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pubmed_440_21837
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Edible plants such as sweet potato are sources of natural antioxidants that can be exploited in the management and treatment of insulin resistance. This present study investigated the effects of the extracts of an orange-fleshed sweet potato on oxidative stress biomarkers (glutathione status and lipid peroxidation) and activities of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, CAT and glutathione peroxidase, GPx) in palmitate-induced insulin resistant C2C12 cells. The intracellular antioxidant status of the cells was also measured using Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assays. Furthermore, this study determined the effect of the extracts on the regulation of some type 2 diabetes associated genes; glucose transporter 4 (glut4), Nuclear respiratory factor 1 (nrf1), Myocyte enhanced factor 2A (mef2a), Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (cpt1) and Acetyl-CoA carboxylase 2 (acc2). The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in intracellular GSH level, a significant reduction in the level of malonaldehyde and a significant improvement in the intracellular antioxidant status upon treatment of the insulin resistant cells with the extracts. The extracts were also able to positively modulate the expression levels of the type 2 diabetes associated genes. On the other hand, HPLC-MS analysis of the extracts showed the presence of polyphenols which could have contributed to the bioactivity of the extracts through their antioxidant effects.
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10.3390/molecules23082058
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pubmed_232_3834
|
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the present study was to clarify health status and socioeconomic characteristics of elderly persons who practice home remedies as complementary alternative medicine. Whether such usage is associated with health-related factors was also assessed.
METHODS
The subjects are 243 independent elderly living at home in A-village of Okinawa prefecture, aged 65 years or older. A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to all subjects in 2001. Included were questions on socioeconomic indicators, health status, IADL, health habits, social network, social support and home remedy practices. All data were statistically analyzed by Student's t test and the chi-square test. In addition logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratios for current practitioners for each of the factors.
RESULTS
The present study included 200 subjects who responded and completed all questions. (Table 2). The main results are as follows: The practitioner rate for home remedies was 50.8% in males and 71.9% in females, the difference being significant (P<0.05). Usage was found to be significantly related to hypertension (P<0.05), arthritis and rheumatic disease (P<0.01), some health habits and provision nursing of social support (OR = P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, and income revealed current practitioners of acupuncture to have a significantly higher level of history of hospital admission in the previous year (OR = 0.2 P<0.05), food control habits (OR = 4.3 P<0.05) and provision nursing of social support (OR = 4.2 P<0.05) than non-current practitioners.
CONCLUSION
The findings of this study suggest that home remedy practices are associated with health-related habit and provision of social support for good quality of elderly life. The purpose is not only physical care but also health maintenance and promotion.
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pubmed_232_3834
|
pubmed_1108_15127
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Pregnancy exposure registries systematically evaluate pregnancies and outcomes exposed to a medicinal compound or device during the gestational period. Historically, such programs partner an academic institution with one or more pharmaceutical companies or are run solely by a pharmaceutical company. However, other examples abound. This article describes what a pregnancy exposure registry is, as well as selected methodological challenges they face, using real examples and applications.
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10.1002/bdra.20525
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pubmed_211_16007
|
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the implications of recent legislative changes and court decisions in Canada that have placed the privacy of psychiatric records information at risk. New areas of exposure include client access to clinical information provided by family members, parental access to children's records, and court access to clinical records in civil, criminal, and family law matters.
METHOD
A review of recent legislative changes and court decisions pertaining to access to psychiatric records.
CONCLUSION
At present, psychiatric records can no longer be regarded as confidential. Recent changes in the concept of privilege of treatment records necessitates several changes in psychiatric practice regarding informed consent to treatment, content of clinical records, and responses to demands for information.
|
10.1177/070674379804301005
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pubmed_299_8396
|
Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of histones play important roles in the regulation of chromatin architecture and gene transcription. A decade ago, it was still believed that methyl groups could not be removed from histones, until the first histone demethylase LSD1 (lysine-specific demethylase 1; also known as KDM1A) was identified. This discovery initiated an era in the understanding of chromatin dynamic regulation by active histone demethylation. Since then, the repertoire of histone demethylases has expanded, and our understanding of the molecular mechanisms, structures, and macromolecular complexes of the demethylases has grown significantly. Histone demethylases have emerged as important players in developmental processes and have been linked to human diseases and cancer. Studies highlighting the functions of LSD1 have significantly increased our understanding of chromatin biology and have revealed that new facets of histone demethylases remain to be discovered. In vitro methods have been developed to assess the biochemistry, structure, and enzymology of lysine demethylases. Here, we describe the methods of expression, purification, and biochemical analysis that we have successfully used in characterizing the functions of LSD1.
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pubmed_299_8396
|
pubmed_22_12722
|
PURPOSE
Rilpivirine, prescribed for the treatment of HIV infection, presents an important inter-individual pharmacokinetic variability. We aimed to determine population pharmacokinetic parameters of rilpivirine in adult HIV-infected patients and quantify their inter-individual variability.
METHODS
We conducted a multicenter, retrospective, and observational study in patients treated with the once-daily rilpivirine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine regimen. As part of routine therapeutic drug monitoring, rilpivirine concentrations were measured by UPLC-MS/MS. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using NONMEM software. Once the compartmental and random effects models were selected, covariates were tested to explain the inter-individual variability in pharmacokinetic parameters. The final model qualification was performed by both statistical and graphical methods.
RESULTS
We included 379 patients, resulting in the analysis of 779 rilpivirine plasma concentrations. Of the observed trough individual plasma concentrations, 24.4% were below the 50 ng/ml minimal effective concentration. A one-compartment model with first-order absorption best described the data. The estimated fixed effect for plasma apparent clearance and distribution volume were 9 L/h and 321 L, respectively, resulting in a half-life of 25.2 h. The common inter-individual variability for both parameters was 34.1% at both the first and the second occasions. The inter-individual variability of clearance was 30.3%.
CONCLUSIONS
Our results showed a terminal half-life lower than reported and a high proportion of patients with suboptimal rilpivirine concentrations, which highlights the interest of using therapeutic drug monitoring in clinical practice. The population analysis performed with data from "real-life" conditions resulted in reliable post hoc estimates of pharmacokinetic parameters, suitable for individualization of dosing regimen.
|
10.1007/s00228-017-2405-1
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pubmed_1107_12607
|
Urinary tract infection with gram-positive bacteria is common. Avenues for ingress of bacteria into the bladder include luminal and suburothelial infection. Terminally differentiated superficial urothelial cells lining the lumen of the bladder are often shed in response to infection. In contrast, infection-induced altered function of progenitors of urothelial cells residing in the basal layer of the urothelium is likely to have long lasting effects on the structure and function of the urothelium. The main objective of the present studies was to investigate in vitro the possibility that exposure to lipoteichoic acid, a cell wall component of the gram-positive Streptococcus faecalis (LT-2), stimulates basal urothelial cells to proliferate. To simulate conditions that restrict proliferation and inhibit terminal differentiation of urothelial cells in the basal layer, secondary cultures of urothelial cells (UT) were grown on collagen or fibronectin coated substrate in medium containing low levels of Ca2+ (0.2 mM) and growth factors (0.005% bovine pituitary extract [BPE]). Under these conditions, UT cultures displayed a highly reproducible colony size distribution, possibly due to the fact that colonies were progeny of basal cells with various proliferative potentials, retained in vitro. In cultures grown under growth-restricting conditions the majority of progenitors appeared to be quiescent, just like stem cells in the basal layer of the urothelium. Thus, the population of large colonies (more than six cells/colony), was small when a steady state of growth was achieved, 3-7 days after seeding. Growth factors (0.005-0.5% BPE) caused a dose-dependent increase in this population of large colonies. Moreover, treatment of UT grown under growth-restricting conditions (0.005% BPE) with LT-2 increased steady-state levels of the population of large colonies to levels obtained in cultures growing under optimal conditions with respect to growth factors. These results indicated that the subpopulation of progenitors, quiescent under normal conditions, could be stimulated to proliferate. Two lines of evidence were consistent with the possibility that treatment with LT-2 stimulated proliferation of the subpopulation of progenitors and that large colonies were the progeny of this subpopulation of single cells: (1) treatment with LT-2 increased the percentage of single cells that incorporated bromodeoxyuridine (i.e., proliferated) in a time-dependent manner. (2) An increase in the percentage of large colonies was found following LT-2-triggered proliferation of single cells. We propose that, under normal conditions, cells produced in response to LT-2-triggered proliferation of stem cells are removed from the system due to an increased rate of differentiation followed by apoptosis. Recurrent infection and inflammation may not allow these processes to proceed effectively, resulting in chronic injury to the bladder. Moreover, under conditions in which stem cells accumulate mutations that incapacitate their progeny to undergo apoptosis, LT-triggered proliferation could be a contributing factor to tumorigenesis.
|
10.1002/(SICI)1097-4652(199610)169:1<42::AID-JCP5>3.0.CO;2-E
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pubmed_437_20927
|
BACKGROUND
Defining the parameters that modulate vaccine responses in African populations will be imperative to design effective vaccines for protection against HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and dengue virus infections. This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of the patient-specific immune microenvironment to the response to the licensed yellow fever vaccine 17D (YF-17D) in an African cohort.
METHODS
We compared responses to YF-17D in 50 volunteers in Entebbe, Uganda, and 50 volunteers in Lausanne, Switzerland. We measured the CD8+ T cell and B cell responses induced by YF-17D and correlated them with immune parameters analyzed by flow cytometry prior to vaccination.
RESULTS
We showed that YF-17D-induced CD8+ T cell and B cell responses were substantially lower in immunized individuals from Entebbe compared with immunized individuals from Lausanne. The impaired vaccine response in the Entebbe cohort associated with reduced YF-17D replication. Prior to vaccination, we observed higher frequencies of exhausted and activated NK cells, differentiated T and B cell subsets and proinflammatory monocytes, suggesting an activated immune microenvironment in the Entebbe volunteers. Interestingly, activation of CD8+ T cells and B cells as well as proinflammatory monocytes at baseline negatively correlated with YF-17D-neutralizing antibody titers after vaccination. Additionally, memory T and B cell responses in preimmunized volunteers exhibited reduced persistence in the Entebbe cohort but were boosted by a second vaccination.
CONCLUSION
Together, these results demonstrate that an activated immune microenvironment prior to vaccination impedes efficacy of the YF-17D vaccine in an African cohort and suggest that vaccine regimens may need to be boosted in African populations to achieve efficient immunity.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
Registration is not required for observational studies.
FUNDING
This study was funded by Canada's Global Health Research Initiative, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and United States Agency for International Development.
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pubmed_437_20927
|
pubmed_402_73
|
OBJECTIVES
Mutation of p53 may play a role in manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis synovium, but several studies on p53 expression in synovial tissues of rheumatoid arthritis showed conflicting results. We investigated the amount and pattern of p53 positive cells in rheumatoid arthritis synovium, in comparison with osteoarthritis synovium, by using immunohistochemistry with two other monoclonal antibodies for p53.
METHODS
Synovial tissues from 9 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 5 patients with osteoarthritis were examined for p53 expression by immunohistochemistry with 2 monoclonal antibodies for p53, DO-1 and DO-7. Histologic features of inflammation were also scored and compared with p53 expression.
RESULTS
There was no significant difference between inflammatory scores in both groups. In the synovial tissues of rheumatoid arthritis patients, p53 positive cells were detected in 3 out of 9 samples(33%) and p53 expressions were restricted to inflammatory mononuclear cells, but synovial lining cells, subsynovial fibroblast-like cells and vascular endothelial cells were p53 negative. p53 expressions in osteoarthritis synovial tissues as control were observed in 2 out of 5 samples(40%) and the amount and pattern of p53 positive cells were comparable to those seen in rheumatoid arthritis synovial tissues. There was no demonstrable correlation between the synovial tissues of both groups with respect to inflammation scores and expression of p53 protein.
CONCLUSION
Our findings suggest that altered p53 expression may not play a significant role in the manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis synovium. However these data need to be strengthened by increasing the number of samples and molecular biology approaches.
|
10.3904/kjim.1999.14.1.59
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pubmed_1050_8820
|
BACKGROUND
Despite high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), early defibrillation, and antiarrhythmic medications, some patients remain in refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF) during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. These patients have worse outcomes compared to patients who respond to initial treatment. Double sequential external defibrillation (DSED) and vector change (VC) defibrillation have been proposed as viable options for patients in refractory VF. However, the evidence supporting the use of novel defibrillation strategies is inconclusive. The objective of this study is to compare two novel therapeutic defibrillation strategies (DSED and VC) against standard defibrillation for patients with treatment refractory VF or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
RESEARCH QUESTION
Among adult (≥ 18 years) patients presenting in refractory VF or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, does DSED or VC defibrillation result in greater rates of survival to hospital discharge compared to standard defibrillation?
METHODS
This will be a three-arm, cluster randomized trial with repeated crossover conducted in six regions of Ontario, Canada (Peel, Halton, Toronto, Simcoe, London, and Ottawa), over 3 years. All adult (≥ 18 years) patients presenting in refractory VF (defined as patients presenting in VF/pVT and remaining in VF/pVT after three consecutive standard defibrillation attempts during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest of presumed cardiac etiology will be treated by one of three strategies: (1) continued resuscitation using standard defibrillation, (2) resuscitation involving DSED, or (3) resuscitation involving VC (change of defibrillation pads from anterior-lateral to anterior-posterior pad position) defibrillation. The primary outcome will be survival to hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes will include return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), VF termination after the first interventional shock, VF termination inclusive of all interventional shocks, and number of defibrillation attempts to obtain ROSC. We will also perform an a priori subgroup analysis comparing rates of survival for those who receive "early DSED," or first DSED shock is shock 4-6, to those who receive "late DSED," or first DSED shock is shock 7 or later.
DISCUSSION
A well-designed randomized controlled trial employing a standardized approach to alternative defibrillation strategies early in the treatment of refractory VF is urgently required to determine if the treatments of DSED or VC defibrillation impact clinical outcomes.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04080986 . Registered on 6 September 2019.
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10.1186/s13063-020-04904-z
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pubmed_1141_71
|
Sarcomas account for fewer than 5% of all cancers of the uterine corpus. We present the last classification of The International Society of Gynecology Pathologists for pure sarcomas and also for mixed epithelial-nonepithelial tumors of the uterine corpus. The paper concerns with the study of a case of carcinosarcoma, treated in the III-rd Clinic of Gynecology from Iaşi. This morphological diagnostic represents the most common epithelial-nonepithelial tumor affecting the uterus. Immunohistochemistry with EMA confirms the theory of the combined tumor with a unique origin.
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pubmed_1141_71
|
pubmed_734_557
|
Background and Aim
The crocodile is a model for studying relevant sources of environmental contamination. They were determined an appropriate biomonitoring species for various toxins. The cytosolic and microsomal fraction of crocodiles plays a role in detoxifying xenobiotics. Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) metabolizes aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) to aflatoxin M1, while glutathione-S-transferase (GST) catalyzes carcinogenic agents. This study aimed to investigate the GST activity in various organs of Crocodylus siamensis. Further, the fate of microsomal and cytosolic fractions from various crocodile organs against AFB1-induced apoptosis in human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells was investigated.
