Prevalence of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy in male patients who underwent bilateral carpal tunnel surgery: The ACTUAL study.
Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), particularly in male individuals with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), has been recognized as a red flag for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (TTR-CA). Nonetheless, the opportunity of screening CTS patients for TTR has yet to be determined. Medical records of 1689 CTS surgeries performed at our institution between 2008 and 2018 were reviewed. Eighty-three males who underwent bilateral CTS surgery were considered eligible for the study, and offered a screening examination including electrocardiography and echocardiography. Individuals with LVH (diastolic septal wall thickness > 12 mm) were offered second-line diagnostic testing including blood testing and bone scintigraphy. Study population consisted of 53 bilateral CTS male patients, with median age of 73 years. LVH was found in 6 (11%) individuals. None of them had monoclonal gammopathy or reported CTS occupational risk factors. Two declined to undergo further testing, whereas 2 had negative and 2 had positive bone scintigraphy (both Perugini 2 uptake) and tested negative for TTR gene mutations (wild-type TTR-CA). Prevalence of TTR-CA in the entire study population was 4%, but among bilateral CTS patients with LVH peaked at 33%. In this latter population, screening for TTR-CA appeared feasible and effective.


Cross-linking reactions in Langmuir monolayers of specially designed aminolipids - a toolbox for the customized production of amphiphilic nanosheets.
Synthetic amino lipids, already known as highly efficient gene therapy tool, are used in a novel way to create cross-linked stable one-molecule-thin films envisioned for future (bio)-materials applications. The films are prepared as Langmuir monolayers at the air/water interface and cross-linked 'in situ' via dynamic imine chemistry. The cross-linking process and the film characteristics are monitored by various surface-sensitive techniques such as grazing incidence X-ray diffraction, X-ray reflectivity, and infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy. After transfer onto carbon grids, the cross-linked films are investigated by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The obtained micrographs display mechanically self-supported nanosheets with area dimensions over several micrometers and, thus, an undeniable visual proof of successful cross-linking. The cross-linking process at the air/water interface allows to obtain Janus-faced sheets with a hydrophobic side characterized by aliphatic alkyl chains and a hydrophilic side characterized by nucleophilic groups like amines, hydroxyl groups and imine.


Connectedness and part-relation integration in shape category learning.
We investigated the role of connectedness in the use of part-relation conjunctions for object category learning. Participants learned categories of two-part objects defined by the shape of one part and its location relative to the other (part-relation conjunctions). The topological relationship between the parts (connected, separated, or embedded) varied between participants but was invariant for any given participant. In Experiment 1, category learning was faster and more accurate when an object's parts were connected than when they were either separated or embedded. Subsequent experiments showed that this effect is not due to conscious strategies, differences in the salience of the individual attributes, or differences in the integrality/separability of dimensions across stimuli. The results suggest that connectedness affects the integration of parts with their relations in object category learning.


Effectiveness of Naldemedine Compared with Magnesium Oxide in Preventing Opioid-Induced Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) may occur in patients receiving opioid treatment, decreasing their quality of life (QOL). We compared the effectiveness of magnesium oxide (MgO) with that of naldemedine (NAL) in preventing OIC. This proof-of-concept, randomized controlled trial (registration number UMIN000031891) involved 120 patients with cancer scheduled to receive opioid therapy. The patients were randomly assigned and stratified by age and sex to receive MgO (500 mg, thrice daily) or NAL (0.2 mg, once daily) for 12 weeks. The change in the average Japanese version of Patient Assessment of Constipation QOL (JPAC-QOL) from baseline to 2 weeks was assessed as the primary endpoint. The other endpoints were spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) and complete SBMs (CSBMs). Deterioration in the mean JPAC-QOL was significantly lower in the NAL group than in the MgO group after 2 weeks. There were fewer adverse events in the NAL group than in the MgO group. Neither significant differences in the change in SBMs between the groups nor serious adverse events/deaths were observed. The CSBM rate was higher in the NAL group than in the MgO group at 2 and 12 weeks. In conclusion, NAL significantly prevented deterioration in constipation-specific QOL and CSBM rate compared with MgO.


The role of the lateral suprasylvian visual cortex of the cat in object-background interactions: permanent deficits following lesions.
The contribution of the lateral suprasylvian cortex to pattern recognition was studied by behavioural detection experiments in combination with bilateral lesions of different parts of the lateral suprasylvian areas (LSA) and area 7 in seven cats. In a two-alternatives forced choice task the cats had to discriminate simple outline patterns which were additively superimposed on a structured visual background made up of broadband Gaussian noise. For various stimulus conditions (moving or stationary patterns and/or background) the detection probability (PD) of the cats was measured as a function of the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). Each cat was tested before and after the lesion. Four different types of lesion could be distinguished depending on their extent: (1) lesion of parts of the (LSA); (2) lesion of parts of the LSA with undercutting of areas 17, 18 and 19; (3) lesion of area 7; (4) lesion of area 7 and parts of the LSA. 1. We found that a large bilateral lesion of the LSA led to significant deficits in all test situations which were dependent on the existence of relative velocity of moving patterns against a structured background. The ability of the cats to discriminate simple outline patterns which were kept stationary was not reduced. On the contrary, when they were tested with stationary and moving patterns on unfocused (empty) backgrounds, we found, to our great surprise, that the performance of the lesioned cats was significantly improved compared with intact animals. As these lesioned cats had no deficits with moving patterns on a uniformly grey background, we conclude that the deficits with the moving patterns must have been caused by interactions between patterns and background, and not by movement of a pattern per se. 2. As soon as the lesion of the LSA was extended by a bilateral undercutting of areas 17, 18 and 19 we found very severe deficits in all test situations, regardless of whether the patterns were moving or kept stationary, or whether they were superimposed on a background or not. The most substantial deficits occurred when the patterns were moving on a stationary background. In these situations the cats were no longer able to reach the 84% correct criterion. Again, the cats were able to reach criterion with moving patterns on a uniformly grey background indicating that this deficit is probably caused by the interaction of patterns and background and not by motion of the patterns per se.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)


Frustrated Lewis pairs with thermally activated delayed fluorescence properties: activation of formaldehyde.
Activation of formaldehyde (FA) by frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) that are comprised of bulky phosphines having a carbazolyl donor-triarylboryl acceptor unit and B(C6F5)3 led to the formation of FLP-FA adducts that exhibit a thermally activated delayed fluorescence.


P2Y1 receptor antagonists as novel antithrombotic agents.
The P2Y(1) and P2Y(12) purinergic receptors are responsible for mediating adenosine diphosphate (ADP) dependent platelet aggregation. Evidence from P2Y(1) knockout studies as well as from nucleotide-based small molecule P2Y(1) antagonists has suggested that the antagonism of this receptor may offer a novel and effective method for the treatment of thrombotic disorders. Herein, we report the identification and optimization of a series of non-nucleotide P2Y(1) antagonists that are potent and orally bioavailable.


Optimizing flecainide plasma concentration profile for atrial fibrillation conversion while minimizing adverse ventricular effects by rapid, low-dose intratracheal or intravenous administration.
We investigated whether rapid administration of a low dose of flecainide, either intratracheally or intravenously (IV), could accelerate conversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) while reducing adverse ventricular effects. Flecainide was delivered via intratracheal administration at 1.5 mg/kg bolus and compared to IV infusion at 1.0 mg/kg over 2 min (lower-dose, rapid) and 2.0 mg/kg over 10 min (ESC guideline) in closed-chest, anesthetized Yorkshire pigs. Catheters were fluoroscopically positioned in right atrium to measure atrial depolarization (Pa) duration and left ventricle (LV) to measure QRS complex duration and contractility (LV dP/dt) during atrial pacing at 140 beats/min. Flecainide was delivered intratracheally via a catheter positioned at the bifurcation of the main bronchi. AF was induced by intrapericardial administration of acetylcholine followed by burst pacing. Flecainide reduced AF duration similarly by intratracheal and IV delivery. Peak plasma levels were comparable but Tmax differed and coincided with peaks in Pa prolongation. The area under the curve indicating sustained plasma levels was greater for higher-dose, slow IV flecainide than for either intratracheal instillation (by 32%) or lower-dose, rapid IV infusion (by 88%). As a result, higher-dose, slow IV flecainide caused 58% (p < 0.03) and 48% (p < 0.006) greater increases in QRS complex duration and 61% and 96% (both, p < 0.02) greater reductions in contractility compared to intratracheal and lower-dose, rapid IV flecainide, respectively. Lower-dose, rapid flecainide, delivered either intratracheally or IV, optimizes the plasma concentration profile for effective conversion of AF while minimizing adverse effects on QRS complex duration and LV contractility.


A systematic review of the effects of cannabis on cognition in people with multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease which leads to sensory, motor, autonomic, and cognitive symptoms. Cannabis is a common way for persons with MS (pwMS) to seek symptomatic therapy. Given the capacity for both cannabis and MS to cause cognitive impairment, it is important to determine whether there is any negative impact when the two co-occur. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of cannabis and medicinal cannabinoid products on cognition in pwMS in order to provide guidance to clinicians and enable them to make evidence-based recommendations regarding cannabis and cannabinoid products. A systematic review was carried out searching common keyword combinations for cannabis and MS across five databases, producing 840 unique articles, 18 of which were included in a qualitative synthesis. Aggregate data from existing studies to date highlight potential impairments from chronic whole-plant cannabis use in commonly affected cognitive domains in multiple sclerosis, including attention and working memory, and to a lesser extent, visual memory, verbal memory, and executive function. Results also suggest that in the short-term, medicinal cannabinoid preparations do not significantly impair cognition and may even ameliorate cognitive symptoms in the context of obtrusive MS disease. The findings are limited by disparities in detail of cannabis use data reported across whole-plant cannabis publications. Existing literature on co-occurrence of cannabis use and MS lacks high quality evidence to recommend for or against cannabis and cannabinoid therapies for pwMS based on cognitive effects. Existing data suggest that cognition may be differentially impacted in pwMS depending on the type of product, the duration of use, and the indication. Future studies on whole-plant cannabis require comprehensive cannabis use data reporting including frequency, dosing, duration, and type of cannabis product. Future studies on medicinal cannabinoid products should be long-term to assess the effects of chronicity.


