Anti-apoptotic effect of microRNA-30b in early phase of rat myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury model.
This study aimed to investigate the effect of microRNA-30b (miR-30b) in rat myocardial ischemic-reperfusion (I/R) injury model. We randomly divided Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n = 80) into five groups: 1) control group; 2) miR-30b group; 3) sham-operated group; 4) I/R group, and 5) I/R+miR-30b group. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemical staining and Western blot analysis were conducted. TUNEL assay was employed for testing cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Our results showed that miR-30b levels were down-regulated in I/R group and I/R + miR-30b group compared with sham-operated group (both P < 0.05). However, miR-30b level in I/R + miR-30b group was higher than I/R group (P < 0.05). Markedly, the apoptotic rate in I/R group showed highest in I/R group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the results illustrated that protein levels of Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 were at higher levels in ischemic regions in I/R group, comparing to sham-operated group (all P < 0.05), while Bcl-2/Bax was reduced (P < 0.05). Bcl-2 level and Bcl-2/Bax were obviously increased in I/R + miR-30b group by comparison with I/R group, and expression levels of Bax and caspase-3 were down-regulated (all P < 0.05). We also found that in I/R + miR-30b group, KRAS level was apparently lower and p-AKT level was higher by comparing with I/R group (both P < 0.05). Our study indicated that miR-30b overexpression had anti-apoptotic effect on early phase of rat myocardial ischemia injury model through targeting KRAS and activating the Ras/Akt pathway.


Laparoscopic transperitoneal adrenalectomy for adrenal tumours of 6 cm or greater: A single-centre experience.
The present study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) for large adrenal tumours by comparing the outcomes of tumours larger than 6 cm with those smaller than 6 cm and also to identify the risk factors associated with prolonged operative time in transperitoneal LA. One hundred and sixty-three patients underwent LA at our clinic from January 2014 to December 2020. Bilateral LA was performed in 20 of these 163 patients. A total of 143 patients were included in this study. Data were analysed retrospectively from the patients' medical records collected. Large tumour (LT) group consists of 33 patients and the small tumour (ST) group consists of 110 patients. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding conversion to open surgery and complications. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify the independent predictors of prolonged operation time. The tumour size ≥8 cm (odds ratio [OR], 19.132; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.881-94.303; P < 0.001) and diagnosis of pheochromocytoma (OR, 2.762; 95% CI, (1.123-6.789, P = 0.026) were the significant predictors of prolonged operation time. Our study shows that LA can be considered the treatment of choice for small and large adrenal tumours. The tumour size ≥8 cm and diagnosis of pheochromocytoma are the independent risk factors for the prolonged operative time in transperitoneal LA.


How clinicians can minimize transfusion-related adverse events?
Transfusion-related adverse events (TRAE) can contribute to patient morbidity and mortality. In this brief narrative review, the strategies that clinicians can apply at the bedside to avoid TRAE are discussed. Strategies to avoid the following five types of TRAE were reviewed: transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO), transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), transfusion-associated hypothermia (TAH), transfusion-related allergic reactions (TRAR) and acute haemolytic transfusion reactions (AHTR). Minimizing exposure to blood components is fundamental to TRAE avoidance. Pre-transfusion assessment can identify patients at risk of TACO, TRAR and TAH, and avoidance steps implemented. Preventive strategies for TACO include lower transfusion rate, 'one unit at a time' transfusion policy and possibly diuretic medication. Patients with past history of TRAR should preferably be given plasma-free blood components; anti-histamine medication prior to transfusion could be considered. TAH is common in the massive transfusion setting, particularly trauma patients. Warming of patients are key strategies to avoid TAH. Identification of patients at risk of TRALI is more opaque; however, any measures that limit pulmonary inflammation prior to transfusion may decrease the risk of TRALI. Causes of AHTR are commonly due to human error and failure to apply rigorous cross-checks of patient and issued RBC component blood groups. Beneficial strategies to avoid TRAE include judicious use of blood components, identification of high-risk patients, adherence to recommended clinical processes and awareness of TRAE pathophysiology. More evidence is warranted to better guide clinicians in the prevention of TRAE.


Improvement of recombinant L-Asparaginase production in Pichia pastoris.
Pichia pastoris is a successful expression system that is frequently preferred in the secretion of proteins for both basic research and industrial purposes. In this study, recombinant Rhizomucor miehei (RmASNase) L-asparaginase was produced in Pichia pastoris. The impact of gene copy number on increasing protein production was examined with six clones harboring various gene copy numbers (1-5 and 5 +). The results demonstrated that the clone with three copies of the expression cassette integrated had the highest production level. Also, biochemical characterization of the enzyme was performed. It was determined that the optimum pH and temperature values of the purified enzyme were pH 7.0 and 50 °C, respectively. Stability analyses of the enzyme showed that it maintains its activity of 80% in the pH range of 5-9 and 67% in the temperature range of 20-50 °C. Ca+2 and Mn+2 ions increased the enzyme activity to 121% and 138%, respectively. In future studies, it is also possible to improve the activity and stability values of the enzyme with advanced molecular techniques and to increase production efficiency by producing at fermenter scale and under optimum conditions.


Dravet syndrome: patients with co-morbid SCN1A gene mutations and mitochondrial electron transport chain defects.
To review our cohort of patients with Dravet syndrome and determine if patients with SCN1A mutations can also express mitochondrial disease due to electron transport chain dysfunction. A retrospective chart review was used to describe clinical manifestations and retrieve biochemical testing, neuroimaging, gene sequencing, and electroencephalographic results of patients expressing both mitochondrial disease and Dravet syndrome. Two children were found to have pathological mutations in the SCN1A gene and defects in mitochondrial electron transport chain complex activity. Both developed early febrile and medically intractable afebrile seizures with resulting neurocognitive decline. In the first patient, a muscle biopsy demonstrated complex IV dysfunction and in the second patient, complex III dysfunction. Patient 1 had more difficult to control seizures, and had features consistent with severe autism. Patient 2, who had earlier control and less severe seizures, did not have features of autism. Patient 1 had SCN1A missense mutation, c. 3734 G>A and patient 2 had a mutation, c. 3733 C>T, which produces a truncation mutation. Our two patients underscore the need to rule out possible co-morbid mitochondrial disease and Dravet syndrome. The treatment of seizures for each is different, with valproic acid being first line treatment in Dravet syndrome and contraindicated in many mitochondrial diseases, due to possible induction of liver failure and death. Failure to pursue complete diagnostic evaluation might influence medication choice, possible seizure control, and developmental outcomes.


GEMSTONE-301: a phase III clinical trial of CS1001 as consolidation therapy in patients with locally advanced/unresectable (stage III) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who did not have disease progression after prior concurrent/sequential chemoradiotherapy.
In China, platinum-based doublet chemotherapy is the standard treatment for patients who have unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), administered with radiotherapy on either a concurrent or sequential basis. However, NSCLC patients who undergo this treatment can expect poor median progression-free survival (PFS) of around 8-10 months and a dismal 5-year overall survival (OS) rate of about 15%. In the recent PACIFIC trial, durvalumab was demonstrated to hold significant clinical benefit for patients with locally advanced/unresectable NSCLC who experienced no disease progression after definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT). CS1001 is the first full-length, fully human immunoglobin G4 (IgG4) monoclonal antibody (mAb) that targets programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) created through the OMT transgenic rat platform. The phase Ia/Ib study indicated CS1001 was well tolerated and exhibited anti-tumor potential with a range of tumors. GEMSTONE-301 is a phase III randomized, double-blind, study to explore the efficacy and safety of CS1001 compared with a placebo as consolidation therapy for stage III unresectable NSCLC patients. In this trial, eligible patients will be randomized to receive CS1001 1,200 mg or placebo, every 3 weeks (Q3W). The primary endpoint will be investigator-assessed PFS, based on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) v1.1. The secondary endpoints will include OS, PFS assessment based on Blinded Independent Center Review (BICR), objective response rate (ORR), other efficacy measurements, safety, and tolerability. This phase III trial will determine the efficacy and safety of CS1001 as consolidation therapy in patients with locally advanced/unresectable (stage III) NSCLC who did not have disease progression after prior concurrent/sequential chemoradiotherapy (cCRT or sCRT), and is the first phase III trial on an anti-PD-L1 mAb initiated in China for this indication. Version 3.0/September 12, 2019.


Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the quantification of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural as the major degradation product of glucose in infusion fluids.
Analysis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) is an important indicator of degradation in glucose infusion fluids. Current pharmacopoeial methods for analysis are insensitive and non-specific. A method is described here, incorporating an internal standard, to give a sensitive, accurate and precise method, suitable for use in the quality control of glucose infusion fluids, and with possible applications for the quantitative determination of 5-HMF in food and drink, bacterial cultures and hydrothermolysed wood.


CdGAP is a talin-binding protein and a target of TGF-β signaling that promotes HER2-positive breast cancer growth and metastasis.
Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a crucial role in metastasis, which is the leading cause of death in breast cancer patients. Here, we show that Cdc42 GTPase-activating protein (CdGAP) promotes tumor formation and metastasis to lungs in the HER2-positive (HER2+) murine breast cancer model. CdGAP facilitates intravasation, extravasation, and growth at metastatic sites. CdGAP depletion in HER2+ murine primary tumors mediates crosstalk with a Dlc1-RhoA pathway and is associated with a transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)-induced EMT transcriptional signature. CdGAP is positively regulated by TGF-β signaling during EMT and interacts with the adaptor talin to modulate focal adhesion dynamics and integrin activation. Moreover, HER2+ breast cancer patients with high CdGAP mRNA expression combined with a high TGF-β-EMT signature are more likely to present lymph node invasion. Our results suggest CdGAP as a candidate therapeutic target for HER2+ metastatic breast cancer by inhibiting TGF-β and integrin/talin signaling pathways.


