Development and Psychometric Validation of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs BCC-20) for Assessing Comfort during Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients.
The study aims to develop and psychometric validate Patient-Reported Outcomes Measures for Assessing Comfort during Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients (PROMs BCC-20). This study was conducted in two phases: 1) items were developed from the literature review and in-depth interviews, and 2) Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and concurrent validity were performed to evaluate construct validity. The participants were cancer stage I-IIIC, adult females, performance status was assessed by Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score ≤ 2 after receiving the second cycle of adjuvant chemotherapy and selected by purposive sampling method. For each group of EFA and CFA was 250 participants. Five hundred breast cancer patients during adjuvant chemotherapy were recruited from three tertiary cancer centers. A succession of EFA using principal axis factoring with Promax rotation revealed four dimensions yielded a seven factors solution, explaining a 60.07 percent variance. CFA contains 20 items with five factors; 1) social function, four items; 2) digestive function, three items; 3) emotional function, six items; 4) environmental function, three items; and 5) sleep quality, four items via maximum likelihood with bootstrapping indicated a good fit model (SRMR = 0.045, RMSEA = 0.040, CFI = 0.947, and TLI = 0.935). The Cronbach's alpha of 0.86 demonstrated strong internal consistency reliability. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed acceptable criterion validity. The PROMS BCC-20 provides good psychometric properties and practical patients' direct reports of comfort in breast cancer patients during chemotherapy. The PROMs BCC-20 should be standardized for comfort measurement and tailor-made nursing care to provide patient satisfaction and good nursing outcomes.


Risk of second malignancies after surgical treatment for early gastric cancer.
We evaluated the follow-up of 105 patients who received surgical treatment at our Institute for early gastric cancer (EGC). Median follow-up was 71 months. Operative mortality was 5.7% and the 5-year survival rate was 82.8%, approximately that of an age- and sex- matched Italian population. Overall mortality was assessed with regard to mortality from gastric cancer or other causes. Ten second primary malignancies were identified, and the standardized mortality ratio (1.12; 90% confidence interval [CI] 0.77-1.64) and standardized morbidity ratio (1.50; 90% CI 0.89-2.50) were determined using data from the Tumor Registry of Lombardy. To our knowledge, this is the biggest Western series to measure the risk EGC patients face of developing a second primary tumor. In conclusion, oncologists who follow-up patients surgically treated for EGC, a disease that is much less frequent in Western countries than in Eastern ones, should be aware of the possible occurrence of extragastric primary tumors so that they may plan the appropriate diagnostic investigation when necessary.


White-nose syndrome survivors do not exhibit frequent arousals associated with Pseudogymnoascus destructans infection.
White-nose syndrome (WNS) has devastated bat populations in North America, with millions of bats dead. WNS is associated with physiological changes in hibernating bats, leading to increased arousals from hibernation and premature consumption of fat reserves. However, there is evidence of surviving populations of little brown myotis (Myotis lucifugus) close to where the fungus was first detected nearly ten years ago. We examined the hibernation patterns of a surviving population of little brown myotis and compared them to patterns in populations before the arrival of WNS and populations at the peak of WNS mortality. Despite infection with Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative fungal agent, the remnant population displayed less frequent arousals from torpor and lower torpid body temperatures than bats that died from WNS during the peak of mortality. The hibernation patterns of the remnant population resembled pre-WNS patterns with some modifications. These data show that remnant populations of little brown myotis do not experience the increase in periodic arousals from hibernation typified by bats dying from WNS, despite the presence of the fungal pathogen on their skin. These patterns may reflect the use of colder hibernacula microclimates by WNS survivors, and/or may reflect differences in how these bats respond to the disease.


Simultaneous presence of EBNA-positive and colony-forming cells in peripheral blood of patients with infectious mononucleosis.
EBNA-positive lymphoblast cells were detected in 0.1 to 0.9% of the T-cell-depleted lymphocytes obtained from peripheral blood samples of five patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM). The same blood specimens from four of the five patients contained cells that formed EBNA-positive colonies in soft agar containing EBV antibodies. The ratio of the colony formers to EBNA-positive cells was higher in blood samples taken early in the disease than in those obtained in later stages of the disease. The present results strongly suggest that EBV-transformed cells are present in the peripheral circulation of IM patients and that such cells can directly give rise to immortalized cell lines in vitro.


Linking natural resources, innovations, and environment in the Belt and Road Initiative countries using dynamic panel techniques: the role of innovations and renewable energy consumption.
The issue of natural resources and environment are a matter of clashing argument in recent studies. An increase in natural resources raises economic growth which in turn increases carbon emission, that is a challenge for environmental sustainability. There is a lack of research on weather innovations playing any important role by acquiring renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and boosting economic growth by lowering the use of natural resources to raise environmental quality. Consequently, this study investigates the effect of natural resources, innovations, economic growth, and renewable energy consumption on carbon dioxide emission in 39 Belt and Road Initiative countries from 1981 to 2019. OLS, fixed effect, and generalized method of moments models were used for analysis, where the results indicate that natural resources, innovations, and economic growth significantly increase carbon dioxide emission, while renewable energy reduces emission and raises environmental quality. The square term of natural resources is negative; thus, it indicates that natural resource use reduces emission when it reaches a certain level. Likewise, our results validate the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis in the Belt and Road initiative countries. The findings have considerable policy implications for the Belt and Road countries regarding natural resource use, innovations, and renewable energy consumption.


Terrestrial humic substances in Daliao River and its estuary: optical signatures and photoreactivity to UVA light.
Fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) components were identified by Parallel Factor Analysis (PARAFAC) in surface water of Daliao River and its estuary with a focus on terrestrial humic substance-(HS)-like FDOM identified under two contrasting hydrological conditions. The hydrological conditions did not have noticeable effect on the spectral features of the terrestrial HS-like FDOM, but did affect the components' intensities and photoreactivity: (1) the intensities of terrestrial HS-like components were higher in the normal flow period than in the high flow period, and (2) a spectrally similar terrestrial HS-like FDOM identified under the two contrasting hydrological conditions showed distinct photoreactivity to the same dose of UVA illumination. The findings indicated that terrestrial HS was generated at lower intensities at the terrestrial sources during the high flow period than during the normal flow period and that the transport of terrestrial HS material through the river-estuary system was affected dominantly by seawater dilution along the salinity gradient while fine-tuned by solar UVA illumination. This study exemplifies the effect of hydrological conditions on optical signatures of terrestrial HS-like FDOM and their photoreactivity towards UVA illumination, improving our understanding of the dynamics of terrestrial HS material in river-estuary systems in the framework of the currently proposed new conceptual model for terrestrial organic matter.


Regulation of myocilin-associated exosome release from human trabecular meshwork cells.
The goal of the present study was to determine whether the release of exosomes containing MYOC from trabecular meshwork (TM) cells is constitutive or regulated. Conditioned media from TM cells were analyzed for MYOC-associated exosomes after treatment with IFN-gamma, porcine aqueous humor, dexamethasone, or a calcium ionophore in cells pretreated with dexamethasone. Aqueous humor was tested whole or fractionated by size exclusion filters. Exosomes from conditioned media were purified by differential centrifugation. Proteins in whole, exosome, and soluble fractions were separated by SDS-PAGE and analyzed for MYOC content by Western blot and densitometry. Although treatment of TM cells with IFN-gamma increased the appearance of extracellular MYOC-associated exosomes, results were not significantly different from those of control (P = 0.13). In contrast, treatment with dexamethasone increased the appearance of MYOC in the exosome fraction by 376% (P < 0.01). The increase in MYOC-associated exosomes caused by dexamethasone was enhanced by an additional 379% after short-term exposure to ionomycin (P < 0.05). When cultured in media containing aqueous humor, MYOC-associated exosomes increased 514% over control (P < 0.01). Such an increase was diminished in cells treated with aqueous humor that was first passed through a 3-kDa or a 30-kDa, but not a 100-kDa, size exclusion filter. The appearance of MYOC-associated exosomes in conditioned media from human TM cells is regulated by a corticosteroid, a calcium ionophore, and a component of aqueous humor, suggesting that TM cells respond to environmental cues by releasing MYOC-associated exosomes.


TRAIL/S-layer/graphene quantum dot nanohybrid enhanced stability and anticancer activity of TRAIL on colon cancer cells.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), known as a cytokine of the TNF superfamily, is considered a promising antitumor agent due to its ability to selectively induce apoptosis in a wide variety of cancer cells. However, failure of its successful translation into clinic has led to development of nano-based platforms aiming to improve TRAIL therapeutic efficacy. In this regard, we fabricated a novel TRAIL-S-layer fusion protein (S-TRAIL) conjugated with graphene quantum dots (GQDs) to benefit both the self-assembly of S-layer proteins, which leads to elevated TRAIL functional stability, and unique optical properties of GQDs. Noncovalent conjugation of biocompatible GQDs and soluble fusion protein was verified via UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy, size and ζ-potential measurements and transmission electron microscopy. The potential anticancer efficacy of the nanohybrid system on intrinsically resistant cells to TRAIL (HT-29 human colon carcinoma cells) was investigated by MTT assay and flow cytometry, which indicated about 80% apoptosis in cancer cells. These results highlight the potential of TRAIL as a therapeutic protein that can be extensively improved by taking advantage of nanotechnology and introduce S-TRAIL/GQD complex as a promising nanohybrid system in cancer treatment.