The efficacy of tinidazole in naturally occurring periodontitis in dogs: bacteriological and clinical results.
The efficacy of tinidazole in addition to a single course of scaling was studied in 14 dogs with periodontitis. Three test teeth, two with periodontitis and one with healthy periodontium, were selected per dog. Subgingival bacterial samples were taken, and clinical examination was carried out at each of four visits (0, 14, 90 and 180 days). The bacterial samples were cultured anaerobically using selective and nonselective media. All teeth in the dentition, except one diseased test tooth with periodontitis were scaled at the first visit and tinidazole or placebo administered twice a day for 7 days. The mean probing depth of the diseased test pockets was significantly more reduced in tinidazole+scaling (T1S1) than scaling alone (T0S1) group at all visits compared to baseline values. The most significant decreases of bacterial counts in T1 or T0 groups were found in agar corroding Gram-negative rods in both diseased and healthy T1S1 pockets and in slimy Gram-negative rods in diseased T1S0 pockets between visits 1 and 2. The intergroup comparisons showed that Gram-positive cocci decreased significantly more in S1 pockets as well as sporeforming Gram-positive rods in diseased S0 pockets of T1 than T0 group. The highest number of isolates was found in the group of pigmented Gram-negative anaerobe rods, mainly Porphyromonas spp. The percentage of Porphyromonas gingivalis-like isolates decreased to zero and Porphyromonas endodontalis-like isolates increased in all test teeth of T1 group at 14 days. It is concluded that tinidazole has good efficacy against P. gingivalis-like bacteria which seem to be periodontal pathogens in dogs.


Systematic review of qualitative studies exploring parental experiences in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
To determine the feasibility and utility of a thematic analysis approach to synthesising qualitative evidence about parental experiences in the neonatal intensive care unit. Admission of infants to the neonatal intensive care unit is usually an unexpected event for parents who can cause them to experience psychosocial difficulties. A qualitative systematic review is the best method for exploring these parents' experiences regarding this type of admission. Systematic review. Qualitative studies in peer-reviewed journals aimed at understanding parental experiences regarding infant neonatal intensive care unit admission were identified in six electronic databases. Three reviewers selected relevant articles and assessed the quality of the methodological studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. A thematic analysis approach was used to identify the most common themes in the studies describing parental experiences in the neonatal intensive care unit. A total of eighty articles were identified; nine studies were included in this review. Four studies used semistructured interviews, three used interviews, one used self-reporting and one used both focus group and interview methodologies. Common themes across parents' experiences were the stress of hospitalisation, alteration in parenting roles and the impact of infant hospitalisation on psychological health. Having an infant hospitalised in the neonatal intensive care unit is a stressful experience for parents. This experience is the result of exposure to different stressors related to the infant's condition, an alteration in parenting roles or the neonatal intensive care unit environment and staffing. These parents suffered negative psychological effects, experienced an interrupted development of a healthy parent-infant attachment and/or felt parental role alteration. The study's findings are crucial for neonatal intensive care unit nurses to develop intervention strategies and programmes that help parents to decrease the stress of their experience and to support them in facing this stressful situation.


Melanosis of the larynx: a case report.
A case of diffuse melanosis, associated with an epidermoid carcinoma of the larynx, is reported. The case appears to be unique, the pigmentation being detectable at the gross examination.


Prophylaxis with nebulized liposomal amphotericin B for Aspergillus infection in lung transplant patients does not cause changes in the lipid content of pulmonary surfactant.
Prophylaxis with inhaled liposomal amphotericin B has proven to be safe and effective for preventing infection due to Aspergillus spp in lung transplant recipients. However, the liposome contains a large quantity of phospholipids, and inhalation of these substances could potentially change the composition of pulmonary surfactant. The aim of this study was to determine the lipid composition of pulmonary surfactant in patients receiving inhaled liposomal amphotericin B prophylaxis. A prospective, open, controlled multicenter study was conducted in 2 groups: 19 lung transplant recipients who received regular prophylaxis with inhaled amphotericin B (study group) and 19 recipients who did not receive inhaled prophylaxis (control group). From both groups, 15 ml of the third aliquot of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained and phospholipid content determined in the active fraction of surfactant (large aggregates) and in the inactive fraction (small aggregates). Large aggregate cholesterol content was also determined. Patient demographic data and characteristics were similar in the 2 groups. No between-group differences in median phospholipid content were found for large aggregates (study group, 0.4 [range, 0.18-1.9] μmol vs controls, 0.36 [range 2.15-0.12] μmol; p = 0.69) or small aggregates (study group, 0.23 [range, 0.1-0.58] μmol vs controls, 0.29 [range, 0.18-0.65] μmol; p = 0.33). The small aggregate-to-large aggregate phospholipid ratio, commonly used as a marker of alveolar injury, showed no differences between the groups (study group, 0.56 vs controls, 0.69; p = 0.28). Nor were there differences in the cholesterol content of large aggregates (study group, 0.04 μmol [range 0.01-0.1] vs controls, 0.04 μmol [range 0.02-0.27); p = 0.13). These results seem to indicate that prophylaxis with nebulized liposomal amphotericin B does not cause changes in the lipid content of pulmonary surfactant.


MRI safety for leave-on powdered hair thickeners under 1.5-T and 3.0-T MRI: measurement of deflection force, MRI artifact, and evaluation of preexamination screening.
This study aimed to clarify the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatibility of leave-on powdered hair thickeners by evaluating the displacement force and image artifacts of commercially available leave-on powdered hair thickeners on MRI devices and their response to metal and ferromagnetic detectors. Thirteen types of leave-on powdered hair thickeners were studied: nine hair thickener and four foundation types. MRI systems of 1.5 T and 3.0 T were used. Deflection angles and MR image artifacts according to ASTM F2052 and F2119 were evaluated. Handheld metal and ferromagnetic detectors were used to investigate whether hair thickeners could be detected in screening before MRI examinations. The hair thickener type had a deflection angle of 0°, whereas the foundation type had a deflection angle of 90°, indicating a strong physical effect. Significant image artifacts appeared only on the foundation type. The foundation type reacted at distances of less than 10 cm only with a ferromagnetic detector. Foundation-type leave-on powdered hair thickeners containing magnetic substances exhibited strong physical effects and produced significant image artifacts, and those can only be detected by screening with a ferromagnetic detector.


Development of a novel engineered E. coli host cell line platform with improved column capacity performance for ion-exchange chromatography.
This article reports on the analysis of an engineered Escherichia coli designed to reduce the host cell protein (HCP) burden on recombinant protein purification by column chromatography. Since downstream purification accounts for a major portion of production costs when using a recombinant platform, minimization of HCPs that are initially captured or otherwise interfere during chromatography will positively impact the entire purification process. Such a strategy, of course, would also require the cell line to grow, and express recombinant proteins, at levels comparable to, or better than, its parent strain. An E. coli strain with a small number of strategic deletions (LTSF06) was transformed to produce three different recombinant biologics to examine growth and expression, and with another model protein to assess growth and the effect of selectively reduced HCPs on target product capture on DEAE ion exchange medium. Cell growth levels were maintained or increased for all constructs, and a significant reduction in HCP adsorption was realized. Indeed, a breakthrough analysis indicated that as a result of reducing adsorption of particular HCPs, a 37% increase in target protein capture was observed. This increase in product capture efficiency was achieved by focusing not on HCPs that co-elute with the recombinant target, but rather on those possessing particular column adsorption and elution characteristics.


Residence and quality of life determinants for adults with tetraplegia of traumatic spinal cord injury etiology.
Cross-sectional analysis of individual interviews with a convenience sample of persons living with tetraplegia. To describe patterns of residence among persons living with tetraplegia following discharge from initial acute medical care after spinal cord injury, decision-making process for each residence move and quality of life determinants at different residence types. California and Minnesota, United States. A total of 22 adults with traumatic spinal cord injury tetraplegia were interviewed about their residence histories, the residence decision-making process for each move, and positive and negative features at each residence at which they had lived. Information, money, insurance, accessibility, intimate relationships and personal assistants had the strongest influence over residence location, with insufficient information and finances demonstrating particularly strong influences. Participants frequently viewed parents' homes as an 'only option,' 'place of refuge' or 'stunting' environment. They viewed own homes as 'only options' or ways to achieve quality of life improvements, and other institutions as 'only options' or 'stepping-stones' to independent living. Further research is needed to examine decision-making across multiple moves over the course of the lives of persons living with tetraplegia, particularly examining the roles of inadequate information and finances as inhibitors of freedom of choice.


Alterations in regulatory behaviors induced by medial septal lesions and superior cervical ganglionectomy.
Following medial septal (MS) lesions peripheral sympathetic fibers, originating from the superior cervical ganglia (SCG), grow into the hippocampus and habenula. To assess their effect on regulatory behaviors, body weight, and food and water consumption were studied under ad libitum and pharmacological stress conditions, after MS lesions, superior cervical ganglionectomy (Gx) or MS lesion + ganglionectomy (MSGx). Twenty-two animals completed the study: control (n = 7), MS lesion (n = 5), Gx (n = 6), MSGx (n = 4). No differences were observed preoperatively. Postoperatively, body weight fell but over time all groups gained weight. However, animals with MSGx were lighter than MS or Gx animals (which were equivalent), which in turn were lighter than controls (P less than 0.0001). Hypophagia was observed in the Gx and MSGx animals when compared to the MS and control groups (P less than 0.05), while hyperdipsia was seen in the MS and Gx groups (P less than 0.001). Administration of both 1 M NaCl and isoproterenol (25 micrograms/kg) increased drinking in all animals (P less than 0.001), with the MSGx group consuming significantly less than all others (P less than 0.025). Food intake increased following 2-deoxy-D-glucose (500 mg/kg) (P less than 0.0001), while epinephrine (120 micrograms/kg) treatment produced anorexia only in the MS group (P less than 0.05). Hyperthermia was found in the Gx and MSGx groups. The results of this study suggest that both the MS region and SCG contribute to the maintenance of normal regulatory behaviors, with combined loss of these neural systems resulting in severe disturbances, both qualitatively and quantitatively different from either MS lesion or Gx. Although the MS lesion group clearly regulated better than the MSGx group, it is unclear whether this is due to ingrowth or just the presence of the SCG.


