurement system presented. In the single case study, alternating bending and torsional load can be detected during walking, and the shape of the detected bending moments can be confirmed by the measurements of Arndt et al. (J Biomech 35:621-8, 2002). Despite some limitations, the presented device allows for the reliable determination of bending and torsional stresses at the foot in shoes.


[The miniinvasive technologies in surgical treatment of diseases and traumas of the spine].
The analysis of miniinvasive surgery for degenerative and traumatic diseases of the spine was conducted. Such methods as microsurgical diskectomy, dynamic implants, vertebroplasty, vertebrae stenting were featured. The use of miniinvasive methods allow the sunstantioal decrease of the hospital-stay time and fasten the rehabilitation.


Accumulation of 201Tl-chloride in a parathyroid adenoma.
A 201Tl-chloride sacn was performed on a patient with primary hyperparathyroidism. 201Tl-chloride accumulated in the region of the right lower thyroidal pole and a diagnosis of parathyroid adenoma was confirmed intraoperatively. 201Tl-chloride imaging of a hyperfunctioning parathyroid gland seems to be useful for the detection and preoperative localization of a parathyroid adenoma.


High frequency heart-rate variability predicts adolescent depressive symptoms, particularly anhedonia, across one year.
Few prospective studies examine the link between lower heart rate variability (HRV) and depression symptoms in adolescents. A recent animal model specifically links HRV to anhedonia, suggesting a potential translational model for human research. We investigated the association between spectral measures of resting HRV and depressive symptoms measured one year later, among 73 adolescents, aged 11-18 years. We evaluated (1) the predictive power of relative high frequency (HF) HRV, relative low frequency (LF) and relative very low frequency (VLF) HRV for depressive symptoms; and (2) the relative strength of association between HF HRV and depressive symptomatology (anhedonia, negative mood, interpersonal problems, ineffectiveness, negative self-esteem). HF HRV significantly predicted self-reported depressive symptoms across one year, controlling for age, puberty and sex. HF HRV was most strongly associated with anhedonia one year later, after considering other facets of depressive symptomatology. Results provide support for the prospective relationship between relative HF HRV and depressive symptoms among adolescents across one year. Findings concur with rodent models that suggest a specific link between HF HRV and anhedonia. We investigated relative spectral power HF HRV and depressive symptom dimensions. We cannot make strong claims about these associations in clinical depression. Physical activity levels could be controlled in future work.


[Studies on the chemical constituents in herb of Mentha haplocalyx].
To study the chemical constituents of Mentha haplocalyx. The chemical constituents were isolated and purified with column chromatography and the structures were elucidated by spectral analysis. Nine compounds were obtained and identified as emodin (I), chrysophanol (II), physcione (II), benzoic acid (IV), trans-cinnamic acid (V), beta-sitosterol (VI), aloe-emodin (VII), ursolic acid (VIII) and daucosterol (IX). Compounds I, II, III, V, VII were first isolated from M. haplocalyx.


Computer assisted dental rehabilitation in free flaps reconstructed jaws: one year follow-up of a prospective clinical study.
Continuity defects in bone after resection of the jaw may cause problems, and osseo-myocutaneous free flaps are the gold standard for their reconstruction. Implant-supported prosthetic rehabilitation is reliable with these microvascular options, although it is still a serious challenge. The aim of this prospective clinical study was to describe the advantages of implants restored according to a computer-assisted surgical protocol. A group of 10 consecutive patients (both sexes) had already been treated and followed up for at least 1 year after prosthetic loading. The NobelGuide protocol had to be modified to adapt the technique for these patients who had had reconstructions. A total of 56 fixtures were installed and, when possible, immediately loaded (overall survival of implants 95%). Every patient was given correct provisional prosthetic rehabilitation, which was most satisfactory as far as chewing, social functioning, and overall quality of life were concerned. Three-dimensional computed tomographic (CT) examination showed a mean (SD) marginal bone loss of 1.06 (0.5)mm. We used a modified technique of computer-assisted implant surgery in jaws that had been reconstructed with free flaps; from these preliminary findings this approach seems valid when it comes to function, improving prosthetic restoration, and aesthetics.


Defining the value of a statistical life: a comment.
In a recent paper [J. Hlth. Econom. 20 (2001) 131] Per-Olov Johansson claims to demonstrate that a commonly used intuitive definition of the value of a statistical life (VSL) is wrong, and that empirical estimates of VSLs are biased estimators of what he defines as the theoretically correct concept of the value of saving a life. In this comment I first argue in favor of a theoretically correct concept that is different from Johansson's because it incorporates the risk of death into the individual's lifetime budget constraint. I then show that the common intuitive definition of a VSL in fact is consistent with the theoretically correct concept and thus, provides an appropriate empirical basis for estimating the value to society of mortality-reducing projects.


Cognitive Biases & Errors in Headache Medicine.
In recent years, the importance and prevalence of cognitive biases has gained scholarly attention in medicine as well as management science regarding a wide range of human activities. The purpose of this review is to illustrate some of the many areas of Headache Medicine that exemplify some of these areas and to highlight the fact that our discipline is, in some cases, apparently more prone to some of these biases than other areas of clinical medicine. The lack of prospective studies to identify and address unconscious cognitive processes that skew the process of clinical headache management indicates that this is a field of investigation that is ripe for attention.


Categorization skills and receptive language development in autistic children.
The category knowledge and receptive language skills of 16 autistic, mentally retarded, and normal children were assessed. The autistic children's knowledge of function, form, and color categories was comparable to that of the mental-age-matched mentally retarded and normal comparison groups. Category knowledge and receptive language were more closely associated for mentally retarded and normal children than for autistic children. The findings indicate that category knowledge is not sufficient for the development of receptive language in autistic children.


Single-stage management of all pouch colon (anorectal malformation) in newborns.
The standard procedure in the management of pouch colon is the staged procedure (SP), which has well-known disadvantages. We believe that staging is unnecessary and primary single-stage procedure (PSSP) can be done. Patients with pouch colon who underwent PSSP (102 cases from 1997 to 2003) and SP (98 cases from 1991 to 1997), 63 and 42 of whom, respectively, were in regular follow-up for more than 3 years, were evaluated. In PSSP, male/female ratio was 94:8; in SP, 89:9. Mean age in PSSP was 4.6 days and in SP 26 months. The distribution of cases into types I, II, III, and IV was 10, 24, 14, and 15 in PSSP, and 8, 20, 10, and 4 in SP, respectively. The ratio of PSSP/SP for total pouch colon (I and II) was 34:28 and for partial pouch colon (III and IV) was 29:14. The ratio of PSSP/SP in terms of continence, mortality, and cost was 75:48, 11:47, and 1:4, respectively. Primary single-stage procedure gives better continence and cosmesis, with low morbidity and mortality at a low cost, and hence is recommended.