Osteocalcin prevents insulin resistance, hepatic inflammation, and activates autophagy associated with high-fat diet-induced fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome in aged laying hens.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of osteocalcin (OCN) on fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) in aged laying hens. Thirty 68-week-old White Plymouth laying hens were randomly assigned into conventional single-bird cages, and the cages were randomly allocated into one of 3 treatments (n = 10): normal diet (ND + vehicle, ND + V), high-fat diet (HFD + vehicle, HFD + V), and HFD + OCN (3 μg/bird, 1 time/2 d, i.m.) for 40 d. At day 30, oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) and insulin tolerance tests (ITT) were performed. At the end of experiment, the hens were euthanized followed by blood collection. The plasma aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured using an automatic biochemistry analyzer. Pathological changes in the liver were examined under both light and transmission electron microscopes. The plasma inflammatory factors including interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were analyzed by ELISA, and the gene expressions of these inflammatory factors in the liver were analyzed by real-time PCR. The level of oxidative stress was evaluated using malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) assay kits, respectively. The results showed that HFD + V hens had more severe liver hemorrhage and fibrosis than ND + V hens (P < 0.05). The ultramicrostructural examination showed that hepatocytes of HFD + V hens exhibited necrotic pyknosis showing great intracellular electron, mitochondrial swelling, shrunk nucleus, and absence of autolysosomes. Osteocalcin mitigated HFD + V-induced pathological changes in aged laying hens. High-fat diet + OCN hens had higher insulin sensitivity; lower liver concentrations of MDA (P = 0.12) but higher GSH-Px (P < 0.05); and lower blood TNF-α concentrations (P < 0.05) and mRNA expressions (P < 0.05) than HFD + V hens. These results suggest OCN functions in preventing the FLHS process in old laying hens through inhibiting excessive energy diet-induced metabolic disorder, oxidative stress, and related pathological damage.


Abduction of Arm Facilitates Correction of Kinked Peel-Away Sheath During Subclavian Central Line Placement.
A tunneled central line catheter placement using a subclavian vein approach can be complicated by an occurrence of peel-away sheath kink which prevents the advancement of the catheter through the sheath. The kink is created due to the angular junction of subclavian and brachiocephalic veins which meet at 90 degree angle. A technique is described which corrects the peel-away sheath kink by extending the subclavian/brachiocephalic vein angle to greater than 90 degrees by abducting the patient's arm.


Epidemiology of echinococcosis in Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stages of taeniid cestodes of the genus Echinococcus. The two major types of infection in humans are cystic echinococcosis (CE) or hydatidosis and alveolar echinococcosis (AE). It is endemic in some parts of the world, such as the Middle East, with Iran being a part of it. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the prevalence of CE and AE echinococcosis and their epidemiological and clinical aspects in Iran. Electronic databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), SCOPUS, Web of Science, SID and Mag Iran (two Persian scientific search engines) were searched from 1 January 1990 to 8 August 2017. The prevalence of CE and AE echinococcosis was estimated using the random effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was evaluated by subgroup analysis. Data were analyzed by STATA version 12. Of the 2051 records identified in the mentioned electronic databases, Seventy-eight articles met our eligibility criteria, with a total of 214124individuals. The meta-analysis was performed on only 37 out of 78 included studies. The pooled prevalence of CE and AE in Iran was 5% [95% confidence interval )CI(: 3-6%] and 2% [95% CI: 0-5%], respectively. Subgroup meta-analysis revealed that the prevalence of CE was significantly higher in North [9%, 95% CI: 4-18%] and West of Iran [6%, 95% CI: 3-11%], patients younger than 40 years of age [7%, 95% CI: 4-12%], villagers and nomads [6%, 95% CI: 2-12%], and studies that used the combination of serological, clinical, and imaging diagnostic methods [7%, 95% CI: 5-9%]. There were no significant differences between the prevalence of CE among low and high-quality studies. Housewives were the most affected group by hydatidosis (n=24/77, 31%), followed by illiterate people (n=11/77, 14%) and farmers (n= 9/77, 12%). Liver [55%, 95% CI: 46-65%] and lung [28%, 95% CI, 22-35%] were the most common sites of cyst formation. Given to the importance of echinococcosis on human health and domestic animals industry, it is necessary to implement monitoring and control measures in this regard.


A hydrogel spinal dural patch with potential anti-inflammatory, pain relieving and antibacterial effects.
CSFL caused by spinal dural defect is a common complication of spinal surgery, which need repair such as suture or sealants. However, low intracranial pressure symptoms, wound infection and prolonged hospital associated with pin-hole leakage or loose seal effect were often occurred after surgical suture or sealants repair. Stable, pressure resistance and high viscosity spinal dural repair patch in wet environment without suture or sealants was highly needed. Herein, a bioactive patch composed of alginate and polyacrylamide hydrogel matrix cross-linked by calcium ions, and chitosan adhesive was proposed. This fabricated patch exhibits the capabilities of promoting defect closure and good tight seal ability with the bursting pressure is more than 790 mm H2O in wet environment. In addition, the chitosan adhesive layer of the patch could inhibit the growth of bacterial in vitro, which is meaningful for the postoperative infection. Furthermore, the patch also significantly reduced the expression of GFAP, IBA-1, MBP, TNF-α, and COX-2 in early postoperative period in vivo study, exerting the effects of anti-inflammatory, analgesic and adhesion prevention. Thus, the bioactive patch expected to be applied in spinal dural repair with the good properties of withstanding high pressure, promoting defect closure and inhibiting postoperative infection.


Reappraisal of AIDS--is the oxidation induced by the risk factors the primary cause?
The emergence of AIDS as a recognizable disease, its epidemiology, the clinical and laboratory data and the way in which they have been interpreted to deduce the currently acceptable hypothesis of its aetiology and mechanism of transmission are critically examined. There is no compelling reason for preferring the viral hypothesis of AIDS to one based on the activity of oxidizing agents. In fact, the latter is to be preferred, since unlike the viral hypothesis it leads to possible methods of prevention and treatment using currently available therapeutic substances.


A novel approach to interpret quasi-collimated beam results to support design and scale-up of vacuum UV based AOPs.
UV-C at 254 nm and vacuum UV (VUV) at 185 nm are the two major emission lines of a low-pressure mercury lamp. Upon absorption of VUV photons, water molecules and selected inorganic anions generate hydroxyl (HO.) and other redox radicals, both capable of degrading organic micropollutants (OMPs), thereby offering the opportunity to reduce H2O2 and energy consumption in UV-based advanced oxidation process (AOP). To be successfully scaled-up, the dual-wavelength VUV+UV/H2O2 AOP requires laboratory-scale experiments to establish design criteria. The figures of merit typically used for reporting and interpreting quasi-collimated beam results for UV-based AOPs (time, dose, absorbed energy and EEO) are insufficient and inaccurate when employed for dual-wavelength AOP such as the VUV+UV/H2O2 AOP, and do not support system scale-up. In this study, we introduce a novel figure of merit, useful absorbed energy (uAE), defined as fraction of absorbed energy that results in the generation of oxidative radicals. Here, results of quasi-collimated beam VUV+UV/H2O2 AOP experiments on four different water matrices are used to introduce 2D plots that employ both uAEUV and uAEVUV as a novel method to represent laboratory-scale experiments of VUV+UV/H2O2 AOP and demonstrate how the 2D plots sufficiently support scale-up of the AOP.


Surfactant-induced mobilisation of trace metals from estuarine sediment: implications for contaminant bioaccessibility and remediation.
The mobilisation of metals (Al, Fe, Cd, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, Zn) from contaminated estuarine sediment has been examined using commercially available surfactants. Metal release by the anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), increased with increasing amphiphile concentration up to and above its critical micelle concentration (CMC). Metal mobilisation by the bile acid salt, sodium taurocholate, and the nonionic surfactant, Triton X-100, however, did not vary with amphiphile concentration. SDS was the most efficient surfactant in mobilising metals from the sample, and Cd, Cu and Ni were released to the greatest extents (12-18% of total metal at [SDS]>CMC). Metal mobilisation appeared to proceed via complexation with anionic amphiphiles and denudation of hydrophobic host phases. Surfactants may play an important role in the solubilisation of metals in the digestive environment of deposit-feeding animals and, potentially, in the remediation of metal-contaminated soil and sediment.


In Situ Formation of Nitrogen-Rich Solid Electrolyte Interphase and Simultaneous Regulating Solvation Structures for Advanced Zn Metal Batteries.
Zn metal as one of promising anode materials for aqueous batteries suffers from notorious dendrite growth, serious Zn corrosion and hydrogen evolution. Here, a bifunctional electrolyte additive, N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP), is developed to improve the electrochemical performance of Zn anode. NMP not only alters the solvation structure of Zn2+ , but also in situ produces a dense N-rich solid-electrolyte-interphase layer on Zn foils. This layer protects Zn foils from corrosive electrolytes and benefits the uniform plating/stripping of Zn. Hence, the asymmetrical cells with NMP in the electrolyte retain a high coulombic efficiency of 99.8 % over 1000 cycles. The symmetric cells survive ≈200 h for 10 mAh cm-2 at a high Zn utilization of 85.6 %. The full cells of Zn||MnO2 show an impressive cumulative capacity even with lean electrolyte (E/C ratio=10 μL mAh-1 ), limited Zn supply (N/P ratio=2.3) and high areal capacity (5.0 mAh cm-2 ).


[Nasal closure as definitive treatment for epistaxis in Rendu-Osler-Weber disease].
To show the result of this surgical technique for the treatment of nasal bleeding in Rendu-Osler-Weber disease. After great efforts to obtain informed consent for the procedure, considered as a final therapeutic attempt, we present here the surgical technique used in a severe long-standing case with frequent symptoms that required a large number of admissions to our hospital and caused our patient considerable social, family and work-related psychological problems. The surgical procedure was performed 14 months ago, with no further epistaxis since then, thus bringing to an end the emergency admissions, rated at 7 per year, and reducing consultations at the digestive and psychological clinics. The laboratory studies (haematocrit, complete blood count, bleeding time) have improved greatly. This is a safe technique, well tolerated by the patient, that avoids additional pathologies and reduces costs.


Differential induction and tissue-specific expression of closely related members of the phenobarbital-inducible rabbit cytochrome P-450 gene family.
We have examined the tissue-specific expression of three rabbit genes that are closely related members of a subfamily of the phenobarbital-inducible cytochrome P-450 gene family. Analysis of the levels of mRNA in liver revealed that (a) cytochrome P-450PBc1 mRNA was not detectable in livers from control animals but was present in livers from animals treated with phenobarbital, (b) cytochrome P-450PBc2 was present in control tissue and was increased by about 3-fold 24 h after phenobarbital treatment, and (c) the levels of cytochrome P-450PBc3 mRNA was the same in livers from control and treated animals. In the kidney, only P-450PBc2 mRNA was detected at a level 15% of that in the liver, and the levels increased about 3-fold after phenobarbital treatment. None of the mRNAs was detected in lung tissue. Multiple species of RNA were observed that hybridized to probes for cytochrome P-450PBc1 and P-450PBc2 cDNAs by Northern blot analysis ranging in size from 2300 to 4000 nucleotides. Differential sites for polyadenylation probably cause the heterogeneity in size. A single species of RNA of 2200 nucleotides that hybridized to cytochrome P-450PBc3 cDNA probes was observed. These data demonstrate that three closely related cytochrome P-450 genes are differentially responsive to phenobarbital treatment and that they exhibit different tissue-specific patterns of expression.