Unselected percutaneous access with large vessel closure for endovascular aortic surgery: experience and predictors of technical success.
The effectiveness of percutaneous access with large vessel closure (pEVR) in non-selective groups of patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVR) remains unclear. This study aims to identify factors that predict success in pEVR, performed using percutaneous access and the Prostar XL (Abbott Vascular, Redwood City, Calif) closure device. Consecutive patients who underwent pEVR between April 2010 and March 2011 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Procedural and postoperative outcomes were compared with consecutive patients who underwent endovascular aneurysm repair using standard open femoral access between April 2008 and March 2009. To determine the predictors of technical success of pEVR, the association between clinical, anatomical and procedural variables with technical success, were examined in a multiple logistic regression model. pEVR was attempted in 186 common femoral arteries (CFAs) with a technical success rate of 95.2% (177/186). Conventional open femoral access in the historic control group was performed in 208 CFAs. pEVR was associated with a reduced operation length (131 min [105-152] versus 150 min [124-195], p≤0.001) and length of stay (2 days [2-5] versus 4 days [2-7], p = 0.01) in patients undergoing infrarenal EVR. In secondary analysis of outcomes following percutaneous access in 91 CFAs, pre-operative renal failure, CFA depth (min and max), CFA diameter (min and max) and operator experience predicted success of percutaneous access in univariate analysis. Operator experience was the only independent predictor of technical success (p = 0.05) after adjustment for all confounding variables. pEVR using the Prostar XL device is effective in the majority of patients. In this study there were benefits in terms of reduced postoperative complications, shorter procedures and decreased lengths of stay. Operator experience is a predictor of technical success for pEVR, irrespective of clinical and morphological characteristics at baseline.


[Clinical aspects, diagnosis and indications for surgery in anastomotic aneurysms occurring after reconstructive operations of the thoracic aorta].
Twenty-three patients who had had thoracic aorta surgeries for its coarctation (15 patients), arch kinking (4), traumatic aneurysm (2), non-specific aortoarteritis (1), and Type III dissecting aneurysm (1) were examined and operated on. In addition to conventional examination tools, the authors applied Doppler ultrasonography, volume sphygmography, electrocardiography, esophageal contrast X-ray in three projections, radiopaque angiography. All the surgeries for anastomotic aneurysms required thoracic aorta prosthesis. Eighteen patients had benefits from the surgery.


Crystal structures of peptide enantiomers and racemates: probing conformational diversity in heterochiral Pro-Pro sequences.
Multiple conformational states in heterochiral diproline sequences have been characterized in the solid state by the determination of the crystal structures of seven tripeptides in enantiomeric and racemic forms. The sequences of the type Piv-DPro-LPro-DXxx-NHMe (D-L-D) [DXxx=DVal 1, DLeu 3, and DPhe 5] and their corresponding enatiomeric L-D-L sequences [LXxx=LVal 2, LLeu 4, and LPhe 6] have been investigated. Single crystals have been obtained for the pure enantiomers 1, 2, 3, 4 and for the racemates 1/2, 3/4, and 5/6. For Xxx=Leu, mirror image conformations (type II/II' beta-turns) at Pro-Leu segment are obtained. For Xxx=Val, a LPro-DPro type II beta-turn in 2 and an open/extended structure is obtained in the solvated form of the enantiomer 1. For Xxx=Phe, suitable crystals could not be obtained for enatiomeric peptides. The racemate 5/6 revealed a cis peptide bond between the diproline segment with the absence of any intramolecular hydrogen bonds. Crystal structures of enantiomers and racemates prove useful in characterizing the multiple conformational states that are accessible to Pro-Pro segments.


Molecular cloning and sequencing of a cDNA for an auxin-repressed mRNA: correlation between fruit growth and repression of the auxin-regulated gene.
A complementary DNA (cDNA) library has been constructed in lambda gt 10 from poly(A)+ mRNA isolated from auxin-deprived strawberry receptacles. By differential plaque filter hybridization, a cDNA (lambda SAR5) to an auxin-repressed mRNA has been isolated. The expression of the auxin-repressed gene is studied at various stages of normal fruit development and in fruits of variant strawberry genotype using lambda SAR5 as a probe. Northern analyses of RNA isolated from pollinated and unpollinated fruits of various developmental stages revealed that mRNA corresponding to the lambda SAR5 clone is repressed during normal fruit development, and the level of lambda SAR5 mRNA is regulated by endogenous auxin. Furthermore, results with both normal and variant genotype strawberry fruit indicate that there is a positive correlation between growth of strawberry fruit and repression of mRNA corresponding to the lambda SAR5 clone. The lambda SAR5 cDNA has been sequenced and is 723 nucleotides in length. The deduced protein has 111 amino acid residues with a molecular mass of 12.5 kDa. The putative polypeptide starts at nucleotide position 20 and ends at 352. The molecular weight of the predicted polypeptide is in agreement with the molecular weight of the in vitro translated polypeptide of hybrid selected mRNA. A comparison of the nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequence of lambda SAR5 with nucleotide and protein sequences in data banks has not revealed any homology to known proteins.


Neuroimaging of zinc released by depolarization of rat retinal cells.
Zinc is associated with glutamatergic pathways in brain and retina, yet its role in neuromodulation remains unknown. High concentrations of reactive zinc in vertebrate photoreceptor terminals suggest a neuromodulatory role in the outer plexiform layer but zinc release has not been demonstrated. Using the membrane-impermeable form of the Zn(2+) sensitive fluorescent dye Newport Green, we have demonstrated increased release of Zn(2+) from the rat retina in response to potassium-induced depolarization of retinal cells. This increase was greatest in the outer retina with densest bands observed in the outer plexiform layer and photoreceptor inner segment regions of rat retinal slices.


Optimization of Headspace-Solid Phase Microextraction (HS-SPME) technique for the analysis of volatile compounds of margarine.
The objective of the study was to develop optimum Headspace-Solid Phase Microextraction (HS-SPME) conditions for determining volatile compounds of margarine. The effects of fiber type, extraction temperature, extraction time on extraction rates of 2,3 butandione, dimethyl disulfide, nonanal, butanoic acid, hexanoic acid, octanoic acid, γ-nonalactone, δ-decalactone, total area and number of volatile compounds were investigated. A response surface methodology was applied using three independent variables such as fiber type, extraction temperature and extraction time. The fiber type, extraction temperature and extraction time were arranged with Box-Behnken design. The results shows that extraction temperature and extraction time affect both total area and number of volatile compounds but fiber type effect total area of volatile compounds. The optimum HS-SPME conditions were determined as 47.54 °C extraction temperature and 33.63 min extraction time using DVB/CAR/PDMS fiber type.


Excretion of cholera toxin from Escherichia coli: a potential oral vaccine for cholera.
Escherichia coli strain N100 has been mutagenized by transposon mutagenesis and mutants with a cell surface leaky phenotype have been isolated. The mutant designated as E. coli N100::Tn5 excreted periplasmic proteins like ribonuclease and alkaline phosphatase. When this mutant strain was transformed with plasmids containing cloned cholera toxin genes, the toxin protein synthesized in the cells were excreted. The potentiality of this strain as a live oral vaccine for cholera has been discussed.


DNA codes and information: formal structures and relational causes.
Recently the terms "codes" and "information" as used in the context of molecular biology have been the subject of much discussion. Here I propose that a variety of structural realism can assist us in rethinking the concepts of DNA codes and information apart from semantic criteria. Using the genetic code as a theoretical backdrop, a necessary distinction is made between codes qua symbolic representations and information qua structure that accords with data. Structural attractors are also shown to be entailed by the mapping relation that any DNA code is a part of (as the domain). In this framework, these attractors are higher-order informational structures that obviate any "DNA-centric" reductionism. In addition to the implications that are discussed, this approach validates the array of coding systems now recognized in molecular biology.


Miniaturization for ultrathin metamaterial perfect absorber in the VHF band.
An efficient resolution for ultrathin metamaterial perfect absorber (MPA) is proposed and demonstrated in the VHF radio band (30-300 MHz). By adjusting the lumped capacitors and the through vertical interconnects, the absorber is miniaturized to be only λ/816 and λ/84 for its thickness and periodicity with respect to the operating wavelength (at 102 MHz), respectively. The detailed simulation and calculation show that the MPA can maintain an absorption rate over 90% in a certain range of incident angle and with a wide variation of capacitance. Additionally, we utilized the advantages of the initial single-band structure to realize a nearly perfect dual-band absorber in the same range. The results were confirmed by both simulation and experiment at oblique incidence angles up to 50°. Our work is expected to contribute to the actualization of future metamaterial-based devices working at radio frequency.


Pre-stroke glycemic variability estimated by glycated albumin predicts hematoma expansion and poor outcomes in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage.
Glycemic variability has been shown to be correlated more with oxidative stress than chronic hyperglycemia. We evaluated the impact of pre-stroke glycemic variability measured using glycated albumin (GA) on hematoma expansion and clinical outcomes following spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We consecutively enrolled 343 patients with ICH for 72 months using a single-center registry database. The primary outcome measure was hematoma expansion. The secondary outcome measures were early neurological deterioration (END), 1-month mortality, and 3-month poor functional outcomes (modified Rankin scale score of 4-6). The patients were divided into two groups based on pre-stroke glycemic variability: a higher GA group (GA ≥ 16.0%) and a lower GA group (GA < 16.0%). During the study period, there were 63 (18.4%) events of hematoma expansion, 61 (17.8%) of END, 45 (13.1%) of 1-month mortality, and 45 (13.1%) of 3-month poor functional outcomes after ICH. The higher GA group (36.4%) had higher rates of hematoma expansion, END, 1-month mortality, and 3-month poor functional outcomes than the lower GA group. Multivariate analysis showed that a higher GA level was significantly associated with increased hematoma expansion (adjusted odds ratio 5.83; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.58-13.19, p < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of GA (0.83; 95% CI 0.48-0.65) for predicting hematoma expansion was higher than that of glycated hemoglobin (0.57; 95% CI 0.48-0.65, p for DeLong's pairwise comparison < 0.001). Higher GA levels could be a reliable marker for predicting hematoma expansion and poor outcomes following ICH.


