Associations of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index With Femur Bone Mineral Density and Osteoporosis in American Postmenopausal Women: Data From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
The geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) has been used as a significant tool to access the nutritional status of the elderly. However, the relationship between the GNRI and femur bone mineral density (BMD) and the risk of osteoporosis remains unclear in American postmenopausal women. We aimed to explore associations between the GNRI with femur BMD and the risk of osteoporosis in American postmenopausal women. We merged the continuous National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2006, 2007-2008, 2009-2010, 2013-2014, and 2017-2018 to ensure a large and representative sample, including 3,152 participants. The linear relationship between the GNRI and femur BMD was assessed via a weighted multivariate linear regression model. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the association between the GNRI and the risk of osteoporosis were assessed by a weighted logistic regression model. Moreover, the nonlinear relationship was also characterized by smooth curve fitting (SCF) and a weighted generalized additive model (GAM). After adjusting for all covariates, the weighted multivariable linear regression models demonstrated that the GNRI was positively correlated with femur BMD. The weighted logistic regression models demonstrated that each unit of increased GNRI value was associated with a decreased risk of osteoporosis of 4.13%. When categorizing GNRI based on quartiles, ORs between the risk of osteoporosis and the GNRI across quintiles 2, 3, and 4 compared with quintile 1 were 0.5565 (95% CI: 0.4791, 0.6463; P < 0.000001), 0.5580 (95% CI: 0.4600, 0.6769; P < 0.000001), and 0.3475 (95% CI: 0.2681, 0.4505; P < 0.000001). The trends similar to the above were also observed in SCF and GAM. This study indicated that nutritional status, represented by the GNRI, was positively associated with femur BMD and negatively associated with the risk of osteoporosis in American postmenopausal women. The GNRI may be a good tool to identify American postmenopausal women who need further bone health nutritional support.


A quick and efficient method of correct typesetting of tables on computers.
Alignment of numerical data in a table body may be achieved by first typing it single-spaced and without horizontal lines and with only the last lines of the stub-headings. Once the numerical data have been aligned under each column, stub-headings may be completed, horizontal lines inserted and the whole table double-spaced.


Peripheral T Cell Lymphoma of Parotid Gland: A Diagnostic Challenge.
Peripheral T-cell lymphoma of salivary gland is a rare clinical entity most commonly involving the parotid gland and mimics a salivary gland carcinoma. It has an aggressive clinical course with poor prognosis. Majority of the cases are diagnosed after surgical excision whereas the principal treatment is non-surgical (chemotherapy). Core biopsy is an excellent method of identifying these indeterminate lesions pre-operatively which would avoid unnecessary surgical intervention. We present a case report with diagnostic challenge in identifying peripheral T cell lymphoma of salivary gland with the review of literature.


Changes in groundwater dissolved organic matter character in a coastal sand aquifer due to rainfall recharge.
Dissolved organic matter (DOM) in groundwater is fundamentally important with respect to biogeochemical reactions, global carbon cycling, heavy metal transport, water treatability and potability. One source of DOM to groundwater is from the transport of organic matter from the vadose zone by rainfall recharge. Changes in precipitation patterns associated with natural climate variability and climate change are expected to alter the load and character of organic matter released from these areas, which ultimately impacts on groundwater quality and DOM treatability. In order to investigate potential changes in groundwater DOM character after rainfall recharge, we sampled shallow groundwater from a coastal peat-rich sand aquifer in New South Wales, Australia, during an extended period of low precipitation (average daily precipitation rate < 1.6 mm day-1 over the 8 months prior to sampling), and after two heavy precipitation events (84 mm day-1 and 98 mm day-1 respectively). We assess changes in DOM composition after correcting for dilution by a novel combination of two advanced analytical techniques: liquid chromatography organic carbon detection (LC-OCD) and negative-ion electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). We also assess changes in water chemistry pre- and post-rainfall. Post-rainfall, we show that the dilution-corrected amount of highly aromatic DOM molecular formulae (i.e. those categorised into the groups polyphenolics and condensed aromatics) were 1.7 and 2.0 times higher respectively than in pre-rainfall samples. We attribute this to the flushing of peat-derived DOM from buried organic material into the groundwater. We also identify that periods of low precipitation can lead to low hydrophilic/HOC ratios in groundwater (median = 4.9, n = 14). Redundancy analysis (RDA) was used to compare the HOC fraction with FT-ICR MS compound groups. We show that HOC has a more aromatic character in pre-rainfall samples, and is less similar to the aromatic groups in post-rainfall samples. This suggests that the decline in water-borne hydrophobics observed post-rainfall could be associated with preferential adsorption of the hydrophobic aromatic DOM, making post-rainfall samples less treatable for potable water supply. Post-rainfall we also observe significant increases in arsenic (leading to concentrations greater than 3 times the World Health Organisation drinking water limit of 10 μg / L). Increases in coastal rainfall due to climate change may therefore alter the composition of groundwater DOM in coastal peatland areas in ways that may impact DOM bioavailability, and increase arsenic concentrations, reducing the ease of water treatment for human consumption. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify the chemical and molecular changes of shallow groundwater DOM pre-rainfall and post-rainfall in a sedimentary organic carbon rich environment through multiple analytical techniques.


Amendments and bioaugmentation enhanced phytoremediation and micro-ecology for PAHs and heavy metals co-contaminated soils.
Co-existence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and multi-metals challenges the decontamination of large-scale contaminated sites. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the remediation potential of intensified phytoremediation in coping with complex co-contaminated soils. Results showed that the removal of PAHs and heavy metals is time-dependent, pollution-relevant, and plant-specific. Removal of sixteen PAHs by Medicago sativa L. (37.3%) was significantly higher than that of Solanum nigrum L. (20.7%) after 30 days. S. nigrum L. removed higher amounts of Cd than Zn and Pb, while M. sativa L. uptake more Zn. Nevertheless, amendments and microbial agents significantly increased the phytoremediation efficiency of pollutants and shortened the gap between plants. Cd removal and PAHs dissipation reached up to 80% and 90% after 90 days for both plants. Heavy metal stability in soil was promoted after the intensified phytoremediation. Plant lipid peroxidation was alleviated, regulated by changed antioxidant defense systems (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase). Soil enzyme activities including dehydrogenase, urease, and catalase increased up to 5-fold. Soil bacterial diversity and structure were changed, being largely composed of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Patescibacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. These findings provide a green and sustainable approach to decontaminating complex-polluted environments with comprehensive improvement of soil health.


Multiple forms of cerebral peptides with steroidogenic functions in pupal and adult brains of the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti.
In the adult mosquito, Aedes aegypti, the cerebral egg development neurosecretory hormone (EDNH) regulates reproduction by activating the ovaries to synthesize the steroid hormone ecdysone, while during postembryonic development the cerebral prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) activates the prothoracic glands to synthesize ecdysone. In each case, ecdysone than drives stage-specific physiological processes. Since EDNH and PTTH share a common steroidogenic function, it is conceivable that they are similar, if not the same, peptide(s). This investigation has begun to address this possibility by determining structural and functional relationships between these two families of neuropeptides. The peptides having EDNH activity in adult and pupal heads of Aedes aegypti were characterized on the basis of their molecular weights and their biological properties in in vitro and in vivo bioassays for EDNH. Gel filtration chromatography of extracts revealed fractions with EDNH activity having molecular weights of approximately 11 kDa and approximately 24 kDa. The similarities in the functional dynamics of these two activities in the different bioassays suggested that comparable moieties existed in pupal and adult brains. The sensitivity of these moieties to proteolytic hydrolysis indicated that they were proteins. Thus at least two EDNH-like peptides appear to be present in pupal and adult heads of Aedes aegypti. The apparent existence of more than one molecular weight form of EDNH has not been reported previously. Since these moieties are present in both pupal and adult heads, it is possible that they have the same steroidogenic function in the two different stages, i.e., to activate ecdysone synthesis, by prothoracic glands in larvae and pupae and by the ovaries in adults.


CO-opting the host HO-1 pathway in tuberculosis and malaria.
Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Plasmodium species results in upregulation of the host heme oxygenase-1 pathway. In tuberculosis infection, this leads to upregulation of the bacterial "dormancy regulon," whereas in malaria, it enhances the efficiency with which sporozoites develop into exoerythrocytic stages. Here we discuss these findings as well as some of the interesting questions they raise.


Atypical presentations of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: explaining the genetic defects and genome architecture.
22q11.2 deletion syndrome, the most common microdeletion syndrome, exhibits a broad range of phenotypes, implying a cumbersome diagnosis due to atypical or paucisymptomatic presentations. We present two atypical cases of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and suggest a preferential occurrence of the breakpoints in regions poor in repetitive elements of SINE/Alu family.


Advanced colorectal adenoma related gene expression signature may predict prognostic for colorectal cancer patients with adenoma-carcinoma sequence.
There are still no absolute parameters predicting progression of adenoma into cancer. The present study aimed to characterize functional differences on the multistep carcinogenetic process from the adenoma-carcinoma sequence. All samples were collected and mRNA expression profiling was performed by using Agilent Microarray high-throughput gene-chip technology. Then, the characteristics of mRNA expression profiles of adenoma-carcinoma sequence were described with bioinformatics software, and we analyzed the relationship between gene expression profiles of adenoma-adenocarcinoma sequence and clinical prognosis of colorectal cancer. The mRNA expressions of adenoma-carcinoma sequence were significantly different between high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia group and adenocarcinoma group. The biological process of gene ontology function enrichment analysis on differentially expressed genes between high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia group and adenocarcinoma group showed that genes enriched in the extracellular structure organization, skeletal system development, biological adhesion and itself regulated growth regulation, with the P value after FDR correction of less than 0.05. In addition, IPR-related protein mainly focused on the insulin-like growth factor binding proteins. The variable trends of gene expression profiles for adenoma-carcinoma sequence were mainly concentrated in high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia and adenocarcinoma. The differentially expressed genes are significantly correlated between high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia group and adenocarcinoma group. Bioinformatics analysis is an effective way to study the gene expression profiles in the adenoma-carcinoma sequence, and may provide an effective tool to involve colorectal cancer research strategy into colorectal adenoma or advanced adenoma.


