Prediction of metabolic and pre-metabolic syndromes using machine learning models with anthropometric, lifestyle, and biochemical factors from a middle-aged population in Korea.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex condition that appears as a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, and is closely associated with the prevalence of various diseases. Early prediction of the risk of MetS in the middle-aged population provides greater benefits for cardiovascular disease-related health outcomes. This study aimed to apply the latest machine learning techniques to find the optimal MetS prediction model for the middle-aged Korean population. We retrieved 20 data types from the Korean Medicine Daejeon Citizen Cohort, a cohort study on a community-based population of adults aged 30-55 years. The data included sex, age, anthropometric data, lifestyle-related data, and blood indicators of 1991 individuals. Participants satisfying two (pre-MetS) or ≥ 3 (MetS) of the five NECP-ATP III criteria were included in the MetS group. MetS prediction used nine machine learning models based on the following algorithms: Decision tree, Gaussian Naïve Bayes, K-nearest neighbor, eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), random forest, logistic regression, support vector machine, multi-layer perceptron, and 1D convolutional neural network. All analyses were performed by sequentially inputting the features in three steps according to their characteristics. The models' performances were compared after applying the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) to resolve data imbalance. MetS was detected in 33.85% of the subjects. Among the MetS prediction models, the tree-based random forest and XGBoost models showed the best performance, which improved with the number of features used. As a measure of the models' performance, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) increased by up to 0.091 when the SMOTE was applied, with XGBoost showing the highest AUC of 0.851. Body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio were identified as the most important features in the MetS prediction models for this population. Tree-based machine learning models were useful in identifying MetS with high accuracy in middle-aged Koreans. Early diagnosis of MetS is important and requires a multidimensional approach that includes self-administered questionnaire, anthropometric, and biochemical measurements.


Histological evaluation of the regenerative potential of a novel treated dentin matrix hydrogel in direct pulp capping.
To produce a novel injectable treated dentin matrix hydrogel (TDMH) to be used as a novel pulp-capping agent for dentin regeneration compared with Biodentine and MTA. Thirty intact fully erupted premolars scheduled to be extracted for orthodontic reasons were included. Pulps were mechanically exposed in the middle of the cavity floor. TDMH was composed of TDM powder (500-μm particle size) and sodium alginate as an injectable scaffold. The capped teeth were divided into three equal groups (n = 10): TDMH, Biodentine, and MTA respectively. Clinical examination and assessment of periapical response were performed. The teeth were extracted after 2-weeks and 2-month intervals, stained with hematoxylin-eosin, and categorized by using a histologic scoring system. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis test (p = 0.05). All teeth were vital during observation periods. Histological analysis after 2 months showed complete dentin bridge formation and absence of inflammatory pulp response with no significant differences between groups. However, the formed dentin was significantly thicker with the TDMH group with layers of well-arranged odontoblasts that were found to form a homogenous tubular structure with numerous dentinal tubule lines showing a positive trend to dentin regeneration. TDMH could achieve dentin regeneration and conservation of pulp vitality and might serve as a feasible natural substitute for silicate-based cements in restoring in vivo dentin defect in direct pulp-capping procedure. PACTR201901866476410.


Data on the evaluation of the relation between β-arrestin 2 and YAP phosphorylation in patient-derived colon cancer organoids.
The data presented in this article is related to a rapid communication entitled "β-arrestin 2 suppresses the activation of YAP by promoting LATS kinase activity". This article describes the correlation of β-arrestin 2 and YAP phosphorylation in patient-derived organoid models. Here, we analyzed 45 colon cancer organoids (CCOs) selected in the related research article to investigate the role of β-arrestin 2 in YAP phosphorylation. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry data showed that the CCOs maintained tissue architecture and histological features of their original cancer tissues. Moreover, mutation data detected from RNA-seq (RNA-sequencing) analysis showed that these CCOs retained the genetic features of their original colon cancer tissues as well. We also confirmed at the protein level that organoids expressing β-arrestin 2 showed high expression of phosphorylated YAP. These organoid model studies strongly support the related research article that β-arrestin 2 suppresses the activation of YAP in colon cancer.


Can we do better at measuring patient-reported outcomes after cranioplasty? A systematic review.
Measuring quality of life (QOL) after cranioplasty is increasingly evident as a necessary component of patient-centered care. For data to be useful in clinical decision-making and approval of new therapies, studies must utilize valid and reliable instruments. Our objective was to critically appraise studies evaluating QOL in adult cranioplasty patients and determine validity and relevance of the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used. Electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsychINFO were used to identify PROMs measuring QOL in adult patients with cranioplasty. The methodological approach, cranioplasty outcomes, and domains measured by the PROMs were extracted and summarized descriptively. A content analysis of the identified PROMs was completed to identify the concepts measured. From 2236 articles identified, 17 articles containing eight QOL PROMs met the inclusion criteria. None of the PROMs was specifically validated or developed for adults undergoing cranioplasty. The QOL domains included physical health, psychological health, social health, and general QOL. These four domains encompassed 216 total items among the PROMs. Appearance was only assessed in two PROMs. To our knowledge, there are currently no validated PROMs that comprehensively measure appearance, facial function, and adverse effects in adults undergoing cranioplasty. There is an urgent need to develop PROMs to measure QOL outcomes rigorously and comprehensively in this patient population to inform clinical care, research, and quality improvement initiatives. Findings from this systematic review will be used to derive an outcome instrument containing important concepts related to QOL in patients who undergo cranioplasty.


Purification, characterization and bioactivities of a 4-O-methylglucuronoxylan from Aralia echinocaulis.
The discovery of active constituents from food plants is an important area of research in pharmaceutical sciences. Aralia echinocaulis is a medicinal food plant that is mainly used to prevent or treat rheumatoid arthritis in China. This paper reported the isolation, purification and bioactivity of a polysaccharide (HSM-1-1) from A. echinocaulis. Its structural features were analyzed according to the molecular weight distribution, monosaccharide composition, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The results indicated that HSM-1-1 was a new 4-O-methylglucuronoxylan mainly composed of xylan and 4-O-methyl glucuronic acid with the molecular weight of 1.6 × 104 Da. Furthermore, the antitumor and anti-inflammatory activities of HSM-1-1 in vitro were investigated, and the results showed that HSM-1-1 had potent proliferation inhibition activity on colon cancer cell SW480 with an inhibition rate of 17.57 ± 1.03 % at a concentration of 600 μg/mL, as measured via MTS methods. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a polysaccharide structure obtained from A. echinocaulis and its bioactivities, and its potential as an adjuvant natural product with antitumor effects is shown.


Metastatic carcinoid of bone. Report of two cases and review of the literature.
The skeletal manifestations of malignant carcinoid seem not to have been reported in the orthopedic literature. Bronchial and hindgut carcinoid tumors are less numerous than midgut tumors but metastasize to bone much more frequently. Carcinoid skeletal deposits are usually osteoblastic and most commonly affect the axial skeleton. The radiologic appearance is frequently indistinguishable from prostatic skeletal metastases or chronic sclerosing osteomyelitis. Two cases of skeletal metastases from midgut carcinoid are reported to demonstrate that metastases from carcinoid should be considered in the differential diagnosis of either bone malignancy or chronic sclerosing osteomyelitis.


Cardiac response to daily activities and exercise in normal subjects assessed by an ambulatory ventricular function monitor.
The cardiac response to a variety of daily activities was assessed in 18 healthy adult subjects (mean age 31 years, range 21 to 39) with an ambulatory ventricular function monitor (VEST), which records serial beat-to-beat radionuclide and electrocardiographic data. The VEST was positioned and calibrated using data recorded during a multigated blood pool scan. It was worn for an average of 3.0 +/- 1.1 hours, while the subjects performed the following activities: sitting quietly (baseline); standing in place; walking; climbing stairs; bicycle or treadmill exercise; eating; sitting in a room at 4 degrees C for 20 minutes; and urinating. To calculate ejection fraction (EF), relative end-diastolic counts, relative cardiac output and heart rate, the beat-to-beat data were averaged over 15 to 30 seconds. Compared with baseline, standing increased EF by 0.03 +/- 0.04 and decreased end-diastolic volume by 10.9 +/- 4.7%. Walking and climbing stairs increased EF by 0.10 +/- 0.05 and 0.18 +/- 0.09, respectively, and increased end-diastolic volume by 7.8 +/- 5.3% and 12.8 +/- 4.3% (p less than 0.001). Eating increased EF by 0.02 +/- 0.03 and decreased end-diastolic volume by 11.3 +/- 6.1% (p less than 0.001). Cold stimuli and urinating decreased EF by 0.05 +/- 0.04 and 0.03 +/- 0.04, respectively (p less than 0.001 and less than 0.05). Serial left ventricular function monitoring during graded bicycle and treadmill exercise revealed a rapid increase in EF in the early stages of exercise, with no further change in the late stages. Heart rate and systolic blood pressure increased progressively with each successive stage.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Inactivation of synchronized mammalian cells with low-energy X rays--results and significance.
Results for inactivation of hydroxyurea-synchronized V-79 cells by ultrasoft aluminum characteristic X rays of energy 1.5 keV are presented. Limiting RBEs at low doses, relative to 137Cs gamma rays, of 1.8 and 6.4 are, respectively, found for cells at the G1/S and late S stages of the cell cycle. The late-S data are analyzed in the light of previous experiments carried out under similar conditions, also designed to probe the effects of energy deposition in nanometer-sized sites, in which cells were irradiated with correlated pairs of ions. Within the framework of the theory of dual radiation action, the results for ultrasoft X rays and gamma rays can be deduced solely from track simulations and the results of the high-LET molecular ion experiment.