[Pedodontic patient: child psychology in relation to the dental sphere].
The Authors emphasize how difficult is for the dental surgeon to approach the young patients. The researches carried out on school children (6-11 years old), of different social conditions, emphasis the psychological reality of the visited children and suggest some contrivances for a less traumatic possible meeting with an unknown world, source of anxiety, stress and fear.


On the ictogenic properties of the piriform cortex in vitro.
The piriform cortex (PC) is known to be epileptic-prone and it may be involved in the manifestation of limbic seizures. Herein, we have characterized some electrophysiologic and pharmacologic properties of the spontaneous epileptiform activity generated by PC networks maintained in vitro. We performed field potential recordings from the PC in coronal or sagittal rat brain slices along with pharmacologic manipulations of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic and glutamatergic signaling during application of the convulsant drug 4-aminopyridine (4AP, 50 μm). Coronal and sagittal preparations generated interictal-like and ictal-like epileptiform discharges with similar duration and frequency. Ictal-like discharges in sagittal slices were initiated mostly in the PC anterior subregion, whereas interictal activity did not have any preferential site of origin. In sagittal slices, high frequency oscillations (HFOs) at 80-200 Hz were detected mainly at the beginning of the ictal discharge in both posterior and anterior subregions. N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism abolished ictal discharges, but failed to influence interictal activity. In the absence of ionotropic glutamatergic transmission, PC networks generated slow, GABA receptor-dependent events. Finally, GABA(A) receptor antagonism during application of 4AP only, abolished ictal discharges and disclosed recurrent interictal activity. Our findings demonstrate that PC networks can sustain in vitro epileptiform activity induced by 4AP. HFOs, which emerge at the onset of ictal activity, may be involved in PC ictogenesis. As reported in several cortical structures, ionotropic glutamatergic neurotransmission is necessary but not sufficient for ictal discharge generation, a process that also requires operative GABA(A) receptor-mediated signaling.


Characterization of the complete human elastin gene. Delineation of unusual features in the 5'-flanking region.
Genomic clones encompassing the entire human elastin gene, including 11 kilobases flanking the ATG translation initiation codon, have been obtained and characterized by restriction enzyme analysis and extensive DNA sequencing. These analyses demonstrated that functionally distinct hydrophobic and cross-linking domains of the protein are segregated into separate exons throughout the gene. All exons are multiples of three nucleotides, and exon:intron borders always split codons in the same way which permits cassette-like alternative splicing. The 5'-flanking region lacks a canonical TATA sequence, is G + C-rich, and contains several SP1 binding sites and an AP2 binding site. Primer extension and S1 nuclease protection experiments indicate that transcription is initiated at multiple sites in the gene.


Systemic effects of hypothermia due to hypothalamic dysfunction after resection of a craniopharyngioma: case report and review of literature.
With this case report, we aim to improve recognition of the systemic effects of hypothermia due to hypothalamic dysfunctioning. We present a patient who developed temperature dysregulation after surgery for craniopharyngioma. He suffered from several episodes of hypothermia associated with a decreased level of consciousness, hypoventilation, bradycardia, pancreatitis, and pancytopenia. Rewarming resulted in complete recovery of all symptoms. We discuss the literature on the pathophysiological consequences of hypothermia, referring to several medical databases (Cochrane, SUMSearch, Trip database, and PubMed). Hypothermia due to hypothalamic dysfunction can result in several systemic complications with complete recovery of all symptoms by rewarming.


Quantitative myocardial perfusion should be interpreted in the light of sex and comorbidities in patients with suspected chronic coronary syndrome: A cardiac positron emission tomography study.
Diagnosis and treatment of patients with suspected chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) currently relies on the degree of coronary artery stenosis and its significance for myocardial perfusion. However, myocardial perfusion can be affected by factors other than coronary stenosis. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent sex, age, diabetes, hypertension and smoking affect quantitative myocardial perfusion, beyond the degree of coronary artery stenosis, in patients with suspected or established CCS. Eighty-six patients [median age 69 (range 46-86) years, 24 females] planned for elective coronary angiography due to suspected or established CCS were included. All patients underwent cardiac 13 N-NH3 positron emission tomography to quantify myocardial perfusion at rest and stress. Lowest myocardial perfusion (perfusionmin ) at stress and rest and lowest myocardial perfusion reserve (MPRmin ) for all vessel territories was used as dependent variables in a linear mixed model. Independent variables were vessel territory, degree of coronary artery stenosis (as a continuous variable of 0%-100% stenosis), sex, age, diabetes, hypertension and smoking habits. Degree of coronary artery stenosis (p < 0.001), male sex (1.8 ± 0.6 vs. 2.3 ± 0.6 mL/min/g, p < 0.001), increasing age (p = 0.025), diabetes (1.6 ± 0.5 vs. 2.0 ± 0.6 mL/min/g, p = 0.023) and smoking (1.9 ± 0.6 vs. 2.1 ± 0.6 mL/min/g, p = 0.052) were independently associated with myocardial perfusionmin at stress. Degree of coronary artery stenosis (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.040), diabetes (1.8 ± 0.6 vs. 2.3 ± 0.7, p = 0.046) and hypertension (2.2 ± 0.7 vs. 2.5 ± 0.6, p = 0.033) were independently associated with MPRmin . Sex, increasing age, diabetes, hypertension and smoking affect myocardial perfusion independent of coronary artery stenosis in patients with suspected or established CCS. Thus, these factors need to be considered when assessing the significance of reduced quantitative myocardial perfusion of patients with suspected or established CCS.


Antithrombin reduces monocyte and neutrophil CD11b up regulation in addition to blocking platelet activation during extracorporeal circulation.
Patients undergoing cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass develop a systemic inflammatory reaction. Antithrombin III (AT) has anticoagulant effects but also shows evidence of anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was to examine whether exogenous AT could reduce white blood cell activation (CD11b up regulation or elastase release), in addition to inhibiting platelet (PLT) activation and fibrin generation, during simulated cardiopulmonary bypass (sCPB), undertaken in the absence of endothelium. sCPB was carried out with minimally heparinized (2 U/mL) human blood for 90 minutes in controls and with supplementation by low-dose (1 U/mL) and high-dose (5 U/mL) AT. High-dose AT blunted thrombin generation during sCPB (prothrombin fragment 1.2); both doses significantly inhibited thrombin activity (fibrinopeptide A). Complement activation (C3a and C5b-9) was unaffected by AT. High-dose AT inhibited PLT activation (P-selectin expression and P-selectin-dependent monocyte-PLT conjugate formation). AT supplementation at the higher dose significantly abrogated monocyte and neutrophil CD11b up regulation and neutrophil elastase release. In addition to anticoagulant and anti-PLT effects, pharmacologic AT doses significantly blunted monocyte and neutrophil CD11b up regulation and neutrophil elastase release during sCPB, independent of endothelial effects. These data provide evidence for the direct anti-inflammatory activity of AT that has clinical relevance for CPB complications.


Prevalences of Gs alpha, ras, p53 mutations and ret/PTC rearrangement in differentiated thyroid tumours in a Korean population.
In thyroid tumours, ras, Gs alpha, p53 mutations and ret/PTC rearrangement have been reported with variable prevalences in different geographical regions. We studied the prevalence of these mutations and rearrangement in thyroid tumours in a Korean population. As MDM2 and Bcl-1 protein expressions have been suggested to be associated with p53 protein, we also studied possible relationships among them. Eleven cases of adenomatous goitre, eight cases of follicular adenoma, five cases of follicular carcinoma and 37 cases of papillary carcinoma were included in this study. To find mutations and rearrangement, RT-PCR, SSCP and/or direct sequencing, after subcloning if necessary, were used, and immunohistochemical stainings were performed for p53, MDM2 and Bcl-2 proteins in cases of papillary carcinoma. We could not find any rearrangement for ret/PTC-1, -2, -3 and mutation of Gs alpha. For the ras oncogene, K and H-ras mutations were not found, but N-ras mutations, point mutation of CAA to CGA in codon 61, were detected in one follicular adenoma (12.5%, 1/8) and one follicular carcinoma (33%, 1/3). p53 mutations were detected in only one case of papillary carcinoma (3%, 1/31: exon 8, codon 266 GGA-->GAA). In 30 cases of papillary carcinoma without p53 mutation, the prevalences of positive immunohistochemical staining were 13.3% for p53 protein, 53.3% for MDM2 protein and 56.7% for Bcl-2 protein. While over-expression of p53 protein was not significantly related to that of MDM2 and Bcl-2 proteins, over-expression of MDM2 and Bcl-2 in papillary carcinoma were associated. ret/PTC rearrangement, Gs alpha, ras and p53 mutations are relatively rare in differentiated thyroid neoplasms from a Korean population, which may reflect genetic and environmental differences from patients in countries with high prevalences. P53 protein over-expression was noted in 13.3% of papillary carcinoma cases without p53 mutation and was not significantly related to MDM2 and Bcl-2 expression.


Determination of 3-chloro-l-tyrosine as a novel indicator of chlorine poisoning utilizing gas chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis.
Chlorine gas exposure occurs in chemical warfare, industrial and household accidents. In forensic science, the generation of chlorine gas by mixing sodium hypochlorite detergent and strong acid detergent cannot be overlooked because of the possibility of suicide method (NaClO + 2HCl → NaCl + H2O + Cl2). Though typical autopsy findings are obtained in chlorine exposure, such as pulmonary edema, useful biomarkers don't exist. In this research, we developed an analytical method of 3-chloro-l-tyrosine (Cl-Tyr) in blood as a novel marker of chlorine poisoning utilizing gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Cl-Tyr was purified using protein precipitation and cation-exchange solid phase extraction, derivatized by the silylation agent and subjected to GC-MS. The quantification range was 10-200 ng/mL and good reproducibility was obtained. We applied the developed method to analyze Cl-Tyr in autopsy sample, which is suspected of chlorine poisoning, and detected 59.7 ng/mL Cl-Tyr in left heart blood. To our knowledge, this is the first report of determination of the chlorinated biomolecule in the human autopsy sample from chlorine poisoning.


