Thallium(I) sequestration by jarosite and birnessite: Structural incorporation vs surface adsorption.
Jarosite and birnessite secondary minerals play a pivotal role in the mobility, transport and fate of trace elements in the environment, although geochemical interactions of these compounds with extremely toxic thallium (Tl) remain poorly known. In this study, we investigated the sorption behavior of Tl(I) onto synthetic jarosite and birnessite, two minerals commonly found in soils and sediments as well as in mining-impacted areas where harsh conditions are involved. To achieve this, sorption and desorption experiments were carried out under two different acidic conditions and various Tl(I) concentrations to mimic natural scenarios. In addition, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analyses were conducted to determine the performance of both minerals for Tl(I) sequestration. Our results indicate that both phases can effectively remove aqueous Tl by different sorption mechanisms. Jarosite preferentially incorporates Tl(I) into the structure to form Tl(I)-jarosite and eventually the mineral dorallcharite (TlFe3(SO4)2(OH)6) as increasing amounts of Tl are employed. Birnessite, however, favorably uptakes Tl(I) through an irreversible surface adsorption mechanism, underlining the affinity of Tl for this mineral in the entire concentration range studied (0.5-5 mmol L-1). Lastly, the presence of Tl(I) in conditions where aqueous molar ratio Tl/Mn is ∼0.25 inhibits the formation of birnessite since oxidation of Tl(I) to Tl(III) followed by precipitation of avicennite (Tl2O3) take place. Thus, the present research may provide useful insights on the role of both jarosite and birnessite minerals in Tl environmental cycles.


Joint impact of phthalate exposure and stressful life events in pregnancy on preterm birth.
Urinary phthalate metabolites and psychosocial stress in pregnancy have each been associated with preterm birth (PTB), but no study has examined the joint impact of these two environmental exposures. We hypothesized that there would be stronger associations between phthalate exposure and PTB in mothers with higher stress in pregnancy compared to mothers with lower stress. We addressed this question using data from The Infant Development and the Environment Study (TIDES), a prospective birth cohort conducted at four US sites (N = 783). We examined urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations measured in samples collected from up to three trimesters of pregnancy. Mothers reported their exposure to stressful life events (SLE) in each trimester in a questionnaire administered in the third trimester. PTB was defined as delivery before 37 weeks completed gestation (n = 71, 9.1%). We examined associations between urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations (individual time points and on average) and PTB using logistic regression models adjusted for maternal race, age, pre-pregnancy body mass index, education, specific gravity, and gestational age at sample collection. In addition, we created models stratified by whether or not mothers were exposed to any or no SLE in pregnancy. Summed di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (ΣDEHP) metabolites measured in urine samples from the third trimester, but not the first trimester, were associated with an increased odds ratio (OR) of PTB (OR = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06, 1.95). In models stratified by SLE, associations between third trimester ΣDEHP concentrations and PTB were significant only for women experiencing one or more SLE during pregnancy (OR for ΣDEHP: 2.09, 95% CI: 1.29, 3.37) but not for women with no SLE during pregnancy (OR for ΣDEHP: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.66, 1.63) (p for interaction = 0.07). We observed an association between urinary ΣDEHP levels and PTB that was modified by whether a mother was exposed to one or more psychosocial stressors during pregnancy. Additional research to understand the joint impacts of chemical and non-chemical exposures, with an emphasis on timing of exposure, is needed in order to advance the state of the science on how the environment influences pregnancy.


Adrenergic modulation of hilar neuron activity and granule cell inhibition in the guinea-pig hippocampal slice.
To study the effects of norepinephrine on synaptic inhibition in the dentate gyrus, intracellular recordings were made from hilar neurons in the guinea-pig hippocampal slice. The effects of norepinephrine on hilar neurons were compared with changes in the frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic potentials recorded from granule cells. Hilar neurons comprised two electrophysiologically distinct groups: type I hilar neurons displayed a pronounced single spike afterhyperpolarization and little spike frequency accommodation, type II hilar neurons had small afterhyperpolarizations and pronounced spike frequency accommodation. The majority of recordings were from type I hilar neurons which are presumably inhibitory to granule cells. In most instances, effects of norepinephrine (2-10 microM) on hilar neurons could be mimicked by the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (0.1-1 microM). Isoproterenol induced a slight depolarization, blocked a slow afterhyperpolarization and, in type II neurons, reduced spike frequency accommodation. These effects were associated with an increase in the spontaneous discharge rate and an enhancement of spontaneous excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials. In accordance, isoproterenol and norepinephrine increased the frequency of inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in granule cells. In the presence of the non-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione and the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist CGP 37849, isoproterenol and norepinephrine also increased the frequency of Cl- -dependent inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in granule cells. Under this experimental condition, however, norepinephrine reduced the discharge rate of type I hilar neurons through an effect on alpha-receptors. In the presence of GABAA receptor blockers, norepinephrine increased the frequency of spontaneously occurring K(+)-dependent inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in granule cells. Accordingly, the frequency of burst discharges in type I hilar neurons was increased. We suggest that the discrepancy in the effect of norepinephrine on the discharge rate of presumed inhibitory hilar neurons and the frequency of Cl- -dependent inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in granule cells results from a direct effect of norepinephrine on GABAergic terminals because norepinephrine also enhanced the frequency of tetrodotoxin-resistant inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in granule cells. Thus, the net effect of synaptically released norepinephrine on synaptic inhibition in the dentate gyrus will be determined by opposing actions of alpha- versus beta-receptor stimulation at the synapse on hilar neurons.


Epidemiological, Clinical, and Laboratory Features of Children with SARS-CoV-2 in Ukraine.
In December 2019, the Chinese city of Wuhan reported the first cases of pneumonia from a new type of beta coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. In the early days of the COVID-19 outbreak, paediatric patients were thought to be immune to the new virus; however, further studies have shown people of all ages to be susceptible to the virus. Identify and describe the clinical and epidemiological features of COVID-19 among hospitalized children in Ukraine. Retrospective study of 171 children aged 2 months to 18 years who were hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2. Most patients in the study had a moderate progression of the disease (77.78%, or n=133), whereas a severe course was noted in 22.22% (n=38). Across age groups, children aged 6-12 was the predominant age group affected (35.67%, or n=61). The most common symptoms were fever in 88.2% of patients, sore throat in 69.2% and cough in 60.9%. Symptoms associated with dyspnoea and cyanosis were significantly more common in children with the severe course (p<0.05). Almost half of children had at least one comorbidity, the most prevalent being chronic tonsillitis (11.8% of patients) and anemia (6.5% of patients). A positive correlation (r=0.7 p<0.05) was found between CRP levels and COVID-19 severity. X-ray changes in the lungs were present in 76.61% of examined children and ground-glass opacity symptom was registered in 50.88%. COVID-19 among hospitalized children in Ukraine usually has a moderate course of illness and a good prognosis.


Hippo signaling instructs ectopic but not normal organ growth.
The Hippo signaling pathway is widely considered a master regulator of organ growth because of the prominent overgrowth phenotypes caused by experimental manipulation of its activity. Contrary to this model, we show here that removing Hippo transcriptional output did not impair the ability of the mouse liver and Drosophila eyes to grow to their normal size. Moreover, the transcriptional activity of the Hippo pathway effectors Yap/Taz/Yki did not correlate with cell proliferation, and hyperactivation of these effectors induced gene expression programs that did not recapitulate normal development. Concordantly, a functional screen in Drosophila identified several Hippo pathway target genes that were required for ectopic overgrowth but not normal growth. Thus, Hippo signaling does not instruct normal growth, and the Hippo-induced overgrowth phenotypes are caused by the activation of abnormal genetic programs.


A new symbolic language for diagramming pacemaker/heart interaction.
A new symbolic language is presented that can be used to diagram pacemaker/heart interactions. The language symbolically indicates "normally" conducted and ectopic events; pacemaker stimuli; pacemaker capture of the chamber; triggered pacemaker stimuli by "normal" or ectopic events; as well as such anomalous pacemaker/heart interactions as failure to sense; "crosstalk" between electrodes; and "normal," ectopic, or paced events in one chamber sensed by the electrode in the other chamber. In addition, symbols are provided to represent antegrade and retrograde accessory pathway conduction, and electronic and physiological refractory intervals. A common baseline is used to separate symbols for atrial activity, above the baseline, from those for ventricular activity, below the baseline. Parallel baselines are used to plot refractory intervals. Thus, even complex dual-chamber pacemaker operating modes can be represented with intrinsic and stimulated cardiac response to pacemaker operation. The language can be sketched out informally for description of general concepts or drafted on millimeter grid paper to make precise timing notations. It is especially useful for interdisciplinary communication of ideas about complex pacemaker/heart interactions.


Bitargeted microemulsions based on coix seed ingredients for enhanced hepatic tumor delivery and synergistic therapy.
A hepatic tumor bitargeted microemulsions drug delivery system using coix seed oil and coix seed polysaccharide (CP) acting as anticancer components, as well as functional excipients, was developed for enhanced tumor-specific accumulation by CP-mediated enhancement on passive tumor targeting and modification of galactose stearate (tumor-targeted ligand). In the physicochemical characteristics studies, galactose stearate-modified coix seed multicomponent microemulsions containing 30% CP (w%) (Gal-C-MEs) had a well-defined spherical shape with a small size (47.63 ± 1.41 nm), a narrow polydispersity index (PDI, 0.101 ± 0.002), and a nearly neutral surface charge (-4.37 ± 1.76 mV). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Gal-C-MEs against HepG2 cells was 70.2 μg/mL, which decreased by 1.8-fold in comparison with that of coix seed multicomponent microemulsions (C-MEs). The fluorescence intensity of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-loaded Gal-C-MEs (FITC-Gal-C-MEs) internalized by HepG2 cells was 1.8-fold higher than that of FITC-loaded C-MEs (FIT C-C-MEs), but the cellular uptake of the latter became reduce by 1.6-fold when the weight ratio of CP decreased up to 10%. In the cell apoptosis studies, C-MEs (containing 30% CP) did not show a significant difference with Gal-C-MEs, but exhibited 3.3-fold and 1.5-fold increase relative to C-MEs containing 10% CP and 20% CP, respectively. In the in vivo tumor targeting studies, Cy5-loaded Gal-C-MEs (Cy5-Gal-C-MEs), notably distributed in the tumor sites and still found even at 48 h post-administration, displayed the strongest capability of tumor tissue accumulation and retention among all the test groups. Most importantly, Gal-C-MEs had stronger inhibition of tumor growth, prolonged survival time and more effectively tumor cell apoptosis induction in comparison with C-MEs containing different amounts of CP, which further confirmed that a certain amount of CP and tumor-targeted ligand were of great importance to potent anticancer efficacy. The aforementioned results suggested that Gal-C-MEs presented promising potential as a highly effective and safe anticancer drug delivery system for enhanced liver cancer delivery.