Clinical efficacy and predictors of response to dulaglutide in type-2 diabetes.
Aim of this retrospective multicenter observational study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) dulaglutide in a type-2 diabetic real-world population and to determine the factors predicting the response in terms of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and other relevant clinical outcomes. Data for efficacy outcomes, adverse events and drug discontinuation were collected from records of patients with type-2 diabetes treated with once-a-week 1.5 mg of dulaglutide for 12 months in routine clinical practice. Initial analysis included 782 patients and 626 had complete follow-up at 6- and 12-months. There was a significant reduction of HbA1c at 6 months (-1 ± 0.8 %, p < 0.0001), which remained stable at 12-months follow-up (-1 ± 0.9 %, p < 0.0001). The percentage of subjects with HbA1c≤7.0 % increased significantly from 7.2 % at baseline to 52.7 % at 6 months to 55.8 % at 12 months. Predictors of the achievement of HbA1c≤7.0 % were low baseline HbA1c and short duration of diabetes. The reduction of HbA1c was associated with reductions of BMI, waist circumference, fasting plasma glucose and blood pressures. Neither sex nor age had significant effects on any clinical or laboratory outcome. The effects of dulaglutide on HbA1c, BMI and SBP tended to be greater in patients who shifted from dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitors (-0.8 ± 0.8 %) than other GLP-1 RA, even if an improvement of HbA1c reduction (-0.5 %) was also seen in those shifting from other GLP-1 RA. This study confirms that addition of dulaglutide 1.5 mg once a week in real word settings has beneficial effects on both clinical and laboratory outcomes in patients with uncontrolled type-2 diabetes. Dulaglutide has a greater effect on HbA1c in patients with higher baseline values and helps achieve a target HbA1c≤7.0 %, more consistently in patients with lower baseline HbA1c and shorter diabetes duration.


The changing use of pediatric CT in Australia.
Despite the medical benefits of CT, there are concerns about increased cancer risks following CT scans in childhood. To assess Australian temporal trends in pediatric CT scans funded through Medicare over the period 1985 to 2005, as well as changes in the types of CT scanners used. We studied de-identified electronic records of Medicare-funded services, including CT scans, that were available for children and adults younger than 20 years between 1985 and 2005. We assessed temporal trends using CT imaging rates by age, gender and anatomical region. Regulators provided CT scanner registration lists to identify new models installed in Australia and to date the introduction of new technologies. Between 1985 and 2005, 896,306 Medicare-funded CT services were performed on 688,260 individuals younger than 20 years. The imaging rate more than doubled during that time period. There were more than 1,000 CT scanners on registration lists during the study period. There were both a sharp increase in the availability of helical scanning capabilities from 1994 and significant growth in multi-detector CT scanners from 2000. Significant increases in the rate of pediatric CT scanning have occurred in Australia. This rate has stabilized since 2000, possibly a result of better understanding of cancer risks.


Reference method for digital surface measurement of target lesions in vitiligo: a comparative analysis.
Objective measurement of target lesions in vitiligo is important for clinical practice and trials, yet no preferred tool has been defined. Reported digital tools have shortcomings related to feasibility aspects and often lack information on validity, reliability and responsiveness. Moreover, studies are not yet based on ultraviolet (UV) photography. To assess the reliability, validity and feasibility of two functions in ImageJ for measurement of target lesions, based on three different types of images including UV pictures. Planimetric measurements were performed on photographs with and without UV, and lesion contours on transparent sheets of 52 vitiligo lesions from 10 patients with vitiligo. The ImageJ functions 'wand' and 'threshold' were used by three and four assessors, respectively. Inter- and intrarater reliability, hypothesis testing for construct validity, and feasibility were evaluated. The inter- and intrarater reliability for the 'wand' and 'threshold' functions were excellent [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0·9] for measurement on pictures (with or without UV). The highest agreement (ICC > 0·95) and lowest variance were obtained for measurements on transparent sheets. All four hypotheses for construct validity were confirmed for all measurements. Overall, all measurement methods scored satisfactorily for user-friendliness. However, measurements on transparent sheets were preferred and the completion time was significantly faster. This study confirmed the reliability, validity and feasibility of two functions in ImageJ to measure target lesions in vitiligo. Based on the feasibility and included three-dimensional aspects, transparent sheets measured with the ImageJ 'wand' function can be proposed for future trials as a reference method to investigate the criterion validity of other digital instruments.


Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of an early intervention in psychosis service in three demonstration sites in Ireland.
Programmes for early intervention (EIP) in psychosis for people experiencing a first episode of psychosis (FEP) have been found to be both clinically and cost effective. Following the publication of a new EIP model of care (MoC) in Ireland, the aim of this research is to describe how people participated in and responded to the MoC including service users, family members, HSE clinical staff and HSE management. Qualitative design using the UK Medical Research Council's process evaluation framework. Purposive sampling techniques were used. A total of N = 40 key informant semi-structured interviews were completed which included clinical staff (N = 22), health service managers and administrators (N = 9), service users (N = 8) and a family member (N = 1). Thematic analyses were conducted. Unique features of the EIP service (e.g., speed of referral/assessment, multidisciplinary approach, a range of evidence-based interventions and assertive MDT follow up) and enthusiasm for EIP were identified as two key factors that facilitated implementation. In contrast, obstacles to staff recruitment and budget challenges emerged as two primary barriers to implementation. The findings from this research provide real world insights into the complexity of implementing an innovative service within an existing health system. Clear and committed financial and human resource processes which allow new innovations to thrive and be protected during their initiation and early implementation phase are paramount. These elements should be considered in the planning and implementation of EIP services both nationally in Ireland and internationally.


Examination of risk evaluation and mitigation strategies and drug safety in the US.
The Food and Drug Administration Amendment Act of 2007 (FDAAA 2007) enabled the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to require risk evaluation and mitigation strategies (REMS) for a drug or biologic to ensure that its benefits outweigh the risks. This study sought to evaluate REMS approved and released by the FDA since the program inception in 2008, to assess the characteristics of REMS approved and to calculate the time lag between FDA drug application approval and REMS approval. Data were derived from Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations, Approved REMS and Drugs@FDA. Data included generic availability, application type and approval date, therapeutic class and FDA review class, orphan designation, priority review and market status. The FDA approved REMS for 259 marketing applications (217 new drug applications -NDAs, 10 abbreviated NDAs, and 32 biologic license applications) in the study period. The FDA granted orphan designation to 11.4% of active ingredients with REMS and priority review to 38.4% of the NDAs with REMS. The largest number of REMS approvals was for nervous system products (31.8% of total approved REMS) and antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents (15.3%). The FDA approved REMS for one in three biologics and one in thirteen chemical entities available in the market. A pharmaceutical product can be in the market for an average of 14 years before the FDA identifies and evaluates the risk problems that warrant the approval of a REMS.


Critical role of chemical potential to assure effective encapsulation.
In emulsification-polymerisation avoiding monomer escape from emulsion droplets is the key to successful encapsulation. So far, it is believed that (1) a hydrophobe needs to be included and (2) free-micelles of surfactant need to be depleted. However, these criteria do not always work. The paper explores the critical role of the chemical potential difference between the inside and outside of the emulsion droplet for successful encapsulation. Crossflow membrane emulsification was used to produce uniform droplets of 1-2 µm of solutions of 3-iodoprop-2-yn-1-yl butylcarbamate (a biocide), castor oil (hydrophobe) in methyl 2-methylprop-2-enoate (monomer) into aqueous solutions with a large amount of free-micelles of surfactant. The encapsulation was followed by polymerisation. The size distribution of microcapsule from different formula were examined. The biocide encapsulation depends on castor oil content: >12% (full); 6-12% (either full or partial); <6% (minor). Results show a critical molar fraction ratio of the monomer in the droplet to water in the aqueous phase that provides a definitive criterion to assure size retention and full encapsulation. This critical value corresponds to an energy barrier of 116 J/mol to prevent the monomer escaping. This finding is proposed to be used as an advanced rule to guide precision formulation for desired microencapsulation.


