Serum ferritin, folate and cobalamin levels and their correlation with anemia in normal full-term pregnant women.
Serum ferritin, folate, cobalamin and hemoglobin concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay, radioisotopic assay, radioassay and an automated hematology analyser respectively, and then analysed in 221 normal full-term pregnant women in order to evaluate the incidence and the prevalence of nutritional anemia in pregnancy. None of them had received any hematonic during their pregnancy. Their mean age was 27.68 years and the mean duration of pregnancy was 39.51 weeks. Twenty-three (10.41%) of these previously non-anemic pregnant women had clinical anemia after full-term pregnancy. Of the 23 women, 11 (47.83%) had iron-deficiency anemia, with serum ferritin less than 12 micrograms/l; another 11 women had some degree of iron depletion, with serum ferritin less than 20 micrograms/l. So in 22 of the 23 anemic women (95.65%) the cause of anemia may correlate to iron depletion. The remaining one had folate-deficiency anemia. No pure cobalamin deficiency anemia was found in this study. Among the 198 non-anemic normal full-term pregnant women, 92 (46.46%) had iron depletion (serum ferritin less than 20 micrograms/l), of whom 35 (17.68%) had severe iron deficiency, with serum ferritin less than 12 micrograms/l. Another 3 had folate deficiency and 3 had cobalamin deficiency. By including all the anemic and non-anemic pregnant women, 114 (51.58%) of them had some degree of iron depletion. In other words, pregnancy can produce a considerable degree of iron depletion in more than half of the previously non-anemic women.


The low power effect on holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP); A comparison between 20W and 37,5W energy regarding apical enucleation efficacy and patient safety.
The Holmium laser has proven to be an invaluable tool for endoscopic prostate enucleation. The proper energy selection, during the different steps of the procedure, has always been a matter of debate. In this work we compare the effectiveness of the Holmium laser, using two different low-power energy settings, during enucleation and hemostasis (20W and 37.5W). One hundred and sixty patients underwent a HoLEP procedure with a 50Hz and 2J (100W) setting. During enuleation and hemostasis, two different low-power settings were applied (20W vs. 37.5W). In both groups, only the prostatic tissue in the bladder neck and enucleated tissue far away from the apex, were cut with a setting of 50Hz and 2J (100W). The mean enucleation efficiency (0.78 vs. 1.2g/min-p:001) was significantly higher by utilizing 37.5W energy (group 2). Additionally, the mean enucleation rate (0.64 vs. 0.88%-P:0.001) and laser efficiency (2.07 vs. 2.12 joule/g-P:0.003) were significantly higher in group 2. The enucleation time was significantly shorter (54 vs. 75.5 mins-P:0.002), while the mean catheter removal time (27 vs. 42 hrs-P:0.008) and Hb decrease (0.5 vs. 0.6g/dl--P:0.019) were significantly lower in group 2. HoLEP can be performed efficiently with 100 W-37.5W settings. Enucleation and hemostasis can be performed successfully with 37.5W, while the use of 100W during bladder neck dissection shortens the duration of the procedure. 3.


Implementation of innovative medical technologies in German inpatient care: patterns of utilization and evidence development.
Innovative medical technologies are commonly associated with positive expectations. At the time of their introduction into care, there is often little evidence available regarding their benefits and harms. Accordingly, some innovative medical technologies with a lack of evidence are used widely until or even though findings of adverse events emerge, while others with study results supporting their safety and effectiveness remain underused. This study aims at examining the diffusion patterns of innovative medical technologies in German inpatient care between 2005 and 2017 while simultaneously considering evidence development. Based on a qualitatively derived typology and a quantitative clustering of the adoption curves, a representative sample of 21 technologies was selected for further evaluation. Published scientific evidence on efficacy/effectiveness and safety of the technologies was identified and extracted in a systematic approach. Derived from a two-dimensional classification according to the degree of utilization and availability of supportive evidence, the diffusion patterns were then assigned to the categories "Success" (widespread/positive), "Hazard" (widespread/negative), "Overadoption" (widespread/limited or none), "Underadoption" (cautious/positive), "Vigilance" (cautious/negative), and "Prudence" (cautious/limited or none). Overall, we found limited evidence on the examined technologies regarding both the quantity and quality of published randomized controlled trials. Thus, the categories "Prudence" and "Overadoption" together account for nearly three-quarters of the years evaluated, followed by "Success" with 17%. Even when evidence is available, the transfer of knowledge into practice appears to be inhibited. The successful implementation of safe and effective innovative medical technologies into practice requires substantial further efforts by policymakers to strengthen systematic knowledge generation and translation. Creating an environment that encourages the conduct of rigorous studies, promotes knowledge translation, and rewards innovative medical technologies according to their added value is a prerequisite for the diffusion of valuable health care.


Quantitative analysis of flavanones from citrus fruits by using mesoporous molecular sieve-based miniaturized solid phase extraction coupled to ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.
An analytical procedure based on miniaturized solid phase extraction (SPE) and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated for determination of six flavanones in Citrus fruits. The mesoporous molecular sieve SBA-15 as a solid sorbent was characterised by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, compared with reported extraction techniques, the mesoporous SBA-15 based SPE method possessed the advantages of shorter analysis time and higher sensitivity. Furthermore, considering the different nature of the tested compounds, all of the parameters, including the SBA-15 amount, solution pH, elution solvent, and the sorbent type, were investigated in detail. Under the optimum condition, the instrumental detection and quantitation limits calculated were less than 4.26 and 14.29ngmL(-1), respectively. The recoveries obtained for all the analytes were ranging from 89.22% to 103.46%. The experimental results suggested that SBA-15 was a promising material for the purification and enrichment of target flavanones from complex citrus fruit samples.


Two New Prenylated Glycine Derivatives from the Marine-Derived Fungus Fusarium sp. TW56-10.
Two new prenylated glycine derivatives N-({4-[(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl)oxy]phenyl}acetyl)glycine (1) and methyl N-({4-[(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl)oxy]phenyl}acetyl)glycinate (2), along with nine known compounds (3-11) were purified from the marine-derived fungus Fusarium sp. TW56-10. Their chemical structures were determined by spectroscopic evidence, including extensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy (HR-ESI-MS) data, infrared radiation (IR) and Ultraviolet spectra (UV). Compound 4 (8-O-methylfusarubin) exhibited cytotoxic activity with IC50 value of 11.45 μM for A549 cells.


Examination of Health Care Providers' Use of Language in Diabetes Care: A Secondary Qualitative Data Analysis.
The purpose of this secondary qualitative data analysis was to assess the frequency and context of stigmatizing language used by health care providers (HCPs). The authors conducted content and thematic analysis of in-depth face-to-face and telephone interviews with HCPs in southeastern Ohio. Participants frequently used labeling language, such as "diabetic" and "noncompliant," as well as language with negative connotations, such as "control," "testing," and "regimen." These findings offer a real-world glimpse of how HCPs communicate about people with diabetes in this region of the country.


Augmentation in the repair of traumatic patellar tendon ruptures. A novel mechanical and biological construct: Technical note.
Patellar tendon ruptures are infrequent and potentially disabling injuries. These injuries are usually repaired with transosseous suture tunnels. However, this technique can produce a significant gap formation and prolonged postoperative immobilization. Although several techniques have been described to improve the integrity of the repair, the surgical technique of choice is a matter of debate especially when there is tissue loss due to high-energy trauma. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with acute patellar tendon ruptures due to high-energy trauma treated with a novel construct configuration that includes a suture anchor and a figure-of-eight augmentation with hamstring autograft with medial and lateral reinforcement. To determine the clinical outcomes the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was obtained pre-surgery and at 12 months of follow-up. A total of six patients were recruited, with a median age of 27.5 years, five of these were male. Three lesions were in the proximal pole of the tendon, two were mid-substance and one was in the junction with tibial tuberosity. The IKDC clinical score significantly increased from pre-surgery to the 12-month follow-up with a median difference of 32.8 (95% CI, 19.5-42.6, p = 0.0313). Likewise, the patients presented a post-surgery quadriceps strength level with a median of 5/5. All patients had full active knee extension with a median of 0-120°. There was no statistical difference in the range of motion comparing the surgical knee to the contralateral knee (p = 0.6883). No patient presented any type of reintervention or complication during the follow-up period. The configuration of the construct presented in the technique had not been reported before in the literature and combines the advantages of the use of suture anchors and biological augmentation with lateral and medial reinforcement. This technique may be useful in patients with traumatic injuries with and without loss of tissue. Although it is a small series with concomitant injuries, satisfactory clinical results were presented during follow-up.


Chromosomal damage induced by some ergot derivatives in vitro.
Three ergot derivatives, dihydroergotoxine, ergotamine and methysergide, were tested for their ability to induce chromosomal damage in human lymphocytes in culture. The aberration frequency was significantly increased after treatment of the cells with 0.1 microng/ml, 0.25 microng/ml and 0.5 microng/ml of each drug. However the degree of damage was considerably less than that produced by 0.1 mg/ml to 0.5 mg/ml of caffeine, which was used as a positive control and is a known mutagen in this test-system.


Membrane fatty acid modification in tumor cells: a potential therapeutic adjunct.
The fatty acid compositions of several tumors have been modified sufficiently to alter some of their properties and functions. These modifications were produced in culture by adding specific fatty acids to the growth medium or by feeding fat-supplemented diets to tumor-bearing mice. The phospholipid fatty acid composition of the plasma membrane was modified, but there were no changes in membrane phospholipid or cholesterol content or in phospholipid head group composition. Each of the most abundant membrane phosphoglyceride fractions exhibited some degree of fatty acid modification. Electron spin resonance measurements with nitroxystearate spin probes indicated that the fatty acid modifications were sufficient to alter the physical properties of the plasma membrane. The K'm for methotrexate uptake was reduced when the L1210 leukemia cells were enriched in linoleic acid. Even when the kinetics of uptake at 37 C were not altered, such as for melphalan and phenylalanine uptake, the temperature transition of transport was modified, indicating that these transport systems also are responsive to the membrane fatty acid modifications. Enrichment with highly polyunsaturated fatty acid did not affect either the growth rate or radiosensitivity of the L1210 leukemia. However, the sensitivity of the L1210 cells to the cytotoxic effects of Adriamycin and hyperthermia was increased. These findings suggest the possibility that fatty acid modification of tumors may be a useful adjunct to certain currently available therapeutic modalities.