The P genes of human parainfluenza virus type 1 clinical isolates are polycistronic and microheterogeneous.
The nucleotide sequence of the P gene of human parainfluenza virus type 1 (hPIV1) strain C35 was determined directly from genomic viral RNA and by molecular cloning. The gene contained 1893 nucleotides. Four open reading frames (ORF) capable of encoding a P protein (568 amino acids; M(r) = 64,784), a C' protein (219 amino acids; M(r) = 25,997), a C protein (204 amino acids; M(r) = 24,237), and a Y1 protein (182 amino acids; M(r) = 21,471) were identified. The latter three ORFs are in a +1 reading frame relative to P. The sequencing data are consistent with the hPIV1 C' protein being initiated at a GUG codon (nt 68-70), in contrast to the ACG initiation of the Sendai virus (SV) C' protein. Unlike SV, there is no evidence of a hPIV1 ORF capable of encoding a cysteine-rich V protein. Also, there is no ORF capable of encoding a protein analogous to the SV Y2 protein. In vitro transcription, translation, and immunoprecipitation showed that the hPIV1 P gene is polycistronic. Comparison of the P gene with those of two other distinct clinical isolates confirmed the coding potential of the hPIV1 P gene but also revealed genetic heterogeneity among the isolates. Our results indicate that the hPIV1 P gene uses some coding strategies similar to and others that are different from those of other paramyxovirus P genes.


Heterotopic gastric mucosa in the epiglottis and rectum.
A case of gastric heteropia of the glossoepiglottic region in a 13-day-old girl is described. In addition to fundic-type mucosa, all main parts of the gastric wall were present. An additional case of gastric heteropia in the rectum was found in a 14-year-old boy. The mucosa was lined with a muscularis mucosae. Adjacent to this ectopia was a large peptic ulcer. Previoisly reported cases of gastric heterotopias are reviewed.


[Morphometric characteristics of the glomerular zone--reparative processes after the administration of detergent].
Results of the effect of detergent on the excretory mechanism were presented in this paper. Thereby, the authors investigated the glomerular zone of the adrenal gland in white laboratory rats living 30 days in the conditions of the detergent factory. The changes were registered in the augmented nuclei of the glomerular zone with presented incisuras. Reactive changes as well as the changes due to hyperactivity of the adrenal gland observed also after one month were in question.


Determination of hearing threshold for single frequencies from the acoustic reflex.
With preactivation, the threshold of stapedial reflex activity can be lowered by 20-30 dB. From these measures of the normal and reduced reflex threshold, an extrapolation may be performed down to the hearing threshold. Thus, the hearing threshold can be determined for every single frequency from 0.125 to 4 kHz if the reflex is elicitable up to 8 kHz.


The role of microRNAs in diseases and related signaling pathways.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are epigenetic regulators of the gene expression and act through posttranslational modification. They bind to 3'-UTR of target mRNAs to inhibit translation or increase the degradation mRNA in many tissues. Any alteration in the level of miRNA expression in many human diseases indicates their involvement in the pathogenesis of many diseases. On the other hand, the regulation of the signaling pathways is necessary for the maintenance of natural and physiological characteristics of any cell. It is worth mentioning that dysfunction of the signaling pathways manifests itself as a disorder or disease. The significant evidence report that miRNAs regulate the several signaling pathways in many diseases. Base on previous studies, miRNAs can be used for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. According to the important role of miRNAs on the cell signaling pathways, this article reviews miRNAs involvement in incidence of diseases by changing signaling pathways.


Photofabrication of polymeric biomicrofluidics: New insights into material selection.
We propose a versatile method to evaluate the suitability of polymers for the fabrication of microfluidic devices for biomedical applications, based on the concept that the selection and the design of convenient materials should involve different properties depending on the final microfluidic application. Here polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is selected as biological model and target microfluidic reaction. A class of photocured siloxanes is introduced as device building polymers and copolymerization is adopted as strategy to finely tune and optimize the final material properties. All-polymeric flexible devices are easily fabricated exploiting the rapidity of the photopolymerization reaction: they resist to thermal cycles without leakage or de-bonding (i.e., without separation of different chip parts made of the same material bonded together), show very limited water swelling and permeability, are bioinert and prevent the inhibition of the biochemical reaction. PCR is thus successfully conducted in the photocured microfluidic devices made with a specifically designed siloxane copolymer.


Fe/Cu diatomic catalysts for electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia.
Electrochemical conversion of nitrate to ammonia offers an efficient approach to reducing nitrate pollutants and a potential technology for low-temperature and low-pressure ammonia synthesis. However, the process is limited by multiple competing reactions and NO3- adsorption on cathode surfaces. Here, we report a Fe/Cu diatomic catalyst on holey nitrogen-doped graphene which exhibits high catalytic activities and selectivity for ammonia production. The catalyst enables a maximum ammonia Faradaic efficiency of 92.51% (-0.3 V(RHE)) and a high NH3 yield rate of 1.08 mmol h-1 mg-1 (at - 0.5 V(RHE)). Computational and theoretical analysis reveals that a relatively strong interaction between NO3- and Fe/Cu promotes the adsorption and discharge of NO3- anions. Nitrogen-oxygen bonds are also shown to be weakened due to the existence of hetero-atomic dual sites which lowers the overall reaction barriers. The dual-site and hetero-atom strategy in this work provides a flexible design for further catalyst development and expands the electrocatalytic techniques for nitrate reduction and ammonia synthesis.


Older patients' willingness to trade off urologic adverse outcomes for a better chance at five-year survival in the clinical setting of prostate cancer.
To assess whether patients report a willingness to trade-off urologic adverse outcomes--urinary incontinence and total impotence--for a better chance of 5-year survival in the clinical setting of prostate cancer; and, if so, whether patients' current levels of symptoms of urinary incontinence, impotence, and frequency of sexual activity influence their decisions. Structured interviews with a convenience sample of male patients. A university-based Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. One hundred sixty-three patients seen consecutively in General Medical Clinic at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Portland, Oregon, were enrolled in the study. Mean age of the patients was 65.2 years (SD = 10.6, range - 35-84); mean level of formal education completed was 13 years (SD = 2.7, range = 5-19). In a hypothetical clinical setting of prostate cancer, patients were offered a choice of two procedures--Treatment A (surgery: worse short-term, better long-term survival) and Treatment B (radiation therapy: better short-term, worse long-term survival)--with varying benefit/risk trade-offs in time. Patients were presented with pairs of treatment curves that were developed from research data on survival for surgery versus radiation therapy for stage II prostate cancer confined to the prostate gland. Treatments were not identified to control for labeling effects. Patients were asked their willingness to accept a chance of immediate mortality for better 5-year survival in one of four treatment curve comparisons. Of those who accepted the net beneficial procedure, we then inquired as to whether urologic complications--urinary incontinence and wearing an appliance to collect urine or total impotence--altered the acceptability of that treatment. Ninety-four percent (153/163) of patients were willing to choose Treatment A (worse short-term, better long-term survival) on one of the four scenarios; the remainder (10/163) were unwilling to take Treatment A (worse short-term, better long-term survival) on any of the four scenarios. Sixty-two percent (95/153) of patients were willing to accept a 100% chance of urinary incontinence; 83% (127/153) were willing to accept a 100% chance of impotence (chi-square = 16.8 with 1 df, P = .0001). Our results in an older male veteran population suggest than many patients are more concerned with long-term survival in the clinical setting of prostate cancer than with short-term treatment risks. In addition, patients are more willing to accept an impotence outcome than a urinary incontinence outcome, but this result was not related to patients' reported frequency of sexual activity.


Experience of using convalescent plasma for severe acute respiratory syndrome among healthcare workers in a Taiwan hospital.
To describe the immunological responses and clinical outcome of coronavirus (SARS) infected healthcare workers (HCW) who had been administered with convalescent plasma as a treatment. Convalescent plasma (500 mL) was obtained from each of three SARS patients and transfused into the three infected HCW. Donors were blood type O and seronegative for hepatitis B and C, HIV, syphilis and human T-cell lymphotropic virus types I and II (HTLV-I and -II). Serum antibody (IgG) titre was >640. Apharesis was performed with a CS 3000 plus cell separator followed by the forming of the convalescent phase plasma. As part of the routine check with donated plasma, the convalescent plasma was confirmed free of residual SARS-CoV by RT-PCR. Serial serum samples obtained from the recipients of the convalescent plasma were collected to undertake real-time quantitative RT-PCR for SARS-CoV for direct measurement of viral concentration. Specific immunoglobulin IgM and IgG concentrations were titrated using an antigen microarray developed in-house. Viral load dropped from 495 x 10(3), 76 x 10(3) or 650 x 10(3) copies/mL to zero or 1 copy/mL one day after transfusion. Anti-SARS-CoV IgM and IgG also increased in a time-dependent manner following transfusion. All three patients survived. One HCW became pregnant subsequently, delivering 13 months after discharge. Positive anti-SARS-CoV IgG was detected in the newborn. Passive transfer of anti-SARS-CoV antibody from the mother was considered as a possibility. All infected HCW whose condition had progressed severely and who had failed to respond to the available treatment, survived after transfusion with convalescent plasma.


Calmodulin content in different brain areas of aging rats.
An age-related decrease of calmodulin content was detected in the striatum, cerebral cortex and cerebellum of 3-, 22- and 30-month-old rats. This age-related decrease of calmodulin level occurred both in the supernatant and in the pellet fraction of high speed centrifuged tissues. However, the rates of age-dependent calmodulin loss in the pellet and supernatant fraction were differentiated according to the cerebral region considered, suggesting a different brain area sensitivity to the aging process.


