Stroke volume variations for assessment of cardiac responsiveness to volume loading in mechanically ventilated patients after cardiac surgery.
We hypothesized that measuring stroke volume variation (SVV) during mechanical ventilation by continuous arterial pulse contour analysis allows the accurate prediction and monitoring of changes in cardiac index (CI) in response to volume administration. Prospective study in an university hospital. Twenty mechanically ventilated patients following cardiac surgery. Volume loading with oxypolygelatin (3.5%) 20 ml x body mass index over 10 min. SVV, central venous pressure (CVP), pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (PAOP), left ventricular end-diastolic area index (LVEDAI) by transesophageal echocardiography, intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBVI) by transpulmonary thermodilution and CI were determined immediately before and after volume loading. SVV decreased, while CI, CVP, PAOP, ITBVI, and LVEDAI increased significantly. Percentage changes in CI were significantly correlated to percentage changes in SVV (r(2)=-0.59, p<0.001), ITBVI (r(2)=0.79, p<0.001), and PAOP (r(2)=0.33, p<0.05) and to baseline values of SVV (r(2)=0.55, p<0.05) and LVEDAI (r(2)=-0.68, p<0.001). SVV may help to determine the preload condition of ventilated patients following cardiac surgery and to predict and continuously monitor effects of volume administered as part of their hemodynamic management.


GABA receptor-mediated modulation of 3H-diazepam binding in rat cortex.
Three membrane preparations of rat cortex were used to examine the effects of GABA, bicuculline and bicucine on specific 3H-diazepam binding. In the crude synaptosomal fraction, GABA had no effect on either the maximal binding capacity (Bmax) or dissociation constant (KD) of 3H-diazepam binding. Bicuculline and bicucine both decreased binding affinity. This was antagonized by adding GABA. In the repeatedly washed membrane preparation, and in the washed, frozen and thawed preparation, GABA increased binding affinity and, at high concentrations, increased Bmax. Increased binding affinity was observed with as little as 10(-8) M GABA in the washed, frozen and thawed preparation. Bicuculline inhibited the effect of GABA on 3H-diazepam binding. It was found that about 3 X 10(-5) M GABA was present in the assay medium containing crude synaptosomal fraction. These results suggest endogenous GABA is present in, and influences the results of 3H-diazepam binding assays. Furthermore, it appears that GABA and bicuculline affect 3H-diazepam binding through their binding to the specific GABA binding site.


Ghrelin, insulin-like growth factor I and adipocytokines concentrations in born small for gestational age prepubertal children after the catch-up growth.
In children born small for gestational age (SGA) with catch-up growth, a higher risk of insulin resistance (IR) and cardiovascular diseases is noted. Ghrelin stimulates a growth hormone (GH) secretion and regulates lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. We assessed gherlin's influence on achieving normal height and the occurrence of metabolic complications in SGA children. Ghrelin, insulin-like growth factor type I (IGF-I), leptin, adiponectin, resistin, glucose, insulin and lipid concentrations were analysed in 134 prepubertal children in four groups: normal-height SGA, short SGA, normal-height born appropriate for gestational age (AGA) and short AGA. Ghrelin and IGF-I concentrations were significantly higher while adiponectin - lower in normal-height SGA comparing to others. The increased production of ghrelin and IGF-I seems to be an adaptive mechanism to achieve normal growth in SGA children. The significance of high ghrelin and low adiponectin concentrations, observed in normal-height prepubertal SGA children, requires elucidation, with reference to the development of metabolic complications.


Fabrication of hierarchical carbon nanosheet-based networks for physical and chemical adsorption of CO2.
A hierarchical carbon nanosheet-based networks (GPC) with controllable pore structure are developed for physical adsorption and chemical adsorption of CO2. The synthesis employs graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet as the structure-directing agent, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as the soft template and melamine as the bridging molecule. The individual GO nanosheet is uniformly coated with the in-situ chemical polymerization of resorcinol-formaldehyde-melamine (RMF) polymers via electrostatic interaction with melamine. Thus, micropores with high specific surface area is developed from the cross-linked networks of polymers after carbonation and KOH activation, which is beneficial to the physical adsorption of CO2 at low temperature. CTAB as a soft template could induce the assembly of GO to form a "ring-like" stacking three-dimensional structure, producing macropores and mesopores with high pore volume after carbonization which could act as novel reservoirs to host a high loading amount of amine with good dispersion for CO2 chemical adsorption at elevated temperature. After activation with KOH, the specific surface area is up to 1555.7 m2/g, with CO2 physical adsorption capacity of 4.62 mmol/g under 273 K and 1 bar. After loading PEI of 75%, the CO2 chemical adsorption capacity achieves 5.52 mmol/g under 75 °C. The outstanding advantages of hierarchical carbon nanosheet-based networks, including their macro-meso-microporous structures, fast diffusion kinetics, excellent adsorptivity and easy synthesis, endow them with good potential to be used in a wide range of applications.


Intravitreal toxicity of hydroxyacyclovir (BW-B759U), a new antiviral agent.
We investigated the toxicity of the antiviral compound hydroxyacyclovir (9-[hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethoxymethyl]guanine, or BW-B759U), following intravitreal injection in the rabbit. Intravitreal doses of 10, 20, 40, 80, 100, 200, and 400 micrograms produced no discernible ophthalmoscopic or histologic changes. Intravitreal doses of 40, 200, and 400 micrograms produced no changes in the electroretinography B-waves. The low level of retinal toxicity and excellent median inhibitory dose values of intravitreal BW-B759U against cytomegalovirus suggest its potential therapeutic utility in the treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis.


Oxidation of RyR2 Has a Biphasic Effect on the Threshold for Store Overload-Induced Calcium Release.
At the single-channel level, oxidation of the cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2) is known to activate and inhibit the channel depending on the level of oxidation. However, the mechanisms through which these changes alter the activity of RyR2 in a cellular setting are poorly understood. In this study, we determined the effect of oxidation on a common form of RyR2 regulation; store overload-induced Ca(2+) release (SOICR). We found that oxidation resulted in concentration and time-dependent changes in the activation threshold for SOICR. Low concentrations of the oxidant H2O2 resulted in a decrease in the threshold for SOICR, which led to an increase in SOICR events. However, higher concentrations of H2O2, or prolonged exposure, reversed these changes and led to an increase in the threshold for SOICR. This increase in the threshold for SOICR in most cells was to such an extent that it led to the complete inhibition of SOICR. Acute exposure to high concentrations of H2O2 led to an initial decrease and then increase in the threshold for SOICR. In the majority of cells the increased threshold could not be reversed by the application of the reducing agent dithiothreitol. Therefore, our data suggest that low levels of RyR2 oxidation increase the channel activity by decreasing the threshold for SOICR, whereas high levels of RyR2 oxidation irreversibly increase the threshold for SOICR leading to an inhibition of RyR2. Combined, this indicates that oxidation regulates RyR2 by the same mechanism as phosphorylation, methylxanthines, and mutations, via changes in the threshold for SOICR.


Microbial biodiversity, quality and shelf life of microfiltered and pasteurized extended shelf life (ESL) milk from Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Information on factors limiting the shelf life of extended shelf life (ESL) milk produced by microfiltration and subsequent pasteurization is very limited. In this study, three different batches of ESL milk were analyzed at different stages of the production process and during storage at 4 °C, 8 °C and 10 °C in order to evaluate the changes in bacterial cell counts, microbial diversity and enzymatic quality. Additionally, detailed biodiversity analyses of 250 retail ESL milk packages produced by five manufacturers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland were performed at the end of shelf life. It was observed that microfiltration decreased the microbial loads by 5-6 log₁₀ units to lower than 1 CFU/mL. However, bacterial counts at the end of shelf life were extremely variable and ranged between <1 and 8 log₁₀ CFU/mL. 8% of all samples showed spoilage indicated by cell counts higher than 6 log₁₀ CFU/mL. The main spoilage groups of bacteria were Gram-negative post-process recontaminants (Acinetobacter, Chryseobacterium, Psychrobacter, Sphingomonas) and the spore formers Paenibacillus and Bacillus cereus, while other spore formers and Microbacterium spp. did not reach spoilage levels. Paenibacillus spp. and B. cereus apparently influenced enzymatic spoilage, as indicated by increased free fatty acid production, pH 4.6 soluble peptide fractions and off-flavors. In some cases, enzymatic spoilage was observed although microbial counts were well below 6 log₁₀ CFU/mL. Thirteen B. cereus isolates were characterized for their toxin profiles and psychrotolerance. Hbl, nhe, and cytK toxin genes were detected in ten, thirteen, and four isolates, respectively, whereas the ces gene was always absent. Interestingly, only three of the thirteen isolates could be allocated to psychrotolerant genotypes, as indicated by the major cold shock cspA gene signature. Generally, large discrepancies in microbial loads and biodiversity were observed at the end of shelf life, even among packages of the same production batch. We suggest that such unexpected differences may be due to very low cell counts after ESL treatment, causing stochastic variations of initial species distributions in individual packages. This would result in the development of significantly different bacterial populations during cold storage, including the occasional development of high numbers of pathogenic species such as B. cereus or Acinetobacter.


Tractography-activation models applied to subcallosal cingulate deep brain stimulation.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subcallosal cingulate white matter (SCCWM) is an experimental therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD). The specific axonal pathways that mediate the anti-depressant effects of DBS remain unknown. Patient-specific tractography-activation models (TAMs) are a new tool to help identify pathways modulated by DBS. TAMs consist of four basic components: 1) anatomical and diffusion-weighted imaging data acquired on the patient; 2) probabilistic tractography from the brain region surrounding the implanted DBS electrode; 3) finite element models of the electric field generated by the patient-specific DBS parameter settings; and 4) application of the DBS electric field to multi-compartment cable models of axons, with trajectories defined by the tractography, to predict action potential generation in specific pathways. This study presents TAM predictions from DBS of the SCCWM in one MDD patient. Our findings suggest that small differences in electrode location can generate substantial differences in the directly activated pathways.


