A convenient flap for repairing the donor area of a distally based sural flap: Gastrocnemius perforator island flap.
The reconstruction of complex lower leg and foot defects is difficult for plastic surgeons. The distally based sural flap (DBSF) is an option for non-free flap lower leg reconstruction. However, one of the major drawbacks of the DBSF is its aesthetically non-acceptable donor area scarring. Eight patients (six men and two women) who had lower leg or foot defects were evaluated in this study. We used an ipsilateral or cross-leg DBSF to repair the defect. A medial or lateral gastrocnemius perforator island flap (average size 8.1 × 6.1 cm) was used to cover the donor area of the DBSF in a two-stage operative procedure. We did not observe any complications with the gastrocnemius perforator island flap. Two patients had local infections under the DBSF and were treated with bacteria-specific antibiotherapy. All patients were followed up for 1 year postoperatively. The donor areas of the distally based sural flaps were aesthetically acceptable. Patients gained ambulatory status during the follow-up period. Reconstruction of the donor area of a DBSF with a gastrocnemius perforator island flap allows for more acceptable aesthetics and functional results than do other reconstructive procedures.


[The relationship between WT1 expression level and prognosis in patients of acute T lymphoblastic leukemia following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation].
To probe monitoring Wilms tumor-1(WT1)gene expression level in acute T lymphoblastic leukemia(T- ALL)following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation(allo-HSCT)with prognostic significance. This retrospective study analyzed 68 T-ALL cases from January 2009 to March 2012, that monitoring WT1 gene expression level after allo-HSCT. WT1 expression level was measured with real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RQ-PCR) method at + 30, + 60, + 90, + 180, + 270, + 360 days after allo-HSCT, simultaneously monitoring residual leukemia using flow cytometry(FCM). Low WT1 gene expression level associated with a low risk of recurrence after allo-HSCT in T-ALL. Increased WT1 gene expression levels at +60 and + 90 days after allo- HSCT associated with higher cumulative incidences of relapse(P<0.001, P=0.003), and low disease- free survival rates(P=0.004, P=0.006), and low overall survival rates(P=0.004, P=0.007). The presence of MRD after allo-HSCT was an independent prognostic factor for relapse in T-ALL. Combining WT1 gene and FCM could be used to monitor recurrence after allo-HSCT. Increased WT1 gene expression level at +60 and + 90 days after allo-HSCT significantly associated with worse prognosis, that should be intervened as early as possible to reduce the risk of recurrence or death. WT1 gene expression level that was less than 0.6% associated with lower risk of recurrence. WT1 gene expression more than 0.6% that needed close follow- up, combined with FCM monitoring MRD, which required intervention to reduce the relapse.


Mass balance analysis of contaminated heparin product.
A quantitative analysis of a recalled contaminated lot of heparin sodium injection U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) was undertaken in response to the controversy regarding the exact nature of the contaminant involved in the heparin (HP) crisis. A mass balance analysis of the formulated drug product was performed. After freeze-drying, a 1-ml vial for injection afforded 54.8±0.3 mg of dry solids. The excipients, sodium chloride and residual benzyl alcohol, accounted for 11.4±0.5 and 0.9±0.5 mg, respectively. Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) represented 41.5±1.0 mg, corresponding to 75.7 wt% of dry mass. Exhaustive treatment of API with specific enzymes, heparin lyases, and/or chondroitin lyases was used to close mass balance. HP represented 30.5±0.5 mg, corresponding to 73.5 wt% of the API. Dermatan sulfate (DS) impurity represented 1.7±0.3 mg, corresponding to 4.1 wt% of API. Contaminant, representing 9.3±0.1 mg corresponding to 22.4 wt% of API, was found in the contaminated formulated drug product. The recovery of contaminant was close to quantitative (95.6-100 wt%). A single contaminant was unambiguously identified as oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS).


Density-dependent population dynamics in larvae of the dragonfly Pachydiplax longipennis: a field experiment.
Several features of dragonfly population biology suggest that population regulation occurs in the larval stage. This study was designed to determine if density-dependent interactions among larval odonates can affect survival, growth and emergence. First-instar larvae of the dragonfly Pachydiplax longipennis were raised in outdoor experimental ponds at initial densities of 38, 152, and 608 larvae · m-2, under two levels of food availability. Food availability was supplemented in half the pools by volumetric addition of zooplankton every other day. Pools in the low food treatment did not receive the zooplankton supplement.There was a strong negative effect of density on the mean growth rate of survivors, which included both emerging tenerals and individuals overwintering in the larval stage. A higher proportion emerged from low density than high density pools. Metamorphs from high density populations were smaller and emerged slightly later than those from low density, but the absolute number of metamorphs did not differ significantly among density treatments. Food supplementation significantly increased the proportion of overwintering larvae. There were no significant food-by-density interactions, indicating that food and density acted independently on larval population dynamics. Density-dependent mechanisms can clearly contribute to odonate population regulation, especially by controlling the number of larvae which emerge and the average age at reproduction. Population-level responses to density may be a result of interference among larvae.


[Effects of propofol on hepatic venous oxygen saturation--a comparison with isoflurane or sevoflurane anesthesia].
We performed a comparative study of propofol versus isoflurane and sevoflurane using continuous monitoring of hepatic venous oxygen saturation (ShvO2) during upper abdominal surgery in 26 patients. Anesthesia was induced with propofol 2-2.5 mg x kg(-1) and vecuronium 0.1 mg x kg(-1). Thereafter, Swan Ganz catheters were inserted into the pulmonary artery and hepatic vein. Group P (n=26) patients received continuous propofol infusion and epidural mepivacaine injection for maintenance, while Group I (n=17) received isoflurane and Group S (n=9) received sevoflurane. Systemic oxygen extraction ratio (OERsys) and hepato-splanchnic oxygen extraction ratio (OERspl) were calculated. Heart rate, mean arterial pressure and cardiac index were unchanged after propofol infusion, and isoflurane or sevoflurane inhalation. Propofol at 8 and 10 mg x kg(-1) x h(-1) significantly decreased ShvO2 and increased OERspl, although isoflurane and sevoflurane did not change them. Mixed venous saturation and OERsys were within normal ranges during the studies. The results suggest that propofol increases the metabolism and oxygen consumption in the liver.


Acute cor pulmonale secondary to metastatic tumor to the heart: a case report and literature review.
Metastatic tumors to the heart are becoming more common due to improved survival afforded by advanced treatment of malignancies. Their presence should be sought in a cancer patient who develops new primary cardiac symptoms. We present a case of a 50-year-old woman who succumbed to acute cor pulmonale secondary to metastatic laryngeal carcinoma to the right ventricle with subsequent tumor emboli to the pulmonary vasculature.


Neural basis of anhedonia as a failure to predict pleasantness in schizophrenia.
Anhedonia in schizophrenia results from a deficit in anticipatory pleasure rather than consummatory pleasure. This study aimed to determine the neural basis of the predictive and experiential components of anticipatory pleasure in schizophrenia. A hedonic rating task was performed by 15 patients with schizophrenia and 17 controls while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging. Participants evaluated the level of pleasantness for the preview/predictive phase, comprising a narration and adjunctive audiovisual stimuli for pleasurable experience, and the subsequent viewing/experiential phase, comprising a video clip for a pleasant event. A significant group-by-phase interaction was seen in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and caudate, resulting from reduced activations in patients during the preview phase. Patients showed significantly reduced activation in the frontopolar cortex and rostral ACC during the preview phase. The signal changes in the caudate and frontopolar cortex were associated with increase in hedonic response during the sequential pleasure experiences. Augmentation of hedonic enjoyment between the predictive and experiential stages of anticipatory pleasure is reduced in schizophrenia because of diminished activity in the reward-related regions during the prediction of pleasure. During cued-emotional experiences of anticipatory pleasure, patients seem to have difficulties in the integration of emotional information.


Lichenibacterium ramalinae gen. nov, sp. nov., Lichenibacterium minor sp. nov., the first endophytic, beta-carotene producing bacterial representatives from lichen thalli and the proposal of the new family Lichenibacteriaceae within the order Rhizobiales.
This study of lichens in the subarctic zone of the northern hemisphere has resulted in the detection of new representatives of the order Rhizobiales. The16S rRNA gene sequence phylogeny placed the strains as a separate branch inside the Rhizobiales clade. Strain RmlP001T exhibits 91.85% similarity to Roseiarcus fermentans strain Pf56T and 91.76% to Beijerinckia doebereinerae strain LMG 2819T, whilst strain RmlP026T is closely related to B. doebereinerae strain LMG 2819T (91.85%) and Microvirga pakistanensis strain NCCP-1258T (91.39%). A whole-genome phylogeny of the strains confirmed their taxonomic positions. The cells of both strains were observed to be Gram-negative, motile rods that multiplied by binary fission. The cells were found to contain poly-β-hydroxybutyrate and polyphosphate, to grow at pH 3.5-8.0 and 10-30 °C, and could not fix atmospheric nitrogen. Their major cellular fatty acid identified was C18:1ω7c (68-71%) and their DNA G + C contents determined to be 70.5-70.8%. Beta-carotene was identified as their major carotenoid pigment; Q-10 was the only ubiquinone detected. Strains RmlP001T and RmlP026T are distinguishable from related species by the presence of β-carotene, the absence of C1 metabolism and the ability to grow in the presence of 3.5% NaCl. Based on their phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, we propose a novel genus Lichenibacterium and two novel species, Lichenibacterium ramalinae (the type species of the genus) and Lichenibacterium minor, to accommodate these bacteria within the family Lichenibacteriaceae fam. nov. of the order Rhizobiales. The L. ramalinae type strain is RmlP001T (= KCTC 72076T = VKM B-3263T) and the L. minor type strain is RmlP026T (= KCTC 72077T = VKM B-3277T).


