Effects of internal sodium and hydrogen ions and of external calcium ions and membrane potential on calcium entry in squid axons.
Squid giant axons were impaled with electrodes to measure pNai, pHi, Em, and were injected with either aequorin or arsenazo III to measure [Ca]i or with phenol red to measure [H]i. Depolarization of such axons with elevated [K] in sea water leads to a Ca entry that is a function of [Ca]o, [Na]i, and [H]i. With saturating [Na]i half-maximal Ca entry is produced by a [Ca]o of 0.58 mM. With saturating [Ca]o, depolarization produced by 450 mM-K+ leads to half-maximal Ca entry when [Na]i is 25 mM; entry is virtually undetectable if [Na]i is 18 mM. If [Ca]o is 50 mM, Ca entry upon depolarization as measured with aequorin is phasic with a rapid phase of light emission and a plateau; Ca entry as measured with arsenazo III shows no such phasic behaviour, absorbance vs. time is a square wave that closely follows the depolarization vs. time trace. Both detectors of [Ca]i show a square-wave response if [Ca]o is 3 mM. The introduction of 2 mM-CN into the sea water bathing the axon does not affect the response to depolarization nor does the destruction of most of the ATP in the axon following the injection of apyrase. If axons are microinjected with phenol red rather than arsenazo, the entry of Ca produces an acidification in the peripheral parts of the axoplasm. Other experiments measuring [Ca]i show that Ca entry is strongly inhibited by a decrease in pHi. Making sea water alkaline with pH buffers scarcely affects the Ca entry induced by depolarization; making axoplasm alkaline by adding NH4+ to sea water greatly enhances Ca entry by Na/Ca exchange and also enhances the ability of axoplasmic buffers to absorb Ca.


Bose-enhanced chemistry: amplification of selectivity in the dissociation of molecular Bose-Einstein condensates.
We study the photodissociation chemistry of a quantum degenerate gas of bosonic triatomic ABC molecules, assuming two open rearrangement channels ( AB+C or A+BC). The equations of motion are equivalent to those of a parametric multimode laser, resulting in an exponential buildup of macroscopic mode populations. By exponentially amplifying a small differential in the single-particle rate coefficients, Bose stimulation leads to a nearly complete selectivity of the collective N-body process, indicating a novel type of ultraselective quantum degenerate chemistry.


Detection of triplet repeat sequences in the double-stranded DNA using pyrene-functionalized pyrrole-imidazole polyamides with rigid linkers.
Methods for sequence-specific detection in double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) are becoming increasingly useful and important as diagnostic and imaging tools. Recently, we designed and synthesized pyrrole (Py)-imidazole (Im) polyamides possessing two pyrene moieties, 1, which showed an increased excimer emission in the presence of (CAG)(12)-containing oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) 1 and 2. In this study, we synthesized bis-pyrenyl Py-Im polyamides with rigid linkers 2, 3, and 4 to improve their fluorescence properties. Among the conjugates, 2 showed a marked increase in excimer emission, which was dependent on the concentration of the target ODN and the number of CAG repeats in the dsDNA. Unlike conjugate 1, which has flexible linkers, the excimer emission intensity of 2 was retained at over 85%, even after 4h. Py-Im polyamides have the potential to be important diagnostic molecules for detecting genetic differences between individuals.


Germination and population structure of spear thistle Cirsium vulgare in relation to experimentally controlled sheep grazing.
The size and number of rosettes of Cirsium vulgare were censused in a 4 ha sheep grazing trial on lowland calcareous grassland in paddocks receiving controlled winter, spring and summer grazing treatments. Spring grazing significantly increased thistle rosette numbers, and there were always fewer rosettes in size classes 250mm-300 mm under the heavier grazing treatments. The emergence of seeds of Cirsium vulgare sown by hand into each of the grazing treatments was monitored and showed a positive effect of spring grazing. When the percent emergence of sown seeds was used as a covariate in the analysis of rosette numbers in the experimental paddocks, it was found to account for 77% of the variance in thistle numbers. It was concluded that the main effect of grazing on thistle rosette numbers is an indirect one exercised through the effects of grazing on germination conditions. Seeds of Cirsium vulgare were sown into artificial gaps at another grassland site, to determine the effect of gap-size upon seedling emergence. Germination was poor, but significantly more seedlings emerged in gaps 10-20 cm diameter, than in 5 cm gaps or in control plots without a gap. A computer simulation model was used to explore the relationship between gap density and thistle population dynamics. A threshold density of gaps was found to exist, below which thistle populations went extinct, and above which the thistle population grew geometrically. The degree of aggregation of dispersed seeds did not alter the threshold gap-density for plant extinction, but did affect the rate of increase of the thistle population when the threshold gap-density was exceeded. It is concluded that strategies for controlling Cirsium vulgare populations by grazing manangement will be most effective if aimed at reducing suitable sites for establishment in spring. The success of such attempts will depend upon the soil fertility of the site, and sudden outbreaks of Cirsium vulgare infestation can be expected if a sward gradually deteriorates through over-grazing.


Power-assisted rotary cutter with negative pressure suction through small incision for axillary osmidrosis.
The glandular fluid secreted by apocrine sweat glands is decomposed by parasitic bacteria on the skin surface and releases a bad smell called axillary osmidrosis. To evaluate the effect of power-assisted rotary cutter with negative pressure suction through small incision for axillary osmidrosis. From January 2017 to January 2022, 647 patients with axillary osmidrosis underwent power-assisted rotary cutter with negative pressure suction through small incision surgery to treat for axillary osmidrosis. The operation time (min), intraoperative bleeding (ml) and recovery time (days) were counted. Three months after operation, the amount of underarm sweat, the disappearance of underarm hair, the incidence of operation, the effective rate of operation, and the satisfaction of operation results were evaluated by questionnaire. There were no postoperative complications except five cases of mild axillary pigmentation after 3 months. All patients evaluated good odor elimination. No patient was rated as average or poor. No recurrence. Power-assisted rotary cutter with negative pressure suction through small incision is an effective and ideal surgical method to reduce the complications and recurrence of axillary osmidrosis.


Alzheimer's disease - the 'microbial hypothesis' from a clinical and neuroimaging perspective.
The etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is under debate since its first description in 1906. Extracellular senile plaques composed of beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ) and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles composed of tau protein characterize the histopathology of the disease. The 'amyloid cascade hypothesis' summarizes the molecular mechanisms leading to deposition of these proteins. However, treatments derived from this hypothesis have been unsuccessful. An infectious etiology for AD has been repeatedly proposed. Neurotropic viruses, gut and lung bacteriae, and Bovine Meat and Milk Factors have been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders including AD. These pathogens may act directly or as a trigger or co-factor for inducing neurodegeneration in AD. The antimicrobial properties of beta-amyloid have shifted the discussion of the etiological origin of AD towards an interaction hypothesis. Neuroimaging studies have added to the understanding of mechanisms involved in neurodegeneration. Antiviral agents and a bacterial protease inhibitor targeting Porphyromonas gingivalis toxins are currently tested in clinical trials. Further clinical studies are needed to test if strategies directly derived from the 'microbial hypothesis' or combination strategies including antimicrobial agents may be beneficial for patients with Alzheimer's disease.


A 10-year retrospective cohort study of non-tubal ectopic pregnancy management outcomes in an Australian tertiary centre.
Non-tubal ectopic pregnancy (NTEP) is a rare but significant early pregnancy complication which can result in maternal morbidity and mortality. There is however a lack of evidence-based guidelines for the management of NTEP. To evaluate the success rates of expectant, medical and surgical management in the treatment of NTEP at our tertiary centre. Retrospective cohort study from 2010 to 2020. All NTEP were classified by ectopic sites. Primary management was classified by expectant, medical [systemic methotrexate (Sys-MTX) and/or local ultrasound-guided injection of MTX and/or KCl intra-sac (L-MTX, L-MTX/KCl)] or surgical. Primary management was considered successful if no change in intervention was required. Treatment complications were compared. Twenty-four NTEP were identified, which included 14 interstitial pregnancies (IP), 9 caesarean scar pregnancies (CSP) and 1 ovarian pregnancy (OP), which gave NTEP an incidence of 7.12% among all EP (4.15% for IP, 2.67% for CSP and 0.30% for OP). The success of primary surgical management was 100% (7/7), primary medical management was 76.9% (10/13) and primary expectant management was 33.3% (1/3). Primary medical management had a non-statistically significant greater mean time to serum ß-human Chorionic Gonadotrophin <5 IU/L, mean length of hospitalisation, mean number of follow-up visits and hospital re-presentation/readmissions compared to primary surgical management. There was no other difference in complication rates between the treatment management groups. Surgery remains the most effective way to manage NTEP. However, medical management can be a safe and effective alternative option in carefully selected cases.


Rapidly developing functional genomics in ecological model systems via 454 transcriptome sequencing.
Next generation sequencing technology affords new opportunities in ecological genetics. This paper addresses how an ecological genetics research program focused on a phenotype of interest can quickly move from no genetic resources to having various functional genomic tools. 454 sequencing and its error rates are discussed, followed by a review of de novo transcriptome assemblies focused on the first successful de novo assembly which happens to be in an ecological model system (the Glanville fritillary butterfly). The potential future developments in 454 sequencing are also covered. Particular attention is paid to the difficulties ecological geneticists are likely to encounter through reviewing relevant studies in both model and non-model systems. Various post-sequencing issues and applications of 454 generated data are presented (e.g. database management, microarray construction, molecular marker and candidate gene development). How to use species with genomic resources to inform study of those without is also discussed. In closing, some of the drawbacks of 454 sequencing are presented along with future prospects of this technology.


