A diagnostic quandary: Rotavirus vaccine associated diarrhea.
The patient is an otherwise healthy two-month-old boy who received the recommended vaccinations for his age group, which included the rotavirus pentavalent vaccine (RV5; RotaTeq) at his two-month well child visit. Three days later, he developed prolonged non-bloody diarrhea and was found to have persistently positive rotavirus antigen in his stool. Subsequent workup revealed mild defects in his functional T-cell immunocompetence. Genetic testing was obtained through the Invitae panel and was negative for hereditary forms of primary immunodeficiencies. The rotavirus antigen was found to have cleared from his stool around four months after receiving the RV5. Unfortunately, the source of the rotavirus infection was unable to be determined. The caregivers had misconceptions about the vaccine and the child's immune system function which led to refusal of any further vaccinations. Healthcare providers should strive to develop honest and respectful relationships with parents to have thoughtful dialogues regarding vaccine safety and efficacy.


Effects of inoculation of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria on metal uptake by Brassica juncea.
A greenhouse study was carried out with Brassica juncea to critically evaluate effects of bacterial inoculation on the uptake of heavy metals from Pb-Zn mine tailings by plants. Application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, including nitrogen-fixing bacteria and phosphate and potassium solubilizers, might play an important role in the further development of phytoremediation techniques. The presence of these beneficial bacteria stimulated plant growth and protected the plant from metal toxicity. Inoculation with rhizobacteria had little influence on the metal concentrations in plant tissues, but produced a much larger above-ground biomass and altered metal bioavailability in the soil. As a consequence, higher efficiency of phytoextraction was obtained compared with control treatments.


[Effect of rheopolyglucin on the aggregation function of erythrocytes stored for different times].
The paper is concerned with changes in the aggregation function of red blood cells at rheopolyglucin dilution of the erythrocyte mass with varying dates of storage. Rheopolyglucin decreases aggregation of red blood cells. It has been also established that aggregation capacity of these cells is reduced on storage of conserved blood.


Telavancin shows superior activity to vancomycin with multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a range of in vitro biofilm models.
The activity of telavancin was compared with vancomycin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in planktonic culture and biofilms grown using a range of in vitro models. Antibiotic efficacy was determined using 24 clinical isolates, including healthcare-associated (HA)-MRSA, community-associated (CA)-MRSA and isolates with reduced (intermediate) susceptibility to vancomycin (VISA). Activity against biofilms was compared using three models: 96-peg plates, 96-well flat-bottom plates and a flow-cell system. Cell death was evaluated using a metabolic dye and Live/Dead staining. The planktonic minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range for telavancin was lower than that for vancomycin (0.06-0.25 mg/l and 0.5-8 mg/l, respectively). Vancomycin (100 × MIC) killed, on average, 59% of cells in HA-MRSA biofilms grown on 96-peg plates, 44% of cells in CA-MRSA biofilms and 26% of cells in VISA biofilms. Telavancin (100 × MIC) killed, on average, 63%, 49% and 41% of cells, respectively. The antibiotics showed similar efficacy against MRSA biofilms but telavancin was more effective against those formed by VISA isolates. In the flow-cell system, antibiotic cell killing was enhanced with both antibiotics, killing up to 80% of biofilm-associated cells. The variance in cell killing displayed when biofilms were grown using different systems highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate model for antimicrobial efficacy tests. The flow-cell system more closely reflects conditions encountered during infection and is possibly more clinically relevant than a 96-well plate system. Despite differences between the models evaluated, telavancin typically demonstrated improved efficacy over vancomycin, indicating the potential value of the agent in the treatment of biofilm-mediated infections caused by S. aureus, especially multidrug-resistant isolates.


Family Walk-In Centre--Eaton Socon: evaluation of a project on preventive intervention based in the community.
The Family Walk-In Centre opened November 1978 as a pilot project at Eaton Socon in Cambridgeshire with the aims: to encourage parents to visit the centre on "their terms," including parents who have abused or who fear they will abuse or neglect their child who may be difficult or handicapped, or because of chronic or acute family problems; further to mobilize "Self Help" groups and offer professional support. "Help" offered to the families included informal and formal group work, family casework and education in social and physical skills. Volunteer and professional support was given at the Centre and at home. Close liaison with specialist agencies was maintained to enable families to receive appropriate help. Periodic reviews and visits were made to maintain contact. An analysis of 50 families who attended the Centre between October 1979 and May 1980 was made to assess: the attendance and reattendance rate which indicated their acceptance of help offered and their motivation to use the Centre; the types of problems presented to the Centre, the types of action taken, the progress made when reviewed after three months and the degree of involvement by the volunteers. A final analysis will comprise 100 families. A preliminary summary found: significant reduction in the registration of new cases of child abuse; self-referrals exceeded significantly other modes of referral; loneliness and parenting difficulties formed the major proportion of families seeking help; 48% of families continued to attend for 3 months or more; work done centered upon discussion of parenting problems in 30% of the cases and involvement in activities with other families in 28%; 18% were assessed as showing improved child care after 3 months.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Claspin is phosphorylated in the Chk1-binding domain by a kinase distinct from Chk1.
Chk1 protein kinase plays a critical role in checkpoints that restrict progression through the cell cycle if DNA replication has not been completed or DNA damage has been sustained. ATR-dependent activation of Chk1 is mediated by Claspin. Phosphorylation of Claspin at two sites (Thr916 and Ser945 in humans) in response to DNA replication arrest or DNA damage recruits Chk1 to Claspin. Chk1 is subsequently phosphorylated by ATR and fully activated to control cell cycle progression. We show that ablation of Chk1 by siRNA in human cells or its genetic deletion in chicken DT40 cells does not prevent phosphorylation of Claspin at Thr916 (Ser911 in chicken). Chk1, however, does play other roles, possibly indirect, in the phosphorylation of Claspin and its induction. These results demonstrate that phosphorylation of Claspin within the Chk1-binding domain is catalysed by an ATR-dependent kinase distinct from Chk1.


Treadmill exercise ameliorates symptoms of methimazole-induced hypothyroidism through enhancing neurogenesis and suppressing apoptosis in the hippocampus of rat pups.
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in new neuron production and maturation during brain development. Physical exercise is known to promote cell survival and functional recovery after brain injuries. In the present study, we investigated the effects of treadmill exercise on short-term memory, spatial learning ability, neurogenesis, and apoptosis in hypothyroidism rat pups. On the 14th perinatal day, the pregnant rats were divided into two groups: the maternal control group and the maternal methimazole (MMI)-treated group. For the induction of hypothyroidism in rat pups, MMI was added to the drinking water (0.02%, wt/vol), from the 14th prenatal day to the 49th postnatal day. After delivery, the male rat pups born from the maternal control group were assigned into the control group and the control and exercise group. The rat pups born from the maternal MMI-treated group were divided into the hypothyroidism-induction group and the hypothyroidism-induction and treadmill exercise group. The rat pups in the exercise groups were forced to run on a motorized treadmill for 30min once a day, starting on the 22nd postnatal day for 4 weeks. Induction of hypothyroidism during the fetal and early postnatal period showed suppression of neurogenesis and enhancement of apoptosis in the hippocampus. Short-term memory and spatial learning ability were deteriorated in the hypothyroidism rat pups. Treadmill exercise during the postnatal period increased neurogenesis and inhibited apoptosis, and resulted in the improvement of short-term memory and spatial learning ability in the hypothyroidism rat pups.


Effects of D- and L-govadine on the disruption of touchscreen object-location paired associates learning in rats by acute MK-801 treatment.
New pharmacological treatments for the cognitive deficits in schizophrenia are needed. Tetrahydroprotoberberines, such as govadine, are one class of compounds with dopaminergic activities that may be useful in treating some aspects of the cognitive symptoms of the disorder. The objective of the present studies was to test the effects of the D- and L-enantiomers of govadine on the impairment in a paired-associate learning (PAL) task produced by acute MK-801 in rats. We also assessed effects of the typical antipsychotic haloperidol as a comparator compound. MK-801 (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 mg/kg), D- and L-govadine (0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 mg/kg), and haloperidol (0.05, 0.1, and 0.25 mg/kg) were administered acutely to rats well trained on the PAL task in touchscreen-equipped operant conditioning chambers. Acute MK-801 impaired performance of PAL in a dose-dependent manner by reducing accuracy and increasing correction trials. L-Govadine (1.0 mg/kg), but not D-govadine, blocked the disruptive effects of MK-801 (0.15 mg/kg) on PAL. Haloperidol failed to affect the MK-801-induced disruption of PAL. Higher doses of L-govadine and haloperidol dramatically impaired performance of the task which confounded interpretation of cognitive outcomes. L-Govadine appears unique in its ability to improve performance of the MK-801-induced impairment in the PAL task. This behavioral effect may relate the ability of L-govadine to antagonize dopamine D2 receptors while also promoting dopamine efflux. Future research should further characterize the role of the dopamine system in the rodent PAL task to elucidate the mechanisms of its pro-cognitive effects.


Ultrasound assisted extraction of hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) bioactive compounds for application as potential functional ingredient.
The ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) of total anthocyanins (TA) and total phenolic compounds (TP) from hibiscus calyces was evaluated with the intention of using the extract in future food products. The Box-Behnken Design was used for the extraction evaluating sonication time, solvent concentration and temperature. Final results suggest that 45 min, 65 °C and 25% ethanol can be considered the best region for UAE extraction. The relative area of the peaks identified by UPLC-MS/MS in the extract obtained by the UAE are superior in 2 or even 4 times those obtained by conventional extraction, for all the compounds, suggesting that the UAE method is more effective in the extraction of bioactive compounds. The extract obtained was used to make jelly and submitted to in vitro digestion and colonic fermentation. Loss of TP, TA and antioxidant activity in the jelly with addition of extract was lower when compared to extract loss itself, showing that it is feasible the hibiscus extract application in food products.


[An unusual case of carpal tunnel syndrome].
A severe form of a carpal-tunnel-syndrome with motoric and sensoric deficits and trophic disturbances of the fingers II and III is presented, which reminds also of syringomyelia, erysipeloid or a chronic erysipelas.