Developmental alterations in anxiety and cognitive behavior in serotonin transporter mutant mice.
A promoter variant of the serotonin transporter (SERT) gene is known to affect emotional and cognitive regulation. In particular, the "short" allelic variant is implicated in the etiology of multiple neuropsychiatric disorders. Heterozygous (SERT(+/-)) and homozygous (SERT(-/-)) SERT mutant mice are valuable tools for understanding the mechanisms of altered SERT levels. Although these genetic effects are well investigated in adulthood, the developmental trajectory of altered SERT levels for behavior has not been investigated. We assessed anxiety-like and cognitive behaviors in SERT mutant mice in early adolescence and adulthood to examine the developmental consequences of reduced SERT levels. Spine density of pyramidal neurons was also measured in corticolimbic brain regions. Adult SERT(-/-) mice exhibited increased anxiety-like behavior, but these differences were not observed in early adolescent SERT(-/-) mice. Conversely, SERT(+/-) and SERT(-/-) mice did display higher spontaneous alternation during early adolescence and adulthood. SERT(+/-) and SERT(-/-) also exhibited greater neuronal spine densities in the orbitofrontal but not the medial prefrontal cortices. Adult SERT(-/-) mice also showed an increased spine density in the basolateral amygdala. Developmental alterations of the serotonergic system caused by genetic inactivation of SERT can have different influences on anxiety-like and cognitive behaviors through early adolescence into adulthood, which may be associated with changes of spine density in the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. The altered maturation of serotonergic systems may lead to specific age-related vulnerabilities to psychopathologies that develop during adolescence.


Role of Pasteurella multocida porin on cytokine expression and release by murine splenocytes.
The aim of this study was to verify whether Pasteurella multocida porin can affect the expression and release of IL-1alpha, IL-6, TNF-alpha, IL-4, IFN-gamma, IL-10 and IL-12 by murine splenocytes in vitro. P. multocida porin and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were able to induce the release of IL-1alpha, IL-6, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and IL-12 in a dose-dependent fashion. The greatest release of these cytokines was obtained using P. multocida porin at a concentration of 5 microg ml(-1) and LPS at a concentration of 1 microg ml(-1). The time-courses of release showed that P. multocida LPS was able to stimulate the production of IL-1alpha, IL-6, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and IL-12 earlier than porin and at a greater rate. No effect was observed on IL-4 and IL-10 release under the same experimental conditions. P. multocida porin and LPS were also able to up-regulate the mRNA expression of IL-1alpha, IL-6, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and IL-12 p40. Our findings suggest that P. multocida porin is able to modulate inflammatory and immunological responses by affecting the release of several cytokines and the expression of their genes.


Changes in serum immunoglobulin G levels as a marker for Cryptosporidium sp. infection in Peruvian children.
In a retrospective analysis, we assessed the usefulness of two serologic enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays as epidemiologic tools for the detection of cryptosporidiosis episodes in children from a Peruvian community. The incidence rate determined by the serologic assay was higher than the rate determined by stool microscopy (0.77 versus 0.41 infection/child-year of surveillance).


Climatic water deficit and surplus between the Carpathian Mountains and the Dniester River (1961-2012).
The study addresses the climatic water deficit (WD) and surplus (WE) in the area located between the heights of the Eastern Carpathians (Romania) and the Dniester River (Moldova). The objective of this study is to discover the trend of WD/WE (past and future) and its variation in space. WD and WE were calculated as the difference between the amounts of precipitation (P) and the reference evapotranspiration (ET0). The P-ET0 trend, analyzed through Mann-Kendall and t tests, was negative for 83 and 80% of the analyzed stations and the Sen's slope had values between - 0.05 mm year-1 (t test) and - 6.73 mm year-1 (Mann-Kendall test). Seasonally, the slope values of P-ET0 trends were negative during winter, spring, and summer and positive in autumn. The P-ET0 index is positive (WE) only in the Carpathian and Eastern Subcarpathian areas, whereas for the rest of the investigated territory, we found negative values (WD). WD is more pronounced as we depart from the Carpathians towards the east, but also on a north to south direction, reaching the maximum in the southeastern part of the territory. In what concerns seasonal distribution, WE is identified everywhere only in winter, whereas, in spring, summer, and autumn, WD characterizes most of the territory, with the exception of the Carpathian and Subcarpathian areas. The increasing WD will have a growing negative influence on the agriculture of the studied area. For the year 2030, we anticipate a reduction in the climate water availability with 46 mm m-2 (reference period: 1961-2012).


Theoretical and measured electric field distributions within an annular phased array: consideration of source antennas.
The magnitude of E-field patterns generated by an annular array prototype device has been calculated and measured. Two models were used to describe the radiating sources: a simple linear dipole and a stripline antenna model. The stripline model includes detailed geometry of the actual antennas used in the prototype and an estimate of the antenna current based on microstrip transmission line theory. This more detailed model yields better agreement with the measured field patterns, reducing the rms discrepancy by a factor of about 6 (from approximately 23 to 4%) in the central region of interest where the SEM is within 25% of the maximum. We conclude that accurate modeling of source current distributions is important for determining SEM distributions associated with such heating devices.


Problems posed by the Werther effect as a 'net effect': a comment on recent scholarly work on the effects of 13 Reasons Why.
Recent research estimated that an additional 195 suicides among 10- to 17-year-old youths occurred following the release of the television series 13 Reasons Why. There is an underrecognised aspect in this line of research that this effect represents a net effect based on different possible underlying patterns (e.g. +195/-0 or +395/-200).


In situ tissue regeneration using a novel tissue-engineered, small-caliber vascular graft without cell seeding.
Various types of natural and synthetic scaffolds with arterial tissue cells or differentiated stem cells have recently attracted interest as potential small-caliber vascular grafts. It was thought that the synthetic graft with the potential to promote autologous tissue regeneration without any seeding would be more practical than a seeded graft. In this study, we investigated in situ tissue regeneration in small-diameter arteries using a novel tissue-engineered biodegradable vascular graft that did not require ex vivo cell seeding. Small-caliber vascular grafts (4 mm in diameter) were fabricated by compounding a collagen microsponge with a biodegradable woven polymer tube that was constructed in a plain weave pattern with a double layer of polyglycolic acid (core) and poly-L-lactic acid (sheath) fibers. We implanted these tissue-engineered vascular grafts bilaterally into the carotid arteries of mongrel dogs (body weight, 20-25 kg). No anticoagulation regimen was used after implantation. We sacrificed the dogs 2, 4, 6, and 12 months (n = 4 in each group) after implantation and evaluated the explants histologically and biochemically. All of the tissue-engineered vascular grafts were patent with no signs of thrombosis or aneurysm at any time. Histologic and biochemical examinations showed excellent in situ tissue regeneration with an endothelial cell monolayer, smooth muscle cells, and a reconstructed vessel wall with elastin and collagen fibers. Our study indicated that this novel tissue-engineered vascular graft promoted in situ tissue regeneration and did not require ex vivo cell seeding, thereby conferring better patency on small-caliber vascular prostheses.


In-hospital predictors of post-stroke depression for targeted initiation of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
Although SSRIs are no longer widely prescribed for post-stroke motor recovery, fluoxetine demonstrated beneficial effects on post-stroke depression (PSD). Given the potential side effects of SSRIs, targeted initiation among individuals at highest risk for PSD warrants consideration. While previous studies have identified stroke severity and psychiatric history as factors associated with PSD, its predictability remains unknown. In this study, we investigate inpatient predictive factors to better identify individuals who might derive the most benefit from targeted initiation of SSRIs. We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively-collected registry of adult patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke to a tertiary referral urban academic comprehensive stroke center between 2016-2020. Patients were seen 4-6 weeks post-discharge and administered the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) to screen for PSD (PHQ-9 ≥ 5). Demographics, history of depression, stroke severity, and inpatient PHQ-9 scores were abstracted. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with PSD and an ROC analysis determined the predictability of PSD in the inpatient setting. Three hundred seven individuals were administered the PHQ-9 at follow-up (mean age 65.5 years, 52% female). History of depression (OR = 4.11, 95% CI: 1.65-10.26) and inpatient PHQ-9 score (OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.06-1.30) were significantly associated with PSD. Stroke severity, marital status, living alone, employment, and outpatient therapy were not associated with PSD. The ROC curve using a positive inpatient PHQ-9 achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.65 (95% CI: 0.60-0.70), while the AUC was 0.72 (95% CI: 0.66-0.77) after adding history of depression. History of depression and a positive inpatient PHQ-9 appear to be most strongly predictive of long-term PSD. Initiating SSRIs only in those individuals at highest risk for PSD may help reduce the burden of stroke recovery in this targeted population while minimizing adverse side effects.


The neuroendocrinology of physical injury.
Physical injury of any sort--accidental injury, burns or elective surgery--provokes an immediate neuroendocrine response. Neural input arising from the cerebral cortex, damaged tissues and receptors detecting fluid loss leads to increased secretion of ACTH, growth hormone, prolactin and vasopressin from the pituitary, and to a general activation of the sympathetic nervous system, with rises in adrenaline and noradrenaline concentrations. Secondary changes include stimulation of cortisol and aldosterone and inhibition of insulin and somatomedin secretion. The glucagon concentration and plasma renin activity may also be increased, either immediately or after a delay. The duration of these responses generally depends upon the severity of the injury and differs considerably between hormones, for reasons that are not understood. The only endocrine changes consistently seen at later times after trauma are an increase in insulin secretion, which supersedes the initial suppression, and decreases in the concentrations of T3 and gonadal steroids. Some of the changes in steroid, thyroid and pancreatic hormones differ temporally or even qualitatively from those of their usual stimuli and are unexplained. The initial neuroendocrine response to injury can be construed as playing a defensive role, but the function of the later changes is not understood; it seems likely that they are adaptive in nature, but the scope for therapeutic intervention remains unclear.


Amycolasporins and Dibenzoyls from Lichen-Associated Amycolatopsis hippodromi and Their Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Activities.
Eleven metabolites, six echinosporins (1-6), four dibenzoyls (7-10), and an aromatic compound (11), were isolated from the fermentation broth of lichen-associated Amycolatopsis hippodromi. The structures of the new compounds (1-5, 8-11) were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis including data from experimental and calculated ECD spectra. Amycolasporins A-C (1-3) demonstrated antibacterial activities against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli with MIC values of 25 or 100 μg/mL. Amycolasporin C (3) and the known dibenzoyl (7) attenuated the production of NO due to the suppression of the expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner.


