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pubmed_655_1693 | The mammalian circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) generates 24-h rhythms in vitro. Here we show that the GABAB agonist baclofen resets the SCN pacemaker in vitro in a phase-dependent manner: advances were induced at zeitgeber time (ZT) 6, and delays were induced at ZT 22. Both effects were blocked the GABAB antagonist, 2-hydroxysaclofen, while the GABAA antagonist, bicuculline was ineffective. Thus, the SCN pacemaker is sensitive to resetting by GABAB stimulation. | 10.1016/s0006-8993(98)00820-8 |
pubmed_537_4092 | Homopolymers of alpha 2,8-linked N-acetylneuraminic acid [poly(alpha 2,8-Neu5Ac)] of the neural cell adhesion molecule NCAM have been shown to be temporally expressed during lung development and represent a marker for small cell lung carcinoma. We report the presence of a further polysialic acid in lung that consists of oligo/polymers of alpha 2,8-linked deaminoneuraminic acid residues [poly (alpha 2,8-KDN)], as detected with a monoclonal antibody in conjunction with a specific sialidase. Although the various cell types forming the bronchi, alveolar septs, and blood vessels were positive for poly (alpha 2,8-KDN) by immunohistochemistry, this polysialic acid was found on a single 150-kDa glycoprotein by immunoblot analysis. The poly(alpha 2,8-KDN)-bearing glycoprotein was not related to an NCAM protein based on immunochemical criteria. The expression of the poly (alpha 2,8-KDN) was developmentally regulated as evidenced by its gradual disappearance in the rat lung parenchyma commencing 1 week after birth. In adult lung the blood vessel endothelia and the smooth muscle fibers of both blood vessels and bronchi were positive but not the bronchial and alveolar epithelium. The poly (alpha 2,8-KDN)-bearing 150-kDa glycoprotein became reexpressed in various histological types of lung carcinomas and cell lines derived from them and represents a new oncodevelopmental antigen in lung. | 10.1073/pnas.93.17.8995 |
pubmed_742_17867 | BACKGROUND
Severe postoperative pain is a major problem after unilateral and bilateral foot surgery. Continuous regional anaesthesia is often used for unilateral surgery. However, for bilateral surgery, the incidence of complications of continuous bilateral compared with unilateral regional anaesthesia is unknown.
OBJECTIVES
To assess the incidence of catheter-related complications of bilateral compared with unilateral continuous regional anaesthesia.
DESIGN
A prospective observational study.
SETTING
Bellinzona Regional Hospital, a tertiary teaching hospital.
PATIENTS
Patients (n = 130) scheduled for elective bilateral or unilateral hallux valgus repair treated with continuous popliteal sciatic nerve block using a continuous infusion of ropivacaine 0.15% at 5 ml h for each popliteal catheter by elastomeric pumps.
INTERVENTIONS
The incidence of catheter-related complications, effectiveness, pain levels at rest and with motion, patient satisfaction for the first three postoperative days and the incidence of ambulatory visits or readmissions after discharge were measured. A follow-up for neurological or other complications related to regional anaesthesia was performed 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE
The incidence of catheter-related complications comparing bilateral with unilateral continuous sciatic popliteal nerve block.
RESULTS
There were no differences in the incidence of catheter-related complications between the groups. Pain scores at rest and with motion were comparable between the groups. All patients were fit for discharge home 3 days after surgery. Patient satisfaction was similar between the groups. There were no unplanned ambulatory visits or readmissions due to complications in either group. No complications related to regional anaesthesia were reported during the follow-up.
CONCLUSION
The complication rate, effectiveness and patient satisfaction of bilateral continuous popliteal sciatic nerve block was comparable with unilateral continuous sciatic popliteal nerve block. The follow-up showed that bilateral continuous sciatic popliteal nerve block does not increase the complication rate. However, an outpatient-based study should confirm these data prior to introduction in the ambulatory setting. | 10.1097/EJA.0000000000000027 |
pubmed_1111_1939 | Unilateral limb shaking has been described as brief, repetitive jerking movements of arm and leg, resembling seizures and attributed to transient cerebral ischemia. We report a patient with numerous episodes of whole body shaking in the setting of bilateral carotid occlusions as well as vertebral stenoocclusive disease. These episodes of whole body shaking occurred in the presence of bilateral intracranial blood flow steal phenomenon. After angioplasty of the vertebral artery and initiation of aggressive medical therapy and non-invasive ventilatory correction, intracranial blood flow improved and whole body shaking episodes were resolved during 6-months follow-up. | 10.1016/j.jns.2011.01.022 |
pubmed_852_22188 | Environments undergo short-term and long-term changes due to natural or human-induced events. Animals differ in their ability to cope with such changes which can be related to their ecology. Changes in the environment often elicit avoidance reactions (neophobia) which protect animals from dangerous situations but can also inhibit exploration and familiarization with novel situations and thus, learning about new resources. Studies investigating the relationship between a species' ecology and its neophobia have so far been restricted to comparing only a few species and mainly in captivity. The current study investigated neophobia reactions to experimentally-induced changes in the natural environment of six closely-related blackbird species (Icteridae), including two species represented by two distinct populations. For analyses, neophobic reactions (difference in number of birds feeding and time spent feeding with and without novel objects) were related to several measures of ecological plasticity and the migratory strategy (resident or migratory) of the population. Phylogenetic relationships were incorporated into the analysis. The degree of neophobia was related to migratory strategy with migrants expressing much higher neophobia (fewer birds feeding and for a shorter time with objects present) than residents. Furthermore, neophobia showed a relationship to diet breadth with fewer individuals of diet generalists than specialists returning when objects were present supporting the dangerous niche hypothesis. Residents may have evolved lower neophobia as costs of missing out on opportunities may be higher for residents than migrants as the former are restricted to a smaller area. Lower neophobia allows them approaching changes in the environment (e.g. novel objects) quickly, thereby securing access to resources. Additionally, residents have a greater familiarity with similar situations in the area than migrants and the latter may, therefore, initially stay behind resident species. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0057565 |
pubmed_125_17497 | The purpose of this study was to evaluated the clinical characteristics of calcified nodule-like in-stent restenosis (ISR) lesions using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in vivo. A total of 124 ISR lesions that were treated with a repeat coronary intervention under OCT guidance were included in this analysis. ISR neointimal morphology was classified as "calcified nodule-like ISR", that appeared as a high-backscattering protruding mass with an irregular surface covered by signal-rich bands, or "non-calcified nodule-like ISR". The maximum arc and thickness of calcium behind the stent struts was also measured. Of the 124 ISR lesions, calcified nodule-like ISR was observed in 11 lesions (9%). OCT analysis data showed that the maximum arc of calcium and the maximum calcium thickness behind the stent were significantly larger in the calcified nodule-like ISR lesions than in the non-calcified nodule-like ISR lesions (269 ± 51 vs. 179 ± 92°, p < 0.01 and 989 ± 174 vs. 684 ± 241 μm, p < 0.01, respectively). The enlargement of the stent area was significantly larger in the calcified nodule-like ISR lesions than in the non-calcified nodule-like ISR lesions (1.6 ± 2.3 vs. 0.7 ± 1.3 mm2, p = 0.02). As a result, the enlargement of the lumen area tended to be larger in the calcified group (2.8 ± 1.7 vs. 2.4 ± 1.3 mm2, p = 0.3). Calcified nodule-like neointima within the stent could develop in approximately 10% of all ISR lesions, especially within stents deployed in severely calcified lesions. | 10.1007/s10554-020-01952-z |
pubmed_707_21027 | BACKGROUND
Long-term outcomes after surgical treatment of arachnoid cysts (ACs) have not been reported adequately. Impaired visual acuity is not a common symptom of shunt dependency syndrome due to cyst-peritoneal (CP) shunt malfunction for ACs. We report a case of CP shunt malfunction, who presented only impaired visual acuity as a symptom, long after the initial surgical treatment.
CASE DESCRIPTION
A 16-year-old boy was surgically treated for the left frontal AC with CP shunting at 2 years of age. Extension of the peritoneal shunt catheter was performed at 15 years of age. A year later, he started experiencing impairment of visual acuity without headaches, which worsened to bilateral light perception. The presence of bilateral optic atrophy was confirmed. The AC in the left frontal lobe had enlarged very slightly, with shortening of the intracystic catheter, and the cerebrospinal fluid pressure was elevated to 30 cmH2O. He was treated with lumboperitoneal shunting. The visual acuity showed limited improvement.
CONCLUSION
The possibility of CP shunt malfunction and shunt dependency syndrome should be considered, even if the patient presented only impaired visual acuity and no significant changes in the size of the ACs are observed. | 10.25259/SNI_1077_2021 |
pubmed_950_13039 | BACKGROUND
To evaluate the changes in corneal endothelium cell density (ECD) and the correlated factors after Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) V4c implantation.
METHODS
In this retrospective, consecutive study, 48 eyes of 25 patients with myopia who underwent ICL V4c implantation were enrolled. Patients were followed up for at least 4 years, during which manifest refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure, ECD, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume (ACV), anterior chamber angle (ACA), vault and distance from the corneal endothelium to the central ICL (C-ICL) were measured. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to identify variables correlated with changes in ECD, and generalised estimating equation model adjusting within-patient intereye correlations was used to predict changes in ECD.
RESULTS
All surgeries were performed safely with no complications during follow-up (average 52±2.9 months). Safety and efficacy indices were 1.23±0.22 and 1.04±0.16, respectively. No eyes had decreased CDVA, and 67% gained one or more lines. Further, 79% were within ±0.50 D, and 100% were within ±1.0 D of the attempted refraction. Additionally, a 4.03%±2.2% reduction in ECD compared with the preoperative value was observed at the last follow-up visit. Changes in ECD were significantly correlated with vault, C-ICL, change in ACA and change in ACV. Vault was the most significant factor for changes in ECD.
CONCLUSIONS
ICL V4c implantation is safe and effective for myopia correction. Anterior segment biometric parameters including the vault, ACA and C-ICL may influence changes in ECD; specifically, the vault plays a major role. | 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-316144 |
pubmed_611_10956 | BACKGROUND
Estrogen may increase the long-term survival of women who have suffered from a myocardial infarction (MI). We examined the acute and chronic influence of estrogen on MI in the rat left coronary artery ligation model.
METHODS AND RESULTS
Female Sprague-Dawley rats (10 to 12 weeks, n=93), divided into 3 groups (rats with intact ovaries, ovariectomized rats administered 17beta-estradiol [17beta-E(2)] replacement, and ovariectomized rats administered placebo 2 weeks before MI), were randomized to left coronary artery ligation (n=66) or sham-operated (n=27) groups. Ten to 11 weeks after MI, rats were randomly assigned to either (1) assessment of left ventricular (LV) function and morphometric analysis or (2) measurement of cardiopulmonary mRNA expression of preproendothelin-1 and endothelin A and B receptors. Acutely, estrogen was associated with a trend toward increased mortality. Infarct size was increased in the 17beta-E(2) group compared with the placebo group (42+/-2% versus 26+/-3%, respectively; P:=0.01). Chronically, wall tension was normalized through a reduction in LV cavity size with estrogen treatment (419+/-41 mm Hg/mm for 17beta-E(2) versus 946+/-300 mm Hg/mm for placebo, P:=0.039). In the LV, there was a 2.5-fold increase in endothelin B mRNA expression after MI in placebo-treated rats (P:=0.004 versus sham-operated rats) that was prevented in the 17beta-E(2) group (P:=NS versus sham-operated rats).
CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that estrogen is detrimental at the time of MI or early post-MI period, resulting in an increased size of infarct or infarct expansion, but chronically, it can normalize wall tension and inhibit LV dilatation, which may in turn lead to increased long-term survival. Regulation of the endothelin system, particularly the expression of the endothelin B receptor, may contribute to these estrogenic effects. | 10.1161/01.cir.102.24.2983 |
pubmed_129_16392 | There are multiple immune defects in T cells from recipients after bone marrow transplantation (BMT). This study examines recipient T cells for increases in intracellular ionized calcium concentration [( Ca2+]i) after binding the T cell receptor-CD3 complex with anti-CD3 MAb. PBL from 10 of 23 short-term recipients (less than 1 yr after BMT) responded poorly (less than 35% of control) to anti-CD3 stimulation and PBL from 9 of 23 had blunted calcium flux responses (35-70% of control). Purified CD2+, CD56- cells from seven additional short-term recipients including three autologous marrow recipients were closely examined, and a sizable proportion of CD3+ cells from six of seven recipients did not increase [Ca2+]i after anti-CD3 stimulation. The decreased magnitude of the responses was due to decreased numbers of responding cells and not to a decrease in mean CD3 fluorescent intensity or in calcium flux responses on a single cell basis. Five of seven long-term recipients (greater than 1 yr after BMT) had PBL that responded normally and two of seven had PBL with blunted calcium flux responses. The data show that the signal transduction response mediated by the CD3-antigen receptor as measured by calcium flux is defective early after autologus or allogeneic BMT. | 10.1172/JCI114845 |
pubmed_126_19146 | OBJECTIVES
Studies have indicated an excess risk of stomach cancer, pancreas cancer, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma for sulfite pulp mill workers, and therefore cancer incidence was evaluated for 2 Danish sulfite mills.
METHODS
Altogether 2238 workers employed in 1955--1990 were included in a historic cohort and followed until 31 December 1993. National cancer rates were used to calculate the expected number of cancer cases.
RESULTS
The overall cancer risk was close to the expected, the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) being 1.01. The risk of stomach cancer was doubled [10 observed, SIR 1.99, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.95--3.66], as was the risk of pancreatic cancer (7 observed, SIR 1.88, 95% CI 0.75-3.88). For the men with known pulp exposure, lung cancer was slightly increased (SIR 1.53, 95% CI 0.94-2.37). Other cancers with elevated risks were leukemia (7 observed, SIR 1.84) and soft-tissue sarcomas (4 observed, SIR 2.37). The risk of non-Hodgkin' s lymphoma was not increased.
CONCLUSIONS
The excess risk of stomach cancer and pancreatic cancer found in this study was in accordance with that of other studies from sulfite pulp mills. | 10.5271/sjweh.269 |
pubmed_536_10819 | Female Baladi goats were used for investigating the toxicological effects of dioxin. Each animal in the treated group was given an oral dose of 4 mL of stock standard solution of dioxin (labelled and native congeners) diluted in 5 mL distilled water (1/3 of LD50) for three times with 2 days interval and slaughtered 16 days post treatment. Blood and tissue samples were taken and subjected for haemogram, biochemical and pathological studies as well as for determination of dioxin residues. Results revealed that exposure of female goats to dioxin induced anemia, leucocytopenia, neutropenia and eosinophilia with non significant increases in activities of serum ALT and AST as compared with untreated group. Meanwhile, activity of ALP and BUN concentration were significantly increased. Histopathological examination showed degenerative and necrotic changes associated with inflammatory reaction in liver and kidney, in addition to cystic glandular hyperplasia and adenomyosis in uterus. In ovarian tissue, marked decrease ofpreantral follicles together with cystic atretic follicle were noticed. The average percentage residues ofpg WHO-TEQ values for dioxins (PCDDs and PCDFs) in liver, kidney, mammary gland, uterus and milk after oral dose were 0.013, 0.0012, 0.0012, 0.009 and 0.0012%, respectively. It was concluded that oral exposure to dioxin in female goats induced adverse effects on liver and kidney. Dioxins had estrogenic like effect as indicated by uterine and ovarian histopathological changes. | 10.3923/pjbs.2007.1213.1220 |
pubmed_953_19741 | OBJECTIVE
To investigate the cause of cyromazine failure to protect lambs from flystrike.