COVID-19 pandemic in India: through psycho-social lens.
COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented crisis that simultaneously affected different countries and communities across the globe. The large-scale psychosocial impact of the pandemic and the subsequent lockdown, is an experiential reality for many, in India. Despite this impact, a closer look at India's response to the pandemic shows that the two strands of health and relief measures, continue to occupy centre-stage. The psycho-social aspects of the pandemic unfortunately largely remain undocumented and unaddressed. Using experiences of iCALL, National national level psycho-social counseling counselling service and a field action project of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, the paper throws light on the much-neglected experiential psycho-social dimensions of COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown in India. It describes the stressors experienced by users who approached iCALL and the consequent impact; especially among those who belonged to the vulnerable sections of the society. The nature of stressors as well as the impact reported by iCALL users, clearly points out to a complex interplay among several factors at individual, interpersonal, community and structural levels. The paper then, critically looks at the merits and limitations of the mental health framework that predominated the mental health response during the pandemic with its bio-medical and individualistic undertones; and suggests an alternative framing using a 'psycho-social' paradigm that views distress as an interaction between the psychological and social worlds. The paper asserts reciprocal linkages between development and psycho-social distress; highlighting the need to consciously integrate mental health issues into the development response. In the end, it makes an appeal for an inter sectoral dialogue, integrated response and advocacy for investing in mental health and psycho-social infrastructure to effectively respond to the pandemic.


Reliable protocol for shear wave elastography of lower limb muscles at rest and during passive stretching.
Development of shear wave elastography gave access to non-invasive muscle stiffness assessment in vivo. The aim of the present study was to define a measurement protocol to be used in clinical routine for quantifying the shear modulus of lower limb muscles. Four positions were defined to evaluate shear modulus in 10 healthy subjects: parallel to the fibers, in the anterior and posterior aspects of the lower limb, at rest and during passive stretching. Reliability was first evaluated on two muscles by three operators; these measurements were repeated six times. Then, measurement reliability was compared in 11 muscles by two operators; these measurements were repeated three times. Reproducibility of shear modulus was 0.48 kPa and repeatability was 0.41 kPa, with all muscles pooled. Position did not significantly influence reliability. Shear wave elastography appeared to be an appropriate and reliable tool to evaluate the shear modulus of lower limb muscles with the proposed protocol.


Levels of plasma and fecal glucocorticoid metabolites following an ACTH challenge in male and female coyotes (Canis latrans).
Knowledge of endocrine stress responses can be advantageous for understanding how animals respond to their environment. One tool in wildlife endocrinology is to measure the adrenocortical activity as a parameter of disturbance of animals. Fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (GCMs) provide a noninvasive assessment of adrenocortical activity. Using an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge administered to 28 captive coyotes (Canis latrans), we measured the levels of plasma cortisol, and fecal cortisol and corticosterone metabolites (i.e., GCMs). Our goal was to determine the dose-response in the plasma and fecal samples following the injection and determine if there were effects of sex, age, and time of day. Specifically, animals were anesthetized for ~ 90 min with treatment animals intravenously injected with exogenous ACTH and control animals receiving saline. We collected blood samples prior to injection and at 4 different time points post-injection. We also collected fecal samples 2 days pre- and 2 days post-injection to measure fecal GCMs and determine if an endocrine stress response could be detected in fecal samples. We found a definite response in cortisol levels in the plasma for coyotes to the ACTH challenge. There was a response in fecal corticosterone 1 day post-injection, but the control males showed a similar response indicating a handling effect. Fecal cortisol levels did not indicate a response to the ACTH challenge, and were significantly lower than corticosterone concentrations. We also found significant sex, but not age or diurnal, differences in fecal GCMs. Radioimmunoassays for fecal corticosterone levels appeared to be a reliable indicator of physiological stress in coyotes.


Familial aortic valve disease: evidence for a genetic influence?
It has been suggested that genetic factors may play a role in the aetiology of congenital bicuspid aortic valve disease. This report describes a family in which three male siblings with bicuspid aortic valves developed critical aortic stenosis. This provides further evidence that an hereditary mechanism may play a role in some patients with this condition.


Effects of nicardipine on coronary blood flow.
Nicardipine, a new 1,4 dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, has chemical properties that permit both oral and stable intravenous preparations. These preparations have prominent effects on indices of myocardial ischemia, coronary blood flow, and myocardial oxygen consumption. Data are reviewed from animal models of myocardial ischemia and patient studies that suggest that nicardipine has very prominent effects acting to increase coronary blood flow and reduce myocardial oxygen demand, in addition to favorable effects on myocardial metabolism and function.


Reclamation chain of waste concrete: A case study of Shanghai.
A mass of construction and demolition (C&D) waste are generated in Shanghai every year, and it has become a serious environment problem. Reclaiming the waste concrete to produce recycled aggregate (RA) and recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is an effective method to reduce the C&D waste. This paper develops a reclamation chain of waste concrete based on the researches and practices in Shanghai. C&D waste management, waste concrete disposition, RA production and RAC preparation are discussed respectively. In addition, technical suggestions are also given according to the findings in practical engineering, which aims to optimize the reclamation chain. The results show that the properties of RA and RAC can well meet the requirement of design and practical application through a series of technical measures. The reclamation chain of waste concrete is necessary and appropriate for Shanghai, which provides more opportunities for the wider application of RA and RAC, and it shows a favorable environmental benefit.


Whole-genome analysis reveals possible sources of ALV-J infection in an anyi tile-like gray chicken flock.
Avian leukosis virus (ALV) induces multiple tumors in chicken and is still prevalent in a lot of local flocks in China. In this study, we analyzed the ALV infection status in an Anyi tile-like gray chicken flock by DF1-cells isolation, virus identification, and genome sequencing. Results showed a 29% (29/100) ALV positive rate in this flock. Homology analysis based on env genes illustrated that all these stains belong to subgroup J (92-100% identities) and can be further divided into 5 batches, suggesting a higher diversity of ALV-J within the same flock. The whole-genome analysis of representative stains from each batch confirmed the close relationship between these isolated strains with previously reported strains from different regions (Guangxi, Shandong, and Heilongjiang), revealing the enrichment of different strains in Anyi tile-like grey chickens. This study provides the epidemiological data of ALV-J in a special chicken flock and a reference for the further eradication of ALV in China.


Pulmonary metastasectomy for soft tissue sarcoma.
The American Cancer Society predicts 10,520 new cases and 3920 deaths from soft tissue sarcoma (STS) for 2010. STS disseminates primarily via the hematogenous route, although lymphatic spread does occur with certain subtypes. The lung is the most common metastatic site in most large series, accounting for up to 80% of metastases. The median overall survival for pulmonary metastatic disease with current multidisciplinary treatment is approximately 12 to 14 months. Pulmonary metastasectomy (PM) represents the only potentially curative treatment for patients with STS and lung metastases. This article discusses the management of STS using PM.


[LaMedica. The medical education academy on the internet].
At present, "modern media" are still a novelty in medical education. The "LaMedica Project"--a program supported by the Federal Ministry for Education and Research--intends to provide an Internet-based education and training system for the entire field of medicine, using all available media resources. This online educational program will provide subjects for medical laypersons as well as medical experts. Various styles of learning and different learning requests will be promoted. The project presented mirrors the cutting edge of database technology, computer-based training and media didactics, critical content processing as well as supplying individual subjects. This report summarizes our 10 months of experience with this program at the Department for Urology and Pediatric Urology of the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University of Frankfurt Main.


Transforming urinary stone disease management by artificial intelligence-based methods: A comprehensive review.
To provide a comprehensive review on the existing research and evidence regarding artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the assessment and management of urinary stone disease. A comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to identify publications about innovative concepts or supporting applications of AI in the improvement of every medical procedure relating to stone disease. The terms ''endourology'', ''artificial intelligence'', ''machine learning'', and ''urolithiasis'' were used for searching eligible reports, while review articles, articles referring to automated procedures without AI application, and editorial comments were excluded from the final set of publications. The search was conducted from January 2000 to September 2023 and included manuscripts in the English language. A total of 69 studies were identified. The main subjects were related to the detection of urinary stones, the prediction of the outcome of conservative or operative management, the optimization of operative procedures, and the elucidation of the relation of urinary stone chemistry with various factors. AI represents a useful tool that provides urologists with numerous amenities, which explains the fact that it has gained ground in the pursuit of stone disease management perfection. The effectiveness of diagnosis and therapy can be increased by using it as an alternative or adjunct to the already existing data. However, little is known concerning the potential of this vast field. Electronic patient records, containing big data, offer AI the opportunity to develop and analyze more precise and efficient diagnostic and treatment algorithms. Nevertheless, the existing applications are not generalizable in real-life practice, and high-quality studies are needed to establish the integration of AI in the management of urinary stone disease.


Workaholism and work-family interaction among emergency and critical care nurses.
Investigating the prevalence of workaholism as well as the relationship between work-family interaction among emergency and critical care nurses. A quantitative cross-sectional study. A total of 219 nurses took part in the Dutch Work Addiction Scale (DUWAS-10) and the Survey Work-Home Interaction Nijmegen (SWING), which included socio-demographic and occupational question. Data was gathered in Spain between June and September 2019. Workaholism was found to be prevalent in 28.3% of the participants. In all four categories, workaholism was statistically connected to work-home interaction, with workaholics having higher means than non-workaholics. Perceived work stress was related to workaholism (p =.036). In the Work Excessively dimension, female nurses had significantly higher mean scores (M = 2.26) than their male counterparts (M = 1,88). In addition, in the Negative Work-Home Interaction (M = 2.04), the global mean scores were higher than in the Negative Home-Work Interaction (M = 1.34), indicating conflict and a negative impact of work on the family. The findings of this study demonstratedthe necessity of taking into account demands and resources from both the work and home domains since it has been shown that both have an impact on one other. Furthermore, given the vital responsibilities that emergency and critical care nurses play in the health care system, our findings suggest that occupational health treatments should be used to identify those working profiles that are particularly at risk.


Ctcf haploinsufficiency mediates intron retention in a tissue-specific manner.
CTCF is a master regulator of gene transcription and chromatin organisation with occupancy at thousands of DNA target sites genome-wide. While CTCF is essential for cell survival, CTCF haploinsufficiency is associated with tumour development and hypermethylation. Increasing evidence demonstrates CTCF as a key player in several mechanisms regulating alternative splicing (AS), however, the genome-wide impact of Ctcf dosage on AS has not been investigated. We examined the effect of Ctcf haploinsufficiency on gene expression and AS in five tissues from Ctcf hemizygous (Ctcf+/-) mice. Reduced Ctcf levels caused distinct tissue-specific differences in gene expression and AS in all tissues. An increase in intron retention (IR) was observed in Ctcf+/- liver and kidney. In liver, this specifically impacted genes associated with cytoskeletal organisation, splicing and metabolism. Strikingly, most differentially retained introns were short, with a high GC content and enriched in Ctcf binding sites in their proximal upstream genomic region. This study provides new insights into the effects of CTCF haploinsufficiency on organ transcriptomes and the role of CTCF in AS regulation.