Comparative study of antioxidant properties of wild growing and cultivated Allium species.
Allium species are cultivated for the edible bulb, which is used mainly as flavoring in foods. Besides that, they could prevent tumor promotion and some processes that are associated with free radicals, such as cardiovascular diseases and aging. Therefore, different Allium species, both cultivated (Allium nutans L., A. fistulosum L., A. vineale L., A. pskemense B. Fedtsch, A. schoenoprasum L., A. cepa L. and A. sativum L.) and wild (A. flavum L., A. sphaerocephalum L., A. atroviolaceum Boiss, A. vineale L., A. ursinum L., A. scorodoprasum L., A. roseum L. and A. subhirsutum L.), were investigated in order to evaluate the antioxidant properties of their bulbs. This study reports on the results obtained for the bulb antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase), the quantities of non-enzymatic plant antioxidants (reduced glutathione and total flavonoids), the contents of soluble proteins, vitamin C, carotenoids, chlorophylls a and b, as well as for the quantities of malonyldialdehyde and .OH and O2.- radicals.


[Clinical experience with the chemotherapy of gynecologic cancer].
The report is given about the experiences with chemotherapy of gynecological cancer. The best results were achieved with the long time prolonged therapy of the ovarian cancer. Very good results were registered by the stages III. and IV. of cervix uteri cancer and by all recurrencies of the stages I. and II. of cervical carcinoma. By all cases of advanced corpus uteri cancer and its recurrencies was used systematically chemotherapy.


[Cutaneous manifestations revealing cryofibrinogenaemia associated with monoclonal gammopathy].
Cryofibrinogenaemia is an under-recognized cutaneous thrombotic vasculopathy that may be revealed by purpura or chronic necrotic ulcerations. We report two original cases characterized by their severity, their association with a monoclonal gammopathy and their excellent response to treatment. A 38-year-old woman was admitted for large necrotic leg ulcers appearing 1 year earlier and already investigated. Non-specific signs were seen on a previous skin biopsy and the diagnosis of a factitious disorder was considered at that time. Further investigations revealed circulating cryofibrinogen associated with IgG kappa monoclonal gammopathy without cryoglobulinaemia. Plasmapheresis followed by bortezomid-dexamethasone to treat the monoclonal gammopathy resulted in rapid and complete healing of the ulcers, militating in favour of its involvement in cryofibrinogen formation. The second patient, a 91-year-old woman, was referred to our department for acute necrotic purpura of the legs. Skin biopsy revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis. Glomerular nephropathy with acute renal failure and multiple arterial thromboses were associated with the skin condition. The cryofibrinogen assay was positive without cryoglobulinaemia and other causes of vasculitis were ruled out. The main component was monoclonal IgG lambda. Prednisone-cyclophosphamide treatment led to complete healing of the skin lesions and to recovery from the systemic consequences of cryofibrinogen without sequelae. Routine screening for cryofibrinogen in plasma should be performed to explore cutaneous symptoms of unexplained thrombotic vasculopathy, even in the presence of a non-specific skin biopsy. Specific treatment of cryofibrinogenaemia associated monoclonal gammopathy appears to be highly effective against manifestations of cryofibrinogenaemia.


Color stability of a resin nanoceramic after surface treatments, adhesive cementation, and thermal aging.
Whether color changes in resin nanoceramic (RNC) restorations can occur because of material and adhesive interface degradation is unclear. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the color of RNCs submitted to surface treatments, cementation, and aging. RNC specimens (N=120) were produced with a thickness of 0.5 mm. The No Treatment-High/Low Translucency (NT-HT/LT) groups did not receive treatments; the Airborne-particle Abrasion-High/Low Translucency (AA-HT/LT) groups were airborne-particle abraded, and the Airborne-particle Abrasion Silane-High/Low Translucency (AASIL-HT/LT) groups received airborne-particle abrasion and a silane agent. Single specimens (n=60) were measured on a spectrophotometer before and after aging (50 000 cycles). The other half was mounted on composite resin bases and measured. The cleaned specimens were cemented (C) on the bases and measured (T0 and T1). ΔE00, ΔL', ΔC', and ΔH' were obtained by using the CIEDE2000 formula and analyzed by using ANOVA and repeated-measures ANOVA. Multiple comparisons were made by using the Tukey HSD test (α=.05). For single specimens, the greatest ΔE00 values were observed in the AA-T1-LT resin (5.87). For mounted and cemented conditions, the greatest ΔE00 values were found in the AA-C-T1-LT resin (1.74), and the ΔE00 ranged from 0.75 (NT-OL) to 1.44 (AASIL-C-T1) for the HT resin (P<.001). The mounted and cemented specimens tended toward red and yellow, whereas lighter specimens were observed after cementation. Aging affected the color of the RNCs evaluated. The single specimens showed greater color differences than the cemented specimens, reinforcing the importance of the adhesive cement in the optical behavior of thin restorations.


Transsphenoidal approach in children with partially or minimally developed sphenoid sinus.
The transsphenoidal approach is guided by a few fundamental anatomic landmarks. Pneumatization of the SS is variable, and this plays a key role in accessing the sella floor and other skull base structures. It may be absent or minimally present in both adult and, often, pediatric population, making surgical approach more difficult than usual. We aim to demonstrate that also in the more difficult cases, with a minimal level of pneumatization, the transsphenoidal approach is still possible especially with the support of neuronavigation and intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI). We present our experience accumulated after the treatment of 6 children with minimally pneumatized sphenoid sinus describing the workflow to access the sella floor. No perioperative complications due to the surgical approach were observed, and no cases of mortality were reported. After the surgery, the visual field deficit improved in 1 patient and remained stable in three patients. No postoperative new neurologic deficits were found. No cases of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak were observed. The transsphenoidal approach can be safely used even in cases of minimally or even absent pneumatization of SS as in young children. In order to have a safe approach in such patients, the use of tools, such as navigation system and iMRI, is recommended. Furthermore, the iMRI allows to avoid exposure to radiation as in case of fluoroscopy.


[Evaluation of an experimental animal model allowing the study of the cecal microflora in the hamster, antagonistic to clostridium difficile].
The purpose of this study was the development and evaluation of an experimental model allowing the investigation of hamster anti-Clostridium difficile coecal microflora. The existence of this "barrier" was verified in conventional hamsters. Such hamster coecal flora was then orally transferred to C3H germ-free mice. In such animals, the "barrier effect" was maintained. After treatment with erythromycin, the colonization resistance was always maintained; despite two subsequent processes, dilutions of coecal contents (10(-2] and subsequent heating of this fluid (70 degrees C, 10 min), the inhibitory activity against C. difficile was partially maintained (10(4) UFC/g faeces). The isolation of anaerobic strains implicated in colonization resistance will next be carried out in an anaerobic chamber using this microflora.


SNOM on cell thin sections: observation of Jurkat and MDAMB453 cells.
In this study a comparison of scanning near-field optical microscopy with a traditional, well-known microscopic technique like transmission electron microscopy is discussed. To establish a reliable and comparable method for high-resolution scanning near-field optical microscopy imaging of biological samples, the attention is focussed on cell sections. In particular, we present a study of ultrathin sections of Jurkat T-cells and MDAMB453 cells. We show the relationship among the scanning near-field optical microscopy (topographic and optical) images and the kind of embedding medium (resin), the sections thickness and the staining of the sample. For a complementary investigation atomic force microscopy measurements are carried out, as well. The study reveals that scanning near-field optical microscopy technique on opportunely prepared thin sections can be applied successfully for investigation of the interior of the cells. Scanning near-field optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy allow to obtain different, however comparable, and complementary information of the cell sample.


The molecular mechanism of Ang II induced-AAA models based on proteomics analysis in ApoE-/- and CD57BL/6J mice.
Apolipoprotein knockout (ApoE-/-) and CD57BL/6J mouse models of angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are commonly used in AAA research. However, the similarities and differences in the molecular mechanisms of AAA in these two genotypes have not been reported. In our study, we analyzed proteomics data from ApoE-/- and CD57BL/6J mouse models of Ang II-induced AAA and control mice by LC-MS/MS. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of differentially abundance proteins (DAPs) in the ApoE-/- or CD57BL/6J mouse groups was performed in R software, and infiltration of immune cells in groups was assessed. DAP that showed the same trend in abundance in ApoE-/- and CD57BL/6J mice (S-DAP) were identified and subjected to GO enrichment, KEGG pathway, and connectivity map (CMap) analyses. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the S-DAP was drawn, the key S-DAP were identified by MCODE, and the transcription factors (TFs) of crucial S-DAP were predicted by iRegulon in Cytoscape. Male ApoE-/- and CD57BL/6J mouse models of Ang II-induced AAA are commonly used in AAA research, and extracellular matrix organization is associated with AAA in both of these models. However, there are some differences between the mechanisms underlying AAA in these two genotypes, and these differences need to be considered when studying AAA and selecting models. SIGNIFICANCE: Our research provided the first insight into the similarity and differential mechanisms of Ang II infused AAA models using ApoE-/- and CD57BL/6J mice. This study might provide the some advises for the selection of Ang II infused AAA models for further AAA researches.


[Analyses of karyotypic characteristics and prognosis in pediatric acute myeloblastic leukemia].
Acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) accounts for 15 to 25 percent of childhood acute leukemias. Cytogenetic information is important for diagnosis, classification and prognosis of AML. Our aim was to analyze the relationship between karyotypic characteristics and prognosis of childhood AML. According to karyotypic characteristics, 128 newly diagnosed children AML were separated into 4 subgroups: patients with t(15;17) (group APL), patients with t(8;21)/inv(16) (group A), patients with -7/t(9;22)/complex karyotypes (group C) and the others (group B). Prognoses of these patients were analyzed. The ages ranged from 1 to 16 years with the mean age of 7 years. 85 boys and 43 girls were included in this study. The 4-year event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were (55.9 ± 4.7)% and (69.3% ± 4.5)%, respectively. The 4-year EFS and OS of non-M(3)-AML patients were (49.9 ± 5.2)% and (57.1 ± 6.0)%, respectively. The probabilities of 4-year EFS of the four subgroups were (72.2 ± 1.1)%, (66.3 ± 7.7)%, (38.5 ± 9.1)% and (20.1 ± 12.3)%, respectively (P = 0.000). The probabilities of 4-year OS were (92.6 ± 5.1)%, (69.4 ± 7.9)%, (55.6 ± 8.6)% and (30.0 ± 12.3)%, respectively (P = 0.000). Cytogenetic aberrations seen in pediatric AML had a significant impact on prognosis.


