Region-specific tritium enrichment, and not differential beta-absorption, is the major cause of 'quenching' in film autoradiography.
Tritium quenching refers to the situation in which estimates of tritium content generated by film autoradiography depend on the chemical composition of the tissue as well as on the concentration of the radioisotope. When analysing thin brain sections, for example, regions rich in lipid content generate reduced optical densities on x-ray film compared with lipid-poor regions even when the total tissue concentration of tritium in those regions is identical. We hypothesize that the dried thickness of regions within sections depends upon the relative concentrations and types of lipid within the regions. Areas low in white matter dry thinner than areas high in white matter, leading to a relative enrichment of tritium in the thinner regions. To test this model, a series of brain pastes were made with different concentrations of grey and white matter and impregnated with equal amounts of tritium. The thickness of dried sections was compared with percentage of white matter and apparent radioactive content as determined by autoradiogram analysis. The results demonstrated that thickness increased, and apparent radioactivity decreased, with higher percentages of white matter. In the second experiment, thickness measurements from dried sections were successfully used to correct the apparent radioisotope content of autoradiograms created from tritium containing white- and grey-matter tissue slices. We conclude that within-section thickness variation is the major physical cause for 'tritium quenching'.


CenteringParenting: an innovative dyad model for group mother-infant care.
CenteringParenting is a group model that brings a cohort of 6 to 7 mothers and infants together for care during the first year of life. During 9 group sessions the clinician provides well-baby care and also attends to the health, development, and safety issues of the mother. Ideally, CenteringParenting provides continuity of care for a cohort of women who have received care in CenteringPregnancy, group prenatal care that is 10 sessions throughout the entire pregnancy and that leads to community building, better health outcomes, and increased satisfaction with prenatal care. The postpartum year affects the entire family, but especially the mother, who is redefining herself and her own personal goals. Issues of weight/body image, breastfeeding, depression, contraception, and relationship issues all may surface. In traditional care, health resources for support and intervention are frequently lacking or unavailable. Women's health clinicians also note the loss of contact with women they have followed during the prenatal period, often not seeing a woman again until she returns for another pregnancy. CenteringParenting recognizes that the health of the mother is tied to the health of the infant and that assessment and interventions are more appropriate and efficient when done in a dyad context. Facilitative leadership, rather than didactic education, encourages women to fully engage in their care, to raise issues of importance to them, and to discuss concerns within an atmosphere that allows for the surfacing of culturally appropriate values and beliefs. Implementing the model calls for system changes that are often significant. It also requires the building of a substantial team relationship among care providers. This overview describes the CenteringParenting mother-infant dyad care model with special focus on the mother and reviews the perspectives and experiences of staff from several practice sites.


Dapagliflozin diminishes memory and cognition impairment in Streptozotocin induced diabetes through its effect on Wnt/β-Catenin and CREB pathway.
Diabetic neuropathy is a chronic condition that affects a significant number of individuals with diabetes. Streptozotocin injection intraperitoneally to rodents produces pancreatic islet β-cell destruction causing hyperglycemia, which affect the brain leading to memory and cognition impairment. Dapagliflozin may be able to reverse beta-cell injury and alleviate this impairment. This effect may be via neuroprotective effect or possible involvement of the antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. Forty rats were divided into four groups as follows: The normal control group, STZ-induced diabetes group, STZ-induced diabetic rats followed by treatment with oral dapagliflozin group and normal rats treated with oral dapagliflozin. Behavioral tests (Object location memory task and Morris water maze) were performed. Serum biomarkers (blood glucose and insulin) were measured and then the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. In the hippocampus the followings were determined; calmodulin, ca-calmodulin kinase Ⅳ (CaMKIV), protein kinase A (PKA) and cAMP-responsive element-binding protein to determine the transcription factor CREB and its signaling pathway also Wnt signaling pathway and related parameters (WnT, B-catenin, lymphoid enhancer binding factor LEF, glycogen synthase kinase 3β). Moreover, nuclear receptor-related protein-1, acetylcholine and its hydrolyzing enzyme acetylcholine esterase, oxidative stress parameter malondialdehyde (MDA) and apoptotic parameter caspase-3 were determined. STZ was able to cause destruction to pancreatic β-cells which was reflected on glucose levels causing diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy was clear in the rats performing the behavioral tests. Memory and cognition parameters in the hippocampus were negatively affected. Oxidative stress and apoptotic parameter were elevated while the electrical activity was declined. Dapagliflozin was able to reverse the previously mentioned parameters and behavior. Thus, to say dapagliflozin significantly showed neuroprotective action along with antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties.


Cyclophosphamide-bortezomib-dexamethasone compared with bortezomib-dexamethasone in transplantation-eligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.
Cyclophosphamide-bortezomib-dexamethasone (CyBorD) is considered a standard induction regimen for transplant-eligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (mm). It has not been prospectively compared with bortezomib-dexamethasone (Bor-Dex). We aimed to compare the efficacy of CyBorD and Bor-Dex induction in transplant-eligible patients. In a retrospective observational study at a single tertiary centre, all patients with transplant-eligible mm who received induction with CyBorD or Bor-Dex between March 2008 and April 2016 were enrolled. Progression-free survival (pfs), response, and stem-cell collection for a first autologous stem-cell transplantation (ahsct) were compared. Of 155 patients enrolled, 78 (50.3%) had received CyBorD, and 77 (49.7%), Bor-Dex. The patients in the Bor-Dex cohort were younger than those in the CyBorD cohort (median: 57 years vs. 62 years; p = 0.0002) and more likely to have had treatment held, reduced, or discontinued (26% vs. 14.5%, p = 0.11). The stem-cell mobilization regimen for both cohorts was predominantly cyclophosphamide and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (gcsf). Plerixafor was used more often for the CyBorD cohort (p = 0.009), and more collection failures occurred in the CyBorD cohort (p = 0.08). In patients receiving Bor-Dex, more cells were collected (9.9×106 cells/kg vs. 7.7×106cells/kg, p = 0.007). At day +100, a very good partial response or better was achieved in 75% of the CyBorD cohort and in 73% of the Bor-Dex cohort (p = 0.77). Median pfs was 3.2 years in the Bor-Dex cohort and 3.7 years in the CyBorD cohort (p = 0.56). Overall efficacy was similar in our patients receiving CyBorD and Bor-Dex. After ahsct, no difference in depth of response or pfs was observed. Cyclophosphamide-gcsf seems to increase collection failures and hospitalizations in patients receiving CyBorD. Prospective studies are required to examine that relationship.


Professional nurses' opinion on research and research utilization for promoting quality nursing care in selected teaching hospitals in Nigeria.
The study investigated nurses' knowledge base for research conduct, attitudes towards research and perceived barriers to research utilization. Data for this descriptive survey were collected through a 41-item-structured questionnaire. The sample consisted of 500 nurses purposively selected from three tertiary hospitals in the Southern part of Nigeria. Results show that 73.4% of the respondents received instruction on research methodology, 48.6% attended research workshop previously, 68.0% have conducted research, and 27.6% have collaborated with others. Educational level has a significant effect on knowledge base (P < 0.05). Significant difference (P < 0.05) was found between the hospitals with respect to conducting research and collaboration. Fifty per cent of the respondents held positive attitudes towards research conduct and utilization, and 40.8% reported utilizing findings frequently. Inability to understand research reports and statistics were identified as barriers. Nursing services managers and educators should promote better research education focusing on practitioners' knowledge/experience and attitudes towards research.


A foreign body masquerading as a tumour.
A 29-year-old man presented to his local orthopaedic service with a mass in the medial aspect of his left thigh, present for 1 year. It had not changed in size, although he complained of increasing tightness in the region. He denied any systemic symptoms or history of local trauma. Extensive imaging performed at his local hospital was thought suggestive of a musculoskeletal tumour. The patient was referred to our tertiary centre musculoskeletal tumour clinic. Review of external imaging and further investigations revealed a fluid-filled intramuscular mass containing an echogenic focus consistent with foreign body. Ultrasound-guided aspiration yielded fluid which grew Staphylococcus aureus. Only when presented with this information did the patient vaguely recall sitting on a wooden kebab stick 30 months previously. At surgery, a thick-walled abscess with a central foreign body was identified and drained. At follow-up 1 month later, he was well with no recurrent problems.


[Feasibilities of laboratory diagnosis of cognitive disorders in dyscirculatory encephalopathy].
A hundred and sixty-nine patients aged 51-80 years who had Stages I and II dyscirculatory encephalopathy were examined. A control group comprised 32 apparently healthy individuals of the same age. Cognitive disorders were rated using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scale. The serum activities of butyrylcholine esterase (BCE) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (gamma-GT) were studied. The development of moderate cognitive disorders was found to be accompanied by lower BCE and higher gamma-GT activities. The activity levels of these enzymes may be used as markers reflecting the cholinergic and glutamatergic neuromediatory systems involved in cognitive functions.


Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among adults with psychotic experiences: data from the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology Surveys.
Suicide is a leading cause of preventable death, especially among individuals with psychotic disorders, and may also be common among nonclinical populations of adults with subthreshold psychotic experiences. Understanding this association has the potential to critically bolster suicide prevention efforts. To examine the association between 12-month suicidality and 12-month psychotic experiences and to test the hypotheses that psychotic experiences are associated with increased prevalence of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts during the concurrent period and with greater severity of suicidal behavior. Cross-sectional survey data were drawn from a large general population-based sample of households in the United States identified through the Collaborative Psychiatric Epidemiology Surveys (2001-2003). Adult household residents (n = 11,716) were selected using a clustered multistage sampling design with oversampling of racial/ethnic minority groups. Logistic regression models were adjusted for potential demographic confounders and co-occurring DSM-IV mental health conditions. Twelve-month psychotic experiences assessed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, version 3.0 psychosis screen. Twelve-month suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Respondents reporting psychotic experiences were more likely to report concurrent suicidal ideation (odds ratio [OR], 5.24; 95% CI, 2.85-9.62) and suicide attempts (OR, 9.48; 95% CI, 3.98-22.62). Most respondents with psychotic experiences (mean [SE], 65.2% [4.2%]) met criteria for a DSM-IV depressive, anxiety, or substance use disorder. Among respondents with suicidal ideation, those with psychotic experiences were likely to make an attempt during the concurrent 12-month period (OR, 3.49; 95% CI, 1.05-11.58) when adjusting for co-occurring psychiatric disorders. In contrast, depressive (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 0.62-4.52), anxiety (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 0.40-6.09), and substance use disorders (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 0.24-11.17) did not reliably identify those at risk for attempts among respondents with suicidal ideation. The mean (SE) 12-month prevalence of suicide attempts among individuals reporting ideation and psychotic experiences and meeting criteria for any psychiatric disorder was 47.4% (10.9%) compared with 18.9% (4.8%) among those with just ideation and a disorder. Psychotic experiences were especially prevalent among individuals reporting severe attempts and may account for nearly one-third of attempts with intent to die (population attributable risk, 29.01%) in the United States annually. Assessment of psychotic experiences among individuals with suicidal ideation has potential clinical and public health utility in reducing the prevalence of suicide attempts, particularly attempts with intent to die.


Neurotoxicants and central catecholamine systems.
The ubiquitous functional roles of brain catecholamines have led to the notion that in vitro neurochemical changes in these systems may predict neurotoxicity. Conversely, others have argued that the appropriate use of neurochemical methods is for testing specific hypotheses that are developed based on observed phenomena. Three studies from this laboratory are presented in support of the latter hypothesis. The first example is with inorganic lead, a major environmental pollutant. The effects of small doses of lead on CNS development have been difficult to quantify or study mechanistically. However, the serendipitous finding that lead exposure during early postnatal development increased lithium-induced polydipsia (LIP) has provided clues that have permitted testing of specific neurochemical hypotheses related to dopamine systems. Conversely, the administration of either trimethyl- or triethyltin to rats during perinatal periods causes profound neurotoxicity. However, although some changes in the neurochemistry of catecholamine systems have been found, these data have provided little insight into either the cause or sequelae of toxicity. Finally, the food color erythrosin (FD & C Red #3) was hypothesized to be a neurotoxicant because it disrupted neurotransmitter uptake in vitro. Our data suggested this was an artifact of the methodology, a position supported by clinical and behavioral studies. These data provide examples of the strengths and weaknesses in neurochemical approaches to neurotoxicity.


Are we getting enough sleep? Frequent irregular sleep found in an analysis of over 11 million nights of objective in-home sleep data.
Evidence-based guidelines recommend that adults should sleep 7-9 h/night for optimal health and function. This study used noninvasive, multinight, objective sleep monitoring to determine average sleep duration and sleep duration variability in a large global community sample, and how often participants met the recommended sleep duration range. Data were analyzed from registered users of the Withings under-mattress Sleep Analyzer (predominantly located in Europe and North America) who had ≥28 nights of sleep recordings, averaging ≥4 per week. Sleep durations (the average and standard deviation) were assessed across a ∼9-month period. Associations between age groups, sex, and sleep duration were assessed using linear and logistic regressions, and proportions of participants within (7-9 hours) or outside (<7 hours or >9 hours) the recommended sleep duration range were calculated. The sample consisted of 67,254 adults (52,523 males, 14,731 females; aged mean ± SD 50 ± 12 years). About 30% of adults demonstrated an average sleep duration outside the recommended 7-9 h/night. Even in participants with an average sleep duration within 7-9 hours, about 40% of nights were outside this range. Only 15% of participants slept between 7 and 9 hours for at least 5 nights per week. Female participants had significantly longer sleep durations than male participants, and middle-aged participants had shorter sleep durations than younger or older participants. These findings indicate that a considerable proportion of adults are not regularly sleeping the recommended 7-9 h/night. Even among those who do, irregular sleep is prevalent. These novel data raise several important questions regarding sleep requirements and the need for improved sleep health policy and advocacy.


Helicobacter pylori-negative peptic ulcers: frequency and implications for management.
Most patients with peptic ulcers are infected with Helicobacter pylori, but the infection may not be responsible for the ulcer. It is increasingly recognized that different causes of ulcers coexist in a given patient, confounding determination of the exact cause of the ulcer. For example, in infected patients with ulcers who also are using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it is not possible to establish the ulcer's cause. Moreover, recent studies in the United States in infected patients with duodenal ulcers who were treated with various regimens to prove their efficacy in eradicating H. pylori and preventing ulcer recurrence found that approximately 20% of patients suffered an ulcer recurrence despite successful H. pylori eradication. The infection clearly did not cause their ulcers but was originally thought to have done so. Thus, as many as one-fifth of patients with ulcers may have the cause falsely attributed to H. pylori infection. When this number is added to that of ulcer patients who are H. pylori-negative upon original presentation--at least 20% in other recent U.S. studies--it is evident that the proportion of non-H. pylori ulcer patients is larger than originally believed. This proportion is likely to increase with the declining incidence of H. pylori infection. Other causes of ulcers include the use of aspirin and NSAIDs (which may be surreptitious), hypersecretory states, Crohn's disease, and patients with "idiopathic" ulcers. Patients with "idiopathic" ulcers are characterized by postprandial hypersecretion of acid and hypergastrinemia with accelerated gastric emptying. H. pylori ulcers may be difficult to manage because antisecretory drugs are less effective in inhibiting gastric acidity in the absence of H. pylori infection.


Artificial stone-associated silicosis with concurrent Cryptococcus infection.
Acute silicoproteinosis is a disease that develops in weeks, and lasting for years, after massive exposure to silica dust in relatively closed spaces. It was rare, but the cases have recently increased worldwide due to the development of artificial stone industry. Compared with traditional silicosis, artificial stone-associated silicosis is more rapidly progressive and lethal. Hence, a correct diagnosis and optimal treatment are crucial. Here, we present the clinical course of a 33-year-old artificial stonemason who suffered from acute silicoproteinosis with concurrent Cryptococcus infection resulting in profound respiratory failure. This patient was treated by bronchoscope-assisted therapeutic segmental lung lavage and antifungal agent, under mechanical ventilator and ECMO support and recovered well. A brief review of acute silicoproteinosis and artificial stone-associated silicosis is also presented and highlights the new form of industry exposure to silica.


Age-related ocular blood flow changes.
Pulsatile ocular blood flow (POBF is influenced by well-known parameters, such as intraocular pressure (IOP), heart rate, scleral rigidity, blood pressure, and posture. Age is also likely to influence POBF strongly. The purpose of this study was to evaluate POBF in relation to age in normal subjects. Relevant data were collected from a sample of 105 normal subjects, ranging in age from 10 to 80 years. To measure the effect of age on POBF, the subjects were divided into seven groups of 15 subjects each; the age range of each group spanned one decade, beginning with age 10. POBF and pulse amplitude (PA) were measured in sitting and supine positions and after suction cup application. Using linear regression analysis, there was a significant correlation between PA and age in the supine position (P = 0.012) and after suction cup application (P = 0.002); in the sitting position, there was a borderline level of statistical significance (P = 0.053). In the sitting position, POBF was 819 +/- 212 microliters/minute in the second decade and 630 +/- 194 microliters/minute in the eighth decade. In the sitting position and after suction cup application, but not in the supine position, a statistically significant correlation between POBF decrease and age was found with linear regression analysis (P < 0.001 and P = 0.004, respectively). Using multiple regression analysis, POBF values revealed a significant correlation with age (P < 0.001), but not with systolic and diastolic brachial pressure. Considering all the subjects, analysis of variance for repeated measures highlighted a significant decrease of POBF from the sitting to the supine position and associated with an IOP increase (P < 0.001) without significant changes of PA. After suction cup application, there was a significant reduction of both PA and POBF (P < 0.001). The data revealed that as age increased, PA decreased in all three series of measurements. POBF decreased with age, and in subjects older than 50 years, the decrease was more evident. These findings are especially noticeable after IOP increase with suction cup. It must be considered that the age-related value of POBF is a fundamental parameter to evaluate correctly the hemodynamic aspects of the pathologies affecting the eye.


Hes1 regulates corneal development and the function of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells.
Hes1, a major target gene in Notch signaling, regulates the fate and differentiation of various cell types in many developmental systems. To gain a novel insight into the role of Hes1 in corneal tissue, we performed gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies. We show that corneal development was severely disturbed in Hes1-null mice. Hes1-null corneas manifested abnormal junctional specialization, cell differentiation, and less cell proliferation ability. Worthy of note, Hes1 is expressed mainly in the corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and is not detected in the differentiated corneal epithelial cells. Expression of Hes1 is closely linked with corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cell proliferation activity in vivo. Moreover, forced Hes1 expression inhibits the differentiation of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells and maintains these cells' undifferentiated state. Our data provide the first evidence that Hes1 regulates corneal development and the homeostatic function of corneal epithelial stem/progenitor cells.


Molecular diagnosis and clinical decisions in adult acute leukemia.
A number of relatively new molecularly based diagnostic tests are now available to the physician involved in the treatment of patients with acute leukemia. These assays have considerable potential to improve prognostic accuracy, to aid in the selection of therapy, and to substantially enhance the ability to monitor results of treatment. Cytogenetic analysis now is the most important diagnostic test for determining prognosis and selecting therapy in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and arguably, in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) as well. The accuracy of cytogenetics in many cases can be enhanced through the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assays. Molecularly based assays of the leukemia cell's sensitivity or resistance to particular classes of drugs are beginning to emerge as potentially important tools for selecting therapies. Studies using molecular markers of disease to monitor response to therapy are yielding important clues about the biology of leukemia and are increasingly being used to guide therapy. The best uses of these new molecularly based assays are still uncertain and are the subjects of a large number of current clinic trials. While questions abound about their full potential, almost without question they will change the way we think about, diagnose, and treat leukemia.