High sensitivity SARS-CoV-2 detection using graphene oxide-multiplex qPCR.
The emerging pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) critically challenges early and accurate virus diagnoses. However, the current gold standard for SARS-CoV-2 detection, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), has reportedly failed to detect low-viral loads. One compound, graphene oxide (GO), which adsorbs single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), has been widely applied in molecular pathogen detection. This study presents a highly sensitive GO-multiplex qPCR method for simultaneous detection of two SARS-CoV-2 genes (RdRP and E) and one reference gene (RNase P). In a GO-multiplex qPCR system, GO pre-absorbs each forward primer to form specific GO-forward primer composites before entering the amplification system. Target gene amplification is confined within the primer-enriched composites, thus, improving the sensitivity of the assay. Compared to conventional multiplex qPCR, GO-multiplex qPCR reduces the limit of detection by 10-fold to 10 copies/reaction. Hence, the GO-multiplex qPCR assay can be effectively used for SARS-CoV-2 detection.


The evolving slope of the proximal femoral growth plate relationship to slipped capital femoral epiphysis.
We measured the physeal angle (slope) of the proximal femoral physis on the standard anteroposterior (AP) radiographs. Controls consisted of 307 hips in children aged 1-18 years. Similar measurements were made on the affected (slip) and unaffected (nonslip) sides of 107 children with manifest unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis. An age-related increase of 14 degrees occurs in the slope of the proximal femoral physis between ages 1 and 18 years, with maximal increase between ages 9 and 12 years. Increasing obliquity of the proximal femoral physis may be yet another factor contributing to slipped capital femoral epiphysis.


Asymmetric photocross-linking pattern of restriction endonuclease EcoRII to the DNA recognition sequence.
The EcoRII homodimer engages two of its recognition sequences (5'-CCWGG) simultaneously and is therefore a type IIE restriction endonuclease. To identify the amino acids of EcoRII that interact specifically with the recognition sequence, we photocross-linked EcoRII with oligonucleotide substrates that contained only one recognition sequence for EcoRII. In this recognition sequence, we substituted either 5-iododeoxycytidine for each C or 5-iododeoxyuridine for A, G, or T. These iodo-pyrimidine bases were excited using a UV laser to result in covalent cross-linking products. The yield of EcoRII photocross-linked to the 5'-C of the 5'-CCAGG strand of the recognition sequence was 45%. However, we could not photocross-link EcoRII to the 5'-C of the 5'-CCTGG strand. Thus, the contact of EcoRII to the bases of the recognition sequence appears to be asymmetric, unlike that expected for most type II restriction endonucleases. Tryptic digestion of free and of cross-linked EcoRII, followed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation of the individual peptides and Edman degradation, identified amino acids 25-49 of EcoRII as the cross-linking peptide. Mutational analysis of the electron-rich amino acids His(36) and Tyr(41) of this peptide indicates that Tyr(41) is the amino acid involved in the cross-link and that it therefore contributes to specific DNA recognition by EcoRII.


Pulmonary Hypertension Caused by Fibrosing Mediastinitis.
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive and severe disorder in pulmonary hemodynamics. PH can be fatal if not well managed. Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is a rare and benign fibroproliferative disease in the mediastinum, which may lead to pulmonary vessel compression and PH. PH caused by FM (PH-FM) is a pathologic condition belonging to group 5 in the World Health Organization PH classification. PH-FM has a poor prognosis because of a lack of effective therapeutic modalities and inappropriate diagnosis. With the development of percutaneous pulmonary vascular interventional therapy, the prognosis of PH-FM has been greatly improved in recent years. This article provides a comprehensive review on the epidemiology, pathophysiologic characteristics, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment modalities of PH-FM based on data from published reports and our medical center with the goal of facilitating the diagnosis and treatment of this fatal disease.


Comparison Impairments of Spatial Cognition and Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity Between Prenatal and Postnatal Melamine Exposure in Male Adult Rats.
Our previous investigation showed that melamine in offspring hippocampus appeared to not be the critical factor for cognitive defects. The present study was to investigate whether the cognitive impairments induced by prenatal and postnatal melamine exposure and persisted into adulthood, and to evaluate the differences of the exposures in affecting hippocampus-depended cognition and synaptic plasticity. Wistar rats were exposed to melamine through the whole gestational period or from postnatal day (PD) 21 to PD41, and then tested on PD90. The experiments of water maze and hippocampal synaptic plasticity in vivo were performed to assess the effects on spatial cognition and synaptic impairments. The results indicated that cognitive defects were induced by exposures to either prenatal or postnatal melamine, whereas there was a more serious damage in prenatal. Histological evidence further showed that there were the detrimental effects of both prenatal and postnatal effects. Paired-pulse facilitation ratio and post-tetanic potentiation were severely impacted in prenatal-exposed rats but not postnatal-exposed ones. Both exposures to prenatal and postnatal melamine impaired long-term potentiation, while there was severe damage to prenatal animals. These data suggest that the detrimental effects of prenatal and postnatal melamine on cognition and hippocampal synaptic plasticity could persist into adulthood, and the impairment of prenatal exposure was to some extent more severe. Hence, prenatal and postnatal exposures to melamine may have different effects on hippocampus-dependent learning and memory, which would most likely result from differentially adversely properties on the hippocampal CA1 synaptic function.


[From emergency services to neurosurgical intensive care, the role of the nurse in neurosurgery].
Treating a patient with a head injury requires a full general assessment, a rigorous evaluation of the severity of the trauma and the prevention of brain insults of systemic origin. Monitoring by the nurse is essential and determines the carrying out of additional tests. She must look out for neurological deterioration and prepare the patient and his or her family for potential sequelae.


Individual variability in subcortical neural encoding shapes phonetic cue weighting.
Recent studies have revealed great individual variability in cue weighting, and such variation is shown to be systematic across individuals and linked to differences in some general cognitive mechanism. The present study investigated the role of subcortical encoding as a source of individual variability in cue weighting by focusing on English listeners' frequency following responses to the tense/lax English vowel contrast varying in spectral and durational cues. Listeners differed in early auditory encoding with some encoding the spectral cue more veridically than the durational one, while others exhibited the reverse pattern. These differences in cue encoding further correlate with behavioral variability in cue weighting, suggesting that specificity in cue encoding across individuals modulates how cues are weighted in downstream processes.


Pearls of Parathyroidectomy: How to Find the Hard to Find Ones.
The treatment of hyperparathyroidism through parathyroidectomy requires careful and complete preoperative evaluation. There are multiple imaging modalities and methods available to clinicians today to aid in identifying a pathological lesion; however, each has limitations that the clinician must understand. A systematic approach to patient evaluation, imaging, and surgical exploration is necessary to ensure accurate diagnosis and maximize the chances of minimally invasive and successful surgical removal.


Chlamydial infection of mothers and their infants.
In 340 women, cultured prospectively during their pregnancies, the rate of infection with Chlamydia trachomatis was 8.8%. The women with positive cultures tended to be younger and more often single and black than their counterparts with negative cultures. There were no statistically significant clinical differences between the two groups. Eighteen children born to Chlamydia culture-positive women and 16 born to negative women were followed for nine months to examine the potential effects of maternal infection on infant growth, development, and illness. Eleven of 18 study patients had culture or tear antibody evidence of Chlamydia infection, as opposed to one of the control subjects (P = 0.00093). Eight of these 11 had clinical conjunctivitis, and two of the eight developed pneumonia. Growth retardation and developmental abnormalities were not detected in either group. It is concluded that maternal carriage of C. trachomatis is associated with a high incidence of clinical illness in the offspring.


Intravoxel incoherent motion MR imaging in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: comparison and correlation with dynamic contrast enhanced MR imaging.
To compare accuracy and assess agreement between intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance (MR) perfusion-related parameters and quantitative dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MR parameters in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). D, f, D*, Ktrans , Kep and Vp were significantly lower in the high stage group while Ve was significantly higher in the high stage group. Optimal cut-off values were: D=0.749 × 10-3 mm2/s; f=0.145; D*=100.401 × 10-3 mm2/s; Ktrans =0.571/min; Kep =0.8196/min; Ve =0.6556 %; Vp =0.0757 %. D* (p=0.001), Ktrans (p<0.001), Ve (p=0.014) were all reliable independent predictors for AJCC staging. IVIM-MR perfusion-related (f, D*) and DCE-MR (Ktrans , Kep , Ve , Vp ) parameters were significantly correlated (p<0.001). 75 patients with newly diagnosed NPC were prospectively recruited. Diffusion-weighted MR and DCE-MR imaging were performed with respective IVIM (D, f, D*) and DCE (Ktrans , Kep , Ve , Vp ) MR parameters calculated. Patients were stratified into low and high tumor stage groups according to American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging for determination of the predictive powers of IVIM-MR and DCE-MR parameters using t-test, ROC curve analyses and multiple logistic regression analysis. Correlation between IVIM-MR perfusion-related and DCE-MR parameters was assessed using Spearman's rank correlation. IVIM-MR perfusion-related and quantitative DCE-MR parameters were significantly correlated in the assessment of NPC and were both reliable independent predictors in the prediction of AJCC staging. IVIM-MR perfusion imaging can be a potential useful non-invasive perfusion imaging tool for clinical use in the assessment of NPC.


Properties of a cell-culture line derived from lymphosarcoma P1798.
A cell culture line has been derived from lymphosarcoma P1798. Cells will not divide in the prescence of 10(-8) M dexamethasone. Half-maximal inhibition of proliferation occurs at about 10(-9) M. Half-maximal inhibition of [3H] thymidine incorporation occurs at somewhat higher concentrations of dexamethasone. When cells are cultured in the presence of 2 x 10(-7) M dexamethasone they remain 88% viable after 5 days. No decrease in cell number occurs. These cells can be rescued by in vivo passage, and they responded in culture to dexamethasone in exactly the same fashion as do untreated cells. Both dexamethasone rescued and untreated cultured cells contain about 104 dexamethasone receptor sites which bind with a dissociation constant of 4 x 10(-9) M. Cultured cells retain the ability to proliferate both subcutaneously and in ascites. The properties of such tumors resemble those of the parental tumor cell lines.