Double enhancement of hydrogen storage capacity of Pd nanoparticles by 20 at% replacement with Ir; systematic control of hydrogen storage in Pd-M nanoparticles (M = Ir, Pt, Au).
We report on binary solid-solution nanoparticles (NPs) composed of Pd and Ir, which are not miscible at the equilibrium state of the bulk, for the first time, by means of a process of hydrogen absorption/desorption from core (Pd)/shell (Ir) NPs. Only 20 at% replacement with Ir atoms doubled the hydrogen-storage capability compared to Pd NPs, which are a representative hydrogen-storage material. Furthermore, the systematic control of hydrogen concentrations and the corresponding pressure in Pd and Pd-M NPs (M = Ir, Pt, Au) have been achieved based on the band filling control of Pd NPs.


Electroclinical studies of seizures in the newborn.
Electroclinical features of neonatal seizures were studied in 215 neonates who developed seizures during the first three weeks of life. In 62 of them, clinical fits occurred during the actual polygraphic recording. The electro-clinical correlations were very variable, although there were some statistically significant associations between certain types of seizures and electrical discharges. The relation between seizures and sleep states was investigated in 40 infants who had more than three fits during the recording. The state in which more than 70% of seizures occurred was active sleep in 28% of the cases, quiet sleep in 13%, indeterminate sleep in 8%, and wakefulness in 8%. In 50%, seizures did not tend to occur in a given state. The authors thank Professor Suzuki for his continued interest and encouragement.


5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), methionine synthase (MTRR), and methionine synthase reductase (MTR) gene polymorphisms and adult meningioma risk.
The causes of meningiomas are not well understood. Folate metabolism gene polymorphisms have been shown to be associated with various human cancers. It is still controversial and ambiguous between the functional polymorphisms of folate metabolism genes 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), methionine synthase (MTRR), and methionine synthase reductase (MTR) and risk of adult meningioma. A population-based case–control study involving 600 meningioma patients (World Health Organization [WHO] Grade I, 391 cases; WHO Grade II, 167 cases; WHO Grade III, 42 cases) and 600 controls was done for the MTHFR C677T and A1298C, MTRR A66G, and MTR A2756G variants in Chinese Han population. The folate metabolism gene polymorphisms were determined by using a polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. Meningioma cases had a significantly lower frequency of MTHFR 677 TT genotype [odds ratio (OR) = 0.49, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.33–0.74; P = 0.001] and T allele (OR = 0.80, 95 % CI 0.67–0.95; P = 0.01) than controls. A significant association between risk of meningioma and MTRR 66 GG (OR = 1.41, 95 % CI 1.02–1.96; P = 0.04) was also observed. When stratifying by the WHO grade of meningioma, no association was found. Our study suggested that MTHFR C677T and MTRR A66G variants may affect the risk of adult meningioma in Chinese Han population.


Integrating user centered design, universal design and goal, operation, method and selection rules to improve the usability of DAISY player for persons with visual impairments.
The Digital Accessible Information SYstem (DAISY) player is an assistive reading tool developed for use by persons with visual impairments. Certain problems have persisted in the operating procedure and interface of DAISY players, especially for their Chinese users. Therefore, the aim of this study was to redesign the DAISY player with increased usability features for use by native Chinese speakers. First, a User Centered Design (UCD) process was employed to analyze the development of the prototype. Next, operation procedures were reorganized according to GOMS (Goals, Operators, Methods, and Selection rules) methodology. Then the user interface was redesigned according to specific Universal Design (UD) principles. Following these revisions, an experiment involving four scenarios was conducted to compare the new prototype to other players, and it was tested by twelve visually impaired participants. Results indicate the prototype had the quickest operating times, the fewest number of operating errors, and the lowest mental workloads of all the compared players, significantly enhancing the prototype's usability. These findings have allowed us to generate suggestions for developing the next generation of DAISY players for people, especially for Chinese audience.


New water soluble terphenylene diethynylene fluorophores.
Inspired by our earlier works on sensors from dendritic phenyleneethynylenes, two new star-shaped water-soluble fluorophores containing terphenylene diethynylene units and anionic carboxylate peripheries are successfully synthesized. The convergent synthesis relies on Sonogashira cross-coupling reactions between tris-(4-ethynylphenyl)amine and the iodophenyleneethynylene branches. All of the compounds are characterized by (1)H, (13)C NMR, and mass spectrometry. In aqueous solution, the less polar fluorophore 1 shows lower quantum yield than 2 (18 vs 33%) as a result of hydrophobic induced aggregation. One of these anionic water-soluble fluorophores exhibits a selective fluorescence quenching by Fe(3+) ion in phosphate buffer pH 8.


Retro-articular drilling and bone grafting of juvenile knee osteochondritis dissecans: a technical description.
The goal of the surgery in stable juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is to promote revascularization and reossification of the osteochondral fragment by creating channels, linking the subchondral bone to the OCD lesion. Retro-articular and trans-articular drilling of OCD lesions has up to a 33 % failure rate based on complete radiographic healing. Healing may be improved with the delivery of pluripotent mesenchymal stem cells into the lesion. We describe a technically simple procedure for retro-articular drilling with the addition of percutaneous iliac crest bone graft placement for stable juvenile OCD lesions of the knee. By using a bone marrow biopsy needle, the bone grafting can be performed in a reproducible manner and in shorter time than in previously described techniques. The proposed technique represents a promising adjunct for the management of stable juvenile OCD lesions that fail to heal after 3-6 months of non-operative treatment and for non-displaced, unstable OCD lesions that undergo internal fixation.


Level searching: a new assay of sexual motivation in the male rat.
Mendelson and Gorzalka recently described a bilevel chamber for the evaluation of rodent sexual behavior. In initial studies it was observed that during 5 min adaptation periods prior to the introduction of a sexually receptive female rat, male rats with prior sexual experience in these chambers would move from level to level in apparent search for the female rat. In Experiment 1, we examined the acquisition of this level searching behavior in male rats. Sexually active male rats were given access to either sexually receptive or nonreceptive female rats following a 5 min period alone in the bilevel chamber. Only male rats that pursued and copulated to ejaculation with sexually receptive females in the bilevel chamber significantly increased the number of their level to level movements in subsequent tests during the 5 min periods prior to the introduction of the female rat. In Experiment 2, male rats that had acquired asymptotic rates of level searching showed a significant attenuation of this behavior when the presentation of a female rat into the chamber was discontinued. These findings lead us to conclude that the increase in level to level movement by the male rat represents a sexually motivated search for the female rat. We suggest that the analysis of the acquisition, maintenance, and extinction of level searching behavior might serve as a simple assay of sexual motivation in the male rat.


Synchronous Artificial Urinary Sphincter and Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Implantation: Short-Term Outcomes from a Statewide Claims Database.
The 2 most common adverse effects of radical prostatectomy are erectile dysfunction and stress urinary incontinence which often require surgical management with penile prosthesis (PP) and artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation, respectively. There are conflicting reports regarding whether these procedures should be combined into 1 surgical setting or staged. We sought to evaluate the safety of performing these procedures in the same operative setting. We performed a retrospective analysis using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization (HCUP) State Inpatient Database (SID) and State Ambulatory Surgery Database (SASD) for the states of California (2007-2011) and Florida (2009-2014). ICD-9-CM diagnosis and CPT codes were used to identify adult males who underwent both PP and AUS implantation and outcomes regarding readmissions, emergency room (ER) presentations, and complications were reviewed. Patients undergoing synchronous PP-AUS implantation had significantly higher 90-day readmission rates (13.9% vs 7.2%, p <0.001), suffered higher rates of device complications (6.1% vs 3.4%, p=0.021), and were more likely to have minor complications (8.89% vs 2.35%, p <0.001) compared to nonsynchronous device placement. No differences in major complications or 90-day ER visits were observed. Synchronous PP and AUS implantation is feasible but may be associated with higher readmission rates, device complications and postoperative complications compared to a staged approach. This further validates findings from prior studies.


A novel DNA vaccine for protective immunity against virulent Mycobacterium bovis in mice.
Mycobacterium bovis is the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB). The proteins Ag85B, MPB64, and ESAT-6 are the major immunogenic antigens of M. bovis; these proteins play important roles in inducing immune responses that confer resistance against infections. In the present study, we used pcDNA3.1(+) as a vector and constructed various DNA vaccines with the genes encoding the three antigens mentioned above. This procedure involved the following steps: fusion of two genes (pcDNA-MPB64-Ag85B, pcMA), fusion of three genes (pcDNA-MPB64-Ag85B-ESAT-6, pcMAE), bivalent combinations (pcDNA-Ag85B+pcDNA-MPB64, pcA+M), and trivalent combinations (pcDNA-Ag85B+pcDNA-MPB64+pcDNA-ESAT-6, pcA+M+E). The immune response to the DNA vaccines was evaluated based on serum antibody titers, lymphocyte proliferation assay, and titers of the cytokines interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and interleukin-2 (IL-2). The protective efficacy following challenge with a virulent M. bovis strain, C68001, was evaluated based on survival rate, bacterial loads in lung tissue, and histopathologic changes. A significant 2-fold increase in serum antibody levels was observed in mice vaccinated with fusion DNA (two or three genes). Furthermore, the lymphocyte proliferation (SI) values and the levels of IFN-gamma and IL-2 were higher in mice vaccinated with fusion DNA (two or three genes) than in those immunized with polyvalent combination DNA vaccines (P<0.05). Additionally, the fusion DNA vaccines provided protection that was superior to that provided by the polyvalent combination DNA vaccines following challenge with M. bovis strain C68001. The protective efficacy of the fusion DNA vaccines in mice immunized three times was equivalent to the protective efficacy in mice immunized once with the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine. This suggests that fusion DNA vaccine represent a promising approach for the prevention of bTB.


Fumarate reductase: structural and mechanistic insights from the catalytic reduction of 2-methylfumarate.
The soluble fumarate reductase (FR) from Shewanella frigidimarina can catalyse the reduction of 2-methylfumarate with a k(cat) of 9.0 s(-1) and a K(M) of 32 microM. This produces the chiral molecule 2-methylsuccinate. Here, we present the structure of FR to a resolution of 1.5 A with 2-methylfumarate bound at the active site. The mode of binding of 2-methylfumarate allows us to predict the stereochemistry of the product as (S)-2-methylsuccinate. To test this prediction we have analysed the product stereochemistry by circular dichroism spectroscopy and confirmed the production of (S)-2-methylsuccinate.