METHODS
Lucilia cuprina larvae from a Nimmitabel (New South Wales) population associated with failure of a cyromazine spray-on to protect lambs from flystrike were compared with larvae from a susceptible field strain and a reference susceptible laboratory strain in laboratory bioassays. Batches of neonate blowfly larvae were transferred onto homogenised bovine liver containing varying concentrations of cyromazine or dicyclanil and the numbers of larvae pupating and completing development were recorded.
RESULTS
Based on the ability of larvae to complete development on liver homogenate containing 1 mg/kg cyromazine, the phenotypic frequency of resistance in the Nimmitabel population was estimated to be approximately 4%. Compared with a susceptible field strain, the Nimmitabel population was 3-fold more resistant to cyromazine and twice as resistant to dicyclanil at the LC95 level (lethal concentration killing 95% of larvae). In the laboratory, the Nimmitabel strain responded to sequential exposure of larvae to food containing cyromazine by becoming more resistant. Resistance to cyromazine was incompletely dominant, giving resistant larvae a survival advantage over susceptible types over a relatively narrow range of cyromazine concentrations.
CONCLUSION
Cyromazine resistance was detected in a field population of L. cuprina. Low-level cross-resistance to dicyclanil was also confirmed. Until more is known about the resistance, the prudent recommendation to control flystrike by this blowfly population is topical treatment with ivermectin. | 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2012.00984.x |
pubmed_987_15038 | The effect of uniform lighting on face identity processing is little understood, despite its potential influence on our ability to recognize faces. Here, we investigated how changes in uniform lighting level affected face identification performance during face memory tests. Observers were tasked with learning a series of faces, followed by a memory test where observers judged whether the faces presented were studied before or novel. Face stimuli were presented under uniform bright or dim illuminations, and lighting across the face learning and the memory test sessions could be the same ("congruent") or different ("incongruent"). This led to four experimental conditions: (1) Bright/Dim (learning bright faces, testing on dim faces); (2) Bright/Bright; (3) Dim/Bright; and (4) Dim/Dim. Our results revealed that incongruent lighting levels across sessions (Bright/Dim and Dim/Bright) significantly reduced sensitivity (d') to faces and introduced conservative biases compared to congruent lighting levels (Bright/Bright and Dim/Dim). No significant differences in performance were detected between the congruent lighting conditions (Bright/Bright vs. Dim/Dim) and between the incongruent lighting conditions (Bright/Dim vs. Dim/Bright). Thus, incongruent lighting deteriorated performance in face identification. These findings implied that the level of uniform lighting should be considered in an illumination-specific face representation and potential applications such as eyewitness testimony. | 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.834806 |
pubmed_583_10172 | The aim of this research was to analyze oestrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha), ERbeta and progesterone receptor (PR) gene expression in the canine oocyte and cumulus cells throughout the oestrous cycle. Ovaries from 38 bitches were recovered after ovariohysterectomy and sliced. The phase of the oestrous cycle was determined by vaginal cytology, vaginoscopy and serum hormonal measurements. Oocytes were mechanically denuded by repeated pipetting. For each phase of the cycle, a sample was composed by a pool of 50 oocytes (sample number: prooestrus = 3, oestrus = 8, dioestrus = 5 and anoestrus = 5) or a pool of cumulus cells (prooestrus = 4, oestrus = 7, dioestrus = 4 and anoestrus = 6). Oocyte and cumulus cells' total RNA was isolated and reverse transcription was conducted to perform real-time PCR. Oestrogen receptor-alpha was expressed throughout the cycle in the oocyte (33.33%, 25.0%, 20.0% and 60.0% for prooestrus, oestrus, dioestrus and anoestrus, respectively) and cumulus cells (50.0%, 47.14%, 25.0% and 66.67% for prooestrus, oestrus, dioestrus and anoestrus, respectively). In the oocyte, the ERbeta was also expressed in all phases of the cycle (33.33%, 50.0%, 20.0% and 60.0% for prooestrus, oestrus, dioestrus and anoestrus, respectively), whereas in cumulus cells, ERbeta was only expressed during prooestrus (50%) and oestrus (14.29%). Interestingly, while the oocyte PR was not detected in any phase of the cycle, this receptor was expressed during prooestrus (50%), oestrus (42.86%) and anoestrus (16.67%) in cumulus cells. In conclusion, canine oocytes express ERalpha and ERbeta throughout the oestrous cycle, however, there is a lack of PR expression in all these phases. Moreover, in cumulus cells, only ERalpha was expressed throughout the oestrous cycle. | 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2009.01422.x |
pubmed_92_16691 | Bioassay guided fractionation of the ethanolic extract of Asphodelus microcarpus Salzm. et Viv. (Xanthorrhoeaceae or Asphodelaceae) resulted in isolation of five compounds identified as asphodosides A-E (1-5). Compounds 2-4 showed activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with IC50 values of 1.62, 7.0 and 9.0μg/mL, respectively. They also exhibited activity against Staphylococcus aureus (non-MRSA) with IC50 values of 1.0, 3.4 and 2.2μg/mL, respectively. The structure elucidation of isolated metabolites was carried out using spectroscopic data (1D and 2D NMR), optical rotation and both experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD). | pubmed_92_16691 |
pubmed_953_4806 | A bifunctional hybrid nanomaterial, which can show magnetic and luminescent properties, was obtained. A magnetic phase was synthesized as a core/shell type composite. Nanocrystalline magnetite, Fe(3)O(4) was used as the core and was encapsulated in a silica shell. The luminescent phase was GdPO(4) doped with Eu(3+) ions, as the emitter. The investigated materials were synthesized using a coprecipitation method. Encapsulated Fe(3)O(4) was "trapped" in a nano-scaffold composed of GdPO(4) crystalline nanoneedles. When an external magnetic field was applied, this hybrid composite was attracted in one direction. Also, the luminescent phase can move simultaneously with magnetite due to a "trapping" effect. The structure and morphology of the obtained nanocomposites were examined with the use of transmission electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. Spectroscopic properties of the Eu(3+)-doped nanomaterials were studied by measuring their excitation and emission spectra as well as their luminescence decay times. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: | 10.1007/s11051-012-1188-7 |
pubmed_1110_1731 | Introduction: Providing health insurance to the poor has become a standard policy response to health disparities between the poor and the non-poor. It is often assumed that if the poor people are given health insurance, they will use preventative care, which will prevent more expensive emergency visits and inpatient hospitalization, and in turn, it will save healthcare cost in the long run. This paper presents the findings from our study in California about what happens to the poor when they are given health insurance. The purpose of the study was to understand how the healthcare system in California treats the poor patients differently than the non-poor. Method: Using multivariate logistic regressions, this study analyzed a large patient discharge data (PDD) from the California Office of Statewide Planning and Development (OSHPD) for eight counties in the Central Valley California (N = 423,640). First, utilizing International Classification of Diseases (ICD 10) as diagnostic criteria, mental-health vs. non-mental health hospitalization rates were estimated. Second, health insurance status was used as a proxy measure of poverty of the patients. Using chi-Square, the probability of hospitalization for mental health services was estimated based on their insurance types. Finally, using step-wise logistic regression, the odds of mental health hospitalization was estimated conditional on individual characteristics, health insurance types, and geographic characteristics. Findings: When the poor people were given health insurance, they were three times more likely to be hospitalized for mental health services than the non-poor. The more than three-fold variation in mental health hospitalization was not driven by demographic or geographic characteristics. The findings are new and have important implications for the healthcare policies for the poor. Further studies are needed to understand the extent to which the disproportionately high rate of mental health hospitalizations of the poor are driven by the provider-induced needs. | 10.3390/healthcare6010005 |
pubmed_835_16643 | BACKGROUND
Anemia and suboptimal gestational weight gain (GWG) are associated with adverse maternal and birth outcomes. Limited research indicates that balanced energy-protein (BEP) supplements reduce the incidence of inadequate GWG.
OBJECTIVES
We assessed the efficacy of a micronutrient-fortified BEP supplement on the secondary outcomes of anemia, GWG, GWG rate, and GWG in relation to the Institute of Medicine (IOM)'s recommendations, as compared with an iron-folic acid (IFA) tablet.
METHODS
We conducted a randomized controlled trial in Burkina Faso, among pregnant women (15-40 y old) enrolled at <21 weeks of gestation. Women received either BEP and IFA (intervention) or IFA (control). Hemoglobin (g/dL) concentrations were measured at baseline and the third antenatal care visit (ANC), whereas maternal weight was measured at baseline and all subsequent ∼7-weekly ANCs. GWG (kg) was calculated as a woman's last weight measurement (at ∼36 weeks of gestation) minus weight at enrollment, whereas GWG rate (kg/wk) was GWG divided by the time between the first and last weight measurements. GWG adequacy (%) was computed as GWG divided by the IOM's recommendation. Binary outcomes included severely inadequate, inadequate, and excessive GWG. Statistical analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle. Linear regression and probability models were fitted for the continuous and binary outcomes, respectively, adjusting for baseline measurements.
RESULTS
Women in the BEP group tended to have higher, but nonsignificantly different, GWG (0.28 kg; 95% CI: -0.05, 0.58 kg; P = 0.099). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in prenatal anemia prevalence, GWG rate, GWG adequacy, or incidence of inadequate or excessive GWG. Findings were robust to model adjustments and complete case and per protocol analyses.
CONCLUSIONS
This trial does not provide evidence that fortified BEP supplementation reduces maternal anemia or increases GWG, as compared with IFA. In conjunction with the small, but positive, effects of maternal BEP supplementation on birth outcomes, our findings warrant the investigation of additional biochemical and postnatal outcomes.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03533712. | 10.1093/jn/nxac171 |
pubmed_1084_13140 | BACKGROUND
Approximately 10% of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) occur in the most distal parts of the extremities. The standard therapy is local excision with adjuvant radiotherapy, but achieving wide resection margins might be difficult in the distal parts of the limb. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) and melphalan-based isolated limb perfusion (TM-ILP) is effective in locally advanced STS of the extremities. We report the results of TM-ILP for STS in the most distal parts of the limb.
METHODS
Between 1991 and 2009, 34 ILPs were performed in patients with irresectable STS of the wrist, hand, ankle, or foot. Disease was unifocal in 21 (62%) patients.
RESULTS
Overall response rate was 71% (n = 24). After a median follow-up of 34 (range 1-143) months the local recurrence rate was 32%. Amputation was unavoidable in four patients (13%), four other patients (13%) underwent a partial amputation of the hand or foot.
CONCLUSION
With a limb salvage rate of 87%, TM-ILP is an effective treatment modality in patients with distal STS. In all patients with an indication for amputation surgery due to an STS in the distal part of the limb, TM-ILP should be considered. | 10.1002/jso.22121 |
pubmed_732_20107 | OBJECTIVE
To explore barriers and facilitators to implementing and sustaining Healthy Choices, a 3-year multicomponent obesity prevention intervention implemented in middle schools in Massachusetts.
METHODS
Using purposive sampling, 56 in-depth interviews were conducted with middle school employees representing different positions (administrators, teachers, food service personnel, and employees serving as intervention coordinators). Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Emergent themes were identified using thematic analyses.
RESULTS
State-mandated testing, budget limitations, and time constraints were viewed as implementation barriers, whereas staff buy-in, external support, and technical assistance were seen as facilitating implementation. Respondents thought that intervention sustainability depended on external funding and expert assistance.
CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS
Results confirm the importance of gaining faculty and staff support. Schools implementing large-scale interventions should consider developing sustainable partnerships with organizations that can provide resources and ongoing training. Sustainability of complex interventions may depend on state-level strategies that provide resources for implementation and technical assistance. | pubmed_732_20107 |
pubmed_419_6483 | Background Spontaneous mechanical alternans (MA), or pulsus alternans, has been observed in heart failure patients with hypertension or tachycardia for 150 years and is considered a sign of a poor prognosis. However, in some dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients with MA, optimal medical therapy (OMT) brings left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR), a preferable prognostic indicator. This study examined the probability of LVRR in DCM patients with spontaneous MA and whether or not LVRR can be predicted by the baseline blood pressure or heart rate. Methods and Results Thirty-three newly diagnosed DCM patients were retrospectively examined. Spontaneous MA was observed during diagnostic cardiac catheterization in at least 1 of the pressure waveforms of the aorta, left ventricle, pulmonary artery, or right ventricle in 10 patients (30%) (MA-group). LVRR after OMT was achieved roughly equally in the MA group (6 of 10, 60%) and the non-MA group (12 of 23, 52%). In the MA group, those who achieved LVRR had a significantly higher baseline systolic aortic pressure (more than 120 mmHg in all 6 patients) than those who did not, although the baseline heart rate did not show a significant correlation with LVRR. In contrast, in the non-MA group, LVRR was unrelated to the baseline aortic pressure or heart rate. Conclusions The probability of LVRR in newly-diagnosed DCM patients with spontaneous MA was similar to that in those without spontaneous MA. Spontaneous MA may not necessarily be a sign of a poor prognosis if observed in patients with a preserved blood pressure. | 10.2169/internalmedicine.0711-22 |
pubmed_71_11468 | PURPOSE
The risk factors of pneumothorax after lung radiofrequency (RF) ablation are long known. The objective was to demonstrate that the visualisation of an aeric RF path after the needle withdrawal was predictive of pneumothorax occurrence and chest tube placement.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A total of 70 patients were retrospectively included in this study. For each patient, we determined the pneumothorax risk factors (age, gender, previous surgery, emphysema, lesion size, distance between pleura and lesion), visualisation of a RF track, length and thickness, presence of pneumothorax, volume, chest tube placement, duration of drainage and hospital stay.
RESULTS
Among 70 patients included retrospectively, 26 needed a chest tube placement (37%). Considering the group with path visualisation (37 patients, group A) and the patients without path visualisation (group B), the 2 groups were comparable for pneumothorax risk factors. Considering the patients who needed a chest drain, the visualisation of the path was significatively more important (23 cases, 88.4%) (p< 10-3) than in the group without (8 patients, 31.8%). Multivariate analyses were significant in the three analyses after adjustments on the risk factors for the occurrence of pneumothorax. Incidence of drains was significantly more (p < 10-3) important in group A (23 drainages 62%) than in group B (4 drainages or 12%). The length and thickness of the tracks were not predictable of drain placement.
CONCLUSIONS
Besides the well-known risk factors of severe pneumothorax after lung RFA, the simple visualisation of an aeric path just after the RF needle withdrawal is significantly associated with chest tube placement and can be considered as a risk factor as itself. | 10.1080/02656736.2017.1288931 |
pubmed_242_12375 | OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy of low-dose nonenhanced computed tomography (LDCT) with iterative reconstruction (IR) technique for urologists to detect urolithiasis by comparing diagnostic performance and interobserver agreement between the urologist and the uroradiologist.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
We evaluated the 116 patients with urinary stones (n = 197) using both conventional-dose nonenhanced computed tomography (CT) using filtered back projection (CDCT-FBP) and LDCT-IR. Scans were interpreted for stone characteristics, objective image noise, and subjective image assessment. Diagnostic performance and interobserver agreement of LDCT-IR were assessed between 1 urologist and 1 radiologist.