Attitudes, Knowledge, and Perceived Barriers Towards Cancer Pain Management Among Healthcare Professionals in Libya: a National Multicenter Survey.
Cancer pain presents in approximately 66% of patients in advanced stages. Although several guidelines and pharmacological options are available for cancer pain management (CPM), assessment and treatment of cancer pain remain inadequate globally, particularly in developing countries. Lack of knowledge and negative attitudes towards CPM among healthcare professionals (HCPs) are important barriers to CPM. This survey aimed to evaluate nurses' and physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and potential barriers regarding CPM in Libya. This cross-sectional survey involved a convenience sample of 152 oncology nurses and physicians working in six oncology settings in Libya. The response rate was 76%. The Barriers Questionnaire II (BQ-II) was used for data collection (higher scores signify greater attitudinal barriers and poorer knowledge). Data analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 26 software. An independent t-test (unadjusted estimate) indicated that Libyan nurses showed higher mean barrier scores (mean = 3.8, SD = 0.7) to CPM than physicians (mean = 2.9, SD = 0.8), p < 0.001. The six most common differences in attitudinal barriers between nurses and physicians were "opioid side effects," "poor tolerance," "strong patient endures pain," "distract the physician," "drug addiction," and "opioids impair immune function," p < 0.001. Multiple regression results (adjusted estimate) indicated that nurses had more barrier scores to CPM than physicians (B = - 0.530, p < 0.05), and participants with higher educational levels were associated with lower barrier scores to CPM (B = - 0.641, p < 0.05). Our results suggest that Libyan oncology HCPs hold perceived barriers, lack of knowledge, and negative attitudes towards CPM. Professional education and training in CPM, addressing phobia and myths on opioid usage, and the benefits and complications of using opioids are likely to result in reduced barriers to CPM in Libya.


Electrical detection of specific versus non-specific binding events in breast cancer cells.
Detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from patient blood samples offers a desirable alternative to invasive tissue biopsies for screening of malignant carcinomas. A rigorous CTC detection method must identify CTCs from millions of other formed elements in blood and distinguish them from healthy tissue cells also present in the blood. CTCs are known to overexpress certain surface receptors, many of which aid them in invading other tissue, and these provide an avenue for their detection. We have developed carbon nanotube (CNT) thin film devices to specifically detect these receptors in intact cells. The CNT sidewalls are functionalized with antibodies specific to Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule (EpCAM), a marker overexpressed by breast and other carcinomas. Specific binding of EpCAM to anti-EpCAM causes a change in the local charge environment of the CNT surface which produces a characteristic electrical signal. Two cell lines are tested in the device: MCF7, a mammary adenocarcinoma line which overexpresses EpCAM, and MCF10A, a non-tumorigenic mammary epithelial line which does not. Introduction of MCF7s causes significant changes in the electrical conductance of the devices due to specific binding and associated charge environment change near the CNT sidewalls. Introduction of MCF10A displays a different profile due to purely nonspecific interactions. The profile of specific vs. nonspecific interaction signatures using carbon based devices will guide development of this diagnostic tool towards clinical sample volumes.


Stimulation of calcium transport in inside-out vesicles of human erythrocyte membranes by a soluble cytoplasmic activator.
Transport of Ca2+ by inside-out vesicles requires both Mg2+ and ATP and can be linear over 16 min at 37 degrees C. This basal rate of transport may be doubled however by an activator found in membrane-free erythrocyte hemolysate. This activatior is probably the same protein (s) which has been shown to activate (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase in erythrocyte membrane fragments (Bond, G.H. and Clough, D.E. (1973) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 323, 592--599).


Antileishmanial, DNA Interaction, and Docking Studies of Some Ferrocene-Based Heteroleptic Pentavalent Antimonials.
A series of ferrocenyl pentavalent antimonials (1-8) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, and multinuclear ((1) H and (13) C) NMR spectroscopy. These antimonials were evaluated for their antileishmanial potential against Leishmania tropica KWH23, and by biocompatibility and membrane permeability assays. Moreover, mechanistic studies were carried out, mediated by DNA targeting followed by computational docking of ferrocenyl antimonials against the leishmanial trypanothione reductase enzyme. It was observed that the antimonials 1-8 were 390-fold more efficacious (IC50 ) as compared with the standard antimonial drug used. Cytotoxicity results showed that these antimonials are highly active even at low concentrations and are biocompatible with human macrophages. Antimonials 1-8 exhibited extensive intercalation with DNA and, furthermore, docking interactions highlighted the potential interactive binding of the anitimonials within the trypanothione reductase active site, with van der Waals interactions contributing significantly to the process. Hence, it is suggested that the reported antimonials demonstrate high efficacy, less toxicity, and target multiple sites of the Leishmania parasite.


[Are the antibodies against laminin-1 the signifikant marker of decreased fertility in women?].
Study of antibodies against laminin-1 in IgG in patients with habitual abortion. Prospective study. Commercial ELISA method for detection of IgG antibodies against laminin-1 in ovulatory cervical mucus, in sera in women with repeated spontaneous abortions, in sera in patients during spontaneous miscarriages. Positive levels of antibodies against laminine-1 in IgG in sera were found in patients during spontaneous abortions, as to ovulatory mucus of infertile women in time out of pregnancy, we did not find any positivity, only in one serum sample in patient with three pregnancy losses in her history. Antibodies against adhesive molecule as laminin-1 presents, can participate during diagnosis of repated spontaneous miscarriages in context of neuro-endocrinne-immune dysregulation, which is not seen during physiological pregnancy.


Molecular signaling through G-protein-coupled receptors and the control of intracellular calcium in myometrium.
Cellular mechanisms regulating myometrial intracellular free calcium (Ca2+(i)) are addressed in this review, with emphasis on G-protein-coupled receptor pathways. An increase in myometrial Ca2+(i) results in phosphorylation of myosin light chain, an increase in myosin adenosine monophosphatase (ATPase) activity and contraction. Dephosphorylation of myosin light chain and a decline in Ca2+(i) are associated with relaxation. Increases in Ca2+(i) are controlled by multiple signaling pathways, including receptor-mediated activation of phospholipase Cbeta (PLCbeta), leading to release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Ca2+ also enters myometrial cells through plasma membrane Ca2+ channels. Conversely, adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent Ca2+ pumps lower Ca2+(i) concentrations and potassium channels promote hyperpolarization that can decrease Ca2+ entry. Receptor-coupled pathways that promote uterine relaxation primarily involve activation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)- or cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-stimulated protein kinases that phosphorylate proteins regulating Ca2+ homeostasis. cAMP has inhibitory effects on myometrial contractile activity, agonist-stimulated phosphatidylinositide turnover and increases in Ca2+(i). Some of these effects require association of protein kinase A (PKA) with a plasma membrane-associated A-kinase-anchoring-protein (AKAP). Near term in the rat, there is a decline in the plasma membrane localization of PKA associated with this anchoring protein. This correlates with changes in the regulation of signaling pathways controlling Ca2+(i). L-type voltage-operated Ca2+ entry is an important regulator of myometrial contraction. In addition, putative signal-regulated or capacitative Ca2+ channel proteins, TrpCs, are expressed in myometrium, and signal-regulated Ca2+ entry is observed in human myometrial cells. This Ca2+ entry mechanism may play a significant role in the control of myometrial Ca2+(i) dynamics and myometrial contraction. The regulation of myometrial Ca2+(i) is complex. Understanding the mechanisms involved may lead to design of tocolytics that target multiple pathways and achieve improved suppression of premature labor.


