Investigating the effects of chitosan/ tragacanth gum/ polyvinyl alcohol composite coating incorporated with cinnamon essential oil nanoemulsion on safety and quality features of chicken breast fillets during storage in the refrigerator.
The present study investigated the effects of composite coatings made of chitosan (CS), tragacanth gum (TG), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) containing cinnamon essential oil (CEO) on the shelf-life of refrigerated chicken breast fillets. The samples were treated with different coating dispersions, and coded as: T1 (distilled water as control), T2 (blank composite coating), and T3 (composite coating containing CEO). Results showed that incorporating CEO into CS/TG/PVA coatings could significantly increase the quality of chicken fillets. The obtained results showed that after 21 days, the total microbial population of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), psychrotrophic and mesophilic bacteria in T3 samples was less than T1 and T2 samples. In addition, the highest antioxidant activity (48.04 %) and total phenolic content (TPC) values (2.458 mg gallic acid /g), the best sensory characteristics and the lowest pH (5.73), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) (21.89 mg N/100 g), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) (1.678 mg malondialdehyde equivalent/kg) and percentage of cooking loss (30 %) were related to T3. Results disclosed that this composite coating is a promising technology to improve the shelf life of chicken fillets during storage.


DNA flow cytometry of thymomas.
Forty-seven thymomas have been examined by DNA flow cytometry and results correlated with histology, stage, associated clinical features and survival. Twenty-five cases were DNA diploid, 14 were aneuploid and no results could be obtained for eight cases. The presence of aneuploidy correlated with more advanced (stage II and III) disease and the presence of myasthenia gravis and was more frequent in epithelial predominant thymomas. Tumour recurrence was more frequent in DNA aneuploid tumours, stage II/III disease and epithelial predominant neoplasms. Multifactorial analysis showed that DNA aneuploidy was predictive of tumour recurrence independent of the effects of stage and histology.


Proteome analysis of cellular response of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 to tetracycline stress.
Tetracycline-induced proteome of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 was analyzed by 2-D gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight/mass spectrum (NALDI-TOF/MS) in order to understand cellular response to tetracycline. Of the proteins upregulated in a culture medium containing subinhibitory concentration of tetracycline (50 mug/mL), we identified 38 proteins from cytosol and precipitated fractions by peptide mass fingerprinting and mass spectrum/mass spectrum analysis. Various amino acids ABC transporters, a ribose ABC transporter, and a sulfate ABC transporter were found to be upregulated. Protein synthesis-related proteins, stress proteins, energy metabolic enzymes, and unknown proteins were also strongly induced. Of the identified upregulated proteins, several proteins (isocitrate lyase, branched-chain amino acid ABC transporter, superoxide dismutase, etc.) were also upregulated under phenol-induced stress condition. These results demonstrate that tetracycline at a high concentration induced comprehensive stress in P. putida KT2440 and the global induction of proteins related to bacteria survival. Proteome analysis was found to be a useful tool for the elucidation of antibiotic-induced proteins in the present study.


MSCs-laden injectable self-healing hydrogel for systemic sclerosis treatment.
As a novel cellular therapy, the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory virtues of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) make them promising candidates for systemic sclerosis (SSc) treatment. However, the clinical efficacy of this stratagem is limited because of the short persistence time, poor survival, and engraftment of MSCs after injection in vivo. Herein, we develop a novel MSCs-laden injectable self-healing hydrogel for SSc treatment. The hydrogel is prepared using N, O-carboxymethyl chitosan (CS-CM) and 4-armed benzaldehyde-terminated polyethylene glycol (PEG-BA) as the main components, imparting with self-healing capacity via the reversible Schiff-base connection between the amino and benzaldehyde groups. We demonstrate that the hydrogel laden with MSCs not only promoted the proliferation of MSCs and increased the cellular half-life in vivo, but also improve their immune-modulating functions. The tube formation assay indicates that the MSCs could significantly promote angiopoiesis. Moreover, the MSCs-laden hydrogel could inhibit fibrosis by modulating the synthesis of collagen and ameliorate disease progression in SSc disease model mice after subcutaneous injection of bleomycin. All these results highlight this novel MSCs-laden hydrogel and its distinctive functions in treatment of chronic SSc, indicating the additional potential to be used widely in the clinic.


The cilium secretes bioactive ectosomes.
The release of membrane vesicles from the surface of cells into their surrounding environment is now recognized as an important pathway for the delivery of proteins to extracellular sites of biological function. Membrane vesicles of this kind, termed exosomes and ectosomes, are the result of active processes and have been shown to carry a wide array of biological effector molecules that can play roles in cell-to-cell communication and remodeling of the extracellular space. Degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) through the regulated release of proteolytic enzymes is a key process for development, morphogenesis, and cell migration in animal and plant cells. Here we show that the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas achieves the timely degradation of its mother cell wall, a type of ECM, through the budding of ectosomes directly from the membranes of its flagella. Using a combination of immunoelectron microscopy, immunofluorescence microscopy, and functional analysis, we demonstrate that these vesicles, which we term ciliary ectosomes, act as carriers of the proteolytic enzyme necessary for the liberation of daughter cells following mitosis. Chlamydomonas has proven to be the key unicellular model for the highly conserved mechanisms of mammalian cilia, and our results suggest that cilia may be an underappreciated source of bioactive, extracellular membrane vesicles.


Anesthetic management of scapular Y-osteotomy using a combination of suprascapular nerve block and erector spinae plane block for Sprengel deformity associated with Klippel-Feil syndrome: a case report.
Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) occurs in 1/40,000 individuals and is characterized by cervical fusion. Thirty percent of patients with KFS present with Sprengel deformity, leading to orthopedic problems and limited shoulder abduction. No reports exist regarding anesthetic procedures for pediatric scapular osteotomies. We report a case of a 4-year-and-7-month-old boy (95.6 cm, 14.7 kg) who underwent left scapular osteotomy. At the age of 8 months, he also underwent a right lower lobectomy due to a congenital pulmonary airway malformation. We decided to use a combination of suprascapular nerve block (SSNB), erector spinae plane block (ESPB), and general anesthesia. He received regular acetaminophen administration and fentanyl 5-10 μg/hour intravenously until 20 h postoperatively and remained on ≤ 2/10 in the Wong-Baker Face Scale (0: no hurt; 10: hurts worst). The combination of SSNB and ESPB could be an option for perioperative analgesia for scapular osteotomies.


Nurses' job stressors and social support behaviors: Comparing public, teaching, and private hospitals.
Different work environments may create different nurses' job stressors, and in turn, may need different social support behaviors to help nurses overcome these stressors. This study aimed at comparing nurses' job stressors and social support behaviors in three different work environments (i.e., public, teaching, and private hospitals) in Jordan and examining the predictors of these stressors and social support behaviors. This was a descriptive comparative study in which data were collected using the Nursing Stress Scale and the Inventory of Social Supportive Behaviors from 139, 190, and 135 nurses from the public, teaching, and private hospitals, respectively. Descriptive and inferential statistics including comparative and multiple linear regression statistics were used. The results indicated that there were no significant differences in the total scores of job stressors and social support behaviors among nurses at the three types of hospitals. However, significant differences were reported in the subscales of job stressors in teaching and public hospitals and in individual items of both scales across the three kinds of hospitals. Controlling for nurses' characteristics, the scores of both scales were not predicted by the type of hospitals. Similar to public hospitals, teaching, and private hospitals, administrators should initiate various social support behaviors in their clinical settings, and should consider the predictors of job stressors to help nurses overcome their job stressors.


Seasonal variation in diffusive exchange of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons across the air-seawater interface in coastal urban area.
Concentrations of 15 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in air-seawater interface were measured over 1year in the coastal region of Incheon, South Korea. Most individual PAHs and total PAHs in air displayed statistically significant negative correlations with temperature, but not significant in seawater. Less hydrophobic compounds with three rings were at or near equilibrium in summer, while PAHs with four to six rings were in disequilibrium in all seasons, with higher fugacity gradients in colder seasons and for more hydrophobic compounds. Differently from fugacity gradients, the highest net fluxes occurred for some three- and four-ring PAHs showing the highest atmospheric concentrations. Net gaseous exchange, which was higher in winter, occurred from air to seawater with an annual cumulative flux of 2075μg/m(2)/year (for Σ15PAHs), indicating that atmospheric PAHs in this region, originating from coal/biomass combustion, can deteriorate the quality of seawater and sediment.


Substrate specificity of beta-primeverosidase, a key enzyme in aroma formation during oolong tea and black tea manufacturing.
We synthesized nine kinds of diglycosides and a monoglycoside of 2-phenylethanol to investigate the substrate specificity of the purified beta-primeverosidase from fresh leaves of a tea cultivar (Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Yabukita) in comparison with the apparent substrate specificity of the crude enzyme extract from tea leaves. The crude enzyme extract mainly showed beta-primeverosidase activity, although monoglycosidases activity was present to some extent. The purified beta-primeverosidase showed very narrow substrate specificity with respect to the glycon moiety, and especially prominent specificity for the beta-primeverosyl (6-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranosyl) moiety. The enzymes hydrolyzed naturally occurring diglycosides such as beta-primeveroside, beta-vicianoside, beta-acuminoside, beta-gentiobioside and 6-O-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside, but were unable to hydrolyze synthetic unnatural diglycosides. The purified enzyme was inactive toward 2-phenylethyl beta-D-glucopyranoside. The enzyme hydrolyzed each of the diglycosides into the corresponding disaccharide and 2-phenylethanol. These results indicate the beta-primeverosidase, a diglycosidase, to be a key enzyme involved in aroma formation during the tea manufacturing process.