The ethanolic extract of the Eclipta prostrata L. ameliorates the cognitive impairment in mice induced by scopolamine.
Eclipta prostrata L. (Asteraceae) has been prescribed for whole body nourishment and nervine tonic in Asia. However, the effects of E. prostrata in learning and memory have not been fully explored. To scientifically elucidate the effects of E. prostrata on cognitive functions, we examined whether E. prostrata could ameliorate a cholinergic blockade-induced memory impairment, and we also investigated the effects of E. prostrata on the synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. Memory impairment was induced by scopolamine, a cholinergic muscarinic receptor antagonist. The anti-amnesic effects of the ethanolic extract of Eclipta prostrata L. (EEEP) were measured in mice by the passive avoidance, Y-maze and Morris water maze tasks. To test the effects of EEEP on synaptic plasticity, we measured long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus. We also studied several signaling molecules related to learning and memory, such as phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) or phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β). In the passive avoidance task, EEEP (50 or 100mg/kg, p.o.) significantly ameliorated the shortened step-through latency induced by scopolamine. EEEP (100mg/kg, p.o.) also showed significant increase in alternation behavior during the Y-maze task. In the Morris water maze task, scopolamine-induced a decrease in both the swimming time within the target zone and the number of crossings where the platform had been placed were significantly reversed by EEEP (50 or 100mg/kg, p.o.). Moreover, EEEP (100μg/ml) significantly enhanced hippocampal LTP without affecting basal synaptic transmission. The administration of EEEP (100mg/kg) increased the phosphorylation levels of Akt and GSK-3β in the hippocampal region. These results suggest that EEEP has memory-ameliorating activity against scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment and facilitates LTP in the hippocampus. This could be, at least in part, mediated by the activation of the Akt-GSK-3β signaling pathway.


Records of RNA locations in living yeast revealed through covalent marks.
RNA movements and localization pervade biology, from embryonic development to disease. To identify RNAs at specific locations, we developed a strategy in which a uridine-adding enzyme is anchored to subcellular sites, where it directly marks RNAs with 3' terminal uridines. This localized RNA recording approach yields a record of RNA locations, and is validated through identification of RNAs localized selectively to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or mitochondria. We identify a broad dual localization pattern conserved from yeast to human cells, in which the same battery of mRNAs encounter both ER and mitochondria in both species, and include an mRNA encoding a key stress sensor. Subunits of many multiprotein complexes localize to both the ER and mitochondria, suggesting coordinated assembly. Noncoding RNAs in the course of RNA surveillance and processing encounter both organelles. By providing a record of RNA locations over time, the approach complements those that capture snapshots of instantaneous positions.


Amphiphile grafted membranes for the separation of oil-in-water dispersions.
Perfluorinated end-capped polyethylene glycol surfactants were covalently attached to fritted glass membranes as a means to improve the separation of oil-in-water emulsions. Hexadecane was used as representative oil for the oil-in-water emulsions; membrane pore size was varied between 10 and 174 microm. Membranes were characterized with respect to contact angle, permeability of bulk fluids, and separation efficiency. Performance was compared to similar metrics applied to unmodified membranes. Modified membranes demonstrated static hexadecane contact angles which were higher than static water contact angles converse to their unmodified counterparts. The relative hydrophilicity and corresponding oleophobicity of the modified membranes resulted in greater water permeability as compared to hexadecane permeability. The presence of the perfluorinated constituent of the amphiphile retarded the flow of hexadecane. For modified membranes, suspended hexadecane coalesced at the membrane surface, was undercut by water, and floated to the surface such that only trace amounts of oil were present in the permeate. Therefore, modified membranes resisted fouling from oil due to the self-cleaning properties of the attached amphiphile.


FgSsn3 kinase, a component of the mediator complex, is important for sexual reproduction and pathogenesis in Fusarium graminearum.
Fusarium graminearum is an important pathogen of wheat and barley. In addition to severe yield losses, infested grains are often contaminated with harmful mycotoxins. In this study, we characterized the functions of FgSSN3 kinase gene in different developmental and infection processes and gene regulation in F. graminearum. The FgSSN3 deletion mutant had a nutrient-dependent growth defects and abnormal conidium morphology. It was significantly reduced in DON production, TRI gene expression, and virulence. Deletion of FgSSN3 also resulted in up-regulation of HTF1 and PCS1 expression in juvenile cultures, and repression of TRI genes in DON-producing cultures. In addition, Fgssn3 was female sterile and defective in hypopodium formation and infectious growth. RNA-seq analysis showed that FgSsn3 is involved in the transcriptional regulation of a wide variety genes acting as either a repressor or activator. FgSsn3 physically interacted with C-type cyclin Cid1 and the cid1 mutant had similar phenotypes with Fgssn3, indicating that FgSsn3 and Cid1 form the CDK-cyclin pair as a component of the mediator complex in F. graminearum. Taken together, our results indicate that FgSSN3 is important for secondary metabolism, sexual reproduction, and plant infection, as a subunit of mediator complex contributing to transcriptional regulation of diverse genes.


Increase in circulating levels of IGF-1 and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 molar ratio over a decade is associated with colorectal adenomatous polyps.
High levels of circulating insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) have been associated with increased risk of several cancers. Regarding colorectal cancer, these associations are generally weak. We hypothesized that an increase in IGF-1 over time would be a stronger risk factor for cancer-related outcomes than the actual levels. In this analysis we utilized existing data from the Insulin Resistance and Atherosclerosis Study (IRAS). Circulating IGF-1 levels and molar ratios of IGF-1 to IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) were measured at three time points, within a 10-year follow-up period. We examined the associations of increase of the two variables with the presence of colorectal adenoma at the end of follow-up among participants with normal glucose tolerance at baseline. This included 143 individuals, from which 24 were diagnosed with adenomatous polyps. Although the mean levels of IGF-1 and IGF-1/IGFBP-3 decline with age, ~ 30% of the participants showed an increase of at least fifteen percent ("ever increase") in one or both of these variables, compared to baseline. We found a positive association between "ever increase" in IGF-1 or IGF-1/IGFBP-3 and the presence of colorectal adenoma: ORs were 3.81 (95% CI: 1.30-10.8) and 2.83 (95% CI: 1.00-8.22), respectively. No association was found when analyzing the actual levels of both variables at any time point. Our data suggest that an increase in circulating IGF-1 or IGF-1/IGFBP-3 may represent a disturbed GH/IGF1 homeostasis, which could favor the development of precancerous lesions such as colorectal adenoma.


Cooperative social coordination and aggression: II. Effects of sex and housing among three strains of intact laboratory rats differing in aggressiveness.
Pairs of laboratory rats were rewarded with sugar solution for cooperating by means of synchronized shuttling in a rectangular chamber. Learning and performance were compared in males and females of three strains--S3, Charles River, and Wistar--ordered in terms of decreasing levels of aggressiveness. In addition, same-sex pairs of each strain were housed either together or individually. When housed together, males and females of all strains eventually cooperated at comparable levels, with rates of acquisition across strains inversely related to their aggressiveness. Individual housing, in contrast, was associated with severe deficits in males of the S3 and CR strains linked to violent fighting and prolonged freezing by animals who had previously been defeated. All other individually housed groups, including males of the Wistar strain and females of all strains, were able to cooperate, including S3 females whose violent fighting was not associated with immobility by defeated animals. In general, the majority of groups were able to cooperate despite differences in aggressiveness associated with sex, strain, and housing. Possible processes in this accommodation are discussed.


Enzyme catalytic promiscuity: The papain-catalyzed Knoevenagel reaction.
Papain as a sustainable and inexpensive biocatalyst was used for the first time to catalyze the Knoevenagel reactions in DMSO/water. A wide range of aromatic, hetero-aromatic and α,β-unsaturated aldehydes could react with less active methylene compounds acetylacetone and ethyl acetoacetate. The products were obtained in moderate to excellent yields with Z/E selectivities of up to 100:0. This case of biocatalytic promiscuity not only widens the application of papain to new chemical transformations, but also could be developed into a potentially valuable method for organic synthesis.


Toll like receptor (2 and 4) expression and cytokine release by human neutrophils during tuberculosis treatment-A longitudinal study.
Host innate immune responses to tuberculosis are poorly explored. Recent findings emphasize the importance of innate cells in working against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the etiologic agent of this deadly disease. In this study we have tried to learn the role of neutrophils in building up immunity against this pathogen during therapy. We isolated neutrophils from peripheral blood of healthy volunteers and pulmonary tuberculosis patients at different phases of their treatment and cultured them withtoll like receptor ligands overnight. Toll like receptor 2 and 4 expression on neutrophils was analyzed using flow cytometry. The supernatants were used to measure cytokines. We found that in tuberculosis patients, expression of TLR2, a proven receptor of Mycobacterium tuberculosis on neutrophils, was increased throughout the duration of therapy (measured at diagnosis, second month and sixth month of therapy). This demonstrates that TLR2 expression is altered as a result of treatment, but not TLR4. Also, the chemokines IL-8 and MIP1α showed a 'dip and raise' fashion as the therapy proceeded. Even though the increase in the pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion by neutrophils seen at the end of therapy is not as expected, it definitely increases our understanding on the function of these cells during TB disease and its resolution and opens new direction in neutrophil research.


Acetylation and hydroxylation of sulphatroxazole in the snail Cepaea hortensis and the slug Arion rufus.
The snail Cepaea hortensis can acetylate and hydroxylate sulphatroxazole via a pathway similar to that in man. The principal metabolic pathways, in order of decreasing rate, are hydroxylation, glucuronidation and acetylation. The slug Arion rufus also can acetylate and hydroxylate sulphatroxazole, although, in contrast to the snail, is rate of acetylation is higher than that of hydroxylation.