A system for the analysis of posture and stance in quadrupeds.
This paper describes a system for the quantitative analysis of posture and stance in the freely standing quadruped. The focal point of the system is a moving force platform operated by hydraulic servos under computer control. Cats are trained to stand on a support consisting of 4 force plates. Stance is perturbed by the controlled movement of the platform and the evoked postural responses are quantified in terms of the ground reaction forces, the activity of selected muscles, and the movements of the body segments. New developments that are described include: (1) the moving platform, (2) a miniature, triaxial force plate for detecting ground reaction forces under each paw, and (3) a new video camera capable of freezing rapid movements.


Development and Validation of a Sexual-Outlook Questionnaire (SOQ) for Adult Populations in the Republic of Korea.
A Sexual Outlook Questionnaire (SOQ) that can apply to a wide range of Korean populations, including disabled people, was necessary for comprehensive research on improving clinical practice of sexual education and developing sex-related intervention programs. We developed the SOQ and tested its validity with exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and multi-trait/-item matrix analyses. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's α coefficient for item total correlations. We studied a total of 334 married or previously married adults with no cognitive impairment in the community settings. The eleven survey items were included in the final SOQ. Three factors were found: The first, "personal benefit", was devoted to the impact of one's sexual life and included four questions about the health-promoting effects and their recognition of healthiness, youth, and vitality as benefits of their sexual life. The second, "relational value", included four questions about sex as an expression of love and means of communication, and its effect on the improvement of their relationship with their spouse (partner). The third, "sexual endeavor", included three questions about the handling of sex-related problems, consulting with an expert, and sexual education. The questionnaire can briefly measure the sexual outlook of any married or previously married adult, regardless of disability.


Comparison of artificial sphincter implantation and bladder neck reconstruction in patients with neurogenic urinary incontinence.
The results of artificial urinary sphincter implantation and Young-Dees-Leadbetter bladder neck reconstruction were compared in 27 patients with neurogenic urinary incontinence. Although an equal degree of continence was achieved with both procedures the reoperation rate was significantly higher in patients who underwent artificial sphincter implantation. The advantages and disadvantages of each procedure are discussed.


Effects of acetazolamide on renal function eighteen hours after a single does of ethanol.
The administration of acetazolamide 18 hours after a single dose of ethanol demonstrated that ethanol stimulates proximal tubular sodium reabsorption.


Stochastic trophic level index model: A new method for evaluating eutrophication state.
The trophic state index (TSI) and trophic level index (TLI) are commonly used methods for evaluating the eutrophication state of lakes and reservoirs. However, they are unable to overcome uncertainties such as calculation errors and spatial heterogeneity of evaluation indicators. To comprehensively evaluate the eutrophication state of a region, we introduce a probability density function and propose the stochastic trophic level index model (STLI). The probability density function of each trophic level is derived through the principle of maximum entropy, and membership vector F (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) for each trophic level is established to quantify the risk of regional eutrophication. We utilized STLI to evaluate the eutrophication status of Songhua Lake, China, and determined that the method can be used for uncertainty and risk assessment. Our results show that the Jiaohe River backwater area has the highest eutrophication level (light eutropher), with a 0.12 probability of further deterioration to middle eutropher. The eutrophication status of the Main Scenic Area of the Songhua Lake Scenic Resort was shown to be mesotropher, with 0.26 and 0.08 probabilities of further deterioration to light eutropher and middle eutropher, respectively. Finally, the eutrophication status of the Songhua River Three Lakes Reserve Experimental Area was shown to be mesotropher, with a 0.24 probability of further deterioration to light eutropher. Overall, the Songhua River Three Lakes Reserve Experimental Area is the most promising for the lowest level of eutrophication. We recommend that the management department take effective targeted measures against the Jiaohe River backwater area first. The probability density and membership vector of STLI can effectively solve the uncertainties presented by traditional methods for evaluating regional eutrophication status.


Establishment and implementation of a nurse-led interdisciplinary management strategy for central line maintenance: A single-center experience.
This study aimed to establish and implement an interdisciplinary management strategy led by senior nurses via a vascular access specialist team (VAST) at a teaching hospital. In 2021, the hospital established and implemented a nurse-led VAST management strategy to improve the quality of clinical central line maintenance. The VAST comprised senior nurses specialized in intravenous therapy, ultrasound/radiology technologists, medical doctors with central venous catheterization certificates, central line maintenance nurses, and administrative coordinators. The management strategy mainly included systemic on-the-job training for VAST members, the establishment of an interdisciplinary central line emergency "green channel," the formation of a VAST-based, nurse-led standardized clinical rounding system, and the standardization of central line self-care instructions for patients. During the pre- (July 2020 to April 2021) and post- (May 2021 to May 2022) of the implementation the interdisciplinary management strategy, overall patients' self-care ability, the success rate of catheterization at first time, central line management compliance rate, and patients' satisfaction with catheter maintenance were investigated and compared. The results showed the score self-care ability was increased from 74.75 ± 18.4 (pre-VAST) to 99.10 ± 23.65 (post- VAST); the success rate for catheterization at first time was improved to 100% (225/225), compared to 92.9% (209/225) at pre-VAST; the central line management compliance rate was also increased to 99.6% (224/225) at post-VAST from 93.3% (210/225) at pre-VAST. A patient satisfaction survey on catheter maintenance showed improvements in all five indicators were compared to the pre- VAST (P < 0.05). The nurse-led VAST interdisciplinary strategy can effectively improve the quality of clinical central line management and should be used to reinforce clinical catheterization and maintenance of central lines.


[The first information on the biology of Philomena sibirica (Nematoda: Philometridae)--a cavitary parasite of whitefish].
Philomena sibirica was found in the body cavity of whitefishes in one of lakes in the North-West of Chukotka. Its development was studied in intermedial hosts. Cyclops gr. scutifer and Heterocope borealis were basic intermedial hosts of the nematode. The latter molted twice in the haemocoel of copepods. Three larval stages are described.


Optimizing clinical trial design using prospective cohort study data: a case study in neuro-urology.
Simulations using data from a prospective cohort study. To illustrate how prospective cohort data can be employed in randomized controlled trial (RCT) planning to assess feasibility and operational challenges, using TASCI (Transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation in patients with Acute Spinal Cord Injury to prevent neurogenic detrusor overactivity: a nationwide randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind clinical trial) as a case study. Spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation centers in Switzerland. TASCI is nested in the multicenter Swiss Spinal Cord Injury Cohort Study (SwiSCI), which prospectively includes patients with acute SCI. In simulations, data from 640 patients, collected by SwiSCI, were used to investigate different scenarios of patient eligibility and study consent, as well as the performance of the randomization list. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the population of interest and the simulation results; multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of discharge within the TASCI intervention time period. The recruitment target of 114 patients is obtainable within the originally envisioned 3-year time period under the most favorable recruitment scenario examined. The distribution of the primary prognostic factor produced imbalance in the randomization lists and informed further discussion of the cut-off values used in stratification. Influxes of patients resulted in overlapping intervention periods for multiple participants, which guided resource allocation. Early discharge was related to the primary prognostic factor and study center, but is only anticipated in about 8% of participants. Prospective cohort data are a very valuable resource for planning RCTs.


Content analysis and dermatologic gaps in online patient education materials for graft-versus-host disease.
Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a complex systemic disease which is associated with significant physical and psychological distress in patients. Given the complexity of this disorder and its multifactorial effects, it is important for patients to have access to education and learning about their disease. Patient education has been shown to reduce the uncertainty and stress that follows complex diseases such as GVHD. To our knowledge no studies have evaluated the content of patient education materials on GVHD, especially from a dermatologic perspective. Despite the complexity of GVHD, cutaneous manifestations are common and often require management by dermatology. In this cross-sectional study, a Google search engine was utilized to assess websites for information on GVHD etiology, pathophysiology, symptoms, treatment, coverage of Acute GVHD, Chronic GVHD, cutaneous presentations, dermatologic management, and quality of life. It was evident that there was inconsistent inclusion of cutaneous manifestations of acute and chronic GVHD and dermatologic management of GVHD. Results of this study emphasize the need for more robust integration of skin-specific information guided by expert dermatologist opinion in publicly available patient education materials online.


Formative assessment: Is Australia ready for a physical activity surveillance system?
This study investigated the feasibility of establishing a comprehensive and standardised physical activity surveillance system (PASS) in Australia to guide policy and programs to address this public health priority. We gathered information about existing data and reporting obligations in relation to physical activity, by conducting cross-sectoral workshops for each state and territory. This information was synthesised by sector/domain using the socioecological model. We developed a set of potential PASS indicators for feedback from the policymakers in the National Physical Activity Network. Jurisdictions identified existing physical activity-relevant surveillance measures across socioecological levels and sectors. The most common were individual behavioural measures; less common were interpersonal, settings, environmental, and policy measures. Feedback was gathered from policymakers about model indicators that could be considered in future discussions. Our findings reveal areas where data availability is most widespread as well as areas of deficiency. Although this process identified relevant cross-sectoral indicators, further feasibility assessment will require national-level discussions, cross-agency planning, and leadership by Federal and State governments to progress PASS discussions further. The existing physical activity surveillance system in Australia is fragmented and lacks nationwide standardisation. Most physical activity surveillance focuses on individual behaviours, and limited monitoring occurs of broader elements of the "physical activity system." Improvements will contribute to more informed and accountable decision-making and enable more effective monitoring of progress at multiple levels towards achieving state and national physical activity goals. Policymakers need to embrace this agenda and further the discussions on the scope, shape, and structure of a physical activity surveillance system.


Synthesis of gamma,delta-unsaturated-beta-keto lactones via sequential cross metathesis-lactonization: a facile entry to macrolide antibiotic (-)-A26771B.
A simple access to gamma,delta-unsaturated-beta-keto lactones is presented, allowing a rapid total synthesis of the naturally occurring 16-membered macrolide antibiotic (-)-A26771B via cross metathesis, asymmetric dihydroxylation, and lactonization as the key steps.