Some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in vegetables from northern China.
Nine important vegetables were collected from northern Chinese wholesale markets and analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contents. Anthracene, flupranthene, benzo(a)anthracene and benzo(a)pyrene were determined. The contents of the four PAH congeners were at the same level with the mean concentrations 6.46, 4.05, 3.33, 4.51 microg kg(-1) for fresh weight for anthracene, flupranthene, benzo(a)anthracene and benzo(a)pyrene, respectively. However, leafy and stem vegetables had higher PAH content than root and fruit vegetables. Peels of the root and fruit vegetables had higher PAH concentrations than their cores. Human exposure to PAHs by consumption of these vegetables is estimated, by using typical northern Chinese intake rates, although the study was not designed to be statistically representative for the China as a whole.


Prevalence of use of performance-enhancing substances among United States adolescents.
Adolescents may regard the use of performance-enhancing substances as an easy means to gain self-esteem through improved body appearance and athletic performance. The use of performance-enhancing substances by adolescents is particularly troubling because safety data are largely lacking. This poses a dilemma for the pediatrician who needs correct information, including the potential efficacy and negative health effects of such substances, to identify the patients in need of counseling and to find the best way to help adolescent patients make informed decisions to promote healthy behaviors. This article is intended to assist pediatricians by providing a summary of the current state of knowledge regarding the prevalence of use of performance-enhancing substances by United States adolescents.


Comparison of decompression, decompression plus fusion, and decompression plus stabilization: a long-term follow-up of a prospective, randomized study.
Lumbar canal stenosis due to degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis is one of the most common indications for lumbar spinal surgery. However, from a long-term perspective, it is still unclear which of these procedures should be performed: decompression, decompression plus fusion, or decompression plus stabilization. This study aimed to present the long-term results of a randomized controlled trial of surgery for degenerative spondylolisthesis. This is a long-term follow-up of a previously reported randomized controlled trial. Patients aged ≤75 years with single L4/5 level lumbar canal stenosis caused by degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis were enrolled at two hospitals from May 1, 2003, to April 30, 2012; the final follow-up was on May 20, 2021. The following data were collected: modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, visual analog scale (VAS) score for lower back pain, leg pain, and numbness, and scores from eight Short-Form 36 (SF-36) subscales preoperatively, 1 year postoperatively, 5 years postoperatively, and at the final follow-up. Patients were randomized to undergo decompression alone, decompression plus fusion, or decompression plus stabilization. The primary outcome measure was the change in VAS for lower back pain with secondary outcomes including the modified JOA score, VAS for leg pain, VAS for leg numbness, eight SF-36 subscale scores, and occurrence of reoperation at the last follow-up. Among 85 patients who were randomized, 66 responded to the current survey. The mean follow-up period was 12.3 years. The VAS score for low back pain improvement was not significantly different between the decompression and fusion groups at the mean follow-up of 12.3 years. Of the 12 secondary outcomes, 8 showed no significant difference between decompression and fusion, 12 showed no significant difference between decompression and stabilization, and 10 showed no significant difference between fusion and stabilization. Although additional instrumentation surgery did not significantly improve low back pain at the mean follow-up of 12.3 years compared with decompression alone, fusion surgery provided clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported vitality, social functioning, role limitations due to personal or emotional problems, and mental health compared with decompression alone. UMIN000028114.


Chromosome-level genome assembly of the Muscovy duck provides insight into fatty liver susceptibility.
The Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) is an economically important poultry species, which is susceptible to fatty liver. Thus, the Muscovy duck may serve as an excellent candidate animal model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the mechanisms underlying fatty liver development in this species are poorly understood. In this study, we report a chromosome-level genome assembly of the Muscovy duck, with a contig N50 of 11.8 Mb and scaffold N50 of 83.16 Mb. The susceptibility of Muscovy duck to fatty liver was mainly attributed to weak lipid catabolism capabilities (fatty acid β-oxidation and lipolysis). Furthermore, conserved noncoding elements (CNEs) showing accelerated evolution contributed to fatty liver formation by down-regulating the expression of genes involved in hepatic lipid catabolism. We propose that the susceptibility of Muscovy duck to fatty liver is an evolutionary by-product. In conclusion, this study revealed the potential mechanisms underlying the susceptibility of Muscovy duck to fatty liver.


Laparoscopic repair of parastomal hernias with a modified Sugarbaker technique.
With the increasing experience in laparoscopic ventral and incisonal hernia repair this minimal invasive technique has also been used to repair parastomal hernias. Different types of laparoscopic repair have been described. Laparoscopic repairs can mainly be divided in two groups: "keyhole-techniques" and "Sugarbaker techniques". We reviewed the literature and described our current technique, using a "modified Sugarbaker technique" in detail. We have used the technique in five patients with good early results, no early recurrences and good functional outcome. Laparoscopic repair of parastomal hernias is a safe and feasible technique. In our experience, laparoscopic parastomal hernia repair with "keyhole techniques" had a disappointing high recurrence rate. Therefore we changed to a "modified Sugarbaker technique" with promising early results.


Integramides A and B, two novel non-ribosomal linear peptides containing nine C(alpha)-methyl amino acids produced by fungal fermentations that are inhibitors of HIV-1 integrase.
[structure: see text]. Integramides A and B are two novel 16-mer linear peptides rich in C(alpha)-methyl amino acids that were isolated from fungal extracts of Dendrodochium sp. by employing a bioassay-guided isolation procedure using recombinant HIV-1 integrase. The structure and stereochemistry were elucidated by a combination of 2D NMR and ESI- and FAB-MS including MS/MS studies and by Marfey's method. Integramides A and B inhibited the coupled reaction of HIV-1 integrase with IC50 values of 17 and 10 microM, respectively.


Cystosarcoma phyllodes: a clinicopathological analysis of 14 cases.
Experience with 14 cases of cystosarcoma phyllodes encountered at the 2nd Department of Propedeutic Surgery, Athens, University, between October, 1928 and December, 1978 is reported. Local excision including a wide cuff of uninvolved breast tissue is indicated for histologically proven benign and small tumors. For bulky or malignant tumors, a simple mastectomy is indicated. none of these neoplasms had metastasized to the axillary lymph nodes and, for this reason, and axillary node dissection was contraindicated.


Use of low intensity laser treatment in neuropathic pain refractory to clinical treatment in amputation stumps.
Debilitating stump pain following amputation surgery is a major problem when it affects the patient's quality of life, often making the patient totally dependent on others for their day-to-day care. Attempts have been made to treat those patients through pharmacological, psychological, and physical therapies, but in many cases these fail to relieve the pain. This article focuses on three patients with chronic, intense, and debilitating stump pain who were previously treated with pain medications, but with little success. These patients underwent nine sessions of low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) to the stump - this is a new treatment that has been used to treat other pain disorders. All patients reported a decrease in the intensity of their pain and increased ability to perform daily living activities during a 4-month follow-up.


Transient lectin binding by white matter tract border zone microglia in the foetal rabbit brain.
Axonal growth cones of developing white matter tracts are guided through the cerebrum by interactions with cell surface and extracellular matrix molecules expressed by glial cells that mediate cell adhesion and contact-dependent inhibition. Specific carbohydrates are considered essential for the proper functioning of these molecular complexes. We studied developmental aspects of complex carbohydrate expression by white matter glia in the foetal rabbit brain using the tomato lectin Lycopersicon esculentum, which has affinity for components of the extracellular matrix proteins and cell surface proteins (N-acetylglucosamine) and activated lysosomal membrane glycoproteins (N-acetyllactosamine). Concentrations of the lectin-positive glia were transiently found immediately adjacent to developing white matter tracts of the foetal rabbit brain from 22 to 32 days' gestation. The number of positive cells markedly diminished by the fourth post-natal day and in the adult brain. The lectin-positive glia did not react with antibody to glial fibrillary acidic protein. However, they did express the macrophage surface antigen, Mac-1, indicating that the lectin binding reflected the presence of microglial activated lysosomal membranes. These data suggest that, in addition to their role as central nervous system scavengers, microglia are involved in a specifically timed function in the neurodevelopmental programme of white matter tract formation.


Steroid profiles of follicular fluids from a patient with the empty follicle syndrome.
Steroid profiles of follicular fluid obtained from a patient during a cycle in which no oocytes were recovered in 12 follicular aspirates were compared with those of fluid obtained both from cycles of the same patient and from cycles of other patients when oocytes were recovered. Follicles aspirated in the cycle when no oocytes were recovered were shown to be neither atretic follicles, follicular cysts, nor prematurely luteinized follicles. The steroid profile of follicular fluid from the index cycle was characterized by a markedly increased estradiol-to-progesterone ratio and an increased androstenedione level. This, together with a comparison to the steroid profiles of fluid from follicles containing either fertilizable or nonfertilizable oocytes, suggests that the empty follicle syndrome may reflect a dysfunctional ovulation induction.


Alignment of, and phylogenetic inference from, random sequences: the susceptibility of alternative alignment methods to creating artifactual resolution and support.
We used random sequences to determine which alignment methods are most susceptible to aligning sequences so as to create artifactual resolution and branch support in phylogenetic trees derived from those alignments. We compared four alignment methods (progressive pairwise alignment, simultaneous multiple alignment of sequence fragments, local pairwise alignment, and direct optimization) to determine which methods are most susceptible to creating false positives in phylogenetic trees. Implied alignments created using direct optimization provided more artifactual support than progressive pairwise alignment methods, which in turn generally provided more artifactual support than simultaneous and local alignment methods. Artifactual support derived from base pairs was generally reinforced by the incorporation of gap characters for progressive pairwise alignment, local pairwise alignment, and implied alignments. The amount of artifactual resolution and support was generally greater for simulated nucleotide sequences than for simulated amino acid sequences. In the context of direct optimization, the differences between static and dynamic approaches to calculating support were extreme, ranging from maximal to nearly minimal support. When applied to highly divergent sequences, it is important that dynamic, rather than static, characters be used whenever calculating branch support using direct optimization. In contrast to the tree-based approaches to alignment, simultaneous alignment of sequences using the similarity criterion generally does not create alignments that are biased in favor of any particular tree topology.