The consequences of flooding for the dispersal and fate of poeciliid fish in an intermittent tropical stream.
We studied the rainy season dispersal of the fish Poecilia gillii (Poeciliidae) from pools in a steepgradient, intermittent stream in Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica. The stream consisted of about 20 pools separated by dry streambed except during two floods and subsequent brief periods of flow. Individually recognizable tags permitted mark-recapture estimates of population size and information on individual movements. The first flood was very severe, with pools losing an average of 75% of their populations (range 12-99%). Most of the lost fish died by becoming trapped in desiccating pools. Males and juveniles were more likely to be lost than were females. Population loss was negatively related to pool volume and positively related to streambed slope. In addition, population loss was positively related to preflood population size when the effects of pool volume and slope were removed indicating that pools with higher densities lost more fish. Of the fish recaptured after the flood, the average proportion found in the pool in which they had been tagged varied from 16%-96%, depending on the area of the stream. Of fish that moved, 92% went downstream. The second flood was less severe though stream flow lasted as long, and there was little effect on the pool populations. Involuntary flushing during the flood and voluntary departure apparently interacted to produce the observed patterns.


Cutaneous viral infections associated with ultraviolet radiation exposure.
The complex interplay between ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and cutaneous viral infections in the context of cancer etiology is challenging to unravel, given the limited information on the independent association between UVR and cutaneous viral infections. Using multiple biomarkers of infection with 24 types of cutaneous human papillomavirus (HPV) and 4 types of polyomaviruses (HPyV), we investigated cross-sectional associations with recent UVR exposure, using skin pigmentation measured by spectrophotometer. Age- and sex-adjusted associations between UVR and viral seropositivity, viral DNA present in eyebrow hairs (EBH) and skin swabs (SSW) were estimated using logistic regression. Beta-HPV seropositivity was associated with viral DNA positivity in EBH (OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.05-1.88) and SSW (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.25-2.74). Similar associations were observed for Merkel cell polyomavirus. Participants in the highest tertile of UVR exposure were more likely to be seropositive for beta-HPV (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.16-2.38), and have beta-HPV DNA in EBH (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.06-2.33) and SSW (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.25-3.96), compared to participants with the lowest tertile of UVR exposure. UVR exposure was positively associated with three different markers of beta-HPV infection. Therefore, future studies of HPV associated KC development should address more directly the role of HPV and UVR exposure as potential co-carcinogens.


Liver iron stores in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
Iron overload such as that in idiopathic hemochromatosis is a well-established, albeit rare, cause of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Most patients with NIDDM have no recognized cause of their disease. Investigators have proposed that subclinical iron overload may cause diabetes mellitus in a substantial number of patients with NIDDM. The aim of the current study was to evaluate hepatic iron stores in autopsy specimens from a group of community residents with NIDDM. Fifteen patients with NIDDM and 17 age-matched control subjects were identified from a review of medical records of decreased residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota. Formalin-fixed liver tissue was analyzed for iron concentration by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and distribution of hepatic iron was determined histochemically. No significant difference was found in either the distribution or the mean amount of hepatic iron between the diabetic and the control group (1,303 versus 1,349 micrograms Fe/g dry weight; P = 0.87). Thus, the mean difference was -46 micrograms Fe/g dry weight (confidence interval, -631 to 540). Because hepatic iron quantification is the definitive means of assessing total body iron stores, our results suggest that NIDDM is typically not associated with a substantial level of iron overload.


Supravesical hernias: a systematic review of the literature.
A supravesical hernia (SH) is a rare abdominal wall hernia that is defined by the protrusion of abdominal viscera through the supravesical fossa. The objective of this study was to review current literature on SHs and elucidate their clinical manifestations and preferred therapeutic approach. PubMed, Embase and Cochrane bibliographical databases were searched (last search: 30 March 2020) for articles reporting on SHs. Thirty-four studies met our inclusion criteria and involved collectively 38 patients (94.7% males) with an age of 59.57 ± 14.84 (mean ± standard deviation) years. Abdominal pain (81.6%) and nausea and vomit (71.1%) were the most frequently encountered symptoms. The majority of patients (78.1%) had signs of bowel obstruction. Twenty-nine patients (76.3%) suffered from an internal SH, while nine (23.7%) had an external one. An open hernia repair was conducted at 29 patients (76.3%), while eight (21.1%) had a laparoscopic approach and in one case (2.6%) the laparoscopic operation was converted to an open one. A mesh was applied at 14.3% of included cases. Eight patients (21.1%) underwent a bowel resection and hernia sac was resected at six (15.8%) cases. Four patients (11.8%) experienced postoperative complications and one patient (2.9%) died on first postoperative day. SH is an extremely rare type of hernia occurring through the supravesical fossa between the remnants of urachus and foetal umbilical arteries. All clinicians should be aware of this entity and further studies are necessary in order to clarify their aetiology, true incidence and optimal therapeutic approach.


Speed-related spinal excitation from ankle dorsiflexors to knee extensors during human walking.
Automatic adjustments of muscle activity throughout the body are required for the maintenance of balance during human walking. One mechanism that is likely to contribute to this control is the heteronymous spinal excitation between human ankle dorsiflexors and knee extensors (CPQ-reflex). Here, we investigated the CPQ-reflex at different walking speeds (1-6 km/h) and stride frequencies (0.6-1.3 Hz) in healthy human subjects to provide further evidence of its modulation, and its role in ensuring postural stability during walking. The CPQ-reflex was small or absent at walking speeds below 2-3 km/h, then increased with walking speeds about 3-4 km/h, and reached a plateau without any further change at walking speeds from 4 to 6 km/h. The reflex showed no modulation when the stride cycle was varied at constant speed (4 km/h; short steps versus long steps). These changes were unlikely to be only caused by changes in the background EMG activity and modifications in peripheral input, and likely reflected central modulation of transmission in the involved reflex pathways as well. It is suggested that the purpose of the reflex is to ensure knee stability at moderate-to-high walking speeds.


Lonely hearts don't get checked: On the role of social support in screening for cardiovascular risk.
Regular cardiovascular risk screening can prevent cardiovascular disease through timely implementation of lifestyle changes or medication. However, few studies have investigated what factors promote regular screening for risk factors like hypertension and high blood cholesterol. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between social support and adherence to cardiovascular risk screening. We analyzed data from the Spanish National Health Survey-a cross-sectional representative survey conducted by the Spanish Ministry of Health in 2012 (N=21,007). Participants reported whether they had their blood pressure and cholesterol levels measured by a health professional in the previous 12 months. Social support (i.e., the perception that emotional and practical support was available when needed) was measured with a validated scale. Multiple logistic regressions were conducted adjusted for demographic and health-related factors. Compared to individuals who reported a lack of social support, individuals who perceived sufficient social support were on average twice more likely to report participation in blood pressure screening, OR=2.06, 95% CI [1.60, 2.66] and cholesterol screening, OR=2.85, 95% CI [1.99, 4.09]. These effects were uniform across different demographics and were replicated in a previous wave of the survey. Factors associated with worse screening adherence were low social class, being single or widowed, smoking, alcohol consumption, and no history of cardiovascular risk. Perceptions of social support are positively related to cardiovascular risk screening adherence. Future research should investigate what type of social support most effectively increases screening participation among high risk populations.


Transcriptome analysis of the winter wheat Dn1 in response to cold stress.
Heilongjiang Province has a long and cold winter season (the minimum temperature can reach -30 ℃), and few winter wheat varieties can safely overwinter. Dongnongdongmai1 (Dn1) is the first winter wheat variety that can safely overwinter in Heilongjiang Province. This variety fills the gap for winter wheat cultivation in the frigid region of China and greatly increases the land utilization rate. To understand the molecular mechanism of the cold response, we conducted RNA-sequencing analysis of Dn1 under cold stress. Approximately 120,000 genes were detected in Dn1 under cold stress. The numbers of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the six comparison groups (0 ℃ vs. 5 ℃, -5 ℃ vs. 5 ℃, -10 ℃ vs. 5 ℃, -15 ℃ vs. 5 ℃, -20 ℃ vs. 5 ℃ and -25 ℃ vs. 5 ℃) were 11,313, 8313, 15,636, 13,671, 14,294 and 13,979, respectively. Gene Ontology functional annotation suggested that the DEGs under cold stress mainly had "binding", "protein kinase" and "catalytic" activities and were involved in "oxidation-reduction", "protein phosphorylation" and "carbohydrate metabolic" processes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis indicated that the DEGs performed important functions in cold signal transduction and carbohydrate metabolism. In addition, major transcription factors (AP2/ERF, bZIP, NAC, WRKY, bHLH and MYB) participating in the Dn1 cold stress response were activated by low temperature. This is the first study to explore the Dn1 transcriptome under cold stress. Our study comprehensively analysed the key genes involved in cold signal transduction and carbohydrate metabolism in Dn1 under cold stress. The results obtained by transcriptome analysis could help to further explore the cold resistance mechanism of Dn1 and provide basis for breeding of cold-resistant crops.


Studies of the effect of experimental inflammation on rat liver nucleotide sugar pools.
The effect of experimental inflammation on levels of nucleotide sugars was studied in rat liver. There was an increase of about 2-fold in the levels of UDP-N-acetylhexosamines and GDP-Man at 8 and 4 hr after inflammation, respectively. At 48 hr after inflammation GDP-Man had returned close to control values, but UDP-N-acetylhexosamines were still about 50% above controls. There was a 30% reduction in CMP-NeuAc and UDP-Gal at 8-12 hr after inflammation before increasing to slightly above controls at 16-48 hr after inflammation. Inflammation resulted in an increase in activities of glucosamine-6-phosphate synthase and UDP-GlcNAc-2'-epimerase to about twice control activities at 24 and 8 hr after inflammation, respectively, before declining; CMP-NeuAc synthase activities did not show large changes following inflammation.


The involvement of FOXO1 in cytotoxic stress and drug-resistance induced by paclitaxel in ovarian cancers.
The role of transcriptional factor FOXO1 in the mechanism of drug-resistance in ovarian cancer has not been elucidated. In ovarian cancer cell lines, FOXO1 expression and its correlation with paclitaxel treatment was investigated by cytotoxic assay and silencing experiment. Clinical ovarian cancer samples were also examined for FOXO1 expression by immunohistochemistry. FOXO1 expression was distinctively upregulated in paclitaxel-resistant cell line, and enhanced by exposure to paclitaxel. FOXO1 overexpression was frequently observed in tissue samples from chemoresistant patients compared to chemosensitive patients. FOXO1 silencing in paclitaxel-resistant cell line decreased its resistance. Modification of oxidative stress by co-treatment with pharmacologic modulators of reactive oxygen species attenuated cytotoxicity of paclitaxel. Downstream targets of FOXO1 involving oxidative stress were also attenuated in silencing experiment, suggesting its involvement in altered sensitivity to paclitaxel. These results indicate that FOXO1 links to cytotoxic stress induced by paclitaxel and contributes to the drug-resistance in ovarian cancers.