Materials and Methods
The liver, lungs, intestines, and kidneys tissues from a 3-year-old crocodile (C. siamensis) (n=5) were collected. The cytosolic and microsomal fraction of all tissues was extracted, and protein concentrations were measured with a spectrophotometer. Subsequently, a comparison of GST activity from various organs was carried out by spectrophotometry, and the protective effects of CYP450 and GST activity from various crocodile organs were studied. In vitro AFB1-induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells was detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Comparisons between the metabolisms of the detoxification enzyme in organs were tested using the Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance and Dunn's multiple comparison tests. All kinetic parameters were analyzed using GraphPad Prism software version 5.01 (GraphPad Software Inc., San Diego, USA).
Results
Total GST activity in the liver was significantly higher than in the kidneys, intestines, and lungs (p<0.05, respectively). The highest GST pi (GSTP) activity was found in the liver, while the highest GST alpha-isoform activity was in the crocodile lung. The kinetics of total GST and GST mu activity in the liver had the highest velocity compared to other organs. In contrast, the kinetics of GSTP enzyme activity was the highest in the intestine. The in vitro study of microsome and cytosol extract against apoptosis induced by AFB1 revealed that the level of messenger RNA expression of the Bax and Bad genes of HepG2 cells decreased in the treatment group in a combination of cytosolic and microsomal fractions of the crocodile liver but not for Bcl-2. Interestingly, the downregulated expression of Bax and Bad genes was also found in the microsome and cytosol of crocodile kidneys.
Conclusion
The crocodile liver revealed very effective GST activity and expression of the highest kinetic velocity compared to other organs. The combination of liver microsomal and cytosolic fractions could be used to prevent cell apoptosis induced by AFB1. However, further study of the molecular approaches to enzyme activity and apoptosis prevention mechanisms should be carried out.
|
10.14202/vetworld.2022.46-54
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pubmed_787_12288
|
The purpose of this study was to characterize automatic remote couch adjustment and to assess the accuracy of automatic couch corrections following localization with cone-beam CT (CBCT). Automatic couch movement was evaluated through passive reflector markers placed on a phantom, tracked with an optical tracking system (OTS). Repeated couch movements in the lateral, cranial/caudal, and vertical directions were monitored through the OTS to assess velocity and response time. In conjunction with CBCT, remote table movement for patient displacements following initial setup was available on four linear accelerators (Elekta Synergy). After the initial CBCT scan assessment, patients with isocenter displacements that exceeded clinical protocol tolerances were corrected using remote automatic couch movement. A verification CBCT scan was acquired after any remote movements. These verification CBCT datasets were assessed for the following time periods: one month post clinical installation, and six months later to monitor remote couch correction stability. Residual error analysis was evaluated using the verification scans. The mean +/- standard deviations (mu +/- sigma) of couch movement based on phantom measurements with the OTS were 0.16 +/- 0.48 mm, 0.32 +/- 0.30 mm, 0.11 +/- 0.12 mm in the L/R, A/P, and S/I couch directions, respectively. The fastest maximum velocity was observed in the inferior direction at 10.5 mm/s, and the slowest maximum velocity in the left direction at 3.6 mm/s. From 1134 verification CBCT registrations for 207 patients, the residual error for each translational direction from each month evaluated are reported. The mu was less than 0.3 mm in all directions, and sigma was in the order of 1 mm. At a 3 mm threshold, 21 of the 1134 fractions (2%) exceeded tolerance, attributed to patient intrafraction movement. Remote automatic couch movement is reliable and effective for adjusting patient position with a precision of approximately 1mm. Patient residual error observed in this study demonstrates that displacement is minimal after remote couch adjustment.
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10.1120/jacmp.v10i4.3056
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pubmed_564_21973
|
Flash-frozen biopsies obtained from surgical specimens of three adenomatous polyps and 22 colorectal adenocarcinomas (19 primary and three metastatic) were tested by immunohistochemistry for CD44 expression using F10-44-2 monoclonal antibody. CD44 positivity was correlated with proliferative status defined by Ki-67 monoclonal antibody reactivity. In normal colonic mucosa, CD44 was expressed in the proliferative zone of crypts. In tumours, CD44 expression was associated with proliferative areas irrespective of tumour stage or differentiation. Non-proliferating areas of the carcinomatous epithelium did not express CD44 although non-proliferating stromal lymphoid tissue did. There was no apparent association with tumour progression. F10-44-2-defined CD44 is consistently expressed during proliferation by normal colorectal epithelial cells and by both benign and malignant colorectal tumour cells.
|
10.1016/0959-8049(93)90461-n
|
pubmed_908_12816
|
BACKGROUND
Fibroblast apoptosis is a critical component of normal repair and the acquisition of an apoptosis-resistant phenotype contributes to the pathogenesis of fibrotic repair. Fibroblasts from fibrotic lungs of humans and mice demonstrate resistance to apoptosis induced by Fas-ligand and prior studies have shown that susceptibility to apoptosis is enhanced when Fas (CD95) expression is increased in these cells. Moreover, prior work shows that Fas expression in fibrotic lung fibroblasts is reduced by epigenetic silencing of the Fas promoter. However, the mechanisms by which microenvironmental stimuli such as TGF-β1 and substrate stiffness affect fibroblast Fas expression are not well understood.
METHODS
Primary normal human lung fibroblasts (IMR-90) were cultured on tissue culture plastic or on polyacrylamide hydrogels with Young's moduli to recapitulate the compliance of normal (400 Pa) or fibrotic (6400 Pa) lung tissue and treated with or without TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL) in the presence or absence of protein kinase inhibitors and/or inflammatory cytokines. Expression of Fas was assessed by quantitative real time RT-PCR, ELISA and Western blotting. Soluble Fas (sFas) was measured in conditioned media by ELISA. Apoptosis was assessed using the Cell Death Detection Kit and by Western blotting for cleaved PARP.
RESULTS
Fas expression and susceptibility to apoptosis was diminished in fibroblasts cultured on 6400 Pa substrates compared to 400 Pa substrates. TGF-β1 reduced Fas mRNA and protein in a time- and dose-dependent manner dependent on focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Surprisingly, TGF-β1 did not significantly alter cell-surface Fas expression, but did stimulate secretion of sFas. Finally, enhanced Fas expression and increased susceptibility to apoptosis was induced by combined treatment with TNF-α/IFN-γ and was not inhibited by TGF-β1.
CONCLUSIONS
Soluble and matrix-mediated pro-fibrotic stimuli promote fibroblast resistance to apoptosis by decreasing Fas transcription while stimulating soluble Fas secretion. These findings suggest that distinct mechanisms regulating Fas expression in fibroblasts may serve different functions in the complex temporal and spatial evolution of normal and fibrotic wound-repair responses.
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10.1186/s12931-018-0801-4
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pubmed_1141_4433
|
The symptoms of the flu, such as fever, drowsiness, and malaise, are the sole means by which this common clinical syndrome is defined. The syndrome is usually the first clinical manifestation of both acute bacterial and viral infections. In the case of acute bacterial infections, several proinflammatory cytokines induced by bacterial products have been implicated as the causative agents of the flu syndrome. Viruses induce similar cytokines to bacteria, plus substantial amounts of interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha), although the direct association of these cytokines with the viral flu syndrome is less clear. Furthermore, the viral inducer(s) of cytokines has not been defined. The best candidate cytokine inducer associated with a majority of viral infections is virus-associated double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). This review examines the essential physical properties of toxic dsRNA, the cytokines induced by it, its viral and cellular sources, evidence for its presence in infected cells, its quantities in normal and infected cells, its cytotoxic mechanisms, and its cell-penetration properties. Toxic effects of viruses and dsRNA are compared. Energetics and extraction artifact issues are also discussed. Whereas most research on dsRNA toxicity has employed synthetic dsRNA, studies with virus-associated dsRNA are featured when available. Finally, a model for how viral dsRNA might initiate systemic disease is presented.
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10.1089/107999000312397
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pubmed_311_8251
|
Pp4ERF24 and Pp12ERF96 fine tune blue light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis via interacting with PpMYB114 and promoting the interaction between PpMYB114 and PpbHLH3, which enhances the expression of PpMYB114-induced PpUFGT. The red coloration of pear fruit is attributed to anthocyanin accumulation, which is transcriptionally regulated by the MYB-bHLH-WD40 complex. A number of ethylene response factors (ERF) have been identified to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in different plants. In pear, several ERF transcription factor genes were identified to be potentially involved in the light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis according to transcriptome data. But the molecular mechanism of these ERFs underlying the regulation of anthocyanin accumulation is unknown. In this study, exposure of 'Red Zaosu' pear, a mutant of 'Zaosu' pear, to blue light significantly induced the anthocyanin accumulation by increasing the expression levels of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes. Gene expression analysis confirmed that the expression of Pp4ERF24 and Pp12ERF96 genes were up-regulated in the process of blue light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis. Yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay revealed that Pp4ERF24 and Pp12ERF96 interacted with PpMYB114, but not with PpMYB10. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay demonstrated that the interaction between these two ERFs and PpMYB114 enhanced the interaction between PpMYB114 and PpbHLH3. Further analysis by dual luciferase assay verified that these two ERFs increased the up-regulation of PpMYB114-mediated PpUFGT expression. Furthermore, co-transformation of Pp12ERF96 with PpMYB114 and PpbHLH3 in tobacco leaves led to enhanced anthocyanin accumulation. Transient overexpression of Pp4ERF24 or Pp12ERF96 alone in 'Red Zaosu' pear fruit also induced anthocyanin biosynthesis in pear peel. Our findings provide insights into a mechanism involving the synergistic interaction of ERFs with PpMYB114 to regulate light-dependent coloration and anthocyanin biosynthesis in pear fruits.
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10.1007/s11103-018-0802-1
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pubmed_926_18039
|
Two recent papers in Science (Jiang and Berger, 2017 and Yang et al., 2017) reveal that an epigenetic mechanism, mediated by polycomb repressor complex 2 (PRC2), induces flowering after prolonged cold. This repression is biphasic, requiring nucleation and propagation; and, strikingly, appears to be intrinsically linked with DNA replication.
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10.1016/j.devcel.2017.09.004
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pubmed_409_10896
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Insulin secretion in response to glucose, glucose-stimulated insulin biosynthesis and insulin content was studied in pancreatic islets freshly isolated from male Wistar rats (150-200 g) with galactosamine-induced hepatitis. Animals were sacrificed by decapitation 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours after a single intraperitoneal injection of 500 mg/kg of galactosamine. Isolated islets prepared by collagenase method were perifused in Swim's medium with 20 mM glucose at 37 degrees C up to 30 minutes. Samples were taken at 2-10 min intervals for insulin assay. Insulin biosynthesis was assessed by the incorporation of [3H]-leucine into immunoprecipitable products (insulin and proinsulin) in pancreatic islets after 120 min incubation with 20 mM glucose. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was significantly increased at 6, 12 and 24 hours following the administration of galactosamine compared to control. The rate of insulin biosynthesis was stimulated to 170, 138 and 185% of control level 3, 6 and 12 hours after galactosamine-treatment, respectively. Significant increase in insulin content of islets was found 24 hours after galactosamine treatment, following the increased insulin biosynthesis. The present results indicate that pancreatic B cell function is activated in early stage of acute liver injury.
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10.1055/s-2007-1004911
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pubmed_917_6143
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A prospective study was conducted to test the reliability of at-home observation of head trauma victims in the rural South among a population of low educational level. During a four-month period, 99 patients entered and 90 patients finished the study. In all cases, an individual was identified as willing to accept the responsibility of observing the patient. The observer received written and verbal instructions to stay with the patient for 24 hours and to wake the patient every four hours during that time. Patients then were contacted seven to nine days after their injury and questioned as to their present symptoms and observer compliance. For patients under 15 years of age (n = 34), the observer was questioned. Thirteen percent of the observers did not remain with the patient for 24 hours, 16% passed the responsibility of observation to another individual, and 71% awoke the patient as instructed. Observers who were not the patient's mother were significantly more likely to abandon the patient during the first 24-hour period. Observer compliance for patient awakening significantly decreased with the increase in patient age. When spouses and live-in friends were combined as a group of observers and compared with parents, the parents awoke the patient significantly more often. The authors conclude that in this population, at-home observation of head trauma patients, particularly those more than 25 years old, may not be reliable. Special attention should be directed toward the care of these patients.
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10.1016/s0196-0644(88)80297-x
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pubmed_164_11962
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Gas chromatographic-mass spectroscopic evidence is presented for the presence of guanosine-3': 5'-monophosphate (cGMP) in maize seedlings. The amount of cGMP (35-72 pmol g(-1) fresh weight) was quantified as a tetra-silyl derivative using gas-chromatographic detection with reference to a silylated standard of authentic cGMP. Gas-chromatographic separation of tri-silyl adenosine-3': 5'-monophosphate and tetra-silyl cGMP is demonstrated.
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10.1007/BF00393178
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pubmed_394_962
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Control of wound infections, especially those associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is necessary for the wound healing process. Selection of topical agents should be based not only on their ability to eliminate pathogenic bacteria, but also on whether they may be detrimental to tissue repair. Two randomized, controlled in vivo studies using different porcine models were conducted to evaluate the effect of a topical oak bark ointment (treatment) on 1) methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in partial-thickness wounds, and 2) healing of second-degree burn wounds. Silver sulfadiazine, oak bark ointment vehicle control (polyethylene glycol), and no treatment (untreated wounds) were used as controls in both studies. In the first study, 108 partial-thickness wounds in three animals were inoculated with a methicillin-resistant S. aureus suspension (average 6.96+/-0.4 log CFU/mL) and covered for 24 hours with a polyurethane film. After polyurethane film removal, treatments were applied twice daily and nine wounds per day (three per animal) from each treatment group were cultured after 24, 48, and 72 hours. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus colonization was lowest in the active treatment group at all three assessment times and after 72 hours ranged from (5.01+/-1.1 CFU/mL) in the treatment to (6.20+/-0.8 CFU/mL) in the vehicle control treated wounds. In the second study, treatments were applied twice daily to second-degree burn wounds (n = 720) on eight animals. Daily epithelialization assessment (n = five wounds) was performed on day 7 through 10 after wounding. At every assessment time, the proportion of wounds healed was higher in the treatment than in the control treatment groups - days 8, 9, and 10 (active versus vehicle and untreated), P <0.01; days 9 and 10 (vehicle versus untreated), P <0.001. The oak bark formulation studied reduces methicillin-resistant S aureus contamination and facilitates healing in vivo. Research to ascertain the importance of these findings for clinical practice is needed.