Linker histones: History and current perspectives.
Although the overall structure of the fifth histone (linker histone, H1) is understood, its location on the nucleosome is only partially defined. Whilst it is clear that H1 helps condense the chromatin fibre, precisely how this is achieved remains to be determined. H1 is not a general gene repressor in that although it must be displaced from transcription start sites for activity to occur, there is only partial loss along the body of genes. How the deposition and removal of H1 occurs in particular need of further study. Linker histones are highly abundant nuclear proteins about which we know too little.


Utilization of ancillary studies in thyroid fine needle aspirates: a synopsis of the National Cancer Institute Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration State of the Science Conference.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) sponsored the NCI Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) State of the Science Conference on October 22-23, 2007 in Bethesda, MD. The 2-day meeting was accompanied by a permanent informational website and several on-line discussion periods between May 1 and December 15, 2007 (http://thyroidfna.cancer.gov). This document summarizes matters regarding the utilization of ancillary studies in thyroid FNA (http://thyroidfna.cancer.gov/pages/info/agenda/).


Clinical Significance of Late Enhancement and Regional Wall Remodeling Assessed by 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
Clinical follow-up studies comparing left ventricular (LV) function and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by high-field 3T cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) are of general interest due to the increased use of 3T scanners. In this study, the occurrence of LGE and LV regional wall remodeling (RWR) was assessed by 3T CMR in patients undergoing coronary angiography for suspected stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Analysis of myocardial viability by LGE was performed at the segmental level. LVRWR was identified by a significant reduction (≥50%) of the wall thickness. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were registered during a median follow-up time of 58 (45-62) months. Of the 87 patients (59 ± 9 years; 13 women) enrolled, nonviable myocardium was detected in 35 (40%) and significant CAD in 69 (79%). Nonviable myocardium was correlated to angiographic significant stenosis or occlusion. LVRWR was significantly related to a higher number of nonviable segments compared to those without LVRWR: ie, 6.0 ± 3.2 segments versus 2.6 ± 1.3; P < 0.001. In the nonviable group, LVEF was significantly reduced (P < 0.001) compared to the viable group: ie, 50 ± 16% versus 61 ± 8%, and LVEF was significantly correlated to the number of nonviable segments (r = -0.66, P < 0.001). The number of nonviable segments by LGE was significantly associated with MACE by an odds ratio of 1.25 (95% CI, 1.05-1.49; P = 0.013). The presence of nonviable myocardium as detected by LGE at 3T CMR is associated with angiographically significant CAD, and is associated with the development of LVRWR and reduced LVEF. Assessing the extent of nonviable myocardium by both LGE and LVRWR at the segmental level may therefore contribute to individualized risk stratification and treatment strategies.


Three years prospective investigation of anterior pituitary function after traumatic brain injury: a pilot study.
It has been recently demonstrated that traumatic brain injury (TBI)-mediated hypopituitarism could be more frequent than previously known. However, most of the previous data were obtained from retrospective studies, and the natural history of the hypopituitarism due to TBI is still unclear. So far no study has been reported in which the pituitary function of the same patients has been investigated more than 1 year after TBI. Therefore, we report the results of 3 years prospective follow-up of anterior pituitary function in patients with mild, moderate and severe TBI. Thirty patients (25 males, 5 females; age 37.2 +/- 2.4 years) with TBI were included in the study. Pituitary function was evaluated at 1 and 3 years after TBI. After individual evaluation of GH deficiency from 1 year to 3 years after TBI, 7 of 13 (53.8%) GH-deficient patients at 1st year recovered after 3 years of TBI, and GH deficiency detected at 3 years in one patient was new onset. Additionally, five of six (83.3%) ACTH-deficient patients at 1st year recovered after 3 years of TBI, and ACTH deficiency detected at 3 years in one patient was new onset. GH deficiency is the most common pituitary deficit 1 and 3 years after TBI. In patients with mild and moderate TBI, pituitary function improves over time in a considerable number of patients, but it may also worsen rarely over the 3-year period. In patients with severe TBI, ACTH and GH deficiencies at 1st year evaluation persist at 3rd year.


[Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in spontaneous hemopneumothorax].
We retrospectively studied the safety and utility of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in the treatment of spontaneous hemopneumothorax. Of 128 cases of spontaneous pneumothorax operated on our hospital from April 1988 to October 1997, hemopneumothorax developed in 8 cases (2 cases treated by thoracotomy and 6 by VATS). In all 8 cases, bleeding points and pulmonary bullae were easily found and hemostasis and resection of pulmonary bullae conducted quickly and safely. Two cases of VATS involved elective surgery. Of surgical emergent cases, the duration from visit our hospital to operation and surgical duration in VATS were almost as long as those in thoracotomy. The mean duration of postoperative chest drainage and postoperative hospital stay in VAST were less than in thoracotomy except for a VAST case with persistent air leakage. Blood loss from onset to operation and blood transfusion for VATS were almost equal to thoracotomy. Postoperative duration of analgesic use for VATS were shorter than that for thoracotomy. The VATS case with persistent air leakage should be necessary to reinforce the pulmonary stapled line or to convert to thoracotomy. In all cases, residual hematoma was found in the thoracic cavity. We conclude that early surgical repair should be performed once spontaneous hemopneumothorax is diagnosed and confirmed, and that VATS may be the first choice of surgery because it provides a better view and more facilitated manipulation during surgery than thoracotomy, and is a safe, nonaggressive therapeutic option.


The deubiquitinase USP10 regulates KLF4 stability and suppresses lung tumorigenesis.
Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), a key transcription factor, acts as a multifunctional player involved in the progression of numerous aggressive cancers. The proteasome-dependent pathway is one of the main modalities in controlling KLF4 abundance at a posttranslational level. Although some of the ubiquitin ligases have been identified, the deubiquitinases of KLF4 and the regulatory function remain unexplored. Here, by screening ubiquitin-specific proteases that may interact with KLF4, we found ubiquitin-specific peptidase 10 (USP10) as a deubiquitinating enzyme for KLF4. Forced expression of USP10 remarkably increases KLF4 protein level by blocking the latter degradation, whereas the depletion of USP10 promotes KLF4 degradation and thus enhances tumorigenesis. Loss of USP10 in mice downregulates KLF4 expression and accelerates KrasG12D-driven lung adenocarcinoma initiation and progression. In addition, our data revealed that KLF4 can facilitate the transcription of tumor suppressor TIMP3 by directly binding to the TIMP3 promoter. Clinically, reduction of USP10 expression, concomitant with decreased KLF4 and TIMP3 abundance in carcinoma tissue, predicts poor prognosis of lung cancer patient. Taken together, our results demonstrate that USP10 is a critical regulator of KLF4, pinpointing USP10-KLF4-TIMP3 axis as a promising therapeutic target in lung cancer.


Assessment of pain: a community-based diary survey in the USA.
Pain is costly and a major reason for seeking medical care. Our aim was to assess the proportion of people experiencing pain, and the severity of pain, at randomly selected times in a representative sample of individuals in the USA. A community-based telephone survey was designed that attempted to contact about 10 700 individuals by random-digit dialling. After collecting diary information for one 24-h period, ratings of pain on a 0-6 anchored scale for three randomly selected 15-min intervals of the day were obtained. Outcome measures were the proportion of intervals with non-zero pain, the proportion of intervals with pain above 3 (the scale midpoint), and the average pain rating. Activities of those individuals who reported substantial pain were also examined. To make the results representative of the US population, sample data were adjusted with sample weights developed by the Gallup Organisation. 3982 individuals were interviewed (response rate 37%). After adjustment for weighting, 28.8% of men and 26.6% of women reported feeling some pain at sampled times. Those with lower income or less education spent a higher proportion of time in pain and reported higher average pain than did those with higher income or more education. The average pain rating increased with age, although it reached a plateau between the ages of about 45 years and 75 years, with little difference between men and women. Satisfaction with life or health and the pain indicators tended to move in opposite directions. The diary-survey methods described here could be used to study pain at the population level, and will enable the combination of pain assessments with information about activities of daily living.


Hostility, social support, and adrenergic receptor responsiveness among African-American and white men and women.
We examined the relationship between beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness and hostility and social support in African American and white men and women. The participants were 149 men and women, aged 25 to 45 years with SBP < 160 and DBP < 105. Hostility and social support were assessed with standardized self-report measures. An isoproterenol challenge was used to evaluate beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness, and a phenylephrine challenge was used to evaluate alpha-adrenergic receptor responsiveness. Hostility and social support were unrelated to alpha-adrenergic receptor responsiveness. Hostility and satisfaction with perceived social support predicted beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness in multiple linear regression analyses controlling for race, gender, age, SBP, and resting heart rate. High hostility was associated with reduced cardiac beta-adrenergic receptor function among both white and African American men. Low levels of satisfaction with social support were associated with reduced cardiac beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness among men and women. Hostility and satisfaction with social support shared some variance in models predicting beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness. Reduced beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness is associated with higher levels of hostility among men, and is associated with lower levels of satisfaction with social support among men and women. Impaired beta-adrenergic receptor function, which is a common characteristic of cardiovascular disease, may be a marker of increased cardiovascular disease risk among individuals high in hostility and low in social support.