CaMKIIα-driven, phosphatase-checked postsynaptic plasticity via phase separation.
Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) is essential for synaptic plasticity and learning by decoding synaptic Ca2+ oscillations. Despite decades of extensive research, new mechanisms underlying CaMKIIα's function in synapses are still being discovered. Here, we discover that Shank3 is a specific binding partner for autoinhibited CaMKIIα. We demonstrate that Shank3 and GluN2B, via combined actions of Ca2+ and phosphatases, reciprocally bind to CaMKIIα. Under basal condition, CaMKIIα is recruited to the Shank3 subcompartment of postsynaptic density (PSD) via phase separation. Rise of Ca2+ concentration induces GluN2B-mediated recruitment of active CaMKIIα and formation of the CaMKIIα/GluN2B/PSD-95 condensates, which are autonomously dispersed upon Ca2+ removal. Protein phosphatases control the Ca2+-dependent shuttling of CaMKIIα between the two PSD subcompartments and PSD condensate formation. Activation of CaMKIIα further enlarges the PSD assembly and induces structural LTP. Thus, Ca2+-induced and phosphatase-checked shuttling of CaMKIIα between distinct PSD nano-domains can regulate phase separation-mediated PSD assembly and synaptic plasticity.


The tethered spinal cord syndrome: a correlation of radiological features and peroperative findings in 30 patients.
The aim of this investigation is to evaluate the accuracy of the diagnostic parameters of the radiological features, especially in conventional lumbar myelography, since these will be used in the future as a gold standard for new developing diagnostic methods like ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A short review of the clinical symptoms and diagnostic radiology of the tethered spinal cord (TSC) is given. The radiological features of the TSC syndrome are compared with the peroperative findings in 30 patients investigated and operated in our hospital. All patients showed lumbar or sacral osseous malformations on the plain X-ray films. This means a high diagnostic sensitivity although the specificity for TSC is low. Conventional myelography had a sensitivity of 0.82 and positive predictive value of 0.94, while the specificity and negative predictive value are respectively 0.96 and 0.85. The positive predictive value of the total diagnostic procedure of plain X-ray films and lumbar myelography for TSC may be estimated at 1.


Attitudes and beliefs regarding the use of herbs and supplementary medications with COVID-19: A systematic review.
There is growing interest in using herbs and supplementary medications to treat and/or prevent COVID-19, evidenced by multiple reports exploring their effectiveness and safety. From a health psychology perspective, the desire to use herbs and supplementary medications to prevent and/or treat COVID-19 is a health behavior which is attributed to attitudes and beliefs. This systematic review critically appraised and synthesized the data from studies investigating these attitudes and beliefs. EMBASE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Cochrane (library), and WebOfScience were searched from inception to December 13, 2021 for studies investigating attitudes and beliefs on the use of herbs and supplementary medications to treat and/or prevent COVID-19. A total of 17 articles were identified for inclusion. All except one were of cross-sectional design. Participants across most studies had a positive attitude towards using herbs and supplementary medications. They believed that herbs and supplementary medications were effective and were confident in their value in preventing and/or treating COVID-19 symptoms. The majority of included studies had significant flaws in study design and reporting, including inconsistent definitions of herbs and supplementary medications, a lack of theoretical models and conceptual frameworks underpinning the study of beliefs and attitudes, in addition to methodological issues of robustness affecting the validity and reliability of data. The use of herbs and supplementary medicines to prevent and/or treat COVID-19 could well be driven by a positive attitude stemming from beliefs of effectiveness and safety. There is a need for well-designed studies on attitudes and beliefs that are driven by health behavior theories to permit generalizability of findings and establish more conclusive relationships between beliefs, attitudes and the decision to use herbs and supplementary medications to treat and/or prevent COVID-19.


[Insulin resistance and hypertension].
It was recently suggested that insulin resistance present in diabetes and obesity may contribute to hypertension that frequently associates with both conditions. It has been proposed that the resulting hyperinsulinemia may induce hypertension through four possible mechanisms: Its trophic effect on vascular smooth muscle cells, increasing cytosolic calcium, increasing tubular sodium reabsorption or by stimulating adrenergic activity. Other studies however, did not confirm the ability of insulin to elevate blood pressure suggesting that the association between hypertension and hyperinsulinemia may no be a cause effect relationship, instead both phenomena may be secondary to the same cause. It has been suggested that adrenergic hyperactivity, changes in cellular ionic flux and alterations in microcirculation can induce both hypertension and insulin resistance.


Patterns and Influence of Lymph Nodal Metastases After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Surgery for Thoracic Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
The purpose of this retrospective study was to define the pattern of lymph nodal metastases in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) followed by esophagectomy and to evaluate its influence on prognosis. A total of 398 patients with clinical stage T3N0 or T1-3N+ ESCC who underwent NCT and radical esophagectomy with two-field lymphadenectomy were included. The distribution and frequency of metastases were counted separately for each lymph node station. The ypN stage, number of positive lymph node stations and lymph node stations with a metastasis rate greater than 5% were analyzed by using univariate Cox regression, followed by separate multivariable Cox regression analyses after adjusting for various clinical factors. Lymph node metastases were most frequently observed in the right upper paratracheal (16.8%) and left gastric artery (13.1%) stations. Multivariable models controlling for clinical factors showed that ypN stage remained a significant independent predictor of survival (N1 vs. N0: hazard ratio [HR], 2.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38-3.83, P < 0.001; N2 vs. N0: HR, 3.76, 95% CI 2.21-6.38, P < 0.001; N3 vs. N0: HR, 7.14, 95% CI 3.78-13.48, P < 0.001). The model from the multivariable analysis with the highest c-index score, indicating superior discriminatory preference, was ypN stage (c-index, 0.72). The pattern and influence of lymph node metastases after NCT will provide guidance on the extent of lymphadenectomy. Common positive lymph node stations for thoracic ESCC after NCT include the paratracheal, subcarinal, paraesophageal, paracardial, and left gastric artery stations.


Stepwise dechlorination of chlorinated alkenes on an Fe-Ni/rGO/Ni foam cathode: Product control by one-electron-transfer reactions.
Research on the stepwise hydrogenation dechlorination of chlorinated alkenes forms an important basis for eliminating toxic intermediate incomplete dechlorination products. The low-cost Fe-Ni/rGO/Ni foam cathode both supplied electrons and exhibited hydrogen conversion activity, and it was an excellent tool for the study of stepwise dechlorination. Electrochemical reduction experiments were carried out on homologous chlorinated alkenes. The conditions affecting the dechlorination efficiency and the repeatability of the catalytic electrode were analyzed. The trichloroethylene (TCE) removal rates were all above 78.0% over 8 cycles. The maximum EHDC efficiency was as high as 86.1%, and the faradaic efficiency was over 78.8%. Electrochemical methods combined with the calculation of the electron transfer number are proposed to verify the good hydrogenation ability of the electrode and the stepwise reduction ability at proper voltages. The stepwise dechlorination electroreduction characteristics of chlorinated alkenes were explained. The C-Cl bond dissociation enthalpies of chlorinated alkenes were calculated by density functional theory (DFT), and the 4-Cl and 5-Cl of TCE were expected to be removed first. The stepwise cleavage of chlorinated alkenes on Fe-Ni/rGO/Ni foam during dichlorination provided a reference for controlling the reduction products of chlorinated alkenes and preventing the pollution caused by toxic intermediate products formed during incomplete dechlorination.


Focused ultrasound solid-liquid extraction of perfluorinated compounds from sewage sludge.
A method for the determination of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) in sewage sludge based on focused ultrasound solid-liquid extraction (FUSLE) and reverse-phase ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled to quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry (QTOFMS) has been developed. FUSLE is a fast, low-cost and efficient extraction technique based on the application of high power focused ultrasonic waves using a micro-tip immersed directly in the extraction mixture. For the method development, the extraction solvent was studied and afterwards the factors affecting the extraction efficiency were optimised by means of a central composite design. Optimal FUSLE conditions were: 8 mL of acetonitrile as extraction solvent and an ultrasonic irradiation power of 65% for only 20s. Two extraction cycles were enough for the quantitative extraction of PFCs from sewage sludge. Limits of detection below 0.2 ng g(-1) (dry sewage sludge), relative standard deviation values less than 8% and recovery values between 69 and 104% were found for the target analytes. Finally, the method was applied to the analysis of sewage sludge samples from several wastewater treatment plants of La Rioja.


Induction of nuclear factor-kappaB and its downstream genes by TNF-alpha and IL-1beta has a pro-apoptotic role in pancreatic beta cells.
IL-1beta and TNF-alpha contribute to pancreatic beta cell death in type 1 diabetes. Both cytokines activate the transcription factor nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), but recent observations suggest that NF-kappaB blockade prevents IL-1beta + IFN-gamma- but not TNF-alpha + IFN-gamma-induced beta cell apoptosis. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of IL-1beta and TNF-alpha on cell death and the pattern of NF-kappaB activation and global gene expression in beta cells. Cell viability was measured after exposure to IL-1beta or to TNF-alpha alone or in combination with IFN-gamma, and blockade of NF-kappaB activation or protein synthesis. INS-1E cells exposed to IL-1beta or TNF-alpha in time course experiments were used for IkappaB kinase (IKK) activation assay, detection of p65 NF-kappaB by immunocytochemistry, real-time RT-PCR and microarray analysis. Blocking NF-kappaB activation protected beta cells against IL-1beta + IFNgamma- or TNFalpha + IFNgamma-induced apoptosis. Blocking de novo protein synthesis did not increase TNF-alpha- or IL-1beta-induced beta cell death, in line with the observations that cytokines induced the expression of the anti-apoptotic genes A20, Iap-2 and Xiap to a similar extent. Microarray analysis of INS-1E cells treated with IL-1beta or TNF-alpha showed similar patterns of gene expression. IL-1beta, however, induced a higher rate of expression of NF-kappaB target genes putatively involved in beta cell dysfunction and death and a stronger activation of the IKK complex, leading to an earlier translocation of NF-kappaB to the nucleus. NF-kappaB activation in beta cells has a pro-apoptotic role following exposure not only to IL-1beta but also to TNF-alpha. The more marked beta cell death induced by IL-1beta is explained at least in part by higher intensity NF-kappaB activation, leading to increased transcription of key target genes.