Neglected Adult Tinea Capitis in South China: A Retrospective Study in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, from 2007 to 2021.
Tinea capitis (TC) in adults is much less frequently diagnosed in comparison to TC in children. In this study, we explored retrospectively adult TC in a specialized dermatology hospital, located in South China, during the years 2007-2021. Among 1037 TC cases, 168 (16.2%) patients were older than 18 years. The majority of adults with TC, 77.38% (130/168), were older than 40, with a peak in the age of 51-60 years (40/168, 23.81%). Before presenting at our hospital, many of patients did not got proper treatment due to misdiagnosis or simply did not consulted an appropriate clinic. 60.71% (102/168) of the patients reported symptoms lasting for more than 1 year and 29.76% (50/168) reported chronic scalp problems of at least 10 years. And 27.38% (46/168) of the patients had an immunocompromised status, including long-term use of corticosteroids shampoo, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), psoriasis vulgaris, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus or bullous pemphigoid. As for clinical presentation, 87.5% (147/168) of the cases presented as black dot type of TC and anthropophilic dermatophytes were the predominant etiology, with Trichophyton violaceum (126), T. tonsurans (15), T. rubrum (8) and T. shoenleinii (6). Grey patch type of TC (3.57%, 6/168) was seldom in Jiangxi Province and zoophilic/geophilic dermatophytes were rare. Our study indicates that anthropophilic Trichophyton species can cause long-lasting TC in adults. Not in all cases, the manifestation had symptom clearly indicating a dermatophyte-related TC. Thus, patients with long-lasting scalp inflammation, also older ones, should be examined for the presence of dermatophyte-related TC.


Synthesis, characterization, in vitro antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities of selenium nanoparticles decorated with polysaccharides of Gracilaria lemaneiformis.
Under a simple redox system of selenite and ascorbic acid, we used Gracilaria lemaneiformis polysaccharides (GLPs) as a stabilizer and dispersing agent to generate well-dispersed and stable selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). The size, stability, morphology and physicochemical properties of GLPs-SeNPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Thermogravimetric (TG). The results showed that orange-red, amorphous, zero-valent and spherical GLPs-SeNPs with mean diameter of approximately 92.5 nm were successfully prepared, which exhibited good storage stability at 4 °C and remaining highly stable at different ion strengths and pH. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) and superoxide anion radical (O2•-) radical scavenging ability of GLPs-SeNPs were higher than those of bare SeNPs, GLPs and sodium selenite (Na2SeO3), and could reach 103.41%, 94.23%, 86% at a concentration of 1.5 mg/mL, respectively. Besides, GLPs-SeNPs also showed higher inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase. In vitro cytotoxicity assay and hemolysis activity examinations indicated that GLPs-SeNPs have excellent biocompatibility. Therefore, the GLPs-SeNPs might be used as a potential antioxidant agent and antidiabetic agent for food and medical applications.


Fabrication of reusable sensor for detection of Cu2+ in an aqueous solution using a self-assembled monolayer with surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy.
The proposed procedure for recycling the sensor surface consists of (1) the self-assembly of 2-aminoethanethiol hydrochloride (AET) on the Au substrate, (2) the neutralization of zwitterion-like species, -NH3+Cl- to -NH2 by treatment with a NaOH solution (pH 11), (3) the detection of Cu2+ on the NaOH-treated AET-Au substrate, and finally (4) regeneration of the sensor surface from [-NH2--> Cu2+] to [-NH3+Cl-] by treatment with 1 M HCl.


Interrelationship between arterial hypertension, health service costs, therapeutic treatment and physical activity.
Arterial hypertension is a high prevalence disease that increase healthcare costs and affects physical activity level. This study aimed to analyse the interrelationship between arterial hypertension, health service costs, therapeutic treatment, and physical activity in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Cross-sectional study that evaluated 306 patients from a hospital in Presidente Prudente-Brazil. Based on their medical diagnosis, they were classified into multiple groups to access primary care and hospital-related costs variations. Then, using data from medical records and face to face interviews, they were examined on their treatment adherence and physical activity practice. Healthcare costs were accessed using medical records. Finally, the generalised linear model was used to analyse the interrelationship between treatment adherence, physical activity, health care costs and arterial hypertension. The data were analysed with Stata/MP4 16, and a p-value of less than 5% was used to determine statistical significance. The group that adhered to the arterial hypertension treatments but were physically inactive presented higher costs with consultation (US$=24.1, 95%CI = 1.90;46,3) medication (US$=56.60, 95%CI = 1.65; 111.5) and total primary health care costs (US$=71.60, 95%CI = 19.2; 123.9) even after adjusting for confounding variables, meanwhile those participants that adhered to the treatments and were physical active did not present difference in healthcare cost when compared to normotensive and physical active participants. To be adherent to hypertension treatment were related to higher health care costs meanwhile been physical activity were related to lower health care costs and the combination of both showed that be adherent and physical activity represent the same cost with health than those normotensive and active emphasizing the importance of adherence and physical activity in the hypertensive treatment.


Imaging of osteochondrosis.
Osteochondrosis is an abnormality of the epiphyses or epiphyseal equivalents (round bones and apophyses) during later stages of endochondral ossification. This process of abnormal endochondral ossification can occur at various locations throughout the body. The pathogenesis of osteochondrosis is under active investigation. In humans, the process of abnormal endochondral ossification has been attributed to a combination of vascular insult and trauma. Although the proposed etiology of osteochondrosis varies based on body part affected, the overall process is defined by necrosis, revascularization and repair. As such, common radiologic findings include those of osseous destruction and associated inflammation. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current understanding of osteochondroses as a disease entity and explore imaging features of osteochondroses throughout the body.


The effects of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) on pro-atherosclerosis mechanisms.
Brominated flame-retardants (BFRs) are environmental endocrine disruptors, comprising several pollutants, which potentially affect the endocrine system and cause dysfunction and disease. Widespread BFR exposure may cause multisystem toxicity, including cardiovascular toxicity in some individuals. Studies have shown that BFRs not only increase heart rate, induce arrhythmia and cardiac hypertrophy, but also cause glycolipid metabolism disorders, vascular endothelial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses, all of which potentially induce pre-pathological changes in atherosclerosis. Experimental data indicated that BFRs disrupt gene expression or signaling pathways, which cause vascular endothelial dysfunction, lipid metabolism-related disease, inflammation, and possibly atherosclerosis. Considerable evidence now suggests that BFR exposure may be a pro-atherosclerotic risk factor. In this study, we reviewed putative BFR effects underpinning pro-atherosclerosis mechanisms, and focused on vascular endothelial cell dysfunction, abnormal lipid metabolism, pro-inflammatory cytokine production and foam cell formation. Consequently, we proposed a scientific basis for preventing atherosclerosis by BFRs and provided concepts for further research.


Therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia after single-agent treatment with fludarabine for chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
A 70-year-old man with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) received single-agent treatment with the purine analogue fludarabine, which led to complete remission. After 8 years, he presented with pancytopenia. Marrow examination showed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with trilineage myelodysplasia (MDS). Cytogenetic analysis showed an unbalanced der(1;7)(p10;q10) that resulted effectively in deletion 7q; confirming the diagnosis of therapy-related AML (t-AML). No residual CLL was present. Together with previous reports of secondary cancers after fludarabine treatment and the association of monosomy 7/7q- with another purine analogue azathioprine, results suggest that t-AML might develop after fludarabine therapy.


Kynurenine metabolite changes in individuals with alcohol use disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Growing evidence suggests an abnormal metabolism of kynurenine in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed at assessing the possible differences in kynurenine metabolites between individuals with AUD and controls. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases and included any clinical studies comparing the peripheral blood levels of at least one metabolite, between individuals with AUD and controls without AUD. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to generate pooled standardized mean differences (SMD). Subgroup analyses and meta-regression analyses were conducted. A total of seven eligible studies with 572 participants were included. The peripheral blood levels of kynurenine (SMD = 0.58; p = 0.004) along with the ratio of kynurenine and tryptophan (SMD = 0.73; p = 0.002) were higher in individuals with AUD, while kynurenic acid levels (SMD = -0.81; p = 0.003) were reduced in individuals with AUD compared to controls. The peripheral blood levels of tryptophan along with the ratio of kynurenic acid and kynurenine were unaltered. Subgroup analyses confirmed these results. Our results suggested a shift in the tryptophan metabolism to the kynurenine pathway and a down-regulation of the potentially neuroprotective kynurenic acid in individuals with AUD.


Nitric oxide production after acute, unilateral hydrochloric acid-induced lung injury in a canine model.
To determine if acute unilateral lung injury induces only local or systemic inflammatory effects by measuring the production of nitric oxide (NO) and its metabolites (nitrites and nitrates) in the injured and the contralateral lung and the blood initially and 4 hrs after injury. Unilateral hydrochloric acid instillation in split lung intubated subject studied over time. Animal physiology laboratory. Five mongrel dogs. Instillation of 10 mL of 0.1 N hydrochloric acid into one lung via a plastic catheter. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was done at 4 hrs. Unilateral acid instillation did not alter systemic blood pressure or cardiac output, nor did it induce arterial hypoxemia. The BAL nitrite and nitrate level on the side of injury was higher than the control side (3.6+/-1.36 vs. 1.5+/-1.58 mM, p < .05), and serum nitrites and nitrates levels also decreased from the levels before acid instillation levels (p < .05). Exhaled NO levels were measured only in three animals. The levels increased acutely on hydrochloric acid instillation from only the injured lung and returned to baseline over several minutes. However, the level of exhaled NO from the injured lung failed to increase 4 hrs after injury, despite the increase in BAL nitrites and nitrates. Acute unilateral lung injury in the dog results in increased NO production that is compartmentalized to the injured lung. The increase in exhaled NO after injury is transient and does not allow one to monitor the progress of lung injury.


A dual-channel visual sensing system for recognition of multiple metal ions.
Here, we propose a simple, rapid, and effective colorimetric sensor array for discrimination of metal ions. The sensor array was constructed using two sensing channels, i.e., gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)- Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)-H2O2 and AuNPs-O-phenylenediamine (OPD)-H2O2 reaction systems. The presence of metal ions with positive charges would lead to the corresponding surface charge change of negatively charged AuNPs, resulting in diverse catalytic performances of citrate-modified AuNPs, accompanied by a substantial colorimetric performance of oxidation products of TMB and OPD. Employing the diversity of colorimetric responses of metal ions to the two sensing channels, nine metal ions including Cr3+, Fe3+, Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Mg2+, K+, and Cd2+ were well distinguished with a discrimination accuracy of 100% at a concentration as low as 50 nM. Further experiment showed that the sensor array was also capable of discriminating and quantifying metal ions at various concentrations, as well as the identification of metal ion mixtures. The feasibility of the sensor array was also verified by the successful identification of the nine metal ions in river water samples.