RESULTS
There were no significant differences in all stones. The average effective dose (mSV) in the all size groups was 5.92 (CDCT-FBP) and 1.39 (LDCT-IR), respectively (P <.001). The average effective dose reduction rate was 76.6%, allowing minimal additional radiation exposure from simultaneous CT. Objective image noise was higher in LDCT-IR (20.0-26.2; P <.01), but there was no significant difference in the Hounsfield unit between both CT protocols (52.3 and 56.7; P = .103). There were no cases of any unacceptable images in subjective image assessment. The sensitivity and specificity of LDCT-IR were 99.1%-100.0% with a diagnostic accuracy of 99.1%-100% for stones ≥3 mm. Diagnostic performance was similar between the urologist and the radiologist. Interobserver agreement of LDCT-IR between the 2 reviewers was high with kappa values (0.901-1.000).
CONCLUSION
LDCT-IR provided an excellent diagnostic performance and interobserver agreement between the urologist and the uroradiologist, reducing radiation exposure significantly; in real settings, the urologist should consider replacing LDCT-IR as the standard examination for detecting urolithiasis. | pubmed_242_12375 |
pubmed_222_12780 | Several distinct Ras GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) from mammals, including Ras GAP of 120 kDa (GAP1) and NF1, stimulate the intrinsic GTPase activity of normal Ras, but not oncogenic Ras mutants (Trahey and McCormick, 1987). That is the reason why normal Ras remains predominantly in the inactive GDP-bound form (D-Ras), whereas oncogenic Ras remains constitutively in the active GTP-bound form (T-Ras). NF1 is a tumor suppressor of 2818 amino acids whose disruption or deletion causes brain tumors called neurofibromatosis type 1 by elevating the T-Ras level. T-Ras activates several distinct oncogenic effectors, including Ser/Thr kinase Raf, GAP1, P1-3 kinase, PKC-zeta and Ra1 GDS. Interestingly, the binding of T-Ras to either GAPs or these oncogenic effectors requires the same effector domain I (residues 32-40) of T-Ras molecule. In other words, these GAPs and effectors compete for binding to T-Ras. Using a series of N- and C-terminal deletion mutants of NF1, we identified a 78 amino acid fragment (NF78, residues 1441-1518) as the minimum GAP domain, and a 56 amino acid fragment (NF 56, residues 1441-1496) as the minimum Ras-binding domain. Furthermore, we identified the Raf fragment of 81 amino acids (Raf81, residues, 51-131) as the minimum Ras-binding domain with a high affinity. We found that (i) these NF1 fragments and Raf81 compete for binding to T-Ras, and that (ii) over-expression of these NF1 or Raf fragments strongly suppresses the malignant transformation caused by oncogenic Ras mutants. Thus, these agents offer a unique opportunity to control the proliferation of T-Ras-associated tumors that represent more than 30% of all human carcinomas including neurofibromatosis type 1. | pubmed_222_12780 |
pubmed_697_17634 | Cortical networks exhibit intrinsic dynamics that drive coordinated, large-scale fluctuations across neuronal populations and create noise correlations that impact sensory coding. To investigate the network-level mechanisms that underlie these dynamics, we developed novel computational techniques to fit a deterministic spiking network model directly to multi-neuron recordings from different rodent species, sensory modalities, and behavioral states. The model generated correlated variability without external noise and accurately reproduced the diverse activity patterns in our recordings. Analysis of the model parameters suggested that differences in noise correlations across recordings were due primarily to differences in the strength of feedback inhibition. Further analysis of our recordings confirmed that putative inhibitory neurons were indeed more active during desynchronized cortical states with weak noise correlations. Our results demonstrate that network models with intrinsically-generated variability can accurately reproduce the activity patterns observed in multi-neuron recordings and suggest that inhibition modulates the interactions between intrinsic dynamics and sensory inputs to control the strength of noise correlations. | pubmed_697_17634 |
pubmed_56_6234 | We report a child with Crohn's disease and infliximab-induced guttate psoriasis. We also performed a systematic literature review on this intriguing paradoxical phenomenon in children with inflammatory bowel disease. | 10.1111/pde.12820 |
pubmed_938_13359 | Lipoprotein I (OprI) is one of the major proteins of the outer membrane of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Like porin protein F (OprF), it is a vaccine candidate because it antigenically cross-reacts with all serotype strains of the International Antigenic Typing Scheme. Since lipoprotein I was expressed in Escherichia coli under the control of its own promoter, we were able to isolate the gene by screening a lambda EMBL3 phage library with a mouse monoclonal antibody directed against lipoprotein I. The monocistronic OprI mRNA encodes a precursor protein of 83 amino acid residues including a signal peptide of 19 residues. The mature protein has a molecular weight of 6,950, not including bound glycerol and lipid. Although the amino acid sequences of protein I of P. aeruginosa and Braun's lipoprotein of E. coli differ considerably (only 30.1% identical amino acid residues), peptidoglycan in E. coli, are identical. Using lipoprotein I expressed in E. coli, it can now be tested whether this protein alone, without P. aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide contaminations, has a protective effect against P. aeruginosa infections. | 10.1128/jb.171.8.4130-4137.1989 |
pubmed_216_7106 | A wide variety of pulmonary and pleural histological changes is recognized in the setting of spontaneous pneumothorax. In this study, we describe a previously unreported lesion that was encountered in four males, 24-41 years of age. In addition to reactive eosinophilic pleuritis, subpleural emphysematous blebs, prominent eosinophilic exudate and lung atelectasis, the histology comprised exuberant type 2 pneumocyte hyperplasia, which was atypical enough to consider a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma in all four cases. Lung atelectasis and localized acute lung injury are factors likely responsible for this unusual histology, and along with the clinical history are important in recognizing the benign nature of this lesion. Awareness of this severe pneumocyte reaction in the setting of pneumothorax can help to prevent misdiagnosis as malignancy. | 10.1038/modpathol.3800744 |
pubmed_130_580 | BACKGROUND
Infections in neonates with herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) following circumcision due to Metzitzah Be'Peh (MBP) performed by a Mohel occur each year in small numbers. One solution to this problem is the use of a mucus extractor device instead of MBP, which has been authorized by some rabbis. Yet, using a mucus extractor remains controversial among ultra-Orthodox Jews; thus, creating a need for additional solutions.
OBJECTIVES
To seek to reduce HSV-1 infection of neonates due to MBP.
METHODS
We tested several oral rinse solutions for their ability to destroy virus infectivity following incubation for 30 seconds and using plaque reduction assays.
RESULTS
Corsodyl, Decapinol, and Listerine® all destroyed plaques formation of spiked virus, while Gengigel and Tantum Verde were found to be less effective. We focused specifically on Listerine® due to its efficacy in eliminating contagious HSV-1 from saliva after a 30-second oral rinse. Five different products of Listerine® reduced the infectivity of a spiked virus by more than 4 orders of magnitude in 30 seconds. We also showed that Listerine (up to 7% v/v) can stay in the mouth but did not harm living cells and therefore will not cause any damage to the injured tissue.
CONCLUSIONS
Significant reduction in cases of infection with HSV-1 due to MBP can be achieved if Mohalim consistently adopt the practice of careful mouth washing with Listerine® just before performing MBP. | pubmed_130_580 |
pubmed_958_3698 | Adaptations of maternal lipid metabolism during pregnancy are directed toward both the needs of the fetus for lipid substrates and maternal requirements for lipid stores serving as energy reserves for lactation. The mechanisms are poorly understood, but must be elucidated before new dietary recommendations can be made about dietary supplementation with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA). Problems of high priority for research are: (1) Fetal requirements for specific fatty acids, including essential fatty acids (EFA) and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA); (2) The mechanisms for transfer of fatty acids across the placenta; (3) The role of very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) in transfer of EFA and LC-PUFA from the maternal liver to the placenta; (4) Adjustments of fatty acid metabolism in the maternal liver during pregnancy; and (5) The effect of dietary LC-PUFA on maternal fatty acid metabolism during pregnancy. | 10.1038/sj.ejcn.1600752 |
pubmed_626_16100 | We report a case of a mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney. A 64-year-old female who had no complaint was found to have a left renal tumor by computed tomography (CT) for an examination of a right breast tumor and was referred to our department. CT revealed a gradually enhancing 5 cm mass in the left kidney. The patient underwent left radical nephrectomy, and the tumor was histologically diagnosed as a mixed epithelial and stromal tumor. The patient has been followed up for 6 months with no evidence of local recurrence or metastasis. | pubmed_626_16100 |
pubmed_103_20990 | BACKGROUND
Diagnostic accuracy might be improved by algorithms that searched patients' clinical notes in the electronic health record (EHR) for signs and symptoms of diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). The focus this study was to determine if patients with MS could be identified from their clinical notes prior to the initial recognition by their healthcare providers.
METHODS
An MS-enriched cohort of patients with well-established MS (n = 165) and controls (n = 545), was generated from the adult outpatient clinic. A random sample cohort was generated from randomly selected patients (n = 2289) from the same adult outpatient clinic, some of whom had MS (n = 16). Patients' notes were extracted from the data warehouse and signs and symptoms mapped to UMLS terms using MedLEE. Approximately 1000 MS-related terms occurred significantly more frequently in MS patients' notes than controls'. Synonymous terms were manually clustered into 50 buckets and used as classification features. Patients were classified as MS or not using Naïve Bayes classification.
RESULTS
Classification of patients known to have MS using notes of the MS-enriched cohort entered after the initial ICD9[MS] code yielded an ROC AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.90 [0.87-0.93], 0.75[0.66-0.82], and 0.91 [0.87-0.93], respectively. Similar classification accuracy was achieved using the notes from the random sample cohort. Classification of patients not yet known to have MS using notes of the MS-enriched cohort entered before the initial ICD9[MS] documentation identified 40% [23-59%] as having MS. Manual review of the EHR of 45 patients of the random sample cohort classified as having MS but lacking an ICD9[MS] code identified four who might have unrecognized MS.
CONCLUSIONS
Diagnostic accuracy might be improved by mining patients' clinical notes for signs and symptoms of specific diseases using NLP. Using this approach, we identified patients with MS early in the course of their disease which could potentially shorten the time to diagnosis. This approach could also be applied to other diseases often missed by primary care providers such as cancer. Whether implementing computerized diagnostic support ultimately shortens the time from earliest symptoms to formal recognition of the disease remains to be seen. | 10.1186/s12911-017-0418-4 |
pubmed_329_11406 | This study evaluates whether increased adherence to eight specific practice parameters leads to improved outcomes in patients undergoing elective colorectal resections. In addition, we analyzed whether physicians with better compliance achieved better patient outcomes. Compliance to practice parameters and subsequent outcomes were compared between two groups relative to an educational intervention promoting the eight best practice guidelines selected. A total of 485 patients were identified over a 4-year period and were separated into a pre- (n = 273) and posteducation (n = 212) group. After the educational intervention, there was increased compliance in five of the eight practice parameters (P < 0.05). When outcomes where examined, the readmission rate (2.4% vs 8.4%; P = 0.005) and the incidence of deep surgical infections (0% vs 1.8%; P = 0.01) were significantly decreased when comparing the posteducational group to that of the group before intervention. A lower rate of anastomotic leaks were identified in the posteducation group, but this did not reach significance (1.9% vs 5.1%; P = .09). When analyzed individually, the most compliant physicians achieved better patient outcomes than their peers. Education of the operative team improved adherence to practice parameters and this may have contributed to improving patient outcomes. | pubmed_329_11406 |
pubmed_273_15615 | Herein we report on the alignment of mesoporous silica, a potential host for sub-10 nm nanostructures, by controlling its deposition within patterned substrates. In-depth characterization of the correlation lengths (length of a linear porous channel), defects of the porous network (delamination), and how the silica mesopores register to the micrometer-sized substrate pattern was achieved by means of novel focused ion beam (FIB) sectioning and in situ SEM imaging, which to our knowledge has not previously been reported for such a system. Our findings establish that, under confinement, directed deposition of the sol within channeled substrates, where the cross-sectional aspect ratio of the channels approaches unity, induces alignment of the mesopores along the length of the channels. The pore correlation length was found to extend beyond the micrometer scale, with high pore uniformity from channel to channel observed with infrequent delamination defects. Such information on pore correlation lengths and defect densities is critical for subsequent nanowire growth within the mesoporous channels, contact layout (electrode deposition etc.), and possible device architectures. | 10.1021/nn900408q |
pubmed_22_2481 | The honey bee (Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae)) contributes an essential role in the U.S. economy by pollinating major agricultural crops including almond, which depends entirely on honey bee pollination for successful nut set. Almond orchards are often treated with pesticides to control a variety of pests and pathogens, particularly during bloom. While the effects to honey bee health of some insecticides, particularly neonicotinoids, have received attention recently, the impact of other types of insecticides on honey bee health is less clear. In this study, we examined the effects to honey bee forager survival of three non-neonicotinoid pesticides widely used during the 2014 California almond bloom. We collected foragers from a local apiary and exposed them to three pesticides at the label dose, or at doses ranging from 0.5 to 3 times the label dose rate. The selected pesticides included the insect growth regulators methoxyfenozide and pyriproxyfen, and the acaricide bifenazate. We simulated field exposure of honey bees to these pesticides during aerial application in almond orchards by using a wind tunnel and atomizer set up with a wind speed of 2.9 m/s. Experimental groups consisting of 30-40 foragers each were exposed to either untreated controls or pesticide-laden treatments and were monitored every 24 hr over a 10-d period. Our results revealed a significant negative effect of all pesticides tested on forager survival. Therefore, we suggest increased caution in the application of these pesticides in almond orchards or any agricultural crop during bloom to avoid colony health problems. | 10.1093/jee/tox347 |
pubmed_965_874 | There is evidence for immunotoxicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB(1)) in chronic animal feeding studies; however, little information is available as to the effects of inhalation exposure. This study evaluated the acute affects of aerosolized AFB(1) on systemic immune function of female C57BL/6N mice following a single aerosol exposure. Mice were exposed in nose-only inhalation tubes to 0, 2.86, 6.59 and 10 mug AFB(1) aerosol/L air for 90 minutes. A negative control group of untreated mice and a positive control group of cyclophosphamide-treated mice were included to account for day to day variation. Three days following exposure, mice were sacrificed and body, liver, lung, thymus and spleen weights, and complete blood counts and white blood cell differentials were measured. Splenocytes were isolated for flow cytometric analysis of CD4(+) and CD8(+) lymphocytes, CD19(+) B-cells and natural killer cells (NK 1.1(+)). The effect of AFB(1) on humoral immunity was assessed by measuring serum anti-keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) IgM levels. Of the tissues examined, only the thymus weight of AFB(1) exposed mice decreased significantly compared to naive mice; however, the decrease was not dose related and was also observed in the 0 AFB(1) aerosol control group. A decrease in the mean white blood cell count of treated vs. naive mice was observed at all dose levels but was clearly not dose related and was statistically significant only in the 0 and 2.86 mug/L groups. Red blood cell and platelet counts and white blood cell differentials were not significantly affected by AFB(1). The number of CD4(+) (helper T-cells), CD8(+) (cytotoxic T-cells) and CD19(+) (B-cells) decreased in spleens of AFB(1) aerosol exposed mice compared to naive mice; however, the decrease was not dose-related and was also observed in the 0 AFB(1) exposure group. Dose-related changes in the CD4(+)/CD8(+) T-lymphocyte ratios were not observed. The IgM response to KLH was not significantly different in AFB(1) compared to naive mice, suggesting that AFB(1) did not effect antigen-specific antibody production. Based on the results of this study, a single AFB(1) inhalation exposure up to 10 mug/L for 90 minutes (CxT = 900 mug .min/L) did not significantly alter the immune parameters measured in this study. The aerosol vehicle (ethanol) and/or stress could have masked subtle AFB(1)-dependent changes in thymus and spleen weights, and in splenic lymphocyte subpopulations. However, for other immunological parameters, such as the IgM response to KLH, there was clearly no significant effect of AFB(1) aerosol exposure. | 10.1080/15476910500468635 |