Developmental regulation of thalamus-driven pauses in striatal cholinergic interneurons.
In response to salient sensory cues, the tonically active striatal cholinergic interneuron (ChI) exhibits a characteristic synchronized "pause" thought to facilitate learning and the execution of motivated behavior. We report that thalamostriatal-driven ChI pauses are enhanced in ex vivo brain slices from infantile (P10) mice, with decreasing expression in preadolescent (P28) and adult (P100) mice concurrent with waning excitatory input to ChIs. Our data are consistent with previous reports that the adult ChI pause is dependent on dopamine signaling, but we find that the robust pausing at P10 is dopamine independent. Instead, elevated expression of the noninactivating delayed rectifier Kv7.2/3 current promotes pausing in infantile ChIs. Because this current decreases over development, a parallel increase in Ih further attenuates pause expression. These findings demonstrate that cell intrinsic and circuit mechanisms of ChI pause expression are developmentally determined and may underlie changes in learning properties as the nervous system matures.


Helping science to succeed: improving processes in R&D.
Bringing drugs to the market remains a costly and, until now, often unpredictable challenge. Although understanding the underlying science is key to further progress, our imperfect knowledge of disease and complex biological systems leaves excellence in execution as the most tangible lever to sustain our serendipitous approach to drug discovery. The problems encountered in pharmaceutical R&D are not unique, but to learn from other industries it is important to recognise similarity, rather than differences, and to advance industrialisation of R&D beyond technology and automation. Tools like Lean and Six Sigma, already applied to increase business excellence across diverse organisations, can equally be introduced to pharmaceutical R&D and offer the potential to transform operations without large-scale investment.


Complete elimination of maternal mitochondrial DNA during meiosis resulting in the paternal inheritance of the mitochondrial genome in Chlamydomonas species.
The non-Mendelian inheritance of organellar DNA is common in most plants and animals. In the isogamous green alga Chlamydomonas species, progeny inherit chloroplast genes from the maternal parent, as paternal chloroplast genes are selectively eliminated in young zygotes. Mitochondrial genes are inherited from the paternal parent. Analogically, maternal mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is thought to be selectively eliminated. Nevertheless, it is unclear when this selective elimination occurs. Here, we examined the behaviors of maternal and paternal mtDNAs by various methods during the period between the beginning of zygote formation and zoospore formation. First, we observed the behavior of the organelle nucleoids of living cells by specifically staining DNA with the fluorochrome SYBR Green I and staining mitochondria with 3,3'-dihexyloxacarbocyanine iodide. We also examined the fate of mtDNA of male and female parental origin by real-time PCR, nested PCR with single zygotes, and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. The mtDNA of maternal origin was completely eliminated before the first cell nuclear division, probably just before mtDNA synthesis, during meiosis. Therefore, the progeny inherit the remaining paternal mtDNA. We suggest that the complete elimination of maternal mtDNA during meiosis is the primary cause of paternal mitochondrial inheritance.


Characterization of a familial balanced rec(13) in a child with mild MR and his half-sibling with two structurally rearranged chromosomes 13.
In this report, we describe a 7-year-old child with mild mental retardation, developmental delay, and learning disabilities. His karyotype contained a rearrangement of chromosome 13, which appeared to include a duplication of 13q31-qter and a deletion of 13p12-pter regions. The chromosomal origin of the additional material was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using a whole chromosome painting probe specific for chromosome 13. Family studies showed that his mother carried a balanced inversion of chromosome 13 and that his half-brother carried the balanced pericentric inversion of chromosome 13 from his mother as well as another structural rearrangement involving chromosome 13 presumably from his father. The findings from this study suggested that the proband's abnormal 13 resulted from an unbalanced crossing-over between the normal and maternal inverted chromosome 13.


Sex differences and the asymmetry of specific and non-specific electrodermal responses.
Phasic electrodermal conductance responses were bilaterally recorded from 30 subjects (15 males and 15 females). After a 5-min adaptation period subjects were presented with two series of ten 80-dB tones each, with a 4-min rest period between the two series. Data from sinistrals, ambidextrous, and from subjects with familial sinistrality were excluded from statistical analysis. Males displayed more asymmetry between hands both in their non-specific and specific responses, with larger skin conductance responses on the left hand. Females showed a less marked asymmetry, with larger skin conductance responses on the right hand. Similar results were found in skin conductance levels. It was concluded that sex differences are an important variable in the study of electrodermal asymmetry.


The Complete Genomic Sequence of Microbial Transglutaminase Producer, Streptomyces mobaraensis DSM40587.
Actinomycetes are remarkable natural sources of active natural molecules and enzymes of considerable industrial value. Streptomyces mobaraensis is the first microorganism found to produce transglutaminase with broad industrial applications. Although transglutaminase in S. mobaraensis has been well studied over the past three decades, the genome of S. mobaraensis and its secondary metabolic potential were poorly reported. Here, we presented the complete genome of S. mobaraensis DSM40587 obtained from the German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures GmbH. It contains a linear chromosome of 7,633,041 bp and a circular plasmid of 23,857 bp. The chromosome with an average GC content of 73.49% was predicted to harbour 6683 protein-coding genes, seven rRNA and 69 tRNA genes. Comparative genomic analysis reveals its meaningful genomic characterisation. A comprehensive bioinformatics investigation identifies 35 putative BGCs (biosynthesis gene clusters) involved in synthesising various secondary metabolites. Of these, 13 clusters showed high similarity (> 55%) to known BGCs coding for polyketides, nonribosomal peptides, hopene, RiPP (Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides), and others. Furthermore, these BGCs with over 65% similarity to the known BGCs were analysed in detail. The complete genome of S. mobaraensis DSM40587 reveals its capacity to yield diverse bioactive natural products and provides additional insights into discovering novel secondary metabolites.


Fine particulate matter (PM2.5/PM1.0) in Beijing, China: Variations and chemical compositions as well as sources.
Particulate matter (i.e., PM1.0 and PM2.5), considered as the key atmospheric pollutants, exerts negative effects on visibility, global climate, and human health by associated chemical compositions. However, our understanding of PM and its chemical compositions in Beijing under the current atmospheric environment is still not complete after witnessing marked alleviation during 2013-2017. Continuous measurements can be crucial for further air quality improvement by better characterizing PM pollution and chemical compositions in Beijing. Here, we conducted simultaneous measurements on PM in Beijing during 2018-2019. Results indicate that annual mean PM1.0 and PM2.5 concentrations were 35.49 ± 18.61 µg/m3 and 66.58 ± 60.17 µg/m3, showing a positive response to emission controls. The contribution of sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium (SNA) played an enhanced role with elevated PM loading and acted as the main contributors to pollution episodes. Discrepancies observed among chemical species between PM1.0 and PM2.5 in spring suggest that sand particles trend to accumulate in the range of 1-2.5 µm. Pollution episodes occurred accompanied with southerly clusters and high formation of SNA by heterogeneous reactions in summer and winter, respectively. Results from positive matrix factorization (PMF) combined with potential source contribution function (PSCF) models showed that potential areas were seasonal dependent, secondary and vehicular sources became much more important compared with previous studies in Beijing. Our study presented a continuous investigation on PM and sources origins in Beijing, which provides a better understanding for further emission control as well as a reference for other cities in developing countries.


Virtual lesions and the not-so-modular brain.
Because lesions usually affect contiguous areas of the brain, cognitive neuropsychology has generally posited modularity of brain function, assuming that specific regions of the brain have specific dedicated functions. However, a review of 36 published functional neuroimaging studies suggests that functions are distributed over multiple regions. Or, in other words, specific brain regions are usually multifunctional. By a technique of "virtual lesions," I measure the contribution that regions of the brain make to tasks imaged in 36 PET experiments, and propose a new and more detailed interlink between neuropsychology and functional neuroimaging.


What is needed to effectively communicate risk during a health crisis? A qualitative study with international experts based on the COVID-19 pandemic.
To identify a framework for risk communication during health crises by using the current pandemic as a case study. A qualitative study based on individual interviews. Different countries with diverse levels of perceived success on risk communication during the COVID-19 health crisis. International experts with experience in health crisis management or risk communication. A thematic analysis was performed supported by Atlas.ti. Four men and six women took part in the study (three from Europe, two from Latin America, two from North America, one from Asia and two from Oceania). Three major themes emerged from the data: (1) institutionalising the communication strategy; (2) defining the problem that needs to be faced; (3) developing an effective communication strategy. Risk communication during a health crisis requires preparation of governments and of health teams in order to produce and deliver effective messages as well as to help communities to make informed and healthy decisions. This is particularly relevant for slow disasters, such as COVID-19, as the strategy must innovate to avoid information fatigue of the audience. The findings of this article could inform guidelines to best equip countries for a clear communication strategy for future crises. CRD42021234443.


Intramedullary cancellous screw fixation for nonunion of midshaft clavicular fractures.
6 patients with symptomatic nonunion of midshaft clavicular fractures were treated by internal fixation with an intramedullary cancellous screw and autologous cancellous bone grafting. At follow-up after median 21 (12-72) months, all nonunions had healed. The Constant score was median 98 (57-100) points. 1 patient, with shortening of the clavicle, had poor function.


Mechanism of action of collagenase on the blood-brain barrier permeability. Increase of endothelial cell pinocytotic activity as shown with horse-radish peroxidase as a tracer.
The ultrastructural mechanism of the protease induced blood-brain barrier permeability-increase was studied with horse-radish peroxidase as a tracer. After intravenous injection of collagenase or pronase, a significantly increased number of pinocytotic vesicles was found in brain capillary endothelial cells. alpha-Chymotrypsine did not exert such an action.