Investigating the role of core needle biopsy in evaluating tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) of invasive breast cancer: a retrospective study.
Tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) of invasive breast carcinoma has gained attention in recent years due to its prognostic significance. Previous studies showed TSR is a potential biomarker for indicating the tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, it is not clear how well TSR evaluation in biopsy specimens might reflect the TSR in resection specimens. We conducted a study to investigate whether biopsy evaluation of TSR can be an alternative method. We collected cases with invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (IBC-NST) from University of Yamanashi hospital between 2011 and 2017 whose biopsy and resection specimens both had a pathologically diagnosis of IBC-NST (n = 146). We conceptualized a method for evaluating TSR in biopsy specimens within a preliminary cohort (n = 50). Within the studied cohort (n = 96), biopsy-based TSR (b-TSR) and resection-based TSR (r-TSR) were scored by two pathologists. We then evaluated our method's validity and performance by measuring interobserver variability between the two pathologists, Spearman's correlation between b-TSR and r-TSR, and the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis for defining stroma-rich and stroma-poor tumors. Intra-class coefficient between the two pathologists was 0.59. The correlation coefficients between b-TSR and r-TSR in the two pathologists were 0.45 and 0.37. The ROC areas under the curve were 0.7 and 0.67. By considering an r-TSR of < 50% as stroma-rich, the sensitivity and specificity of detecting stroma-rich tumors were 64.1% and 66.7%, respectively, when b-TSR was < 40%. Our current b-TSR evaluation method can provide information about r-TSR and facilitate pre-treatment therapy follow-up.


Effect of heat stress on TNF-α, TNFRI and TNFRII expression in BLV infected dairy cattle.
High temperatures for extended periods, which do not allow animals to recover from heat stress, affect in particular those BLV-infected animals that carry a high proviral load. For this study, animals were discriminated between BLV (+) and BLV (-), and those belonging to the first group, were classified based on their proviral load. The expression of the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and its receptors, which play an important role in disease progression, were quantified by qPCR in two different seasons. During the summer, average temperature was 19.8 °C, maximums higher than 30 °C were frequent. Instead, during the autumn, the average temperature was 12.63 °C, and temperatures never exceeded 27 °C. During this season, almost no periods of temperatures exceeded the comfort limit. Our results revealed that the expression levels of TNF-α and its receptors were downregulated in animals with high proviral load. This fact could affect their antiviral response and predispose to viral dissemination; over time, animals with a poorer immune system are prone to acquiring opportunistic diseases. Conversely, animals with LPL maintained their expression profile, with behavior comparable to non-infected animals. These findings should be considered by producers and researchers, given the problems that global warming is causing lately to the planet.


Diastematomyelia--rare and unusual features.
Diastematomyelia is an uncommon congenital anomaly of the spine. Four unusual variations of diastematomyelia are presented. These include (1) double diastematomyelia, (2) adult presentation, (3) diastermatomyelia without a septum and unusual termination of two halves of the spinal cord, and (4) recurrence of a fibrous band following removal of an osseous septum.


Sex-specific associations of the urinary fourteen-metal mixture with NAFLD and liver fibrosis among US adults: A nationally representative study.
Although previous studies have examined the hepatotoxicity of single metal exposure, the associations between metal mixture and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or fibrosis remain unclear. This study investigated the associations of urinary metal mixture with the risks of NAFLD and liver fibrosis in US adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2017.01 to 2020.03. Vibration-controlled transient elastography was used to detect the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM), which are indicators of NAFLD and liver fibrosis respectively. Three novel mixture modeling approaches including the Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and quantile g-computation (qgcomp) were used to estimate the associations of the urinary fourteen-metal mixture with Ln CAP and Ln LSM. There were 2283 adults aged over 18 years (1209 women and 1074 men) were included. Among women, urinary metal mixture was positively associated with Ln CAP in the BKMR and qgcomp models (both P < 0.05). However, no significantly associations of urinary metal mixture with Ln CAP were observed among men in all models (all P > 0.05). The metal mixture was not associated with Ln LSM in the three models regardless of genders (all P > 0.05). In conclusion, we observed sex-specific associations between urinary metal mixture and the prevalence of NAFLD in US adults. These findings emphasize the role of environmental heavy metal exposure in the development of NAFLD, and confirm the need for more prospective cohort studies on sex-specific manner.


Monoclonal antibody to murine embryos defines a stage-specific embryonic antigen expressed on mouse embryos and human teratocarcinoma cells.
A murine stage-specific embryonic antigen (SSEA3) is defined by reactivity with a monoclonal antibody prepared by immunization of a rat with 4- to 8-cell-stage mouse embryos. This antigenic determinant, present on oocytes, becomes restricted first to the inner cell mass at the blastocyst stage, and later to the primitive endoderm. Murine teratocarcinoma stem cells do not react with this antibody, whereas human teratocarcinoma stem cells are SSEA3-positive. This antigenic determinant is not expressed on a variety of other human and murine cell lines, but is found on the surface of human erythrocytes. It is a carbohydrate and is present on both cell-surface glycolipids and glycopeptides. These results demonstrate the feasibility of identifying stage-specific antigenic determinants with monoclonal antibody prepared against embryos. The need for thorough screening on a variety of cell types to establish developmentally important cross-reactivities is also emphasized.


Design and synthesis of peptide-based carboxylic acid-containing transition-state inhibitors of human neutrophil elastase.
In our search for a new agent, human neutrophil elastase (HNE) inhibitor, for the treatment of acute respiratory failure, we rationally designed and synthesized a series of peptide-based carboxylic acid-containing transition-state inhibitors. The presence of valyl moiety is found to be essential for potent in vitro inhibitory activity and also prevention of an undesirable toxicity. Of these, compound 9m has the most potent in vivo effect on HNE-induced lung hemorrhage in hamsters.


State-wide implementation and clinical outcomes associated with evidence-based psychotherapies for traumatized youth.
Highly efficacious evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) exist for children and youth exposed to trauma, yet very few who need the treatments in the community receive them. Research within real-world settings is needed to better understand what is required to translate treatments into the community. We aimed to examine the implementation and clinical outcomes of a multiyear project installing 2 EBPs for trauma-exposed youth in community agencies across the state of New Hampshire. We invited clinicians to 2 days of training plus weekly group consultation calls for 9 or 12 months in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Child Parent Psychotherapy. Implementation metrics included clinician adherence to training, consultation, and treatment delivery expectations. Clinical outcomes included treatment dropout, as well as posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms. Of the 292 clinicians meeting eligibility and agreeing to participate, 243 (83%) attended trainings, 168 (58%) began consultation calls, and 70 (24%) adhered to implementation expectations by attending 80% of consultation calls and beginning the treatment with 2 youths. According to (completing) clinicians' reports, of the 363 youths tracked over the 9 to 12 month consultation periods, 47% dropped out of treatment and 44% were ongoing. Pre-post PTS scores (n = 82) demonstrated clinically meaningful reductions for 59% of youth. Clinical outcomes were robust for those who completed treatment, rivaling those of highly controlled trials. However, implementation outcomes indicate an uphill battle in reaching youth who need the treatment. Implementation outcomes were mixed compared with those of more resource-intensive implementation models. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).


Active ingredients Isorhamnetin of Croci Srigma inhibit stomach adenocarcinomas progression by MAPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
Gastric cancer (GC) remains the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, and ninety-five percent of GC are stomach adenocarcinomas (STAD). The active ingredients of Croci Stigma, such as Isorhamnetin, Crocin, Crocetin and Kaempferol, all have antitumor activity. However, their chemical and pharmacological profiles remain to be elusive. In this study, network pharmacology was used to characterize the action mechanism of Croci Stigma. All compounds were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and active ingredients were selected by their oral bioavailability and drug-likeness index. The targets of Croci Stigma active ingredients were obtained from the traditional Chinese medicine integrated database (TCMID), whereas the related genes of STAD were obtained from DisGeNET platform. Cytoscape was used to undertake visual analyses of the Drug Ingredients-Gene Symbols-Disease (I-G-D) network, and 2 core genes including MAPK14, ERBB3 were obtained, which are the predicted targets of isorhamnetin (IH) and quercetin, respectively. Data analysis from TCGA platform showed that MAPK14 and ERBB3 all upregulated in STAD patients, but only the effect of MAPK14 expression on STAD patients' survival was significant. Molecular docking showed that IH might affect the function of MAPK14 protein, and then the underlying action mechanisms of IH on STAD were experimentally validated using human gastric cancer cell line, HGC-27 cells. The results showed that IH can inhibit cell proliferation, migration, clonal formation, and arrest cell cycle, but promote the apoptosis of HGC-27 cells. qRT-PCR data demonstrated that IH downregulated the MAPK14 mRNA expression and EMT related genes. WB results showed that IH regulates MAPK/mTOR signaling pathway. These findings suggest that IH has the therapeutic potential for the treatment of STAD.


Enhanced degradation of total petroleum hydrocarbons in real soil by dual-frequency ultrasound-activated persulfate.
Ultrasound (US) can be employed to activate persulfate (PS) for degrading total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). In this study, to improve the degradation efficiency, PS is combined with dual-frequency US (DFUS) towards synergistic degradation of TPH in real soil. After 180 min, the degradation percentages for DFUS/PS, DFUS, high-frequency US and high-frequency US/PS are around 88.9%, 38.7%, 7.3% and 54.2%, respectively. Additionally, the influence of US power, PS content, slurry pH and temperature, and TPH components on the degradation percentage in the DFUS/PS process are explored. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and the results of specific surface area verify that the DFUS can break the soil aggregates more effectively than the single-frequency US, and thus enhance the TPH desorption and accelerate the oxidant diffusion. Moreover, the investigation of the mechanism is further evaluated through quenching and electron spinning resonance spectrum (ESR) tests. The results indicate that the generation of SO4- and OH in DFUS/PS is ~1.6 times and ~2.5 times as much, respectively, as in high frequency US/PS. The relative contributions to the synergistic TPH degradation in the DFUS/PS system are: SO4- (PS activation via the heat induced by US) > pyrolysis inside the bubbles (hydrophobicity of TPH) > SO4- (PS activation via US cavitation) >OH. Finally, the hypothesis is confirmed via the evaluation of the degradation kinetics, which shows that the combined process of DFUS/PS is not a simple addition of the US and PS, but provides a highly effective process of synergistic degradation.