pubmed_130_12801 | Ubiquitous eukaryotic non-coding circular RNAs are involved in numerous co- and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Recently, we reported full-length intronic circular RNAs (flicRNAs) in Entamoeba histolytica, with 3'ss-5'ss ligation points and 5'ss GU-rich elements essential for their biogenesis and their suggested role in transcription regulation. Here, we explored how flicRNAs impact gene expression regulation. Using CLIP assays, followed by qRT-PCR, we identified that the RabX13 control flicRNA and virulence-associated flicRNAs were bound to the HA-tagged RNA Pol II C-terminus domain in E. histolytica transformants. The U2 snRNA was also present in such complexes, indicating that they belonged to transcription initiation/elongation complexes. Correspondingly, inhibition of the second step of splicing using boric acid reduced flicRNA formation and modified the expression of their parental genes and non-related genes. flicRNAs were also recovered from chromatin immunoprecipitation eluates, indicating that the flicRNA-Pol II complex was formed in the promoter of their cognate genes. Finally, two flicRNAs were found to be cytosolic, whose functions remain to be uncovered. Here, we provide novel evidence of the role of flicRNAs in gene expression regulation in cis, apparently in a widespread fashion, as an element bound to the RNA polymerase II transcription initiation complex, in E. histolytica. | 10.3390/ncrna8010012 |
pubmed_1089_13587 | It has been demonstrated in the rodent hippocampus that rhythmic slow activity (theta) predominantly occurs during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, while sharp waves and associated ripples occur mainly during non-REM sleep. However, evidence is lacking for correlates of sleep stages with electroencephalogram (EEG) in the hippocampus of monkeys. In the present study, we recorded hippocampal EEG from the dentate gyrus in monkeys overnight under conditions of polysomnographical monitoring. As result, the hippocampal EEG changed in a manner similar to that of the surface EEG: during wakefulness, the hippocampal EEG showed fast, desynchronized waves, which were partly replaced with slower waves of intermediate amplitudes during the shallow stages of non-REM sleep. During the deep stages of non-REM sleep, continuous, slower oscillations (0.5-8 Hz) with high amplitudes were predominant. During REM sleep, the hippocampal EEG again showed fast, desynchronized waves similar to those found during wakefulness. These results indicate that in the monkey, hippocampal rhythmic slow activity rarely occurs during REM sleep, which is in clear contrast to that of rodents. In addition, the increase in the slower oscillations of hippocampal EEG during non-REM sleep, which resembled that of the surface EEG, may at least partly reflect cortical inputs to the dentate gyrus during this behavioral state. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0082994 |
pubmed_665_18377 | The efficacy of scalp nerve block using 0.5% bupivacaine with adrenaline for postoperative pain relief in craniotomy patients was evaluated in 40 ASA I or II adult patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy. A standard general anaesthesia technique was followed. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group B received 0.5% bupivacaine with 1:400,000 adrenaline and group S received normal saline with 1:400,000 adrenaline, both after skin closure. Postoperative pain was assessed at 30 seconds and 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 hours using a numerical rating scale. Diclofenac IM was administered as rescue analgesia if patients reported a numerical rating scale of 40 or more. Tramadol IV was administered as second rescue analgesia. Sixty per cent of patients in group S experienced moderate to severe pain (numerical rating scale of 40 or more) at some time during the first 12 postoperative hours in comparison to 25% patients in group B. Median pain scores were significantly lower in group B for up to 6 hours. Significantly more patients were pain free up to four hours in group B. Median duration for the requirement of first dose of diclofenac was longer in group B compared to group S (360 min vs 30 min, P < 0.01). The number of doses of diclofenac (5 vs 19) was significantly lower in group B compared to group S (P < 0.01). Tramadol was required by six patients in group S only. Scalp nerve block using 0.5% bupivacaine with 1:400,000 adrenaline decreases the incidence and severity of postoperative pain in patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy. | 10.1177/0310057X0603400203 |
pubmed_891_18642 | Foundational hypotheses addressing plant-insect codiversification and plant defense theory typically assume a macroevolutionary pattern whereby closely related plants have similar chemical profiles. However, numerous studies have documented variation in the degree of phytochemical trait lability, raising the possibility that phytochemical evolution is more nuanced than initially assumed. We utilize proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) data, chemical classification, and double digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) to resolve evolutionary relationships and characterize the evolution of secondary chemistry in the Neotropical plant clade Radula (Piper; Piperaceae). Sequencing data substantially improved phylogenetic resolution relative to past studies, and spectroscopic characterization revealed the presence of 35 metabolite classes. Metabolite classes displayed phylogenetic signal, whereas the crude 1H NMR spectra featured little evidence of phylogenetic signal in multivariate tests of chemical resonances. Evolutionary correlations were detected in two pairs of compound classes (flavonoids with chalcones; p-alkenyl phenols with kavalactones), where the gain or loss of a class was dependent on the other's state. Overall, the evolution of secondary chemistry in Radula is characterized by strong phylogenetic signal of traditional compound classes and weak phylogenetic signal of specialized chemical motifs, consistent with both classic evolutionary hypotheses and recent examinations of phytochemical evolution in young lineages. | 10.1038/s41598-021-96431-3 |
pubmed_419_14665 | BACKGROUND
Sleep quality is an important modulator of neuroendocrine function, as sleep problems are related to metabolic and endocrine alterations.
OBJECTIVE
The main objective was to determine the effects of an exercise training program on the sleep quality of severely obese patients with sleep problems. The secondary objective was to determine the relationship between fitness and anthropometric parameters with sleep quality scores.
METHODS
Thirty severely obese patients participated in 16 weeks of PA intervention (age: 39.30 ± 11.62 y, BMI: 42.75 ± 5.27 kg/m2). Subjective sleep quality, anthropometric parameters, and fitness (i.e., handgrip strength and cardiorespiratory fitness) were measured.
RESULTS
Two groups were defined as good sleepers (n = 15, 38.06 ± 12.26, men = 1) and bad sleepers (n = 15, 40.53 ± 11.23, men = 3). The good sleeper group reported improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness (61.33 ± 68.75 m vs. 635.33 ± 98.91 m, p = 0.003) and handgrip strength (29.63 ± 9.29 kg vs. 31.86 ± 7.17 kg, p = 0.049). The bad sleeper group improved their cardiorespiratory fitness (472.66 ± 99.7 m vs. 611.33 ± 148.75 m, p = 0.001). In terms of sleep quality dimensions, the bad sleeper group improved their subjective sleep quality (p < 0.001), sleep latency (p = 0.045), sleep duration (p = 0.031), and habitual sleep efficiency (p = 0.015). Comparing the changes in both groups (∆), there were differences in subjective sleep quality scores (∆ = 2.23 vs. ∆ = -3.90, p = 0.002), where 86.6% of the bad sleeper group improved sleep quality (p = 0.030). An increase in handgrip strength was correlated to improving sleep quality scores (r = -0.49, p = 0.050).
CONCLUSIONS
Severely obese bad sleepers improved their subjective sleep quality, the components of sleep, and cardiorespiratory fitness through an exercise training program. Improvement in subjective sleep quality was linked to an increase in handgrip strength. | 10.3390/ijerph192113732 |
pubmed_910_5359 | Mimicking proton conduction mechanism of Nafion to construct novel proton-conducting materials with low cost and high proton conductivity is of wide interest. Herein, we have designed and synthesized a cationic covalent organic framework with high thermal and chemical stability by combining a cationic monomer, ethidium bromide (EB) (3,8-diamino-5-ethyl-6-phenylphenanthridinium bromide), with 1,3,5-triformylphloroglucinol (TFP) in Schiff base reactions. This is the first time that the stable cationic crystalline frameworks allowed for the fabrication of a series of charged COFs (EB-COF:X, X = F, Cl, Br, I) through ion exchange processes. Exchange of the extra framework ions can finely modulate the COFs' porosity and pore sizes at nanoscale. More importantly, by introducing PW12O40(3-) into this porous cationic framework, we can greatly enhance the proton conductivity of ionic COF-based material. To the best of our knowledge, EB-COF:PW12 shows the best proton conductivity at room temperature among ever reported porous organic materials. | 10.1021/jacs.5b13490 |
pubmed_962_7293 | Factors governing the molecular ion yields of amino acids and peptides have been studied using fast atom bombardment (FAB) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) in positive-ion mode. The ion yields of protonated amino acids under FAB conditions are dependent on proton affinity (PA), hydrophobicity, and aromaticity of amino acids. Both PA and hydrophobicity contribute to an increase in the ion yields, while aromaticity contributes to a decrease. In MALDI, the ion yields increase linearly with the increase of PA of amino acids with the exception of lysine. In both FAB and MALDI experiments with peptides, the presence of arginine residues is essential for producing abundant protonated peptides. In FAB, the presence of aliphatic and hydrophobic amino acids (leucine and isoleucine) increases the ion yields of protonated peptides, while some hydrophilic amino acids (aspartic acid and asparagines) decrease the ion yields. The presence of two or more arginine residues does not give higher ion yields in FAB. In MALDI, the presence of aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine and tyrosine) enhances the signals for protonated peptides. Thus, physicochemical factors of individual amino acids cooperatively affect the ion yields of protonated amino acids and peptides. These factors governing the ion yields in FAB and MALDI affect two processes, desorption and ionization, that can be considered independently. | 10.1002/rcm.2316 |
pubmed_30_7999 | Between 1976 and 1987 93 patients with an infrarenal aortic aneurysm underwent surgical correction. In 62 patients the procedure was performed electively, whilst 13 displayed an unstable aneurysm and in 18 cases a ruptured aneurysm was present at operation. During the past 5 years the mortality was lowered to 2% in elective cases, whereas in cases of ongoing rupture only moderate improvement took place. The most frequent cause of a lethal outcome was pump failure of the heart (6 times), followed by renal insufficiency and haemorrhagic shock and bleeding complications. Among the non-lethal complications, relaparotomy on the basis of postoperative bleeding ranks first, followed by pulmonary insufficiency, peripheral emboli and partial ischemia of the spine. Resection of infrarenal aneurysms should be performed in the stable state of disease, since insufficiency of multiple vital organ systems increases the mortality by up to 20 fold. | pubmed_30_7999 |
pubmed_120_9081 | The pesticides in use in Greek greenhouses include a number of agents known to be mutagens and carcinogens. In the present study, we evaluated whether occupational exposure of agricultural workers to a complex mixture of pesticides resulted in a significant increase in DNA damage in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). A total of 116 healthy individuals were divided into groups based on exposure to pesticides, smoking status, and gender. Alkaline comet assays performed on PBLs from these individuals indicated no statistically significant differences in basal DNA damage between the study groups. In addition, exposure of PBLs to a dose of hydrogen peroxide led to a similar degree of DNA damage and subsequent repair for all the study populations. The results of the study indicate that the agricultural workers who participated in this study had no detectable increase in DNA damage or alteration in the cellular response to DNA damage. | 10.1002/em.10143 |
pubmed_661_19687 | Human keratinocytes have been serially cultivated in low (0.015 mM) and high (1.8 mM) calcium containing medium. The calcium concentration of the growth medium significantly influenced the cell growth period in vitro. Cells grown in low calcium medium underwent 35-40 population doublings over 16-17 passages, while cells grown in high calcium medium ceased to proliferate after 20 population doublings over 7 passages. Changing the keratinocytes from one in vitro environment to the other drastically altered the lifespan in culture of populations derived from the same primary tissue. The degree of DNA methylation of human keratinocytes was shown to decrease with age in both high and low calcium culture conditions but does not appear to be associated with differentiation. | 10.1247/csf.12.539 |
pubmed_80_13624 | Tuberculosis is a disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is the leading cause of death from a single infectious pathogen, with a high prevalence in developing countries in Africa and Asia. There still is a need for the development or repurposing of novel therapies to combat this disease owing to the long-term nature of current therapies and because of the number of reported resistant strains. Here, structures of dihydrofolate reductase from M. tuberculosis (MtDHFR), which is a key target of the folate pathway, are reported in complex with four antifolates, pyrimethamine, cycloguanil, diaverdine and pemetrexed, and its substrate dihydrofolate in order to understand their binding modes. The structures of all of these complexes were obtained in the closed-conformation state of the enzyme and a fine structural analysis indicated motion in key regions of the substrate-binding site and different binding modes of the ligands. In addition, the affinities, through Kd measurement, of diaverdine and methotrexate have been determined; MtDHFR has a lower affinity (highest Kd) for diaverdine than pyrimethamine and trimethoprim, and a very high affinity for methotrexate, as expected. The structural comparisons and analysis described in this work provide new information about the plasticity of MtDHFR and the binding effects of different antifolates. | 10.1107/S205979831900901X |
pubmed_658_7027 | Self-reinforced poly(desamino tyrosyl-tyrosine ethyl ester carbonate) poly(DTE carbonate) rods (diameter, 2 mm; length, 26 mm) were implanted into the dorsal subcutaneous tissue of 16 rats. Osteotomies of the distal femur were fixed with these rods (2 mm by 15 mm) in 64 other rats. The follow-up times varied from 1 week to 1 year. After sacrifice, three-point bending and shear tests and molecular weight measurements were performed for subcutaneously placed rods. Radiological, histological, histomorphometrical, microradiographic, and oxytetracycline-fluorescence studies of the osteotomized and intact control femurs were performed. At 36 weeks, the bending strength of the rods was nearly at the same level as the initial value, and the shear strength was decreased to about one quarter of the initial value. One of the 64 evaluated osteotomies showed signs of infection at 24 weeks, and there were five failures of fixation. Fifty-eight osteotomies healed uneventfully. No gross signs of inflammatory or foreign-body reactions were observed. The present investigation showed that the mechanical strength and fixation properties of SR-poly(DTE carbonate) rods are suitable for fixation of cancellous bone osteotomies in rats. The present article is the first report on successful application of SR-poly(DTE carbonate) rods for fixation of cancellous bone osteotomies. | 10.1007/s007760200098 |
pubmed_187_4076 | INTRODUCTION
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is associated with the formation of a posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC). As only a small part of the crystalline lens is usually affected, it is sometimes difficult to determine to what extent the visual loss is caused by the PSC alone.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
The methodology was developed in analogy to a scoring system for posterior capsule opacification by Tetz et al. Following dilation of the pupil, standardized photographs of the anterior segments were obtained utilizing a Zeiss photoslitlamp model 40 SL/P. The PSC was scored by evaluating retroillumination photographs. The individual PSC index was calculated by multiplying the density of the opacification (graded from 0 to 4) by the area involved in the central 4 mm zone of the pupil (calculated between 0 and 1). For testing the reliability of the evaluation system in part 1 of this study, 11 RP patients with different grades of PSC were examined by three independent observers. In part 2 of this study 37 eyes of 24 RP patients, aged 47.2 +/- 11.8 years, were evaluated and the PSC index was correlated with different parameters (visual acuity, age, visual fields, eletroretinography). RESULTS PART 1: The cataract-density grades were between 1 and 4 in the 11 patients. In relation to the central 4-mm pupillary zone between 13 and 100% of the area were opacified. Cataract indices (density x area) were between 0.13 and 4.0 (Mean values: Examiner 1:1.41 +/- 1.49; Examiner 2:1.28 +/- 1.46; Examiner 3:1.22 +/- 1.44; differences not significant: P = 0.77). PART 2: After an average duration of RP of 23 years, the average cataract index of the 24 patients was 1.72 +/- 1.35. There was no correlation between cataract index and ERG or visual fields (r < 0.2; P > 0.4); however, there was a good correlation to visual acuity (r = -0.72; P = 0.0001). Patients with early onset of RP (before 20th year of life) presented on average with an higher cataract index (2.06 +/- 1.67) compared to patients with late manifestation (0.61 +/- 0.44), but equivalent duration of RP.