The Association of Serum Neurofilament Light Chain and Acute Ischaemic Stroke Is Influenced by Effective Revascularization.
To explore associations of serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) at admission with clinical deficits and the long-term prognosis of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). We recruited 110 AIS patients with serum sampled at hospital arrival. The concentrations of sNfL were detected by a Simoa HD-1 analyser. We first investigated the determinants of sNfL levels at admission within the study population. Associations of sNfL levels with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores were then tested. We further divided the patients into revascularized and nonrevascularized groups, and the associations of sNfL levels with NIHSS and mRS scores were assessed in these subgroups. Age, sex, stroke history, and the time between the onset of illness and arrival at the hospital were independent influencing factors of sNfL levels within the study population. The sNfL levels at admission were correlated with the NIHSS scores 7 days after stroke (p = 0.004) across all subjects but showed no correlation with the NIHSS scores at admission (p = 0.293) or the mRS scores 6 months after stroke (p = 0.065). Further analysis revealed that in the nonrevascularized group of AIS patients, the sNfL levels at admission were positively correlated with NIHSS scores (NIHSS at admission, p = 0.005; NIHSS 7 days after stroke, p = 0.003) and negatively correlated with mRS scores (p = 0.011). sNfL levels at admission could be a potential biomarker for predicting clinical deficits and prognosis in the natural course of AIS.


The COVID-19 Pandemic and Associated Inequities in Acute Myocardial Infarction Treatment and Outcomes.
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted usual care for emergent conditions, such as acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Understanding whether Black and Hispanic individuals experiencing AMI had greater increases in poor outcomes compared with White individuals during the pandemic has important equity implications. To investigate whether the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased disparities in treatment and outcomes among Medicare patients hospitalized with AMI. This cross-sectional study used Medicare data for patients hospitalized with AMI between January 2016 and November 2020. Patients were categorized as Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic White. The association between race and ethnicity and outcomes as a function of the proportion of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 was evaluated using interrupted time series. Data were analyzed from October 2022 to June 2023. The main exposure was a hospital's proportion of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 on a weekly basis as a proxy for care disruption during the pandemic. Revascularization, 30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, and nonhome discharges. A total of 1 319 273 admissions for AMI (579 817 females [44.0%]; 122 972 Black [9.3%], 117 668 Hispanic [8.9%], and 1 078 633 White [81.8%]; mean [SD] age, 77 [8.4] years) were included. For patients with non-ST segment elevation MI (NSTEMI) overall, the adjusted odds of mortality and nonhome discharges increased by 51% (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.51; 95% CI, 1.29-1.76; P < .001) and 32% (aOR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.15-1.52; P < .001), respectively, and the odds of revascularization decreased by 27% (aOR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.64-0.83; P < .001) among patients hospitalized during weeks with a high hospital COVID-19 burden (>30%) vs patients hospitalized prior to the pandemic. Black individuals with NSTEMI experienced a clinically insignificant 7% greater increase in the odds of mortality (aOR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.00-1.15; P = .04) for each 10% increase in the COVID-19 hospital burden but no increases in readmissions or nonhome discharges or reductions in revascularization rates compared with White individuals. There were no differential increases in adverse outcomes among Hispanic compared with White patients with NSTEMI based on hospital COVID-19 burden. Increases in hospital COVID-19 burden were not associated with changes in outcomes or the use of revascularization in STEMI overall or by racial or ethnic group. This study found that while hospital COVID-19 burden was associated with worse treatment and outcomes for NSTEMI, race and ethnicity-associated inequities did not increase significantly during the pandemic. These findings suggest the need for additional efforts to mitigate outcomes associated with the COVID-19 pandemic for patients admitted with AMI when the hospital COVID-19 burden is substantially increased.


Prostaglandin levels in peripheral and follicular plasma, the isolated theca and granulosa layers of pre- and postovulatory follicles, and the myometrium and mucosa of the shell gland (uterus) during a midsequence-oviposition of the hen (Gallus domesticus).
Prostaglandins (PG) F and E were measured by radioimmunoassay in peripheral, uterine and follicular plasma and in the theca and granulosa layers of the five largest preovulatory and the three largest postovulatory follicles, and in the myometrium and mucosa. Plasma and tissues were collected 16, 12, 8 and 4 h before and immediately after a midsequence oviposition that was accompanied by the next ovulation. PGF concentrations in the peripheral and uterine plasma increased at oviposition with a concomitant, 16-fold increase in plasma PGF concentrations of the largest preovulatory (F1) follicle. There was a gradual increase in PGF concentrations in the theca layers during follicular maturation, with the large increases occurring 12 h before oviposition in most follicles. The highest and the second highest concentrations were observed at oviposition in the F1 and the largest postovulatory (R1) follicles. In contrast, there were no specific changes in PGF concentrations in the granulosa layers of the follicles in relation to oviposition or follicular maturation. PGE concentrations in the theca layers of the F2 and F1 follicles were greater than in other follicles, while concentrations in the granulosa layer of all the follicles remained low. PGF concentrations in the myometrium and mucosa increased 8 h before oviposition but abruptly decreased at oviposition. These results suggest that the primary source of the increase in plasma PGF at oviposition are the theca layers of the F1 and R1 follicles and that PGs may be involved in uterine contractions for oviposition and in the ovulation process.


Pediatric tuberculosis in immigrants to the United Kingdom from the Indian sub-continent.
Tuberculosis (TB) is now an uncommon disease in the United Kingdom (U.K.) and its overall incidence is declining. However, the incidence of TB in immigrants from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh (the Indian sub-continent, ISC) is much higher than in the native white population or immigrant groups from other areas, and this is so even for children of ISC ethnic origin born in the U.K. The clinical pattern of the disease also differs, extrapulmonary involvement being commoner in ISC patients than white patients. The epidemiology and management of TB in pediatric patients of ISC origin is reviewed and reasons for differences from other ethnic groups in the U.K. are discussed.


Prognostic significance of CCND1 amplification/overexpression in smoking patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the main subtype of esophageal cancer, with 5-year survival rate less than 30%. In order to offer an individual therapeutic approach, it is necessary to identify novel prognostic factors to recognize high-risk patients. Given the high frequency of CCND1 abnormalities and the important biological effects of smoking in ESCC, we explored the potential relationship between CCND1 abnormalities and smoking in ESCC patients. CCND1 status was examined by fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining in ESCC tissue microarrays (n = 519). CCND1 amplification and cyclinD1 overexpression were found in 53.2 and 34.1% ESCC, respectively. CCND1 amplification (P = 0.142 for DFS and P = 0.191 for OS) and cyclinD1 overexpression (P = 0.035 for DFS and P = 0.092 for OS) tended to be poorer prognostic factors in all patients. Among smoking patients, those with CCND1 amplification had significantly poorer prognosis, with a median DFS and OS of 25.0 and 30.0 months compared to not reached and 52.0 months for those without CCND1 amplification (P = 0.020 and 0.018). A similar trend was found in the 68 patients with cyclinD1 overexpression (P = 0.043 and 0.048). Further univariate and multivariate analysis revealed CCND1 amplification was independently poorer prognostic factor in smoking patients, which was not found in non-smoking patients. Smokers with CCND1 amplification or cyclinD1 overexpression have poorer survival, which help us to identify distinct groups of patients with apparently poorer outcome and would enable appropriate follow-up and treatment strategies.


Obesity, overweight, and severe prognosis in COVID-19 patients in Japan.
Obesity (i.e., body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or more) is one of the risk factors for severe COVID-19, but the findings may not be directly applicable to Asians, who have a different cutoff point for defining obesity. We thus examined the association between obesity/overweight (BMI of 25 kg/m2 or more and less than 30 kg/m2) and the risk of COVID-19 severity. The study population included COVID-19 patients who had been enrolled in the registry of the Okayama City Public Health Center in Okayama, Japan, between March 2020 and June 2022. We included 27 820 patients who had information on BMI and prognosis, and we conducted Poisson regression analysis with robust error variance to estimate risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for severe outcomes. Obesity and overweight were associated with the increased risk of severe COVID-19 in all age categories. The RRs (95% CI) for COVID-19 induced respiratory failure compared to the normal weight category were 1.57 (1.31-1.88) for overweight and 2.45 (1.90-3.15) for obesity. Both obesity and overweight were associated with increased risk of severe COVID-19. This study suggests the importance of the overweight category to predict the risk of severe COVID-19 in Asians.


Solitary Langerhans cell histiocytosis orbital lesion: case report and review of the literature.
Solitary eosinophilic granuloma is a rather benign and localized form of Langerhans's cell histiocytosis. Definitive diagnosis is made by histopathology including immunohistochemical detection of S-100, HLA-DR and CD1a antigens. We report the case of a twenty-five year old boy presented with headache and orbit's pain. A CT scan showed a left supero-lateral orbital mass with evidence of bone erosion. The different options of treatment are discussed and the literature is reviewed.


Comparison of propofol and midazolam on patients undergoing spinal surgery with intraoperative wake-up test: randomized clinical trial.
Instrumentation in correction operations for spinal deformities carries a 0.5-5% risk of injuring the spinal cord. The wake-up test is used for early detection of these injuries. In this study we compared the effects of propofol and midazolam during wake-up test in scoliosis surgery. Thirty patients were randomly assigned as group P and group M. Anesthesia was induced with propofol 2.5 mg kg(-1) for group P or midazolam 0.5 mg kg(-1) for group M with remifentanil 0.5 μg kg(-1) and cisatracurium 0.15 mg kg(-1) for both groups. At the maintenance of anesthesia O2/air and infusions of remifentanil and cisatracurium were used. In group P, propofol 6-10 mg kg(-1)h(-1) and in group M, midazolam 0.5 mg mg kg(-1) were preferred. Approximately 15 min before the wake-up test, all drugs were discontinued. At the wake-up test, anesthesiologist asked the patients to open their eyes and squeeze his/her hand at every 30s until the patients responded. Then patients were told to wiggle their toes. Hemodynamic parameters, time of eye-opening, appropriate movement upon verbal command were evaluated. BIS frequency throughout the operation was recorded. The eye opening time was 9 ± 2.15 min in group P and 7 ± 3.15 min in group M. Motor movement time was 12 ± 2.55 min in group P and 21.25 ± 3.93 min in group M. Propofol provided better wake-up conditions and conducted a better neurologic assessment within the same BIS values than midazolam.