Trehalose or Sucrose: Which of the Two Should be Used for Stabilizing Proteins in the Solid State? A Dilemma Investigated by In Situ Micro-Raman and Dielectric Relaxation Spectroscopies During and After Freeze-Drying.
The bioprotective properties of 2 disaccharides (sucrose and trehalose) were analyzed during the freeze-drying (FD) process and at the end of the process, to better understand the stabilization mechanisms of proteins in the solid state. In situ Raman investigations, performed during the FD process, have revealed that sucrose was more efficient than trehalose for preserving the secondary structure of lysozyme during FD, especially during the primary drying stage. The lower bioprotective effect of trehalose was interpreted as a consequence of a stronger affinity of this disaccharide to water, responsible for a severe phase separation phenomenon during the freezing stage. Dielectric spectroscopy investigations on the freeze-dried state of protein formulations have shown the capabilities of trehalose assisted by residual water to reduce the molecular mobility of the vitreous matrix, suggesting that trehalose is more efficient to preserve the protein structure during long-term storage.


Formal [(2+2)+2] and [(2+2)+(2+2)] nonconjugated dienediyne cascade cycloadditions.
[reaction: see text] Fluoranthene 2 and heptacycle 3 are easily accessible from the reaction of diyne 1 and norbornadiene (NBD) in the presence of the rhodium catalyst. The unusual [(2+2)+(2+2)] adduct 3 was confirmed by the X-ray crystal structure analysis.


Laboratory variation in the grading of dysplasia of duodenal adenomas in familial adenomatous polyposis patients.
To prevent duodenal and ampullary cancer in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients, a diagnosis of high grade dysplasia (HGD) plays an important role in the clinical management. Previous research showed that FAP patients are both over- and undertreated after a misdiagnosis of HGD, indicating unwarranted variation. We aimed to investigate the laboratory variation in dysplasia grading of duodenal adenomas and explore possible explanations for this variation. We included data from all Dutch pathology laboratories between 1991 and 2020 by retrieving histology reports from upper endoscopy specimens of FAP patients from the Dutch nationwide pathology databank (PALGA). Laboratory variation was investigated by comparing standardized proportions of HGD. To describe the degree of variation between the laboratories a factor score was calculated. A funnel plot was used to identify outliers. A total of 3050 specimens from 25 laboratories were included in the final analyses. The mean observed HGD proportion was 9.4%. The top three HGD-diagnosing laboratories diagnosed HGD 3.9 times more often than the lowest three laboratories, even after correcting for case-mix. No outliers were identified. Moderate laboratory variation was found in HGD diagnoses of duodenal tissue of FAP patients after adjusting for case-mix. Despite the fact that no outliers were observed, there may well be room for quality improvement. Concentration of these patients in expertise centers may decrease variation. To further reduce unwarranted variation, we recommend (inter)national guidelines to become more uniform in their recommendations regarding duodenal tissue sampling and consequences of HGD diagnoses.


Forebrain evolution in bony fishes.
The bony fishes consist of ray-finned fishes and lobe-finned fishes. In ray-finned fishes, the forebrain forms a morphocline from the cladistian bichirs through teleosts regarding the number and increasing complexity of pallial connections. The nuclei of the posterior tubercle parallel this increase in complexity, but the dorsal thalamic nuclei do not. The primary targets of the dorsal thalamic nuclei are the subpallial nuclei, whereas the primary targets of the posterior tubercle are various pallial divisions. Primitively, nucleus medianus is the primary projection nucleus of the posterior tubercle. It is either reduced or lost in teleosts, and its role is taken over by the preglomerular complex, which appears to develop from proliferative zones in both the thalamic alar plate and the posterior tubercle. Although there are numerous hodological data for the pallium in ray-finned fishes, there is no consensus regarding its homologies with other vertebrates. In contrast to ray-finned fishes, very few experimental data exist for lobe-finned fishes. The coelacanth, Latimeria, is extremely rare, and lungfishes are the best source for new experimental data. At this point, there are sufficient data to suggest that lungfishes are characterized by a pallium that is divided into four components, separate dorsal and ventral striatopallidal systems, and an amygdala that consists of anterior, central, lateral, and medial nuclei. The data suggest that telencephalic organization in lungfishes is far more similar to that in amphibians than was previously suspected.


mTOR pathway inhibition prevents neuroinflammation and neuronal death in a mouse model of cerebral palsy.
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway signaling governs cellular responses to hypoxia and inflammation including induction of autophagy and cell survival. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder linked to hypoxic and inflammatory brain injury however, a role for mTOR modulation in CP has not been investigated. We hypothesized that mTOR pathway inhibition would diminish inflammation and prevent neuronal death in a mouse model of CP. Mouse pups (P6) were subjected to hypoxia-ischemia and lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation (HIL), a model of CP causing neuronal injury within the hippocampus, periventricular white matter, and neocortex. mTOR pathway inhibition was achieved with rapamycin (an mTOR inhibitor; 5mg/kg) or PF-4708671 (an inhibitor of the downstream p70S6kinase, S6K, 75 mg/kg) immediately following HIL, and then for 3 subsequent days. Phospho-activation of the mTOR effectors p70S6kinase and ribosomal S6 protein and expression of hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF-1α) were assayed. Neuronal cell death was defined with Fluoro-Jade C (FJC) and autophagy was measured using Beclin-1 and LC3II expression. Iba-1 labeled, activated microglia were quantified. Neuronal death, enhanced HIF-1α expression, and numerous Iba-1 labeled, activated microglia were evident at 24 and 48 h following HIL. Basal mTOR signaling, as evidenced by phosphorylated-S6 and -S6K levels, was unchanged by HIL. Rapamycin or PF-4,708,671 treatment significantly reduced mTOR signaling, neuronal death, HIF-1α expression, and microglial activation, coincident with enhanced expression of Beclin-1 and LC3II, markers of autophagy induction. mTOR pathway inhibition prevented neuronal death and diminished neuroinflammation in this model of CP. Persistent mTOR signaling following HIL suggests a failure of autophagy induction, which may contribute to neuronal death in CP. These results suggest that mTOR signaling may be a novel therapeutic target to reduce neuronal cell death in CP.


Fistulas of the upper urinary tract: percutaneous management.
We treated 40 patients with urinary fistulas by interventional radiology. The antegrade percutaneous route, catheterization of the ureter and bypassing of the fistula enabled ureteral stenting in 36 patients (90 per cent). Criteria for successful treatment were healing of the fistula, normal renal function (evaluated by excretory urography and radionuclide studies) and absence of secondary stenosis at 6 months. Of the patients 28 (70 per cent) were treated successfully. The number of nephrectomies after failure of percutaneous techniques (5 of 40, or 12.5 per cent) seems lower than in the case of surgery. The results were excellent for fistulas occurring after endourology (all 9 successful) or after ureterointestinal anastomoses (7 of 8). On the other hand, the results appear disappointing in patients with fistulas in transplanted kidneys (3 of 4 failures).


Correction to: Engineered atherosclerosis-specific zinc ferrite nanocomplex-based MRI contrast agents.
After publication of the original article [1], the authors found that Figure 2e (Hsp70-Ch-Lf-ZF in Jurkat cells, 2 h), Figure 5b (HSP70-Lf-ZF) and Figure 5c (control) contained incorrect images. This does not affect the figure legends, results and conclusions of the article.


Does carotid eversion endarterectomy and reimplantation reduce the risk of restenosis?
Two hundred twelve eversion endarterectomies of the internal carotid artery and reimplantation in the common carotid artery were performed between January 1985 and July 1990. A total of 206 patients with stenosis of 75% or more and with redundancy and tortuosity of the internal carotid artery underwent this procedure. Cumulative mortality and neurologic morbidity were 2.4%. Forty patients died during the course of follow-up, seven of neurologic causes (17.1%). Duplex scans of 107 operated carotid arteries were obtained an average of 27.1 months after surgery. Restenosis of > 50% was encountered in three patients (1.9%), two asymptomatic patients (1.3%) with > 75% restenosis and one symptomatic patient with occlusion (0.6%). These results contrast with a 13.5% rate of restenoses > 50% (including 5.9% of restenoses > 75% and 1.7% occlusions) observed after 156 consecutive endarterectomies performed and closed by direct suture by the same surgical team in 1987 at a mean follow-up of 44 months. We believe that this technique can be used more often because the the operative and long-term risks are not any greater than those of the other methods of carotid revascularization. Eversion endarterectomy associated with reimplantation is especially indicated when the internal carotid artery is elongated, is < 4 mm wide, and occurs in women.


Myocardial ischemia caused by a coronary anomaly left anterior descending coronary artery arising from right sinus of Valsalva.
We present the case of a patient in anomalous origin of the left anterior descending coronary artery that caused myocardial ischemia and led to positive myocardial scintigraphic results. Coronary angiography showed that the left anterior descending coronary artery arose from the right coronary ostium-an anomaly that has been associated with chest discomfort-without atherosclerotic lesions. Left circumflex artery and the diagonal branches were arising from the left main coronary artery and the whole coronary tree were free of atherosclerosis.


Process evaluation of postpartum contraceptive service delivery in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia in 2020.
Postpartum contraceptives during the first year after delivery is a key service for women to prevent unintended pregnancy and reduce the risk of maternal and child mortality by ensuring safe birth intervals. This process evaluation aimed to assess the availability, compliance, and accommodation of Post-Partum Contraceptives (PPC) and the experience of women's contraception in the first 12 months postpartum in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (ACSH). A case study evaluation design with a mixed method was employed from February 16/2020 to Mar 30, 2020. Direct observations, 12-month document reviews, and key informant interviews were conducted. The quantitative data were entered into Epi-Data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, variables with < 0.05 p-values and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) were used to declare the association. The qualitative data were transcribed, translated, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The overall process of program implementation was measured based on pre-determined judgmental criteria. From the total of charts reviewed 302 only 188 (62.3%) postpartum mothers used any method within 12 months of the postpartum period out of which only 27.1% mothers used of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC). The overall evaluation of postpartum contraceptives was 84.1% (V/good). Notable gaps observed in this study were poor provision of information in relation to methods given, poor technical performance in following the aseptic procedure, poor utilization of postpartum family planning guidelines and clinical checklists for counseling, and poor use of information education materials compared to the national standards. Residence, number of stillbirths or neonatal loss, counseling status of family planning during ANC visits, and maternal counseling status of family planning during postnatal care visits were factors associated with PPC. The overall postpartum contraceptive service delivery in ACSH was V/good compared to the national family planning guideline standards. With the notable gaps identified, specific recommendations were suggested to different responsible bodies.