Long-term clinical and endoscopic assessment after total gastrectomy for cancer.
Progressive malnutrition has been reported as a long-term consequence of total gastrectomy (TG), possibly related to the mode of reconstructing the intestine. In reviewing our personal experience (1975-Sept. 91), we attempted to correlate the reconstructive technique used with the subsequent course of the patient. A consecutive series of 62 TGs (59 adenocarcinomas, 3 lymphomas) in 38 males and 24 females 59 +/- 11 (m Mean +/- SD) years old was reviewed. Preoperative and "follow-up" evaluations, including upper gastrointestinal series and/or endoscopic examination, complete blood count, serum and liver biochemistry profiles, serum iron and plasma transferrin, oral GTT, USG or CT scan, actual and ideal body weight (IBW Life Extension Institute of New York), and "performance status" assessments, were prospectively documented. The follow-up symptoms were classified as per Cuschieri's scoring system. The endoscopic esophageal mucosa assessments were documented as well. Among 56 patients surviving operation, 34 were available, without tumor recurrence, for long-term (12-132 months) evaluation. A Roux-en-Y loop reconstruction had been performed in 23, 5 with a Hunt-Lawrence pouch; an isoperistaltic, esophagoduodenal, jejunal interposition (IR) was performed in 9, 4 with a Kock pouch; and an omega loop reconstruction was performed in 2. A 60-70-cm-long jejunal limb was always utilized.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


The preventive effect of dopamine infusion in rats with abdominal compartment syndrome.
The most significant perfusion disorder of the intra-abdominal viscera occurs in the abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS). Free oxygen radicals diffuse into the body during the reperfusion phase of ACS. Our aim was to determine the effects of dopamine infusion (3 μg/kg/min) on renal perfusion, cytokine levels, free oxygen radicals, and renal histopathological changes in the presence of ACS in a prospective randomized manner. Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6). Group 1 was used as control. In group 2, air was inflated until the intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) reached 20 mmHg. In group 3, dopamine was infused for 60 min meanwhile IAP was kept at 20 mmHg. In group 4, dopamine was infused for 60 min before IAP rise. After this phase, renal artery (RA) perfusion was measured continuously. Myeloperoxidase activity (MPO), glutathione (GSH), and lipid peroxidation (MDA) levels were measured in tissue samples and histopathological scoring was performed. Dopamine treatment before and during ACS significantly decreased MPO and MDA levels and also increased renal blood flow and GSH levels. However, histopathological damage was improved simultaneously. Dopamine infusion before and during ACS, increases renal perfusion and decreases free oxygen radicals. According to our findings, dopamine infusion may be proposed for the treatment of ACS and perfusion disorders in critically ill patients.


Blocked Autophagy is Involved in Layered Double Hydroxide-Induced Repolarization and Immune Activation in Tumor-Associated Macrophages.
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are important immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The polar plasticity of TAMs makes them important targets for improving the immunosuppressive microenvironment of tumors. The previous study reveals that layered double hydroxides (LDHs) can effectively promote the polarization of TAMs from the anti-inflammatory M2 type to the pro-inflammatory M1 type. However, their mechanisms of action remain unexplored. This study reveals that LDHs composed of different cations exhibit distinct abilities to regulate the polarity of TAMs. Compared to Mg-Fe LDH, Mg-Al LDH has a stronger ability to promote the repolarization of TAMs from M2 to M1 and inhibit the formation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). In addition, Mg-Al LDH restrains the growth of tumors in vivo and promotes the infiltration of activated immune cells into the TME more effectively. Interestingly, Mg-Al LDH influences the autophagy of TAMs; this negatively correlates with the pro-inflammatory ability of TAMs. Therefore, LDHs exert their polarization ability by inhibiting the autophagy of TAMs, and this mechanism might be related to the ionic composition of LDHs. This study lays the foundation for optimizing the performance of LDH-based immune adjuvants, which display excellent application prospects for tumor immunotherapy.


Data on cell cycle in breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231 with ferulic acid treatment.
Inhibition to repair DNA metabolism to respond to damaged DNA can lead to genetic instability, resulting in cancer cell death (Audeh et al., 2010; Bryant et al., 2005; Farmer et al., 2005; Lukas et al., 2003; Tutt et al., 2010) [1], [2], [6], [8], [11]. Despite of various studies demonstrating efficiency of combination therapy through down-regulation of DNA repair pathway, the suppression effects of DNA repair pathway by chemotherapeutic agents from natural bioactive compounds are less understood (Eitsuka et al., 2014; Kastan et al., 2004; Kawabata et al., 2000; Mancuso et al., 2014) [5], [7], [9]. Here, the data shows that ferulic acid reduced the S-phases post to UV treatment in breast cancer cells and was hypersensitive in breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231.


Consequences of divergent egg phenology to predation and coexistence in two sympatric, congeneric mantids (Orthoptera: Mantidae).
Two sympatric, congeneric mantid species, Tenodera sinensis (Saussure) and t. angustipennis (Saussure) exhibit intrinsically different temporal patterns of egg hatch in the spring. Tenodera sinensis hatches first, and begins to enter second instar by the time T. angustipennis starts to hatch. As a result, there is asynchrony in developmental times such that several different instars may be present during the first crucial month of life when mantid population densities are high and prey availability is low. The body length ratio of larger to smaller nymphs is most commonly ≥1.37, in favor of T. sinensis. This character divergence suggests allochronic niche separation which may alleviate competition for prey. However this same ratio appears to be the threshold for both interspecific predation and cannibalism among these bitrophic generalist predators. Therefore T. sinensis, which is nearly always larger, may have a selective advantage by utilizing its smaller congener and later-hatching conspecifics as prey in a food limited environment.


Thoracic cross-over pathways of the rat vagal trunks.
It is very difficult to study the independent contributions of the afferent and efferent pathways of the subdiaphragmatic vagus to physiology and behavior. Total subdiaphragmatic vagotomy can confound the interpretation of experimental results because it destroys both afferent and efferent vagal fibers. One approach to address this problem involves producing a total ablation of afferent (or efferent) vagal fibers while retaining half of the efferent (or afferent) vagal fibers by making a unilateral rhizotomy plus contralateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy. However, the completeness of this afferent (or efferent) lesion is based on the assumption that there are no cross-over pathways within the thoracic cavity between the vagal trunks of the rat. To directly test for the presence of vagal cross-over pathways in the rat, we recorded the compound action potentials from the ventral and dorsal trunks of the subdiaphragmatic vagus following electrical stimulation of the left or right cervical vagi. C-fiber cross-over pathways comprised an average of 9% of the total nerve responses (range was 0 to 29%, n = 20). Direct application of the anesthetic bupivacaine to the vagus completely blocked the recorded signals. The vagal cross-over pathways were also demonstrated using capsaicin as a stimulus. These results indicate the presence of thoracic cross-over pathways between vagal trunks in the rat and demonstrate that for most animals it is not possible to produce a "complete" ablation of afferent (or efferent) components of the subdiaphragmatic vagus using unilateral rhizotomy combined with contralateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy.