What is the Mechanism Behind Weight Loss Maintenance with Gastric Bypass?
Obesity is an epidemic on the rise. With the failure of non-surgical strategies, bariatric surgery has emerged as the most effective therapeutic option for the treatment of severe obesity. Among various surgical options, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) results in sustained weight loss and profound metabolic improvements. The traditional view that gastric bypass and bariatric surgery in general works primarily through restriction/malabsorption of nutrients has become obsolete. It is now increasingly recognised that its mechanisms of action are primarily physiologic, not mechanic. In fact, clinical and translational studies over the last decade have shown that a number of gastrointestinal mechanisms, including changes in gut hormones, neural signalling, intestinal flora, bile acid and lipid metabolism can play a significant role in the effects of this procedure on energy homeostasis. The clinical efficacy and mechanisms of action of RYGB provide a compelling evidence for the role of the gastrointestinal tract in the regulation of appetite and satiety, body weight and glucose metabolism. This review discusses the physiologic changes that occur after RYGB and that contribute to its mechanisms of action.


A new family of dispersed, highly repetitive sequences in bovine genome.
A new family of highly repetitive sequences which are dispersed in bovine genome is described. The members of the family are visible on agarose or polyacrylamide gels as a diffused band about 510 bp in length arising after digestion with PstI restriction nuclease. This family of fragments comprises the 160 bp bovine Bsu family and is linked with bovine Alu-like sequences.


Frequency control in synchronized networks of inhibitory neurons.
We analyze the control of frequency for a synchronized inhibitory neuronal network. The analysis is done for a reduced membrane model with a biophysically based synaptic influence. We argue that such a reduced model can quantitatively capture the frequency behavior of a larger class of neuronal models. We show that in different parameter regimes, the network frequency depends in different ways on the intrinsic and synaptic time constants. Only in one portion of the parameter space, called phasic, is the network period proportional to the synaptic decay time. These results are discussed in connection with previous work of the authors, which showed that for mildly heterogeneous networks, the synchrony breaks down, but coherence is preserved much more for systems in the phasic regime than in the other regimes. These results imply that for mildly heterogeneous networks, the existence of a coherent rhythm implies a linear dependence of the network period on synaptic decay time and a much weaker dependence on the drive to the cells. We give experimental evidence for this conclusion.


The 2014 Ebola virus disease outbreak in Pujehun, Sierra Leone: epidemiology and impact of interventions.
In July 2014, an outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) started in Pujehun district, Sierra Leone. On January 10th, 2015, the district was the first to be declared Ebola-free by local authorities after 49 cases and a case fatality rate of 85.7%. The Pujehun outbreak represents a precious opportunity for improving the body of work on the transmission characteristics and effects of control interventions during the 2014-2015 EVD epidemic in West Africa. By integrating hospital registers and contact tracing form data with healthcare worker and local population interviews, we reconstructed the transmission chain and investigated the key time periods of EVD transmission. The impact of intervention measures has been assessed using a microsimulation transmission model calibrated with the collected data. The mean incubation period was 9.7 days (range, 6-15). Hospitalization rate was 89%. The mean time from the onset of symptoms to hospitalization was 4.5 days (range, 1-9). The mean serial interval was 13.7 days (range, 2-18). The distribution of the number of secondary cases (R 0 = 1.63) was well fitted by a negative binomial distribution with dispersion parameter k = 0.45 (95% CI, 0.19-1.32). Overall, 74.3% of transmission events occurred between members of the same family or extended family, 17.9% in the community, mainly between friends, and 7.7% in hospital. The mean number of contacts investigated per EVD case raised from 11.5 in July to 25 in September 2014. In total, 43.0% of cases were detected through contact investigation. Model simulations suggest that the most important factors determining the probability of disease elimination are the number of EVD beds, the mean time from symptom onset to isolation, and the mean number of contacts traced per case. By assuming levels and timing of interventions performed in Pujehun, the estimated probability of eliminating an otherwise large EVD outbreak is close to 100%. Containment of EVD in Pujehun district is ascribable to both the natural history of the disease (mainly transmitted through physical contacts, long generation time, overdispersed distribution of secondary cases per single primary case) and intervention measures (isolation of cases and contact tracing), which in turn strongly depend on preparedness, population awareness, and compliance. Our findings are also essential to determine a successful ring vaccination strategy.


Multiomics approach showing genome-wide copy number alterations and differential gene expression in different types of North-Indian pediatric brain tumors.
Based on copy number alterations and transcriptional profiles, the posterior fossa tumors (medulloblastoma (MB), ependymoma and pilocytic astrocytoma) have been classified into various subgroups. The study design was aimed to identify and catalog genome-wide copy number alterations and differential gene expression in different types of North-Indian pediatric posterior fossa tumors and matched control tissue through Molecular Inversion Probe (MIP) Based and Human Transcriptome Array. MIP based OncoScan Array and Human Transcriptome Array 2.0 were used to molecularly-categorize histopathologically and immunohistochemically proven tumor samples on the basis of copy number variations and altered gene expression patterns and/or alternative splicing events. Based on molecular, histopathological/immunohistochemical and age-dependent factors MB was subgrouped into group-3 MB, Wnt and SHH; ependymoma into balanced, numerical and structural/anaplastic; and pilocytic astrocytoma was stratified age-dependently. Compared with the vermis tissue of MB, the vermis tissue of ependymoma showed higher levels of gain and losses compared with their counter tumor parts implicating metastasis within the confined region. Group-3 MB and anaplastic ependymoma represented highest differentially expressed genes both at gene and exon levels in the CN altered regions compared with other subgroups of MB and ependymoma respectively. This multiomics approach based molecular characterization of posterior fossa tumors together with clinical and histopathological factors may help us in the area of personalized medicine.


Dose-dependent glucosuria of DWP16001, a novel selective sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor, in healthy subjects.
DWP16001 is a novel sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor under development for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety of DWP16001 after single and multiple doses in healthy subjects. A randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled, single- and multiple-dose study was conducted. Twelve subjects in each dose group received a single dose (0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 or 5.0 mg) or multiple doses (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 mg once daily for 15 consecutive days) of DWP16001, dapagliflozin 10 mg or placebo at a ratio of 8:2:2. Serial blood and interval urine samples were collected for the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses. The safety and tolerability of DWP16001 were also assessed. A dose-dependent increase in the urinary glucose excretion was observed after a single dose, and the steady state urinary glucose excretion was 50-60 g/d after multiple doses in the dose range of 0.3-2.0 mg. DWP16001 was rapidly absorbed with the time to peak plasma concentration of 1.0-3.0 hours, and it exhibited a mean elimination half-life of 13-29 hours. The systemic exposure to DWP16001 increased proportionally with multiple dose administrations in the range of 0.1-2.0 mg. DWP16001 was well tolerated in all dose groups. DWP16001 induced glucosuria in a dose-dependent manner, and systemic exposure was observed after multiple doses. DWP16001 was well tolerated in single oral doses of up to 5.0 mg and in multiple oral doses of up to 2.0 mg.


Monitoring of platelet contamination in filtered red blood cell concentrates. Use of a radioimmunoassay detecting the platelet glycoprotein IIb-IIIa complex.
Monitoring of contaminating platelets, granulocytes, and lymphocytes in leukocyte-poor red blood cell concentrates is usually done by counting in an electronic particle counter. Sensitivity and specificity of this technique are compromised by the contamination of the preparations with other cell types and particles thereof. In this report we studied platelet contamination in filtered red blood cell concentrates by use of a radioimmunoassay for detection of the platelet glycoprotein complex IIb-IIIa. Our results indicate that platelets and/or fragments thereof, not detectable for particle counters, are present in blood cell concentrates. This finding might have important implications for the preparation of pure red blood cell concentrates to avoid unwanted immunization after transfusion.


Occurrence of sulfonamide antimicrobials in private water wells in Washington County, Idaho, USA.
Samples from six private wells formerly used as sources for drinking water by the residents of Washington County (Weiser, Idaho) were collected to assess the impact of a nearby confined animal feeding operation (CAFO) on the quality of the local groundwater. All six samples were found contaminated by two veterinary antimicrobials, sulfamethazine (at concentrations from 0.076 to 0.22 microg/l) and sulfadimethoxine (at concentrations from 0.046 to 0.068 microg/l). These groundwater samples also contained elevated concentrations of nitrate and ammonium. Three of the sampled wells have nitrate levels that exceeded the maximum contaminant level set by the US Environmental Protection Agency for drinking water, with nitrate concentration as high as 39.1mg/l. All but one well showed nitrate, which instead contained ammonium at 1.22 mg/l. Analysis of the nitrate and ammonium in these samples by isotopic ratio mass spectrometry indicated delta(15)N characteristic of an animal or human waste source. Results from this study underscore the role of CAFO as an important source of antibiotic contamination of groundwater.


AT-877, a Ca2+ antagonist, fails to reduce infarct size following rat middle-cerebral artery occlusion.
We investigated the effects of AT-877, a Ca2+ antagonist, on rat middle-cerebral artery occlusion. All rats had 6-h ischemia, and treated animals received either 3 or 10 mg/kg AT-877 s.c. just after the occlusion. Control animals received an equal volume of the vehicle. Prior to sacrifice, significant changes in the decrease of blood pressure and the increase of plasma glucose were observed in the treated rats. Although the infarct size tended to decrease, this decrease was not significant. Only when the blood pressure- or plasma glucose-matched subgroups were compared, the infarct volume decreased significantly in the drug-treated animals. Thus, AT-877 failed to reduce ischemic brain damage unless the blood pressure or plasma glucose were controlled.


