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pubmed_830_1358 | Structural refinement using X-ray powder diffraction data and geometry energy calculations using quantum mechanics were used to investigate the preferential substitution sites and the amount of Eu2+ ions in the host lattice of alkaline earth elements co-doped M2Si5N8:Eu2+ (M = Ca, Sr, and Ba), which is a red color-emitting nitride phosphor prepared via a carbothermal reaction method. Of the possible preferential sites, the preferential site proposed by the structural refinement results, in which the Eu2+ ions might preferentially occupy nine coordinated sites with nitrogen in M2Si5N8:Eu2+, was confirmed via geometry energy calculations using a first-principle based on the density-functional theory. The final converged weighted R factor (R(wp)) and the goodness-of-fit indicator [S(= R(wp)/R(e))] were 9.51% and 1.77, respectively. Each occupancy of Eu2+ ions for the two non-equivalent M sites, M(1) and M(2), was 0.10(2) and 0.04(2), respectively. The final refined model described the crystal structure in a space group Pmn2, (No. 31) with Z = 2, a = 5.7424(1) angstroms, b = 6.8837(1) angstroms, c = 9.3586(1) angstroms, and alpha(= beta= gamma)= 90 degrees. | 10.1166/jnn.2012.5651 |
pubmed_135_11883 | The development of antenna miniaturization technology is limited by the principle of electromagnetic radiation. In this paper, the structure size of the antenna is reduced by nearly two orders of magnitude by using Acoustic excitation instead of electromagnetic radiation. For this magnetoelectric (ME) antenna, the design, simulation and experiment were introduced. Firstly, the basic design theory of magnetoelectric antennas has been refined on a Maxwell's equations basis, and the structure of the ME antenna is designed by using the Mason equivalent circuit model. The influence mechanism of structure on antenna performance is studied by model simulation. In order to verify the correctness of the proposed design scheme, an antenna sample operating at 2.45 GHz was fabricated and tested. The gain measured is -15.59 dB, which is better than the latest research that has been reported so far. Therefore, the ME antenna is expected to provide an effective new scheme for antenna miniaturization technology. | 10.3390/mi13101584 |
pubmed_804_5455 | In this paper, an adaptive controller is developed for discrete time linear systems that takes into account parametric uncertainty, internal-external non-parametric random uncertainties, and time varying control signal delay. Additionally, the proposed adaptive control is designed in such a way that it is utterly model free. Even though these properties are studied separately in the literature, they are not taken into account all together in adaptive control literature. The Q-function is used to estimate long-term performance of the proposed adaptive controller. Control policy is generated based on the long-term predicted value, and this policy searches an optimal stabilizing control signal for uncertain and unstable systems. The derived control law does not require an initial stabilizing control assumption as in the ones in the recent literature. Learning error, control signal convergence, minimized Q-function, and instantaneous reward are analyzed to demonstrate the stability and effectiveness of the proposed adaptive controller in a simulation environment. Finally, key insights on parameters convergence of the learning and control signals are provided. | 10.1016/j.isatra.2018.03.002 |
pubmed_588_23823 | 12/15-lipoxygenase (12/15-LO) enzyme and products have been associated with inflammation and atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism of effects of the 12/15-LO products has not been fully clarified. To study the role of 12/15-LO in cytokine expression, experiments with direct additions of the12/15-LO products, 12(S)-hydroxyeicosa tetraenoic acid or 12(S)-hydroperoxyeicosa-5Z, 8Z, 10E, or 14Z-tetraenoic acid to macrophages were first carried out, and results showed that the 12/15-LO products stimulated mRNA and protein expression of IL-6 and TNF-alpha in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, an inactive analogue of 12(S)-hydroxyeicosa tetraenoic acid had no effect. To further explore the role of endogenous 12/15-LO in cytokine expression, we used an in vitro and in vivo model to test the effect of 12/15-LO overexpression. The models included Plox-86 cells, a J774A.1 cell line that stably overexpresses leukocyte-type 12/15-LO and primary mouse peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) from 12/15-LO transgenic mice. The results showed a clear increase in IL-6 and TNF-alpha expression in Plox-86 cells and MPMs from 12/15-LO transgenic mice, compared with mock-transfected J774A.1 cells and MPMs from control C57BL6 mice. IL-1beta, IL-12, and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 mRNA were also increased in Plox-86 cells. These data clearly suggest a clear role of 12/15-LO pathway in cytokine production. We also demonstrated that signaling pathways including protein kinase C, p38 MAPK (p38), c-jun NH(2)-terminal kinase as well as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase are important for 12-(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid-induced increases in IL-6 and TNF-alpha gene expression. These results suggest a potentially important mechanism linking 12/15-LO activation to chronic inflammation and atherosclerosis. | 10.1210/en.2006-0665 |
pubmed_888_22516 | Severe blunt chest trauma is frequently associated with multiple organ failure and sepsis. Posttraumatic immunosuppression seems to play a major role in their development. However, the immunologic alterations following pulmonary contusion are insufficiently elucidated. Specifically, it remains unknown whether immunocompetent cells located distant from the site of the impact are affected. We therefore aimed to characterize the influence of pulmonary contusion on lymphocytes and splenic macrophages. Male C3H/HeN mice (n = 8-10/group) were anesthetized and subjected to trauma or sham procedure. Blunt chest trauma was induced by a blast wave focused on the thorax. Two or 24 h later, splenocytes and splenic macrophages were isolated and stimulated for 48 h. The cytokine release (IFN-gamma, IL-2, IL-3, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18) from splenocytes as well as from splenic macrophages (TNF-alpha, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18) and plasma levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 were quantified by ELISA. The results indicate that at 2 h after blunt chest trauma, plasma TNF-alpha and IL-6 were markedly increased. At the same time, no differences in splenocyte cytokine production were detectable. However, at 24 h a significantly depressed cytokine release was observed in trauma animals. Furthermore, splenic macrophages showed a significantly decreased production of TNF-alpha, IL-10, and IL-12 at 24 h and markedly increased release of IL-18 at 2 h after trauma. These results indicate that blunt chest trauma causes severe immunodysfunction of lymphocytes and splenic macrophages. Thus, lung contusion as a localized type of trauma causes dysfunction of immunocompetent cell populations, which are located distant from the site of injury. | 10.1097/01.shk.0000127684.64611.5c |
pubmed_288_23431 | A case of familial frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism (FTDP) similar to progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) was reported. A 58-year-old man developed personality change followed by parkinsonism and dementia. Three family members showed similar symptoms. Cerebral atrophy was marked on the anterior frontotemporal lobes. The substantia nigra, hippocampus, peri-aqueductal gray matter and pontine nucleus were affected with globose neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) and glial tangles. Argyrophilic grains were distributed in the CA1-CA2. NFT, glial tangles and argyrophilic grains expressed four-repeat microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT). MAPT gene had no mutation. Familial occurrence of FTDP with PSP-like tauopathy is rare. | 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2007.10.015 |
pubmed_538_7411 | The present research was undertaken to determine the conformations of alkyl groups that are forced into small spaces. Unbranched alkyl groups assume fully extended conformations in the free space of solutions, because any bends in the structure create steric clashes between hydrogens along the chain. We synthesized a series of alkyl esters of a carboxylic acid attached to the inner surface of a vase-shaped container structure. The shorter esters (ethyl and propyl) can be accommodated in extended conformations, and even small solvent molecules can share the container's space. Longer (butyl-octyl) esters adopt increasingly coiled conformations that writhe rapidly in the limited space of the cavity. Even longer esters (nonyl and decyl) can be synthesized, but their containers become distorted, and their spectra indicate slowed internal motions of the alkyl groups within the space. In general, alkyl groups are readily contorted when their internal strains are compensated by attraction with the inner surfaces and the proper filling of space. | 10.1073/pnas.0511149103 |
pubmed_803_2277 | Three human melanoma cell lines were derived from tumor specimens and established in culture. CAL 1 originated from a bone marrow metastasis and CAL 4 and CAL 7 were derived from solid tumor fragments. CAL 1 and CAL 7 were cloned before establishment. Ultrastructural and chromosome analysis were carried out along with the response to nine chemotherapeutic agents at various concentrations. Survival curves after irradiation were also plotted. The uncloned cell line, CAL 4, displayed some differences from the other two cell lines as regards ploidy and response to chemotherapy. Greater spread of chromosome numbers were observed with this cell line, which contained both hypoploid and a hyperploid modal numbers. All three cell lines showed a relatively high extrapolation number after irradiation, suggesting that inherent cellular properties may be partly responsible for the clinical radioresistance of malignant melanomas. | 10.1007/BF02619592 |
pubmed_41_166 | Patients with a Brugada type 1 electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern may suffer sudden cardiac death (SCD). Recognized risk factors are spontaneous type 1 ECG and syncope of presumed arrhythmic origin. Familial sudden cardiac death (f-SCD) is not a recognized independent risk factor. Finally, positive electrophysiologic study (+EPS) has a controversial prognostic value. Current ESC guidelines recommend implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation in patients with a Brugada type 1 ECG pattern if they have suffered a previous resuscitated cardiac arrest (class I recommendation) or if they have syncope of presumed cardiac origin (class IIa recommendation). In clinical practice, however, many other patients undergo ICD implantation despite the suggestions of the guidelines. In a 2014 cumulative analysis of the largest available studies (including over 2000 patients), we found that 1/3 of patients received an ICD in primary prevention. Interestingly, 55% of these latter were asymptomatic, while 80% had a + EPS. This means that over 30% of subjects with a Brugada type 1 ECG pattern were considered at high risk of SCD mainly on the basis of EPS, to which a class IIb indication for ICD is assigned by the current ESC guidelines. Follow-up data confirm that in clinical practice single, and often frail, risk factors overestimate the real risk in subjects with the Brugada type 1 ECG pattern. We can argue that, in clinical practice, many cardiology centers adopt an aggressive treatment in subjects with a Brugada type 1 ECG pattern who are not at high risk. As a result, many healthy persons may be treated in order to save a few patients with a true Brugada Syndrome. Better risk stratification is needed. A multi-parametric approach that considers the contemporary presence of multiple risk factors is a promising one. | 10.4330/wjc.v9.i9.737 |
pubmed_997_10185 | Three protein targets from SARS-CoV-2, the viral pathogen that causes COVID-19, are studied: the main protease, the 2'-O-RNA methyltransferase, and the nucleocapsid (N) protein. For the main protease, the nucleophilicity of the catalytic cysteine C145 is enabled by coupling to three histidine residues, H163 and H164 and catalytic dyad partner H41. These electrostatic couplings enable significant population of the deprotonated state of C145. For the RNA methyltransferase, the catalytic lysine K6968 that serves as a Brønsted base has significant population of its deprotonated state via strong coupling with K6844 and Y6845. For the main protease, Partial Order Optimum Likelihood (POOL) predicts two clusters of biochemically active residues; one includes the catalytic H41 and C145 and neighboring residues. The other surrounds a second pocket adjacent to the catalytic site and includes S1 residues F140, L141, H163, E166, and H172 and also S2 residue D187. This secondary recognition site could serve as an alternative target for the design of molecular probes. From in silico screening of library compounds, ligands with predicted affinity for the secondary site are reported. For the NSP16-NSP10 complex that comprises the RNA methyltransferase, three different sites are predicted. One is the catalytic core at the conserved K-D-K-E motif that includes catalytic residues D6928, K6968, and E7001 plus K6844. The second site surrounds the catalytic core and consists of Y6845, C6849, I6866, H6867, F6868, V6894, D6895, D6897, I6926, S6927, Y6930, and K6935. The third is located at the heterodimer interface. Ligands predicted to have high affinity for the first or second sites are reported. Three sites are also predicted for the nucleocapsid protein. This work uncovers key interactions that contribute to the function of the three viral proteins and also suggests alternative sites for ligand design. | 10.3389/fchem.2022.1017394 |
pubmed_230_11362 | UNLABELLED
The ultimate goal for ceramic fused to metal restoration is the creation of a perfect aesthetic integration of the restoration with healthy tissues.
MATERIAL AND METHOD
The study included a group of twenty-one patients. Sixteen of them were partial edentulous patients and five presented dental lesions or chromatic modifications of the dental tissues. The treatment plan consisted of metal-ceramic crowns and bridges. The ceramic system used was Vintage Halo (Shofu).
RESULTS
According to the patient's age, topography of the missing teeth or colour modification, we surveyed the aesthetic rehabilitation, creating the specific morphological elements, in order to realise an individual natural aspect with a similar optical behaviour as the dental enamel.
CONCLUSIONS
The current popularity of metal-ceramic restorations is primarily related to their predictable strength and reasonable aesthetics. The main parameters that are responsible for a high-quality result are represented by: non-invasive and reversible procedures, conservative preparations, individual function offered by an individualized reconstruction, gnathology-based concepts into the occlusal rehabilitation, biocompatible materials, longevity of the reconstruction and comfort for the patient. | pubmed_230_11362 |
pubmed_919_15554 | AIM
To evaluate the population substructure of purebred dogs and cats in order to estimate the true significance of a microsatellite-based DNA match for use as evidence in legal proceedings. The high frequency of animal hair as a forensic evidence submission necessitates the development of mitochondrial analysis tools as well.
METHODS
Random samples from a large convenience collection of veterinary diagnostic submissions from the western USA were used, as well as contributed samples of unrelated purebred cats and dogs. Dogs (n=558) were profiled with 17 microsatellites and the data evaluated for Hardy Weinberg and linkage equilibrium. The mitochondrial control region (D loop) of dogs (n=348) and cats (n=167) was sequenced to determine the haplotype distribution.
RESULTS
Domestic dogs in the western United States showed significant population substructure with marked associations within loci but no disequilibrium between loci. A population substructure coefficient Theta=0.11 is recommended for calculating genotype frequencies. Mitochondrial haplotypes in cats and dogs show less variation than human haplotypes.