CONCLUSIONS
The evaluation system offers a reliable and reproducible method for measuring PSC density and extension in RP patients. The method can serve as a useful tool for documenting PSC development and help to define the indications for cataract surgery in RP. | 10.1007/s003470050149 |
pubmed_475_13388 | The human intestinal ecosystem, previously called the gut microflora is now known as the Human Gut Microbiota (HGM). Microbiome research has emphasized the potential role of this ecosystem in human homeostasis, offering unexpected opportunities in therapeutics, far beyond digestive diseases. It has also highlighted ethical, social and commercial concerns related to the gut microbiota. As diet factors are accepted to be the major regulator of the gut microbiota, the modulation of its composition, either by antibiotics or by food intake, should be regarded as a fascinating tool for improving the human health. Scientists, the food industry, consumers and policymakers alike are involved in this new field of nutrition. Defining how knowledge about the HGM is being translated into public perception has never been addressed before. This raises the question of metaphors associated with the HGM, and how they could be used to improve public understanding, and to influence individual decision-making on healthcare policy. This article suggests that a meeting of stakeholders from the social sciences, basic research and the food industry, taking an epistemological approach to the HGM, is needed to foster close, innovative partnerships that will help shape public perception and enable novel behavioural interventions that would benefit public health. | 10.1007/s11019-014-9552-2 |
pubmed_1111_20797 | Electric field-assisted dewatering, also called electro-dewatering (EDW), is a technology in which a conventional dewatering mechanism such a pressure dewatering is combined with electrokinetic effects to realize an improved liquid/solids separation, to increase the final dry solids content and to accelerate the dewatering process with low energy consumption compared to thermal drying. The application of these additional fields can be applied to either or both dewatering stages (filtration and/or compression), or as a pre-or post-treatment of the dewatering process. In this study, the performance of the EDW on wastewater sludge was investigated. Experiments were carried out on a laboratory filtration/compression cell, provided with electrodes, in order to apply an electrical field. The chosen operating conditions pressure (200-1200 kPa) and voltage (10-50 V) are sufficient to remove a significant proportion of the water that cannot be removed using mechanical dewatering technologies alone. A response surface methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the effects of the processing parameters of EDW on (i) the final dry solids content, which is a fundamental dewatering parameter and an excellent indicator of the extent of EDW and (ii) the energy consumption calculated for each additional mass of water removed. A two-factor central composite design was used to establish the optimum conditions for the EDW of wastewater sludge. Experiments showed that the use of an electric field combined with mechanical compression requires less than 10 and 25% of the theoretical thermal drying energy for the low and moderate voltages cases, respectively. | 10.1016/j.watres.2011.02.029 |
pubmed_368_7893 | Popular movies present chunk-like events (scenes and subscenes) that promote episodic, serial updating of viewers' representations of the ongoing narrative. Event-indexing theory would suggest that the beginnings of new scenes trigger these updates, which in turn require more cognitive processing. Typically, a new movie event is signaled by an establishing shot, one providing more background information and a longer look than the average shot. Our analysis of 24 films reconfirms this. More important, we show that, when returning to a previously shown location, the re-establishing shot reduces both context and duration while remaining greater than the average shot. In general, location shifts dominate character and time shifts in event segmentation of movies. In addition, over the last 70 years re-establishing shots have become more like the noninitial shots of a scene. Establishing shots have also approached noninitial shot scales, but not their durations. Such results suggest that film form is evolving, perhaps to suit more rapid encoding of narrative events. | 10.1111/cogs.12151 |
pubmed_561_21573 | Although anemia is a common finding among human immunodeficiency (HIV)-infected infants in sub-Saharan Africa, the factors contributing to the pathogenesis of anemia have not been well characterized. We sought to characterize the relative contribution of iron deficiency and chronic disease to the anemia among infants. Hemoglobin, ferritin, erythropoietin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), neopterin, CD4(+) lymphocyte count and plasma HIV load were measured in 165 HIV-infected and 39 uninfected 9-mo-old infants seen in an outpatient pediatric clinic in Kampala, Uganda. Among HIV-infected and uninfected infants, the prevalence of anemia (hemoglobin < 110 g/L) was 90.9 and 76.9%, respectively (P = 0.015), and the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (hemoglobin < 110 g/L and ferritin < 12 microg/L) was 44.3 and 45.4%, respectively (P = 0.92). The relatively higher prevalence of anemia among HIV-infected infants was attributed to the anemia of chronic disease. Among infants with and without iron deficiency, the fitted regression line was log(10) plasma erythropoietin = 2.86 - 0.016.hemoglobin, and log(10) plasma erythropoietin = 4.11 - 0.028.hemoglobin, respectively, with a difference in the slope of the regression lines between log(10) erythropoietin and hemoglobin among infants with and without iron deficiency (P = 0.049). Infants in Uganda have an extremely high prevalence of anemia, and nearly half of the anemia is due to iron deficiency. The erythropoietin response to anemia appears to be upregulated among infants with iron deficiency. | 10.1093/jn/132.3.423 |
pubmed_1057_6956 | How severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections engage cellular host pathways and innate immunity in infected cells remains largely elusive. We performed an integrative proteo-transcriptomics analysis in SARS-CoV-2 infected Huh7 cells to map the cellular response to the invading virus over time. We identified four pathways, ErbB, HIF-1, mTOR and TNF signaling, among others that were markedly modulated during the course of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro. Western blot validation of the downstream effector molecules of these pathways revealed a dose-dependent activation of Akt, mTOR, S6K1 and 4E-BP1 at 24 hours post infection (hpi). However, we found a significant inhibition of HIF-1α through 24hpi and 48hpi of the infection, suggesting a crosstalk between the SARS-CoV-2 and the Akt/mTOR/HIF-1 signaling pathways. Inhibition of the mTOR signaling pathway using Akt inhibitor MK-2206 showed a significant reduction in virus production. Further investigations are required to better understand the molecular sequelae in order to guide potential therapy in the management of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. | 10.1080/22221751.2020.1799723 |
pubmed_791_24969 | Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of extreme weather events, such as extended heat waves and droughts in the northern hemisphere. Besides affecting ecosystems worldwide, these changes in climate patterns will also affect the environmental health of human populations. While the medical community is mostly concerned with the negative impact of climate change, there might also be some beneficial effects. In this study we used laboratory data from a large university clinic in Germany (n = 13 406), to test for any detectable impact of two extreme summers on Vitamin-D [25(OH)D] plasma concentrations over a six year period (2014-2019). For the two years with extreme summers (2018 and 2019) the 25(OH)D plasma concentrations were significantly higher than in the previous four years (p < 0.001). A time series analysis (autoregressive term, AR, φ = 0.84, with an AR of one indicating a persistent effect) showed that 25(OH)D concentrations rise by 0.04 nmol/l (95% CI: 0.04-0.05 nmol/l) per hour of sunshine. The incidence of vitamin D deficiency was generally high (60% for 2014-2017) but dropped by 10% in 2018 and 2019. As such, the summers of 2018 and 2019, which are among the hottest and driest in Germany since the start of modern climate recordings, had a measurable positive effect on 25(OH)D plasma levels of the examined population. Given that 25(OH)D deficiency is widespread in higher latitudes, this implies that while mostly considered negative, climate change might also confer some health benefits with regard to vitamin D related medical conditions. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0242230 |
pubmed_528_23758 | Current research on angiogenesis and vascular regression is mainly focused on pathological conditions such as tumor growth and diabetic retinopathy, while a suitable physiological model to study the controlling factors in these processes is still lacking. The remodeling pattern of the embryonic vasculature into the adult configuration, such as the branchial arch arterial system developing into the aorta or the early embryonic veins building the caudal vena cava can potentially serve as a model. However, practical applications of the embryonic vascular patterning are impeded by the current controversy over the exact development of the caudal vena cava in mammals. To elucidate these ambiguities, specific developmental stages of vascular development in pig embryos were mapped by means of computer-assisted 3D reconstructions starting from histological serial sections of Bouin's fixed embryos. Special attention was given to venous segments in the lumbar region, as their origin and fate are equivocally described in literature. Here we demonstrate that these venous segments originate from the caudal cardinal veins which are forced to migrate during development into a more dorsal position due to the expansion of the developing metanephroi and the more dorsal relocation of the umbilical arteries. These findings are in contrast with the generally accepted theory that the venous segments in the lumbar region arise from newly formed veins that are located dorsal to the early caudal cardinal system. | 10.1002/jemt.20531 |
pubmed_712_2992 | The condition of hemodynamics and the contractile function of the myocardium are considered before and after aorto-coronary shunting performed in patients with critically severe affection of the coronary arteries and the heart muscle. Of great prognostic importance is the final diastolic volume of the ventricles, its relation to the stroke ejection, as well as the ejection fraction. The greater the final diastolic volume of the ventricle and the smaller the stroke ejection, the higher is the risk of applying operative treatment to the patient. | pubmed_712_2992 |
pubmed_294_12509 | Gallbladder (GB) motility diminishes with aging. This study was performed to characterize mechanisms that are involved in changes in GB contractility that occur during aging. Cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) and the contractile force of guinea pig GB muscle strips were simultaneously measured using fura-2 and force-displacement transducers. The binding ability of the Ca2+ channel antagonist and GB muscle compliance were also examined. The COOH-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK-8) evoked a dose-dependent increase in force and [Ca2+]i. Changes of [Ca2+]i and contractile force of muscle strips in response to CCK-8 were significantly greater in young (2 mo old) compared with mature and aged (12 and 24 mo old) guinea pigs (changes in [Ca2+]i, ED50: 46.1 nM at 2 mo, 6.1 microM at 12 mo, and 2.8 mM at 24 mo; changes of contractile force, ED50: 24.8 microM at 2 mo, 2.1 mM at 12 mo, and 357 mM at 24 mo). However, the magnitude of the contraction at each percent change in [Ca2+]i was actually similar in young and aged guinea pigs. In a Ca(2+)-free buffer, the responses of [Ca2+]i and force to CCK-8 in both young and aged GB muscles decreased, but those were still dose and age dependent. Binding ability of the Ca2+ channel antagonist did not differ in the young and aged groups, but the compliance of the GB muscle strip decreased with aging. These results suggest that both a reduced mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ and a decreased muscle compliance are responsible, at least in part, for age-related reduced contraction of guinea pig GB in response to CCK. | 10.1152/ajpgi.1993.264.4.G624 |
pubmed_630_16528 | Escherichia coli strain 15 (ATCC 9723), which forms robust biofilms, was grown under optimal biofilm conditions in NaCl-free Luria-Bertani broth (LB*) or in LB* supplemented with one of the non-metabolizable analogues 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2DG), methyl α-d-mannopyranoside (αMM), or methyl α-d-glucopyranoside (αMG). Biofilm growth was inhibited by mannose analogue 2DG even at very low concentration in unbuffered medium, and the maximal inhibition was enhanced in the presence of either 100 mM KPO4 or 100 mM MOPS, pH 7.5; in buffered medium, concentrations of 0.02 % (1.2 mM) or more inhibited growth nearly completely. In contrast, mannose analogue αMM, which should not be able to enter the cells but has been reported to inhibit biofilm growth by binding to FimH, did not exhibit strong inhibition even at concentrations up to 1.8 % (108 mM). The glucose analogue αMG inhibited biofilm growth, but much less strongly than did 2DG. None of the analogues inhibited planktonic growth or caused a change in pH of the unbuffered medium. Similar inhibitory effects of the analogues were observed in minimal medium. The effects were not strain-specific, as 2DG and αMG also inhibited the weak biofilm growth of E. coli K12. | 10.1099/mic.0.000290 |
pubmed_567_8793 | Using a rodent air pouch, the inflammatory responses to biomaterials with distinct physical properties and chemical compositions were compared. The polymers examined were expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (ePTFE), silicone, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), poly(desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine ethyl carbonate) [poly(DTE carbonate)], and poly(desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine benzyl carbonate) [poly(DTBzl carbonate)]. We found that implantation of disks (4.5-4.8 mm) of these materials into rodent air pouches for 2 days had no effect on the number or type of cells recovered relative to sham controls. With each of the materials, macrophages were the predominant cell type identified (60-75%), followed by granulocytes (20-25%) and lymphocytes (10%). Implantation of poly(DTE carbonate), ePTFE, LDPE, or poly(DTBzl carbonate) into the pouches for 2 days caused an increase in release of superoxide anion by the pouch cells. Cells from pouches containing poly(DTE carbonate) also released more hydrogen peroxide and were more phagocytic. In contrast, PLLA and silicone had no effect on the functional activity of cells recovered from the pouches. Prolonging the implantation time of poly(DTE carbonate) or PLLA to 7 days did not alter the number or type of cells isolated from the pouches. However, cells from pouches containing poly(DTE carbonate) for 7 days continued to produce increased quantities of superoxide anion relative to sham control pouch cells. These results suggest that the air pouch model is a highly sensitive method and therefore useful for evaluating the functional responses of inflammatory cells to biomaterials. | 10.1002/(sici)1097-4636(20000605)50:3<365::aid-jbm10>3.0.co;2-x |