Interaction of bovine (BSA) and human (HSA) serum albumins with ionic surfactants: spectroscopy and modelling.
The binding of several different categories of small molecules to bovine (BSA) and human (HSA) serum albumins has been studied for many years through different spectroscopic techniques to elucidate details of the protein structure and binding mechanism. In this work we present the results of the study of the interactions of BSA and HSA with the anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), cationic cethyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) and zwitterionic N-hexadecyl-N,N-dimethyl-3-ammonium-1-propanesulfonate (HPS) monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy of the intrinsic tryptophans at pH 5.0. Similarly to pH 7.0 and 9.0, at low concentrations, the interaction of BSA with these surfactants shows a quenching of fluorescence with Stern-Volmer quenching constants of (1.1+/-0.1)x10(4) M(-1), (3.2+/-0.1)x10(3) M(-1) and (2.1+/-0.1)x10(3) M(-1) for SDS, HPS and CTAC, respectively, which are associated to the 'effective' association constants to the protein. On the interaction of these surfactants with HSA, an opposite effect was observed as compared to BSA, i.e., an enhancement of fluorescence takes place. For both proteins, at low surfactant concentrations, a positive cooperativity was observed and the Hill plot model was used to estimate the number of surfactant binding sites, as well as the association constants of the surfactants to the proteins. It is worthy of notice that the binding constants for the surfactants at pH 5.0 are lower as compared to pH 7.0 and 9.0. This is probably due to fact that the protein at this acid pH is quite compact reducing the accessibility of the surfactants to the hydrophobic cavities in the binding sites. The interaction of myristic acid with both proteins shows a similar fluorescence behaviour, suggesting that the mechanism of the interaction is the same. Recently published crystallographic studies of HSA-myristate complex were used to perform a modelling study with the aim to explain the fluorescence results. The crystallographic structure reveals that a total of five myristic acid molecules are asymmetrically bound in the macromolecule. Three of these sites correspond to higher affinity ones and correlate with high association constants described in the literature. Our models for BSA and HSA with bound SDS suggest that the surfactant could be bound at the same sites as those reported in the crystal structure for the fatty acid. The differences in tryptophan vicinity upon surfactant binding are explored in the models in order to explain the observed spectroscopic changes. For BSA the quenching is due to a direct contact of a surfactant molecule with the indole of W131 residue. It is clear that the binding site in BSA which is very close, in contact with tryptophan W131, corresponds to a lower affinity site, explaining the lower binding constants obtained from fluorescence studies. In the case of HSA the enhancement of fluorescence is due to the removal of static quenching of W214 residue in the intact protein caused by nearby residues in the vicinity of this tryptophan.


Bilateral atypical ulnar fractures occurring after long-term treatment with bisphosphonate for 7 years and with teriparatide for 2 years: a case report.
Most atypical fractures associated with the long-term treatment with bisphosphonates (BP) commonly develop in the femoral shaft or subtrochanteric region. We report a rare case of bilateral atypical ulnar fractures in an 86-year-old woman with osteoporosis who finished the treatment with teriparatide for 2 years after long-term treatment with BP. She slid down from an approximately 30-cm-tall seat and slightly contused her left elbow. Plain radiography revealed that both ulnae had a noncomminuted short oblique fracture with cortical thickening and sclerosis at the fracture site. Based on the clinical and radiological findings, she was diagnosed with bilateral atypical ulnar fractures. The fracture of the left ulna was completely displaced and treated surgically. On the other hand, since the right ulna was an incomplete fracture, it was treated conservatively. During surgery, drilling with Kirschner wire and curettage were performed in the osteosclerotic lesion, and an autologous cancellous bone graft was inserted from the ipsilateral olecranon. Bone union was achieved in both fractures at 1 year after surgery. There have been no reports regarding the development of atypical ulnar fractures occurring after the long-term treatment with BP and 2-year use of teriparatide, and the treatment strategies of such fractures have not been established. If teriparatide cannot be used after occurring atypical fractures, the use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and subsequent treatment for osteoporosis are recommended for the bone union. In addition, the treatment of the osteosclerotic lesion and rigid internal fixation are required in surgery.


Nanosafety research in Europe - Towards a focus on nano-enabled products.
In the nanosafety projects funded by the European Commission a large amount of data has been generated on hazard and exposure for a variety of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and nano-enabled products (NEPs). However, not all the data generated has been published, nor has all the data been stored in an organised manner (e. g. database) which makes it very difficult for researchers, industry and other stakeholders to use it. This paper provides an inventory of NEPs studied in each of these projects, including relevant information on the NEPs, the life-cycle stages evaluated for each of them and an overview of the projects, which can be used for identifying areas in which there might be data gaps. The purpose of analyzing the nanosafety research done on NEPs was to provide an overview of the products studied compare to what can realistically be found in the market (i.e. the exposure relevant materials that workers, consumers and the environment may be exposed to). The analysis done in all the projects included in the inventory allowed the identification of the need to increase the number of studies with well-established commercialized NEPs, such as ENMs used in tyres or sunscreens. In addition, it was found that, in general, there was a correlation of the different ENMs studied with their respective production relevance (i.e. production volumes), except for silver, which was vastly over-represented, and on the other hand carbon black, which was under-represented. Addittionally, there is a need to improve accessibility to relevant and high quality data produced in all these projects to provide transparency and support to different stakeholder needs.


Making meaning from materialsHandmade: A Scientist's Search for Meaning Through Making Anna Ploszajski Bloomsbury, 2023. 320 pp.
Hands-on experiences can deepen our understanding of the substances that surround us.


Potassium supplementation lowers blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats--relationships with urinary prostaglandins and renin.
Supplementation with 1% KCl significantly attenuated the blood pressure rise normally observed in SHR's with increasing age. Urine volume and urinary excretions of sodium, potassium and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha were significantly elevated in those animals receiving potassium. Plasma renin activity measured at the end of the study was significantly reduced in potassium supplemented animals compared to controls.


Antifeedant and larvicidal activities of Rhein isolated from the flowers of Cassia fistula L.
Antifeedant and larvicidal activities of rhein (1,8-dihydroxyanthraquinone-3-carboxylic acid) isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of Cassia fistula flower were studied against lepidopteron pests Spodoptera litura and Helicoverpa armigera. Significant antifeedant activity was observed against H. armigera (76.13%) at 1000 ppm concentration. Rhein exhibited larvicidal activity against H. armigera (67.5), S. litura (36.25%) and the LC50 values was 606.50 ppm for H. armigera and 1192.55 ppm for S. litura. The survived larvae produced malformed adults.


Rapid and sensitive SERS detection of opioids in solutions based on the solid chip Au-coated Si nano-cone array.
Rapid and flexible detection or accurate recognition of trace drugs is of great importance in cracking down on drug crimes, but it remains to be expected. Here, a solid chip is presented for the efficient detection and recognition of trace opioids (typically morphine) in aqueous solutions based on surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Firstly, a Au-coated Si nano-cone array (Au-SNCA) is designed and fabricated via Si-based organic colloidal template etching and Au deposition. This Au-SNCA shows three-dimensional nanostructure with high densities of nanotips and deep nanogaps as well as high structural consistency, which exhibits strong SERS activity to morphine and outstanding stability. Then, such Au-SNCA is used as solid SERS chip to detect morphine in aqueous solutions. It has been demonstrated that using such solid chip, trace morphine in solutions could be recognized and detected within 1 min, and the detection limit is 10-5 mg/mL (∼10 ppb), showing rapid and sensitive detection, which is much better than the previous reports. Meanwhile, the Au-SNCA chip also can be utilized to detect trace morphine in tap water and reservoir water, the recoveries range from 90.4% to 102.4%. Such excellent SERS performance of this Au-SNCA chip is attributed to its special structure which enhances not only local electromagnetic field but also molecular adsorption. The experimental results about the effects of immersion time and concentration show that the adsorption behavior of morphine molecules on such Au-SNCA chip can be explained by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Freundlich adsorption mode. Moreover, the Au-SNCA chip is also suitable for the identification of morphine homologues and the broad-spectrum detection of various common drugs. This study presents a practical solid chip and a simple approach for the efficient SERS detection and recognition of trace drugs in solutions. This is of significance to on-site detect drugs in forensic science.


Non-thermal plasma-enhanced catalytic activation of Mn-Zr-La/Al2O3 catalyst for meta-xylene degradation: Synergetic effects and degradation mechanism.
The LaMnO3 catalysts doped with transition metal (Zr, Co, Fe) were prepared. The influencing factors (the catalyst type, the initial concentration, the gas flow, and oxygen content) on the degradation efficiency by the non-thermal plasma synergistic the LaMnO3 catalysts doped with Zr, Co and Fe were investigated systematically. The degradation mechanism of the meta-xylene degradation by the non-thermal plasma synergistic Mn-Zr-La/Al2O3 was researched. The results showed that the Mn-Zr-La/Al2O3 catalyst in the four catalysts had the best degradation efficiency for meta-xylene, which was 99.6% at the applied voltage of 44 kV. The by-product ozone concentration was low, and the NOx was not detected. Meanwhile, the XPS characterization analysis study revealed that the proportion of Mn4+ element and the proportion of Osur in the Zr-doped Mn-Zr-La/Al2O3 catalyst were both the highest. The degradation efficiency decreased with the increasing of the initial concentration and gas flow, but first increased and then decreased with the increasing of oxygen content. The fresh and used Mn-Zr-La/Al2O3 were characterized by SEM, XRD, BET, FT-IR, O2-TPD, and the tail gas was treated by GC-MS. Then synergistic degradation mechanism for the meta-xylene by the non-thermal plasma over the Mn-Zr-La/Al2O3 catalyst are proposed.


Theoretical and practical comparison of RPLC and RPLC × RPLC: how to consider dilution effects and sensitivity in addition to separation power?
The objective of this work was to provide an unbiased comparison of one-dimensional reversed-phase liquid chromatography (1D-RPLC) and comprehensive two-dimensional RPLC (RPLC × RPLC), through calculations and experimental verifications. For this purpose, various quality descriptors were evaluated, including peak capacity, analysis time, dilution factor, number of runs in the second dimension, and injection volume. The same strategy was applied to small pharmaceuticals and peptides. Whatever the analysis time between 30 and 200 min, short columns of only 30 × 2.1 mm packed with sub-2-µm particles should be selected in both dimensions of the 2D-LC setup to obtain the best compromise in terms of peak capacity and sensitivity. The peak capacity in RPLC × RPLC vs. RPLC was significantly improved for analysis times beyond 5 min. However, extra-column volume located after the second-dimension column was found to be particularly critical for peptides, and up to 50% lower peak capacity was observed with MS vs. UV detection. Contrary to common belief, higher dilution is not always observed in RPLC × RPLC. With adequate analytical conditions, better sensitivity (in theory fivefold and in practice three- to fivefold) could be achieved in RPLC × RPLC compared to 1D-RPLC, regardless of the analysis time.