Lessons from 494 permanent accesses in 348 haemodialysis patients older than 65 years of age: 29 years of experience.
Currently, patients older than 65 years of age constitute more than 42% of all new enrolments for dialytic treatment in the USA and Italy. Most of these patients are treated by in-centre haemodialysis (HD), with problems connected to vascular access. Personal experience of 494 new vascular accesses in 348 'difficult' HD-patients older than 65 years over 29 years showed the best results from 221 elbow fistulas in comparison with 32 forearm fistulas (78% vs 57.2% at 3 years; P < 0.05). Among various vascular substitutes, the homologous saphenous vein (HSV) graft, alone or mixed (MX) gave the best secondary patency in comparison with other organic-semiorganic (OSO) or synthetic graft (SYN) angioaccesses with values of 59.4% for HSV, 66.3% for MX, 21.9% for OSO, and 38.6% for SYN grafts, respectively at 3 years.


Total gastrointestinal tract necrosis after ingesting a considerable amount of hydrochloric acid.
It has not been reported that ingesting large amounts of strong acid resulted in total gastrointestinal tract necrosis. Here we describe a case of a man with total gastrointestinal tract necrosis after ingestion of a considerable amount of hydrochloric acid. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed significant free air in the neck, lateral esophagus, and abdominal cavity, which indicated perforation of the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract. In addition, the abdominal CT image showed splenic subcapsular hematorna and swollen pancreatic head caused by strong acid causis. We found the entire gastrointestinal tract from stomach to rectum necrosis in the emergency exploratory laparotomy. Our case suggests that ingestion of a considerable amount (e.g., 500 mL) and concentration of strong acid could result in total gastrointestinal tract necrosis. Emergency laparotomy should be performed as early as possible to benefit this kind of patient.


Morphological control and molecular recognition by bis-urea hydrogen bonding in micelles of amphiphilic tri-block copolymers.
Hydrogen bonding between urea groups of amphiphilic tri-block copolymers considerably affects their self-assembly in water, which results in a strong modification of morphology and viscosity of aqueous solutions; the hydrogen bonding motif in these amphiphilic copolymers allows molecular recognition of small molecules with complementary hydrogen bonding units.


Comparison of silver, gold and modified platinum electrodes for the electrochemical detection of iodide in urine samples following ion chromatography.
The electrochemical (EC) detection of iodide at gold, silver and platinum electrodes under similar experimental conditions was evaluated. To achieve optimal amperometric detection, the electrode sensitivity, selectivity, and stability was compared. Isocratic separation of iodide was attained by ion chromatography (IC) using an anion-exchange column with nitrate as an eluent ion (25 mM HNO(3) + 50 mM NaNO(3)). Although the Ag electrode showed the highest selectivity due to the relatively low applied potential (+0.10 V versus Ag|AgCl), it requires continuous surface polishing upon injection of standard solutions or real samples; in addition, the chromatographic peak of iodide exhibited a pronounced dip-tailing. The limit of detection (LoD) of iodide was estimated to be 3.5 microg/L (S/N=3) with an injection volume of 50 microL. Likewise, pulsed electrochemical detection at the silver electrode did not demonstrate the expected results in terms of peak shape and low detection limit. Using the same chromatographic conditions, iodide detection at the Au electrode (E(app)= +0.80 V versus Ag|AgCl) exhibited a regular peak shape accompanied by a sensitivity comparable to the silver one. Yet, upon continuous injections the signal intensity displayed a progressive lowering up to ca. 40% in 6h. Best results in terms of signal stability, peak shape and analytical response were obtained with a modified platinum electrode which allowed to achieve a LoD of 0.5 microg/L (S/N=3). The present IC-EC detection method using a modified Pt electrode (E(app)= +0.85 V versus Ag|AgCl) was successfully applied to determine low contents of iodide in human urine with solid phase extraction as pretreatment. Such a developed method correlated very well with the reference colorimetric method in urine (r=0.95273), and it is specifically suggested when the iodide content is relatively low, i.e., <20 microg/L.


Large-scale genotyping by mass spectrometry: experience, advances and obstacles.
Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping has become a key technology for genetic studies. In recent years, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight mass spectrometry has emerged as a very powerful method for SNP genotyping. Here, we discuss our experience in implementing a high-throughput SNP genotyping facility based on MALDI, and the issues encountered in adapting this to large-scale genetic studies. Most of these issues are not specific to using MALDI approaches, and they will also serve as valuable pointers for establishing high-throughput genotyping with other methods.


In vivo gene transfer of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) into mouse endometrium.
Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is important for embryogenesis and implantation. We aimed to transfect LIF gene into the mouse endometrium. Expression plasmids carried LIF and luciferase genes for transfer. After superovulation, 100 ICR mice were mated with vasectomized mice. Then LIF-liposome (Group 1) and luciferase-liposome complexes (Group 2) were injected into their uterine lumen (Day 0). Endometrial LIF and luciferase expressions were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction on Days 0-4 post gene transfer. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was used as an internal control to normalize the gene transfection. LIF mRNA and luciferase activities reached the peak expression on Day 3. In Group 1, the ratios of LIF/GADPH on Days 1-4 were 0.414, 1.096, 1.162, and 0.782. In Group 2. LIF/GADPH on Days 1-4 were 0.24, 0.22, 0.35, and 0.32. Mouse endometrium could be effectively transfected with liposome-DNA mixtures. Endometrial LIF transfer via liposome may be effective in human.


Methods for rapid detection of human ocular viral infections.
Recent methods for detection of viruses in clinical specimens include immunofluorescence, immunoperoxidase, immune adherence hemagglutination, radioimmunoassay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunoelectron microscopy. Some are useful for the detection of traces of viral antigens but are more complicated and time-consuming than others. Simple techniques of immunofluorescence and negative stain electron microscopy are used for the rapid detection of viruses in human adenoviral, herpetic, rubella, molluscum contagiosum, and vaccinial infections.


The effects of split dose radiations on the mechanical properties of the skin.
A series of split dose experiments in which the interval between doses was varied from 1 to 7 d is reported. In vitro measurements of the mechanical properties of skin are made 50 and 120 d after the first irradiation. The variation of the skin thickness, load at rupture, extension at rupture, stress at rupture and skin stiffness with dose and with time interval between doses is examined. The results suggest that after the highest doses of irradiation the skin is matted in structure and the fractionation pattern is insignificant. Different fractionation patterns only influence the radiation effects at lower doses where the skin retains an open mesh structure. The experiments indicate that a maximum skin sparing effect is obtained with a two day interval between the split doses.


Developing a model for predicting safety performance of nurses based on psychosocial safety climate and role of job demands and resources, job satisfaction, and emotional exhaustion as mediators.
The present study aimed to develop a model for predicting the safety performance of nurses based on psychosocial safety climate (PSC) and the role of job demands and resources, job satisfaction, and emotional exhaustion as mediators. A cross-sectional study using structural equation modeling (SEM) was carried out among nurses in Iran. Data were collected using the Psychosocial Safety Climate questionnaire, Neal and Griffin's Safety Performance Scale, the Management Standards Indicator Tool, the Effort-Reward Imbalance questionnaire, the Michigan Organizational Assessment Job Satisfaction subscale and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Surveys were distributed to 340 nurses provided informed consent. After removing incplete surveys, data from 280 partipants were analysed. The completion rate was 82.35%. The SEM results indicated that PSC can directly and indirectly predict nurses' safety performance. The final model showed an acceptable goodness of fit (p = 0.023). It indicated that PSC, job demands, and job satisfaction were directly related to safety performance, and also that PSC, emotional exhaustion, job resources, and job demands were all indirectly related to safety performance. Also, PSC had a significant relationship with all mediator variables, and job demands had direct effect on emotional exhaustion. The current study presented a new model for predicting safety performance in nurses in which PSC, both directly and indirectly, plays an important role. In addition to paying attention to the physical aspects of the workplace, healthcare organizations should also take into account PSC to improve safety. Next steps in reducing safety issues in nursing is to develop intervention studies using this new evidence-based model as a framework.


Pinocembrin alleviates the susceptibility to atrial fibrillation in isoproterenol-induced rats.
Inflammation can contribute to the initiation and progression of atrial fibrillation (AF), and pinocembrin can suppress downstream inflammatory cytokine production by inhibiting the inflammation pathway. In our previous studies, pinocembrin was also beneficial in ameliorating cardiac arrhythmia in different models of rats, such as depression, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. This study aims to investigate the effect of pinocembrin on the susceptibility to AF in isoproterenol-induced rats. Rats were randomly divided into four groups. Pinocembrin was injected through the tail vein. Isoproterenol was treated by intraperitoneal injection for one week (5 mg/kg/day). We evaluated the susceptibility to AF by atrial electrophysiological experiments. Masson staining was used to evaluate the fibrosis area. The protein levels of connexin (Cx) 40, Cav1.2, Kv4.2, collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, NLRP3, caspase 1, and interleukin (IL)-1β were detected by western blot. Our data demonstrated that pinocembrin could prolong the atrial effective refractory period (ERP) and action potential duration (APD), and decrease AF inducibility. Isoproterenol increased the expression of Cav1.2 and Kv4.2 ion channels whereas pinocembrin could alleviate this change. Pinocembrin could reduce the fibrosis area, fibrosis-related protein collagen I, collagen III, α-SMA, and TGF-β and upregulate gap junction protein Cx40. In addition, pinocembrin reduced the expression of NLRP3, caspase 1, and IL-1β. Our study indicated that pinocembrin was beneficial to alleviate atrial electrical remodeling and fibrosis. Accompanied the downregulation of ion channels and upregulation of gap junction protein Cx40. Pinocembrin may produce these effects by inhibiting the NLRP3 pathway.


Evaluation of models of homologue search with respect to their efficiency on meiotic pairing.
We have constructed models of how homologous chromosomes come together at meiotic prophase for pairing and recombination. For these models we have calculated how many homology testing events are necessary on average to ensure that each chromosome finds its respective partner. We have identified several conditions that would greatly reduce the effort spent on homology search when compare with a search strategy which is based on fortuitous homologous contracts. The models are discussed in the light of experimental evidence.


Analgesia in patients with fractured shaft of femur.
Patients who have suffered from a fracture of the shaft of the femur require urgent pain relief and this is most effectively achieved by block of the femoral nerve.