pubmed_486_20321 | Human malaria is the most widespread mosquito-borne life-threatening disease worldwide. In the absence of effective vaccines, prevention and treatment of malaria only depend on prophylaxis and drug-based therapy either in monotherapy or in combination. Unfortunately, the number of available antimalarial drugs presenting different mechanisms of action is rather limited. In addition, the appearance of drug-resistance in the parasite strains impacts the efficacy of the treatments. As a result, there is a crucial need to find new drugs to circumvent resistance problems. In the quest to identify new antimalarial agents a huge number of plant-derived compounds (PDCs) have been investigated. Surprisingly in the in silico PDC screening programs, toxicity filters are either never used or so simple that their interest is limited. In this context, the goal of this study was to show how to take advantage of validated toxicity QSAR models for refining the selection of PDCs. From an original data set of 507 PDCs collected from the literature, the use of toxicity filters for endocrine disruption, developmental toxicity, and hepatotoxicity in conjunction with classical pharmacokinetic filters allowed us to obtain a list of 31 compounds of potential interest. The pros and cons of such a strategy have been discussed. | 10.1080/1062936X.2019.1665844 |
pubmed_1121_2443 | This study examined whether an inertial measurement unit (IMU), in combination with machine learning, could accurately predict two indirect measures of bowling intensity through ball release speed (BRS) and perceived intensity zone (PIZ). One IMU was attached to the thoracic back of 44 fast bowlers. Each participant bowled 36 deliveries at two different PIZ zones (Zone 1 = 24 deliveries at 70% to 85% of maximum perceived bowling effort; Zone 2 = 12 deliveries at 100% of maximum perceived bowling effort) in a random order. IMU data (sampling rate = 250 Hz) were downsampled to 125 Hz, 50 Hz, and 25 Hz to determine if model accuracy was affected by the sampling frequency. Data were analysed using four machine learning models. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare the mean absolute error (MAE) and accuracy scores (separately) across the four models and four sampling frequencies. Gradient boosting models were shown to be the most consistent at measuring BRS (MAE = 3.61 km/h) and PIZ (F-score = 88%) across all sampling frequencies. This method could be used to measure BRS and PIZ which may contribute to a better understanding of overall bowling load which may help to reduce injuries. | 10.1080/02640414.2021.1876312 |
pubmed_505_12537 | Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) neurons migrate from the vomeronasal organ (VNO) to the forebrain in all mammals studied. In mice, the direction of LHRH neuron migration is dependent upon axons that originate in the VNO, but bypass the olfactory bulb and project caudally into the basal forebrain. Thus, factors that guide this unique subset of vomeronasal axons that comprise the caudal vomeronasal nerve (cVNN) are candidates for regulating the migration of LHRH neurons. We previously showed that deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) is expressed by neurons that migrate out of the VNO during development [Schwarting et al. (2001) J. Neurosci., 21, 911-919]. We examined LHRH neuron migration in Dcc-/- mice and found that trajectories of the cVNN and positions of LHRH neurons are abnormal. Here we extend these studies to show that cVNN trajectories and LHRH cell migration in netrin 1 (Ntn1) mutant mice are also abnormal. Substantially reduced numbers of LHRH neurons are found in the basal forebrain and many LHRH neurons migrate into the cerebral cortex of Ntn1 knockout mice. In contrast, migration of LHRH cells is normal in Unc5h3rcm mutant mice. These results are consistent with the idea that the chemoattraction of DCC+ vomeronasal axons by a gradient of netrin 1 protein in the ventral forebrain guides the cVNN, which, in turn, determines the direction of LHRH neuron migration in the forebrain. Loss of function through a genetic deletion in either Dcc or Ntn1 results in the migration of many LHRH neurons to inappropriate destinations. | 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2004.03094.x |
pubmed_653_6956 | BACKGROUND: Individuals with non-fluent aphasia have difficulty producing syntactically laden words, such as function words, whereas individuals with fluent aphasia often have difficulty producing semantically specific words. It is hypothesised that such dissociations arise, at least in part, from a trade-off between syntactic and semantic sources of input to lexical retrieval. AIMS: The aims of this study were (a) to identify quantitative measures of the semantic content of narrative for people with aphasia that are reliable indicators of semantic competence, independent of overall aphasia severity; (b) to determine whether these measures distinguish between fluent and non-fluent aphasia; and (c) to assess whether individuals with fluent and non-fluent aphasia show a trade-off between measures of syntactic and semantic production. METHODS #ENTITYSTARTX00026; PROCEDURES: Connected speech samples were elicited from 16 participants with aphasia, 8 fluent and 8 non-fluent. The semantic sufficiency of the samples was analysed by measuring the proportion of correct information units (CIUs), the type-token ratios (TTRs) of content words, and the proportion of semantically specific ("heavy") to semantically general ("light") verbs produced. These measures were then correlated with syntactic measures from the QPA (Berndt, Wayland, Rochon, Saffran, & Schwartz, 2000) across and within participant groups. OUTCOMES #ENTITYSTARTX00026; RESULTS: CIUs were found to reflect primarily aphasia severity, and not to differentiate between fluent and non-fluent groups. TTRs were also strongly influenced by severity among fluent, but not non-fluent, participants. The ratio of heavy to light verbs reliably distinguished the groups, and showed different patterns of correlation with the syntactic measures. CONCLUSIONS: Results show some evidence for a trade-off between syntactic and semantic inputs to word retrieval, at least among non-fluent participants. The heavy-light verb ratio provides information about semantic specificity, beyond what is provided by the CIU or TTR measures. | 10.1080/02687030701820063 |
pubmed_992_18643 | Cytochrome c oxidase catalyses the reduction of molecular oxygen to water while the energy released in this process is used to pump protons across a biological membrane. Although an extremely well-studied biological system, the molecular mechanism of proton pumping by cytochrome c oxidase is still not understood. Here we report a method to produce large quantities of highly diffracting microcrystals of ba 3-type cytochrome c oxidase from Thermus thermophilus suitable for serial femtosecond crystallography. The room-temperature structure of cytochrome c oxidase is solved to 2.3 Å resolution from data collected at an X-ray Free Electron Laser. We find overall agreement with earlier X-ray structures solved from diffraction data collected at cryogenic temperature. Previous structures solved from synchrotron radiation data, however, have shown conflicting results regarding the identity of the active-site ligand. Our room-temperature structure, which is free from the effects of radiation damage, reveals that a single-oxygen species in the form of a water molecule or hydroxide ion is bound in the active site. Structural differences between the ba 3-type and aa 3-type cytochrome c oxidases around the proton-loading site are also described. | 10.1038/s41598-017-04817-z |
pubmed_1044_2801 | BACKGROUND
Women in Africa face disproportionate risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition, accounting for more than half of new infections in Africa and similarly face a disproportionate burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Very high STI prevalence is being observed globally, especially among people taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (dPEP) has been proposed as an STI prevention strategy to reduce chlamydia, syphilis, and possibly gonorrhea, and trials are ongoing among cisgender men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women who are taking PrEP in high-income settings. We designed and describe here the first open-label trial to determine the effectiveness of dPEP to reduce STI incidence among cisgender women.
METHODS
We are conducting an open-label 1:1 randomized trial of dPEP versus standard of care (STI screening and treatment and risk-reduction counseling without dPEP) among 446 Kenyan women aged ≥ 18 and ≤ 30 years old women taking PrEP. Women are followed for 12 months, with quarterly STI testing, treatment, and adherence counseling. The primary trial outcome will be the combined incidence of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Treponema pallidum, compared between the randomized groups. We will also assess dPEP acceptability, tolerability, safety, impact on sexual behavior, adherence, and occurrence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis isolates. Finally, we will estimate cost per incident STI case and complications averted accounting for nonadherence and benefits relative AMR or side effects.
DISCUSSION
The results of this trial may have immediate implications for the global epidemic of STIs and sexual health. If effective, dPEP could put STI prevention into women's hands. While dPEP may be able to prevent STIs, it carries important risks that could counter its benefits; global debate about the balance of these potential risks and benefits requires data to inform policy and implementation and our study aims to fill this gap.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04050540 . | 10.1186/s13063-022-06458-8 |
pubmed_1016_349 | Arterial concentrations and substrate exchange across the leg and splanchnic vascular beds were determined for glucose, lactate, pyruvate, glycerol, individual acidic and neutral amino acids, and free fatty acids (FFA) in six subjects at rest and during 4 h of exercise at approximately 30% of maximal oxygen uptake. FFA turnover and regional exchange were evaluated using (14)C-labeled oleic acid. The arterial glucose concentration was constant for the first 40 min of exercise, but fell progressively thereafter to levels 30% below basal. The arterial insulin level decreased continuously, while the arterial glucagon concentration had risen fivefold after 4 h of exercise. Uptake of glucose and FFA by the legs was markedly augmented during exercise, the increase in FFA uptake being a consequence of augmented arterial levels rather than increased fractional extraction. As exercise was continued beyond 40 min, the relative contribution of FFA to total oxygen metabolism rose progressively to 62%. In contrast, the contribution from glucose fell from 40% to 30% between 90 and 240 min. Leg output of alanine increased as exercise progressed. Splanchnic glucose production, which rose 100% above basal levels and remained so throughout exercise, exceeded glucose uptake by the legs for the first 40 min but thereafter failed to keep pace with peripheral glucose utilization. Total estimated splanchnic glucose output was 75 g in 4 h, sufficient to deplete approximately 75% of liver glycogen stores. Splanchnic uptake of gluconeogenic precursors (lactate, pyruvate, glycerol, alanine) had increased 2- to 10-fold after 4 h of exercise, and was sufficient to account for 45% of glucose release at 4 h as compared to 20-25% at rest and at 40 min of exercise. In the case of alanine and lactate, the increase in precursor uptake was a consequence of a rise in splanchnic fractional extraction. It is concluded that during prolonged exercise at a low work intensity (a) blood glucose levels fall because hepatic glucose output fails to keep up with augmented glucose utilization by the exercising legs; (b) a large portion of hepatic glycogen stores is mobilized and an increasing fraction of the splanchnic glucose output is derived from gluconeogenesis; (c) blood-borne substrates in the form of glucose and FFA account for a major part of leg muscle metabolism, the relative contribution from FFA increasing progressively; and (d) augmented secretion of glucagon may play an important role in the metabolic adaptation to prolonged exercise by its stimulatory influence on hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. | 10.1172/JCI107645 |
pubmed_721_14727 | The programs of psychiatric hospitals illustrate the differences we have about the origins and treatment of mental illness. They reflect the conflicts which divide us into camps. Most hospitals today are biologically oriented and their programs are short-term in nature. They mainly understand mental illness to be physical in origin and emphasize the physical and physiologic in their treatment approach. Fewer hospitals are socially-oriented. This paper deals with the socially-oriented hospital. It briefly discusses their theoretical frameworks and touches upon significant contributions to the literature. Main attention is given to one particular type of such institution. Its structure is described as it is used to satisfy its patients' needs and to generate healthy behavior in them. The way it treats its patients and the use to which it puts its own value-system in the treatment process are outlined. | 10.1177/002076408703300306 |
pubmed_618_19269 | The nanoscale imaging of charge flow in proteins is crucial to understanding several life processes, including respiration, metabolism and photosynthesis. However, existing imaging methods are only effective under non-physiological conditions or are limited to photosynthetic proteins. Here, we show that electrostatic force microscopy can be used to directly visualize charge propagation along pili of Geobacter sulfurreducens with nanometre resolution and under ambient conditions. Charges injected at a single point into individual, untreated pili, which are still attached to cells, propagated over the entire filament. The mobile charge density in the pili, as well as the temperature and pH dependence of the charge density, were similar to those of carbon nanotubes and other organic conductors. These findings, coupled with a lack of charge propagation in mutated pili that were missing key aromatic amino acids, suggest that the pili of G. sulfurreducens function as molecular wires with transport via delocalized charges, rather than the hopping mechanism that is typical of biological electron transport. | 10.1038/nnano.2014.236 |
pubmed_815_3088 | We have recently shown that connexin 43 (Cx43), a major gap junction protein in osteoblasts, is expressed with an increase in cell density (CHIBA, H. et al. (1993). Cell Struc. Funct., 18: 419-426). In the present study, we examined what kinds of hormones and cytokines regulate the gap junction protein in osteoblastic cells, using a human osteoblastic cell line (SV-HFO) after reaching a confluent density to avoid influence of cell proliferation. Either retinoic acid (RA) or transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) induced the Cx43 expression of SV-HFO cells, as revealed by Northern blot analysis and immunocytochemistry. These modulators also increased gap junctional intercellular communication, in terms of the extent of dye transfer. On the other hand, 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 did not influence the Cx43 expression and gap junctional intercellular communication of the cells. These results suggest that RA and TGF-beta might maintain bone tissue as an organized tissue in vivo by increasing intercellular communication of osteoblastic cells. | 10.1247/csf.19.173 |
pubmed_548_17749 | BACKGROUND
Birds are one of the most highly successful and diverse groups of vertebrates, having evolved a number of distinct characteristics, including feathers and wings, a sturdy lightweight skeleton and unique respiratory and urinary/excretion systems. However, the genetic basis of these traits is poorly understood.
RESULTS
Using comparative genomics based on extensive searches of 60 avian genomes, we have found that birds lack approximately 274 protein coding genes that are present in the genomes of most vertebrate lineages and are for the most part organized in conserved syntenic clusters in non-avian sauropsids and in humans. These genes are located in regions associated with chromosomal rearrangements, and are largely present in crocodiles, suggesting that their loss occurred subsequent to the split of dinosaurs/birds from crocodilians. Many of these genes are associated with lethality in rodents, human genetic disorders, or biological functions targeting various tissues. Functional enrichment analysis combined with orthogroup analysis and paralog searches revealed enrichments that were shared by non-avian species, present only in birds, or shared between all species.