The effect of trauma-focused therapy on the altered T cell distribution in individuals with PTSD: evidence from a randomized controlled trial.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with a reduced ratio of naïve cytotoxic T lymphocytes, an increased ratio of memory cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and a reduced proportion of FoxP3(+) regulatory T lymphocytes. This study investigated whether these immunological alterations are reversible through an evidence-based psychotherapeutic treatment. Therefore, 34 individuals with PTSD were randomly assigned to either a treatment condition of 12 sessions narrative exposure therapy (NET) or a waitlist control (WLC) group. PTSD symptoms were significantly reduced in the NET group, but not in the WLC group, four months post-therapy (effect size: Hedges' g = -1.61). One year after therapy, PTSD symptoms were improved even further in the NET group compared to baseline (Hedges' g = -1.96). This symptom improvement was mirrored in an increase in the originally reduced proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the NET group at the one-year follow-up, when comparing subgroups matched for baseline Treg numbers. However, no changes were found for the initially reduced proportion of CD45RA(+)CCR7(+) naïve T lymphocytes. In conclusion, NET was effective in reducing trauma-related PTSD symptoms and had a positive effect on the proportion of Tregs cells, thus demonstrating an effect of psychotherapy on an immunological level. Yet, the shift in the proportion of naïve and memory T lymphocytes in individuals with PTSD, discussed in the literature as a correlate of premature immunosenescence, was not reversible and thus might render these patients permanently more susceptible to infectious diseases.


[State of hepatolienal circulation and liver functions in vibration disease under angioprotector treatment].
The authors demonstrate that angioprotector therapy with Telmisartan in vibration disease patients caused positive effects on hepatolienal circulation, liver microcirculation and clinical functional parameters.


Functional characterization of aromatic amino acid aminotransferase involved in 2-phenylethanol biosynthesis in isolated rose petal protoplasts.
In rose flowers, 2-phenylethanol (2PE) is biosynthesized from l-phenylalanine (l-Phe) via phenylacetaldehyde (PAld) by the actions of two enzymes, pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP)-dependent aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) and phenylacetaldehyde reductase (PAR). We here report that Rosa 'Yves Piaget' aromatic amino acid aminotransferase produced phenylpyruvic acid (PPA) from l-Phe in isolated petal protoplasts. We have cloned three full length cDNAs (RyAAAT1-3) of aromatic amino acid aminotransferase families based on rose EST database and homology regions. The RyAAATs enzymes were heterogeneously expressed in Escherichia coli and characterized biochemically. The recombinant RyAAAT3 showed the highest activity toward l-Phe in comparison with l-tryptophan, l-tyrosine, d-Phe, glycine, and l-alanine, and showed 9.7-fold higher activity with l-Phe rather than PPA as a substrate. RyAAAT3 had an optimal activity at pH 9 and at 45-55°C with α-ketoglutaric acid, and was found to be a PLP dependent enzyme based on the inhibition test using Carbidopa, an inhibitor of PLP-dependent enzymes. The transcript of RyAAAT3 was expressed in flowers as well as other organs of R. 'Yves Piaget'. RNAi suppression of RyAAAT3 decreased 2PE production, revealing the involvement of RyAAAT3 in 2PE biosynthesis in rose protoplasts and indicating that rose protoplasts have potentially two different 2PE biosynthetic pathways, the AADC route and the new route via PPA from l-Phe.


Bioinspired high-power-density strong contractile hydrogel by programmable elastic recoil.
Stimuli-responsive hydrogels have large deformability but-when applied as actuators, smart switch, and artificial muscles-suffer from low work density due to low deliverable forces (~2 kPa) and speed through the osmotic pressure-driven actuation. Inspired by the energy conversion mechanism of many creatures during jumping, we designed an elastic-driven strong contractile hydrogel through storing and releasing elastic potential energy in polymer network. It can generate high contractile force (40 kPa) rapidly at ultrahigh work density (15.3 kJ/m3), outperforming current hydrogels (~0.01 kJ/m3) and even biological muscles (~8 kJ/m3). This demonstrated elastic energy storing and releasing method endows hydrogels with elasticity-plasticity switchability, multi-stable deformability in fully reversible and programmable manners, and anisotropic or isotropic deformation. With the high power density and programmability via this customizable modular design, these hydrogels demonstrated potential for broad applications in artificial muscles, contractile wound dressing, and high-power actuators.


Clinical medicine and the budding science of indoor mold exposure.
Recent research and increasing discussion in the medical literature have brought attention to public health concerns associated with mold exposure. Many kinds of mold and their mold-associated products have the potential to disrupt human molecular biochemistry and physiology, resulting in various types of acute and chronic affliction. As environmental health has not been a focus for medical education, some clinicians are not fully aware of the scope of mold-related health problems and are inadequately equipped to investigate and manage possible cases of mold exposure. As a result, manifestations of mold-related illness often remain misdiagnosed and ineffectually treated. It is important for physicians to be aware of the pathogenesis, the manifestations, the investigations and the management of possible mold exposure. An overview of mold-related health problems and two case histories are presented for consideration.


The economic and clinical impact of fast- versus slow-setting cement in primary total knee arthroplasty.
New bone cement products have been developed attempting to shorten their setting time and thus cut down time in the operating room. This study determines whether faster-setting bone cement shortens time in the operating room, and whether the quantity used compromises postoperative TKA outcomes. Additionally, this study looks at cost analyses of the quantity of bone cement used in TKA procedures. One-hundred and sixty patients at a single institution with primary TKA surgeries between January 2019 and December 2021, and a clinic follow-up of at least one year, were identified. Five cement products used in this time period were identified and categorized by fast- or slow-setting products if their set times were marketed below or above six minutes, respectively. Estimated blood loss was higher in patients receiving fast-setting cements (160.0 vs 126.4 mL; p = 0.0009); however, operative time showed no difference between the cohorts (88.2 vs 89.2 min; p = 0.99). Fewer bags of cement were used for the fast cohort (1.3 vs 1.8 bags; p < 0.0001). The fast group was significantly cheaper on average per patient only when comparing between antibiotic bone cements (p = 0.007). No differences were found in postoperative outcomes between the two groups. No differences were found in operative times between the fast and slow cemented groups. Fewer bags of faster-setting cement only proved cost saving relative to other antibiotic bone cements studied. Nonetheless, decreased usage of fast cement did not result in any different postoperative outcomes compared to slow cements. III.


Erratum: Paolo Lauriola et al., Advancing Global Health through Environmental and Public Health Tracking, Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 1976.
Due to an error during production, some contents of Table 1 are missing in the published paper [...].


Lymphoproliferative lesions of the lacrimal gland: clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic analysis.
Lacrimal gland lymphoproliferative disorders are usually classified as orbital adnexal tumours. Because the lacrimal gland is the only orbital structure with native lymphocytes, we examined cases with primary involvement of the gland. The 14 cases were selected from a review of all cases in the surgical pathology files of the Ottawa Hospital between 1992 and 2003. The lesions were categorized according to the latest World Health Organization classification of tumours of lymphoid tissues. We conducted a clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, immunophenotypic and molecular genetic analysis of the cases. The 8 female and 6 male patients, aged 20 to 88 (mean 60) years, were followed for an average of 4 years (range 11 months to 13 years). All presented with supratemporal orbital swelling. The 5 primary lymphomas, of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), were confined to the lacrimal gland (stage IE); 1 tumour transformed to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, necessitating chemotherapy, and the other 4 were treated with radiation. One of the 5 patients had previously had Sjögren's syndrome. The 6 secondary lymphomas (4 follicular) presented either concurrently with systemic lymphoma or up to 12 years afterwards and were treated in a variety of ways; all the patients had an orbital relapse. At the last follow-up assessment, 6 of the patients with lymphoma had no evidence of disease, 3 were alive with disease, 2 had died (1 of lymphoma, the other with no evidence of disease), and the status of 1 patient was not known. Of the 3 patients with reactive proliferations, 2 had reactive lymphoid hyperplasia (associated with Sjögren's syndrome in 1), and 1 had Rosai-Dorfman disease. All 9 lymphomas that underwent molecular genetic analysis were of B-cell lineage, and 8 had a monoclonal rearrangement in the immunoglobulin heavy-chain gene (IgH); the 9th lymphoma showed an oligoclonal rearrangement. One lymphoma showed the t(14;18) translocation, typical of follicular lymphoma; no lymphoma showed the t(11;18) translocation, commonly found in MALT lymphoma (but only 2 cases were studied). Molecular genetic analysis was performed in 2 of the cases of reactive lymphoid hyperplasia: monoclonal IgH rearrangement was detected in 1 case (the patient with Sjögren's syndrome), oligoclonal rearrangement in the other. Lacrimal gland lymphomas are B-cell tumours that develop in older adults. Primary tumours, a hIgH proportion of which have MALT characteristics, have a favourable prognosis. Molecular genetic studies may be useful when morphologic and immunophenotypic studies give equivocal results.


Control of regulatory T cell homeostasis.
CD4+ Foxp3+ T Regulatory (Treg) cells play a critical role in the homeostasis and maintenance of the immune system. The understanding of different aspects of Treg cells biology remains an intensively investigated subject as altering their generation, stability, or function by drugs or biologics may have therapeutic value in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases as well as cancers. This review will focus on recent studies on the role of cytokines, T Cell Receptor (TCR) and co-stimulatory/co-inhibitory molecules signaling, location and metabolism on the homeostasis and stability of Treg cells. The potential for therapeutic manipulation of each of these factors will be discussed.