Examining the Starting Dose of Glyburide in Gestational Diabetes.
The aim of this study was to determine the impact of initial glyburide dosing on pregnancy outcomes. STUDY DESign: Retrospective cohort of singleton pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) from 2007 to 2013. Women who received glyburide were compared by initial dose: 2.5 mg (n = 170) versus 5 mg (n = 154) total daily dose. The primary maternal outcome was hypoglycemia, defined as a blood glucose < 60 mg/dL. The primary neonatal outcome was birth weight. Secondary maternal outcomes included time to blood glucose control, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery. Secondary neonatal outcomes included macrosomia (>4,000 g), hypoglycemia (<40 mg/dL), shoulder dystocia, and preterm delivery. The 5 mg/day glyburide dose did not increase maternal hypoglycemia (26% in the 2.5 mg/day group vs. 27% in the 5 mg/day group; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.67; confidence interval [CI] 0.30-1.49). An increase in macrosomia in the 5 mg/day group was not significant after adjusting for maternal obesity (AOR 2.16; CI 0.96-4.88). Differences in preterm birth and large for gestational age were not significant after adjusting for prior preterm birth and maternal obesity, respectively. A higher starting dose of glyburide for the management of GDM was not associated with increased maternal hypoglycemia or decreased adverse neonatal outcomes.


Studies on the glycoprotein component of (Na+-k+) atpase from guinea pig brain.
In this study an attempt was made to elucidate the possible mechanism of the brain microsomal (Na+-K+)ATPase inhibition based on the assumption that glycoprotein part of the enzyme is exposed on the outer membrane surface. In our experiments the modification with concanavalin A of sugar end groups exposed by neuraminidase treatment resulted in a significant decrease of the brain (Na+-K+)ATPase activity. The percentage of the enzyme inhibition by concanavalin A binding to the neuraminidase-treated preparation corresponds to the amount of liberated sialic acids. The modification of the glycoprotein part of the brain (Na+-K+)ATPase complex by neuraminidase and concanavalin A treatments did not affect K+-nitrophenylphosphatase activity.


In vitro chemotherapy sensitivity testing of human ovarian carcinoma: comparison of optical colony counting and [3H]thymidine incorporation assays.
Optical colony counting was used for assessing drug sensitivity of 87 samples (from 51 primary solid tumors, 19 metastatic solid tumors, and 17 ascites fluids) from 83 common epithelial type ovarian carcinomas. The evaluability rate by the optical counting method was 26.4%. Fifty of these samples were also assessed by a tritiated thymidine ( [3H]dThd) incorporation assay (evaluability rate by incorporation assay, 74%). In the 12 cases fully evaluable by both methods, the correlation coefficients for regression of drug sensitivity data between the methods ranged from 0.503 to 0.976 (mean, 0.745); for the combined data of these cases, the correlation coefficient was 0.707. The new [3H]dThd assay appears useful and efficient for performing in vitro chemotherapy sensitivity testing of human ovarian cancer.


Oral clonidine for rapid control of accelerated hypertension.
Thirty emergency-room patients, 15 men and 15 women, from 27 to 64 years old with diastolic blood pressures (DBP) greater than 115 mm Hg, were admitted to an open-label, oral loading trial of clonidine. At this time, their supine mean arterial pressures (MAP) averaged 150 +/- 2 mm Hg. An initial clonidine dose of 0.1 to 0.2 mg was to be followed every hour by another 0.1 mg until the DBP had been lowered to a level allowing treatment to be continued on an ambulatory basis or until a total of 0.5 mg had been given. A satisfactory response--defined as a reduction of the supine DBP to 105 mm Hg or lower if the baseline was between 115 and 135 mm Hg, or reduction of a baseline DBP greater than 135 mm Hg by at least 30 mm Hg--was achieved in all but one of the patients in an average of 118 minutes; the mean dose required was 0.26 mg. The mean reduction from the baseline MAP was 23.1 +/- 0.9%. Drug-related adverse experiences comprised drowsiness and dry mouth in 13 patients. Thereafter, 28 of the patients were chronically treated with clonidine for an average of 73 days. In 24 patients treated for at least 80 days, the daily clonidine dose averaged 0.375 mg. All the patients required concurrent diuretic therapy. A satisfactory response (as defined above) to this maintenance treatment was shown by 85% of the patients, and full blood-pressure control (supine DBP less than 95 mm Hg) was attained in 78%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Interaction of the brush-border hydrolases of the human small intestine with lectins.
The role of human intestinal brush-border membrane hydrolases in lectin binding to the apical region of the enterocyte was investigated. The crossed-immunoelectrophoresis method was used to identify six hydrolases before and after interaction with nine lectins. Three lectins (Phaseolus vulgaris, Ulex europeus, and Ricinus communis 120 agglutinins) bound the hydrolases of 5 different subjects. Helix pomatia agglutinin interacted with only 1 subject.


Detection of mercury(II) based on Hg2+ -DNA complexes inducing the aggregation of gold nanoparticles.
A DNA-Au NP probe for sensing Hg2+ using the formation of DNA-Hg2+ complexes through thymidine (T)-Hg2+ -T coordination to control the negative charge density of the DNA strands-thereby varying their structures-adsorbed onto Au NPs.


An Adolescent With Hepatitis.
DATE: Thursday, October 20, 2011. Pediatric Fellows' Day Workshop Hosting Organization: Infectious Diseases Society of America. 49th Annual Meeting of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Boston, Massachusetts.


[Teaching of anatomy in school of dentistry: evaluation of achievement (author's transl)].
An experience of application didactics to the teaching of Anatomy in Dentistry's School was performed. The general part of Anatomy--Systems of the Human Body--was given and evaluated according to the subjects aims of this paper. It were also presented the experience characteristics and the degree of student's achievement in the differents groups was statistically analysed.


Development and characterization of biodegradable ultraviolet protective and antibacterial polylactic acid-cellulose acetate film modified by phenyl salicylate.
The polylactic acid composite films were successfully fabricated via the technique of solvent casting using cellulose acetate (20%, wt) as the reinforcing material and phenyl salicylate as the ultraviolet (UV) absorbent and antibacterial agent. Polylactic acid-cellulose acetate-phenyl salicylate composite films displayed complete absorption effect at the region of UV-C (280-100 nm) and UV-B (315-280 nm), and more than 95% UV absorption effect at the region of UV-A (400-315 nm). These results indicate that the UV shielding performance of the composite films could be significantly improve by addition of phenyl salicylate. Moreover, the addition of 20% phenyl salicylate could improve the steam resistance, mechanical properties and thermal stability of the films, and the composite films had also better antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli. The composite films could reduce the decay rate of fresh lilies and extend their storage time. The degradation characteristics of the films were explored in the natural environment and the laboratory level, which provided application prospect for the development of degradable food packaging materials with anti-ultraviolet and anti-bacteria effect.


Acquisition and retention of enhanced active avoidance are unaffected by interference with serotonergic activity.
Pre-training administration of p-chloroamphetamine (PCA) produces reliable deficits of avoidance learning. When animals are trained in inhibitory avoidance with relatively high foot-shock intensities, other amnesic treatments have no effect. The present experiment was conducted to determine if this protective effect of high foot shock is also observed after administration of PCA (10mg/kg, i.p., injected 7 days before training; this dose produces a lesion of central serotonin neurons). Rats were trained in active avoidance (a single 20-trial session), administering shocks of 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, or 1.4 mA to independent groups of rats. When compared to saline-injected groups trained with the same intensities, PCA produced a significant learning deficit in the low foot-shock groups, but not in the high foot-shock animals. These results indicate that the dose of PCA administered, which is known to deplete cerebral serotonin, does not interfere with acquisition and retention of enhanced active avoidance training.


History of Thyroid Ultrasound.
From low-resolution images in the 1960s to current high-resolution technology, ultrasound has proven to be the initial imaging modality of choice for thyroid application. Point-of-care ultrasound has brought the technology to the thyroid specialist. Combined with physical examination, it provides real-time information regarding goiter, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy has become the accepted norm, with biopsies rarely performed using palpation alone. Advantages of ultrasound-guided biopsy include precise placement of the needle within the nodule, selective sampling of areas with suspicious features, and accurate direction of the biopsy needle to actively growing viable cells in the periphery of the nodule. Education of endocrinologists in thyroid ultrasound began in the late 1990s and by 2016 more than 6000 clinicians had completed an ultrasound course. Concurrent with this rapid expansion of use of thyroid ultrasound was a rise in the diagnosis of small papillary carcinomas, which might have otherwise remained indolent and undetected. The 2009 American Thyroid Association Guidelines for the Management of Thyroid Nodules and Thyroid Cancer recommended biopsy for all solid hypoechoic nodules measuring larger than 1 cm. Attempting to decrease the frequency of biopsies of low-risk nodules, subsequent guidelines have focused on identifying and selectively biopsying those thyroid nodules at higher risk of clinically significant carcinoma based on ultrasound appearance. A major role for thyroid ultrasound has been in both preoperative staging and mapping to help determine the extent of surgery, as well as postoperative monitoring for locoregional soft tissue or lymph node metastases. With the recognition that the increase in papillary carcinoma was predominantly a result of early diagnosis of small often indolent cancers, active surveillance has become a promising management strategy for papillary thyroid microcarcinomas. Thyroid ultrasound is essential to active surveillance of thyroid cancer. Easy access to high-quality ultrasound studies is a requirement for a successful active surveillance program. Thyroid ultrasound has been used to facilitate interventional procedures, including treatment of thyroid nodules, treatment of recurrent thyroid cancer, and therapy of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma.


Use of HBsAg quantification in the natural history and treatment of chronic hepatitis B.
In patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection, it is important to monitor the natural history, assess treatment response, and predict the risk of liver-related complications. Quantification of serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) has gained wide interests since the last decade. It is secreted from hepatocytes in both hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive and HBeAg-negative phases of the disease, and can be transcribed and translated from different sources of viral genome [ccc DNA or integrated hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA]. In untreated patients, it declines slowly through the natural course and remains stable for a long time after HBeAg seroconversion. In patients treated with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA), it also declines very slowly, even though serum hepatitis B DNA has been rendered negative. Low serum HBsAg may predict either spontaneous or treatment-induced HBsAg seroclearance, and potentially selects out HBeAg-negative patients who can safely stop NA. High serum HBsAg is associated with high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in untreated population, and predicts treatment failure in patients receiving pegylated interferon. These potential roles of HBsAg quantification are applicable to selected populations only. There is also a need for novel markers to study the effect of emerging antiviral therapies targeting various parts of the HBV cycle to reflect their distinct mechanistic effects. Several agents measuring HBsAg levels have shown rapid and significant decline. Ongoing studies are required to demonstrate the sustainability of HBsAg suppression by these novel agents.


