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pubmed_11_7307 | Six species of Phryno Robineau-Desvoidy and three species of Botria Rondani are revised, including four new species: P. brevicornis sp. nov., P. koreana sp. nov., P. nepalensis sp. nov. and P. tenuiforceps sp. nov. A key to the species of these genera is provided. A phylogenetic analysis was performed using morphological characters to investigate the placement of genera in the Zenillia group (sensu Tschorsnig 1985). The inferred trees indicate that Phryno is closely related to Botria, but monophyly of Phryno is unclear. Based on the results of the analysis, the Zenillia group is redefined to include Allo-phorocera Hendel, Botria, Ceromasia Rondani, Calozenillia Townsend (new placement), Cyzenis Robineau-Desvoidy, Erycilla Mesnil, Phryno, Rhacodinella Mesnil, Sericozenillia Mesnil (new placement) and Zenillia Robineau-Desvoidy. | 10.11646/zootaxa.3609.4.1 |
pubmed_111_2764 | As the relative resistance of rat caecum to chemical carcinogens could reflect its luminal environment, caecal mucosa was exposed to the distal faecal stream in male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 50) previously treated with azoxymethane (total dose 90 mg/kg sc). After colonic transection at the pelvic brim, the caecum was inserted isoperistaltically between colocaecal and caecorectal anastomoses (n = 30); an ileocolic anastomosis restored intestinal continuity. Controls (n = 20) had transection and reanastomosis at equivalent points of the bowel, plus caecotomy and resuture. Caecal crypt cell production rate, as determined stathmokinetically at 28 weeks, was not consistently affected by transposition. No tumors developed in either transposed or orthotopic caecum, apart from three suture-line tumours found at the caecotomy site in controls. The colonic tumour yield in controls (1.4 +/- 0.3 per rat : mean +/- SEM) matched that after transposition (1.5 +/- 0.2), but anastomotic tumours were twice as common after transposition (p less than 0.05) and rectal tumours were increased four-fold (p less than 0.05). The caecum remains resistant to carcinogenesis despite transposition to a distal colonic environment. Local epithelial defence mechanisms are more important than luminal contents in maintaining this resistance. | 10.1136/gut.26.7.718 |
pubmed_76_13983 | The experiment on the effect of various concentrations of nutrient solution on sand culture of Salvia miltiorrhiza was carried out. The results show that Salvia miltiorrhiza is a fertilizer tolerant plant. It can grow well and give high yield when the total concentration of nutrient reaches 0.37%. | pubmed_76_13983 |
pubmed_126_1042 | A hallmark of gamete interactions at fertilization is relative or absolute species specificity. A pig sperm protein that binds to the extracellular matrix of the egg in a species-specific manner was recently identified and named zonadhesin (Hardy, D. M., and Garbers, D. L. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 26025-26028). We have now cloned a cDNA for mouse zonadhesin (16.4 kb), and it demonstrates a large species variation in the numbers and arrangements of domains. Expression of mouse zonadhesin mRNA is evident only within the testis, and the protein is found exclusively on the apical region of the sperm head. There are 20 partial D-domains, found as tandem repeats, inserted between two of the four full D-domains and an additional partial D-domain. These domains are homologous to the D-domains of von Willebrand factor and alpha-tectorin. A region at the N terminus of the mouse cDNA contains three tandem repeats homologous to MAM domains. These are domains comprised of about 160 amino acids that are present in transmembrane proteins such as the meprins and receptor protein-tyrosine phosphatases, where they appear to function in cell/cell interactions. Additionally, mouse zonadhesin contains a mucin-like domain and a domain homologous to epidermal growth factor (EGF). A putative single transmembrane segment separates a short carboxyl tail from the extracellular region. The existence of MAM, mucin, D-, and EGF domains suggest that mouse zonadhesin functions in multiple cell adhesion processes, where binding to the extracellular matrix of the egg is but one of the functions of this sperm-specific membrane protein. | 10.1074/jbc.273.6.3415 |
pubmed_898_20793 | Simple and easy to engineer metal-sensing molecules that are capable of differentiating metal ions and producing metal-specific signals are highly desirable. Metal ions affect the thermal stability of proteins by increasing or decreasing their resistance to unfolding. This work illustrates a new strategy for designing bivalent fluorescent fusion proteins capable of differentiating metal ions in solution through their distinct effects on a protein's thermal stability. A new dual purpose metal sensor was developed consisting of biotin protein ligase (BirA) from B. pseudomallei (Bp) fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP). When coupled with differential scanning fluorimetry of GFP-tagged proteins (DSF-GTP) for signal-transduction detection, Bp BirA-GFP yields distinct protein unfolding signatures with Zn(II) and Cu(II) ions in aqueous solutions. The limit of detection of the system is ∼1 μM for both metal species. The system can be used in a variety of high-throughput assay formats including for the screening of metal-binding proteins and chelators. Bp BirA-GFP has also the additional benefit of being useful in Cu(II) ion field-testing applications through simple visual observation of a temperature-dependent loss of fluorescence. Bp BirA-GFP is the first example of a 2protein-based dual purpose Cu(II) and Zn(II) ion sensor compatible with two different yet complementary signal-transduction detection systems. | 10.1016/j.aca.2019.12.017 |
pubmed_437_25377 | BACKGROUND
The homeostasis and physiological role of iron in Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been debated for decades. Overall, it has been difficult to reach a consensus to prove marked disease-associated changes in the iron content of the AD brain, blood, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
OBJECTIVES
We sought to contribute to resolve this issue by quantifying the iron content in serum, CSF, and sub-regions of the AD brain.
METHODS
We conducted a comprehensive systematic meta-analysis and review of multiple observational studies till October 2013 that investigated the iron content in AD serum, CSF, or brain tissue.
RESULTS
2,556 publications were screened. Forty-three eligible studies with 1,813 AD patients and 2,401 healthy controls were identified. Twenty-one studies investigated the serum iron in AD while seven and nineteen studies investigated the CSF iron and various brain regions iron respectively. Our meta-analysis showed that serum iron was significant lower in AD than healthy controls. CSF iron appeared not to be affected by AD although more studies are required due to the relative small number of CSF studies reported to date. We critically analyzed iron content in twelve selective brain regions by separated meta-analyses using cross-referenced statistical methods. We found that eight specific brain regions had higher iron concentrations that correlated with the clinical diagnosis of AD in a statistically validated manner.
CONCLUSIONS
These data provided rigorous statistical support for the model that iron homeostasis was changed in AD patients, including the finding of lower iron in their serum and evidence for iron overload in several specific brain regions. | 10.3233/JAD-140396 |
pubmed_554_22067 | RAF kinase inhibitors are clinically active in patients with BRAF (V600E) mutant melanoma. However, rarely do tumors regress completely, with the majority of responses being short-lived. This is partially mediated through the loss of negative feedback loops after MAPK inhibition and reactivation of upstream signaling. Here, we demonstrate that the deubiquitinating enzyme USP28 functions through a feedback loop to destabilize RAF family members. Loss of USP28 stabilizes BRAF enhancing downstream MAPK activation and promotes resistance to RAF inhibitor therapy in culture and in vivo models. Importantly, we demonstrate that USP28 is deleted in a proportion of melanoma patients and may act as a biomarker for response to BRAF inhibitor therapy in patients. Furthermore, we identify Rigosertib as a possible therapeutic strategy for USP28-depleted tumors. Our results show that loss of USP28 enhances MAPK activity through the stabilization of RAF family members and is a key factor in BRAF inhibitor resistance. | 10.1084/jem.20171960 |
pubmed_518_7895 | We examined protein kinase C gamma-immunoreactivity (PKCgamma-IR) in the substantia gelatinosa (SG) of the rat medullary dorsal horn (MDH). The density of PKCgamma-IR in the MDH was most intense in the SG. The number of neurons with PKCgamma-IR were also much larger in the SG than in the other layers of the MDH. Double-immunohistochemical studies indicated light and electron microscopically that substance P-containing fibers and I-B4 (isolectin from Bandeiraea simplicifolia)-labeled fibers made synapses on SG neurons with PKCgamma-IR, indicating that SG neurons with PKCgamma might receive nociceptive primary afferent fibers. The results support the notion that PKCgamma in the MDH may contribute to the regulation of the nociception. | 10.1016/s0304-3940(01)02171-1 |
pubmed_1037_9855 | BACKGROUND
The current study aimed to examine the concurrent and prospective relationships between the three hypothesized components of behavioral approach system (BAS) sensitivity: drive, reflecting the motivation to pursue one's desired goals; reward responsiveness, reflecting sensitivity to reward or reinforcement; and fun-seeking, reflecting the motivation for pursuing novel rewards in a spontaneous manner, and NSSI urge severity.
METHODS
A sample of 64 undergraduates with a history of repetitive NSSI completed an ecological momentary assessment protocol. During this period of time, participants reported on the BAS-constructs of drive, reward responsiveness, and fun-seeking, as well as NSSI urge severity on a momentary basis at three random intervals each day for a period of ten-days.
RESULTS
Drive and reward responsiveness, but not fun-seeking, were concurrently positively associated with NSSI urge severity. However, no associations between BAS facets and prospective NSSI urges were found.
LIMITATIONS
This study was limited by its use of single items to assess the BAS-constructs of drive, reward responsiveness, and fun-seeking.
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings indicate that feeling strongly impacted by rewards and having a strong sense of drive toward goal attainment may represent cognitive risk states that are associated with increased within-person NSSI risk. However, their lack of prospective prediction may suggest that these cognitive states are associated only on a momentary basis with NSSI urges and may not confer risk. | 10.1016/j.jad.2021.09.029 |
pubmed_944_16905 | In order to investigate the radiological hazard of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) and man-made (137)Cs radionuclide in the Bay of Cádiz, 149 samples of sediments have been analysed. Activity concentration in all the samples was determined using a HPGe detection system. Activity concentrations values of (226)Ra, (232)Th, (40)K and (137)Cs in the samples were 12.6±2.6 (2.5-40.6), 18.5±4.0 (2.8-73.4), 451±45 (105-1342) and 3.2±1.3 (0.2-16.0) Bq kg(-1), respectively. Outdoor external dose rate due to natural and man-made radionuclides was calculated to be 35.79±1.69 (4.71-119.16) nGy h(-1) and annual effective dose was estimated to be 43.89±2.27 (5.78-146.14) µSv y(-1). Results showed low levels of radioactivity due to NORM and man-made (137)Cs radionuclide in marine sediments recovered from the Bay of Cádiz (Spain), discarding any significant radiological risks related to human activities of the area. Furthermore, the obtained data set could be used as background levels for future research. | 10.1093/rpd/ncr360 |
pubmed_159_2437 | Rationale: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute vasculitis of small and medium vessels; whereas systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease. Their presentation is varied and not always straightforward, leading to misdiagnosis. There have been case reports of lupus onset mimicking KD and KD presenting as lupus-like. Coexistence of both diseases is also possible. Patient concerns: We present three adolescents, one with fever, rash, arthritis, nephritis, lymphopenia, and coronary aneurysms, a second patient with rash, fever, aseptic meningitis, and seizures, and a third patient with fever, rash, and pleural effusion. Diagnoses: The first patient was finally diagnosed with SLE and KD, the second patient initially diagnosed as KD but eventually SLE and the third patient was diagnosed at onset as lupus but finally diagnosed as KD. Interventions: The first patient was treated with IVIG, corticosteroids, aspirin, coumadin and mycophenolate mofetil. The second patient was treated with IVIG, corticosteroids and methotrexate and the third patient with IVIG, aspirin and corticosteroids. Lessons: Both diseases may mimic each other's clinical presentation. KD in adolescence presents with atypical signs, incomplete presentation, and develop coronary complications more commonly. An adolescent with fever and rash should include KD and SLE in the differential diagnosis. | 10.3389/fped.2020.00149 |
pubmed_452_22438 | In multi-view fringe projection profilometry (FPP), a limitation of geometry-constraint based approaches is the reduced measurement depth range often used to reduce the number of candidate points and increase the corresponding point selection reliability, when high-frequency fringe patterns are used. To extend the depth range, a new method of high-frequency fringe projection profilometry was developed by color encoding the projected fringe patterns to allow reliable candidate point selection even when six candidate points are in the measurement volume. The wrapped phase is directly retrieved using the intensity component of the hue-saturation-intensity (HSI) color space and complementary-hue is introduced to identify color codes for correct corresponding point selection. Mathematical analyses of the effect of color crosstalk on phase calculation and color code identification show that the phase calculation is independent of color crosstalk and that color crosstalk has little effect on color code identification. Experiments demonstrated that the new method can achieve high accuracy in 3D measurement over a large depth range and for isolated objects, using only two high-frequency color-encoded fringe patterns. | 10.1364/OE.388579 |
pubmed_1064_11265 | PURPOSE
The aim of this study was to develop and examine the psychometric properties of the Existential Meaning Scale (EMS).
FINDINGS
Construct validity of the EMS was examined through factor analysis and correlational analyses with theoretically related instruments. After several weak items were deleted, the 20-item scale had a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of > .80 in an overall sample of 418 individuals. Scores on the EMS were significantly lower in a sample of persons with HIV-1 infection than in the general population samples.
CONCLUSION
Although its initial psychometric properties were satisfactory, additional validation of the EMS is necessary in other clinical populations to examine further the psychometric properties of the EMS. In addition, further examination of the responsiveness of the EMS over time is needed to evaluate its potential utility in longitudinal trials. | 10.1177/0898010104272292 |
pubmed_120_22466 | AIMS
The authors investigated whether becoming a widow after the death of a husband from cancer results in long-term psychological or physical morbidity.