Hypertriglyceridemia and acute pancreatitis.
Hypertriglyceridemia is the third most common cause of acute pancreatitis. It typically occurs in patients with an underlying disorder of lipoprotein metabolism and in the presence of a secondary condition such as uncontrolled diabetes, alcohol abuse, or medication use. The presentation of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis is similar to that of acute pancreatitis due to other causes; however, patients with hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis are more likely to have severe disease courses and have a higher likelihood of persistent organ failure. The initial treatment of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis is also similar to acute pancreatitis from other causes and consists of aggressive fluid resuscitation, pain control, and nutritional support. Hypertriglyceridemia is specifically treated with apheresis or insulin therapy when necessary. The prompt recognition of hypertriglyceridemia in the setting of acute pancreatitis is essential in both the initial and long-term management of this disease and are essential to prevent recurrent acute pancreatitis. The review seeks to highlight the etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical course of hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis.


Checkpoints: how to flag up double-strand breaks.
How checkpoint pathways recognise double-strand breaks has long been a mystery. Recent studies have found that two distinct checkpoint protein complexes associate independently with chromatin at the sites of DNA damage. Why do two distinct mechanisms recognise strand lesions, and what does this tell us about the checkpoint pathways?


Protein microarray-based screening of antibody specificity.
The increased use of antibodies as therapeutics, as well as the growing demand for large numbers of antibodies for high-throughput protein analyses, has been accompanied by a need for more specific antibodies. An array containing every protein for the relevant organism represents the ideal format for an assay to test antibody specificity since it allows the simultaneous screening of thousands of proteins in relatively normalized quantities. Indeed, the use of a yeast proleome array to profile the specificity of several antibodies directed against yeast proteins has recently been described. In this chapter, we present a detailed description of the methods used to probe protein arrays with antibodies as well as the technical issues to consider when carrying out such experiments.


Charge transport and ac response under light illumination in gate-modulated DNA molecular junctions.
Using a two-strand tight-binding model and within nonequilibrium Green's function approach, we study charge transport through DNA sequences (GC)NGC and (GC)1(TA)NTA (GC)3 sandwiched between two Pt electrodes. We show that at low temperature DNA sequence (GC)NGC exhibits coherent charge carrier transport at very small bias, since the highest occupied molecular orbital in the GC base pair can be aligned with the Fermi energy of the metallic electrodes by a gate voltage. A weak distance dependent conductance is found in DNA sequence (GC)1(TA)NTA (GC)3 with large NTA. Different from the mechanism of thermally induced hopping of charges proposed by the previous experiments, we find that this phenomenon is dominated by quantum tunnelling through discrete quantum well states in the TA base pairs. In addition, ac response of this DNA junction under light illumination is also investigated. The suppression of ac conductances of the left and right lead of DNA sequences at some particular frequencies is attributed to the excitation of electrons in the DNA to the lead Fermi surface by ac potential, or the excitation of electrons in deep DNA energy levels to partially occupied energy levels in the transport window. Therefore, measuring ac response of DNA junctions can reveal a wealth of information about the intrinsic dynamics of DNA molecules.


The reaction of acridine orange with proteoglycans in the articular cartilage of the rat.
Acridine Orange in concentrations from 0.01% to 0.2% was added to the first fixative solution in order to stain vibratome sections and small blocks of the articular cartilage of 2 month old rats. The interterritorial matrix of the radial or deep zone (zone 3) was examined. It contained reaction products with different morphology depending on the specimens used. In vibratome sections filaments were seen arranged in a homogenous pattern and changing in size with the concentration of the dye: diluted solutions produced finer filaments than concentrated ones. In contrast, in tissue blocks the staining pattern was not altered by different concentrations of Acridine Orange. However, with increase of the distance from the surface of the specimens the size of the filaments gradually decreased and formed a finer network. Since after preincubation with chondroitin ABC lyase only minute reaction products remained, an interaction of the dye with the sulphated glycosaminoglycans of the proteoglycans in the articular cartilage is suggested. The experiments show that by using mainly monocationic monomers of Acridine Orange the proteoglycans can be stained in a more expanded state than with polycationic dye polymers.


Receptivity and preferences of pancreatic cancer family members for participating in lifestyle programs to reduce cancer risk.
Cancer is a shared family experience that might provide an opportunity for lifestyle change among at-risk family members. The purpose of this study was to assess receptivity and preferences for cancer risk reduction programs among at-risk family members with two or more relatives affected with pancreas cancer. We surveyed 401 at-risk family members in an existing pancreatic cancer family registry. Participants completed a mailed survey which examined demographic, medical, and psychosocial correlates of willingness to participate in lifestyle cancer risk reduction programs. Multivariable generalized estimating equation approaches were used to model preferences. Overall, 85% (n = 342) of at-risk family members were receptive to lifestyle cancer risk reduction programs. Participant preferred programs focused on nutrition (36%, n = 116) and weight management (33%, n = 108), with Web/Internet (46%, n = 157) being the most preferred delivery channel. Most respondents preferred to participate in programs with their family or friends (74%, n = 182), rather than alone (25%, n = 85). In multivariable analysis, younger age (p = 0.008) and higher perceived likelihood of developing cancer (p = 0.03) were associated with willingness to participate in lifestyle programs. Family members of those with pancreatic cancer are receptive to cancer risk reduction programs focusing on nutrition and weight management delivered via the internet. Further research is indicated to determine how to best incorporate a family-based approach when designing lifestyle intervention programs.


Mechanistic studies with N-benzyl-1-aminobenzotriazole-inactivated CYP2B1: differential effects on the metabolism of 7-ethoxy-4-(trifluoromethyl)coumarin, testosterone, and benzphetamine.
Mechanistic studies with N-benzyl-1-aminobenzotriazole (BBT)-inactivated cytochrome P450 2B1 were conducted to determine which step(s) in the reaction cycle had been compromised. Stopped-flow studies, formation of the oxy-ferro intermediate, and analysis of products suggested that the reductive process was slower with the BBT-modified enzyme. The reduced rate of reduction alone could not account for the loss in 7-ethoxy-4-(trifluoromethyl)coumarin (EFC) O-deethylation or testosterone hydroxylation activity. Surprisingly, the ability of the BBT-modified enzyme to generate formaldehyde from benzphetamine was much less affected. Benzphetamine metabolite analysis by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry showed that the BBT-modified enzyme had a slightly greater propensity towards aromatic hydroxylation together with reduced levels of N-demethylation and little change in the N-debenzylation of benzphetamine. Orientation of substrates within the active site of the BBT-inactivated enzyme may be affected such that the more flexible benzphetamine can be metabolized, whereas metabolism of rigid, planar molecules such as EFC and testosterone is hindered.


Emergency palliation of critical valvular aortic stenosis. A new application of prostaglandin E1.
Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) was administered by continuous infusion to a critically III 3-day-old infant with severe stenosis of the aortic valve. A beneficial response was evidenced by increases in systemic BP, pulses, perfusion, urinary output, and arterial pH. The infusion of PGE1 improved and stabilized the infant's condition so that cardiac catheterization and surgery could be performed. Successful aortic valvulotomy was performed with continued PGE1 infusion. To out knowledge, this report is the first to describe a patient in whom PGE1 was used successfully for palliation of critical aortic valvular stenosis.


Systematic review of unintentional injury prevention economic evaluations 2010-2019 and comparison to 1998-2009.
Health economic evaluation studies (e.g., cost-effectiveness analysis) can provide insight into which injury prevention interventions maximize available resources to improve health outcomes. A previous systematic review summarized 48 unintentional injury prevention economic evaluations published during 1998-2009, providing a valuable overview of that evidence for researchers and decisionmakers. The aim of this study was to summarize the content and quality of recent (2010-2019) economic evaluations of unintentional injury prevention interventions and compare to the previous publication period (1998-2009). Peer-reviewed English-language journal articles describing public health unintentional injury prevention economic evaluations published January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2019 were identified using index terms in multiple databases. Injury causes, interventions, study methods, and results were summarized. Reporting on key methods elements (e.g., economic perspective, time horizon, discounting, currency year, etc.) was assessed. Reporting quality was compared between the recent and previous publication periods. Sixty-eight recent economic evaluation studies were assessed. Consistent with the systematic review on this topic for the previous publication period, falls and motor vehicle traffic injury prevention were the most common study subjects. Just half of studies from the recent publication period reported all key methods elements, although this represents an improvement compared to the previous publication period (25 %). Most economic evaluations of unintentional injury prevention interventions address just two injury causes. Better adherence to health economic evaluation reporting standards may enhance comparability across studies and increase the likelihood that this type of evidence is included in decision-making related to unintentional injury prevention.


The protective effects of salvianolic acid A against hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury via inhibiting expression of toll-like receptor 4 in rats.
Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a serious complication of hepatectomy and liver transplantation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of salvianolic acid-A (Sal-A) against IRI-induced hepatocellular injury. Forty rats were randomly divided into the following four groups: (1) sham group, (2) IR group, (3) Sal-A(10) group and (4) Sal-A(20) group. After 90 min of ischemia and 6 h of reperfusion, serum alanine aminotransferease (ALT) and apartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were measured; the amounts of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the liver tissue were determined; the expression of Bcl-2 and caspase-3 was detected and the severity of apoptosis, inflammation and pathological alterations were evaluated. Also apoptosis and mRNA and protein levels of TLR4 (toll-like receptor 4) were tested. The serum aminotransferases, hepatic MDA concentration, and apoptotic cells in the IR group were significantly higher than in the sham group (p < 0.01), whereas the Sal-A group values were lower than in the IR group (p < 0.05). Compared with the IR group, the Sal-A groups had significantly higher Bcl-2 expression and downregulated cleaved caspase-3 expression in liver tissue. Moreover, increased mRNA and protein levels of TLR4 in IR rats and Sal-A could improve the increased mRNA and protein levels of TLR4. Sal-A had a synergistically protective effect on the liver tissue against IRI that might be due to decreased oxidative stress, inflammation, hepatocellular apoptosis and include, at least in part, the regulation of TLR4.