CONCLUSION
Although population substructure occurs in domestic dogs (and can be inferred in cats), the discriminatory power of microsatellite analysis is dramatic with even partial DNA types, strongly supporting the prosecution of perpetrators in five discussed cases. Mitochondrial analysis, while less powerful, adds a layer of evidence in four discussed cases. | pubmed_919_15554 |
pubmed_970_9145 | Bacterial infection is a worldwide health problem. Finding new potential antibacterial materials and developing advanced treatment strategies are becoming increasingly important and urgent. Herein, a versatile graphene-based photothermal nanocomposite was prepared for rapidly capturing and effectively eliminating both Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli), and for destroying bacterial biofilms with near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. In this work, chitosan-functionalized magnetic graphene oxide (GO-IO-CS) was synthesized as a multifunctional therapy agent through a hydrothermal method. Chitosan could efficiently contact and capture bacteria by its positively charged surface functional groups, and graphene oxide could act as an effective photothermal killer to convert NIR light into local heat to enhance antibacterial activity. The super-paramagnetic properties of GO-IO-CS made it easy to separate and aggregate the bacteria, so improving the photothermal sterilization efficiency. GO-IO-CS was demonstrated to eliminate bacteria effectively after 10 min of NIR irradiation and to destroy bacterial biofilms. Furthermore, this antibiotic agent could be regenerated with an external magnet and reused in a subsequent antibacterial application. | 10.1039/c6tb03084j |
pubmed_929_19294 | Fructose is metabolized in the cytoplasm by the enzyme ketohexokinase (KHK), and excessive consumption may affect bone health. Previous work in calcium-restricted, growing mice demonstrated that fructose disrupted intestinal calcium transport. Thus, we hypothesized that the observed effects on bone were dependent on fructose metabolism and took advantage of a KHK knockout (KO) model to assess direct effects of high plasma fructose on the long bones of growing mice. Four groups (n = 12) of 4-week-old, male, C57Bl/6 background, congenic mice with intact KHK (wild-type, WT) or global knockout of both isoforms of KHK-A/C (KHK-KO), were fed 20% glucose (control diet) or fructose for 8 weeks. Dietary fructose increased by 40-fold plasma fructose in KHK-KO compared to the other three groups (p < 0.05). Obesity (no differences in epididymal fat or body weight) or altered insulin was not observed in either genotype. The femurs of KHK-KO mice with the highest levels of plasma fructose were shorter (2%). Surprisingly, despite the long-term blockade of KHK, fructose feeding resulted in greater bone mineral density, percent volume, and number of trabeculae as measured by µCT in the distal femur of KHK-KO. Moreover, higher plasma fructose concentrations correlated with greater trabecular bone volume, greater work-to-fracture in three-point bending of the femur mid-shaft, and greater plasma sclerostin. Since the metabolism of fructose is severely inhibited in the KHK-KO condition, our data suggest mechanism(s) that alter bone growth may be related to the plasma concentration of fructose. | 10.1007/s00223-020-00663-w |
pubmed_581_12837 | Gene therapy for genetic deafness is a promising approach by which to prevent hearing loss or to restore hearing after loss has occurred. Although a variety of direct approaches to introduce viral particles into the inner ear have been described, presumed physiological barriers have heretofore precluded investigation of systemic gene delivery to the cochlea. In this study, we sought to characterize systemic delivery of a rAAV2/9 vector as a non-invasive means of cochlear transduction. In wild-type neonatal mice (postnatal day 0-1), we show that intravenous injection of rAAV2/9 carrying an eGFP-reporter gene results in binaural transduction of inner hair cells, spiral ganglion neurons and vestibular hair cells. Transduction efficiency increases in a dose-dependent manner. Inner hair cells are transduced in an apex-to-base gradient, with transduction reaching 96% in the apical turn. Hearing acuity in treated animals is unaltered at postnatal day 30. Transduction is influenced by viral serotype and age at injection, with less efficient cochlear transduction observed with systemic delivery of rAAV2/1 and in juvenile mice with rAAV2/9. Collectively, these data validate intravenous delivery of rAAV2/9 as a novel and atraumatic technique for inner ear transgene delivery in early postnatal mice. | 10.1038/s41598-017-09805-x |
pubmed_1057_8926 | Since Dec. 2019 the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has infected millions and claimed life of several hundred thousand worldwide. However, so far no approved vaccine or drug therapy is available for treatment of virus infection. Convalescent plasma has been considered a potential modality for COVID-19 infection. One hundred eighty-nine COVID-19 positive patients including 115 patients in plasma therapy group and 74 patients in control group, registered in the hospitals with confirmed COVID-19 infection, entered this multi-center clinical study. Comparison of outcomes including all-cause mortality, total hospitalization days and patients' need for intubation between the two patient groups shows that total of 98 (98.2 %) of patients who received convalescent plasma were discharged from hospital which is substantially higher compared to 56 (78.7 %) patients in control group. Length of hospitalization days was significantly lower (9.54 days) in convalescent plasma group compared with that of control group (12.88 days). Only 8 patients (7%) in convalescent plasma group required intubation while that was 20 % in control group. This clinical study provides strong evidence to support the efficacy of convalescent plasma therapy in COVID-19 patients and recommends this treatment for management of these patients. Clinical efficacy, immediate availability and potential cost effectiveness could be considered as main advantages of convalescent plasma therapy. | 10.1016/j.transci.2020.102875 |
pubmed_1111_23679 | Within 5 years of its first publication in December 2004, Particle and Fibre Toxicology has become a well recognized open access, peer-reviewed, online journal with an (unofficial) impact factor of 5.5. This major achievement is due to the dedication of former Editors-in-Chief Professors Ken Donaldson and Paul Borm, and, of course also due to the high quality of manuscripts that have been submitted by authors from all over the world. Recent years have shown a significant increase in papers dealing with nanomaterials and nanotoxicology, whilst the small margin between ambient PM exposure and current standards continues to provide a constant flow of manuscripts on this topic. This however, does not imply that we can relax now. | 10.1186/1743-8977-8-13 |
pubmed_5_10883 | Correct classification of the true status of herds is an important component of epidemiologic studies and animal disease-control programs. We review theoretical aspects of herd-level testing through consideration of test performance (herd-level sensitivity, specificity and predictive values), the factors affecting these estimates, and available software for calculations. We present new aspects and considerations concerning the effect of precision and bias in estimation of individual-test performance on herd-test performance and suggest methods (pooled testing, targeted sampling of subpopulations with higher prevalence, and use of combinations of tests) to improve herd-level sensitivity when the expected within-herd prevalence is low. | 10.1016/s0167-5877(00)00118-5 |
pubmed_1057_2262 | Multicompartment polymeric nanocarriers which mimic the compartmentalized architecture of living cells have received considerable research attention in the biomedical field. The advancement of synthetic polymeric chemistry has allowed multicompartment polymeric nanocarriers to be tailored for biomedical applications such as drug delivery, encapsulated catalysis, and artificial cellular mimics. In this review, polymer-based multicompartment nanocarriers (multicompartment micelles, multicompartment polymersomes, and capsosomes) have been discussed. This review focuses on multicompartment systems applied to biomedical applications over the last ten years. The synthetic procedures and structural properties that impact the specific application are also highlighted. | 10.1002/marc.202000298 |
pubmed_235_12011 | PURPOSE
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of death from cancer in adults. Recent advances have shown that cancer cells can have some epigenetic changes involved in all stages of cancer. It has also been shown that miR-424 acts as gene expression regulators in many biological processes, including angiogenesis with mediators such as VEGF. In the current study, to identify the potential role of miR-424 in colorectal cancer progression, methylation status of miR-424 promoter region and its expression level have been evaluated. Besides, the correlation between VEGF level and miR-424 expression level has been assessed.
METHODS
Methylation status miR-424 promoter was assessed using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP). The expression level of miR-424 in human colorectal cancer tissue was analyzed by quantitative PCR. HCT116 cell line was selected to evaluate the correlation between the miR-424 expression level and the promoter's methylation status. VEGF expression, one out of mir-424 targets involved in angiogenesis and cancer progression, was measured by western blot analysis in the pairs of cancer tissues and their adjacent tissues.
RESULTS
Our results have revealed that the promoter region of miR-424 is methylated in cancer cells compared to normal cells, leading to downregulation of miR-424 in the colorectal cancer tissues compared to the normal tissues. Also, we found that the expression protein's level of VEGF in the tumor cells is increased compared with normal tissues.
CONCLUSION
The present study suggests that hypermethylation downregulates miR-424. VEGF expression is upregulated with decreased miR-424 in colorectal cancer, which results in cancer progression. | 10.1007/s12029-021-00614-0 |
pubmed_596_1451 | BACKGROUND
Aldosterone, one of the major culprits associated with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), is significantly elevated following high salt administration in Dahl rats. Since we have previously demonstrated that aldosterone (ALDO) upregulates cyclooxygenase (COX) expression in the kidney, the present study was design to assess whether prostaglandin release is involved in the effects of chronic aldosterone treatment on vascular function of the aorta from nonhypertensive Dahl salt-sensitive rats.
FINDINGS
The effects of aldosterone on arachidonic acid metabolism and on the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 were evaluated in the Dahl salt sensitive (DS) rat aorta, renal, femoral and carotid arteries. DS rats on a low salt (0.3% NaCl) diet were treated with or without ALDO for four weeks. Indirect blood pressure (BP), the release of prostacyclin (PGI2) and prostaglandin E2, and the expression of COX-2 were measured to assess the vascular remodelling by aldosterone. Vascular function was also assessed by contractile responsiveness in the aorta to phenylephrine. ALDO increased BP (17 ± 1%) and inhibited the basal release of PGE2. ALDO enhanced vascular reactivity to phenylephrine and up regulated the expression of COX-2 in both aorta and renal vessels but reduced COX-2 expression in the femoral artery.
CONCLUSIONS
These data reveal that the effect of ALDO in the vasculature is tissue specific and may involve the inhibition of PGE2 release. Thus, suggesting a role for prostaglandins in the vasculopathic aspects of aldosterone. | 10.1186/1756-0500-4-125 |
pubmed_708_3658 | Previous studies have demonstrated that morphine inhibits the display of maternal behavior in lactating rats. Whether morphine exerts its actions specifically at the mu receptor has not yet been determined. The present study examined this possibility by evaluating whether naloxonazine, an irreversible and selective antagonist of the mu 1 opioid receptor subtype, is able to attenuate morphine's disruptive effect on maternal behavior in primiparous lactating rats. Experiment 1 compared the ability of naloxonazine (AZINE) and naloxone (NAL) to block the action of morphine (MOR) on maternal care. Virgin, Sprague-Dawley rats were mated in our colony and on day 3 postpartum (parturition, day 0) all rats received jugular catheters. On day 6 the mothers received one of the following treatments: MOR alone (10 mg/kg, SC, N = 10); MOR (10 mg/kg, SC) 24 hr after AZINE pretreatment (10 mg/kg, IV, N = 10); MOR (10 mg/kg, SC) 24 hr after NAL pretreatment (10 mg/kg, IV, N = 8); or MOR (10 mg/kg, SC) immediately after NAL (0.5 mg/kg, SC, N = 10). MOR alone completely disrupted maternal behavior (0% responded) which was blocked by prior NAL administration (100%). AZINE pretreatment 24 hr earlier partially blocked MOR disruption of MB (40% responded; significantly different from MOR alone). The response of rats pretreated 24 hr earlier with NAL did not differ from MOR alone. AZINE blocked MOR's effect on pup retrieval to an even greater degree (70% responded vs. 10% in MOR alone). Experiment 2 determined the ability of AZINE to interfere with varying doses of MOR on maternal behavior.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | 10.1016/0031-9384(90)90051-5 |
pubmed_1076_5715 | A transcription corepressor, MAT1-mediated transcriptional repressor (MMTR), was found in mouse embryonic stem cell lines. MMTR orthologs (DMAP1) are found in a wide variety of life forms from yeasts to humans. MMTR down-regulation in differentiating mouse embryonic stem cells in vitro resulted in activation of many unrelated genes, suggesting its role as a general transcriptional repressor. In luciferase reporter assays, the transcriptional repression activity resided at amino acids 221 to 468. Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) interacts with MMTR both in vitro and in vivo and also interacts with MMTR in the nucleus. Interestingly, MMTR activity was only partially rescued by competition with dominant-negative HDAC1(H141A) or by treatment with an HDAC inhibitor, trichostatin A (TSA). To identify the protein responsible for HDAC1-independent MMTR activity, we performed a yeast two-hybrid screen with the full-length MMTR coding sequence as bait and found MAT1. MAT1 is an assembly/targeting factor for cyclin-dependent kinase-activating kinase which constitutes a subcomplex of TFIIH. The coiled-coil domain in the middle of MAT1 was confirmed to interact with the C-terminal half of MMTR, and the MMTR-mediated transcriptional repression activity was completely restored by MAT1 in the presence of TSA. Moreover, intact MMTR was required to inhibit phosphorylation of the C-terminal domain in the RNA polymerase II largest subunit by TFIIH kinase in vitro. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that MMTR is part of the basic cellular machinery for a wide range of transcriptional regulation via interaction with TFIIH and HDAC. | 10.1128/MCB.01808-06 |
pubmed_101_20639 | Unlike most crop industries, there is a strongly held belief within the wine industry that increased vine age correlates with quality. Considering this perception could be explained by vine physiological differences, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of vine age on phenology and gas exchange parameters. An interplanted, dry farmed, Zinfandel vineyard block under consistent management practices in the Central Coast of California was evaluated over two consecutive growing seasons. Treatments included Young vines (5 to 12 years old), Control (representative proportion of young to old vines in the block), and Old vines (40 to 60 years old). Phenology, leaf water potential, and gas exchange parameters were tracked. Results indicated a difference in phenological progression after berry set between Young and Old vines. Young vines progressed more slowly during berry formation and more rapidly during berry ripening, resulting in Young vines being harvested before Old vines due to variation in the timing of sugar accumulation. No differences in leaf water potential were found. Young vines had higher mid-day stomatal conductance and tended to have higher mid-day photosynthetic rates. The results of this study suggest vine age is a factor in phenological timing and growing season length. | 10.3390/plants10020311 |
pubmed_575_268 | PURPOSE
To evaluate repeatability and agreement between various biometric parameters using 6 biometers based on different optical technologies.
SETTING
University of Valencia, Spain.
DESIGN
Prospective, comparative case series.
METHODS
150 eyes were measured using the Aladdin, AL-Scan, Argos, IOLMaster700, Lenstar LS900, and OA-2000 biometers. Keratometry (K1 and K2), J0 and J45, central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), axial length (AL), white to white (WTW), and pupil size (PS) were measured 5 times with each device. Intrasubject SD, coefficient of variability (CoV), coefficient of repeatability, intraclass correlation coefficient, and Bland -Altman graphs were analyzed.
RESULTS
CoV values were <0.30% for K1, K2, and AL and up to 1.61% for CCT, ACD, LT, and WTW. PS values were higher (from 4.2% to 7.68%). There was statistically significant differences between biometers for all parameters evaluated (P < .001), and these differences varied as a function of the parameter analyzed. The limit of agreement (LoA) width of some comparisons for K1 and the majority for K2 were >0.50 diopter. A similar pattern was found for J0/J45. For CCT, many comparisons showed LoA width values of >25 μm. The LoA width for ACD ranged from 0.366 mm to 0.175 mm and for LT was about 0.2 mm. AL showed a highest LoA width of 0.225 mm. The LoA width for WTW was, in most cases, about ≥0.50 mm. The LoA width for PS ranged from 1.578 mm to 3.541 mm.