A strategy for increasing the brain uptake of a radioligand in animals: use of a drug that inhibits plasma protein binding.
A positron-emitter labeled radioligand for the glycine-binding site of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, [(11)C]L-703,717, was examined for its ability to penetrate the brain in animals by simultaneous use with drugs having high-affinity separate binding sites on human serum albumin. [(11)C]L-703,717 has poor blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability because it binds tightly to plasma proteins. Co-injection of warfarin (50-200 mg/kg), a drug that binds to albumin and resembles L-703,717 in structure, dose-dependently enhanced the penetration by [(11)C]L-703,717 in mice, resulting in a five-fold increase in the brain radioactivity at 1 min after the injection. Drugs structurally unrelated to L-703,717, salicylate, phenol red, and L-tryptophan, were less effective or ineffective in increasing the uptake of [(11)C]L-703,717. These results suggest that the simultaneous use of a drug that inhibits the binding of a radioligand to plasma proteins is a useful way to overcome the poor BBB permeability of the radioligand triggered by its tight binding to plasma proteins. In brain distribution studies in rodents, it was found that, after the increase in brain uptake with warfarin, much of the glycine site antagonist accumulates in the cerebellum but its pharmacological specificity did not match the glycine site of NMDA receptors.


The male ejaculate as inhibitor of female remating in two tephritid flies.
The inhibition of female receptivity after copulation is usually related to the quality of the first mating. Males are able to modulate female receptivity through various mechanisms. Among these is the transfer of the ejaculate composed mainly by sperm and accessory gland proteins (AGPs). Here we used the South American fruit fly Anastrepha fraterculus (where AGP injections inhibit female receptivity) and the Mexican fruit fly Anastrepha ludens (where injection of AGPs failed to inhibit receptivity) as study organisms to test which mechanisms are used by males to prevent remating. In both species, neither the act of copulation without ejaculate transfer nor sperm stored inhibited female receptivity. Moreover, using multiply mated sterile and wild males in Mex flies we showed that the number of sperm stored by females varied according to male fertility status and number of previous matings, while female remating did not. We suggest female receptivity in both flies is inhibited by the mechanical and/or physiological effect of the full ejaculate. This finding brings us closer to understanding the mechanisms through which female receptivity can be modulated.


Neural crest cell-derived VEGF promotes embryonic jaw extension.
Jaw morphogenesis depends on the growth of Meckel's cartilage during embryogenesis. However, the cell types and signals that promote chondrocyte proliferation for Meckel's cartilage growth are poorly defined. Here we show that neural crest cells (NCCs) and their derivatives provide an essential source of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to enhance jaw vascularization and stabilize the major mandibular artery. We further show in two independent mouse models that blood vessels promote Meckel's cartilage extension. Coculture experiments of arterial tissue with NCCs or chondrocytes demonstrated that NCC-derived VEGF promotes blood vessel growth and that blood vessels secrete factors to instruct chondrocyte proliferation. Computed tomography and X-ray scans of patients with hemifacial microsomia also showed that jaw hypoplasia correlates with mandibular artery dysgenesis. We conclude that cranial NCCs and their derivatives provide an essential source of VEGF to support blood vessel growth in the developing jaw, which in turn is essential for normal chondrocyte proliferation, and therefore jaw extension.


Preparation of β-cyclodextrin entrapped graphite composite for sensitive detection of dopamine.
A simple dopamine (DA) electrochemical sensor was developed based on a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) modified with β-cyclodextrin entrapped graphite (GR/β-CD) composite for the first time. The polar hydroxyl groups on the β-CD rims interact with polar groups of edges of GR sheets resulting into the high dispersion ability of GR in β-CD solution. The GR/β-CD modified electrode exhibited a higher electrochemical response to DA with a lower oxidation potential (0.224V) than that of bare/β-CD (0.38V) and GR (0.525V) modified SPCEs, revealing an excellent electro-oxidation behavior of GR/β-CD composite toward DA. Under optimum conditions, the fabricated sensor detects the DA in the linear concentration range from 0.1 to 58.5μM with a limit of detection of 0.011μM and the sensitivity of 1.27±0.02μAμM(-1)cm(-2). The fabricated sensor also exhibits the excellent repeatability, practicality, reproducibility, storage stability along with acceptable selectivity.


A clinical scoring system for chronic inflammatory bowel disease in children.
A clinical scoring system for the assessment of children with chronic inflammatory bowel disease has been devised. A close correlation is demonstrated between severity of disease and the level of serum albumin. The clinical score is simple to perform, sensitive to changes in clinical status, reproducible by different observers, and specifically designed to evaluate inflammatory bowel disease in children and adolescents. The clinical score is a useful adjunct in the management of children with chronic inflammatory bowel disease and can be used in prospective studies of various therapeutic modalities.


[Mechanical tests with polymethylmethacrylate in fresh specimens and specimens obtained from loosened prosthesis (author's transl)].
Mechanical testing of specimen from fresh acrylic cement and from lossened prostheses between one and two years after implantation shows difference in compressive strength. Air bubbles, blood particles, and folds distinctly influence mechanical properties. Therefore, care should be taken to avoid these enclosures during implantation. But it is not the aging of the acrylic cement which presents the main problem in endoprosthetic fixation, but the cement-bone interface. Clinical experience and this mechanical study show that fracture of the acrylic cement is not due to primary fatigue of the material, but occurs secondarily after loosening of the bonding between bone and cement.


Surgical significance of non-toxic iodine-avid goitre.
During the period 1970-87, of 1580 patients operated on for non-toxic nodular goitre, 17 satisfied the laboratory criteria for iodine avidity. All of these goitres were non-endemic, with no evidence of enzymatic deficiency. Preoperative thyroxine markedly reduced the surgical morbidity by decreasing the size and vascularity of the gland.


Social work intervention with families of children with cancer: the changing critical phases.
There are several critical phases through which pediatric cancer patients pass. It is important for the social worker to identify these stressful periods in order to give maximum help to the patient and his family. With constructive equilibrium.


The level of the mitochondrial mutation A3243G decreases upon ageing in epithelial cells from individuals with diabetes and deafness.
We have in a longitudinal study determined the proportion of the mitochondrial A3243G mutation in DNA obtained from cervical cell samples collected from three individuals affected with mitochondrial diabetes and hearing loss during a period of up to 18 years. Using the minisequencing method we were able to sensitively determine the proportion between mutant and normal mitochondrial DNA. Our results demonstrate a constant decrease in the levels of the pathogenic mutation in mitotic tissues of affected individuals with time.


[Surgical interventions in pacemaker patients (author's transl)].
In this paper 44 operations in patients with cardiac pacemakers have been reported. Electrosurgical instruments were used in almost all cases. It was noted, that neither a disturbance of the pacemaker nor of the heart stimulated by it occured during or after operation. A premature exhaustion of the battery was not observed.


Composite Alginate-Hyaluronan Sponges for the Delivery of Tranexamic Acid in Postextractive Alveolar Wounds.
The management of wounds in patients on anticoagulant therapy who require oral surgical procedures is problematic and often results in a nonsatisfactory healing process. Here, we report a method to prepare an advanced dressing able to avoid uncontrolled bleeding by occluding the postextractive alveolar wounds, and simultaneously, capable of a fast release of tranexamic acid (TA). Composite alginate/hyaluronan (ALG/HA) sponge dressings loaded with TA were prepared by a straightforward internal gelation method followed by a freeze-drying step. Both blank and drug-loaded sponges were soft, flexible, and elegant in appearance and nonbrittle in nature. Scanning electron microscopy analysis confirmed the porous nature of these dressings. The integration of HA influenced the microstructure, reducing the porosity, modifying the water uptake kinetic, and increasing the resistance to compression. TA release from ALG/HA sponges showed a controlled release up to 3 h, and it was faster in the presence of HA. Finally, an in vitro clotting test performed on human whole blood confirmed that the TA-loaded sponges significantly reduce the blood clotting index by 30% compared with ALG/HA20 sponges. These results suggest that, if placed in a socket cavity, these dressings could give a relevant help to the blood hemostasis after dental extractions, especially in patients with coagulation disorders.


Phase diagram of lipid A from Salmonella minnesota and Escherichia coli rough mutant lipopolysaccharide.
We have reported here on the structural polymorphism of lipid A, the "endotoxic principle" of bacterial lipopolysaccharide. For lipid A of rough mutant lipopolysaccharide from Salmonella minnesota and Escherichia coli, the three-dimensional supramolecular structures were determined with x-ray diffraction utilizing synchrotron radiation. The investigations were performed in the water concentration range 10 to 95% by weight, at [lipid A]:[Mg2+] molar ratios from 1:0 to 0.1:1, and in the temperature range from 20 to 70 degrees C. These data were correlated with measurements of the beta----alpha phase behaviour which was monitored with differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. We found that the transition temperature of the acyl chains ranges--in the absence of Mg2(+)-from 45 degrees C at high to 56 degrees C at low water content, and-at an equimolar content of Mg2(+)-from 52 degrees C at high to 59 degrees C at low water concentrations. In the gel phase-in which the lipid A acyl chains are more disordered than those from saturated phospholipids-cubic phases are adopted at high water content (greater than 60%) and at high [lipid A]:[Mg2+] molar ratios. At low water contents, lamellar states are assumed exclusively. In the liquid crystalline state of lipid A, the hexagonal HII state is adopted under all conditions. The structural variability of lipid A is highest at high water concentrations, and structural changes may be induced by only slight changes in temperature, water content, and Mg2+ concentration. Under physiological conditions, however, the lipid A assemblies exhibit a strong preference to cubic structures.