Transcriptomic analysis of Nibea albiflora skin in response to infection by Cryptocaryon irritans.
Massive infection caused by Cryptocaryon irritans is detrimental to the development of marine aquaculture. Recently, our lab found that Nibea albiflora has low sensitivity and low mortality to C. irritans infection. The present study was designed to investigate the mechanisms of the N. albiflora response to C. irritans infection by analyzing transcriptome changes in the skin. Skin samples of control and experimental groups with C. irritans infection were collected at 24 and 72 h (24 h control, 24 h post-infection, 72 h control, and 72 h post-infection). Three parallels were set for each group and sample time, and a total of 12 skin samples were collected for sequencing. Overall, 297,489,843 valid paired-end reads and 48,817 unigenes were obtained with an overall length of 59,010,494 nt. In pairwise comparisons, changes in expression occurred in 1621 (764 upregulated and 857 downregulated), 285 (180 upregulated and 105 downregulated), 993 (489 upregulated and 504 downregulated), and 37 (8 upregulated and 29 downregulated) genes at 24 h control vs 24 h post-infection, 72 h control vs 72 h post-infection, 24 h post-infection vs 72 h post-infection, and 24 h control vs 72 h control, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) indicated that the number of genes enriched in GO sub-categories were ordered 24 h control vs 24 h post-infection > 24 h post-infection vs 72 h post-infection >72 h control vs 72 h post-infection > 24 h control vs 72 h control. Further analysis showed that immune-related GO terms (including immune system process, complement activation, and humoral immunity) were significantly enriched at both 72 h control vs 72 h post-infection and 24 h post-infection vs 72 h post-infection, but no immune-related GO terms were significantly enriched in the 24 h control vs 72 h control and at 24 h control vs 24 h post-infection, indicating that C. irritans infection mainly affected the physiological metabolism of N. albiflora at an early stage (24 h), and immune-related genes play an important role at a later stage (72 h) of infection. In KEGG pathway analysis, the complement and coagulation cascade pathway are involved in early infection. Hematopoietic cell lineage, natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and the intestinal immune network for IgA production are involved in later infection. Further analysis showed that the alternative pathway of complement and coagulation cascades plays an important role in the resistance of N. albiflora to early C. irritans infection. During late infection, CD34, IgM, and IgD were significantly upregulated in the hematopoietic cell lineage pathway. CCR9 was significantly downregulated, and IGH and PIGR were significantly upregulated in the intestinal immune network for IgA production. GZMB and IGH were significantly downregulated in NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity. These findings indicate that acquired immunity at the mRNA level was initiated during later infection. In addition, the IL-17 signaling pathway was enriched by downregulated DEGs at 24 h post-infection vs 72 h post-infection, suggesting the inflammatory response at 24 h was stronger than at 72 h and the invasion of the parasite has a greater impact on the host.


Recurrence of a metastatic tumour in association with a cranial fixation device.
We present a case of recurrent metastatic brain tumour spread across a cranial fixation device.


Increased cortical serotonin-2 (5-HT-2) receptors in the iminodipropionitrile (IDPN)-model of persistent dyskinesia in the rat.
Chronic treatment with IDPN causes a persistent behavioral syndrome which is reminiscent of the head shakes, backward locomotion, and hyperactivity observed after acute injection of 5-HT agonists in rodents. Evaluation of the characteristics of 5-HT receptors, using mianserin to label 5-HT-2 receptors, revealed a significant increase in the number of binding sites in the cortices of rats which demonstrated the IDPN-induced syndrome. There was an associated decrease in the affinity of the receptors. These results add more evidence to support the idea that the serotonergic system may play a significant role in the manifestation of the persistent abnormalities induced by IDPN.


Dispersal and the microtine cycle: comparison of two hypotheses.
The hypotheses suggested by Chitty (1960) and by Charnov and Finerty (1980) in order to explain the occurrence of the microtine density cycle are investigated from a theoretical point of view. The former hypothesis assumes that the polymorphic behavioural patterns being observed in natural populations are genetically determined whereas the latter assumes these polymorphic behavioural patterns to be environmentally determined. For both theories we assume a patchy environment with dispersal between patches.We find, on the basis of a series of mathematical models comparing the two hypotheses, that Chitty's hypothesis does not seem to generate cycles whereas the Charnov-Finerty hypothesis may generate persistent density cycles: this is particularly so if dispersing individuals have the capacity to choose which patch to settle in and if the carrying capacity of each patch is high.


Examination of Factors Affecting Therapeutic Attitude and Empowerment of Perianesthesia Nurses Who Care for Patients With Opioid Use Disorder.
Patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) and associated complexities are presenting to hospitals in increasing numbers. Preparation of perianesthesia nurses caring for this patient population has lagged, with noted deficits in continuing education, resources, and role support. Previous research found education without considering therapeutic attitude (TA), empowerment and factors that influence nursing practice does not translate into feelings of competence in nursing care. The purpose of this study was to identify correlates and predictors that affect TA and empowerment among perianesthesia nurses caring for patients with OUD. A cross-sectional, correlation design was used to identify correlates and predictors of TA and empowerment in a national sample of perianesthesia nurses (N = 215) METHODS: A national survey collected data from perianesthesia nurses. The Perianesthesia Nurse Empowerment and Therapeutic Attitude Model was the guiding framework. Pearson product-moment correlation and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to examine relationships between personal factors, the professional practice environment and societal factors of perianesthesia nurses. The standardized regression coefficients indicated the professional practice environment (β = -0.28), drug user stigma (β = 0.27), access to a pain specialist (β = 0.25), and exposure to drug users (β = 0.25) were the strongest predictors of TA. Access to a pain specialist (β = -0.15) and the professional practice environment (β = 0.72) were the strongest predictors of empowerment. The professional practice environment directly influenced the degree of empowerment and TA reported by perianesthesia nurses. Exposure to persons with OUD and personal stigmatization of persons who misuse drugs decreased TA but had no association with empowerment. Access to a pain specialist was moderately predictive of empowerment and negatively associated with TA suggesting a lack of role legitimacy and the need for further research into perianesthesia nurses' perceptions of their role when caring for this population.


The "Bankart knee": high-grade impression fractures of the posterolateral tibial plateau lead to increased translational and anterolateral rotational instability of the ACL-deficient knee.
The aim of this biomechanical cadaver study was to evaluate the effects of high-grade posterolateral tibia plateau fractures on the kinematics of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient joints; it was hypothesized that, owing to the loss of the integrity of the osseous support of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus (PHLM), these fractures would influence the biomechanical function of the lateral meniscus (LM) and consequently lead to an increase in anterior translational and anterolateral rotational (ALR) instability. Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric knees were tested using a six-degree-of-freedom robotic setup (KR 125, KUKA Robotics, Germany) with an attached optical tracking system (Optotrack Certus Motion Capture, Northern Digital, Canada). After the passive path from 0 to 90° was established, a simulated Lachman test and pivot-shift test as well as external rotation (ER) and internal rotation (IR) were applied at 0°, 30°, 60° and 90° of flexion under constant 200 N axial loading. All of the parameters were initially tested in the intact and ACL-deficient states, followed by two different types of posterolateral impression fractures. The dislocation height was 10 mm, and the width was 15 mm in both groups. The intraarticular depth of the fracture corresponded to half of the width of the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus in the first group (Bankart 1) and 100% of the meniscus width in the second group (Bankart 2). There was a significant decrease in knee stability after both types of posterolateral tibial plateau fractures in the ACL-deficient specimens, with increased anterior translation in the simulated Lachman test at 0° and 30° of knee flexion (p = 0.012). The same effect was seen with regard to the simulated pivot-shift test and IR of the tibia (p = 0.0002). In the ER and posterior drawer tests, ACL deficiency and concomitant fractures did not influence knee kinematics (n.s.). This study demonstrates that high-grade impression fractures of the posterolateral aspect of the tibial plateau increase the instability of ACL-deficient knees and result in an increase in translational and anterolateral rotational instability.


Phytochemistry in the microgram domain - a LC-NMR perspective.
Plants represent an extraordinary reservoir of novel molecules and there is currently a resurgence of interest in the vegetable kingdom as a possible source of new lead compounds for introduction into therapeutical screening programs. In order to discover potential new bioactive natural products, the dereplication of crude plant extracts performed prior to isolation work is of crucial importance for avoiding the isolation of a known constituent. In this respect, chemical screening strategies have been developed using hyphenated techniques (LC/UV-DAD, LC-MS and LC-NMR). In our laboratory, these techniques have been fully integrated into the isolation process and are used for the chemical screening of crude plant extracts in complement with on-line or at-line bioassays. LC-UV-MS is used as a first dereplication step in combination with UV and MS databases, while LC-NMR is performed in a second step for de novo on-line structure determination. This approach enables the partial or the complete on-line identification of natural products in complex matrices such as crude plant extracts. These methods also give a unique possibility to study unstable compounds, which rapidly degrade or which are not separable at a preparative level. In the multi-hyphenated approach used (hypernation), LC-NMR plays a key role since it provides the most detailed structural information. The relatively low sensitivity of this technique, however, requires that strategies for high loading of plant extracts are developed and compromises for solvent selection have to be made. For more demanding experiments, at-line strategies based on the microfractionation of the LC-peak of interest and recording of spectra in fully deuterated solvents in microflow probes represent a promising alternative.


Anti-Aβ-MAb and dually decorated nanoliposomes: effect of Aβ1-42 peptides on interaction with hCMEC/D3 cells.
Anti-Aβ-MAb (Aβ-MAb)-decorated immunoliposomes (LIP) and dually decorated ones (dd-LIP) with OX-26 and Aβ-MAb were constructed. In both cases, the biotin-streptavidin ligation method was applied. All LIP types were characterized for size distribution, zeta potential, and integrity during incubation with serum proteins. Uptake and transcytosis of both LIP types and control vesicles by human brain endothelial hCMEC/D3 cells were measured. All LIP types had mean diameters below 150-200 nm and low polydispersity. Aβ-MAb-LIP uptake was higher than control PEGylated liposomes, while uptake of dd-LIP was similar to that of OX-26-LIP. Aβ-MAb-LIP and dd-LIP uptake increased significantly when cells were pre-incubated with Aβ1-42 peptides; OX-26-LIP uptake was not modulated. Transcytosis of Aβ-MAb-LIP through monolayers was 2.5 times higher when monolayers were pre-incubated with Aβ1-42. Transport of both probes, FITC-dextran and rhodamine-lipid, was equivalent, indicating that Aβ-MAb-LIP are transferred intact through the BBB model. The Aβ peptide-induced increase in binding (and transport) is regulated by the membrane receptors for Aβ1-42 peptides (RAGE), as proven after blocking RAGE by a specific MAb. Aβ1-42 peptides did not modulate the barrier tightness and integrity, as determined by transendothelial resistance and Lucifer Yellow permeability. Additionally, hCMEC/D3 cell viability was not affected by Aβ peptides or by Aβ-MAb-LIP.