Effect of postprepared sperm parameters and insemination specimen volume on the outcome of intrauterine insemination.
The purpose of the present study was to identify the postprepared sperm parameters affecting the outcome of intrauterine insemination and to find out whether the volume of insemination specimen was a determinant factor in the rate of successful conception. A retrospective study including 306 couples was designed. The patients were inseminated with either 1.0 or 0.5 ml of prepared specimens. The pregnancy rates were compared using the chi-square test. Logistic regression was chosen for multivariant analysis of the parameters. The only parameter significantly affecting the success rate was the postprepared sperm motility (p = 0.033). The pregnancy rate was 27.91% in cases with > or = 95% sperm motility. Only two patients with less than 75% sperm motility conceived. The pregnancy rates in cases with 0.5 ml and 1.0 ml inseminations were 12.12% and 16.13%, respectively. This difference was statistically insignificant (p = 0.427). The postprepared sperm motility was the only parameter predicting the successful rate of intrauterine insemination. Seventy-five percent sperm motility can be used as a cut-off value for selecting patients. The volume of insemination specimen did not influence the outcome. Insemination with 1 ml of fluid was just as effective as insemination with 0.5 ml.


Selective synthesis of (Z)-2-enynyl-2-hydroxy-imidazolidine-4,5-diones via Cu(I)-mediated multicomponent coupling of terminal alkynes, carbodiimides and oxalyl chloride.
(Z)-2-Enynyl-2-hydroxy-imidazolidine-4,5-diones 2 are synthesized for the first time via Cu(I)-mediated (Z)-selective geminal coupling among two molecules of terminal alkynes, carbodiimides, and oxalyl chloride. Further transformation of 2a is performed to yield a highly functionalized spiro heterocyclic compound 5.


"We are the ones who will have to make the change": Cuban health cooperation and the integration of Cuban medical graduates into practice in the Pacific.
This paper responds to Asante et al. (in Hum Resour Health, 2014), providing an updated picture of the impacts of Cuban medical training in the Pacific region based on research carried out in 2019-2021, which focused on the experiences of Pacific Island doctors trained in Cuba and their integration into practice in their home countries. The research focussed on two case studies-Solomon Islands and Kiribati. Study methods for this research included multi-sited ethnographic methods and semi-structured interviews as well as qualitative analysis of policy documents, reports, and media sources. The Cuban health assistance programme has had a significant impact on the medical workforce in the Pacific region increasing the number of doctors employed by Pacific Ministries of Health between 2012 and 2019. Qualitatively, there have been some notable improvements in the medical workforce and health delivery over this period. However, the integration of the Cuban-trained doctors into practise has been challenging, with criticisms of their clinical, procedural and communication skills, and the need for the rapid development of bridging and internship training programmes (ITPs) which were inadequately planned for at the outset of the programme. The Cuban programme in the Pacific is an important model of development assistance for health in the region. While Cuba's offer of scholarships was the trigger for a range of positive outcomes, the success of the programme has relied on input from a range of actors including support from other governments and institutions, and much hard work by the graduates themselves, often in the face of considerable criticism. Key impacts of the programme to date include the raw increase in the number of doctors and the development of the ITPs and career pathways for the graduates, although this has also led to the reorientation of Cuban graduates from preventative to curative health. There is considerable potential for these graduates to contribute to improved health outcomes across the region, particularly if their primary and preventative health care skills are utilised.


[New insights into the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of depression].
There is now considerable neurobiological evidence on the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of depression. Nevertheless the underlying pathophysiology is far from fully elucidated. Norepinephrine and serotonin deficit hypotheses have been known for quite a long time. Other theories also claim a dysfunction of the dopaminergic and GABA-ergic system in depression, an altered expression of neuropeptides (e.g. of substance P), and neuroimmunologic and neuroendocrinologic mechanisms such as an overdrive of the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal system. The neurotrophin hypothesis suggests that decreased production of neurotrophic factors and impaired neurogenesis are crucial for the pathophysiology of depression. These upcoming pathophysiological concepts have also initiated novel treatment approaches whose clinical utility still has to be demonstrated.


Synthesis of heterocyclic ring-fused analogs of HMG499 as novel degraders of HMG-CoA reductase that lower cholesterol.
HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) is the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol de novo biosynthesis and its degradation may bring therapeutic benefits for the treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Before, we disclosed compound HMG499 as a potent HMGCR degrader, which could be a promising agent for treating CVD, however its side-effect of promoting cholesterol accumulation in cells should be eliminated before progression. Herein, a series of novel heterocyclic ring-fused analogs of HMG499 were synthesized and investigated for their activities of stimulating HMGCR degradation using a HMGCR (TM1-8)-GFP reporting system. Among them, the most active compound 29 (QH536) showed an EC50 of 0.22 μΜ in promoting HMGCR degradation, which was about 2 times more potent than HMG499 (EC50 = 0.43 μM). Interestingly, 29 was different from HMG499, it had no side-effect of inducing cholesterol accumulation in cells. Mechanistic studies disclosed that 29 could significantly decrease statin-induced accumulation of HMGCR protein via ubiquitination and degradation of HMGCR through ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and inhibit the cholesterol biosynthesis in cells. Therefore, these heterocyclic ring-fused analogs could be used as promising leads for the development of new types of agents against CVD. Furthermore, 29 also lowered cholesterol levels and suppressed TGFβ1-induced proliferation of LX-2 hepatic stellate cells in a dose-dependent manner. In particular, 29 not only decreased the NASH associated fibrotic mRNA and protein expression of α-SMA, COL1A1, TIMP1 and TGFβ1 but also suppressed cholesterol levels and inflammatory genes of TNF-α, IL-6 an IL-1β in RAW264.7 macrophage cells, indicating that 29 may bring therapeutic benefit to treat NASH.


Micronized apple pomace as a novel emulsifier for food O/W Pickering emulsion.
In order to develop natural, food-grade particles as emulsifiers, wet-milled has been conducted to obtain apple pomace particles in varying sizes. Structural characteristics, physicochemical properties and Pickering emulsifying potential of the particle in different sizes were investigated. Particle size of apple pomace was gradually reduced from 12.9 μm to 550 nm during 8 h milling. With the decrease of particles size, the morphology became less angular. Meanwhile, some insoluble dietary fibers transformed into soluble ones, and the wettability tended to be hydrophilic, therefore, the water and oil holding capacities and free-radical-scavenging capacities increased. The properties of Pickering emulsions stabilized by wet-milled apple pomace particles in different sizes were then investigated. The decrease of particle size resulted in the size reduction of emulsion droplets, and gave rise to enhance gel-like properties and antioxidative activities of emulsions. The results demonstrated promising prospect of wet-milled apple pomace particles as emulsifiers in food industry.


Changes in blood pressure, BMI and ECG Patterns in women using low-dose contraceptives.
To determine the cardiovascular risk factors in users of second generation contraceptives by recording changes in body mass index, blood pressure and electrocardiogram. Cross-sectional study. The National Institute of Fertility Research Centers at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center and PIB Maternity Home Karachi, from July 1997 to 1999. Sixty four women volunteered for this study (age range 20-35 years), belonging to low-income group with similar socio-cultural background. The Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated by measuring height and weight of the subjects; systolic and diastolic blood pressure and ECG recording by standard method. The group means, standard deviations and coefficient correlation for interrelationship among variables in respective groups of subjects were calculated using relevant statistical method and software program. There was no significant difference between BMI of two types of contraceptive users as compared to non users; but BMI was significantly correlated with both systolic and diastolic blood pressures in injectable users as compared to controls. ECG alterations frequently observed in contraceptive users (40%) as compared to controls were normal findings. It was observed that women aged < 30 years and using contraceptives for more than three years had a tendency to gain weight and developed a mild increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressures.


Carcinoid tumor of the middle ear: clinical features, recurrences, and metastases.
Present four new cases of carcinoid tumor of the middle ear, two of which developed late recurrences and regional metastases. Review the literature to identify the clinical features, rate of recurrence, and incidence of metastasis of carcinoid tumor of the middle ear. Retrospective chart review. Tertiary referral hospital. Eligibility criteria consist of a diagnosis of carcinoid tumor of middle ear. Surgical excision of primary and metastatic disease. Clinical characteristics, rate of recurrence, and incidence of metastasis of carcinoid tumor of the middle ear. Forty-six patients with carcinoid tumor of the middle ear are included in this report, 42 patients were identified from a review of the literature, and 4 new patients are presented. The most common presenting symptom was hearing loss. Surgical excision was the treatment with radical mastoidectomy being the most common procedure. Ten (22%) patients developed locally recurrent disease, and four (9%) developed regional metastases. Carcinoid tumor of the middle ear is an infrequent cause of a middle ear mass, with only 46 cases published. Despite previous assertions of benignancy, the findings of this study suggest that carcinoid tumor of the middle ear is indeed a potential low-grade malignancy with documented metastatic potential. Almost all middle ear adenomatous tumors ("adenoma" and "carcinoid") show evidence of neuroendocrine differentiation, and so at least some middle ear carcinoids ("adenomas") appear to represent well-differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas. Presentation and symptoms are consistent with a middle ear mass and rarely include carcinoid syndrome. Surgical treatment is recommended and tailored to the extent of disease. Patients with carcinoid tumor of the middle ear require indefinite follow-up for possible recurrence or metastasis.