Primary epidermoid carcinoma of the breast presenting as a breast abscess and sepsis.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the breast is an extremely rare form of cancer, accounting for approximately 0.04% of all malignant breast tumors. To date, only a limited number of cases of SCC of the breast have been reported, and most of them presented like the usual breast carcinomas. A 39-year-old woman presented with a large breast abscess and signs of sepsis. After surgical debridement of the lesion, histopathological examination of the abscess capsule revealed the presence of SCC of the breast. The definitive treatment for the tumor consisted of modified radical mastectomy with resection of the residual lesion in the right breast. This unusual case illustrates how an apparently benign disorder such as a breast abscess might be related to a clinically occult malignancy. A review of the literature on SCC of the breast is presented.


Revision of the Massarineae (Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes).
We here taxonomically revise the suborder Massarineae (Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota). Sequences of SSU and LSU nrDNA and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene (tef1) are newly obtained from 106 Massarineae taxa that are phylogenetically analysed along with published sequences of 131 taxa in this suborder retrieved from GenBank. We recognise 12 families and five unknown lineages in the Massarineae. Among the nine families previously known, the monophyletic status of the Dictyosporiaceae, Didymosphaeriaceae, Latoruaceae, Macrodiplodiopsidaceae, Massarinaceae, Morosphaeriaceae, and Trematosphaeriaceae was strongly supported with bootstrap support values above 96 %, while the clades of the Bambusicolaceae and the Lentitheciaceae are moderately supported. Two new families, Parabambusicolaceae and Sulcatisporaceae, are proposed. The Parabambusicolaceae is erected to accommodate Aquastroma and Parabambusicola genera nova, as well as two unnamed Monodictys species. The Parabambusicolaceae is characterised by depressed globose to hemispherical ascomata with or without surrounding stromatic tissue, and multi-septate, clavate to fusiform, hyaline ascospores. The Sulcatisporaceae is established for Magnicamarosporium and Sulcatispora genera nova and Neobambusicola. The Sulcatisporaceae is characterised by subglobose ascomata with a short ostiolar neck, trabeculate pseudoparaphyses, clavate asci, broadly fusiform ascospores, and ellipsoid to subglobose conidia with or without striate ornamentation. The genus Periconia and its relatives are segregated from the Massarinaceae and placed in a resurrected family, the Periconiaceae. We have summarised the morphological and ecological features, and clarified the accepted members of each family. Ten new genera, 22 new species, and seven new combinations are described and illustrated. The complete ITS sequences of nrDNA are also provided for all new taxa for use as barcode markers.


Evaluation of the college-based HIV/AIDS education policy in Beijing, China: a mixed method approach.
From 2010 to 2015, there was a twofold growth of new HIV/AIDS infection in Beijing among young students aged 15-24. HIV/AIDS education was found effective in promoting positive behavior change related to HIV/AIDS prevention. However, little evidence was found on the evaluation of HIV/AIDS education policy. This study aimed to evaluate the college-based HIV/AIDS education policy in Beijing. By using a mixed method approach, the current study reviewed college-based HIV/AIDS education policy at national level and in Beijing from 1985 to 2016 and conducted policy content analysis to evaluate the policy ability to structure implementation. Cross-sectional surveys in 2006 and 2016 were used to evaluate college's implementation of relevant policies. T test, χ2 test, and logistic regression were used to analyze college students' perception of HIV/AIDS education provided in their colleges and their knowledge of HIV/AIDS and their risk factors. Fourteen pieces of national policy and four pieces of Beijing's policy were identified. Policy's ability to structure implementation was at moderate level. The percentage of students in Beijing who ever perceived HIV/ADIS education at colleges decreased from 71.14 to 39.80%, and the percentage of students with comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS dropped from 50.00% in 2006 to 40.42% in 2016. HIV/AIDS education in college had drawn considerable attentions from the Chinese government, while the policy implementation needs further strengthening.


Surface hydroxyl groups functionalized graphite carbon nitride for high efficient removal of diquat dibromide from water.
In the study, we present a quick potassium hydroxide heat treatment approach to optimize the "melon" framework of graphite carbon nitride and modify the surface properties by functionalization of hydroxyl groups. The hydroxyl groups functionalized g-CN samples have been applied as bifunctional materials for efficient elimination of diquat dibromide herbicide through synergistic adsorption/photodegradation processes. The structural characterizations of the as-obtained samples, combined with the detailed diquat dibromide herbicide adsorption study, reveal that the surface hydroxyl groups are the active sites for the diquat dibromide adsorption, which account for the much enhanced saturation adsorption capacities of 159.3 mg g-1 at 25 °C and pH = 7 (more than 110 times improvement compared with pristine carbon nitride). Furthermore, the grafted surface hydroxyl groups and optimized planar structures endow the functionalized samples with the advantageous properties of efficient photoinduced charge transfer and separation, low interface resistance, and high photoresponse. Consequently, the deep mineralization of diquat dibromide herbicide was achieved over the bifunctional materials (total removal ratios were ~ 97.1% after 240 min visible-light irradiation). This work not only demonstrates the feasibility of hydroxyl groups functionalized graphite carbon nitride for elimination of herbicide pollutants but also offers new insights to better design efficient and durable materials for environmental remediation.


[Empacho: An historical review of popular Chilean childhood disease (1674-2014)].
"Empacho" (abdominal pain and bloating), "mal de ojo" (evil eye), "los aires" (illnesses said to be caught by catching draughts), "el susto" or "espanto" (fright or panic), are the principal and most well-known popular Latin American illnesses. As regards empacho, the medical, historical and ethnographic information is extensive and detailed, since there documents recording it from the 16th century until recent times (2014), and in the case of Chile since 1674. For this review, 109 source documents from libraries in Chile, including some foreign ones, were consulted. It was found that the illness is known all over the country. It is a digestive system disorder caused by over-eating and the ingestion of products difficult to digest or indigestible, which cause problems in gastrointestinal transit. The most significant clinical data are gastralgia, diarrhoea or constipation, vomiting, fever, and other discomforts. The illness is treated at home, and if necessary, popular specialists are employed, with a visit to a qualified doctor being exceptional. There are many complex and combined treatments, which go from herbal products to ritual elements, not forgetting the so-called "quebradura del empacho". This review summary of empacho in Chile should enable the paediatrician to enter the world of popular knowledge and practices with the aim of improving the care of child patients and their families. It should also lead to the serious and systematic study of this nosological condition that will continue to exist in the future.


Effect of combined exercise training on bone, body balance, and gait ability: a randomized controlled study in community-dwelling elderly women.
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a 48-week multicomponent exercise program could improve the risk factors for fall and hip fracture. Fifty elderly women 65-70 years of age participated. These participants were divided into an exercise group (25 subjects) that attended an exercise program and a control group (25 subjects) that did not. The exercise program included stretching for 9 min, strength training for 10 min followed by 23 min of weight-bearing exercise at an intensity above 65%-75% of the maximal heart rate, and 18 min of balance and posture correction training. The program was conducted three times per week for 48 weeks. The 10-m maximal walk time, maximal step length, and eyes-open-one-legged-stand time in the exercise group improved significantly (P < 0.05). Concerning deoxypyridinoline, the exercise group achieved a significant improvement (P < 0.05) after the 48 weeks. Bone mineral density (BMD) of the femoral neck and trochanter in the exercise group was significantly increased after the exercise program; also body sway was significantly improved (P < 0.05). In conclusion, a multi-component exercise program with weight-bearing exercise at a moderate intensity and gait training may be effective in offsetting a decline in BMD and improving aggravation of bone resorption in this population. In addition, this program has a positive effect on postural stability and gait ability.


Real-world evidence for oncological outcomes after radiotherapy or surgery for T1a-T1b glottic squamous cell carcinoma: A population-based cohort study.
Compare outcomes after surgery (S) or radiotherapy (RT) for T1a-T1b glottic squamous cell carcinoma (T1GSCC) in a population-based cohort study. Patients diagnosed with T1GSCC from 1999 to 2020 were identified from a public database. Clinical, demographic, and social data were extracted. Treatment and patient groups and subgroups were compared with log-rank test, Cox proportional test, and propensity-score matched (PSM). Eight hundred and eighty-eight patients with T1GSCC were included in the study, with a median follow-up of 61 months. The 5- and 10-year overall survival (OS) S versus RT were 76% versus 71% and 60% versus 52% (p = 0.02), respectively. In the subgroup analysis, S was associated with better OS for T1b, male, and public service patients (p < 0.05). In the PSM cohort of S versus RT with 110 patients each, there was no significant difference in the OS, CSS, and LC. T1GSCC has favorable outcomes with S or RT.


Effects of mobilization and tactile stimulation on recovery of the hemiplegic upper limb: a series of replicated single-system studies.
To explore the effects on motor function and impairment of mobilization and tactile stimulation for the paretic arm and hand after stroke. Replicated single-system series, ABA design. The stroke rehabilitation ward of a community hospital in the United Kingdom. Consecutive sample, men and women (N=6) with stroke (left or right), within 3 months of onset. Sixty minutes of daily mobilization and tactile stimulation to the paretic arm and hand for 6 weeks in addition to the usual rehabilitation program. Focal disability (Action Research Arm Test [ARAT]) and motor impairment (Motricity Index arm section). All participants showed visual change in 1 or more of trend, level, or slope between baseline and intervention phases for both the ARAT and the Motricity Index. The visual analysis was confirmed through statistical testing (c statistic and/or Mann-Whitney U test) for 5 of 6 participants (statistical analysis was precluded for 1 participant). No further improvements were made on intervention withdrawal. This study shows proof of concept for using mobilization and tactile stimulation to improve motor recovery after severe paresis, justifying conducting dose-finding studies as a precursor to multicenter phase III clinical trials.