Validating measurements of acclimation for climate change adaptation.
Acclimation and other forms of plasticity that can increase stress resistance feature strongly in discussions surrounding climate change impacts or vulnerability projections of insects and other ectotherms. There is interest in compiling databases for assessing the adequacy of acclimation for dealing with climate change. Here, we argue that the nature of acclimation is context dependent and therefore that estimates summarised across studies, especially those that have assayed stress using diverse methods, are limited in their utility when applied as a standardized metric or to a single general context such as average climate warming. Moreover, the dynamic nature of tolerances and acclimation drives important variation that is quickly obscured through many summary statistics or even in effect size analyses; retaining a strong focus on the temporal-level, population-level and treatment-level variance in forecasting climate change impacts on insects is essential. We summarise recent developments within the context of climate change and propose how future studies might validate the role of acclimation by integration across field studies and mechanistic modelling. Despite arguments to the contrary, to date no studies have convincingly demonstrated an important role for acclimation in recent climate change adaptation of insects. Paramount to these discussions is i) developing a strong conceptual framework for acclimation in the focal trait(s), ii) obtaining novel empirical data dissecting the fitness benefits and consequences of acclimation across diverse contexts and timescales, with iii) better coverage of under-represented geographic regions and taxa.


Ethnicity-specific epigenetic variation in naïve CD4+ T cells and the susceptibility to autoimmunity.
Genetic and epigenetic variability contributes to the susceptibility and pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. T cells play an important role in several autoimmune conditions, including lupus, which is more common and more severe in people of African descent. To investigate inherent epigenetic differences in T cells between ethnicities, we characterized genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in naïve CD4+ T cells in healthy African-Americans and European-Americans, and then confirmed our findings in lupus patients. Impressive ethnicity-specific clustering of DNA methylation profiling in naïve CD4+ T cells was revealed. Hypomethylated loci in healthy African-Americans were significantly enriched in pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory genes. We also found hypomethylated genes in African-Americans to be disproportionately related to autoimmune diseases including lupus. We then confirmed that these genes, such as IL32, CD226, CDKN1A, and PTPRN2 were similarly hypomethylated in lupus patients of African-American compared to European-American descent. Using patch DNA methylation and luciferase reporter constructs, we showed that methylation of the IL32 promoter region reduces gene expression in vitro. Importantly, bisulfite DNA sequencing demonstrated that cis-acting genetic variants within and directly disrupting CpG sites account for some ethnicity-specific variability in DNA methylation. Ethnicity-specific inherited epigenetic susceptibility loci in CD4+ T cells provide clues to explain differences in the susceptibility to autoimmunity and possibly other T cell-related diseases between populations.


Improving stem cell-derived pancreatic islets using single-cell multi-inferred regulomes.
In this issue of Developmental Cell, Zhu et al. provide integrated data from single-cell/nuclei RNAseq and chromatin accessibility (ATAC) across both a multistaged differentiation protocol-deriving pancreatic islets from hESCs and primary islets. This important resource could be leveraged for optimizing the differentiation and maturation of pancreatic islet cells from hESCs.


An in vitro kinetic method for detection of precipitation of poorly soluble drugs.
A simple in vitro method for the detection of precipitation using 96-well microplates and a SpectraMax Plus microtiter plate reader has been developed and described. The method requires only small amount of drug and is, therefore, potentially applicable in early pre-formulation. The method is based on opacity changes that occur with precipitation and yields several descriptive parameters, onset time (Tonset), maximum rate (Vmax) and the time to reach Vmax (Tmax). Using these parameters, potential parenteral formulations can be ranked by their tendency to precipitate on dilution. We report use of this method and ranking of potential formulations of ricobendazole (RBZ), a poorly soluble anthelmintic, in various solvent systems. Detection at 500 nm was more sensitive than a wavelength of 550 nm and increased temperature (37 degrees C compared with 25 degrees C) accelerated precipitation. Results demonstrated the method was simple, descriptive and objective in the detection of precipitation of ricobendazole formulation on dilution and pH shift.


Compartment syndrome of the thigh as a complication of anticoagulant therapy in a patient with a left ventricular assist device (Berlin Heart).
A nontraumatic case of compartment syndrome of the thigh in a patient on anticoagulant therapy for a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is reported. A 51-year-old man was on low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) anticoagulation and antiplatelet drugs for his LVAD, when he had a spontaneous-onset compartment syndrome of the posterior compartment of the left thigh, which was treated with urgent fasciotomy. Although compartment syndromes in the thigh are rare and mostly traumatic in origin, all clinicians must maintain a high degree of suspicion; moreover, although most often bleeding associated with LMWH is minor, occasionally it results in a major bleed resulting in limb-threatening conditions such as a compartment syndrome.


Amino derivatives of platanic acid act as selective and potent inhibitors of butyrylcholinesterase.
A set of thirtyfive 30-norlupan derivatives (2-36) was prepared from the natural triterpenoid platanic acid (PA), and the hydroxyl group at C-3, the carboxyl group at C-17 and the carbonyl group at C-20 were modified. These derivatives were tested for their inhibitory activity for the enzymes acetylcholinesterase (AChE, from electric eel) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE, from equine serum) using Ellman's assay. Extra enzyme kinetic studies were performed. The most active compound was (3β, 20R)-3-acetyloxy-20-amino-30-norlupan-28-oate (32) showing a Ki value of 0.01 ± 0.003 μM for BChE. This compound proved to be a selective (FB = 851), mixed-type inhibitor for BChE.


Simultaneous inhibition of Src and Aurora kinases by SU6656 induces therapeutic synergy in human synovial sarcoma growth, invasion and angiogenesis in vivo.
Synovial sarcoma is an obstinate, high-grade malignancy because of its modest responses to radiotherapy and chemotherapy; the identification of effective therapeutics for this sarcoma is therefore necessary. Inhibition of Src family kinases (SFKs) suppresses the proliferation of synovial sarcoma cells in vitro, as we have previously reported. In this study, to validate the efficacy of Src inhibition in vivo, we employed SU6656, which was originally identified as a specific SFK inhibitor. SU6656 treatment significantly impaired the growth of established, existing tumours formed by synovial sarcoma cells in mice. Tumour cell invasion into the surrounding tissues was also abolished by SU6656. It is noteworthy that SU6656 but not PP2 induced a defect in cleavage furrow formation during cytokinesis, resulting in G2/M accumulation and subsequent apoptosis. Intriguingly, SU6656 abrogated the catalytic activities of Aurora kinases and led to the down-regulation of phosphorylated histone H3 coincidently with p53 accumulation, as did the Aurora kinase inhibitor VX-680. Structural comparison indicated an extensive similarity between the catalytic domains of SFKs and Aurora kinases. The structural analysis also revealed the potential binding mode of SU6656 to the ATP-binding cleft of Aurora B via four hydrogen bonds. SU6656 prevented angiogenesis within the tumours by attenuating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production by tumour cells and the subsequent chemotaxis of endothelial cells; these effects were the result of the inhibition of SFKs but not Aurora kinases. Based on these results, we hereby report a novel property of SU6656 as a dual inhibitor of SFKs and Aurora kinases, the suppression of both of which effectively abrogates tumour development and the progression of synovial sarcoma in vivo.


l-histidine induces state-dependent memory deficit in mice mediated by H(1) receptor.
This study investigated the role of H(1) receptor in the state-dependent memory deficit induced by l-histidine (LH) in mice using Trial 1/2 protocol in the elevated plus-maze (EPM). The test was performed for two consecutive days: Trial 1 (T1) and Trial 2 (T2). Before both trials, mice received a combined injection i.p. of saline+saline (SAL/SAL), 500 mg/kg L-histidine+saline (LH/SAL), 500 mg/kg L-histidine+16 mg/kg chlorpheniramine (LH/CPA) or saline+16 mg/kg chlorpheniramine (SAL/CPA). The trials were performed in the EPM 10 min after the last injection. Each animal was placed in the center of the maze facing the open arm and had five minutes to explore it. On both days, test sessions were videotaped. The behavioral measures were scored from videotape. Data were analyzed based on Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Fisher's LSD test. The data showed no effects on anxiety since there was no difference between the SAL/SAL and the other groups in Trial 1, respectively, open arm entries (OAE), open arm time (OAT) and their percentages (%OAE and %OAT). During Trial 2, OAE, OAT, %OAE and %OAT were reduced in mice treated with SAL/SAL, LH/CPA and SAL/CPA, while the group LH/SAL did not show any difference in these measures. No significant changes were observed in enclosed arm entries (EAE), an EPM index of general exploratory activity. Thus, it can be suggested that LH induces emotional memory deficit and the treatment with chlorpheniramine was able to revert this effect, suggesting this action of LH was mediated by the H(1) receptor.


Assessing the value of orphan drugs using conventional cost-effectiveness analysis: Is it fit for purpose?
Conventional cost-effectiveness analysis-i.e., assessing pharmaceuticals through a cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) framework-originated from a societal commitment to maximize population health given limited resources. This "extra-welfarist" approach has produced pricing and reimbursement systems that are not well- aligned with the unique considerations of orphan drugs. This framework has been slow to evolve along with our increased understanding of the impact of rare diseases, which in turn has complicated the assessment of orphan drugs meant to treat rare diseases. Herein, we (i) discuss the limitations of conventional cost-effectiveness analysis as applied to assessing access to, as well as the pricing and reimbursement of, orphan drugs, (ii) critically appraise alternative and supplemental approaches, and (iii) offer insights on plausible steps forward.