Newly designed breakapart FISH probe helps to identify cases with true MECOM rearrangement in myeloid malignancies.
A home-brew, tri-color MECOM breakapart FISH probe with a full MECOM coverage labeled with a separate dye is compared in parallel with a 2-color commercial MECOM breakapart probe in 17 cases of hematologic malignancies. Cases with a typical positive signal pattern (or "balanced" signal pattern) (n = 2) and a negative result (n = 3) using the commercial probe achieved the same results using the new probe (100% concordance), whereas 9 of 12 (75%) remaining cases with an atypical signal pattern (or "unbalanced" signal pattern) using the commercial probe showed a "balanced" signal pattern using the new probe. Three cases with undetermined MECOM rearrangement status by the commercial probe were further clarified with no MECOM rearrangement in 2 cases and presence of a subclone with simultaneous gain and rearrangement of MECOM in 1 case. More importantly, the new probe is capable of determining the presence, location and integrity of MECOM after rearrangement. In conclusion, atypical signal patterns obtained using a commercial FISH probe for MECOM can be solved through re-design and optimization of a new BAP probe, especially in those cases with a true MECOM rearrangement. The potential of the new probe for use in the clinical laboratory will be further investigated. (Word count: 196).


Successful treatment of chaotic atrial tachycardia with oral flecainide.
Two infants with chaotic atrial tachycardia diagnosed at birth and at 11 weeks of life, were treated successfully with oral flecainide. Both patients were in heart failure at initiation of therapy. Six months and 17 months later, respectively, they have had no recurrence of chaotic atrial tachycardia, left ventricular function returned to normal and therapy was stopped in both.


Hybrid Repair for Anastomotic Pseudoaneurysm on the Innominate Artery Following Blunt Chest Trauma.
A 55-year-old male with a previous open surgical repair of a traumatic right subclavian artery rupture was admitted following a fall with a rupture of the bifurcation of the innominate artery. The right common carotid artery was debranched from the left common carotid artery using a ringed 8 mm vascular graft. Simultaneously, a 16 × 80 mm vascular stent graft was inserted from the origin of the innominate artery to the mid portion of the subclavian artery, successfully covering the rupture site.


Dry matter, energy and nitrogen conversion by Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera larvae fed leaves of black cherry.
Dry matter, energy and nitrogen budgets of the form: ingestion=growth+feces+respiration, were determined for larvae of 34 species of Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera collected from and fed leaves of black cherry (Prunus serotina). The mean growth efficiencies based on energy were: gross (100 growth/ingestion)= 17±4, and net (100 growth/(ingestion-feces))=44±8. The mean nitrogen conversion efficiency was 42±10%. Correlation analysis of the relationships among larval factors (larval nitrogen content, energy equivalents, and size), leaf factors (leaf nitrogen, energy, and water content) and larval growth rates or growth efficiencies suggest that the species are temporally adapted, compensating for the limiting effects of decreasing nitrogen and leaf water as leaves mature.


Mercury in air in an area impacted by strong industrial activities.
The concentrations of total gaseous mercury (TGM) and its relevant environmental parameters were measured at a highly industrialized area in the Ban Wall industrial complex (BWIC) in An San city, Korea from March to May 2005. The mean concentrations of Hg measured during the entire study period were computed to be 6.32+/-8.56 ng m(-3) (range of 2.32-181 ng m(-3); N=1,160). Due to the effects of strong man-made activities, the significantly high Hg concentration levels (e.g., at or above 10 ng m(-3)) comprised about 7.5% of all data with the mean of 21.8+/-26.3 ng m(-3) (N=87). By separating the data into daytime and nighttime periods, the Hg values exhibited a notable daytime enhancement possibly due to strong man-made activities during working hours. The results of the correlation analysis indicated the possible relationship between the Hg concentration and the temperature as well as several pollutant species (e.g., NO(2) and NO(x)). Evaluation of the Hg data in relation with the air mass transport pattern confirms that the Hg concentration levels in this industrial area are affected most eminently by local, rather than distant, pollution sources.


The Marcy repair modified using cremaster muscle sparing. A new and effective method for performing prosthetic hernioplasty.
The integrity of the internal inguinal ring (IIR) is essential to prevent the occurrence of indirect noncongenital inguinal hernia. Marcy first considered the importance of the IIR and proposed the use of annuloplasty to repair indirect primitive hernias. His procedure involved the resection of the cremaster muscle. We modified Marcy's annuloplasty by sparing the cremaster muscle and herein review our experience. We retrospectively reviewed a group of 213 male adult patients who were treated with annuloplasty of IIR for sliding or large indirect hernias, which was performed under local anesthesia as day cases. The median follow-up was 4.7 years (range 2-7 years). There were no complications due to annuloplasty and the overall recurrence rate at follow-up was zero. In our hernioplasty we prefer an anterior approach to avoid contamination with prosthetic materials of the zone under the transversalis fascia. The transversalis fascia remains an important anatomical barrier and the cremaster a natural diaphragm between the mesh and funicular structures. We believe that annuloplasty is effective in all types of hernias where a sliding or large indirect hernia is observed.


Exposure to the neurotoxin 3-nitropropionic acid in neuronal cells induces unique histone acetylation pattern: Implications for neurodegeneration.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is critical for neurodegeneration in movement disorders. Neurotoxicological models recapitulating movement disorder involve mitochondrial damage including inhibition of mitochondrial complexes. Previously, we demonstrated that neurotoxic models of Parkinson's disease and Manganism showed distinct morphological, electrophysiological and molecular profile indicating disease-specific characteristics. In a recent study, we demonstrated that the transcriptomic changes triggered by the neurotoxic mitochondrial complex II inhibitor 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA), was significantly different from the profile induced by the neurotoxic mitochondrial complex I inhibitor 1-methyl-4- phenylpyridinium (MPP+) and mitochondrial toxin Manganese (Mn). Among the plausible pathways, we surmised that epigenetic mechanisms could contribute to 3-NPA specific transcriptomic profile. To address this, we assessed global and individual lys-specific acetylation profile of Histone H3 and H4 in the 3-NPA neuronal cell model. Our data revealed histone acetylation profile unique to the 3-NPA model that was not noted in the MPP+ and Mn models. Among the individual lys, Histone H3K56 showed robust dose and time-dependent hyperacetylation in the 3-NPA model. Chromatin Immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) revealed that acetylated H3K56 was associated with 13072 chromatin sites, which showed increased occupancy in the transcription start site-promoter site. Acetylated histone H3K56 was associated with 1747 up-regulated and 263 down-regulated genes in the 3-NPA model, which included many up-regulated autophagy and mitophagy genes. Western analysis validated the involvement of PINK1-Parkin dependent mitophagy in the 3-NPA model. We propose that 3-NPA specific chromatin dynamics could contribute to the unique transcriptomic profile with implications for movement disorders.


Immunocytochemical detection of bromodeoxyuridine in tissues of the toad Bufo arenarum Hensel.
We present a modified protocol for the immunocytochemical identification of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) as an indicator of cell replication in different tissues of the toad, Bufo arenarum Hensel. Animals were sacrificed 60 min after BrdU (5 mg/100 g body weight) was injected into the dorsal lymph sac. The tissues were fixed in Carnoy's fluid and stained by the immunoperoxidase method using an anti-BrdU monoclonal antibody. This protocol can be used safely for the study of cell replication in toads and other Anura amphibia.


Legal aspects and international assistance related to the deliberate use of chemicals to cause harm.
National and international law is an essential component of the array of measures serving to protect against the hostile release of biological or chemical agents, and to help to mitigate the consequences should such a release nevertheless take place. These includes the Geneva Protocol of 1925, the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1993, for which the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has been established in 1997. In addition to the OPCW, the international community has made preparations through the United Nations (e.g. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, World Health Organization) for assistance to governments against which biological and chemical weapons might be used. This paper provides an overview of the international mechanisms for assistance and is based on the Second Edition of the Public Health Response to Biological and Chemical Weapons: WHO Guidance (). Toxicologists throughout the world should know these regulations and act accordingly.


High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography for the evaluation of bone erosions of metatarsophalangeal joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
To compare if the 4th and 5th metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints evaluated by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) could classify more patients with erosive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with conventional radiography (CR) of the hands, wrists, and feet. Furthermore, we characterize and quantify bone erosions in the two MTP joints by HR-pQCT. This single-center cross-sectional study included patients with established RA (disease duration ≥5 years). Blinded to patient data, the number and volume of erosions in the 4th and 5th MTP joints were measured by HR-pQCT, whereas the erosive scores by CR of 44 joints in the hands, wrists, and feet were assessed according to the Sharp/van der Heijde method. Among 42 participants, 30 patients were classified with erosive RA and 12 with non-erosive RA by CR. HR-pQCT of two MTP joints could classify more patients with erosive RA compared with CR of 44 joints (p = .03). The optimal cut-off value for the number and volume of erosions per patient in the 4th and 5th MTP joints by HR-pQCT was 7.5 erosions and 11.7 mm3 , respectively, for detecting erosive disease by CR. Erosions in the two MTP joints by HR-pQCT were found most frequently and were largest at the lateral quadrant of the 5th metatarsal head. The superiority of HR-pQCT of the 4th and 5th MTP joints compared with CR of 44 joints for classifying erosive RA provides a basis for larger studies evaluating if HR-pQCT could be used for diagnosing erosive RA in the future.


Interleukin-1 stimulation of human B-lymphoblast differentiation.
Transformed B-cell lines have provided useful tools for analyzing B-cell responses to growth and differentiation factors. SKW 6.4 is a human B-lymphoblastoid line that differentiates in response to B-cell differentiation factor (BCDF) but not to other T-cell-derived lymphokines. The present studies were undertaken to determine whether monocyte-derived factors such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) could also promote the maturation of SKW 6.4 cells. Cells were cultured with and without supernatants derived from adherent monocytes of normal individuals. The number of Ig-producing plaque-forming cells in control media cultures gradually increased over a period of 4 days. Monocyte supernatants caused a 3- to 10-fold further increase in the number of IgM-secreting cells over that found in control media cultures. This stimulation by monocytes supernatants was maximal on the third or fourth day of culture and was not accompanied by an increase in proliferation. Recombinant IL-1 added to cultures of SKW 6.4 also produced a dose-related increase in the number of IgM-secreting cells without stimulating proliferation. A polyclonal antiserum against IL-1 prevented the increase in IgM-secreting cells which occurred with the addition of monocyte supernatants. Finally, IL-1 activity was detected in unstimulated SKW 6.4 supernatants. We conclude from these studies that SKW 6.4 cells both secrete IL-1 and differentiate in response to exogenous IL-1. SKW 6.4 may therefore provide a useful tool for future studies on mechanisms of IL-1-induced B cell maturation. It is possible that the basal numbers of IgM-secreting cells seen in unstimulated cultures results from an autocrine mechanism of IL-1-induced differentiation. Finally, care should be taken to exclude IL-1 from supernatants that are being tested for BCDF activity using SKW 6.4 cells.