CONCLUSIONS
The 6 biometers provided repeatable measurements for the different parameters analyzed. The LoA obtained for each comparison should be analyzed carefully to consider the interchangeability of these devices. | 10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000000690 |
pubmed_91_11666 | Alcoholic and psychiatric inpatients matched in age and education performed comparably on a battery of cognitive tests. The absence of impairment in the alcoholics is attributed to the relatively short duration of their alcoholism (mean, 7.2 years) and the nature of the tasks involved. | 10.15288/jsa.1975.36.381 |
pubmed_786_11222 | Instrumental observations and reconstructions of global and hemispheric temperature evolution reveal a pronounced warming during the past approximately 150 years. One expression of this warming is the observed increase in the occurrence of heatwaves. Conceptually this increase is understood as a shift of the statistical distribution towards warmer temperatures, while changes in the width of the distribution are often considered small. Here we show that this framework fails to explain the record-breaking central European summer temperatures in 2003, although it is consistent with observations from previous years. We find that an event like that of summer 2003 is statistically extremely unlikely, even when the observed warming is taken into account. We propose that a regime with an increased variability of temperatures (in addition to increases in mean temperature) may be able to account for summer 2003. To test this proposal, we simulate possible future European climate with a regional climate model in a scenario with increased atmospheric greenhouse-gas concentrations, and find that temperature variability increases by up to 100%, with maximum changes in central and eastern Europe. | 10.1038/nature02300 |
pubmed_230_3034 | BACKGROUND
During bacterial infection, pathogen and host compete for iron (Fe). The inflammatory response associated with infection shifts Fe from the circulation into storage, resulting in hypoferremia and iron-deficient erythropoiesis, and ultimately contributing to the anemia of inflammation.
METHODS
In this article, we review the mechanisms of Fe acquisition and sequestration. Bacteria employ both membrane-bound transferrin receptors and high-affinity iron-binding proteins called siderophores to acquire Fe. Humans utilize the iron-binding proteins lactoferrin, transferrin, and ferritin to move Fe away from sites of infection and into storage. Synthesis and action of these proteins are regulated by inflammatory cytokines.
RESULTS
Iron overload leads to inhibition of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-12, and nitric oxide formation as well as impairment of macrophage, neutrophil, and T-cell function. Injection of Fe into mice and rats markedly increases the virulence of several pathogens. Studies in hemodialysis patients have documented an association between infection and increased ferritin concentration as a surrogate marker for Fe overload.
CONCLUSIONS
Humans respond to infection with inflammatory cytokine-induced hypoferremia. This association, as well as the growing literature linking Fe to both impaired immunity and heightened microbial virulence, calls into question the value of Fe supplementation during inflammation and infection. | 10.1089/sur.2005.6.s1-41 |
pubmed_978_11205 | An epithelial cell line, RSMTx, has been established from the submandibular gland of weanling Fisher 344 rats by treatment of explanted tissue clumps with 3-methylcholanthrene. These cells exhibit a polygonal shape on light microscopy and a polar appearance, with desmosomes, terminal bar-like structures, surface microvilli and cytoplasmic interdigitations, when examined by electron microscopy. The cells react positively with an antiserum to cytoskeletal keratin, and a commercial monoclonal antibody to an "epithelial membrane antigen." An antiserum, prepared against early passage cells in hamsters, reacts primarily with ductal elements in tissue sections of submandibular gland, as does an antiserum prepared in mice with late passage cells. The cells are easily passaged and have been maintained for more than two years in continuous culture. | 10.1111/j.1600-0714.1989.tb00764.x |
pubmed_987_15672 | Background
Over the years, positive sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes have been made possible by a series of policies such as the Sustainable Development Goals, targeted toward different aspects of young women's SRH needs. Nevertheless, inequalities in the levels and trends of adverse SRH outcomes still exist in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including South Africa. Thus, this study examines the inequalities associated with adverse SRH outcomes among young women in Durban informal settlements, South Africa, using a mixed-method analysis and suggested requisite interventions to reduce or eliminate the disparity.
Methods
A mixed-method sequential explanatory design was used to address the research question. First, a quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 547 young women aged 18 to 24 years in four informal settlements in Durban, South Africa, between April and July 2021. Thereafter, twenty (20) key informant interviews were conducted among different participants but with the same study characteristics. The study's outcome variable was adverse SRH outcomes, including HIV, STIs and unintended pregnancy, while the independent variable was inequality. The quantitative analysis employed binary and multivariable analysis to determine the association between the outcome and explanatory variables, using an alpha level of p < 0.05 to determine significance, while the qualitative analysis was done thematically.
Results
At the quantitative level, the prevalence of adverse SRH outcomes among young women dwelling in Durban informal settlements was 82.45%, 90.86% and 81.90% for STIs, HIV and unintended pregnancy, respectively. The adjusted odds ratio showed that young women who ever discussed sexual matters with their parents had a lower likelihood of reporting having STIs [aOR = 0.20; 95% (CI = 0.15-1.01)], HIV [aOR = 0.20; 95% (CI = 0.15-1.01)] and unintended pregnancy [aOR = 0.20; 95% (CI = 0.15-1.01)] compared to young women who never had a sexual discussion with their parents. Almost all the key informant interview participants shared the same perspective and proffered possible solutions in the qualitative results.
Conclusion
There are disparities in the factors associated with adverse SRH outcomes in Durban's informal settlements. Healthcare proximity, child support grants, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, polygamous family structures and gender based violence were associated with higher odds of reporting adverse SRH outcomes. | 10.3389/fpubh.2022.810216 |
pubmed_757_12034 | Transopercular approach to the insula is indicated for resection of insular low-grade gliomas, particularly for Yasargil's 3B, 5A, and 5B types. Nevertheless, the infrequent location and its challenging approach make it difficult to master the surgery. Consequently, a realistic laboratory training model might help to acquire key surgical skills. In this video, we describe a cadaveric-based model simulating the resection of a temporo-insular low-grade glioma. Kingler's fixation technique was used to fix the cadaver head before injecting red and blue colorants for a realistic vascular appearance. Hemisphere was frozen for white matter tract dissection. Tractography and intraoperative eloquent areas were extrapolated from a glioma patient by using a neuronavigation system. Then, a fronto-temporal craniotomy was performed through a question mark incision, exposing from inferior temporal gyrus up to middle frontal gyrus. After cortical anatomic landmark identification, eloquent areas were extrapolated creating a simulated functional cortical map. Then, transopercular noneloquent frontal and temporal corticectomies were performed, followed by subpial resection. Detailed identification of Sylvian vessels and insular cortex was demonstrated. Anatomic resection limits were exposed, and implicated white matter bundles, uncinate and fronto-occipital fascicles, were identified running through the temporal isthmus. Finally, a temporo-mesial resection was performed. In summary, this model provides a simple, cost-effective, and very realistic simulation of a transopercular approach to the insula, allowing the development of surgical skills needed to treat insular tumors in a safe environment. Besides, the integration of simulated navigation has proven useful in better understanding the complex white matter anatomy involved. Cadaver donation, subject or relatives, includes full consent for publication of the images. For the purpose of this video, no ethics committee approval was needed. Images correspond to a cadaver head donation. Cadaver donation, subject or relatives, includes full consent for any scientific purposes involving the corpse. The consent includes image or video recording. Regarding the intraoperative surgical video and tractography, the patient gave written consent for scientific divulgation prior to surgery. | 10.1093/ons/opab342 |
pubmed_759_10304 | A framework based on consistent and explicit set of assumptions is developed for evaluating the effect of infection on the intake and efficiency of use of food by children under 5 years old in poor countries. A variety of data is used to obtain quantitative estimates of catabolic losses, clinical and subclinical absorbtive losses, changes in food intake patterns, and losses due to high infant and childhood mortality. Although additional data are required before these estimates can be considered reliable, it appears that about 9% of the food available to a cohort of children under 5 years old in Bangladesh is not used for maintenance, growth, or activity of those children who survive to their 5th birthday. The amount of food that is not used effectively may be reduced to about 3% in a (hypothetical) situation where all sources of infection are eliminated but other conditions remain unchanged. The estimates suggest that the most important factors contributing to this inefficiency are reduced intake through food withdrawal and anorexia, and high mortality in young childhood. The potential nutritional effects of various public health programs are tentatively assessed. | 10.1093/ajcn/32.3.648 |
pubmed_761_23945 | Anxiety-related disorders, including fearfulness are common and leading welfare problems among the worldwide dog population. The etiology of anxieties is complex and affected by genetic and environmental factors. Thus, there is a need for more comprehensive approaches, such as metabolomics, to understand the causes of anxiety and to identify anxiety-related biomarkers for more efficient diagnostic and treatment options. To study metabolic alterations related to canine fearfulness, a non-targeted plasma metabolite profiling was performed in a cohort of 20 fearful and 21 non-fearful dogs. The results showed that nine metabolic features were significantly associated with fearfulness. The most prominent change included increased plasma glutamine and γ-glutamyl glutamine (γ-Glu Gln) in fearful dogs across breeds. Alterations in glutamine metabolism have previously been associated with several psychiatric disorders, indicating the relevance of this finding also in dogs. In addition, we describe a novel breed-specific association between renal biomarker symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and canine fearfulness. These observed metabolic alterations may result from high levels of prolonged psychological stress in fearful dogs. | 10.1038/s41598-018-34321-x |
pubmed_101_13694 | OBJECTIVES
To examine the application and effects of virtual scenario simulation combined with problem-based learning (PBL) in teaching paediatric medical students.
METHODS
Participants were 300 paediatric medical students randomly divided into a study group and control group. Students in the study group were taught using virtual scenario simulation combined with PBL; students in the control group were taught using conventional teaching methods. Academic performance, knowledge of paediatrics, self-evaluation of comprehensive ability and degree of learning satisfaction were evaluated.
RESULTS
Students in the study group showed considerably higher academic performance and noticeably higher classroom performance. Paediatric knowledge, comprising initiating communication, collecting information, giving information, understanding the paediatric patient and concluding communication, was higher for students in the study group. The degree of learning satisfaction was higher for students in the study group.
CONCLUSION
Virtual scenario simulation combined with PBL can effectively improve students' academic performance, mastery of paediatric knowledge, comprehensive ability evaluation and learning satisfaction. The broader application of this approach should be explored for medical student education. | 10.1177/0300060520979210 |
pubmed_705_15633 | 1. The effect of taxol on selected lysosomal enzymes (cathepsin D, lysosomal lipase, beta-glucuronidase, beta-glucosidase, alanine aminopeptidase) in mouse hepatocytes after 24-hr treatment by increasing doses (0.75 mg/kg bw, 1.25 mg/kg bw and 2.5 mg/kg bw) was studied. 2. The segments were also taken from the mice for ultrastructural studies with the use of electron microscopy. The greatest changes in activity of enzymes at the taxol dose of 2.5 mg/kg bw were as follows: the activity of cathepsin D increased by 71%, that of alanine aminopeptidase increased by 103%, that of beta-glucuronidase decreased by 45% and that of beta-glucosidase decreased by 63%. 3. The significant changes observed in the hepatocyte ultrastructure were closely correlated with biochemical changes that were dependent on the taxol dosage. | 10.1016/s0306-3623(97)00091-8 |
pubmed_344_25174 | In recent years, we have witnessed many transitions in healthcare systems around the globe. For example, population expansion and ageing, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-AIDS epidemics, have exerted pressure to decentralize the practice of healthcare outside of traditional settings to bring care to those in need. Upstream of patient management, diagnosis is aimed at adequately orienting medical decisions, and considerable efforts have been made to make this process faster and more efficient. However, there are several diseases and medical conditions that may/will benefit from technologies and tests that can be performed closer to the patient, at the point of care or even in the home. In this review, and in light of the paradox that technology and assay developers and healthcare officials must take into consideration for advancing human health in developed and developing countries, we present an overview of rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases at the point of care and of technologies that may contribute to enhancement of the worldwide point-of-care testing market. | 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2010.03282.x |
pubmed_553_8900 | We investigated the effect of acute renal vein and hepatic vein hypertension induced by partial balloon-occlusion of the abdominal inferior vena cava (AIVC-O) and the thoracic inferior vena cava (TIVC-O) on systemic and renal hemodynamics and renal function in 13 dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital. When a renal vein pressure of 13 cm H2O was induced by AIVC-O, cardiac output, stroke volume, central venous pressure, renal blood flow, and renal function (GFR, free water clearance, osmolar clearance, urine output, urinary sodium excretion, fractional sodium excretion) decreased significantly. When systemic hemodynamics were restored to control values by transfusion of autologous blood (mean of 9 ml/kg body weight) while renal vein pressure was kept elevated, renal function also was restored. A hepatic venous pressure of 13 cm H2O then was induced by TIVC-O. The effects on systemic hemodynamics and renal function were very similar to those observed during AIVC-O. When systemic hemodynamics were restored to control values by transfusion (mean of 9 ml/kg), while hepatic venous hypertension was maintained by TIVC-O, renal function also was restored. Despite significant changes in natriuresis and diuresis, intrarenal blood flow distribution, as determined by the radioactive microsphere technique, remained essentially unchanged throughout. We conclude that renal and hepatic congestion induced by partial AIVC-O and TIVC-O do not, per se, alter renal function significantly. | 10.1161/01.res.47.6.883 |
pubmed_812_11738 | Robustness and reproducibility of sequential spatio-temporal responses is an essential feature of many neural circuits in sensory and motor systems of animals. The most common mathematical images of dynamical regimes in neural systems are fixed points, limit cycles, chaotic attractors, and continuous attractors (attractive manifolds of neutrally stable fixed points). These are not suitable for the description of reproducible transient sequential neural dynamics. In this paper we present the concept of a stable heteroclinic sequence (SHS), which is not an attractor. SHS opens the way for understanding and modeling of transient sequential activity in neural circuits. We show that this new mathematical object can be used to describe robust and reproducible sequential neural dynamics. Using the framework of a generalized high-dimensional Lotka-Volterra model, that describes the dynamics of firing rates in an inhibitory network, we present analytical results on the existence of the SHS in the phase space of the network. With the help of numerical simulations we confirm its robustness in presence of noise in spite of the transient nature of the corresponding trajectories. Finally, by referring to several recent neurobiological experiments, we discuss possible applications of this new concept to several problems in neuroscience. | 10.1063/1.1819625 |
pubmed_750_21528 | The number of microbes in the human intestine is approximately 1 × 1014, while the number of eukaryotic cells in the human body is around 1 × 1013. As a result of co-evolution of the host mucosal immune system and the microbiota, both have developed multiple mechanisms to maintain homeostasis. Nevertheless, when these mechanisms are disturbed by pathogenic bacteria, which invade this fragile environment, the immune system responds to the microbiota and may support tumour growth in the intestine. Data advocate that the microbiota and its interactions with the host could also be implicated in carcinogenesis in other organs. It is nowadays suggested that developing methods to selectively manipulate components of the microbiota and ultimately target tumorigenesis represents a complex but exciting challenge. In this review, the main pathogenetic mechanisms of the interplay between the microbiome and the innate system, which may be implicated in tumorigenesis are discussed. Also, the importance of the gut microbiota regarding efficacy and toxicity of current chemotherapeutic agents, as well as the direct antitumor properties of the microbiota, will be reviewed. | 10.1080/1120009X.2018.1541046 |
pubmed_616_12463 | The electrochemical performances of Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) and Li4Ti5O12-rutile TiO2 (LTO-RTO) composite electrodes at low temperatures were evaluated. The electrochemical performance of both electrodes decreased at low temperatures; regardless, the LTO-RTO electrode performed better than the LTO electrode. First, high viscosity and low ion conductivity of liquid electrolytes at low temperatures significantly reduce electrochemical performance. Second, cycling at low temperatures changes the crystal structure of LTO-based electrodes, impeding lithium ion diffusion and even causing the diffusion path to change from easy to difficult. However, changes in the crystal structure of the LTO-RTO electrode were not sufficient to change this path; thus, diffusion continued along the 8a-16c-8a pathway. Finally, from the perspective of dynamics, aggravation of a side reaction, increase in charge transfer resistance and polarization, and decrease in lithium ion diffusion at low temperatures reduce the electrochemical performance of LTO-based anode materials. However, the activation energy based on lithium ion diffusion is lower in the LTO-RTO electrode than the LTO electrode. The results confirmed that the electrochemical performance of the LTO-RTO electrode was better than that of the LTO electrode at low temperatures. | 10.1038/s41598-017-15504-4 |
pubmed_219_5413 | OBJECTIVE
To determine the clinical and demographic characteristics of children diagnosed with Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE).