Screening and optimisation of in vitro pollen germination medium for sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas).
Sweetpotato is an important vegetable and food crop that is bred through sexual crosses and systematic selection. The use of in vitro germination of sweetpotato pollen to test its viability has important theoretical and practical implications for improving the efficiency of sweetpotato crossbreeding by controlling pollination and conducting research on sweetpotato pollen biology. In this study, we observed the morphological structure of sweetpotato pollen under a scanning electron microscope (SEM), developed an effective method for the in vitro germination of sweetpotato pollen, and examined the viability of sweetpotato pollen after treating plants at different temperatures before blossoming. Sweetpotato pollen grains are spherical, with an average diameter of 87.07 ± 3.27 μm (excluding spines), with multiple germination pores and reticulate pollen surface sculpture. We applied numerous media to sweetpotato pollen germination in vitro to screen the initial medium and optimised the medium components through single-factor design. The most effective liquid medium for in vitro sweetpotato pollen germination contained 50 g/L Sucrose, 50 g/L Polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG4000), 100 mg/L Boric acid and 300 mg/L Calcium nitrate, with a pH = 6.0. The optimum growth temperature for pollen development in sweetpotato was from 25 to 30 °C. Neither staining nor in situ germination could accurately determine the viability of sweetpotato pollen. In vitro germination can be used to effectively determine sweetpotato pollen viability. The best liquid medium for in vitro germination of sweetpotato pollen contained 50 g/L Sucrose, 50 g/L Polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG4000), 100 mg/L Boric acid and 300 mg/L Calcium nitrate, with the pH adjusted to 6.0. This study provides a reliable medium for the detection of sweetpotato pollen viability, which can provide a theoretical reference for sweetpotato genetics and breeding.


Discovery in clinical and translational medicine.
With the rapid development of biotechnologies and deep improvement of knowledge, "Discovery" is the initial period and source of innovation of clinical and translational medicine. The international journal of Clinical and Translational Discovery serves to highlight unknown or unclear aspects of clinical and translational medicine-associated knowledge, technologies, mechanisms, and therapies (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/27680622). The Discovery aims to define the interaction between genes, proteins, and cells, and explore molecular mechanisms of intercommunication and inter-regulation. More discoveries of technologies and equipment are expected to improve method sensitivity, specificity, stability, analysis, and clinical significance. The first priority of Clinical and Translational Discovery is to turn gene-, protein-, drug-, cell-, and interaction-based discoveries into health advancements. Clinical and Translational Discovery highly focuses on the discoveries of biological therapies and precision medicine-based therapy elicited from computational chemistry, DNA libraries, target-dependent small molecular drugs, high-throughput screening, vaccination, immune therapy, cell implantations, gene editing, and RNA- or protein-based inhibitors. Thus, Clinical and Translational Discovery sincerely welcome you to join and share the rapid development and future successes to come.


Elevation and persistence of CD8 T-cells in HIV infection: the Achilles heel in the ART era.
HIV infection leads to a disturbed T-cell homeostasis, featured by a depletion of CD4 T-cells and a persistent elevation of CD8 T-cells over disease progression. Most effort of managing HIV infection has been focused on CD4 T-cell recovery, while changes in the CD8 compartment were relatively underappreciated in the past. A comprehensive literature review of publications in English language was conducted using major electronic databases. Our search was focused on factors contributing to CD8 T-cell dynamics in HIV infection and following antiretroviral therapy (ART). Normalization of CD8 counts is seldom observed even with optimal CD4 recovery following long-term treatment. Initiation of ART in primary HIV infection leads to enhanced normalization of CD8 count compared with long-term ART initiated in chronic infection. Importantly, such CD8 elevation in treated HIV infection is associated with an increased risk of inflammatory non-AIDS-related clinical events independent of CD4 T-cell recovery. The mechanisms underlying CD8 persistence remain largely unknown, which may include bystander activation, exhaustion and immunosenescence of CD8 T-cells. The information provided herein will lead to a better understanding of factors associated with CD8 persistence and contribute to the development of strategies aiming at CD8 normalization. Persistence of CD8 T-cell elevation in treated HIV-infected patients is associated with an increased risk of non-AIDS-related events. Now that advances in ART have led to decreased AIDS-related opportunistic diseases, more attention has been focused on reducing non-AIDS events and normalizing persistent CD8 T-cell elevation.


A quality assurance plan for anatomical pathology.
A quality assurance plan is described for a routine anatomical pathology laboratory. Quality control activities are outlined with their objectives and assessment.


Reference values, minimum repetitions for stable measures, and test-retest reliability in the torsion and conventional cervical joint position sense tests in asymptomatic individuals.
To determine reference values, including the appropriate number of repetitions, and test-retest reliability of the torsion and conventional cervical joint position sense (JPS) tests. Phase 1) Cross-sectional design to determine reference values and the appropriate number of repetitions; Phase 2) repeated-measures concordance design (test-retest reliability). Sixty-eight healthy participants performed 10 repetitions of randomized rotation left and right for both cervical JPS tests using a laser projected onto a target. Thirty participants returned for the same evaluation process one week later. The age-stratified reference values for the torsion JPS test showed greater absolute error as age increased. Stable levels of performance were obtained with 6-7 repetitions for both tests. Moderate to good reliability was found with 7 or more repetitions for left rotation [Torsion JPS test, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC; 95% CI) = 0.85 (0.68-0.93); Conventional JPS test, ICC = 0.78 (0.53-0.89)], and 6-7 or more repetitions for right rotation [Torsion JPS test, 6 repetitions, ICC = 0.79 (0.56-0.90); Conventional JPS test, 7 repetitions, ICC = 0.82 (0.61-0.91)]. Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) stabilized at 7 repetitions in both tests [Torsion JPS test (SEM ≤ 1.0°; MDC90 ≤ 2.4°; MDC95 ≤ 2.9°); Conventional JPS test (SEM ≤ 1.2°; MDC90 ≤ 2.8°; MDC95 ≤ 3.3°)]. The reference values generated for the torsion JPS test may help identify the presence of impairments cervical proprioception. At least 7 repetitions optimize stability, reliability and responsiveness in the torsion and conventional cervical JPS tests.


Specificity of the interactions between the Rep proteins and the origins of replication of Staphylococcus aureus plasmids pT181 and pC221.
pT181 and pC221 are closely related Staphylococcus aureus plasmids with the same genome organization, which is characterized by the overlapping of the origin of replication with the sequence encoding a protein, Rep, essential for plasmid replication. Former results have shown the lack of in vivo cross-complementation between these two plasmids, while in vitro studies have revealed the ability of both Rep proteins to act on either origin. One possible explanation for this difference was based on a previous analysis of the incompatibility expressed by the origin of replication of these plasmids, showing that the origin embedded in the rep gene competes for Rep utilization with the origin of a test plasmid and that changes in the sequence of the origin reduce its ability to compete. To avoid this problem, in the present work special hybrids were constructed in which the origin of replication overlapping the rep gene was mutationally inactivated, without changing the amino acid sequence of the encoded protein. The level of Rep expression by these hybrids could be varied by taking advantage of what is presently known about the control of Rep synthesis in plasmid pT181.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Temporary intranasal prosthesis for a surgical defect of septum and columella.
A temporary intranasal prosthesis for the treatment of a surgical defect of the septum and columella after resection for a neoplasm has been described. The prosthesis is applied as soon as possible after surgery, which will limit complications during healing. Silicone elastomer is used because its softness does not produce decubitus ulcer, and it will accurately fit the surgical defect. The prosthesis can be relined easily during the postoperative period.


Krüppel-like factor 12 regulates aging ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis by repressing SPHK1 transcription and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) production.
Oxidative stress triggered by aging, radiation, or inflammation impairs ovarian function by inducing granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis. However, the mechanism inducing GC apoptosis has not been characterized. Here, we found that ovarian GCs from aging patients showed increased oxidative stress, enhanced reactive oxygen species activity, and significantly decreased expression of the known antiapoptotic factor sphingosine-1-phosphate/sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) in GCs. Interestingly, the expression of Krüppel-like factor 12 (KLF12) was significantly increased in the ovarian GCs of aging patients. Furthermore, we determined that KLF12 was significantly upregulated in hydrogen peroxide-treated GCs and a 3-nitropropionic acid-induced in vivo model of ovarian oxidative stress. This phenotype was further confirmed to result from inhibition of SPHK1 by KLF12. Interestingly, when endogenous KLF12 was knocked down, it rescued oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. Meanwhile, supplementation with SPHK1 partially reversed oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. However, this function was lost in SPHK1 with deletion of the binding region to the KLF12 promoter. SPHK1 reversed apoptosis caused by hydrogen peroxide-KLF12 overexpression, a result further confirmed in an in vitro ovarian culture model and an in vivo 3-nitropropionic acid-induced ovarian oxidative stress model. Overall, our study reveals that KLF12 is involved in regulating apoptosis induced by oxidative stress in aging ovarian GCs and that sphingosine-1-phosphate/SPHK1 can rescue GC apoptosis by interacting with KLF12 in negative feedback.


Epidemiological analysis of bovine ephemeral fever in 2012-2013 in the subtropical islands of Japan.
Bovine ephemeral fever (BEF) is a febrile disease of cattle that is transmitted by arthropod vectors such as mosquitoes and Culicoides biting midges. An outbreak of BEF recently occurred in Ishigaki Island and surrounding islands that are located southwest of Japan. In this study, an epidemiological analysis was conducted to understand the temporal and spatial characteristics of the outbreak. Factors associated with the disease spread within Ishigaki Island were investigated by hierarchical Bayesian models. The possibility of between-island transmission by windborne vectors and transmission by long-distance migration of infected vectors were examined using atmospheric dispersion models. In September 2012, the first case of the disease was detected in the western part of Ishigaki Island. In 1 month, it had rapidly spread to the southern part of the island and to surrounding islands, and led to 225 suspected cases of BEF during the outbreak. The dispersion model demonstrated the high possibility of between-island transmission by wind. Spatial analysis showed that paddy fields, farmlands, and slope gradients had a significant impact on the 1-km cell-level incidence risk. These factors may have influenced the habitats and movements of the vectors with regard to the spread of BEF. A plausible incursion event of infected vectors from Southeast Asia to Ishigaki Island was estimated to have occurred at the end of August. This study revealed that the condition of a terrain and land use significantly influenced disease transmission. These factors are important in assessing favorable environments for related vectors. The results of the dispersion model indicated the likely transmission of the infected vectors by wind on the local scale and on the long-distance scale. These findings would be helpful for developing a surveillance program and developing preventive measures against BEF.