A regional approach to health care reform: the Texas border.
The purpose of this article is to analyze health insurance disparities related to labor environment factors in the Texas-Mexico border region. A logistic regression model was performed using microdata from the 2010 American Community Survey to estimate the probability of having employer-based insurance, controlling labor environment factors such as hours worked, occupation industry, and the choice of private, nonprofit or public sector jobs. Industries primarily employing the Mexican American population are less likely to offer employer-based health insurance. These industries have the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 770 construction, including cleaning, and NAICS code 8680, restaurants and other food services. Although it was found that working in public sector industries such as code 9470, administration of justice, public order, and safety, or NAICS code 7860, elementary and secondary schools, improved by 60% the probability of the Mexican American population having employer-based health insurance, these occupations ranked at the bottom of the main occupation list for Mexican Americans. These findings provide evidence that the labor environment plays an important role in understanding current health insurance access limitations within the Mexican American community under 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act provisions, which are directed to small business and lower-income individuals.


Identification of DNA-Binding Proteins Using Mixed Feature Representation Methods.
DNA-binding proteins play vital roles in cellular processes, such as DNA packaging, replication, transcription, regulation, and other DNA-associated activities. The current main prediction method is based on machine learning, and its accuracy mainly depends on the features extraction method. Therefore, using an efficient feature representation method is important to enhance the classification accuracy. However, existing feature representation methods cannot efficiently distinguish DNA-binding proteins from non-DNA-binding proteins. In this paper, a multi-feature representation method, which combines three feature representation methods, namely, K-Skip-N-Grams, Information theory, and Sequential and structural features (SSF), is used to represent the protein sequences and improve feature representation ability. In addition, the classifier is a support vector machine. The mixed-feature representation method is evaluated using 10-fold cross-validation and a test set. Feature vectors, which are obtained from a combination of three feature extractions, show the best performance in 10-fold cross-validation both under non-dimensional reduction and dimensional reduction by max-relevance-max-distance. Moreover, the reduced mixed feature method performs better than the non-reduced mixed feature technique. The feature vectors, which are a combination of SSF and K-Skip-N-Grams, show the best performance in the test set. Among these methods, mixed features exhibit superiority over the single features.


Cloning of two glutamate dehydrogenase cDNAs from Asparagus officinalis: sequence analysis and evolutionary implications.
Two different amplification products, termed c1 and c2, showing a high similarity to glutamate dehydrogenase sequences from plants, were obtained from Asparagus officinalis using two degenerated primers and RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction). The genes corresponding to these cDNA clones were designated aspGDHA and aspGDHB. Screening of a cDNA library resulted in the isolation of cDNA clones for aspGDHB only. Analysis of the deduced amino acid (aa) sequence from the full-length cDNA suggests that the gene product contains all regions associated with metabolic function of NAD glutamate dehydrogenase (NAD-GDH). A first phylogenetic analysis including only GDHs from plants suggested that the two GDH genes of A. officinalis arose by an ancient duplication event, pre-dating the divergence of monocots and dicots. Codon usage analysis showed a bias towards A/T ending codons. This tendency is likely due to the biased nucleotide composition of the asparagus genome, rather than to the translational selection for specific codons. Using principal coordinate analysis, the evolutionary relatedness of plant GDHs with homologous sequences from a large spectrum of organisms was investigated. The results showed a closer affinity of plant GDHs to GDHs of thermophilic archaebacterial and eubacterial species, when compared to those of unicellular eukaryotic fungi. Sequence analysis at specific amino acid signatures, known to affect the thermal stability of GDH, and assays of enzyme activity at non-physiological temperatures, showed a greater adaptation to heat-stress conditions for the asparagus and tobacco enzymes compared with the Saccharomyces cerevisiae enzyme.


Care of children with anterior uveitis.
The clinical features of 290 children with anterior uveitis are presented. The vast majority suffered from chronic uveitis. Specific uveitis entities in children include the syndrome of 'chronic iridocyclitis' in girls, heterochromic cyclitis, and pars planitis. Systemic associations include sarcoidosis, the Vogt-Harada-Koyanagi syndrome, and the seronegative arthritides (juvenile chronic arthritis, juvenile ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and rarely Reiter's and Beçet's syndromes). Children with a pauciarticular onset of juvenile chronic arthritis, especially when combined with positive findings for antinuclear antibody, are at particular risk of developing chronic anterior uveitis. Most cases of chronic anterior uveitis can be controlled with topical corticosteroids. Those that are resistant to both topical and systemic corticosteroids may have to be treated with chlorambucil. The operation of lensectomy is a great advance in the management of complicated cataract. Secondary glaucoma is the most devastating complication of chronic anterior uveitis in children and responds poorly to therapy.


Nanoparticle-Loaded Hydrogel for the Light-Activated Release and Photothermal Enhancement of Antimicrobial Peptides.
Rising concerns over multidrug-resistant bacteria have necessitated an expansion to the current antimicrobial arsenal and forced the development of novel delivery strategies that enhance the efficacy of existing treatments. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising antibiotic alternative that physically disrupts the membrane of bacteria, resulting in rapid bactericidal activity; however, clinical translation of AMPs has been hindered by their susceptibility to protease degradation. Through the co-loading of liposomes encapsulating model AMP, IRIKIRIK-CONH2 (IK8), and gold nanorods (AuNRs) into a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel, we have demonstrated the ability to protect encapsulated materials from proteolysis and provide the first instance of the triggered AMP release. Laser irradiation at 860 nm, at 2.1 W cm-2, for 10 min led to the photothermal triggered release of IK8, resulting in bactericidal activity against Gram-negative Pseudonomas aeruginosa and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, by increasing the laser intensity to 2.4 W cm-2, we have shown the thermal enhancement of AMP activity. The photothermal triggered release, and enhancement of AMP efficacy, was demonstrated to treat two rounds of fresh S. aureus, indicating that the therapeutic gel has the potential for multiple rounds of treatment. Taken together, this novel therapeutic hydrogel system demonstrates the stimuli-responsive release of AMPs with photothermal enhanced antimicrobial efficacy to treat pathogenic bacteria.


Establishment and characterization of an undifferentiated human T leukemia cell line which requires granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulatory factor for growth.
A human leukemia cell line (TALL-101) was established from the bone marrow of a patient with an undifferentiated acute T cell leukemia using the conditioned medium (CM) of the human T cell leukemia virus (HTLV) II-transformed human cell line J-LB1. Immunofluorescence analysis on the original leukemic cells indicated the presence of T cell markers (Leu-1, Tdt, and T11); however, the established TALL-101 cell line expressed only antigens commonly present on progenitor cells, thymocytes, and myelomonocytic cells, but not on mature T cells. A high percentage of TALL-101 cells displayed the Tac antigen which was down-regulated upon incubation in the presence of recombinant human (rH) interleukin 2 (IL 2). Interferon (IFN)-gamma induced the appearance of class II histocompatibility leukocyte antigens (HLA) and of a T cell marker (3A1), and enhanced the expression of transferrin receptors on these cells. Further evidence for a T cell lineage of the TALL-101 cell line was provided by both chromosomic and genotypic analysis showing a translocation in chromosome 14 typical of T cell leukemias, and a rearrangement of the T-beta receptor locus. The growth-promoting activity in the J-LB1-CM was identified as granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulatory factor (GM-CSF), a growth factor which stimulates proliferation of normal myelomonocytic cells and other progenitor cells, but not known to have an effect on T cells. Dose response curves of [3H]thymidine incorporation and growth indicated that TALL-101 cells were sensitive to very low concentrations of rHGM-CSF, 5 ng/ml inducing maximal proliferation in chemically defined medium. The TALL-101 cell line is strictly GM-CSF-dependent for growth: upon depletion of GM-CSF from the culture medium, the cells stop proliferating immediately and die within 1 to 2 wk. The overall data, showing that GM-CSF is able to support the growth of a highly undifferentiated T cell leukemia, strongly suggests that this factor might have similar growth promoting effects on other immature T cell leukemias, and possibly, on normal T cell progenitors.


Electromicrofluidic Device for Interference-Free Rapid Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing of Escherichia coli from Real Samples.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health threat, progressively emerging as a significant public health issue. Therefore, an antibiotic susceptibility study is a powerful method for combating antimicrobial resistance. Antibiotic susceptibility study collectively helps in evaluating both genotypic and phenotypic resistance. However, current traditional antibiotic susceptibility study methods are time-consuming, laborious, and expensive. Hence, there is a pressing need to develop simple, rapid, miniature, and affordable devices to prevent antimicrobial resistance. Herein, a miniaturized, user-friendly device for the electrochemical antibiotic susceptibility study of Escherichia coli (E. coli) has been developed. In contrast to the traditional methods, the designed device has the rapid sensing ability to screen different antibiotics simultaneously, reducing the overall time of diagnosis. Screen-printed electrodes with integrated miniaturized reservoirs with a thermostat were developed. The designed device proffers simultaneous incubator-free culturing and detects antibiotic susceptibility within 6 h, seven times faster than the conventional method. Four antibiotics, namely amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and cefpodoxime, were tested against E. coli. Tap water and synthetic urine samples were also tested for antibiotic susceptibility. The results show that the device could be used for antibiotic resistance susceptibility testing against E. coli with four antibiotics within six hours. The developed rapid, low-cost, user-friendly device will aid in antibiotic screening applications, enable the patient to receive the appropriate treatment, and help to lower the risk of anti-microbial resistance.