Bacterial Subversion of COG-Dependent Membrane Traffic.
Intracellular bacterial pathogens thrive within eukaryotic cells by interacting with a range of organelles to establish a replicative niche. In a new study in Cell Host and Microbe, Miller et al. identify a Brucella abortus effector that subverts membrane and protein transport to the Golgi apparatus to promote bacterial replication.


[Is it possible to rejuvenate the aging global civilization?]
Society is not only social system but also biological system. Growing complexity of biological systems will inevitably lead to the loss of their potential immortality and to the appeared attribute of aging. The aging of the present-day civilization is evidenced by the problems having accumulated. The answer to the question concerning the possibility to prevent collapse depends on the answer to the more general question - whether supra-organismal system that due to the growth of the structure complexity has acquired the property to age without losing achieved complexity can return to ancestral potential immortality. A positive response is given to this question. Supra-organismal systems having been freed from the necessity to age exist. Those are communities of social insects. Some of them were mortal initially but in the course of evolution have lost attribute of aging. Therefore, complex supra-organismal systems, including present-day civilization, can return to ancestral potential immortality not losing the achieved structural complexity. The main obstacle to rejuvenating civilization is not the nature of things but the human mentality.


Effect of Voriconazole on Candida tropicalis Biofilms: Relation with ERG Genes Expression.
Candida tropicalis has emerged as the third most prevalent fungal pathogens and its ability to form biofilms has been considered one of the most important virulence factors, since biofilms represent high tolerance to antifungal agents. However, the mechanisms of C. tropicalis biofilm resistance to antifungals remain poorly understood. Thus, the main aim of this work was to infer about the effect of voriconazole on the formation and control of C. tropicalis biofilms and disclose its relationship with ERG genes' expression. Planktonic cells tolerance of several C. tropicalis clinical isolates to voriconazole was determined through of antifungal susceptibility test, and the effect of this azole against C. tropicalis biofilm formation and pre-formed biofilms was evaluated by cultivable cells determination and total biomass quantification. ERG genes expression was analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. This work showed that C. tropicalis resistance to voriconazole is strain dependent and that voriconazole was able to partially control biofilm formation, but was unable to eradicate C. tropicalis pre-formed biofilms. Moreover, C. tropicalis biofilms resistance to voriconazole seems to be associated with alterations of sterol content in the cell membrane, resulting in ERG genes overexpression. Voriconazole is unable to control C. tropicalis biofilms, and the overexpression of ERG genes is a possible mechanism of biofilm resistance.


Motion to strike claim dismissed in HIV defamation suit.
On 23 April 2001, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice issued the first Canadian ruling on the issue of whether words inputing that a person is HIV-positive or has AIDS can be the basis of a defamation action per se, in the case of Serdar v Metroland Printing, Publishing and Distributing Ltd.


Clinicopathological and Molecular Profiles of Sporadic Microsatellite Unstable Colorectal Cancer with or without the CpG Island Methylator Phenotype (CIMP).
The 5'-C-phosphate-G-3' island methylator phenotype (CIMP) is a specific phenotype of colorectal cancer (CRC) associated with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-high) tumors. In this study, we determined the CIMP status using eight methylation markers in 92 MSI-high CRC patients after excluding five germline mismatch repair (MMR) gene mutations analyzed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The mutation spectra of 22 common CRC-associated genes were analyzed by NGS. Of the 92 sporadic MSI-high tumors, 23 (25%) were considered CIMP-high (expressed more than 5 of 8 markers). CIMP-high tumors showed proximal colon preponderance and female predominance. The mutation profiles of CIMP-high tumors were significantly different from those of CIMP-low or CIMP-0 tumors (i.e., higher frequencies of BRAF, POLD1, MSH3, and SMAD4 mutations but lower frequencies of APC, TP53, and KRAS mutations). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage was the independent prognostic factor affecting overall survival (OS). Among the MSI-high cases, the CIMP status did not impact the outcome of patients with MSI-high tumors. Only TNM stage was a statistically significant predictor of outcomes independent of CIMP profiles in MSI-high CRC patients. Sporadic MSI-high CRCs with different mechanisms of carcinogenesis have specific mutation profiles and clinicopathological features.


Detection and discrimination of alpha-fetoprotein with a label-free electrochemical impedance spectroscopy biosensor array based on lectin functionalized carbon nanotubes.
A label-free electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) biosensor for the sensitive determination and discrimination of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was developed by employing wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) lectin as molecular recognition element. The EIS biosensor was fabricated by adsorbing carboxyl-functionalized single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) onto a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) and subsequently covalently coupling WGA onto the surface of the SWNTs-modified electrode. Upon binding of AFP to the biosensor, the electron transfer resistance was increased and the increase in the electron transfer resistance was linearly proportional to the logarithm of the concentration of AFP in the range from 1 to 100 ng/L with a detection limit of 0.1 ng/L. It was found that the employment of SWNTs as immobilization platform could reduce the background and enhance the EIS response. Moreover, the lectin-based biosensor array fabricated with different lectins was used to evaluate the glycan expression of AFP N-glycan and discriminate AFP between healthy and cancer patients serum samples. This work demonstrates that the employment of carbon nanotubes as immobilization platform and lectin as molecular recognition element in biosensor array is a promising approach for the determination and discrimination of glycoproteins for cancer diagnosis. The strategy proposed in this work could further be used for high-throughput, label-free profiling of the glycan expression of cancer-related glycoproteins and to develop methods for cancer diagnosis in the early stages.


Deformation gradients imprint the direction and speed of en masse fibroblast migration for fast healing.
En masse cell migration is more relevant compared with single-cell migration in physiological processes of tissue formation, such as embryogenesis, morphogenesis, and wound healing. In these situations, cells are influenced by the proximity of other cells including interactions facilitated by substrate mechanics. Here, we found that when fibroblasts migrated en masse over a hydrogel, they established a well-defined deformation field by traction forces and migrated along a trajectory defined by field gradients. The mechanics of the hydrogel determined the magnitude of the gradient. For materials stiff enough to withstand deformation related to cellular traction forces, such patterns did not form. Furthermore, migration patterns functioned poorly on very soft matrices where only a minimal traction gradient could be established. The largest degree of alignment and migration velocity occurred on the gels with the largest gradients. Granulation tissue formation in punch wounds of juvenile pigs was correlated strongly with the modulus of the implanted gel, in agreement with in vitro en masse cell migration studies. These findings provide basic insight into the biomechanical influences on fibroblast movement in early wounds and relevant design criteria for the development of tissue-engineered constructs that aim to stimulate en masse cell recruitment for rapid wound healing.