Dietary fiber during gestation improves lactational feed intake of sows by modulating gut microbiota.
The feed intake of sows during lactation is often lower than their needs. High-fiber feed is usually used during gestation to increase the voluntary feed intake of sows during lactation. However, the mechanism underlying the effect of bulky diets on the appetites of sows during lactation have not been fully clarified. The current study was conducted to determine whether a high-fiber diet during gestation improves lactational feed intake (LFI) of sows by modulating gut microbiota. We selected an appropriate high-fiber diet during gestation and utilized the fecal microbial transplantation (FMT) method to conduct research on the role of the gut microbiota in feed intake regulation of sows during lactation, as follows: high-fiber (HF) diet during gestation (n = 23), low-fiber (LF) diet during gestation (n = 23), and low-fiber diet + HF-FMT (LFM) during gestation (n = 23). Compared with the LF, sows in the HF and LFM groups had a higher LFI, while the sows also had higher peptide tyrosine tyrosine and glucagon-like peptide 1 on d 110 of gestation (G110 d). The litter weight gain of piglets during lactation and weaning weight of piglets from LFM group were higher than LF group. Sows given a HF diet had lower Proteobacteria, especially Escherichia-Shigella, on G110 d and higher Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus_mucosae_LM1 and Lactobacillus_amylovorus, on d 7 of lactation (L7 d). The abundance of Escherichia-Shigella was reduced by HF-FMT in numerically compared with the LF. In addition, HF and HF-FMT both decreased the perinatal concentrations of proinflammatory factors, such as endotoxin (ET), lipocalin-2 (LCN-2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The concentration of ET and LCN-2 and the abundance of Proteobacteria and Escherichia-Shigella were negatively correlated with the LFI of sows. The high abundance of Proteobacteria, especially Escherichia-Shigella of LF sows in late gestation, led to increased endotoxin levels, which result in inflammatory responses and adverse effects on the LFI of sows. Adding HF during gestation reverses this process by increasing the abundance of Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus_mucosae_LM1 and Lactobacillus_amylovorus.


Adverse effect of splenectomy on growth and survival with murine lymphosarcoma.
Recent reports suggest that splenectomy may improve host resistance and inhibit solid tumor growth. The effect of splenectomy on lymphoid tumors in less clear. This study evaluates and compares the effect of splenectomy on tumor growth, therapy and survival in murine lymphosarcoma and mammary tumor. Gardner lymphosarcoma (5 x 10(5) cells) was implanted subcutaneously into 400 6C3HED mice (20 g). Two hundred mice underwent splenectomy 10 days previously. Animals were randomly placed into four groups. Group I (tumor alone) and Group II (splenectomy and tumor) received no further therapy. Group III (tumor) and Group IV (splenectomy and tumor) received cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg/day x 3 days) beginning 10 days after implantation. The rate of implantation was similar in all groups (greater than 90%). Tumor growth was localized in controls, but was widespread in splenectomized mice. Survival analysis at 30 days showed an increased mortality in untreated mice (Group II) following splenectomy (p less than .02). Survival was (13/102) 12.75% Group I versus (8/103) 7.77% Group II. Survival was similar in mice receiving chemotherapy (36%) and was (p less than .001) greater than the untreated groups (12%). A similar protocol in mice with mammary tumor showed no differences between groups in tumor localization or survival postsplenectomy. These data suggest that splenectomy adversely affects localization and survival in murine lymphosarcoma but not in solid tumor. The variable effect of this operation on the natural history of lymphoid versus solid neoplasia questions the advisability of splenectomy in staging of patients with lymphosarcoma.


Innovation versus Experimentation: An Application of Ethical Frameworks to the Acceptance of Fluorescence-Guided Pediatric Surgery.
Innovation is essential to the advancement of the field of pediatric surgery. The natural skepticism toward new technologies in pediatrics leads to frequent confusion of surgical innovation and research. Using fluorescence-guided surgery as an archetype for this ethical discussion, we apply existing conceptual frameworks of surgical innovation to understand the distinction between innovation and experimentation, acknowledging the spectrum and "grey zone" in between. In this review, we discuss the role of Institutional Review Boards in evaluating surgical practice innovations, and the aspects of certain surgical innovations that are distinct from experimentation, including a thorough understanding of the risk profile, preexisting use in humans, and adaptation from related fields. Examining fluorescence-guided surgery through these existing frameworks as well as the concept of equipoise, we conclude that new applications of indocyanine green do not constitute human subjects research. Most importantly, this example gives practitioners a lens through which they may appraise potential surgical innovations to allow for a sensible and efficient improvement of the field of pediatric surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.


Prosocial behavior in competitive fish: the case of the archerfish.
Humans are social creatures, demonstrate prosocial behaviors, and are sensitive to the actions and consequent payoff of others. This social sensitivity has also been found in many other species, though not in all. Research has suggested that prosocial tendencies are more pronounced in naturally cooperative species whose social structure requires a high level of interdependence and allomaternal care. The present study challenges this assumption by demonstrating, in a laboratory setting, that archerfish, competitive by nature, preferred targets rewarding both themselves and their tankmates, but only when the payoff was equal. With no tankmate on the other side of the partition, they exhibited no obvious preference. Finding evidence for prosocial behavior and negative responses to unequal distribution of reward to the advantage of the other fish suggests that in a competitive social environment, being prosocial may be the most adaptive strategy for personal survival, even if it benefits others as well.


Automata, reason, and free will: Leibniz's critique of Descartes on animal and human nature.
This paper argues that Leibniz's use of the concept of "automaton" to characterize the nature of souls and bodies of living beings constitutes a systematic critique of Descartes' earlier use of automata. Whereas Descartes conceived non-human animals in terms of mechanical automata, he also denied that the human rational soul can be modeled on the nature of an automaton. In contrast, Leibniz understood living things to involve both an organic body, or "natural automaton," as well as an immaterial soul, or "spiritual automaton," that spontaneously produces its own perceptions. In extending the concept of the automaton to souls, Leibniz rejected key Cartesian assumptions about animals and free will and draws on the concept of the automaton to understand a range of cognitive capacities including volition. Leibniz thus occupies a distinctive place in the history of the use of automata to understand the nature of living things.


Malignant melanoma of the gallbladder.
A rare case of primary malignant melanoma of the gallbladder was studied with the electron microscope. Two interesting patterns were observed: numerous melanophages were present in the tumor tissue and wrapped compound melanosomes were found in nonneoplastic mucosal epithelium. The infiltration of melanophages was considered to be a reaction to degenerated tumor cells. Concerning the mechanism of melanosome transport into the epithelial cells, a cooperative action between epithelial and melanoma cells seemed to be the most important factor.


Novel cross-strand three-purine stack of the highly conserved 5'-GA/AAG-5' internal loop at the 3'-end termini of Parvovirus genomes.
We have used two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (2D-NMR), distance geometry (DG) and molecular dynamics / energy minimization (MD/EM) methods to study a 2 x 3 asymmetric internal loop structure of the highly conserved 5'-(GA)/(AAG)-5' bubble' present at the 3'-end hairpin of the single-stranded DNA genome of parvoviruses. This motif contains an unpaired adenosine stacked between two bracketed sheared G.A pairs. However, the phenomenal cross-strand G-G and A-A stacking in the tandem sheared G.A pairs has undergone considerable change. A novel three-purine stacking pattern is observed instead; the inserted A18 base is completely un-stacked from its neighboring G 17 and A 19 bases, but well stacked with the cross-strand A4 and G3 bases to form a novel A4/A18/G3 stack that is different from the double G/G, A/A or quadruple G/G/G/G stack present in the 5'-(GA)/(AG)-5' or 5'-(GGA)/(AGG)-5' motifs. Unlike the bulged purine residue that usually causes about 20 degree kink in the helical axis of the parent helix when bracketed by canonical G.C or A.T base pairs, no significant kink is observed in the present helix containing a bulged-adenine that is bracketed by sheared G.A pairs. The phosphodiesters connecting G3-A4 and G17-A18 residues adopt unusual zeta torsional angles close to the trans domain, yet that connecting A18-A19 residues resumes the normal zeta(g-) value. The well structured '5'-(GAA)/(AG)-5" internal loop in the parvovirus genomes explains its resistance to single-strand specific endonuclease susceptibility.


Impact of autologous transplantation on survival in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who have high-risk cytogenetics: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Despite routine evaluation of cytogenetics in myeloma, little is known regarding the impact of high-dose therapy (HDT) consolidation on overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS) in patients who have high-risk cytogenetics. The authors performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the heterogeneity of HDT efficacy according to cytogenetic risk. All RCTs in patients who had newly diagnosed myeloma from 2000 to 2021 that compared upfront HDT versus standard-dose therapy (SDT) consolidation were included. The primary objective was to assess the difference in HDT efficacy between standard-risk and high-risk cytogenetics in terms of the OS or PFS log(hazard ratio) (HR). The pooled OS and PFS HR was calculated according to cytogenetic-risk subgroup using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity (I2 ) (the percentage of total observed variability explained by between-study differences) was assessed using an interaction test. After screening 3307 citations, 6 RCTs were included for PFS analysis, and 4 were included for OS analysis. The median follow-up ranged from 3.1 to 7.8 years. The pooled OS HR for HDT versus SDT consolidation in patients with standard-risk and high-risk cytogenetics was 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.70-1.17; I2 = 0%) and 0.66 (95% CI, 0.45-0.97; I2 = 0%), respectively. The difference in HDT efficacy in terms of OS between standard-risk and high-risk patients was statistically significant in favor of the high-risk group (P for interaction = .03). The pooled PFS HR for HDT versus SDT was 0.65 (95% CI 0.56-0.76; I2 = 0%) versus 0.52 (95% CI, 0.33-0.83; I2 = 55%), respectively. The difference in HDT efficacy in terms of PFS between standard-risk and high-risk patients was not significant (P for interaction = .25). The magnitude of OS benefit with upfront HDT is cytogenetics-dependent. Patients with high-risk cytogenetics should preferably receive upfront rather than delayed HDT consolidation. Upfront autologous stem cell transplantation improves overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed myeloma harboring high-risk cytogenetics.