Environmental interaction of antimony and arsenic near busy traffic nodes.
Antimony (Sb) and arsenic (As) are elements with similar chemistry, toxicity and binding properties, but different environmental risks and prevailing anthropogenic sources. A significant source of Sb contamination is associated with braking in extremely loaded traffic areas, where the produced abrasion dust contains up to 5% wt. of Sb2S3. In these same exposure areas, As still originates mostly from the combustion of fossil fuels. Heavily loaded crossroads from three different regions of the Czech Republic (Central Europe) were monitored for Sb content in road dusts, topsoils and reference soils during a two-year season (2016-2017). The same samples were also tested for As content to evaluate current contamination trends of both elements in exposed urban areas. The concentration of Sb varied from 5 to 70 µg g-1 in topsoils, and from 20 to 350 µg g-1 in road dusts with the preference for binding to the fine particle fraction (<0.1 mm). The average Sb concentration was up to 60 times the background value and decreased in the order: brake abrasion (103 µg g-1) > road dust (102 µg g-1)> topsoils (101 µg g-1) >> reference soils (<1 µg g-1). The concentration of As in road dust, topsoils and reference soils had about the same level, 101 µg g-1 indicating a more regional character of As pollution. Correlation factors for Sb/As versus iron (Fe)/organic matter (OM) indicated a more robust correlations in soils compared to road dusts and generally better correlations of Sb compared to As. While arsenic contamination has recently decreased thanks to a massive decline of arsenic emissions, antimony contamination indicates a dangerous trend due to growing automotive traffic.


Evaluation of Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), and HHV-8 antiviral drug susceptibilities by use of real-time-PCR-based assays.
Evaluation of candidate antiviral drugs against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), and HHV-8 is hampered by the lack of convenient laboratory assays. We developed real-time quantitative PCR assays performed on supernatants of lymphoma cell lines and determined the 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) of nucleoside, nucleotide, and pyrophosphate analogues against these herpesviruses.


Suppurated mediastinal and cardiac echinococcosis: report of a case.
We herein report the case of a suppurated mediastinal and cardiac hydatid cyst which occurred after the initial treatment of the patient for a primary mediastinal hydatid cyst in a radiology department. Both extracorporeal circulation and total circulatory arrest were used during the operation. We believe that surgery is the only feasible treatment for hydatid cysts located in the mediastinum, and surgery should be urgently performed whenever a possible rupture is suspected in order to avoid a possible anaphylactic reaction, mediastinal suppurations leading to serious complications, and growth into the pleural cavity.


Ankle arthrodesis.
This article presents an overview of current ankle arthrodesis techniques. Surgical indications, pathophysiology of the ankle joint, preoperative assessment of the patient, surgical techniques for ankle fusion, and complications/sequelae are discussed. The surgical techniques section focuses on crossed screws arthrodesis and intramedullary nailing for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis. Other techniques, including arthroscopic fusion, are also discussed.


The effect of thermal injury on plasma carnitine in rats.
The plasma concentration of L-carnitine in scalded rats was determined to be greater (p less than or equal to 0.05) than that of control rats at 6 h following the administration of a 20% body surface, full-thickness burn produced by scalding in a 100 degrees C water bath for 15 sec.


The role of the nucleus accumbens OXR1 in cocaine-induced locomotor sensitization.
Re-exposure to drug or drug-associated cues after withdrawal can induce behavioral sensitization expression in animals or increase in the expected effect to drug in humans, which mean an enhanced drug seeking/taking motivation to trigger relapse after abstinence. The Nucleus accumbens (NAc) is known to play a key role in mediating this motivation. Recently, it has been shown that systemic administration of orexin receptor 1 (OXR1) antagonist attenuates animals' motivation behavior to take drug by self-administration paradigm, which is more effectively than orexin receptor 2 (OXR2) antagonist. However, the effect of OXR1 in the NAc on drug-induced locomotor sensitization remains elusive. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of OXR1 in the NAc on chronic cocaine-induced locomotor sensitization. Rats were given 10 mg/kg cocaine intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) for five consecutive days, followed by 10 mg/kg cocaine re-exposure (challenge) on the 14th day of withdrawal. Results showed that re-exposure to cocaine after withdrawal could induce locomotor sensitization expression in cocaine-sensitized rats. Simultaneously, the number of OXR1 positive neurons and OXR1 membrane protein level in the NAc core but not the shell were significantly increased following the cocaine re-exposure. Further, micro-infusion of SB-334867, an OXR1 selective antagonist, into the NAc core but not the shell before cocaine re-exposure, significantly attenuated the expression of locomotor sensitization in rats. The findings demonstrate that OXR1 in the NAc core partially mediates the expression of chronic cocaine-induced locomotor sensitization.


Promoted degradation of perfluorooctanic acid by persulfate when adding activated carbon.
Treatment of persistent perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in water using persulfate (PS) oxidation typically requires an elevated temperature or UV irradiation, which is energy-consuming. Under relatively low temperatures of 25-45°C, activated carbon (AC) activated PS oxidation of PFOA was evaluated for its potential of practical applications. With presence of AC in PS oxidation, PFOA removal efficiency at 25°C reached 682% with a high defluorination efficiency of 549% after 12h and few intermediates of short-chain perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) were found. The removal and defluorination rates with the combined AC/PS system were approximately 12 and 19 times higher than those of the PS-only system, respectively. Activated carbon not only removes PFOA through adsorption, but also activates PS to form sulfate radicals that accelerate the decomposition and mineralization of PFOA. The activation energy for PS oxidation of PFOA was reduced from 668 to 261kJ/mol by the catalytic effect of AC, which implies a lower reaction temperature and a shorter reaction time would suffice. A 2-cycle schematic reaction mechanism was used to describe PS oxidation of PFOA with the generation of various intermediates and end-products.


Physico-chemical characterization of protein-pigment interactions in tempera paint reconstructions: casein/cinnabar and albumin/cinnabar.
In this work, we characterized paint reconstructions using ovalbumin and casein as binders, and cinnabar (HgS) as a pigment, before and after artificial ageing. Egg and casein are common paint binders that were used historically in the technique of tempera painting. Despite extensive research on the identification of proteinaceous binders in paintings, there is a substantial lack of knowledge regarding the ageing pathway of their protein content, and their chemical interaction with inorganic pigments. Thermogravimetric analysis, infrared spectroscopy and size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) were used to reveal the physico-chemical processes involved in the ageing of proteins in paintings. Taken together, the three techniques highlighted that proteins are subject to both cross-linking and hydrolysis upon ageing, and to a lesser extent, to oxidation of the side chains. Mercury-protein interactions were also revealed using a cold vapour generation atomic fluorescence spectrometer mercury-specific detector coupled to SEC. The study clearly showed that HgS forms stable complexes with proteins and acts as a sensitizer in cross-linking, hydrolysis and oxidation.


An analysis of reflective writing early in the medical curriculum: The relationship between reflective capacity and academic achievement.
To examine the relationship between reflection, gender, residency choice, word count, and academic achievement among medical students. A modified version of the Reflection Evaluation for Learners' Enhanced Competencies Tool (REFLECT) was developed and used for this study (Cronbach's alpha of 0.86 with an intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] of 0.68). This was applied to writing samples about professionalism in gross anatomy from first-year medical students between 2005 and 2011. Four analysts reviewed and scored written reflections independently. Composite reflection scores were compared with gender, residency choice, length of written reflection, NBME® Gross Anatomy and Embryology Subject Examination scores, and final gross anatomy course. Total of 319 written reflections were evaluated. Female students who pursued medicine specialties had the highest composite reflection scores (87 [27.2%]). Word count frequently correlated with reflection score (p < 0.0001). Students who performed well on the NBME® Gross Anatomy and Embryology Subject Examination tended to achieve high anatomy course grades (p < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant relationship between composite reflection scores and NBME® Gross Anatomy and Embryology Subject Examination scores (p = 0.16) or anatomy course grades (p = 0.90). This study suggests there are likely no correlations between reflective capacity and academic performance on tests of medical knowledge administered early in the medical curriculum.


Isolated hyoid bone fracture. Review of an unusual entity.
Fractures of hyoid bone resulting from trauma other than strangulation are very rare, isolated hyoid bone fractures are even rarer, and occur more frequently in young individuals, and in men more than in women. A comprehensive review of the world literature, also two rare cases of isolated hyoid bone fractures induced by direct trauma onto the anterior neck are presented. Additionally, a table summarizing 31 cases from 1954 to 2003, is included. Mechanism of injury, diagnosis, complications, prognosis, and treatment are discussed.


Enabling fast-charging selenium-based aqueous batteries via conversion reaction with copper ions.
Selenium (Se) is an appealing alternative cathode material for secondary battery systems that recently attracted research interests in the electrochemical energy storage field due to its high theoretical specific capacity and good electronic conductivity. However, despite the relevant capacity contents reported in the literature, Se-based cathodes generally show poor rate capability behavior. To circumvent this issue, we propose a series of selenium@carbon (Se@C) composite positive electrode active materials capable of delivering a four-electron redox reaction when placed in contact with an aqueous copper-ion electrolyte solution (i.e., 0.5 M CuSO4) and copper or zinc foils as negative electrodes. The lab-scale Zn | |Se@C cell delivers a discharge voltage of about 1.2 V at 0.5 A g-1 and an initial discharge capacity of 1263 mAh gSe-1. Interestingly, when a specific charging current of 6 A g-1 is applied, the Zn | |Se@C cell delivers a stable discharge capacity of around 900 mAh gSe-1 independently from the discharge rate. Via physicochemical characterizations and first-principle calculations, we demonstrate that battery performance is strongly associated with the reversible structural changes occurring at the Se-based cathode.