An electrochemical DNA biosensor based on nitrogen-doped graphene/Au nanoparticles for human multidrug resistance gene detection.
Multidrug resistance (MDR) has become a major obstacle to the adequate treatment of cancer patients; thus, there is an urgent need for exploring new strategies for early diagnosis of MDR in clinic. Here, we report a novel electrochemical biosensor based on nitrogen-doped graphene nanosheets functionalized with Au nanoparticles (N-G/Au) for sensitive and selective DNA detection. The highly conductive nanocomposite layer was characterized by using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. DNA with thiol groups at the 5' end was immobilized on the N-G/Au surface via the strong Au-S bond. Differential pulse voltammetry was applied to monitor the target DNA hybridization event using methylene blue as an electrochemical indicator. Under optimal conditions, the biosensor could detect target DNA down to 3.12×10(-15)M with a linear range from 1.0×10(-14) to 1.0×10(-7)M, showing high sensitivity. Further, the sensing strategy was successfully used for detecting MDR1 DNA in real clinical samples. These results will aid in developing a new portable detection system for MDR that will allow effective diagnosis in the early stages of related cancer.


Pharmacotherapy of respiratory muscles.
This article assesses the role of pharmacotherapy in the management of respiratory muscle dysfunction. It focuses on two classes of drugs, the methylxanthines and the sympathomimetic agents. A prospective section focuses also on the particularities of the diaphragm among the skeletal striated muscles. In addition, a new approach to respiratory pharmacotherapy, which may be beneficial in patients with respiratory muscle dysfunction, is suggested.


Bone mineral density and mammographic density in Mexican women.
Bone mineral density (BMD) is a putative marker for lifetime exposure to estrogen. Studies that have explored whether BMD is a determinant of mammographic density (MD) have observed inconsistent results. Therefore,we examined this potential association in a sample of women (n = 1,516) from the clinical sub-cohort in the Mexican teachers' cohort (n = 115,315). We used multivariable linear regression to assess the association between quartiles of BMD and percent MD, as well as total dense and non-dense area of the breast, stratified by menopausal status. We also examined the associations by body mass index (BMI) (< 30 kg/m(2), ≥ 30 kg/m(2)). Overall, there was no association between BMD and MD among premenopausal women. However, when we stratified by BMI, there was a modest inverse association between BMD and percent MD (difference between extreme quartiles = -2.8, 95 % CI -5.9, 0.27, p trend = 0.04) among women with BMI < 30 kg/m(2), but a positive association among obese women (comparable difference = 5.1, 95 % CI 0.02, 10.1, p trend = 0.03;p interaction < 0.01). Among postmenopausal women, BMD and percent MD were positively associated after adjustment for BMI (p trend < 0.01). Postmenopausal women in the highest two quartiles of BMD had 4–5 % point higher percent MD compared to women in the lowest quartile. The association did not differ by BMI in postmenopausal women (p interaction = 0.76). Among obese premenopausal women as well as postmenopausal women, BMD was positively associated with percent MD. Among leaner premenopausal women, BMD and percent MD were modestly inversely associated. These findings support the hypothesis that cumulative exposure to estrogen (as measured by BMD) may influence MD.


Plants used in Chinese and Indian traditional medicine for improvement of memory and cognitive function.
In traditional practices of Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, numerous plants have been used to treat cognitive disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). An ethnopharmacological approach has provided leads to identifying potential new drugs from plant sources, including those for cognitive disorders. Many drugs currently available in Western medicine were originally isolated from plants, or are derived from templates of compounds isolated from plants. Some anticholinesterase (anti-ChE) alkaloids isolated from plants have been investigated for their potential in the treatment of AD, and are now in clinical use. Galantamine, isolated from several plants including Lycoris radiata Herb., which was used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is licensed in the United Kingdom for the treatment of mild to moderate AD. Various other plant species have shown pharmacological activities relevant to the treatment of cognitive disorders, indicating potential for therapeutic use in disorders such as AD. This article reviews some of the plants and their active constituents that have been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and TCM for their reputed cognitive-enhancing or antiageing effects. Plants and their constituents with pharmacological activities that may be relevant for the treatment of cognitive disorders, including enhancement of cholinergic function in the central nervous system (CNS), anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, are discussed.


Relief of catabolite repression in a cAMP-independent catabolite gene activator mutant of Escherichia coli.
We isolated and characterized a new catabolite gene activator mutant (crp*) of Escherichia coli that confers cAMP-independent expression and total relief of catabolite repression of beta-galactosidase and tryptophanase synthesis. The two mutations responsible for this phenotype change the amino acids at codon 72 from Glu to Ala and at codon 144 from Ala to Thr in the corresponding CAP* protein.


[Control of sexually transmitted diseases in Senegal].
STD are an important public health problem in numerous developing countries. Although satisfactory diagnostic and therapeutic means are available, the incidence of STD is increasing. Among the causes for this are sociological factors, like the weakening of customs and the family unit, and the development of tourism, which stimulates prostitution. There is a marked ignorance of the population in respect to STD. The Senegalese Government, WHO, and the Geneva-based Sandoz Institute launched in 1976 a joint programme of service, training and sesearch. The research aims at developing a preventive approach, especially through health education. While the three centers set up have accomplished good work locally, results are still disappointing from a public health point of view. Weak spots are in particular: - inadequacy of the social and contact-tracing services; -lack of action at the periphery and of integration with primary health care; -lack of coordination with other sectors (including police), and with professionals of various disciplines who should contribute to the socio-economic investigation of the problem. Several groups have recently been created in Senegal to support the project. An evaluation will soon be carried out. Such programmes should be implemented in other countries of the region.


Improvement in metabolic indices including thyroid hormones via enhanced absorption of nutrients by Teduglutide in short bowel syndrome.
Short bowel syndrome is characterized by maldigestion and malabsorption resulting in deficiencies of multiple nutrients including vitamins and minerals. Most subjects required parental elimination for survival. GLP-2 RA Teduglutide was recently approved for treatment of short bowel syndrome especially for those requiring parenteral support. Our intent in reporting this subject is to demonstrate the utility of Teduglutide in improving multiple metabolic indices in presence of short bowel syndrome. 66-year-old Caucasian female presented with a history of short bowel syndrome and associated vitamin deficiencies, hypothyroidism requiring large dose (300 μg) of levothyroxine, diarrhea and liver cirrhosis. Upon starting teduglutide the subject saw improvement in her symptoms. Moreover, daily dose of Levothyroxine required a gradual decrease to maintain desirable serum concentrations of Free T4, Free T3 and TSH. Serum levels of several vitamins attained greater than therapeutic concentrations requiring dosage reductions. Also notable was the improvement in her liver function tests, remission from ascites and episodes of hepatic encephalopathy and regeneration of liver nodules. Following administration of GLP2 therapy, an adult subject with short bowel syndrome with concurrent hypothyroidism and multiple vitamin deficiencies, demonstrated a marked improvement in her metabolic parameters resulting in reduction in daily medication doses along with improvement in manifestations of liver cirrhosis.


The relationship of distance learning with ocular surface disorders in students in the COVID-19 pandemic.
To evaluate ocular surface disorders in students whose daily screen time increased due to distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eighty-eight eyes of 44 cases were included in this cross-sectional study. The distance learning students with complaints of redness, stinging, and increased blinking were evaluated. Biomicroscopic examination findings, spherical equivalent, keratometry values, and average daily average screen time were recorded. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) survey and non-contact tear film breakup time (BUT) assessment (Topcon CA-800) were performed. Forty-four cases between 15 and 25 years old were evaluated; 25 were girls (56.8%), 19 were boys (43.2%), and the mean age was 19.2 ± 3.9 years (15-25). The mean daily screen time was 4.9 ± 0.9 h. The mean non-contact BUT was 3.18 ± 2.0 s (1.24-8.80 s), and the spherical equivalent was -1.39 ± 1.79. Punctate epitheliopathy was present in 33 eyes (37.5%) on biomicroscopic examination. The mean OSDI score was 37.12 ± 20.30 (10-75) points. A significant positive correlation was present between daily average screen time, punctate epitheliopathy (r = 0,341; p = 0,001), and OSDI score (r = 0,510; p < 0,001). There was also a significant positive correlation between the OSDI score and punctate epitheliopathy (r = 0.754; p < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between the non-contact BUT and punctate epitheliopathy, OSDI score, or daily screen time (p > 0.05). Ocular surface disorders in students can be associated with increasing daily screen time due to distance learning.


Family support in intensive care units during COVID-19 visit ban: A multinational Delphi Study during first COVID-19 wave.
This study assessed opinions and experiences of healthcare professionals, former patients and family members during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and focuses on challenges in family-centred care for intensive care unit patients and affected families. A two-round modified Delphi process assessed the opinions and experiences of experts such as healthcare professionals, former patients and their families (n = 151). This study was conducted across four countries in Europe. In total, 121 participants (response rate 80.13%) answered the first Delphi round; the second was answered by 131 participants (response rate 86.75%). Participants perceived family support in the intensive care unit as highly important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enabling contact amongst patients, families and clinicians is regarded as essential to build hope and confidence in the treatment and the recovery process. The extraordinary situation led to the implementation of new communication structures such as video calls and websites. A consensus was reached between healthcare professionals that virtual contact is essential for patients with COVID-19 and their families during visit restrictions. This should be done to establish confidence in the treatment.