Racial differences in the effect of verbal and nonverbal memory on concrete planning for future care needs among older adults: a multi-group structural equation modeling approach.
Concrete planning for future care needs may positively impact older adults' subsequent mental health and quality of life. However, the cognitive factors that facilitate concrete planning among Black and White older adults are still poorly understood. We investigated whether there are significant differences between Black (n = 159) and White (n = 262) older adults in concrete planning and explored racial differences in the relationship between verbal and nonverbal episodic memory and concrete planning. Results revealed that Blacks showed lower engagement in concrete planning and lower scores than Whites on each verbal and nonverbal memory task. For Blacks, but not Whites, verbal memory and nonverbal memory performance predicted concrete planning with higher nonverbal memory relating to less concrete planning and higher verbal memory associated with more concrete planning. Our findings suggest racial differences exist in how episodic verbal and nonverbal memory affect concrete planning, a crucial factor for older adults' preparation for future care.


[Measuring ligament elasticity of the knee joint--elasticity measuring strip and its alternatives].
Those techniques for measuring ligament tension at the knee joint that are most commonly cited and easiest to carry out are discussed. These include four techniques based on the use of strain gauges. Apart from the Omega transducer and the buckle transducer, there is also the tendon force transducer, and the application of strain gauges to the bony ligament insertion sites. Other indirect measuring methods considered are the mercury strain transducer and the Hall effect transducer. The parameter measured with all of these methods is fluctuating current or voltage, which is then correlated with ligament tension. Three direct measurements are also discussed: the separation distances of marked fibres of the ligaments, replacement of fibres by threads, and a load cell/bone plug construction. The measured value is equated with the effective change in ligament length.


Clinical and laboratory observations on polysaccharide sulphate (PSS) in 282 cases of ischemic cerebrovascular disease.
Polysaccharide sulphate (PSS) is a new heparinoid drug. The therapeutic effect and laboratory findings in the treatment of 282 cases with ischemic cerebrovascular disease by PSS were analysed in this study. In treating patients with acute cerebral infarction, the effective rate (93.2%) and highly effective rate (62.9%) were both significantly higher in comparison with controls. Excellent results were also obtained in treating patients with cerebral infarction at late and sequela stage and patients with transient ischemic attack. Laboratory observations and animal experiments showed that PSS has anticoagulative and vasodilatory effects. It can also reduce blood viscosity and serum lipids. So PSS is an effective drug for the prevention and treatment of ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.


Testosterone levels in healthy men and the relation to behavioural and physical characteristics: facts and constructs.
This review summarises the correlations between testosterone levels and male physical appearance and behaviour. Methodological shortcomings concerning the measurement of testosterone could limit the value of these findings. In addition, testosterone measured in body fluids represents only one step in the cascade of action from production to biological effect, and could therefore provide only a limited view of the complexity of physiological events. Testosterone levels are influenced by conditions that are partly controlled or initiated by the hormone itself, but also by circumstances beyond hormonal or individual control. Different kinds of behaviour are not only subject to influence by environment, but also androgens can reinforce the particular kind of conduct and the behavioural impact can wield negative or positive feedback on testosterone secretion. Therefore, both generalisation and individualisation of study results will lead to doubtful conclusions and prejudices. Results of such studies must be viewed with caution, and over-simplification as well as over-interpretation should be avoided.


Genetic relationships among Neisseria species assessed by comparative enzyme electrophoresis.
The electrophoretic mobilities of 12 enzymes from 19 Neisseria species (including 6 strains of N. perflava), Gemella haemolysans, Escherichia coli and Branhamella catarrhalis were characterized by polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis. All strains and species tested exhibited qualitatively different zymogram patterns. Species and strain relationships were quantified by pairwise comparisons of all 12 enzyme systems to obtain similarity indices; these data were subjected to numerical clustering methods to obtain groups and a phenogram. The electrophoretic classification compared favourably with those obtained by other criteria. In addition, the quantitative clustering data indicated that N. ovis and N. caviae are sufficiently different from the other Neisseria species to warrant their separation into a distinct group. These two species also lacked the characteristic NADPH-diaphorase zymogram pattern found in all the other Neisseria species. Intra-species similarity indices were generally greater than the inter-species index values. However, certain species such as N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae had similarity index values in the range of inter-strain index values.


Mirtazapine effectiveness in a patient with refractory psychotic depression.
The author describes a patient with recurrent depression, according to DSM-IV diagnostic criteria. The features were of a delusional depressive episode lasting 5 years, associated with severe impairment of psychosocial functioning. The patient also had chronic hepatitis, of unknown aetiology, and portal hypertension with some high gastrointestinal bleeding episodes. The depressive episode had been treated unsuccessfully with therapeutic doses of imipramine and lithium augmentation associated with haloperidol and, afterwards, with risperidone. Mirtazapine was introduced, coadministered with haloperidol and after 8 weeks there was an improvement in delusional depressive and other negative symptoms. The patient remained well for 9 months. This case indicates that mirtazapine is an option for patients with psychotic depression who are refractive to tricyclic antidepressants. Mirtazapine is also a safe drug, well tolerated in this severe clinical condition.


[Interactions between collagen and C1q: their significance for rheumatology].
Interactions between C1q and collagen are thought to be due to the similarity in the structure of collagen and part of C1q. In the present paper immunological and biochemical aspects of this similarity were explored. It was found that one of nine rabbit anticollagen sera studied showed a clearcut reactivity with C1q, while anticollagenantibody-positive sera and synovial fluids of patients with rheumatoid arthritis did not display any cross-reactivity with C1q. Eleven of twenty collagen-immunized guinea pigs, however, demonstrated cellular cross-reactivity with CLF, the collagen-like fragment of C1q. Gel filtration studies indicated the formation of complexes between CLF and collagen, simulating immunological inhibition of anti-C1q-antibody by collagen. Human RA synovial collagenase was found capable of splitting C1q at a position within its collagen-like fragment. The importance of the interactions between collagen and C1q for the pathological events characterizing RA is discussed.


Molecular detection of dugbe orthonairovirus in cattle and their infesting ticks (Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus)) in Nigeria.
Dugbe orthonairovirus (DUGV), a tick-borne zoonotic arbovirus, was first isolated in 1964 in Nigeria. For over four decades, no active surveillance was conducted to monitor the spread and genetic variation of DUGV. This study detected and genetically characterized DUGV circulating in cattle and their infesting ticks (Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus)) in Kwara State, North-Central Nigeria. Blood and or ticks were collected from 1051 cattle at 31 sampling sites (abattoirs and farms) across 10 local government areas of the State. DUGV detection was carried out by RT-qPCR, and positive samples sequenced and phylogenetically analysed. A total of 11824 ticks, mostly A. variegatum (36.0%) and R. (B.) microplus (63.9%), were obtained with mean tick burden of 12 ticks/cattle. Thirty-four (32 A. variegatum and two R. (B.) microplus) of 4644 examined ticks were DUGV-positive, whereas all of the cattle sera tested negative for DUGV genome. Whole genome sequence (S, M and L segments) and phylogenetic analyses indicate that the positive samples shared up to 99.88% nucleotide identity with and clustered around the Nigerian DUGV prototype strain IbAr 1792. Hence, DUGV with high similarity to the previously characterised strain has been detected in Nigeria. To our knowledge, this is the first report of DUGV in North-Central Nigeria and the most recent information after its last surveillance in 1974.


Substrate-specific enzyme variation in natural populations of Drosophila pseudoobscura.
By using a number of different alcohols as substrates, eight alcohol dehydrogenase loci were discovered in Drosophila pseudoobscura. Each of these loci can take more than one substrate. Several of these loci differed in their tissue specificities and activity patterns during development. The genic variation in natural populations was studied at four of these loci and three of them were polymorphic. A quantitative study of substrate-specific differences among alleles of the same locus produced negative results. This result appears to be typical of most studies done on this aspect. From this it was concluded that the substrate specificity of enzymes is not an important factor in determining the greater amount of genic variation at Group II loci than at Group I loci, as proposed by KOJIMA, GILLESPIE and TOBARI (1970). There are several observations which suggest a different explanation for the differences in the genic variability at Group I and Group II loci: (1) There are, on an average, more isozyme loci (loci with similar substrate specificity) for enzymes in Group II than in Group I; (2) The null alleles are far more common at Group II loci than at Group I loci; (3) There is significant heterogeneity in the number of alleles and the heterozygosities at loci within each of these two groups of enzymes; (4) Relatively higher levels of genic variation are observed at Group II loci even in populations which appear to be living in homogeneous environments; and (5) Some loci (e.g. esterases) are highly polymorphic in most species investigated by gel electrophoresis techniques. Based on these general observations, it is proposed that (1) the substrate-specific differences are between isozyme loci and not between alleles of a given locus, and (2) neutral alleles are proportionately far more common at loci at Group II than at loci in Group I, because the former is under less selection constraint than the latter.


[Takotsubo syndrome: emerging concepts about diagnosis, prognosis and therapy].
Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an acute reversible heart failure syndrome initially believed to represent a benign and self-limiting condition due to its usual rapid recovery of ejection fraction within days or weeks. However, the incidence of acute complications such as acute heart failure, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and mitral regurgitation, are not infrequent and both in-hospital and long-term outcome can be not so favorable. Due to an increased awareness and recognition of the multiple clinical features of the syndrome, TTS is more and more diagnosed, although its real incidence is probably still underestimated. Even today, in the absence of prospective randomized studies, there are no guidelines on the treatment of TTS but only recommendations resulting from the experience of studies from individual centers and small observational registries. The aim of this review is to discuss the novelties in terms of diagnosis, prognostic stratification and management of TTS patients, highlighting potential challenges and unsolved issues.