Challenges in diagnosis of pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma: A case report.
Pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinomas (PMECs) of the lung are rare malignant tumors. Despite progresses in examinations, the tumor represents a diagnostic challenge for pathologists and clinical physicians. Here, we present a patient who was eventually diagnosed with PMEC by the bronchoscopic examinations conducted three times. We present the case of a 41-year-old female who was initially diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic adenoma (PPA) with a 68 × 82 mm mass and nodules in her lung and eventually diagnosed with PMEC. Based on histopathology, immunohistology, and imaging studies, the patient was diagnosed with PMEC (pT4N2M1). The patient received first-line systemic chemotherapy regime (gemcitabine combined with carboplatin). The patient received 2 cycles of chemotherapy. Based on the response evaluation criteria in solid tumor, she achieved partial response, and the mass was distinctly decreased from 68 × 22 mm to 41 × 17 mm. This case presents a rare PMEC overlapping with PPA, based on histological findings, suggesting that besides imaging studies and laboratory examinations, multiple biopsies and ThinPrep cytology tests are necessary to obtain an accurate diagnosis. The patient showed positive response to chemotherapy.


Endogenous digitalis-like activity in mammalian brain.
A fraction of brain has been prepared that contains a substance mimicking actions of the digitalis glycosides. It both blocks the binding of [3H]ouabain to Na+,K+-ATPase (ATP phosphohydrolase, EC 188.8.131.52) and inhibits the uptake of 86Rb+ into human erythrocytes. Partial isolation was achieved by Sephadex G-10 fractionation and subsequent desalting. This activity is potentially capable of regulating ionic fluxes and concentration gradients across the cell membrane.


Adrenal myelolipoma: fine-needle aspiration of an asymptomatic retroperitoneal mass.
We report a case of myelolipoma of the adrenal gland diagnosed by ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration in a patient with bronchogenic carcinoma who was noted to have a 5-cm adrenal mass on computerized tomography during evaluation for metastatic disease. The cytologic features are characteristic and consist of mature adipocytes and bone marrow elements that are most clearly demonstrated on Wright-stained cytospin material. This case illustrates the importance of fine-needle aspiration in the evaluation of radiologically detected adrenal masses in patients with known malignancies. A cytologic diagnosis of benign or metastatic disease can eliminate the need for formal surgical exploration in selected cases.


Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Acetylation and Dysregulation, Due to Loss of SIRT3 Activity, Promote a Luminal B-Like Breast Carcinogenic-Permissive Phenotype.
Breast cancer is the most common nondermatologic malignancy among women in the United States, among which endocrine receptor-positive breast cancer accounts for up to 80%. Endocrine receptor-positive breast cancers can be categorized molecularly into luminal A and B subtypes, of which the latter is an aggressive form that is less responsive to endocrine therapy with inferior prognosis. Sirtuin, an aging-related gene involved in mitochondrial metabolism, is associated with life span, and more importantly, murine models lacking Sirt3 spontaneously develop tumors that resemble human luminal B breast cancer. Furthermore, these tumors exhibit aberrant manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) acetylation at lysine 68 and lysine 122 and have abnormally high reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which have been observed in many types of breast cancer. The mechanism of how luminal B breast cancer develops resistance to endocrine therapy remains unclear. MnSOD, a primary mitochondrial detoxification enzyme, functions by scavenging excessive ROS from the mitochondria and maintaining mitochondrial and cellular homeostasis. Sirt3, a mitochondrial fidelity protein, can regulate the activity of MnSOD through deacetylation. In this study, we discuss a possible mechanism of how loss of SIRT3-guided MnSOD acetylation results in endocrine therapy resistance of human luminal B breast cancer. Acetylation of MnSOD and other mitochondrial proteins, due to loss of SIRT3, may explain the connection between ROS and development of luminal B breast cancer and how luminal B breast cancer becomes resistant to endocrine therapy. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 25, 326-336.


Clinico-histopathological and phylogenetic analysis of protozoan epibiont Epistylis wuhanensis associated with crustacean parasite Lernaea cyprinacea from ornamental fish in Iran.
Parasitic infestations are one of the most concerning problems limiting ornamental fish farming. In addition to the direct economic losses due to the major mortalities, parasites may significantly negatively impact the body shape, coloration, growth rate, and health condition of the fish. The results of the study highlight the importance of comprehensive parasitological analysis in the diagnosis and treatment of parasitic infections in ornamental fish farms. The presence of multiple parasites in the affected fish emphasizes the need for effective biosecurity measures, such as extending the quarantine period for newly imported fish, closely monitoring fish populations, and implementing isolation units to prevent the spread of infections. By implementing these preventative measures, ornamental fish farmers can reduce the risk of parasitic infections and ensure the health and well-being of their fish populations. This, in turn, can lead to increased profitability and sustainability for their business. Overall, the current study aimed to conduct a clinical, histopathological, and phylogenetic analysis of the epibiont ciliated protozoan Epistylis wuhanensis and the copepod crustacean Lernaea cyprinacea in a freshwater ornamental fish farm in Iran. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of parasitic infections in ornamental fish farms and underscores the need for continued research and the development of effective preventative measures to address this issue. A total of 60 symptomatic freshwater ornamental fish, including 30 guppy (Poecilia reticulata) and 30 sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna), were packed in polyethylene bags filled with oxygenated pond water and transported to the Ornamental Fish Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, for parasitological analysis. Following the clinical examination, histopathological analysis was performed on 10% NBF (neutral buffered formalin)-fixed samples from affected tissues, including the skin, skeletal muscle, and liver, to identify any pathological changes associated with the parasitic infections. Furthermore, the DNA was extracted from the 99% ethanol-fixed samples using a commercial DNA extraction tissue kit (SinaPure DNA, Iran), and PCR was performed using Peri18S-F1 (5'-ACC TGG TTG ATC CTG CCA GT-3') and Peri18S-R1 (5'-TGC AGG TTC ACC TAC GGA AA-3') (first reaction), and Peri18S-F2 (5'-CCG CGG TAA TTC CAG CTC-3') and Peri18S-R2 (5'-GAT CCC CTA ACT TTC GTT CTT GA-3') (second round) primers for the identified parasites. Finally, the PCR products were sequenced using Sanger dideoxy sequencing methods, and the resulting sequences were compared to sequences in the BLAST search program to provide a comprehensive picture of the current parasite-based disorder. The crustacean L. cyprinacea and the epibiont sessilid E. wuhanensis were identified in the examined ornamental guppy (6/30) and sailfin molly (6/30), with an overall parasitic prevalence of 20.00% (12/60). Ciliates were found in all tissue lesions but not in fish without lesions. A great number of the ciliated protozoan E. wuhanensis were found attached to the integumentary area of L. cyprinacea. Microscopically, oval to round granulomatous lesions were observed in cutaneous and skeletal muscles. Lymphoplasmacytic dermatitis and myositis were also observed. The crustacean L. cyprinacea serves as a mechanical vector for E. wuhanensis infection and spreads the disease in ornamental fish farming operations. For the first time in Iran, we successfully presented diagnostic morphological and molecular data on sessilids isolated from L. cyprinacea. Based on the findings of the current study, such parasitic infections may cause significant economic losses following invasion of the integument area of fish, eventually leading to death, if treatment is neglected or inadequate. Furthermore, the findings of the analysis were used to develop effective diagnostic approaches for the affected fish, as well as recommendations for improved health conditions to prevent future outbreaks of parasitic infections. However, further research is needed to determine the precise mechanisms of crustacean attachment and host-crustacean-peritrich protozoan interactions. Furthermore, the direct and indirect effects of various environmental factors on the emergence and spread of the current disease should be considered.