Identification of Uric Acid Gluconucleoside-Ascaroside Conjugates in Caenorhabditis elegans by Combining Synthesis and MicroED.
Few nucleoside-derived natural products have been identified from animals, despite the ubiquity of nucleosides in living organisms. Here, we use a combination of synthesis and the emerging electron microscopy technique microcrystal electron diffraction to determine the structures of several N3-(β-glucopyranosyl)uric acid derivatives in Caenorhabditis elegans. These noncanonical gluconucleosides further integrate an ascaroside moiety, for which we present a shortened synthetic route. The production of a phosphorylated gluconucleoside is influenced by evolutionarily conserved insulin signaling.


Risk factors for pulmonary hypertension in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a cross-sectional study.
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients has attracted increasing attention. This cross-sectional survey aimed to explore PH prevalence and identify potential risk factors in MHD patients. A total of 136 MHD patients were assessed at the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (China) between October 2012 and November 2014. Relevant parameters included primary disease, dialysis duration, height, weight, and interdialytic weight gain. Doppler echocardiography was performed post-hemodialysis to evaluate cardiac structure and function; fistula diameters and blood flow rates were measured by vascular ultrasound. Before and 4 weeks after echocardiography, biochemical parameters were measured. Patients were divided into PH and nPH groups, and their primary diseases were analyzed. T test and Chi-square test were used as appropriate; Pearson's correlation and logistic regression analysis were employed to assess possible PH risk factors. PH prevalence was 38.23 % in MHD patients and 73.68 % in those with concurrent diabetes, i.e., higher than in chronic glomerulonephritis (35 %) and hypertension (33.33 %) groups. Interestingly, PH was positively correlated with left atrium, right atrium, and ventricle dimensions, and the degree of cardiac hypertrophy. In addition, diabetes and interdialytic weight gain were positively correlated with PH, while hemoglobin levels showed a negative correlation. Finally, multiple logistic regression analysis revealed interdialytic weight gain and hemoglobin as major risk factors for PH in MHD patients. PH prevalence was 38.23 % in MHD patients, a ratio increased in individuals with concurrent diabetes. Other major risk factors for PH in MHD patients include declined hemoglobin levels and increased interdialytic weight gain.


Neuroprotective strategies following perinatal hypoxia-ischemia: Taking aim at NOS.
Perinatal asphyxia is characterized by oxygen deprivation and lack of perfusion in the perinatal period, leading to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and sequelae such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation, cerebral visual impairment, epilepsy and learning disabilities. On cellular level PA is associated with a decrease in oxygen and glucose leading to ATP depletion and a compromised mitochondrial function. Upon reoxygenation and reperfusion, the renewed availability of oxygen gives rise to not only restoration of cell function, but also to the activation of multiple detrimental biochemical pathways, leading to secondary energy failure and ultimately, cell death. The formation of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and peroxynitrite plays a central role in the development of subsequent neurological damage. In this review we give insight into the pathophysiology of perinatal asphyxia, discuss its clinical relevance and summarize current neuroprotective strategies related to therapeutic hypothermia, ischemic postconditioning and pharmacological interventions. The review will also focus on the possible neuroprotective actions and molecular mechanisms of the selective neuronal and inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor 2-iminobiotin that may represent a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, both in combination with therapeutic hypothermia in middle- and high-income countries, as well as stand-alone treatment in low-income countries.


AMOG/beta2 and glioma invasion: does loss of AMOG make tumour cells run amok?
The beta2 subunit of Na,K-ATPase, initially described as adhesion molecule on glia (AMOG), has been shown to mediate neurone-astrocyte adhesion as well as neural cell migration in vitro. We have investigated the expression of AMOG/beta2 in human gliomas and its effect on glioma cell adhesion and migration. Compared to normal astrocytes of human brain, AMOG/beta2 expression levels of neoplastic astrocytes were down-regulated in biopsy specimens and inversely related to the grade of malignancy. One rat and four human glioma cell lines showed complete loss of AMOG. To investigate the function of AMOG/beta2, its expression was re-established by transfecting an expression plasmid into AMOG/beta2-negative C6 rat glioma cells. In vitro assays revealed increased adhesion and decreased migration on matrigel of AMOG/beta2-positive cells as compared to their AMOG/beta2-negative counterparts. We conclude that increasing loss of AMOG/beta2 during malignant progression parallels and may underlie the extensive invasion pattern of malignant gliomas.


[Manipulation aided by joint cavity extension followed by occlusal splint for treatment of acute anterior disk displacement without reduction].
To evaluate a new treatment method for temporomandibular joint acute disk displacement without reduction. Twenty-one patients diagnosed as acute anterior disk displacement without reduction were treated by manipulation with the aid of joint cavity extension followed by anterior repositioning splint. All and eleven of twenty-one patients were re-examined two weeks after insertion of splint and at the end of treatment (3 approximately 6 months later). (1) Degree of maximum mouth opening was increased from 25.8 mm before treatment to 46.6 mm 2 weeks after, 48.1 mm at the end of treatment; (2) Mean pain level (VAS) dropped from 2.62 before treatment to 0.43 2 weeks after, 0.18 at the end of treatment; (3) Fricton's TMJ dysfunction index and craniomandibular index decreased from 0.337 and 0.185 respectively before treatment to 0.021 and 0.011 respectively 2 weeks after, 0.031 and 0.018 respectively at the end of treatment. The treatment method should be considered for acute anterior disk displacement without reduction if medication and physical therapy failed to have disk successfully reduced.


Methamphetamine-Induced Cognitive Deficits and Psychiatric Symptoms Are Associated with Serum Markers of Liver Damage.
Cognitive deficits and psychiatric disorders have been regarded as the most common clinical symptoms of methamphetamine (MA) users. Accumulating evidence has shown that liver disease may be involved in cognitive deficits and psychiatric disorders. This study examines whether cognitive deficits and psychiatric symptoms are associated with serum levels of liver biomarkers in MA users. Cognition was assessed by the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of neuropsychological Status (RBANS). Psychiatric symptoms were assessed by the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90). Liver function was assessed by serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein, albumin, globulin, Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), triglyceride, total cholesterol, and glucose concentrations in 106 MA addicts and 76 controls. Compared to control subjects, MA users had greater severity of psychotic symptoms on the dimension of somatization, depression, anxiety, psychoticism, addiction, and global severity index in SCL-90, and lower scores of cognition, including the total RBANS score and all five subscales. The globulin levels were increased, while the albumin, albumin/globulin, and ApoB levels were decreased. ApoB levels were positively correlated with immediate memory, attention, and total RBANS score. Furthermore, stepwise multivariate regression analysis indicated that ApoB levels were associated with immediate memory, attention, and total RBANS score. The findings of this study suggest that MA addicts might experience cognitive deficits, psychiatric disorders, and liver damage. Serum ApoB levels may be involved in cognitive deficits; thus, improving liver function may help to treat cognitive deficits and psychiatric disorders in MA addicts.


Metacognitive errors in the classroom: The role of variability of past performance on exam prediction accuracy.
Students often make incorrect predictions about their exam performance, with the lowest-performing students showing the greatest inaccuracies in their predictions. The reasons why low-performing students make inaccurate predictions are not fully understood. In two studies, we tested the hypothesis that low-performing students erroneously predict their exam performance in part because their past performance varies considerably, yielding unreliable data from which to make their predictions. In contrast, high-performing students tend to have consistently high past performance that they can rely on to make relatively accurate predictions of future test performance. Results showed that across different exams (Study 1) and different courses (Study 2), low-performing students had more variable past performance than high-performing students. Further, results from Study 2 showed that variability in past course performance (but not past exam performance) was associated with poor calibration. Results suggest that variability in past performance may be one factor that contributes to low-performing students' erroneous performance predictions.


Phototherapy for Improvement of Performance and Exercise Recovery: Comparison of 3 Commercially Available Devices.
Recent studies suggest the prophylactic use of low-powered laser/light has ergogenic effects on athletic performance and postactivity recovery. Manufacturers of high-powered lasers/light devices claim that these can produce the same clinical benefits with increased power and decreased irradiation time; however, research with high-powered lasers is lacking. To evaluate the magnitude of observed phototherapeutic effects with 3 commercially available devices. Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. Laboratory. Forty healthy untrained male participants. Participants were randomized into 4 groups: placebo, high-powered continuous laser/light, low-powered continuous laser/light, or low-powered pulsed laser/light (comprising both lasers and light-emitting diodes). A single dose of 180 J or placebo was applied to the quadriceps. Maximum voluntary contraction, delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and creatine kinase (CK) activity from baseline to 96 hours after the eccentric exercise protocol. Maximum voluntary contraction was maintained in the low-powered pulsed laser/light group compared with placebo and high-powered continuous laser/light groups in all time points (P < .05). Low-powered pulsed laser/light demonstrated less DOMS than all groups at all time points (P < .05). High-powered continuous laser/light did not demonstrate any positive effects on maximum voluntary contraction, CK activity, or DOMS compared with any group at any time point. Creatine kinase activity was decreased in low-powered pulsed laser/light compared with placebo (P < .05) and high-powered continuous laser/light (P < .05) at all time points. High-powered continuous laser/light resulted in increased CK activity compared with placebo from 1 to 24 hours (P < .05). Low-powered pulsed laser/light demonstrated better results than either low-powered continuous laser/light or high-powered continuous laser/light in all outcome measures when compared with placebo. The increase in CK activity using the high-powered continuous laser/light compared with placebo warrants further research to investigate its effect on other factors related to muscle damage.