METHOD
In April and May 1999, an attempt was made to contact all of the 506 women who were living with men dying of prostate cancer in 1996 or of urinary bladder cancer in 1995 or 1996, as well as 287 population controls.
RESULTS
Completed questionnaires were received from 379 of the widows and 220 of the controls. Widowhood was associated with a low or moderate subjective quality of life (relative risk [RR] = 1.4, 95% confidence interval 1.2-1.7), low or moderate psychological well-being (RR = 1.8, 1.4-2.3), anxiety (RR = 1.9, 1.3-2.7), depression (RR = 2.2, 1.6-2.9), sleep disturbances (RR = 1.9, 1.5-2.4), diabetes (RR = 3.5, 1.2-7.9), and economic dissatisfaction (RR = 1.6, 1.3-2.0).
CONCLUSION
An excess risk of psychological morbidity, diabetes mellitus and dissatisfaction with the economic situation was found in the widowed population. | 10.1080/14034940210165109 |
pubmed_86_6282 | The significance of portal venous drainage after whole-pancreas transplantation both for metabolic control and development of diabetic nephropathy was investigated. Streptozotocin-diabetic inbred LEW rats received a duct-ligated pancreas graft with either systemic or portal venous drainage and were followed for up to one year. Normal and untreated diabetic rats (n=18 in each group) served as controls. Irrespective of the route of venous drainage pancreas transplants normalized the diabetic polyuria, polyphagia, and polydipsia. Growth rates and general health did not differ from normal rats. Pancreas transplantation with portal venous drainage furthermore normalized nonfasting blood glucose and peripheral insulin levels, and intravenous glucose tolerance. Pancreas transplantation with systemic venous drainage, however, was associated with peripheral hyperinsulinemia, slightly elevated nonfasting blood glucose levels, and supranormal K-values in intravenous glucose tolerance tests. Though portal venous drainage was associated with better metabolic control than systemic venous drainage, both techniques of pancreas transplantation proved equally effective to prevent the development of diabetic glomerular membrane thickening determined 6 and 12 months posttransplant. | 10.1097/00007890-199009000-00008 |
pubmed_273_13594 | Reade et al. studied 20 agitated intubated patients in a pilot open-label trial comparing the efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus haloperidol in facilitating extubation. While the study design had limitations, which are outlined by the authors themselves in the paper published in this issue of Critical Care, the study demonstrated an impressive reduction in time to extubation and length of stay. Dexmedetomidine is a promising sedative agent that acts via alpha2-receptors and has been shown to decrease prevalence and duration of delirium in mechanically ventilated patients. Haloperidol is the recommended and standard drug to treat delirium, largely based on large case series and reports. Delirium is a common, underdiagnosed and serious problem in intensive care unit patients. Agitated delirious patients are at risk of immediate adverse events as well as prolonged respiratory support. All delirious patients are at risk of poor cognitive outcomes. Further research is needed into the pharmacological management of delirium, including the use of dexmedetomidine in the management of agitation and the clinical efficacy of haloperidol. | 10.1186/cc7912 |
pubmed_1067_11605 | In this paper, the charge transfer problem in dry DNA was investigated by employing an extended Holstein small polaron model with external potential traps being involved in consideration. The ground state energy and the probability amplitude of polaron in various DNA chains with different external trap potentials were obtained by variational method with the trial function being taken in coherent state form. The stability of transfered charges in various circumstances was discussed accordingly. | 10.1016/j.bpc.2005.09.008 |
pubmed_134_13670 | Our experiments show that it is possible to detect different types of recombinant human erythropoietins (rhEPOs), EPO-alpha, EPO-beta and novel erythropoesis stimulating protein (NESP), based on exact molecular weight (MW) determination by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) applying a high-resolution time-of-flight (TOF) mass analyser in the linear mode. Detection limits for the highly purified, intact glycoproteins were achievable in the low fmol range (25-50 fmol) using a sample preparation method applying a hydrophobic sample support (DropStop) as MALDI target surface. These results are very promising for the development of highly sensitive detection methods for a direct identification of rhEPO after enrichment from human body fluids. During our investigation we were able to differentiate EPO-alpha, EPO-beta and NESP based on distinct molecular substructures at the protein level by specific enzymatic reactions. MW determination of the intact molecules by high resolving one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate /polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (1D SDS-PAGE) and isoform separation by planar isoelectric focusing (IEF) was compared with MALDI-MS data. Migration differences between the rhEPOs were observed from gel electrophoresis, whereby MWs of 38 kDa in the case of EPO-alpha/beta and 49 kDa for NESP could be estimated. In contrast, an exact MW determination by MALDI-MS based on internal calibration revealed average MWs of 29.8 +/- 0.3 kDa for EPO-alpha/beta and 36.8 +/- 0.4 kDa for NESP. IEF separation of the intact rhEPOs revealed the presence of four to eight distinct isoforms in EPO-alpha and EPO-beta, while four isoforms, which appeared in the more acidic area of the gels, were detected by immunostaining in NESP. A direct detection of the different N- or O-glycoform pattern from rhEPOs using MALDI-MS was possible by de-sialylation of the glycan structures and after de-N-glycosylation of the intact molecules. Thereby, the main glycoforms of EPO-alpha, EPO-beta and NESP could be characterised based on their N-glycan composition. A microheterogeneity of the molecules based on the degree of sialylation of the O-glycan was observable directly from the de-N-glycosylated protein. | 10.1002/rcm.1830 |
pubmed_999_5507 | In this paper, we introduce fuzzy bipolar soft semiprimality in the structure of ordered semigroups and investigate some properties of the concept. Moreover, ordered semigroups and their some classes are characterized by means of fuzzy bipolar soft semiprimality. Finally, the Cartesian product of fuzzy bipolar soft semiprime (resp., prime) ideals over ordered semigroups is examined. Some of the ideas are supported by apt examples. | 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06618 |
pubmed_715_2718 | AIMS
The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of obesity, leptin, insulin resistance and C-reactive protein (CRP) with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) with CHD compared with those with Type 2 DM without CHD.
METHODS
Leptin, CRP (high sensitivity assay), fasting plasma insulin, glucose, HbA(1c) and full lipid profile were determined in 58 Type 2 diabetic patients with CHD and 87 Type 2 DM patients without CHD.
RESULTS
were compared between those with and without CHD. Univariate correlation as well as logistic regression analyses were used to relate these markers with traditional CHD risk factors.
RESULTS
Leptin showed significant correlations with BMI (r = 0.59; P < or = 0.0001), waist circumference (r = 0.45; P < 0.0001), CRP (r = 0.36; P < 0.0001), and fasting insulin (r = 0.53; P < 0.0001) as well as with systolic (r = 0.23; P = 0.007) and diastolic (r = 0.23; P = 0.007) blood pressure. However, when those with and without CHD were compared only age (P < 0.0001), duration of diabetes (P < 0.001) and degree of microalbuminuria (P = 0.02) were significantly higher in patients with CHD. Leptin (P = 0.49), CRP (P = 0.19) and lipid parameters were not significantly different between the two groups.
CONCLUSION
Our study confirms a relationship between leptin and CRP with CHD risk factors. The lack of significant difference when patients with and without CHD are compared may be due to the potential confounding effects of treatment with aspirin and statins. | 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2004.01405.x |
pubmed_491_6688 | OBJECTIVES
To compare the immediate postcounseling retention of important information using the traditional method with retention obtained using the Indian Health Service (IHS) interactive technique, and to compare the time required to counsel patients on new prescriptions using the traditional method with the time required using the IHS technique.
DESIGN
A prospective, nonrandomized, observational study at four different local community pharmacies in Oregon. Two sites that used the traditional counseling model served as the control sites, while two other sites used the IHS counseling model. Only new prescriptions were included in this study. The pharmacists did not alter their counseling styles for new prescriptions for the purposes of this study. The duration of counseling between the pharmacist and patient was recorded. Immediately upon completion of counseling, patients met with the primary investigator for postcounseling knowledge assessment on indication of therapy, directions on how to take their medication properly, and expected adverse effects.
SETTING
Four local community pharmacies in Oregon.
PARTICIPANTS
Five hundred patients at four local community pharmacies in Oregon.
INTERVENTION
Use of the IHS counseling technique.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Immediate recall of key counseling points and time per counseling session.
RESULTS
A total of 500 patients participated in the study. Seventy-one percent of patients counseled using the IHS technique answered all three questions correctly, compared with 33% of patients counseled using the traditional method (P <0.00). For patients who were counseled about adverse effects, 80% counseled using the IHS technique compared with 51.5% counseled using the traditional approach answered all three questions correctly. For indication of therapy, there was no evidence of a difference in the proportion of correct answers between counseling types on the reason for taking their medication (P = 0.06). Those who received IHS counseling had four times the odds of correctly answering when to take their medication and four times the odds of correctly answering all adverse effects questions. The duration of counseling methods differed by 53 seconds (128 s for IHS vs. 75 s for traditional).
CONCLUSION
The interactive style of the IHS method of counseling provided significantly improved immediate memory recall compared with the traditional method. The IHS method also took longer than the traditional method. | 10.1331/JAPhA.2015.14093 |
pubmed_1124_12241 | A pair of thin prisms is used to deviate a light beam without changing the image orientation in a vectorial shearing interferometer. The relative angle between prisms determines the displacement of the wave front and its tilt. The direction of the beam displacement is controlled by means of changing the relative angle between prisms. This system is employed to control the displacement of a sheared wave front as a vector quantity and to introduce a controlled amount of tilt in what we believe is a novel interferometric shearing system. The predicted performance of this wave-front director is confirmed experimentally. | 10.1364/ao.41.001380 |
pubmed_873_21255 | INTRODUCTION
Key populations including female sex workers (FSW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) bear a disproportionate burden of HIV. However, the role of focusing prevention efforts on these groups for reducing a country's HIV epidemic is debated. We estimate the extent to which HIV transmission among FSW and MSM contributes to overall HIV transmission in Dakar, Senegal, using a dynamic assessment of the population attributable fraction (PAF).
METHODS
A dynamic transmission model of HIV among FSW, their clients, MSM and the lower-risk adult population was parameterized and calibrated within a Bayesian framework using setting-specific demographic, behavioural, HIV epidemiological and antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage data for 1985 to 2015. We used the model to estimate the 10-year PAF of commercial sex between FSW and their clients, and sex between men, to overall HIV transmission (defined as the percentage of new infections prevented when these modes of transmission are removed). In addition, we estimated the prevention benefits associated with historical increases in condom use and ART uptake, and impact of further increases in prevention and treatment.
RESULTS
The model projections suggest that unprotected sex between men contributed to 42% (2.5 to 97.5th percentile range 24 to 59%) of transmissions between 1995 and 2005, increasing to 64% (37 to 79%) from 2015 to 2025. The 10-year PAF of commercial sex is smaller, diminishing from 21% (7 to 39%) in 1995 to 14% (5 to 35%) in 2015. Without ART, 49% (32 to 71%) more HIV infections would have occurred since 2000, when ART was initiated, whereas without condom use since 1985, 67% (27 to 179%) more HIV infections would have occurred, and the overall HIV prevalence would have been 60% (29 to 211%) greater than what it is now. Further large decreases in HIV incidence (68%) can be achieved by scaling up ART in MSM to 74% coverage and reducing their susceptibility to HIV by two-thirds through any prevention modality.
CONCLUSIONS
Unprotected sex between men may be an important contributor to HIV transmission in Dakar, due to suboptimal coverage of evidence-informed interventions. Although existing interventions have effectively reduced HIV transmission among adults, it is crucial that further strategies address the unmet need among MSM. | 10.1002/jia2.25126 |
pubmed_949_810 | When properly done, corneal endothelial photography has been shown to be a relatively safe, reliable, and effective means to ascertain corneal endothelial cell density (cells/ mm2) and to provide information about endothelial cell morphometry. Currently, this procedure is not essential prior to routine cataract surgery, but may be indicated in situations in which the cornea is suspected of having endothelial abnormality and in which the accuracy of the estimated cell count from slit-lamp biomicroscopy is thought to be less than satisfactory. These situations include but are not limited to (1) eyes before secondary lens implantation; (2) eyes in which the status of the corneal endothelium is of concern because of a history of trauma, acute glaucoma, inflammation, or corneal transplantation; (3) eyes that contain intraocular lenses that are partially dislocated or are suspected of causing chronic inflammation or endothelial injury; and (4) eyes in which the fellow eye has a history of unexplained corneal edema. | pubmed_949_810 |
pubmed_687_12716 | Background Ischemic stroke in young individuals often remains cryptogenic. Some of these strokes likely originate from the heart, and atrial fibrosis might be one of the etiological mechanisms. In this pilot study, we investigated whether advanced echocardiography findings of the left atrium (LA) of young cryptogenic stroke patients differ from those of stroke-free controls. Methods and Results We recruited 30 cryptogenic ischemic stroke patients aged 18 to 49 years and 30 age- and sex-matched stroke-free controls among participants of the SECRETO (Searching for Explanations for Cryptogenic Stroke in the Young: Revealing the Etiology, Triggers, and Outcome) study (NCT01934725). We measured basic left ventricular parameters and detailed measures of the LA, including 4-dimensional volumetry, speckle tracking epsilon, strain rate, and LA appendix orifice variation. Data were compared as continuous parameters and by tertiles. Compared with controls, stroke patients had smaller LA reservoir volumes (10.2 [interquartile range, 5.4] versus 13.2 [5.4] mL; P=0.030) and smaller positive epsilon values (17.8 [8.5] versus 20.8 [10.1]; P=0.023). In the tertile analysis, stroke patients had significantly lower left atrial appendage orifice variation (3.88 [0.75] versus 4.35 [0.90] mm; P=0.043), lower LA cyclic volume change (9.2 [2.8] versus 12.8 [3.5] mL; P=0.023), and lower LA contraction peak strain rate (-1.8 [0.6] versus -2.3 [0.6]; P=0.021). We found no statistically significant differences in left ventricular measures. Conclusions This preliminary comparison suggests altered LA dynamics in young patients with cryptogenic ischemic stroke, and thus that LA wall pathology might contribute to these strokes. Our results await confirmation in a larger sample. | 10.1161/JAHA.119.014578 |
pubmed_636_1658 | Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that results in cognitive impairment. It has been proposed that deposits of beta-amyloid (Aβ) form the cores of the plaque and, subsequently, induce the activation of GSK-3β and the hyperphosphorylation of tau, resulting in cognitive impairment. Oxidative stress has been proposed to be an important factor in the pathogenesis of AD. Cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (Cy3G) is a neuroprotective antioxidant. However, the effects of Cy3G on cognition are unclear. In this paper, we show that Cy3G is protective against the Aβ-induced impairment of learning and memory, but has no effect on normal learning and memory. Moreover, we found that Gy3G attenuated the Aβ-induced tau hyperphosphorylation and GSK-3β hyperactivation observed in AD. Taken together, these results demonstrated that Cy3G can rescue the cognitive impairments that are induced by Aβ via the modulation of GSK-3β/tau, suggesting a potential therapeutic role of Cy3G in AD. | pubmed_636_1658 |
pubmed_6_13933 | OBJECTIVES
To assess whether results of observational studies of potential anti-COVID-19 drugs were reproduced in subsequent randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
METHODS
This was a retrospective cross-sectional study, including studies published online between 1 January and 27 October 2020 that evaluated potential COVID-19 treatments and reported all-cause mortality.