Optical properties of pigmented polydimethylsiloxane prosthetic elastomers: effect of "outdoor" and "indoor" accelerating aging.
Optical properties of facial prosthetic elastomers undergo significant changes mainly due to aging. The resulting changes in their appearance are the main reasons of facial prosthesis' replacement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in the translucency parameter (TP) and color (ΔE*) of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) maxillofacial elastomers after exposure to 3 different aging conditions (time passage, accelerated "outdoor" aging, and accelerated "indoor" aging). The PDMS prosthetic elastomers tested in this study were low- (LTV) and high-temperature vulcanized (Episil and Mollomed, respectively) in various shades. Color changes (ΔE*) and translucency parameter (TP) were determined in the CIE L*a*b* system using a tristimulus colorimeter. Data were subjected to 2-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey post hoc test. In addition, TP values were analyzed by paired t tests. The significance level of α = 0.05 was set for all tests. Translucency parameter values for most samples were significantly changed after aging, and ΔE* values were characterized as unacceptable. Both aging procedure and material type affected the changes that occurred. Moreover, dark-shaded samples of both silicone materials revealed significant changes in TP values before and after aging. ΔE* was not significantly different among the same material samples but had significant differences between the 2 materials (Episil and Mollomed). Time passage did not significantly affect TP values contrary to the other 2 accelerated aging procedures. Between outdoor and indoor aging, no significant differences were detected. Accelerated outdoor and indoor aging caused significant changes in ΔE* and TP values. Significant changes were also detected between material types.


Hybrid fixation improves structural properties of a free tendon anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.
This study sought to characterize the structural properties of a combined bioabsorbable interference screw and closed loop and button fixation technique (Hybrid) for femoral fixation of a free tendon graft versus a bioabsorbable interference screw or closed loop and button suspension fixation method alone. Eighteen porcine femora and quadrupled cadaveric flexor tendons were treated in 3 experimental fixation study groups: (1) closed loop and button suspension (CLBS), (2) bioabsorbable interference screw (BIF), and (3) closed loop and button suspension with supplemental biodegradable interference screw (Hybrid). An Instron testing machine (Instron, Canton, MA) was used to quantify each group's structural properties with cyclic loading and tensile load-to-failure. A video digitizing system measured graft deformation during load-to-failure. The Hybrid fixation group had significantly greater structural properties compared with the CLBS or BIF group. Ultimate loads (mean [SEM] in Newtons) were 1184 (88) N, 813 (83) N, and 561 (62) N for the Hybrid fixation group, CLBS group, and BIF group, respectively. Quasi-steady state cyclic stiffness (mean [SEM] in Newtons per millimeter) was also greatest for the Hybrid fixation group at 165 (11) N/mm, compared with CLBS (122 [8] N/mm), and BIF (95 [9] N/mm). Femoral free tendon hybrid fixation provides superior structural properties under tensile and cyclic displacement conditions while preserving the working length of the native anterior cruciate ligament. Hybrid femoral fixation may minimize postoperative laxity for free tendon anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.


Prognosticating role of serum eosinophils on immunotherapy efficacy in patients with advanced melanoma.
Aim: To evaluate serum eosinophilia (≥500 peripheral eosinophil counts/microliter) in prognosticating immunotherapy (IO) efficacy. Methodology: A retrospective study of 86 patients with advanced melanoma on PD-1 inhibitors. Results: Eosinophilia-on-IO was an independent prognosticating factor for median OS (HR :0.223; 95% CI: 0.088-0.567; p = 0.002). 'Late eosinophilia' (≥1 year from IO start date) group had better median OS (31.9 vs 24.1 vs 13.0 months; p = 0.002) when compared with 'early eosinophilia' (<1 year from IO start date) and 'no eosinophilia' groups, respectively. Conclusion: Eosinophilia-on-IO and its timing were associated with better IO efficacy in patients with advanced melanoma. Our findings provided insights on potential therapeutic benefit of inducing eosinophilia at certain interval time to obtain a longer durable immunotherapy response.


Ascomycins in dermatology.
Ascomycin derivatives represent a novel class of anti-inflammatory macrolactams that are under development for the treatment of skin diseases. The main biological effect of ascomycins is a blockage of the synthesis of both Th1- and Th2-type cytokines in target cells. SDZ ASM 981 is the most advanced ascomycin derivative under development. It has high antiinflammatory activity in animal models of allergic contact dermatitis and does not induce skin atrophy. Topical application of SDZ ASM 981 has been shown to be effective in atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic contact dermatitis. Clinical studies using semi-occlusive conditions have also shown effectiveness in psoriasis. SDZ ASM 981 holds promise in overcoming the drawbacks of topical corticosteroids and studies are ongoing to further investigate its efficacy and safety in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.


A systematic review of associations between the primary school built environment and childhood overweight and obesity.
This systematic review considers current literature on the association between childhood overweight and obesity and the primary school built environment. Bibliographic databases from the fields of medicine, social science, exercise science and education were systematically searched. The following elements of the built environment were found to have been investigated: playground availability and adequacy; gymnasium availability and adequacy; school field, showers and covered playground availability. One intervention study was identified which utilized the built environment as an adjunct to a behavior change intervention. This systematic review identified minimal research upon the association between the school built environment and weight status and the current results are inconclusive.


In vivo assembly of regularly spaced nucleosomes on mouse beta maj-globin DNA cloned in an SV40 recombinant.
Short-term transformation of HeLa cells with an SV40 recombinant carrying a 7.0-Kb mouse genomic globin DNA was studied. It was found that 48 h after transfection the donor DNA was present in the cell nucleus at high copy episomal numbers with the globin gene in regularly spaced nucleosomal form and transcribed into 9S poly A+ RNA. These mini-chromosomes can be isolated in sufficient quantity to allow further biochemical and electron microscopic studies.


[Current status of biotechnology in animal breeding].
On the basis of the embryo transfer new and developing biotechnologies including cryopreservation of embryos, sex predetermination and sex diagnosis (sexing), in vitro fertilization, cloning and production of chimaeras and of transgenic animals are discussed.


Imaging of neurogenetic and neurometabolic disorders of childhood.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as a powerful tool in the study of normal and abnormal brain structure, function, and biochemistry. In particular, functional MRI has come into its own as a tool to study normal and abnormal brain functions such as learning, memory, and motor learning, as well as delineation of neurogenetic cognitive phenotypes. White matter microstructure can be studied using diffusion tensor imaging, which may allow abnormal white matter to be visualized prior to abnormalities on anatomic MRI. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy, a noninvasive method to study brain biochemistry, may allow for the delineation of regional metabolic changes as a result of disease progression and/or therapeutic intervention. With MRI techniques, one can investigate the relationship between structure, function, genes, and behavior. This report discusses the research applications of MRI to the study of neurogenetic disorders of childhood.


Synergistic Drug Combination Prediction by Integrating Multiomics Data in Deep Learning Models.
Intrinsic and acquired drug resistance is a major challenge in cancer therapy. Synergistic drug combinations could help to overcome drug resistance. However, the number of possible drug combinations is enormous, and it is infeasible to experimentally screen all drug combinations with limited resources. Therefore, computational models to predict and prioritize effective drug combinations are important for combination therapy discovery. Compared with existing models, we propose a novel deep learning model, AuDNNsynergy, to predict the synergy of pairwise drug combinations by integrating multiomics data. Specifically, three autoencoders are trained using the gene expression, copy number, and genetic mutation data of tumor samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Then the gene expression, copy number, and mutation of individual cancer cell lines are coded using the three trained autoencoders. The physicochemical features of individual drugs and the encoded omics data of individual cancer cell lines are used as the input features of a deep neural network that predicts the synergy score of given pairwise drug combinations against the specific cancer cell lines. The comparison results showed the proposed AuDNNsynergy model outperforms, specifically in terms of rank correlation metric, four state-of-the-art approaches, namely, DeepSynergy, Gradient Boosting Machines, Random Forests, and Elastic Nets.


Thrombocytopenia and drugs.
Thrombocytopenia is a relatively common side effect of drug therapy. The pathogenetic mechanisms of drug-induced thrombocytopenia are varied and sometimes poorly understood. Immunologic and other cytotoxic effects may result in decreased production and/or increased destruction of platelets. The pathogenesis of drug-induced thrombocytopenia is reviewed. Diagnosis and treatment are also discussed.


An in vitro recombination-based reverse genetic system for rapid mutagenesis of structural genes of the Japanese encephalitis virus.
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is one of the most common pathogens of severe viral encephalitis, which is a severe threat to human health. Despite instability of the JEV genome in bacteria, many strategies have been developed to establish molecular clone systems of JEV, providing convenient tools for studying the virus life cycle and virus-host interactions. In this study, we adapted an In-Fusion enzyme-based in vitro recombination method to construct a reverse genetic system of JEV, thereby providing a rapid approach to introduce mutations into the structural genes. A truncated genome without the structural genes was constructed as the backbone, and the complementary segment containing the structural genes was recombined in vitro, which was then transfected directly into virus-permissive cells. The progeny of the infectious virus was successfully detected in the supernatant of the transfected cells, and showed an identical phenotype to its parental virus. To provide a proof-of-principle, the 12 conserved cysteine residues in the envelope (E) protein of JEV were respectively mutated using this approach, and all mutations resulted in a complete failure to generate infectious virus. However, a leucine-tophenylanine mutation at amino acid 107 of the E protein did not interfere with the production of the infectious virus. These results suggested that all 12 cysteines in the E protein are essential for the JEV life cycle. In summary, a novel reverse genetic system of JEV was established for rapidly introducing mutations into structural genes, which will serve as a useful tool for functional studies.


The Neuropeptide Spexin Promotes the Osteoblast Differentiation of MC3T3-E1 Cells via the MEK/ERK Pathway and Bone Regeneration in a Mouse Calvarial Defect Model.
The neural regulation of bone regeneration has emerged recently. Spexin (SPX) is a novel neuropeptide and regulates multiple biological functions. However, the effects of SPX on osteogenic differentiation need to be further investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of SPX on osteogenic differentiation, possible underlying mechanisms, and bone regeneration. In this study, MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with various concentrations of SPX. Cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation marker expressions, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and mineralization were evaluated using the CCK-8 assay, reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), ALP staining, and alizarin red S staining, respectively. To determine the underlying molecular mechanism of SPX, the phosphorylation levels of signaling molecules were examined via western blot analysis. Moreover, in vivo bone regeneration by SPX (0.5 and 1 µg/µl) was evaluated in a calvarial defect model. New bone formation was analyzed using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histology. The results indicated that cell proliferation was not affected by SPX. However, SPX significantly increased ALP activity, mineralization, and the expression of genes for osteogenic differentiation markers, including runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Alp, collagen alpha-1(I) chain (Col1a1), osteocalcin (Oc), and bone sialoprotein (Bsp). In contrast, SPX downregulated the expression of ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (Enpp1). Moreover, SPX upregulated phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1/2) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2). In vivo studies, micro-CT and histologic analysis revealed that SPX markedly increased a new bone formation. Overall, these results demonstrated that SPX stimulated osteogenic differentiation in vitro and increased in vivo bone regeneration via the MEK/ERK pathway.