Bifidobacterium catabolism of human milk oligosaccharides overrides endogenous competitive exclusion driving colonization and protection.
Understanding how exogenous microbes stably colonize the animal gut is essential to reveal mechanisms of action and tailor effective probiotic treatments. Bifidobacterium species are naturally enriched in the gastrointestinal tract of breast-fed infants. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are associated with this enrichment. However, direct mechanistic proof of the importance of HMOs in this colonization is lacking given milk contains additional factors that impact the gut microbiota. This study examined mice supplemented with the HMO 2'fucosyllactose (2'FL) together with a 2'FL-consuming strain, Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum MP80. 2'FL supplementation creates a niche for high levels of B.p. MP80 persistence, similar to Bifidobacterium levels seen in breast-fed infants. This synergism impacted gut microbiota composition, activated anti-inflammatory pathways and protected against chemically-induced colitis. These results demonstrate that bacterial-milk glycan interactions alone drive enrichment of beneficial Bifidobacterium and provide a model for tunable colonization thus facilitating insight into mechanisms of health promotion by bifidobacteriain neonates.


Quantitative genetic analysis of blood pressure response during the cold pressor test.
The genetic association between blood pressure (BP) at rest and during the cold pressor test (CPT) is not well characterized. The purpose of this study was to examine the genetic architecture of BP during the CPT, and to determine whether BP at rest and during the CPT share common genetic influences. In 419 individuals distributed across four large families, variance components methods were used to estimate heritabilities of resting BP and CPT BP, along with genetic correlations among BP traits. The CPT consisted of immersion of the left foot in 4 degrees C water while the participant was supine. Blood pressure reactivity (DeltaBP) was defined as BP at 15 to 30 sec and 45 to 60 sec of foot immersion minus resting BP. Significant (P < .05) heritabilities were found for supine BP (h(2)(SBP) = 0.35), CPT BP (h(2)(SBP) = 0.27 and 0.33, h(2)(DBP) = 0.18 and 0.30), and DeltaSBP (h(2)(SBP) = 0.12 and 0.37) but not for DeltaDBP. Bivariate analyses detected significant (P < .05) genetic correlations between resting SBP and CPT SBP that were different from 0 and 1. Genetic correlations between resting DBP and CPT DBP were not significantly different from 1. Genetic correlations between resting SBP and DeltaSBP were not significant. Measures of BP at rest and during cold immersion are significantly influenced by additive genetic effects. These genetic influences are only partially shared between SBP at rest and SBP during cold immersion, suggesting that a somewhat different set of genes may influence SBP during cold immersion. Unique sets of genes also appear to influence DeltaSBP independent of those influencing resting SBP.


Distal Hand Migration of Polyacrylamide Gel after Breast Augmentation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the world and it requires a comprehensive study of the methods performed. As less-invasive techniques are sought, tissue fillers have found its purpose in these procedures. However, it has been revealed that some of them may be associated with serious complications. One of them is the Aquafilling/Los Deline gel. A case report of a female patient who developed unprecedented sequelae after Aquafilling injection-distant migration of the gel in the hand-was presented in this study. The patient underwent total gel removal from the left forearm, arm, and both breasts as well as wound debridement and irrigation. We discovered a canal connecting the left breast to the left forearm, created by a polyacrylamide hydrogel dislocation. It was thoroughly revised using an endoscope. Despite the advantages of tissue fillers such as simplicity of use and less invasiveness, certain complications can occur after injection. Although a few of them have been banned due to these sequelae, new ones continue to appear. Every new product should be examined very carefully before it is introduced to the market.


Treatment of Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombus by Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis.
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) greatly improves the diagnosis of superior mesenteric vein (SMV) thrombosis, which presents as the unspecific symptom of abdominal pain. Prothrombotic states or thrombophilia and local intra-abdominal infections are major causes of SMV thrombosis. A 37-year-old Chinese woman was diagnosed with SMV and portal vein thrombosis. The patient was initially given 40 mg of heparin sodium every 12 hr and 80,0000 U/day of urokinase using superior mesenteric artery angiography. The abdominal pain was not relieved after treatment. The patient then underwent open surgery, where an ileal branch of the SMV was punctured, a 4F sheath was introduced into the vein toward the portal vein, and a 20-cm Unifuse catheter was placed inside the thrombus for further thrombolysis. Both heparin sodium and urokinase were infused through catheter-directed thrombolysis. The patient's symptoms then gradually resolved.


Blood outgrowth endothelial cells from chronic myeloid leukaemia patients are BCR/ABL1 negative.
The existence of adult haemangioblasts with dual haematopoietic and endothelial developmental potential was confirmed after detection of Ph(+) vascular endothelial cells in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients. Blood outgrowth endothelial cells (OECs) from CML patients were found not to harbour the Philadelphia translocation and were thus not clonally related to BRC/ABL1(+) hematopoietic progenitors, but comprised a distinct subfraction of endothelial cells. Remarkably, the frequency of CML-derived OECs was 9-fold higher as compared to healthy donors (n = 19 and n = 300, respectively; P < 0.0001) and these cells showed increased proliferative potential, possibly reflecting the mobilisation of OEC progenitors by pro-angiogenic cytokines.


Overriding sorafenib resistance via blocking lipid metabolism and Ras by sphingomyelin synthase 1 inhibition in hepatocellular carcinoma.
The survival benefit of sorafenib, the most used drug for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is unsatisfactory due to the development of adaptive resistance. Exploring the mechanisms underlying sorafenib resistance is important to develop sensitizing strategy. Sphingomyelin synthase (SMS) plays a critical role in sphingolipid metabolism which is involved in oncogenesis and drug resistance. SMS1 and SMS2 levels in HCC cells in response to prolonged chemotherapy were analyzed using ELISA. mRNA and protein levels of SMS in HCC and adjacent normal tissues were analyzed by ELISA and real-time PCR. The roles of SMS and its downstream targets were investigated using cellular and biochemical assays and mass spectrometry. SMS1, but not SMS2, was upregulated in HCC in response to sorafenib treatment, although HCC displayed similar RNA and protein level of SMS1 compared to adjacent normal liver tissues. Overexpression of SMS1 promoted HCC growth and migration, and alleviated sorafenib's toxicity. SMS1 inhibition via genetic and pharmacological approaches consistently resulted in inhibition of growth and migration, and apoptosis induction in sorafenib-resistance HCC cells. SMS1 inhibition also augmented the efficacy of sorafenib in sensitive HCC cells. SMS1 inhibition disrupted sphingolipid metabolism via accumulating ceramide and decreasing sphingomyelin, inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, and decreasing Ras activity in resistant cells. Overexpression of constitutively active Ras reversed the inhibitory effects of SMS1 inhibition. Although SMS1 overexpression did not affect Ras expression and activity, Pearson correlation coefficient analysis of SMS1 and Ras expression demonstrated that there was positive correlation between SMS1 and RAS (NRAS, R = 0.55, p < 0.01; KRAS, R = 0.44, p < 0.01). Our work is the first to suggest that SMS1 plays a more important role in sorafenib resistance than tumorigenesis, and provides preclinical evidence to overcome sorafenib resistance with SMS1 inhibition in HCC.


Crossing boundaries: A pilot study of maternal attitudes about child maltreatment in nine countries.
Definitions of child maltreatment vary widely between studies, and even more so between different cultural contexts. In this pilot study, we examine between-country variations in maternal notions about what constitutes child maltreatment. The sample consisted of 466 mothers recruited in Chile, China, Greece, Iran, the Netherlands, Portugal, South Africa, Turkey, and Uruguay. All mothers completed a new Q-sort measure, ranking 90 parenting behaviors linked to subtypes of maltreatment (emotional neglect, emotional abuse, physical neglect, and physical abuse) from least to most detrimental to child development. Between-country agreement regarding the harmfulness of the parenting behaviors was high (r = .45), but there were different patterns of reported harmfulness of subtypes of maltreatment (although driven mostly by deviating patterns in the South African sample). Further, there were significant country effects on the number and type of behaviors labeled as maltreatment (pƞ2 = .15), and the number of items labeled as requiring intervention (pƞ2 = .19). Variations in conceptions of maltreatment need to be studied in larger more representative samples and taken into account in the assessment and treatment of child maltreatment across cultures.


Presenting Clinicoradiological Features, Microbiological Spectrum and Outcomes Among Patients with Septic Pulmonary Embolism: A Three-Year Retrospective Observational Study.
Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE) is an unusual condition characterized by the implantation of infected thrombi into the pulmonary vasculature from a variety of infectious sources. This study aimed to illustrate the clinicoradiological features, microbiological spectrum, and clinical course of patients with SPE, as well as to promote the early identification, diagnosis, and prognosis of this unusual disease. Nineteen patients with SPE collected from the electronic medical records of our hospital were retrospectively reviewed during three years. The study included twelve men and seven women with a mean age of 49 (15-78). The most common presenting features were fever (79%) and shortness of breath (73.7%). Chronic kidney disease (68.4%) and diabetes (36.8%) were the most common comorbidities. The most common source of infection was venous catheters (58%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most predominant pathogen in about 52.6% of the cases. According to the CT findings, bilateral opacities were detected in all cases, flowing by nodular in 73.9% and cavitations in 57.9%. Central distributions were the most patterns regarding the location of the lesion seen in 47.4% of the patients. All patients received antimicrobial treatment, while 13 cases administered systemic anticoagulant. Most of the patients (73.7%) recovered from their illness, while 26.3% died. The median duration of hospitalization was 11.5 days. Oxygen saturation level and altered mental status were significantly associated with the mortality rate of SPE patients. The study's findings presented that altered mental status and low oxygen saturation are associated with a high mortality rate in SPE patients, especially those requiring critical care. Early diagnosis of an embolic phenomenon to other organ systems like the central nervous system can greatly influence the patient's outcome.