The risk factors of neurologic deficits of one-stage posterior vertebral column resection for patients with severe and rigid spinal deformities.
To determine the risk factors of neurologic deficits during PVCR correction, so as to help improve safety during and after surgery. A consecutive series of 76 patients with severe and rigid spinal deformities who were treated with PVCR at a single institution between October 2004 and July 2011 were included in our study. Of the 76 patients, 37 were male and 39 female, with an average age of 17.5 years (range 10-48 years). There were 52 adolescent patients (with an age <18 years) and 24 adult patients (with an age ≥18 years). Preoperatively, postoperatively and 6 months after surgery, we performed systemically neurologic function evaluations of each patients through meticulous physical examination. Any new abnormality or deterioration in evaluation of neurologic function than preoperative is reckoned postoperative neurologic deficits. Ten variables that might affect the safety of neurologic deficits during PVCR procedures, including imaging factors, clinical factors and operational factors, were analyzed using univariate analysis. Then the variables with statistical difference were analyzed by using multi-factor unconditional logistic regression analysis. No patient in this series had permanent paraplegia and nerve root injury due to operation. Change of neurologic status was found in six patients after surgery. Results of single-factor comparison demonstrated that the following seven variables were statistically different (P < 0.05): location of apex at main curve (X 3), Cobb angle at the main curve at the coronal plane (X 4), scoliosis associated with thoracic hyperkyphosis (X 5), level of vertebral column resected (X 6), number of segmental vessels ligated (X 7), preexisting neurologic dysfunction (X 8), and associated with intraspinal and brain stem anomalies (X 9). The multi-factor unconditional logistic regression analysis revealed that X 8 (OR = 49.322), X 9 (OR = 18.423), X 5 (OR = 11.883), and X 6 (OR = 8.769) were independent and positively correlated with the neurologic deficit. Preexisting neurologic dysfunction, associated with intraspinal and brain stem anomalies, scoliosis associated with thoracic hyperkyphosis and level of vertebral column resected are independent risk factors for neurologic deficits during PVCR procedure.


Carbon Monoxide Addition to Ruthenium-Dithiolene Complex and Polysiloxane Hybrid Film Formation.
The addition of carbon monoxide to the ruthenium center of [(η(6) -C6 Me6 )Ru(S2 C6 H4 )] (1) has been investigated. [(η(6) -C6 Me6 )Ru(CO)(S2 C6 H4 )] (2) was obtained by the addition of CO gas to the ruthenium center of 1 in both solution and solid states. 1 was reproduced by treating 2 with an oxidant. A 1/polysiloxane self-standing hybrid film was also prepared and showed a dramatic color change upon transformation of 1 to 2 in polysiloxane hybrid film.


Angiotensin II inhibits the release of [3H]acetylcholine from rat entorhinal cortex in vitro.
The effects of angiotensin I and II on basal potassium-induced release of [3H]acetylcholine were investigated in slices of rat entorhinal cortex. Potassium (10-25 mM) produced a concentration-dependent increase in the release of [3H]acetylcholine in the presence of extracellular calcium. Angiotensin II (10(-9)-10(-5) M) (but not angiotensin I) reduced the potassium-induced release of [3H]acetylcholine in a concentration-related manner to 60% of control levels, but did not effect basal tritium release. The effect of angiotensin II was antagonised by [1-sarcosine, 8-threonine] angiotensin II, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, but not by agents acting on alpha- and beta-adrenoceptors, muscarinic, nicotinic, histamine or 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors nor by the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor SQ 29852. The results indicate that angiotensin II acting via an angiotensin II receptor can inhibit the release of [3H]acetylcholine in slices of the rat entorhinal cortex. It is hypothesised that the ability of ACE inhibitors to facilitate cognitive processes may be related to a reduced availability of angiotensin II.


[Prenatal diagnosis of multicystic dysplastic kidney: about 18 cases].
Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) is the most common Congenital Abnormalities of Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT) in clinical practice. Its etiology and pathogenesis are still controversial and obstruction is a generally accepted causative assumption. Obstetric ultrasound is the gold standard for prenatal diagnosis and for the detection of other associated malformations. Prenatal management is based on ultrasound monitoring of pregnancy, of the disease, of the occurrence of other anomalies and of the amount of amniotic fluid. This study aims to report our experience in the Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics 2 at the University Hospital Hassan II-Fez in order to clarify the epidemiology of MCDK, highlight the role of obstetric ultrasound in positive and etiological diagnosis while describing the various sonographic appearances. It is essential to schedule for screening tests during pregnancy in order to assess the evolution of the disease diagnosed in the prenatal period, to implement a strategy in postpartum care and to establish a prognosis.


Antibacterial, Adhesive, and Conductive Hydrogel for Diabetic Wound Healing.
Diabetic mellitus is one of the leading causes of chronic wounds and remains a challenging issue to be resolved. Herein, a hydrogel with conformal tissue adhesivity, skin-like conductivity, robust mechanical characteristics, as well as active antibacterial function is developed. In this hydrogel, silver nanoparticles decorated polypyrrole nanotubes (AgPPy) and cobalt ions (Co2+ ) are introduced into an in situ polymerized poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and branched poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) network (PPCA hydrogel). The PPCA hydrogel provides active antibacterial function through synergic effects from protonated PEI and AgPPy nanotubes, with a tissue-like mechanical property (≈16.8 ± 4.5 kPa) and skin-like electrical conductivity (≈0.048 S m-1 ). The tensile and shear adhesive strength (≈15.88 and ≈12.76 kPa, respectively) of the PPCA hydrogel is about two- to threefold better than that of fibrin glue. In vitro studies show the PPCA hydrogel is highly effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In vivo results demonstrate that the PPCA hydrogel promotes diabetic wounds with accelerated healing, with notable inflammatory reduction and prominent angiogenesis regeneration. These results suggest the PPCA hydrogel provide a promising approach to promote diabetic wound healing.


Identification of mono-, oligo-, and polysaccharides secreted from soybean roots.
The mist culture system was conducted to study secreted polysaccharides from soybean ( Glycine max) roots grown for 15 days. Roots were rinsed with distilled water (DW) for 15 min, then with 30 mM oxalic acid (OXA) for 15 min to remove ionically bound sugar. Released sugars were further fractionated into low (L) and high (H) molecular weight fractions with Sephadex G-10. DW rinsing released 190 microg neutral sugar (NS) and 62 microg uronic acid (UA) per plant, while 374 microg NS and 70 microg UA per plant were released by OXA rinsing. Acetylation analysis revealed that the L fraction by DW and OXA mainly consisted of glucose (Glc), pinitol, and UA, whereas the H fraction mainly consisted of arabinose (Ara), galactose (Gal), Glc, and UA. The presence of rhamnose (2%-6%) in both fractions suggests secretion of rhamnogalacturonans. Methylation analysis revealed that the H fraction by DW and OXA contained T-Ara, 3-, 6-, and 3,6-Gal, suggesting the presence of type II arabinogalactan and arabinogalactan proteins. HPLC analysis detected mono-, di-, and tri-GalA in the L fraction by DW and OXA. Substances corresponding to sucrose, kojibiose, cello- and laminari-oligosaccharides were also found in root exudates.


Neuroprotective effect of ultra-low doses of antibodies against S100 protein in neuroblastoma culture during oxygen and glucose deprivation.
Antibodies against S100 protein applied in high and ultra-high dilutions possess neuroprotective activity and maintain survival of neuroblastoma C-1300 cells under conditions of oxygen and glucose deprivation. The examined antibody preparations stimulated differentiation in neuroblastoma culture thereby demonstrating pronounced neurotrophic activity.


Isolation of uncultivated anaerobic thermophiles from compost by supplementing cell extract of Geobacillus toebii in enrichment culture medium.
Several researchers have reported that microorganisms can be cultivated only in the presence of other microorganisms. We suggest that a portion of uncultivated microorganisms might be cultivated in the presence of cellular components released from bacteria in their natural environments. In this study, the cell extract of Geobacillus toebii was used to enrich uncultivated thermophiles from compost. In the process of enrichment cultures, cell extract supplementation apparently changed the community composition. This change was monitored by PCR-DGGE targeting 16S rRNA gene. Five novel groups of microorganisms (similarity of 16S rRNA gene to the closest relative <96%) were specifically isolated from enrichment cultures by using cell extract-supplemented culture media. Their growth was found to be dependent on the addition of extract of G. toebii. Putting these findings together, we suggest that the extracts of bacteria could be one of the growth factors in the thermal ecosystem with a possibility of extending other ecological niches.


Decortication and plate osteosynthesis for nonunion of the clavicle.
Between 1968 and 1995, 37 patients with ununited fractures of the clavicle were treated by decortication and plate osteosynthesis. Thirty-two (86%) were failures of union of fractures of the middle third. Thirty-four (92%) patients had post-traumatic nonunion or delayed union. Sixteen (43%) patients had undergone primary operative treatment. Autogenous cancellous bone graft was used in 24 (65%) patients with atrophic nonunion. Nine tricortical, iliac crest, intercalary grafts were used for segmental bone loss equal to or greater than 15 mm. At the end of treatment, union had been achieved in 35 (95%) cases. At a mean follow-up of 8.6 years (range 13 months to 17 years), 32 (86%) patients had no symptoms and had a full range of motion of the shoulder. Decortication with plate osteosynthesis is a reliable, durable technique for the management of symptomatic, ununited fractures of the clavicle.


Pitfalls in the interpretation of pediatric head CTs: what the emergency radiologist needs to know.
Pediatric radiology studies can be some of the most anxiety-inducing imaging examinations encountered in practice. This can be in part due to the wide range of normal anatomic appearances inherent to the pediatric population that create potential interpretive pitfalls for radiologists. The pediatric head is no exception; for instance, the inherent greater water content within the neonatal brain compared to older patients could easily be mistaken for cerebral edema, and anatomic variant calvarial sutures can be mistaken for skull fractures. This article reviews potential pitfalls emergency radiologists may encounter in practice when interpreting pediatric head CTs, including trauma, extra-axial fluid collections, intra-axial hemorrhage, and ventriculoperitoneal shunt complications.