Copper stress alleviation in corn (Zea mays L.): Comparative efficiency of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanoparticles.
Copper (Cu) stress is one of the predominant crop yield-reducing factors in agriculture. Application of carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) could have promotive effects on crop growth; however, their effects on alleviation of Cu stress for plants have rarely been documented. In this study, we investigated the comparative role of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) in corn (Zea mays) seed germination, seedling growth as well as Cu stress alleviation. The results showed that CNTs and CNPs stimulated corn seed germination by significantly increasing germination rate (GR), shortening the mean germination time (MGT), and increasing overall germination index (GI). They also significantly elongated seedling length and increased fresh biomass with optimal application rates ranging from 50 to 100 mg L-1. Principle component analysis (PCA) confirmed that seed germination indexes and seedling growth were positively affected by CNTs or CNPs, but inversely influenced by high levels of Cu stress (> 20 mg L-1). Furthermore, higher Cu accumulation and anti-oxidative enzyme activity (SOD, POD, CAT) were observed in plants co-exposed to Cu2+ and either CNTs or CNPs compared to plants exposed to Cu2+ alone. CNPs had stronger improvement on plant growth and Cu stress alleviation than CNTs, which suggest they may be cost-effective agriculture amendments to improve plant growth under heavy metal stress.


Sensorimotor representation and knowledge-based reasoning for spatial exploration and localisation.
We investigate a hybrid system for autonomous exploration and navigation, and implement it in a virtual mobile agent, which operates in virtual spatial environments. The system is based on several distinguishing properties. The representation is not map-like, but based on sensorimotor features, i.e. on combinations of sensory features and motor actions. The system has a hybrid architecture, which integrates a bottom-up processing of sensorimotor features with a top-down, knowledge-based reasoning strategy. This strategy selects the optimal motor action in each step according to the principle of maximum information gain. Two sensorimotor levels with different behavioural granularity are implemented, a macro-level, which controls the movements of the agent in space, and a micro-level, which controls its eye movements. At each level, the same type of hybrid architecture and the same principle of information gain are used for sensorimotor control. The localisation performance of the system is tested with large sets of virtual rooms containing different mixtures of unique and non-unique objects. The results demonstrate that the system efficiently performs those exploratory motor actions that yield a maximum amount of information about the current environment. Localisation is typically achieved within a few steps. Furthermore, the computational complexity of the underlying computations is limited, and the system is robust with respect to minor variations in the spatial environments.


Detection of a novel HLA-B*15 variant, HLA-B*15:01:37, in a Taiwanese unrelated hematopoietic stem cell donor.
One nucleotide substitution at residue 531 of HLA-B*15:01:01:01 results in a new allele, HLA-B*15:01:37.


Effect of magnetic field exposure on calcium channel currents using patch clamp technique.
Calcium influxes through the membrane of PC-12D cells were measured under exposure to DC biased AC magnetic fields in resonant conditions of the ion cyclotron and the ion parametric resonance hypotheses and compared with influxes in cells without exposure to the magnetic field. After cancellation of the geomagnetic field, the cells were exposed to the horizontal fields generated by a current sheet, a planar sheet of conductor which generated a satisfactorily homogeneous horizontal magnetic field on the stage of a microscope without hindering treatment of a cell under observation. At or near any resonant conditions, no change in calcium influx could be detected under standard patch clamp conditions.


Sequential pore wall functionalization in covalent organic frameworks and application to stable camptothecin delivery systems.
Post-synthetic modification of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is strongly demanded in order to provide additional functionalities to their structures. However, the introduction of functional groups during the synthesis of two dimensional COFs (2D COFs) is highly discouraged, as they can interfere with the π-π stacking forces, compromising framework integrity. Here, we show that direct incorporation of nucleophyllic groups (e.g., primary amines) on pore wall during the synthesis of a 2D-COF (COF-5) is possible by sequential substitution of original monomers. Subsequent bonding of the antitumor drug camptothecin results in a stable hydrophobic drug delivery system. Water adsorption isotherms modelling indicates that the insertion of CPT ligand in the framework promotes a hydrophobic effect that protects a region of COF chain from boronate ester hydrolysis and resulting degradation, which is also proven by stability testing in physiological conditions. Furthermore, this hydrophobic nature favors cell internalization kinetics by promoting interactions with the lipophilic cell membrane. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of a stable drug delivery system based on covalently conjugated COFs.


Effect of waterproof breathable membrane based cathodes on performance and biofilm microbiomes in bioelectrochemical systems.
A novel method for fabricating air-cathodes was developed by assembling an activated carbon (AC) catalyst together with a waterproof breathable membrane (WBM) and stainless steel mesh (SSM) to reduce manufacturing costs of bioelectrochemical systems (BESs). WBMs made of different materials were tested in the assembly, including a hybrid of polypropylene and polyolefin (PPPO), polyethylene (PE), and polyurethane (PU), and compared against poly tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-based cathodes. Results showed that the maximum power density of the activated carbon-stainless steel mesh-polyurethane (AC@SSM/PU) assembly was 2.03 W/m2 while that of conventional carbon cloth cathode assembly (Pt@CC/PTFE) was 1.51 W/m2. Compared to conventional cathode fabrication, AC@SSM/PU had a much lower cost and simpler manufacturing process. Illumina Miseq sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons indicated that microbiomes were substantially different between anode and cathode biofilms. There was also a difference in the community composition between different cathode biofilms. The predominant population in the anode biofilms was Geobacter (38-75% relative abundance), while Thauera and Pseudomonas dominated the cathode biofilms. The results demonstrated that different types of air-cathodes influenced the microbial community assembly on the electrodes.


Construction of diploid zygotes by interallelic complementation of ade6 in Schizosaccharomyces japonicus.
The construction of diploid cells eases genetic analysis in haploid genetic systems because diploid cells allow for the characterization of essential genes. Here, we report the construction of diploid cells using ade6 point mutants that suppress each other via interallelic complementation in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces japonicus var japonicus (Sz. japonicus). We constructed an ade6-domK mutant in addition to the previously described ade6-domE. Phenotypes of both mutants exhibited adenine auxotrophy and red colonies. The mutations complemented the phenotypes in a mutually dependent manner. Diploid zygotes, in which the two mutations were introduced simultaneously into the same cells, were isolated by selecting for adenine independence. Such diploid cells are apparently larger in size than haploid cells, yet have a similar nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio, and thus the nuclear size control that has been reported in Sz. pombe is also present in Sz. japonicus.


[Histochemical and electrophoretic determination of a selected element of the rat myocardium metabolism as exemplified by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH/E.C.188.8.131.52/) following administration of the preparation Biseptol 480 (co-trimoxazole)].
Histochemical and electrophoretic examinations of the effect of Biseptol 480 on lactate dehydrogenase in the rat heart muscle were carried out on white male rats of Wistar strain of about 300 g in weight. The rats were divided into 2 groups: experimental group of 10 rats and a control one of 5 rats. Experimental rats were given, by stomach tube, 80 g of Biseptol 480, suspended in 1 cm3 of distilled water for 7 consecutive d. Control rats were given 1 cm3 of distilled water for 7 consecutive d too. Samples were taken from the experimental and control rats to examine lactate dehydrogenase and to make isoenzyme separation. The lack of differences between the experimental rat samples and those control ones permitted to conclude that Biseptol 480 administered to rats, did not bring about significant histoenzymatic and electrophoretic changes suggesting a disbalance in the examined stage of metabolism in the rat heart muscle.


Habitat selection in larval anurans: early experience and substrate pattern selection in Rana pipiens.
The tadpoles of Rana pipiens, unlike those of other frogs that have been reported on, do not develop clear-cut perceptual preferences for familiar background patterns composed of either squares or stripes. When larvae reared on white and/or patterned backgrounds are tested for preference between these backgrounds, they all exhibited a preference for white backgrounds. When the larvae were tested for preference among uniform backgrounds of varying brightness, those reared on the two brighter backgrounds showed no preference, and those reared on the two darker backgrounds preferred the brightest of the available backgrounds. The larvae of R. pipiens behave as if they possess an experientially modifiable defense reaction such that, when frightened, they move preferentially onto brighter backgrounds and avoid boldly patterned backgrounds. A pattern may be less aversive if it is familiar than if it is unfamiliar. Larvae from South Dakota tended to habituate more effectively to striped backgrounds, and those from Wisconsin to backgrounds composed of squares.


Surgical approach to combined carotids and coronaries lesions.
A preoperative carotid evaluation by a Duplex Scanner ATL Mark V has been carried out in 338 patients candidates to CABG. When a critical lesion was detected a digital angiography was subsequently performed. In 19 patients an operation was done because the coexistence of lesions in the carotids and the coronaries. The indications, the timing of the operations and the surgical approach are discussed. In the Author's minds the combined procedure seems to be advisable.


Ocular surface squamous neoplasia.
Ocular surface squamous neoplasia presents as a spectrum from simple dysplasia to carcinoma in situ to invasive squamous cell carcinoma involving the conjunctiva as well as the cornea. It is a distinct clinical entity, although it has been known by a variety of different names throughout the literature. Most commonly it arises in the limbal region, occurring particularly in elderly males who have lived in geographic areas exposed to high levels of ultraviolet-B radiation. Symptoms range from none to severe pain and visual loss. The development of preoperative diagnostic techniques, such as impression cytology, are of value in clinical decision making and follow-up management. Simple excision with adequate margins is currently the best established form of treatment despite trials of other modalities. The course of this disease may be evanescent, but is more frequently slowly progressive and may require exenteration and occasionally may lead to death.


Exploring the Difficulties and Strategies of Family Caregivers in Caring for Patients With Dementia in Acute Care Wards.
Providing appropriate care to patients with dementia in acute care settings can be a challenge for healthcare professionals. A key factor is working closely with family caregivers. This study aims to explore the difficulties and strategies involved in caring for patients with dementia who have been admitted to an acute care ward from the perspective of family caregivers. Exploratory research was conducted using a qualitative data collection approach. Data were collected by means of in-depth interviews carried out with participants. Semistructured interviews were conducted with nine participants. Content analysis was performed to analyze the data. A number of themes and subthemes were identified based on the primary research purposes. The first theme is "vicious cycle due to multiple factors," with the following subthemes: (a) communication disturbance, (b) endless worries, (c) inadequate care skills of paid caregivers, and (d) physical and psychological exhaustion. The second theme is "do everything," with the following subthemes: (a) management of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, (b) constant accompaniment of the patient, and (c) seeking sources of support. The results may be used to help healthcare professionals better anticipate the difficulties faced by family caregivers while providing assistance to patients with dementia and understand the related strategies they use. Acute care wards should consider the specific needs of family caregivers to ensure patients with dementia receive adequate care from the relevant parties in the ecological care chain during the care process.