Ozone preconditioning protects rabbit heart against global ischemia-reperfusion injury in vitro by up-regulating HIF-1α.
Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a major factor that leads to cardiac dysfunction in cardiovascular surgery during extracorporeal circulation. Recent studies have found that ozone (O3) has protective effect on MIRI caused by the anterior descending branch of the ligated left coronary artery. However, whether O3 preconditioning has the same protective effect on global MIRI and the mechanism underlying this clinical treatment remains elusive. Here, we hypothesized that O3 preconditioning (O3P) could protect rabbit heart against global MIRI in vitro by up-regulating HIF-1α. Rabbits were treated intraperitoneally with O2/O3 mixture with different concentrations and then injected with YC-1 (inhibitor of HIF-1α) before the establishment of the global MIRI model using the Langendorff isolated heart perfusion apparatus. We investigated the effects of O3 preconditioning on cardiac systolic function, myocardial infarction, inflammatory response, mitochondrial function, myocardial pathological changes and arrhythmias. We found that the heart with O3 preconditioning significantly increased HR, LVDP and IL-10 expression, and decreased IL-6 expression, CK-MB, cTnT and cTnI concentration, myocardial infarction area, myocardial pathological injury and the occurrence of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Meanwhile, the level of HIF-1α was significantly increased. However, after treatment of specific inhibitor of HIF-1α, the protective effect of O3 preconditioning was reversed completely. Our data indicates that O3 preconditioning has protective effect on MIRI and this protective effect is positively associated with dosage of O3. Energy metabolism disorder is the initial stage of MIRI and up-regulation of HIF-1α plays an important role in reducing mitochondrial dysfunction.


Effect of intradialytic oral nutritional supplementation on nutritional markers in malnourished chronic hemodialysis patients: prospective randomized trial.
Malnutrition is prevalent in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients. It increases mortality and negatively affects quality of life. This study aimed to assess the effect of intradialytic oral nutritional supplement (ONS) on nutritional markers in chronic HD patients with protein energy wasting (PEW). This 3-month prospective, open-label, randomized controlled trial included 60 chronic HD patients with PEW. The intervention group (30 patients) received intradialytic ONS and dietary counseling, whereas the control group (30 patients) received only dietary counseling. Nutritional markers were measured at the beginning and end of the study. The mean age of the patients was 54 ± 12.7 years, and that of the HD vintage was 64 ± 49.3 months. Compared to the control group, the intervention group showed a significant increase in serum albumin (p < 0.001), prealbumin (p < 0.001), cholesterol (p = 0.016), body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.019), serum creatinine/body surface area (BSA) (p = 0.016), and composite French PEW score (p = 0.002), as well as a significant decrease in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (p = 0.001). The total iron binding capacity, normalized protein nitrogen appearance, and hemoglobin levels increased significantly in both groups. Intradialytic ONS and dietary counseling for three months were more effective than dietary counseling alone in terms of improving nutritional status and inflammation in chronic HD patients, as evidenced by increases in serum albumin, prealbumin, BMI, serum creatinine/BSA, composite French PEW score, and a decrease in hs-CRP.


Acute urinary retention: a review of the aetiology and management.
Acute retention of urine (AUR) is a common urological emergency characterised by a sudden inability to pass urine associated with lower abdominal pain. In recent years, the natural history and incidence of AUR has become better understood, however, further research into methods to prevent it and evaluation of the impact an episode of AUR has on the patient is required. This review provides an overview of the current management of AUR in men and the impact of the condition on patients' quality of life.


Stimulation of neo-angiogenesis by combined use of irradiated and vascularized living bone graft for oncological reconstruction.
Reconstruction for large bone and osteochondral defects following musculoskeletal tumor excision remains challenging. Mega-prosthesis is clearly a useful reconstructive tool. Because the survival time of tumor patients has been increasing due to better treatment options, the aim of our group is to achieve complete biological reconstruction without using any artificial materials. With this approach, durability would not be a limitation. In the present study, we reviewed the biological reconstructive procedures currently available for large bone defects after tumor excision. Devitalized bone autograft is particularly well suited in the region where allografts are not readily available. However, the complication rate, such as infection and spontaneous bone resorption, was unexpectedly high due to non-viable graft. In an attempt to reduce these complications, we have used irradiated bone autograft in combination with free vascularized viable bone graft. In an experimental study, we demonstrated a neo-vascularization effect of vascularized bone graft with devitalized bone autograft, i.e. to convert dead bone into living bone. Clinically, this technique is best indicated for reconstruction of intercalary bone defect, especially tibial shaft. Some degree of articular change occurs after irradiation and cannot be prevented, even with the combined use of vascularized bone graft. In our experience, secondary procedures such as surface replacement prosthesis are necessary to treat the osteoarthritis in such cases, even if the radiological finding is severe. The rationale for a combined vascularized and irradiated bone autograft is the cumulative advantage provided by the biological properties of the former with the mechanical endurance of the latter.


Machine Learning Approach for Prescriptive Plant Breeding.
We explored the capability of fusing high dimensional phenotypic trait (phenomic) data with a machine learning (ML) approach to provide plant breeders the tools to do both in-season seed yield (SY) prediction and prescriptive cultivar development for targeted agro-management practices (e.g., row spacing and seeding density). We phenotyped 32 SoyNAM parent genotypes in two independent studies each with contrasting agro-management treatments (two row spacing, three seeding densities). Phenotypic trait data (canopy temperature, chlorophyll content, hyperspectral reflectance, leaf area index, and light interception) were generated using an array of sensors at three growth stages during the growing season and seed yield (SY) determined by machine harvest. Random forest (RF) was used to train models for SY prediction using phenotypic traits (predictor variables) to identify the optimal temporal combination of variables to maximize accuracy and resource allocation. RF models were trained using data from both experiments and individually for each agro-management treatment. We report the most important traits agnostic of agro-management practices. Several predictor variables showed conditional importance dependent on the agro-management system. We assembled predictive models to enable in-season SY prediction, enabling the development of a framework to integrate phenomics information with powerful ML for prediction enabled prescriptive plant breeding.


Enzyme responsiveness enhances the specificity and effectiveness of nanoparticles for the treatment of B16F10 melanoma.
The clinical treatment of melanoma continues to present many challenges including poor prognosis because neither monotherapy nor combination therapies have shown maximal treatment efficacy. In this study, an enzyme-responsive nanoparticle was designed for tumor subtypes with the high expression of heparanase-1, since highly metastatic tumors such as melanoma generally express significant levels of heparanase-1. PTX-DOTAP@alloferon-1-heparin/protamine, an enzyme-responsive nanoparticle, has a particle size of 106.1 ± 1.113 nm and a ζ-potential of -45.1 ± 0.455 mV, which enables enrichment in the tumor site by passive targeting. Subsequently, heparanase-1, which is highly expressed in the extracellular matrix, rapidly recognizes and degrades heparin in the outer layer of the nanoparticle and releases encapsulated alloferon-1 by ion diffusion to activate inhibited NK cells in the tumor microenvironment. The size of the smart nanoparticle will eventually decrease to 59.30 ± 0.783 nm and the ζ-potential will reverse to 25.4 ± 0.257 mV, which is beneficial for deep penetration and tumor cell uptake (due to the high negative charge on the tumor cell surface) of PTX-DOTAP cores. Paclitaxel is released in the cytoplasm, and the tumor cells are arrested in the G2/M phase. The nanoparticle characterization experiment demonstrated that in vivo drug delivery could be completed. In subsequent cell and animal experiments, the experimental data demonstrated the efficient therapeutic effects of the nanoparticle. This study provides an excellent template nanoparticle for the treatment of highly metastatic tumors to enhance future prognosis.


Metal(loid) distribution and Pb isotopic signatures in the urban environment of Athens, Greece.
Lead concentrations and isotopic compositions of contaminated urban soils and house dusts from Athens, Greece, have been determined to identify possible sources of Pb contamination and examine relationships between these two environmental media. Different soil particle sizes (<2000 μm, <200 μm, <100 μm, <70 μm, <32 μm) and chemical fractions (total, EDTA-extractable and acetic acid-extractable (HAc)) were analyzed for their Pb content and isotopic composition. Metal(loid)s (Pb, Zn, Cu, As, Ni, Cr, Mn, Fe) are significantly enriched in the finest fraction. The Pb isotopic compositions were similar for the different soil particle size fractions and different chemical extractions. The HAc extraction proved to be a useful procedure for tracing anthropogenic Pb in urban soil. The range of (206)Pb/(207)Pb ratios (1.140-1.180) in Athens soil suggests that the Pb content represents an accumulated mixture of Pb deposited from past vehicular emissions and local natural sources. The contribution of anthropogenic Pb to total soil Pb ranged from 36% to 95%. The Pb isotopic composition of vacuum house dusts ((206)Pb/(207)Pb = 1.1.38-1.167) from Athens residents is mostly comparable to that of urban soil suggesting that exterior soil particles are transferred into homes. As a result, anthropogenic Pb in house dust from Athens urban environment principally originated from soil particles containing Pb from automobile emissions (former use of leaded gasoline).


Electroclinical Features of Early-Onset Epileptic Encephalopathies in Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation (CDGs).
Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are a constantly growing group of genetic defects of glycoprotein and glycolipid glycan synthesis. CDGs are usually multisystem diseases, and in the majority of patients, there is an important neurological involvement comprising psychomotor disability, hypotonia, ataxia, seizures, stroke-like episodes, and peripheral neuropathy. To assess the incidence, among early-onset epileptic encephalopathies (EOEE), of patients with identified congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), we made a review of clinical, electrophysiological, and neuroimaging findings of 27 CDG patients focusing on seizure onset, semiology and frequency, response to antiepileptic drugs (AED), and early epileptic manifestations. Epilepsy was uncommon in PMM2-CDG (11%), while it was a main concern in other rare forms. We describe a series of patients with EOEE and genetically confirmed CDG (ALG3-CDG, ALG6-CDG, DPM2-CDG, ALG1-CDG). Epileptic seizures at onset included myoclonic and clonic fits and focal seizures. With time, patients developed recurrent and intractable seizures principally tonic-clonic seizures, infantile spasms, and myoclonic seizures. Electrophysiological correlates included focal and multifocal epileptic discharges, slowed background rhythm, and generalized epileptic activity including burst suppression pattern and status epilepticus. We propose a diagnostic flowchart for the early diagnosis of CDG in patients presenting with EOEE and suggest to perform serum transferrin IEF (or capillary zone electrophoresis) as a first-line screening in early-onset epilepsy.