STUDY DESIGN
Case series.
PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY
The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from January 2000 to June 2012.
METHODOLOGY
A retrospective analysis was done, regarding medical charts of 43 children under the age of 16 years with a discharge diagnosis of SSPE. Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded. RESULTS were expressed as percentages.
RESULTS
Most of the 43 patients were male (72%). The average age at presentation was 8.7 years with average duration of symptoms being 100.6 days. History of measles was present in 17 patients (39.5%). All children had seizures at presentation and 65% had cognitive impairment. Most patients required poly therapy for control of seizures. Sodium valproate was the most commonly used anti-epileptic agent; Isoprinosine was tried in 22 (51%) patients. CSF for antimeasles antibodies was positive in approximately 86% of the 40 (93%) children. EEG showed burst suppression pattern in 36 (83.7%) cases. Forty-two patients (97.6%) were discharged home in a vegetative state.
CONCLUSION
SSPE is progressive neurodegenerative disorder. It can be prevented by timely immunization against measles. Measles antibody in the CSF is diagnostic for SSPE and is helpful in early diagnosis. Most patients experience a gradual but progressive decline in motor and cognitive functions. | 08.2014/JCPSP.557560 |
pubmed_1136_5431 | In the light of grounded theory, the authors explored change in romantic relationship expectations of international students. Twelve female graduate students from Turkey were interviewed and several themes were identified explaining the presence and absence of change in participants' attitudes toward romantic relationships. The findings are discussed in relation to acculturation and direction for future research is presented. | 10.1007/s10591-010-9124-4 |
pubmed_214_15091 | Glomerular diseases are one of the most challenging entities in terms of diagnosis and management, especially when associated with systemic illnesses such as malignant disorders. Herein, a case of crescentic glomerulonephritis (CrGN) associated with polycythaemia vera (PV) in a 50-year-old female is described. She presented with bilateral pedal oedema, splenomegaly, renal dysfunction and severe proteinuria. On evaluation, we found PV and CrGN. Renal involvement in PV is rare and generally considered as a manifestation of hypervolemia or high-viscosity-induced renal hyper-perfusion and hyper-filtration. This is a unique case of immunologically-mediated renal disease in PV. | 10.4103/ijn.IJN_21_20 |
pubmed_656_20869 | OBJECTIVE
To investigate the prognostic value of inflammatory markers, including neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) in patients with aneurismal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), and then develop a Nomogram prognostic model.
METHODS
We analysed 178 aSAH patients who underwent surgery at Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu province from January 2015 to December 2017. Patients were divided into two groups according to Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) score at 3 months. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to identify the association between inflammatory markers and prognosis. Subsequently, we identified the best cutoff of SIRI for unfavorable outcome using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and compared the clinical data between high and low SIRI levels. We further evaluated the additive value of SIRI by comparing prognostic nomogram models with and without it.
RESULTS
A total of 47 (26.4%) patients had a poor outcome. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that SIRI was an independent risk factor of poor outcome. The SIRI of 4.105 × 109/L was identified as the optimal cutoff value, patients with high SIRI levels had worse clinical status and higher rates of unfavorable outcome. ROC analysis showed that a nomogram model combining the SIRI and other conventional factors showed more favorable predictive ability than the model without the SIRI.
CONCLUSIONS
SIRI was independently correlated with unfavorable outcome in SAH patients, and the nomogram model combining the SIRI had more favorable discrimination ability. | 10.1080/02688697.2020.1831438 |
pubmed_71_7155 | Regulation of feeding is essential for animal survival. The pharyngeal sense organs can act as a second checkpoint of food quality, due to their position between external taste organs such as the labellum which initially assess food quality, and the digestive tract. Growing evidence provides support that the pharyngeal sensory neurons regulate feeding, but much is still unknown. We found that a pair of gustatory receptor neurons in the LSO, a Drosophila adult pharyngeal organ which expresses four gustatory receptors, is involved in feeding inhibition in response to high concentrations of sodium ions. RNAi experiments and mutant analysis showed that the gustatory receptor Gr2a is necessary for this process. This feeding preference determined by whether a food source is perceived as appetizing or not is influenced by nutritional conditions, such that when the animal is hungry, the need for energy dominates over how appealing the food source is. Our results provide experimental evidence that factors involved in feeding function in a context-dependent manner. | 10.14348/molcells.2017.0028 |
pubmed_434_9187 | OBJECTIVES
To assess the relationship between telomere length and adiposity, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in addition to conventional anthropometric proxies including body mass index (BMI) and cardiovascular disease risk factors.
METHODS
A cross-sectional sample of 309 non-Hispanic white participants in the Fels Longitudinal Study aged 8 to 80 yr (52% female) was included. Average telomere length was measured by quantitative PCR.
RESULTS
Telomere length was negatively correlated with age (r = -0.32, P < 0.0001) and had numerous significant correlations with established cardiovascular disease risk factors including waist circumference (r = -0.33), apolipoprotein B (r = -0.26), systolic blood pressure (r = -0.28), and fasting serum glucose (r = -0.15); all P < 0.0025. In backward selection linear regression models of telomere length, adiposity measures were consistently retained in the best models; BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, total body fat, and visceral adipose tissue volume were all inversely associated with telomere length at the nominal P < 0.05 level or lower, independent of age, sex, systolic blood pressure, and fasting serum lipid, lipoprotein, and glucose concentrations. The negative association of BMI with telomere length was stronger among younger than older participants (P for interaction, 0.03).
CONCLUSIONS
Individuals with higher total and abdominal adiposity have lower telomere length, a marker of cellular senescence, suggesting obesity may hasten the aging process. Longitudinal studies are required to establish the causal association of early life adiposity with biological aging. | 10.1002/ajhb.21109 |
pubmed_689_20757 | Hydrothermal fluid is essential for transporting metals in the crust and mantle. To explore the potential of Cu isotopes as a tracer of hydrothermal-fluid activity, Cu-isotope fractionation factors between Cl-bearing aqueous fluids and silicate magmas (andesite, dacite, rhyolite dacite, rhyolite and haplogranite) were experimentally calibrated. Fluids containing 1.75-14 wt.% Cl were mixed together with rock powders in Au95Cu5 alloy capsules, which were equilibrated in cold-seal pressure vessels for 5-13 days at 800-850°C and 2 kbar. The elemental and Cu-isotopic compositions of the recovered aqueous fluid and solid phases were analyzed by (LA-) ICP-MS and multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, respectively. Our experimental results show that the fluid phases are consistently enriched in heavy Cu isotope (65Cu) relative to the coexisting silicates. The Cu-isotope fractionation factor (Δ65CuFLUID-MELT) ranges from 0.08 ± 0.01‰ to 0.69 ± 0.02‰. The experimental results show that the Cu-isotopic fractionation factors between aqueous fluids and silicates strongly depend on the Cu speciation in the fluids (e.g. CuCl(H2O), CuCl2 - and CuCl3 2-) and silicate melts (CuO1/2), suggesting that the exsolved fluids may have higher δ65Cu than the residual magmas. Our results suggest the elevated δ65Cu values in Cu-enriched rocks could be produced by addition of aqueous fluids exsolved from magmas. Together with previous studies on Cu isotopes in the brine and vapor phases of porphyry deposits, our results are helpful for better understanding Cu-mineralization processes. | 10.1093/nsr/nwz221 |
pubmed_42_17462 | Fragilysin, an extracellular zinc metalloprotease produced by enterotoxigenic strains of the anaerobic bacterium Bacteroides fragilis, disrupts the paracellular barrier by cleavage of the intercellular proteins between epithelial cells resulting in fluid secretion. Intranasal immunization of mice with fragilysin and co-administered ovalbumin (Ova) resulted in an Ova-specific serum IgG response that was over 18000-fold higher than Ova alone, as well as detectable levels of serum IgA. Serum IgG titers were comparable with those seen when whole cholera toxin was used as the adjuvant, although the responses obtained with fragilysin showed more variability between mice. Metalloproteases to which fragilysin is structurally related were ineffective as mucosal adjuvants. Our results and similar studies with enterotoxins that affect the paracellular barrier suggest that alteration of mucosal permeability may play an important role in the mechanisms of adjuvanticity. | 10.1016/s0264-410x(00)00254-1 |
pubmed_633_6541 | A clear relationship between diabetes and cancer has been demonstrated. An increased incidence of several cancers is observed in diabetic patients, notably pancreatic, hepatic, colo-rectal, breast, urinary tract and endometrial cancer. By contrast a decreased incidence of prostate cancer is observed in diabetes patients implying a protective effect. Multiple potential mechanisms have been proposed but they remain hypothetical. | pubmed_633_6541 |
pubmed_291_14982 | A general design rule of deep-etched subwavelength sinusoidal-groove fused-silica grating as a highly efficient polarization-independent or polarization-selective device is studied based on the simplified modal method, which shows that the device structure depends little on the incident wavelength, but mainly on the ratio of groove depth to incident wavelength and the ratio of wavelength to grating period. These two ratios could be used as the design guidelines for wavelength-independent structure from deep ultraviolet to far infrared. The optimized grating profile with a different function as a polarizing beam splitter, a polarization-independent two-port beam splitter, or a polarization-independent grating with high efficiency of -1st order is obtained at a wavelength of 1064 nm, and verified by using the rigorous coupled-wave analysis. The performance of the sinusoidal grating is better than a conventional rectangular one, which could be useful for practical applications. | 10.1364/AO.49.005697 |
pubmed_512_13814 | Independent walking is an important goal of clinical and community-based rehabilitation for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Virtual reality-based rehabilitation therapy is effective in motivating children with CP. This study investigated the effects of treadmill training with virtual reality on gait, balance, muscular strength, and gross motor function in children with CP. Eighteen children with spastic CP were randomly divided into the virtual reality treadmill training (VRTT) group (9 subjects, mean age, 10.2 years) and treadmill training (TT) group (9 subjects, mean age, 9.4 years). The groups performed their respective programs as well as conventional physical therapy 3 times/week for 8 weeks. Muscle strength was assessed using a digitalized manual muscle tester. Gross motor function was assessed using the Gross Motor Functional Measure (GMFM). Balance was assessed using the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS). Gait speed was assessed using the 10-meter walk test (10MWT), and gait endurance was assessed using the 2-minute walk test (2MWT). After training, gait and balance was improved in the VRTT compared to the TT group (P < 0.05). Muscular strength was significantly greater in the VRTT group than the TT group, except for right hamstring strength. The improvements in GMFM (standing) and PBS scores were greater in the VRTT group than the TT group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the VRTT group showed the higher values of 10MWT and 2MWT compared to the TT group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, VRTT programs are effective for improving gait, balance, muscular strength, and gross motor function in children with CP. | 10.1620/tjem.238.213 |
pubmed_1135_25118 | Given the current transformation of traditional health care to provide more integrative and complementary modalities, health systems are implementing new programs and services to meet consumer and provider needs. One such integrative modality, Healing Touch, with a foundation in holistic nursing, is a gentle therapy that uses touch to promote health and well-being by balancing the human energy system. This article describes the perceptions of registered nurses regarding the implementation of a Healing Touch training program at a multihospital health system. Five themes were identified: benefit to the patient, benefit to the nurse, holism beyond task orientation, integrating Healing Touch into acute care, and barriers and challenges. Nurses recognize the importance of creating caring-healing relationships and a holistic approach to care. Training in Healing Touch provides one avenue for nurses and health care providers to provide compassionate care. | 10.1177/0898010115592744 |
pubmed_639_9992 | OBJECTIVE
To estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and analyze their associated factors in professionals from administrative sectors working predominantly in sitting position.
METHODS
This is a cross-sectional study with data obtained from 451 workers from a federal public institution in Southern Brazil. The dependent variable was the number of musculoskeletal symptoms in the prior 12 months, measured using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. In the analyses, 19 independent variables were investigated, divided into four categories: sociodemographic, behavioral, occupational and health characteristics. Univariate analysis and multiple Poisson regression with robust variance were performed. The independent variables were inserted into blocks with stepwise backward criterion, considering the value for Wald statistics equal to 0.20. The effect measures were expressed in a relative increase (RI) in the mean value, and the data were analyzed for a 5% significance level.