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pubmed_394_962
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pubmed_394_3025
|
The effect of different gases, CO(2) concentration, and separation of CO(2) from reaction system on photo-fermentation H(2) production was investigated by batch culture in this study. Experimental results showed that different gases (Ar,N(2),CO(2), and air) as gas phase have obviously affected on photo-H(2) production and a high concentration of CO(2) can inhibit the growth and H(2) evolution of Rhodopseudomonas faecalis RLD-53. When CO(2) concentration at 5%, cell increased most rapidly the specific growth rate of 0.489 g/l/h and the specific growth rate fell to be 0.265 g/l/h when CO(2) concentration at 40%. However, the growth of RLD-53 at CO(2) concentration of 60-100% was almost completely inhibited. At CO(2) concentrations of 5% and 10%, the maximum H(2) yield was 2.54 and 2.59 mol-H(2)/mol acetate, respectively, and it was similar with the control (2.61 mol-H(2)/mol acetate). H(2) not produced when CO(2) concentration at 60-100%. In conclusion, separation of CO(2) from reaction system can stimulate H(2) production in the entire photo-H(2) production process and H(2) yield increased about 12.8-18.85% than the control.
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10.1016/j.biortech.2008.08.027
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pubmed_216_17094
|
PURPOSE
Our previous analyses suggested that surgery in the summertime with higher vitamin D intake is associated with improved survival in patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We further investigated the results of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in NSCLC patients.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Among 447 patients with early-stage NSCLC, data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for age, sex, stage, smoking, and treatment.
RESULTS
The median follow-up time was 72 months (range, 0.2 to 141), with 161 recurrences and 234 deaths. For OS, the adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) was 0.74 (95% CI, 0.50 to 1.10; Ptrend = .07) for the highest versus lowest quartile of 25(OH)D levels. Stratified by stage, a strong association was observed among stage IB-IIB patients (AHR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24 to 0.82; Ptrend = .002), but not among stage IA patients (AHR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.62 to 1.96; Ptrend = .53). Similar effects of 25(OH)D levels were observed among the 309 patients with dietary information (AHR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.46 to 1.17; Ptrend = .19). For the joint effects of 25(OH)D level and vitamin D intake, the combined high 25(OH)D levels and high vitamin D intake (by median) were associated with better survival than the combined low 25(OH)D levels and low vitamin D intake (AHR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.98; Ptrend = .06). Again, stronger associations were observed among stage IB-IIB than IA patients. Similar effects of 25(OH)D levels and vitamin D intake were observed for RFS.
CONCLUSION
Vitamin D may be associated with improved survival of patients with early-stage NSCLC, particularly among stage IB-IIB patients.
|
10.1200/JCO.2006.07.5358
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pubmed_832_25197
|
The migration of sediment phosphorus (P) could be affected by the existence of aquatic plants. To explore the effects of aquatic plants on the P sorption-desorption behaviors in the sediments, sediment in Caohai wetland was collected and cultured with the submerged plant (Hydrilla verticillata) and emerged plant (Scripus triqueter). Then the sorption and desorption experiments were performed, and physicochemical properties, P fractions, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) characteristics were evaluated. Results showed that the treated sediments exhibited similar P sorption kinetic process fitted well with the two-compartment first-order model. Nevertheless, H. verticillata cultured sediment could be well described by the modified Langmuir isotherm model, while S. triqueter cultured sediment fitted the modified Freundlich equations well. The obvious changing P fractions in cultured sediments were BD-P and NaOH-SRP during sorption. H. verticillata and S. triqueter displayed different sorption-desorption behaviors by altering BD-P, humification index, fluorescence intensity, and PARAFAC component contents in sediments. Compared to raw sediment, H. verticillata presented higher P sorption and lower P release from sediments by decreasing BD-P and increasing DOM (fulvic acid-like and humic-like components) content, while S. triqueter showed adverse P sorption and release effects by reducing DOM components. The growth of submerged plants was suggested to make a positive influence on the high efficiency of P retention capacity and low release risk.
|
10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.129549
|
pubmed_1023_18236
|
Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured in a mixed population of 12,803 apparently healthy employed people. Mean IOP was 13.5 +/- 3.3 mmHg, without sex difference. Frequency distribution demonstrated skewness towards high values. IOP weakly correlated with age (R = 0.06), and older subgroups showed more marked skewness, but further analysis showed this effect to be spurious. The correlations of IOP with heart rate and with systolic blood pressure were small, but stronger than with age (R = .16 and .15, respectively). Moreover, when corrected for heart rate, the effect of age was nullified. Other factors found to be correlated with IOP included blood glucose and hemoglobin concentration, smoking, and height. None of these factors significantly increased the correlation between IOP and heart rate or blood pressure, and the skewness was not fully explained by any of these factors or their combinations. The value of the epidemiologic approach to detection of factors responsible for ocular hypertension is stressed.
|
10.1016/s0161-6420(84)34282-8
|
pubmed_499_24051
|
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
Neonatal seizures are one of the most challenging problems for experts across the globe. Although there is no consensus on the "ideal" treatment of neonatal seizures, phenobarbitone has been the drug of choice for decades. Unfortunately, although extensively studied in adults and children, levetiracetam lacks rigorous evaluation in the neonatal population, despite its frequent use as an off-label drug. The objective of this open-label, randomized, active-control, single-center, pragmatic trial was to compare the effectiveness of levetiracetam with phenobarbitone for term asphyxiated infants as a first-line drug.
METHODS
The participants included in this study were inborn term asphyxiated infants with seizures in the first 48 hours of life. Infants satisfying the inclusion criteria were randomized to receive levetiracetam (20 mg/kg) or phenobarbitone (20 mg/kg). Clinical seizure control was noted. Infants who failed to respond to the primary drug were given the other group drug.
RESULTS
Of 103 eligible infants, 82 were randomly assigned (44 levetiracetam group, 38 phenobarbitone group). Clinical seizure control with the primary drug and maintenance of the same for 24 hours was observed in 29 infants (65.9%) in the levetiracetam group and 13 infants (34.2%) in the phenobarbitone group (P < .05, relative risk 0.52, 95% confidence interval 0.32-0.84). Of the infants in the phenobarbitone group who did not respond to the primary drug, 57.8% were controlled after adding levetiracetam.
CONCLUSION
Levetiracetam can be used with effectiveness as a first- and second-line drug in asphyxiated term infants. A more extensive study on pharmacokinetics and optimal regimen is required.
|
10.1542/hpeds.2021-006415
|
pubmed_21_18606
|
Traumatic injury resulting in isolated dysfunction of the hypoglossal nerve is relatively rare and described in few case reports. We present a patient with isolated unilateral palsy of the twelfth cranial nerve (CN XII) resulting from recurrent airway intervention following extensive burn injuries. The differential diagnosis for paralysis of the CN XII is also discussed herein. This case illustrates the significance of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and the need for refined airway manipulation in patients that require multiple endotracheal intubations.
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pubmed_21_18606
|
pubmed_123_5850
|
Day-old male meat-type chicks were fed a commercial starter diet supplemented with 2 levels of enzyme preparations containing amylase and proteases up to 14 d of age. Enzyme supplementation had no significant effect on feed intake or growth rate, and was accompanied by a significant decrease in gizzard content and small intestine weight. The intestine contents increased and this increase was accompanied by a significant decrease in its pH. Enzyme supplementation depressed the activity of chymotrypsin in the pancreas and the activity of amylase, trypsin and chymotrypsin in the intestinal contents. Some carry-over effects were observed on d 42, 4 weeks after the cessation of the enzyme supplements. These were mainly a significant depression in the activity of trypsin in the intestinal contents. In a balance study, diets supplemented with 0,250 and 1,000 micrograms/kg enzyme preparations were supplied. Exogenous enzyme supplements had no significant effect on the digestibility of all the nutrients studied except for the highest level of enzyme supplementation, which improved slightly but consistently the digestibility of amino acids. Some age effects were observed, mainly a decrease in the digestibility of fat and starch, and in the ME of the diet from weeks 1 to 2 followed by an increase during week 3. Protein digestibility and retention of nitrogen decreased with age.
|
10.1051/rnd:19950208
|
pubmed_106_3868
|
BACKGROUND
Psychological treatments for procedural distress have shown good results in pediatric oncology and several institutions recommend their implementation to reduce the procedural distress, anxiety and pain associated with painful medical procedures.
OBJECTIVES
To assess the results of a psychological intervention in the first child participating in the study "Prospective Analysis of a Psychological Program for Coping with Medical Procedures in Pediatric Oncology".
METHODS
We performed a single-case study, using pain and anxiety self-reports by the child and an observational scale in a psychological intervention with the following components: Breathing exercises, imagery, reinforcement, and behavioral rehearsal.
RESULTS
The psychological intervention decreased procedural distress, anticipatory anxiety and pain. The 3-year-old child was able to give pain and anxiety self-reports using appropiate tools.
CONCLUSIONS
The potential benefits of this kind of intervention are discussed, and some recommendations for future research are proposed.
|
10.1016/s1695-4033(03)78159-4
|
pubmed_954_22008
|
OBJECTIVES
Prostate cancer mortality (PCM) in the USA is among the lowest in the world, whereas PCM in England is among the highest in Europe. This paper aims to assess the association of variation in use of definitive therapy on risk-adjusted PCM in England as compared with the USA.
DESIGN
Observational study.
SETTING
Cancer registry data from England and the USA.
PARTICIPANTS
Men diagnosed with non-metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) in England and the USA between 2004 and 2008.
OUTCOME MEASURES
Competing-risks survival analyses to estimate subhazard ratios (SHR) of PCM adjusted for age, ethnicity, year of diagnosis, Gleason score (GS) and clinical tumour (cT) stage.
RESULTS
222,163 men were eligible for inclusion. Compared with American patients, English patients were more likely to present at an older age (70-79 years: England 44.2%, USA 29.3%, p<0.001), with higher tumour stage (cT3-T4: England 25.1%, USA 8.6%, p<0.001) and higher GS (GS 8-10: England 20.7%, USA 11.2%, p<0.001). They were also less likely to receive definitive therapy (England 38%, USA 77%, p<0.001). English patients were more likely to die of PCa (SHR=1.9, 95% CI 1.7 to 2.0, p<0.001). However, this difference was no longer statistically significant when also adjusted for use of definitive therapy (SHR=1.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.1, p=0.3).
CONCLUSIONS
Risk-adjusted PCM is significantly higher in England compared with the USA. This difference may be explained by less frequent use of definitive therapy in England.
|
10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006805
|
pubmed_1090_2462
|
A laboratory cat died 12 days after intraperitoneal inoculation of a 1 ml suspension containing 1.5 x 10(6) blood mononuclear cells from a Florida panther (Felis concolor coryi). Gross, histologic and ultrastructural investigations revealed the cause of death to be infection by Cytauxzoon felis, a protozoal parasite known to cause a rapidly fatal disease (cytauxzoonosis) in domestic cats. The bobcat (Felis rufus) has been identified as a natural host for C. felis. This report implicates the Florida panther as another possible host for C. felis.
|
10.7589/0090-3558-27.2.342
|
pubmed_793_2431
|
Maneuvers that reflexly increase vagal tone were deployed to terminate the tachycardia in 68 consecutive patients with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. The order and success rate of the protocol was as follows: 57 episodes were terminated with carotid sinus pressure alone or after pretreatment with edrophonium, 5 were terminated with the Valsalva maneuvers and 6 were terminated with phenylephrine. Potency testing showed that phenylephrine evoked the greatest increase in vagal tone. All cases demonstrated slowing of tachycardia ranging from 40 to 220 ms +/- standard error of the mean (mean 79.0 +/- 3.8 ms) followed by abrupt termination. Pauses after termination ranged from 900 to 3,300 ms (mean 1,683.8 +/- 66.6) with 54 patients showing pauses of 2,000 ms or less. Termination was highly reproducible showing an overall success of 148 (92 percent) of 160 trials among 22 selected cases. The extent of increased vagal tone needed to terminate paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia was raised by augmented sympathetic tone (infusion of isoproterenol) and decreased by reduced sympathetic tone (pretreatment with propranolol). Thus, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia can be rapidly, safety and consistently terminated by maneuvers that reflexly increase vagal tone.
|
10.1016/0002-9149(80)90517-2
|
pubmed_186_18534
|
SERIES OUTLINE
This is the second article in a two-part series on urinalysis in the cat. The specific focus is urine microscopic examination. Part 1, which appeared in the March 2016 issue, discussed urine macroscopic examination.
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE
Urinalysis is an essential procedure in feline medicine but often little attention is paid to optimising the data yielded or minimising factors that can affect the results.
CLINICAL CHALLENGES
For the best results, appropriately collected urine should be prepared promptly by specialist laboratory personnel for the relevant tests and assessed by a clinical pathologist. This is invariably impractical in clinical settings but careful attention can minimise artefacts and allow maximum useful information to be obtained from this seemingly simple process.
AUDIENCE
Clinical pathologists would be familiar with the information provided in this article, but it is rarely available to general or specialist practitioners, and both groups can potentially benefit.
EQUIPMENT
Most of the required equipment is routinely available to veterinarians. However, instructions have been provided to give practical alternatives for specialist procedures in some instances.