Flavonoids as a scaffold for development of novel anti-angiogenic agents: An experimental and computational enquiry.
Relationship between structural diversity and biological activities of flavonoids has remained an important discourse in the mainstream of flavonoid research. In the current study anti-angiogenic, cytotoxic, antioxidant and cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitory activities of diverse class of flavonoids including hydroxyl and methoxy substituted flavones, flavonones and flavonols have been evaluated in the light of developing flavonoids as a potential scaffold for designing novel anti-antiangiogenic agents. We demonstrate anti-angiogenic potential of flavonoids using in vivo chorioallantoic membrane model (CAM) and further elaborate the possible structural reasoning behind observed anti-angiogenic effect using in silico methods. Additionally, we report antioxidant potential and kinetics of free radical scavenging activity using DPPH and SOR scavenging assays. Current study indicates that selected flavonoids possess considerable COX inhibition potential. Furthermore, we describe cytotoxicity of flavonoids against selected cancer cell lines using MTT cell viability assay. Structural analysis of in silico docking poses and predicted binding free energy values are not only in accordance with the experimental anti-angiogenic CAM values from this study but also are in agreement with the previously reported literature on crystallographic data concerning EGFR and VEGFR inhibition.


Chromatin replication and epigenome maintenance.
Stability and function of eukaryotic genomes are closely linked to chromatin structure and organization. During cell division the entire genome must be accurately replicated and the chromatin landscape reproduced on new DNA. Chromatin and nuclear structure influence where and when DNA replication initiates, whereas the replication process itself disrupts chromatin and challenges established patterns of genome regulation. Specialized replication-coupled mechanisms assemble new DNA into chromatin, but epigenome maintenance is a continuous process taking place throughout the cell cycle. If DNA synthesis is perturbed, cells can suffer loss of both genome and epigenome integrity with severe consequences for the organism.


Insomnia in workers with delayed recovery from mild traumatic brain injury.
Insomnia has not been explored as it relates to recovery after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of insomnia among Ontario workers with delayed recovery from mTBI, and its relationship with sociodemographic, TBI- and claim-related, behavioral, and clinical factors. This was a cross-sectional study carried out over a period of 24 months in a large rehabilitation hospital in Ontario. To assess the prevalence of insomnia, we used the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Data were collected from standardized questionnaires, insurer records, and clinical assessment at the time of recruitment. Bivariate associations were calculated using the Spearman's correlation coefficient or analysis of variance. We established stepwise multivariate linear regression models of factors associated with insomnia. Additional analyses, including the assessment of the internal consistency of the ISI, were performed. Of the 94 participants diagnosed with mTBI, clinical insomnia was reported by 69.2%. The mean age was 45.20 ± 9.94 years; 61.2% were men. No sex-related differences were observed in insomnia prevalence or severity. Insomnia was significantly associated with certain sociodemographic, claim-related, behavioral, and clinical variables. In the multivariable regression analysis, several determinants explained 53% of the insomnia variance. The internal consistency of the ISI, as measured by Cronbach's α, was 0.86. Insomnia is common in persons with delayed recovery from mTBI, and is significantly associated with potentially modifiable clinical and nonclinical variables. Care of persons with brain injury requires greater attention with regard to the diagnosis and management of insomnia and associated disorders.


A dirty animal is a scary animal! Effects of disgust-related information on fear beliefs in children.
The present study investigated whether disgust-valenced information has an impact on children's fear beliefs about animals. Non-clinical children aged between 9 and 13 years (n=159) were presented with disgust-related and cleanliness-related information about unknown animals (Australian marsupials). Before and after information, beliefs of disgust and fear regarding the animals were assessed. Results showed that disgust-related information not only induced higher levels of disgust but also increased children's fear beliefs in relation to these animals. The other way around, cleanliness-related information decreased levels of disgust and resulted in lower levels of fear. The implications for the role of disgust in the development of animal fear are briefly discussed.


Esophageal perforation in the premature newborn: case report and review of the literature.
We report a case of esophageal perforation in a premature infant probably related to instrumentation. The child had also received the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, indomethacin. An exhaustive review of the literature has been done to define the clinical profile and current recommendations for management.


Cerebrospinal fluid monoamines in Prader-Willi syndrome.
The behavioral phenotype of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) suggests hypothalamic dysfunction and altered neurotransmitter regulation. The purpose of this study was to examine whether there was any difference in the concentrations of monoamine metabolites in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in PWS and non-PWS comparison cases. The concentration of monoamine metabolites in CSF was determined in 13 children and adolescents with PWS diagnosed on clinical and genetic criteria. The concentrations were compared with those from 56 comparison cases in healthy and other contrast groups. The concentrations of dopamine and particularly serotonin metabolites were increased in the PWS group. The differences were most prominent for 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid. The increased concentrations were found in all PWS cases independently of age, body mass index, and level of mental retardation. The findings implicate dysfunction of the serotonergic system and possibly also of the dopamine system in PWS individuals, and might help inform future psychopharmacologic studies.


Rapid monitoring of immune reconstitution after allogeneic stem cell transplantation--a comparison of different assays for the detection of cytomegalovirus-specific T cells.
Cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) play an important role in controlling cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The purpose of this study was to compare four different assays to detect CMV antigen-specific T cells for the monitoring of CMV-specific immune reconstitution after HSCT. Comparative monitoring of CMV-specific T cells was performed using HLA tetramer, interferon-gamma enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT), intracellular IFN-γ (IC-FACS), and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays with immunodominant CMV pp65-HLA-A2-restricted peptide and recombinant pp65-protein in 18 patients after allogeneic HSCT. Using pp65-peptide to stimulate T cells in HLA-A2-positive patients, antigen-specific T cells have been detected in 43% (10 of 23) by IC-FACS, 62% (13 of 21) by tetramer, 68% (15 of 22) by RT-PCR, and 53% (10 of 19) by ELISPOT. No T-cell responses were detected in HLA-A2-negative patients by all assays. Stimulating with combination of both pp65-peptide and pp65-protein detected 72% (18/25) by IC-FACS, 88% (22/25) by RT-PCR, and 59% (12/22) by ELISPOT. Comparing the different methods of T-cell detection we found a significant positive correlation between RT-PCR and tetramer analysis, IC flow cytometry and ELISPOT assay. Using pp65-protein for T-cell activation overcomes the HLA restriction of the HLA-A2-restricted pp65-peptide stimulation, thus increasing the detection limit of antigen-specific T cells. CMV-specific T cells have been most frequently detected using RT-PCR suggesting a higher sensitivity compared with IC-FACS, tetramer, and ELISPOT assays. This technique allows rapid and sensitive monitoring of CMV-specific immune reconstitution after HSCT, which could guide prophylactic and therapeutic strategies to avoid active CMV disease.


Microfluidic high viability neural cell separation using viscoelastically tuned hydrodynamic spreading.
A high viability microfluidic cell separation technique of high throughput was demonstrated based on size difference continuous mode hydrodynamic spreading with viscoelastic tuning. Using water with fluorescent dye as sample fluid and in parallel introducing as elution a viscoelastic biocompatible polymer solution of alginic sodium, the spreading behavior was investigated at different polymer concentrations and flow rates. Particle separation was studied in the same detail for 9.9 microm and 1.9 microm latex beads. Using buffered aqueous solutions and further surface treatments to protect from cell adhesion, separation between neuron cells and glial cells from rat's spine cord was demonstrated and compared to the separation of latex particles of 20 and 4.6 microm sizes. High relative viability (above 90%) of neural cells was demonstrated compared the reference cells of the same batch.


The health effects of gendered and devalued work: health outcomes of incarcerated women engaging in sex work and care/service work.
Women with a history of incarceration are often engaged in highly gendered work, either sex work or low-wage care/service work jobs. While employment is an important element of reentry plans, low-wage jobs may not necessarily help women leave illicit activities, including commercial sex work. Incarcerated women often move between care/service work and sex work to supplement income, putting them at greater risk for negative health outcomes. Using survey data from 400 women detained in a large urban jail, we examined how incarcerated women's experience with sex work and low-wage care/service work affects four health-related outcomes: overall health concerns, clinical depression, regular drug use, and self-esteem. Of the survey participants, 24% engaged exclusively in sex work and 34% in care/service work. However, 41% of women held both sex work and care/service work jobs, prior to incarceration. Compared to women engaged in care/service work, a greater proportion of women engaged in sex work reported overall health concerns, clinical depression, and regular drug use. On the other hand, women in care/service work jobs exclusively reported lower levels of self-esteem than women engaging in sex work. Many reentry programs emphasize the importance of employment for former inmates, and yet, job options for women detained in jail are often limited to low-wage care/service jobs, which do not necessarily provide adequate security to lift women's economic burdens. Consequently, many women with a history of incarceration may supplement their income with sex work to meet their basic economic needs. However, both of these highly gendered and devalued jobs may negatively affect health and wellbeing of women.


Domestic violence teaching in UK medical schools: a cross-sectional study.
Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is a leading contributor to the physical and mental ill health of women. Recent international guidance recommends that undergraduate medical curricula should include DVA. We do not know what is currently taught about DVA to medical students in the UK. Recent international guidance recommends that undergraduate medical curricula should include DVA METHOD: Teaching leads from all UK medical schools (n = 34) were invited to participate in an 18-item online survey about what DVA education is provided, their views of this provision and any feedback provided by students. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. A total of 25 out of 34 medical schools participated in the survey (74%). All respondents felt that there should be formal teaching on DVA in the medical curriculum. Eighty-four per cent of respondents reported that there was some formal teaching in their medical school, and 90% of these reported that it was mandatory. Of those who delivered some teaching, 52% reported that the provision was 0-2 hours in total. Most commonly content was delivered in year 4. DVA teaching was delivered in different modules, by different methods and delivered by a range of different providers. Seventy-five per cent of respondents reported that they felt the provision at their medical school was inadequate or not enough. Barriers to providing DVA education identified included time constraints, failure to perceive it as a medical problem and the assumption that it will be covered elsewhere. Most medical students in the UK receive a small amount of teaching on DVA towards the end of the curriculum. This is perceived as inadequate.