High level expression of proinsulin in the yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Human proinsulin (PI) has been expressed to a high level (100 mg/liter) as a human superoxide dismutase-PI fusion protein in the yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. At the junction of the two proteins is a methionine residue, allowing PI to be released from the fusion by reaction with cyanogen bromide. The fusion is expressed using a regulated, hybrid promoter containing the regulatory region of the alcohol dehydrogenase II promoter and the 3' end of a glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase promoter, allowing the recombinant yeast cells to be stably maintained. Production of the fusion protein is induced by growth in medium lacking a fermentable carbon source. The heterologous fusion protein is probably insoluble within the cell, since electron microscopy reveals the presence of 'inclusion bodies'. In a cell-free extract the fusion protein is also insoluble, but can be solubilized with sodium dodecyl sulfate, and cleaved with cyanogen bromide. The PI that is produced contains incorrect disulfide bonds. After sulfitolysis, the product can be easily purified, renatured, and processed to yield insulin.


Glycerol metabolism in type II pneumocytes isolated from streptozotocin-diabetic rats.
Glycerol utilization for phospholipid biosynthesis was examined in type II pneumocytes isolated from normal and streptozocinin-diabetic rats. With glucose in the incubation medium, incorporation of exogenous [1,3-14C]glycerol into disaturated phosphatidylcholine, total phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) was increased 4-fold in cells from diabetic rats. In the absence of glucose, glycerol incorporation was 5-fold greater than in its presence in cells from normal animals, but was further increased 2.2-fold in cells from diabetic rats. Insulin treatment of diabetic rats returned all incorporation rates to control values. The increased glycerol incorporation rates were not due to differences in either phospholipid turnover or the size of the glycerol 3-phosphate precursor pool. Kinetic analysis of glycerol entry into the acid-soluble cell fraction indicated that glycerol transport occurred largely by simple diffusion, and was not rate limiting for its entry into lipids. Glycerol entry into the total lipid fraction was saturable, reaching a Vmax of 48 pmol/micrograms DNA per h in normal cells and 120 pmol/micrograms DNA per h in cells from diabetic rats, with no change in the Km (0.31 mM). While glycerol oxidation was reduced 23% in cells from diabetic rats in the presence of glucose and by 44% in the absence of glucose, glycerol kinase activity in sonicates of cells from diabetic animals was increased 210% and was reversed by in vivo insulin treatment. These results suggest that glycerol utilization in type II pneumocytes is a hormonally regulated function of both glycerol oxidation and glycerol phosphorylation.


Sporadic hemiplegic migraine with normal imaging as the initial manifestation of CADASIL.
Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) can be present with negative family history and, especially in younger patients, with normal brain magnetic resonance. For this reason, those CADASIL patients that present only with migraine may be misdiagnosed. In the case of migraine with motor aura, sporadic hemiplegic migraine (SHM) is one of the possible misdiagnoses. We present a case of a patient who, in the first years of her disease, met the clinical criteria for SHM. A diagnosis of CADASIL was considered only when her sister presented with headache and an unknown leukoencephalopathy. This case illustrates the need for a careful review of the clinical and family history during the follow-up of primary headaches.


Functionalized screen-printed electrodes for the thermal detection of Escherichia coli in dairy products.
Accurate and fast on-site detection of harmful microorganisms in food products is a key preventive step to avoid food-borne illness and product recall. In this study, screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) were functionalized via a facile strategy with surface imprinted polymers (SIPs). The SIP-coated SPEs were used in combination with the heat transfer method (HTM) for the real-time detection of Escherichia coli. The sensor was tested in buffer, with a reproducible and sensitive response that attained a limit of detection of 180 CFU/mL. Furthermore, selectivity was assessed by analyzing the sensor's response to C. sakazakii, K. pneumoniae and S. aureus as analogue strains. Finally, the device was successfully used for the detection of E. coli in spiked milk as proof-of-application, requiring no additional sample preparation. These results suggest the proposed thermal biosensor possesses the potential of becoming a tool for routine, on-site monitoring of E. coli in food safety applications.


Involvement of JNK/FOXO1 pathway in apoptosis induced by severe hypoxia in porcine granulosa cells.
In ovaries, follicles undergo a periodic process of degeneration, namely atresia, during each stage of development. Granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis is believed as the hallmark of follicular atresia. The avascular environment within the granulosa compartment is supposed to cause hypoxic conditions. The effects of hypoxia on organs, tissues, cells can be either positive or negative, depending on the severity and context. The present study aimed to explore whether and how severe hypoxia under in vitro conditions functions in apoptosis of porcine GCs. The current results showed that the apoptosis in porcine GCs exposed to severe hypoxia (1% O2) was correlated with enhanced activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), nuclear accumulation of FOXO1, as well as elevated level of cleaved caspase-3 and decreased ratio of BCL-2/BAX. Further investigations revealed that severe hypoxia-mediated JNK activation was required for the apoptotic death of porcine GCs and the nuclear transport of FOXO1. Moreover, inhibition of FOXO1 reduced GCs apoptosis upon severe hypoxia exposure. Together, these findings suggested that severe hypoxia might act through JNK/FOXO1 axis to induce apoptosis in porcine GCs.


Gel content determination in cross-linked polyethylene.
Gel content is the dominating parameter which affects properties and prescribes the behaviour of a given type of cross-linked polyethylene. Researchers have determined the gel content by several methods based on solvent extraction, a process which dissolves the linear thermoplastic polymer but swells only the cross-linked fraction. In this work, a comparative evaluation was made using model samples to select the most effective solvents and the suitable extraction conditions leading to increased reliability.


Effects of intranasal mometasone furoate on itchy ear and palate in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Intranasal steroids relieve nasal symptoms and ocular itch in allergic rhinitis. Itchy ear and palate are also common and bothersome symptoms but have received little attention in clinical trials of allergic rhinitis. To ascertain the efficacy of mometasone furoate nasal spray in alleviating itchy ear and palate in seasonal allergic rhinitis. Data were pooled from 4 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of mometasone furoate nasal spray, 200 μg/d. Participants rated ear and palate itching from baseline through treatment day 15 as follows: 0, none; 1, mild; 2, moderate; and 3, severe. A total of 962 study participants received mometasone furoate nasal spray or placebo. Baseline least squares mean itchy ear and palate score was 1.81 for participants receiving mometasone furoate nasal spray (n = 480) and 1.85 for participants receiving placebo (n = 482). Mometasone furoate nasal spray was associated with a greater decrease in itchy and ear palate score vs placebo during the 15-day study period (least squares mean change, -0.73 vs -0.45; P < .001). The difference reached significance on day 2 and persisted through day 15 (P ≤ .01 for each day). Results were similar in a subgroup of patients (n = 305) with moderate-to-severe symptoms at baseline. Adverse events with mometasone furoate nasal spray were similar to those observed in other studies of intranasal steroid therapy. These preliminary findings suggest that mometasone furoate nasal spray effectively treats itchy ear and palate in individuals with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Itchy ear and palate is a relevant end point for future clinical trials of allergic rhinitis.


Chromoendoscopy with methylene blue and associated DNA damage in Barrett's oesophagus.
Chromoendoscopy with methylene blue has been proposed to improve targeting of biopsies to specialised intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia in Barrett's oesophagus. However, methylene blue can induce oxidative damage of DNA when photosensitised by white light. We show that damage to DNA is increased in Barrett's mucosa after chromoendoscopy with methylene blue, an effect apparently dependent on presence of both methylene blue and endoscopic white light. Exposure of Barrett's mucosa to DNA damage during endoscopy warrants caution since it could accelerate carcinogenesis. This risk needs to be carefully balanced against the possible benefit of improved early detection of preneoplastic lesions with methylene blue chromoendoscopy.


Having breast reconstruction post-mastectomy: barriers and facilitators reported by Vietnamese- versus English-speaking women with breast cancer.
Objective: Little is known about the experience of women of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds in relation to breast reconstruction following mastectomy as treatment for their breast cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the factors that influenced Vietnamese- and English-speaking women's decisions about breast reconstruction post-mastectomy for their breast cancer, in Australia.Design: The participants in this study comprised of Vietnamese-speaking women of Vietnamese heritage, and English-speaking women from mixed ethnicities (Vietnamese included). In this qualitative study, Vietnamese-speaking and English-speaking women who had breast cancer treated by mastectomy with or without breast reconstruction participated in in-depth interviews. Interviews were undertaken in the woman's chosen language (Vietnamese or English), audio-recorded, transcribed/translated and analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Fourteen Vietnamese-speaking and 13 English-speaking patients were recruited. Participants identified age, lack of information, concerns regarding surgical procedure, fears about complications and cancer recurrence as barriers to breast reconstruction. Many more Vietnamese-speaking participants identified lack of information about breast reconstruction as a barrier compared to English-speaking participants. Both groups described the ability to wear clothing of their choice, partner influence, and the need to feel 'normal' as facilitators to having breast reconstruction. Vietnamese-speaking participants in particular identified doctor recommendation of breast reconstruction as a major facilitator.Conclusion: Lack of information about reconstruction was a persistent theme, though it was identified by more Vietnamese women as a barrier to having breast reconstruction. The results reinforce the importance of doctors' recommendations in helping particularly the Vietnamese women make an informed decision about reconstruction following mastectomy as treatment for their breast cancer.


Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases pathway mediates lung caspase-1 activation and high mobility group box 1 production in a toluene-diisocyanate induced murine asthma model.
We have previously demonstrated that downregulating HMGB1 decreases airway neutrophil inflammation in a toluene-diisocyanate (TDI)-induced murine asthma model, yet how HMGB1 is regulated in the lung remains uncertain. In this study, we intended to explore whether PI3K signaling pathway mediates pulmonary HMGB1 production in TDI-induced asthma model and the possible roles of NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-1 in this process. BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with TDI to establish a TDI-induced asthma model. LY294002, a specific inhibitor of PI3K, was given intratracheally 1h before each challenge. Here we showed that airway hypersensitivity, airway infiltration of neutrophils and eosinophils, serum IgE and IL-4 in supernatant of cervical lymphocytes in TDI induced asthmatic mice were all markedly decreased by LY294002, accompanied by suppressed pulmonary expression of HMGB1. At the same time, we observed elevated protein levels of cleaved caspase-1 and IL-1β after TDI challenge, as well as increased immunoreactivity in lung, all of which were significantly recovered by LY294002. While both the protein expression and immunodistribution of NLRP3 in the lung stayed unchanged. These data suggest that PI3K mediates lung caspase-1 activation and HMGB1 production in TDI-induced murine asthma model.