Monorhamnolipids and 3-(3-hydroxyalkanoyloxy)alkanoic acids (HAAs) production using Escherichia coli as a heterologous host.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa produces the biosurfactants rhamnolipids and 3-(3-hydroxyalkanoyloxy)alkanoic acids (HAAs). In this study, we report the production of one family of rhamnolipids, specifically the monorhamnolipids, and of HAAs in a recombinant Escherichia coli strain expressing P. aeruginosa rhlAB operon. We found that the availability in E. coli of dTDP-L: -rhamnose, a substrate of RhlB, restricts the production of monorhamnolipids in E. coli. We present evidence showing that HAAs and the fatty acid dimer moiety of rhamnolipids are the product of RhlA enzymatic activity. Furthermore, we found that in the recombinant E. coli, these compounds have the same chain length of the fatty acid dimer moiety as those produced by P. aeruginosa. These data suggest that it is RhlAB specificity, and not the hydroxyfatty acid relative abundance in the bacterium, that determines the profile of the fatty acid moiety of rhamnolipids and HAAs. The rhamnolipids level produced in recombinant E. coli expressing rhlAB is lower than the P. aeruginosa level and much higher than those reported by others in E. coli, showing that this metabolic engineering strategy lead to an increased rhamnolipids production in this heterologous host.


Comparing the performance of three panels rules of blood smear review criteria on an Italian multicenter evaluation.
The aims of this study were to compare the diagnostic accuracy of blood smear review criteria, by means of three different panel rules, those proposed by: the International Consensus Group for Hematology [41-ICGH rules], the Italian Survey [IS rules] and the Working Group on Hematology-SIBioC (WGH) consensus rules (WGH rules). This study is based on 2707 peripheral blood (PB) samples referred for routine hematological testing to the WGH-associated laboratories displaced all over the Italian territory. The PB samples were processed on seven different hematology analyzers (HAs): Advia 2120i, XE-2100, BC-6800, ABX Pentra, XN-1000, Cell-DYN Sapphire, and DxH800, respectively. All the results provided by the HAs were analyzed through the application of three different blood smear review criteria: that is, the 41-ICGH, IS, and WGH rules. Finally, data were compared with those obtained by optical microscopy (OM), as the current gold standard. The overall the agreement OM classification with ICGH, IS, and WGH panel rules is 0.83, 0.83, and 0.85, respectively. The false negatives are 2.1%, 3.0%, and 2.9%, while false positives are 15.1%, 13.7%, and 11.7%, respectively. All the seven HAs showed variable interinstrument performance, as three different criteria for OM review were adopted on each of them from time to time. These results presented show that the customization of validation rules is necessary for enhancing the quality of hematological testing and optimizing workflow.


Theory of Mind and Resource Allocation in the Context of Hidden Inequality.
In many situations, children evaluate straightforward resource inequalities as unfair. It remains unclear, however, how children interpret hidden inequalities (i.e., inequalities that are unknown to allocators and/or recipients). Children 3-9-years-old (N = 87) evaluated and attributed intentions to a naïve resource allocator who, while unaware of a hidden inequality, made three hypothetical resource allocations: 1) an unknowingly equitable allocation (which rectified the inequality), 2) an inequitable allocation (which perpetuated the inequality), and 3) an equal allocation (which maintained the inequality). Children without false belief morally-relevant theory of mind (FB MoToM) attributed more positive intentions to the unknowingly equitable allocation than to the inequitable allocation. Children with FB MoToM, however, did not differ in their attributions of intentions to the unknowingly equitable and inequitable allocations, reflecting their knowledge that the naïve allocator was not aware of the hidden inequality. Further, children's attributions of intentions were related to their evaluations of the allocations. These findings underscore the importance of children's social cognitive inferences to their evaluations of resource allocation decisions.


[The bioinformatic identification of proteins with varying levels of post-translational modifications in experimental ischemic stroke in mice].
The experimental data obtained by Simats A. et al. (Molecular and Cellular Proteomics, 2020, 19(12), 1921-1936) was analysed using a bioinformatic approach. Original experimental results available in the ProteomeXchange database were obtained using a comprehensive multidomain approach to identify potential blood biomarkers in ischemic stroke in mice. The identification of peptides with post-translational modification (PTM) was performed by us using the raw data (accession code PXD016538). Only phosphorylation and deamination were considered as PTMs. Different combinations of data sets (ischemic tissue with intact tissue, ischemic tissue with control taken from mice after sham surgery, etc.) were compared both in terms of the ratio of abundance for the modified peptide to the unmodified variant and in terms of absolute values of abundance. The most likely change in precisely PTM levels was shown for 27 proteins, which include dynamin, glycogen phosphorylase and 70 kDa heat shock protein.


A mode of action-based probabilistic framework of dose-response assessment for nonmutagenic liver carcinogens: a case study of PCB-126.
A main function of dose-response assessment is to estimate a "safe" dose in the target population to support chemical risk assessment. Typically, a "safe" dose is developed differently for cancer and noncancer effects based on a 2-step procedure, ie, point of departure (POD) derivation and low-dose extrapolation. However, the current dose-response assessment framework is criticized for its dichotomized strategy without integrating the mode of action (MOA) information. The objective of this study was, based on our previous work, to develop a MOA-based probabilistic dose-response framework that quantitatively synthesizes a biological pathway in a dose-response modeling process to estimate the risk of chemicals that have carcinogenic potential. 3,3',4,4',5-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB-126) was exemplified to demonstrate our proposed approach. There were 4 major steps in the new modeling framework, including (1) key quantifiable events (KQEs) identification and extraction, (2) essential dose calculation, (3) MOA-based POD derivation, and (4) MOA-based probabilistic reference dose (RfD) estimation. Compared with reported PODs and traditional RfDs, the MOA-based estimates derived from our approach were comparable and plausible. One key feature of our approach was the use of overall MOA information to build the dose-response relationship on the entire dose continuum including the low-dose region. On the other hand, by adjusting uncertainty and variability in a probabilistic manner, the MOA-based probabilistic RfDs can provide useful insights of health protection for the specific proportion of population. Moreover, the proposed framework had important potential to be generalized to assess different types of chemicals other than nonmutagenic carcinogens, highlighting its utility to improve current chemical risk assessment.


Variation in location of the distobuccal root canal in a permanent maxillary second molar: A case report.
Clinicians should be aware of the variations in the number of roots and root canals and the peculiar or eccentric location of root canals. An intraoperative CBCT can be very useful in improved visualization of the anatomical variations. This case report describes the unusual location of the distobuccal root canal in a maxillary second molar with root fusion. On access opening, three distinct root canal orifices, the mesiobuccal canal, palatal canal, and a third orifice closer to the palatal canal, were seen, giving an illusion of an additional palatal canal. An attempt was made to search for the distobuccal canal in its usual position, leading to the gouging of the pulp chamber floor. An intraoperative limited field of view cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) revealed the root orifice adjacent to the palatal canal was the distobuccal canal. CBCT also revealed fusion of both the buccal and palatal roots in the root's coronal and middle third region, but they were not fused apically.


Prevalence of camel trypanosomosis (surra) and associated risk factors in Borena zone, southern Ethiopia.
A study was made to determine the prevalence of camel trypanosomosis (surra) and its associated risk factors in Borena zone, southern Ethiopia during 2013-2014. A total of 2400 blood samples were collected and examined by the buffy coat and thin blood film laboratory methods, and data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical software. The overall prevalence of camel trypanosomosis in the area was found to be 2.33 %. Prevalence was significantly different among the surveyed districts (P = 0.000), the pastoral associations (F = 6.408, P = 0.000), altitudinal divisions (P = 0.000), age groups (P = 0.034), and between animals possessing packed cell volume (PCV) values greater than 25 % and less than 25 % (P = 0.000); whereas, prevalence of the disease was not statistically significantly different between the sexes (P = 0.311) and among the body condition score groups (P = 0.739). The PCV of trypanosome positive and trypanosome negative camels differ significantly (P = 0.001), and prevalence of trypanosomosis was seen to be negatively correlated with packed cell volume (r = -0.069, P = 0.000) revealing the effect of camel trypanosomosis on anemia state of parasitized animals. In conclusion, camel trypanosomosis is a serious and economically important disease hampering camel production and productivity in southern Ethiopia. Further studies involving more sensitive molecular techniques to reveal the precise magnitude of the disease and to identify the vector species of the parasite are recommended.


Immunotherapy with interleukin-2 (IL2) and lymphokine-activated natural killer cells: improvement of clinical responses in metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients previously treated with IL2.
Treatment with interleukin-2 (IL2) induces clinical responses in 15-30% of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (MRCC) patients, with mainly partial responses. In order to improve clinical response, we decided to treat partial response patients from a previous IL2 treatment with a second course of IL2 associated with lymphokine-activated natural killer (LANAK) cells. 10 patients who underwent PR after an IL2 protocol (24 x 10(6) U/m2/day, 2 days a week for 5 weeks, either alone or with interferon-gamma) subsequently received a combination of high-dose IL2 (16-20 x 10(6) U/m2/day, 2 days a week) and LANAK cell infusions. Four complete responses were obtained, and 2 additional patients whose tumour mass was further reduced achieved complete response following surgery. These results support the view that initial responses obtained with primary IL2 courses can be improved by complementary treatments. The potential role of cellular immunotherapy and, more particularly, of LANAK cells as an effective procedure to further reduce tumour burden in patients responsive to IL2 will have to be assessed in randomised studies.