Chromium [Cr(VI)] biosorption property of the newly isolated actinobacterial probiont Streptomyces werraensis LD22.
The present work demonstrates the heavy metal resistance and detoxification of Cr(VI) by the probiotic actinobacterial cultures isolated from chicken and goat feces. The actinobacterial isolates were screened for heavy metal resistance by qualitative, semiquantitative assays and Cr(VI) biosorption was determined by analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR). All the tested actinobacterial isolates (n = 20) showed resistance toward K2Cr2O7, NiCl2, ZnCl2, CuSO4 and PbNO3 at 20 mg L-1 concentration. The maximum tolerance concentration values were found to be 200-250 mg L-1 for K2Cr2O7, 100-250 mg L-1 for PbNO3 and <50-250 mg L-1 for NiCl2, ZnCl2 and CuSO4. Among the five tested heavy metals, Cr(VI) was resisted by 95 % of the tested actinobacterial cultures up to 250 mg L-1 concentration; particularly, the isolate LD22 exhibited a high degree of tolerance to all the tested heavy metals. Thus, the isolate was justifiably chosen for Cr(VI) biosorption study and the biosorption efficacy was found maximum at 100 mg L-1 of metal ion concentration (3 g L-1 of biomass dosage and pH 7.0). FT-IR spectrum revealed the chemical interactions between the hydroxyl, amine and carboxyl groups of the biomass and the metal ions. On the basis of phenotypic, physiological, biochemical and molecular characteristics the isolate LD22 was identified as Streptomyces werraensis LD22 (JX524481) which could be used to develop a biosorbent for adsorbing Cr(VI) metal ions.


[Reduction in no flow time using a laryngeal tube: comparison to bag-mask ventilation].
In 2005 the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) published the new guidelines for Advanced Life Support (ALS). One of the aims was to reduce the no flow time (NFT), without chest compression in the first period of cardiac arrest. Furthermore the guidelines recommend that endotracheal intubation should only be carried out by personnel experienced in this procedure. An attempt was made to evaluate whether the use of the laryngeal tube suction (LTS-D) for emergency airway management could contribute to reduce NFT compared to bag-mask ventilation (BMV). In a randomised prospective study 50 participants were asked to perform standardised simulated cardiac arrest management on a full-scale simulator following a one-day cardiac arrest training. Each participant was randomised into the LTS-D and the BMV group for airway management. At the end of each scenario an evaluation of the use of each ventilation procedure by the participants was made by means of a questionnaire. During the manikin scenario (430 s for LTS-D and 420 s for BMV) there was a significant difference in the overall NFT comparing the use of the LTS-D vs. BMV (105.8 s, range 94-124 s vs. 150.7 s, range 124-179 s; p<0.01). This corresponded during the whole scenario to a proportion of 24.6% (LTS-D) or 35.9% (BMV). Using the LTS-D all participants were able to ventilate the manikin successfully (tidal volume 500-600 ml). In a subjective evaluation of the different airway management procedures by the participants more than 90% expressed a positive opinion about the LTS-D with respect to ease of insertion and safety of ventilation. The use of the LTS-D on a manikin by emergency physicians after standardised cardiac arrest training significantly reduces the NFT in comparison to BMV. Therefore the LTS-D seems to be a good alternative to BMV during a simulated cardiac arrest scenario.


Relatives' information needs and the characteristics of their search for information--in the words of relatives of stroke survivors.
To explore relatives' information needs and the characteristics of their information-seeking process shortly after the stroke event and six months later. Providing relatives of stroke survivors with information is important, as lack of information increases their uncertainty and risk becoming the 'second patient in the family' and early death. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of relatives' information needs and information-seeking process the first six months after stroke. This qualitative study has a descriptive design. Open-ended interviews were conducted with sixteen relatives after stroke survivor's admission to stroke unit and six months later with nine of these relatives. Data were analysed by means of content analysis. The identified information needs covered the spectrum from stroke survivor's medical condition because nurses' actions to relatives' changed health and life situation. Furthermore, relatives' information-seeking process was found to be related to their level of personal involvement, situational circumstances, different forms of knowledge and sources of information. Relatives' search for information emerges when health and lifestyle changes occur in survivors or themselves. It is important that this information affect them personally. Also, they need to develop different forms of knowledge when they cannot trust their own competences. As a result, instead of following established curricula based on their beliefs of relatives' information needs, nurses need to practice on identifying relatives' information needs. Different information needs and characteristics described in the study can serve as guidance in the development and implementation of pedagogical interventions to support relatives of stroke survivors. One pedagogical implication is to explore what a specific relative wants to know by how he/she talks or thinks about it. Thus, it must be taken into consideration that level of personal involvement, situational circumstances, sources of information and factual knowledge, understanding and skills are intertwined.


Impact of combat exposure on mental health trajectories in later life: Longitudinal findings from the VA Normative Aging Study.
Cross-sectional studies have shown contradictory results concerning the impact of combat exposure on mental health in later life. We examined whether combat exposure influences trajectories of mental health symptoms in older male veterans using longitudinal data collected from 1985 to 1991 in the Veterans Affairs Normative Aging Study (N = 1,105, age range = 40-86 years in 1985). Noncombat veterans showed little systematic change in depressive and anxiety symptoms with age, whereas combat veterans showed U-shaped nonlinear changes, with higher levels in midlife decreasing until the mid-60s and then increasing again in the 70s and 80s. These findings support the notion that military service, and especially combat exposure, is a hidden variable in aging research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).


Experience of an Inter-regional Research Symposium for Higher Psychiatric Trainees in Scotland.
We present our experience of an annual research symposium for psychiatric trainees in Scotland. This paper aimed to consider trainees' involvement in research by examining firstly rates of publication and secondly the views of trainees. A list of all presentations to the Senior Trainees' Annual Research Symposium (STARS) meetings 2007-2009 was compiled and a detailed search made of major research databases. A questionnaire survey examined the views of attendees at the 2009 meeting. Fifty percent of presented work achieved publication. Feedback from symposia attendees was almost universally positive. At a time of debate on the value of research sessions as part of higher training and a recent reduction in time allocated to research in the UK, we report on a thriving annual meeting. Research symposia for higher trainees were valued by participants and may be one useful means of encouraging trainee research.


[Glomus caroticum tumor--diagnostic possibilities based on a case report].
Tumours of the glomus caroticum are the most common paragangliomas of the neck. In the present study we report on a glomus caroticum tumour of extraordinary size. Adequate diagnostic procedures - such as digital subtraction angiography and magnetic resonance - are presented.


Cytochrome b based genetic differentiation of Indian wild pig (Sus scrofa cristatus) and domestic pig (Sus scrofa domestica) and its use in wildlife forensics.
The Indian wild pig (Sus scrofa cristatus) is a protected species and listed in the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The wild pig is often hunted illegally and sold in market as meat warranting punishment under law. To avoid confusion in identification of these two subspecies during wildlife forensic examinations, we describe genetic differentiation of Indian wild and domestic pigs using a molecular technique. Analysis of sequence generated from the partial fragment (421bp) of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene exhibited unambiguous (>3%) genetic variation between Indian wild and domestic pigs. We observed nine forensically informative nucleotide sequence (FINS) variations between Indian wild and domestic pigs. The overall genetic variation described in this study is helpful in forensic identification of the biological samples of wild and domestic pigs. It also helped in differentiating the Indian wild pig from other wild pig races. This study indicates that domestic pigs in India are not descendent of the Indian wild pig, however; they are closer to the other wild pig races found in Asia and Europe.


[Sarcoidosis associated with tuberculosis. A study of seven patients (author's transl)].
The authors studied seven patients with sarcoidosis and tuberculosis: the affections co-existed in 3 cases but were separated by varying intervals of time in the 4 other patients. They discuss the diagnostic, therapeutic, and nosological problems posed by these cases, and review the various hypotheses that have been suggested to explain these associations in relation to the pathogenesis of the sarcoidosis.


Influence of selective treatment of bulls on the infestation of Haematobia irritans on untreated cows.
The distribution of Hematobia irritans is not homogeneous in cattle populations. Generally, between 15% and 30% of bovines carry more than 50% of the flies, and higher infestations occur in bulls. In this study, the effect of treating the bulls with ear tags containing 40% diazinon on the infestation of flies on the herd during the breeding season was evaluated. Four groups of cattle were made, each containing one bull and 35 Braford cows. Groups 1 and 2 were on pastures in highlands. Groups 3 and 4 were on pastures in lowlands. At the beginning of the trial, each bull from Groups 1 and 3 was treated with an ear tag. Bulls from Groups 2 and 4 remained untreated. Weekly, for 10 weeks, horn flies were counted from each bull and 15 cows from each group. A repeated measures linear mixed model was used with cows as random effects. The number of horn flies in the treated groups was lower than that in the untreated group, suggesting that selective treatment of bulls could be an effective strategy to control horn flies on the herd. The number of flies was higher in the lowland than that in the highland groups, suggesting an effect of the environment on horn fly infestations. In addition, we estimated the cow level predictions from the model to estimate the cow effect on fly counts, and we compared those values with the observed weekly quartiles for each group. Fly-susceptible cows were defined as those for which the infestation of flies appeared in the upper quartile more than 50% of the weeks and in the lower quartile less than 20% of the weeks. In contrast, a fly-resistant cow was defined as one for which the fly counts appeared in the lower quartile more than 50% of the weeks and in the upper quartile less than 20% of the weeks. In all, 8.3% of the cows were susceptible and 15% were resistant. These results may be used to selectively treat bulls or to treat the bulls and the most susceptible cows during the breeding season.


The complete nucleotide sequence of plum pox potyvirus RNA.
The complete nucleotide sequence of the plum pox virus (PPV) RNA genome has been determined. The RNA sequence is 9786 nucleotides in length, excluding the 3'-terminal poly(A) tail. An AUG triplet at position 147-149 was assigned as the initiation codon for the translation of the genome size viral polyprotein which would consist of 3140 amino acid residues. The nucleotide sequence of the non-coding regions and the predicted amino acid sequence of the polyprotein of PPV were compared with those previously reported for two other potyviruses (tobacco etch virus, TEV, and tobacco vein mottling virus, TVMV), with nucleotide and amino acid sequences of other viruses, as well as with sequences from data banks. The potyvirus genomic expression is discussed in relation to the homologies observed, in particular the predicted protease recognition sequences in related viruses.