Frontal lobe dysfunction in pathological gambling patients.
Limited data are available about the validity of the diagnosis of pathological gambling (PG) and about the etiology and the efficacy of different treatment strategies of this disorder; however, similarities in decision-making behavior between PG patients and patients with ventromedial prefrontal cortex lesions suggest a possible implication of these areas in the pathophysiology of this disorder, as in obsessive-compulsive disorder, in which the decision-making impairment is significantly associated with response to serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment. Nevertheless, several studies have shown that decision-making functioning is also impaired in drug-addicted patients who have shown abnormalities in ventromedial prefrontal cortex during functional neuroimaging studies. We assessed the decision-making function mediated by the ventromedial prefrontal cortex in 20 PG patients and 40 healthy control (HC) subjects using the Gambling Task, which simulates real-life decision-making, testing the ability to balance immediate rewards against long-term negative consequence. Significant differences were found in Gambling Task performance between HC subjects and PG patients, who showed a specific decision-making profile across the sequence of the game. The dissimilarity does not appear to depend on the basic cognitive function deficit of the PG group. These data seem to suggest the existence of a link between PG and other disorders (i.e., obsessive-compulsive disorder and drug addiction) all having diminished ability to evaluate future consequences, which may be explained at least in part by an abnormal functioning of the orbitofrontal cortex.


Prussian blue analog with separated active sites to catalyze water driven enhanced catalytic treatments.
Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) uses the Fenton or Fenton-like reaction to yield toxic ‧OH following H2O2 → ‧OH for tumoral therapy. Unfortunately, H2O2 is often taken from the limited endogenous supply of H2O2 in cancer cells. A water oxidation CoFe Prussian blue (CFPB) nanoframes is presented to provide sustained, external energy-free self-supply of ‧OH from H2O to process CDT and/or photothermal therapy (PTT). Unexpectedly, the as-prepared CFPB nanocubes with no near-infrared (NIR) absorption is transformed into CFPB nanoframes with NIR absorption due to the increased Fe3+-N ≡ C-Fe2+ composition through the proposed proton-induced metal replacement reactions. Surprisingly, both the CFPB nanocubes and nanoframes provide for the self-supply of O2, H2O2, and ‧OH from H2O, with the nanoframe outperforming in the production of ‧OH. Simulation analysis indicates separated active sites in catalyzation of water oxidation, oxygen reduction, and Fenton-like reactions from CFPB. The liposome-covered CFPB nanoframes prepared for controllable water-driven CDT for male tumoral mice treatments.


Risk assessment in international operations.
During international peace-keeping missions, a diverse number of non-battle hazards may be encountered, which range from heavily polluted areas, endemic disease, toxic industrial materials, local violence, traffic, and even psychological factors. Hence, elevated risk levels from a variety of sources are encountered during deployments. With the emphasis within the Swedish military moving from national defense towards prioritization of international missions in atypical environments, the risk of health consequences, including long term health effects, has received greater consideration. The Swedish military is interested in designing an optimal approach for assessment of health threats during deployments. The Medical Intelligence group at FOI CBRN Security and Defence in Umeå has, on request from and in collaboration with the Swedish Armed Forces, reviewed a variety of international health threat and risk assessment models for military operations. Application of risk assessment methods used in different phases of military operations will be reviewed. An overview of different international approaches used in operational risk management (ORM) will be presented as well as a discussion of the specific needs and constraints for health risk assessment in military operations. This work highlights the specific challenges of risk assessment that are unique to the deployment setting such as the assessment of exposures to a variety of diverse hazards concurrently.


The solubilization of some local anaesthetic ester of p-aminobenzoic acid by lysophosphatidylcholine.
The solubilization by lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) of three n-alkyl esters of p-aminobenzoic acid has been studied. These esters have a local anaesthetic action. Quantitative studies show that the amount of compound solubilized is proportional to the LPC concentration and that solubilization increases in the order ethyl, n-propyl and n-butyl ester. 100MHz nmr studies indicate that the local anaesthetic esters are solubilized in the hydrocarbon interior of the LPC.


The gametic algebra for polyploidy with several loci.
In this paper it is shown that the genetic algebra of an infinitely large random mating population of polyploid individuals which differ at n linked loci, between which recombination may occur, is a genetic algebra. It has been assumed that at every locus there is a finite number of alleles and there is an arbitrary amount of double reduction.


Relationship between ankle position and pelvic floor muscle activity in female stress urinary incontinence.
To assess the influence of ankle position on pelvic floor muscle (PFM) activity in women with stress urinary incontinence. A total of 39 women, ranging in age from 38 to 72 years and clinically diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence, participated in testing of PFM activity changes during various pelvic tilt angles created by horizontal, dorsiflexed, and plantar flexed ankle positions. PFM activity was measured by an intravaginal probe with surface electromyographic electrodes. An adjustable angle platform was used to set the ankle in each of the positions to create the various pelvic tilt postures. Significant differences were found in resting PFM activity between horizontal standing with the ankle in the neutral position and standing with the ankle in plantar flexion (P = 0.01). Patients with ankle dorsiflexion also had greater resting PFM activity than with ankle plantar flexion (P < 0.01). Subjects showed significant changes in mean maximal PFM activity when standing with the ankle dorsiflexed and horizontal or in plantar flexion. A standing posture that includes various ankle positions effectively facilitates PFM activity through enhanced pelvic tilt. We recommend these ankle positions as an adjunctive option combined with PFM training for stress urinary incontinence.


Ocular flutter, generalized myoclonus, and trunk ataxia associated with anti-GQ1b antibodies.
To describe a movement disorder characterized by ocular flutter, trunk ataxia, and mild generalized myoclonus associated with anti-GQ1b antibodies. Case report. University hospital. A 37-year-old woman presented with rapid, conjugated, and periodic oscillations of the eyes with a strict preponderance for the horizontal plane (ocular flutter); trunk ataxia; and occasional arrhythmic muscle jerks (myoclonus) most pronounced at the neck. Brain magnetic resonance imaging results were normal. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed mild lymphocytic pleocytosis. Results of extensive serological tests on viral, bacterial, and fungal infections from blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples were unremarkable. Results of screening examinations for neoplasms and paraneoplastic antibodies, including whole-body fludeoxyglucose F18 positron emission tomography, were normal. Positive titers of IgG and IgM anti-GQ1b antibodies were found. This is the first description of an association between the clinical syndrome of ocular flutter, mild stimulus sensitive myoclonus, and trunk ataxia and anti-GQ1b antibodies. The association with ganglioside antibodies lends further support to the notion of an autoimmune-associated pathology of the syndrome.


[Esophageal perforation. Etiology, diagnosis, therapy].
Between 10/1997 and 2/2000 we treated eight patients (-66.5 y, 31-92 y, 5 male, 3 female). These cases were analyzed retrospectively. In one case the the perforation was located in the cervical part, in three cases in the intermediate part, and in four cases in the distal part oesophagus. In seven cases the perforation was caused by endoscopic and one acid burn in suicidal intention. Surgical treatment was performed in seven cases (87.5%), five of them with primary suture, two with primary esophageal resection. The mortality rate was 50%. There was no insufficiency of the suture, but two patients died because of pulmonary complications, one patient with known hepatic cirrhosis (Child C) because of an uncontrollable bleeding of his fundus and esophageal complications 5 days after successful surgical treatment, and one patient because of fulminant sepsis after dislocation of an enteral catheter. Three of the patients were operated within 12 hours after perforation, seven of them were operated within less than 24 hours. Surgical treatment of esophageal perforation within 24 hours after perforation shows good results. The outcome of the treatment depends on whether there are postoperative pulmonary complications and concomitant diseases. Enteral nutrition should be avoided in cases of primary esophageal resection to facilitate the surgical reconstruction at the second operation.


How to adjust the expected waiting time to improve patient's satisfaction?
Long waiting time in hospital leads to patient's low satisfaction. In addition to reducing the actual waiting time (AWT), we can also improve satisfaction by adjusting the expected waiting time (EWT). Then how much can the EWT be adjusted to attribute a higher satisfaction? This study was conducted though experimental with hypothetical scenarios. A total of 303 patients who were treated by the same doctor from August 2021 to April 2022 voluntarily participated in this study. The patients were randomly divided into six groups: a control group (n = 52) and five experimental groups (n = 245). In the control group, the patients were asked their satisfaction degree regarding a communicated EWT (T0) and AWT (Ta) under a hypothetical situation. In the experimental groups, in addition to the same T0 and Ta as the control group, the patients were also asked about their satisfaction degree with the extended communicated EWT (T1). Patients in five experimental groups were given T1 values with 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 min respectively. Patients in both control and experiment groups were asked to indicate their initial EWT, after given unfavorable information (UI) in a hypothetical situation, the experiment groups were asked to indicate their extended EWT. Each participant only participated in filling out one hypothetical scenario. 297 valid hypothetical scenarios were obtained from the 303 hypothetical scenarios given. The experimental groups had significant differences between the initial indicated EWT and extended indicated EWT under the effect of UI (20 [10, 30] vs. 30 [10, 50], Z = -4.086, P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in gender, age, education level and hospital visit history (χ2 = 3.198, P = 0.270; χ2 = 2.177, P = 0.903; χ2 = 3.988, P = 0.678; χ2 = 3.979, P = 0.264) in extended indicated EWT. As for patient's satisfaction, compared with the control group, significant differences were found when T1 = 80 min (χ2 = 13.511, P = 0.004), T1 = 90 min (χ2 = 12.207, P = 0.007) and T1 = 100 min (χ2 = 12.941, P = 0.005). When T1 = 90 min, which is equal to the Ta, 69.4% (34/49) of the patients felt "very satisfied", this proportion is not only significantly higher than that of the control group (34/ 49 vs. 19/52, χ2 = 10.916, P = 0.001), but also the highest among all groups. When T1 = 100 min (10 min longer than Ta), 62.5% (30/48) of the patients felt "very satisfied", it is significantly higher than that of the control group (30/ 48 vs. 19/52, χ2 = 6.732, P = 0.009). When T1 = 80 min (10 min shorter than Ta), 64.8% (35/54) of the patients felt "satisfied", it is significantly higher than that of the control group (35/ 54 vs. 17/52, χ2 = 10.938, P = 0.001). However, no significant difference was found when T1 = 70 min (χ2 = 7.747, P = 0.052) and T1 = 110 min (χ2 = 4.382, P = 0.223). Providing UI prompts can extend the EWT. When the extended EWT is closer to the AWT, the patient's satisfaction level can be improved higher. Therefore, medical institutions can adjust the EWT of patient's through UI release according to the AWT of hospitals to improve patient's satisfaction.


Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in trauma patients: a systematic review.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has evolved considerably over the past two decades and has been gradually utilized in severe trauma. However, the indications for the use of ECMO in trauma remain uncertain and the clinical outcomes are different. We performed a systematic review to provide an overall estimate of the current performance of ECMO in the treatment of trauma patients. We searched PubMed and MEDLINE databases up to the end of December 2019 for studies on ECMO in trauma. The PRISMA statement was followed. Data on demographics of the patient, mechanism of injury, injury severity scores (ISS), details of ECMO strategies, and clinical outcome were extracted. A total of 58 articles (19 retrospective reports and 39 case reports) were deemed eligible and included. In total, 548 patients received ECMO treatment for severe trauma (adult 517; children 31; mean age of adults 34.9 ± 12.3 years). Blunt trauma (85.4%) was the primary injury mechanism, and 128 patients had traumatic brain injury (TBI). The mean ISS was 38.1 ± 15.0. A total of 71.3% of patients were initially treated with VV ECMO, and 24.5% were placed on VA ECMO. The median time on ECMO was 9.6 days, and the median time to ECMO was 5.7 days. A total of 60% of patients received initially heparin anticoagulation. Bleeding (22.9%) and thrombosis (19%) were the most common complications. Ischemia of the lower extremities occurred in 9 patients. The overall hospital mortality was 30.3%. ECMO has been gradually utilized in a lifesaving capacity in severe trauma patients, and the feasibility and advantages of this technique are becoming widely accepted. The safety and effectiveness of ECMO in trauma require further study. Several problems with ECMO in trauma, including the role of VA-ECMO, the time to institute ECMO, and the anticoagulation strategy remain controversial and must be solved in future studies.


[Migration, health and healthcare access].
When addressing "migrants'" health and healthcare access, it is imperative to clarify which categories this term refers to. Indeed, the various statuses it comprises impact reception conditions, as well as individuals' state of health and healthcare access. While in France healthcare access is universal, recent studies document how migrants' legal and human trajectories become increasingly precarious, thus impeding healthcare access and negatively impacting their health -for the most vulnerable groups in particular, such as asylum seekers and refugees.


Salient molecular features of hepatitis C virus revealed.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a positive strand RNA virus with a narrow host and tissue tropism. It ranks among the most significant of human pathogens, causing inflammation, scarring and cancer of the liver. Recent investigations have shed light on some of the salient molecular features of this virus. These include a requirement for CD81 (a tetraspanin transmembrane protein for viral entry), a novel mechanism for the initiation of RNA synthesis, phosphorylation of a viral protein in the regulation of RNA amplification and virus assembly and, finally, a viral protease suppressing activation of the innate immune response in infected cells.


A preliminary analysis of the reduction of chemotherapy waste in the treatment of cancer with centralization of drug preparation.
chemotherapy is essential to treat most types of cancer. Often, there is chemotherapy waste in the preparation of drugs prescribed to the patient. Leftover doses result in toxic waste production. the aim of the study was to analyze chemotherapy waste reduction at a centralized drug preparation unit. the study was cross-sectional, observational and descriptive, conducted between 2010 and 2012. The data were obtained from chemotherapy prescriptions made by oncologists linked to a health insurance plan in Curitiba, capital of the state of Paraná, in southern Brazil. Dose and the cost of chemotherapy waste were calculated in each application, considering the dose prescribed by the doctor and the drug dosages available for sale. The variables were then calculated considering a hypothetical centralized drug preparation unit. there were 176 patients with a cancer diagnosis, 106 of which underwent treatment with intravenous chemotherapy. There were 1,284 applications for intravenous anticancer medications. There was a total of 63,824mg in chemotherapy waste, the cost of which was BRL 448,397.00. The average cost of chemotherapy waste per patient was BRL 4,607.00. In the centralized model, there was 971.80mg of chemotherapy waste, costing BRL 13,991.64. The average cost of chemotherapy waste per patient was BRL 132.00. the use of centralized drug preparation units may be a strategy to reduce chemotherapy waste.


Evaluation of Heavy-Chain C-Terminal Deletion on Product Quality and Pharmacokinetics of Monoclonal Antibodies.
Due to their potential influence on stability, pharmacokinetics, and product consistency, antibody charge variants have attracted considerable attention in the biotechnology industry. Subtle to significant differences in the level of charge variants and new charge variants under various cell culture conditions are often observed during routine manufacturing or process changes and pose a challenge when demonstrating product comparability. To explore potential solutions to control charge heterogeneity, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with native, wild-type C-termini, and mutants with C-terminal deletions of either lysine or lysine and glycine were constructed, expressed, purified, and characterized in vitro and in vivo. Analytical and physiological characterization demonstrated that the mAb mutants had greatly reduced levels of basic variants without decreasing antibody biologic activity, structural stability, pharmacokinetics, or subcutaneous bioavailability in rats. This study provides a possible solution to mitigate mAb heterogeneity in C-terminal processing, improve batch-to-batch consistency, and facilitate the comparability study during process changes.


Nitrification in Activated Sludge Exposed to Static Magnetic Field.
The study investigated wastewater treatment in an aerobic reactor with activated sludge exposed to static magnetic field (SMF) with mean induction of 8.1 mT. The efficiency of chemical oxygen demand removal was about 90% in a control reactor and an SMF-exposed reactor. Although the nitrification efficiency was higher than 95% in both reactors, the activity of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria was higher in the SMF-exposed reactor. This resulted in shortening of nitrification time to 4 h compared to 8 h in the control reactor. Higher number of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria in the SMF-exposed reactor might result from increased oxygen penetration into the liquid exposed to SMF, which favored growth of these bacteria. The results indicate that SMF enhanced nitrification, the most sensitive process from the biological nitrogen transformations. SMF influenced the overall biomass content that was 14% higher in the SMF-exposed reactor than in the control reactor.


Measuring Sleep, Wakefulness, and Circadian Functions in Neurologic Disorders.
Neurologic disorders impact the ability of the brain to regulate sleep, wake, and circadian functions, including state generation, components of state (such as rapid eye movement sleep muscle atonia, state transitions) and electroencephalographic microarchitecture. At its most extreme, extensive brain damage may even prevent differentiation of sleep stages from wakefulness (eg, status dissociatus). Given that comorbid sleep-wake-circadian disorders are common and can adversely impact the occurrence, evolution, and management of underlying neurologic conditions, new technologies for long-term monitoring of neurologic patients may potentially usher in new diagnostic strategies and optimization of clinical management.


The normal growth of the common iliac arteries in human fetuses - an anatomical, digital and statistical study.
The present study was carried out to compile normative data for dimensions of the common iliac arteries at varying gestational ages. We used anatomical dissection, digital-image analysis (system of Leica QWin Pro 16) and statistical analysis (Student T test, one-way ANOVA, post-hoc RIR Tukey test, and regression analysis) to examine the increase in length (mm), proximal external diameter (mm), and volume (mm³) of the common iliac arteries in 124 (60 males, 64 females) spontaneously aborted human fetuses aged 15-34 weeks. Neither sex nor right-left significant differences were found (P>0.05). The length ranged from 4.76 ± 1.05 to 15.38 ± 1.60 mm on the right, and from 4.92 ± 1.33 to 14.91 ± 1.25 mm on the left, according to the linear functions y=-3.598+0.585 × Age ± 1.522 (R²=0.83) and y=-3.107+0.554 × Age ± 1.444 (R²=0.83). The proximal external diameter increased from 0.66 ± 0.19 to 2.30 ± 0.42 mm on the right, and from 0.66 ± 0.14 to 2.16 ± 0.42 mm on the left, according to the quadratic models y=1.392-0.110 × Age + 0.004 × Age² ± 0.285 (R²=0.77) and y=1.283-0.099 × Age + 0.004 × Age² ± 0.238 (R²=0.81). The volumes were increasing from 1.93 ± 1.74 to 66.95 ± 29.31 mm³ on the right, and from 1.91 ± 1.65 to 56.86 ± 25.17 mm³ on the left, given by the quadratic functions: y=99.69-10.60 × Age+0.28 7 × Age² ± 14.40 (R²=0.67) and y=82.62-8.86 × Age + 0.242 × Age² ± 11.60 (R²=0.71). The common iliac arteries grow linearly in length, and parabolically in both diameter and volume. The right common iliac artery constitutes a predominant vessel in relation to its length, external diameter and volume. The morphometric data on the common iliac arteries may serve as a useful reference in the prenatal diagnosis and monitoring of congenital aorto-iliac abnormalities.