Pharmacological macrophage inhibition decreases metastasis formation in a genetic model of pancreatic cancer.
Tumour-associated macrophages play an important role in mediating tumour progression. In pancreatic cancer, infiltrating macrophages are known to mediate tumour progression and have been identified in invasive tumours and in early preinvasive pancreatic intraepithelial precursor lesions. We aimed to study the impact of pharmacological macrophage depletion by liposomal clodronate in a genetic mouse model of pancreatic cancer. KPC mice (LSL-KrasG12D/+;LSL-Trp53R172H/+;Pdx-1-Cre) were treated for 12 weeks with liposomal clodronate or control liposomes. Tumour and metastasis formation as well as alterations in local and circulating immune cells and cytokines were analysed. Treatment with liposomal clodronate effectively reduced CD11b-positive macrophages both in the pancreas and other organs such as liver, lung and spleen. While tumour incidence and growth were only slightly reduced, metastasis formation in the liver and lungs was significantly diminished after macrophage depletion. This antimetastatic effect was independent of the presence of an endogenous primary tumour, since reduced pulmonary colonisation was also detected in clodronate-pretreated mice after tail vein injection of syngeneic pancreatic cancer cell lines. Macrophage inhibition by liposomal clodronate was associated with significantly impaired angiogenesis, reduced circulating vascular endothelial growth factor levels and decreased circulating CD4+CD25+ T cells. These alterations could be confirmed in an independent macrophage depletion model using CD11b-diphtheria toxin receptor mice. Pharmacological depletion of macrophages in a genetic mouse model of pancreatic cancer markedly reduced metastasis formation and is associated with impaired angiogenesis and reduced CD4+CD25+ T cell levels. Pharmacological targeting of infiltrating macrophages represents a promising novel tool for antimetastatic therapeutic approaches.


Mitochondria-targeted Ogg1 and aconitase-2 prevent oxidant-induced mitochondrial DNA damage in alveolar epithelial cells.
Mitochondria-targeted human 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (mt-hOgg1) and aconitase-2 (Aco-2) each reduce oxidant-induced alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) apoptosis, but it is unclear whether protection occurs by preventing AEC mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage. Using quantitative PCR-based measurements of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA damage, mtDNA damage was preferentially noted in AEC after exposure to oxidative stress (e.g. amosite asbestos (5-25 μg/cm(2)) or H2O2 (100-250 μM)) for 24 h. Overexpression of wild-type mt-hOgg1 or mt-long α/β 317-323 hOgg1 mutant incapable of DNA repair (mt-hOgg1-Mut) each blocked A549 cell oxidant-induced mtDNA damage, mitochondrial p53 translocation, and intrinsic apoptosis as assessed by DNA fragmentation and cleaved caspase-9. In contrast, compared with controls, knockdown of Ogg1 (using Ogg1 shRNA in A549 cells or primary alveolar type 2 cells from ogg1(-/-) mice) augmented mtDNA lesions and intrinsic apoptosis at base line, and these effects were increased further after exposure to oxidative stress. Notably, overexpression of Aco-2 reduced oxidant-induced mtDNA lesions, mitochondrial p53 translocation, and apoptosis, whereas siRNA for Aco-2 (siAco-2) enhanced mtDNA damage, mitochondrial p53 translocation, and apoptosis. Finally, siAco-2 attenuated the protective effects of mt-hOgg1-Mut but not wild-type mt-hOgg1 against oxidant-induced mtDNA damage and apoptosis. Collectively, these data demonstrate a novel role for mt-hOgg1 and Aco-2 in preserving AEC mtDNA integrity, thereby preventing oxidant-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, p53 mitochondrial translocation, and intrinsic apoptosis. Furthermore, mt-hOgg1 chaperoning of Aco-2 in preventing oxidant-mediated mtDNA damage and apoptosis may afford an innovative target for the molecular events underlying oxidant-induced toxicity.


Benefits and Prerequisites Associated with the Adoption of Oral 3D-Printed Medicines for Pediatric Patients: A Focus Group Study among Healthcare Professionals.
The utilization of three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies as innovative manufacturing methods for drug products has recently gained growing interest. From a technological viewpoint, proof-of-concept on the performance of different printing methods already exist, followed by visions about future applications in hospital or community pharmacies. The main objective of this study was to investigate the perceptions of healthcare professionals in a tertiary university hospital about oral 3D-printed medicines for pediatric patients by means of focus group discussions. In general, the healthcare professionals considered many positive aspects and opportunities in 3D printing of pharmaceuticals. A precise dose as well as personalized doses and dosage forms were some of the advantages mentioned by the participants. Especially in cases of polypharmacy, incorporating several drug substances into one product to produce a polypill, personalized regarding both the combination of drug substances and the doses, would benefit drug treatments of several medical conditions and would improve adherence to medications. In addition to the positive aspects, concerns and prerequisites for the adoption of 3D printing technologies at hospital settings were also expressed. These perspectives are suggested by the authors to be focus points for future research on personalized 3D-printed drug products.


The significance of ileo-colonic lymphoid nodular hyperplasia in children with autistic spectrum disorder.
Intestinal mucosal pathology, characterized by ileo-colonic lymphoid nodular hyperplasia (LNH) and mild acute and chronic inflammation of the colorectum, small bowel and stomach, has been reported in children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). To assess ileo-colonic LNH in ASD and control children and to test the hypothesis that there is an association between ileo-colonic LNH and ASD in children. One hundred and forty-eight consecutive children with ASD (median age 6 years; range 2-16; 127 male) with gastrointestinal symptoms were investigated by ileo-colonoscopy. Macroscopic and histological features were scored and compared with 30 developmentally normal (non-inflammatory bowel disease, non-coeliac disease) controls (median age 7 years; range 1-11; 25 male) showing mild non-specific colitis in 16 cases (13 male) and normal colonic histology in 14 cases (12 male). Seventy-four ASD children and 23 controls also underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The influence on ileal LNH of dietary restriction, age at colonoscopy, and co-existent LNH elsewhere in the intestine, was examined. The prevalence of LNH was significantly greater in ASD children compared with controls in the ileum (129/144 (90%) vs. 8/27 (30%), P < 0.0001) and colon (88/148 (59%) vs. 7/30 (23%), P = 0.0003), whether or not controls had co-existent colonic inflammation. The severity of ileal LNH was significantly greater in ASD children compared with controls, with moderate to severe ileal LNH present in 98 of 144 (68%) ASD children versus 4 of 27 (15%) controls (P < 0.0001). Severe ileal LNH was associated with co-existent colonic LNH in ASD children (P = 0.01). The presence and severity of ileal LNH was not influenced by either diet or age at colonoscopy (P = 0.2). Isolated ileal LNH without evidence of pathology elsewhere in the intestine was a rare event, occurring in less than 3% of children overall. On histopathological examination, hyperplastic lymphoid follicles are significantly more prevalent in the ileum of ASD children (84/138; 61%) compared with controls (2/23; 9%, P = 0.0001). Ileo-colonic LNH is a characteristic pathological finding in children with ASD and gastrointestinal symptoms, and is associated with mucosal inflammation. Differences in age at colonoscopy and diet do not account for these changes. The data support the hypothesis that LNH is a significant pathological finding in ASD children.


Haptic aftereffect of curved surfaces.
A haptic aftereffect of curved surfaces is demonstrated. Two spherical surfaces were presented sequentially to human subjects. They rested one hand on the first (conditioning) surface. After a fixed conditioning period they transferred their hand to the second (test) surface and judged whether the test surface was convex or concave. In experiment 1 the curvature of the conditioning surface was varied; the subject's judgment of convexity or concavity of the test surface was strongly shifted in the direction opposite to the curvature of the conditioning surface (negative aftereffect). Therefore, subjects judged a flat surface to be concave after being exposed to a convex surface. After a conditioning period of 5 s the shift was about 20% of the curvature of the conditioning surface. In experiment 2 the duration of the conditioning period was varied; the magnitude of the aftereffect could be described by a first-order integrator with a time constant of 2 s. In experiment 3 the time interval between the conditioning period and the touching of the second surface was varied; the magnitude of the aftereffect could be described by an exponential decay with a time constant of 40 s. It is concluded that the haptic aftereffect of curved surfaces is an important effect that occurs almost instantaneously and lasts for an appreciable period.


Genetic Transformation of Cotton with the Harpin-Encoding Gene hpaXoo of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and Evaluation of Resistance Against Verticillium Wilt.
The soilborne fungal pathogen Verticillium dahliae Kleb causes Verticillium wilt in a wide range of crops including cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). To date, most upland cotton varieties are susceptible to V. dahliae, and the breeding for cotton varieties with the resistance to Verticillium wilt has not been successful. Hpa1Xoo is a harpin protein from Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae which induces the hypersensitive cell death in plants. When hpa1Xoo was transformed into the susceptible cotton line Z35 through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, the transgenic cotton line (T-34) with an improved resistance to Verticillium dahliae was obtained. Here, we describe the related research approach, such as Western blot, Southern blot, immuno-gold labeling, evaluation of resistance to Verticillium dahliae, and how to detect the micro-hypersensitive response and oxidative burst elicited by harpinXoo in plant tissue.


Evaluation of parents' attitudes and practices related to antibiotic use for their children in Kosovo: a cross-sectional survey.
Self-medication and lack of patient adherence contribute to antibiotic misuse. This article describes parents' attitudes and practices regarding use of antibiotics by their children in Kosovo. A cross-sectional survey was conducted during data collection. We surveyed a total of 453 parents of children aged 0-15 years, who had experiences with using antibiotics for their children. Correlation tests and regression analysis were used to explore the relationship between variables. Our findings showed that 42.2% of parents strongly agreed or agreed with the use of antibiotics as a means to cure a cold or flu in their child more quickly. In addition, 29.8% were not aware of antibiotic side effects. Non-compliance with antibiotic treatment was 35.8%, and 28.9% of surveyed parents suggested that they had pressured their pediatricians to prescribe antibiotics for their children. A total of 10.15% of parents had no information on antibiotic resistance, and 34.38% of parents responded that they did not believe that self-medication with antibiotics could lead to resistance. Regression analysis results indicated that gender and age group have a significant influence on the parents' decision that an antibiotic should be used in children with high fever (p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that antibiotic management by parents in Kosovo is not satisfactory, and more attention should be given to their knowledge of the side effects of antibiotics, bacterial resistance and reduction in the self-medication. Health education, adequate measures and interventions are needed to overcome this situation and ensure rational use of antibiotics in Kosovo.