RESULTS
The estimated prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms in the prior 12 months was 90% (confidence interval - 95%CI 87-93). In the final model of regression analysis, the variables female gender (RI = 14.75%), low (RI = 100.02%) and moderate (RI = 64.06%) work ability index, use of medications (RI = 48.06%) and waist circumference at risk (RI = 15.59%) had a significant association with the increase in the mean number of symptoms; schooling with technical education acted as a protective factor, reducing the mean by 36.46%.
CONCLUSIONS
The high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms found and the associated factors indicate the need to propose specific actions and care for this population, such as immediate treatment of symptoms and changes in the organization and work environment, to achieve balance and harmony in the demands of prolonged sitting work and avoid its impact effect of this condition on public health. | 10.11606/s1518-8787.2021055002617 |
pubmed_743_4321 | Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and methyl orange (MO) are highly toxic and difficult to treat. Electron beam irradiation (EB) can produce ·OH, H·, ·O2-, hydrated electron (eaq-) and other active substances, which have strong redox ability to pollutants. However, the penetration capacity of EB is limited (the penetration depth of water is 10 cm). Therefore, the photocatalytic method of graphitic carbon nitride (CN) was used as the synergistic method of EB in this project to degrade Cr(VI) and MO. The results showed that the maximum treatment efficiency of 100 mg L-1 Cr(VI) and 50 mg L-1 MO with liquid surface height of 5 cm was 95.0% and 99.1%, respectively, which was much higher than that of single photocatalytic method (39.5%, 23.4%) and EB (79.6%, 92.1%), and the efficiency of synergistic treatment was higher under acidic condition. When the liquid depth increased to 30 cm, the efficiency of synergistic system decreased by 14.7% and 15.2% for the degradation of Cr(VI) and MO, respectively, less than the single EB treatment (47.2%, 45.7%). Additionally, the performance of the morphology, the light absorption performance, and the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs of the CN were evaluated before and after the synergistic system. Lastly, the mechanism illustrates that the electron and thermal effects of EB, eaq-, photogenerated electrons played key roles for the Cr(VI) reduction, and the electron and thermal effects of EB, ·O2-, photogenerated holes played key roles for the MO degradation. This study provides a new opportunity for the synergistic system of photocatalyst and EB in the treatment of pollutants. | 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132228 |
pubmed_613_11090 | Mutations in rfx6 were recently associated with Mitchell-Riley syndrome, which involves neonatal diabetes, and other digestive system defects. To better define the function of Rfx6 in early endoderm development we cloned the Xenopus homologue. Expression of rfx6 begins early, showing broad expression throughout the anterior endoderm; at later stages rfx6 expression becomes restricted to the endocrine cells of the gut and pancreas. Morpholino knockdown of rfx6 caused a loss of pancreas marker expression, as well as other abnormalities. Co-injection of exogenous wild-type rfx6 rescued the morpholino phenotype in Xenopus tadpoles, whereas attempts to rescue the loss-of-function phenotype using mutant rfx6 based on Mitchell-Riley patients were unsuccessful. To better define the pleiotropic effects, we performed microarray analyses of gene expression in knockdown foregut tissue. In addition to pancreatic defects, the microarray analyses revealed downregulation of lung, stomach and heart markers and an upregulation of kidney markers. We verified these results using RT-PCR and in situ hybridization. Based on the different rfx6 expression patterns and our functional analyses, we propose that rfx6 has both early and late functions. In early development Rfx6 plays a broad role, being essential for development of most anterior endodermal organs. At later stages however, Rfx6 function is restricted to endocrine cells. | 10.1016/j.ydbio.2010.12.043 |
pubmed_32_4208 | The monotypic genus Diploheteocotyla Yamaguti, 1965, parasitic on the gills of a dasyatidid ray collected off Hawaii, is synonymized with Heterocotyle Scott, 1904. Its type species, D. dasyatis Yamaguti, 1965, is redescribed, illustrated, and transferred to Heterocotyle as H. dasyatis (Yamaguti, 1965) n. comb. Heterocotyle dasyatis is distinguished from the 9 known species of the genus by the morphology of the male copulatory organ, by the accessory piece, which is composed of 10 sclerotized strands, and by the presence of a complex sclerite in the proximal portion of the vagina. The apparent presence of spermatophores is recorded for the first time in this genus. | pubmed_32_4208 |
pubmed_111_13260 | Review of an annual series of cases of empyema seen at a regional cardiothoracic unit showed that six out of 25 were due to Streptococcus milleri. The details of the cases are summarised. This organism is now an important cause of empyema, occurring much more commonly in men than in women; but since it is highly sensitive to penicillins permanent resolution can be achieved with antibiotic treatment combined with open or closed drainage. | 10.1136/thx.40.8.626 |
pubmed_1128_12244 | The effects of 5 days of pretreatment with the 21-aminosteroid anti-oxidant U74006F have been examined on the rate of functional degeneration of cat soleus motor nerve terminals after axon section. Female cats were dosed for 5 days with either 7.7, 13.0 or 30.0 mg/kg (average doses) of U74006F p.o. twice daily followed by unilateral sciatic nerve section at the hip level on day 5. On day 7, the bilateral in vivo soleus nerve muscle prep. was set up to assess the neuromuscular functional status of the 48 h degenerating soleus nerve terminals in comparison to the contralateral non-sectioned preparation. In untreated cats, the ratio of the nerve-evoked (0.4 Hz) contractile tension of the 48 h nerve-sectioned to that of the contralateral non-sectioned was only 52 +/- 8%. U74006F pretreatment produced a dose-related improvement with the 13.0 mg/kg dose having the best effect; the ratio was 86 +/- 5% (P less than 0.01 vs untreated). The maintenance of tetanic tension during a 10 s period of 100 Hz nerve stimulation was also improved by the 13.0 mg/kg dose from only 54.0 +/- 5.2% in untreated animals to 72.2 +/- 5.7 (P less than 0.02). These results show a preservation of motor nerve function during early degeneration by the anti-oxidant U74006F thus providing further evidence for a free radical-mediated process in anterograde degeneration. | 10.1016/0006-8993(90)90462-k |
pubmed_389_24650 | Duplications of human chromosome 2q13 have been reported in patients with neurodevelopmental disorder including autism spectrum disorder. Nephronophthisis-1 (NPHP1) was identified as a causative gene in the minimal deletion on chromosome 2q13 for familial juvenile type 1 nephronophthisis and Joubert syndrome, an autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a cerebellar and brain stem malformation, hypotonia, developmental delay, ataxia, and sometimes associated with cognitive impairment. NPHP1 encodes a ciliary protein, nephrocystin-1, which is expressed in the brain, yet its function in the brain remains largely unknown. In this study, we generated bacterial artificial chromosome-based transgenic mice, called 2q13 dup, that recapitulate human chromosome 2q13 duplication and contain one extra copy of the Nphp1 transgene. To analyze any behavioral alterations in 2q13 dup mice, we conducted a battery of behavioral tests. Although 2q13 dup mice show no significant differences in social behavior, they show deficits in spontaneous alternation behavior and fear memory. We also carried out magnetic resonance imaging to confirm whether copy number gain in this locus affects the neuroanatomy. There was a trend toward a decrease in the cerebellar paraflocculus of 2q13 dup mice. This is the first report of a genetic mouse model for human 2q13 duplication. | 10.1111/gtc.12487 |
pubmed_348_6306 | A temperature sensor array chip was developed to monitor the thermal cycling profiles of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). DNA amplification efficiency of each cycle was estimated through temperature data to fit the stochastic model. A fluorescence detector system was constructed to detect the PCR amplifications of latter cycles, at which the fluorescence intensity passed the optical detection threshold. Through monitoring of both temperature and fluorescence, DNA amplification efficiency curve was completed for quantification. The Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) was employed to detect the measurements of the PCR product amount at the reaction endpoint. The chip-based, real-time PCR machine was constructed to perform the amplification efficiency curve-based quantification method. This novel method achieved the absolute quantification of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA using a single sample without the construction of the standard curve. The coefficient of variation (CV) of the 15 replicates inter assay experiments was less than 5.87%. Compared with the CV values obtained from the commercial machine in the range of 4.33-14.56%, it is noted that CV values of the prototype with respect to the samples of different initial concentration ranging from 10(7) to 10(3)copies/ml are almost equable. | 10.1016/j.bios.2007.10.003 |
pubmed_222_20161 | OBJECTIVE
In light of our previous finding that chronic hypoxia decreases the myometrial contractile response to oxytocin in the near-term pregnant rat, we designed the current study (1) to investigate the effect of duration of hypoxic exposure on the contractile response to oxytocin and oxytocin binding sites and (2) to examine the effect of prolonged hypoxia on the contractile response to aluminum fluoride.
STUDY DESIGN
Rats were exposed to room air (control) or to continuous hypoxia (10.5% oxygen) from day 19 through day 21 (48-hour exposure), from day 20 through day 21 (24-hour exposure), or midday 20 through day 21 of gestation (12-hour exposure). On day 21 the uterine horns were used for oxytocin receptor analysis and for in vitro study of myometrial contractile responses to cumulative doses of oxytocin (10(-10) to 10(-6) mol/L) or aluminum fluoride (0.5 to 4.0 mmol/L sodium fluoride in 10 mumol/L aluminum chloride).
RESULTS
The maximal contractile tensions for the control and 12-hour exposure showed no difference. In contrast, 24-hour hypoxic exposure resulted in a reduction of the maximal contractile tension from 143 +/- 11 (control) to 116 +/- 7 gm x sec/cm2. By 48 hours the maximal contractile tension was reduced even further, to 44 +/- 13 gm x sec/cm2. Oxytocin binding sites followed a similar trend with values changing from 256.9 +/- 34.9 for control to 122.9 +/- 26.1 and 84.9 +/- 21.3 fmol/mg protein for the 24- and 48-hour exposure groups, respectively (p < 0.01, analysis of variance), with no change in the 12-hour group. The contractile responses to aluminum fluoride were not altered.
CONCLUSIONS
The suppression in the myometrial contractile response to oxytocin and oxytocin binding sites depends on the duration of hypoxic exposure. Chronic hypoxic exposure did not affect the myometrial response to aluminum fluoride. | 10.1016/s0002-9378(97)70158-3 |
pubmed_16_4828 | Recent evidence has implicated a role for the MBL-dependent lectin pathway in gastrointestinal and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced injury. However, previous studies have implicated IgM and the classical pathway as initiators of complement activation following I/R. Thus, we investigated the potential interaction between MBL and IgM leading to complement activation. Using surface plasmon resonance, we demonstrate that MBL does bind human IgM. Subsequently, functional complement activation was demonstrated in vitro following sensitization of human RBCs with mouse anti-human CD59 IgM and more lysis was observed with MBL sufficient sera compared to MBL deficient (KO) sera. Similarly, treatment of human endothelial cells with mouse anti-human CD59 IgM, MBL and MASP-2 activated and deposited C4. These data suggest that the presence of both IgM and MBL can activate the lectin pathway in vitro. Serum ALT levels increased significantly in sIgM/MBL-A/C KO mice reconstituted with WT plasma compared to sIgM/MBL-A/C KO mice reconstituted with MBL-A/C KO plasma following gastrointestinal (G) I/R. Similarly, intestinal C3 deposition was greater in sIgM/MBL-A/C KO mice reconstituted with WT plasma compared to sIgM/MBL-A/C KO mice treated with MBL-A/C KO plasma. These data indicate for the first time that both IgM and MBL-A/C are required for GI/R-induced complement activation and subsequent injury. | 10.1016/j.imbio.2006.06.011 |
pubmed_658_8114 | In several filarial genera the first stage larvae (microfilariae) are enclosed by an eggshell-derived sheath that provides a major interface between the parasite and the host immune system. Analysis of the polypeptide constituents of the microfilarial sheath from the cotton rat filaria Litomosoides sigmodontis identified two abundant surface glycoproteins: Shp3a and Shp3. The corresponding genes and the orthologues of the human parasite Brugia malayi and the rodent filaria Brugia pahangi were cloned and sequenced. They encode secreted, mucin-like proteins with N-terminal Ser/Thr-rich repeats and a C-terminal anchor domain rich in aromatic amino acids. About 75% of the protein molecular masses result from post-translational modifications. The Ser/Thr-rich motifs are supposed to serve as targets for dimethylaminoethanol-phosphate substitutions. These modifications were detected only on the sheaths of the late developmental stage of stretched microfilariae, corresponding with the expression of the proteins in the epithelium of the distal part of the uterus and the specific transcription of shp3 and shp3a in the anterior female worm segment. Genomic analysis of all three species demonstrated a conserved linkage of the two genes. Their transcripts undergo cis- and trans-splicing. The transcription start sites of the primary transcripts were determined for the L. sigmodontis genes. The core promoter regions are remarkably conserved between the paralogue genes Ls-shp3a and Ls-shp3 and their orthologues in Brugia, implicating conserved regulatory elements. | 10.1074/jbc.M205770200 |
pubmed_434_24881 | We analyze the method of phase subtraction in two identical optical structures to build an achromatic phase retarder. The two structures are made of right-angle prisms and are aligned orthogonal to each other. They are also made of materials of different refractive indices so that dispersion compensation can be taken advantage of. Essentially the phase retardation between the s and p waves in the first structure is subtracted from the phase retardation in the second structure. This can be done by reversing the roles of the s and p waves. By choosing the materials of the prisms properly, the phase retardation can be made to be constant over a broad spectral range. Indeed, calculations made with commercial optical glasses show that phase errors in the visible and near-infrared regions can be rather small. For example, for a 90° phase retarder (quarter-wave plate), a phase error of 0.35° can be obtained from 0.35 to 0.81 μm and from 0.59 to 1.26 μm. | 10.1364/AO.35.004381 |
pubmed_331_157 | BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES
Among hospital-acquired infections, pneumonia is considered to be the leading cause of death mainly in patients with mechanical ventilation in intensive care units (ICUs). The present study was undertaken to estimate the occurrence of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) as well as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) along with the effect of different variables and to detect the presence of multi drug resistant (MDR) organisms in the intensive care unit (ICU).
METHODS
Of the 328 patients admitted in the ICU during 2001, 241 stayed for > 72 h and 148 were ventilated. The respiratory specimens collected from the cases and controls were sent for cytology, bacterial culture and antimicrobial sensitivity.
RESULTS
The overall rate of HAP was 53.9 per cent, mortality rate was 47.3 per cent and attributable risk of mortality with ventilator was 72.3 per cent. Occurrence of VAP was 81.7 per cent. The rate of acquisition of HAP increased along with the duration of stay in the ICU. Of the total bacterial isolates, 96.2 per cent were obtained from patients on ventilator, an overall preponderance of Gram-negative bacteria, commonest being Pseudomonas spp along with 16.3 per cent polymicrobial infection was found in ICU. A significant number of ICU isolates were MDR in comparison to those from the non-ICU settings.
INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION
Mechanical ventilation and duration of ICU stay emerged as important risk factors for the development of HAP and VAP. MDR Gram-negative bacilli were the commonest respiratory pathogens responsible for increased mortality in patients with VAP. | pubmed_331_157 |
pubmed_159_5496 | OBJECTIVE
As periprosthetic knee fractures are becoming common with the increase in incidence of primary and revision total knee arthroplasty, their management and treatment have become important. The current study aims to evaluate the revision knee arthroplasty carried out due to the failure of primary treatment of periprosthetic femoral fractures.
METHODS
The study was conducted from May 2012 to September 2019 at Orthopedics department of Xinjiang Medical University; out of 21 patients 11 were women and 10 men aged 44 to 80 (mean, 70.76 ± 8.31) years who underwent revision surgery for periprosthetic fractures of 19 distal femur, 1 patellar, and 1 proximal tibial fracture. Nineteen cases had definite trauma history leading to periprosthetic fracture, and 2 cases had fracture during post-operative functional exercise. All patients had revision surgery with extended stems with either constrained or limited condylar knee prosthesis.
RESULTS
The duration of follow-up averaged 4.3 years. The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score before fracture averaged 91 + 7.01 points (89-95 points) and 85.5 + 6.18 points (81-90 points) at the last follow-up. The average range of motion of knee joint before fracture was 115.7 [+7.6] (110 [~126]), and 101.3 [+9.8] (85 [~115]) at the last follow-up. There was no significant statistical difference. No complications such as infection, component loosening or nonunion. 2 patients had lower extremity vein thrombosis.
CONCLUSION
Revision surgery of the knee for the periprosthetic fractures with proper prosthetic selection can attain good outcomes after primary total knee arthroplasty. Reasonable and correct procedure is the main principle for a successful operation. The benefits and applicability of revision TKA is the reconstructive solution for the issues of prosthetic knee fractures, is highly recommended. | 10.1016/j.jor.2020.03.061 |
pubmed_707_13784 | 0D hybrid metal halides (0D HMHs) are considered to be promising luminescent emitters. 0D HMHs commonly exhibit self-trapped exciton (STE) emissions originating from the inorganic metal halide anion units. Exploring and utilizing the emission features of the organic cation units in 0D HMHs is highly desired to enrich their optical properties as multifunctional luminescent materials. Here, tunable emissions from organic and inorganic units are successfully achieved in triphenylsulfonium (Ph3 S+ )-based 0D HMHs. Notably, integrated afterglow and STE emissions with adjustable intensities are obtained in (Ph3 S)2 Sn1- x Tex Cl6 (x = 0-1) via the delicate combination of [SnCl6 ]2- and [TeCl6 ]2- . Moreover, such a strategy can be readily extended to develop other HMH materials with intriguing optical properties. As a demonstration, 0D (Ph3 S)2 Zn1- x Mnx Cl4 (x = 0-1) are constructed to achieve integrated afterglow and Mn2+ d-d emissions with high efficiency. Consequently, these novel 0D HMHs with colorful afterglow and STE emissions are applied in multiple anti-counterfeiting applications. | 10.1002/adma.202200607 |
pubmed_154_16196 | OBJECTIVE
To examine whether the start codon Fok I of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism is a marker of susceptibility to or severity of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Chinese patients in Taiwan.
METHODS
A control group of 90 healthy people and 52 patients with SLE were examined. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based restriction analysis, we evaluated the relationship between Fok I polymorphisms and SLE, where an unexcisable length was determined to be 265 bp (FF), and the 2 fragments measuring 169 bp and 96 bp were determined to be excisable lengths (ff).
RESULTS
For the genotype of VDR Fok I start codon polymorphism, there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups (chi-squared test, p = 0.07). Additionally, we did not detect any association of VDR genotype with the clinical and laboratory profiles in SLE patients.
CONCLUSION
Our results suggest that the vitamin D receptor Fok I start codon polymorphism is not related to patients with SLE in Taiwan. | pubmed_154_16196 |
pubmed_534_14766 | Adolescence is characterized by marked changes in the body, psychology, and sexual behavior due to increasing production of hormones. In this review we aimed to assess the effect of age at the time of first sexual intercourse (sexarche) on the health of adolescent girls, and identify factors that might protect against early initiation of sexual relations in girls. The PubMed, Lilacs, and Google Scholar databases were searched for clinical trials, comparative studies, case-control studies, cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, multicenter studies, observational studies, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews published up to December 2014 on this theme. The search terms were: "sexual debut," "coitarche," "sexarche," and "young people," "adolescent," "unplanned pregnancy," "adolescent contraception," and "STDs." Data were extracted from 28 studies and 41 references were used to introduce the theme and to support the discussion. Sexarche has been occurring in increasingly younger girls. A young age at sexarche can lead to subsequent risky sexual behavior. Girls who have sexarche when they are 14 years old or younger are less likely to use contraception on this occasion, take more time before they start using contraception in subsequent sexual relations, are more likely to have several sex partners, have a higher risk for depression, have lower self-esteem and more episodes of repentance, and have a higher risk for a sexually transmitted disease and cervical cancer. Girls with low educational, socioeconomic, and cultural status, little parental monitoring, parental separation, and absence of religiosity tend to experience sexarche at a younger age. Adolescent girls who postpone sexarche until they are 16 years old are physically and psychologically healthier than those who have sexarche at a younger age. This suggests that providing adolescent girls with appropriate education about sexual relations might reduce the negative effect of sexual relations at a young age. | 10.1016/j.jpag.2015.11.012 |
pubmed_830_24258 | BACKGROUND
treatment of severe preeclampsia (SP) includes administration of crystalloid solutions to expand plasma circulating volume. Our objective was to compare the effects of two schemes of crystalloid solutions on glycemia in patients with SP.
METHODS
cross-sectional study with two groups of patients: group A (123 patients) received a 10 % glucose solution and group B (146 patients) received Ringer lactate solution. We compared glycemia, endogenous creatinine clearance (ECrCl), frequency of urinary tract infection (UTI) and length of hospital stay. Student t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used.
RESULTS
final glycemia of group A was higher than group B (168.27 ± 70.85 adversus 94.20 ± 26.63, p = 0.009). No differences were shown in ECrCl (group A 99.26 ± 30.67 adversus group B, p = 0.14) or in UTI [group A 21.95 % (27 cases) adversus group B 18.48 % (27 cases) (p = 0.43)]. Length of hospital stay was different (group A 2.2 ± 1.79 adversus group B 2.67 ± 1.78 days, p = 0.03).
CONCLUSIONS
patients receiving a 10 % glucose solution presented significant hyperglycemia but not in the group receiving Ringer lactate solution. | pubmed_830_24258 |
pubmed_1026_14941 | Metabolic, toxic or structural brain changes may present as psychotic symptoms. Organic delusional disorders are characterized by the presence of delusional ideas with evidence of brain dysfunction. Iatrogenesis may be a cause of this dysfunction. We present a case of neuropsychiatric symptoms, including delusional disorder, secondary to the use of herbal products. The patient's perception regarding the safety of natural products might result in an omission to report their use during clinical history taking, and thus its use should be actively questioned. | 10.20344/amp.13135 |
pubmed_666_24183 | BACKGROUND
Prior systematic reviews and meta-analysis addressed that inspiratory muscle training (IMT) improved inspiratory muscle weakness, cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life similar to conventional exercise training as a first alternative in deconditioned patients with heart failure (HF) lead to a better adaptation to posterior exercise training. The heterogeneity and variability in a wide range of new studies about this topic led to the necessity of an updated and comprehensive narrative review. The present review aimed to analyze and update the most relevant studies about IMT in patients who suffer from HF.
METHODS
A narrative review was carried out about IMT in HF patients including 26 experimental studies divided into 21 clinical trials and 5 quasi-experimental studies identified through database searching in PubMed, Cochrane and PEDro.
RESULTS
There is enough evidence to state that IMT produces improvements in functional capacity of patients with HF. Nevertheless, there is not enough evidence to support that IMT could improve cardiovascular parameters, blood biomarkers or quality of life in these patients.
CONCLUSIONS
Thus, IMT may be recommended to improve functional capacity in patients who suffer from HF; nevertheless, more evidence is needed regarding cardiovascular parameters, biomarkers and quality of life. Furthermore, mortality or HF hospitalization was not evaluated and most studies were not longer than 3 months. According to IMT protocols and study designs heterogeneity and mid-term follow-up, further investigations through high-quality long-term randomized clinical trials should be performed to achieve systematic reviews and meta-analysis to support strong evidence for IMT in HF patients. | 10.3390/jcm9061710 |
pubmed_301_1683 | BACKGROUND
Pneumothorax is a known complication of laparoscopy, with most pneumothoraces diagnosed postoperatively with conventional chest x-ray. Electrocardiogram (ECG) conduction changes are associated with pneumothorax. In a sheep model, ECG changes were evaluated as a potential indicator of intraoperative pneumothorax. Additionally, resolution rates of helium (He) and carbon dioxide (CO2) pneumothorax were also evaluated in this model.
METHODS
Under general anesthesia, 10 sheep had known volumes (20-100 cc) of either He or CO2 introduced into the left hemithorax. A 12-lead ECG recorded changes associated with the induced pneumothorax. After changes in the ECG plateaued, the gas volume in the hemithorax was increased to 2 L and the resultant pneumothorax was followed for a 2-h period using fluoroscopy to determine resolution rates for the different gas pneumothoraces. Gas volumes were aspirated after 2 h and ECGs were again recorded.
RESULTS
Pneumothorax volumes as low as 20 cc produced consistent ECG changes. The amplitude of the precordial QRS complex was seen to diminish, and this lowering of the QRS amplitude continued as pneumothorax volume increased up to 100 cc. The ECG returned to prepneumothorax patterns with aspiration of the left chest. For different gas pneumothoraces, CO(2) pneumothorax showed almost complete resolution in the 2-h period, whereas He pneumothorax was unchanged.
CONCLUSIONS
Precordial ECG changes appear to be a very sensitive indicator of pneumothorax, with very small pneumothorax (<100 cc) consistently being detected by reduction of the QRS complex amplitude. Intraoperative use of precordial ECG leads could result in rapid identification of pneumothorax during laparoscopic surgery. Carbon dioxide pneumothorax shows near 100% resolution in a 2-h period. This supports recommendations of expectant management in asymptomatic patients with CO(2) pneumothorax. However, He pneumothorax does not resolve spontaneously quickly and may require aspiration even in asymptomatic patients. | 10.1007/s00464-003-8126-9 |
pubmed_30_17701 | The pH dependence of the 1H NMR spectrum of staphylococcal nuclease H124L was investigated as a function of the binding of Ca2+, the ion required for enzymatic activity, and deoxythymidine-3',5'-diphosphate (pdTp), a competitive inhibitor. The protein studied was the product of a cloned gene expressed in Escherichia coli which yields a protein having a sequence identical to that of the nuclease isolated from the V8 strain of Staphylococcus aureus. Of the observable ring protons of the three histidine residues, only the C delta 1H of His46 shows a large chemical shift perturbation on formation of the ternary complex, (nuclease H124L).pdTp.Ca2+. The pKa of His46 is lowered by 0.2 pH unit in the binary complex. All seven tyrosines titrate with normal pKa values between 9 and 11 in the unligated nuclease. In the ternary complex, however, the pKa values of Tyr85 and Tyr93 increase above pH 11.0. The chemical shift perturbations of the ring protons of the Tyr27, Tyr85, Tyr113, and Tyr115 were observed between pH 4 and 6; these spectral perturbations are attributed to interactions with carboxylate groups. Binding Ca2+ alone acted opposite to the perturbation in Tyr113 and Tyr115. Ca2+ binding leads to deshielding the ring protons of Tyr113, but this effect is removed in the ternary complex. Binding of pdTp and Ca2+ stabilizes the protein against high pH denaturation up to pH 11.5. | 10.1016/0003-9861(89)90014-3 |
pubmed_805_7490 | An ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) preparation was evaluated as a potential intravenous contrast agent for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of bone marrow. One hour after administration of USPIO (40, 80, and 160 mumols of iron per kilogram body weight) in rats and rabbits, T1 and T2 relaxation times were, respectively, approximately 30%, 50%, and 65% lower than precontrast relaxation times. Maximum decrease in relaxation times of marrow occurred within 1-24 hours after intravenous administration; thereafter, relaxation times slowly returned to normal within 7 days. In vivo MR imaging of rabbits and rats confirmed that USPIO decreases signal intensity of red and yellow marrow. The decrease was most marked with gradient echo pulse sequences. An animal model of intramedullary tumor demonstrated the potential of USPIO to enable differentiation between tumor and normal red marrow. USPIO-enhanced MR imaging improves detection of smaller tumors and allows differentiation of tumor deposits from islands of hyperplastic or normal red marrow. | 10.1148/radiology.179.2.2014305 |
pubmed_217_9524 | BACKGROUND
E-learning is used by most medical students almost daily and several studies have shown e-learning to improve learning outcome in small-scale interventions. However, few studies have explored the effects of e-learning in immunology.
AIM
To study the effect of an e-learning package in immunology on learning outcomes in a written integrated examination and to examine student satisfaction with the e-learning package.
METHODS
All second-year students at a Norwegian medical school were offered an animated e-learning package in basic immunology as a supplement to the regular teaching. Each student's log-on-time was recorded and linked with the student's score on multiple choice questions included in an integrated end-of-the-year written examination. Student satisfaction was assessed through a questionnaire.
RESULTS
The intermediate-range students (interquartile range) on average scored 3.6% better on the immunology part of the examination per hour they had used the e-learning package (p = 0.0046) and log-on-time explained 17% of the variance in immunology score. The best and the less skilled students' examination outcomes were not affected by the e-learning. The e-learning was well appreciated among the students.