Recent advances in lignin antioxidant: Antioxidant mechanism, evaluation methods, influence factors and various applications.
Lignin, a by-product of processing lignocellulosic materials, has a polyphenolic structure and can be used as an antioxidant directly or synergistically with synthetic types of antioxidants, leading to different applications. Its antioxidant mechanism is mainly related to the production of ROS, but the details need to be further investigated. The antioxidant property of lignin is mainly related to the content of phenolic hydroxyl group, but methoxy, purity will also have an effect on it. In addition, different methods to detect the antioxidant properties of lignin have different advantages and disadvantages. In this paper, the antioxidant mechanism of lignin, the methods to determine the antioxidant activity and the progress of its application in various fields are reviewed. In addition, the current research on the antioxidant properties of lignin and the hot directions are provided, and an outlook on the research into the antioxidant properties of lignin is provided to broaden its potential application areas.


A short review of diagnosis and compression therapy of chronic venous insufficiency.
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a venous disorder in the lower extremities associated with changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Treatment with short-stretch compression bandages is highly recommended for advanced stages of CVI. The compression systems Rosidal Sys, Porelast, Coban, and Proguide were evaluated in 4 groups of mobile and active patients (n = 18) with CVI stage II or III. Sub-bandage pressures at point B1 were measured in the upright and supine positions 30 min and 12 h after the bandage was applied. Average pressures and values of the static stiffness index (SSI) were calculated for each group. The Porelast, Rosidal Sys and Coban systems had SSI values in excess of 10 mmHg, 30 min and 12 h after application. The corresponding values for Proguide were below 10 mmHg. Porelast, Rosidal Sys and Coban are very stiff systems, whereas Proguide is more similar to long-stretch compression bandages with a lower degree of stiffness.


Predictors of delay in seeking treatment by Jordanian patients with acute coronary syndrome.
ACS management aims for early coronary reperfusion, which should be within one hour from symptoms onset. This time was found to be relatively long, and many patients died before hospital arrival. In Jordan, this phenomenon is not clearly understood with a discrepancy between the reported durations of delay time. To evaluate Jordanian ACS patients' delay time in seeking medical care, along with predictors of delay. A descriptive, cross-sectional design was utilized to conveniently recruit 160 Jordanian ACS patients. Data were collected using chart review and the Modified ACS Response Questionnaire. The mean delay time was 7.8 hours (SD =3.5), with none of participants presenting within one hour. Delay time correlated negatively with ACS history, knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and perceived risk (r = -0.448, r = -0.400, r = -0.408, r = -0.261, r = -0.411, respectively) and positively with health perception (r = 0.469). A 4-predictor model (history, beliefs, health perception, STEMI diagnosis) was revealed explaining 40% of variance in delay time (R(2)=.400, F (14,145) = 6.908, P < .001). Improving ACS patients' health seeking behaviors can be achieved when all components of care are considered together.


Incidence and morphology of the incisive suture in CT scanning of young children and human fetuses.
Incisive suture is a suture classically described on the oral face of the palate in fetuses and young children. The aim of our study was to describe the evolution of the incisive suture in human fetuses and to evaluate the incidence of this suture in a population of young children under 4 years, to determine if there is a possibility of improving the anterior growth of the maxilla, by stimulation of this suture. One hundred and thirty CT scan images of patients aged from birth to 48 months have been studied and nine fetal palates aged from 18 to 26 weeks of development, have been scanned using high-resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography RESULTS: The CT scan images of patients showed that an incisive suture was present in 33/130 cases (25,4%). All the patients with a suture were under 2 years old. The fetal palate study showed that the suture was present in the inferior aspect of the palate (oral cavity) in all cases. The incisive suture increased from 18 to 24 weeks. At 26 weeks it stopped growing although the intercanine length increased. Considering the closure of the suture in a vertical plane, our study on fetuses has shown that the incisive suture is closing from its superior side (nasal side) to its inferior side. Considering all these results it appears to us that the incisive suture is partially ossified after birth, it cannot be stimulated by orthodontic appliances.


[Chewing tobacco. An emerging habit among adolescents].
In France, unlike in the United States and Scandinavia, the use of "smokeless tobacco" (also called "chewing tobacco") was rare, but this habit is starting to expand, especially in the world of sports. At ski championships, for example, it is used as a doping agent. Adolescents in mountain areas are now imitating their competitive-skiing peers. A 16-year-old girl living in a ski resort became addicted to the tobacco paste, "Snuss", and consumed 15-20 doses of Snuss daily, together with a dozen cigarettes. "Smokeless tobacco" is emerging as a habit in France, its use encouraged by its discretion, low cost, and rapid induction of addiction. Its growth in Alpine areas requires the urgent development of impact studies to facilitate the organization of information campaigns to treat and prevent its use.


Multi-source dynamic ensemble prediction of infectious disease and application in COVID-19 case.
The development of an epidemic always exhibits multiwave oscillation owing to various anthropogenic sources of transmission. Particularly in populated areas, the large-scaled human mobility led to the transmission of the virus faster and more complex. The accurate prediction of the spread of infectious diseases remains a problem. To solve this problem, we propose a new method called the multi-source dynamic ensemble prediction (MDEP) method that incorporates a modified susceptible-exposed-infected-removed (SEIR) model to improve the accuracy of the prediction result. The modified SEIR model is based on the compartment model, which is suitable for local-scale and confined spaces, where human mobility on a large scale is not considered. Moreover, compartmental models cannot be used to predict multiwave epidemics. The proposed MDEP method can remedy defects in the compartment model. In this study, multi-source prediction was made on the development of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and dynamically assembled to obtain the final integrated result. We used the real epidemic data of COVID-19 in three cities in China: Beijing, Lanzhou, and Beihai. Epidemiological data were collected from 17 April, 2022 to 12 August, 2022. Compared to the one-wave modified SEIR model, the MDEP method can depict the multiwave development of COVID-19. The MDEP method was applied to predict the number of cumulative cases of recent COVID-19 outbreaks in the aforementioned cities in China. The average accuracy rates in Beijing, Lanzhou, and Beihai were 89.15%, 91.74%, and 94.97%, respectively. The MDEP method improved the prediction accuracy of COVID-19. With further application to other infectious diseases, the MDEP method will provide accurate predictions of infectious diseases and aid governments make appropriate directives.


Has the impact of the working time regulations changed neurosurgical trainees' attitudes towards the European working time directive 5 years on?
We report the results from a survey of the British Neurosurgical Trainees' Association which aimed to assess current rota patterns and their compliance with the government's working time regulations. The survey questioned whether trainees felt that shift working, imposed as a result of the European working time directive, is continuing to impact on patient care and training opportunities in neurosurgery. The responses to this survey indicate that neurosurgical trainees remain concerned with the impact that the current working time regulations have on all facets of their work: training, work- life balance, and the provision of patient care. The survey comments show that the majority would support a change in legislation to allow greater flexibility in the working time regulations.


Complications of Paediatric Cochlear Implantation in the Population of Uttarakhand.
Cochlear implants surgery is now routinely done at this center. Complications which have been experienced in cochlear implant surgery at our center are discussed, as a detailed knowledge about the complications and their early anticipation can save an expensive device and most importantly patients morbidity. To discuss the complications of the paediatric cochlear implantation in the population of Uttarakhand. The total of 60 patients were included in this study (age group 1-5 years) who had undergone the cochlear implantation surgery between Sept. 2015 and Sept. 2016. These patients were regularly monitored and followed up for 1 year. All the surgeries were performed by same team of surgeons. Rate of minor complications is 8.33% (reversible facial nerve paresis, injury to chorda tympani nerve, local skin reaction, perilymph gussher) and major complications is 5% (implant rejection and flap necrosis). The various complications should be closely monitored by the surgeon so that these can be avoided.


Genetic variation and relationships at five STR loci in five distinct ethnic groups in China.
Five short tandem repeat (STR) systems of TH01, vWA, LPL, F13B and FES/FPS were investigated in five ethnic groups living in China (Tujia, Miao, Bai, Chaoxian and Han). All five loci did not deviate from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P>0.05). At the five loci of each ethnic group, the observed heterozygosity, the mean exclusion chance (MEC), and the power of discrimination (PD) ranged from 0.42 to 0.86, from 0.20 to 0.66 and from 0.61 to 0.95, respectively. For the five ethnic groups, the combined MEC and combined PD were >0. 9360 and >0.9998, respectively, suggesting that combinations of these five systems are feasible for DNA typing in forensic investigations such as personal identification or paternity testing. Furthermore, the allelic frequencies at the five loci suggested that these five ethnic groups were distinctly different communities. Judging from the phylogenetic tree constructed based on the genetic distance among the five ethnic groups, Han, Chaoxian and Tujia were involved in an identical cluster, and Miao and Bai in another. These findings indicate that each of the five groups examined is not only a distinct community, but also has a relationship with each of the others.


Influence of etofibrate on low density lipoprotein metabolism.
This study examined the effect of single dose etofibrate (1.0 g/day) on plasma lipids and lipoproteins in a group of eleven hypercholesterolemic individuals. The drug lowered plasma triglyceride and cholesterol by 32% and 14%, respectively (P less than 0.005). The cholesterol reduction came from a decrement in both VLDL and LDL. The cholesterol content of HDL did not change although its mass as determined by analytical ultracentrifugation rose by 29%. LDL metabolism was followed before and during drug therapy. Treatment increased catabolism of this lipoprotein by 14%, without affecting synthesis. The increased clearance resulted from activation (64%) of the LDL receptor pathway. There was a reciprocal decrease in the amount of lipoprotein channelled into the receptor-independent route.