The inverted face inversion effect in prosopagnosia: evidence for mandatory, face-specific perceptual mechanisms.
Does the human visual system contain a specialized system for face recognition, not used for the recognition of other objects? This question was addressed using the "face inversion effect" which refers to the loss of our normal proficiency at face perception when faces are inverted. We found that a prosopagnosic subject paradoxically performed better at matching inverted faces than upright faces, the opposite of the normal "face inversion effect". The fact that his impairment was most pronounced with the stimuli for which normal subjects show the greatest proficiency in face perception provides evidence of a neurologically localized module for upright face recognition in humans. An additional implication of these data is that specialized systems may control behavior even when they are malfunctioning and therefore maladeaptive, consistent with the mandatory operation of such systems according to the "modularity" hypothesis of the cognitive architecture.


The role of vascular endothelial growth factor in fractional laser resurfacing with the carbon dioxide laser.
The aim of this study was to analyze the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in mechanisms of cutaneous remodeling induced by fractional CO(2) laser treatment. The dorsal skin of Kunming mice was exposed to a single-pass fractional CO(2) laser treatment. Biopsies were taken 1 h, and 1, 3, 7, 14, 28 and 56 days after treatment. Skin samples VEGF expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and ELISA, fibroblasts by hematoxylin-eosin staining, and types I and III collagen by ELISA. Staining for VEGF was found in many types of cell including fibroblasts. The amount of VEGF in the skin of laser-treated areas had increased significantly compared to that in the control areas on days 1 and 3 (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively), then decreased by day 7 after treatment and returned to the baseline level. The number of fibroblasts in the skin of the laser-treated areas had increased significantly compared to that in control areas on days 3, 7, 14, 28 and 56 after irradiation (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, respectively). The amount of type I collagen was significantly higher in the skin of the laser-treated areas compared to that in control areas from day 28 to day 56 (P < 0.05, respectively), and type III collagen was significantly higher from day 3 to day 56 (P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.01, respectively). There was a positive correlation between the level of VEGF and fibroblast proliferation early stage after laser treatment (r = 0.853, P < 0.01), but there was no correlation after the first week (r = -0.124, P > 0.05). The amounts of type I and III collagen showed no significant correlations with the expression of VEGF in the late stages after laser treatment (r = 0.417, P > 0.05 and r = 0.340, P > 0.05, respectively). The results suggest that VEGF might be mainly involved in the early stages of wound healing, including the stages of acute inflammation, fibroblast proliferation and vessel formation induced by fractional CO(2) laser resurfacing.


Association of 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor Use with Prostate Specific Antigen Level at the Time of Urology Referral in a Retrospective Cohort at a Large, Integrated Health Care System.
5-Alpha reductase inhibitor (5-ARI) use leads to a 50% decline in serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) without a concomitant decrease in prostate cancer (PCa) risk. We hypothesize that failure to account for the effect of 5-ARI use on serum PSA leads to increased PCa risk at urology referral among 5-ARI users. This is a retrospective cohort study for the years 2018-2019. Atrium Health is a large, vertically integrated health system with over 900 care locations in North Carolina and South Carolina. Men ≥40 years old during 2018-2019 who had a PSA test performed were included. We determined differences in corrected serum PSA level at the time of referral to urology. 5-ARI users and nonusers were compared using the chi-square test, Student's t-test and gamma regression. From 2018-2019, there were 91,368 men who underwent PSA testing, including 2,939 5-ARI users. At referral, 5-ARI users had similar uncorrected median PSA (5.8 vs 5.6 ng/ml, p=0.05). After correcting for the effect of 5-ARIs on PSA, 5-ARI users had a median PSA of 11.6 ng/ml at urology referral, compared to 5.6 ng/ml in nonusers. Men taking 5-ARIs have higher corrected serum PSA at time of referral to urology. As the unadjusted PSA at referral to urology for PCa risk was similar between 5-ARI users and nonusers, this indicates that the effect of 5-ARI use on serum PSA levels is not routinely accounted for when assessing PCa risk.


Early immune reconstitution as predictor for outcomes after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant; a tri-institutional analysis.
CD4 immune reconstitution (IR) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (allo-HCT) correlates with lower non-relapse mortality (NRM), but its impact on leukemia relapse remains less clear, especially in children. We studied the correlation between IR of lymphocyte subsets and HCT outcomes in a large cohort of children/young adults with hematological malignancies. We retrospectively analyzed CD4, CD8, B-cell and natural killer (NK) cell reconstitution in patients after first allo-HCT for a hematological malignancy at three large academic institutions (n = 503; period 2008-2019). We used Cox proportional hazard and Fine-Gray competing risk models, martingale residual plots and maximally selected log-rank statistics to assess the impact of IR on outcomes. Achieving CD4 >50 and/or B cells >25 cells/μL before day 100 after allo-HCT was a predictor of lower NRM (CD4 IR: hazard ratio [HR] 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11-0.62, P = 0.002; CD4 and B cell IR: HR 0.06, 95% CI 0.03-0.16, P < 0.001), acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (CD4 and B cell IR: HR 0.02, 95% CI 0.01-0.04, P < 0.001) and chronic GVHD (CD4 and B cell IR: HR 0.16, 95% CI 0.05-0.49, P = 0.001) in the full cohort, and of lower risk of relapse (CD4 and B cell IR: HR 0.24, 95% CI 0.06-0.92, P = 0.038) in the acute myeloid leukemia subgroup. No correlation between CD8 and NK-cell IR and relapse or NRM was found. CD4 and B-cell IR was associated with clinically significant lower NRM, GVHD and, in patients with acute myeloid leukemia, disease relapse. CD8 and NK-cell IR was neither associated with relapse nor NRM. If confirmed in other cohorts, these results can be easily implemented for risk stratification and clinical decision making.


Chlorinated pesticide residues in testicular tissue samples. Pesticides in human testicles.
Residues of chlorinated pesticides--HCB, alpha-, beta-, gamma-, delta-, epsilon-HCH isomers, heptachlor epoxide, DDE and DDT isomers in bilateral testicular biopsy material were determined in gas liquid chromatography with electron capture detector (GLC-ECD). The average levels of chlorinated pesticides residues occurring in 36 men are presented. Alpha-, delta-HCH and p,p'-DDE were observed in nearly all analyzed samples. Other analyzed compounds were observed in lower percentages, whereas o,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDT were not detected.


Synthesis and biological activity of glutamic acid derivatives.
In order to develop new specific glutamate analogues at metabotropic glutamate receptors, Diels-Alder, 1-4 ionic and radical reactions were performed starting from (2S)-4-methyleneglutamic acid. Preliminary pharmacological evaluation by measuring IP accumulation using rat forebrain synaptoneurosomes has shown that (2S)-4-(2-phthalimidoethyl)glutamic acid (3a), (2S)-4-(4-phthalimidobutyl)glutamic acid (3b) and 1-[(S)-2-amino-2-carboxyethyl]-3,4-dimethylcyclohex-3-ene-1-carbox ylic acid (8) presented moderate antagonist activities.


Scrub typhus in a primary health care center of Nepal: A case series.
Scrub typhus is endemic in most parts of Southeast Asia including Nepal. Fever, rash, headache, myalgia, eschar are the common clinical features. Though endemic, scrub typhus is grossly underdiagnosed in our country due to the lack of diagnostic tools and non-specific presentation of the disease. Here we present a series of 23 cases of scrub typhus from a primary healthcare center of Nepal. This is a retrospective case series done among 23 patients diagnosed with scrub typhus and admitted to Aaruchanaute Primary health care center between August 15, 2021 to September 14, 2021. Epidemiological, clinical features and clinical outcomes of all the patients are described. Among 23 patients admitted to the primary health care center,78% were of age group 20-60 with 47% male patients. Fever was reported by all patients followed by headache (65%), cough (43%) and eschar (8%). All patients were diagnosed by rapid diagnostic kit. 95% of patients had complete recovery whereas 1 patient was referred to a higher center due to complications he developed during the period of hospital stay. We conclude that when a patient presents with fever and eschar, there should be a high index of suspicion for scrub typhus, though eschar may not be present in many of the cases. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with antibiotics is the key as the disease entity shows a good response to treatment while preventing potentially fatal complications.


Application of electrolyte analysis of pleural effusion to diagnosis of drowning.
We measured concentrations of sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) in pleural effusion from forensic autopsy cases to examine whether they were useful for a diagnosis of drowning. We analyzed a total of 51 cases (15 seawater drowning, 10 freshwater drowning, and 26 non-drowning), and determined the following reference values. If the concentration of Na or Cl is under 65 mEq/l, a diagnosis of freshwater drowning can be made. If the concentration of Na is higher than 175 mEq/l, or that of Cl is higher than 155 mEq/l, or that of Ca is higher than 16 mg/dl, or that of Mg is higher than 15 mg/dl, a diagnosis of seawater drowning can be made. We recommend that pleural effusion from the left and the right thoracic cavities should be collected and analyzed separately because large differences may be observed between each side in the case of drowning. If one side corresponds to the reference value for seawater or freshwater drowning and the other side does not, a diagnosis of drowning can still be made according to the obtained value.