RESULTS
Of 133 comparisons included in 117 studies, most were non-randomized (104/133, 78%). Hydroxychloroquine was the most common drug type, combined with azithromycin (n = 27, 20%) or alone (n = 22, 16%), followed by IL-6 inhibitors (n = 36, 27%) and corticosteroids (n = 26, 20%). Seventy-one percent (74/104) of non-randomized studies reported adjusted survival results and only 8% (8/104) adjusted for immortal time bias. Only two RCTs (2/29, 7%) reported significant survival benefit, both reporting treatment with corticosteroids, while 32/104 (31%) non-randomized studies showed statistically significant survival benefit associated with the intervention arm. The results of the majority (28/32, 88%) of non-randomized studies reporting survival benefit were not replicated by large-scale RCTs.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of most non-randomized studies reporting survival benefit of potential anti-COVID-19 drugs were not replicated by large RCTs. Regulators and healthcare professionals should exercise caution and resist the pressure to approve and prescribe drugs of unproven efficacy and potential toxicity to optimize patient care and maintain public trust in medical science. | 10.1093/jac/dkab163 |
pubmed_271_12755 | OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the impact of the adolescent Tdap (tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis vaccine) vaccination program on pertussis trends in the United States.
DESIGN
Retrospective analysis of nationally reported pertussis cases, January 1, 1990, through December 31, 2009.
SETTING
United States.
PARTICIPANTS
Confirmed and probable pertussis cases. Intervention The US Tdap vaccination program.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE
Rate ratios of reported pertussis incidence (defined as incidence among 11- to 18-year-olds divided by the combined incidence in all other age groups) modeled through segmented regression analysis and age-specific trends in reported pertussis incidence over time.
RESULTS
A total of 200 401 pertussis cases were reported in the United States from 1990 to 2009. Overall incidence ranged from 1.0 to 8.8 per 100,000 persons (1991 and 2004, respectively). Slope coefficients (estimated annual rate of change in rate ratios) from segmented regression showed a steady increase in pertussis incidence among adolescents 11 to 18 years old compared with all other age groups before Tdap introduction (slope = 0.22; P < .001), and a steep decreasing trend post introduction (slope = -0.48; P < .001), suggesting a direct impact of vaccination among adolescents. Indirect effects of adolescent vaccination were not observed among infants younger than 1 year.
CONCLUSIONS
Changes in pertussis incidence in the United States from 2005 to 2009 revealed a divergence between 11- to 18-year-olds and other age groups, suggesting that targeted use of Tdap among adolescents reduced disease preferentially in this age group. Increased Tdap coverage in adolescents and adults is needed to realize the full direct and indirect benefits of vaccination. | 10.1001/archpediatrics.2011.1093 |
pubmed_601_19771 | The lupus anticoagulant is a risk factor of thrombosis. The non thrombogenic endothelial surface could be a target for the lupus anticoagulant. We have investigated the effect of purified immunoglobulins G of five patients with LA on the thrombomodulin activity of cultured human endothelial cells from umbilical cord vein. The rate of activation of purified protein C (PC) (30 nM) by the endothelial cells in the presence of thrombin (0.1 U/dish) has been measured by hydrolysis of substrate S 2366. Activated PC has been 7.37 +/- 0.78 pmoles X ml-1 X h-1 in the presence of buffer and 7.2 +/- 0.78 pmoles X ml-1 X h-1 in the presence of control IgG (2 mg/dish). Heat aggregated IgG did not induce any significant change. Patient's IgG lowered significantly the rate of PC activation (4.86 +/- 1.04 pmoles X ml-1 X h-1, p less than 0.001). Fab fragment from two of these patient's IgG displayed the same inhibition. Moreover neutralization of this effect was obtained by addition of phospholipids (70% phosphatidylcholine, 30% phosphatidylserine) in excess to patient's IgG. Activation of PC has been also performed using purified rabbit thrombomodulin and a similar inhibition by patient's IgG was found. These results seem to indicate that antibodies present in the IgG fractions containing LA could be directed against phospholipids associated to thrombomodulin activity. Reduction of PC activation if present in the patients with LA could play a role in the occurrence of thrombosis. | pubmed_601_19771 |
pubmed_1050_21520 | Crop production is facing unprecedented challenges. Despite the fact that the food supply has significantly increased over the past half-century, ~8.9 and 14.3% people are still suffering from hunger and malnutrition, respectively. Agricultural environments are continuously threatened by a booming world population, a shortage of arable land, and rapid changes in climate. To ensure food and ecosystem security, there is a need to design future crops for sustainable agriculture development by maximizing net production and minimalizing undesirable effects on the environment. The future crops design projects, recently launched by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), aim to develop a roadmap for rapid design of customized future crops using cutting-edge technologies in the Breeding 4.0 era. In this perspective, we first introduce the background and missions of these projects. We then outline strategies to design future crops, such as improvement of current well-cultivated crops, de novo domestication of wild species and redomestication of current cultivated crops. We further discuss how these ambitious goals can be achieved by the recent development of new integrative omics tools, advanced genome-editing tools and synthetic biology approaches. Finally, we summarize related opportunities and challenges in these projects. | 10.1111/tpj.15107 |
pubmed_186_11585 | The aim of our study was to examine the irritation potential of new eye drops containing 2% choline salicylate (CS) as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and various polymers increasing eye drop viscosity (hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylcellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone). The standard method for assessing the potential of irritating substances has been the Draize rabbit eye test. However the European Centre for Validation of Alternative Methods and the Coordinating Committee for Validation of Alternative Methods recommend, short time exposure (STE) in vitro tests as an alternative method for assessing eye irritation. The eye irritation potential was determined using cytotoxicity test methods for rabbit corneal cell line (SIRC) after 5 min exposure. The viability of cells was determined using two cytotoxicity assays: MTT and Neutral Red Uptake. According to the irritation rankings for the short time exposure test, all tested eye drops are classified as non-irritating (cell viability >70%). | 10.1016/j.jsps.2014.11.009 |
pubmed_806_7600 | CONTEXT
Kidney disease is a common disease that is best treated through kidney transplant. The kidney transplant process is complex and can be difficult to navigate and most likely requires an adequate amount of health literacy.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the relationship between health literacy and transplant outcomes, including whether a patient was listed for or received a transplant.
DESIGN
A cross-sectional study measuring patients' health literacy and transplant outcomes.
SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS
Participants from a single transplant center were invited to participate if they were referred to the center for transplant and spoke English. Of the 92 patients, 30 (33%) were in the vascular access clinic, 31 (34%) were posttransplant, and 31 (34%) were pretransplant.
INTERVENTION
Health literacy was measured by using 3 tools: Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy of Medicine-Transplant (REALM-T), Newest Vital Sign (NVS), and Decision-Making Capacity Assessment Tool (DMCAT).
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE
Two dichotomous variables: whether the patient was listed for transplant and/or received a transplant. Descriptive and univariate statistics were calculated. Six logistic regression models were used to test for a correlation between each of the tools and patients' likelihood to be listed for and/or receive a transplant.
RESULTS
Fifty-three patients (58%) were formally listed for a transplant, and 36 (39%) received a transplant. The REALM-T, NVS, and DMCAT each significantly predicted whether or not a patient was listed for transplant (odds ratios, 1.044, 1.672, and 1.408). The NVS and DMCAT significantly predicted whether a patient received a transplant (odds ratios, 1.667 and 1.256). Health literacy is a positive and significant predictor of transplant outcomes. Clinicians should take assessments of health literacy into account when speaking to patients about kidney transplant. | 10.7182/pit2015463 |
pubmed_117_17943 | The performances of catalysts are highly dependent on their crystallinities. It is a significant challenge to successively manipulate the crystallinities of noble metal nanocatalysts due to the strong metallic bonds, especially under ambient conditions. Herein, a post-crystallization approach is developed for successive control of the crystallinity of Pd nanosheets via selective oxidation etching of the amorphous domains. This strategy can be extended to crystallize other Pd and Ru nanomaterials. By carefully modulating the crystallinity of Pd nanosheets, the time for the complete conversion of 4-nitrostyrene via hydrogenation is reduced by 20 times. Also, crystallization can turn the selectivity of the products and improve the stability of Pd nanosheets. These findings may advance the crystal engineering of metal nanomaterials for wide applications. | 10.1002/smll.202006624 |
pubmed_430_11344 | Pulseless disease, or Takayasu's arteritis, is usually found in the aorta and its major branches in young female patients. Involvement of the coronary arteries is extremely rare. Fewer than 25 cases have been reported. This report documents a case of a 71-year-old man who died of coronary insufficiency and myocardial infarction. The autopsy disclosed extensive granulomatous coronary arteritis. | pubmed_430_11344 |
pubmed_334_6622 | In this study, the authors compared indirect measures that attempt to quantify the level of marijuana associations among adolescents. They also evaluated whether these various methods overlap or tap different aspects of associative processes that may act in concert to influence marijuana use. Automatic drug-relevant associations were assessed in 121 at-risk youth in continuation high schools in California with the use of a word association index and computer-based, reaction time measures (i.e., Implicit Association Test [IAT] and Extrinsic Affective Simon Task [EAST]). Measures of working memory capacity, sensation seeking, and explicit cognitions also were included in analyses as potential confounders. The word association index and the marijuana IAT excited D measure were significant predictors of marijuana use. The word association index accounted for more variance in marijuana use than did the IAT or EAST measures. Further, confirmatory factor analytic models of the indirect measures of marijuana use revealed a significant moderate correlation between the EAST Excitement and Word Association factors but no significant correlations between the Word Association and IAT factors. These findings suggest that there is some convergence among the different indirect measures, but these assessments also appear to tap different aspects of associative processes. The types of indirect measures evaluated in this work provide information about spontaneous cognitions related to substance use, capturing influences on behavior that are not evaluated with traditional explicit assessments of behavior. Findings from this work add to a growing body of research that implicates the importance of implicit associative processes in risk and health behaviors. | 10.1037/1064-1297.15.2.218 |
pubmed_605_23955 | The kinetics of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in a primary culture of rainbow trout hepatocytes was investigated using three fluorescent probes: 5-,6-chloromethyl-2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (CM-H2DCFDA), dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR 123), and dihydroethidium (DHE). The cell cultures were loaded with the three probes, separately. Hepatocytes were then exposed to Cu (0.15-10 mM) in serum-free Leibovitz's medium for 30 min before being quantified by a fluorescence plate reader during 30 min. Membrane integrity and glutathione (GSH) content were quantified using the fluorescent probes 5-carboxyfluorescein diacetate-acetoxymethyl ester (CFDA-AM) and monochlorobimane. Increasing ROS formation with increasing concentrations of Cu was shown using CM-H2DCFDA, whereas DHR 123 fluorescence decreased. Significant differences between control and treatment groups were observed at the highest concentrations (2.5 and 10 mM) for both probes. DHE fluorescence was lower than that of the other two probes and did not appear to be affected by any exposure. Additionally, a dose-dependent depletion of GSH and decreasing membrane integrity with increasing Cu concentrations were demonstrated, with significant effects observed at 2.5 and 10 mM for both endpoints. The results showed that both CMH2DCFDA and DHR 123 detected the development of their target Cu-induced ROS in trout hepatocytes but did so in opposite fashions. DHE was found to be unsuitable for detecting kinetics of ROS formation in this model system. | 10.1615/JEnvironPatholToxicolOncol.2016016184 |
pubmed_374_1074 | An increasing number of stage D heart failure patients are supported with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), and the management of LVAD patients who require noncardiac surgery (NCS) presents unique challenges. Using the 2010-2014 National Inpatient Sample, we identified all adult cases of LVAD patients undergoing noncardiac surgeries using ICD-9-CM codes. We estimated inpatient mortality, bleeding complications, stroke, length of stay (LOS), and cost of hospitalization of the admissions related to NCS using mixed effects logistic and linear mixed regressions, respectively. A total of 30,323 patients with LVADs underwent 3,216 noncardiac surgeries (73.5% urgent) during the study period. LVAD recipients undergoing NCS had higher burden of certain comorbidities such as history of end-stage renal disease, pulmonary circulation disorders, peripheral vascular disease, and obesity. The most frequent NCS were general surgery, which included breast, endocrine, skin/burn, noncardiac transplantation, and abdominal surgeries (47.9%). In-hospital mortality was 7.7% with the highest rates observed among cases of neurologic surgeries. Vascular surgeries had the highest rates of ischemic stroke and gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients who underwent NCS had higher LOS and cost of hospitalization compared with LVAD recipients admitted to reasons other than NCS. Although bleeding complication trends have decreased, ischemic stroke and in-hospital mortality rates have increased overall during the study period. Urgent or emergency surgery was an independent predictor of mortality (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.9-5). A significant burden of complications occurs after noncardiac surgeries in LVAD recipients. | 10.1097/MAT.0000000000001205 |
pubmed_946_3094 | Chromosome pairing during meiosis I in D. melanogaster males was investigated ultrastructurally by examining complete bivalents in electron micrographs of serial thin sections. The XY bivalent is characterized by the presence of the unique material located between the two half-bivalents at the site of synapsis. The material has a fibrillar appearance and is less electron dense than the surrounding chromatin. XY bivalents in XYY males and XY bivalents containing the X chromosome, In (1) sc4LSC8R, where the pairing sites of the X chromosome are inverted and partially deleted also possess this material. The material is not associated with autosomal bivalents and may represent a morphological manifestation of the hypothetical cohesive elements (collochores) which are thought to function in conjunction of the X and Y chromosomes (Cooper, 1964). | 10.1007/BF00292259 |
pubmed_1046_13401 | PURPOSE
We evaluated whether a second semen analysis as suggested by the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination of Human Semen and Sperm-Cervical Mucus Interaction would improve diagnostic reliability in the evaluation of male infertility.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We analyzed a total of 5,132 semen samples from 2,566 men who underwent at least 2 consecutive semen analyses at a university fertility center. Reproducibility and correlation between the first and second analyses were evaluated for sperm concentration, motility and morphology according to the WHO criteria as well as the total motile sperm count.