CONCLUSION
Use of an e-learning package in immunology in addition to regular teaching improved learning outcomes for intermediate-range students. | 10.3109/0142159X.2012.675456 |
pubmed_383_7423 | The soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)/GMPc pathway plays an important role in controlling pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We investigated whether the novel sGC stimulator trans-4-methoxy-β-nitrostyrene (T4MN), ameliorates monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH. At Day 0, rats were injected with MCT (60 mg/kg, s. c.). Control (CNT) rats received an equal volume of monocrotaline vehicle only (s.c.). Four weeks later, MCT-treated rats were orally treated for 14 days with T4MN (75 mg/kg/day) (MCT-T4MN group) or its vehicle (MCT-V group), and with sildenafil (SIL; 50 mg/kg) (MCT-SIL group). Compared to the CNT group, MCT treatment induced a significant increase in both the Fulton index and RV systolic pressure but significantly reduced the maximum relaxation induced by acetylcholine. Indeed, MCT treatment increased the wall thickness of small and larger pulmonary arterioles. Oral treatment with T4MN and SIL reduced the Fulton index and RV systolic pressure compared to the MCT-V group. Maximum relaxation induced by acetylcholine was significantly enhanced in MCT-SIL group. Both T4MN and SIL significantly reduced the enhanced wall thickness of small and larger pulmonary arterioles. Treatment with T4MN has a beneficial effect on PAH by reducing RV systolic pressure and consequently right ventricular hypertrophy, and by reducing pulmonary artery remodeling. T4MN may represent a new therapeutic or complementary approach for the treatment of PAH. | 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173948 |
pubmed_272_2348 | The risks of transmitting viral infection by blood and products derived from plasma have long been known and still remain an area of concern. Blood banks and transfusion centres are faced with the imminent introduction of nucleic acid amplification testing (NAT) of plasma pools as used by the plasma industry. In this paper, we show a part of our results of a validation study of an in-house method for routine polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in plasma pools and the results of testing 2,718 anti-HCV negative plasma pools for the presence of HCV RNA. The European Committee for Proprietary Medical Products (CPMP) recommended that from 1 July 1999, only batches derived from plasma pools tested and found non-reactive for HCV RNA, using validated test methods of suitable sensitivity and specificity, should be batch released by authorities. The quality and efficiency of NAT detection of HCV RNA is among others influenced by the efficacy of RNA isolation, the primer selection and the use of control samples. Using modern molecular biology techniques (sensitive and specific in-house amplification methods for detection of HCV RNA and automated sequencing), we analysed samples of plasma pools from different Croatian transfusion centres. By detection of HCV RNA in an NIBSC working reagent (genotype 3) and a Pelispy HCV RNA run control (genotype 1) we determined a high reproducibility and sensitivity (below 100 International Units (IU)/ml) for our in-house method. By direct sequencing PCR cDNAs we proved the specificity of the test system and the possibility of determining the HCV genotype when the method was used for PCR screening of HCV RNA in single donations. Of 2,718 anti-HCV negative plasma pools we have found that 2.1$ were HCV RNA positive. Results of our investigation confirm the necessity of testing HCV RNA in plasma pools to further increase the safety of human plasma-derived drugs. | 10.1016/s1473-0502(01)00069-6 |
pubmed_271_10179 | OBJECTIVE
Major depression is an independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases. However, the exact mechanism by which depression may induce cardiovascular events is unclear. Endothelial dysfunction has been reported as a possible link between depression and subsequent cardiovascular events as described in depressed subjects. The purpose of this study was to investigate endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis formation in the aorta of mice exposed to the unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) procedure.
METHODS
BALB/c mice were exposed to two 7-week UCMS procedures separated by 6 weeks. Treatments (fluoxetine 10 mg/kg; NaCl 0.9%) started at the third week until the end of the seventh week of each procedure. Endothelial function was evaluated by in vitro assessment of acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation in aortic rings. By using specific inhibitors for nitric oxide (NO)- and prostacyclin-dependent relaxation, we assessed the part played by NO, prostacyclin, and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF)-like mediators in endothelium-dependent relaxation. Atherosclerosis was evaluated by histological examination.
RESULTS
Depression-like behavior was increased in the UCMS versus unstressed group and was reversed by chronic fluoxetine treatment. Vascular reactivity study indicated that UCMS induced a decrease in the NO-dependent relaxation that was partially compensated by an EDHF-like dependent relaxation. Because fluoxetine per se increased the NO-dependent relaxation, fluoxetine was able to reverse UCMS effect on the NO component and abolished the EDHF-like component. Atherosclerotic lesion was found in aorta of UCMS and nonstressed animals.
CONCLUSIONS
As an independent risk factor, UCMS reproduced the endothelial alterations observed in depression but was not sufficient to provoke morphological alterations. | 10.1097/PSY.0b013e31823a43e0 |
pubmed_616_6768 | Compartmentalized partnered replication (CPR) is an emulsion-based directed evolution method based on a robust and modular phenotype-genotype linkage. In contrast to other in vivo directed evolution approaches, CPR largely mitigates host fitness effects due to a relatively short expression time of the gene of interest. CPR is based on gene circuits in which the selection of a 'partner' function from a library leads to the production of a thermostable polymerase. After library preparation, bacteria produce partner proteins that can potentially lead to enhancement of transcription, translation, gene regulation, and other aspects of cellular metabolism that reinforce thermostable polymerase production. Individual cells are then trapped in water-in-oil emulsion droplets in the presence of primers and dNTPs, followed by the recovery of the partner genes via emulsion PCR. In this step, droplets with cells expressing partner proteins that promote polymerase production will produce higher copy numbers of the improved partner gene. The resulting partner genes can subsequently be recloned for the next round of selection. Here, we present a step-by-step guideline for the procedure by providing examples of (i) selection of T7 RNA polymerases that recognize orthogonal promoters and (ii) selection of tRNA for enhanced amber codon suppression. A single round of CPR should take ∼3-5 d, whereas a whole directed evolution can be performed in 3-10 rounds, depending on selection efficiency. | 10.1038/nprot.2017.119 |
pubmed_729_14411 | OBJECTIVE
Recent studies have identified a group of polyps, usually located in the proximal colon, with distinct endoscopic features that predict hyperplastic histology. These polyps may occasionally have foci of dysplastic (adenomatous) tissue. We aimed to define the prevalence of adenomatous foci in these polyps.
METHODS
Fifty-one consecutive hyperplastic-appearing proximal colon polyps were sectioned at 1-mm intervals for histological analysis.
RESULTS
All 51 polyps were hyperplastic, but two (4%) had foci of adenomatous tissue.
CONCLUSION
The prevalence of adenomatous foci in proximal colon polyps with endoscopic features of hyperplastic polyps is low. Whether endoscopic resection of polyps with these features is warranted remains uncertain. | 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2002.05802.x |
pubmed_436_2718 | BACKGROUND
Perforated diverticulitis (PD) remains a serious acute abdominal condition. The aims of this study were to measure its incidence in a large UK population and to identify factors affecting outcomes.
METHODS
Computerized searches of hospital coding databases for PD were performed in five hospitals in East Anglia, UK. Data were collected from hospital records over 5 years (1995-2000). Incidence was calculated using population data, and factors associated with mortality and morbidity were identified using univariable and multivariable testing.
RESULTS
Some 202 patients with PD were identified, of whom 93.1 per cent underwent surgery and 24.3 per cent died. The age-adjusted adult incidence of perforation was 3.5 per 100 000 per annum, with a standardized female to male ratio of 1.3 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 1.1 to 1.5) to 1. Risk factors for death were increased age (odds ratio (OR) 3.5 (95 per cent c.i. 1.9 to 6.1)), pre-existing renal disease (OR 18.7 (1.6 to 211.4)) and pre-existing use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (OR 3.1 (1.3 to 7.3)).
CONCLUSION
PD is uncommon, with the highest incidence in women over 65 years old. Mortality rates are high, particularly in those taking NSAIDs or with pre-existing renal impairment. | 10.1002/bjs.6226 |
pubmed_392_22995 | PURPOSE
Enuresis is a common sleep-related concern in school aged children that gradually decreases into adulthood. We performed a survey of sleep providers in order to assess their comfort level in managing patients with enuresis.
METHODS
Survey participants were recruited via the Pedsleep listserv and sleep medicine program directors in the USA on basecamp application. The Pedsleep list includes a mixture of physicians, psychologists, and other sleep providers/researchers.
RESULTS
Forty-two sleep providers completed the survey. Forty (95%) were board certified in sleep medicine, and 32 (76%) were board certified in pediatrics. Practice patterns for management of enuresis varied among respondents, with 69% who evaluate for possible contributions from other sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea then refer for additional management. Nineteen (45%) respondents felt that they received inadequate or very inadequate training during their sleep fellowship for management of enuresis. While 83% of respondents worked in an academic medical center setting, none of their respective sleep clinics were the primary managing clinic at their own situation. Participants who endorsed their training as adequate/very adequate were significantly more likely to feel comfortable/very comfortable managing enuresis (90% vs 37.5%, p = 0.009).
CONCLUSIONS
A large percentage of sleep providers are lacking essential training to manage enuresis patients. These results suggest the need for additional educational initiatives in this area. | 10.1007/s11325-021-02518-6 |
pubmed_305_23283 | Human exposure to consumer and personal care products chemicals such as phenols, including parabens and other antimicrobial agents, can be assessed through biomonitoring by quantifying urinary concentrations of the parent chemical or its metabolites, often after hydrolysis of phase II conjugates. Developing suitable analytical methods for the concurrent quantification of multiple exposure biomarkers is challenging because optimal conditions for the hydrolysis of such conjugates (e.g., O-glucuronides, N-glucuronides, sulfates) may differ depending on the biomarker. We evaluated the effectiveness of seven commercial hydrolytic enzymes to simultaneously hydrolyze N-glucuronides (using the antibacterial triclocarban as example compound) and other conjugates (using select phenols and parabens as examples) by using on-line solid phase extraction-high performance liquid chromatography-isotope dilution-tandem mass spectrometry. Incubation (30 min, 55 °C) with a genetically engineered β-glucuronidase (IMCS, ≥15 units/μL urine) hydrolyzed N-glucuronide triclocarban, but did not fully hydrolyze the conjugates of phenols and parabens. By contrast, incubation (4 h, 37 °C) with solid β-glucuronidase (Helix pomatia, Type H-1, ≥30 units/μL urine) or liquid β-glucuronidase/arylsulfatase (Helix pomatia, 30 units/μL urine [i.e., 30 μL/100 μL urine]) in the presence of 100 μL methanol for 100 μL urine completely hydrolyzed N-glucuronide triclocarban and the conjugates of several phenols and parabens, without cleaving the ester bond of the parabens to form p-hydroxybenzoic acid. These results highlight the relevance of method validation procedures that include optimizing the hydrolysis of phase II urinary conjugates (e.g., enzyme type and amount used, reaction time, temperature) to quantify accurately and concurrently multiple exposure biomarkers for biomonitoring purposes. | 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.01.177 |
pubmed_558_4023 | People who receive a kidney transplant experience overall better quality of life (QOL) than those on dialysis. However, one area of QOL that does not seem to improve after transplant is sexuality. The purposes of this review were to evaluate the literature specific to sexuality after kidney and kidney/pancreas transplant, identify gaps in the literature, and suggest directions for future research. Sources for this review included studies published in nursing and medical journals as well as studies from the related fields of social work and psychology. This literature review revealed several factors that may affect posttransplant sexuality and sexual functioning including chronic illnesses, pretransplant dialysis, and medication side effects. In addition, numerous studies have shown that problems with sexual functioning are prevalent in the transplant population affecting up to 50% of kidney transplant recipients. These problems have a strong negative association with QOL and life satisfaction. Future research should focus on identifying the specific sexual concerns of kidney transplant recipients and on the development and testing of interventions to help alleviate these concerns. | 10.1016/j.trre.2009.06.001 |
pubmed_940_2408 | We evaluated the in-vitro and in-vivo antibacterial activities of R-95867 and CS-834, a new oral carbapenem which is an ester-type prodrug of R-95867. Against Gram-positive bacteria, R-95867 was as active or two to 256 times more active than cefpodoxime, cefdinir, cefditoren and ofloxacin, while its activity was similar to or two to eight times lower than that of imipenem. Against most Gram-negative bacteria it was as active or two to 1024 times more active than the other compounds tested. Against Helicobacter pylori it was two to 64 times more active than orally active anti-H. pylori agents, i.e. amoxycillin, clarithromycin and lansoprazole. It also showed potent bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. R-95867 induced a spherical form in E. coli and showed high affinity for PBP 2 in E. coli. Against systemic infections in mice caused by various bacteria, CS-834 showed an excellent protective effect and its in-vivo efficacy correlated well with the in-vitro activity of R-95867. These results suggest that CS-834 may be effective in the therapy of various bacterial infections. | 10.1093/jac/42.4.427 |
pubmed_681_3770 | OBJECTIVE
We investigated the effect of hypocaloric mixed diets with different proportions of carbohydrate, protein, and fat on resting metabolic rate and the thermic effect of food in obese women.
METHODS
Three mixed hypocaloric diets were consumed in random order during separate periods lasting 7 d each. Between each dietary period there was a washout period of 10 d. Diet 1 had a higher proportion of energy from carbohydrate (72%), diet 2 had a higher proportion of energy from protein (43%), and diet 3 had a higher proportion of energy from fat (68%). Indirect calorimetry and lung function tests were done after the completion of each 7-d diet. Seven obese women, ages 22 to 45 y and with body mass indexes of 32 to 59 kg/m(2), participated in the study. Oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, resting metabolic rate, and the thermic effect of food by indirect calorimetry were measured. Lung function tests included spirometry in the seated and upright positions, arterial blood gas analysis, and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures.