Linking COVID-19 and Parkinson's disease: Targeting the role of Vitamin-D.
COVID-19 pandemic has a major effect on world health, particularly on individuals suffering from severe diseases or old aged persons. Various case studies revealed that COVID-19 might increase the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). Coxsackievirus, dengue virus Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C virus, Japanese encephalitis, Western equine encephalomyelitis virus, West Nile virus, and human immunodeficiency virus have all been linked to the development of transient or permanent parkinsonism, owing to the induction of neuroinflammation/hypoxic brain injury with structural/functional damage within the basal ganglia. Coronavirus mainly infects the alveolar cells and may lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome. SARS-CoV-2 invades cells via the ACE2 receptor, which is widely expressed in the central nervous system, where the virus may precipitate or accelerate dementia. SARS-CoV-2 could enter the central nervous system directly by the olfactory/vagus nerves or through the bloodstream. Here, we talked about the importance of this viral infection in terms of the CNS as well as its implications for people with Parkinson's disease; anosmia & olfaction-related impairments in COVID-19 & PD patients. And, also discussed the role of vitamin D to sustain the progression of Parkinson's disease and the COVID-19; regular vitamin D3 consumption of 2000-5000 IU/day may reduce the risk and severity of COVID-19 in parkinsonian patients.


Dual-space technique for creating cement space in a cementation device for implant dentistry: A predictable chairside approach.
As residual excess cement in peri-implant tissues is a problem that can lead to implant failure, great care must be taken when delivering cement-retained crowns. Cement selection, prosthetic design, and cementation techniques can reduce the chances of having excess cement in peri-implant tissues. Multiple techniques have been described, but, in many, the cement space has been reproduced by unreliable means. The dual-space technique allows the clinician to fabricate an implant crown delivery device in which the cement space has been replicated in a predictable and straightforward manner. In this technique, light-body impression material is used to create the luting space before the fabrication of the device with bis-acryl resin.


Topics and cases for online education in engineering.
When considering offering online education for engineering ethics instruction, making choices necessary for the effective development and delivery of an engineering ethics curriculum is an important first step. Selecting the topics and types of cases for the most effective ethics education of engineering students is a vital step in preparing an effective program. Examples are presented for topics which are considered good candidates for online presentation, and the adaptability of these topics for web-based instruction is discussed. Types of cases which are useful in engineering ethics education are presented. Methods of teaching applied ethics, as well as ideas for web-based ethics course design are suggested. The market for web-based instruction is discussed


EpCAM tumor specificity and proteoform patterns in urothelial cancer.
The role of the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) in cancer is still unclear. EpCAM cleavage through regulated intramembrane proteolysis results in fragments which interact with both oncogenic and tumor suppressive pathways. Additionally, the EpCAM molecule itself is used as a descriptive therapeutic target in urothelial cancer (UC), while data on its actual tumor specificity remain limited. Samples from diagnostic formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) UC tissue and fresh-frozen UC cells were immunoblotted and used for qualitative characterization of five different EpCAM fragments. These expression patterns were quantified across a cohort of 76 samples with 52 UC and 24 normal urothelial samples. Cell viability effects of the extracellular EpEX fragment were assessed in the UC cell lines T24 and HT1376. The proteolytic EpCAM fragments could be identified in clinical FFPE tissue specimens too. Neither overall nor fragment-specific EpCAM expression showed relevant tumor specificity. EpEX and its deglycosylated variant showed an inverse relationship across healthy and tumor tissue with a decrease of deglycosylated EpEX in tumors. However, extracellular EpEX did not show a relevant effect in vitro. EpCAM should not be regarded as tumor-specific in UC without patient-specific predictive testing. EpCAM fragment patterns indicate cancer-specific changes and could be involved in its complex tumor-biological role.


A quantitative method to measure alkaline phosphatase activities in individual leukocytes by image analysis.
Leucocyte alkaline phosphatase (L-ALP) is well known as leukemia marker, but recent results suggest its usefulness for the diagnosis of several diseases. The aim of this study was to develop a quantitative method to measure alkaline phosphatase activities in individual leukocytes by image analysis. We studied the reaction rate of L-ALP in human polymorphonuclear leucocytes by a microscope attached to a TV camera and a computerized image analyzer. The optical density (OD) measured was standardized by grey filters with known absorbance. We measured IOD for individual cells after a set incubation time by end-point measurements. Studies of kinetic parameters of L-ALP were performed by single-point measurements in the linear phase of the reaction and at increasing substrate concentrations. Cellular IOD increased proportionally with incubation time up to 10 min. The mean KM(mM) and Vmax(delta IOD/min) values were 0.70 +/- 0.11 and 1.76 +/- 0.2 (mean +/- SE, n = 5) respectively. Our findings are comparable to previous results using a polyvynil alcohol method in microphotometry analysis. The image analysis of cellular L-ALP activity appears a valuable tool for quantitative studies.


Seizures manifesting as an urge to defecate, with an ictal discharge in the right hemisphere.
We report a 47-year-old right-handed woman with simple partial seizures manifesting in part as an urge to defecate shortly after a visual distortion. On at least one occasion, this was followed by head deviation to the left and a secondarily generalized tonic-clonic seizure. The ictal electroencephalogram lateralized to the right hemisphere, suggesting that the ictal urge to defecate may lateralize to this side.


[Effect of fentolamin on carbohydrate-phosphorus metabolic indices of the rat myocardium in the early periods of body growth].
The effect of alpha-adrenoblocking agent phentolamine (1 mg/kg) on the ATP, ADP, AMP, inorganic phosphorus, glycogen in the heart muscle of rats of different age (7,30 and 3 1/2 month old) was investigated. It is shown that the nature of changes in the studied factors testifies to a greater sensitivity of the myocardium to the alpha-adrenergic block at early stages of the post-natal ontogenesis.


Protective role of reactive oxygen species in endotoxin-induced lung inflammation through modulation of IL-10 expression.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by NADPH oxidase are generally known to be proinflammatory, and it seems to be counterintuitive that ROS play a critical role in regulating the resolution of the inflammatory response. However, we observed that deficiency of the p47(phox) component of NADPH oxidase in macrophages was associated with a paradoxical accentuation of inflammation in a whole animal model of noninfectious sepsis induced by endotoxin. We have confirmed this observation by interrogating four separate in vivo models that use complementary methodology including the use of p47(phox-/-) mice, p47(phox-/-) bone marrow chimera mice, adoptive transfer of macrophages from p47(phox-/-) mice, and an isolated perfused lung edema model that all point to a relationship between excessive acute inflammation and p47(phox) deficiency in macrophages. Mechanistic data indicate that ROS deficiency in both cells and mice results in decreased production of IL-10 in response to treatment with LPS, at least in part, through attenuation of the Akt-GSK3-β signal pathway and that it can be reversed by the administration of rIL-10. Our data support the innovative concept that generation of ROS is essential for counterregulation of acute lung inflammation.


Native bovine selenocysteine tRNA(Sec) secondary structure as probed by two plant single-strand-specific nucleases.
Two single-strand-specific nucleases, discovered in plants, have been used to investigate the secondary and tertiary structures of the native bovine liver selenocysteine tRNA(Sec). To check the possible influence of nucleotide modifications on these structures, we compared the results obtained with the fully modified tRNA to the unmodified transcript prepared by in vitro T7 transcription of the Xenopus laevis tRNA(Sec) gene. We found that the structures in solution of the native tRNA(Sec) and the transcript are very similar despite some differences in accessibility to the enzymatic probes. Indeed, the modified anticodon-loop of native bovine tRNA(Sec), containing 5-methylcarboxymethyluridine (mcm5U34) and N6-isopentenyladenosine (i6A37), is less accessible to Rn nuclease than that of the transcript: the intensity of bands representing cuts at A36 and A38 is much lower as compared to those of the transcript, whereas no cuts were found at the level of i6A37 in the anticodon loop of the native molecule. Surprisingly, the variable arm of the native molecule has been found to be more susceptible to single-strand-specific nuclease action, suggesting a looser structure of the variable arm in native bovine tRNA(Sec) than in the transcript.


Ribosome stalling is a signal for metabolic regulation by the ribotoxic stress response.
Impairment of translation can lead to collisions of ribosomes, which constitute an activation platform for several ribosomal stress-surveillance pathways. Among these is the ribotoxic stress response (RSR), where ribosomal sensing by the MAP3K ZAKα leads to activation of p38 and JNK kinases. Despite these insights, the physiological ramifications of ribosomal impairment and downstream RSR signaling remain elusive. Here, we show that stalling of ribosomes is sufficient to activate ZAKα. In response to amino acid deprivation and full nutrient starvation, RSR impacts on the ensuing metabolic responses in cells, nematodes, and mice. The RSR-regulated responses in these model systems include regulation of AMPK and mTOR signaling, survival under starvation conditions, stress hormone production, and regulation of blood sugar control. In addition, ZAK-/- male mice present a lean phenotype. Our work highlights impaired ribosomes as metabolic signals and demonstrates a role for RSR signaling in metabolic regulation.


Role of bad in podocyte apoptosis induced by puromycin aminonucleoside.
Apoptosis, which is usually a response to the microenvironment, requires inactivation of prosurvival molecules. Apoptosis contributes to loss of podocytes in the course of renal injury, an event closely associated with the development of proteinuria. Dexamethasone (DEX) is the standard of care for most forms of nephrotic syndrome. However, the precise mechanisms of DEX action on podocytes are unknown. This study examined the hypothesis that cultured podocytes exposed to puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) showed a reduced rate of apoptosis upon DEX exposure. Apoptotic podocytes seemed to be related to increased Bad mRNA and protein expressions. DEX reduced apoptosis by decreasing Bad mRNA and protein expressions, thereby protecting podocytes. These findings provided insights into the beneficial effects of DEX directly on podocytes. The present study illustrated the signal transduction mechanism of podocyte apoptosis induced by PAN.