Ets identified as a trans-regulatory factor of amphioxus Hox2 by transgenic analysis using ascidian embryos.
Although the functions of Hox genes in anterior-posterior patterning and their clustered organization are well conserved among metazoans, some Hox genes have lost their original function, as exemplified by zen, ftz and bicoid in Drosophila. The Hox2 gene of amphioxus has also lost its original function and instead is expressed specifically in the preoral pit. As new cis-elements governing its expression in the preoral pit must have been essential for retention of AmphiHox2, we analyzed the transcriptional regulation of AmphiHox2. Although it is possible to make transgenic amphioxus, several technical limitations restrict their practical use; thus, we analyzed the cis-regulatory region surrounding AmphiHox2 in transgenic ascidians (Ciona intestinalis). We found that Ets binding sites of AmphiHox2 functioned in the ascidian embryo. As the amphioxus Ets1/2 homologue is expressed in the preoral pit, we concluded that AmphiHox2 is activated by Ets1/2 in the preoral pit. These analyses demonstrate the utility of Ciona embryos as a transgenic system for analyses of cis-elements from animals whose embryos are relatively inaccessible, such as amphioxus and hemichordates.


An improved buffer for bioelectric signals.
We propose an ac-coupled amplifier that offers a high input impedance, thus making it suitable for bioelectric signal amplification. We also present the necessary formulas for calculating its input impedance and transfer function in order to facilitate its adaptation to different applications.


A spatio-temporal noise map completion method based on crowd-sensing.
The construction of noise maps is of great significance for the development of urban sustainability and the protection of residents' physical and mental health. The traditional noise map construction method is difficult to be widely used because of its low update frequency and high drawing cost. Based on the crowd-sensing technology and Latent Factor Model (LFM), this paper proposes a new noise map completion method called Spatial-Temporally Related LFM (STR-LFM) for solving the problem of data sparseness. First, the geographic information features including Point of Interest (POI), road network and building outline are fully excavated, and then combine the correlation of the samples in the time dimension to construct the similarity matrixes. After that, use the k-nearest neighbor algorithm to find out the similar samples of missing positions, and finally regard their weighted fusion as the predicted values. Experimental results show that the recovery error is lower than other commonly used methods, and the proposed method has better stability when faced with data sparseness problems at different levels.


Pathology without microscope: From a projection screen to a virtual slide.
We have witnessed successive stages since the Seventies in the advancements towards digital pathology. We agree with Dr Pallua et al on the tremendous changes that are taking place in pathology, all leading toward greater role of digitalization in the field of pathology, both in terms of consultation and teaching. In particular, distance teaching using digital pathology will grow into a mainstream mode of pathology teaching, something that has been reinforced by COVID-19.


A randomized clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of sitagliptin added to the combination of sulfonylurea and metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and inadequate glycemic control.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment generally requires multiple antihyperglycemic agents. When diet, exercise, and treatment with sulfonylurea and metformin do not achieve glycemic goals, several options are available. The present study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of sitagliptin 100 mg/day added to therapy with sulfonylurea and metformin. Patients with HbA1c ≥7.5% and ≤10.5% while on a sulfonylurea and metformin were randomized 1: 1 to sitagliptin 100 mg/day or placebo for 24 weeks. At Week 24, patients in the placebo group switched to pioglitazone 30 mg/day and both groups continued treatment for another 30 weeks. Of 427 patients randomized, 339 (79.4%) completed the study. At Week 24, significantly greater (P < 0.001) mean reductions from baseline were seen in the sitagliptin versus placebo group for HbA1c (-0.84% vs -0.16%, respectively), 2-h post-meal glucose (-2.0 vs -0.2 mmol/L, respectively) and fasting plasma glucose (-0.7 vs 0.3 mmol/L, respectively). At Week 54, improvements in glycemic control continued. At Week 24, the incidence of adverse events (AEs) was numerically greater with sitagliptin than placebo, primarily because of a higher incidence of hypoglycemia. At Week 54, the incidence of AEs was similar in both groups, primarily because of a higher incidence of hypoglycemia and edema in the placebo/pioglitazone group after Week 24. The only meaningful change in body weight was an increase in the placebo/pioglitazone group at Week 54. In this study, sitagliptin 100 mg/day was generally well tolerated and provided improvement in glycemic control when added to the combination of sulfonylurea and metformin in patients with T2DM.


Production of photoluminescent transparent poly(methyl methacrylate) for smart windows.
Photochromic and long-lasting photoluminescent transparent, rigid, ultraviolet (UV) protective and superhydrophobic poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) plastic able to switch colour beneath UV irradiation was developed. Photoluminescent transparent PMMA plastic was prepared by the simple polymerization process of methyl methacrylate immobilized with alkaline earth aluminate (AEA) nanoparticles. These colourless PMMA plastic substrates showed a colour switch to greenish underneath UV light as proved using CIELAB screening. The morphology of AEA was evaluated using transmission electron microscopy. Conversely, transparent PMMA samples were evaluated using energy-dispersive X-ray spectra, scanning electron microscope, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and for hardness properties. Additionally, the photoluminescence properties were explored by studying excitation and emission spectra. The produced luminescence colourless PMMA plastic substrates displayed excitation band at 370 nm, and three emission peaks at 433, 494 and 513 nm. Photoluminescent PMMA with lower contents of AEA showed fast and reversible photochromism under UV light, while PMMA samples with higher contents of AEA showed long-lasting luminescence such as a flashlight with the ability to replace electric power. The findings showed that the produced photoluminescence colourless PMMA plastic substrates exhibited enhanced UV shielding and superhydrophobicity.


Early embryo development is an indicator of implantation potential.
To maximize the chances of pregnancy during assisted reproduction treatment, it is important to be able to identify embryos with high implantation potential. Embryos which divide more quickly following insemination have been shown to produce higher pregnancy and implantation rates than those which divide later. The aim of this study was to compare the developmental potential of early cleaving embryos with those in which the pronuclear membranes had broken down at the time of scoring. Normally fertilized zygotes (n = 2447) were assessed 25-27 h post-insemination and categorized according to developmental stage (pronuclei visible, no pronuclei, or early cleavage to two cells). Pregnancy and implantation rates were assessed in cycles where embryos selected for transfer were at an equivalent stage 25-27 h post-insemination. A significantly higher implantation rate was achieved following transfer of either early cleavage embryos or those which had no pronuclei compared with embryos with intact pronuclei when assessed 25-27 h post-insemination/microinjection. The correlation between early cleavage and an improved pregnancy and implantation rate was confirmed. Scoring for the presence of early cleavage or status of pronuclei is quick and objective and provides information that may be used to discriminate between morphologically equivalent embryos at a later stage in development.


Effects of surface treatment on the free surface energy of dentin.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of six treatments on the dispersive, acid, and base components of the free surface energy of dentin. Occlusal dentin surfaces were polished with 4000 grit abrasive paper, washed and air dried. Characteristics of the surface energy were calculated by measuring contact angles of the four following liquids:alpha-bromonaphtalene, glycerol, ethylene glycol, and water. The dentin was then treated with aqueous solutions containing: (1) oxalic acid and glycine (OX/GLY),(2) oxalic acid, glycine, and HEMA (OX/GLY/HEMA), (3) phosphoric acid (PA), (4) maleic acid (MA),(5) EDTA, or (6) NaCIO. After treatment, washing and air drying, the energy characteristics of the samples were evaluated again. Three kinds of wetting behavior were observed: an increase (OX/GLY/HEMA), a stabilization (PA, NaCIO) or a decrease (OX/GLY, MA, EDTA) of the wettability of the dentin surface. The calculations demonstrated that dentin surfaces are basic. This study of the evolution of the surface energy components gave information on adhesion mechanisms involving hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions. The results may be helpful in the formulation of conditioners and primers.


Effect of temperature and host plant leaf morphology on the efficacy of two entomopathogenic biocontrol agents of Thrips palmi (Thysanoptera: Thripidae).
The efficacy of two entomopathogenic biocontrol agents, Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev) and Verticillium lecanii (Zimmerman) Viégas (reclassified now as Lecanicillium muscarium (Petch) Zare & Gams), against Thrips palmi Karny was investigated. Assessments of the effect of temperature on the efficacy of S. feltiae indicated that higher mortality of T. palmi was recorded at 20 degrees C compared to either 15 or 25 degrees C, whereas significantly higher T. palmi mortality followed application of L. muscarium at 25 degrees C. Testing the control agents efficacy on three host plants; chrysanthemum, sweet pepper and cucumber, under constant temperature and high humidity conditions produced no significant difference in the level of T. palmi larval mortality on each host plant. Incorporating the chemical insecticide imidacloprid with both biological agents in a combined control strategy increased T. palmi juvenile mortality. The potential role of S. feltiae and L. muscarium within integrated pest management programmes for the control of T. palmi is discussed.


Translation, Transcultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Hebrew Language Version of the Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire for the Assessment of Quality of Life in Orthognathic Patients.
Dentofacial deformities impose a negative impact on quality of life (QOL). Orthognathic surgery is the main pillar of treatment for these conditions and has proven its impact on the improvement of the functional and psychosocial aspects of QOL. The Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ), developed by Cunningham and colleagues, is a well-established instrument for assessing QOL in patients with dentofacial deformities. The aim of this study was to perform a translation, transcultural adaptation, and validation of a Hebrew version of the OQLQ. Transcultural adaptation was done following guidelines proposed by Beaton and colleagues resulting in a pilot study conducted on 20 patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Internal consistency, reliability, and sensitivity were evaluated by means of Cronbach alpha, intraclass correlation coefficient (test-retest), and Wilcoxon test, respectively. Validity was assessed by comparing the OQLQ with the Hebrew version of the Oral Health Impact Scale-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile Scale-14) using the Spearman correlation test. Internal consistency showed a good correlation between domains and excellent test-retest reliability. Sensitivity to change was statistically significant in all but 3 questions. The Hebrew version of the OQLQ exhibited a strong correlation with Oral Health Impact Profile Scale-14 in total score and moderate to high correlations among domains. The Hebrew version of the OQLQ is a valid and reliable and specific instrument to measure QOL for Hebrew-speaking patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.


Behavioural individuality determines infection risk in clonal ant colonies.
In social groups, infection risk is not distributed evenly across individuals. Individual behaviour is a key source of variation in infection risk, yet its effects are difficult to separate from other factors (e.g., age). Here, we combine epidemiological experiments with chemical, transcriptomic, and automated behavioural analyses in clonal ant colonies, where behavioural individuality emerges among identical workers. We find that: (1) Caenorhabditis-related nematodes parasitise ant heads and affect their survival and physiology, (2) differences in infection emerge from behavioural variation alone, and reflect spatially-organised division of labour, (3) infections affect colony social organisation by causing infected workers to stay in the nest. By disproportionately infecting some workers and shifting their spatial distribution, infections reduce division of labour and increase spatial overlap between hosts, which should facilitate parasite transmission. Thus, division of labour, a defining feature of societies, not only shapes infection risk and distribution but is also modulated by parasites.