EVIDENCE BASE
The evidence base for feline microscopic urinalysis is quite poor and information has largely been extrapolated from the human literature. Information from feline studies has been included where available. In addition, practical clinicopathological and clinical observations are provided.
|
10.1177/1098612X16643249
|
pubmed_115_14303
|
We describe a new nasal stent for the treatment of bilateral congenital choanal atresia. The stent is made up of reinforced endotracheal tube mounted on a portex carrier tube. It potentially causes less internal crusting and stent blockage and is secured without sutures. It remains patent for at least 4 weeks. We have used the stent successfully in six patients between 1998 and 2004 at Leeds General Infirmary and present the data collected retrospectively. The current practice in the UK for treatment and stenting for congenital choanal atresia was investigated by a prospective internet based questionnaire sent to 18 consultant paediatric otolaryngologists of whom 12 (67%) responded. Their experience and results are reported. The literature has been reviewed.
|
10.1016/j.ijporl.2005.09.029
|
pubmed_877_3596
|
Blood leucocytes segmentation in medical images is viewed as difficult process due to the variability of blood cells concerning their shape and size and the difficulty towards determining location of Blood Leucocytes. Physical analysis of blood tests to recognize leukocytes is tedious, time-consuming and liable to error because of the various morphological components of the cells. Segmentation of medical imagery has been considered as a difficult task because of complexity of images, and also due to the non-availability of leucocytes models which entirely captures the probable shapes in each structures and also incorporate cell overlapping, the expansive variety of the blood cells concerning their shape and size, various elements influencing the outer appearance of the blood leucocytes, and low Static Microscope Image disparity from extra issues outcoming about because of noise. We suggest a strategy towards segmentation of blood leucocytes using static microscope images which is a resultant of three prevailing systems of computer vision fiction: enhancing the image, Support vector machine for segmenting the image, and filtering out non ROI (region of interest) on the basis of Local binary patterns and texture features. Every one of these strategies are modified for blood leucocytes division issue, in this manner the subsequent techniques are very vigorous when compared with its individual segments. Eventually, we assess framework based by compare the outcome and manual division. The findings outcome from this study have shown a new approach that automatically segments the blood leucocytes and identify it from a static microscope images. Initially, the method uses a trainable segmentation procedure and trained support vector machine classifier to accurately identify the position of the ROI. After that, filtering out non ROI have proposed based on histogram analysis to avoid the non ROI and chose the right object. Finally, identify the blood leucocytes type using the texture feature. The performance of the foreseen approach has been tried in appearing differently in relation to the system against manual examination by a gynaecologist utilizing diverse scales. A total of 100 microscope images were used for the comparison, and the results showed that the proposed solution is a viable alternative to the manual segmentation method for accurately determining the ROI. We have evaluated the blood leucocytes identification using the ROI texture (LBP Feature). The identification accuracy in the technique used is about 95.3%., with 100 sensitivity and 91.66% specificity.
|
10.1007/s10916-018-0912-y
|
pubmed_489_16784
|
BACKGROUND
Intravenous magnesium sulfate (MgSO(4)) in children and adults with refractory acute asthma is effective, but therapy may be limited by systemic hypotension that might be avoided with the aerosol route. Inhaled MgSO(4) has a relatively high dose (volume) requirement. This, plus the use of inefficient delivery systems, may explain the lack of efficacy of inhaled MgSO(4) in some studies. An in vitro study suggested that the AeroNeb Go with the Idehaler Pocket and a face mask would deliver 16 mg/min of MgSO(4) to the respiratory system in older children, and approximately a fifth for toddlers, but no in vivo data exist.
METHODS
Saline mixed with a radiolabel was used as a proxy for the 100 mg/mL MgSO(4) solution. In 5 adult males the rate of deposition was measured using nuclear medicine techniques. The radiolabel deposition below the vocal cords was converted to the rate of deposition of MgSO(4) and compared to the results from an in vitro model using adult respiratory patterns.
RESULTS
The mean ± SD rate of deposition was 12.6 ± 1.9 mg/min. The reasons for this lower deposition, compared to the in vitro estimate, was most likely the exhalation of anatomical dead space aerosol, which would have been captured on the inspiratory filter in vitro.
CONCLUSIONS
These in vivo data confirm the deposition data predicted in the in vitro study, although caution should be used in extrapolating the results to children. This device appears suitable for the clinical trial of inhaled MgSO(4) in children and adults with refractory asthma.
|
10.4187/respcare.02455
|
pubmed_926_4742
|
Tsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae) have medical significance as the obligate vectors of African trypanosomes. In addition, tsetse harbor a simple gut microbiota. A predominant gut microbiota member, the Gammaproteobacterium Wigglesworthia spp., has coevolved with tsetse for a significant portion of Glossina radiation proving critical to tsetse fitness. Although multiple roles have been described for Wigglesworthia within colony flies, little research has been dedicated towards functional characterization within wild tsetse. Here, dual RNA-Seq was performed to characterize the tsetse-Wigglesworthia symbiosis within flies captured in Nguruman, Kenya. A significant correlation in Gene Ontology (GO) distribution between tsetse and Wigglesworthia was observed, with homogeneous enrichment in metabolic and transport categories, likely supporting a hallmark of the symbiosis-bidirectional metabolic exchange. Within field flies, highly transcribed Wigglesworthia loci included those involved in B vitamin synthesis and in substrate translocation, including amino acid transporters and multidrug efflux pumps, providing a molecular means for interaction. The universal expression of several Wigglesworthia and G. pallidipes orthologs, putatively involved in nutrient provisioning and resource allocation, was confirmed in sister tsetse species. These transcriptional profiles varied through host age and mating status likely addressing varying symbiont demands and also confirming their global importance within Glossina. This study, not only supports symbiont nutrient provisioning roles, but also serves as a foundation for insight into novel roles and molecular mechanisms associated with vector-microbiota interactions. The role of symbiont B vitamin provisioning towards impacting host epigenetics is discussed. Knowledge of vector-microbiota interactions may lead to the discovery of novel targets in pest control.
|
10.1093/gbe/evx175
|
pubmed_615_24016
|
5-Halomethylfurfurals can be considered as platform chemicals of high reactivity making them useful for the preparation of a variety of important compounds. In this study, a one-pot route for the conversion of carbohydrates into 5-chloromethylfurfural (CMF) in a simple and efficient (HCl-H3PO4/CHCl3) biphasic system has been investigated. Monosaccharides such as D-fructose, D-glucose and sorbose, disaccharides such as sucrose and cellobiose and polysaccharides such as cellulose were successfully converted into CMF in satisfactory yields under mild conditions. Our data shows that when using D-fructose the optimum yield of CMF was about 47%. This understanding allowed us to extent our work to biomaterials, such as wood powder and wood pulps with yields of CMF obtained being comparable to those seen with some of the enumerated mono and disaccharides. Overall, the proposed (HCl-H3PO4/CHCl3) optimized biphasic system provides a simple, mild, and cost-effective means to prepare CMF from renewable resources.
|
10.3390/molecules18077675
|
pubmed_506_4414
|
PURPOSE
The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) on vessel patency in close proximity to the ablation zone.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Between January 2010 and November 2013, 101 patients underwent percutaneous IRE procedures using the NanoKnife for primary and metastatic tumors in different organs. Age ranged from 24 to 83 years. A total of 129 lesions were treated. [liver (100), pancreas (18), kidney (3), pelvis (1), aorto-caval lymph nodes (2), adrenal (2), lung (1), retroperitoneal (1), surgical bed of a prior Whipple procedure (1)]. Post treatment contrast-enhanced CT and MRI scans were reviewed to evaluate caliber, patency, and flow defects of vessels in close proximity to the ablation zone (defined as vessels within 0-1 cm from the treatment zone).
RESULTS
A total of 158 vessels were examined for patency on follow-up. The mean distance of the vessel from the treatment zone was 2.3 ± 2.5 mm. Ten vessels within the treatment zone were encased by tumor. Mean tumor size was 2.7 + 1.5 cm. Overall mean follow-up was 10.3 months. Abnormal vascular changes were noted in 7 of 158 (4.4%) vessels. No significant association was found between distances from the treatment zone and presence of narrowing/thrombosis at the follow-up imaging. (Mann-Whitney U, p = 0.772; logistic regression: p = 0.593; odds ratio: 0.908; CI 0.637-1.294).
CONCLUSION
This study demonstrates safety of IRE for the treatment of tumors near the large blood vessels and tumors already encasing the vessels. Further studies to substantiate these findings are essential to validate this crucial advantage of IRE.
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10.1007/s00270-014-0988-9
|
pubmed_227_2589
|
The objective is to cast light on diagnosis and catastasis, course, and comorbidity as concerned with catatonia in patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) with respect to long-term prospective follow-up. Eleven patients (all male) were enrolled. The mean age and the mean follow-up duration were 27.6 years (standard deviation (SD) 5.5) and 18.7 years (SD 8.7), respectively. The mean IQ was 27 (SD 16.4). Information was garnered from medical case records; current examination and observation of patients, interview of parents, and questionnaires completed by parents or other caretakers. Informed consent was obtained from the parents. Criteria for catatonia in this study were: (1) abrupt stop of movements and maintenance of immobility or bizarre posture beginning in adolescence and early adult life, (2) such a cataleptic state had continued for at least several minutes and appeared many times a day to the point of interfering with daily activities. We described two typical catatonic cases of ASDs. The average onset age was 19 years (SD 6). In all cases, our diagnostic criteria of catatonia evaluating at worse are fully compatible with those of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed. (DSM-VI). In 8 out of 11, the onset of catatonia was clearly preceded by the appearance of slowness in movements accompanying the exacerbation of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Catatonia was also found to have some connection with Tourette syndrome (3 cases), adjustment disorders (N=1), and depressive mood disorders (N=1). In one case, the manifestations of catatonia had to be distinguished from parkinsonism caused by antipsychotics. Catatonia in ASDs seems to be a chronic condition in most cases. However, there were also a few cases in which catatonia repeatedly aggravated over short spans of time. Catatonia in ASDs may be considered an epiphenomenon of ASDs or a manifestation of comorbidity in adolescence or early adulthood.
|
10.1016/S0074-7742(05)72003-1
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pubmed_824_12220
|
Allosteric and transmembrane (TM) signaling are among the major questions of structural biology. Here, we review and discuss signal transduction in four-helical TM bundles, focusing on histidine kinases and chemoreceptors found in two-component systems. Previously, piston, scissors, and helical rotation have been proposed as the mechanisms of TM signaling. We discuss theoretically possible conformational changes and examine the available experimental data, including the recent crystallographic structures of nitrate/nitrite sensor histidine kinase NarQ and phototaxis system NpSRII:NpHtrII. We show that TM helices can flex at multiple points and argue that the various conformational changes are not mutually exclusive, and often are observed concomitantly, throughout the TM domain or in its part. The piston and scissoring motions are the most prominent motions in the structures, but more research is needed for definitive conclusions.
|
10.1002/bies.201700197
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pubmed_780_15227
|
The article that follows is part of the Schizophrenia Bulletin's ongoing First Person Account series. We hope that mental health professionals-the Bulletin's primary audience-will take this opportunity to learn about the issues and difficulties confronted by consumers of mental health care. In addition, we hope that these accounts will give patients and families a better sense of not being alone in confronting the problems that can be anticipated by persons with serious emotional difficulties. We welcome other contributions from patients, ex-patients, or family members. Our major editorial requirement is that such contributions be clearly written and organized, and that a novel or unique aspect of schizophrenia be described, with special emphasis on points that will be important for professionals. Clinicians who see articulate patients with experiences they believe should be shared might encourage these patients to submit their articles to Schizophrenia Bulletin, First Person Accounts, EEI Communications, 66 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314.-The Editors.
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10.1093/oxfordjournals.schbul.a033491
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pubmed_808_8317
|
Since osteoblastic activities are believed to be coupled with osteoclasts, we have attempted to histologically verify which of the distinct cellular circumstances, the presence of osteoclasts themselves or bone resorption by osteoclasts, is essential for coupled osteoblastic activity, by examining c-fos-/- or c-src-/- mice. Osteopetrotic c-fos deficient (c-fos-/-) mice have no osteoclasts, while c-src deficient (c-src-/-) mice, another osteopetrotic model, develop dysfunctional osteoclasts due to a lack of ruffled borders. c-fos-/- mice possessed no tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAPase)-reactive osteoclasts, and showed very weak tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNALPase)-reactive mature osteoblasts. In contrast, c-src-/- mice had many TNALPase-positive osteoblasts and TRAPase-reactive osteoclasts. Interestingly, the parallel layers of TRAPase-reactive/osteopontin-positive cement lines were observed in the superficial region of c-src-/- bone matrix. This indicates the possibility that in c-src-/- mice, osteoblasts were activated to deposit new bone matrices on the surfaces that osteoclasts previously passed along, even without bone resorption. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated cell-to-cell contacts between mature osteoblasts and neighboring ruffled border-less osteoclasts, and osteoid including many mineralized nodules in c-src-/- mice. Thus, it seems likely that osteoblastic activities would be maintained in the presence of osteoclasts, even if they are dysfunctional.
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10.2220/biomedres.38.123
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pubmed_538_9681
|
OBJECTIVE
For the identification of botanical origin and macroscopic characters of Radix Paeoniae.
METHODS
Different types of original plant and crude of Radix Paeoniae samples were collected from 10 main producing areas.
RESULTS
By taxonomical and morphological researches, Paeonia lactiflora and P. lactiflora var. trichocarpa could be identified.
CONCLUSION
The root of P. lactiflora is cylindrical, pale white to reddish brown in surface color, with longitudinal furrows, flat borken section, with radial rows in xylem elements, sour taste. While the root of the variety can be differ from its irregular-cylindrical shape, brownish surface, floury transverse section and sweet taste.
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pubmed_538_9681
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pubmed_559_1713
|
Resting (living) bio-sludge from a domestic wastewater treatment plant was used as an adsorbent of both direct dyes and organic matter in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) system. The dye adsorption capacity of the bio-sludge was not increased by acclimatization with direct dyes. The adsorption of Direct Red 23 and Direct Blue 201 onto the bio-sludge was almost the same. The resting bio-sludge showed higher adsorption capacity than the autoclaved bio-sludge. The resting bio-sludge that was acclimatized with synthetic textile wastewater (STWW) without direct dyes showed the highest Direct Blue 201, COD, and BOD(5) removal capacities of 16.1+/-0.4, 453+/-7, and 293+/-9 mg/g of bio-sludge, respectively. After reuse, the dye adsorption ability of deteriorated bio-sludge was recovered by washing with 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solution. The direct dyes in the STWW were also easily removed by a GAC-SBR system. The dye removal efficiencies were higher than 80%, even when the system was operated under a high organic loading of 0.36kgBOD(5)/m(3)-d. The GAC-SBR system, however, showed a low direct dye removal efficiency of only 57+/-2.1% with raw textile wastewater (TWW) even though the system was operated with an organic loading of only 0.083kgBOD(5)/m(3)-d. The dyes, COD, BOD(5), and total kjeldalh nitrogen removal efficiencies increased up to 76.0+/-2.8%, 86.2+/-0.5%, 84.2+/-0.7%, and 68.2+/-2.1%, respectively, when 0.89 g/L glucose (organic loading of 0.17kgBOD(5)/m(3)-d) was supplemented into the TWW.
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10.1016/j.jenvman.2006.09.001
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pubmed_373_16034
|
Caffeine is used and abused on a daily basis in different beverages, OTC products, and as a prescribed medication. The strength varies widely from negligible in decaffeinated drinks to medicinal grade of 200 mg/tablet. A total of 7,655 exposures were recorded in 1995 by the AAPCC Toxic Exposure Surveillance System with no fatality. However, within a 4-mo period, the Panhandle Poison Center recorded 2 deaths due to caffeine overdose. The abrupt onset of intractable seizures needs to be anticipated in order to appropriately manage the victims and to prevent the adverse outcome.
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pubmed_373_16034
|
pubmed_310_16785
|
The design of sampling and sample processing has a tremendous effect on the analytical results from which conclusions are drawn with respect to the quality of the environment and any possible impact on human health. Large scale environmental surveys need rigorous planning and extensive screening experiments to evaluate their boundary conditions. Representativeness and sample homogeneity are highlighted here in the context of a long-term biological monitoring survey for trace elements using spruce shoots. Several aspects concerning the selection of samples, amount of material, material processing and sample preparation prior to chemical characterisation are illustrated by selected examples.