Listening as a positive communication process.
Communication scholarship is inherently interdisciplinary, and the study of listening by those claiming Communication Studies as their home is no different. This article traces the study of listening as a positive communication process from its roots in understanding how students comprehend lecture-based discourse to current explorations of its constitutive potential. In particular, it traces three strands of communication-focused listening scholarship: the study of what listening is, the study of what listeners do, and the study of how listening creates the very contexts that allow its operation.


Direct evidence that release-stimulating alpha7* nicotinic cholinergic receptors are localized on human and rat brain glutamatergic axon terminals.
The existence on glutamatergic nerve endings of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) mediating enhancement of glutamate release has often been suggested but not demonstrated directly. Here, we study the effects of nAChR agonists on [3 H]-d-aspartate ([3 H]-d-ASP) release from synaptosomes superfused in conditions known to prevent indirect effects. Nicotinic receptor agonists, while unable to modify the basal [3 H]-d-ASP release from human neocortex or rat striatal synaptosomes, enhanced the Ca2+ -dependent exocytotic release evoked by K+ (12 mm) depolarization. Their rank order of potency were anatoxin-a > epibatidine > nicotine > ACh (+ atropine). The anatoxin-a effect, both in human and rat synaptosomes, was antagonized by mecamylamine, alpha-bungarotoxin or methyllycaconitine. The basal release of [3 H]ACh from human cortical synaptosomes was increased by (-)-nicotine (EC50 = 1.16 +/- 0.33 microm) or by ACh plus atropine (EC50 = 2.0 +/- 0.04 microm). The effect of ACh plus atropine was insensitive to alpha-bungarotoxin, methyllycaconitine or alpha-conotoxin MII, whereas it was totally antagonized by mecamylamine or dihydro-beta-erythroidine. To conclude, glutamatergic axon terminals in human neocortex and in rat striatum possess alpha7* nicotinic heteroreceptors mediating enhancement of glutamate release. Release-enhancing cholinergic autoreceptors in human neocortex are nAChRs with a pharmacological profile compatible with the alpha4beta2 subunit combination.


Ultrasound-guided core-needle biopsy for peripheral pulmonary lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
To evaluate the diagnostic value and safety of ultrasound-guided core-needle biopsy for peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs). PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for relevant were searched for studies published up to June 2022. The diagnostic accuracy of US-guided percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy (PTNB) for the diagnosis of PPLs was evaluated using pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), positive and negative likelihood ratios (PLR and NLR), and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curves value (SROC). The search included 12 original studies (3,830 procedures). For US-guided PTNB, the pooled sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of PPLs were 0.93 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91-0.94) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.96-1.00), respectively. The pooled estimates of the PLR, NLR, and DOR were 134.88 (95% CI: 24.88-731.74), 0.07 (95% CI: 0.06-0.09), and 1,814.95 (95% CI: 333.62-9,873.76), respectively. The area under the SROC curve was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.93-0.97). The overall complication rate was 3.6% (136 of 3,830), including self-limited haemoptysis and asymptomatic pneumothorax, and only six cases of pneumothorax requiring chest tube drainage and one case of severe bleeding were reported. US-guided core-needle biopsy is an excellent diagnostic tool for PPLs, with high accuracy and excellent technical performance and safety.


Arterial supply of the sinoatrial node: a CT coronary angiographic study.
We aimed to investigate the variances in especially the origin, course and termination of the sinoatrial node (SAN) artery in this study, using coronary CT angiography. The coronary CT angiography images of 251 patients (190 men and 61 women; age range, 20-82 years; mean age, 54.4 ± 13.6 years) were retrospectively analyzed. The SAN artery (arteries) in each case was named according to a special nomenclature with regard to their origin, course and termination. The sinoatrial node was being vascularized by a single artery in 241 (96%) cases and by two arteries in 10 (4%) cases. It was arising from RCA in 139 (55.4%) cases, from LCX in 99 (39.4%) cases, from the aorta in 2 (0.8%) cases, and from the bronchial artery in 1 (0.4%) case. The mean diameter of the SAN arteries was 2.3 mm. The mean distance between the origin of the SAN artery from RCA and the RCA ostium was 16.2 mm, from LCX and the origin of LCX was 19.3 mm. Frequency of the atrial branch was 35.9%. S-shaped SAN artery is determined in 51 (20.3%) cases. Coronary CT angiography is considerably effective in depicting the various vascularization types of SAN.


Results of homografts in middle ear surgery.
Anatomical and hearing results following the use of the homograft tympanic membrane and ossicles either in combination or separately are reported for the period 1968 through 1975. The study is divided into two parts, the first covering the primary years 1968 through 1971, and the latter covering the last four years, 1972 through 1975. The original technique was to cover completely the homograft tympanic membrane with a canal skin graft. During the year 1969 new and different techniques were attempted. Unfortunately this resulted in a marked increase of graft failures; therefore, there was a prompt return to the original technique, which has been used without change throughout the study. The graft take rate for the first four years which included 1969 was 92%. There was a slight increase to 96% during the second part of the study. The hearing results show a greater discrepancy for the two periods with 89% of the patients receiving a satisfactory hearing result during the last four years, compared to 77% for the earlier period.


Use of effective core potential calculations for the conformational and vibrational study of platinum(II) anticancer drugs. cis-Diamminedichloroplatinum(II) as a case study.
In the light of the recognized anticancer properties of cisplatin-type inorganic systems, the exact knowledge of their conformational preferences is of the utmost importance for understanding their biological activity. The present study reports the use of theoretical (quantum mechanical) calculations for achieving this goal. An alternative calculation method to the use of the AE basis sets, both accurate and computationally feasible, was presently tested for the conformational and vibrational study of cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II). Effective core potentials (ECPs) were used, within the HF methodology and, within the B3LYP and mPW1PW DFT protocols. The DFT methods (particularly mPW1PW) were found to be the best choice for describing cDDP (as compared to the HF methodology).


[Clinicopathologic features of colorectal cancer combined with synchronous and metachronous gastric cancer].
The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinicopathologic features of double primary cancers of the stomach and colorectum, compared to colorectal cancer alone. A retrospective analysis was made of 5,288 patients who underwent colorectal cancer surgery between January 2000 and December 2009 at Severance Hospital of Yonsei University. The clinicopathologic features were analyzed between 63 patients of double primary cancers and case-matched 126 patients of colorectal cancer alone. We classified double primary cancers into subgroups as premetachronous, synchronous and postmetachronous gastric cancer to identify differences between the three subgroups also. Double primary cancers group showed 4.3 year-older age, lower BMI, and higher percentage of peritoneal metastasis, compared to colorectal cancer alone group. Overall and colorectal cancer specific survival did not have any significant difference between two groups. In histologic type of gastric cancer, a high percentage of undifferentiated adenocarcinoma (55.6%) and signet ring cell carcinoma (30.2%) were noted. Double primary cancers of the stomach and colorectum had older-age onset, lower BMI and higher metastasis to peritoneum than colorectal cancer alone. Combined gastric cancer consisted of high percentage of undifferentiated and signet ring cell carcinomas.


A variant form of acute reversible cardiomyopathy: a case report.
Stress cardiomyopathy, also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or left ventricular apical ballooning, has been linked to emotional or physical stress resulting in transient left ventricular dysfunction. It typically affects the mid and apical left ventricular segments. At onset, it resembles acute myocardial infarction, due to the acute onset of chest pain and ST-T segment elevation. However, there is minimal biomarker elevation and a normal coronary artery angiogram. We report a case of a woman with transient myocardial injury after a stressful event, presenting with a variation of the affected segments. In this case, only the basal and mid portions of the left ventricle were affected, while the apex was completely spared. Coronary angiography revealed no significant occlusion and left ventricular function had recovered completely by the third day of hospitalization. We present a variant form of stress cardiomyopathy, affecting the basal and mid segments of the left ventricle.


Phytoconstituents of Selaginella effusa Alston and Their α-Glucosidase as well as Urease Inhibitory Activities.
Three new compounds (1-2, 14), as well as 22 known compounds (3-13, 15-25), were extracted for the first time from the Selaginella effusa Alston (S. effusa). For the unknown compounds, the planar configurations were determined via NMR and by high-resolution mass spectrometry, while their absolute configurations were determined by calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD), and the configuration of the stereogenic center of biflavones 4-5 were established for the first time. The pure compounds (1-25) were tested in vitro to determine the inhibitory activity of the enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Compounds 1-9 inhibited α-glucosidase with IC50 values ranging from 0.30±0.02 to 4.65±0.04 μM and kinetic analysis of enzyme inhibition indicated that biflavones 1-3 were mixed-type α-glucosidase inhibitors. Compounds 12-13 showed excellent inhibitory activity against urease, with compound 12 (IC50 =4.38±0.31 μM) showing better inhibitory activity than the positive control drug AHA (IC50 13.52±0.61 μM). In addition, molecular docking techniques were used to simulate inhibitor-enzyme binding and to estimate the binding posture of the α-glucosidase and urease catalytic sites.


[Comparison of the frequency and intensity of vibrations of dental drive systems in tooth preparations ].
During high speed cavity preparation the vibration burden of human teeth was evaluated in comparison between turbine- and micromotor-driven handpieces. The acceleration spectra of different burs showed an advantage of the air-driven handpiece.


Association of lysolecithin acyltransferase with the high density lipoproteins and its activation by the low density lipoproteins in normal human plasma.
The lysolecithin acyltransferase of human plasma is shown to be associated with the high-density lipoprotein fraction. Although the low density lipoproteins do not have intrinsic enzyme activity, their presence activated the enzyme 3--7-fold. This activation is not affected by heat-treatment of the low density lipoproteins, but is abolished by the addition of heparin.