Heterogeneity in management of category II fetal tracings: data from a multihospital healthcare system.
Electronic fetal monitoring is widely used to identify and intervene in suspected fetal hypoxia and/or acidemia. Category II fetal heart rate tracings are the most common class of fetal monitoring in labor, and intrauterine resuscitation is recommended given the association of category II fetal heart rate tracings with fetal acidemia. However, limited published data are available to guide intrauterine resuscitation technique selection, leading to heterogeneity in the response to category II fetal heart rate tracings. This study aimed to characterize approaches to intrauterine resuscitation in response to category II fetal heart rate tracings. This was a survey study administered to labor unit nurses and delivering clinicians (physicians and midwives) across 7 hospitals in a Midwestern healthcare system spanning 2 states. The survey posed 3 category II fetal heart rate tracing scenarios (recurrent late decelerations, minimal variability, and recurrent variable decelerations) and asked participants to select first- and second-line intrauterine resuscitation management strategies. The participants were asked to quantify the level of influence certain factors have on their choice using a scale from 1 to 5. Intrauterine resuscitation strategy selection was compared by clinical role and hospital type (nurses vs delivering clinicians and university-affiliated hospital vs non-university-affiliated hospital). Of 610 providers invited to take the survey, 163 participated (response rate of 27%): 37% of participants from university-affiliated hospitals, 62% of nurses, and 37% of physicians. Maternal repositioning was the most selected first-line strategy, regardless of the type of category II fetal heart rate tracing. First-line management varied by clinical role and hospital affiliation for each fetal heart rate tracing scenario, particularly for minimal variability, which was associated with the most heterogeneity in the first-line approach. Previous experience and recommendations from professional societies were the most influential factors in intrauterine resuscitation selection overall. Of note, 16.5% of participants reported that published evidence did not influence their choice at all. Participants from a university-affiliated hospital were more likely than participants from a non-university-affiliated hospital to consider patient preference when selecting an intrauterine resuscitation technique. Nurses and delivering clinicians differed significantly in the rationale for management choices: nurses were more often influenced by advice from other healthcare providers on the team (P<.001), whereas delivering clinicians were more influenced by literature (P=.02) and ease of technique (P=.02). There was significant heterogeneity in the management of category II fetal heart rate tracing. In addition, motivations for choice in intrauterine resuscitation technique varied by hospital type and clinical role. These factors should be considered when creating fetal monitoring and intrauterine resuscitation protocols.


Baccharis dracunculifolia (Asteraceae) essential oil toxicity to Culex quinquefasciatus (Culicidae).
The control of mosquitoes by means of chemical insecticides has been a problem, mainly due to the possibility of resistance developed by insects to xenobiotics. For this reason, demand for botanical insecticides has increased. In this sense, the present work aims to verify the susceptibility and morphological and biochemical alterations of Culex quinquefasciatus larvae after exposure to essential oil (EO) of leaves of Baccharis dracunculifolia. To observe the larvicidal action, larvae were exposed to EO at concentrations of 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/L, until their emergence to adults. The control group was exposed to deionized water and dimethyl sulfoxide. Morphological analyses were also carried out using hematoxylin and eosin, mercury bromophenol blue, Nile blue, and periodic acid Schiff. Biochemical analyses of total glucose, triacylglyceride (TAG), protein, and acetylcholinesterase levels were performed. The phytochemical analysis of the EO showed (E)-nerolidol as the major compound (30.62%). Larvae susceptibility results showed a LC50 of 34.45 mg/L for EO. Morphological analysis showed that there were histological changes in midgut. For biochemical analyses, the glucose level in the larvae exposed to EO for 24 h decreased significantly, unlike the TAG levels, which increased. The total protein level of the larvae also increased after exposure for 24 h, and acetylcholinesterase levels decreased significantly. Taking all our data into account, we can conclude that EO causes destabilization in larva, leading to histological changes, metabolic deregulation and, consequently, their death.


Personal factors influencing patients' adherence to ART in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Our study attempted to identify personal (patient-related) factors influencing antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A quantitative, descriptive design was used. Structured interviews were conducted with 355 HIV-infected patients on ART. The findings revealed that stigma, discrimination, depression, and alcohol use negatively affected patients' ART adherence levels. However, patients' knowledge levels had no influence on their ART adherence levels, contrary to other researchers' reports. Addressing stigma and discrimination at community levels might enhance patients' abilities to take their medications in the presence of others. Health care professionals should be educated to diagnose and treat depression in patients during the early stages of ART administration. Patients who are nonadherent to ART should be counseled about potential alcohol abuse. Stigma-related challenges also need to be addressed.


Material basis and integrative pharmacology of danshen decoction in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the primary and predominant threats to human health with increasing incidence. Danshen Decoction (DSD) as an adjuvant therapy can benefit CVDs patients by improving clinical efficacy. The purpose of this study was to identify the active components and potential pharmacological mechanisms of DSD by combining mass spectrometry with a network pharmacology strategy and to review the use of DSD in the treatment of CVDs. First, the composition of DSD was analyzed by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Second, the network pharmacology method was used to elucidate the underlying material basis and possible pharmacological mechanism of DSD for the treatment of CVDs. Finally, clinical and experimental studies on DSD in the past ten years were retrieved from the PubMed and CNKI database, and the content of these studies was used to summarize the latest progress in DSD treatment of CVDs. A total of 35 compounds were found in DSD by manual identification from the analysis of MS, which may be the material basis for the therapeutic effect of DSD. After taking the intersection of 2086 targets related to CVDs, these 35 compounds are considered to play a role in the treatment of CVDs through 210 targets including signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), sarcoma (SRC) and phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit (PIK3R), and a total of 168 signaling pathways were involved in the regulation of CVDs by DSD, including PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, Alzheimer disease, and Rap1 signaling pathway. A total of 29 clinical studies using DSD in the treatment of CVDs were included in the literature review, and these studies showed the positive significance of DSD as adjuvant therapy, while 14 experimental studies included in the literature review also demonstrated the effectiveness of DSD in the treatment of CVDs. DSD plays a role in the treatment of CVDs through a variety of active ingredients. Large-scale clinical research and more in-depth experimental research will help to further reveal the mechanism of DSD in the treatment of CVDs.


New taxanes as highly efficient reversal agents for multidrug resistance in cancer cells.
New non-cytotoxic taxanes synthesized from 10-deacetylbaccatin III and special hydrophobic acylating agents show remarkable MDR reversal activity (< or = 99.8%) against drug-resistant human breast cancer cells when co-administered with paclitaxel or doxorubicin. This activity is ascribed to the highly efficient blocking of P-glycoprotein efflux by these new taxanes.


Different metastatic potential of in vitro and in vivo lines selected from Lewis lung carcinoma: correlation with response to different bleomycin schedulings.
In vitro and in vivo variant cell lines selected from Lewis lung carcinoma are described. In vitro tumor lines are shown to differ in their metastatic potential, evaluated as lung colony-forming ability. Moreover, corresponding in vivo sublines, derived from intramuscular implant of cultured tumor cells, exhibit the same behavior for metastases formation as their in vitro counterpart. The metastatic potential of the in vivo lines has been evaluated both as lung colony-forming ability and as spontaneous metastasis formation. Response to bleomycin (BLM) treatment has been studied on the in vitro and the in vivo lines. Results reported show that the most metastatic lines, in vitro and in vivo, appear to be more resistant to a BLM treatment and that appropriate fractionation regimens can improve both the percentage of cell kill and the percentage of metastases reduction.


EEG based time and frequency dynamics analysis of visually induced motion sickness (VIMS).
3D movies are attracting the viewers as they can see the objects flying out of the screen. However, many viewers have reported various problems which are usually faced after watching 3D movies. These problems include visual fatigue, eye strain, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision or collectively may be termed as visually induced motion sickness (VIMS). This research focuses on the comparison between 3D passive technology with a conventional 2D technology to find that whether 3D is causing trouble in the viewers or not. For this purpose, an experiment was designed in which participants were randomly assigned to watch 2D or a 3D movie. The movie was specially designed to induce VIMS. The movie was shown for the duration of 10 min to every participant. The electroencephalogram (EEG) data was recorded throughout the session. At the end of the session, participants rated their feelings using simulator sickness questionnaire (SSQ). The SSQ data was analyzed and the ratings of 2D and 3D participants were compared statistically by using a two tailed t test. From the SSQ results, it was found that participants watching 3D movies reported significantly higher symptoms of VIMS (p value <0.05). EEG data was analyzed by using MATLAB and topographic plots are created from the data. A significant difference has been observed in the frontal-theta power which increases with the passage of time in 2D condition while decreases with time in 3D condition. Also, a decrease in beta power has been found in the temporal lobe of 3D group. Therefore, it is concluded that there are negative effects of 3D movies causing significant changes in the brain activity in terms of band powers. This condition leads to produce symptoms of VIMS in the viewers.


Long-Term Safety and Clinical Effects of Nilotinib in Parkinson's Disease.
Nilotinib is US Food and Drug Administration-approved for leukemia, and this open-label study investigated the safety, tolerability, and potential clinical effects of nilotinib in medically optimized patients with Parkinson's disease. Safety and tolerability were the primary objectives, and clinical outcomes were exploratory. A total of 63 patients completed a 15-month phase 2, double-blind, placebo-controlled study and were rerandomized 1:1 into an open-label study of nilotinib 150 mg versus 300 mg for 12 months. Nilotinib was safe and tolerated, and no adverse effects seemed to be related to the drug, and no differences in adverse events were observed between groups. Exploratory clinical outcomes showed that nilotinib 300 mg was remarkably stable from baseline to 27 months using partial and total Unified Parkinson's Disease Scale (UPDRS). Nilotinib 150 mg versus 300 mg, significantly declined using partial or the sum of UPDRS Parts I and II. There was no significant difference in nilotinib 150 mg versus 300 mg using UPDRS Part III (on levodopa) and total UPDRS Parts I to III. Subgroup analysis showed that late-start nilotinib 150 mg significantly worsened using the sum of UPDRS Parts II + III and total UPDRS Parts I to III compared with late-start nilotinib 300 mg. Quality of life using the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire in nilotinib 150 mg significantly declined between 15 and 27 months compared with nilotinib 300 mg, and there was no change in cognition using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment between groups. This study provides evidence that nilotinib is safe and tolerated in Parkinson's disease. The exploratory clinical data will inform an adequately powered larger study to evaluate the efficacy of nilotinib 300 mg in Parkinson's disease. © 2020 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.