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10.1039/b008069l
|
pubmed_282_2796
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BACKGROUND
During hypothermic storage, a substantial fraction of red blood cells (RBCs) transforms from flexible discocytes to rigid sphero-echinocytes and spherocytes. Infusion of these irreversibly-damaged cells into the recipient during transfusion serves no therapeutic purpose and may contribute to adverse outcomes in some patients. In this proof-of-concept study we describe the use of hypotonic washing for selective removal of the irreversibly-damaged cells from stored blood.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Stored RBCs were mixed with saline of various concentrations to identify optimal concentration for inducing osmotic swelling and selective bursting of spherical cells (sphero-echinocytes, spherocytes), while minimising indiscriminate lysis of other RBCs. Effectiveness of optimal treatment was assessed by measuring morphology, rheological properties, and surface phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure for cells from several RBCs units (n=5, CPD>AS-1, leucoreduced, 6 weeks storage duration) washed in hypotonic vs isotonic saline.
RESULTS
Washing in mildly hypotonic saline (0.585 g/dL, osmolality: 221.7±2.3 mmol/kg) reduced the fraction of spherical cells 3-fold from 9.5±3.4% to 3.2±2.8%, while cutting PS exposure in half from 1.48±0.86% to 0.59±0.29%. Isotonic washing had no effect on PS exposure or the fraction of spherical cells. Both isotonic and hypotonic washing increased the fraction of well-preserved cells (discocytes, echinocytes 1) substantially, and improved the ability of stored RBCs to perfuse an artificial microvascular network by approximately 25%, as compared with the initial sample.
DISCUSSION
This study demonstrated that washing in hypotonic saline could selectively remove a significant fraction of the spherical and PS-exposing cells from stored blood, while significantly improving the rheological properties of remaining well-preserved RBCs. Further studies are needed to access the potential effect from hypotonic washing on transfusion outcomes.
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10.2450/2017.0013-17
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pubmed_592_1921
|
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES
A modified Fourier Series Window (FSW) method is introduced that provides a simple, reasonably accurate, solution to spatial localization for layers in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. This method was developed because signal originating from spins immediately adjacent to the coil plane can leak into standard FSW localized spectra obtained from more distal layers.
METHODS
The B1 profile of the surface coil and a priori sample knowledge were used to generate modified FSW coefficients that largely compensate for contamination from proximal layers. These modified coefficients were used to acquire spatially localized spectra from a three-layered phantom containing inorganic phosphate, phosphocreatine, and pyrophosphate. Spatially localized spectra also were obtained from the open-chest canine myocardium.
RESULTS
The modified Fourier Series Window approach was validated using a quality assurance phantom. This method was then applied to the transmural analysis of 13C-containing metabolites in the in vivo canine myocardium during 3-(13)C sodium pyruvate infusion (n = 10). In vivo NMR spectra were characterized by resonances corresponding to the C2, C3, and C4 carbons of glutamic acid and to endogenous triacyglycerides and surface lipids. A transmural trend in metabolites could be observed under these conditions. This trend, however, was likely to result from the interference of surface lipids in the epicardial layer.
CONCLUSIONS
The authors demonstrate that the modified Fourier Series Window method can be applied in situations where signal-to-noise considerations limit the applicability of more sophisticated spatial localization methods. In addition, the authors report a slight gradient in the endogenous triacylglyceride resonance, which is likely to originate from the presence of surface lipids.
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10.1097/00004424-199610000-00002
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pubmed_256_13858
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Creatine kinase (CK), a key enzyme of cellular energetics, has been implicated in tumorigenesis. Cyclocreatine (CCr), which forms a stable phosphagen with a reduced rate of ATP regeneration through CK, inhibits the growth of many solid tumors. We report that CCr induces the formation of unusually stable microtubules that resist depolymerization by nocodazole. By reducing ATP availability, CCr may modulate the activity of kinases that regulate microtubule dynamics. Further, combinations of CCr and taxol resulted in the synergistic killing of breast tumor cells indicating that CCr may be a useful addition to chemotherapy's that include taxanes.
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10.1097/00001813-199506000-00009
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pubmed_36_13185
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The TFCC is a crucial stabilizer of the DRUJ. Based on its superficial and deep fibers, the TFCC guarantees unrestricted pronation and supination which is essential for performing sophisticated tasks. The ability to perform complex movements is of uppermost importance for hand function. Therefore, a functional intact TFCC is a prerequisite in this context. The articular disc of the TFCC is a fibrocartilaginous extension of the superficial zone of hyaline articular cartilage which arises from the radius. The peripheral 10-40 % of the TFC is vascularized. Degeneration of the articular disc is common with increasing age. Even though the central part of the articular disc is avascular, potential regeneration of lesions could be detected. The Palmer and Atzei classifications of TFCC lesions are complementary. TFCC innervation is based on different nerves. There is a high variability. A diligent clinical examination facilitates specific tests which help to allocate symptoms to the pathology. Therefore, a thorough clinical examination is not dispensable. Wrist arthroscopy remains the "gold standard" for diagnosing TFCC pathologies despite technical progress in imaging modalities. MR arthrography may have the potential to become a real alternative to wrist arthroscopy for diagnosing TFCC pathologies with technical progress in the future.
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10.1007/s00402-015-2153-6
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pubmed_730_22518
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A copolymer (PMB) having a polar head group 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) copolymerized with n-butyl methacrylate (BMA) may provide a haemocompatible surface for implantable devices. Pure PMB membranes and compound membranes composed of PMB coated onto polyurethane (PU + PMB) and poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC + PMB) have been prepared. Fundamental studies on these membranes included the analysis of molecular distribution and orientation, the characterization of surface physical properties and the examination of blood membrane interactions. The experimental techniques used were Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Significant differences between PU + PMB and PVC + PMB membranes were found. Compound PVC + PMB and pure PMB membranes exhibited favourable surface properties for haemocompatibility and also showed low adhesion of blood components, whereas PU + PMB displayed the contrary. This leads to the hypothesis that the underlying material has a major influence on the surface properties of compound membranes.
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10.1016/s0142-9612(97)00174-9
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pubmed_855_12377
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One invisible and silent phenomenon associated with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic is the return of mothers to care for their adult sons who are dying of the disease. This article presents an emergent fit of data from an interpretative study with 14 such mothers into Leonard's practices of mothering framework. Conceptualizing mothering as a practice rather than a technical skill provides a context for understanding nurture and care. The mothers' stories reveal moral content of mothering that is centrally important to cultural life, as well as implications for nursing practice.
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10.1097/00012272-200003000-00005
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pubmed_262_24095
|
BACKGROUND
To explore the acute effects of submaximal exercise on blood rheology and sympathetic nerve activity.
METHODS AND RESULTS
The effects of exercise (20 or 80 Watts (W)) on blood rheology and sympathetic nerve activity were assessed in 10 healthy Japanese men. Blood sampling and heart rate variability (HRV) recording were performed during 20-min supine rest and standing ergometric exercise (20 W for 10 min, 80 W for 10 min) and recovery. Blood passage time across the microchannels (diameter, 7 microm) as a parameter of blood rheology, and the number of adhesive leukocytes on microchannel terraces as a parameter of leukocyte activation were measured. Sympathetic nerve activity was evaluated by plasma noradrenalin levels and the ratio of low-frequency (LF)/high-frequency (HF) by spectral analysis of HRV. Compared with values while supine at rest, significant increases in hematocrit, leukocyte count, noradrenalin level and blood passage time were seen after strenuous ergometer exercise at 80 W (P<0.01 each). The LF/HF ratio and nitric oxide metabolites tended to be increased with 80 W exercise.
CONCLUSIONS
Strenuous exercise dynamically alters blood rheological parameters, probably by changes in hematocrit and sympathetic nerve activity.
|
10.1253/circj.cj-09-0758
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pubmed_256_6702
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BACKGROUND
Mucosal exudation (luminal entry) of bulk plasma is a key feature of airway defence and inflammation. In guinea pig and rat airways this response is readily produced by neurogenic irritants, notably capsaicin. Thus "neurogenic airway inflammation" has become an established concept. The present study examines whether capsaicin also produces mucosal exudation of plasma in human nasal airways both in health and disease (seasonal allergic rhinitis).
METHODS
Pain-producing concentrations of capsaicin (30-300 ng/ml) were applied to the nasal mucosal surface both before and late into the pollen season. Levels of albumin in nasal lavage fluid were measured as an index of mucosal exudation of plasma. In a separate group of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis nasal challenge with an exudative concentration of histamine was carried out before the birch pollen season and concentrations of albumin in lavage fluid were measured.
RESULTS
Pollen counts and symptom scores revealed a mild pollen season. Capsaicin produced considerable nasal pain and this response was augmented late into the season when capsaicin also produced nasal blockage. However, capsaicin failed to produce any mucosal exudation of plasma either before or late into the pollen season. The exudative effect of histamine was confirmed.
CONCLUSIONS
The augmented pain response to capsaicin suggests that a sensory nerve hyperresponsiveness may characterise allergic airways disease. In contrast to the effects on animal airways, capsaicin failed to produce mucosal exudation of plasma in the human nasal airway. The animal based neurogenic inflammation concept is therefore not valid for the human nasal airway, not even in inflamed airways when a neural hyperresponsiveness has developed.
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10.1136/thx.50.3.225
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pubmed_326_13491
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BACKGROUND
When performing experiments at room temperature with volatile general anesthetics and in vitro mammalian preparations (such as isolated neurons), the question arises as to which concentrations of anesthetics are "clinically relevant." Different choices can lead to different interpretations of the anesthetic sensitivities of putative target sites.
METHODS
Published data on the temperature dependence of minimum alveolar concentration were analyzed.
RESULTS
Although gas-phase potencies of volatile anesthetics increase markedly with decreasing temperature, the corresponding aqueous-phase potencies are relatively constant. Changes in minimum alveolar concentration with temperature can be accounted for, on physical grounds, in terms of the temperature dependencies of anesthetics binding to their central nervous system target sites.
CONCLUSION
When performing room-temperature in vitro experiments on simple mammalian preparations with a volatile anesthetic, the aqueous-phase (but not the gas- phase) minimum alveolar concentration calculated at normal body temperature is, to a first approximation, the appropriate choice for a clinically relevant anesthetic concentration. Recommended aqueous-phase minimum alveolar concentration values (in MM) for desflurane, enflurane, halothane, isoflurane, and sevoflurane have have been calculated.
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10.1097/00000542-199603000-00027
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pubmed_768_14958
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Before the advent of tomographic imaging, it was postulated that decay of (90) Y to the 0(+) excited state of (90)Zr may result in emission of a positron-electron pair. While the branching ratio for pair-production is small (~32 × 10(-6)), PET has been successfully used to image (90) Y in numerous recent patients and phantom studies. (90) Y PET imaging has been performed on a variety of PET/CT systems, with and without time-of-flight (TOF) and/or resolution recovery capabilities as well as on both bismuth-germanate and lutetium yttrium orthosilicate (LYSO)-based scanners. On all systems, resolution and contrast superior to bremsstrahlung SPECT has been reported. The intrinsic radioactivity present in LYSO-based PET scanners is a potential limitation associated with accurate quantification of (90) Y. However, intrinsic radioactivity has been shown to have a negligible effect at the high activity concentrations common in (90) Y radioembolization. Accurate quantification is possible on a variety of PET scanner models, with or without TOF, although TOF improves accuracy at lower activity concentrations. Quantitative (90) Y PET images can be transformed into 3-dimensional (3D) maps of absorbed dose based on the premise that the (90) Y activity distribution does not change after infusion. This transformation has been accomplished in several ways, although the most common is with the use of 3D dose-point-kernel convolution. From a clinical standpoint, (90) Y PET provides a superior post-infusion evaluation of treatment technical success owing to its improved resolution. Absorbed dose maps generated from quantitative PET data can be used to predict treatment efficacy and manage patient follow-up. For patients who receive multiple treatments, this information can also be used to provide patient-specific treatment-planning for successive therapies, potentially improving response. The broad utilization of (90) Y PET has the potential to provide a wealth of dose-response information, which may lead to development of improved radioembolization treatment-planning models in the future.
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10.3389/fonc.2014.00038
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pubmed_439_12751
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Certolizumab pegol (CZP) is a PEGylated Fc-free tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor antibody approved for use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Crohn's disease, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis and psoriasis. In a clinical trial of patients with severe RA, CZP improved disease symptoms in approximately half of patients. However, variability in CZP efficacy remains a problem for clinicians, thus, the aim of this study was to identify genetic variants predictive of CZP response. We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 302 RA patients treated with CZP in the REALISTIC trial to identify common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with treatment response. Whole-exome sequencing was also performed for 74 CZP extreme responders and non-responders within the same population, as well as 1546 population controls. No common SNPs or rare functional variants were significantly associated with CZP response, though a non-significant enrichment in the RA-implicated KCNK5 gene was observed. Two SNPs near spondin-1 and semaphorin-4G approached genome-wide significance. The results of the current study did not provide an unambiguous predictor of CZP response.
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10.1371/journal.pone.0261165
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pubmed_2_10540
|
High-risk individuals of familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) families are considered to be good candidates for screening programs to detect early PC or its high-grade precursor lesions, especially pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) 2/3 lesions. There is a definite need for diagnostic markers as neither reliable imaging methods nor biomarkers are available to detect these lesions. On the basis of a literature search, the potential serum markers neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (LCN2), metallopeptidase inhibitor 1 (TIMP1), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 16 (CXCL16), IGFBP4, and iC3a, which were first tested in transgenic KrasLSL.(G12D/+);p53(R172H/+);Pdx1-Cre mice, were identified. ELISA analyses of LCN2, TIMP1, and CXCL16 revealed significantly higher levels in mice with PanIN2/3 lesions or PC compared to mice with normal pancreata or PanIN1 lesions. Analysis of preoperative human serum samples from patients with sporadic PC (n = 61), hereditary PC (n = 24), chronic pancreatitis (n = 28), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (n = 11), and FPC patients with histologically proven multifocal PanIN2/3 lesions (n = 3), as well as healthy control subjects (n = 20), confirmed significantly higher serum levels of LCN2 and TIMP1 in patients with PC and multifocal PanIN2/3 lesions. The combination of LCN2 and TIMP1 as a diagnostic test for the detection of PC had a sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of 100% each. Although this preliminary finding needs to be validated in a large series of individuals at high risk for FPC, serum measurement of LCN2 and TIMP1 might be a promising screening tool.
|
10.1593/tlo.12373
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pubmed_173_1354
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The use of statins for bone regeneration is a promising and growing area of research. Statins, originally developed to treat high cholesterol, are inhibitors of the enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl, the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway. Because the mevalonate pathway is responsible for the synthesis of a wide variety of important biochemical molecules, including cholesterol and other isoprenoids, the effects of statins are pleiotropic. In particular, statins can greatly affect the process of bone turnover and regeneration via effects on important cell types, including mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, endothelial cells, and osteoclasts. Statins have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may be useful since infection can derail normal bone healing. This review will explore the pleiotropic effects of statins, discuss the current use of statins for bone regeneration, particularly with regard to biomaterials-based controlled delivery, and offer perspectives on the challenges and future directions of this emerging area of bone tissue engineering.