The protective effect of Herba Cistanches on statin-induced myotoxicity in vitro.
Herba Cistanches (HC, Cistanche deserticola or Cistanche tubulosa) is a Chinese herb traditionally used for muscle problems. Previous studies demonstrated that HC extract could reduce muscle damage and improve ATP storage in post-exercised rats. However, its effect on statin-induced muscle toxicity has never been investigated. The objective of this study was to determine if the aqueous extract of HC (HCE) could prevent simvastatin-induced toxicity in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells; and whether verbascoside is the major bioactive constituent which contributes to the effects. MTT was performed to determine the effects of HCE (0-2000µg/ml) or verbascoside (0-160µM) on simvastatin (10µM)-treated L6 cells. Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis assay and Caspase 3 assay were performed to determine the protective role of HCE on simvastatin-induced cell death, and to evaluate if HCE exerted its protective effect through the caspase pathway. ATP production was measured to investigate if HCE could prevent simvastatin-induced reduction in ATP production in vitro. Simvastatin significantly increased apoptotic cell death in L6 cells. HCE significantly exerted a dose-dependent reduction on simvastatin-induced apoptotic cells, possibly via caspase-3 pathway. Simvastatin reduced the ATP production in L6 cells, which was dose-dependently prevented by HCE. There was only a trend but not significant effect (except at high dose) of verbascoside on the protection of simvastatin-induced muscle toxicity. In conclusion, we demonstrated for the first time that HCE could exert dose-dependent protective effect on simvastatin-induced toxicity in vitro, which was unlikely due to the presence of verbascoside. Our study suggested the potential use of HC under the situation of simvastatin-induced muscle toxicity.


Separation of glucose and pentose sugars by selective enzyme hydrolysis of AFEX-treated corn fiber.
A process was developed to fractionate corn fiber into glucose- and pentose-rich fractions. Corn fiber was ammonia fiber explosion treated at 90 degrees C, using 1 g anhydrous ammonia pergram of drybiomass, 60% moisture, and 30-min residence time. Twenty four hour hydrolysis of ammonia fiber explosion-treated corn fiber with cellulase converted 83% of available glucanto-glucose. In this hydrolysis the hemicellulose was partially broken down with 81% of the xylan and 68% of the arabinan being contained in the hydrolysate after filtration to remove lignin and other insoluble material. Addition of ethanol was used to precipitate and recover the solubilized hemicellulose from the hydrolysate, followed by hydrolysis with 2% (v/v) sulfuric acid to convert the recovered xylan and arabinan to monomeric sugars. Using this method, 57% of xylose and 54% of arabinose available in corn fiber were recovered in a pentose-rich stream. The carbohydrate composition of the pentose-enriched stream was 5% glucose, 57% xylose, 27% arabinose, and 11% galactose. The carbohydrate composition of the glucose-enriched stream was 87% glucose, 5% xylose, 6% arabinose, and 1% galactose, and contained 83% of glucose available from the corn fiber.


POU1F1 is a novel fusion partner of NUP98 in acute myeloid leukemia with t(3;11)(p11;p15).
NUP98 gene rearrangements have been reported in acute myeloid leukemia, giving rise to fusion proteins that seem to function as aberrant transcription factors, and are thought to be associated with poor prognosis. A patient with treatment-related acute myeloid leukemia presented a t(3;11)(p11;p15) as the only cytogenetic abnormality. FISH and molecular genetic analyses identified a class 1 homeobox gene, POU1F1, located on chromosome 3p11, as the fusion partner of NUP98. In addition, we have found that the patient harbored an FLT3-ITD mutation, which most likely collaborated with the NUP98-POU1F1 fusion gene in malignant transformation. We have identified POU1F1 as the NUP98 fusion partner in therapy-related AML with a t(3;11)(p11;p15). This is the first POU family member identified as a fusion partner in human cancer.


Conductive properties of TiO2/bacterial cellulose hybrid fibres.
Conductive properties of TiO(2) nanoparticles and TiO(2)/BC hybrid inorganic/organic fibres were investigated by electrostatic force microscopy (EFM). TiO(2)/BC hybrid composites were prepared based on bacterial cellulose produced by Gluconobacterxylinum, being the bacterial cellulose as a hydrophilic substrate for TiO(2) nanoparticles synthesized via sol-gel. Taken into account hydrophilic nature of the cellulose, TiO(2) nanoparticles were located on the surface of the fibres due to hydrogen bonding interactions. EFM was used to determine qualitatively conductive properties of TiO(2) nanoparticles and their TiO(2)/BC hybrid inorganic/organic fibres. Results indicate that TiO(2)/BC hybrid fibres respond to applied bias regardless of the sign of the applied voltage.


Just Let Me Sleep in: Identifying and Treating Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder in Adolescents.
Individuals with delayed sleep phase disorder (DSPD) are unable to naturally fall asleep and awake at conventional times; for this reason, DSPD is often mistaken for insomnia. However, unlike many patients with insomnia, those with DSPD struggle to get up at appropriate times. DSPD is associated with school refusal, academic difficulties, and lower employment rate. DSPD in youth has prevalence as high as 16%, and is often comorbid with other psychiatric disorders. Treatments include appropriate light exposure during the day, melatonin use, developing an evening routine that minimizes arousal-increasing activities, and gradually shifting sleep-wake times toward more functional ones.


Status of vitamin D, antioxidant enzymes, and antioxidant substances in neonates with neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
To investigate the concentration of vitamin D (VD), glutathione peroxidase (GP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). This study was performed prospectively in term neonates treated for HIE. Samples were collected from the neonates in study and control groups at 6-14 h and on day 5 of their lives for 25-OH vitamin D3, antioxidant enzymes including GP and SOD and oxidants substances including MDA and AOPP. This study was performed with 31 term neonates with HIE and 30 healthy term neonates. Maternal VD level was statistically lower in the study group (9.8 ± 6.8 ng/mL) than the control (16.4 ± 8.7 ng/mL) (p = 0.002). SOD and MDA levels were significantly high, and VD level was significantly low in the study group on the first day of life (p = 0.001 and p = 0.028, respectively). SOD and GP levels were significantly high in the study group on day 5 (p < 0.05). VD was significantly low in the study group on day 5 and the proportion of subjects with VD below 5 ng/ml was significantly lower in the control group (p= <0.05). VD has neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. We detected VD levels were low in infants with HIE and their mothers. This finding may be useful for decreasing of brain damage.


Electrocardiograms in Critical Care Cardiology: Is it Acute Coronary Syndrome?
Patients with critical illness may present with electrocardiogram (ECG) findings difficult for physicians to distinguish them from acute coronary syndrome. This article provides three cases of such clinical scenarios. Examples of ECGs and their clinical characteristics and significance are discussed. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.).


Formation of a covalent intermediate between alpha-chymotryspin and the B-chain of insulin during enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis.
The reaction between alpha-chymotrypsin (EC 184.108.40.206) and the B-chain of bovine insulin was studied radiochemically, by using the 3 5S-labelled sulfo B-chain. After incubation at pH 8.0, interrupted by the addition of trichloroacetic acid, a radioactive product was isolated from the reaction mixture. The labelled product was eluted in parallel with the enzyme in gel chromatography, and its properties at different H+ concentrations indicated that chemically it was an ester, i.e. a covalent enzyme-substrate intermediate. No interaction between sulfo beta-chain and alpha-chymotrypsinogen or phenyl-methyl sulfonyl fluoride-inhibited alpha-chymotrypsin was obtained during identical conditions.


First report of an acute purulent maxillary sinusitis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa secondary to dental implant placement in an immunocompetent patient.
In this case report, we present maxillary Pseudomonas aeruginosa sinusitis in an immunocompetent patient who underwent an autologous bone transplant for the insertion of dental implants. The infection was eradicated after removal of the dental implants and long-term antibiotic therapy. Despite the infection resolution, severe complications were observed with important legal consequences.


Uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor with THBS1-INSR fusion.
Uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are rare and, as in other localisations, they are associated with ALK rearrangements and ALK immunohistochemical expression. They are more frequently found during pregnancy, and in this context, they show different characteristics compared to other uterine IMTs. Here, we report the case of a uterine IMT discovered during delivery, and being associated with a previously unreported THBS1-INSR fusion.


Effect of high-fat diet on KKAy and ob/ob mouse liver and adipose tissue corticosterone and 11-dehydrocorticosterone concentrations.
The present study was performed to compare glucocorticoid levels in obese KKA (y) and ob/ob mice with those in normal C57BL/6J mice, and the effect of high-fat diet on glucocorticoids in KKA (y) and ob/ob mice. Liver, mesenteric and epididymal adipose tissue corticosterone and 11-dehydrocorticosterone concentrations as well as circulating corticosterone concentrations were measured. The KKA (y) and ob/ob mice displayed elevated serum corticosterone levels compared to normal mice, 2.0 to 2.8-fold in KKA (y), and 11 to 16-fold in ob/ob mice. Liver corticosterone levels were 3.0 to 5.1 and 6.2 to 8.1-fold, and 11-dehydrocorticosterone levels were 3.4 to 3.6 and 6.7 to 8.2-fold higher in KKA (y) and ob/ob mice compared to normal mice. Mesenteric adipose tissue corticosterone levels were 2.7 to 4.2-fold higher, and 11-dehydrocorticosterone levels were 2 to 4-fold higher in ob/ob than in KKA (y) mice. Epididymal adipose tissue corticosterone levels were 3.0 to 6.2-fold higher, and 11-dehydrocorticosterone levels were 1.8 to 2.0-fold higher in ob/ob than in KKA (y) mice. Circulating, hepatic, and mesenteric and epididymal adipose tissue glucocorticoid concentrations were low in the normal C57BL/6J mouse, high in the ob/ob mouse, and intermediate in the KKA (y) mouse. 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11beta-HSD1) mRNA levels were doubled in ob/ ob compared to KKA (y) mice in all three tissues. Glucocorticoid concentrations correlated with 11beta-HSD1 mRNA levels. High-fat diet had no effect on the tissue glucocorticoid concentrations.


Incidence and significance of hepatitis B e antigen and antibody in postnecrotic cirrhosis and primary hepatocellular carcinoma.
A study of the serological markers of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) including e antigen (HBe Ag) and antibody against HBe Ag (anti-HBe) was performed in Senegalese patients suffering from cirrhosis and primary hepatocellular carcinoma, and in a control group (blood donors). It was not possible to diagnose additional HBV infections in primary hepatocellular carcinoma patients using HBe Ag or anti-HBe Ab alone as serological markers. The lower prevalence of HBe Ag among primary hepatocellular carcinoma patients as compared with cirrhotic patients suggests that active replication of HBV becomes increasingly defective during the course of the malignant process.