RESULTS
Altogether 51.2% of the second analyses confirmed the initial findings according to WHO criteria and 60% confirmed them when applying total motile sperm count criteria. After finding normozoospermia on the initial analysis 27% of the second semen analyses were pathological. Following a first pathological semen analysis 23% of the second analyses were normal and 77% were pathological. The coefficient of variation ranged from 0.23 to 0.60. The Spearman correlation coefficient was high for sperm concentration (rs = 0.84) and normal morphology (rs = 0.80) but lower for progressive motility (rs = 0.57). The discriminating capacity of each semen parameter to distinguish between men with a normal vs a pathological second semen analysis was rather limited (ROC AUC 0.72 to 0.79).
CONCLUSIONS
In accordance with WHO recommendations 2 consecutive semen analysis should be performed. | 10.1016/j.juro.2018.11.001 |
pubmed_933_24772 | 1. When toxic filtrates from cultures of B coli, B. typhosus, or meningococci are injected into the blood stream, peritoneal cavity, or subcutaneous tissue of tuberculous guinea pigs, the skin at the site of a tuberculin reaction becomes hemorrhagic. The extent of the hemorrhage is proportional to the severity of the tuberculin reaction demonstrable by tests with various dilutions of tuberculin. 2. Tuberculin does not prepare the skin of non-tuberculous guinea pigs for this hemorrhagic reaction. 3. Tuberculin does not produce an intense or necrotic inflammation in the skin of tuberculous rabbits and fails to prepare the skin for the hemorrhagic reaction. 4. Tuberculin injected into the peritoneal cavities of tuberculous guinea pigs causes a hemorrhage in the skin at the site of a tuberculin reaction. 5. All guinea pigs infected with B.C.G., and most of those infected with a virulent strain of tubercle bacilli, when sensitized to horse serum and injected intracutaneously with 0.1 cc. of horse serum, react with redness, edema, and necrosis; and in some instances the necrosis is preceded by hemorrhage. When horse serum is injected into the skin of these guinea pigs in such dilution that only redness and edema result, the subsequent intravascular injection of typhoid filtrate produces hemorrhage at the site of reaction regularly in those infected with B.C.G. and frequently in those infected with a virulent strain. 6. Filtrates from B. coli, B. typhosus, or meningococci injected into the skin of tuberculous guinea pigs do not produce visible inflammation. When these injections are followed by intravascular injections of the same material hemorrhages do not occur in the skin. 7. When concentrated broth or turpentine is introduced into the skin of tuberculous guinea pigs and later typhoid filtrate is injected into the vascular system, hemorrhages do not occur in the skin at the site of inflammation. 8. The majority of guinea pigs that receive an intravascular injection of typhoid filtrate react with hemorrhage at the site of the injection of the silver nitrate. The incidence of hemorrhagic reaction in tuberculous guinea pigs is higher than in non-tuberculous guinea pigs that received similar injections of silver nitrate and typhoid toxin. 9. In tuberculous guinea pigs the skin can be prepared for the hemorrhagic reaction not only by bacterial toxins but also by tuberculin, horse serum, and an inorganic chemical, silver nitrate. 10. In the guinea pig the skin preparatory agents, i.e. tuberculin in the tuberculous guinea pig, diphtheria toxin and silver nitrate in both tuberculous and non-tuberculous guinea pigs, tend to produce hemorrhages in the skin even without subsequent injection of a toxic bacterial product. This property of the skin preparatory agents may be essential in their action. 11. Hemorrhages occur in the skin at the site of tuberculin reaction not only after the intravascular injection of bacterial toxins or tuberculin, but also after the injection of substances of non-bacterial origin; namely, peptone or soluble starch. | 10.1084/jem.60.6.669 |
pubmed_912_23052 | The aim of this paper is to use recent advances in the clinical understanding of the temporal evolution of seizure burden in neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy to improve the performance of automated detection algorithms. Probabilistic weights are designed from temporal locations of neonatal seizure events relative to time of birth. These weights are obtained by fitting a skew-normal distribution to the temporal seizure density and introduced into the probabilistic framework of the previously developed neonatal seizure detector. The results are validated on the largest available clinical dataset, comprising 816.7 hours. By exploiting these priors, the ROC area is increased by 23% (relative) reaching 96.75%. The number of false detections per hour is decreased from 0.72 to 0.36, while maintaining the correct detection of seizure burden at 75%. | 10.1109/EMBC.2012.6347096 |
pubmed_353_2773 | The three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (3D-FDTD) method is developed and implemented in the case of oblique incidence in order to study biperiodic structures that are finished according to the third direction. The perfectly matched layer (PML) is adapted to the developed algorithm. The electromagnetic fields of Maxwell's equations in the main grid and in the PML media are transferred from the E-H domain to the mapped P-Q domain. The modified Maxwell's equations are implemented by the split-field method (SFM). Several tests are made and presented in order to verify and demonstrate the accuracy of our codes. The obtained results are in good agreement with published ones obtained by other methods. The originality of this paper comes, first from the fact that it brings a complete development of the used algorithm, and second, from the study of the spectral response of a radar dome based on annular aperture arrays perforated into a perfect conductor plate. | 10.1103/PhysRevE.77.056701 |
pubmed_277_1192 | OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this descriptive study was to provide updated data on the teaching of Class I and Class II direct composite restorations in Europe as part of a survey of this aspect of the primary dental curriculum in Europe and North America.
METHODS
Data on the teaching of posterior composite restorations and related matters were collected by means of a postal questionnaire sent to 185 dental schools known to exist in Europe. Non-respondents were sent a second questionnaire after two months. Further information pertaining to student requirements was sought after six months from all respondents.
RESULTS
The response ranged from 92% for dental schools in Scandinavia to 40% from dental schools in Southern Europe with an overall response of 56%. All but four of the 104 participating schools were found to teach the use of composites in Class I and Class II, two-surface situations in at least premolar teeth. Contraindications and techniques taught for posterior composites varied within and between the country groupings of Northern and Central Europe. Scandinavia, Southern Europe and Eastern Europe. However, certain consensus views were identified. The experience of adverse biological reactions to the use of resin-based restoratives in European dental schools was found to be limited.
CONCLUSIONS
Notwithstanding the variation in the response from the four geographic regions investigated and the relatively low overall response to the questionnaire, it is concluded that the data reported indicates that most dental schools in Europe teach the use of composites in selected Class I and Class II situations. However, considerable variation exists both within and between the regions investigated in relation to this teaching. Further research and consensus conferences should be planned to reduce variability across Europe in relation to the contraindications and techniques taught for posterior composites. | 10.1016/s0300-5712(99)00055-x |
pubmed_490_13383 | The call to consume less sugar in order to improve the general health is becoming increasingly loud. The question is in what way consuming less sugar could also contribute to a lower risk of caries. This can be achieved by limiting the frequency of consuming sugary snacks. For oral health reasons, people in the Netherlands are advised not to consume things containing sugar more than four times between meals. Another way to make the diet less cariogenic is to substitute sugar in foods by non-caloric intense sweeteners, caloric sugar alcohols or 'new carbohydrates'. Non-caloric intense sweeteners and caloric sweeteners have been proven to be non-cariogenic. New carbohydrates still have to be individually tested. | 10.5177/ntvt.2017.10.16254 |
pubmed_488_9935 | Analysis of 1385 autopsies of 80-102 year-old patients was performed to investigate the frequency of simultaneous occurence of the following functionally pertinent diseases in one organism (polypathia): Severe aortic, coronary and cerebral arteriosclerosis, chronic pulmonary emphysema, contracted kidneys, fractures of the femur and malignant tumors. 80% of all patients of both sexes suffered from 2-4 of the above diseases. Even in the highest age group, however, 5 and more of the above diseases were very rarely developed. Patients with none of the above diagnoses were almost never encountered. The "polypathia" was stated also in patients who died by suicide or accident. | pubmed_488_9935 |
pubmed_81_212 | The purpose of this study was to conduct a field study at a Florida field site on surface emissions and subsurface distribution of cis-and trans-1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) and chloropicrin (CP) in raised beds injected with Telone C35 with four replications. A total of 16 beds were applied with Telone C35 by chisel injection and covered with four different plastic films, 4 beds for each film. Each bed was installed with five 20-cm long soil pore air probes and a surface air collection pan at arbitrarily locations along the length of each bed for sampling soil pore air and surface air, respectively, for analysis of the three biologically active compounds, cis- and trans-1,3-D and CP. We found that average concentrations of the three compounds at 20-cm depth among the beds covered with four different plastic films generally were not statistically different. Among the four beds covered with the same plastic film, average concentrations of the three compounds were statistically different only in the four metallic PE covered beds at 5 and 24 hours after injection. Volatilization rates of the three compounds among the beds covered with four different plastic films, with the exception of CP at 48 hours after injection, were not statistically different. It appeared that initial upward diffusion and volatilization flux were influenced by solar radiation. Initial subsurface concentrations of the three compounds and volatilization flux, especially cis-1,3-D, were greater in the beds on the east side of the field than that in the beds on the west side of the field. Whether or not difference in initial subsurface concentrations of the compounds between east side beds and west side beds may influence fumigant efficacy remains to be determined. | 10.1080/03601230802062018 |
pubmed_1102_6936 | Medical personnel in hyperbaric treatment centres are at occupational risk for decompression sickness (DCS) while attending patients inside the multiplace hyperbaric chamber (MHC). A 51-year-old male hyperbaric physician, also an experienced diver, was working as an inside attendant during a standard hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) session (70 minutes at 253.3 kPa [2.5 atmospheres absolute, 15 metres' seawater equivalent]) in a large walk-in MHC. Within 10 minutes after the end of the session, symptoms of spinal DCS occurred. Recompression started within 90 minutes with an infusion of lignocaine and hydration. All neurological symptoms resolved within 10 minutes breathing 100% oxygen at 283.6 kPa (2.8 atmospheres absolute) and a standard US Navy Treatment Table 6 was completed. He returned to regular hyperbaric work after four weeks of avoiding hyperbaric exposures. Transoesophageal echocardiography with a bubble study was performed 18 months after the event without any sign of a persistent (patent) foramen ovale. Any hyperbaric exposure, even within no-decompression limits, is an essential occupational risk for decompression sickness in internal hyperbaric attendants, especially considering the additional risk factors typical for medical personnel (age, dehydration, tiredness, non-optimal physical capabilities and frequent problems with the lower back). | 10.28920/dhm51.1.103-106 |
pubmed_983_3218 | K(+) conductance is a major determinant of membrane potential (V(m)) in vascular smooth muscle (VSMC) and endothelial cells (EC). The vascular tone is controlled by V(m) through the action of voltage-operated Ca(2+) channels (VOCC) in VSMC. Increased K(+) conductance leads to hyperpolarization and vasodilation, while inactivation of K(+) channels causes depolarization and vasoconstriction. K(+) channels in EC indirectly participate in the control of vascular tone by several mechanisms, e.g., release of nitric oxide and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor. In the kidney, a change in the activity of one or more classes of K(+) channels will lead to a change in hemodynamic resistance and therefore of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration pressure. Through these effects, the activity of renal vascular K(+) channels influences renal salt and water excretion, fluid homeostasis, and ultimately blood pressure. Four main classes of K(+) channels [calcium activated (K(Ca)), inward rectifier (K(ir)), voltage activated (K(V)), and ATP sensitive (K(ATP))] are found in the renal vasculature. Several in vitro experiments have suggested a role for individual classes of K(+) channels in the regulation of renal vascular function. Results from in vivo experiments are sparse. We discuss the role of the different classes of renal vascular K(+) channels and their possible role in the integrated function of the renal microvasculature. Since several pathological conditions, among them hypertension, are associated with alterations in K(+) channel function, the role of renal vascular K(+) channels in the control of salt and water excretion deserves attention. | 10.1152/ajprenal.00052.2011 |
pubmed_601_21435 | In this study, we looked for acidification in pancreatic zymogen granules as recently reported for other secretory vesicles. In intact dispersed acinar cells, acidic intracellular compartments identified by fluorescence microscopy using acridine orange corresponded exactly to the distribution of zymogen granules visualized by light microscopy. Acridine orange fluorescence in zymogen granules was reversibly dissipated by protonophores (carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, monensin) and NH4Cl; and the percentages of cytoplasmic area occupied by the acidic compartments and by zymogen granules were identical under fasting conditions and decreased in parallel after in vivo cholinergic stimulation. Zymogen granules released acutely from hypotonically disrupted cells without homogenization also accumulated acridine orange. Red-orange fluorescence in released granules was also abolished by protonophores and NH4Cl; and it reappeared after washout of protonophores in the presence, but not absence of adenosine triphosphate. Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, which inhibits all proton pumps, and N-ethylmaleimide, which inhibits the proton pump of endocytic vesicles and lysosomes, but not mitochondria, prevented this adenosine triphosphate-dependent reappearance of acridine orange fluorescence, whereas vanadate did not. In contrast to these observations with zymogen granules in situ or acutely released from disrupted cells, granules isolated by conventional multistep homogenization/centrifugation procedures did not exhibit adenosine triphosphate-dependent acidification or development of a positive membrane potential as measured by quenching of acridine orange or Oxonol V, respectively. The latter findings may indicate release of inhibitors or granule damage during isolation. Collectively, the present results provide direct evidence that zymogen granules contain an active acidification mechanism which appears similar to that of other secretory vesicles and endosomes. This acidification process may have important implications for the storage, stabilization, and secretion of intragranular proteins including proenzymes. | 10.1016/0016-5085(86)90197-6 |
pubmed_615_907 | AIM
To investigate general practitioners' current knowledge of and attitudes towards psychosis and its management by Cavan-Monaghan Mental Health Service, Ireland, prior to their involvement in the introduction of an early intervention service.