Comparative analysis of ACTH and corticosterone sampling methods in rats.
A frequently debated question for studies involving the measurement of stress hormones in rodents is the optimal method for collecting blood with minimal stress to the animal. Some investigators prefer the implantation of indwelling catheters to allow for frequent sampling. Others argue that the implantation of a catheter creates a chronic stress to the animal that confounds stress hormone measures and therefore rely on tail vein sampling. Moreover, some investigators measure hormones in trunk blood samples obtained after anesthesia, a practice that may itself raise hormone levels. To address these controversies, we 1) compared plasma ACTH and corticosterone (Cort) concentrations in pre- and poststress rat blood samples obtained via previously implanted vena cava catheters, tail vein nicks, or clipping the tip off the tail and 2) compared plasma ACTH and Cort in rat blood samples obtained by decapitation with and without anesthesia. Rats sampled via indwelling catheters displayed lower prestress ACTH levels than those sampled by tail vein nick if the time to acquire samples was not limited; however, elevated basal ACTH was not observed in samples obtained by tail clip or tail nick when the samples were obtained within 3 min. Baseline Cort levels were similar in all groups. After restraint stress, the profile of the plasma ACTH and Cort responses was not affected by sampling method. Decapitation with prior administration of CO2 or pentobarbital sodium increased plasma ACTH levels approximately 13- and 2-fold, respectively, when compared with decapitation without anesthesia. These data indicate that tail vein nicking, tail clipping, or indwelling venous catheters can be used for obtaining plasma for ACTH and Cort during acute stress studies without confounding the measurements. However, the elevation in basal ACTH seen in the tail vein nick group at baseline suggests that sampling needs to be completed rapidly (<3 min) to avoid the initiation of the pituitary stress response. Death by CO2 and pentobarbital sodium injection before trunk blood collection cause significant stress to animals, as reflected in the elevated plasma ACTH levels. These results support the use of either chronic vascular cannulas or sampling from a tail vein. However, collection of blood under pentobarbital sodium or CO2 anesthesia is likely to confound the results of stress studies when ACTH is an important endpoint.


Spontaneous deep vein thrombosis of the upper arm due to an intravascular myopericytoma: A case report and literature review.
Intravascular myopericytomas are a rare type of myopericytomas. In most previously reported cases, these were benign, occurred on the legs or neck, and had low recurrence rates. We have described a unique case of an intravascular myopericytoma that caused spontaneous deep vein thrombosis. A 37-year-old man presented with sudden-onset pain and swelling in the upper arm; physical examination revealed a 10 cm, palpable, firm, and mobile lesion in the upper arm. A biopsy revealed intravascular myopericytoma; immunohistological examination revealed a lesion in the lumen of the basilic vein. The tumor comprised abundant myxoid stroma with spindle cells proliferating in a concentric perivascular manner around the blood vessel. The tumor cells stained positive for CD34 and smooth muscle actin. The patient underwent total excision of the mass under local anesthesia; no recurrence was observed thereafter. A literature review was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar; the key terms were "intravascular myopericytoma" and "IVMP." Nineteen cases of intravascular myopericytomas across 14 articles published between January 2002 and January 2022 were identified. These involved 11 men and 7 women (sex was unknown in 1 case); the ages were 22 to 80 years (mean: 59.8 ± 14 years). In most cases, the tumor was slow-growing, and the etiology was previous surgical history or trauma. No pain was reported by patients with tumors on the face or feet, and no recurrence was observed after surgery in any of the reported cases. Immunohistochemical staining for smooth muscle actin, h-caldesmon, calponin, and CD34 was performed for differential diagnosis. Contrary to the slow-growing nature reported in the literature, the nature related to growing in the present case was unclear that lesion was discovered because of sudden pain caused by thrombosis. However, the diagnostic method and recurrence rate in our case were similar to those in the previously reported cases. Our case shows that although intravascular myopericytomas are rare, they can cause spontaneous thrombosis. They have low recurrence rates after complete resection. Spontaneous deep vein thrombosis that occurs in rare locations must be treated after determining the causes.


Examining the factor structure of the 39-item and 15-item versions of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire before and after mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for people with recurrent depression.
Research into the effectiveness and mechanisms of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) requires reliable and valid measures of mindfulness. The 39-item Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ-39) is a measure of mindfulness commonly used to assess change before and after MBIs. However, the stability and invariance of the FFMQ factor structure have not yet been tested before and after an MBI; pre to post comparisons may not be valid if the structure changes over this period. Our primary aim was to examine the factor structure of the FFMQ-39 before and after mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in adults with recurrent depression in remission using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Additionally, we examined whether the factor structure of the 15-item version (FFMQ-15) was consistent with that of the FFMQ-39, and whether it was stable over MBCT. Our secondary aim was to assess the general psychometric properties of both versions. CFAs showed that pre-MBCT, a 4-factor hierarchical model (excluding the "observing" facet) best fit the FFMQ-39 and FFMQ-15 data, whereas post-MBCT, a 5-factor hierarchical model best fit the data for both versions. Configural invariance across the time points was not supported for both versions. Internal consistency and sensitivity to change were adequate for both versions. Both FFMQ versions did not differ significantly from each other in terms of convergent validity. Researchers should consider excluding the Observing subscale from comparisons of total scale/subscale scores before and after mindfulness interventions. Current findings support the use of the FFMQ-15 as an alternative measure in research where briefer forms are needed. (PsycINFO Database Record


Is vaccine the magic bullet for malaria elimination? A reality check.
Malaria remains a major health burden especially for the developing countries. Despite concerted efforts at using the current control tools, such as bed nets, anti malarial drugs and vector control measures, the disease is accountable for close to a million deaths annually. Vaccines have been proposed as a necessary addition to the armamentarium that could work towards elimination and eventual eradication of malaria in view of their historical significance in combating infectious diseases. However, because malaria vaccines would work differently depending on the targeted parasite stage, this review addresses the potential impact various malaria vaccine types could have on transmission. Further, because of the wide variation in the epidemiology of malaria across the endemic regions, this paper proposes that the ideal approach to malaria control ought to be tailor-made depending on the specific context. Finally, it suggests that although it is highly desirable to anticipate and aim for malaria elimination and eventual eradication, many affected regions should prioritize reduction of mortality and morbidity before aspiring for elimination.


The impact of moderate-to-severe Crohn's Disease on employees' salary growth.
Moderate-to-severe Crohn's Disease (CD) has been shown to reduce daily activities; however, little is known of the impact on employees' salary growth. Employment and health care benefit data were extracted from the OptumHealth Reporting and Insights database, aggregating data from 23 self-insured U.S. companies with approximately 2.5 million covered beneficiaries. Employees diagnosed with moderate-to-severe CD (i.e., ≥1 prescription fill for systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, methotrexate or cyclosporine, or biologic agents within 6 months after the first observed CD diagnosis) between January 1999 and December 2006 were retrospectively matched with controls without CD based on year of birth, sex, industry, and geographic region. Employees' salaries and salary growth rates were estimated and compared between cohorts. Both descriptive comparison and multivariate regression analyses controlling for baseline characteristics and differences in comorbidities were performed. A total of 918 employees with moderate-to-severe CD were matched to 2154 CD-free controls. The 2 cohorts did not differ in their annual salary in the first year of observation. However, regression analyses revealed that the 2 groups had significantly different adjusted annualized salary growth rates (0.69% versus 1.01%, P < 0.001), and employees with CD had a 31% lower salary increase rate than controls. A total income loss of $3195 per person was estimated for employees with CD compared with their CD-free peers over a cumulative 5 years after the first calendar year. In the United States, employees with moderate-to-severe CD had a substantially lower salary growth rate than their peers without CD, suggesting an impaired career progression.


Health promotion needs of young people with disabilities--a population study.
Few research studies have sought to examine the health promotion needs of young people with disabilities. This paper reports the association between self-reported disability and various health behaviours (tobacco and alcohol use, physical activity, sedentary activities) psycho-social outcomes and school satisfaction. Cluster stratified random sampling was combined with a cross-sectional descriptive design to obtain 3918 school students attending year 6 (primary school), year 8 and year 10 (high school) throughout New South Wales (Australia), to complete a self-administered questionnaire. The prevalence of self-reported disability among this student sample was 5.8%. The most frequently reported disabilities were physical, sensory and learning disabilities. Students with disabilities reported similar health and educational outcomes as their able-bodied peers. However, they also reported lower levels of school satisfaction, greater voluntary absenteeism and were more likely to get drunk or smoke cigarettes. Students with disabilities reported higher levels of psycho-social distress. They were also as physically active as other students, but also spent more time engaged in sedentary activities. Students with self-reported disabilities exhibit attitudes and behaviours that are consistent with studies of students who are alienated from their school communities. Community-based health promotion interventions are required to address these issues in order to prevent the onset of secondary disease processes or additional disability.