Acute focal bacterial nephritis: a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Acute focal bacterial nephritis, synonymous with acute lobar nephronia or focal nonliquefactive pyelonephritis, represents a localized area of renal inflammation. Clinically, acute focal bacterial nephritis presents as acute pyelonephritis but is distinguishable by the presence of a focal mass on excretory urography. The further distinction between acute focal bacterial nephritis and other renal masses is aided by the appropriate use of renal sonography and computerized tomography. The clinical and imaging manifestations in 9 patients with acute focal bacterial nephritis are described. Our experience coupled with a review of the literature suggests that a systematic approach to the diagnosis and management of acute focal bacterial nephritis allows for the most efficacious use of the noninvasive imaging modalities.


The response to oxidative stress and metallomics analysis in a twin study: The role of the environment.
Inefficient response to oxidative stress has been associated with ageing and health risk. Metals are known to inhibit DNA repair and may modify the antioxidant response. How genetic variability and lifestyle factors modulate the response to oxidative stress is poorly explored. Our study aims to disentangle the contribution of genetics and environmental exposures to oxidative stress response using data from twin pairs. The non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity (NEAC), the repair capacity of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (OGG activity) and the levels of 12 metals were measured in blood of 64 monozygotic and 31 dizygotic twin pairs. The contributions of genetic and environmental effects were assessed using standard univariate twin modelling. NEAC and OGG activity significantly decreased with age. Gender-, age- and body mass index-associated differences were identified for some metals. Principal Component Analysis identified two groups of metals whose levels in blood were highly correlated: As, Hg, Pb, Se, Zn and Al, Co, Cr, Mn, Ni. The environmental influence was predominant on OGG activity and NEAC variance whereas for most metals the best-fitting model incorporated additive genetic and unique environmental sources of variance. NEAC and OGG activity were both inversely correlated with blood levels of various metals. The inhibition of OGG activity by Cd was largely explained by smoking. Our data show a substantial role of environmental factors in NEAC and OGG activity variance that is not explained by twins' age. Exogenous environmental factors such as metals contribute to oxidative stress by decreasing NEAC and inhibiting repair of oxidatively-induced DNA damage.


Early discharge from obstetrics-pediatrics at the Hospital de Valme, with domiciliary follow-up.
This study was undertaken to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of a program of early obstetric-pediatric discharge (24 hours postpartum) with domiciliary follow-up, compared with the traditional postpartum hospital stay (more than 48 hours), according to the criteria described by reviewers of the subject. A randomized controlled trial of early obstetric discharge for healthy mothers and term infants, with postpartum randomization, with no prenatal preparation and with observational and clinical follow-up was performed. The participants were mothers with healthy, term neonates (37-42 weeks) weighing more than 2500 g and produced via vaginal delivery and with a verified normal evolution before discharge. The sample consisted of 430 cases (213 cases with early discharge, and 217 control cases) in which the following variables were evaluated: existence of complications in the mother and/or child that required rehospitalization or a medical consultation, existence of maternal problems of fatigue or anxiety/depression after the birth, continuity of lactation and its problems, satisfaction of the mother and family, and relative costs. After demonstrating the homogeneity of the groups, no significant differences were found in the rates of maternal rehospitalization (1.9% in the early discharge group vs 2.3% in the control group, relative risk 0.81, 95% CI 0.21-3.03) or in the rates of rehospitalization of the neonates (1.4% in the early discharge group vs 2.3% in the control group, relative risk 0.16, 95% CI 0.15-2.56). No increases were observed in maternal or neonatal disease, puerperal fatigue, or maternal anxiety/depression. A prolongation of maternal lactation to 3 months was observed in the early discharge group (P=.016 <.05 Fisher exact test). When the cost of early discharge is compared with that of traditional discharge with a minimum of 48 hours hospital stay, we find a saving of 18% to 20%. The level of maternal satisfaction with early discharge is better than 90%.


Fourteen years follow-up of a stable unilateral Keratoconus: unique case report of clinical, tomographical and biomechanical stability.
Keratoconus (KC) is a noninflammatory corneal ectatic disorder. In 2015, the Global Consensus on Keratoconus and Ectatic Diseases agreed that the pathophysiology of KC includes environmental, biomechanical, genetic, and biochemical disorders on one hand, and that true unilateral KC does not exist on the other hand. However, with the increasingly advancements in detection methods, we report the first case of a stable unilateral keratoconus with the longest follow up period of 14 years (2006-2020). We used topographic, tomographic, and biomechanical values for both eyes over the years to confirm the diagnosis, which has never been done before. Our study focuses on a single patient therefore it illustrates the mere possibility that unilateral keratoconus exists. We present the case of a 19-year-old male with no previous ocular or general health conditions who presented to our clinic in November 2006 for incidental finding of decreased vision of the right eye (OD) on a routine examination. Topographies, tomographies, and biomechanical analysis of both eyes were obtained and showed a unilateral right keratoconus at the time. Patient admitted to unilateral right eye rubbing. Although we cannot prove that previous eye rubbing alone led to these initial symptoms, he was advised to stop rubbing and was followed up without any intervention for fourteen years during which topographic, tomographic, and biomechanical values for both eyes remained stable, proving for the first time that unilateral KC could exist. We think that the data we are presenting is important because acknowledging that true unilateral keratoconus exists questions the genetic or primary biomechanical etiology of keratoconus versus the secondary biomechanical etiologies like eye rubbing. Our report also shows the importance of corneal biomechanics in detecting early changes. This is important to detect early, prevent progression, and tailor treatment.


Spectroscopic and Chemical Properties of Ionic Liquids: Computational Study.
A brief account is given of highlights of our computational efforts - often in collaboration with experimental groups - to understand spectroscopic and chemical properties of ionic liquids (ILs). Molecular dynamics, including their inhomogeneous character, responsible for key spectral features observed in dielectric absorption, infra-red (IR) and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) measurements are elucidated. Mechanisms of chemical processes involving imidazolium-based ILs are illustrated for CO2 capture and related reactions, transesterification of cellulose, and Au nanocluster-catalyzed Suzuki cross-coupling reaction with attention paid to differing roles of IL ions. A comparison with experiments is also made.


A retrospective cohort study of tubal occlusion or salpingectomy for permanent contraception in Australia.
Laparoscopic permanent contraception was previously accomplished most commonly using tubal occlusion procedures. Bilateral salpingectomy (BS) has recently been introduced as an alternative due to possibly superior contraception and greater protection against ovarian cancer. The aim of this study is to assess uptake, feasibility and perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic BS as an alternative to tubal occlusion in Australia. A retrospective review of permanent female contraception at two Australian hospitals from January 2014 through December 2020 was performed. The primary outcome was the uptake of BS. Secondary outcomes were feasibility, procedure length, number of ports, perioperative complications and admission length. A total of 414 women were included; 92 (22.2%) underwent BS and 322 (77.8%) underwent tubal occlusion. There was a slow uptake of BS from 2014 to 2016 (0-3.2%), with a steep uptake from 2017 to 2020 (30-72%) (P = 0.001). Procedure feasibility was 96.8% (62/64) and 99.3% (282/284) for BS and tubal occlusion group, respectively (P = 0.64). BS procedure time was longer by 23 min (P < 0.001). Three or more surgical ports were used in all cases of BS compared to 4.5% of the tubal occlusion group (P < 0.001). There were no intraoperative complications. There were nine and six postoperative complications in the tubal occlusion versus BS group, respectively (P = 0.10). The median admission length was 7.1 (tubal occlusion) versus 7.3 (BS) h (P = 0.10), with five unintended overnight admissions. BS is an increasing choice for permanent contraception. It appears equally feasible as tubal occlusion but typically requires a longer procedure time and a minimum of three surgical ports.


Species and reproductive status influence element concentrations in bat fur.
To assess the impact of increasing pollutant levels on wildlife, we measured chemical contaminant loads in bats with different habitat and dietary preferences. Samples were taken from the fur of bats (Eptesicus nilssonii, Myotis brandtii, Myotis mystacinus and Plecotus auritus) to measure concentrations of 55 elements by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Variations in element concentrations between different bat groups (species, sex, reproductive status) were analysed with a focus on arsenic (As), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) as these are known to cause specific health concerns in wildlife. For M. brandtii we found the highest As concentrations, especially in lactating bats, with a maximum exceeding those from other studies where bats had compromised health. Whereas for M. mystacinus there was a negative correlation between body condition index (BCI) and As concentration, indicating a potential danger for bats in the study area. In M. mystacinus and M. brandtii Hg concentrations were higher for sixteen individuals than in other studies where bats suffered genotoxic effects, although median levels were still below this threshold. Lactating bats from P. auritus and M. brandtii had higher Hg concentrations than bats of other reproductive status, which could endanger offspring as Hg can be transferred through lactation. In females from M. mystacinus Pb concentrations were more than three times higher compared to males. There was also a negative correlation between Pb concentration and BCI, which could mean that Pb has an adverse effect on health. Although many other biotic and abiotic factors should be considered, some of the variations in element concentrations could be due to different behaviours (foraging, roosting, etc.) in the studied species. The high levels of chemical contamination in some of the bats in our study, particularly reproductive individuals, is of conservation concern as bats are important agents for insect control.


Assessment of microRNAs in patients with unstable angina pectoris.
While cardiac troponin measurements have significantly improved the early diagnosis of myocardial infarction, the timely biomarker-based diagnosis of unstable angina pectoris (UAP) remains a major unmet clinical challenge. The aim of this study was to assess levels of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) as possible novel biomarkers in patients with UAP. A three-phase approach was conducted, comprising (i) profiling of miRNAs in patients with UAP and controls groups; (ii) replication of significant miRNAs in an independent patient cohort, (iii) validation of a multi-miRNAs panel in a third cohort. Out of 25 miRNAs selected for replication, 8 miRNAs remained significantly associated with UAP. In a validation phase, a miRNA panel including miR-132, miR-150, and miR-186 showed the highest discriminatory power [area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC): 0.91; CI: 0.84-0.98]. Using a profiling-replication-validation model, we identified eight miRNAs, which may facilitate the diagnosis of UAP.