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10.1093/nsr/nwu028
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pubmed_1042_13637
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Microspheres of aluminosilicate glass from volcanic sediment, whose surfaces were modified with functional groups, Shirasu-balloons (SB), were investigated as an adsorbent to remove cadmium ions from contaminated soil. The introduction of thiol groups (-SH) on the surface of SB enabled it to adsorb cadmium ions. Meanwhile, the introduction of an alkyl group (-ODS) made the surface of SB hydrophobic, and consequently increased the mechanical strength of SB. Those adsorbents could float up on the water surface after the adsorption process. The prepared adsorbent was characterized by FTIR spectrophotometry, elemental analysis and optical microscopy for making photographic images. The adsorption of cadmium ions on the adsorbent was investigated by comparing the results by a plain SB with those by thiol-functionalized SB. The adsorption maximum for cadmium ions was 3.75 mg/g for SH-SB and 2.62 mg/g for SH-ODS-SB, respectively. The adsorption of cadmium ions on functionalized SH-SB and SH-ODS-SB fitted well to the Langmuir isotherm equation. After a shaking time of 24 h, the recovering ratios of the absorbents from soil were 73 wt% for SH-SB and 98 wt% for SH-ODS-SB absorbents. In addition, the kinetic and adsorption-desorption properties of the adsorbent were also considered.
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10.2116/analsci.19SBP06
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pubmed_791_15535
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Coronavirus disease 2019 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, which tends to be mild. Even in these cases, our understanding is still incomplete, particularly regarding its sequelae and long-term outcomes. We describe 3 recovered patients who had coronavirus disease 2019, with long-persisting symptoms after recovery, in whom chest computed tomographic and concurrent lung ultrasound examinations were performed. It is possible to correlate the findings from lung ultrasound with the symptoms and the fibrosis or residual abnormalities present on chest computed tomography. Lung ultrasound, which is easy to use, without side effects or radiation, helps monitor the disease resolution or assess early progression to lung fibrosis, as exemplified in the cases reported.
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10.1002/jum.15556
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pubmed_887_1958
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Previous work has established that the E. coli htrA gene product is essential for bacterial survival at temperatures above 42 degrees. We have sequenced the htrA gene region and found an open reading frame (ORF) coding for a protein of 491 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of 51,163 daltons. This molecular weight corresponds well with that seen following electrophoresis on SDS-polyacrylamide gels. This protein has an amino-terminal sequence typical for a leader peptide and undergoes post-translational modification by cleavage of an amino-terminal portion. The insertional mutations which affect the function of the htrA gene map inside this ORF. The levels of htrA mRNA increase rapidly and transiently upon heat shock in a manner independent of the rpoH gene, which encodes the sigma 32 RNA polymerase subunit and is known to regulate transcription of typical heat shock genes. Using S1 mapping and RNA primer extension, we have identified the htrA promoter and found that it is similar to the P3 promoter of the rpoH gene. The P3 promoter is especially active at high temperatures and is recognized by a recently identified transcriptional factor, sigma E.
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10.1093/nar/16.21.10053
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pubmed_249_9642
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Intestinal epithelial cells have an active apical iron uptake system that is involved in the regulated absorption of iron. By the action of this system, intestinal cells acquire increasing amounts of iron with time. Since intracellular reactive iron is a source of free radicals and a possible cause of colon carcinoma, this study analyzed the oxidative damages generated by iron accumulation in Caco-2 cells. Cells cultured with increasing concentrations of iron increased both total intracellular iron and the reactive iron pool, despite an active IRE/IRP system, which regulates intracellular iron levels. Increasing concentrations of iron resulted in increased protein oxidative damage, as shown by the immunoreactivity for 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-modified proteins, and markedly induced DNA oxidation determined by 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanidine production. Iron also impaired cell viability, resulting in increased cell death after 6 days of culture. In summary, iron accumulation by intestinal Caco-2 cells correlated with oxidative damage to proteins and DNA. Oxidative damage finally resulted in loss of cell viability. The Fe-induced oxidative damage observed may be relevant in understanding the cascade of events associated with iron-mediated colon carcinogenesis.
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10.1080/10715760100300061
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pubmed_546_1094
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Both public health and managed care organizations share an interest in ensuring the health status of a defined population. We explore the existing and potential relationships between managed care organizations and public health in several major public health areas, specifically clinical preventive services, prevention-oriented social and political policies, and core public health functions. The latter include health information, health education, personal health services provision, work force and research, community partnerships, and evaluation of health care. We believe there is much potential to improve the population's health through the collaboration of these two sectors of the health care system.
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10.1097/00124784-199801000-00004
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pubmed_361_15048
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In response to IgE and specific multivalent antigen, mast cell lines (both growth factor-dependent and -independent) induce the transcription and/or secretion of a number of cytokines having a wide spectrum of activities. We have identified IL-1, IL-3, IL-5, IL-6, IFN-gamma, GM-CSF, JE, MIP1 alpha, MIP1 beta, and TCA3 RNA in at least two of four mast cell clones. The production of these products (except JE) is activation-associated and can be induced by IgE plus antigen. In selected instances cytokine expression can also be induced by activation with Con A or phorbol ester plus ionophore, albeit to levels less than those observed with IgE plus antigen. In addition, long-term mast cell clones and primary cultures of bone marrow-derived mast cells specifically release IL-1, IL-4, and/or IL-6 bioactivity after activation. These findings suggest that in addition to their inflammatory effector function mast cells may serve as a source of growth and regulatory factors. The relationship of mast cells to cells of the T lymphocyte lineage is discussed.
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10.1084/jem.170.1.245
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pubmed_1096_22646
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Novel biocompatible water-soluble fluorescent micelles with embedded perylene diimides (PDI) for intracellular applications have been prepared by self assembling of amphiphilic poly(vinyl alcohol)-b-poly(acrylonitrile) (PVA-b-PAN) copolymers in the presence of synthesized fluorophores. Amphiphilic PVA-b-PAN copolymers were obtained by selective hydrolysis of well-defined poly(vinyl acetate)-b-poly(acrylonitrile) (PVAc-b-PAN) copolymer. The preparation of the novel fluorescence micelles consisting of PVA hydrophilic shell and PAN hydrophobic core with incorporated PDI fluorophores has been confirmed by DLS and TEM analysis. The cytotoxicity of the water-soluble fluorophores and their internalization into living cells depending on the micellar concentration have been tested. It was shown that they could successfully enter in living cells without destroying their morphology. The results obtained indicate that the novel water-soluble fluorescent micelles with embedded PDI fluorophores would be suitable for potential intracellular biomedical applications.
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pubmed_1096_22646
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pubmed_512_7795
|
OBJECTIVES
To assess the incidence, epidemiology and clinical features of Kawasaki disease (KD) in Catalonia (northeast region of Spain).
METHODS
This was an observational population-based study including all Paediatric Units in Catalonia, under both public and private management. Retrospective data retrieval was performed for 10 years (2004-2013). A 12-month (March 2013 to March 2014) prospective collection of new cases of KD was carried out to determine the incidence of KD.
RESULTS
Data from 399 patients over the 10-year study period was analysed, revealing that 233 (58.4%) had complete KD, 159 (39.8) incomplete KD and 7 (1.7%) were considered atypical KD. Mean annual incidence was 3.5/105 children <14 years old (yo) and 8/105 children <5 yo (mean age 37±33 months, range 1.3-191.3). KD was more frequent in boys (59.6%, p<0.001) and in rural areas (p<0.001). Patients with IVIG non-responsiveness, need of a 2(nd) IVIG dose, delay of treatment >10(th) day of illness, ages <1 yo and >8 yo and the presence of sterile piuria, aseptic meningitis, abdominal pain and uveitis at diagnosis were found to have higher risk of coronary aneurisms (CAA) (p<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
This is the first population-based study on the epidemiology of KD in the western Mediterranean area. Incidence, clinical features and treatment plans in our cohort are similar to those described in other European studies.
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pubmed_512_7795
|
pubmed_729_20576
|
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
Secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronic renal failure is one of the most frequently encountered disorders of calcium homeostasis, characterized by parathyroid hypertrophy and hyperplasia. It is important to understand the pathogenesis of parathyroid epithelial cell hyperplasia and to determine the factors involved in the parathyroid cell proliferation for the development of the new therapeutic strategy for the secondary hyperparathyroidism. The existence of the endothelin system in the parathyroid gland and the involvement of the endothelin system in the proliferation of parathyroid cells have recently been demonstrated. The purpose of this review is to summarize the recent findings on the role of the endothelin system in the parathyroid cell proliferation, and to discuss the effect of the endothelin receptor antagonists for the treatment of the secondary hyperparathyroidism.
RECENT FINDINGS
It was recently demonstrated that the inhibitory effect of endothelin receptor antagonist, bosentan, on the proliferation of parathyroid cells in secondary hyperparathyroidism rats induced by the low calcium diet. The treatment of the low calcium diet rats with bosentan was found to substantially reduce the number of PCNA-positive parathyroid cells, wet weight of parathyroid gland, and serum PTH level.
SUMMARY
The effectiveness of the endothelin receptor antagonists for the prevention of the low calcium diet-induced secondary hyperparathyroidism in rats has been clearly demonstrated. These findings suggest the possibility that endothelin receptor antagonist might become one of the important therapeutic strategies for preventing secondary hyperparathyroidism in humans.
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10.1097/00041552-200207000-00007
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pubmed_982_12537
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DY-9760e (3-[2-[4-(3-chloro-2-methylphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-5,6-dimethoxy-1-(4-imidazolylmethyl)-1H-indazole dihydrochloride-3.5 hydrate) inhibits Ca(2+)/CaM-dependent nitric oxide synthase (NOS), thereby inhibiting nitric oxide (NO) production. In cardiomyocytes from ischemic rat heart NO and superoxide levels are increased causing protein tyrosine nitration. In hearts subjected to ischemia/reperfusion DY-9760e totally abolishes protein tyrosine nitration. Notably, DY-9760e also inhibits calpain and cas-pase-3 activation that occurs prior to apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. In ischemic hearts fodrin is the substrate for calpain. DY-9760e inhibits fodrin breakdown in the peri-infarct area rather than in the infarct core. In the ischemic rat brain DY-9760e inhibits caspase-3-induced proteolysis of calpastatin, an endogenous calpain inhibitor, suggesting that crosstalk between calpain and caspase-3 is mediated by calpastatin breakdown. Thus, DY-9760e rescues neurons and cardiomyocytes from ischemic injury by inhibiting crosstalk between calpain and caspase-3 as well as protein tyrosine nitration.
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10.1111/j.1527-3466.2006.00088.x
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pubmed_801_4810
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Present study introduces linseed oil cake as a novel substrate for phytase production by Rhizopus oryzae. Statistical approach was employed to optimize various medium components under solid state fermentation (SSF). An overall 8.41-fold increase in phytase production was achieved at the optimum concentrations (w/w, mannitol, 2.05%; ammonium sulfate, 2.84% and phosphate, 0.38%). Further enhancement by 59% was observed due to a novel strain improvement approach. Purified phytase (∼34 kDa) showed optimal temperature of 45 °C, dual pH optima at 1.5 and 5.5 and possesses high catalytic efficiency (2.38×10(6) M(-1) s(-1)). Characterization study demonstrates the phytase as highly thermostable and resistant to proteolysis, heavy metal ions, etc. Furthermore, an improved HPLC method was introduced to confirm the ability of phytase to degrade phytic acid completely and was found to be an efficient method.
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10.1016/j.biortech.2011.08.075
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pubmed_361_13118
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Using immunohistochemical methods the expression of intermediate filaments in fetal and adult human choroid plexus epithelium was investigated. The results indicate that the full expression of cytokeratin and vimentin was seen at the 22nd gestational week corresponding to the onset of liquor production. In neural tube and crest cells of human embryos no cytokeratins were detectable, whereas vimentin could be demonstrated in early stages.
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pubmed_361_13118
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pubmed_83_25642
|
Prosthetic hands are developed to replace lost hands. However, it has been hard to ensure the same level grasping and manipulating objects as human hands and the cosmetic appearance is also important. In a previous work, Rehand II: an electric and cosmetic prosthetic hand was developed. Its function is limited to simple object grasping, but it has the cosmetic appearance and is relatively light. This paper aimed to improve Rehand II by introducing tactile sense. Tactile sense is available to detect physical contact, recognize physical attributes of objects such as their softness and texture, and ensure delicate operation while handling the objects. Additionally, tactile sense is relevant to build the body recognition. We focused on vibrotactile sense from the aspects of a wide receptive field, contribution to contact detection and various frequency information involved. A simple electric and cosmetic prosthetic hand with vibrotactile sense was developed by improving Rehand II with polyvinylidene difluoride film sensors for detecting skin-propagated vibrations and soft vibrators for the feedback. The sensors were embedded at the thumb, index finger, and back of the hand of the prosthetic hand. First, recognition tests involving tapped part were conducted. Then, recognition and realistic rating tests involving operations were conducted. Results showed high recognition of tapped parts and operations and the good realistic.
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10.1109/EMBC44109.2020.9176080
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pubmed_709_4060
|
Between August 31 and November 9, 1888, in the Whitechapel section of the East End of London, the murders of five women came to be referred to as the notorious Jack the Ripper murder cases. Each victim was a woman of the streets who was a heavy drinker and apparently heavily intoxicated when she was killed. All except one were strangled, had their throats cut, and were mutilated after they were killed. The victim who was not mutilated was strangled and saved from desecration when the killer was startled and interrupted before carrying out postmortem mutilation. The last victim was killed indoors, and all deaths occurred late in the evening or in the early morning hours. Forensic science laboratories were not yet developed, so the only truly forensic examinations were made on the bodies and of the notes which the killer was alleged to have sent to the police and others. After the last crime there were no further communications with the murderer, and no one was ever charged with these crimes. This case has become the standard to which similar cases have been compared for the past century. It has been the subject for many fictionalized works written in many languages, including cinema and television productions. This case is reviewed and evaluated as to how a similar case may be investigated using modern forensic techniques.