Fine-needle aspiration cytology of extra-salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a ubiquitous tumour which can occur in several sites of the human body. Commonly, it affects the salivary glands but also can rarely occur in various extra-salivary locations. To study the clinical and cytological features of extra-salivary ACC on fine needle aspiration cytology. In this paper, we included 27 patients with extra-salivary ACC on fine needle aspiration cytology over a period of 5.5 years. The complete cytomorphological spectrum of extra-salivary ACC was studied. The mean age of the patients was 50.2 years, with age ranging between 14 and 80 years. Male to female ratio was 1:1.7 with 17 females and 10 males. The most frequent primary site was the orbit, and the most frequent sites of metastasis were liver and lung. Cytopathologists should be alert about the full range of location as well as the cytological spectrum of extra-salivary ACC for greater precision in diagnosis and prompt treatment.


Asymmetric synthesis of (R)-1,3-butanediol from 4-hydroxy-2-butanone by a newly isolated strain Candida krusei ZJB-09162.
Biocatalytic asymmetric preparation of (R)-1,3-butanediol has been attracting much attention in pharmaceuticals industry. A new ideal strain, ZJB-09162, which exhibited high reduction activity and excellent (R)-stereospecificity towards 4-hydroxy-2-butanone, has been successfully isolated from soil samples. Based on morphology, physiological tests (API 20 C AUX), and 5.8S-ITS sequence, the isolate was identified as Candida krusei. Kinetic characterization demonstrated that carbonyl reductase from C. krusei ZJB-09162 preferred NADH to NADPH as cofactor, indicating it might be a new carbonyl reductase. (R)-1,3-Butanediol was produced in 19.8 g/L, 96.6% conversion, and 99.0% ee at optimal pH 8.5, 35 °C with a 2:1 molar ratio of glucose to 4H2B. In order to achieve higher product titer, the substrate loading was optimized in fixed catalysts and fixed substrate/catalysts ratio mode. The bioreduction of 4-hydroxy-2-butanone at a concentration of 45.0 g/L gave (R)-1,3-butanediol in 38.7 g/L and 83.9% conversion. Therefore, C. krusei ZJB-09162 was, for the first time, proven to be a promising biocatalyst for enzymatic preparation of (R)-1,3-butanediol.


A case of vasculitic cholecystitis associated with Schönlein-Henoch purpura in an adult.
A case of Schönlein-Henoch Purpura (SHP) in a 32 year-old female, showing gastrointestinal manifestations including acute vasculitic cholecystitis was reported. In the course of hospitalization urgent laparotomy was performed because of the severe abdominal pain. The gallbladder was inflamed with a brownish-red edematous wall and subserosal hemorrhage, and was resected. Histological examination of the resected gallbladder specimen revealed leucocytoclastic vasculitis. The patient was treated with prednisolone postoperatively, and symptoms abated over two weeks. Acute cholecystitis with SHP is extremely rare, and as far as the authors know this is the second case of this disorder documented by histological examination. Patients with acute abdomen associated with SHP should be managed with consideration of the complications of acute cholecystitis.


Spectral tomographic imaging with aplanatic metalens.
Tomography is an informative imaging modality that is usually implemented by mechanical scanning, owing to the limited depth-of-field (DOF) in conventional systems. However, recent imaging systems are working towards more compact and stable architectures; therefore, developing nonmotion tomography is highly desirable. Here, we propose a metalens-based spectral imaging system with an aplanatic GaN metalens (NA = 0.78), in which large chromatic dispersion is used to access spectral focus tuning and optical zooming in the visible spectrum. After the function of wavelength-switched tomography was confirmed on cascaded samples, this aplanatic metalens is utilized to image microscopic frog egg cells and shows excellent tomographic images with distinct DOF features of the cell membrane and nucleus. Our approach makes good use of the large diffractive dispersion of the metalens and develops a new imaging technique that advances recent informative optical devices.


Production of piglets from in vitro-produced embryos following non-surgical transfer.
The objective of this study was to enhance procedures for producing piglets derived from in vitro-produced (IVP) pig embryos by non-surgical embryo transfer (ET). The effects of insertion length for the catheter, asynchrony between the age of donor IVP blastocysts and the recipient estrous cycle, and volume of transfer medium were investigated. The IVP blastocysts at 5 days after in vitro fertilization were placed into porcine zygote medium (PZM)-5 supplemented with 10% (v/v) fetal bovine serum (PZM+FBS) in a 0.25 mL plastic straw (21-40 blastocysts per straw) and then transferred into one uterine horn of recipients using the Takumi(®) catheter for deep intrauterine insertion. Successful production of piglets derived from IVP embryos was achieved following non-surgical ET when the catheter was inserted at more than 30 cm anterior to the spiral guide spirette. The efficiency of piglet production (percentage number of piglet(s) born based on the number of embryos transferred) was greater (P<0.05) in recipients whose estrous cycle was asynchronous to that of donors with a 1-day delay (8.3%) than in those with a 2-day (1.5%) or 3-day (0.9%) delay, while pregnancy and farrowing rates (10-40%) did not differ among treatments. When blastocysts were transferred into recipients with 1.0 or 2.5 mL PZM+FBS, there were no significant differences in farrowing rate (30-40%) or average litter size (4.5-6.7) between treatments. The results of the present study indicate that the insertion length of the deep intrauterine catheter and the degree of asynchrony between donor embryos and recipient estrous cycle influenced on pregnancy and birth outcome following non-surgical transfer of IVP blastocysts.


Reward-related attentional capture and cognitive inflexibility interact to determine greater severity of compulsivity-related problems.
Neurocognitive processes are key drivers of addictive and compulsive disorders. The current study examined whether reward-related attentional capture and cognitive inflexibility are associated with impulsive and/or compulsive personality traits, and whether these cognitive characteristics interact to predict greater compulsivity-related problems across obsessive-compulsive and drinking behaviors. One-hundred and seventy-three participants (mean age = 34.5 years, S.D = 8.4, 42% female) completed an online visual search task to measure reward-related attentional capture and its persistence following reversal of stimulus-reward contingencies. Participants also completed questionnaires to assess trait impulsivity, compulsivity, alcohol use, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Greater reward-related attentional capture was associated with trait compulsivity, over and above all impulsivity dimensions, while greater cognitive inflexibility was associated with higher negative urgency (distress-elicited impulsivity). Reward-related attentional capture and cognitive inflexibility interacted to predict greater compulsivity-related problems among participants who reported obsessive-compulsive behaviors in the past month (n = 57) as well as current drinkers (n = 88). Follow-up analyses showed that, for OCD behaviors, this interaction was driven by an association between higher reward-related attentional capture and more problematic behaviors among cognitively inflexible participants only. For drinking, the same pattern was seen, albeit at trend level. This study includes a non-clinical, online sample and is cross-sectional, thus its findings need to be interpreted with these limitations in mind. Reward-related attentional capture and cognitive flexibility are related to trait compulsivity and impulsivity (negative urgency) respectively, and interact to determine more problematic behaviors.


Protective Association of APOC1/rs4420638 with Risk of Obesity: A case-control Study in Portuguese Children.
The association of the rs4420638 polymorphism, near the APOC1 gene, was examined with the risk of obesity among Portuguese children. A sample of 446 Portuguese individuals (231 boys and 215 girls) of European descent, aged 3.2 to 13.7 years old (mean age: 7.98 years), were selected to conduct a case-control study. Body mass index (BMI), BMI Z-scores, and waist circumference were calculated. Genotyping was performed by real time PCR using a pre-designed TaqMan probe. Logistic regression and the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test were used to test the associations. The association results revealed a significant protective effect from the minor G-allele of SNP rs4420638 against obesity, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.619 (95% CI 0.421-0.913; p = 0.0155) in the additive model, and OR of 0.587 (95% CI 0.383-0.9; p = 0.0145) in the dominant model. Moreover, comparing genotype groups (AA vs. AG + GG), significantly lower values (p < 0.05) for the anthropometric traits weight, height, BMI, BMI Z-score and waist circumference, were observed in the carriers of allele G. The present study provides further evidence for the APOE/APOC1 candidate-region association with the risk of obesity. This was the first study to describe the protective association of the rs4420638 minor G-allele against obesity in childhood exclusively.


A dual-compensated cryogenic microcalorimeter for radioactivity standardizations.
Efforts are underway by our laboratory to develop a microcalorimeter that can be routinely used for radioactivity standardizations of nuclides that decay by pure beta-emission or by low-Z electron capture. The prototype calorimeter consists of a cryostat with two temperature-controlled stages and a base stage that are operated at nominal temperatures of 8 K. A unique aspect of the calorimeter's design is the ability to repeatedly engage and disengage the radioactive source from the second stage heat path using a magnetically activated elevator. The measurement of the total power from a radioactive sample is obtained from the difference in the second stage power with and without the source in place. As a result of extensive performance evaluations using 90Sr-90Y and 32P brachytherapy seeds as well as with an internal calibration heater, many initial design flaws have been identified and are being addressed.


[New techniques and training methods for robot-assisted surgery and cost-benefit analysis of Ivor Lewis esophagectomy].
Robotic surgery was introduced into general surgery more than 20 years ago. Shortly afterwards, Horgan performed the first robotic-assisted esophagectomy in 2003 in Chicago. The aim of this manuscript is to elucidate new developments and training methods in robotic surgery with a cost-benefit analysis for robotic-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. Systematic literature search regarding new technology and training methods for robotic surgery and cost analysis of intraoperative materials for hybrid and robotic-assisted Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. Robotic-assisted esophageal surgery is complex and involves an extensive learning curve, which can be shortened with modern teaching methods. New robotic systems aim at the use of image-guided surgery and artificial intelligence. Robotic-assisted surgery of esophageal cancer is significantly more expensive that surgery without this technology. Oncological short-term and long-term benefits need to be further evaluated to support the higher cost of robotic esophageal cancer surgery.