METHODS
As part of a continuing medical education programme for psychosis, delivered to all 32 general practitioners practising in this region, participants were asked to complete a 29-item questionnaire designed to assess their baseline knowledge and attitudes.
RESULTS
All 32 general practitioners participated in the study. Although 17% had received no previous psychiatric training, 93% described their knowledge of psychiatric disorders as average or above average. However, only 53% could correctly identify all of a set of psychiatric symptoms related to psychosis. Only 50% felt comfortable initiating treatment for psychotic symptoms. Whereas only 40% had heard of the early intervention model, 89% believed it to be advantageous. Easy accessibility to services and rapid assessment of patients referred were most commonly reported as helpful. However, concerns were expressed about the potential for associated increases in workload.
CONCLUSIONS
As 'gatekeepers-in-waiting', these general practitioners will have a vital role in effective implementation of the early intervention service for psychosis. However, their knowledge needs improvement, through regular educational sessions, and this service must be responsive to their needs. In addition, general practitioners' concerns regarding the potential for increased workload must be adequately addressed in order to maintain enthusiasm and collaboration at the interface between primary care and mental health services, particularly in the context of early intervention. | 10.1111/eip.12069 |
pubmed_614_19415 | BACKGROUND
Lower urinary tract symptoms are common among older men and 5-α reductase inhibitors (5-ARI) are a group of drugs recommended in treating these symptoms. The effect on prostate volume is mediated by a reduction in dihydrotestosterone; however, this reduction is counterbalanced by a 25% rise in serum testosterone levels. Therefore, 5-ARI use might have systemic effects and differentially affect bone mineral density, muscular mass and strength, as well as falls, all of which are major determinants of fractures in older men.
METHODS
We conducted a nationwide cohort study of all Swedish men who used 5-ARI by comparing their risk of hip fracture, any type of fracture and of falls with matched control men randomly selected from the population and unexposed to 5-ARI.
RESULTS
During 1 417 673 person-years of follow-up, 10 418 men had a hip fracture, 19 570 any type of fracture and 46 755 a fall requiring hospital care. Compared with unexposed men, current users of 5-ARI had an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 0.96 (95% CI 0.91-1.02) for hip fracture, an HR of 0.94 (95% CI 0.90-0.98) for all fracture and an HR of 0.99 (95% CI 0.96-1.02) for falls. Former users had an increased risk of hip fractures (HR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01-1.19).
CONCLUSION
5-ARI is safe from a bone health perspective with an unaltered risk of fractures and falls during periods of use. After discontinuation of 5-ARI, there is a modest increase in the rate of fractures and falls. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0140598 |
pubmed_673_5968 | The nature and the amount of polymeric IgA in sera from normal, adult humans was investigated by means of three markers that selectively differentiate polymeric IgA: the capacity to bind secretory component; the presence of the J chain; and the reactivity with an antiserum that recognizes only the polymeric form of IgA. The results demonstrated that the sera of healthy adults contain only minimal amounts (less than 1% of the total serum IgA) of the true dimeric IgA. These conditions are valid for healthy individuals only. Pathological conditions at the secretory sites may result in increased values for the dimeric as well as for the secretory IgA in serum. | 10.3181/00379727-150-39061 |
pubmed_234_15647 | Spores of a thymine-requiring strain of Bacillus subtilis 168, which is also temperature sensitive for the initiation of chromosome replication, were germinated and allowed to grow out at the permissive temperature in a minimal medium containing no added thymine. Under these conditions, there was no or very limited progression into the elongation phase of the first round of replication. In a significant proportion of the outgrown cells, a Z ring formed precisely at mid-cell and over the centrally positioned nucleoid, leading eventually to the formation of a mature division septum. When initiation of the first round of replication was blocked through a temperature shift and with thymine present, the Z ring was positioned acentrally. The central Z ring that formed in the absence of thymine was blocked by the presence of a DNA polymerase III inhibitor. It is concluded that the very early stages of a round of replication (initiation plus possibly limited progression into the elongation phase) play a key role in the precise positioning of the Z ring at mid-cell and between replicating daughter chromosomes. | 10.1046/j.1365-2958.1999.01439.x |
pubmed_284_9715 | The scintigraphic diagnosis of eight convexity leptomeningeal cysts is described; the cysts appear as a local collection of abnormal radioactivity, best seen at 48 hours. The correlation of the scintigraphic findings with clinical, radiological, and operative findings is discussed. | 10.3171/jns.1975.43.2.0203 |
pubmed_1037_2070 | PURPOSE
Suffering refers to a situation in which a person's illness and condition threaten their integrity. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize qualitative studies that explored suffering of persons with cancer.
METHOD
A qualitative systematic review was conducted. Psych Info, PubMed, and CINAHL were searched for relevant studies. Methodological quality was independently assessed using the Critical Appraisal Checklist from Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). A meta-aggregative approach was utilized to analyze and synthesize the data that focused on how persons with cancer perceive suffering across their illness trajectory.
RESULTS
Twelve articles reporting the experiences of 230 participants were synthesized. Three synthesized findings were generated from the articles: suffering the loss of normality, suffering in relation to others and existential suffering. Suffering affects the person's normal activities of life and cause the loss of normality. Suffering in relation to others refers patients' suffering also impacts on and is impacted by those around them. The last synthesized finding refers to impact of suffering on patients' whole sense of being. In addition, feelings of hopelessness, and other mental anguish are inevitable responses that lead the patients to think about death. The overall methodological quality resulted in a ConQual rating of moderate for the synthesized findings.
CONCLUSION
The persons' suffering not only affects themselves but also others, particularly close relatives. The suffering experienced is complex and goes well beyond the immediate impact of physical symptoms and treatment. | 10.1016/j.ejon.2021.102041 |
pubmed_1119_8446 | PURPOSE
To determine the significance of the International Prognostic Index (IPI) score in adults with testicular lymphoma treated with doxorubicin-based regimens.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Untreated adults with testicular lymphoma who presented between 1969 and 1993 were studied. Those with Ann Arbor stages III and IV were included if they had a testicular mass at presentation.
RESULTS
We identified 22 patients, 21 with intermediate-grade and one with high-grade lymphoma. All 10 patients with an IPI score < or = 1 had Ann Arbor stage I disease, whereas the 12 with an IPI score more than 1 had Ann Arbor stage II to IV disease. Complete remission (CR) was achieved in 73% of patients. At 153 months, 22% of all complete responders and 40% and 0% of those with IPI scores < or = 1 and more than 1, respectively, remained in CR (P = .01). With a median follow-up time of 113 months for survivors, the failure-free survival (FFS) rate at 153 months was 16% for all patients or 32% and 0% for those with IPI scores < or = 1 and more than 1, respectively (P = .02). The CNS or contralateral testis were involved in all patients who failed to respond to primary therapy and in 50% of those who relapsed from CR.
CONCLUSION
The prognosis of patients with testicular lymphoma appears poor despite doxorubicin-based chemotherapy. On the basis of failures in the CNS and contralateral testis, we recommend prophylactic intrathecal chemotherapy and scrotal radiotherapy for all patients. Those with an IPI score < or = 1 can be treated with conventional doxorubicin-based regimens, but those with an IPI score more than 1 should be considered for investigational systemic therapy. | 10.1200/JCO.1995.13.6.1361 |
pubmed_1113_21746 | OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN
In order to evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of carotid angioplasty with or without stent placement (CAS) versus carotid endarterectomy (CEA) we performed a meta-analysis of the presently available randomized studies.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A multiple electronic health database search on all randomized trials describing CAS compared with CEA in patients with symptomatic or asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis was performed.
RESULTS
Seven trials totalling 2972 patients (1480 randomized to CEA and 1492 randomized to CAS) were included in the meta-analysis. Results significantly favoured CEA over CAS in terms of death or any stroke at 30 days after procedure; the risk of death, any stroke, or myocardial infarction at 30 days; ipsilateral ischaemic stroke at 30 days; any stroke at 30 days; death or stroke at 6 months; and the risk of procedural failure. There was a significantly reduced risk of cranial neuropathy at 30 days after CAS. There was no significant difference between CAS and CEA groups in the odds of death or disabling stroke at 30 days, death or stroke at 1 year after the procedure, and ipsilateral intracerebral bleeding at 30 days.
CONCLUSIONS
The results of this meta-analysis suggest that CEA can be performed with more safety than CAS. As a result, CEA remains the "gold standard" treatment for suitable de novo carotid stenosis and CAS should only be performed within randomized trials of stenting versus surgery. | 10.1016/j.ejvs.2007.06.001 |
pubmed_81_12296 | APC/C(Cdh1) controls the G0 and G1 phases of the cell cycle. Using a conditional knockout of the Cdh1 coding gene Fizzy-related (Fzr), a new study demonstrates that Cdh1 is essential for viability and that it functions as a tumour suppressor by preventing genomic instability. | 10.1038/ncb0708-755 |
pubmed_594_18197 | The present studies were conducted: (1) to determine which beta-adrenoceptor subtypes are involved in progesterone and oxytocin (OT) secretion, (2) to examine whether noradrenaline (NA) acts directly on the cytochrome P-450scc and 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD), and (3) to study the effect of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) on NA-stimulated steroidogenesis in luteal cells. The effect of NA on progesterone secretion from luteal slices of heifers on days 8-12 of the oestrous cycle was blocked by both atenolol (beta 1-antagonist) and ICI 118.551 hydrochloride (beta 2-antagonist). OT secretion was blocked only after treatment with ICI 118.551 hydrochloride (P < 0.05). Dobutamine (10(-4)-10(-6) M), a selective beta 1 agonist and salbutamol (10(-4)-10(-6) M), a selective beta 2 agonist, both increased progesterone production (P < 0.01) with an efficiency comparable to that produced by NA (P < 0.01). The increase of OT content in luteal slices was observed only after treatment with salbutamol at the dose of 10(-5) M (P < 0.01). Dobutamine had no effect on OT production at any dose. A stimulatory effect of NA on cytochrome P-450scc activity (P < 0.05) was demonstrated using 25-hydroxycholesterol as substrate. 3 beta-HSD activity also increased following NA (P < 0.01) or pregnenolone (P < 0.05) and in tissue treated with pregnenolone together with NA (P < 0.01). PGF decreased progesterone synthesis (P < 0.05) and 3 beta-HSD activity (P < 0.01) in tissue treated with NA. We conclude that NA stimulates progesterone secretion by luteal beta 1- and beta 2-adrenoceptors, while OT secretion is probably mediated only via the beta 2-receptor. NA also increases cytochrome P-450scc and 3 beta-HSD activity. PGF inhibits the luteotropic effect of NA on the luteal tissue. | 10.1556/004.49.2001.1.6 |
pubmed_574_10221 | Cervical cancer is the most prevalent cancer of women in Ethiopia and sexually transmitted diseases are highly prevalent in the country. In order to establish a possible cause and effect relationship between sexually transmitted diseases and cervical cancer, likely etiological socio-economic factors for these two conditions have been analysed. While residence, income, age at first coitus, age, number of sexual partners, marital status/profession and duration of sexual life affect both conditions, there is a significant difference between the most important factors in the etiology of the separate conditions. Serological testing shows a high prevalence of gonorrhea, which was used as a marker of STD. Women with gonococcal antibodies had evidence of increased exposure to other STD; there was no such correlation for cervical cancer. Our results indicate that STD per se is unlikely to be a primary cause of CC in Ethiopia. It appears probable that the etiology of CC in Ethiopia is multifactorial. Early exposure of the immature cervical epithelium to STD, the trauma of repeated childbirth, and multiple sexual partners in women whose defence factors are impaired by chronic malnutrition, add up to a major medico-socio-economic factor. The evidence presented here suggests that CC in Ethiopia is not so much the result of a sexually transmitted disease, but a sociosexual disease. | pubmed_574_10221 |
pubmed_220_4872 | The transcription factor Elk-1 belongs to the ternary complex factor (TCF) subfamily of Ets proteins. TCFs interact with serum response factor to bind jointly to serum response elements in the promoters of immediate-early genes (IEGs). TCFs mediate the rapid transcriptional response of IEGs to various extracellular stimuli which activate mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. To investigate physiological functions of Elk-1 in vivo, we generated Elk-1-deficient mice by homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells. These animals were found to be phenotypically indistinguishable from their wild-type littermates. Histological analysis of various tissues failed to reveal any differences between Elk-1 mutant and wild-type mice. Elk-1 deficiency caused no changes in the proteomic displays of brain or spleen extracts. Also, no immunological defects could be detected in mice lacking Elk-1, even upon infection with coxsackievirus B3. In mouse embryonic fibroblasts, Elk-1 was dispensable for c-fos and Egr-1 transcriptional activation upon stimulation with serum, lysophosphatidic acid, or tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate. However, in brains of Elk-1-deficient mice, cortical and hippocampal CA1 expression of c-fos, but not Egr-1 or c-Jun, was markedly reduced 4 h following kainate-induced seizures. This was not accompanied by altered patterns of neuronal apoptosis. Collectively, our data indicate that Elk-1 is essential neither for mouse development nor for adult life, suggesting compensatory activities by other TCFs. | 10.1128/MCB.24.1.294-305.2004 |
pubmed_923_16150 | We report a case of splenic peliosis imitating metastases on CT. The patient was a 44-year-old man who previously had a retroperitoneal paraganglioma surgically removed. Peliosis must be considered a potential differential diagnosis of hypodense foci of the spleen seen on CT. | pubmed_923_16150 |
pubmed_469_18572 | BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Although the importance of healthy lifestyles for preventing Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) has been recognized, epidemiologic evidence remains limited for non-White or low-income individuals who bear disproportionate burdens of ADRD. This population-based cohort study aims to investigate associations of lifestyle factors, individually and together, with the risk of ADRD among socioeconomically disadvantaged Americans.