Nickel exposure and prevalent albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria: evidence from a population-based study.
High exposure to nickel could induce renal dysfunction in rodents and occupational workers. However, little is known about the effects of non-occupational exposure to nickel on renal health in the general population. We aimed to examine the associations of urinary nickel concentrations with albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria in Chinese adults. 2115 non-institutionalised Chinese men and women aged 55-76 years from Beijing and Shanghai were included. Urinary nickel concentrations were assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. Plasma uric acid, urea nitrogen, C reactive protein and urinary albumin, β2-microglobulin and creatinine were measured. Albuminuria was defined as urinary albumin ≥30 mg/g creatinine, and β2-microglobulinuria was defined as urinary β2-microglobulin ≥200 µg/g creatinine. Median concentration of urinary nickel was 3.95 μg/g creatinine (IQR: 2.57-6.71 μg/g creatinine), and prevalence of albuminuria, β2-microglobulinuria and both albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria was 22.1%, 24.5% and 9.7%, respectively. Comparing the highest with the lowest quartile of urinary nickel, the ORs (95% CIs) were 1.99 (1.46 to 2.78) for albuminuria, 1.44 (1.07 to 1.95) for β2-microglobulinuria, and 2.95 (1.74 to 4.97) for both albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria, after adjustment for demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours, body mass index, hypertension and diabetes. The association remained significant when further controlling for inflammatory markers or other heavy metals (all p trend <0.05). This study suggested that urinary nickel levels were positively associated with albuminuria and β2-microglobulinuria in Chinese men and women, who had relatively low background nickel exposure. More prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.


[Role of pre-hospital and hospital emergency services in the management of stroke].
Any out-of-hospital neurological deficit of less than 24 hours should prompt a call for emergency medical help Urgent Medical Aid Service. Early identification of signs of stroke or transient ischaemic attack allows to guide the therapeutic approach towards intravenous thrombolysis or other alternatives. Telemedicine centres complement the network of neurovascular units.


Liver X Receptor Agonism Sensitizes a Subset of Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Sorafenib by Dual-Inhibiting MET and EGFR.
Sorafenib is the first approved systemic therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is the first-line choice in clinic. Sustained activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) is associated with low efficacy of sorafenib in HCC. Activation of liver X receptor (LXR) has been reported to inhibit some RTKs. In this study, we found that the LXR agonist enhanced the anti-tumor activity of sorafenib in a subset of HCC cells with high LXR-β/α gene expression ratio. Mechanically, the activation of LXR suppressed sorafenib dependent recruitment of MET and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in lipid rafts through cholesterol efflux. Our findings imply that LXR agonist can serve as a potential sensitizer to enhance the anti-tumor effect of sorafenib.


Modulation of gut microbiota ecosystem by a glucan-rich snail mucin heteropolysaccharide attenuates loperamide-induced constipation.
The present study aimed to investigate the effect of oral administration of snail-derived mucin extract (SM) on ameliorating constipation symptoms of loperamide-induced constipated rats (n = 6). The analytical results indicated that SM mainly contains a glucan-rich snail mucin heteropolysaccharide with high molecular weights (108.5-267.9 kDa), comprising primarily of glucose (64.9 %) and galactose (22.4 %) with some deoxyhexoses (5.0 %) and hexosamines (4.9 %). Daily SM administration at doses of 10-40 mg/kg/day to the loperamide-induced constipated rats significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated the deterioration in fecal parameters, such as numbers and weight of feces, fecal water contents, and gastrointestinal transit ratio. The histomorphometric results showed that the loperamide-induced decreases in the thickness of mucosal and muscularis mucosae layers as well as the distribution of mucin and c-KIT-positive areas were significantly (p < 0.05) improved via SM consumption at all doses tested. SM administration at all doses significantly increased the expression of genes encoding tryptophan hydroxylases (TPH1 and TPH2; p < 0.05), tight junction molecules (OCLN, CLDN1, and TJP1; p < 0.05), and mucin (MUC2 and MUC4; p < 0.05), but significantly decreased the aquaporin-encoding genes (AQP3 and AQP8; p < 0.05). Gut microbial community analysis indicated that SM administration could modulate loperamide-induced dysbiosis by increasing the phyla Actinobacteria (11.72-12.64 % at 10-40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05) and Firmicutes (79.33 % and 74.24 % at 20 and 40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05) and decreasing the phyla Bacteroidetes (5.98-12.47 % at 10-40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05) and Verrucomicrobia (2.21 % and 2.78 % at 20 and 40 mg/kg doses; p < 0.05), suggesting that SM administration is effective in ameliorating constipation by controlling gut microbial communities. These findings can be utilized as fundamental data for developing novel functional materials using SM to prevent or treat constipation.


Substrate Metabolism and Insulin Sensitivity During Fasting in Obese Human Subjects: Impact of GH Blockade.
Insulin resistance and metabolic inflexibility are features of obesity and are amplified by fasting. Growth hormone (GH) secretion increases during fasting and GH causes insulin resistance. To study the metabolic effects of GH blockade during fasting in obese subjects. Nine obese males were studied thrice in a randomized design: (1) after an overnight fast (control), (2) after 72 hour fasting (fasting), and (3) after 72 hour fasting with GH blockade (pegvisomant) [fasting plus GH antagonist (GHA)]. Each study day consisted of a 4-hour basal period followed by a 2-hour hyperinsulinemic, euglycemic clamp combined with indirect calorimetry, assessment of glucose and palmitate turnover, and muscle and fat biopsies. GH levels increased with fasting (P < 0.01), and the fasting-induced reduction of serum insulin-like growth factor I was enhanced by GHA (P < 0.05). Fasting increased lipolysis and lipid oxidation independent of GHA, but fasting plus GHA caused a more pronounced suppression of lipid intermediates in response to hyperinsulinemic, euglycemic clamp. Fasting-induced insulin resistance was abrogated by GHA (P < 0.01) primarily due to reduced endogenous glucose production (P = 0.003). Fasting plus GHA also caused elevated glycerol levels and reduced levels of counterregulatory hormones. Fasting significantly reduced the expression of antilipolytic signals in adipose tissue independent of GHA. Suppression of GH activity during fasting in obese subjects reverses insulin resistance and amplifies insulin-stimulated suppression of lipid intermediates, indicating that GH is an important regulator of substrate metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic flexibility also in obese subjects.


Insta-Grated Plastic Surgery Residencies: 2020 Update.
Recent evidence shows accelerating worldwide adoption of social media and suggests a commensurate increase in social media use by integrated plastic surgery residency programs in the United States. Programs nationwide are now making strides to include a longitudinal social media component in their plastic surgery curriculum. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of Instagram by plastic surgery residency programs and to describe trends in adoption, volume, and content. Current active Instagram accounts affiliated to integrated plastic surgery residency programs were surveyed to identify date of first post, number of posts, number of followers, number of followings, engagement rate, most-liked posts, and content of posts. All data were collected on May 12, 2020. Sixty-nine out of 81 (85.2%) integrated plastic surgery residency programs had Instagram accounts, totaling 5,544 posts. This represents an absolute increase in program accounts of 392% since 2018. The 100 most-liked posts were categorized as: promotion of the program/individual (46), resident life (32), promotion of plastic surgery (14), and education (8). Instagram use by plastic surgery residency programs has drastically increased since it was first evaluated in 2018. This trend will continue as we reach near saturation of residency programs with accounts. We remain steadfast in our belief that the advantages of social media use by plastic surgeons and trainees are far outweighed by the potential community-wide impacts of violations of good social media practice on peers, patients, and the general public.


S-100 protein and neuron-specific enolase in parathyroid glands and C-cells of the thyroid.
Normal parathyroid glands and parafollicular cells (C-cells) of man, rat and rabbit, and also human parathyroid adenomas and medullary carcinomas were investigated for the presence of S-100 protein and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). For determination of the proteins immunoperoxidase methods were applied, i.e., the PAP method and the avidin-biotin system. The antisera, of polyclonal origin, were specifically directed against cow S-100 protein and rat or bovine NSE. The respective antisera are known to crossreact with S-100 protein from man, rat, and rabbit, as well as with NSE from man and rat. Surprisingly, the test for S-100 protein was found to be strongly positive in the parathyroid glands of rat and rabbit and was focally positive in normal and adenomatous human parathyroid glands, but completely negative in C-cells and medullary carcinoma cells. NSE was present in C-cells of rat and man, and in medullary carcinoma cells, but was absent in normal and adenomatous parathyroid cells. The results support data that indicate that both parathyroid cells and C-cells are derived from elements of the neural crest, but undergo different maturation processes during embryological development.


Engraftment of human hepatocytes in the livers of rats bearing bone marrow reconstructed with immunodeficient mouse bone marrow cells.
Previously, we created, a chimeric mouse (humanized mouse), a severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mouse whose liver was >90% repopulated with human (h)-hepatocytes, which are useful for the testing of drug metabolism and toxicity, as well as a hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus-susceptible animal model. However, their small body size and small total blood volume limited the utilization for analytical purposes, which led us to develop a method to create a chimeric rat bearing h-hepatocyte-repopulated liver. F344 nude rats devoid of T cells were irradiated with X-rays and injected with bone marrow cells (BMCs) from SCID mice (m(SCID)). The rate of replacement with m(SCID)-BMCs was evaluated by two-color flow cytometry analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). After m(SCID)-BMCs repopulated the host bone marrow (BM), the rats were treated with retrorsine, partially hepatectomized (PHx), and transplanted with 5 x 10(6) h-hepatocytes isolated from the chimeric mice. h-Albumin (h-Alb) concentrations in the host blood and the expression levels of protein and mRNA of hepatocyte differentiation markers in the h-hepatocytes were evaluated by ELISA, immunostaining, and reverse transcription-PCR, respectively. The m(SCID)-BMCs successfully repopulated the rats, the percentage of mouse cells reaching 94% among host (r(nudeF344)) PBMCs at 4 weeks after m-BMC transplantation. h-Hepatocytes isolated from the chimeric mice were transplanted to the liver of the m(SCID)-BMC-repopulated rats. The engrafted h-hepatocytes expressed h-Alb and h-cytochrome P450 (CYP) subtypes and survived showing normal phenotypes until at least 3 weeks post-h-hepatocytes transplantation (h-HPCT). However, the blood concentrations of h-Alb declined at 4 weeks post-HPCT, concomitant with the emergence of both r(nudeF344)- and m(SCID)-macrophages, suggesting the rejection of h-hepatocytes due to the activation of macrophages. We developed a novel method to create a rat that bears the liver engrafted with h-hepatocytes, utilizing a rat with the BM composed of m(SCID)-BMCs as a host. This h-hepatocyte-bearing rat will be a valuable model for studying the immunologic mechanisms involved in xenogeneic transplantation and for generating rats with higher rates of repopulation with h-hepatocytes.