Occurrence of aflatoxins in selected colombian foods.
A survey of aflatoxin contamination in selected Colombian foods was conducted over a 12-month period on a total of 248 samples. Samples were collected in supermarkets, retail stores and stock centres and were grouped into five categories: (1) corn and corn products, (2) cereal grains, (3) rice and rice products, (4) legume seeds; and (5) snacks and breakfast cereals. Aflatoxins were identified and quantitated using a liquid chromatographic technique with a limit of detection of 1 ng/g for each aflatoxin. Aflatoxins were detected in 14 of 109 samples of corn and corn products, 4 of 40 samples of rice and rice products, 2 of 30 samples of legume seeds, and 2 of 11 samples of snacks and breakfast cereals. None of the cereal grains samples analysed contained detectable levels of aflatoxins. Twelve of the total of 22 positive samples exceeded the maximum tolerable level of aflatoxin B1 adopted in most countries (5 ng/g); 10 of these 12 samples corresponded to corn and corn products. The results of the present study indicate that aflatoxin B1 contamination in certain foods in Colombia is a major public health concern. Continuous monitoring of aflatoxin B1 levels in Colombian foods is advised.


Visual-auditory interactions in cat superior colliculus: their role in the control of gaze.
Superior colliculus cells that respond to a given sensory input (visual or auditory) were influenced by the presence of a stimulus in the other modality. This is a form of sensory-sensory integration which has previously been thought to be involved in initiating the orientation of receptor organs in response to such cues. The present results demonstrate directly that some neurons in cat superior colliculus exhibit premotor discharges which are facilitated when evoked by combinations of visual and auditory stimuli. Other neurons showed sensory interactions which were more difficult to relate directly to orienting behavior; these cells might have a role in mediating attentional functions.


The Foundation for International Education in Neurological Surgery.
The Foundation for International Education in Neurological Surgery (FIENS) was established in 1969 for the purpose of promoting neurosurgical education and patient care in the developing world. Ghana, the first African site, was adopted in 1989. In 2005 a neurosurgical training program was developed for Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in East Africa and the College of Surgeons of Central, East, and Southern Africa (COSECSA) approved the curriculum.


Neonatal outcomes from a randomized controlled trial of maternal treatment of iron deficiency anemia with intravenous ferumoxytol vs oral ferrous sulfate.
Anemia in pregnancy is common worldwide and has known maternal risks. The relationship between the types of treatment offered for maternal anemia and the effects on the fetus and newborn are largely uninvestigated. This study aimed to investigate whether maternal treatment with intravenous ferumoxytol compared to oral ferrous sulfate results in an increase in neonatal hematologic and iron indices. These analyses were planned secondary outcomes and post hoc analysis from the trial with a primary outcome of change in maternal hemoglobin. A randomized controlled trial including 124 participants with anemia by World Health Organization criteria was performed in which participants were allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either 2 infusions of 510 mg of intravenous ferumoxytol or 325 mg oral ferrous sulfate twice daily. Fetal monitoring was performed during each intravenous iron infusion. Standard univariable statistical techniques were used to compare groups and to investigate associations between maternal and neonatal hemoglobin and iron indices. Cord blood hematological parameters were equivalent between groups. Hemoglobin was 15.7 g/dL vs 15.4 g/dL (P=.6) and hematocrit was 50.5% and 49.2% (P=.4) in those randomized to intravenous ferumoxytol and oral ferrous sulfate, respectively. Iron studies revealed higher cord blood ferritin concentrations in infants of participants treated with intravenous ferumoxytol (294 vs 186, P=.005). There were equivalent iron (158 vs 146, P=.4), transferrin (186 vs 196, P=.4) and total iron binding capacity (246 vs 244, P=1) in neonates of participants receiving intravenous vs oral treatment. There were no effects of the infusions observed on cardiotocography. Gestational age at birth was equivalent between groups. We noted a larger birthweight in neonates of participants treated with intravenous ferumoxytol (3215 g vs 3033 g, P=.09), which was not statistically significant. Post hoc analyses revealed a statistically significant correlation between neonatal ferritin and maternal hemoglobin (P=.006) and neonatal ferritin and maternal ferritin (P=.017) at admission for delivery. Neonates of participants who received intravenous ferumoxytol were born with higher ferritin concentrations in cord blood, at the same gestation with the same birthweight. Participants with higher hemoglobin and ferritin indices delivered infants with higher ferritin concentrations in cord blood.


Ultrasound diagnosis of multiple cystic encephalomalacia.
Following bacterial meningitis thirty cases of enlarging head were evaluated on ultrasound to find out the cause. Nine out of 30 patients had multiple cystic lesions in both cerebral hemispheres with or without ventriculomegaly. Three patients showed debris in the cysts suggesting pus, which was confirmed on ultrasound-guided aspiration in two and on surgery in one case. Seven out of nine patients had died at the time of writing this communication, suggesting the need for its early detection and timely family counselling. It is stressed that multiple cystic encephalomalacia has a characteristic appearance on ultrasound and all patients with meningitis should be screened routinely so as to detect it at an early stage.


Does central sensitization affect hyperalgesia after staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty? A randomized controlled trial.
Osteoarthritis (OA) patients who undergo staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) feel postoperative hyperalgesia in the second operated knee compared with the first knee. Ketamine is an important drug for central temporal summation and inhibition of secondary mechanical hyperalgesia. This study investigated whether central sensitization has a significant effect on hyperalgesia after consecutive operations. Seventy-one of 80 OA patients were randomly allocated to the ketamine or saline group. A bolus of ketamine (group K) or saline (group C) (0.5 mg/kg) was injected before induction and at an infusion rate of 3 µg/kg/minute during surgery. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess resting and moving pain and opioid consumption on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3. The difference in the VAS score between stages 1 and 2 (DV2-V1) was higher in the ketamine compared with the saline group. DV2-V1 for movement between the two groups was not inferior for all periods. Ketamine did not show a large analgesic effect on second-operated knee hyperalgesia in staged bilateral TKAs. We could not confirm that hyperalgesia was only related to central sensitization with low-dose ketamine. Other factors might be also associated with the hyperexcitability of nociceptive stimuli.Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) trial registry no: KCT0001481.


Residents' knowledge in transfusion medicine and educational programs: A pilot study.
Residents' knowledge in transfusion medicine significantly impacts the optimal use of blood and patient safety. Little is known regarding this topic in France in particular. The objectives were to evaluate their basic knowledge, to determine whether the objectives of the curricula were attained and subsequently to suggest ways for improvement. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 first year medical and surgical specialty residents rotating in a French university hospital. Major gaps in the knowledge were noted among residents of various specialties, equally between those with low and sustained transfusion practice. The majority of these young doctors expressed difficulties in prescribing and handling transfusions, identifying and managing its complications and understanding their responsibilities. The roles of hemovigilance practitioners were further somehow unclear for participants. Given these results, action plans appear needed to limit consequences. A special transfusion medicine educational program should be added to the currently available medical education curriculum in order to ensure physicians have adequate knowledge of transfusion basics; at least a practical assisted situation during residency would be of valuable interest.