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10.1097/00000433-198103000-00010
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pubmed_65_12971
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The biochemical and immunochemical aspects of the development of inhibitors with a plasma-derived, double-virus inactivated factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate (marketed as Octavi SDPlus in Germany and Bisinact in Belgium) are described. A total of 12 cases of inhibitor formation (predominantly type II) were reported in Germany, 8 in Belgium but none in Portugal. Initially, the only difference between the non-pasteurised, SD virus-inactivated product Octavi and the pasteurised product Octavi SDPlus appeared to be pasteurisation, though subsequently, the quality of source material for the product was found to differ in different countries. Separation studies revealed the presence of a 40 kDa peptide fragment in some batches. It was subsequently shown that there was a strong correlation between inhibitor development and batches containing the 40 kDa marker, and a relationship between elevated markers of coagulation activation (FPA in particular) and the occurrence of the 40 kDa marker. Further work revealed that analytical methods commonly used for quality control were not suitable to highlight batch-to-batch differences. It was concluded that inhibitor potential (neoantigenicity) in Octavi SDPlus arose due to two effects; degradation of FVIII already present in source material; and heating of unstable FVIII degradation products. In this case, inhibitors were not caused by the overall production process, nor by GMP failures. The problem of inhibitor potential can be avoided if appropriate preventive measures are taken. Further work is needed to prove non-neoantigenicity and to reinforce the scientific findings, and to characterise pilot batches.
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10.1159/000056726
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pubmed_439_21760
|
Doping porous carbon materials with heteroatoms is an effective approach to enhance the performance in the areas of supercapacitors and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, most traditional heteroatom-doped metal-free porous carbon materials have random structures and pore distributions with high uncertainty, which is harmful for a deep understanding of supercapacitors and the ORR mechanism. Basing on the molecular design, a series of N, O co-doped porous carbon frameworks (p-PYPZs) has been prepared through the template-free trimerization of cyano groups from our designed and synthesized 2,8-bis(4-isocyanophenyl)-2,3,7,8-tetrahydropyridazino[4,5-g]phthalazine-1,4,6,9-tetraone (PYPZ) monomer and subsequent ionothermal synthesis, which has the advantage that the type, position, content of the heteroatom and the pore structure in the porous carbon material can be regulated. Nitrogen and oxygen atoms introduced via covalent bond and the hierarchically porous structure endow the material with excellent cycling stability, and 110% capacitance retention after 35 000 cycles in 1 M H2SO4. A symmetric supercapacitor was assembled with the material and shows an energy density of 32 W h kg-1. The material can be applied to the area of oxygen reduction reaction as a metal-free catalyst with an onset potential of 0.85 V versus RHE, indicating the good catalytic ability. The material exhibits excellent methanol crossover resistance and a four-electron pathway mechanism. Results also indicate a positive correlation between the N-Q content and the selectivity of the four-electron pathway. In this paper, the electrochemical properties of materials are regulated at the molecular level, which provides a new idea for further understanding the electrochemical mechanism of energy storage devices.
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10.1039/d1ra00043h
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pubmed_201_2289
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Gypenosides (Gyp), the primary components of Gynostemma pentaphyllum Makino, have long been used as a Chinese herbal medicine. In the present study, the effects of Gyp on cell viability, the cell cycle, cell apoptosis, DNA damage and chromatin condensation were investigated in vitro using human oral cancer HSC-3 cells. The results of the present study indicated that Gyp induces cell death, G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in HSC-3 cells in a dose-dependent manner. It was also demonstrated that Gyp decreased the depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential in a time-dependent manner. A cDNA microarray assay was performed and the results indicated that a number of genes were upregulated following Gyp treatment. The greatest increase was a 75.42-fold increase in the expression of GTP binding protein in skeletal muscle. Levels of the following proteins were also increased by Gyp: Serpine peptidase inhibitor, clade E, member 1 by 20.25-fold; ras homolog family member B by 18.04-fold, kelch repeat and BTB domain containing 8 by 15.22-fold; interleukin 11 by 14.96-fold; activating transcription factor 3 by 14.49-fold; cytochrome P450, family 1 by 14.44-fold; ADP-ribosylation factor-like 14 by 13.88-fold; transfer RNA selenocysteine 2 by 13.23-fold; and syntaxin 11 by 13.08-fold. However, the following genes were downregulated by GYP: Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate family member 4, 14.19-fold; γ-aminobutyric acid A receptor by 14.58-fold; transcriptional-regulating factor 1 by 14.69-fold; serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade B, member 13 by 14.71-fold; apolipoprotein L 1 by 14.85-fold; follistatin by 15.22-fold; uncharacterized LOC100506718; fibronectin leucine rich transmembrane protein 2 by 15.61-fold; microRNA 205 by 16.38-fold; neuregulin 1 by 19.69-fold; and G protein-coupled receptor 110 by 22.05-fold. These changes in gene expression illustrate the effects of Gyp at the genetic level and identify potential targets for oral cancer therapy.
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10.3892/etm.2017.4840
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pubmed_107_20666
|
Recent evidence indicates that the neuroleptic-induced increase of in vivo acetylcholine output in the striatum does not depend on the relief of cholinergic neurons from the inhibitory control by dopamine, but on increased dopamine output onto dopamine D1 receptors. The present microdialysis study was aimed at finding if the neuroleptic-induced increase in striatal acetylcholine release persists after chronic treatment, and how it is correlated with dopamine output. Rats were chronically treated with the dopamine D2 receptor antagonists, haloperidol and (-)-sulpiride (0.5 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg i.p., respectively, daily, for 30 days). The stimulant effect of both neuroleptics on striatal dopamine release persisted unaltered throughout the chronic treatment (by about 100% over basal values). In contrast, the enhancing effects of haloperidol and (-)-sulpiride on striatal acetylcholine release remained unchanged up to day 12 of treatment. Thereafter, tolerance developed, so that both neuroleptics became totally ineffective on day 30 of treatment. Both on day 1 and 30, the neuroleptic-induced dopamine release was reversed by gamma-butyrolactone (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid lactone), suggesting that this effect is mediated by enhanced neuronal activity. On day 1 and day 10, the neuroleptic-induced acetylcholine release was antagonized by the blockade of dopamine D1 receptors with SCH 39166 (trans-(-)-(6aS,13bR)-11-chloro-6,6a,7,8,9,13b- hexahydro-7-methyl-5H-benzo[d]napht[2,1-b]azepine-12-ol, hydrochloride) (0.5 mg/kg i.p.). SKF 38393 (1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-(1H)-3- benzazepine-7,8-diol hydrochloride) (5 mg/kg i.p.) increased acetylcholine release by about 50% in control rats and in rats treated with (-)-sulpiride or haloperidol for up to 7 days.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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10.1016/0014-2999(94)90635-1
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pubmed_918_25255
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Primary aldosteronism is a natural model for chronic aldosterone excess in humans and associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Cognitive deficits are inherent to the symptomatology of depression and anxiety disorders. Mineralocorticoid receptors and aldosterone appear to play a role in memory. Aldosterone was additionally supposed to be a risk factor for cognitive decline in patients with essential hypertension. The objective of this study was to investigate possible effects of chronically high aldosterone concentrations on cognitive function. A range of cognitive dimensions were assessed in 19 patients (9 males, 10 females); mean age 47.1 (12.5) under standardized treatment and several rating scales for anxiety, depression, quality of life and sleep were administered. Cognitive parameters were compared to standard norms from a large, healthy standardization sample. Patients showed increased levels of anxiety and depression without meeting diagnostic criteria for a disorder. Besides a numerically lower attention score, patients did not show any significant differences in the cognitive dimensions. Anxiety and depression were negatively correlated with quantitative performance in males. In females, a negative correlation between sleep disturbances and abstract reasoning and a positive correlation with quantitative performance were found. Our data showed no specific effect of chronic aldosterone in the tested cognitive parameters overall at least in younger patients, but they indicate sexually dimorphic regulation processes.
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pubmed_918_25255
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pubmed_713_18996
|
Despite increased prevalence of domestic violence and abuse (DVA), victimization through DVA often remains undetected in mental health care. To estimate the effectiveness of a system provider level training intervention by comparing the detection and referral rates of DVA of intervention community mental health (CMH) teams with rates in control CMH teams. We also aimed to determine whether improvements in knowledge, skills and attitudes to DVA were greater in clinicians working in intervention CMH teams than those working in control teams. We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial in two urban areas of the Netherlands. Detection and referral rates were assessed at baseline and at 6 and 12 months after the start of the intervention. DVA knowledge, skills and attitudes were assessed using a survey at baseline and at 6 and 12 months after start of the intervention. Electronic patient files were used to identify detected and referred cases of DVA. Outcomes were compared between the intervention and control teams using a generalized linear mixed model. During the 12-month follow-up, detection and referral rates did not differ between the intervention and control teams. However, improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude during that follow-up period were greater in intervention teams than in control teams: β 3.21 (95% CI 1.18-4.60). Our trial showed that a training program on DVA knowledge and skills in CMH teams can increase knowledge and attitude towards DVA. However, our intervention does not appear to increase the detection or referral rates of DVA in patients with a severe mental illness. A low detection rate of DVA remains a major problem. Interventions with more obligatory elements and a focus on improving communication between CMH teams and DVA services are recommended.
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10.1177/08862605211004177
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pubmed_481_16150
|
PURPOSE
CT has gained an important role in the diagnosis of the complications of prosthetic surgery of the abdominal aorta: the importance of such complications comes from their frequency, which is proportional to the increasing number of interventions, and their severity. We investigated the CT patterns of the most frequent complications.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
24 patients referred for strongly suspected postoperative complications were examined in 2 years: fever and leukocytosis (20 cases) and progressive anemia (4 cases) were the most frequent findings. The operation had been performed 7 +/- 12 weeks before (2 patients were excluded because surgery dated less than 3 weeks).
RESULTS
14 patients had infective complications: thickening (57%) and inhomogeneity (43%) of the periprosthetic wrap and ectopic gas bubble (78%) were the most frequent CT findings. We also observed 2 periprosthetic hematomas, 1 aneurysm relapse and 1 prosthetic graft rupture.
CONCLUSIONS
In conclusion, CT confirmed its important role in the study of the complications of prosthetic aortic surgery, despite its known poor specificity in the demonstration of the aorta in the first 2-3 months postoperatively, in the initial stages of infection and in the diagnosis of aorto-enteric fistulas.
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pubmed_481_16150
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pubmed_608_13705
|
Human precision-cut liver slices represent a robust and versatile ex vivo model which retains the complex and multi-cellular histoarchitecture of the hepatic environment. As such, they represent an ideal model to investigate the mechanisms of liver injury and for the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Schematic overview to highlight the utility of precision-cut liver slices as a relevant and versatile ex-vivo model of liver disease. Top panel; Precision cut liver slices (PCLS) exposed to ethanol develop mega-mitochondria, a classical hallmark of Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD). Right panel; PCLS from liver tumours can be used as a model for liver cancer and can be used to investigate cancer-immune cell interactions by co-culturing with matched immune cells. Bottom panel; Exposure to a mixture of oleic and linoleic acids can simulate Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Left panel; PCLS can be infected with Hepatitis B and C virus and used as a model to study viral infection and replication.
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10.1007/s12072-018-9913-7
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pubmed_407_2725
|
Disturbances act as powerful structuring forces on ecosystems. To ask whether environmental microbial communities have capacity to recover after a large disturbance event, we conducted a whole-ecosystem manipulation, during which we imposed an intense disturbance on freshwater microbial communities by artificially mixing a temperate lake during peak summer thermal stratification. We employed environmental sensors and water chemistry analyses to evaluate the physical and chemical responses of the lake, and bar-coded 16S ribosomal RNA gene pyrosequencing and automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) to assess the bacterial community responses. The artificial mixing increased mean lake temperature from 14 to 20 °C for seven weeks after mixing ended, and exposed the microorganisms to very different environmental conditions, including increased hypolimnion oxygen and increased epilimnion carbon dioxide concentrations. Though overall ecosystem conditions remained altered (with hypolimnion temperatures elevated from 6 to 20 °C), bacterial communities returned to their pre-manipulation state as some environmental conditions, such as oxygen concentration, recovered. Recovery to pre-disturbance community composition and diversity was observed within 7 (epilimnion) and 11 (hypolimnion) days after mixing. Our results suggest that some microbial communities have capacity to recover after a major disturbance.
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10.1038/ismej.2012.56
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pubmed_256_8751
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Dithiothreitol (DTT) inhibits the annexin I-mediated aggregation of phosphatidylserine (PS) liposomes, but has no effect on its binding to PS vesicles. Non-reducing SDS gel analysis indicates that intermolecular disulfide bonds between annexin I molecules are not involved in liposome aggregation. However, DTT causes changes in protein conformation of annexin I as monitored by hydrophobic fluorescent dye treatment. The results suggest that the reduction of the intramolecular disulfide bond leads to inhibition of annexin I-mediated liposome aggregation via protein conformational changes.
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pubmed_256_8751
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pubmed_67_942
|
Behcet's disease is a systemic autoimmune disorder occasionally associated with otological manifestations, including sensorineural hearing loss. We are reporting a case of Behcet's disease, which was complicated by sensorineural hearing loss and managed successfully with anti-TNF agent Infliximab.
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10.1002/ccr3.6457
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pubmed_839_5587
|
Specific guanine-rich sequence motifs in the human genome have considerable potential to form four-stranded structures known as G-quadruplexes or G4 DNA. The enrichment of these motifs in key chromosomal regions has suggested a functional role for the G-quadruplex structure in genomic regulation. In this work, we have examined the spectrum of nucleotide substitutions in G4 motifs, and related this spectrum to G4 prevalence. Data collected from the large repository of human SNPs indicates that the core feature of G-quadruplex motifs, 5'-GGG-3', exhibits specific mutational patterns that preserve the potential for G4 formation. In particular, we find a genome-wide pattern in which sites that disrupt the guanine triplets are more conserved and less polymorphic than their neutral counterparts. This also holds when considering non-CpG sites only. However, the low level of polymorphisms in guanine tracts is not only confined to G4 motifs. A complete mapping of DNA three-mers at guanine polymorphisms indicated that short guanine tracts are the most under-represented sequence context at polymorphic sites. Furthermore, we provide evidence for a strand bias upstream of human genes. Here, a significantly lower rate of G4-disruptive SNPs on the non-template strand supports a higher relative influence of G4 formation on this strand during transcription.
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10.1093/nar/gkp590
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pubmed_175_5770
|
Two new species are added to the narrowly delimited genus Gochnatia. Of these, G. lojaensis sp. nov. represents a northern extension of the genus and tribe into Ecuador and G. recticulifolia sp. nov. occurs in northern Peru. In addition to descriptions for the two new species, a key is provided for all known species in the genus Gochnatia and a pubescence character is noted that clearly separates Gochnatia from Moquiniastrum.
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10.3897/phytokeys.139.38354
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pubmed_15_6569
|
The patient was a 67-year-old male with type-3 gastric cancer from the upper body of the stomach to the cardia. An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed liver metastases(S8)(T2N0M0H1, Stage IV). The patient received neoadjuvant combined chemotherapy with S-1 and CDDP. S-1(120mg/body/day)was orally administered for 3 weeks followed by 2 drug-free weeks as a course, and CDDP(60mg/m2)was administered by intravenous infusion on day 8. After the second course, significant tumor reduction and disappearance of liver metastases resulted. Total gastrectomy, splenectomy, cholecystectomy, and D2 nodal dissection were performed. The histological diagnosis revealed no metastases in all lymph nodes: Stage I B. The combined neoadjuvant chemotherapy with S-1 and CDDP can be considered an effective treatment for advanced gastric cancer.