Reassessing a sparse energetic network within a single protein domain.
Understanding the molecular principles that govern allosteric communication is an important goal in protein science. One way allostery could be transmitted is via sparse energetic networks of residues, and one such evolutionary conserved network was identified in the PDZ domain family of proteins by multiple sequence alignment [Lockless SW, Ranganathan R (1999) Science 286:295-299]. We have reassessed the energetic coupling of these residues by double mutant cycles together with ligand binding and stability experiments and found that coupling is not a special property of the coevolved network of residues in PDZ domains. The observed coupling for ligand binding is better explained by a distance relationship, where residues close in space are more likely to couple than distal residues. Our study demonstrates that statistical coupling from sequence analysis is not necessarily a reporter of energetic coupling and allostery.


Density dependence of maximal expiratory flows in normal subjects: influence of sex, age, body build and spirographic variables.
We studied the correlation between density-dependence parameters (delta He, volume of isoflow) and age, body build, spirography and forced expiratory fows in 69 healthy non-smokers (16 females) aged 18 to 51 years. Density dependence variables showed no significant differences between young (less than 35 years) males and females. Volume of isoflow per cent of forced vital capacity (Viso V % FVC) was poorly significantly related to age (r = +0.25 P less than 0.05) and weight (r = +0.27 P less than 0.05). Significant correlations were found between density dependence at low lung volume and the FEV1/VC ratio (r = 0.31, P = 0.01 for delta He 25%; r = -0.40, P less than 0.001 for Viso V% FVC) or the forced expiratory flows with air (Viso V% FVC vs. FEF 25% r = -0.42, P less than 0.001). These correlations were closer in females as compared to males. Volume of isoflow was well related to delta He 25% (r = -0.64, P less than 0.001), but the relationship with delta He 50% was weaker (r = -0.38; P less than 0.01).


Natural history of patients after abdominal-perineal resection. Implications for radiation therapy.
The records of one hundred twenty-three consecutive abdominal perineal resections for rectosigmoid carcinoma were reviewed. One hundred sixteen cases were adenocarcinoma, and seven cases squamous cell carcinoma. Clinical outcome was documented in 111 cases. Overall, 42% survived five years or more. Ultimately 44 of the 123 patients (36%) were proven to have died with tumor and 19 patients (15%) developed clinical manifestations of recurrent pelvic tumor. Five of the 116 patients with adenocarcinoma (4%) died with evidence of pelvic disease only. Second primary tumors were observed in 22 patients (18%). The authors suggest preoperative irradiation to reduce local recurrence and possibly increase disease-free survival. Physicians following these patients should consider them at high risk for cancer in general.


Scientometric Analysis of Global Scientific Publications on COVID-19 and Diabetes with an Emphasis on Middle Eastern Countries.
Due to the worldwide spread of COVID-19, various countries have designed scientific studies on different aspects of the disease. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have been proven to be at higher risk of COVID-19-related complications, hospitalization, and death. The aim was to conduct a scientometric analysis of scholarly outputs on diabetes and COVID-19. Web of Science was searched for scientific publications on diabetes and COVID-19 by Middle Eastern researchers until September 14, 2021. Collected data were analyzed for document type, subject area, countries, top journals, citation number, and authors' collaboration network using VOS viewer 1.6.15 and bibliometrix R-package 4.1.1. Overall, the characteristics of 603 documents on DM and COVID-19 were analyzed. The top three productive countries in the field were Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. The top affiliation was from Iran; "Tehran University of Medical Sciences" (n = 168), followed by "Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences" (n = 82). The total citation number was 3704 times. The highest cited paper (348) was a systematic review from Iran, published in arch Acad Emerg Med. The top source was "Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews," with 26 documents. The current study provides an overview of the quantity and quality of published scholarly documents on the intersection of DM and COVID-19 in the region. Our findings help scientists find the existing gaps, manage the research budgets, identify active authors and scientific institutes to collaborate with, and use their experience to produce new knowledge in the future.


Ultrasonic pulsed Doppler transoesophageal measurement of aortic haemodynamics in humans.
Centreline blood velocity and exterior wall motion were measured in the descending aorta of humans using an oesophageal probe, a pulsed ultrasound Doppler velocity meter and an ultrasonic echo tracking system. The development of a method for easily measuring haemodynamics in the thoracic region using an oesophageal probe will provide an essentially non-invasive method for the assessment of cardiac function and the nature of blood vessels in that region. Detailed anatomical studies of the thorax were conducted by cross-sectioning of the thorax of a cadaver. Blood velocity waveforms were recorded from the descending aorta both during rest and exercise. In one volunteer, the peak centreline velocity increased from a resting value of approximately 30 cm s-1 to an exercise value of approximately 50 cm s-1. Vessel diameter waveforms similar to those for pressure were also recorded showing diameter changes of 1.8 mm. The accuracy and resolution of the technique would be improved by multicrystal probes and multigate ultrasonic flowmeters allowing for accurate calculation of the Doppler angle, imaging of vascular flow regions, and measurement of pulse wave velocity.


Retinal ganglion cell atrophy correlated with automated perimetry in human eyes with glaucoma.
We measured the number and size of retinal ganglion cells from six human eyes with glaucoma. In each, the histologic findings were correlated with visual field results. Five age-matched normal eyes were studied for comparison. In general, there were fewer remaining large ganglion cells in retinal areas with atrophy. In the perifoveal area, however, no consistent pattern of cell loss by size was found. Our estimates suggest that visual field sensitivity in automated testing begins to decline soon after the initial loss of ganglion cells. Throughout the central 30 degrees of the retina, 20% of the normal number of cells were gone in locations with a 5-dB sensitivity loss, and 40% cell loss corresponded to a 10-dB decrease. There were some remaining ganglion cells in areas that had 0-dB sensitivity in the field test.


Living-donor liver transplantation for autoimmune hepatitis and autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cirrhosis overlap syndrome.
Recurrent autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) following liver transplantation has been reported in 20-30% of cases, mainly of Western populations. The aim of this study was to review our experience of living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in Japanese patients with AIH. Among 375 adult (age ≥18 years) LDLT performed at our center between 1996 and 2010, 16 (4.2%) were for patients with AIH (n = 12) or AIH-primary biliary cirrhosis overlap syndrome (n = 4). The patient and donor characteristics and post-transplantation course were reviewed. All recipients were female with a median age of 48 years (range, 21-58). Low-dose methylprednisolone and calcineurin inhibitors were continued in all patients. Acute cellular rejection occurred in 10 (63%), which was more frequent than in our overall series of 28.5% (107/375 cases). Overall survival rate was 81.2% at 5 years. At the end of the follow up (median, 6.0 years [range, 0.1-9.6]), 13 patients were alive with normal liver function tests (aspartate transaminase, 18 ± 5 IU/mL; alanine transaminase, 16 ± 8 IU/mL). None of the survivors exhibited liver function test results suspicious for recurrent AIH, which might indicate liver biopsy. Survival after LDLT for AIH and overlap syndrome was excellent and there was no evidence of clinical recurrence. The recurrence rate of AIH after liver transplantation may differ among countries, and requires further investigation.


Synthesis of electron-deficient oxacalix[2]arene[2]triazines and their isomeric analogs from a one-pot reaction of perfluorinated dihydroxybenzenes with dichlorotriazines.
Efficient synthesis of tetraoxacalix[2]perfluoroarene[2]triazines and their isomeric analogs from a one-pot macrocyclic condensation reaction of methoxy- and amino-substituted dichlorotriazines with tetrafluorobenzene-1,3-, -1,4-, and -1,2-diols was developed. X-ray analysis demonstrates that they adopt drastically different 1,3-alternate conformations in the crystalline state while in solution they undergo very fast conformational changes relative to the NMR time scale.


Median-ulnar nerve communications: electrophysiological demonstration of motor and sensory fibre cross-over.
In a 33-year-old female with carpal tunnel syndrome the presence of anomalous communications between median and ulnar nerves was electrophysiologically demonstrated in the forearm. Motor latencies from proximal and distal stimulation sites along the median nerve fibres to the abductor pollicis brevis were identical. Proximal latency "increased" after procaine infiltration of the ulnar nerve at the wrist. Normal latency to the abductor digiti minimi was obtained on stimulation of the median nerve at the elbow. Along the sensory fibres of the median nerve orthodromic conduction velocity was markedly slowed from digit III to the wrist and normal from the wrist to the elbow. On supramaximal stimulation of digit III a sensory response was also recorded from the ulnar nerve at the wrist. On stimulation of digit V a sensory potential was recorded from the median nerve at the elbow. This appears to be the first electrophysiological demonstration of an anomaly involving both the motor and sensory fibres of both the median and the ulnar nerves.


The occurrence of mycoplasmas in the lungs of pigs in New Zealand.
Attempts were made to recover and serologically identify mycoplasmas from the lungs of 50 pigs with mycoplasmal pneumonia and from 50 lungs without gross evidence of pneumonia. Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and M. hyorhinis were respectively cultured from 30% and 50% of pneumonic lungs and the former species was also recovered from 12% of non-pneumonic lungs. Three other isolates (one from pneumonic and two from non-pneumonic lungs) differed in colonial morphology from M. hyopneumoniae and M. hyorhinis. The viability of these isolates could not be maintained on subculture and they were not identified serologically. The indirect immunofluorescence test was found to be highly specific for the identification and differentiation of M. hyopneumoniae and M. hyorhinis.


A new periapical index based on cone beam computed tomography.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new periapical index based on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for identification of apical periodontitis (AP). The periapical index proposed in this study (CBCTPAI) was developed on the basis of criteria established from measurements corresponding to periapical radiolucency interpreted on CBCT scans. Radiolucent images suggestive of periapical lesions were measured by using the working tools of Planimp software on CBCT scans in 3 dimensions: buccopalatal, mesiodistal, and diagonal. The CBCTPAI was determined by the largest lesion extension. A 6-point (0-5) scoring system was used with 2 additional variables, expansion of cortical bone and destruction of cortical bone. A total of 1014 images (periapical radiographs and CBCT scans) originally taken from 596 patients were evaluated by 3 observers by using the CBCTPAI criteria. AP was identified in 39.5% and 60.9% of cases by radiography and CBCT, respectively (P < .01). The CBCTPAI offers an accurate diagnostic method for use with high-resolution images, which can reduce the incidence of false-negative diagnosis, minimize observer interference, and increase the reliability of epidemiologic studies, especially those referring to AP prevalence and severity.