Guided Imagery for Pain Management in Postoperative Orthopedic Patients: An Integrative Literature Review.
Pain following orthopedic surgery can be intense due to the nature of the surgical procedure. Pain is a multilevel phenomenon that includes physiological and psychosocial components. Interventions that address body, mind, and spirit are needed to provide holistic management of pain. Guided imagery is a mind-body intervention that can address all aspects of the patient's pain experience. This integrative review, informed by Watson's theory of human caring, identifies evidence that either supports or refutes the use of guided imagery as a supplement to pharmaceutical pain management for postoperative orthopedic patients. An integrative literature search was conducted. Twenty-two studies were identified as potentially relevant to this study. Nine of the articles met all inclusion criteria and were included in this study. Based on the evidence reviewed, it is recommended that guided imagery be used as an adjunct for pain management in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. However, additional research in this area is needed. Future research: Two topics for further research were identified. The first is a need to identify an optimal frequency of use of guided imagery. The second is to identify how to ensure patients are using the intervention as recommended.


Purification and characterization of S-modulin, a calcium-dependent regulator on cGMP phosphodiesterase in frog rod photoreceptors.
S-modulin is a 26 kDa protein that regulates light sensitivity of cGMP phosphodiesterase in a Ca(2+)-dependent manner in frog rod outer segments (ROSs). In the present study, we purified S-modulin by taking advantage of a hydrophobic interaction between Phenyl Sepharose and S-modulin at high Ca2+ concentrations. The yield was greater than 90%. 45Ca(2+)-binding experiment showed that S-modulin is a Ca(2+)-binding protein. At high Ca2+ concentrations, S-modulin binds to ROS membranes. The binding target of the Ca2+/S-modulin complex is possibly a ROS membrane lipid(s), but it was difficult to identify. The binding was observed mainly at greater than 1 microM Ca2+. The amino acid sequence deduced from proteolytic fragments of S-modulin was approximately 80% and 60% identical to those of recovering and visinin, respectively.


Photosynthesis, carbon allocation, and growth of sulfur dioxide ecotypes ofGeranium carolinianum L.
This study investigated ways in which genetically determined differences in SO2 susceptibility resulting from ecotypic differentiation inGeranium carolinianum were expressed physiologically. The SO2-resistant and SO2-sensitive ecotypes were exposed to a combination of short- and long-term SO2 exposures to evaluate the responses of photosynthesis, H2S efflux from foliage (sulfur detoxification), photoassimilate retention, leaf-diffusive resistance to CO2, and growth. When exposed to SO2, both ecotypes re-emit sulfur in a volatile, reduced form, presumably as H2S. Because H2S efflux rates at various SO2 concentrations were comparable between ecotypes, genetic differences inG. carolinianum could not be attributed to a re-emission of excess sulfur as H2S. Incipient SO2 effects on photosynthesis were observed as cumulative SO2 flux into the leaf interior excecded 0.40 nmol·m-2 in the resistant ecotype and 0.26 nmol·m-2 in the sensitive ecotype. Although initial SO2-induced changes in photosynthesis in both ecotypes were mediated through an increase in stomatal resistance to CO2, the ecotype-specific patterns as a function of pollutant concentration and exposure time were associated with marked increases in residual resistance to CO2. Patterns in photosynthesis, photoassimilate retention, and growth following long-term SO2 exposures were also ecotype-specific. Although physiological accommodation of SO2 stress was observed in both ecotypes, it was more pronounced in the resistant ecotype. The physiological mechanisms underlying genetic differences inG. carolinianum in response to SO2 stress were concluded to be (1) dissimilar threshold levels of response to SO2 and/or its toxic derivatives and (2) differences in homeostatic processes governing the rate of repair or compensation for physiological injury.


Developing a comprehensive diagnostic and interventional nephrology program at an academic center.
Procedure-related delays in the treatment of patients with renal disease can be minimized and nephrology care can be delivered more efficiently by a nephrologist trained in nephrology-related procedures. Referrals to a radiologist for renal ultrasound and biopsy, to a surgeon for dialysis access placement, and to an interventional radiologist for dialysis catheter placement and vascular access procedures are time consuming and inconvenient to patients with renal disease. Moreover, such an approach may result in delays in the availability of critical diagnostic information and a break in the continuity of care. In an effort to optimize the care of nephrology patients, we developed a diagnostic and interventional nephrology (DIN) program that effectively deals with nephrology-related procedures in a timely manner. At present, some of the commonly performed nephrology-related procedures at our center include diagnostic ultrasonography, ultrasound-guided renal biopsy, peritoneal dialysis access procedures, permanent tunneled hemodialysis catheter placement, and endovascular procedures for arteriovenous dialysis access dysfunction. To date, we have performed 893 procedures during a period of 2 years. This article describes our approach and the tools required to develop a DIN program at an academic medical center.


Recurrent varicella zoster virus myelopathy.
Myelopathy is an uncommon complication of VZV infection and may develop in the absence of rash. We report the rare recurrence of myelopathy in an immunocompetent adult who initially developed myelopathy after ophthalmic-distribution zoster. Recurrent myelopathy two years later caused by VZV was verified by the presence of new-onset clinical symptoms and signs consistent with myelopathy, new lesions in the spinal cord detected by MRI, and evidence of intrathecal synthesis of anti-VZV IgG antibody in CSF. After virological verification and antiviral therapy, myelopathy did not recur and anti-VZV IgG antibody could not be detected in CSF. In contrast to earlier cases of recurrent VZV myelopathy in immunocompetent adults that developed weeks to months after the first episode of myelopathy, this is the first instance of recurrence years later.


Preputial reconstruction with distal hypospadias repair.
There is growing interest in preputial reconstruction combined with hypospadias repair as an effective technique. We retrospectively analyzed our results and compared them with the literature for future patient information. We evaluated 35 boys during 1 year who underwent distal hypospadias repair combined with preputial reconstruction to determine complications, risks and failures. At a mean follow up of 1.2 years, 28 patients had an anatomically normal penis with a normal retractable foreskin, while seven (20%) had some sort of complication. There was a complication of the reconstructed foreskin only in three cases (8.25%), and with the reconstructed urethra in four (10.4%). The most common complications were fistulae of the prepuce and urethra. Only two needed re-operation; the others were managed conservatively. On follow up parents were generally satisfied with the results. Preputial repair combined with hypospadias repair lead to anatomically correct reconstruction of the penis at the cost of an 8.25% complication rate. Results were comparable with the standards seen in the literature.


Transgenic expression of myostatin propeptide prevents diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance.
Obesity and insulin resistance cause serious consequences to human health. To study effects of skeletal muscle growth on obesity prevention, we focused on a key gene of skeletal muscle named myostatin, which plays an inhibitory role in muscle growth and development. We generated transgenic mice through muscle-specific expression of the cDNA sequence (5'-region 886 nucleotides) encoding for the propeptide of myostatin. The transgene effectively depressed myostatin function. Transgenic mice showed dramatic growth and muscle mass by 9 weeks of age. Here we reported that individual major muscles of transgenic mice were 45-115% heavier than those of wild-type mice, maintained normal blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, and fat mass after a 2-month regimen with a high-fat diet (45% kcal fat). In contrast, high-fat diet induced wild-type mice with 170-214% more fat mass than transgenic mice and developed impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Insulin signaling, measured by Akt phosphorylation, was significantly elevated by 144% in transgenic mice over wild-type mice fed a high-fat diet. Interestingly, high-fat diet significantly increased adiponectin secretion while blood insulin, resistin, and leptin levels remained normal in the transgenic mice. The results suggest that disruption of myostatin function by its propeptide favours dietary fat utilization for muscle growth and maintenance. An increased secretion of adiponectin may promote energy partition toward skeletal muscles, suggesting that a beneficial interaction between muscle and adipose tissue play a role in preventing obesity and insulin resistance.


Validation of immunoassays for the Chlamydia trachomatis antigen Pgp3 using a chimeric monoclonal antibody.
Seroepidemiology, or measuring antibodies to pathogens to estimate population-level exposure, can provide useful public health data. The tests used, however, often lack sufficient validation data due to absence of a gold standard. For many pathogens, serum antibodies can be detected long after resolution of infection, but infection status is often used as a gold standard for antibody positivity. To ensure that recently developed antibody tests for seroepidemiology of Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct), the causative agent of urogenital chlamydia and the blinding eye disease trachoma, have high performance, we generated a chimeric antibody to the immunodominant Ct antigen Pgp3. Two clones were selected to evaluate the test performance of three assays to measure antibodies to Pgp3: multiplex bead assay (MBA), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and lateral flow assay (LFA). Overall, each assay demonstrated high accuracy and precision when tested using either clone, and the clones were stable when stored at - 20 °C and 4 °C for almost 2 years. The limit of detection was similar for MBA and LFA, but almost a log-fold higher (i.e. less sensitive) using ELISA. Overall, the chimeric antibodies represent stable control reagents for tests with robust performance and will facilitate deployment of these tests to other laboratories.


Effects of coexisting hypertension and type II diabetes mellitus on arterial stiffness.
Hypertension (HT) is frequently associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) and its prevalence doubles in diabetics compared to the general population. This high prevalence is associated with increased stiffness of large arteries, which often precedes macrovascular events. The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of HT and type II DM on aortic stiffness in patients with one disease or the other compared to those with both HT and type II DM. We studied 220 patients, 50 with type II DM (Group A), 50 with HT (Group B), 85 with both diseases (Group C), and 35 healthy subjects (HS). Regional arterial stiffness was assessed by automatic measurement of the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). For each patient, we evaluated: age, sex, body mass index, smoking habit, heart rate, SBP/DBP, pulse pressure (PP), mean BP, fasting glucose, lipid profile, uric acid, and fibrinogen. Group C had significantly more women and non smokers and the highest PP (61+/-14 mmHg). Of biochemical parameters, only fibrinogen was higher in Group A and in Group C (P<0.01 and P<0.001, respectively). Group C had a significantly higher PWV than the other four groups (P<0.0001). Stepwise forward regression analysis showed that fasting glucose was the first independent determinant of PWV (P<0.0001). In conclusion, this study shows that patients with DM and HT have higher arterial stiffness compared to HS and those with one disease or the other. Fasting glucose is the major independent determinant of PWV, which may be used as a relevant tool to assess the influence of cardiovascular risk factors on arterial stiffness in high-risk patients.