Sensitivity to Auditory Spectral Width in the Fetus and Infant - An fMEG Study.
Auditory change detection is crucial for the development of the auditory system and a prerequisite for language development. In neonates, stimuli with broad spectral width like white noise (WN) elicit the highest response compared to pure tone and combined tone stimuli. In the current study we addressed for the first time the question how fetuses react to "WN" stimulation. Twenty-five fetuses (M age = 34.59 weeks GA, SD ± 2.35) and 28 healthy neonates and infants (M age = 37.18 days, SD ± 15.52) were tested with the first paradigm, wherein 500 Hz tones, 750 Hz tones, and WN segments were randomly presented and auditory evoked responses (AERs) were measured using fetal magnetoencephalography (fMEG). In the second paradigm, 12 fetuses (M age = 25.7 weeks GA, SD ± 2.4) and 6 healthy neonates (M age = 23 days and SD ± 6.2) were presented with two auditory oddball conditions: condition 1 consisted of attenuated WN as standard and 500 Hz tones and WN as deviants. In condition 2, standard 500 Hz tones were intermixed with WN and attenuated WN. AERs to volume change and change in spectral width were evaluated. In both paradigms, significantly higher AER amplitudes to WN than to pure tones replicated prior findings in neonates and infants. In fetuses, no significant differences were found between the auditory evoked response amplitudes of WN segments and pure tones (both paradigms). A trend toward significance was reached when comparing the auditory evoked response amplitudes elicited by attenuated WN with those elicited by WN (loudness change, second paradigm). As expected, we observed high sensibility to spectral width in newborns and infants. However, in the group of fetuses, no sensibility to spectral width was observed. This negative finding may be caused by different attenuation levels of the maternal tissue for different frequency components.


Progressive patterns of neurological disability in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.
The progressive patterns of neurological disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) and the significance of clinical relapses to the progressions of neurological disability in these diseases have not been fully elucidated. In this study, to elucidate the impact of relapses to the progression of accumulated neurological disability and to identify the factors to affect the progression of neurological disability in MS and NMOSD, we followed 62 consecutive MS patients and 33 consecutive NMOSD patients for more than 5 years with the clinical symptoms, relapse occurrence, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in the chronic phase. All enrolled MS patients were confirmed to be negative for serum anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody. As a result, patients with NMOSD showed significantly severer neurological disability at 5 years from onset than MS patients. Progression in EDSS score was almost exclusively seen after clinical attacks in NMOSD, whereas progression could be observed apart from relapses in MS. Neurological disability did not change without attacks in NMOSD, whereas it sometimes spontaneously improved or deteriorated apart from relapses in MS (p < 0.001). In patients with MS, those with responsible lesions primarily in spinal cord were more likely to show such spontaneous improvement. In conclusion, clinical deterioration in NMOSD patients is irreversible and almost exclusively takes place at the timing of clinical attacks with stepwise accumulation of neurological disability. Meanwhile, changes in EDSS score can be seen apart from relapses in MS patients. Neurological disability in MS patients is partly reversible, and the patients with disease modifying drugs sometimes present spontaneous improvement of the neurological disability.


Studies on the genus Stylocephalus ellis, 1912 (Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida: Stylocephalidae) in beetles (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) from El Fayoum Governorate, Egypt.
Four species of the genus Stylocephalus Ellis, 1912 were recorded and described from beetles in El Fayoum Governorate; S. longicollis, S. phalloides, S. variabilis and S. eastoni. Both S. phalloides and S. variabilis were recorded in Zophosis sp. and Pimelia angulata, respectively for the first time in Egypt. Out of 105 Blaps polychresta, 18 (17.14%) were infected with S. longicollis and 57 (54.29%) with S. eastoni. Out of 30 Pimelia angulata, 17 (56.76%) were infected with S. variabilis and all examined Zophosis sp. (n = 67) were infected with S. phalloides. Scanning electron microscopy on S. longicollis revealed morphological features not reported before; three pairs of longitudinal ribs extending from the second fifth till the posterior extremity of old sporont and a minute pore on the anterior tip of epimerite. In S. eastoni, the epimerite-host epithelium relationship revealed that the parasite invades host's gut with the distal part of epimerite. Regarding the gross pathological symptoms, heavily infected hosts showed a sluggish motility, short antennae, swollen abdomen, lack of fat accumulation, and putrid smell in dead beetles.


[The functional obstruction of bladder neck (author's transl)].
The functional obstruction of bladder neck in male patients is a well-known and long-known entity. Etiology, natural history and mechanism of this condition are not yet fully understood. The patients suffer from obstructive symptoms since childhood. The results of a full radiological, urological and urodynamics assessment of 10 patients with such symptoms are presented. Diathermic incision of bladder neck was the therapy of choice. Retrograde ejaculation of seminal fluid was not observed. The prognosis of this disease is good. Uroflowmetry, cystometry and micturating cysto-urethrography are mandatory for the correct diagnosis.


Prognostic Significance of Early Rehospitalization After Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy.
Short-term complications, particularly rehospitalization, after a diagnosis of takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) are poorly described. We sought to characterize the rates, causes, clinical associations, and prognostic implications of early rehospitalization in this patient population. We performed a retrospective observational study of all adult subjects diagnosed with TTC at an academic tertiary care hospital from 2005 to 2015. The primary outcome was rehospitalization within 30 days of index discharge. Multivariable logistic regression was used to test for association between clinical variables and rehospitalization. Association between rehospitalization and survival after index discharge was assessed as a secondary outcome using a multivariable Cox proportional hazard model. Two hundred sixty-three subjects met the inclusion criteria for the study. There were 38 rehospitalizations among 32 subjects (12%). Ninety-five percent of rehospitalizations were due to nonheart failure causes, and 76% were related to noncardiovascular complaints. In multivariable analysis, recent hospitalization before TTC diagnosis and increased length of index hospitalization were associated with greater risk of rehospitalization (odds ratio 4.58, 95% CI 1.97 to 10.65, p <0.001 and odds ratio 1.05, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.10, p = 0.026, respectively). Early rehospitalization after TTC was associated with decreased survival (hazard ratio 3.17, 95% CI 1.53 to 6.56, p = 0.002).


Active commuting and obesity in mid-life: cross-sectional, observational evidence from UK Biobank.
Physical inactivity is a leading cause of obesity and premature mortality. We aimed to examine the relation between active commuting and obesity in mid-life using objectively measured anthropometric data from UK Biobank. Cross-sectional, observational data from UK Biobank were used. These were collected from individuals aged 40-69 years who visited 22 assessment centres across the UK between 2006 and 2010. Self-reported commuting method was operationalised into seven categories, ordered to reflect typical levels of physical exertion. The outcomes assessed were BMI (based on objectively measured weight and height) and percentage body fat. Hypothesised confounders were income, area deprivation, urban or rural residence, education, alcohol intake, smoking, leisure physical activity, recreational walking, occupational physical activity, general health, and limiting illness or disability. We used sex-stratified multivariate linear-regression models. Final complete case sample sizes were 72 999 men and 83 667 women for the BMI outcome and 72 139 men and 82 788 women for the percentage body fat outcome. Active commuting was significantly and independently associated with reduced BMI and percentage body fat for both sexes, with a graded pattern apparent across the seven commuting categories. In fully adjusted models, compared with their car-only counterparts, mixed public and active transport commuters had significantly lower BMI (men: β coefficient -1·00 kg/m(2) [95% CI -1·14 to -0·87], p<0·0001; women: -0·67 kg/m(2) [-0·86 to -0·47], p<0·0001), as did cycling or cycling and walking commuters (men: -1·71 kg/m(2) [95% CI -1·86 to -1·56], p<0·0001; women: -1·65 kg/m(2) [-1·92 to -1·38], p<0·0001). Similarly, compared with car-only commuters, mixed public transport and active commuters had significantly lower percentage body fat (men: -1·32% [95% CI -1·53 to -1·12], p<0·0001; women: -1·10% [-1·40 to -0·81], p<0·0001), as did cycling or cycling and walking commuters (men: -2·75% [95% CI -3·03 to -2·48], p<0·0001; women: -3·26% [-3·80 to -2·71], p<0·0001). This study is the first to use UK Biobank data to address the topic of active commuting and obesity and shows robust, independent associations between active commuting and healthier bodyweight and composition. These findings support the case for interventions to promote active travel as a population-level policy response for prevention of obesity in mid-life. UK Medical Research Council.


Grammatical gender affects gender perception: Evidence for the structural-feedback hypothesis.
Two experiments assessed the extent to which grammatical gender provides a predictive basis for bilinguals' judgments about perceptual gender. In both experiments, French-English bilinguals and native English monolinguals were consecutively presented with images of objects manipulated for their (i) conceptual gender association and (ii) grammatical gender category and were instructed to make a decision on a subsequent target face. The experiments differed in the implicitness of the association between the object primes and target faces. Results revealed that when prior knowledge sources such as conceptual gender can be strategically used to resolve the immediate task (Experiment 1), this information was readily extracted and employed. However, grammatical gender demonstrated a more robust and persisting effect on the bilinguals' judgments, indicating that the retrieval of obligatory grammatical information is automatic and modulates perceptual judgments (Experiment 2). These results suggest that grammar enables an effective and robust means to access prior knowledge which may be independent of task requirements.


Synthesis and activity of the melanocortin Xaa-d-Phe-Arg-Trp-NH tetrapeptides with amide bond modifications.
The melanocortin receptor (MCR) pathway has been identified as participating in several physiologically important pathways including pigmentation, energy homeostasis, inflammation, obesity, hypertension, and sexual function. All the endogenous MCR agonists contain a core His-Phe-Arg-Trp sequence identified as important for receptor molecular recognition and stimulation. Several structure-activity studies using the Ac-His-d-Phe-Arg-Trp-NH2 tetrapeptide template have been performed in the context of modifying N-terminal 'capping' groups and amino acid constituents. Herein, we report the synthesis and pharmacologic characterization of modified Xaa-d-Phe-Arg-Trp-NH2 (Xaa = His or Phe) melanocortin tetrapeptides (N-site selective methylation, permethylation, or amide bond reduction) at the mouse MC1, MC3, MC4 and MC5 receptors. The modified peptides generated in this study resulted in equipotent or reduced MCR potency when compared with control ligands. The reduced amide bond analog of the Phe-d-Phe-Arg-Trp-NH2 peptide converted its agonist activity into an antagonistic at the central mMC3 and mMC4 receptors involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis, while retaining full agonist activity at the peripheral MC1 and MC5 receptors.