Patterns of action of glucoamylase isozymes from Aspergillus species on glycogen.
Glucoamylase isozymes from black Aspergillus species have been freed of all traces of alpha-amylase by chromatography on Bio-Gel P-100, as evidenced by limited hydrolysis of oxidized amylose. Glucoamylase I retains its ability to hydrolyze rabbit-liver glycogen rapidly. By contrast, glucoamylase II hydrolyzes glycogen slowly, and addition of alpha-amylase to glucoamylase II does not enhance its activity toward glycogen. These results indicate that alpha-amylase is not involved in hydrolysis of glycogen by glucoamylase.


Our experiences in surgical treatment of thoracic echinococcosis during the period 1977-1986.
Our experience is based on 147 patients with thoracic echinococcosis (TE) who underwent surgery. Of these, 131 (89.1%) patients had pulmonary TE, 3 (2.1%) had extra-pulmonary TE, and 13 (8.8%) had pulmohepatic TE Ninety-nine (67.3%) patients had uncomplicated TE, and 48 (32.7%) had complicated TE. All patients underwent surgery. In 129 (87.8%) patients, we performed cystectomy with capitonage and in 18 (12.2%) cases we performed a lung resection (lobectomy or segmentectomy). Postoperative complications occurred in 2 (1.4%) patients, and recurrence in 2 (1.4%) patients who previously had complicated TE. On admission, there was no evidence of allergic reactions in patients with complicated TE. The average time of postoperative treatment was 13 days. The results of surgical treatment were excellent. The conclusion reached is that a cystectomy with capitonage is the treatment of choice for pulmonary echinococcosis, while lung resection may be necessary if lung tissue has been destroyed by prolonged compression or infection.


Preeclampsia, gestational hypertension and incident dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of published evidence.
Novel data support a possible correlation between preeclampsia and congenital dysfunction. A systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. To investigate the association between the risk of future of dementia (vascular dementia, AD and dementia of any type) in women with a history of preeclampsia, based on current literature. Overall, three studies and 2.309.946 women were included in the present meta-analysis. There was no statistically significant association between history of preeclampsia or pregnancy hypertension disease and any type of dementia (p = 0.14 and p = 0.29, respectively). In contrast, there was a statistically significant difference between history of preeclampsia and vascular dementia (HR: 2.60; 95 %CI: 2.03-3.33; p < 0.001). Furthermore, history of preeclampsia does not increase the risk for Alzheimer disease (Fixed Effects pooled-HR: 1.17; 95 %CI: 0.98-1.40; p = 0.08). Similarly, women with hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP) had no statistically significant increased risk for later onset of any dementia (Fixed Effects pooled-HR: 1.08; 95 %CI: 0.93-1.25; p = 0.29). History of preeclampsia increases the risk of vascular dementia. These patients are expected to benefit from screening for early symptoms of dementia, allowing early diagnosis and treatment. However, due to several limitations, further studies with large cohorts are required to elucidate the association between preeclampsia and dementia.


Genomic Alterations in Biliary Tract Cancer Using Targeted Sequencing.
Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are rare and heterogeneous group of tumors classified anatomically into intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts and gallbladder adenocarcinomas. Patient-derived tumor cell (PDC) models with genome analysis can be a valuable platform to develop a method to overcome the clinical barrier on BTCs. Between January 2012 and June 2015, 40 BTC patients' samples were collected. PDCs were isolated and cultured from surgical specimens, biopsy tissues, or malignant effusions including ascites and pleural fluid. Genome analysis using targeted panel sequencing as well as digital multiplexed gene analysis was applied to PDCs as well as primary tumors. Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (N=15, 37.5%), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (N=10, 25.0%), gallbladder cancer (N=14, 35.0%), and ampulla of Vater cancer (N=1, 2.5%) were included. We identified 15 mutations with diverse genetic alterations in 19 cases of BTC from primary tumor specimens. The most common molecular alterations were in TP53 (8/19, 42.1%), including missense mutations such as C242Y, E285K, G112S, P19T, R148T, R248Q, and R273L. We also detected two NRAS mutations (G12C and Q61L), two KRAS mutations (G12A and G12S), two ERBB2 mutations (V777L and pM774delinsMA) and amplification, and three PIK3CA mutations (N345K, E545K, and E521K). PDC models were successfully established in 27 of 40 samples (67.5%), including 22/24 from body fluids (91.7%) and 5/16 from tissue specimens (31.3%). PDC models are promising tools for uncovering driver mutations and identifying rational therapeutic strategies in BTC. Application of this model is expected to inform clinical trials of drugs for molecular-based targeted therapy.


Flocculation of industrial and laboratory strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
A comparative study has been made of different laboratory and industrial wild-type strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in relation to their flocculation behavior. All strains were inhibited by mannose and only one by maltose. In regard to the stability of these characters in the presence of proteases and high salt concentrations, a relevant degree of variation was found among the strains. This was to such an extent that it did not allow their inclusion in the Flo1 or NewFlo phenotypes. Genetic characterization of one wild-type strain revealed that the flocculation-governing gene was allelic to FLO1 found in genetic strains.


Surface tension dominates insect flight on fluid interfaces.
Flight on the 2D air-water interface, with body weight supported by surface tension, is a unique locomotion strategy well adapted for the environmental niche on the surface of water. Although previously described in aquatic insects like stoneflies, the biomechanics of interfacial flight has never been analysed. Here, we report interfacial flight as an adapted behaviour in waterlily beetles (Galerucella nymphaeae) which are also dexterous airborne fliers. We present the first quantitative biomechanical model of interfacial flight in insects, uncovering an intricate interplay of capillary, aerodynamic and neuromuscular forces. We show that waterlily beetles use their tarsal claws to attach themselves to the interface, via a fluid contact line pinned at the claw. We investigate the kinematics of interfacial flight trajectories using high-speed imaging and construct a mathematical model describing the flight dynamics. Our results show that non-linear surface tension forces make interfacial flight energetically expensive compared with airborne flight at the relatively high speeds characteristic of waterlily beetles, and cause chaotic dynamics to arise naturally in these regimes. We identify the crucial roles of capillary-gravity wave drag and oscillatory surface tension forces which dominate interfacial flight, showing that the air-water interface presents a radically modified force landscape for flapping wing flight compared with air.


Test-retest repeatability of electrically evoked isotonic power and isometric torque in the plantar flexors.
Electrically evoked isometric torque has good to excellent repeatability, but the degree of repeatability for electrically evoked isotonic power is unknown. We evaluated the test-retest repeatability of plantar flexion isometric torque and isotonic power evoked using brief tetanic trains at 10 and 50 Hz. Both torque and power had excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.9) repeatability at low and high frequencies. Similar to isometric torque, electrically evoked isotonic power is a stable measure for studying dynamic muscle function.


Monoclonal antibodies to the Mr 74,000 cholesteryl ester transfer protein neutralize all of the cholesteryl ester and triglyceride transfer activities in human plasma.
A cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) of apparent Mr 74,000 has recently been purified from human plasma. Three monoclonal neutralizing antibodies to the CETP were obtained by immunizing mice with purified CETP. The antibodies, each recognizing a similar epitope on CETP, caused parallel and complete immunotitration of plasma cholesteryl ester and triglyceride transfer activities but only partial inhibition of phospholipid transfer activity. Monoclonal immunoaffinity chromatography of plasma or its fractions showed complete removal of cholesteryl ester and triglyceride transfer activities but incomplete removal of phospholipid transfer activity. Sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting of the immunoaffinity-retained fractions showed that only the Mr 74,000 protein was immunoreactive. The results suggest that the previously characterized CETP accounts for all of the cholesteryl ester and triglyceride transfer activity in human plasma but only part of the phospholipid transfer activity.


Calcium and magnesium in human toenails do not reflect bone mineral density.
Nail mineral composition is influenced by several physiological and pathological processes. Potentially, nails could be used to monitor alterations in the level of incorporation of specific elements produced by nutritional abnormalities, disease states or chronic exposure to toxic agents. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the calcium and magnesium content in nail clippings, as measured by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), correlates with bone mineral density (BMD), as measured by quantitative microdensitometry (QMD), and therefore could be interesting as a screening instrument for osteoporosis. The study involved 220 women, who participated in a breast cancer screening project (the DOM-project) in Utrecht, the Netherlands. The correlations found between Ca and Mg measurements and bone mineral densities were very low (correlation coefficients ranging from 0.03 to 0.18). It is concluded that Ca and Mg measurements in nail clippings by INAA cannot be used for screening purposes in the prevention of osteoporosis.


The effect of yoga on respiratory functions, symptom control and life quality of asthma patients: A randomized controlled study.
This study was conducted to find out the effect of yoga applied to asthma patients on the patients' respiratory functions, symptom control and quality of life. The sample of the study consisted of a total of randomly chosen 112 asthma patients, 56 in the experimental group and 56 in the control group, who met the research criteria and who agreed to participate in the study. A total of 12 yoga sessions, 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks, was applied to the patients in the experimental group. The patients in the control group did not receive any intervention. In the intragroup comparison of average pre-test and post-test scores of respiratory function and Asthma Control Test (ACT) and Asthma Quality of Life Scale (AQLQ) total and sub-dimension scores of the patients in the experimental and control group, the difference was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). In addition, post-test score averages were found to increase in the experimental group, while they were found to decrease in the control group. It was found that yoga influenced respiratory functions, symptom control and quality of life positively in asthma patients. The clinical trial registration number is NCT04107415/https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04107415.