RESULTS
There were no statistically significant differences in the resting metabolic rate and the thermic effect of food resulting from the three diets. The mean resting metabolic rates (kJ/d) were 7453 +/- 1446 for diet 1, 7461 +/- 1965 for diet 2, and 7076 +/- 2048 for diet 3. The mean thermic effects of food (kcal/min) were -0.02 +/- 0.07 for diet 1, -0.01 +/- 0.25 for diet 2, and 0.05 +/- 0.13 for diet 3. Lung function tests were normal before and after the hypocaloic diets: partial pressure of oxygen (mmHg) values were 81 +/- 13, 77 +/- 8, and 78 +/- 11 for diets 1 to 3, respectively; and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (mmHg) were 37 +/- 4, 37 +/- 3, and 37 +/- 4 for diets 1 to 3, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
Obese women with normal lung function tests and consuming mixed hypocaloric diets showed no alteration in resting metabolic rate and a reduced or absent thermic effect of food independently of the macronutrient composition. | 10.1016/s0899-9007(03)00104-7 |
pubmed_281_7526 | In order to improve the slope movement stability and flexibility of quadruped robot, a theoretical design method of a flexible spine of a robot that was based on bionics was proposed. The kinematic characteristics of the spine were analyzed under different slopes with a Saanen goat as the research object. A Qualisys track manager (QTM) gait analysis system was used to obtain the trunk movement of goats under multiple slopes, and linear time normalization (LTN) was used to calibrate and match typical gait cycles to characterize the goat locomotion gait under slopes. Firstly, the spatial angle changes of cervical thoracic vertebrae, thoracolumbar vertebrae, and lumbar vertebrae were compared and analyzed under 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15° slopes, and it was found that the rigid and flexible coupling structure between the thoraco-lumbar vertebrae played an obvious role when moving on the slope. Moreover, with the increase in slope, the movement of the spine changed to the coupling movement of thoraco-lumbar coordination movement and a flexible swing of lumbar vertebrae. Then, the Gaussian mixture model (GMM) clustering algorithm was used to analyze the changes of the thoraco-lumbar vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae in different directions. Combined with anatomical knowledge, it was found that the motion of the thoraco-lumbar vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae in the goat was mainly manifested as a left-right swing in the coronal plane. Finally, on the basis of the analysis of the maximin and variation range of the thoraco-lumbar vertebrae and lumbar vertebrae in the coronal plane, it was found that the coupling motion of the thoraco-lumbar cooperative motion and flexible swing of the lumbar vertebrae at the slope of 10° had the most significant effect on the motion stability. SSE, R2, adjusted-R2, and RMSE were used as evaluation indexes, and the general equations of the spatial fitting curve of the goat spine were obtained by curve fitting of Matlab software. Finally, Origin software was used to obtain the optimal fitting spatial equations under eight movements of the goat spine with SSE and adjusted-R2 as indexes. The research will provide an idea for the bionic spine design with variable stiffness and multi-direction flexible bending, as well as a theoretical reference for the torso design of a bionic quadruped robot. | 10.3390/biomimetics7040181 |
pubmed_188_13025 | A new series of heterocyclic molecules bearing sulfonamide linkage has been synthesized and screened for antibacterial activity. During antibacterial screening using broath dilution method, molecules were found to be highly active (MIC value 50-3.1 µg/mL) against different human pathogens, namely B. cerus, S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa, and most effective against E. coli. A great synergistic effect was observed during determination of FIC where molecules were used in combination with reference drugs chloramphenicol and sulfamethoxazole. The MIC value of the combination - varying concentration of test compounds and ½ MIC of reference drugs or varying concentration of reference drugs and ½ MIC of test compounds, was reduced up to 1/4 or 1/32 of the original value, indicating thereby the combination was 4-32 times more potent than the test molecule. The molecules also showed low degree of cytotoxicity against PBM, CEM and VERO cell lines. The results positively indicated towards the development of lead antibacterials using the combination approach. | 10.1016/j.bmc.2018.05.015 |
pubmed_11_5390 | The flavonoid-rich natural products exert a wide range of pharmacological properties. This investigation aimed at obtaining extracts from tobacco cultivars and waste enriched with flavonoids and purified from nicotine and phenolic acids, and evaluating their radical scavenging potential. Extraction with a mixture of ethyl acetate-methanol (1:1, v/v) was employed resulting in 100% yield for flavonoids and 36% yield for phenolic acids. The crude extracts were purified using preparative column chromatography on silica gel. The content of flavonoids in the purified extracts varied from 8.8 ± 1.1% to 14.3 ± 1.8%. Nicotine was not detected in amounts higher than 0.3 μg mL(-1). The content of phenolic acids was lower than 1.0%. The radical scavenging potential of extracts from tobacco cultivars exhibited values from IC50 = 35.0 ± 3.1 to 64.6 ± 7.5 μg mL(-1). The extracts obtained by the proposed procedure are enriched with flavonoids with high radical scavenging potential and are purified from nicotine and phenolic acids. They can be regarded as potential biopharmaceuticals. | 10.1080/14786419.2014.902947 |
pubmed_487_12118 | The 970 loop (helix 31) of Escherichia coli 16S ribosomal RNA contains two modified nucleotides, m(2)G966 and m(5)C967. Positions A964, A969, and C970 are conserved among the Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. The nucleotides present at positions 965, 966, 967, 968, and 971, however, are only conserved and unique within each domain. All organisms contain a modified nucleoside at position 966, but the type of the modification is domain specific. Biochemical and structure studies have placed this loop near the P site and have shown it to be involved in the decoding process and in binding the antibiotic tetracycline. To identify the functional components of this ribosomal RNA hairpin, the eight nucleotides of the 970 loop of helix 31 were subjected to saturation mutagenesis and 107 unique functional mutants were isolated and analyzed. Nonrandom nucleotide distributions were observed at each mutated position among the functional isolates. Nucleotide identity at positions 966 and 969 significantly affects ribosome function. Ribosomes with single mutations of m(2)G966 or m(5)C967 produce more protein in vivo than do wild-type ribosomes. Overexpression of initiation factor 3 specifically restored wild-type levels of protein synthesis to the 966 and 967 mutants, suggesting that modification of these residues is important for initiation factor 3 binding and for the proper initiation of protein synthesis. | 10.1016/j.jmb.2007.11.102 |
pubmed_992_22591 | Carcinomas of unknown primary origin (CUP) represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Squamous cell CUP located in the male pelvis are very rare. We describe a case of a locally advanced squamous cell CUP occurring in the male pelvis presenting as perineal abscess and urethral stenosis and diagnosed by means of transperineal needle biopsy. | 10.4081/aiua.2017.2.154 |
pubmed_725_15217 | The mechanism of preparing compacts by precompression has been investigated. The influence of slugging pressure on the bulk and tapped density, particle size distribution and the surface area of precompressed granules has been examined. The slugged granules have been tableted and the effect of compaction force on the weight uniformity, friability, crushing strength, disintegration time, dissolution rate and internal surface area of the tablets has been studied. The results show that the granules obtained from 15.9 mm slugs manufactured at low compaction forces (e.g. 49 MNm-2) had a lower bulk density, higher friability and larger surface area than those made at higher compaction pressures (e.g. 196 MNm-2). The lighter granules compacted into stronger tablets over a range of compaction forces and the effect was attributed to greater intergranular bonding caused by increased plastic flow. | 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1981.tb13888.x |
pubmed_12_186 | The Bonferroni adjustment for multiple comparisons is a simple and useful method of controlling the overall false positive error rate when several significance tests are performed in the evaluation of an experiment. In situations with categorical data, the test statistics have discrete distributions. The discreteness of the null distributions can be exploited to reduce the number of significance tests taken into account in the Bonferroni procedure. This reduction is accomplished by using only the information contained in the marginal totals. | pubmed_12_186 |
pubmed_969_15182 | To determine whether exogenously administered neutral endopeptidase (NEP; enkephalinase, EC 3.4.24.11) inhibits the substance P-induced increase in vascular permeability in the skin, we examined the effects of recombinant human NEP on plasma extravasation induced by intradermal injection of substance P in guinea pig skin. Injection of substance P (2.5 X 10(-8) M) induced significant plasma extravasation in the skin (53 +/- 4 mm2 of Evans blue extravasation; mean +/- 1 SEM). In vitro incubation of substance P with recombinant human NEP prior to injection prevented the substance P-induced plasma extravasation in the skin in a dose-dependent fashion. Intradermal preinjection of recombinant human NEP partially inhibited plasma extravasation induced by subsequent injection of substance P (52 +/- 9% of the control without NEP). The H1 and H2 histamine antagonists pyrilamine and cimetidine, and a muscarinic antagonist, atropine, had no effects on substance P-induced responses. Two products of substance P degradation by NEP containing the carboxy-terminal portion, substance P7-11 and substance P8-11, were also without effect. These findings suggest that recombinant human NEP can attenuate substance P-induced increases in vascular permeability in guinea pig skin and, therefore, may be useful in treating dermatologic disorders in which abnormal responses to substance P or other neuropeptides cleaved by NEP may occur. | 10.1159/000235122 |
pubmed_1073_22762 | PURPOSE
To present a diagnostic and treatment paradigm for infertility designed for the obstetrician gynecologist generalist.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Simple methods of tubal evaluation, e.g., the hysterosalpingogram (HSG) and post-coital test to evaluate both male and cervical factor are discussed. Treating paradigms will be discussed for ovulatory disorders and luteal phase defects. The role of the OB/GYN generalist on performing surgery in the modem era will be mentioned.
RESULTS
If an HSG shows a unilateral hydrosalpinx the generalist should consider performing the unilateral salpingectomy since the advent of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) with a de-emphasis on surgery has made the reproductive endocrinologist/infertility specialist (REI) less skillful in laparoscopic surgery. The REI rarely performs tuboplasty today. Not only does the exclusive treatment in the luteal phase with progesterone save the women money and side effects (including multiple births), but may actually improve pregnancy rates compared to the usual technique of follicle stimulating drugs plus intrauterine insemination.
CONCLUSIONS
Because the generalist will not be tempted to suggest therapies, e.g., IVF-ET because this effective therapy is the best option for the financial success of the REI, but at the expense of financial depletion of the patient, there is plenty of room for generalists taking over as the first line physicians for infertility rather than just a referral service. Reproductive endocrinologists/infertility will almost invariably perform IUI each month even if not doing IVF which is also profitable to the REI, but costly in time and money to the patient. In contrast, the generalist, aimed with the knowledge that IUI does not improve pregnancy rates if the post-coital test is normal, will save the patient and/or the insurance money if the woman conceives. Obviously certain circumstances, e.g., bilateral blocked fallopian tubes or very severe oligoasthenozoospermia (but not teratozoospermia) will prompt an immediate referral to an REI. | pubmed_1073_22762 |
pubmed_491_10260 | Limited information is available related to the effect of moisture and temperature on release of metals from sludge treated soils. In an incubation experiment, effect of ten levels of sludge (0, 1.12, 2.24, 4.48, 8.96, 17.9, 35.8, 71.6, 142, 285 g kg(-1)), two levels of moisture (field capacity and 2.5 cm standing water) and two levels of temperature (20 and 35 degrees C) on the release of zinc and cadmium was evaluated in acid and alkaline soils. The results indicated that application of sludge was more effective in enhancing EDTA extractable Zn and Cd in acid soil than in alkaline soil. On an average, maximum increase in release of EDTA extractable Zn and Cd were 32.0 and 5.2 fold in sludge treated soil over control. There was decrease in EDTA extractable Zn and Cd by 37.7% and 25.4%, respectively under submergence as compared to that under field capacity. On an average, the amount of EDTA extractable Zn and Cd increased by 22.6% and 43.6%, respectively at 35 degrees C than that at 20 degrees C. | pubmed_491_10260 |
pubmed_105_11691 | Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) are the most representative perfluoroalkyl substances that accumulate in the food chain and are harmful to the environment. The uptake, translocation and physiological effects of PFOA and PFOS in plants have been reported in recent years; however, the regulatory mechanisms underlying PFOA- and PFOS-mediated plant growth and development remain largely unclear. Here, using Arabidopsis thaliana as the study material, we showed that both PFOA and PFOS inhibited plant growth; PFOS showed a stronger inhibitory effect on primary root (PR) growth, whereas PFOA exerted a stronger inhibitory effect on photosynthesis. Transcriptome analysis revealed that PFOA- and PFOS-modulated plant growth and development were correlated with the phytohormones auxin and abscisic acid (ABA). Further genetic analyses using mutants related to auxin biosynthesis, receptors and transport and mutants related to ABA biosynthesis and signalling transduction revealed that both PFOA and PFOS inhibited PR growth by modulating auxin biosynthesis and signalling pathways, and the ABA signalling pathway was also involved in PFOS-mediated PR growth inhibition. Collectively, these results shed new light on the molecular mechanisms of PFOA- and PFOS-mediated root system growth and their effects on phytohormone signalling pathways in plants. | 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158287 |
pubmed_476_26139 | INTRODUCTION
The present study aims to explore the factors influencing spinal clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) conversion to multiple sclerosis (MS).
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Sixty-one patients diagnosed with spinal CIS from January 2010 to November 2020 were divided into a non-progressing (CIS) group with 27 patients, and a conversion to MS (MS) group with 34 patients, based on whether they had converted to MS. The clinical presentation at onset, the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) before and after steroid therapy, the results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the oligoclonal bands in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF-OCB), and the evoked potentials (EPs) were retrospectively analysed.
RESULTS
Differences in gender and age were not statistically significant between the MS and CIS groups. The median time to relapse was 12 months for the MS group, with an upper quartile of 23.7 months, and 91.2% of patients relapsed within three years. In univariate analysis, patients with CIS beginning with sensory symptoms had a lower level of progression to MS (OR = 0.311). Patients with Kurtzke Functional Systems Scores (FSSs) of pyramidal functions ≥ 2 (OR = 3.582) and positive CSF-OCB (OR = 5.208) quickly progressed to MS. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of spinal cord lesions < 3 vertebral segments, gadolinium enhancing lesions, or abnormal EPs. The difference in the EDSS scores before and after steroid therapy was higher in the MS group than in the CIS group (p = 0.001). Differences of ≥ 1.5 in the EDSS scores before and after steroid therapy were risk factors for CIS conversion to MS (OR = 9.333).
CONCLUSIONS
Patients with spinal CIS with pure sensory abnormalities at onset were less likely to convert to MS (OR = 0.311), and the risk factors were, in order of risk, the difference in EDSS score before and after steroid therapy (≥ 1.5; OR = 9.333), positive CSF-OCB (OR = 5.208), and those with an FSS of the pyramidal functions score ≥ 2; OR = 3.582). The present study serves as a simple 'first step'. Any potential predictors identified should be validated via future prospective studies. | 10.5603/PJNNS.a2022.0016 |
pubmed_227_7299 | BACKGROUND
The development of a vaccine to prevent infection with group A streptococcus (GAS) is hampered by the widespread diversity of circulating GAS strains and M protein types, and it is widely believed that a multivalent vaccine would provide better protective immunity.
METHODS
We investigated the efficacy of incorporating 3 M protein serotypic amino-terminal epitopes from GAS isolates that are common in Australian Aboriginal communities and a conformational epitope from the conserved carboxy-terminal C-repeat region into a single synthetic lipid core peptide (LCP) vaccine construct in inducing broadly protective immune responses against GAS after parenteral delivery to mice.
RESULTS
Immunization with the tetraepitopic LCP vaccine construct led to high titers of systemic, antigen-specific IgG responses and the induction of broadly protective immune responses, as was demonstrated by the ability of immune serum to opsonize multiple GAS strains. Systemic challenge of mice with a lethal dose of GAS given 60 or 300 days after primary immunization showed that, compared with the control mice, the vaccinated mice were significantly protected against GAS infection, demonstrating that the vaccination stimulated long-lasting protective immunity.
CONCLUSIONS
These data support the efficacy of the LCP vaccine delivery system in the development of a synthetic, multiepitopic vaccine for the prevention of GAS infection. | 10.1086/504266 |
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