Broad spectrum of interferon-related nephropathies-glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus-like syndrome and thrombotic microangiopathy: A case report and review of literature.
Interferons (IFNs) are characterized by a wide range of biological effects, which justifies their potential therapeutic use in several pathologies, but also elicit a wide array of adverse effects in almost every organ system. Among them, renal involvement is probably one of the most complex to identify. We describe four cases of kidney damage caused by different IFN formulations: IFN-β-related thrombotic microangiopathy, IFN-β-induced systemic lupus erythematosus, and two cases of membranous nephropathy secondary to pegylated-IFN-α 2B. In each case, we carefully excluded any other possible cause of renal involvement. Once suspected as the casual relationship between drug and kidney damage, IFN treatment was immediately discontinued. In three cases, we observed a complete and persistent remission of clinical and laboratory abnormalities after IFN withdrawal, while the patient who developed thrombotic microangiopathy, despite IFN withdrawal and complement-inhibitor therapy with eculizumab, showed persistent severe renal failure requiring dialysis. This case series highlights the causal relationship between IFN treatment and different types of renal involvement and enables us to delineate several peculiarities of this association.


Three-dimensional digital applications for implant space planning in orthodontics: A narrative review.
In the digital dentistry era, new tools, algorithms, data science approaches, and computer applications are available to researchers and clinicians. However, there is also a strong need for better knowledge and understanding of multisource data applications, including three-dimensional imaging information such as cone-beam computed tomography images and digital dental models for multidisciplinary cases. In addition, artificial intelligence models and automated clinical decision systems are rising. The clinician needs to plan the treatment based on state-of-the-art diagnosis for better and more personalized treatment. This article aimed to review basic concepts and the current panorama of digital implant planning in orthodontics, with open-source and closed-source tools for assessing cone-beam computed images and digital dental models. The visualization and processing of the three-dimensional data allow better implant planning based on bone conditions, adjacent teeth and root positions, and the prognosis of the case. We showed that many tools for assessment, segmentation, and visualization of cone-beam computed tomographic images and digital dental models could facilitate the treatment planning of patients needing implants or space closure. The tools and approaches presented are toward personalized treatment and better prognosis, following the path to a more automated clinical decision system based on multisource three-dimensional data, artificial intelligence models, and digital planning. In summary, the orthodontist needs to analyze each patient individually and use different software or tools that better fit their practice, allowing efficient treatment planning and satisfactory results with an adequate prognosis.


Idiopathic cerebellar ataxia associated with celiac disease: lack of distinctive neurological features.
To determine the occurrence of celiac disease in a population of ataxic patients without definite diagnosis and to characterise distinctive features which may help to differentiate cerebellar ataxia with and without celiac disease. Twenty four ataxic patients without definite diagnosis (group A) and 23 ataxic patients with definite diagnosis (group B) were screened for antigliadin (AGAs) and antiendomysium antibodies (EMAs). Patients with a positive AGA or EMA test underwent endoscopic biopsy of the duodenal mucosa. There was an increased prevalence of celiac disease in group A (3/24) compared with group B (0/23). None of the celiac patients presented gastrointestinal symptoms or malabsorption signs. None of the ataxic patients with celiac disease had early onset ataxia. Celiac disease is associated with ataxic syndromes without definite diagnosis, suggesting that it plays a part in the pathogenesis of some ataxic syndromes. The absence of distinctive neurological features in ataxic patients with celiac disease suggests that a search should be made for celiac disease markers in all ataxic patients without definite diagnosis.


Expanded timed up and go test with subjects with stroke: reliability and comparisons with matched healthy controls.
To investigate the intra- and interrater reliabilities of the Expanded Timed Up and Go (ETUG) test with subjects with stroke and to compare the ETUG scores between subjects with stroke and healthy control subjects. Cross-sectional. Research laboratory. Stroke participants (n=48; mean age ± SD, 59.29±15.84y) and healthy controls (n=48), matched by age, sex, and levels of physical activity. Not applicable. The time spent to complete the ETUG in absolute (s) and ratio values regarding the percentages of the total time. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Student t tests, and 95% confidence intervals were employed to investigate the reliability and differences between the groups (α<.05). Both intra- and interrater reliabilities showed significant and excellent results for both groups for the absolute values (0.86≤ICC≤1.00; P<.001) and ratio values (0.55≤ICC≤0.99; P<.001). The mean time, in seconds, for all of the ETUG activities was higher for the subjects with stroke than for the control subjects (3.15≤t≤5.78; P<.001). However, when the comparisons considered the ratio values, no significant differences between the groups were found (0.45≤t≤1.15; 0.25≤P≤0.65). These results were confirmed by the 95% confidence interval. Subjects with stroke spent more time in all of the ETUG activities when compared with control subjects. All of the activities appeared to contribute similarly to the poorer performances observed in subjects with stroke, because the ratio values were similar between the groups. Considering the positive intra- and interrater reliability results, the ETUG could be applied to assess the functional mobility of both groups.


Long-term efficacy of low-dose all-trans retinoic acid plus minimal chemotherapy induction followed by the addition of intravenous arsenic trioxide post-remission therapy in newly diagnosed acute promyelocytic leukaemia.
We evaluated the efficacy of low-dose all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) plus minimal chemotherapy for induction in newly diagnosed acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL). Furthermore, we compared its long-term outcome with or without the addition of intravenous arsenic trioxide (ATO) in post-remission therapy. From January 2004 to September 2011, a total of 109 patients with a median age of 41 years (range 14-73) were enrolled in the study. Two arms were assigned according to post-remission protocols: ATO group cases were subsequently treated with intravenous ATO, standard chemotherapy, and ATRA. No-ATO group cases were subsequently treated with chemotherapy and ATRA only. Patients were monitored of minimal residual disease (MRD) by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The haematologic complete remission (CR) rate was 96.3%. The early death rate was 0.9%. At a median follow-up of 49 months (range 8-102 months), the Kaplan-Meier estimates of 5-year relapse-free survival were significantly better for patients in the ATO group than in the no-ATO group, 94.4% vs 54.8% (p = 0.0001), and the 5-year overall survival rate was 95.7% vs 64.1%, in the two groups (p = 0.003). Our data show that low-dose ATRA plus minimal chemotherapy exhibits efficacy in induction therapy for untreated APL and suggest that the addition of ATO to post-remission therapy significantly improves the long-term outcome.


Brief Report: Undertreated Midlife Symptoms for Women Living With HIV Linked to Lack of Menopause Discussions With Care Providers.
Increasingly, women living with HIV are entering menopause (ie, cessation of menses for ≥1 year) and experiencing midlife symptoms. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is first-line therapy for bothersome hot flashes and early menopause (ie, before age 45 years); however, its use in women living with HIV is poorly described. We conducted a cross-sectional assessment of MHT uptake and barriers to use in this group. This study was conducted across 3 Canadian provinces from 2015 to 2017. Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women living with HIV (35 years or older) in the Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study who answered questions related to MHT use were included. Univariable/multivariable logistic regression evaluated factors associated with MHT use, adjusted for age and contraindications. Among 464 women, 47.8% (222 of 464) had a first-line indication for MHT; however, only 11.8% (55 of 464) reported ever using MHT and 5.6% (26 of 464) were current users. Only 44.8% had ever discussed menopause with their care provider despite almost all women having regular HIV care (97.8%). African/Caribbean/Black women had lower unadjusted odds of MHT treatment compared with White women [odds ratio (OR) 0.42 (0.18-0.89); P = 0.034]. Those who had discussed menopause with their care provider had higher odds of treatment [OR 3.13 (1.74-5.86); P < 0.001]. In adjusted analyses, only women having had a menopause discussion remained significantly associated with MHT use [OR 2.97 (1.62-5.61); P < 0.001]. Women living with HIV are seldom prescribed MHT despite frequent indication. MHT uptake was associated with care provider-led menopause discussions underscoring the need for care provider education on menopause management within HIV care.


Adult mortality at age 57 after prenatal exposure to the Dutch famine.
Prenatal famine exposure has previously been shown to be associated with cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes in adulthood. In the current study, we could not demonstrate an effect of prenatal exposure to famine in 2254 term singletons born during the 1944-1945 Dutch famine on adult mortality up to the age of 57 years. Follow-up of this cohort will resolve whether famine exposure is linked to increased adult mortality.


The responses of river discharge and sediment load to historical land-use/land-cover change in the Mekong River Basin.
The large river basins throughout the world have undergone land-use/land-cover (LULC)-induced changes in river discharge and sediment load. Evaluating these changes is consequently important for efficient management of soil and water resources. In addition, these changes in the transboundary Mekong River Basin (Mekong RB) are not well-known. The present study aimed to investigate the impacts of LULC changes on river discharge and sediment load in the Mekong RB during the period 1980-2015 using Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The SWAT model was calibrated and validated using measured data of daily river discharge and monthly sediment load. Analysis of LULC change showed a 2.35% decrease in forest land and a 2.29% increase in agricultural land during the period of 1997-2010. LULC changes in 1997 and 2010 caused increases in river discharge and sediment load by 0.24 to 0.32% and 1.78 to 2.86%, respectively in the study region. Moreover, the river discharge and sediment load of the Mekong River have significantly positive correlation with agricultural land and negative correlation with forest land. The findings give beneficial insights to implement appropriate strategies of water and soil conservation measures to adapt and mitigate the adverse impacts of LULC in the Mekong RB. Further study will consider the impact of future LULC changes and uncertainties associated with the LULC projections for future management of soil and water conservation in the study region.