[Effects of basic fibroblast growth factor on growth of human periodontal ligament cells].
To evaluate the biological effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on proliferation and DNA synthesis of periodontal ligament cells(PDLC). PDLC was isolated from periodontal ligament explants. The effects of bFGF on PDLC were assayed by MTT and 3(H)-TdR incorporation studies. The results were expressed as A value and CPM. Analysis of variance was used. bFGF could enhance the proliferation and DNA synthesis of PDLC in a dose dependent manner. No inhibition was observed within 1000ng/ml bFGF concentration. The concentration of half maximal effect was 100ng/ml. The results suggest that bFGF may play an important role in the regeneration of periodontal tissue.


Mycolicibacterium cell factory for the production of steroid-based drug intermediates.
Steroid-based drugs have been developed as the second largest medical category in pharmaceutics. The well-established route of steroid industry includes two steps: the conversion of natural products with a steroid framework to steroid-based drug intermediates and the synthesis of varied steroid-based drugs from steroid-based drug intermediates. The biosynthesis of steroid-based drug intermediates from phytosterols by Mycolicibacterium cell factories bypasses the potential undersupply of diosgenin in the traditional steroid chemical industry. Moreover, the biosynthesis route shows advantages on multiple steroid-based drug intermediate products, more ecofriendly processes, and consecutive reactions carried out in one operation step and in one pot. Androsta-4-ene-3,17-dione (AD), androsta-1,4-diene-3,17-dione (ADD) and 9-hydroxyandrostra-4-ene-3,17-dione (9-OH-AD) are the representative steroid-based drug intermediates synthesized by mycolicibacteria. Other steroid metabolites of mycolicibacteria, like 4-androstene-17β-ol-3-one (TS), 22-hydroxy-23,24-bisnorchol-4-ene-3-one (4-HBC), 22-hydroxy-23,24-bisnorchol-1,4-diene-3-one (1,4-HBC), 9,22-dihydroxy-23,24-bisnorchol-4-ene-3-one (9-OH-HBC), 3aα-H-4α-(3'-propionic acid)-7aβ-methylhexahydro-1,5-indanedione (HIP) and 3aα-H-4α-(3'-propionic acid)-5α-hydroxy-7aβ-methylhexahydro-1-indanone-δ-lactone (HIL), also show values as steroid-based drug intermediates. To improve the bio-production efficiency of the steroid-based drug intermediates, mycolicibacterial strains and biotransformation processes have been continuously studied in the past decades. Many mycolicibacteria that accumulate steroid drug intermediates have been isolated, and subsequently optimized by conventional mutagenesis and genetic engineering. Especially, with the clarification of the mycolicibacterial steroid metabolic pathway and the developments on gene editing technologies, rational design is becoming an important measure for the construction and optimization of engineered mycolicibacteria strains that produce steroid-based drug intermediates. Hence, by reviewing researches in the past two decades, this article updates the overall process of steroid metabolism in mycolicibacteria and provides comprehensive schemes for the rational construction of mycolicibacterial strains that accumulate steroid-based drug intermediates. In addition, the special strategies for the bioconversion of highly hydrophobic steroid in aqueous media are discussed as well.


Design of acidochromic dyes for facile preparation of pH sensor layers.
Eight new acidochromic dyes have been synthesised that can be used for optically monitoring pH in the range from 3 to 12. Their corresponding pK(a) values have been both measured and calculated theoretically by means of density functional theory. The synthesis of these new dyes is facile without the need for chromatographic purification. The dyes can be covalently linked to polymers containing hydroxyl functions such as cellulose, polyurethane hydrogel, and hydroxyalkyl methacrylate. The resulting sensor layers exhibit significant colour changes both in the UV and in the visible spectral range.


The hypoxic cytotoxin SR 4233 increases the effectiveness of radioimmunotherapy in mice with human non-Hodgkin's lymphoma xenografts.
To determine if either the hypoxic cell radiosensitizer etanidazole (SR 2508) or the hypoxic cytotoxin SR 4233 could improve the effectiveness of radioimmunotherapy. LC4 (an IgG1 monoclonal antibody directed toward malignant T cells) and MB-1 (an irrelevant isotype-matched control antibody) were injected intraperitoneally into severe combined immunodeficient phenotype mice with human cutaneous T cell lymphoma xenografts in order to determine the distribution of the antibodies in the tumors and normal tissues as a function of time. Computerized-pO2-histography was used to measure the median oxygen tension in the tumors. Tumor-bearing mice were treated with: (a) LC4; (b) 90Y-LC4; (c) 90Y-MB-1; (d) whole body irradiation delivered via an external 137Cs source; (e) etanidazole and 90Y-LC4; (f) SR 4233 and 90Y-LC4; (g) etanidazole; and (h) SR 4233. An additional group of mice received no treatment and served as controls. A tumor growth delay assay was used to assess the effectiveness of the different treatment regimens. LC4 accumulated in the tumors to a significantly greater extent than MB-1 (p < 0.001) and reached a peak concentration in the tumors 5 days post-injection. The human cutaneous T cell lymphoma xenografts had a relatively low median oxygen tension. LC4 by itself was able to produce a minor decrease in tumor size (control vs. LC4; p = 0.001). 90Y-LC4 produced greater tumor growth delay than LC4 alone (LC4 vs. 90Y-LC4; p = 0.01); however, the Yttrium-90 caused neutropenia and weight loss. The 90Y-labeled tumor-specific and non-specific antibodies both exerted greater tumor growth delay than externally delivered whole body irradiation (p < or = 0.03) due to preferential uptake of the antibodies in the tumors. Etanidazole and SR 4233 by themselves did not significantly inhibit the growth of the tumors. Etanidazole did not significantly enhance the tumor growth delay produced by 90Y-LC4 (90Y-LC4 vs etanidazole and 90Y-LC4, p = 0.13). SR 4233, on the other hand, did enhance the tumor growth delay produced by 90Y-LC4 (90Y-LC4 vs. SR 4233 and 90Y-LC4, p = 0.046). The neutropenia and weight loss caused by 90Y-LC4 were exacerbated slightly (< 10%) by the administration of SR 4233. A first generation hypoxic cytotoxin, SR 4233, was able to enhance the tumor growth delay produced by radioimmunotherapy in severe combined immunodeficient phenotype mice with human cutaneous T cell lymphoma xenografts.


Measuring professional behaviour in canadian physical therapy students' objective structured clinical examinations: an environmental scan.
To identify professional behaviours measured in objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) by Canadian university physical therapy (PT) programs. A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted to review current practice and determine which OSCE items Canadian PT programs are using to measure PT students' professional behaviours. Telephone interviews using semi-structured questions were conducted with individual instructors responsible for courses that included an OSCE as part of the assessment component. Nine PT programmes agreed to take part in the study, and all reported conducting at least one OSCE. The number and characteristics of OSCEs varied both within and across programs. Participants identified 31 professional behaviour items for use in an OSCE; these items clustered into four categories: communication (n=14), respect (n=10), patient safety (n=4), and physical therapists' characteristics (n=3). All Canadian entry-level PT programmes surveyed assess professional behaviours in OSCE-type examinations; however, the content and style of assessment is variable. The local environment should be considered when determining what professional behaviours are appropriate to assess in the OSCE context in individual programmes.


IFN-γ Mediated Signaling Improves Fungal Clearance in Experimental Pulmonary Mucormycosis.
We established three immunocompetent murine models of pulmonary mucormycosis to determine the involvement of the adaptive immune response in host resistance in pulmonary mucormycosis, a rapidly fatal disease caused mainly by Rhizopus spp. Immunocompetent inbred (C57BL/6, BALB/c) and outbred (Swiss) strains of mice were inoculated with R. oryzae via the intratracheal route. The inoculation resulted in a disseminated infection that spread to the brain, spleen, kidney, and liver. After 7 and 30 days of R. oryzae infection, BALB/c mice showed the lowest fungal load and highest production of IFN-γ and IL-2 by splenocytes. Swiss mice showed a higher fungal load 30 days p.i. and was associated with a weak development of the Th-1 profile. To confirm our findings, R. oryzae-infected IFN-γ-/- mice were evaluated after 60 days, where the mice still showed viable fungi in the lungs. This study showed, for the first time, that pulmonary mucormycosis in three widely used mouse strains resulted in an acute fungal dissemination without immunosuppression whose outcome varies according to the genetic background of the mice. We also identified the partial role of IFN-γ in the efficient elimination of R. oryzae during pulmonary infection.


Pharmacological Characterization of ZYAN1, a Novel Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitor for the Treatment of Anemia.
Prolyl hydroxylase (PHD) inhibitors stabilize hypoxia inducible factor (HIF), and exert antianemic effect by potentiating erythropoietin (EPO) expression and down-regulation of hepcidin. ZYAN1 is a novel PHD inhibitor under clinical development for the treatment of anemia. The pharmacodynamic effects of acute and chronic dosing of ZYAN1 were assessed in normal and 5/6 nephrectomized Wistar rats. The effect of ZYAN1 was also investigated in cisplatin-induced anemia using C57 mice. Acute treatment with ZYAN1 increased circulating EPO levels (10.3 ± 3.7 and 40.0 ± 8.5 fold rise at 15 and 30 mg/kg, respectively), reticulocyte count (4.2 ± 0.5 and 6.0 ± 0.2 fold rise at 15 and 30 mg/kg, respectively) and stabilized HIF (28% increase at 45 mg/kg) in normal rats. Nephrectomized rats showed similar dose-related pharmacodynamic effects. In a 28-day study in nephrectomized rats, ZYAN1 administered every alternate day, caused increase in hemoglobin (1.9 ± 0.3 and 2.5 ± 0.4 g/dL) and RBC count (10.7 ± 4.0 and 14.0 ± 4.1%) at 15 and 30 mg/kg respectively. In cisplatin-treated mice also an increase in hemoglobin (3.4 ± 0.2 and 5.9 ± 0.2 g/dL) and RBC count (22.5 ± 2.2 and 37.3 ± 1.7%) at 15 and 30 mg/kg respectively was observed. ZYAN1's effects on hemoglobin and RBC count were distinct from darbepoietin. ZYAN1 demonstrated hematinic potential by combined effects on EPO release and efficient iron utilization. The efficacy of ZYAN1 in disease models of different etiologies suggests that it will be useful in treating wide spectrum of anemia patients.