Effects of Religious Behavior on Health-Related Lifestyles of Muslims in Malaysia.
Religion has become more prominent in shaping attitudes and behavior, but little empirical information is available on the impact of religious behavior in shaping individual Muslims' health-related lifestyle behaviors in developing countries. The present study explores the relationship between religious behavior and the health-related practices of Malaysian Muslims. A convenience sample of 176 Malaysian Muslims was collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used to develop the model. Result shows that health-related actions are strongly influenced, both directly and indirectly, by the health-related lifestyle choices consumers engaging in on a daily basis in accordance with Islamic teachings.


Endoscopic midfacial rejuvenation.
Early facial rejuvenation focused largely on the upper and lower thirds of the face. More recently, improvements in understanding of midfacial aging and anatomy have paralleled the development of endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The midface is now understood to include both the lower lid subunit and the cheek down to the nasolabial fold. Many surgical techniques for midface rejuvenation have been used, including skin tightening with direct excision, skin-muscle flaps, isolated fat pad transposition, and subperiosteal lifting. The methods of endoscopic subperiosteal midface lifting and endoscopic malar fat pad lifting are discussed.


A critical developmental switch defines the kinetics of kidney cyst formation after loss of Pkd1.
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is an important cause of end-stage renal disease, for which there is no proven therapy. Mutations in PKD1 (the gene encoding polycystin-1) are the principal cause of this disease. The disease begins in utero and is slowly progressive, but it is not known whether cystogenesis is an ongoing process during adult life. We now show that inactivation of Pkd1 in mice before postnatal day 13 results in severely cystic kidneys within 3 weeks, whereas inactivation at day 14 and later results in cysts only after 5 months. We found that cellular proliferation was not appreciably higher in cystic specimens than in age-matched controls, but the abrupt change in response to Pkd1 inactivation corresponded to a previously unrecognized brake point during renal growth and significant changes in gene expression. These findings suggest that the effects of Pkd1 inactivation are defined by a developmental switch that signals the end of the terminal renal maturation process. Our studies show that Pkd1 regulates tubular morphology in both developing and adult kidney, but the pathologic consequences of inactivation are defined by the organ's developmental status. These results have important implications for clinical understanding of the disease and therapeutic approaches.


The N- and C-terminal boundaries of myelin basic protein determinants required for encephalitogenic and proliferative responses of Lewis rat T cells.
Highly purified synthetic peptides representing portions of the 68-86 sequence of guinea pig (GP) myelin basic protein (GPMBP) were used to define the N- and C-termini of encephalitogenic determinants that cause experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in Lewis rats. Each peptide was tested for: (a) induction of EAE, (b)in vitro potentiation of EAE transfer activity by GPMBP-sensitized lymph node cells (LNC), (c) in vitro proliferation of GPMBP-sensitized LNC, and (d) in vitro proliferation of a GPMBP-reactive line of EAE-inducing T cells. In these bioassays, the general rank order of potency was: GPMBP greater than or equal to GP68-86 greater than or equal to GP72-86 greater than [G84]GP68-86 greater than or equal to GP68-84 much greater than GP75-85 greater than or equal to GP75-84 = virtually no activity. These results demonstrate that the encephalitogenic region is bounded by the 72-74 and 84-86 sequences. Further evidence presented herein indicates that the 75-84 sequence contains the primary antigenic features required for specific T cell recognition of the encephalitogenic region.


Methylene blue by intraosseous infusion for methemoglobinemia.
Intraosseous administration of methylene blue may be an emergency alternative to intravascular administration. A 6-week-old female infant (3 kg) presented to the emergency department after a 1-week illness and appeared cyanotic and listless. Oxygen saturation by oximetry was 86% while the patient was receiving oxygen. Vital signs were blood pressure, 107/80 mm Hg; pulse, 190; respirations, 47; temperature, 39.0 degreesC. A metabolic acidosis and a methemoglobin level of 29.3% were present. After several unsuccessful attempts to establish intravenous access, an intraosseous needle was placed in the infant's left tibia. Methylene blue, 1 mg/kg, normal saline solution, and sodium bicarbonate were given intraosseously. The patient's oxygen saturation rose to 98% to 100%, and her cyanosis improved. Three hours later, her methemoglobin level was 8.2%. The child recovered uneventfully and was sent home after 3 days. Intraosseous administration of standard intravenous doses of methylene blue rapidly terminated the effects of acquired methemoglobinemia.


Efficient removal of Cd2+ from aqueous solution with a novel composite of silicon supported nano iron/aluminum/magnesium (hydr)oxides prepared from biotite.
Taking low cost silicate minerals to develop efficient Cd2+ adsorption materials was favorable to the comprehensive utilization of minerals and remediation of environmental pollution. In this study, a composite of silicon supported nano iron/aluminum/magnesium (hydr)oxides was prepared with biotite by combining acid leaching and base precipitation process, which was used to remove Cd2+. Cd2+ adsorption behaviors were in accordance of pseudo-second order kinetic model and Langmuir model, and the obtained maximal Cd2+ adsorption capacity was 78.37 mg/g. Increasing pH and temperature could accelerate the removal of Cd2+. The activation energy was calculated as 66.05 kJ/mol, meaning that Cd2+ removal process was mainly depended on chemical adsorption. XRD and SEM results showed that this composite was a micro-nano structure of layered silica supported nano iron/aluminum/magnesium (hydr)oxides. Cd2+ removal mechanisms were consisted of surface complexation and ion exchange between Cd2+ and other metal ions, and the ion exchange interaction played the major role. These results indicated that a novel efficient utilization way for silicate minerals was developed.


Nutrigenomics approach elucidates health-promoting effects of high vegetable intake in lean and obese men.
We aimed to explore whether vegetable consumption according to guidelines has beneficial health effects determined with classical biomarkers and nutrigenomics technologies. Fifteen lean (age 36 ± 7 years; BMI 23.4 ± 1.7 kg m(-2)) and 17 obese (age 40 ± 6 years; BMI 30.3 ± 2.4 kg m(-2)) men consumed 50- or 200-g vegetables for 4 weeks in a randomized, crossover trial. Afterward, all subjects underwent 4 weeks of energy restriction (60 % of normal energy intake). Despite the limited weight loss of 1.7 ± 2.4 kg for the lean and 2.1 ± 1.9 kg for the obese due to energy restriction, beneficial health effects were found, including lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and HbA1c concentrations. The high vegetable intake resulted in increased levels of plasma amino acid metabolites, decreased levels of 9-HODE and prostaglandin D3 and decreased levels of ASAT and ALP compared to low vegetable intake. Adipose tissue gene expression changes in response to vegetable intake were identified, and sets of selected genes were submitted to network analysis. The network of inflammation genes illustrated a central role for NFkB in (adipose tissue) modulation of inflammation by increased vegetable intake, in lean as well as obese subjects. In obese subjects, high vegetable intake also resulted in changes related to energy metabolism, adhesion and inflammation. By inclusion of sensitive omics technologies and comparing the changes induced by high vegetable intake with changes induced by energy restriction, it has been shown that part of vegetables' health benefits are mediated by changes in energy metabolism, inflammatory processes and oxidative stress.


Solubilization of nonhistone chromosomal proteins by carboxymethyldextran for chromatography.
Chromosomal proteins extracted from calf thymus by 0.35 M NaCl were insoluble at the low salt concentration needed initially for ion-exchange chromatography. However, the addition of high-affinity carboxymethyl-dextran rendered the precipitated proteins soluble, permitting them to be fractionated by elution from DEAE-Sephacel. In this way, the separation of HMG-1 from HMG-2 was achieved, as well as a partial fractionation of the low mobility group proteins, under conditions that did not disturb the native conformation of the proteins.


A 'transitional' context for health policy development: the Palestinian case.
The objective of this article is to focus on the challenges and opportunities the Palestinian health care system is currently facing in a 'transitional period', which started subsequent to the Oslo Agreement in 1993. The characteristics of 'transition' have to be highlighted in order to understand the context and peculiarities in which the Palestinian health care system is operating. A descriptive analysis is provided of the historical, political, economic and socio-demographic elements to gain an insight into the complex context of the Occupied Palestinian Territories, a country in 'transition'.


Alkanoylsucroses in nasal delivery of low molecular weight heparins: in-vivo absorption and reversibility studies in rats.
The efficacy of alkanoylsucroses in enhancing nasal absorption of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and the time span of action of these agents on the nasal membrane has been investigated. In this regard, LMWH formulated with alkanoylsucroses was administered nasally to anaesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats and the absorption of LMWH was determined by measuring plasma antifactor Xa activity. The duration of action of these agents at the site of administration was investigated by an in-vivo reversibility study. The potency and efficacy of dodecanoylsucrose was compared with that of sodium glycocholate. Alkanoylsucroses used in this study include dodecanoylsucrose, decanoylsucrose and octanoylsucrose. These agents enhance nasal absorption of enoxaparin in a dose-dependent and chain-length-dependent manner. Of the agents tested, dodecanoylsucrose was found to be the most potent in enhancing nasal absorption of LMWH. The bioavailability of enoxaparin formulated with alkanoylsucroses was increased by several folds compared with enoxaparin formulated in saline. The reversibility study with dodecanoylsucrose showed that the effect of alkanoylsucroses faded away with time and the duration of action of this agent at the site of administration was 120-140 min. Dodecanoylsucrose was found to be twice as potent as sodium glycocholate. Overall, the nasal absorption of LMWH was effectively enhanced by co-administration of alkanoylsucroses and the effect of alkanoylsucroses on nasal epithelium was found to be reversible. The potency of these agents depends on their hydrophobic chain lengths.