The butanol fraction of Eclipta prostrata (Linn) increases the formation of brain acetylcholine and decreases oxidative stress in the brain and serum of cesarean-derived rats.
Eclipta prostrata has been used as a traditional medicinal plant to prevent dementia and to enhance memory in Asia. Its potential as a nootropic and as an antioxidant have been reported in mice. We hypothesized that Eclipta may affect the formation of neurotransmitters and the inhibition of oxidative stress. Charles River cesarean-derived rats (male, 180 ± 10 g) were fed experimental diets supplemented with 0 mg (control), 25 mg (E25), 50 mg (E50), or 100 mg (E100) of a freeze-dried butanol fraction of E prostrata per kilogram of diet for 6 weeks. The acetylcholine level was significantly increased by 9.6% and 12.1% in the brains of E50 and E100 groups, respectively, as compared with the control group that was fed standard diet alone. The acetylcholine esterase activity was significantly increased by 13.1% and 19.7% in the brains of E50 and E100 groups, respectively, compared with the control group. Monoamine oxidase-B activity was significantly decreased by 10.5% in the brains of the E100 group, and the superoxide radical level was significantly reduced by 9.4% in the serum of the E100 group compared with the control group. Superoxide dismutase activity was significantly increased by 9.6% and 11.6% in the serum of E50 and E100 groups, respectively, compared with the control group. These results clearly demonstrate the effects of E prostrata on the formation of acetylcholine in the brain and the inhibition of oxidative stress in the brain and serum of rats. These findings may have implications for preventing dementia and enhancing memory function in humans.


The experiences of health workers using telehealth services for diabetes-related foot complications: a qualitative exploration.
Diabetes-related foot disease (DFD) accounts for up to 75% of lower-extremity amputations globally. Rural and remote communities are disproportionately affected by DFD. Telehealth has been advocated as a strategy to improve equity of access to health care in rural and remote communities. Current literature suggests that successful implementation of telehealth requires access to adequate reliable equipment, staff training, and support. A real-time video-based telehealth foot service (TFS) for delivering DFD management has recently been established in a Vascular Surgery and Podiatry clinic within a large South Australian metropolitan hospital. The purpose of this study was to gain insights into the experiences of rural and remote health professionals utilising the TFS, as this could be invaluable in optimising the uptake of telehealth use in DFD. This exploratory, descriptive qualitative study employed one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with health professionals who utilised the service. Thematic analysis using an essentialist inductive approach was employed. Participants included 14 rural and remote health professionals; 2 general practitioners, 2 nurses, 1 Aboriginal Health Practitioner, and 9 podiatrists. In addition, 2 metropolitan-based TFS staff were interviewed. Five key themes were identified. 'Patients have reduced travel burden' included that telehealth enabled Indigenous patients to stay on country. 'Patients had increased psychosocial support' covered the benefits of having health professionals who knew the patient present in consults. 'Improved access' incorporated how telehealth improved interprofessional relationship building and communication. 'Technological and equipment challenges' highlighted that poor network connectivity and poor access to equipment to conduct telehealth consults in rural areas were barriers. The last theme,'Lack of service communication to rural health professionals', highlighted the need for communication around service details. Telehealth is a valuable tool that can improve access to treatment for rural and remote Indigenous DFD patients. While this has the potential to improve DFD outcomes, empirical data is required to confirm outcomes. Considering the advantages of telehealth and rural staff shortages, there is an urgent need for investment in improved equipment and processes and an understanding of the training needs of the health care workforce to support the use of telehealth in DFD management.


Inhibition-Resistant CARs for NK Cell Cancer Immunotherapy.
The promise of natural killer (NK) cells as effectors in cancer cellular therapy is limited by their expression of dominant inhibitory receptors for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I. Here, we discuss how chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) engineered to override inhibitory signaling might boost NK cell antitumor responses, independently of blockade of NK cell inhibitory receptors.


Spontaneous rupture of a malignant rhabdoid tumour of the liver.
Malignant rhabdoid tumours (MRT) of the liver are rare. The criteria for pathological diagnosis are clearly defined, but the clinical behaviour of these tumours is still emerging. We report a MRT of the liver with the rare clinical presentation of spontaneous rupture.


Gender differences in nutritional status, diet and physical activity among adolescents in eight countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
The objective of this study was to evaluate gender differences in nutritional status, dietary intake, physical activity and hand hygiene among adolescents from diverse geographical settings in sub-Saharan Africa. This study utilised cross-sectional data from six countries (Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda) within the ARISE Adolescent Health Survey (n = 7625). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using measured heights and weights, and z-scores were calculated based on the 2007 WHO growth standards for age and sex. Information on demographics, diet and health behaviours was collected through face-to-face interviews using a standardised questionnaire. Site-specific and pooled prevalence ratios were determined. The prevalence of underweight, overweight and stunting pooled across sites was 14.3%, 6.8% and 18.1%, respectively. Female sex was associated with a lower risk of being underweight (pooled prevalence ratio 0.66, 95% 0.57, 0.77) and stunted (pooled PR 0.63, 95% CI 0.55, 0.71), but a higher risk of being overweight (pooled PR 1.60, 95% CI 1.26, 2.06). Females were also less likely to exercise for 1 h or more per day (pooled PR 0.77, 95% CI 0.67, 0.88), and more likely to wash hands after using toilets or latrines and to wash hands with soap (pooled PRs 1.13, 95% CI 1.05, 1.21 and 1.35, 95% CI 1.23, 1.45, respectively). Our results emphasise that sex is a key predictor of nutritional status among sub-Saharan African adolescents and suggest that gender-specific interventions may be required to reduce the double burden of under- and overnutrition.


Hybrid-abutment-restoration: effect of material type on torque maintenance and fracture resistance after thermal aging.
To evaluate the tightening torque maintenance with zirconia, lithium disilicate, and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) hybrid-abutment-crowns after thermal aging, in addition to assess the fracture resistance of hybrid-abutment-crowns fabricated with different materials. Thirty implants were restored with identical hybrid-abutment-crowns, resembling the maxillary first premolar, fabricated from zirconia (Zr), lithium disilicate (L2), or ceramic-reinforced PEEK (PE). The three groups (n = 10) were constructed utilizing a Ti-base. After bonding, each restoration was secured in its respective implant with a torque of 25 Ncm. All restorations were subjected to thermal aging for 7000 cycles. The loosening torque was assessed utilizing the digital torque meter. Each restoration was subjected to fracture testing and the mode of failure was determined. Zr group displayed the highest mean torque loss value (2.70 ± 0.59 Ncm) with the mean loosening torque value of 22.38 ± 0.68 Ncm. PE group displayed the lowest mean torque loss (2.55 ± 0.50 Ncm) with mean loosening torque value of 22.61 ± 0.59 Ncm. There was no significant difference between study groups regarding loosening torque (p = 0.68), torque loss (p = 0.80), and percentage of torque loss (p = 0.79). There was significant difference regarding the mean fracture load value between Zr and PE groups. However, there was no significant difference (p = 0.05) regarding mean fracture load value between L2 and PE groups. The hybrid-abutment-crown material does not affect the torque maintenance after thermal aging. Based on fracture load, zirconia hybrid-abutment-crown can be used, while lithium disilicate and PEEK hybrid-abutment-crowns may cautiously serve in premolar region.


[Which vessel, the artery or the vein is more important in vascular supercharge: an investigation of vascular changes on rat abdominal supercharging flap models].
The study was to reveal the vascular changes in three different supercharging flap models. From this study, we want to investigate which vessel, the artery or the vein is more important in elongating perforator flap survival and why. Twelve rats were divided into three experimental groups. The left side flaps in all groups were pedicle using xiphoid perforator as control group. The right side flaps were supercharging experimental group. Group I, flap supercharged based on artery and vein of pubis perforator. Group II, flaps supercharged based on artery of pubis perforator. Group III, flaps supercharged based on vein of pubis perforator. Near-infrared fluorescent angiography was performed using SPY imaging system pre-and-aft operation and all angiography videos were compared and analyzed. Showed in angiography video of SPY, in control group and vein supercharging group, blood supply could be observed the immediately reducing, and almost be disappeared the amount of perfusion to distal area. It shows relatively constant necrosis in the distal side of control group and vein supercharging group, and the necrosis of vein supercharging group smaller than these of control group. In artery, vein supercharging group and artery supercharging group, blood perfusion could be observed separately perfusion in the upper and low area of flap. There are complete survival showed on the artery supercharging group and artery and vein supercharging group. These findings indicated that congestive flap necrosis attribute to insufficiency of arterial blood. Arterial inflow was demonstrated more important for improved survival of distal flap than venous outflow.


Metabolic side-effects of the novel second-generation antipsychotic drugs asenapine and iloperidone: a comparison with olanzapine.
The second generation antipsychotic (SGA) drugs are widely used in psychiatry due to their clinical efficacy and low incidence of neurological side-effects. However, many drugs in this class cause deleterious metabolic side-effects. Animal models accurately predict metabolic side-effects for SGAs with known clinical metabolic liability. We therefore used preclinical models to evaluate the metabolic side-effects of glucose intolerance and insulin resistance with the novel SGAs asenapine and iloperidone for the first time. Olanzapine was used as a comparator. Adults female rats were treated with asenapine (0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg), iloperidone (0.03, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0, 10.0 mg/kg) or olanzapine (0.1, 0.5, 1.5, 5.0, 10.0 mg/kg) and subjected to the glucose tolerance test (GTT). Separate groups of rats were treated with asenapine (0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg), iloperidone (1.0 and 10 mg/kg) or olanzapine (1.5 and 15 mg/kg) and tested for insulin resistance with the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (HIEC). Asenapine showed no metabolic effects at any dose in either test. Iloperidone caused large and significant glucose intolerance with the three highest doses in the GTT, and insulin resistance with both doses in the HIEC. Olanzapine caused significant glucose intolerance with the three highest doses in the GTT, and insulin resistance with the higher dose in the HIEC. In preclinical models, asenapine shows negligible metabolic liability. By contrast, iloperidone exhibits substantial metabolic liability, comparable to olanzapine. These results emphasize the need for appropriate metabolic testing in patients treated with novel SGAs where current clinical data do not exist.