Effects of urinary trypsin inhibitor in patients at risk for premature labor with a bulging fetal membrane.
To investigate the effect of urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI) in patients at risk for premature labor with bulging membrane. Patients who had developed a bulging membrane from 22 to 27 weeks and 6 days of gestation were studied. These cases were divided into two types based on the severity: those with a moderately developed bulging membrane like a 'dome' (dome type), and those with a membrane prolapsed into the vagina, resulting in an 'hourglass' shape (hourglass type). We compared the outcomes of treatment with or without UTI (UTI group versus non-UTI group) in each type. Gestational age at delivery, birth weight, prolongation time from admission to delivery, and neonatal mortality rate were examined in each group. A total of 43 patients with a bulging membrane were analyzed. In 21 patients with the dome type, gestational age at delivery (the UTI group versus the non-UTI group; 30.4 +/- 5.0 versus 26.4 +/- 1.9 weeks, p < 0.05), birth weight (1,436.8 +/- 708.3 versus 882.8 +/- 261.6 g, p < 0.05) and neonatal mortality rate (0/13 versus 3/8, p < 0.05) were all significantly improved by the use of UTI. On the other hand, in 22 patients with the hourglass type, there was no significant difference between the UTI group and the non-UTI group. The overall prevalence of histological chorioamnionitis was 60%. These results suggest that UTI therapy is very effective in patients at risk for premature labor with a moderately developed bulging membrane during the second trimester.


Human seminal fluid contains significant quantities of prorenin: its correlation with the sperm density.
The relevance of the tissue prorenin-renin-angiotensin system (PRAS) to male reproduction has been suggested by several investigators in the past. Although the presence of angiotensin converting enzyme in semen has been demonstrated, unequivocal evidence for the presence of prorenin and renin in the semen is not yet available. We have used a specific immunoradiometric assay based on an antibody directed against the pro-segment of the prorenin molecule to demonstrate that significant quantities of prorenin are present in human semen samples. Although semen is a rich source of proteases and protease inhibitors, the assay used by us, unlike the usual enzymatic renin assay, is not affected by such proteases, and their inhibitors. Furthermore, Western blotting data clearly demonstrated that prorenin is present in semen as a 48 kDa protein. In a majority of semen samples, the prorenin content was found to be several fold greater than that measured in EDTA-plasma samples. Interestingly, the level of prorenin was found to be directly proportional to the sperm density in semen samples. Our results suggest that seminal prorenin is produced locally within the male reproductive system, although its exact origin is yet to be defined, that a complete prorenin-renin-angiotensin system exists in human semen and that this system may be relevant to sperm function.


Tetracycline fluorescence in uremic and primary hyperparathyroid bone.
Twenty-five patients with end-stage renal disease, nine of whom were receiving pharmacologic doses of vitamin D, and seventeen patients with primary hyperparathyroidism underwent bone biopsy following a three-day course of tetracycline administration. The mean width of the fluorescent tetracycline bands were significantly greater in the bones of patients with uremia than in those with primary hyperparathyroidism. This difference was due to wide labels present in the patients with uremia who had not been treated with vitamin D, as no differences existed in mean label widths of patients with uremia who had received this compound and the patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Comparison of the maximum label widths distinguished not only primary hyperparathyroid patients from those with uremia, but uremic patients who had recieved vitamin D from those who had not been so treated. Quantitative microscopy of standard, nonfluorescent histologic features failed to make this latter distinction. These data are consistent with the presence of a wide zone of instantaneously fluorescing material in uremic bone following tetracycline administration, which does not relate to bone apposition occurring during antibiotic administration. This phenomenon probably represents a delay in mineral maturation which is normalized by vitamin D. Furthermore, it is apparent that the use of a continuously administered (single) tetracycline label will result in an overestimation of bone formation rates, particularly in osteomalacic states.


Role of the otolaryngologist in nasopharyngeal swab training: A case report and review of the literature.
Nasopharyngeal swabs are commonly done in the medical field for a multitude of reasons, and they recently have been an essential component of widespread testing to control the spread of COVID-19. Although rare, improper technique when performing nasopharyngeal swabs has the potential to lead to injury or misleading test results. We present a case of uncontrolled epistaxis requiring hospitalization following a routine nasopharyngeal swab in a healthy patient. Both the complexity and variability of the anatomy of the nasopharynx can contribute to poor swabbing technique. Otolaryngologists should be encouraged to educate and support other healthcare workers to improve the yield and reduce the risk of harm due to nasopharyngeal swabs. Increased comfort levels with performing nasopharyngeal swabs will also improve the sensitivity of screening tests for common respiratory viruses such as influenza, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), or bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus.


Clinical and echocardiographic features influencing recovery of atrial function after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation.
Atrial mechanical dysfunction after cardioversion for atrial fibrillation has been widely evaluated in recent years. Nevertheless, the influence of many clinical and echocardiographic parameters is not yet understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of clinical and echocardiographic parameters on the return of effective atrial contraction. A total of 109 patients were evaluated: 41 patients had spontaneous recovery of sinus rhythm and 68 patients were randomly treated using either direct-current (DC) shock or intravenous procainamide. Elective cardioversion was accomplished pharmacologically in 23 patients (67%) and with DC shock in 29 patients (85%). Patients underwent a complete echocardiographic examination 1 hour after the restoration of sinus rhythm and after 1 and 7 days and 1 month. The following parameters were evaluated: patient age, cardiac disease, duration and etiology of atrial fibrillation, mode of cardioversion, left ventricular diameters and function, and left atrial diameter and function assessed as atrial ejection force. The relation between these variables and atrial ejection force was tested. Atrial ejection force was greater immediately and 24 hours after cardioversion in patients who had spontaneous recovery of sinus rhythm and in patients treated with drugs than in patients treated with DC shock. The mode of cardioversion was significantly associated with the recovery of atrial mechanical function by day 1 in univariate and multivariate analyses (odds ratio 0.14; 95% confidence interval 0.02 to 1.2). The other variable associated with the recovery of function was normal left atrial size (odds ratio 0.16; 95% confidence interval 0.12 to 1.6). In conclusion, atrial ejection force is a noninvasive parameter that can be easily measured and can provide accurate information about the recovery of left atrial mechanical function. The recovery of atrial function was influenced by the mode of cardioversion and the size of the left atrium.


Health behaviors and personality in burnout: a third dimension.
The high prevalence of burnout among healthcare professionals warrants a thorough examination aimed at improving the current understanding of its predictors and preventive measures. Cecil et al. have underscored the alarming prevalence of burnout among medical students and assessed its association with demographic, lifestyle, and behavioral factors. Of interest, health behaviors were found to be predictive of burnout. The study suggests certain behaviors (such as high physical activity) to be protective, and thus, calls for their establishment early in college life to prevent the development of this professionally-disabling mental state. Although the adoption of advisable health behaviors may independently reduce the risk of burnout, recognition of the existence and influence of closely related factors allows for an enhanced understanding and a greater precision for any conclusions to be made. Personality, through deductive and inductive reasoning, is likely to exert significant influence on both the student's behavior and his/her susceptibility to burnout. Thus, with personality representing--in and of itself--a principal model for prediction of burnout risk, controlling for personality traits when addressing health behaviors' influence per se on burnout is essential.


Food Sensitivity and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Preliminary Observations.
Reflux is an expensive, high prevalence disease that affects at least half of patients with laryngeal and voice disorders. Approaches to treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux include medical, lifestyle, dietary, and surgical treatment options.2 We review four patients who had persistent reflux signs and symptoms on appropriate lifestyle including elevating head of bed and dietary modifications, as well as antacid, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitor therapy, who improved substantially on specific food avoidance diets. This raises food sensitivity as a possible factor in patients with intractable LPR.


Increased inhibition of HGPRT by IMP and GMP and higher levels of PRPP in an 8-azaguanine - hat resistant mutant of Chinese hamster cells.
In this paper an 8-azaguanine resistant mutant of Chinese hamster cells able to grow in HAT medium is analyzed. Kinetic analysis of hypoxanthine-guanine-phosphoribosyl-transferase show that the enzyme of the mutant has an altered affinity for both phosphoribosyl-pyrophosphate and the inhibitors IMP and GMP. Furthermore we show that mutant cells exposed to inhibitors of de novo purine synthesis have increased levels of phosphoribosyl-pyrophosphate probably due to decreased utilization by the de novo pathway. These results explain the ability of the mutant to grow both in 8-azaguanine and HAT medium.


Somatic mutations in mitochondria: the chicken or the egg?
Somatic mutations of mitochondrial DNA have been detected in various pathologies such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiac disorders and aging in general. Now it has been found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis also have a higher incidence of mitochondrial mutations in synoviocytes and synovial tissue compared with patients with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, it has been shown that these mutations possibly result in changed peptides that are presented by major histocompatibility complex II and thus might be recognized as non-self by the immune system. Further studies will show whether these mutations are actually able to trigger autoimmune inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis or whether they must be considered epiphenomena of cellular damage in chronic inflammation.


The influence of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring on the design and interpretation of trials in hypertension.
To describe the reproducibility of diastolic blood pressure (DBP) measurement by clinic and ambulatory monitoring and to evaluate the effects of this reproducibility on the design and interpretation of clinical trials in hypertension research. Prospective single-blind study of repeat measurement reproducibility of blood pressure recording. Tertiary referral hospital hypertension clinic. One hundred untreated mild-to-moderate hypertensive subjects taking 1 month of single-blind placebo. A single clinic measurement of DBP was poorly reproducible and the results for single DBP estimates taken out of a daytime ambulatory recording were similar. Average ambulatory DBP was much more reproducible, although this improvement depended upon the averaging of many measurements taken throughout the day. Ambulatory monitoring would decrease antihypertensive trial size by a factor of four or halve the size of detectable DBP difference between treatments. The use of poorly reproducible DBP measurements such as single clinic readings may have led to an underestimation of the risks of minor degrees of blood pressure elevation because of a 'regression dilution' bias. For single clinic DBP readings, we calculate this underestimation to be as much as 69%, and for average ambulatory DBP approximately 20%.