METHODS
In the Southern Community Cohort Study, comprising two-thirds self-reported Black and primarily low-income Americans, we identified incident ADRD using claims data among participants enrolled in Medicare for at least 12 consecutive months after age 65 years. Five lifestyle factors-tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), sleep hours, and diet quality-were each scored 0 (unhealthy), 1 (intermediate), or 2 (healthy) based on the health guidelines. A composite lifestyle score was created by summing all scores. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs, 95% CIs) for incident ADRD, treating death as a competing risk.
RESULTS
We identified 1,694 patients with newly diagnosed ADRD among 17,209 participants during a median follow-up of 4.0 years in claims data; the mean age at ADRD diagnosis was 74.0 years. Healthy lifestyles were individually associated with an 11%-25% reduced risk of ADRD: multivariable-adjusted HR (95% CI) was 0.87 (0.76-0.99) for never vs current smoking, 0.81 (0.72-0.92) for low-to-moderate vs no alcohol consumption, 0.89 (0.77-1.03) for ≥150 minutes of moderate or ≥75 minutes of vigorous LTPA each week vs none, 0.75 (0.64-0.87) for 7-9 hours vs >9 hours of sleep, and 0.85 (0.75-0.96) for the highest vs lowest tertiles of the Healthy Eating Index. The composite lifestyle score showed a dose-response association with up to 36% reduced risk of ADRD: multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CIs) across quartiles were 1 (ref), 0.88 (0.77-0.99), 0.79 (0.70-0.90), and 0.64 (0.55-0.74); p trend <0.001. The beneficial associations were observed regardless of participants' sociodemographics (e.g., race, education, and income) and health conditions (e.g., history of cardiometabolic diseases and depression).
DISCUSSION
Our findings support significant benefits of healthy lifestyles for ADRD prevention among socioeconomically disadvantaged Americans, suggesting that promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing barriers to lifestyle changes are crucial to tackling the growing burden and disparities posed by ADRD. | 10.1212/WNL.0000000000200774 |
pubmed_235_20876 | Background: Penicillin allergy is commonly reported and has clinical and financial consequences for patients and hospitals. A penicillin evaluation program can safely delabel patients and optimize antibiotic therapy. Pharmacists who perform this task have focused on a detailed interview or penicillin skin testing (PST). Antibiotic graded challenge after PST requires more resources and is more costly than going directly to a two-step challenge. Objective: To determine whether a pharmacist-driven penicillin allergy evaluation and a testing protocol that primarily uses direct oral challenges can safely delabel patients. Methods: Adult patients (ages >18 years) with a penicillin allergy in their electronic medical record (EMR) who were admitted between September 2019 and June 2020 were eligible. Although all patients with penicillin allergy were eligible, priority was given to patients who required antibiotics. Patients were interviewed, and, if indicated, based on an institutional protocol, were tested by using PST and/or two-step oral challenge. If the patient passed the challenge, then the penicillin allergy label was removed in the EMR and the patient counseled. Demographic information, allergy questionnaire results, testing results, and changes in antimicrobial therapy were collected. Results: Fifty patients were evaluated from September 2019 to June 2020. Ninety-six percent of the patients were delabeled, and antibiotic therapy changed for 54%. Twenty patients were delabeled with an interview alone, and 30 patients underwent oral two-step challenge. Only one patient required PST. Conclusion: A pharmacist-driven penicillin allergy evaluation program focused on direct oral graded challenges and bypassing PST can effectively delabel admitted patients. However, more safety data are needed before implementation of similar programs to optimize antibiotic treatment. | 10.2500/aap.2021.42.200128 |
pubmed_546_6510 | Maturation of a normal B-cell precursor to a mature plasma cell involves rearrangement and somatic mutation of the immunoglobulin variable (V) region genes. These events occur at distinct stages of development, and when a B cell undergoes neoplastic transformation, the genetic imprint reflects the clonal history of the cell of origin. Sequence analysis of V-genes can reveal bias as compared with the available repertoire, possibly reflecting a role for superantigen in stimulation of certain B cells. It can also indicate if the tumour cell has encountered the site of somatic mutation in the germinal centre, and if this mechanism is still active post-transformation. Analysis may also reveal a potential influence of persistent antigen in driving tumour growth. Genetic evidence supports the concept that tumour cells are not frozen at a single point of differentiation, but are able to move through certain limited stages. For myeloma, V-gene analysis indicates that the malignant cell population is likely to be derived from an antigen-selected plasma cell, but that a less mature minor B cell population of identical sequence may coexist. In contrast, benign plasma cell tumours can include B cells still undergoing somatic mutation. In both malignant and benign disease, transcripts of clonally-related alternative isotypes have been identified V-gene analysis is contributing to the diagnosis, monitoring and understanding of B-cell tumours, and may facilitate the development of rational approaches to therapy. | pubmed_546_6510 |
pubmed_448_9596 | The environments and/or contexts typically used to determine consumer affective and sensory responses have been questioned for their ecological validity. However, conducting consumer testing in real-life scenarios is costly, logistically complex, and hard to standardise between participants due to a lack of control over external cues and product preparation. Immersive environments, representative of product consumption contexts, may provide more ecologically valid data. Recently, digital immersion technologies have been proposed to contextualise consumer studies whilst maintaining experimental control. This narrative review summarised published consumer studies including digital immersion in addition to traditional sensory booths and/or a real-life immersive contexts in their study design, to measure the impact of these contexts on liking, emotional response and intensity of sensory attributes. The findings suggest that emotional response ratings are more comparable to real-life, and that consumer engagement and reliability increases, when testing is conducted using digital immersive techniques compared to traditional sensory booths. Therefore, digital immersive techniques look promising to improve ecological validity of consumer testing, but further development and research is required. | 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110804 |
pubmed_915_14642 | The aim of this study was to determine the associations of body mass index (BMI) with all-cause and cause-specific disability retirement. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science from their inception to May 2019. A total of 27 (25 prospective cohort and 2 nested case-control) studies consisting of 2 199 632 individuals qualified for a meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently assessed the methodological quality of the included studies. We used a random effects meta-analysis, assessed heterogeneity and publication bias, and performed sensitivity analyses. There were a large number of participants and the majority of studies were rated at low or moderate risk of bias. There was a J-shaped relationship between BMI and disability retirement. Underweight (hazard ratio (HR)/risk ratio (RR)=1.20, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.41), overweight (HR/RR=1.13, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.19) and obese individuals (HR/RR=1.52, 95% CI 1.36 to 1.71) were more commonly granted all-cause disability retirement than normal-weight individuals. Moreover, overweight increased the risk of disability retirement due to musculoskeletal disorders (HR/RR=1.26, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.39) and cardiovascular diseases (HR=1.73, 95% CI 1.24 to 2.41), and obesity increased the risk of disability retirement due to musculoskeletal disorders (HR/RR=1.66, 95% CI 1.42 to 1.94), mental disorders (HR=1.29, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.61) and cardiovascular diseases (HR=2.80, 95% CI 1.85 to 4.24). The association between excess body mass and all-cause disability retirement did not differ between men and women and was independent of selection bias, performance bias, confounding and adjustment for publication bias. Obesity markedly increases the risk of disability retirement due to musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular diseases and mental disorders. Since the prevalence of obesity is increasing globally, disease burden associated with excess body mass and disability retirement consequently are projected to increase. Reviewregistrationnumber: CRD42018103110. | 10.1136/oemed-2019-105876 |
pubmed_242_6148 | A Thomson scattering diagnostic system, using a 263 nm laser as the probe beam, is designed and implemented on Shenguang-III prototype laser facility. The probe beam is provided by an additional beam line completed recently. The diagnostic system allows simultaneous measurements of both ion feature and red-shifted electron feature from plasmas in a high-temperature (≥2 keV) and high-density (≥10(21) cm(-3)) regime. Delicate design is made to satisfy the requirements for successful detection of the electron feature. High-quality ion feature spectra have already been diagnosed via this system in recent experiments with gas-filled hohlraums. | 10.1063/1.4907710 |
pubmed_436_21959 | The present paper generalizes the new data and gives an account of the current notions about properties, mechanisms of generation, and functional role of propagated electrical signals in the form of action potentials and variation potentials in plants. | pubmed_436_21959 |
pubmed_258_5903 | While dietary fibres have a reputation of a healthy food component, the interaction between nutrients and neutral fibers is non-covalent, and its characterization is challenging for most analytical techniques. Here, on the example of barley β-glucan (BBG) and paramagnetic Cu(ii) ions we demonstrate the performance of different Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) methods in the fibre studies. EPR techniques were tested on two spin probe systems with different affinity in the interaction with dietary fibres - Cu(OAc)2 salt, which weakly dissociates under physiological conditions and CuSO4 salt, which easily dissociates, so that in the latter case Cu(ii) can be considered as a 'free' ion, only chelated by water molecules. The Cu(ii)-BBG interaction was determined by pulse EPR relaxation measurements, but this interaction appears not strong enough for continuous wave EPR detection. The capability of the fibres for Cu(ii) absorption was successfully analyzed by comparison of the results from the pulse dipolar spectroscopy with numerical simulations. The local distribution of sugar hydrogen atoms around the Cu(ii) ion has been determined by electron spin echo envelope modulation (ESEEM) and electron-nuclei double resonance (ENDOR) techniques. | 10.1039/d2ra01164f |
pubmed_997_20610 | The current study focused on the monitoring of pollution loads in the Kalpakkam coastal zone of India in terms of physico-chemical characteristics of sediment. The investigation took place at 12 sampling points around the Kalpakkam coastal zone for one year beginning from 2019. The seasonal change of nutrients in the sediment, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, total organic carbon, and particles size distribution, was calculated. Throughout the study period, the pH (7.55 to 8.99), EC (0.99 to 4.98 dS/m), nitrogen (21.74 to 58.12 kg/ha), phosphorus (7.5 to 12.9 kg/ha), potassium (218 to 399 kg/ha), total organic carbon (0.11 to 0.88%), and particle size cumulative percent of sediments (from 9.01 to 9.39%) was observed. A number of multivariate statistical techniques were used to examine the changes in sediment quality. The population means were substantially different according to the three-way ANOVA test at the 0.05 level. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis showed a substantial association with all indicators throughout all seasons, implying contamination from both natural and anthropogenic causes. The ecosystem of the Kalpakkam coastal zone has been affected by nutrient contamination. | 10.1007/s10661-022-10568-w |
pubmed_946_6276 | The affinity or equilibrium constant between an Fab fragment derived from monoclonal IgG directed against influenza virus neuraminidase was measured as 4.1 X 10(7) M-1. The method, which makes use of an air-driven ultracentrifuge, is simple and uses extremely small amounts (10(-11) mol) of material. Furthermore, interpretation of the data is based on sound theoretical considerations. The technique also allows m.w. of the interacting species to be measured and the stoichiometry of the reaction to be determined. | pubmed_946_6276 |
pubmed_188_15899 | To strengthen randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating the efficacy of 100% watermelon juice on vascular function of older women, theory-driven behavioral analysis as well as comparative sensory analysis of the intervention and placebo were conducted. The Theory of Planned Behavior was adopted to assess psychosocial determinants of intention to consume watermelon juice. Sensory attributes were assessed utilizing hedonic scales. Analysis included Structural Equation Modeling with maximum likelihood. The measurement model provided a good fit (x2 = 70.22, df = 38; RMSEA = 0.07, CFI = 0.98; NFI = 0.95). Attitude (γ = 0.36), subjective norm (γ = 0.43), and perceived behavioral control (γ = 0.21,) were significant predictors (p < 0.001) of intention. Participants identified no significant differences in sensorial attributes between beverages, thereby minimizing sensory bias and discrimination. Similar approaches may help other RCT investigating novel foods and bioactive compounds bridge gaps between efficacy and effectiveness. | 10.1080/21551197.2018.1460650 |
pubmed_216_12373 | The purpose of this study was to examine whether individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) use the same cognitive strategies as typically developing individuals when processing eye-gaze direction. Subjects viewed pictures of whole faces, the eye region alone, and pairs of arrows presented for 40, 70, or 100 ms, and responded according to the direction the eyes were looking or the arrows pointing (left, right, or straight ahead). Experiment 1 demonstrated that typically developing adults (n = 41) were more accurate and showed shorter reaction times when judging direction of averted eye gaze in the context of the whole face than when only the eyes were visible (eye-region-alone condition). Furthermore, in the eye-region-alone condition participants were more accurate and faster at judging direct eye gaze than averted eye gaze. The same task was used in experiment 2 to compare the performance of a group of individuals with ASD (n = 24) with that of a group of IQ-matched typically developing individuals (n = 26). The performance of the control participants was identical to that observed in experiment 1. Individuals with ASD were able to judge eye-gaze direction accurately at short exposure duration; however, they failed to show the typical advantage for judging averted gaze in whole faces and the increased sensitivity to direct gaze in the eye-region-alone condition. The findings are discussed in terms of impairments to discrete gaze-processing and face-processing mechanisms, and the connectivity between these mechanisms. | 10.1068/p5442 |
pubmed_74_13000 | BACKGROUND
The questionnaires completed by the parents give a first general information on the behavioral problems of the child-adolescent, as a useful orientation to the clinical evaluation. The Child and Adolescent Behavior Inventory (CABI) is a 75-item parent questionnaire, which explores a large number of problem areas. The study of its predictive validity for the clinical diagnosis, in comparison with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-oriented scales of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), can assess whether its use may be advantageous.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Parents/caregivers of 462 children and adolescents responded to both CABI and CBCL as a preliminary routine investigation. The results were compared with those of diagnoses obtained after the completion of the usual clinical procedure.