The Xylum Clot Signature Analyzer: a dynamic flow system that simulates vascular injury.
The Xylum Clot Signature Analyzer (CSA) is an automated, user-friendly, benchtop analyzer that assesses platelet function and coagulation in non-anticoagulated whole blood under physiological flow and temperature conditions. From blood drawn in a single venipuncture, the CSA measures: a) the time for platelets to occlude holes "punched" in a blood conduit (platelet hemostasis time or PHT); b) collagen-induced thrombus formation (CITF) as blood flows in a channel containing a collagen fiber; and c) clotting time (CT). Micrographs show platelet-rich thrombi in the punched holes and on the collagen surface after a run. PHT and CITF increased at lower shear rate, suggesting that shear activation of platelets is involved in hole closure and in collagen-induced thrombus formation. In blood mixed with anti-von Willebrand's factor (vWF) antibodies, anti-GPIb antibodies, aurin tricarboxylic acid (ATA), or anti-GPIIb-IIIa, PHT and CITF were prolonged, further supporting the reflection of platelet function by those parameters. At low shear rate (<1000 sec(-1)), native blood and blood treated with anti-vWF did not have significantly different PHTs or CITFs. At high shear rate (>6000 sec(-1)), the PHT and CITF of the anti-vWF-treated sample were significantly greater than those of the untreated sample. This supports the inhibition of shear-induced activation of platelets by anti-vWF in the CSA. Heparin-treated blood showed significantly longer CT, indicating that coagulation of blood under flow is inhibited by heparin. The CSA thus assess multiple aspects of hemostasis under near-physiological conditions.


Food-web models that generate constant predator-prey ratios.
An approximately constant ratio of number of predator species/number of prey species is observed in several natural communities, although the exact value of the ratio may vary with habitat and the types of organisms in the food web. We test the hypothesis that a constant predator/prey ratio can be generated by what Holt (1977) terms 'apparent competition' and what Jeffries and Lawton (1984) call 'competition for enemy-free space'. We create simple, two trophic-level communities by drawing species of predators and prey at random from a species pool, simulating their interactions using Lotka-Volterra models. The simulated food webs converge over successive periods of invasion and extinction to locally stable systems with approximately constant ratios of number of predator species/number of prey species, despite varying initial conditions. As expected, predator/prey ratios take different values depending upon the 'biology' of the simulated species. We conclude that apparent competition between prey species via shared enemies may be one mechanism whereby approximately constant predator/prey ratios are generated in natural communities.


Molecular genetic response to varied wavelengths of light in Xiphophorus maculatus skin.
Xiphophorus fishes represent a model often utilized to study UVB induced tumorigenesis. Recently, varied genetic responses to UVB exposure have been documented in the skin of female and male Xiphophorus, as have differences in UVB response in the skin of different parental species and for interspecies hybrids produced from crossing them. Additionally, it has been shown that exposure to "cool white" fluorescent light induces a shift in the genetic profiles of Xiphophorus skin that is nearly as robust as the UVB response, but involves a fundamentally different set of genes. Given these results and the use of Xiphophorus interspecies hybrids as an experimental model for UVB inducible melanoma, it is of interest to characterize genes that may be transcriptionally modulated in a wavelength specific manner. The global molecular genetic response of skin upon exposure of the intact animal to specific wavelengths of light has not been investigated. Herein, we report results of RNA-Seq experiments from the skin of male Xiphophorus maculatus Jp 163 B following exposure to varied 50nm wavelengths of light ranging from 300-600nm. We identify two specific wavelength regions, 350-400nm (88 genes) and 500-550nm (276 genes), that exhibit transcriptional modulation of a significantly greater number of transcripts than any of the other 50nm regions in the 300-600nm range. Observed functional sets of genes modulated within these two transcriptionally active light regions suggest different mechanisms of gene modulation.


Equine Autologous Conditioned Serum and Autologous Protein Solution.
Orthobiologics are used with increasing frequency in equine musculoskeletal disease to improve the quality of the repair tissue and prevent reinjury. Autologous blood-based products, or hemoderivatives, are made by processing the patient's blood using different systems to produce a final therapeutic product. Autologous conditioned serum (ACS) and autologous protein solution (APS) are commonly used to treat joint disorders and can also be used treat tendon and ligament injuries. Hemoderivatives contain increased concentrations of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokines, and growth factors that help direct tissue healing and repair. The specifics of ACS and APS for treatment of musculoskeletal injuries are discussed.


The influence of postural threat on the cortical response to unpredictable and predictable postural perturbations.
This study investigated the effects of postural threat on the cortical response associated with postural reactions to predictable and unpredictable perturbations to upright stance. Postural threat was manipulated by having individuals stand on an elevated surface to alter the context in which the postural task was performed. Ten healthy young adults experienced a series of predictable and unpredictable trunk perturbations when standing at ground level and at the edge of a platform located 3.2 m above the ground. Participants felt less confident, more fearful of falling, more anxious and less stable when standing at the high surface height. Unpredictable perturbations generated a large negative potential (N1) which was increased by 84% when standing at the high compared to low surface height. The magnitude of change in this potential was related to the magnitude of change in balance perceptions, such as confidence and fear. Predictable perturbations did not generate a N1 potential but instead produced an anticipation-related potential prior to the perturbation. This cortical activity observed in response to predictable perturbations was not influenced by postural threat. A large N1 potential was observed for a 'surprise' perturbation that followed a series of predictable perturbations. There was a trend for the amplitude of this potential to be increased when standing at the high compared to low surface height. The results of this study provide evidence for the modulating influence of psychological factors related to postural threat on the cortical activity associated with postural reactions to unpredictable perturbations.


Assessment of cytotoxicity in gills of fish Labeo rohita reared in untreated and treated sewage water.
The unregulated discharge of untreated municipal sewage water to the natural water bodies is a major threat to the aquatic ecosystems. In the present study, the fingerlings of Labeo rohita were exposed to treated sewage water and 1/10th of LC50 and 1/20th of LC50 of untreated sewage water (UT) obtained from sewage water treatment plant, Ludhiana, India. After determining 96-h LC50 value of UT, fingerlings were divided into four groups: control, treated, 1/10th of LC50 UT and 1/20th of LC50 UT and exposed for a period of 2 months. Our study revealed that 1/10th LC50 UT and 1/20th LC50 UT groups had significant reduction in body weight, total body length, standard body length and gills somatic index in comparison with the control and treated groups. Histopathological alterations in cellular structure of gills such as ruptured primary lamellae, broken secondary lamellae, distorted chloride cells and goblet cells, missing lamellae and disintegrated lamellar epithelium were also observed in 1/10th LC50 UT and 1/20th LC50 UT groups. A significantly high frequency of micronucleated (MN) cells was observed in 1/10th LC50 UT and 1/20th LC50 UT groups along with the presence of binucleated cells (BN), elongated nuclei (EN) and nuclear buds in gill cells. Genotoxic nature of UT was further confirmed from significantly high values of genetic damage index (GDI) and percentage (%) DNA damage in gill cells of fingerlings exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of UT. The study concluded that untreated sewage water has potential to induce anatomical and physiological defects in gills cells and the severity of toxicity increases with the increase in duration of exposure.


Fluorescence Imaging of Inflammation in Live Animals.
Inflammation is associated with many diseases, such as stroke, cancer, and atherosclerosis. Noninvasive in vivo monitoring of inflammation can provide deeper understanding of such diseases, which might help to develop better treatment. Inflammation normally causes neutrophils and macrophages to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) as the destruction tool, which can be used as a biomarker for inflammation. Near-infrared (NIR) window is optimal for in vivo fluorescence imaging owing to the reduced autofluorescence and low attenuation of light in biological tissues. Among NIR fluorescent probes, activatable probes have the promise of achieving high imaging contrast. In this chapter, we describe the method for in vivo fluorescence imaging of inflammation using a ROS-activatable NIR probe.


Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss is not an otologic emergency.
To investigate whether delay in treatment has any influence on the audiometric outcome at Day 30 in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Prospective study. Otorhinolaryngologic emergency center in Paris, France. Three hundred forty-seven consecutive cases of sudden sensorineural hearing loss were examined. A neurologic or retrocochlear cause was revealed in 17 cases. Four additional cases were lost for follow-up. Three hundred twenty-six cases of "idiopathic" sensorineural hearing loss seen within 7 days of onset were enrolled and classified by type according to five audiogram shapes: low tone (Type A), flat (Type B), high tone (Type C), cup-shaped (Type D) or total or subtotal (Type E). Because of loss for follow-up, the hearing outcome at 1 month could be evaluated in only 249 cases. All 326 patients were given 1 mg/kg per day corticosteroids intravenously for 6 days and 500 ml mannitol 10% in the subgroup presenting ascending audiometric shape. The following parameters were used. The first parameter was hearing recovery (initial PTA-PTA at Day 6 or Day 30). It was considered as complete if final PTA was below 25 dB. The second parameter was incidence of hearing recovery based on the following formula: (initial PTA-PTA on a given test day)/(initial PTA) x 100%. Using regression analysis and ANOVA, the audiometric outcome was analyzed at Day 6 and Day 30 as a function of the day of onset of treatment and of the audiometric type. Whatever the audiometric type, there was no significant difference in final outcome whether the treatment was started within the first 24 hours or within the first week. Delay in initiating treatment does not appear to influence the final degree of hearing loss. Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss cannot be considered as an otologic emergency.


Thermal impact of underground car parks on urban groundwater.
Built-up areas are known to heavily impact the thermal regime of the shallow subsurface. In many cities, the answer to densification is to increase the height and depth of buildings, which leads to a steady growth in the number of underground car parks. These underground car parks are heated by waste heat from car engines and are typically several degrees warmer than the surrounding subsurface, which makes them a heat source for ambient subsurface and groundwater. Thus, the objective of this study is to investigate the thermal impact of 31 underground car parks in six cities and to upscale the thermal impact that underground car parks have on the subsurface in Berlin, Germany. Underground car parks have daily, weekly, and seasonal temperature patterns that respond to air circulation and traffic frequency, resulting in net heat fluxes of 0.3 to 15.5 W/m2 at the measured sites. For the studied underground car parks in Berlin, the emitted annual thermal energy is about 0.65 PJ. Recycling this waste heat with geothermal heat pumps would provide a sustainable alternative for green energy and counteract the urban heat island by cooling of the shallow subsurface.