D1 receptor-mediated inhibition of medial prefrontal cortex neurons is disrupted in adult rats exposed to amphetamine in adolescence.
Amphetamine (AMPH) exposure leads to changes in behavior and dopamine receptor function in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Since dopamine plays an important role in regulating GABAergic transmission in the PFC, we investigated if AMPH exposure induces long-lasting changes in dopamine's ability to modulate inhibitory transmission in the PFC as well as whether the effects of AMPH differed depending on the age of exposure. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given saline or 3 mg/kg AMPH (i.p.) repeatedly during adolescence or adulthood and following a withdrawal period of up to 5 weeks (Experiment 1) or up to 14 weeks (Experiment 2), they were sacrificed for in vitro whole-cell recordings in layer V/VI of the medial PFC. We found that in brain slices from either adolescent- or adult-exposed rats, there was an attenuation of dopamine-induced increases in inhibitory synaptic currents in pyramidal cells. These effects did not depend on age of exposure, were mediated at least partially by a reduced sensitivity of D1 receptors in AMPH-treated rats, and were associated with an enhanced behavioral response to the drug in a separate group of rats given an AMPH challenge following the longest withdrawal period. Together, these data reveal a prolonged effect of AMPH exposure on medial PFC function that persisted for up to 14 weeks in adolescent-exposed animals. These long-lasting neurophysiological changes may be a contributing mechanism to the behavioral consequences that have been observed in those with a history of amphetamine abuse.


Substance use among high-school students in Southern Thailand: trends over 3 years (2002-2004).
To examine the trends of substance use and correlated variables in high-school students in Southern Thailand. Surveys of high-school years 7, 9 and 11 and vocational school year 2 students in four provinces in Southern Thailand were conducted in 2002-2004 to examine lifetime substance use, use within 1 year and 30 days before the interview, using a self-completed questionnaire. The prevalence of lifetime use of any illicit substance was 5-7% overall (about 7%, 9% and 13% in boys and 2%, 1% and 3% in girls in 2002, 2003 and 2004, respectively). Krathom, a local addictive plant, and cannabis were the most commonly used illicit substances on a lifetime basis with prevalences of 2.3%, 2.8%, 4.9% (p<0.01) and 2.6%, 2.3%, 3.4% (p>0.05) in the surveyed years. The rates of alcohol consumption in the past 30 days were 19.3%, 17.3% and 15.2% (p>0.05) while smoking rates were 14.6%, 8.8% and 10.8% (p<0.05). The significant correlates of current illicit substance use were surveyed year, male, vocational school, school level, and school performance. The problem of substance abuse is increasing among Thai adolescents. School-based interventions seem desirable, especially in boys, vocational and public school students.


A new surgical approach to traumatic rectourethral fistulas.
To solve the dual problem of recurring stenosis of the posterior urethra and difficult closure of the fistulous tract in traumatic rectourethral fistulas the Johanson urethroplasty has been used in 4 cases of lower fistulas and the direct urethra-bladder neck anastomosis has been used in 4 cases of upper fistulas. The good results obtained seem to confirm the value of these methods. Direct urethra-bladder neck anastomosis also has been used successfully to treat posterior urethral strictures.


Treatment of coking wastewater in biofilm-based bioaugmentation process: Biofilm formation and microbial community analysis.
Coking wastewater (CWW) containing complicated organic compositions and strong toxicity cause potential hazards to natural water bodies as well as human health. The aim of this study was integrating newly isolated Comamonas sp. ZF-3, biofilm-based bioaugmentation and fluidized bed reactor into an anoxic filter-fluidized bed reactor (AF-FBR) system to treat actual CWW. The results showed that 93 % of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and 97 % of ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) removal efficiency were achieved with hydraulic retention time of 70 h. The main pollutants including phenolic compounds, heterocyclic compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons could be removed via biofilm-based process in AF-FBR. The formation of carrier biofilm was consistent with the system performance as well as the biofilm community evolution, during which the microbial community was gradually dominated by some functional genus (e.g., Comamonas, Thiobacillus, Pseudomonas and Thauera), meanwhile, ammonium-oxidizing bacteria Nitrosomonas, nitrite-oxidizing bacteria Nitrospira and denitrifiers (e.g., Pseudomonas, Thiobacillus and Bacillus) coexisted in biofilm to form a microbial community for biological nitrogen removal. Such microbial community structure explained the observed simultaneous removal of COD and NH4+-N in the AF-FBR.


Structural-functional diversity of the natural oligopeptides.
Natural oligopeptides may regulate nearly all vital processes. To date, the chemical structures of many oligopeptides have been identified from >2000 organisms representing all the biological kingdoms. We have considered a number of mathematical (sequence length), chemical, physical, and biological features of an array of natural oligopeptides on the basis of the oligopeptide EROP-Moscow database (http://erop.inbi.ras.ru, 15,351 entries) data. There is the substantial difference of these substances from polypeptide molecules of proteins according to their physicochemical characteristics. These characteristics may be critical for understanding the molecular mechanisms of the action of oligopeptides that lead to the development of physiological effects.


Extensive introgression among strongylocentrotid sea urchins revealed by phylogenomics.
Gametic isolation is thought to play an important role in the evolution of reproductive isolation in broadcast-spawning marine invertebrates. However, it is unclear whether gametic isolation commonly evolves early in the speciation process or only accumulates after other reproductive barriers are already in place. It is also unknown whether gametic isolation is an effective barrier to introgression following speciation. Here, we used whole-genome sequencing data and multiple complementary phylogenomic approaches to test whether the well-documented gametic incompatibilities among the strongylocentrotid sea urchins have limited introgression. We quantified phylogenetic discordance, inferred reticulate phylogenetic networks, and applied the Δ statistic using gene tree topologies reconstructed from multiple sequence alignments of protein-coding single-copy orthologs. In addition, we conducted ABBA-BABA tests on genome-wide single nucleotide variants and reconstructed a phylogeny of mitochondrial genomes. Our results revealed strong mito-nuclear discordance and considerable nonrandom gene tree discordance that cannot be explained by incomplete lineage sorting alone. Eight of the nine species examined demonstrated a history of introgression with at least one other species or ancestral lineage, indicating that introgression was common during the diversification of the strongylocentrotid urchins. There was strong support for introgression between four extant species pairs (Strongylocentrotus pallidus ⇔ S. droebachiensis, S. intermedius ⇔ S. pallidus, S. purpuratus ⇔ S. fragilis, and Mesocentrotus franciscanus ⇔ Pseudocentrotus depressus) and additional evidence for introgression on internal branches of the phylogeny. Our results suggest that the existing gametic incompatibilities among the strongylocentrotid urchin species have not been a complete barrier to hybridization and introgression following speciation. Their continued divergence in the face of widespread introgression indicates that other reproductive isolating barriers likely exist and may have been more critical in establishing reproductive isolation early in speciation.


Infections and risk of type I diabetes in childhood: a population-based case-control study.
This study focuses on the evaluation of some infectious diseases as risk determinants of type I diabetes mellitus (DM). A population-based case-control study was carried out by referring to the type I DM population-based register of the Abruzzo region of Italy as it includes all type I DM cases since January 1 1990, the point at which the register became operative. The pediatric population (age: 0-14), living in the same municipalities of the cases, was selected as the control population. Data were collected through questionnaires submitted by a physician to parents of cases and controls. Conditional logistic regression models were used to evaluate association between determinants and onset of type I DM. The risk of diabetes for children exposed to only one infection (morbilli, parotitis, rubella, pertussis or varicella) is not statistically significant: OR: 0.778; CI: 0.427-1.370. On the contrary, when two infections are contracted statistically significant results occur: OR: 2.375; CI: 1.149-4.914; for more than two infections values are: OR: 6.786; CI: 2.881-17.877. No substantial difference in odds ratios (ORs) after adjustment for confounding variables was found. A significant decrease in OR was noted for pertussis and MMR vaccinations, respectively: OR: 0.015; CI: 0.001-0.251; OR: 0.400; CI: 0.201-0.799. Since the higher the number of contracted infections, the higher the risk of diabetes, contracted infections can be considered potential accelerating factors of clinical manifestation of type I DM. Therefore multiple exposures might speed up the onset of diabetes in children. This study suggests the utility of applying the risk model method to wider populations, especially if the geographical variability of standardised incidence rates of type I DM in pediatric age is taken into consideration.


Intracellular and extracellular ion content of the endolymphatic sac.
The Cl- activity in the endolymph of the endolymphatic sac and in the cochlear duct was measured with Cl- sensitive double-barreled microelectrodes. The Cl- activity in the endolymphatic sac fluid was lower than in the cochlear duct. A small, positive, DC potential was recorded in the endolymphatic sac. During anoxia, the DC potential decreased while the Cl- activity in the endolymphatic sac increased. The K/Na ratio in the epithelial cells and subepithelial tissue of endolymphatic sac was measured using the LAMMA technique. The K/Na ratio in the epithelial cells decreased after ethacrynic acid injection (60 mg/kg i.v.). These findings suggest that chloride in the endolymphatic sac is actively transported inward and outward.


The prevalence and abundance of internal parasites in working horses autopsied in Poland.
The digestive tracts of 50 working horses from private farms in Poland were examined. Thirty-seven nematode species, two tapeworm species and one species of botfly were recovered. The most prevalent small strongyle species were Cyathostomum catinatum, Cylicocyclus nassatus, Cylicostephanus goldi, Cylicostephanus longibursatus, Cyathostomum coronatum, Cylicostephanus calicatus, Cylicocyclus leptostomus and Cylicostephanus minutus. Thirteen cyathostome species showed a site preference in the ventral colon, five in the dorsal colon and three in the caecum. One species, Cylicocyclus triramosus, was new for Poland. Delafondia vulgaris was the most common large strongyle, with 74% prevalence, but low abundance. Parascaris equorum (26%) and Oxyuris equi (36%) were common. Strongyloides westeri (4%), Habronema majus (16%) and Habronema muscae (8%) were less prevalent. Both Habronema species were new for Poland. Tapeworm infection were not prevalent (Anoplocephala magna (4%) and Anoplocephala perfoliata (4%)). Botfly larvae were found in 40% of the horses examined. It was stated that no anthelmintics had been used on the farms.