Detection of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a by a reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1b and 2a are the major cause of liver disease in northern China; however, conventional detection tools are labor-consuming, technically demanding, and costly. Here, we assessed the specificity, sensitivity, and clinical utility of reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) assay for detection of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. Firstly, clinical samples were collected from HCV genotype 1b and 2a infected patients and the RNA were extracted. Secondly, specificity of RT-LAMP assay for detection HCV genotypes 1b and 2a were tested against viral genomes of other hepatitis viruses. Sensitivity of RT-LAMP assay was determined using serial dilutions of standard HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. The amplified products were detected by both electrophoresis and calcein/Mn2+ -dependent visual methods. Finally, we compared the clinical detection rate of RT-LAMP to that of real-time PCR. RT-LAMP assay showed high specificity to detect HCV genotypes 1b and 2b since there was no cross-reactivity with other hepatitis viruses. Sensitivity of RT-LAMP was 100 IU/mL for both genotypes detected by either electrophoresis or calcein/Mn2+ -dependent visual methods. The detection rate of RT-LAMP assay in clinical samples was also comparable to that of real-time PCR without significant difference between the both assays. This study proposes a newly developed RT-LAMP assay for detection of HCV genotypes 1b and 2a. RT-LAMP is highly specific, sensitive, and simple diagnostic tool which would be useful for screening and early diagnosis of HCV especially in resource-limited environments.


Sexuality and mood changes in women with persistent pelvic girdle pain after childbirth: a case-control study.
Pelvic girdle pain is a common problem during pregnancy. For most women, the symptoms cease within the first 3-6 months of giving birth, but in some women the pain persists. In this study we investigate the sexuality and frequency of depressive symptoms in women with persistent pelvic girdle pain after childbirth and in healthy women. We conducted a case-control study of women with persistent pelvic girdle pain after childbirth and a control group of healthy women. The frequency of depressive symptoms and sexuality were measured using the self-rating version of the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale and the McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire. Forty-six women with persistent pelvic girdle pain and thirty-nine healthy women were enrolled. The frequency of depressive symptoms and the total score on female sexuality did not differ between the groups. However, pain during intercourse was more frequent (P < 0.001) in women with persistent pelvic girdle pain and caused them to avoid sexual intercourse frequently (P < 0.001). In multiple linear regression a higher frequency of depressive symptoms was reversely correlated with a lower score on female sexuality (β = - 0,41, p < 0,001 95% CI -0,6 - -0,22) This association remained after adjusting for obstetric variables and individual characteristics. Depressive symptoms and female sexuality were similar between women with persistent pelvic girdle pain after childbirth and healthy controls. However, pain during intercourse and avoidance of sexual intercourse were more frequent among women with pelvic girdle pain.


HSP110 induces "danger signals" upon interaction with antigen presenting cells and mouse mammary carcinoma.
HSP110 is a large molecular weight heat shock protein highly capable of chaperoning large proteins. When chaperoning tumour antigens, HSP110 is capable of eliciting effective anti-tumour immune responses. In the present study, we have determined whether such immunoadjuvant properties of HSP110 stem from its ability to induce "danger signals" through interaction with antigen presenting cells (APCs) and with tumour cells. In the previous studies, endotoxin contamination of HSP preparations was always a matter of concern and controversy. Therefore, we prepared recombinant HSP110 with low endotoxin concentration at which LPS did not have any effect on dendritic cells (DCs). We then evaluated the ability of the HSP110 to induce "danger signals" while interacting with APCs or mouse mammary carcinoma cell line (MMC), as evaluated by modulation of cell surface receptors and cytokines involved in innate and adaptive immune responses. We also performed competition studies in order to rule out contribution of endotoxin in HSP110 preparations while interacting with DCs and MMC. We showed that low endotoxin HSP110 induced DCs to up-regulate the expression of MHC class II, CD40 and CD86 molecules, and to secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-alpha. Importantly, HSP110 induced MMC to secrete IL-12 and elevate secretion of IL-6 and expression of CD40 molecule. These findings demonstrate that HSP110 acts as a "danger signal" through its interaction with DCs and tumour cells, regardless of its endotoxin component. These immunoadjuvant properties of HSP110 suggest that pre-existing immunity in tumour-bearing individuals,may be due to the release of HSPs from tumours upon necrosis alerting the immune system against the tumours.


Methane and nitrous oxide emission characteristics of high-yielding rice field.
As representative varieties of the four phases of the super rice breeding project in China, Lianyoupei 9 (LYP9), Y Liangyou 1 (YLY1), Y Liangyou 2 (YLY2), and Y Liangyou 900 (YLY900) achieved higher yield under optimal cultivation techniques. However, the impact of these high-yield rice varieties on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions under high-yield cultivation management practices remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted field experiments to investigate CH4 and N2O emissions from paddies containing four elite rice varieties, managed with field drying at the ineffective tillering stage and alternate wet/dry irrigation at the grain-filling stage. The plants were fertilised with nitrogen (N) at three different rates. The results showed that CH4 emission was highest at the tillering stage. N2O emission flux was dramatically increased by field drying at the ineffective tillering stage, and with the rate of N application. Rice variety was among the most important factors affecting CH4 emission and global warming potential (GWP). N2O emission was mainly related to N application rate rather than rice variety. YLY2 achieved higher yield than LYP9, YLY1, and YLY900, and lower GHG emission than YLY900. Our results indicate that rice variety should be considered as a key factor to reduce GHG emissions from rice paddies under high-yield cultivation practices. Based on its high yield and low GHG emission at the study site, YLY2 may be an optimal rice variety.


Buried chloride stereochemistry in the Protein Data Bank.
Despite the chloride anion is involved in fundamental biological processes, its interactions with proteins are little known. In particular, we lack a systematic survey of its coordination spheres. The analysis of a non-redundant set (pairwise sequence identity < 30%) of 1739 high resolution (<2 Å) crystal structures that contain at least one chloride anion shows that the first coordination spheres of the chlorides are essentially constituted by hydrogen bond donors. Amongst the side-chains positively charged, arginine interacts with chlorides much more frequently than lysine. Although the most common coordination number is 4, the coordination stereochemistry is closer to the expected geometry when the coordination number is 5, suggesting that this is the coordination number towards which the chlorides tend when they interact with proteins. The results of these analyses are useful in interpreting, describing, and validating new protein crystal structures that contain chloride anions.


Spaced receiver observations of radio pulses.
Preliminary observations have been carried out to look for radio signals associated with gravitational waves. Although inconclusive, the observations from five receivers in the British Isles suggest the value of pressing on with further experiments.


Molecular mechanisms of the action of miraculin, a taste-modifying protein.
Miraculin (MCL) is a homodimeric protein isolated from the fruits of Richadella dulcifica, a shrub native to West Africa. Although it is flat in taste at neutral pH, MCL has taste-modifying activity in which sour stimuli produce a sweet perception. Once MCL enters the mouth, strong sweetness can be detected for more than 1 h each time we taste a sour solution. While the human sweet taste receptor (hT1R2-hT1R3) has been identified, the molecular mechanisms underlying the taste-modifying activity of MCL remain unclear. Recently, experimental evidence has been published demonstrating the successful quantitative evaluation of the acid-induced sweetness of MCL using a cell-based assay system. The results strongly suggested that MCL binds hT1R2-hT1R3 as an antagonist at neutral pH and functionally changes into an agonist at acidic pH. Since sweet-tasting proteins may be used as low-calorie sweeteners because they contain almost no calories, it is expected that MCL will be used in the near future as a new low-calorie sweetener or to modify the taste of sour fruits.


[Expert assessment of psychosomatic disorders in rheumatology].
There are often big problems regarding expert evidences of psychosomatic clinical pictures, because, contrary to the complaints expressed and perceived by the patient, somatic findings are not evident to justify a permanent disablement. Nearly without exception it is a question of chronified cases of psychosomatic complaints up to real psychoneuroses. The diagnosis and delimination from a simulation is difficult and is frequently failed. Without doubt there are cases, in which only the psychic component determines the vocational disablement.


Hormonal hyperthermia: endocrinologic causes of fever.
Although hyperthermia is a component of many endocrine diseases, it is uncommon for fever to be the presenting manifestation of hormonal disorders. During a four year period we encountered six patients, hospitalized principally because of fever, who were found to have endocrine causes for the fever. In all, the admitting diagnosis was infection; three were suspected of having tuberculosis, two of gram-negative bacteremia and one of endocarditis. Except for asymptomatic bacteriuria in one patient (who remained febrile despite appropriate antibiotic therapy) infection was ruled out in all cases, and fever was attributed to "masked" thyrotoxicosis, triiodothyronine (T3) toxicosis, subacute thyroiditis, primary adrenal insufficiency, secondary adrenal insufficiency and pheochromocytoma. In a seventh patient, extreme pyrexia developed in the setting of the thyroid storm. The importance of hormonal mechanisms in thermoregulation is discussed.


Neurocognitive performance and clinical changes in olanzapine-treated patients with schizophrenia.
Diffuse cognitive impairment characterizes patients with schizophrenia throughout the course of illness. The deficits persist despite clinical improvement associated with neuroleptic intervention and are related to outcome. It is unclear whether treatment with atypical agents is associated with improved cognition that relates to symptoms and outcome. Using a set of computerized neurocognitive measures, we evaluated whether the effects of olanzapine are greater than practice effects for specific neurocognitive domains that could provide targets for large-scale randomized studies. We enrolled 19 patients with schizophrenia before initiation of treatment with olanzapine and 16 of them were examined at 6 weeks and 6 months of follow-up. They were compared to 34 healthy participants who enrolled, 24 of whom were evaluated longitudinally. Improvement exceeding practice effects was observed in patients for abstraction and spatial memory and the latter correlated with clinical improvement in negative symptoms. These results suggest that some effects of olanzapine may impact both symptoms and cognitive performance.


Modulation of human GABArho1 receptors by taurine.
A study was made of the effects of taurine on GABArho1 receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes. The EC(50) and reversal potentials for GABA, taurine and glycine currents were 2.3+/-0.4 microM (-25+/-0.9 mV), 5+/-0.8mM (-27+/-0.4 mV) and 7+/-0.5mM (-22+/-0.6 mV), respectively. Co-application of GABA and taurine, revealed a taurine concentration-dependent biphasic-modulation of the receptor: at 0.3-30 microM taurine potentiated the GABA-currents, whereas at 0.3-30 mM the GABA-currents were reduced. In contrast glycine potentiated the GABA-currents at all concentrations tested. TPMPA, a GABA(C) specific receptor antagonist, also blocked effectively and reversibly the taurine and glycine currents. Finally, lanthanum and zinc modulated the currents generated by the three amino acids. Taurine is abundant in the retina and our observations suggest that taurine may play an important role modulating the retinal GABAergic transmission.