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pubmed_15_6569
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pubmed_318_5699
|
Analysis of the temporal relation between the beginning of mental illness and the beginning of professional life, according to a comparative anamnestic method applied to a group of teachers (N. = 94) and a matching control group of psychiatric paired out-patients (N. = 95). The results show that the distribution of illness prior to professional activity is linked with the diagnostic category and not with professional determinants, psychosis proving to be more impairing than neurosis. A high-risk age group for first incidence of psychotic disease was found.
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pubmed_318_5699
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pubmed_234_7894
|
HYPOTHESIS
Laparoscopic techniques can be used to treat patients whose antireflux surgery has failed.
DESIGN
Case series.
SETTING
Two academic medical centers.
PATIENTS
Forty-six consecutive patients, of whom 21 were male and 25 were female (mean age, 55.6 years; range, 15-80 years). Previous antireflux procedures were laparoscopic (21 patients), laparotomy (21 patients), thoracotomy (3 patients), and thoracoscopy (1 patient).
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
The cause of failure, operative and postoperative morbidity, and the level of follow-up satisfaction were determined for all patients.
RESULTS
The causes of failure were hiatal herniation (31 patients [67%]), fundoplication breakdown (20 patients [43%]), fundoplication slippage (9 patients [20%]), tight fundoplication (5 patients [11%]), misdiagnosed achalasia (2 patients [4%]), and displaced Angelchik prosthesis (2 patients [4%]). Twenty-two patients (48%) had more than 1 cause. Laparoscopic reoperative procedures were Nissen fundoplication (n = 22), Toupet fundoplication (n = 13), paraesophageal hernia repair (n = 4), Dor procedure (n = 2), Angelchik prosthesis removal (n = 2), Heller myotomy (n = 2), and the takedown of a wrap (n = 1). In addition, 18 patients required crural repair and 13 required paraesophageal hernia repair. The mean +/- SEM duration of surgery was 3.5+/-1.1 hours. Operative complications were fundus tear (n = 8), significant bleeding (n = 4), bougie perforation (n = 1), small bowel enterotomy (n = 1), and tension pneumothorax (n = 1). The conversion rate (from laparoscopic to an open procedure) was 20% overall (9 patients) but 0% in the last 10 patients. Mortality was 0%. The mean +/- SEM hospital stay was 2.3+/-0.9 days for operations completed laparoscopically. Follow-up was possible in 35 patients (76%) at 17.2+/-11.8 months. The well-being score (1 best; 10, worst) was 8.6+/-2.1 before and 2.9+/-2.4 after surgery (P<.001). Thirty-one (89%) of 35 patients were satisfied with their decision to have reoperation.
CONCLUSIONS
Antireflux surgery failures are most commonly associated with hiatal herniation, followed by the breakdown of the fundoplication. The laparoscopic approach may be used successfully to treat patients with failed antireflux operations. Good results were achieved despite the technical difficulty of the procedures.
|
10.1001/archsurg.134.7.733
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pubmed_469_2464
|
The study aimed to measure variations in industrial process and nutritional variables of poultry by-product meal (PBM) in rendering plants from batch cookers. A total of 200 samples of low ash PBM with mineral matter (MM) content of 11% (LA, n = 104) or high ash with MM above 11% (HA, n = 96) were collected from 5 industrial processing plants. The highest coefficients of variation in chemical composition were for MM (LA - 19.70%; HA - 19.59%), ether extract (LA - 20.72%; HA - 14.86%), collagen (LA - 21.16%; HA - 30.00%) and water activity (LA - 24.54%; HA - 25.89%). However, the crude protein (LA - 5.07%; HA - 7.39%), dry matter (LA - 1.75%; HA - 2.90%) and organic matter digestibility (LA - 4.81%; HA - 6.78%) were lower. The variability of the data related to the process of PBM was: maximum process temperature (LA - 3.91%; HA - 3.56%), average process temperature (LA - 3.73%; HA - 4.71%), and processing time (LA - 27.37%; HA - 37.59%). This study evidenced that the corrective measures by limiting the amount of bones in the raw material, optimizing the pressing step for the poultry fat extraction, and also controlling the processing time of PBM may favor the production of more standardized PBM in terms of chemical composition and quality.
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10.1016/j.psj.2022.101926
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pubmed_750_3424
|
Calreticulin (CRT), a highly conserved ubiquitous multifunctional protein, has immense implications in physiological, developmental, and pathological processes due to its interaction with many proteins. In this work, we utilized various capillary electrophoresis (CE) modes for CRT analysis and its interaction with IgG both qualitatively and quantitatively. The interaction was evaluated by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and affinity capillary electrophoresis (ACE) modes that took only 4-6 min for each run. The nanomolar level Kd was determined between CRT and IgG by CZE-LIF and ACE-UV, whereas, CRT did not exhibit any interaction with HSA (as the control protein). By computer modeling, we obtained modeled structures of the CRT-IgG complex which mapped six hot spots on the CRT and IgG interacting interface. Our work is the first report which establishes CE methods for qualitative and quantitative analysis of CRT and IgG interaction. Moreover, the results of computer modeling provide the first molecular insights into the CRT binding sites for IgG that may act as the key anchors and contribute to the interaction studies between CRT and its interacting protein partners.
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10.1016/j.talanta.2018.11.098
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pubmed_632_19455
|
Cow milk products enriched with Clostridium difficile (C. diff.) specific IgA are possible alternative therapeutics against C. diff. associated diarrhea. A persistently high level of C. diff. specific IgA in mature milk triggered by continuous immunizations of dairy cows against C. diff. was hypothesized. Nine Brown Swiss cows were repeatedly vaccinated against C. diff. and divided into low responder (LR) and high responder (HR) cows, as measured by their production of anti-C. diff. specific IgA in milk (threshold: 8.0 μg anti-C. diff. specific IgA/mL on average). Total and C. diff. specific IgA were quantified in bovine milk and blood using a sandwich ELISA. Important milk production factors were analyzed per lactation stage. Milk yield, milk fats and proteins were significantly different (P < 0.05) in the early lactation stage when the treated with the untreated cows (n = 30) were compared. In contrast to the "before treatment control" values, the HR's milk anti-C. diff. IgA was approximately 80% higher at any lactation stage, and the HR's total milk IgA increased up to 72% in the late lactation stage. The LR's total milk IgA differed from the baseline by roughly 47% only in the late lactation stage. The total and specific IgA contents in milk were more influenced by the anti-C. diff. immunizations than in blood. The correlations between anti-C. diff. specific IgA, total IgA and the main production factors in milk were classified as weak (I r I < 0.5), except for the close relation of anti-C. diff. specific IgA and total IgA (r = 0.69). To conclude, a sustainable C. diff. specific IgA enrichment in milk can be achieved by continuous immunization of dairy cows, provided a potent and well-formulated anti-C. diff. vaccine is given to dairy cows preselected due to their proven anti-C. diff. receptivity.
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10.1371/journal.pone.0195275
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pubmed_1026_13989
|
OBJECTIVES
To estimate the mortality among siblings of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and put any excess mortality among these in relation to the mortality among patients with RA.
METHODS
Using prospective nation-wide registers, we identified patients diagnosed with new-onset RA 2001-2017 (n=8137), patients with prevalent RA 2006-2017 (n=25 464), matched general population comparator subjects to all RA patients (n=22 457/68 674) and full-siblings of all groups (n=28 878/91 546).We followed all cohorts until death, 31 December 2018, migration and (for non-RA subjects) RA diagnosis. We compared patients with RA versus the general population, and siblings of RA versus siblings of the general population using Cox regression, including adjustment for socio-economy.
RESULTS
The HR of death versus the general population was 1.11 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.22) for incident and 1.46 (95% CI 1.39 to 1.52) for prevalent patients with RA. The siblings of these patient groups were also at increased risk of death (HR=1.10, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.20 and 1.09, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.13, respectively), with little impact of adjustment for socio-economy.
CONCLUSION
The mortality in RA is increased, but around one-fifth of this excess is present also among their siblings. Previous literature using general population rates for comparison has thus likely overestimated the direct impact on mortality attributable to RA. To bring down excess mortality in RA, optimal disease control is important but may not suffice.
|
10.1136/rmdopen-2020-001197
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pubmed_568_101
|
Grounded in an intersectional framework, the present study investigated the extent to which racism, gendered racism, and conformity to masculine norms are associated with Asian American men's muscularity-oriented disordered eating. The study also examined if ethnic identity moderated the association between both forms of racism and muscularity-oriented disordered eating. 220 Asian American men completed an online cross-sectional survey that contained the study questionnaires. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between our predictor variables and muscularity-oriented disordered eating. Gendered racism, conformity to the masculine norms of playboy, heterosexual presentation and self-reliance were positively associated with muscularity-oriented disordered eating, whereas conformity to power over women was negatively associated. Racism and the remaining masculine norms were not associated with muscularity-oriented disordered eating. Ethnic identity did not moderate the association between either form of racism and muscularity-oriented disordered eating. Given that gendered racism was positively associated with muscularity-oriented disordered eating whereas racism was not, researchers and practitioners may consider prioritizing intersectionality in their understanding of Asian American men's eating pathology. Results emphasize the importance of examining both race and gender in conceptualizing Asian American men's muscularity-oriented disordered eating.Data Availability Statement: Data for this study are available upon request from the first author.
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10.1080/10640266.2021.1924925
|
pubmed_282_25627
|
The thyroid and parathyroid glands are dually innervated by sympathetic (cervical sympathetic trunk [CST]) and parasympathetic (superior laryngeal nerve [SLN]) nerve fibers. We examined the effects of electrical stimulation of efferent or afferent nerve fibers innervating the thyroid and parathyroid glands on the secretion of immunoreactive calcitonin (iCT), parathyroid hormone (iPTH), 3,3',5-triiodothyronine (iT3), and thyroxine (iT4) from the thyroid and parathyroid glands. In anesthetized and artificially ventilated rats, thyroid venous blood was collected. The rate of hormone secretion from the glands was calculated from plasma hormone levels, measured by ELISA, and the flow rate of thyroid venous plasma. SLNs or CSTs were stimulated bilaterally with rectangular pulses with a 0.5-ms width. To define the role of unmyelinated nerve fibers (typically efferent), the cut peripheral segments were stimulated at various frequencies (up to 40 Hz) with a supramaximal intensity to excite all nerve fibers. The secretion of iCT, iT3, and iT4 increased during SLN stimulation and decreased during CST stimulation. iPTH secretion increased during CST stimulation, but was not affected by SLN stimulation. To examine the effects of selective stimulation of myelinated nerve fibers (typically afferent) in the SLN, intact SLNs were stimulated with a subthreshold intensity for unmyelinated nerve fibers. iCT, iT3, and iT4 secretion increased during stimulation of intact SLNs at 40 Hz. These results suggest that excitation of myelinated afferents induced by low intensity and high frequency stimulation of intact SLNs promotes secretion of CT and thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland, potentially via reflex activation of parasympathetic efferent nerve fibers in the SLN.
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10.3389/fnins.2017.00375
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pubmed_228_20492
|
Human retinoblastoma binding protein 9 (RBBP9) is an interacting partner of the retinoblastoma susceptibility protein (Rb). RBBP9 is a tumor-associated protein required for pancreatic neoplasia, affects cell cycle control, and is involved in the TGF-β signalling pathway. Sequence analysis suggests that RBBP9 belongs to the α/β hydrolase superfamily of enzymes. The serine hydrolase activity of RBBP9 is required for development of pancreatic carcinomas in part by inhibiting TGF-β antiproliferative signaling through suppressing Smad2/3 phosphorylation. The crystal structure of human RBBP9 confirms the α/β hydrolase fold, with a six-stranded parallel β-sheet flanked by α helixes. The structure of RBBP9 resembles that of the YdeN protein from Bacillus subtilis, which is suggested to have carboxylesterase activity. RBBP9 contains a Ser75-His165-Asp138 catalytic triad, situated in a prominent pocket on the surface of the protein. The side chains of the LxCxE sequence motif that is important for interaction with Rb is mostly buried in the structure. Structure- function studies of RBBP9 suggest possible routes for novel cancer drug discovery programs.
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10.2174/092986612799080356
|
pubmed_939_18576
|
Background: Gross strap muscle invasion (gSMI) in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) was defined as high-risk recurrent group in the 2015 American Thyroid Association guidelines. However, controversy persists because several studies suggested gSMI had little effect on disease outcome. Herein, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate impact of gSMI on outcome of DTC. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE) for studies published until February 2020 was performed. Case-control studies and randomized controlled trials that studied the impact of gSMI on outcome of DTC were included. Results: Six studies (all retrospective studies) involving 13,639 patients met final inclusion criteria. Compared with no extrathyroidal extension (ETE), patients with gSMI were associated with increased risk of recurrence (P = 0.0004, OR, 1.46; 95% CI: 1.18-1.80) and lymph node metastasis (LNM) (P < 0.00001, OR 4.19; 95% CI: 2.53-6.96). For mortality (P = 0.34, OR 1.47; 95% CI: 0.67-3.25), 10 year disease-specific survival (P = 0.80, OR 0.91; 95% CI: 0.44-1.88), and distant metastasis (DM) (P = 0.21, OR 2.94; 95% CI: 0.54-15.93), there was no significant difference between gSMI and no ETE group. In contrast with maximal ETE(extension of the primary tumor to the trachea, esophagus, recurrent laryngeal nerve, larynx, subcutaneous soft tissue, skin, internal jugular vein, or carotid artery), patients with gSMI were associated with decreased risk of recurrence (P < 0.0001, OR, 0.58; 95% CI: 0.44-0.76), mortality (P = 0.0003, OR 0.20; 95% CI: 0.08-0.48), LNM (P = 0.0003, OR 0.64; 95% CI: 0.50-0.81), and DM (P = 0.0009, OR 0.28; 95% CI: 0.13-0.59). Conclusions : DTC patients with gSMI had a higher risk of recurrence and LNM than those without ETE. However, in contrast with maximal ETE, a much better prognosis was observed in DTC patients with only gSMI.
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10.3389/fonc.2020.01687
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pubmed_913_4416
|
When a physician decides that a diabetic patient requires insulin treatment, more teaching is necessary than when initiating most other medications. It has been found advantageous, in treating persons with diabetes mellitus who are not severely compromised metabolically, to introduce them in an outpatient setting to the administration of insulin. The objective of this article as a teaching guide is to enable the health-care provider to cover all essential points clearly and effectively in a minimal period of time and thereby allow the patient to confidently inject himself/herself properly, and to become a member of the team that is managing and controlling his/her disease. This paper deals only with the use of insulin in the diabetic patient. It is recognized that other aspects of patient care and patient education must be addressed concurrently in the total care of the patient with diabetes.
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pubmed_913_4416
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