Biliary intervention using SpyGlass DS cholangioscopy through a cap-attached variable-stiffness colonoscope in a patient following Billroth II gastrectomy.
The SpyGlass DS system is currently used as a direct video cholangioscope for biliary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. In general, the SpyGlass DS cholangioscope is passed through the working channel of a duodenoscope and inserted into a bile duct via duodenal papilla. However, the procedure has been challenging in patients with altered gastrointestinal anatomy due to the retrograde route through a potentially tortuous afferent limb. A therapeutic colonoscope with variable stiffness can offer alternative guidance for SpyGlass DS cholangioscope in patients with surgically altered gastrointestinal anatomy.


Survival of food-borne pathogens on natural black table olives after post-processing contamination.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival of Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus on natural black olives during aerobic storage without brine and to conclude about the safety of this fermented food. Fermented black olives (pH 3.95; NaCl 6.02%) were artificially inoculated with 4 strains of Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis, 4 strains of S. enterica ser. Typhimurium, 3 strains of E. coli O157:H7, 3 strains of L. monocytogenes, and 3 strains of S. aureus either in monoculture or in mixed culture by submerging the fruits in a solution containing ca. 7.0 log CFU/ml of each target pathogen. The olives were subsequently stored aerobically at 4 and 20 °C, and the pathogens were recovered on selective media for a time period of 15 days. Enrichment was employed to define the presence/absence of the target pathogens when their counts were below the detection limit of direct plating. Results showed that the population of all pathogens presented a rapid decline within the first 2 days of storage depending on storage temperature, type of inoculation (monoculture or cocktail) and strain. Storage at 4 °C seemed to prolong the survival of certain strains of pathogens as compared to 20 °C by ca. 1 day. Enrichment revealed the absence (<1CFU/25 g) of Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 from olive samples with the exception of all strains of L. monocytogenes at 4 °C and one strain at 20 °C that were detected by selective enrichment until the end of storage. The results of this study indicate that natural black olives are not a favorable environment to support the growth of the investigated pathogens after post-processing contamination provided that the olives have been subjected to proper fermentation process.


A redescription of Hedruris moniezi Ibáñez & Córdova, 1976 (Nematoda: Hedruridae), an endoparasite of the Titicaca water frog Telmatobius culeus (Garman, 1876) (Anura: Telmatobiidae), with comments on all other known Hedruris species in Peru.
Hedruris moniezi Ibáñez & Córdova, 1976 (Nematoda: Hedruridae) was described using light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) based on specimens collected from the stomach of Telmatobius culeus (Anura: Telmatobiidae) in Peru. We observed some characteristics not reported previously, including sessile and pedunculated papillae and amphid on the pseudolabia, bifid deirids, morphology of the retractable chitinous hook, morphology and arrangement of the plates on ventral surface of the posterior end of the males, and arrangement of caudal papillae. Telmatobius culeus represents a new host of H. moniezi. In addition, H. basilichtensis Mateo, 1971 is considered to be a junior synonym of H. oriestae Moniez, 1889. A key to valid species of Hedruris in Peru is provided.


Weight-reducing side effects of the antiepileptic agents topiramate and zonisamide.
Drug-induced weight alteration can be a serious side effect that applies to several therapeutic agents and must be referred to in the respective approved labeling texts. The side effect may become health threatening in case of significant weight change in either direction. Several antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are associated with weight gain such as gabapentin, pregabalin, valproic acid, and vigabatrin and to some extent carbamazepine. Others are weight neutral such as lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and phenytoin or associated with slight weight loss as, e.g., felbamate. The focus of this chapter is on the two AEDs causing strong weight loss: topiramate and zonisamide. For both drugs, several molecular mechanisms of actions are published. We provide a review of these potential mechanisms, some of which are based on in vivo studies in animal models for obesity, and of clinical studies exploring these two drugs as single entities or in combinations with other agents.


Gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric identification of epinine in rat superior cervical ganglia and formation in vivo.
Epinine was identified in rat superior cervical ganglia by a gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric method. The deuterated methyl group of i.v. administered labeled methionine was incorporated into epinine at a slow rate, although epinephrine-CD3 was rapidly formed. These results indicate that epinine found in the ganglia is not a precursor of epinephrine.


Changes in GABA-benzodiazepine receptor complex and in peripheral benzodiazepine receptors in male mice after copulation.
We studied the effect of copulation on GABA and benzodiazepine (BZD) receptors in the male mouse. After copulation, there was an 18% increase in the in vitro number of [3H]muscimol binding sites in frontal cortex. No changes were observed in central BZD binding sites labelled either in vivo by [3H]flunitrazepam or in vitro (in olfactory bulbs and in frontal cortex) by [3H]flumazenil, but further in vitro studies demonstrated that the GABA-stimulated [3H]flunitrazepam binding was reduced in both frontal cortex and olfactory bulbs. Copulation increased the number of peripheral BZD binding sites labelled by 3H-Ro 5-4864 in olfactory bulbs by 22% and in heart by 36%, but not in frontal cortex or in testes. The changes of GABA/BZD and peripheral BZD receptors in mouse suggest that the GABAergic system may be affected by copulation.


Projecting learner engagement in remote contexts using empathic design.
This paper is in response to the manuscript entitled "Empathic design: Imagining the cognitive and emotional learner experience" (Tracey and Hutchinson in Educ Technol Res Dev 67(5):1259-1272, 2019) from a research perspective. The original manuscript provides a theoretical and empirical foundation of an instructional design approach-empathic design-where designers, during the design process, predict how learners would feel while engaging in the final design solution. Empathic design has significant implications in the "shift to digital" during the pandemic. That is, when designing the remote learning experience, instructional designers need to project into the remote contexts and predict learners' engagement experiences in these contexts. To address the "shift to digital" remote learning, empathic design needs to be extended with two important considerations, including learners' engagement and the context in which engagement occurs. This paper discusses how empathic design can be applied to consider four types of engagement (i.e., behavioral, cognitive, affective, and social engagement) and three contextual features (e.g., physical environment, technological, and social features) in order to best support learner experiences in the "shift to digital" remote learning during the pandemic.


Maternal hypertension with superimposed pre-eclampsia: effects on child development at 71/2 years.
Children born to women participating in a prospective study of hypertension during pregnancy were followed up from birth. Data on growth and development at the age of 71/2 years of 56 children whose mothers had superimposed pre-eclampsia are compared with results of 176 children whose mothers had only hypertension. Perinatal mortality in the hypertension-only group was similar to that for the hospital population in general at the time of their birth; but in the group who developed preeclampsia it was significantly higher. At the age of 71/2 years no differences were found in the frequency of health, handicap, sight and hearing problems, weight, height, head circumference, and standing and supine blood pressures. For six aspects of intellectual development children in the pre-eclampsia group had slightly higher mean scores; and in one of these, "perceptual matching' the difference was significant after adjustment had been made for confounding variables. Pre-eclampsia superimposed on hypertension does not increase the likelihood of impaired growth and development among children who survive the perinatal period.


Linking log files with dosimetric accuracy--A multi-institutional study on quality assurance of volumetric modulated arc therapy.
To systematically evaluate machine specific quality assurance (QA) for volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) based on log files by applying a dynamic benchmark plan. A VMAT benchmark plan was created and tested on 18 Elekta linacs (13 MLCi or MLCi2, 5 Agility) at 4 different institutions. Linac log files were analyzed and a delivery robustness index was introduced. For dosimetric measurements an ionization chamber array was used. Relative dose deviations were assessed by mean gamma for each control point and compared to the log file evaluation. Fourteen linacs delivered the VMAT benchmark plan, while 4 linacs failed by consistently terminating the delivery. The mean leaf error (±1SD) was 0.3±0.2 mm for all linacs. Large MLC maximum errors up to 6.5 mm were observed at reversal positions. Delivery robustness index accounting for MLC position correction (0.8-1.0) correlated with delivery time (80-128 s) and depended on dose rate performance. Dosimetric evaluation indicated in general accurate plan reproducibility with γ(mean)(±1 SD)=0.4±0.2 for 1 mm/1%. However single control point analysis revealed larger deviations and attributed well to log file analysis. The designed benchmark plan helped identify linac related malfunctions in dynamic mode for VMAT. Log files serve as an important additional QA measure to understand and visualize dynamic linac parameters.


Smart J-aggregate of cyanine photosensitizer with the ability to target tumor and enhance photodynamic therapy efficacy.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been demonstrated to be effective for cancer treatment. Design of photosensitizers (PS) featuring tumor targeting, long excitation wavelengths, and high singlet oxygen quantum yields (Φ(1O2)) is the crucial point of highly efficient PDT. However, it is especially difficult to integrate above features into one photosensitizer. Herein, we put forwards a PS J-aggregation method, simultaneously endowing PS with the ability of tumor targeting, the red-shift of spectra, and the increase of Φ(1O2). Cyanine PS 4-((E)-3-((E)-5-iodo-1,3,3-trimethylindolin-2-ylidene)prop-1-en-1-yl)-1-methylquinolin-1-ium iodide (IDMQ) is firstly designed and synthesized by us. IDMQ can form smart response-type J-aggregates under the control of negatively charge in microenvironments. In blood, IDMQ J-aggregates target tumor via "enhanced permeability and retention (EPR)" effect. Then the intracellular IDMQ J-aggregates assembled by RNA facilitate the red shift of absorption peak with deeper penetration, and compared to free state IDMQ, improve the Φ(1O2), resulting in the bathochromic shift of optimal PDT wavelength from 630 (free state IDMQ) to 700 nm (IDMQ J-aggregates). This intelligent J-aggregation method establishes a promising way for endowing photosensitizer with the ability of tumor-targeting and the synchronous improvement of PDT efficacy and further boosts the development of PDT.