Efficient screening strategy for Lynch syndrome in Japanese endometrial cancer.
Lynch syndrome (LS) is an inherited disorder caused by a germline mutation in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes and is associated with increased risk of various cancers, particularly colorectal cancer and endometrial cancer (EC). It is significant to identify LS in EC patients for prediction and prevention of the succeeding other associated cancers. However, useful LS screening guidelines for EC have not been established. The purpose of our study is to devise an efficient and practical screening strategy for LS in EC. We designed original criteria, named "APF criteria," with lenient terms (Age of onset < 50, or Personal or Family history of associated cancers) and applied it to unselected EC patients. We performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) and the methylation assay of MutL homolog 1 (MLH1) gene promoter using the tumors of patients who met our criteria, and thus selected "suspected LS" as the candidates for genetic analyses. Of 360 EC patients, 187 (51.9%) met the APF criteria, and the tumor specimens were available from 182 out of the 187 patients. IHC revealed that expression of at least one MMR protein was absent in cell nuclei of 54 (29.6%) tumors. Of 20 tumors lacking MLH1 protein expression, 14 cases were judged sporadic EC because of the hypermethylated MLH1 promoter. We thus selected 40 (11.1%) of 360 EC patients as "suspected LS." Our strategy that consists of clinical triage and the molecular analyses is expected to improve the screening efficiency and reduce the cost of LS identification in EC.


Growth of InAs quantum dots on GaAs nanowires by metal organic chemical vapor deposition.
InAs quantum dots (QDs) are grown epitaxially on Au-catalyst-grown GaAs nanowires (NWs) by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). These QDs are about 10-30 nm in diameter and several nanometers high, formed on the {112} side facets of the GaAs NWs. The QDs are very dense at the base of the NW and gradually sparser toward the top until disappearing at a distance of about 2 μm from the base. It can be concluded that these QDs are formed by adatom diffusion from the substrate as well as the sidewalls of the NWs. The critical diameter of the GaAs NW that is enough to form InAs QDs is between 120 and 160 nm according to incomplete statistics. We also find that these QDs exhibit zinc blende (ZB) structure that is consistent with that of the GaAs NW and their edges are faceted along particular surfaces. This hybrid structure may pave the way for the development of future nanowire-based optoelectronic devices.


The effects of morus nigra on the alveolar bone loss in experimentally-induced periodontitis.
The aim of this study is to evalute the anti-inflammatory effects of morus migra on experimentally-induced periodontitis in rats. Twenty-four Wistar-albino rats were randomly divided into three groups: control group (C, n=8), experimental periodontitis (PER, n=8), experimental periodontitis and treated with Morus nigra (MN+PER, n=8) (50 mg/kg per day for 21 days). After 21 days, the rats were sacrificed, and alveolar bones were evaluated histopathologically and histometrically analyzed to obtain level of alveolar bone loss. The detection of RANKL and OPG were immunohistochemically performed. Serum and tissue levels of MMP-8 and MMP-13 were also analyzed. Morus nigra treatment decreased tissue MMP-8 and MMP-13 levels and there were significant differences in the case of tissue levels of MMP-8 and MMP-13 between groups PER and MN+PER (p=0.035, p=0.041). There were no significant differences among all the groups serum levels of MMP-8 and MMP-13 (p=0.067, p=0.082). In the histometric evaluation, alveolar bone loss was greater in the PER group compared to C and MN groups (p=0.035). Immuno-histochemical staining of RANKL activities were found significantly lower (p=0.037) and OPG activities were found significantly higher in MN+PER group when compared to PER group (p=0.021). The present study reveals that systemic administration of Morus nigra significantly inhibited the regional alveolar bone resorption and contributes to periodontal healing in the rat experimental-periodontitis models.


[Training in multiprofessional emergency medicine in primary health care].
Most Norwegian hospitals have systematically trained trauma teams in cooperation with the BEST Foundation: Better & systematic trauma care. A group of general practitioners, ambulance personnel and primary care nurses have modified this training concept for use in general practise, with the aim to strengthen acute medical competence within Norwegian primary health care. This study describes experience gained with a training method for dealing with receival and stabilisation of victims of injury in multiprofessional teams in primary health care. Multiprofessional training courses were held in 10 municipalities in Finnmark county in northern Norway. The course consisted of two hours of lectures on handling of critically injured patients in the primary care setting, followed by practical training with simulated patients. Communication, leadership and cooperation was emphasised during the training. The simulation sessions with dolls were video recorded and evaluated after each session. Individual questionnaires were distributed before and after training. Most municipalities that we contacted responded positively. Training was arranged for 22 teams and 145 participants completed questionnaires. The participants reported a significantly improved confidence in their own role and the correct order of necessary procedures. 91% would recommend the course to a colleague. This group of different health professionals reported a great need for training and a high outcome after the intervention. The findings support further dissemination of this training method in Norwegian primary health care.


The location and analysis of two heterokaryon incompatibility (het) loci in strains of Aspergillus nidulans.
The heterokaryon incompatibility system in Aspergillus nidulans has been investigated by parasexual methods. The use of complementary auxotrophs with a repeated serial transfer method or with a protoplast fusion technique has enabled heterokaryons and diploid strains to be recovered from heterokaryon incompatible combinations of strains. The effects of allelic interaction at heterokaryon incompatibility (het) loci on the morphologies of the heterokaryon and diploid colonies isolated are described. Parasexual analyses conducted among strains belonging to the heterokaryon compatibility groups, h-cGl and h-cB, and the two recombinant compatibility classes, have located the hetA and hetB genes to linkage groups V and VI respectively.


Differential Associations of White Matter Brain Age With Language-Related Mechanisms in Word-Finding Ability Across the Adult Lifespan.
Research on cognitive aging has established that word-finding ability declines progressively in late adulthood, whereas semantic mechanism in the language system is relatively stable. The aim of the present study was to investigate the associations of word-finding ability and language-related components with brain aging status, which was quantified by using the brain age paradigm. A total of 616 healthy participants aged 18-88 years from the Cambridge Centre for Ageing and Neuroscience databank were recruited. The picture-naming task was used to test the participants' language-related word retrieval ability through word-finding and word-generation processes. The naming response time (RT) and accuracy were measured under a baseline condition and two priming conditions, namely phonological and semantic priming. To estimate brain age, we established a brain age prediction model based on white matter (WM) features and estimated the modality-specific predicted age difference (PAD). Mass partial correlation analyses were performed to test the associations of WM-PAD with the cognitive performance measures under the baseline and two priming conditions. We observed that the domain-specific language WM-PAD and domain-general WM-PAD were significantly correlated with general word-finding ability. The phonological mechanism, not the semantic mechanism, in word-finding ability was significantly correlated with the domain-specific WM-PAD. In contrast, all behavioral measures of the conditions in the picture priming task were significantly associated with chronological age. The results suggest that chronological aging and WM aging have differential effects on language-related word retrieval functions, and support that cognitive alterations in word-finding functions involve not only the domain-specific processing within the frontotemporal language network but also the domain-general processing of executive functions in the fronto-parieto-occipital (or multi-demand) network. The findings further indicate that the phonological aspect of word retrieval ability declines as cerebral WM ages, whereas the semantic aspect is relatively resilient or unrelated to WM aging.


Effects of different varieties of Maca (Lepidium meyenii) on bone structure in ovariectomized rats.
This study was designed to determine the effect of different varieties of maca (Lepidium meyenii) on bone structure in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. 36 female rats were randomly divided into 6 groups: sham and OVX rats treated with vehicle, estradiol (40 microg/kg), black, yellow or red maca (63 mg/ml) for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment, uterine weight, femoral bone and lumbar vertebra histomorphology were assessed. Ovariectomy reduced weight, diameter and width of the femoral bone. Estradiol, black and red maca treatment reduced the effect of ovariectomy on these variables. Histological analyses revealed that estradiol, black and red maca treatments reversed the effect of ovariectomy by increasing the trabecular bone area in the second lumbar vertebra. Uterine weight was reduced in OVX rats, and estradiol but neither black nor red maca increased uterine weight. Red and black maca have protective effects on bone architecture in OVX rats without showing estrogenic effects on uterine weight.


Digital detox: The effect of smartphone abstinence on mood, anxiety, and craving.
Whether behavioural addictions should be conceptualised using a similar framework to substance-related addictions remains a topic of considerable debate. Previous literature has developed criteria, which allows any new behavioural addiction to be considered analogous to substance-related addictions. These imply that abstinence from a related object (e.g., smartphones for heavy smartphone users) would lead to mood fluctuations alongside increased levels of anxiety and craving. In a sample of smartphone users, we measured three variables (mood, anxiety, and craving) on four occasions, which included a 24-hour period of smartphone abstinence. Only craving was affected following a short period of abstinence. The results suggest that heavy smartphone usage does not fulfil the criteria required to be considered an addiction. This may have implications for other behavioural addictions.


European Regulatory Framework and Safety Assessment of Food-Related Bioactive Compounds.
A great variety of functional foods, nutraceuticals, or foods with bioactive compounds are provided nowadays to consumers. Aware of the importance of the safety aspects, the food industry has to comply with different legal requirements around the world. In this review, the European regulatory framework for food-related bioactive compounds is summarized. The term 'bioactive compound' is not defined in the European regulations, however, since they can be part of food supplements, fortified foods, or novel food, they are included within the legal requirements of those corresponding types of foods or supplements. Lists of authorized compounds/foods appear in the correspondent regulations, however, when a new compound/food is going to be launched into the market, its safety assessment is essential. Although the responsibility for the safety of these compounds/foods lies with the food business operator placing the product on the market, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) carries out scientific evaluations to assess the risks for human health. To facilitate this procedure, different guidelines exist at the European level to explain the tier toxicity testing approach to be considered. This approach divides the evaluation into four areas: (a) toxicokinetics; (b) genotoxicity; (c) subchronic and chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity; and (d) reproductive and developmental toxicity.