Cryogel vaccines effectively induce immune responses independent of proximity to the draining lymph nodes.
The delivery location of traditional vaccines can impact immune responses and resulting efficacy. Cryogel-based cancer vaccines, which are typically injected near the inguinal lymph nodes (iLNs), recruit and activate dendritic cells (DC) in situ, induce DC homing to the iLNs, and have generated potent anti-tumor immunity against several murine cancer models. However, whether cryogel vaccination distance to a draining LN affects the kinetics of DC homing and downstream antigen-specific immunity is unknown, given the heightened importance of the scaffold vaccine site. We hypothesized that vaccination near the iLNs would lead to more rapid DC trafficking to the iLNs, thereby inducing faster and stronger immune responses. Here, mice were injected with cryogel vaccines against ovalbumin either adjacent or distal to the iLNs, and the resultant DC trafficking kinetics, T cell phenotypes, antigen-specific T cell and humoral responses, and prophylactic efficacy in an ovalbumin-expressing tumor model were assessed. Cryogel vaccines induced potent, long-lasting antigen-specific immune responses independent of distance to the iLNs, with no significant differences in DC trafficking kinetics, ovalbumin-specific T cell and antibody responses, or prophylactic efficacy. Moreover, DC trafficking and activation state were not impacted when cryogels were injected near a tumor. These results demonstrate a flexibility in vaccination location for scaffold-based vaccines, independent of draining LN distance.


A pan-cancer atlas of cancer hallmark-associated candidate driver lncRNAs.
Substantial cancer genome sequencing efforts have discovered many important driver genes contributing to tumorigenesis. However, very little is known about the genetic alterations of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cancer. Thus, there is a need for systematic surveys of driver lncRNAs. Through integrative analysis of 5918 tumors across 11 cancer types, we revealed that lncRNAs have undergone dramatic genomic alterations, many of which are mutually exclusive with well-known cancer genes. Using the hypothesis of functional redundancy of mutual exclusivity, we developed a computational framework to identify driver lncRNAs associated with different cancer hallmarks. Applying it to pan-cancer data, we identified 378 candidate driver lncRNAs whose genomic features highly resemble the known cancer driver genes (e.g. high conservation and early replication). We further validated the candidate driver lncRNAs involved in 'Tissue Invasion and Metastasis' in lung adenocarcinoma and breast cancer, and also highlighted their potential roles in improving clinical outcomes. In summary, we have generated a comprehensive landscape of cancer candidate driver lncRNAs that could act as a starting point for future functional explorations, as well as the identification of biomarkers and lncRNA-based target therapy.


The use of intraosseous infusions in the operating room.
The use of an intraosseous (IO) infusion during the anesthetic care of an 8-month-old, 5.4-kg infant with cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD) is presented. Previous vascular access had resulted in thrombotic occlusion of the upper and lower venous systems. When intravenous access could not be achieved, an IO needle was placed and IO access was used during the surgical procedure. The role of the IO route in the perioperative period is discussed and its adverse effect profile is reviewed.


The perils of sneezing: Bilateral spontaneous pneumothorax.
This is a brief case report of an adolescent male who developed bilateral spontaneous pneumothorax after sneezing.


A case of cryptococcoma in an immunocompetent man with polysubstance use.
Cryptococcus most commonly affects the pulmonary and central nervous systems in patients who are immunocompromised. It is most likely to present as meningitis. However, it can affect immunocompetent patients in the cerebral parenchyma. Here we describe a rare case of cryptococcoma in an immunocompetent male patient who originally presented with headache and possible seizure-like activity and had IV drug use as a risk factor. Cryptococcomas are a rare manifestation of the disease, and can present due to Cryptococcus gatti. Definite diagnosis is dependent on culture of the organism and treatment includes a long course of anti-fungals.


The impact of shock wave lithotripsy on male fertility: a critical analysis of existing evidence.
We review the literature about the impact of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) on male reproduction. Studies investigating the in vitro effect of shock waves on semen samples indicate that spermatozoa are vulnerable to SWL. According to animal studies, intratesticular bleeding is common, but pregnancy rates are not affected by shock waves. In the clinical setting, SWL causes an acute deterioration in sperm quality, but semen parameters return to baseline 3 months later. Long-term data on male fertility (ie, pregnancy rates) after SWL have yet to be reported and the significance of preexisting infertility has not been elucidated to date.


Rupture of a pancreatic pseudocyst following blunt abdominal trauma.
This report describes a case of intraperitoneal rupture of a pancreatic pseudocyst (PPC) following blunt abdominal trauma. Cause of the pseudocyst was likely alcoholic pancreatitis. Peritoneal aspiration of hemorrhagic fluid prompted laparotomy and led to diagnosis. Trauma-induced intraperitoneal rupture of a preexisting PPC has been rarely reported.


Optimized bisulfite sequencing analysis reveals the lack of 5-methylcytosine in mammalian mitochondrial DNA.
DNA methylation is one of the best characterized epigenetic modifications in the mammalian nuclear genome and is known to play a significant role in various biological processes. Nonetheless, the presence of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) in mitochondrial DNA remains controversial, as data ranging from the lack of 5mC to very extensive 5mC have been reported. By conducting comprehensive bioinformatic analyses of both published and our own data, we reveal that previous observations of extensive and strand-biased mtDNA-5mC are likely artifacts due to a combination of factors including inefficient bisulfite conversion, extremely low sequencing reads in the L strand, and interference from nuclear mitochondrial DNA sequences (NUMTs). To reduce false positive mtDNA-5mC signals, we establish an optimized procedure for library preparation and data analysis of bisulfite sequencing. Leveraging our modified workflow, we demonstrate an even distribution of 5mC signals across the mtDNA and an average methylation level ranging from 0.19% to 0.67% in both cell lines and primary cells, which is indistinguishable from the background noise. We have developed a framework for analyzing mtDNA-5mC through bisulfite sequencing, which enables us to present multiple lines of evidence for the lack of extensive 5mC in mammalian mtDNA. We assert that the data available to date do not support the reported presence of mtDNA-5mC.


Compatibility and stability of linezolid injection admixed with aztreonam or piperacillin sodium.
To evaluate the physical compatibility and chemical stability of linezolid (Zyvox-Pharmacia) 200 mg/100 mL admixed with aztreonam (Azactam-Squibb) 2 grams and separately with piperacillin sodium (Pipracil-Lederle) 3 grams over 7 days at 4 degrees C and 23 degrees C. Controlled experimental trial. Laboratory. Test samples were prepared by adding the required amount of aztreonam or piperacillin sodium to separate bags of linezolid injection 200 mg/100 mL. Physical compatibility and chemical stability based on drug concentrations initially and after 1, 3, 5, and 7 days of storage at 4 degrees C and 23 degrees C. All of the linezolid admixtures with aztreonam and with piperacillin sodium were clear when viewed in normal fluorescent room light and with a Tyndall beam. Measured turbidity and particulate content were low and exhibited little change throughout the study at both storage temperatures. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis found little or no loss of linezolid in any sample stored at either temperature throughout the study. Aztreonam in the linezolid admixtures was stable for 7 days, exhibiting less than 5% loss at 4 degrees C and 9% loss at 23 degrees C. Piperacillin sodium in the linezolid admixtures was stable for 7 days at 4 degrees C, exhibiting no loss, but was stable for only 3 days at 23 degrees C with losses of about 5%. Losses had increased to 9% to 12% after 5 days of storage at room temperature. Admixtures of linezolid 200 mg/100 mL with aztreonam 2 grams or piperacillin sodium 3 grams were physically compatible and chemically stable for at least 7 days stored at 4 degrees C and for 7 days or 3 days, respectively, at 23 degrees C.


[Radical prostatectomy as part of a multimodal concept for patients with prostate cancer and bone metastases at initial diagnosis].
In patients with metastatic prostate cancer presenting with synchronous bone metastases, the surgical removal of the primary is an experimental treatment approach. In the following article, we evaluate the rationale for this approach.


Integrative Role of Albumin: Evolutionary, Biochemical and Pathophysiological Aspects.
Being one of the main proteins in the human body and many animal species, albumin plays a crucial role in the transport of various ions, electrically neutral molecules and in maintaining the colloidal osmotic pressure of the blood. Albumin is able to bind almost all known drugs, many nutraceuticals and toxic substances, determining their pharmaco- and toxicokinetics. However, albumin is not only the passive but also the active participant of the pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic processes possessing a number of enzymatic activities. Due to the thiol group of Cys34, albumin can serve as a trap for reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thus participating in redox processes. The interaction of the protein with blood cells, blood vessels, and also with tissue cells outside the vascular bed is of great importance. The interaction of albumin with endothelial glycocalyx and vascular endothelial cells largely determines its integrative role. This review provides information of a historical nature, information on evolutionary changes, inflammatory and antioxidant properties of albumin, on its structural and functional modifications and their significance in the pathogenesis of some diseases.


In vitro growth inhibition of human cancer cells by novel honokiol analogs.
Honokiol possesses many pharmacological activities including anti-cancer properties. Here in, we designed and synthesized honokiol analogs that block major honokiol metabolic pathway which may enhance their effectiveness. We studied their cytotoxicity in human cancer cells and evaluated possible mechanism of cell cycle arrest. Two analogs, namely 2 and 4, showed much higher growth inhibitory activity in A549 human lung cancer cells and significant increase of cell population in the G0-G1 phase. Further elucidation of the inhibition mechanism on cell cycle showed that analogs 2 and 4 inhibit both CDK1 and cyclin B1 protien levels in A549 cells.