Bone scanning in the evaluation of exercise-related stress injuries.
Bone scintigraphy was used to evaluate 34 patients with the physical findings and history of stress fracture of the lower extremity. Of the 34, 21 had abnormal studies, 11 involving the femoral neck, 9 the tibia, and 1 the femur. All of these had abnormal scintiscans prior to or at the time of the appearance of radiographic changes. Of the 9 with abnormal tibial studies, radiographic changes never evolved in 3. No false negatives were found among the 13 with normal scintiscans.


The critical issue of using lead for sustainable massive production of perovskite solar cells: a review of relevant literature.
This work aims to review the most significant studies dealing with the environmental issues of the use of lead in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). A careful discussion and rationalization of the environmental and human health toxicity impacts, evaluated by life cycle assessment and risk assessment studies, is presented. The results of this analysis are prospectively related to the possible future massive production of PSC technology.


A learning rule for place fields in a cortical model: theta phase precession as a network effect.
We show that a model of the hippocampus introduced recently by Scarpetta et al. (2002, Neural Computation 14(10):2371-2396) explains the theta phase precession phenomena. In our model, the theta phase precession comes out as a consequence of the associative-memory-like network dynamics, i.e., the network's ability to imprint and recall oscillatory patterns, coded both by phases and amplitudes of oscillation. The learning rule used to imprint the oscillatory states is a natural generalization of that used for static patterns in the Hopfield model, and is based on the spike-time-dependent synaptic plasticity, experimentally observed.In agreement with experimental findings, the place cells' activity appears at consistently earlier phases of subsequent cycles of the ongoing theta rhythm during a pass through the place field, while the oscillation amplitude of the place cells' firing rate increases as the animal approaches the center of the place field and decreases as the animal leaves the center. The total phase precession of the place cell is lower than 360 degrees , in agreement with experiments. As the animal enters a receptive field, the place cells' activity comes slightly less than 180 degrees after the phase of maximal pyramidal cell population activity, in agreement with the findings of Skaggs et al. (1996, Hippocampus 6:149-172). Our model predicts that the theta phase is much better correlated with location than with time spent in the receptive field. Finally, in agreement with the recent experimental findings of Zugaro et al. (2005, Nature Neuroscience 9(1):67-71), our model predicts that theta phase precession persists after transient intrahippocampal perturbation.


The Chaperone BAG6 Regulates Cellular Homeostasis between Autophagy and Apoptosis by Holding LC3B.
AMFR/gp78 and USP13 are a pair of ubiquitin ligase and deubiquitinase that ensure the accuracy of endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD). Depletion of USP13 leads to caspase activation and cleavage of the ERAD chaperone BAG6, which is reversed by knockdown of AMFR. However, the mechanism and physiological relevance of this regulation are still unclear. Here, by using the NEDDylator system, we screened out TXN as a substrate of AMFR and USP13 and showed its involvement in regulating CASP3 activation and BAG6 cleavage. Furthermore, we showed that the cleaved N-terminal BAG6 is located in the cytosol and interacts with both LC3B-I and unprocessed form of LC3B (Pro-LC3B) through the LIR1 motif to suppress autophagy. An NMR approach verified the direct interaction between BAG6 LIR1 and LC3B-I or Pro-LC3B. Collectively, our findings uncover a mechanism that converts BAG6 from an ERAD regulator to an autophagy tuner and apoptosis inducer during ER stress.


Comparative gait analysis between children with autism and age-matched controls: analysis with temporal-spatial and foot pressure variables.
[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the gait pattern of children with autism by using a gait analysis system. [Subjects] Thirty children were selected for this study: 15 with autism (age, 11.2 ± 2.8 years; weight, 48.1 ± 14.1 kg; height, 1.51 ± 0.11 m) and 15 healthy age-matched controls (age, 11.0 ± 2.9 years; weight, 43.6 ± 10 kg; height, 1.51 ± 0.011 m). [Methods] All participants walked three times on the GAITRite(®) system while their plantar pressure was being recorded. [Results] The results showed a reduction in cadence, gait velocity, and step length, and an increase in step width in children with autism. Plantar pressure variables highlight the differences between the active pressure areas, especially in the hindfoot of children with autism. [Conclusion] The results suggest that children with autism have an abnormal gait compared with that of age-matched controls, and thus they need extra attention to correct these abnormal gait patterns.


Entrapment of small bowel after laparoscopic herniorrhaphy.
As laparoscopic hernia repair continues to evolve as an operative procedure, papers will continue to be published discussing new variations and new techniques which will better the operative procedure as a whole and quite possibly decrease its associated complications (i.e., morbidity and mortality). We present a case of laparoscopic bilateral herniorrhaphy in which after uncomplicated surgery and an immediate, uneventful postoperative course, the patient returned to our institution with both a rectus sheath hematoma and small bowel obstruction. The patient, who was initially treated conservatively, ultimately required laparotomy for persistent small bowel obstruction. Laparotomy revealed incarcerated small bowel in a cavity between the posterior rectus fascia and the rectus muscle proper. The patient did well after laparotomy and was discharged home with no further complications.


Peroxisome quality control and dysregulated lipid metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases.
In recent decades, the role of the peroxisome in physiology and disease conditions has become increasingly important. Together with the mitochondria and other cellular organelles, peroxisomes support key metabolic platforms for the oxidation of various fatty acids and regulate redox conditions. In addition, peroxisomes contribute to the biosynthesis of essential lipid molecules, such as bile acid, cholesterol, docosahexaenoic acid, and plasmalogen. Therefore, the quality control mechanisms that regulate peroxisome biogenesis and degradation are important for cellular homeostasis. Current evidence indicates that peroxisomal function is often reduced or dysregulated in various human disease conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we review the recent progress that has been made toward understanding the quality control systems that regulate peroxisomes and their pathological implications.


Surface characterisation of plasma-modified poly(ethylene terephthalate).
This paper reports the modifications produced by nitrogen and helium cold plasmas on the surface of PET. The changes have been studied by diffuse reflectance Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and inverse gas-solid chromatography (IGSC). Nitrogen and oxygen atoms seem to appear on the surface of PET as a consequence of the exposure to the atmosphere after the treatments with plasmas. AFM shows that both plasmas altered in different extent the surface of PET as they break the polymer chains producing low molecular products which appear as bumps on the surface. The surface area and the porosity of PET does not change by plasma treatments even after 15 min. The dispersive component of the surface free energy, gamma(s)(d), decreases after long treatments with nitrogen plasma whereas it remains almost unchanged after long treatment with helium plasma.


The association between intraocular pressure and different combination of metabolic syndrome components.
Although the association between metabolic syndrome and intraocular pressure is well known, the relationship between the intraocular pressure and different combination of the components of metabolic syndrome has not been actively researched yet. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between the intraocular pressure and metabolic syndrome components with their different combinations. Thirty-one thousand two hundred seventy one healthy people aged 19-79 who attended a community hospital for a health check-up between January 2011 and December 2013 were enrolled in the study. Subjects with a history of intraocular disease, at least in one eye and those receiving medical treatment for glaucoma were excluded. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed following the criteria defined in Circulation 2009. Subjects with combination of three metabolic syndrome components of triglycerides, abdominal obesity, and fasting glucose had the highest intraocular pressure. And subjects with the combination of four components of blood pressure, high-density lipoproteins, triglycerides, fasting glucose had a significantly higher intraocular pressure than ones with the combination of all five metabolic syndrome components. The difference in the risk of high intraocular pressure according to the different combination of the metabolic syndrome components could be confirmed. If additional follow-up studies are conducted, the findings can be used as an indicator for predicting intraocular pressure increases in patients with metabolic syndrome.


Non-adherence to antihypertensive medications in Lebanese adults hospitalized for hypertensive urgency and its cost.
Drug non-adherence is assumed to play an important role in development of hypertensive urgency, which is a common health problem resulting in frequent emergency department admissions and thus increased healthcare spending wastage. The objective of this study is to assess the rate of non-adherence to antihypertensives and to evaluate influencing factors predicting this behavior in Lebanese hypertensive adults. In addition, this study aim to estimate the cost of hospitalization for hypertensive urgency covered by the Ministry of Public Health in patients' non-adherent to their antihypertensives. A multi-methods approach is used comprising a cross-sectional study, additionally to an observational, retrospective, cost of illness study. A cross-sectional questionnaire based study is conducted from May to Dec, 2019 to address the study objective. Using the Ministry of Public Health hospitalization data during 2019, the cost of hospitalization for hypertensive urgency is assessed. Multivariable analysis is performed to calculate the adjusted odd ratios by fitting a logistic regression model. The cross-sectional study includes 494 participants and shows that 43.0% of patients hospitalized and covered by the Ministry of Public Health are non-adherent. The univariate regression model shows that adherence to antihypertensive medications is significantly associated with age (p-value = 0.005) and follow-up visits (p-value = 0.046). The odds of adherence for participants earning more than USD 2000 was 3.27 times that for those who earn less than USD 1000 (p = 0.026). The estimated cost of hospitalization for non-adherent patients is USD 452,353 in 2019. Non-adherence associated hospitalization costs represents a financial burden to Lebanese health system.


Virus infections in Brazilian honey bees.
This work describes the first molecular-genetic evidence for viruses in Brazilian honey bee samples. Three different bee viruses, Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), Black queen cell virus (BQCV), and Deformed wing virus (DWV) were identified during a screening of RNAs from 1920 individual adult bees collected in a region of southeastern Brazil that has recently shown unusual bee declines. ABPV was detected in 27.1% of colony samples, while BQCV and DWV were found in 37% and 20.3%, respectively. These levels are substantially lower than the frequencies found for these viruses in surveys from other parts of the world. We also developed and validated a multiplex RT-PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of ABPV, BQCV, and DWV in Brazil.