A new in vitro assay for cell motility and proliferation.
We have described and characterized a new micropore membrane assay for migration and proliferation of cells of various tumourigenic potential. The assay was developed to facilitate analysis of some aspects of cancer invasion and metastasis. Tumorigenic and non-tumorigenic C3H/10 T 1/2 cells grow in and migrate out of a culture chamber during a 1-11 day period, the shorter periods are used for chambers with 6 micron thick polycarbonate membranes, the longer ones for 140 micron thick cellulose nitrate membranes. Cell growth within the chambers, in their micropore membranes and on the outside of the membranes, was assessed with microscopy, electronic cell counting, flow cytometry of propidium iodide (PI) stained cells, and 3H-thymidine [( 3H]TdR) incorporation. A complete retrieval of intact cells that have traversed the membraneous chamber wall is possible, and these cells can be recultured or used in other studies. The tumorigenic cells had a steeper growth curve in vitro than the non transformed cells, but the relative sizes of the emigrated subpopulations were not significantly different. The subpopulation of tumorigenic cells that emigrated spontaneously from the chambers was less able than the subpopulation retained to populate secondary chamber cultures, suggesting that the clonogenic (stem) tumour cells are 'slow movers'.


Immunosenescence phenotypes in the telomerase knockout mouse.
Increasing generations of the telomerase knockout mouse, Terc-/-, show severe telomere dysfunction characterized by critically short telomeres and end-to-end chromosomal fusions. These mice also suffer from various age-related diseases affecting highly proliferative tissues. Among these pathologies are a reduced proliferative capacity of B and T cells, as well as a reduction of germinal center reactivity upon immunization. Both immune system defects are landmarks of immunosenescence. The study of the telomerase-deficient mouse model supports the notion that telomere shortening with age contributes to immunological dysfunction in the elderly.


Reaction of rat liver glutathione S-transferases and bacterial dichloromethane dehalogenase with dihalomethanes.
Dichloromethane dehalogenase from Methylophilus sp. DM11 is a glutathione S-transferase homolog that is specifically active with dihalomethane substrates. This bacterial enzyme and rat liver glutathione S-transferases were purified to investigate their relative reactivity with CH2Cl2 and related substrates. Rat liver alpha class glutathione transferases were inactive and mu class enzymes showed low activity (7-23 nmol/min/mg of protein) with CH2Cl2. theta class glutathione transferase 5-5 from rat liver and Methylophilus sp. dichloromethane dehalogenase showed specific activities of > or = 1 mumol/min/mg of protein. Apparent Kcat/Km were determined to be 3.3 x 10(4) and 6.0 x 10(4) L M-1 S-1 for the two enzymes, respectively. Dideutero-dichloromethane was processed to dideutereo-formaldehyde, consistent with a nucleophilic halide displacement mechanism. The possibility of a GSCH2X reaction intermediate (GS, glutathione; X, halide) was probed using CH2ClF to generate a more stable halomethylglutathione species (GSCH2F). The reaction of CH2ClF with dichloromethane dehalogenase produced a kinetically identifiable intermediate that decomposed to formaldehyde at a similar rate to synthetic HOCH2CH2SCH2F. 19F-NMR revealed the transient formation of an intermediate identified as GSCH2F by its chemical shift, its triplet resonance, and H-F coupling constant consistent with a fluoromethylthioether. Its decomposition was matched by a stoichiometric formation of fluoride. These studies indicated that the bacterial dichloromethane dehalogenase directs a nucleophilic attack of glutathione on CH2Cl2 to produce a halomethylthioether intermediate. This focuses attention on the mechanism used by theta class glutathione transferases to generate a halomethylthioeter from relatively unreactive dihalomethanes.


Determination of filtration fraction using the gamma scintillation camera.
A simple technique for determining effective renal plasma flow, filtration fraction and filtration rate is described. The determination depends upon the use of 131iodine labeled hippuran and 99mtechnetium labeled iron ascorbate or Sn diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid. The filtration fraction is determined by dividing the corrected uptake for the technetium compound by the corrected uptake for radiohippuran. The uptake is simply determined by the 1 to 2-minute count over the kidneys with background subtraction and taking into account the amount injected. The technique is simple, quick and appears to be a useful clinical tool.


TRAF2 is upregulated in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
To elucidate the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor signal transduction in multiple sclerosis (MS). We performed a cross-sectional analysis of the gene expression of TRAF2 (TNF receptor-associated factor 2) and RIP (receptor-interacting protein) in peripheral blood leukocytes of 23 relapsing-remitting (RR), 19 secondary progressive (SP) and 12 primary progressive (PP) MS patients as well as of 29 healthy controls by quantitative RT-PCR. Additionally, we monitored a subgroup of 15 RRMS patients longitudinally every 3 months over a 9-month time period. TRAF2 expression was significantly elevated in RRMS patients compared to the other disease courses (p<0.005, respectively) and the control group (p<0.009). RIP expression was significantly elevated in the patient groups compared to the healthy group (phealthy-RR<0.002; phealthy-PP<0.003; phealthy-SP<0.06). Neither variable changed over the 9-month time course. TRAF2 and RIP1 elevation in leukocytes might be interpreted as the molecular equivalent of an elevated general inflammatory activity in MS patients compared to healthy control persons. TRAF2 elevation in RRMS reinforces the concept that different pathophysiological and immunological processes sustain RRMS and SPMS or PPMS.


Obesity and serum luteinizing hormone level have an independent and opposite effect on the serum inhibin B level in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.
To elucidate whether the negative effect of obesity on the serum inhibin B level that we previously reported is specific or not to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and whether it may explain the wide interindividual variability in serum inhibin B levels found in patients with PCOS. Prospective study. Reproductive endocrinology unit of an academic medical center. One hundred thirty-four consecutive patients with PCOS (mean age, 27.4 +/- 4.7 years; mean body mass index [BMI], 28.3 +/- 7.6 kg/m(2); BMI > 25, 53%) and in 78 control women (mean age, 30.1 +/- 4.1 years; mean BMI, 24.3 +/- 4.9; BMI > 25, 34%). Blood sampling was performed in the early follicular phase in patients and in control women. BMI and waist circumference (WC), serum levels of inhibin B, LH, FSH, E(2), androstenedione, T, fasting insulin, and leptin were assessed in all subjects. No difference was observed in the mean inhibin B level between patients and controls. The BMI and WC correlated negatively with inhibin B in patients with PCOS and in controls, with similar regression slopes, thus indicating that the influence of obesity on inhibin B is not specific to PCOS. In addition, we found a positive relationship between serum LH and inhibin B levels in PCOS. There was no significant interaction between the effects of BMI and LH on the serum inhibin B levels by analysis of variance (ANOVA). The mean serum inhibin B level in patients with PCOS with high serum LH (i.e., >the 90th percentile of LH in controls) was significantly higher than in those patients with normal LH or in controls. The highest mean inhibin B level was noted in nonobese patients with PCOS with high LH levels (121.0 +/- 51.2 pg/mL), while nonobese patients with PCOS with normal LH levels and obese patients with normal LH or high LH levels had similar mean levels (94.5 +/- 40.0, 84.9 +/- 34 and 91.6 +/- 51.7 pg/mL, respectively). We confirm that obesity has a negative effect on inhibin B serum level, which is not specific to PCOS. Obesity and excess LH, acting oppositely and independently on inhibin B production, may explain the discrepancies between the previous reports studying serum inhibin B level in patients with PCOS. Further work is required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the antagonistic effects of LH and obesity on inhibin B production in patients with PCOS.


Absence of interaction between X-rays and UV light in inducing ouabain- and thioguanine-resistant mutants in Chinese hamster cells.
Chinese hamster ovary cells were irradiated with X-rays at times from 0 to 17 h before being irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light. No synergism was observed between the two radiations for the production of mutants resistant to either ouabain or 6-thioguanine. These experiments were designed to test whether X-rays induced an error-prone repair system that would increase the frequency of mutations produced by UV light, but no such system was detected.


The primary structure of two polypeptide chains from preparations of homeostatic thymus hormone (HTH alpha and HTH beta) entire-chain identities to two histones.
The primary structures of the 2 polypeptide chains (HTH alpha and HTH beta) of the homeostatic thymus hormone (HTH) were determined. The entire structures were found to be identical to those of histones H2A and H2B, respectively, without evidence for sub-types, proteolytic processings, or other peptide fragments. The results show that suggestions for new extranuclear and hormone-like histone functions apply to HTH preparations with intact protein chains of the H2 histones.


Boosting Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution over Ce-Co9 S8 Core-Shell Nanoneedle Arrays by Electronic and Architectural Dual Engineering.
An dual electronic and architectural engineering strategy is a good way to rationally design earth-abundant and highly efficient electrocatalysts of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) for sustainable hydrogen-based energy devices. Here, a Ce-doped Co9 S8 core-shell nanoneedle array (Ce-Co9 S8 @CC) supported on a carbon cloth has been designed and developed to accelerate the sluggish kinetics of the OER. Profiting from valance alternative Ce doping, a fine core-shell structure and vertically aligned nanoneedle arrayed architecture, Ce-Co9 S8 @CC integrates modulated electronic structure, highly exposed active sites, and multidimensional mass diffusion channels; together, these afford a favorable catalyzed OER. Ce-Co9 S8 @CC exhibits remarkable performance in the OER in an alkaline medium, where the overpotential requires only 242 mV to deliver a current density of 10 mA cm-2 for the OER; this is 70 mV superior to that of Ce-free Co9 S8 catalyst and other counterparts. Good stability and impressive selectivity (nearly 100 % Faradic efficiency) are also demonstrated. When integrated into a two-electrode OER//HER electrolyzer, the as-prepared Ce-Co9 S8 @CC displays a low operation potential of 1.54 V at 10 mA cm-2 and long-term stability, thus demonstrating great potential for economical water electrolysis.