Morphofunctional characteristics of the immune system in CBA and C57Bl/6g mice.
We studied peculiarities of morphofunctional organization of the immune system in C57Bl/6g and CBA mice differing by their susceptibility to various types of infectious agents. The revealed differences in the structure of lymphoid organs, T lymphocyte subpopulation ratio and their differentiation into Th1/Th2 cells after mitogen stimulation drove us to a conclusion on genetically determined regularities in the development of the immune response in these animal strains.


Neural encoding of movement sequences in the human brain.
Humans learn and remember thousands of motor skills, but how these skills are represented in the brain is not well understood. A recent study by Wiestler and Diedrichsen demonstrates for the first time that individual motor sequences can be identified based on the pattern of neural activity in a distributed network of motor cortical regions.


Feasibility and safety of dose-dense modified docetaxel-cisplatin or carboplatin and 5-fluorouracil regimen (mTPF) in locally advanced or metastatic head and neck cancers: a retrospective monocentric study.
Docetaxel-cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (TPF) chemotherapy (days 1-21) represents a standard but toxic regimen for advanced head and neck cancer (HNC). We report a retrospective monocentric study evaluating the safety and the efficacy of a dose-dense modified TPF (mTPF) regimen (days 1-14) in patients with stage III-IV HNC. Thirty-seven patients retrospectively included from May 2011 to May 2014 were treated with a bimonthly dose-dense mTPF regimen (40 mg/m(2) docetaxel, 40 mg/m(2) cisplatin or AUC2 carboplatin, folinic acid 400 mg/m(2) for 2 h, bolus 5-FU 400 mg/m(2) for 10 min and 5-FU 1,000 mg/m(2)/day) by continuous infusion over 46 h). Chemotherapy was used as induction or palliative treatment in 12 and 25 patients, respectively, with a median age of 60 years (range 46-83). Median follow-up time was 7.4 months (2.53-16.7 months). There was no intestinal toxicity in 25 patients (68 %). Grade 3-4 hematological toxicity was noticed for 5 (13.5 %) patients. Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor was used as primary prophylaxis in 30 patients (81 %). After at least 4 delivered cycles, complete responses, partial responses and stable diseases were reported in 5 (15 %), 13 (39 %) and 5 (15 %) of the 33 evaluable patients, respectively, yielding an objective response rate of 54.5 % (39 % for palliative chemotherapy and 90 % for induction chemotherapy). Dose-dense mTPF (days 1-14) is safe and seems to be as effective as TPF (days 1-21). Future prospective trials are required to confirm our results.


Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases in aroma compound synthesis.
Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) are presented as highly selective and efficient biocatalysts for the synthesis of aroma lactones via kinetic resolution of 2-substituted cycloketones, exemplified with two δ-valerolactones, the jasmine lactones and their ε-caprolactone homologs. Analytical scale screens of our BVMO library ensued by preparative whole-cell biotransformations led to the identification of two enzymes (cyclohexanone monooxygenase from Arthrobacter BP2 and cyclododecanone monooxygenase from Rhodococcus SC1) perfectly suited for the task at hand: easily accessible racemic starting materials were bio-oxidized to almost enantiopure ketones and lactones in good yields (48-74%) and optical purities (ee 93% to >99%, E>100).


Enzyme activities, histochemistry and myosin light chain pattern in extraocular muscles of rabbit.
A study was performed on enzyme activities, myosin light chain pattern and histochemical composition of extraocular muscles (EOM) of rabbit. The results were compared with those from slow-twitch soleus and fast-twitch psoas limb muscles. EOM were found to contain myosin light chains of both slow and fast skeletal muscles, with the latter being predominant. The activities of the enzymes regulating glycolysis and lactic acid fermentation were found to lie between those measured in soleus and psoas muscles, whereas the activities of the enzymes involved in oxidative metabolism were found to be very similar or even higher than in soleus muscle. All five isozymes of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH 1-5) were found in EOM. The predominant species was LDH-3 illustrating that this pattern is uncharacteristic of either slow soleus or fast psoas muscles. The complex structural and functional characteristics of EOM might result from the observed heterogeneity of fibres.


Tuberculosis outbreak in marijuana users, Seattle, Washington, 2004.
Matching Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates were noted among 11 young tuberculosis patients socially linked through illicit drug-related activities. A large proportion of their friends, 14 (64%) of 22, had positive tuberculin skin-test results. The behavior of "hotboxing" (smoking marijuana inside a closed car with friends to repeatedly inhale exhaled smoke) fueled transmission.


Estimate of genetic variants using CNV-Seq for fetuses with oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios.
Oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios, is associated with chromosomal aberrations, particularly aneuploidy. However, its correlation with copy number variation (CNV) remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed 428 cases with an abnormal level of amniotic fluid, comprising of 139 cases of single ultrasound findings (SU group) and 289 cases of multiple ultrasound findings (MU group), by CNV sequencing (CNV-Seq) and followed their pregnancy outcomes. The overall detection rate of clinically significant findings was 8%, with 5% in the SU group and 11% in MU group. Besides, 18 microdeletion/microduplication syndromes were detected, with the highest rate of renal cysts and diabetes syndrome (22%, 4/18). Also, the rate of termination of pregnancy in MU group was much higher than that in the SU group (29% vs. 10%, ***p < 0.001), and in the MU-oligohydramnios subgroup, it was the highest (34%), regardless of cases with chromosomal anomaly and lost to follow-up. Our results showed that the abnormal level of amniotic fluid, especially combined with other ultrasound abnormalities, is closely related to chromosomal abnormalities and genetic CNVs. CNV-Seq may be useful in investigating pregnancies with an abnormal amniotic fluid level.


Observation of the clinical effectiveness of evidence-based nursing for patients with a vertebral osteoporotic fracture.
An osteoporotic fracture (OPF) can significantly affect patients' activities of daily living (ADLs). This study observed the effects of evidence-based nursing (EBN) on the occurrence of postoperative complications and ADLs in patients with a vertebral OPF. A total of 90 patients with vertebral OPF were divided into two groups. The conventional orthopedic nursing method was conducted for the control group, and the EBN model was delivered for the observation group. Differences in the Barthel index (BI) score on the first day of admission were not statistically significant between the two groups. The BI scores on the day before discharge, compared with the day of admission, had improved in both groups. The BI score on the day before discharge was 83.67 ± 6.94 in the observation group, and the difference was statistically significant (P< 0.05) compared with the control group (76.56 ± 6.89). The rate of satisfaction with nursing in the observation group (100.0%) was significantly higher than in the control group (82.2%) (P< 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in the observation group (2.2%) was significantly lower than in the control group (24.4%) (P< 0.05). The implementation of EBN in patients with vertebral OPF improved the postoperative ADLs, reduced the incidence of postoperative complications, and improved the patients' satisfaction with nursing.