MicroRNA-106b-25 cluster targets β-TRCP2, increases the expression of Snail and enhances cell migration and invasion in H1299 (non small cell lung cancer) cells.
Lung cancer causes high mortality without a declining trend and non small cell lung cancer represents 85% of all pulmonary carcinomas. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) serve as fine regulators of proliferation, migration, invasion/metastasis and angiogenesis of normal and cancer cells. Using TargetScan6.2, we predicted that the ubiquitin ligase, β-TRCP2, could be a target for two of the constituent miRNAs of the miR-106b-25 cluster (miR-106b and miR-93). We generated a stable clone of miR-106b-25 cluster (CL) or the empty vector (EV) in H1299 (non small cell lung cancer) cells. The expression of β-TRCP2 mRNA was significantly lower in CL than that in EV cells. Transient expression of miR-93 but not antimiR-93 decreased the expression of β-TRCP2 mRNA in H1299 cells. β-TRCP2-3'UTR reporter assay revealed that its activity in CL cells was only 60% of that in EV cells. Snail protein expression was higher in CL than that in EV cells and H1299 cells exhibited an increase in the expression of Snail upon transient transfection with miR-93. miR-106b-25 cluster-induced migration of CL measured by scratch assay was more than that in EV cells and no significant difference in migration was observed between antimiR-93-transfected H1299 cells and the corresponding control-oligo-transfected cells. miR-106b-25 cluster-induced migration of CL cells was again confirmed in a Boyden chamber assay without the matrigel. CL cells were more invasive than EV cells when assessed using Boyden chambers with matrigel but there were no significant changes in the cell viabilities between EV and CL cells. Colony formation assay revealed that the CL cells formed more number of colonies than EV cells but they were smaller in size than those formed by EV cells. The supernatant from CL cells was more effective than that from EV cells in inducing tube formation in endothelial cells. Taken together, our data indicate that miR-106b-25 cluster may play an important role in the metastasis of human non-small cell lung cancer cells by directly suppressing the β-TRCP2 gene expression with a consequent increase in the expression of Snail.


Toxicity evaluation of diethylene glycol and its combined effects with produced waters of off-shore gas platforms in the Adriatic Sea (Italy): bioassays with marine/estuarine species.
Diethylene glycol (DEG) is commonly used to dehydrate natural gas in off-shore extraction plants and to prevent formation of gas hydrates. It may be released into the sea accidentally or in discharged produced waters (PWs). PWs samples from off-shore gas platforms in the Adriatic Sea (Italy) have been used in this study. The objectives of the study were: a) to evaluate the toxicity of DEG for marine organisms; b) to evaluate if a high DEG content in PWs may alter their toxicity; c) to verify whether the DEG threshold concentration established by the Italian legislation (3.5 g/l) for PWs discharged at sea is safe for marine environment. Ten different species (Vibrio fischeri, Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Dunaliella tertiolecta, Brachionus plicatilis, Artemia franciscana, Tigropus fulvus, Mytilus galloprovincialis, Crassostrea gigas, Tapes philippinarum and Dicentrarchus labrax) have been exposed to DEG; four of these species were also exposed to PWs in combination with DEG. The results showed that: a) DEG is not toxic at levels normally detected in Adriatic PWs; b) DEG in combination with PW showed mainly additive or synergistic effects; c) short-term bioassays showed that the DEG limit of 3.5 g/l could be acceptable.


[Identification of species of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma diversum from Argentinian dairy herds].
Several species of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma diversum can cause diseases in dairy cattle, which can be associated or not with clinical manifestations. In our country, the presence of Mycoplasma bovis, Mycoplasma californicum and Mycoplasma canadense has been detected, being the only mycoplasma species identified so far. The objective of this study was to identify other species of the Mycoplasmataceae family. Thirty-five Mycoplasma spp.-like isolates obtained from different samples from cattle, with or without clinical symptoms, from eight herds located in the provinces of Santa Fe, Cordoba, Buenos Aires and San Luis were utilized in the present study. Through the use of species-specific polymerase chain reactions (PCR) Mycoplasma bovigenitalium, Mycoplasma alkalescens, Mycoplasma bovirhinis and U. diversum were identified and through amplification and further sequencing of the 16-23S rRNA intergenic spacer regions, Mycoplasma arginine and M. californicum were identified. The identification of these species represents an important advance in knowledge in order to include these pathogens in the differential diagnosis of certain clinical and pathological entities of cattle from Argentina.


Immunological tolerance to a non-cytopathic virus is not inheritable in mice.
Male lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) virus-carrier mice were mated to uninfected females and their offsprings tested for (i) LCMV virus and (ii) their potential to generate LCM virus-specific cytotoxic T cells. Among about 500 offspring tested no example of antigen-independent inheritance of tolerance to LCM virus was detected. Therefore inheritance of acquired tolerance cannot be observed in this murine infectious disease model.


Prevention concept in industry: improvement in occupational safety and health protection--an empirical study.
This prevention concept offers a contribution to the expansion of the set of instruments for occupational safety and health protection within workplace prevention. The concept involves the multilateral analysis of work conditions. The utilized instruments include a strategy group, a survey, a health issue round table, and an analysis of work demands, and lead to synergy effects at the results level. Employees are drawn into the analysis of work conditions and workplace design solutions for the improvement of the work situation. The prevention concept was tested in a large company and its application established in practice. It was accepted by all participants, and the comparison with the previous situation (defined only through the analysis of work demands) demonstrated a significant improvement in health protection.


Endothelial cell growth factor (ECGF) application to irradiated soft tissue.
Delayed postoperative wound healing in previously radiated cancer patients is a common and debilitating occurrence. Prior studies have given evidence that endothelial cell growth factor (ECGF) can accelerate neovascularization in soft tissue. To explore its effects in irradiated tissue, an ECGF-heparin formulation (7200 micrograms/mL) contained in Gelfoam was applied to previously irradiated (N = 38) and nonirradiated skin flaps (N = 38) on rabbit ears. Both peripheral neovascularization and flap viability were quantitatively documented by polar planimetry and digital angiography in all flaps. The ECGF-heparin flaps had a greater than twofold increase in both vascularity and viability when compared to their controls among the irradiated and nonirradiated flaps (P < .01). Also, the additional viability and vascularization effects from ECGF-heparin did not appear statistically altered by previous radiation. These results support the promising angiogenic effect of ECGF-heparin in previously irradiated surgical wounds.


Hypospadias repair with tubularized incised plate. Is uroflowmetry necessary postoperatively?
Hypospadias repair with tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (TIP) produces good cosmesis, but is reported to result in a change in urinary stream postoperatively, with an obstructive pattern. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine whether early uroflowmetry is a good method for diagnosing neourethral stricture. In 126 boys, primary TIP repair was performed between 1999 and 2003. Uroflowmetry was performed in potty-trained boys 2 months' postoperatively (68 boys) and both 2 and 12 months (38 boys) after TIP. Boys with obstructed flow and/or clinical symptoms were calibrated in their neourethra. Forty-nine percent of the boys with distal hypospadias and 87% of the proximal cases had a flow rate of less than 10 ml/s at uroflowmetry 2 months after TIP, but only 12/126 boys (10%) were considered to have a neourethral stricture. There was a spontaneous increase in maximum flow rate between 2 and 12 months after TIP repair both in patients who had been calibrated and in boys in whom no intervention had been performed. Early uroflowmetry appears to be unnecessary, as the voiding history appears to be just as good at alerting a suspicion of urethral stricture after TIP repair. There is a spontaneous normalization of the urinary flow in boys after TIP repair, but the need for long-term follow up beyond puberty is great, especially in cases of proximal hypospadias.


In Search of the Cultural Engram.
Human cultures store memories in large distributed assemblies composed of individual brains, intragenerational and intergenerational interacting brains, social constructs, and artifacts. Neuroscience, social sciences, and the humanities can benefit mutually from combining their distinctive methodologies in investigating the cultural engram.


[Comparative study of short-term results between total artificial disc prosthesis and anterior lumbar interbody fusion].
The purpose of this study was to examine short-term clinical results with a lumbar disc prosthesis in comparison with anterior interbody fusion for the treatment of chronic low-back pain resulting from disc degeneration. This was a consecutive series of 32 patients who underwent surgery between 2002 and 2005 performed by the same surgeon. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two treatment arms: a Charité (Depuy) disc prosthesis was implanted in group 1; an intersomatic KLA cage (Scient'x) was implanted in group 2. All patients presented primary or postdiscectomy discopathy: Modic 1 or 2 on MRI and one level (L4-L5 or L5-S1) positive on discography. A visual analog scale (VAS) and the Oswestry test were noted preoperatively, at six months and at last follow-up and compared with Student's t test. The quantitative analysis was based on the rate of excellent results (60% gain on the VAS and 50% gain on the Oswestry), rate of return to work at three months and level of patient satisfaction. Patient follow-up ranged from one to three years. Mean age was 39 years in group 1 and 44 in group 2. The quantitative analysis showed an improvement in the VAS in both groups: 75% in group 1 and 67% in group 2. The difference was not statistically significant. For the Oswestry score, the gain in function was improved 51% in group 1 and 37% in group 2, with a statistically significant difference in favor of the prosthesis group (p=0.125). The qualitative analysis demonstrated that patient satisfaction (87 and 88%) was similar in the two groups, but with a clear difference for return to work at three months, with a better rate in the prosthesis group (61.5%) than the fusion group (42.8%). The rate of excellent outcome was greater in group 1 (77%) than in group 2 (55%). There is only one study in the literature, which can be compared with ours. Using the same methodology, that study observed less favorable results for the disc prosthesis than with anterior lumbar fusion. The lumbar disc prosthesis offers a possible alternative to lumbar arthrodesis for the treatment of severe disc degeneration at one level in the young subject. It has been found to enable more rapid and superior functional results.


Results of hepatic lobectomy for primary epithelial cancer in 31 adults.
Hepatic lobectomy for primary epithelial cancer was performed in 31 adults from 1964 through 1977 in the surgical departments of six Scandinavian hospitals. Twenty-three patients were discharged and had a 2 year survival rate of 62 per cent and a 5 year survival rate of 16 per cent. Alternatives to surgery have not yet emerged. Further progress requires centralization.