Comparison of lipoprotein derived indices for evaluating cardio-metabolic risk factors and subclinical organ damage in middle-aged Chinese adults.
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and related lipoprotein ratios were used to assess lipid atherogenesis or insulin resistance. However, which of these indices is superior remains controversial and could differ across ethnic groups. We evaluated the efficacy of HDL-C, and related lipoprotein ratios in identifying cardio-metabolic risk factors (CMRs) or preclinical organ damage among a health check-ups population in China. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 17,596 Chinese adults aged 40-64years, who participated in annual health checkups in China. Anthropometric, biochemical, liver ultrasound scan, brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) were analyzed. Partial spearman correlations, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used for statistical analyses. In both gender, the triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio consistently had the highest correlation with various CMRs and subclinical organ damage. Overall, the area under the curve (AUC) of TG/HDL-C ratio was significantly greater than that of the rest lipid variables/ratios in the prediction of abdominal obese, high blood pressure, impaired fasting glucose, metabolic syndrome, and preclinical signs of organ damage (all P<0.001). In both gender with a normal TG and HDL-C concentration, those with an increased TG/HDL-C, had higher concentrations of various CMRs and higher presence of subclinical organ damage (despite no significant differences were found between different TG/HDL-C for part of CMRs indicators). In this population, TG/HDL-C ratio of ≥1.255 in men and ≥0.865 in women can identify individuals with cardio-metabolic risk, despite TG/HDL-C ratio, TC/HDL-C ratio, and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio seem comparable in their association with CMRs and subclinical signs of organ damage.


Deciphering the Cell-Specific Effect of Osteoblast-Macrophage Crosstalk in Periodontitis.
In periodontitis, the bone remodeling process is disrupted by the prevalent involvement of bacteria-induced proinflammatory macrophage cells and their interaction with osteoblast cells residing within the infected bone tissue. The complex interaction between the cells needs to be deciphered to understand the dominant player in tipping the balance from osteogenesis to osteoclastogenesis. Yet, only a few studies have examined the crosstalk interaction between osteoblasts and macrophages using biomimetic three-dimensional (3D) tissue-like matrices. In this study, we created a cell-laden 3D tissue analog to study indirect crosstalk between these two cell types and their direct synergistic effect when cultured on a 3D scaffold. The cell-specific role of osteoclast differentiation was investigated through osteoblast- and proinflammatory macrophage-specific feedback studies. The results suggested that when macrophages were exposed to osteoblasts-derived conditioned media from the mineralized matrix, the M1 macrophages tended to maintain their proinflammatory phenotype. Further, when osteoblasts were exposed to secretions from proinflammatory macrophages, they demonstrated elevated receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) expression and decreased alkaline phosphate (ALP) activities compared to osteoblasts exposed to only osteogenic media. In addition, the upregulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and c-Fos in proinflammatory macrophages within the 3D matrix indirectly increased the RANKL expression and reduced the ALP activity of osteoblasts, promoting osteoclastogenesis. The contact coculturing with osteoblast and proinflammatory macrophages within the 3D matrix demonstrated that the proinflammatory markers (TNF-α and interleukin-1β) expressions were upregulated. In contrast, anti-inflammatory markers (c-c motif chemokine ligand 18 [CCL18]) were downregulated, and osteoclastogenic markers (TNF receptor associated factor 6 [TRAF6] and acid phosphatase 5, tartrate resistant [ACP5]) were unchanged. The data suggested that the osteoblasts curbed the osteoclastogenic differentiation of macrophages while macrophages still preserved their proinflammatory lineages. The osteoblast within the 3D coculture demonstrated increased ALP activity and did not express RANKL significantly different than the osteoblast cultured within a 3D collagen matrix without macrophages. Contact coculturing has an anabolic effect on bone tissue in a bacteria-derived inflammatory environment.


Assessing asthma control: symptom scores, GINA levels of asthma control, lung function, and exhaled nitric oxide.
The childhood asthma control test (C-ACT) is a validated symptom score for assessing asthma control in children. We used a slightly modified version (C-ACT(M) ) of the German C-ACT and compared our results with the literature, correlated the children's part of C-ACT (C-ACT(children) ) with a visual analogue scale (VAS(children) ), explored the agreement between C-ACT(M) and GINA levels of asthma control, as well as the relationship between C-ACT(M) and lung function and exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO). We investigated 107 children with a diagnosis of asthma. The study protocol consisted of a clinical examination, assessment of asthma control according to GINA guidelines, administration of C-ACT(M) , VAS(children) , lung function, and FeNO. Of our patients 66% had, according to GINA, partly controlled-/uncontrolled asthma, 18% were uncontrolled according to C-ACT(M) . Children with partly controlled-/uncontrolled asthma according to GINA had lower C-ACT(M) scores than did children with controlled asthma (16.1 ± 3.6 SD vs. 25.4 ± 1.8 SD; P < 0.000), and children with a C-ACT(M) score ≤ 19 had poorer lung function (mean FEV1% predicted 81.5 ± 13.5 SD vs. 94.2 ± 12.1 SD; P = 0.002). Spearman's rank correlation coefficients revealed significant correlations between all symptom scores. Multiple linear regression adjusted for age, gender, FEV1 and FeNO demonstrated a significant relationship between C-ACT(M) , VAS(children) , and FEV1 (P = 0.003, resp. <0.000), but no significant correlation between C-ACT(M) , VAS(children) , and FeNO. The German version of C-ACT(M) is valid and useful for monitoring children with asthma along with tests aimed to follow up lung function and airway inflammation. Concordance between C-ACT(M) and GINA is moderate, because asthma control assessed by C-ACT(M) allows more symptoms and lung function is not included in the scoring.


Calculation of systemic blood flow with pulmonary artery thermistor probe.
A simple thermodilution technique is described for determining systemic blood flow with right atrial and left atrial catheters and a pulmonary arterial thermistor probe. Injections of cold water into the atrial catheters provide computer display readings that permit direct calculation of systemic blood flow. The method is convenient for determining systemic blood flow in postoperative patients with a residual left-to-right shunt.


Three-dimensional reconstruction of the temporal bone: Comparison of in situ, CT, and CBCT measurements.
To evaluate the accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and Computed Tomography (CT) reconstructions of human temporal bones compared with in situ measurements. Experimental anatomical study of 10 human temporal bones. Wilcoxon's test was used to compare 8 distances on each temporal bone measured in situ and then on 3D CT and CBCT reconstructions. Six landmarks were used: external auditory canal (EAC), tip of the mastoid process, tip of the occiput, zygoma, a point situated 1cm above the tip of the mastoid process (T0) (open technique: lower limit of the mastoidectomy), head of stapes. No significant difference was observed between the 3 measuring techniques for any of the distances studied (P>0.05). This study demonstrates the equivalence of CBCT and CT for temporal bone measurements. CBCT is a new imaging modality providing 3D reconstructions of the temporal bone that are as reliable as those obtained by CT. As a result of better spatial resolution compared to CT, CBCT is associated with a significantly lower radiation dose. This technique constitutes a morphological progress, as CBCT is comparable to CT, allowing investigation of pathological ears with a lower radiation dose.


VPS32, a member of the ESCRT complex, modulates adherence to host cells in the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis by affecting biogenesis and cargo sorting of released extracellular vesicles.
Trichomonas vaginalis is a common sexually transmitted extracellular parasite that adheres to epithelial cells in the human urogenital tract. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been described as important players in the pathogenesis of this parasite as they deliver proteins and RNA into host cells and modulate parasite adherence. EVs are heterogeneous membrane vesicles released from virtually all cell types that collectively represent a new dimension of intercellular communication. The Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT) machinery contributes to several key mechanisms in which it reshapes membranes. Based on this, some components of the ESCRT have been implicated in EVs biogenesis in other cells. Here, we demonstrated that VPS32, a member of ESCRTIII complex, contribute to the biogenesis and cargo sorting of extracellular vesicles in the parasite T. vaginalis. Moreover, we observe that parasites overexpressing VPS32 have a striking increase in adherence to host cells compared to control parasites; demonstrating a key role for this protein in mediating host: parasite interactions. These results provide valuable information on the molecular mechanisms involved in extracellular vesicles biogenesis, cargo-sorting, and parasite pathogenesis.


Diabetes and higher HbA1c levels are independently associated with adverse renal outcomes in inpatients following multiple hospital admissions.
To assess the association between glycaemic status prior to the first hospital presentation with developing adverse renal outcomes overtime in patients with multiple hospital re-admissions. A prospective observational cohort study. All inpatients aged ≥54 years admitted between 2013 and 16 to a tertiary hospital. We prospectively measured HbA1c levels in all inpatients aged ≥54 years admitted between 2013 and 16. Diabetes was defined as prior documented diagnosis of diabetes and/or HbA1c ≥6.5% (47·5 mmol/L). Included patients had ≥ two admissions (at least 90 days apart), baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >30 ml/min/1·73m2 and no history of renal replacement therapy. We assessed several renal outcomes: (a) 50% decline in eGFR; (b) rapid decline in renal function (eGFR decline >5 mL/min/1·73m2/year) and (c) final eGFR<30 ml/min/1·73m2. Of 4126 inpatients with a median follow-up of 465 days (254, 740), 26% had diabetes. The presence of diabetes was associated with higher odds of (a) 50% decline in eGFR (OR = 1·42;95% CI:1·18-1·70;p < 0·001); (b) rapid decline in renal function (OR = 1·40;95%CI:1·20-1·63;p < 0·001), and (c) reaching eGFR<30 ml/min/1.73m2 (OR = 1·25;95%CI:1·03-1·53;p < 0·05). Every 1% (11 mmol/L) increase in baseline HbA1c was associated with significantly greater odds of (a) >50% decline in eGFR (OR = 1·07;95% CI:1·01-1·4;p < 0·05) and (b) rapid decline in renal function (OR = 1·11;95% CI:1·05-1·18;p < 0·001). In patients with ≥two admissions, the presence of diabetes and higher HbA1c levels were strongly and independently associated with adverse renal outcomes at follow up. Such patients are at high risk of relatively rapid deterioration in renal function and a logical target for structured preventive interventions.


Subarachnoid pouches of the posterior fossa with syringomyelia.
Three men are presented, all of whom were born with difficulty and later developed severe syringomyelia with collapsing cords on air myelography. Each had hydrocephalus and a sizable subarachnoid pouch in the posterior fossa. The clinical features and investigations are presented with a discussion of the aetiology and possible mechanisms concerned in pathogenesis and treatment. All three men had posterior fossa exploration over fifty years after birth, and the first two were also treated by valved ventriculo-atrial shunts. Each patient has improved a little since operation, but no certainty that this was due to surgery has been proved in any case; none has progressed since the last operation.