[Poisoning with Jatropha curcas: 24 cases reported to Paris and Marseille Poisons Centers].
Jatropha curcas L. is an inedible plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family that is growing in subtropical zones of all continents. We report a series of 24 cases of poisoning with J. curcas seeds or fruits reported to poison centers in Paris and Marseille between December 2000 and June 2014. Fifteen adults and 9 children ingested J. curcas seeds or fruits. All patients experienced gastrointestinal disorders, within the first hours following ingestion: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Laboratory investigations performed in 10 patients revealed minor abnormalities: CK elevation (8 cases), dehydration (5 cases) with moderate elevation of serum creatinine levels (3 cases), and mildly increased serum bilirubin (8 cases). Complete remission of all clinical signs was observed within 48 hours in the 20 cases for which the outcome was known. Previously published cases of J. curcas poisoning were very similar to ours: As in our series, gastrointestinal disorders were always present. They were sometimes associated with neurological or cardiovascular signs, and hepatic or renal disorders; these were generally interpreted as complications of severe gastroenteritis, although direct toxic effects could not be formally excluded. In most cases, simple supportive measures were sufficient to ensure complete recovery within 24-48 hours. J Curcas poisoning incidence is certainly increasing because the plant is cultivated to produce biodiesel and is now largely present in most subtropical countries. As a consequence, local health professionals should be informed of the toxic properties of this plant.


Immunohistochemical study of androgen receptors in breast carcinoma. Evidence of their frequent expression in lobular carcinoma.
Androgens and androgen receptors (AR) are involved in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Epidemiological studies have shown a significant association between the risk of breast cancer and androgens. However, the functional role and clinical value of AR expression in breast carcinoma have still not been clearly defined. The present study was set up to investigate the prevalence of ARs in a series of consecutive invasive breast carcinomas (IBCs) and to evaluate the patterns of AR phenotypes in a series of selected invasive lobular carcinomas (ILCs). Among the 250 consecutive IBCs (consisting of 212 ductal and 38 lobular neoplasms), AR immunoreactivity was observed in 151/250 (60.4%) cases, being expressed in 118/212 (56%) ductal and 33/38 (87%) lobular carcinomas (a statistically significant difference, chi2=11.82). AR expression was frequently associated with ER (65.2%, chi2=14.33) and PR positivity (66.9%, chi2=7.36). Most AR positive cases showed a low proliferative index (63.7%) and a low or intermediate histological grade (G1-G2, 63.9%). Among the 80 selected ILCs, AR expression was observed in 64/80 (80%) cases. Our results confirm that ARs are expressed in most breast cancers. Moreover, we demonstrated that AR positivity is particularly marked in lobular neoplasms. In addition, AR positive carcinomas are frequently characterized by a low or intermediate grade, a low proliferative index and ER and/or PR co-expression.


Intranasal immunization with heat shock protein 60 induces CD4(+) CD25(+) GARP(+) and type 1 regulatory T cells and inhibits early atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease involving both innate and adaptive immune mechanisms. Immune tolerance induction may have therapeutic potential for the suppression of atherosclerosis. Current interest is directed towards mucosal tolerance induction, especially nasal tolerance. Previous studies have shown that heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) is recognized as an important autoantigen in atherosclerosis, and nasal or oral HSP60 can induce tolerance and ameliorate atherosclerosis by inducing several subsets of regulatory T cells (Tregs ) such as latency-associated peptide (LAP)(+) and forkhead box transcription factor 3 (FoxP3)(+) Tregs. However, little is known regarding the detailed mechanisms of nasal tolerance. Here, we again investigated the impact of nasal HSP60 on atherosclerosis and the mechanisms underlying the anti-atherosclerosis responses. We found that nasal HSP60 caused a significant 33·6% reduction in plaque size at the aortic root in the early stages of atherosclerosis (P < 0·001). Notably, a significant increase in activated CD4(+) CD25(+) glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP)(+) Tregs, type 1 Tregs (Tr1 cells), and CD4(+) CD25(+) FoxP3(+) Tregs, as well as a marked decrease in the numbers of type 1 and 17 T helper cells was detected in the spleens and cervical lymph nodes of HSP60-treated mice. Moreover, nasal HSP60 increases the production of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and interleukin (IL)-10 and decreases the secretion of IFN-γ and IL-17. Interestingly, the atheroprotective role of nasal HSP60 treatment was abrogated partly by the neutralization of IL-10. Our findings show that nasal administration of HSP60 can attenuate atherosclerotic formation by inducing GARP(+) Tregs, Tr1 cells and FoxP3(+) Tregs, and that these Tregs maintain immune homeostasis by secreting IL-10 and TGF-β.


Preparation of an active recombinant peptide of crustacean androgenic gland hormone.
In crustaceans, male sexual characteristics are induced by a hormone referred to as androgenic gland hormone. We have recently cloned a candidate cDNA in the terrestrial isopod Armadillidium vulgare. In order to prove that this cDNA encodes the hormone, recombinant single-chain precursor molecules consisting of B chain, C peptide and A chain were produced using both baculovirus and bacterial expression systems. Neither recombinant precursors showed activity. Digestion of only the precursor carrying a glycan moiety with lysyl endopeptidase gave a heterodimeric peptide with hormonal activity by removing a part of C peptide. These results indicate that the cDNA encodes the hormone.


Distribution of serotonin in the brain stem and spinal cord of the lizard Varanus exanthematicus: an immunohistochemical study.
The distribution of serotonin-containing nerve cell bodies, fibers and terminals in the lizard Varanus exanthematicus was studied with the indirect immunofluorescence technique, using antibodies to serotonin. Most of the serotonin-containing cell bodies were found in the midline, in both of the raphe nuclei, i.e. the nuclei raphes superior and inferior. A considerable number of more laterally shifted serotonergic neurons was found particularly at three levels of the brain stem, viz. in the caudal mesencephalic tegmentum, at the isthmic level, and over a long distance in the medulla oblongata. These laterally situated serotonin-positive neurons were partly found within the confines of the substantia nigra, the nucleus reticularis superior and the lateral part of the nucleus reticularis medius and ventrolateral part of the nucleus reticularis inferior, respectively. No serotonergic cell bodies were found in the spinal cord. In the brain stem a dense serotonergic innervation was observed in all of the motor nuclei of the cranial nerves, in two layers of the tectum mesencephali, in the nucleus interpeduncularis pars ventralis, the nucleus profundus mesencephali pars rostralis, the periventricular grey, the nucleus parabrachialis, the vestibular nuclear complex, the nucleus descendens nervi trigemini, the nucleus raphes inferior, and parts of the nucleus tractus solitarii. Descending serotonergic pathways could be traced into the spinal cord via the dorsolateral, ventral and ventromedial funiculi, and were found to innervate mainly three parts of the spinal grey throughout the spinal cord, i.e. the dorsal part of the dorsal horn, the motoneuron area in the ventral horn, and the intermediate zone just lateral to the central canal. The results obtained in the present study suggest a close resemblance of the organization of the serotonergic system in reptiles and mammals, especially as to the serotonergic innervation of the spinal cord.


[Olfactory alterations in allergic rhinitis to pollens and mites].
In the last 80 years, the presence of allergies has increased among Europeans from 0.28% to 14.2%. Allergic rhinitis is the main presentation, rising from 18% to 40% of cases. The aim of this study is to demonstrate that allergic rhinitis due to pollen and mites has an effect on the olfactory system. We describe the impairment of olfactory function in two groups of individuals with allergic rhinitis due to mites or pollen (n = 76; 42 with allergy to pollen [48.9%], and 34 with allergy to mites [39%]), compared with a group of healthy volunteers (n = 120). Olfactory ability was measured by the BAST-24 (Barcelona Smell Test) olfactometer comprising 20 odours tested by the forced choice method to compare the levels of odour detection (knowing if there is odour in the environment), and efficacy (identifying what was smelt). The results show firstly that people with allergic rhinitis have a clear, definitive, and significant impairment (P >.05) in olfactory levels; secondly, there is a tendency towards greater olfactory loss in the case of people with pollen-related allergic rhinitis than in those allergic to mites; and thirdly, the different odours are affected differently in the 2 groups. We propose consideration of the study of olfactory status in the assessment of patients with allergic rhinitis.


Hemoglobin F in sudden infant death syndrome: a San Diego SIDS/SUDC Research Project report.
Whether levels of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), a possible marker of antecedent hypoxemia, are increased in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) compared to controls is unresolved. Our aims are to: (1) Compare percent fetal hemoglobin (%HbF) levels in SIDS and control cases, and (2) compare our findings with those reported in previous studies. Using Triton-acid-urea gel electrophoresis and quantitative densitometry, %HbF was determined in whole blood specimens obtained at autopsy from SIDS and control cases accessioned into the San Diego SIDS/SUDC Research Project database. The SIDS and control cases were not different with respect to mean age, gender, gestational age, method of delivery, birth weight, or mean autopsy interval; %HbF levels in SIDS and control cases were not significantly different. Given that our results were obtained using optimal methods in well-defined SIDS and control cases, we concur with others that %HbF is not elevated in SIDS.


A cost-conscious establishment of a robotic abdominal wall reconstruction program in a publicly funded healthcare system.
Despite reports of better short-term outcomes, the main criticism for the adoption of the robotic surgery platform for abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) has been the associated cost, especially in countries with a publicly funded healthcare system such as Canada. We describe our experience in implementation of robotic AWR while ensuring cost-effectiveness. This is a retrospective cohort analysis of all patients with ventral hernias ranging between 5 to 15 cm who underwent either open or robotic AWR between January 2020 to August 2022. We reviewed patient characteristics, operative time, post-operative length of stay (LOS), and average cost of surgery. 45 patients underwent open repair and 28 underwent robotic repair in the study period. There was no difference in major patient characteristics between the two groups. Operative time was shorter for open repairs (233.2 ± 96.6 min vs. 299.3 ± 71.8 min, p < 0.001). LOS was significantly longer for open repairs (5 days (interquartile range = 4-6) vs. 2 days (IQR = 1.75-3), p < 0.001) and there were significantly more patients who underwent robotic repair who left hospital in less than 3 days (13.3 vs. 64.3%, p < 0.001). The average overall hospital-based cost for each open repair was $26,952.18 when the cost for equipment, operative time, inpatient hospital stay, and epidural use are accounted for, compared to $17,447.40 for robotic repair ($9,504.78 saving per case). With proper selection of patients based on size of hernia, we demonstrate cost conscious adaptation of the robotic technology to AWR. Our future studies will continue to explore the benefits and limits of this approach in complex hernia repair.