Quality Assurance in Cataract and Lens Surgery with Special Consideration of Subjective Patient Reported Outcome Measures and Clinical Reported Outcome Measures.
Results of medical interventions must be documented and evaluated. In studies, this is done with clinical outcomes data (clinician/clinical reported outcome measure, CROM). In the past, less weight has been given to patient surveys with questionnaires (patient reported outcome measure, PROM). This retrospective study included 104 eyes from 53 patients. Of these, 35 patients had cataract surgery and 15 patients had a refractive lens exchange. The implanted lenses included 62 trifocal IOLs (Asphina trifiocal 839, Zeiss), 34 trifocal toric IOLs (Asphina trifocal toric 939, Zeiss) and 8 bifocal IOLs (Asphina 808, Zeiss) with the same IOL platform. Patients completed a modified questionnaire before surgery and one year after surgery. We made changes to the CatQuest-9SF questionnaire so as to also document side effects. The effort required by the patients to answer the questionnaire was a burden. Transcribing the data into electronic files so as they could be saved and analyzed was a lot of work for the staff. Among the patients, 88.7% were spectacle-independent in everyday life, and 77.5% for reading. 44.4% had a halo problem. 92% reported the operation as a success. 100% had a prediction error of ≤ ± 0.75 dpt. There is a high rate of patient satisfaction with the outcome of the intervention. New questionnaires are needed for new IOLs. The Catquest-9SF is from 2009. Accordingly, revisions and new validation is necessary. Beyond that, only automatic data transfer will reduce the amount of work involved in data input.


Antitumor effect of kigamicin D on mouse tumor models.
Kigamicin D is a novel anticancer agent that was identified using a new screening strategy that targets the tolerance of cancer cells to nutrient starvation [1, 2]. Oral administration of kigamicin D was previously described to show a strong antitumor effect in human tumor xenograft models of pancreatic tumors [2]. In this paper we describe that kigamicin D shows the same selective cytotoxicity against normal human cells such as lung fibroblast and prostate stromal cells under nutrient starved condition as against cancer cells. Kigamicin D inhibited tumor cell-induced angiogenesis in a dorsal air sac assay. On the basis of these results we tested other human tumor xenograft models and transplantable syngeneic tumor models in order to determine the spectrum of activity of kigamicin D against various cancers. Kigamicin D showed a weak antitumor effect against LX-1 and DMS-273 lung cancers, but had no effect on DLD-1 colon cancers. When tested against syngeneic tumors, kigamicin D showed a weak antitumor effect against colon26, but showed augmentation of tumor growth on IMC carcinoma at a broad dosage level. Kigamicin D does not show good antitumor activity against human xenograft tumors except pancreatic tumors and murine syngeneic tumors. We found that kigamicin D has excellent antitumor effect specific to pancreatic cancers. Surprisingly, high dosage of kigamicin D increased tumor growth of IMC carcinoma by than 200%. The phenomenon suggests that kigamicin D may cause some immunological response to the tumor.


Causes of taxonomic sorting by adults: a test of the thematic-to-taxonomic shift.
The tendency among adults to sort items into taxonomic and thematic categories was examined in two experiments. Past demonstrations of adults' preference for taxonomic categories have usually not used stimuli with a salient thematic organization. The stimuli in Experiment 1 could be divided into three equal-size categories either thematically or taxonomically. Under two sets of instructions, the majority of the college-student subjects sorted thematically. In Experiment 2, a subset of the stimuli was changed so that those within it were strongly taxonomically organized. Subjects then preferred to sort the remaining items taxonomically as well. The two experiments explain why many past sorting studies have yielded a taxonomic preference in adults and provide further evidence against a global change from thematic to taxonomic preference with development.


Atypical squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx: radiologic features and pathologic correlation.
The objective of this study was to analyze the radiologic features of atypical forms of squamous cell cancer and correlate them with clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic findings. The CT and MRI images of 31 patients with atypical forms of squamous cell carcinoma were reviewed retrospectively and the radiologic findings were correlated with clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic findings. Histopathologic diagnoses included undifferentiated carcinoma of nasopharyngeal type (n = 8), verrucous carcinoma (n = 18), spindle cell carcinoma (n = 3), and basaloid cell carcinoma (n = 2). Undifferentiated carcinoma of nasopharyngeal type was located in the supraglottis or piriform sinus beneath an intact mucosa and initial endoscopic biopsy was most often negative. The discrepancy between an intact mucosa at endoscopy and a solid mass with homogenous enhancement at CT or MRI was characteristic for these tumors and warranted further investigations to obtain the definitive histologic diagnosis. Verrucous carcinoma displayed characteristic clinical, radiologic, and pathologic features, namely, an exophytic tumor arising from the glottic level displaying a rugged surface with finger-like projections but with only minor submucosal infiltration. Spindle cell carcinoma appeared as a polypoid mass with a thin stalk arising from the supraglottis. Basaloid cell carcinoma displayed a distinct lobulated enhancement pattern which was observed on contrast-enhanced T1-weighted SE images. Although the MR and CT features of atypical forms of squamous cell carcinoma cannot be considered pathognomonic they should raise the differential diagnosis even if endoscopic biopsy has been negative. The radiologist's awareness of the appearance of these unusual tumors on CT and MR images may greatly facilitate the diagnostic work-up and helps to guide the endoscopist to the adequate biopsy site in order to establish the correct diagnosis.


Heterotopic pregnancy: report of four cases.
Four patients with heterotopic (combined) pregnancies were treated at one institution during the period of a year. The use of fertility agents, infertility surgery, and pelvic inflammatory disease may be risk factors predisposing to an increasing incidence of such pregnancies. Combined pregnancy may reasonably belong in the differential diagnosis in certain clinical settings.


Overview of present day treatment of Parkinson's disease.
In the light of present day knowledge, augmenting striatal dopaminergic activity is the most effective means for controlling the symptoms of parkinsonism. This is best accomplished by the administration of levodopa with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor. However, limitations in its benefits develop after long-term administration in a substantial number of patients. In an attempt to overcome these a number of pharmacological agents acting on striatal dopaminergic mechanisms have undergone clinical trial. Of those tried Deprenyl, an MAO-B inhibitor, given with levodopa and carbidopa has shown the most promise. Preliminary results in 35 patients indicate that it is useful in diminishing the incidence of "on-off" phenomena--one of the most limiting reactions to levodopa--as well as enabling some patients to recoup their loss of therapeutic benefits. Though far from resolving all of the therapeutic difficulties encountered with prolonged use of levodopa, it appears to be a valuable adjunctive agent for the long-term problem patient.


An iterative approach to the analysis of EM autoradiographs. I. The method.
An iterative scheme is described for determing the most appropriate "model" for dividing micrographs of EM autoradiographs into identified items of known relative specific activities in such a way that the dispersion of silver grains over the autoradiographs is fully and satisfactorily explained. A trial model is first set up for which, using a square matrix of estimates of notional cross-fire between the chosen items, a "solution" is obtained. The quality of the model is then tested using extended cross-fire data contained in rectangular matrix. If the model is shown to be unsatisfactory, an improved model (of tissue subdivision) is postulated and the whole process repeated until the model is deemed to be satisfactory. The computations are such that the data can be processed rapidly on the laboratory bench using a small machine. The logical estimation of errors is facilitated by this approach.


Distribution of metaraminol and its relation to norepinephrine.
A modified fluorometric procedure of high specificity and sensitivity id described for the analysis of metaraminol (MET) in biological material. With this method the distribution of MET was studied in the rat. Except for brain, peripherally administered MET was well distributed. Organs with a large population of norepinephrine (NE) storage vesicles such as the heart, spleen and adrenal, took up relatively large amounts of MET and retained it longer than those tissues with few vesicles such as the liver, lung and kidney. MET had a longer blood half-life than described for NE in other species. In part, this can be attributed to the lack of metabolism of MET as well as our finding that MET, unlike NE, was concentrated in the cellular fraction of blood. Under the conditions of these experiments there was no close correlation on a concentration or time basis with respect to the appearance and disappearance of MET and NE in various organs. This was particularly evident in the adrenal gland where MET resembled reserpine in that one unit of drug displaced many units of catecholamines. In this case, however, we did not rule out a possible contributing effect via the CNS.


Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in HIV-mediated carcinogenesis: Role in cell homeostasis, cell survival processes and drug resistance.
There is accruing data implicating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the development and progression of non-communicable diseases such as cancer. These lncRNAs have been implicated in many diverse HIV-host interactions, some of which are beneficial to HIV propagation. The virus-host interactions induce the expression of HIV-regulated long non-coding RNAs, which are implicated in the carcinogenesis process, therefore, it is critical to understand the molecular mechanisms that underpin these HIV-regulated lncRNAs, especially in cancer formation. Herein, we summarize the role of HIV-regulated lncRNAs targeting cancer development-related processes including apoptosis, cell cycle, cell survival signalling, angiogenesis and drug resistance. It is unclear how lncRNAs regulate cancer development, this review also discuss recent discoveries regarding the functions of lncRNAs in cancer biology. Innovative research in this field will be beneficial for the future development of therapeutic strategies targeting long non-coding RNAs that are regulated by HIV, especially in HIV associated cancers.


Cross-cohort replicability and generalizability of connectivity-based psychometric prediction patterns.
An increasing number of studies have investigated the relationships between inter-individual variability in brain regions' connectivity and behavioral phenotypes, making use of large population neuroimaging datasets. However, the replicability of brain-behavior associations identified by these approaches remains an open question. In this study, we examined the cross-dataset replicability of brain-behavior association patterns for fluid cognition and openness predictions using a previously developed region-wise approach, as well as using a standard whole-brain approach. Overall, we found moderate similarity in patterns for fluid cognition predictions across cohorts, especially in the Human Connectome Project Young Adult, Human Connectome Project Aging, and Enhanced Nathan Kline Institute Rockland Sample cohorts, but low similarity in patterns for openness predictions. In addition, we assessed the generalizability of prediction models in cross-dataset predictions, by training the model in one dataset and testing in another. Making use of the region-wise prediction approach, we showed that first, a moderate extent of generalizability could be achieved with fluid cognition prediction, and that, second, a set of common brain regions related to fluid cognition across cohorts could be identified. Nevertheless, the moderate replicability and generalizability could only be achieved in specific contexts. Thus, we argue that replicability and generalizability in connectivity-based prediction remain limited and deserve greater attention in future studies.


Retracted: Research on Haze Image Enhancement based on Dark Channel Prior Algorithm in Machine Vision.
[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1155/2022/3887426.].