RESULTS
Accuracy values (probability of correct classification) resulted high for both instruments and significantly better for CABI anxiety and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) scales, and for CBCL oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD) scales; no significant difference was found for depression scales. All the areas under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic analysis reached excellent values, suggesting a very good predictive ability of the five scales of the two instruments. The comparison of AUC showed the CABI's anxiety and ADHD scales to give significantly higher values than those of CBCL, indicating that these two scales have a better predictive ability.
CONCLUSION
The study indicates a very good comparative (vs CBCL) and predictive validity of the CABI, suggesting an advantage in the use of this shorter questionnaire, available for free use both for clinical practice and supposedly for screening and epidemiological evaluations. | 10.1177/1359104519895056 |
pubmed_1017_12730 | PURPOSE
This study assessed the short term clinicoradiological results of primary total hip arthroplasty using third generation ceramic-ceramic articulation Accolade TMZF femoral stems.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Two hundred and seventy two patients (294 hips) with primary total hip arthroplasty using third generation ceramic-ceramic articulation Accolade TMZF femoral stems who had been followed-up for a minimum of 3 years were included. Clinicoradiological results were analyzed and postoperative complications were observed.
RESULTS
At final follow-up, mean Harris hip score was increased from 52 to 94 points. On radiogical evaluation, the average acetabular inclination was 42 degrees and the average acetabular anteversion was 15 degrees. Neither osteolysis nor loosening were observed around the acetabulum or proximal femur. Among 294 acetabular cups, 293 cups (99.66%) achieved stable fixation. Regarding the 294 femoral stems, 286 (97.28%) had bony fixation, 7 (2.38%) had fibrous fixation, and none were found to have unstable stem fixation. Proximal bone resorption was observed in 17 hips (5.78%; only Grade 1) and radiolucent lines were observed in 88 hips (29.93%), however, all were around the distal smooth portion of the stems. Postoperative complications included dislocation in 6 hips (2.04%), heterotopic ossification in 3 hips (1.02%), ceramic fractures in 4 hips (1.36%), superficial infection in 1 hip (0.34%), and squeaking in 8 hips (2.72%).
CONCLUSION
The short term clinicoradiological results of primary total hip arthroplasty using third generation ceramic-ceramic articulation and Accolade TMZF femoral stems together with Secur-Fit acetabular cups were satisfactory. However, problems such as ceramic fractures and squeaking after arthroplasty were observed. Additional studies are necessary in order to develop methods that may reduce or eliminate these complications. | 10.5371/hp.2014.26.2.84 |
pubmed_654_4029 | A method of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for examining histidine-rich-polypeptides in human saliva is described. Comparison is made to several commonly used electrophoretic techniques. The described method allows for the resolution of seven histidine-rich-polypeptide fractions and is convenient and quite reproducible. | 10.1177/00220345770560091801 |
pubmed_194_2751 | The perineural epithelial cells of the peripheral nerve sheath in triturus are elongated flat cells with long and thin cytoplasmic processes. Structural characteristics of the processes include a relative absence of common cytoplasmic organelles of the perinuclear cytoplasm but an abundance of vesicular profiles similar to fully formed pinocytotic vesicles. Unlike pinocytotic vesicles, vesicles of the processes often contain an 8-nm thick filament attached to their cytoplasmic face. Vesicles are also interconnected by similar filaments or by tubules. In addition, almost all vehicles appear to have openings at the cell surface, a feature not seen for pinocytotic vesicles. The concentration of exogenous peroxidase in the vesicles, and the subsequent appearance of peroxidase in the endoneural fluid, myelin sheath and axon, support the notion that the vesicles function in the exchange of substances between extraneural and endoneural fluids. | 10.1002/aja.1001500103 |
pubmed_469_17808 | Exceptionally high rates of partner violence perpetration are evident among men returning from prison. Two bodies of scholarship, one on family stress and another on exposure to state violence, each suggest that criminal legal system exposure could promote partner violence perpetration via changes in men's behavioral health and interpersonal approach and in couples' conflict dynamics. Such relationships have not been tested in quantitative research. Structural equation models were fitted to longitudinal, couples-based survey data from the Multi-site Family Study on Incarceration, Parenting, and Partnering. Participants included men returning from a state prison term in five U.S. states (N = 1112) and their committed intimate or co-parenting partners (N = 1112). Models tested hypothesized pathways from three dimensions of criminal legal system exposure to later partner violence perpetration. In fitted models, men's childhood criminal legal system exposure predicts their post-prison partner violence perpetration via adult post-traumatic stress symptoms, reactivity, avoidance, and dysfunctional couple conflict dynamics. Men's cumulative criminal legal system exposure in adulthood predicts their post-prison partner violence perpetration via addiction and dysfunctional couple conflict. These initial results suggest that mass-scale incarceration could worsen partner violence via men's psychological and interpersonal adaptations to criminal legal system contact, particularly when such contact is sustained or occurs at a developmentally significant period in the life course. | 10.1177/08862605221106141 |
pubmed_868_3162 | BACKGROUND
Seasonal influenza causes considerable morbidity and mortality across all age groups, and influenza vaccination was recommended in 2010 for all persons aged 6 months and above. We estimated the averted costs due to influenza vaccination, taking into account the seasonal economic burden of the disease.
METHODS
We used recently published values for averted outcomes due to influenza vaccination for influenza seasons 2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08, and 2008-09, and age cohorts 6 months-4 years, 5-19 years, 20-64 years, and 65 years and above. Costs were calculated according to a payer and societal perspective (in 2009 US$), and took into account medical costs and productivity losses.
RESULTS
When taking into account direct medical costs (payer perspective), influenza vaccination was cost saving only for the older age group (65≥) in seasons 2005-06 and 2007-08. Using the same perspective, influenza vaccination resulted in total costs of $US 1.7 billion (95%CI: $US 0.3-4.0 billion) in 2006-07 and $US 1.8 billion (95%CI: $US 0.1-4.1 billion) in 2008-09. When taking into account a societal perspective (and including the averted lost earnings due to premature death) averted deaths in the older age group influenced the results, resulting in cost savings for all ages combined in season 07-08.
DISCUSSION
Influenza vaccination was cost saving in the older age group (65≥) when taking into account productivity losses and, in some seasons, when taking into account medical costs only. Averted costs vary significantly per season; however, in seasons where the averted burden of deaths is high in the older age group, averted productivity losses due to premature death tilt overall seasonal results towards savings. Indirect vaccination effects and the possibility of diminished case severity due to influenza vaccination were not considered, thus the averted burden due to influenza vaccine may be even greater than reported. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0132922 |
pubmed_405_13020 | PURPOSE
To report a case of severe tamoxifen-induced maculopathy with associated cystoid macular edema treated with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide.
METHODS
Case report.
RESULTS
The patient presented with bilateral cystoid macular edema that persisted despite treatment, which included intravitreal bevacizumab injections. He received 7 triamcinolone injections in each eye over 20 months, resulting in the most recent best-corrected Snellen visual acuities of 20/40 in the right eye and 20/30 in the left eye. Complete resolution of the cystoid macular edema was achieved in each eye, but recurrent edema necessitated continued intermittent injections. Macular crystals persisted despite treatment but decreased since presentation.
CONCLUSION
Intravitreal triamcinolone should be considered for treatment of tamoxifen-associated macular edema, especially if the condition responds poorly to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatments. | 10.1097/ICB.0000000000000093 |
pubmed_431_21519 | A irreversible Hg2+ selective ratiometric fluorescence probe FR, a fluorescein fluorophore linked to a rhodamine B hydrazide by a thiourea spacer, was designed and synthesized. The developed probe FR exhibited great ratiometric fluorescence enhancement and remarkable yellow-magenta color change toward Hg2+ with excellent selectivity in aqueous acetone solution, and the ratiometric fluorescence response to Hg2+ was not interfered by other metal cations including Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cr3+, Zn2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Ba2+ and Mn2+. The linear range and the detection limit of this supposed ratiometric fluorescence method for Hg2+ were 0.0-10.0x10(-6) and 5x10(-8) M, respectively. | 10.1007/s10895-008-0365-7 |
pubmed_165_6216 | Gestational Trophoblastic Diseases (GTD) is a group of hyperproliferative conditions of the placenta. Very often these can be fatal or recurrent. Presently, no reliable marker is available apart from serum beta HCG levels to identify tumours with a higher aggressive nature, the reduction pattern of the serum beta HCG levels indicating persistence of the disease. This causes a delay of nearly 12-16 weeks in deciding on chemotherapy. In this study, the potential of Jack fruit lectin (JFL) binding as a quick and cheap method of assessing the aggressiveness of the disease immediately after evacuation was evaluated. A significantly higher intensity of lectin binding was noticed in GTD when compared to gestational age related normal placentae. Persisting tumour lesions generally showed intense, diffuse and granular lectin binding and showed significant cytological atypia. The lectin binding score showed close correlation with the regressing pattern of serum beta HCG but not with the initial levels of beta HCG, indirectly pointing to its potential in identifying lesions with high risk of persisting disease. Hence evaluation of the lectin binding characteristics of the lesion immediately after evacuation will be of help in following up these patients closely and planning therapy. | pubmed_165_6216 |
pubmed_773_5077 | Under starvation conditions, rhodopsin-containing halobacteria show a light-accelerated death under aerobic conditions. This is attributed to photooxidative processes. Under anaerobic conditions, halobacteria die rapidly in the dark, and light prevents death. Since it has been shown by others that lightdriven ATP synthesis can occur under anaerobic conditions, it is postulated that rhodopsin-mediated photophosphorylation is of survival value for this organism in the brines in which it lives, especially because the solubility of oxygen is low in highly saline waters and anaerobic conditions can often develop. | 10.1007/BF00425136 |
pubmed_303_4949 | Six tricyclic antidepressants were tested for their ability to antagonize histamine actions at histamine H1 receptors in a bioassay for these receptors (histamine-induced contractions of guinea pig ileum). All compounds were competitive antagonists with equilibrium dissociation constants in the range of 5.6 x 10(-11) M to 1.5 x 10(-7) M. Doxepin hydrochloride and amitriptyline hydrochloride were the most potent compounds of the series and may be the most potent antihistamines known. Antagonism at histamine H1 receptors by these compounds may explain their sedative effects. | 10.1016/0014-2999(79)90320-0 |
pubmed_4_20352 | We report the complete chloroplast genomes of three Adenophora species, and analyzed these compared them to five published Campanuloid plastomes. The total genome length of Adenophora divaricata, Adenophora erecta, and Adenophora stricta ranged from 159,759 to 176,331 bp. Among the eight Campanuloid species, many inversions were found to be only in the LSC region. IR contraction was also identified in the plastid genome of Adenophora stricta. Phylogenetic analyses based on 76 protein coding genes showed that Campanuloids are monophyletic, and are composed of two major groups: Campanula s. str. and Rapunculus. When we compared each homologous locus among the four Adenophora species, ten regions showed high nucleotide divergence value (>0.03). Among these, nine loci, excepting ycf3-rpoB, are considered to be useful molecular markers for phylogenetic studies and will be helpful to resolve phylogenetic relationships of Adenophora. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0183652 |
pubmed_729_7343 | Adenovirus and adeno-associated virus vector-mediated gene delivery is limited by the induction of a humoral immune response that prevents readministration. To determine whether viral delivery in the "preimmune" fetus would produce dose- or time-dependent tolerance, we evaluated the humoral immune response after sequential pre- and postnatal virus administration. We evaluated six injection route and viral dose combinations of adenovirus (intra-amniotic, intrahepatic, and intramuscular injection at 4 x 10(8) and 2 x 10(9) particles/fetus) at d 15 postconception (p.c.); three route and dose combinations at d 13 p.c. (intramuscular injection at 1 x 10(8), 3 x 10(8), and 5 x 10(8) particles/fetus); and one route and dose combination of adeno-associated virus (intramuscular at 2.5 x 10(10) genome copies/fetus) at d 15 p.c. In utero injection of either viral vector at any route and dose combination resulted in the production of low titers of neutralizing antivirus and antitransgene (beta-galactosidase) antibodies. This primary immune response only partially blocked transgene expression after the readministration of viral vectors postnatally. However, delivery of the virus postnatally triggered an immune response that completely blocked transgene expression after a third viral injection. Together, these results suggest that, for B6/129 F1 mice, in utero injection of recombinant adenovirus or adeno-associated virus between d 13 and 15 p.c. does not induce tolerance to the viral vector or transgene product. | 10.1203/00006450-200207000-00018 |
pubmed_282_10952 | AIM
This study examines parental satisfaction with care received in the context of a life-limiting foetal diagnosis and subsequent birth.