CONCLUSIONS
Together these results provide a clearer definition of the genetic background of extant birds, extend the findings of previous studies on missing avian genes, and provide clues about molecular events that shaped avian evolution. They also have implications for fields that largely benefit from avian studies, including development, immune system, oncogenesis, and brain function and cognition. With regards to the missing genes, birds can be considered ‘natural knockouts’ that may become invaluable model organisms for several human diseases. | 10.1186/s13059-014-0565-1 |
pubmed_1057_8278 | Flavaglines are cyclopenta[b]benzofurans found in plants of the genus Aglaia, several species of which are used in traditional Chinese medicine. These compounds target the initiation factor of translation eIF4A and the scaffold proteins prohibitins-1 and 2 (PHB1/2) to exert various pharmacological activities, including antiviral effects against several types of viruses, including coronaviruses. This review is focused on the antiviral effects of flavaglines and their therapeutic potential against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). | 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112653 |
pubmed_232_1706 | A 41-year-old woman with known systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was diagnosed with thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura (TTP). At the time of admission she was suffering from petechia, purpura and had neurological symptoms. At first a relapse of the SLE was suspected. Additional laboratory findings demonstrated haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopaenia and high levels of fragmentocytes. After multiple plasmapheresis treatments and immunosuppressive therapy she recovered. TTP can be differentiated from other thrombotic microangiopathic syndromes by its normal levels of prothrombin time, partially activated thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen and direct Coombs-test. Further investigation is needed to confirm the diagnosis by determination of the activity of Von Willebrand factor cleaving protease ADAMTS-13. In this patient, the ADAMTS-13 activity returned after plasmapheresis. This case demonstrates the importance of fast and appropriate laboratory testing in order to diagnose TTP quickly. | pubmed_232_1706 |
pubmed_260_13669 | Ab-dependent polymorphonuclear granulocyte (PMN)-mediated cytotoxicity may play an important role in the control of malignant diseases. However, little is known as to which particular pathways are used for the killing of malignant cells by PMN. The production of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) has been observed to occur during Ab-dependent, cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). However, PMN from a patient with chronic granulomatous disease demonstrated strong ADCC against malignant lymphoma cells. Furthermore, the inhibition of ROI production in PMN from healthy donors had no significant effect on ADCC. Therefore, ROI production by the NADPH oxidase of PMN does not appear to be mandatory for PMN-mediated ADCC. Recent data suggest a role for perforins in PMN-mediated cytotoxicity. However, in our assays concanamycin A, an inhibitor of perforin-mediated ADCC by mononuclear cells, had no inhibitory effect on PMN-mediated ADCC. Using electron microscopy we observed that PMN and their target cells intimately interact with the formation of interdigitating membrane protrusions. During PMN and target cell contact there was a mutual exchange of fluorescent membrane lipid dyes that was strongly increased in the presence of tumor-targeting Abs. This observation may be closely related to the recently described process of trogocytosis by lymphocytes. The presence of transient PMN-tumor cell aggregates and the accumulation of PMN with tumor cell-derived membrane lipids and vice versa were associated with effective ADCC as measured by chromium-release or apoptosis induction. | 10.4049/jimmunol.179.1.337 |
pubmed_1051_6282 | Coronary artery disease remains the leading cause of death. Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is characterized by decreased blood flow to the coronary arteries, resulting in cardiomyocytes death. The most effective strategy for treating an MI is early and rapid myocardial reperfusion, but restoring blood flow to the ischemic myocardium can induce further damage, known as ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Novel therapeutic strategies are critical to limit myocardial IR injury and improve patient outcomes following reperfusion intervention. miRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that have been implicated in attenuating IR injury pathology in pre-clinical rodent models. In this review, we discuss the role of miR-1 and miR-21 in regulating myocardial apoptosis in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the whole heart as well as in different cardiac cell types with special emphasis on cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, and immune cells. We also examine therapeutic potential of miR-1 and miR-21 in preclinical studies. More research is necessary to understand the cell-specific molecular principles of miRNAs in cardioprotection and application to acute myocardial IR injury. | 10.3390/ijms23031512 |
pubmed_830_10570 | Kinesin-3 KIF1A plays prominent roles in axonal transport and synaptogenesis. KIF1A adopts a monomeric form in vitro but acts as a processive dimer in vivo. The mechanism underlying the motor dimerization is poorly understood. Here, we find that the CC1-FHA tandem of KIF1A exists as a stable dimer. The structure of CC1-FHA reveals that the linker between CC1 and FHA unexpectedly forms a β-finger hairpin, which integrates CC1 with FHA assembling a CC1-FHA homodimer. More importantly, dissociation of the CC1-FHA dimer unleashes CC1 and the β-finger, which are both essential for the motor inhibition. Thus, dimerization of the CC1-FHA tandem not only promotes the KIF1A dimer formation but also may trigger the motor activity via sequestering the CC1/β-finger region. The CC1-FHA tandem likely functions as a hub for controlling the dimerization and activation of KIF1A, which may represent a new paradigm for the kinesin regulation shared by other kinesin-3 motors. | 10.1016/j.str.2012.07.002 |
pubmed_969_17631 | The antitumor agent camptothecin stabilizes type I topoisomerase-DNA complexes. One of the primary cellular responses to camptothecin exposure is rapid cessation of RNA synthesis. Results obtained by using an in vitro transcription system supplemented with eukaryotic topoisomerase I show that this inhibition can be attributed to physical blockage of the RNA polymerase by camptothecin-stabilized topoisomerase I-DNA complexes on the DNA template. The site of premature termination is located 10 base pairs upstream of the topoisomerase I linked nucleotide residue on the coding strand, corresponding closely to the border of the protected area obtained in a micrococcus nuclease footprint of topoisomerase I. The RNA polymerase transcribes unimpeded through complexes attached to the noncoding strand. No inhibitory effect of camptothecin on RNA transcription was observed with human topoisomerase I isolated from a camptothecin-resistant cell line. Taken together, the data suggest that part of the cytotoxicity of camptothecin is mediated through adduct formation on transcribed DNA, resulting in interference with transcriptional elongation. | 10.1021/bi00475a028 |
pubmed_121_6533 | AIMS
To determine if restoration location and/or execution behavior force parameters have an influence on the mechanical properties of bulk-fill composite dental restorations.
METHODS
Pressure transducers were placed within each quadrant of dental mannequin jaws. Cylindrical molds were placed above the transducers and filled with two bulk-fill composite materials, Filtek and Tetric, by four experienced dentists. Each dentist prepared five specimens per quadrant and material. The total placement time, mean force, number of peak forces (above 25 N), and mean peak(s) force during placement were measured. Then, the stiffness and maximal compressive strength of the specimens were determined while loading the specimens up to failure using a universal loading machine.
RESULTS
Placement time was affected by jaw (p < 0.004) and side (p < 0.029), with the shortest time demonstrated for the left side of the mandible. Force exerted during restoration placement was not normally distributed without differences in location (jaw) or material. A higher application force was found on the right side (p < 0.01). The number of peak forces was affected by side (p < 0.03), with less peaks on the left side. No significant differences were found in compressive strength when correlated to restoration location, participant, or material (p = 0.431). The stiffness values of Filtek (3729 ± 228 N/mm) were found to be 15% higher than Tetric (3248 ± 227 N/mm) (p < 0.005). No correlations were found between the compressive strength or stiffness and the amount of force applied during placement.
CONCLUSIONS
The individual restoration material placement parameters did influence practitioner performance; however, these differences did not affect the mechanical properties of the final restoration. | 10.3390/ma15124305 |
pubmed_689_23303 | ABSTRACTThe concentrations level and distribution of 16 US EPA polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) from the water treatment plant (WTP), sewage treatment plant (STP), and industrial water treatment plant (ITP) sludge in Taiwan were determined and then assessed the sources, and potential toxicity (carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [CPAHs] and toxic BaP equivalent [TEQ]). Results indicated that the total concentrations of PAHs ranged between 58 and 16,436 μg/kg dw. Among the 17 samples, the 2-4 ring of total PAHs were the predominant compound in three kinds of treatment plant (> 60%). Especially, ITP1 owns 95.8% of 2-4 ring of total PAHs and ITP3 owns 54% of five- and six-ring of total PAHs. The molecular indices and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to determine the source contributions, with the results showing that the contributions of combustion/grass, coal or wood combustion and combustion/ liquid (oil) fossil fuel combustion. A PAH toxicity indicated by TEQ was 2.5-506 μg TEQ/g dw. Although, the results indicated that these were not recommended for land applications, but analyses are beneficial to develop effective management strategies for controlling PAH discharge in treatment plants and establishing strategies for its reuse in managing pollutants. | 10.1080/09593330.2021.1998227 |
pubmed_787_11346 | BACKGROUND
This study investigates the generation of HCl and other acid gases from boiling calcium chloride dominated waters at atmospheric pressure, primarily using numerical modeling. The main focus of this investigation relates to the long-term geologic disposal of nuclear waste at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, where pore waters around waste-emplacement tunnels are expected to undergo boiling and evaporative concentration as a result of the heat released by spent nuclear fuel. Processes that are modeled include boiling of highly concentrated solutions, gas transport, and gas condensation accompanied by the dissociation of acid gases, causing low-pH condensate.
RESULTS
Simple calculations are first carried out to evaluate condensate pH as a function of HCl gas fugacity and condensed water fraction for a vapor equilibrated with saturated calcium chloride brine at 50-150 degrees C and 1 bar. The distillation of a calcium-chloride-dominated brine is then simulated with a reactive transport model using a brine composition representative of partially evaporated calcium-rich pore waters at Yucca Mountain. Results show a significant increase in boiling temperature from evaporative concentration, as well as low pH in condensates, particularly for dynamic systems where partial condensation takes place, which result in enrichment of HCl in condensates. These results are in qualitative agreement with experimental data from other studies.
CONCLUSION
The combination of reactive transport with multicomponent brine chemistry to study evaporation, boiling, and the potential for acid gas generation at the proposed Yucca Mountain repository is seen as an improvement relative to previously applied simpler batch evaporation models. This approach allows the evaluation of thermal, hydrological, and chemical (THC) processes in a coupled manner, and modeling of settings much more relevant to actual field conditions than the distillation experiment considered. The actual and modeled distillation experiments do not represent expected conditions in an emplacement drift, but nevertheless illustrate the potential for acid-gas generation at moderate temperatures (<150 degrees C). | 10.1186/1467-4866-10-11 |
pubmed_1136_7691 | BACKGROUND
There is a national loss of access to surgeons for emergencies. Contributing factors include reduced numbers of practicing general surgeons, superspecialization, reimbursement issues, emphasis on work and life balance, and medical liability. Regionalizing acute care surgery (ACS), as exists for trauma care, represents a potential solution. The purpose of this study is to assess the financial and resources impact of transferring all nontrauma ACS cases from a community hospital (CH) to a trauma center (TC).
METHODS
We performed a case mix and financial analysis of patient records with ACS for a rural CH located near an urban Level I TC. ACS patients were analyzed for diagnosis, insurance status, procedures, and length of stay. We estimated physician reimbursement based on evaluation and management codes and procedural CPT codes. Hospital revenues were based on regional diagnosis-related group rates. All third-party remuneration was set at published Medicare rates; self-pay was set at nil.
RESULTS
Nine hundred ninety patients were treated in the CH emergency department with 188 potential surgical diseases. ACS was necessary in 62 cases; 25.4% were uninsured. Extrapolated to 12 months, 248 patients would generate new TC physician revenue of >$155,000 and hospital profits of >$1.5 million. CH savings for call pay and other variable costs are >$100,000. TC operating room volume would only increase by 1%.
CONCLUSION
Regionalization of ACS to TCs is a viable option from a business perspective. Access to care is preserved during an approaching crisis in emergency general surgical coverage. The referring hospital is relieved of an unfavorable payer mix and surgeon call problems. The TC receives a new revenue stream with limited impact on resources by absorbing these patients under its fixed costs, saving the CH variable costs. | 10.1097/TA.0b013e3181efbed9 |
pubmed_175_3121 | As a programmed necrotic cell death, necroptosis has the intrinsic initiators, including receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), RIPK3 and mixed-lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL), which combine to form necroptotic signaling pathway and mediate necroptosis induced by various necroptotic stimuli, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Although chemical inhibition of RIPK1 blocks TNF-induced necroptosis, genetic elimination of RIPK1 does not suppress but facilitate necroptosis triggered by TNF. Moreover, RIPK3 has been reported to mediate the RIPK1-independent necroptosis, but the involved mechanism is unclear. In this study, we found that TRADD was essential for TNF-induced necroptosis in RIPK1-knockdown L929 and HT-22 cells. Mechanistic study demonstrated that TRADD bound RIPK3 to form new protein complex, which then promoted RIPK3 phosphorylation via facilitating RIPK3 oligomerization, leading to RIPK3-MLKL signaling pathway activation. Therefore, TRADD acted as a partner of RIPK3 to initiate necroptosis in RIPK1-knockdown L929 and HT-22 cells in response to TNF stimulation. In addition, TRADD was critical for the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which contributed to RIPK1-independent necroptosis triggered by TNF. Collectively, our data demonstrate that TRADD acts as the new target protein for TNF-induced RIPK3 activation and the subsequent necroptosis in a RIPK1-independent manner. | 10.3389/fcell.2019.00393 |
pubmed_4_12566 | Despite numerous health benefits for babies and mothers, many women do not either initiate or continue breastfeeding for the recommended duration, and increasing breastfeeding is a national priority. It is important to understand media messages on the topic, given that breastfeeding is influenced by many environmental factors and that perceived norms, social support, and perceptions of difficulties predict breastfeeding. The current study analyzes how media covers (1) breastfeeding in general, (2) public breastfeeding, and (3) extended breastfeeding (past 1 year). Guided by the theory of planned behavior, this study analyzes 318 news articles sampled from 10 of the most commonly read mainstream newspapers from 2008-2013. This sample covers a wide range of topics related to breastfeeding, including health benefits, societal reform efforts, social/human interest stories, parenting choices, and stories about pumped breast milk and formula. The results indicate approving social norms by public health officials and medical professionals about breastfeeding in general. A significantly larger number of articles discussed positive behavioral beliefs associated with breastfeeding rather than negative behavioral beliefs. However, articles more often presented barriers, rather than factors that facilitate breastfeeding. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. | 10.1080/10410236.2017.1351275 |
pubmed_733_9772 | Identical impression smears of spleen, liver and bone marrow biopsy materials from Leishmania donovani-infected hamsters were stained using either acridine orange or Giemsa. Spleen parasite-loads calculated from the two stains for identical biopsy material were significantly different from each other. However, liver and bone marrow parasite- loads calculated from either Giemsa-stained or acridine orange-stained biopsies were not significantly different from each other. This study has shown that acridine orange, which is a quick and simple technique, has great potential in the diagnosis of kala-azar when liver and bone marrow biopsies are used. | pubmed_733_9772 |
pubmed_1077_15237 | Hydrogen sulfide has recently been identified as a biologically responsive species. The design and synthesis of fluorescence probes, which are constructed with Nile-red or Nile-blue fluorophores and a fluorescence-controllable dinitrophenyl group, for hydrogen sulfide are reported in this paper. The Nile-red-dinitrophenyl-ether-group-based probe (1a) is essentially non-fluorescent because of the inhibition of the photo-induced electron-transfer process; when the dinitrobenzene moiety is removed by nucleophilic substitution with the hydrosulfide anion, probe 1a is converted into hydroxy Nile red, eliciting a H2S-induced fluorescence turn-on signal. Furthermore, probe 1a has high selectivity and sensitivity for the hydrosulfide anion, and its potential for biological applications was confirmed by using it for real-time fluorescence imaging of hydrogen sulfide in live HeLa cells. The Nile-blue-dinitrobenzene-based probe (1b) has gradually diminishing brightness in the red-emission channel with increased hydrogen-sulfide concentration. Thus, this paper reports a comparative study of Nile-red and Nile-blue-based hydrogen-sulfide probes. | 10.1007/s00216-014-8131-y |
pubmed_623_21213 | Environmental heterogeneity affects not only the distribution of a species but also its local abundance. High heterogeneity due to habitat alteration and fragmentation can influence the realized niche of a species, lowering habitat suitability as well as reducing local abundance. We investigate whether a relationship exists between habitat suitability and abundance and whether both are affected by fragmentation. Our aim was to assess the predictive power of such a relationship to derive advice for environmental management. As a model species we used a forest specialist, the short-toed treecreeper (Family: Certhiidae; Certhia brachydactyla Brehm, 1820), and sampled it in central Italy. Species distribution was modelled as a function of forest structure, productivity and fragmentation, while abundance was directly estimated in two central Italian forest stands. Different algorithms were implemented to model species distribution, employing 170 occurrence points provided mostly by the MITO2000 database: an artificial neural network, classification tree analysis, flexible discriminant analysis, generalized boosting models, generalized linear models, multivariate additive regression splines, maximum entropy and random forests. Abundance was estimated also considering detectability, through N-mixture models. Differences between forest stands in both abundance and habitat suitability were assessed as well as the existence of a relationship. Simpler algorithms resulted in higher goodness of fit than complex ones. Fragmentation was highly influential in determining potential distribution. Local abundance and habitat suitability differed significantly between the two forest stands, which were also significantly different in the degree of fragmentation. Regression showed that suitability has a weak significant effect in explaining increasing value of abundance. In particular, local abundances varied both at low and high suitability values. The study lends support to the concept that the degree of fragmentation can contribute to alter not only the suitability of an area for a species, but also its abundance. Even if the relationship between suitability and abundance can be used as an early warning of habitat deterioration, its weak predictive power needs further research. However, we define relationships between a species and some landscape features (i.e., fragmentation, extensive rejuvenation of forests and tree plantations) which could be easily controlled by appropriate forest management planning to enhance environmental suitability, at least in an area possessing high conservation and biodiversity values. | 10.7717/peerj.2398 |
pubmed_219_10836 | BACKGROUND
Creation of a double upper eyelid is a popular procedure in Asian countries. Many incisional and non-incisional approaches have been described to create a new suprapalpebral fold.