[Cost-effectiveness analysis of different chemotherapeutical regimens in metastatic colorectal cancer].
To compare FOLFOX6 and FOLFIRI regimen in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer with cost-effective analysis. Cost-effective analysis was conducted based on the efficacy results of V308 clinical trial of FOLFOX6 and FOLFIRI regimen and the medical system price in Zhongshan hospital. The minimal cost analysis showed FOLFIRI followed by FOLFOX6 had the cost of RMB 206365.78 Yuan for each patient during the whole treatment period, and RMB 170468.89 Yuan for the FOLFOX6 followed by FOLFIRI regimen. Incremental analysis showed FOLFIRI followed by FOLFOX6 regimen could prolong one month of overall survival with additional cost of RMB 39885.44 Yuan in each patient while compared with the regimen of FOLFOX6 followed by FOLFIRI. Both FOLFOX and FOLFIRI regimens are able to prolong the survival time of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, but cost of such treatments are still quite expensive for Chinese patients. FOLFOX6 regimen suggests better cost-effectiveness than FOLFIRI.


Quasi-Copper-Mers Enable High-Performance Catalysis for CO2 Reduction.
As the atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2 ) level keeps hitting the new record, humanity is facing an ever-daunting challenge to efficiently mitigate CO2 from the atmosphere. Though electrochemical CO2 reduction presents a promising pathway to convert CO2 to valuable fuels and chemicals, the general lack of suitable electrocatalysts with high activity and selectivity severely constrains this approach. Herein, a novel class of electrocatalysts is investigated, the quasi-copper-mers, in which the CuN4 rather than Cu atom itself serve as the basic building block. The respective quasi-copper-monomers, -dimers, and -trimers hosted in a graphene-like substrate are first synthesized and then performed both experimental characterization and density functional theory (DFT) calculations to examine their atomic structures, evaluate their electrocatalytical performance and understand their underlying mechanisms. The experimental results show that the quasi-copper-trimers not only outperform the quasi-copper-dimer and quasi-copper-monomer when catalyzing CO2 to CO, it also shows a superior selectivity against the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The DFT calculations not only support the experimental observations, but also reveal the volcano curve and the physical origin for the qausi-copper-trimer superiority. The present work thus presents a new strategy in the design of high-performance electrocatalysts with high activity and selectivity.


Macrophage plasticity and interaction with lymphocyte subsets: cancer as a paradigm.
Plasticity is a hallmark of cells of the myelomonocytic lineage. In response to innate recognition or signals from lymphocyte subsets, mononuclear phagocytes undergo adaptive responses. Shaping of monocyte-macrophage function is an essential component of resistance to pathogens, tissue damage and repair. The orchestration of myelomonocytic cell function is a key element that links inflammation and cancer and provides a paradigm for macrophage plasticity and function. A better understanding of the molecular basis of myelomonocytic cell plasticity will open new vistas in immunopathology and therapeutic intervention.


Activation and measurement of threat associations in fear of spiders: an application of the Extrinsic Affective Simon Task.
The Extrinsic Affective Simon Task (DeHouwer, EAST; Experimental Psychol. 50 (2003) 77) was used to assess how different context conditions lead to differential activation of cognitive schemata in anxiety. Participants completed two identical EASTs, in which ambiguous target words (e.g., legs, net) were categorized together with pleasant words and unpleasant, fear-related words. Each EAST was preceded by the presentation of pictures, activating either a 'human' concept or a 'spider' concept. Results indicated that spider fearful participants showed threat associations towards the target words, but only when the spider concept was primed. Non-fearful participants did not show threat associations with either type of priming. We conclude that impact of threat associations depends on the activated context, and that the EAST is suitable for the assessment of fear associations and their current activation level.


Antenatal three-dimensional sonographic features of early amnion rupture sequence.
Early amnion rupture sequence is rare, and its antenatal three-dimensional sonographic features have not been reported. A 24-year-old japanese woman, gravida 1, para 0, was referred to our sonography clinic during her 16th week of gestation because of multiple fetal anomalies. Three-dimensional sonography clearly showed scalp adhesion, skull defect, abdominal wall disruption, amputation of the right hand, kyphoscoliosis, and clubfeet. Delivery was induced at 17 weeks of gestation. Autopsy showed a 166 gram male fetus and confirmed the prenatal diagnosis of early amnion rupture sequence. Three-dimensional sonography provides further information for sonographers. This includes unique identification of the displayed anatomic plane, realistic and reliable depiction of multiple fetal anomalies, and visualization of complex fetal anomalies.


Predicting women's intentions for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy: An application of an extended theory of planned behaviour.
Most women with unilateral breast cancer (BC) without BRCA1/2 gene mutations are at low risk of contralateral breast cancer (CBC). One CBC risk-management option is contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM). While there is no evidence that CPM increases life-expectancy, its uptake is increasing. This study aimed to assess the validity of an extended social-cognition model, the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), in predicting women's intentions to undergo CPM. Four hundred women previously treated for BC completed an online survey exploring demographic and disease factors, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, anticipated regret, uncertainty avoidance, self-efficacy to not have CPM and intentions to undergo CPM in a common hypothetical decision-making scenario. The TPB uniquely explained 25.7% of intention variance. Greater anticipated regret, uncertainty avoidance and lower self-efficacy to cope with not having CPM were associated with stronger CPM intentions, explaining an additional 7.7%, 10.6% and 2.9% respectively, of variance over and above the TPB. Women who had undergone CPM, had not attended university, and had children reported stronger CPM intentions. A holistic understanding of CPM decision-making appears to require consideration beyond CBC risk, demographics and disease characteristics, exploring women's expectations about CPM outcomes, others' opinions, and avoidance of emotionality and difficulties associated with not undergoing surgery. This study provides a theoretical basis from which the complexity of CPM decision-making may be understood, and from which resources for patients and treating staff may be developed to support women's informed decision-making aligning with their personal values.


A case of abdominal enteric cyst in China.
To investigate a case of abdominal enteric cyst in China. The patient was admitted to the china-Japan Friendship Hospital of Jilin University, which was due to intermittent pain in the left side for the last 4 months. In this surgery, CT was used to diagnose the basic condition of the patient. Surgery was used for Treatment of patients with diseases. As soon as patients have been successfully operated by laparoscopic surgery.


Anabolic principles of Aconitum roots.
The methanol extracts of raw and processed roots of Aconitum carmichaeli were shown to stimulate amino acid incorporation into mouse liver protein after approx. 10 h of ingestion. The extract of the raw roots was fractionated by monitoring the anabolic activity to furnish the aconitine alkaloids as active principles, among which mesaconitine exhibited the strongest activity. Amino acid incorporation into liver protein in the mesaconitine treated mice was inhibited by actinomycin D to the level of normal mice. Long-term administration of mesaconitine induced no reinforcement of the anabolic activity in mouse liver. Examination of the anabolic activity in liver, spleen, kidney, testis and serum revealed that mesaconitine potentiated protein synthesis only in liver and rather reduced it in kidney.


Epidemiology of psychotic-like experiences by subtypes and their relationship with emotional regulation and affective lability among Chinese college students.
Although psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are transient and not pathognomonic for psychiatric disorders, they may increase the risk of concurrent and future psychiatric disorders. However, the prevalence of PLEs and the different effects of PLE subtypes on mood outcomes are still unclear. Thus, this study seeks to investigate the prevalence of PLE subtypes and explore their relationship with the use of specific emotion regulation strategies and the level of affective lability among college students. The history of PLEs, the level of affective lability, and the use of specific emotion regulation strategies were assessed via self-reported questionnaires, and 1905 college students and 1812 college students were included in separate analyses. This study found that 14.44% of college students reported ever experiencing any of the five PLEs, with males reporting more PLE symptoms and a higher number of PLEs than females. Different PLE subtypes had different effects on the use of specific emotion regulation strategies (cognitive reappraisal or suppression) and the level of affective lability and also showed gender differences. Cognitive reappraisal and suppression differently predicted affective lability in males and females, and cognitive reappraisal mediated the relationship between hearing voices in PLEs and affective lability in males. In conclusion, PLEs were common in Chinese college students and gender differences were revealed in the prevalence of PLE subtypes. PLEs were associated with the use of specific emotion regulation strategies and the level of affective lability. Cognitive reappraisal may be a promising target for intervention aimed at relieving the effect of PLEs in non-clinical individuals.


Other systemic manifestations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) no longer is regarded simply as a disease of the lungs and airways. There is growing awareness of the multisystemic nature of this disease. Research has shown increased levels of systemic inflammation and cardiovascular, neurologic, psychiatric, and endocrine system dysfunction associated with COPD. Skeletal muscle dysfunction associated with COPD is discussed in the article by Schols in this issue of Clinics in Chest Medicine. In this article, other systemic manifestations of COPD are discussed. Although this field is expanding rapidly, this article focuses on recent advances and reviews.


Thermodynamics of heterogeneous equilibria in the In-In2 O3 system using Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry.
The In-In2 O3 system is regarded as a potential low-temperature source of gaseous indium oxide (In2 O) when obtaining functional materials by physical vapor deposition techniques. To date the vaporization thermodynamics of the system have been investigated in few studies, the results of which are contradictory. The study of the In-In2 O3 system was performed using Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry in the temperature range 930-1210 K, with a magnet mass spectrometer (MS-1301). Quartz effusion cells heated by a resistance furnace were employed. It was established that In(g) and In2 O(g) are the major vapor species over heterogeneous mixtures (In(l) + In2 O3 (s)) and the gaseous oxide In2 O is predominant. The partial pressures of the vapor species were determined and the quantitative vapor composition was calculated. Based on the experimental data, a p-x section of the In-In2 O3 system phase diagram at 1060 K was constructed. The standard enthalpies of reactions accompanying vaporization of the In and In2 O3 mixtures were evaluated using the second- and third-law methods. The standard enthalpy of formation of In2 O(g) was derived from the enthalpies of reactions obtained. The predominance of In2 O in the equilibrium vapor over heterogeneous mixtures (In(l) + In2 O3 (s)), along with its high partial pressure at relatively low temperatures, substantiate the In-In2 O3 system to be suitable for physical vapor deposition methods. The obtained results can be used for physical vapor deposition parameter adjustment and optimization. The standard enthalpy of formation of In2 O(g) obtained in an independent way in the present work is in good agreement with that from our previous In2 O3 (s) vaporization study.