[Changes in the spinal evoked potential induced by lateral compression of the spinal cord in dogs].
The paper deals with the changes of the spinal evoked potential during and after lateral compression of the spinal cord in mongoloid dogs along with the motor recovery seen for a two week period. Lateral compression was applied to the spinal cord extradurally at a speed of 1 mm per five seconds using a specially designed apparatus after laminectomy. A stimulating electrode was placed at the L5 level on the dorsum of the dura along the midline. Three recording electrodes were placed: one at the T6 level (R1), and the other two just cranially (T12, R2) and caudally to the compression level (L1, R3). The compression was released right after the R1 potential became flat. The dogs were kept alive for two weeks, during which time the evoked potentials were monitored at 1 day, 1 week, and 2 weeks. 1) In the recovery of amplitude, the first potentials were generally better than the second potentials. 2) The latency showed good recovery in 24 hours. 3) Many dogs showed good recovery in their motor function.


LC-MS/MS screening and identification of bioactive compounds in leaves, pulp and seed from Eugenia calycina Cambess.
The Eugenia calycina Cambess, also known as pitanga-do-cerrado, is an unexplored Brazilian fruit used by native people for the treatment of diabetes. The aim of this study was to identify the phenolic compounds from the leaves, pulp and seed of Eugenia calycina by using LC-MS-based targeted and untargeted analysis. The LC-MS-based targeted quantitative analysis showed a high phenolic content in all plant parts in which the ellagic acid was the main phenolic compound with values of 8244.53 µg/g dw (leaves), 5054.43 µg/g dw (pulp) and 715.42 µg/g dw (seed). The leaves, pulp and seed showed a high total phenolic content of 20371.96, 7139.70 and 2204.75 µg/g dw, respectively. In addition, the LC-MS-based targeted analysis showed ellagic acid, myricitrin and epicatechin gallate as the main phenolic compounds in the Eugenia calycina. The LC-MS-based untargeted analysis showed the phytochemical profile of the leaves, pulp and seed in which 153 phytochemicals from different chemical classes were annotated, including organic acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other compounds. The Eugenia calycina has high potential as a plant-based food due to its phytochemical profile and high phenolic content.


Move for Your Heart, Break a Sweat for Your Mind: Providing Precision in Adolescent Health and Physical Activity Behaviour Pattern.
Adolescent health benefits of different physical activity (PA) intensities, especially of lower intensities, are debated due to challenges in accelerometer data processing and analyses. Using a new accelerometer data processing method and multivariate pattern analysis, this study investigated the association of PA intensities with indicators of cardiovascular and mental health. Adolescents (n = 1,235, mean age 13.6 years, 41% males) were examined for cardiovascular health: body mass index (BMI) z-score, waist circumference (WC), resting heart rate and blood pressure, white blood cell count (WBC), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and answered questionnaires assessing stress and psychosomatic symptoms. Sex, age, and socioeconomic status were confounders. Hip-worn accelerometer data were processed with 10 Hz frequency extended method and a spectrum of 22 PA intensity categories was analyzed for association with health using partial least squares regression. Total explained variances for BMI z-score, WC, resting heart rate, stress, and psychosomatic symptoms were higher (3.3%-8.7%) compared to diastolic blood pressure, WBC, and PWV (0.9%-1.4%). We found positive associations of high-end moderate PA and vigorous PA with cardiovascular and mental health indicators. More sedentary time and lower level of light PA were associated with higher BMI z-score, WC, resting heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, WBC, and PWV, but not with mental health indicators. Very vigorous PA was negatively associated with resting heart rate, stress, and psychosomatic symptoms. In adolescents, PA of varying intensities were generally found to be positively associated with better cardiovascular health, but only higher intensity PA was associated with better mental health.


Development of a two-step pretreatment and UPLC-MS/MS-based method for simultaneous determination of acrylamide, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, advanced glycation end products and heterocyclic amines in thermally processed foods.
A two-step pretreatment and UPLC-MS/MS-based method was established to extract and determine 17 thermal processing hazards (TPHs) simultaneously. The first step was to extract acrylamide (AA), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and free heterocyclic amines (HAs). The bound HAs and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) were released by acid hydrolysis in the second step. A fairly good separation was achieved within 7 min. Almost all TPHs showed high correlation coefficients (R2 >0.999) in their respective linear ranges. The accuracy ranged from 98.13 to 100.96%. LODs and LOQs were in the range of 0.01-0.89 µg/L and 0.02-2.96 µg/L, respectively. The method was successfully applied to four representative food products, including high-starch, high-protein, high-fat and high-sugar foods, showing acceptable recoveries, intra-day and inter-day precisions. Moreover, PCA was performed to visualize the association between TPHs and food matrices. The developed method provided technical support for the formation and control researches of TPHs.


Interictal changes in behavior and cerebral metabolism in the rat: opioid involvement.
Interictal changes in locomotor and shock-response behaviors were examined in rats that were kindled unilaterally or bilaterally in the amygdala. 2-Deoxyglucose and naloxone were used to test whether alterations in cerebral glucose metabolism or opioid functioning, respectively, correlated with changes in these behaviors. Bilaterally kindled rats, at 14 to 28 days after their last seizure, displayed increased locomotion (square crossing) in an open field compared with unilaterally kindled or control rats. Bilaterally kindled rats also showed elevated thresholds for the elicitation of a multiple squeak response to tail shocks. Single squeak or tail withdrawal responses to tail shock were not affected by bilateral kindling. Likewise, unilaterally kindled rats did not differ from controls on any of the behavioral measures. Naloxone (10 mg/kg, i.p.) reversed the increase in locomotion and elevation of multiple squeak thresholds in the bilaterally kindled rats. By itself, naloxone did not influence any of the behaviors. Finally, cerebral glucose metabolism was decreased, globally, in the forebrain of the bilaterally kindled rats, and naloxone normalized this change. Cerebral metabolism was not altered in unilaterally kindled rats compared with controls. Thus, changes in cerebral metabolism and opioid functioning may be involved in the mediation of interictal changes in locomotor and emotional behavior in rats.


Polymorphism in the transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) gene is associated with impaired proinsulin conversion--A meta-analysis.
Available evidence supports the emerging hypothesis that the T-Allele of the transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) rs7903146 may be associated with the risk of impaired proinsulin conversion, but no consensus was available up to now. A computer-based search of electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library) and reference lists of relevant articles was carried out, and then 19 studies involving 15830 subjects were identified. The combined weighted mean difference (WMD) and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by a fixed or random effect. In the overall analysis, the T-Allele was observed to be significantly associated with the risk of impaired proinsulin conversion (up-regulate fasting proinsulin concentration WMD -0.40 pM/L (95% CI -0.57 to -0.23); down-regulate fasting insulin concentration 3.86 pM/L (95% CI 1.91 to 5.81)). Subgroup analyse stratified by subjects population characteristics and ethnicity were performed. The results indicated the TCF7L2 rs7903146 polymorphism was associated with the risk of impaired proinsulin conversion in various population characteristics study. With only a few of subjects in Asians and Africans were available, we failed to detect significant ethnic difference about TCF7L2 rs7903146 polymorphism and the risk of impaired proinsulin conversion. Our results indicated that the T-Allele of the TCF7L2 rs7903146 is a significantly risk factor for impaired proinsulin conversion. Future research should gather more data about the effect of TCF7L2 rs7903146 polymorphism on Asians and Africans.


Unicuspid aortic valve in a middle-aged man: a rare case report.
Unicuspid aortic valve is a rare congenital anomaly. Two forms of unicuspid aortic valve exist: acommisural and unicommisural forms, both with a predisposition to aortic dilatation. Most patients with this congenital abnormality will eventually require therapeutic intervention for resulting severe aortic stenosis during infancy or childhood. In adults, the most common treatment applied is aortic valvular replacement associated with replacement of the aortic root and ascending aorta. We describe a 43-year-old man admitted to our hospital complaining of chest pain with the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography showed a unicommisural unicuspid aortic valve associated with an aneurysmally dilated ascending aorta. The patient underwent a Bentall operation and was discharged uneventfully.


Semi-continuous anaerobic co-digestion of chicken litter with agricultural and food wastes: A case study on the effect of carbon/nitrogen ratio, substrates mixing ratio and organic loading.
In this study, four agro-industrial substrates, chicken litter (CL), food waste (FW), wheat straw (WS) and hay grass (HG) were assessed as feedstock for anaerobic digestion (AD) under semi-continuous conditions at organic loading rates (OLRs) of 2.0-3.0 g TS/L.d and hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 20 days. Six different substrate mixtures were prepared such that the C/N ratio of each was 20 or more. Using principal component analysis 68.1% of data variability was explained. Biogas production from CL, as a single substrate, was 181.3 ± 9.8mLN biogas/g VSadded at OLR of 2.0gTS/L.d. The optimum substrates mixture was CL:FW:WS 60:20:20, where 73.0%, 167.2% and 116.9% increase in total biogas production at OLR of 2.0, 2.5, 3.0gTS/L.d, respectively, compared to that from CL, was obtained. Digestate sequential fractionation revealed carbohydrate degradation is an important factor that can explain the variation in performance and production of biogas for feedstocks of balanced C/N ratio.


Establishment of a duplex SYBR green I-based real-time polymerase chain reaction assay for the rapid detection of canine circovirus and canine astrovirus.
The similar clinical characteristics of canine circovirus (CaCV) and canine astrovirus (CaAstV) infections and high frequency of co-infection make diagnosis difficult. In this study, a duplex SYBR Green I-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was established for the rapid, simultaneous detection of CaCV and CaAstV. Two pairs of specific primers were designed based on the Rep gene of CaCV and the Cap gene of CaAstV. By using the real-time PCR assay method, the two viruses can be distinguished by the difference in melting temperatures, 79 °C and 86 °C for CaCV and CaAstV, respectively. This assay had high specificity, showing no cross-reaction with other common canine viruses, as well as high sensitivity, with minimum detection limits of 9.25 × 101 copies/μL and 6.15 × 101 copies/μL for CaCV and CaAstV, respectively. Based on the mean coefficient of variation, the method had good reproducibility and reliability. In a clinical test of 57 fecal samples, the rates of positive detection by real-time PCR were 14.04% (8/57) and 12.28% (7/57) for CaCV and CaAstV, respectively, and the rate of co-infection was 8.77% (5/57). In conclusion, the newly established duplex SYBR Green I-based real-time PCR assay is sensitive, specific, reliable, and rapid and is an effective tool for the detection of co-infections with CaCV and CaAstV.