Anti-atherosclerosis effect of different doses of CETP vaccine in rabbit model of atherosclerosis.
To evaluate atheroprotective effects of different doses of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) vaccine, three doses of Tetanus toxoid-CETP (TT-CETP) peptide including 10, 50 and 100/rabbit, termed FA10, FA50, FA100, respectively, were administered in rabbit model of atherosclerosis. Animals were vaccinated subcutaneously (S.C.) with 100μl of vaccine in presence of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) for the first administration. Rabbits were boosted 4 times at 3 weeks intervals with the same peptide dose formulated in incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA). Animals were fed with diet supplemented with 2% cholesterol from week 11 to week 19. Anti-TT-CETP specific antibody and CETP activity in sera were determined. Therapeutic response was examined by tracking plasma lipoprotein levels (HDL-C, LDL-C and total cholesterol), and pathologic observation of intima/media thickness at the site of aortic lesions. All TT-CETP vaccine doses generated strong anti TT-CETP antibody response. CETP activity reduced in rabbits vaccinated with FA100 (P=0.031). FA100 showed significant increase in level of HDL-C rather than control group (P=0.006). However, no significant reduction were found in atherosclerotic lesion when compared to control. Inhibition of CETP activity and increased HDL-C were found with FA100, but the vaccine failed to prevent aortic lesion development in immunized rabbits when compared to control. Our result supports the hypothesis stated that CETP may not be an attractive therapeutic target for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.


Branched polypeptides as antigens for influenza virus hemagglutinin and T-cell receptor subunits.
The multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) method was applied to improve the immunogenicity of synthetic peptides representing distinct regions of the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA). A tetrameric MAP with multiply incorporated overlapping B- and T-cell epitopes was combined with a particular HA sequence representing the slightly modified fusion peptide on the C-terminus of the Lys core (MAP-1). As a result of repeated injections of BALB/c mice with MAP-1 but not with the monomeric HA1C[Arg] peptide, the appearance of MAP-1-specific antibodies crossreactive with the acid-pretreated virus could be observed. In vitro studies revealed the potency of the MAP-1 structure to induce proliferation of HA1C[Arg]-primed T-cells, and in vivo studies demonstrated the protective feature of the immune response elicited by MAP-1 and to a lesser extent by the monomeric HA1C[Arg]. The increased level of MAP-1 specific antibodies upon viral challenge shows the activation of MAP-1-specific B- and/or T-cells. The advantage of the previously verified FP3 helper T-cell epitope included in MAP-1 was further utilized to synthesize chimeric structures comprising short fragments of the zeta of (MAP-2) or delta (MAP-3) subunits of the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) complex. The selected peptides of the zeta and delta-chain regions failed to elicit an antibody response in BALB/c mice as tetra- or octamers, but the inclusion of the modified fusion region resulted in an immunogenic construction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Sociodemographic, anthropometric and behavioural risk factors for ultra-processed food consumption in a sample of 2-9-year-olds in Brazil.
The present study aimed to identify food patterns among 2-9-year-olds and investigate sociodemographic, anthropometric and behavioural predictors of less healthy dietary patterns. Cross-sectional study. Parents of 2-9-year-olds completed an FFQ and factor analysis was applied to identify dietary patterns. Parents also completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic, anthropometric and behavioural characteristics of parents and children, including parental feeding practices. Participants were recruited from private schools of Campinas and São Paulo, SP, Brazil, between April and June 2014. Parents of 2-9-year-olds (n 929). Two dietary patterns emerged: 'traditional food' and 'ultra-processed food'. Lower maternal education (OR=2·05, P=0·010) and higher maternal weight status (OR=1·43, P=0·044) were associated with a greater likelihood of the ultra-processed food pattern. Lower perceived parental responsibility for adequacy of food group intake (OR=2·41, P=0·020), and lower scores on the parental feeding practices of 'Healthy Eating Guidance' (OR=1·83, P<0·001) and 'Monitoring' (OR=2·52, P<0·001), were also associated with the presence of this pattern, as was higher child's screen use during mealtimes (OR=1·61, P=0·004). The present study is the first to evaluate associations between less healthy dietary patterns of Brazilian 2-9-year-olds and parental feeding practices. Our findings highlight sociodemographic, anthropometric and behavioural factors within families that could be used to target tailored policies to at-risk populations.


The German Evidence-Based Child Protection Guideline - Imaging in Suspected Child Abuse.
Development of a fully evidence-based guideline including all aspects of child abuse. In a case-based procedure, 144 primary PICO questions were generated from 476 presented cases of child abuse. Literature research was performed in 5 databases (Pubmed, CINHAL, Embase, PsycInfo, Eric) and in the Cochrane Library. The literature was evaluated according to SIGN and AGREE II. 137 recommendations were developed. Those related to imaging procedures are presented and discussed in this article. The first fully evidence-based German guideline concerning all aspects of child abuse has been established. For imaging, several relevant new approaches have been proposed. · The average radiation exposure is significantly reduced for the whole group of examined children.. · The pelvic view and lateral spine are no longer basic views of the skeletal survey but are only performed additionally in the case of a positive survey.. · Oblique views and a follow-up survey are performed in the case of a negative skeletal survey and ongoing suspicion of child abuse.. · Born M, Schwier F, Stoever B et al. The German Evidence-Based Child Protection Guideline - Imaging in Suspected Child Abuse. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2020; 192: 343 - 348.


Changes in the visual system of monocularly sutured or enucleated cats demonstrable with cytochrome oxidase histochemistry.
Endogenous cytochrome oxidase activity within the mitochondria of neurons and neuropil was demonstrated histochemically under normal and experimental conditions. Since enzymatic changes were noted with chronic neuronal inactivity in the auditory system (Wong-Riley et al), the present study sought to examine functionally induced enzymatic changes in the visual system of kittens. Eight kittens were used experimentally: 5 had monocular lid suture for varying periods of time; one had binocular lid suture followed by monocular suture followed by binocular opening; two had monocular enucleation. All initial procedures were performed before eye opening. Materials from other normal kittens and cats were also used as controls. At the end of the experiments, the animals were perfused with aldehyde solutions and frozen sections of the brains were incubated for cytochrome oxidase activity (a detailed protocol was outlined). The results indicated that the deprivation caused by monocular suture produced a decrease in the cytochrome oxidase staining of the binocular segment of the deprived geniculate laminae. Enucleation yielded a greater decrease in the cytochrome oxidase activity in the affected geniculate laminae. However, the staining in the 'normal' lamina extended across the interlaminar border to include a row of surviving large cells in the 'denervated' lamina. The staining of the monocular segment appeared not to be affected by lid suture, but was decreased by enucleation. At the cortical level, lamina IV in area 17 of normal cats was stained darkly as a continuous band. Following lid suture, this pattern was replaced in part by alternating columns of light and dark staining, suggestive of ocular dominance columns. Thus, a decrease in neuronal activity due to reduced visual stimulation or destruction of the primary afferent nerves led to a significant decrease in the level of oxidative enzyme activity one to several synapses away.


Risk and fear in the lived experience of birth without a midwife.
the broad aim of this study was to examine the lived-experience of women who birth without a midwife or other health-care professional in the United Kingdom; the specific purpose of this paper is to examine risk discourse as experienced by these women. reflective lifeworld research, a phenomenological approach was used in this study based on the philosophical writings of Husserl, Merleau-Ponty and Gadamer (Dahlberg et al., 2008). 10 in-depth interviews were conducted with women who had birthed without a midwife or other health-care professional present, interviews were transcribed and hermeneutically analysed. women׳s lived-experiences of the maternity services in this study suggest a pervading mood of fear which finds voice in manipulative risk discourse and midwifery behaviours that can result in women avoiding maternity care. Fear based ׳risk-talk׳ is used as a scare tactic to coerce women into particular choices; if women do not comply they are labelled ׳risk-takers׳ and can become ostracised by the maternity care system. risk discourse and its emphasis on mortality and morbidity raises awareness of death and creates important existential concerns for women which are unaddressed by health-care professionals. This can lead to a loss of trust in health-care professionals and women sourcing positive support and a salutogenic approach to childbirth from outside the system. health-care professionals need to become aware of and address manipulative and coercive attitudes in risk discourse.


Depth camera-based model for studying the effects of muscle loading on distal radius fracture healing.
Distal radius fractures (DRFs) treated with volar locking plates (VLPs) allows early rehabilitation exercises favourable to fracture recovery. However, the role of rehabilitation exercises induced muscle forces on the biomechanical microenvironment at the fracture site remains to be fully explored. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of muscle forces on DRF healing by developing a depth camera-based fracture healing model. First, the rehabilitation-related hand motions were captured by a depth camera system. A macro-musculoskeletal model is then developed to analyse the data captured by the system for estimating hand muscle and joint reaction forces which are used as inputs for our previously developed DRF model to predict the tissue differentiation patterns at the fracture site. Finally, the effect of different wrist motions (e.g., from 60° of extension to 60° of flexion) on the DRF healing outcomes will be studied. Muscle and joint reaction forces in hands which are highly dependent on hand motions could significantly affect DRF healing through imposed compressive and bending forces at the fracture site. There is an optimal range of wrist motion (i.e., between 40° of extension and 40° of flexion) which could promote mechanical stimuli governed healing while mitigating the risk of bony non-union due to excessive movement at the fracture site. The developed depth camera-based fracture healing model can accurately predict the influence of muscle loading induced by rehabilitation exercises in distal radius fracture healing outcomes. The outcomes from this study could potentially assist osteopathic surgeons in designing effective post-operative rehabilitation strategies for DRF patients.


Time course of postmortem modifications in synaptosomal [3H]dopamine uptake and [3H]GBR 12783 binding to the dopamine uptake complex in the rat striatum.
The present study focuses on the changes of two biochemical markers of the striatal dopaminergic innervation evaluated after different postmortem storage periods of rat heads either at room temperature (21 degrees C) or at 4 degrees C: (i) the uptake of [3H]dopamine (DA) into striatal synaptosomes and (ii) the specific binding of [3H]GBR 12783, a selective ligand for the neuronal dopamine uptake sites, to a striatal membrane fraction. The uptake of [3H]DA was completely abolished after 24 and 72 h storage of the tissue at 21 degrees C and 4 degrees C, respectively, whereas in the same conditions, the binding of [3H]GBR 12783 was slightly decreased. The Km and Kd of these two processes were virtually unchanged after the different storage periods considered, whereas the Vmax and Bmax were markedly decreased.