Risk management of teratogenic medicines: A systematic review.
To systematically identify studies of implementing risk management measures when prescribing teratogenic medicines for women of childbearing age and studies reporting risk perceptions of teratogenic medications. MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, EMBASE, and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts were searched. Studies were included in the risk management section if they reported any of the following risk management measures: teratogenic counseling, contraceptive counseling, pregnancy testing before starting treatment, pregnancy testing during treatment, use of contraception before starting treatment, and use of contraception during treatment. Studies were included in the perceptions section if they reported perceived teratogenic risk as numerical value. Fifty-five studies were included in the risk management section and seven studies were included in the perceptions sections. Prevalence of risk management measures varied as follows: teratogenic counseling (9.5%-99.3%), contraceptive counseling (6.1%-98%), pregnancy testing before starting treatment (0%-95.1%), pregnancy testing during treatment (12.7%-100%), contraception use before starting treatment (15.7%-94%), and contraception use during treatment (1.7%-100%). A proper estimation of the teratogenic risk was reported for thalidomide (by general practitioners and obstetric/gynecologists), for etretinate (by pregnant women), and for misoprostol (by pregnant and nonpregnant women). An under-estimation was reported for warfarin and retinoids (by general practitioners and obstetric/gynecologists). And over-estimation was reported for thalidomide, valproate, lithium, isotretinoin, phenytoin, warfarin and etretinate by different populations. Considerable variation in the implementation of risk management measures when prescribing teratogenic medicines to women of childbearing age is reported in the literature. A common tendency to over-estimate the risk of teratogenic medications was evident.


The light environment and growth of C3 and C4 tree species in the understory of a Hawaiian forest.
The light environment in the understory of a Hawaiian forest containing a C4 tree species, Euphorbia forbesii, was characterized using photosynthetic photon flux density sensors connected to portable data acquisition systems and a strip chart recorder, and hemispherical "fisheye" photographs of the canopy. During July 1980, 86 μmol cm2 day1 was received in the understory of which approximately 40% was contributed by sunflecks. The understory received 2.4% of the light reaching the top of the canopy. Nearly all sunflecks had peak photon flux densities greater than 250 μmol m2 s1, but two-thirds were less than 0.5 min in length. The number of minutes of sunflecks received per day at any site was highly variable, depending on cloudiness and the overstory canopy structure. On a relatively clear day a 10-fold difference in the number of minutes of sunflecks was observed between sample sites. Estimates obtained from hemispherical photographs were used to calculate the annual mean potential number of minutes of sunflecks per day received by saplings of Euphorbia and a C3 tree species, Claoxylon sandwicense. The growth of saplings of both species was highly correlated with the estimates of the minutes of sunflecks and was similar for both species. Although C4 photosynthesis is usually found in plants native to high-light environments, it does not appear to confer any disadvantage in terms of growth to Euphorbia forbesii in the low-light conditions of the forest understory.


Analysis of chromosome aberrations in bone marrow cells of rats after treatment with isoniazid.
100 mg INH/kg body weight was administered to male Wistar rats five times, at 24 h intervals, either intraperitoneally or intravenously. In both experimental series the yield of chromosome aberrations in bone marrow cells was not increased as compared to controls.


Inadvertent subdural injection: a complication of an epidural block.
Twenty-one hundred eighty two consecutive lumbar epidural injections were studied to determine the incidence of inadvertent subdural block retrospectively. A subdural block is defined as an extensive neural block in the absence of subarachnoid puncture, that is out of proportion to the amount of local anesthetic injected. Subdural injection is a complication of epidural block that probably occurs more frequently than previously recognized. An earlier report has estimated the incidence of subdural block to be 0.1%. This study, however, reports an incidence of 0.82% from a sample size of 2182 patients. Cadaveric dissection was also performed, further clarifying the presence and anatomic position of the subdural space.


Characterization of gp 50, a major glycoprotein present in rat brain synaptic membranes, with a monoclonal antibody.
Several cell lines secreting monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) against a major forebrain synaptic membrane (SM) glycoprotein, gp 50, have been raised. Western blots show that the Mabs react with a polypeptide doublet of Mrs 49 and 45 kDa. These polypeptides exist solely in a concanavalin A (Con A) binding form. Removal of the Con A receptors by digestion with endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H (endo H) lowers the Mrs of the glycoprotein doublet to 36.5 and 34 kDa. Western blots of 2D polyacrylamide gels indicate that gp 50 exists in several isoforms. Solid phase radioimmunoassay (RIA) and Western blots of brain subcellular fractions show the antigenic material to be concentrated in the SM fraction, but to be present in much lower amounts in synaptic junctions and postsynaptic densities. Gp 50 appears to be brain specific. Regional distribution studies show that it is present in all brain regions but is two-fold concentrated in cerebellum, brainstem and midbrain compared to forebrain. Immunocytochemical studies of several brain regions show that gp 50-like immunoreactivity is neuron specific and is concentrated in selected neuronal species, particularly granule cells. In both cerebellar and hippocampal granule cells gp 50-like immunoreactivity is localized in the perikarya and primary dendrites. Though immunocytochemistry did not show staining of synaptic regions this may be due to masking of the reactive epitope. The results are discussed in terms of the molecular properties of gp 50 and its subcellular localization in brain tissue.


Changes in therapeutic response, ocular manifestations of Graves' orbitopathy and quality of life during the first year after orbital radiotherapy.
The aim of our study was to assess the changes in the therapeutic response, ocular manifestations of GO and quality of life during the first year after OR. The study involved 26 consecutive patients with active moderate-to-severe GO indicated for OR, 18 females, mean age 57 ± 12.5. At baseline, all patients underwent comprehensive ocular examination and thyroid hormone and antibody testing. Then, OR was performed with a total dose of 20 Gy, divided into 10 sessions of 2 Gy each with concomitant oral intake of low-dose glucocorticoids. Therapeutic response and individual ocular manifestations were evaluated 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after OR, and QoL-at 3, 6 and 12 months by a disease-specific questionnaire. One month after OR, 61.6% of patients had a therapeutic response (full or partial). During the follow-up, the proportion of full-responders gradually increased up to 57.5% at 12 months, while that of non-responders gradually decreased, reaching 11.5% at 12 months. All individual ocular manifestations improved significantly 1-3 months after OR. QoL related to visual functioning increased significantly at 6 months, whereas QoL related to appearance improved significantly at 12 months. The vast majority of our patients with active moderate-to-severe GO exhibited full or partial therapeutic response after OR. The initial effect on the therapeutic response and individual ocular parameters was evident as soon as 1-3 months after the procedure. OR also has a beneficial effect on patients' QoL. NCT05775185/07.03.2023, retrospectively registered.


Hepatocellular carcinoma: incidental finding in cirrhotic explanted livers.
Cirrhosis predisposes to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), demanding that these patients undergo follow-up with imaging methods for the early detection of neoplastic nodules. Morphologic study of the explanted livers allows identification of lesions not detected pre-operatively. To assess the frequency and to characterize the HCC found incidentally at pathological evaluation of explanted cirrhotic livers. Thirty patients had HCC diagnosed in explanted cirrhotic livers. The livers were sectioned at intervals of 0.5 cm. Each detached nodule was selected for microscopic study according to size, color and/or consistency. Retrospective analysis of the clinical records was performed comparing available data from various imaging methods. In 11 patients, 16 HCC had previously been identified in the explants by one or more imaging methods. In the other 19 explanted livers (63.3%), HCC was incidentally found. All HCC identified in 9 patients and some of them in 10 patients were incidentally found, varying from microscopic focuses to 2 cm diameter lesions. They varied from only one (5 cases) to multiple nodules (7 cases). Imaging methods may underestimate the number of HCC in cirrhotic livers. Histological study is an essential tool that can early detect tumor nodules not previously detected by imaging methods. In our study, although small, multicentric HCC were identified, illustrating the multifocal nature of the hepatic carcinogenesis. Future studies must correlate these findings with patient outcomes. Characterization of explanted cirrhotic livers for HCC is important for previously known and incidentally found lesions.


An alarm system to indicate air-fluid level in the irrigating bottle.
I have developed an alarm system to indicate the air-fluid level in the irrigating bottle. This system warns the operating personnel before complete loss of infusion fluid occurs.


United States national prevalence of electrocardiographic abnormalities in black and white middle-age (45- to 64-Year) and older (≥65-Year) adults (from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke Study).
A United States national sample of 20,962 participants (57% women, 44% blacks) from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study provided general population estimates for electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities among black and white men and women. The participants were recruited from 2003 to 2007 by random selection from a commercially available nationwide list, with oversampling of blacks and those from the stroke belt, with a cooperation rate of 49%. The measurement of risk factors and 12-lead electrocardiograms (centrally coded using Minnesota code criteria) showed 28% had ≥1 major ECG abnormality. The prevalence of abnormalities was greater (≥35%) for those ≥65 years old, with no differences between blacks and whites. However, among men <65 years, blacks had more major abnormalities than whites, most notably for atrial fibrillation, major Q waves, and left ventricular hypertrophy. Men generally had more ECG abnormalities than women. The most common ECG abnormalities were T-wave abnormalities. The average heart rate-corrected QT interval was longer in women than in men, similar in whites and blacks, and increased with age. However, the average heart rate was greater in women than in men and in blacks than in whites and decreased with age. The prevalence of ECG abnormalities was related to the presence of hypertension, diabetes, blood pressure, and age. In conclusion, black men and women in the United States have a significantly greater prevalence of ECG abnormalities than white men and women at age 45 to 64 years; however, these proportions, although larger, tended to equalize or reverse after age 65.


Students versus faculty members as admissions interviewers: comparisons of ratings data and admissions decisions.
To explore variations both in interview ratings data and in medical school admissions decisions when current medical students do and do not participate in interviewing applicants. The research team conducted this randomized controlled trial by performing identical analyses for each of six independent cohorts of applicants (n = 3,868) to Baylor College of Medicine for the academic years 2005-2006 through 2010-2011. A pair of randomly selected interviewers--either two faculty members or a faculty member and a student--interviewed each applicant in a one-on-one interview. Interviewer pairs randomly structured to include either two faculty members (n = 1,523) or one faculty member and one student (n = 2,345) produced ratings of similar means as well as homogeneity across ratings. The structure of the rater pairs, as expected, was not predictive of the final admissions decisions after the authors took into account Medical College Admission Test scores and grade point average. These results, showing that student involvement does not compromise the ratings of interviewed applicants, support the continued involvement of students in medical school admissions interviews.