Endophytic Botryosphaeriaceae, including five new species, associated with mangrove trees in South Africa.
Little is known regarding the fungi, especially fungal pathogens, associated with mangroves in Africa. This includes fungi in the Botryosphaeriaceae that comprise numerous opportunistic, stress-associated pathogens often associated with trees affected by environmental and anthropogenically generated stresses, such as those affecting mangroves. We investigated the occurrence of endophytic Botryosphaeriaceae along the entire distribution of mangroves in South Africa. Asymptomatic branches were collected from ten localities and six mangrove species. Isolates resembling species of Botryosphaeriaceae were identified based on multi-gene sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS), including the 5.8S nrRNA, the beta-tubulin (tub2), partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), and DNA-directed RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) gene regions. Inoculation trials were conducted on healthy branches of Avicennia marina and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza to evaluate the potential pathogenicity of the collected species. Fourteen species in the Botryosphaeriaceae belonging to four genera, Botryosphaeria, Diplodia, Lasiodiplodia, and Neofusicoccum were collected, including five new species. Neofusicoccum was the most prevalent genus followed by Lasiodiplodia, with species of Diplodia and Botryosphaeria being the least frequent. The inoculation studies revealed that one of the new species, Lasiodiplodia avicenniae is highly pathogenic to A. marina and could pose a threat to the health of these trees.


The effect of variation in phased array element performance for Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE).
This paper reports the results of an investigation into the effects of phased array element performance on ultrasonic beam integrity. This investigation has been performed using an array beam model based on Huygens' principle to independently investigate the effects of element sensitivity and phase, and non-functioning elements via Monte Carlo simulation. The purpose of this work is to allow a new method of array calibration for Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) to be adopted that focuses on probe integrity rather than beam integrity. This approach is better suited to component inspections that utilise Full Matrix Capture (FMC) to record data as the calibration routine is uncoupled from the beams that the array is required to produce. For this approach to be adopted specifications must be placed on element performance that guarantee beam quality without carrying out any beam forming. The principal result of this investigation is that the dominant outcome following variations in array element performance is the introduction of beam artefacts such as main beam broadening, raising of the noise floor of the ultrasonic field, and the enlargement or creation of side lobes. Specifications for practical allowable limits of element sensitivity, element phase, and the number of non-functioning elements have been suggested based on a minimum amplitude difference between beam artefacts and the main beam peak of 8 dB. Simulation at a number of centre frequencies has led to a recommendation that the product of transducer bandwidth and maximum phase error should be kept below 0.051 and 0.035 for focused and plane beams respectively. Element sensitivity should be within 50% of mean value of the aperture, and no more than 9% of the elements should be non-functioning.


The gramicidin A channel: comparison of the energy profiles of Na+, K+ and Cs+. Influence of the flexibility of the ethanolamine end chain on the profiles.
The energy profiles for single occupancy by Cs+, K+ and Na+ in the gramicidin A channel assumed to be in a head-to-head beta 6.3 3.3 helical dimeric structure, were computed: (A) allowing complete conformational freedom to the ethanolamine end, (B) constraining it to stay in its intrinsically preferred conformation. Whatever the constraint, both the entrance barrier and the central barrier appear in the order Cs+ less than K+ less than Na+. Introducing the flexibility of the tail modifies appreciably the profiles and the location of the extrema along it.


A nuclear receptor heterodimer, CgPPAR2-CgRXR, acts as a regulator of carotenoid metabolism in Crassostrea gigas.
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are mostly ligand-activated transcription factors in animals and play essential roles in metabolism and homeostasis. The NR heterodimer composed of PPAR/RXR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor/retinoid X receptor) is considered a key regulator of lipid metabolism in vertebrate. However, in molluscs, how this heterodimer is involved in carotenoid metabolism remains unclear. To elucidate how this heterodimer regulates carotenoid metabolism, we identified a PPAR gene in C. gigas, designated as CgPPAR2 (LOC105323212), and functionally characterized it using two-hybrid and reporter systems. CgPPAR2 is a direct orthologue of vertebrate PPARs and the second PPAR gene identified in C. gigas genome in addition to CgPPAR1 (LOC105317849). The results demonstrated that CgPPAR2 protein can form heterodimer with C. gigas RXR (CgRXR), and then regulate carotenoid metabolism by controlling carotenoid cleavage oxygenases with different carotenoid cleavage efficiencies. This regulation can be affected by retinoid ligands, i.e., carotenoid derivatives, validating a negative feedback regulation mechanism of carotenoid cleavage for retinoid production. Besides, organotins may disrupt this regulatory process through the mediation of CgPPAR2/CgRXR heterodimer. This is the first report of PPAR/RXR heterodimer regulating carotenoid metabolism in mollusks, contributing to a better understanding of the evolution and conservation of this nuclear receptor heterodimer.


Induction of Mincle by Helicobacter pylori and consequent anti-inflammatory signaling denote a bacterial survival strategy.
Evasion of innate immune recognition is one of the key strategies for persistence of Helicobacter pylori, by virtue of its ability to modulate or escape the host innate immune receptors and signaling pathways. C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) predominantly expressed by macrophages are pivotal in tailoring immune response against pathogens. The recognition of glyco or carbohydrate moieties by Mincle (Macrophage inducible C-type lectin) is emerging as a crucial element in anti-fungal and anti-mycobacterial immunity. Herein, we demonstrate the role of Mincle in modulation of innate immune response against H. pylori infection. Our results revealed an upregulated expression of Mincle which was independent of direct host cell contact. Upon computational modelling, Mincle was observed to interact with the Lewis antigens of H. pylori LPS and possibly activating an anti-inflammatory cytokine production, thereby maintaining a balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production. Furthermore, siRNA mediated knockdown of Mincle in human macrophages resulted in up regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and consequent down regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Collectively, our study demonstrates a novel mechanism employed by H. pylori to escape clearance by exploiting functional plasticity of Mincle to strike a balance between pro-and anti-inflammatory responses ensuring its persistence in the host.


Inferior T hemisternotomy after previous bypass grafting with the in situ RITA in front of the aorta.
Aortic valvular surgery is often challenging in patients with coronary artery bypass (CABG) using in situ right internal thoracic artery (RITA) crossing in front of the aorta to the left anterior descending artery (LAD). Full sternotomy and aortic dissection result sometimes in graft injury and subsequent myocardial ischemia. The benefit of an inferior T hemisternotomy through the second intercostal space is discussed. The grafts are neither dissected nor clamped, and the access to the aortic root is excellent. Graft lesions are avoided. The absence of graft clamping does not seem to impair the myocardial function.


Usefulness of 3-dimensional reconstructed images of renal arteries using rotational digital subtraction angiography.
We assess the feasibility of a 3-dimensional (D) reconstruction technique of rotational digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for visualization of the renal arteries. We evaluated 28 kidneys in 20 patients. Rotational DSA images were obtained during a deep inspiratory pause after contrast material injection through the renal artery. Acquired data were transferred to an image workstation and reconstructed as 3-D images. Visibility of the main trunk of the renal artery, segmental arteries, interlobar arteries and arcuate arteries was classified as grade 4-excellent, grade 3-good, grade 2-satisfactory and grade 1-poor. The 3-D reconstructed images were compared with conventional 2-D DSA performed just before the rotational DSA. The criteria for evaluation were visibility of the aneurysm neck in 8 cases of aneurysm, delineation of the feeding arteries in 6 cases of renal lesions and visibility of the relationship between renal branches in other cases. Delineation of grades 4 to 1 was 93%, 7%, 0% and 0% for the main renal artery, 66%, 21%, 7% and 6% for segmental arteries, 61%, 11%, 21% and 7% for interlobar arteries, and 36%, 18%, 36% and 10% for arcuate arteries, respectively. The 3-D images had the advantage over 2-D DSA in 75% of cases. In all cases of aneurysm 3-D images were obviously more useful than 2-D DSA. 3-D images of renal arteries obtained with rotational DSA are considered acceptable for clinical use.


Expression of Y-Box-binding protein 1 in Chinese patients with breast cancer.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of Y-Box-binding protein 1 (YB-1) in breast cancer and its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis. Paraffin sections were retrospectively collected from 239 cases of stage I-III breast cancer patients and 30 healthy females who received surgery between January 2000 and December 2004 in the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital. The protein expression of YB-1 was detected by immunohistochemistry. The expression difference between the two groups and the correlation between YB-1 expression and clinicopathological characteristics and breast cancer prognosis were analyzed. Within the breast cancer group, YB-1 was expressed in the cytoplasm in 100.0% (239/239) of cases and in the nucleus in 36.8% (88/239) of cases. Within the control group of normal breast tissue, YB-1 was expressed in the cytoplasm in 100.0% (30/30) of cases and in the nucleus in 16.7% (5/30) of cases. The expression of YB-1 in the nucleus of breast cancer cells was significantly higher than that in normal breast tissue (P = 0.029). The expression of YB-1 in the nucleus of breast cancer cells positively correlated with the Scarff-Bloom-Richardson grade (P = 0.007) and HER-2 expression (P = 0.005), negatively correlated with ER expression (P = 0.004), and was independent of the age, menstrual status, pathological type, tumor size, lymph node status, presence of thrombosis, PR expression, and EGFR expression. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with positive YB-1 expression in the nucleus were significantly lower than those of patients who were negative for nuclear YB-1 expression, and the difference was statistically significant (DFS 65.9% vs. 82.1%, P = 0.000; OS 79.5% vs. 92.1%, P = 0.000). Multivariate analysis suggested that the expression of YB-1 in the nucleus is an independent prognostic factor that affects DFS and OS in breast cancer patients (DFS P = 0.015; OS P = 0.035). In conclusion, the expression of YB-1 in the nucleus is related to carcinogenesis and the development of breast cancer. Therefore, YB-1 is an important molecular marker that can be used to predict breast cancer prognosis.


Imaging in Osteoarthritis.
With technologic advances and the availability of sophisticated computer software and analytical strategies, imaging plays an increasingly important role in understanding the disease process of osteoarthritis (OA). Radiography has limitations in that it can visualize only limited features of OA, such as osteophytes and joint space narrowing, but remains the most commonly used modality for establishing an imaging-based diagnosis of OA. This article describes the roles and limitations of different imaging modalities and discusses the optimum imaging protocol, imaging diagnostic criteria of OA, differential diagnoses, and what the referring physician needs to know.