Validities and abilities in criminal profiling: the dilemma for David Canter's Investigative Psychology.
This article discusses misconceptions in Bennell, Jones, Taylor, and Snook's (2006) critique of Kocsis (2003a) concerning the validities and abilities surrounding criminal profiling. It also, in part, serves to canvass the approach of investigative psychology and what may be viewed as an imperative for some of its proponents to challenge evidence into the validity of criminal profiling, which is not easily reconcilable with that ideology.


Infarct artery perfusion and changes in left ventricular volume in the month after acute myocardial infarction.
The relation between perfusion of the infarct-related artery and changes in left ventricular volume and function during the month after a first myocardial infarction was examined in 40 patients who did not receive thrombolytic therapy. Infarct artery perfusion was documented at predischarge coronary angiography, and left ventricular volume was measured by nongeometric analysis of radionuclide angiograms performed within 48 hours of infarction and at 1 month. Left ventricular dilation (greater than or equal to 20% increase in volume) developed in 16 patients, whereas 5 patients had a decrease in left ventricular volume of greater than or equal to 20% by 1 month. Left ventricular dilation occurred in all 14 patients without perfusion of the infarct-related artery, compared with only 2 of 26 patients with perfusion of this artery due to subtotal occlusion or collateral vessels. All five patients whose left ventricular volume decreased by greater than or equal to 20% had a perfused infarct artery. Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that the degree of perfusion of the infarct artery (partial r = 0.58, p = 0.001) was a more important predictor of volume change than was infarct size measured by peak creatine kinase (partial r = 0.30, p = 0.009) or QRS score (partial r = 0.20, p = 0.087). Left ventricular ejection fraction decreased from 0.38 +/- 0.10 to 0.30 +/- 0.16 (p = 0.05) in 11 patients with an anterior infarct and ventricular dilation; it increased from 0.45 +/- 0.10 to 0.62 +/- 0.07 (p = 0.02) in the 5 patients with a greater than or equal to 20% decrease in volume.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


The wrong stent at the wrong time: a cautionary tale.
Self-expandable metallic stents have been promoted for a multitude of indications because of their easy insertion and convenience. This may lead to inappropriate use. We report two patients in whom self-expandable metallic stents led to severe early or late complications. The correct choice of the type of a stent demands expertise with consideration and anticipation of late side effects especially in benign stenosis.


Inhibition of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 suppresses the aggressive biological behaviors of thyroid cancer via elevating miR-296-5p and inactivating TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway.
Thyroid cancer is the most common malignant tumor with relatively high incidence and mortality in endocrine system. Research about thyroid cancer-related targets is the basis for the diagnosis of thyroid cancer and the development of new drugs. However, the predictive value of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) for the diagnosis and prognosis of thyroid cancer is still in the preliminary stage of exploration. Thus, we for the first time investigated the effects and associated regulatory mechanism of lncRNA Forkhead box D3 antisense RNA 1 (FOXD3-AS1) in thyroid cancer in vitro and in vivo. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the expression of lncRNA FOXD3-AS1 and miR-296-5p. Cell proliferation was detected through colony formation assay. Cell cycle was analyzed through flow cytometry. Cell mobility was valued through transwell invasion assay and wound healing assay. Western blotting was used to examine the expression of proteins related to cell proliferation and cell migration and TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. Luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the targeting relationship between FOXD3-AS1 and miR-296-5p. Tumor xenograft model was established and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to examine the expression of Ki67 and VEGF. We found that the expression of lncRNA FOXD3-AS1was upregulated and it had negative correlation with the level of miR-296-5p in thyroid cancer tissues and cells. LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 knockdown effectively suppressed cell proliferation and cell invasion in vitro. Further study revealed that miR-296-5p was a target of lncRNA FOXD3-AS1 and FOXD3-AS1 exerted anti-tumor effect through up-regulating miR-296-5p. Moreover, we found that FOXD3-AS1 knockdown suppressed the aggressive biological behaviors of thyroid cancer through inactivating the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway. Subsequently, the in vivo experiments further verified that the FOXD3-AS1/miR-296-5p axis exerted obvious anti-tumor effect through inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis and the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway was also inactivated in vivo by the inhibition of FOXD3-AS1. Inhibition of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 suppresses the aggressive biological behaviors of thyroid cancer via elevating miR-296-5p and inactivating TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway.


Intron 1 of the interferon gamma gene: Its role in nematode resistance in Suffolk and Texel sheep breeds.
Genetic variation at intron 1 of the interferon gamma gene has recently been associated with variation in faecal egg count in Romney, Merino and Soay breeds of sheep. The Texel breed is more resistant to gastrointestinal nematode infection than the Suffolk breed, based on faecal egg count. Hence, the objective of this experiment was to characterise the polymorphisms of intron 1 of the interferon gammagene in Suffolk and Texel sheep, and to determine if the characterised haplotype variants were associated with faecal egg count variation in these breeds. Intron 1 haplotypes and faecal egg measurements were determined for Suffolks (n=113) and Texels (n=135). Four haplotypes were identified in Suffolks (A, B, C and D), two haplotypes as previously described, and two previously unknown haplotypes. However, there was no association between interferon gamma intron 1 haplotype and faecal egg count in Suffolks. In contrast, two previously identified haplotypes (A and B) were present in the Texel breed, and the B haplotype was associated with resistance to nematode infection (P=0.02). These results suggest that intron 1 of the interferon gamma gene has an important role in resistance to nematode infection in the Texel breed.


Camptothecin-producing endophytic fungus Trichoderma atroviride LY357: isolation, identification, and fermentation conditions optimization for camptothecin production.
Camptothecin (CPT), the third largest anticancer drug, is produced mainly by Camptotheca acuminata and Nothapodytes foetida. CPT itself is the starting material for clinical CPT-type drugs, but the plant-derived CPT cannot support the heavy demand from the global market. Research efforts have been made to identify novel sources for CPT. In this study, three CPT-producing endophytic fungi, Aspergillus sp. LY341, Aspergillus sp. LY355, and Trichoderma atroviride LY357, were isolated and identified from C. acuminata. Most CPT produced by these fungi was found in the fermentation broth, and their corresponding CPT yields were 7.93, 42.92, and 197.82 μg l(-1), respectively. The CPT-producing capability of LY341 and LY355 was completely lost after repeat subculturing. A substantial decrease of CPT production was also observed in the second generation of LY357. However, a stable and sustainable production of CPT was found from the second generation through the eighth generation of LY357. The fermentation medium, time, pH, temperature, and agitation rate were optimized for CPT production. Methyl jasmonate and XAD16 were proven to be an optimum elicitor and adsorbent resin, respectively, in view of that CPT yield was increased 3.4- and 11-fold through their use. A 50- to 75-fold increase of CPT yield was obtained when the optimized fermentation conditions, elicitor, and adsorbent resin were combined and applied to the culture of the seventh and eighth generations of LY357, and the highest CPT yield was 142.15 μg l(-1). The CPT-producing T. atroviride LY357 paves a potential to uncover the mysteries of CPT biosynthesis.


[Risk factors associated with leg erysipelas (cellulitis) in sub-Saharan Africa: A multicentre case-control study].
Acute bacterial cellulitis of the leg (erysipelas) is a common problem involving considerable morbidity in dermatology practice in Africa. Previous studies conducted in Europe and North Africa have highlighted lymphoedema and toe-web intertrigo as independent factors associated with leg erysipelas. The aim of this case-control study was to identify risk factors associated with leg erysipelas in sub-Saharan Africa, within a different socio-economic and culture context. We conducted a prospective case-control study in hospital dermatology departments in 8 sub-Saharan African countries over a 12-month period (October 2013 to September 2014). Each case of acute leg cellulitis was matched with 2 controls for age (±5 years) and sex. We analysed the general and local factors. During the study period, 364 cases (223 female, 141 male) were matched with 728 controls. The mean age was 42.15±15.15 years for patients and 42.11±36 years for controls. Multivariate analysis showed the following to be independent risk factors associated with leg erysipelas in our study: obesity (odds ratio [OR]=2.82 ; 95% confidence interval: 2.11-3.76), lymphoedema (OR=3.87, 95%CI: 2.17-6.89), voluntary cosmetic depigmentation (OR=4.29, 95%CI: 2.35-7.83), neglected traumatic wound (OR=37.2, 95%CI: 24.9-57.72) and toe-web intertrigo (OR=37.86, 95%CI: 22.27-64.5). The results of this study confirms the major role of local risk factors (toe-web intertrigo, lymphoedema) previously identified in other geographical settings. However, the originality of our study consists of the identification of voluntary cosmetic depigmentation as a risk factor for leg erysipelas in sub-Saharan Africa.


Brain and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cells as an in vitro model of neurodegeneration in ataxia-telangiectasia.
The ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase is a key transducer of the cellular response to DNA double strand breaks and its deficiency causes ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), a pleiotropic genetic disorder primarily characterized by cerebellar neuropathy, immunodeficiency and cancer predisposition. While enormous progress has been achieved in elucidating the biochemical and functional regulation of ATM in DNA damage response, and more recently in redox signalling and antioxidant defence, the factors that make neurons in A-T extremely vulnerable remain unclear. Given also that ATM knockout mice do not recapitulate the central nervous system phenotype, a number of human neural stem cell (hNSC) model systems have been developed to provide insights into the mechanisms of neurodegeneration associated with ATM dysfunction. Here we review the hNSC systems developed by us an others to model A-T.


5-Bromo-2-hy-droxy-benzaldehyde 4-ethyl-thio-semicarbazone.
In the title Schiff base compound, C10H12BrN3OS, the C-N-N-C torsion angle is 172.07 (11)°. An intra-molecular hydrogen bond exists between the hy-droxy H atom and the azomethine N atom. In the crystal, pairs of hydrogen bonds involving the imino H atom and the S atom give rise to supra-molecular dimers.