OBJECTIVE
The authors recommended a short incision technique to create a double eyelid and evaluated the results.
METHODS
The location of the partial incision was determined pre-operatively with the patient. A one-centimeter partial incision was made on the middle one-third of the upper eyelid, and the orbicularis oculi muscle was dissected. Three anchoring stitches were placed for the creation of the permanent suprapalpebral fold. Those stitches were inverted single knots which linked the tarsal plate to the lower margin's dermis or dermomuscular junction of the incised skin. Intra-operative adjustment of position and curvature of the new fold was done by the active opening of the upper eyelid. Global results, symmetry and design were evaluated by the patient and one independent surgeon.
RESULTS
Between January 2012 and January 2013, a total of 10patients were operated using this technique. All patients were satisfied, with 8results graded excellent and 2results graded good. The average operation time was 20minutes. There were no serious complications, the only unfavorable outcome was one persistent bruise. The follow-up period was one year. Recovery time varied from 2weeks to a month. No correction procedure was needed.
CONCLUSIONS
The short central incisional technique for creation of a double eyelid described here provides excellent permanent and natural results, with no visible scar nor serious complications. | pubmed_219_10836 |
pubmed_476_9274 | BACKGROUND
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health. Specifically, the stringent lockdown restrictions have heightened anxiety and depression. Therefore, monitoring and supporting the mental health of the population during these unprecedented times is an immediate priority.
METHODS
In this systematic review and meta-analyses, articles that explored the prevalence of anxiety and depression during the first COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom were included. We searched the databases Embase, Medline (PubMed), Web of Science, and PsycINFO for cross-sectional studies. We conducted meta-analyses of prevalence rates using a random-effects model, and the heterogeneity of studies was examined using the I2 index.
RESULTS
Fourteen studies involving 46,158 participants were included in the review. The studies use clinical cut-off scores on anxiety and depression measures to define cases. While the prevalence of anxiety was 31.00% (95% CI = 26.00 to 35.00), the prevalence of depression was 32.00% (95% CI = 29.00 to 35.00). The prevalence of anxiety pre-pandemic was 4.65%, indicating a 26.35% increase. Whereas the prevalence of depression pre-pandemic was 4.12%, indicating a 27.88% increase. Moreover, participants experienced a slightly greater prevalence of depression than anxiety by 1.00%.
CONCLUSIONS
To conclude, the first COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom increased the prevalence of anxiety and depression among the general population, compared to pre-pandemic data. Hence, it is vital that policymakers and mental health services maximize their efforts to monitor mental health and provide interventions to support those in need.
PRACTITIONER POINTS
Clinical implications Awareness of the high prevalence of anxiety and depression during the first lockdown in the United Kingdom can inform policy development that substantial effort, time, and funding of mental health services are required to support those in need. Similarly, awareness of the prevalence of anxiety and depression in the United Kingdom can contribute to the development of nation-specific interventions and initiatives. Limitations The current review focuses on the UK general population which does not allow the findings to be generalized to the global population. The indirect comparison of the current prevalence rates with the corresponding pre-pandemic prevalence rates obtained from a different study sample increases individual differences, weakening the reliability of the findings. | 10.1111/bjc.12360 |
pubmed_452_18237 | BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Terminalia arjuna Wight and Arn. (Arjuna) has been used in indigenous system for the treatment of cardiac ailments since 500 BC. However, there is a lack of vigilance studies during long-term therapy. The present clinical study was planned to examine the long-term safety of Arjuna as an adjunct drug in chronic coronary artery disease (CAD) patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
During the study period, a total of 35 patients of chronic CAD were enrolled to receive Arjuna bark extract powder (500 mg three times daily) along with conventional drugs. The control group (35 patients) received conventional drugs alone. Hemogram, liver function tests and kidney function tests were done at baseline and then every 6 months until the end of the study. Electrocardiography was done every 6 months and echocardiography was done yearly for left ventricular ejection fraction and regional wall motion abnormalities. Any adverse drug reactions reported by the patients were also recorded.
RESULTS
The mean age of patients in test and control groups was 60.88 ± 9.02 and 58.51 ± 12.64 years, respectively. There was a predominance of male patients in both the groups. The patients were observed for duration ranging from 9 months to 4 years and 9 months. Other than baring gastritis and constipation, no other noteworthy adverse effects were reported. No significant difference was found in laboratory value on baseline and end of therapy in both the groups.
CONCLUSION
The results of the present study concluded that Arjuna is safe and effective in patients with chronic coronary artery disease. | 10.4103/ayu.AYU_114_18 |
pubmed_572_20627 | Postoperative pain relief in 40 children undergoing elective infraumbilical surgery was assessed after caudal epidural adminstration of either lignocaine or bupivacaine in the doses of 0.5 mL/kg body weight of a 1 per cent solution and 0.5 mL/kg body weight of a 0.25 per cent solution respectively. Pain free period was assessed by subjective pain scales. The pain free period was significantly prolonged in children who were given bupivacaine (14.75 ± 2.75 hours) as compared to lignocaine (7.25 ± 3.25 hours). | 10.1016/S0377-1237(17)30876-6 |
pubmed_587_18368 | Na/NH3 reductions have been used to dehalogenate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons (CAHs) and pesticides at diffusion controlled rates at room temperature in model compound studies in both dry NH3 and when water was added. The rate ratio of dechlorination (aliphatic and aromatic compounds) versus reaction of the solvated electron with water is very large, allowing wet soils or sludges to be remediated without an unreasonable consumption of sodium. Several soils, purposely contaminated with 1,1,1-trichloroethane, 1-chlorooctane and tetrachloroethylene, were remediated by slurring the soils in NH3 followed by addition of sodium. The consumption of sodium per mole of chlorine removed was examined as a function of both the hazardous substrate's concentration in the soil and the amount of water present. The Na consumption per Cl removed increases as the amount of water increases and as the substrate concentration in soil decreases. However, remediation was still readily accomplished from 5000 to 3000ppm to sub ppm levels of RCl in the presence of substantial amounts of water. PCB- and dioxin-contaminated oils were remediated with Na/NH3 as were PCB-contaminated soils and sludges from contaminated sites. Ca/NH3 treatments also successfully remediated PCB-contaminated clay, sandy and organic soils but laboratory studies demonstrated that Ca was less efficient than Na when substantial amounts of water were present. The advantages of solvated electron reductions using Na/NH3 include: (1) very rapid dehalogenation rates at ambient temperature, (2) soils (even clay soils) break down into particles and slurry nicely in NH3, (3) liquid ammonia handling technology is well known and (4) removal from soils, recovery and recycle of ammonia is easy due to its low boiling point. Finally, dechlorination is extremely fast even for the 'corner' chlorines in the substrate Mirex (structure in Eq. (5)). | 10.1016/s0304-3894(01)00372-7 |
pubmed_848_1036 | We report two rare cases of prostatic melanosis incidentally discovered on pathological examination of specimens from a prostate biopsy (adenocarcinoma) and open surgery (benign hyperplasia). We describe the features and discuss the hypotheses relative to this disease entity. | pubmed_848_1036 |
pubmed_1035_405 | In October of 1977 an article entitled "Birthplace Alternatives" appeared in the Oregon State Health Bulletin. This article presented a narrative based on facts taken from the data on birth certificates of all births occurring outside of a hospital in the State of Oregon in 1976. Tabulations were compiled to show where the infants were being born, who was delivering them, the educational level of the parents, and the prenatal care given. Insofar as was possible--from complications listed on the birth certificates, information from matched infant death reports, and full term fetal death reports--the outcome of these deliveries was explored. Due to the tremendous response to that article, this update of 1977 data on out-of-hospital births was prepared. | 10.1300/J013v04n03_03 |
pubmed_880_23307 | In the title mol-ecule, C(10)H(13)N(3)O(2)S, the dihedral angle between benzene and -N-C(=S)-N-N=C- planes is 9.20 (6)°. The two meth-oxy groups are coplanar with the benzene ring [C-O-C-C torsion angles of -2.31 (18) and -6.45 (17)°]. In the crystal structure, mol-ecules are linked by inter-molecular N-H⋯S, N-H⋯O and C-H⋯O hydrogen bonds, forming a three-dimensional network. | 10.1107/S1600536808035198 |
pubmed_541_10718 | It is well established that bone loss due to estrogen deficiency after menopause is greater in women consuming higher quantities of animal protein than in women consuming vegetable protein, particularly soy protein. Besides the dietary protein source altering bone loss, it has also been postulated recently that the source of a higher n-6/n-3 ratio in dietary oils is implicated in causing osteoporosis. Both animal and human studies have indicated that an increased intake of n-6 fatty acids from vegetable oils elevates prostaglandin E(2) levels as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Interestingly, it has been found that lack of estrogen also increases the production of these cytokines by immune cells and thereby activates osteoclasts during the peri-menopausal period. We speculated that the use of n-3 fatty acids and soy protein, which are known to act as anti-inflammatory and down regulate pro-inflammatory cytokines, may also protect against bone loss by decreasing osteoclast activation and bone resorption. Similar to the results of others, our ongoing studies indeed show that the bone loss in ovariectomized mice is significantly attenuated by feeding diets enriched with either fish oil or soy protein when compared to corn oil and casein-fed mice. One of the mechanisms appears to be decreasing the activation of receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) on T cells, which has been found to increase osteoclast activation along with increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines in OVX mice. Since hormone replacement therapy has been found to cause adverse effects, further both animal and human studies are required with moderate soy protein and fish oil supplements in understanding the mechanisms involved in altering immune function and bone loss during menopause in women and aging in men. | 10.1016/s0952-3278(03)00060-7 |
pubmed_207_14504 | The most frequent causes of unexpected and undesired results of treatment are due to insufficient information of the patient, furthermore, apart from technical deficiencies, to insufficient attention and experience of the physician, and to erroneous evaluation of the situation, especially with measuring out a dose of treatment-"medicus curat". On the other hand "natura sanat" comprises spontaneous healing. It's reactions of adaptation to functional stress are just partially known and, therefore, cannot be controlled safely. With insufficient incorporation of the cybernetic systems of the tissues into our planning of operations counter-reactions have to be expected, resulting in unphysiological, "unsound" operative procedures. They are characterised by relative frequent recurrences. The chances to reduce unexpected and undesired results in the "curative" and "sanative" sector are outlined. The personal experience remains most important. | 10.1055/s-2008-1039894 |
pubmed_381_20287 | Ganoderic acid A (GAA) exhibited neuron protection in in vitro epilepsy study, but no study has been done in vivo. Rats were administered (i.p.) pentylenetetrazole daily for 28 days to induce seizure. Rats with grade II or above of epileptic score were divided into three groups and given placebo, sodium valproate, or GAA treatment, respectively, for 7 days. The electrical signals of brain were monitored with electroencephalography (EGG); epileptic behavior was assessed using the Racine scale; morphological changes and apoptosis rate of cortical neurons were assessed with H&E staining and TUNEL staining, respectively. Protein expression of calcium-sensing receptor, p-ERK, p-JNK, and p-p38 in hippocampal tissue and Bcl-2, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax in cortical tissues was observed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry assay, respectively. After GAA treatment, apparent seizure-like EEG with significant arrhythmic disorder and spike waves was reduced or disappeared, and wave amplitude of EEG was reduced significantly. GAA showed similar effect with sodium valproate treatments on epilepsy. There were an apparent improvement of the epileptic behavior and a significant increase in the epileptic latency and shortening of the epileptic duration in the treatment group compared to control. GAA treatment ameliorated the nuclear pyknosis of neurons which appeared seriously in the epilepsy group. GAA treatment significantly reduced the cortical neuron apoptosis of epilepsy and the expression of calcium-sensing receptor, p-P38, p-JNK, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax but increased the expression of both p-ERK and Bcl-2. In conclusion, GAA treatment showed strong antiepileptic effect by decreasing apoptosis in cortical neuron and the expression of calcium-sensing receptor and stimulating the MAPK pathway. | 10.1155/2022/5940372 |
pubmed_30_14108 | The purpose of the present study was to determine endurance time for manual lifting tasks which were performed over a wide range of loads (5, 10, 15, and 20 kg) and frequencies (4, 6, 8, and 10 times/min) for a lift from floor to table height. Endurance time was defined in this study as the maximum length of time during which an individual was capable of lifting a given load at a given frequency continuously. The upper limit of endurance time was set to 8 h. Eleven male subjects participated in this study, and the lifting technique utilized with the straight back-bent knees method. The results showed that endurance time was significantly reduced with an increase in frequency or load of lift. The lightest frequency-load combination (4 times/min; 5 kg) was maintained by most of the subjects for 8 h. Conversely, the average endurance time for the heaviest frequency-load combination (10 times/min; 20 kg) was about 27 minutes. | 10.1080/00140138908966067 |
pubmed_49_801 | This study was designed to determine the effect of isometric contractions of the finger flexors and leg extensor muscle groups on the cardiovascular responses of men 18-31 and 50-71 years of age. A 2X2X4 split-plot design was carried out with men representing two age groups, using two muscle groups and performing isometric contractions at four different intensities. Analysis of variance indicated significant differences for all main effects. The systolic and diastolic blood pressures were found to be (1) higher for the leg extension contractions compared to the finger flexion contractions, (2) higher for each increment in %MVC workload, and (3) higher for the older individuals. Heart rate responses were found to be (1) higher for the leg extension exercises, (2) higher with each increase in %MVC, and (3) higher for the younger subjects. Stroke volumes demonstrated (1) higher values for the young men at each workload, (2) lower values for leg extension exercises, and (3) a greater decline with longer contraction times. The older individuals had higher pressor responses than did the younger subjects, higher pressor and heart rate responses were observed with isometric leg extension exercises and increasing %MVC levels, and the older subjects had lower stroke volume responses compared to the younger subjects. | pubmed_49_801 |
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