METHODS
Survey methods were utilised to embed the Quality Indicators (QI) and Parental Satisfaction of Perinatal Palliative Care Instrument in a survey: 'The Voice of Parents'.
RESULTS
The web-based survey had a final sample of N = 405 parent responders. Overall, parents reported satisfaction with care (80.2%; n = 393). Parents satisfied with care reported higher agreement with quality indicator items for all subscales. In total, 17 items from the 41-item instrument revealed the ability to predict higher parental satisfaction when particular QI are reported.
CONCLUSION
This study has led to credible insights into parental satisfaction with care given after the birth of an infant with a life-limiting condition. The findings contribute to development of a model with a good fit in ascertaining the importance of compassion, unhurried provider-patient communication and bereavement interventions. | 10.1111/apa.13980 |
pubmed_595_11989 | An unprecedented bloom of the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa Kütz. occurred in the St. Lucie Estuary, FL in the summer of 2005. Samples were analyzed for toxicity by ELISA and by use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with specific oligonucleotide primers for the mcyB gene that has previously been correlated with the biosynthesis of toxic microcystins. Despite the fact that secreted toxin levels were relatively low in dense natural assemblages (3.5 microg l(-1)), detectable toxin levels increased by 90% when M. aeruginosa was stressed by an increase in salinity, physical injury, application of the chemical herbicide paraquat, or UV irradiation. The application of the same stressors caused a three-fold increase in the production of H(2)O(2) when compared to non-stressed cells. The application of micromolar concentrations of H(2)O(2) induced programmed cell death (PCD) as measured by a caspase protease assay. Catalase was capable of inhibiting PCD, implicating H(2)O(2) as the inducing oxidative species. Our results indicate that physical stressors induce oxidative stress, which results in PCD and a concomitant release of toxin into the surrounding media. Remediation strategies that induce cellular stress should be approached with caution since these protocols are capable of releasing elevated levels of microcystins into the environment. | 10.1016/j.aquatox.2006.02.007 |
pubmed_955_5937 | Obesity is the most common reason for insulin resistance with consequent hyperinsulinemia. Other reasons for hyperinsulinemia are type II diabetes mellitus and a genetic predisposition with a family history of hypertension. Hyperinsulinemia is considered to cause blood pressure elevation and is generally accepted as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis. However, insulin per se does not elevate blood pressure, but rather reduces total peripheral vascular resistance in experimental studies. Blood pressure might be elevated by other mechanisms secondary to hyperinsulinemia, however, such as enhanced renal sodium retention, elevated intracellular free calcium, and increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Indeed, subjects whose blood pressure is salt-sensitive exhibit hyperinsulinemia after glucose loading, and normotensive subjects with glucose-induced hyperinsulinemia will develop hypertension within 5 years more often than normoinsulinemic subjects. In primary hypertension, the incidence of insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia is much higher than in normotensive controls. However, not all reported studies show a relationship between hyperinsulinemia and blood pressure elevation, and in some experimental studies no blood pressure elevation could be induced by prolonged hyperinsulinemia. Therefore, it is still unclear whether hyperinsulinemia induces hypertension or is only casually associated with it. Nevertheless, treatment of hyperinsulinemia is recommended to avoid secondary complications. Treatment should begin with weight reduction and physical exercise, which will improve insulin resistance. Hypertension benefits more from weight reduction than from exercise. If drug therapy of hypertension is required, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium-channel blockers are the drugs of first choice. In addition, beta-blockers and centrally acting drugs appear to be of certain benefit. However, diuretics must be used carefully, because they ameliorate insulin resistance, induce dyslipoproteinemia, and stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. | pubmed_955_5937 |
pubmed_650_14031 | A number of monoamines and neuropeptides are involved in the control of eating behavior. In the central nervous system, the medial and lateral hypothalamus (connected with cortical and limbic systems as well as with the peripheral endocrine and autonomic nervous systems) integrates informations concerning the nutritional and biopsychological status and control feeding behavior and weight regulation. Modern neurobiological techniques have generated a great range of information on the role of monoamines and neuropeptides in controlling food intake. Substances such as norepinephrine, opioids, neuropeptide Y are potent stimulators of investive behavior. Serotonin, cholecystokinin, and corticotropin-releasing factor inhibit food intake. The physiological influence of these substances is undergoing evaluation. | pubmed_650_14031 |
pubmed_715_14572 | The provision of sound support models for clinical practicum is recognized as integral to the development of nursing students and their transition to registered nurses. In mental health settings, there is the additional issue of positively influencing recruitment rates. Preceptorship has been widely adopted nationally and internationally, however, there is a paucity of research, particularly in mental health settings, to assess its effectiveness. The current study utilized a grounded theory approach to explore the experience of preceptorship for mental health nurses. The findings suggest that mental health nurses seek to accomplish connectedness in the preceptorship relationship. A number of factors inhibit the degree of success in achieving this connectedness, including fear of mental health settings, misconceptions about mental illness and organizational constraints. | 10.1111/j.1440-0979.2005.00355.x |
pubmed_568_24143 | Two decades since their inception, multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) are widely regarded as the 'gold standard' of cancer care delivery. Benefits of MDT working include improved patient outcomes, adherence to guidelines, and even economic benefits. Benefits to MDT members have also been demonstrated. An increasing body of evidence supports the use of MDTs and provides guidance on best practise. The system of MDTs in cancer care has come under increasing pressure of late, due to the increasing incidence of cancer, the popularity of MDT working, and financial pressures. This pressure has resulted in recommendations by national bodies to implement streamlining to reduce workload and improve efficiency. In the present review we examine the historical evidence for MDT working, and the scientific developments that dictate best practise. We also explore how streamlining can be safely and effectively undertaken. Finally, we discuss the future of MDT working including the integration of artificial intelligence and decision support systems and propose a new model for improving patient centredness. | 10.1111/bju.15495 |
pubmed_735_15401 | Honeybees (Apis mellifera) discriminate multiple object features such as colour, pattern and 2D shape, but it remains unknown whether and how bees recover three-dimensional shape. Here we show that bees can recognize objects by their three-dimensional form, whereby they employ an active strategy to uncover the depth profiles. We trained individual, free flying honeybees to collect sugar water from small three-dimensional objects made of styrofoam (sphere, cylinder, cuboids) or folded paper (convex, concave, planar) and found that bees can easily discriminate between these stimuli. We also tested possible strategies employed by the bees to uncover the depth profiles. For the card stimuli, we excluded overall shape and pictorial features (shading, texture gradients) as cues for discrimination. Lacking sufficient stereo vision, bees are known to use speed gradients in optic flow to detect edges; could the bees apply this strategy also to recover the fine details of a surface depth profile? Analysing the bees' flight tracks in front of the stimuli revealed specific combinations of flight maneuvers (lateral translations in combination with yaw rotations), which are particularly suitable to extract depth cues from motion parallax. We modelled the generated optic flow and found characteristic patterns of angular displacement corresponding to the depth profiles of our stimuli: optic flow patterns from pure translations successfully recovered depth relations from the magnitude of angular displacements, additional rotation provided robust depth information based on the direction of the displacements; thus, the bees flight maneuvers may reflect an optimized visuo-motor strategy to extract depth structure from motion signals. The robustness and simplicity of this strategy offers an efficient solution for 3D-object-recognition without stereo vision, and could be employed by other flying insects, or mobile robots. | 10.1371/journal.pone.0147106 |
pubmed_263_23103 | BACKGROUND
Human milk contains a range of host defence proteins that appear to contribute to health and wellbeing, but their variability in abundance among individuals has not been very well characterised. Milk from mothers of premature infants has altered composition, but the effect of gestation length on the host-defence properties of milk is not known. A study was therefore undertaken to determine the variability and effect of gestation length on the abundance of five host-defence proteins in milk; lactoferrin, secretory IgA, IgG, secretory component, and complement C3.
METHODS
Milk was obtained from 30 mothers at their second and fifth week of lactation. These were from three groups of ten mothers having had very premature (V; 28-32 weeks gestation), premature (P; 33-36 weeks) or full term deliveries (T; 37-41 weeks). The concentration of each of the five proteins was measured in each milk sample by either ELISA or quantitative western blotting.
RESULTS
The concentration of IgG, and complement C3 ranged 22- and 17-fold respectively between mothers, while lactoferrin, secretory IgA, and secretory component ranged 7-, 9-, and 4-fold, respectively. The V group had significantly lower concentrations of four of the five proteins, the exception being IgG. Levels of these four proteins also decreased between weeks 2 and 5 of lactation in the P and T groups. Significant correlation was found between the concentrations of the host defence proteins within individual mothers, indicating some degree of co-ordinate regulation.
CONCLUSIONS
Mothers vary widely in the levels of host defence proteins in milk. Very short gestation length results in decreased abundance of host-defence proteins in milk. This may have functional implications for very premature infants. | pubmed_263_23103 |
pubmed_285_12248 | Eukaryotic genomes are colonized by various transposons including short interspersed elements (SINEs). The 5' region (head) of the majority of SINEs is derived from one of the three types of RNA genes--7SL RNA, transfer RNA (tRNA), or 5S ribosomal RNA (rRNA)--and the internal promoter inside the head promotes the transcription of the entire SINEs. Here I report a new group of SINEs whose heads originate from either the U1 or U2 small nuclear RNA gene. These SINEs, named SINEU, are distributed among crocodilians and classified into three families. The structures of the SINEU-1 subfamilies indicate the recurrent addition of a U1- or U2-derived sequence onto the 5' end of SINEU-1 elements. SINEU-1 and SINEU-3 are ancient and shared among alligators, crocodiles, and gharials, while SINEU-2 is absent in the alligator genome. SINEU-2 is the only SINE family that was active after the split of crocodiles and gharials. All SINEU families, especially SINEU-3, are preferentially inserted into a family of Mariner DNA transposon, Mariner-N4_AMi. A group of Tx1 non-long terminal repeat retrotransposons designated Tx1-Mar also show target preference for Mariner-N4_AMi, indicating that SINEU was mobilized by Tx1-Mar. | 10.1093/gbe/evv100 |
pubmed_81_4431 | An understanding of risk requires an understanding of probabilities and a minimum of statistical thinking. This understanding is the basis of an adequate risk communication, which is especially important in the field of medicine. Every day a practicing doctor is confronted with the question of how likely a patient is to have a disease when tested positive. Clinicians are not only asked to provide a correct answer to their patients but also a comprehensible one, if they want to assure that a patient is enabled to make an informed decision. Several studies suggest, however that clinicians struggle somewhat to come up with correct judgments concerning this issue and tend to heavily overestimate the risk. We will argue in this article that this problem is mainly based on how risks are presented. We will reveal some of the common pitfalls and make suggestions on how to interpret and communicate risks in an easy fashion. | 10.1024/0040-5930.64.12.687 |
pubmed_1009_6231 | We evaluated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in 12 patients by Doppler color flow imaging and continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography. Mitral regurgitation was detected by continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography in eight patients and was related to the degree of systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve. Adequate color flow images were obtained in 10 of the 12 patients, and mitral regurgitation was demonstrated in 6. A qualitative and quantitative analysis of the color flow imaging revealed a temporal pattern in the left ventricular outflow tract that consisted of normal-velocity laminar flow during early systole followed by turbulent flow in midsystole. The maximal amount of mitral regurgitation on color flow imaging occurred late in systole, after the appearance of turbulent flow in the left ventricular outflow tract. Of the 12 patients, 10 had late-peaking continuous-wave Doppler velocity profiles in the left ventricular outflow tract. The peak velocity detected in the left ventricular outflow tract was positively correlated with the degree of systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve. Patients with higher peak velocities in the left ventricular outflow tract had prolonged ejection times. These findings on Doppler echocardiography support the concept of left ventricular outflow obstruction in some patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. | 10.1016/s0025-6196(12)62027-8 |
pubmed_746_10044 | The kinetics and mechanisms of the reactions of a pseudo-first order excess of iron(III) with the flavonoids quercetin and morin have been investigated in aqueous solution at 25 degrees C and an ionic strength of 0.5M. Mechanisms have been proposed which account satisfactorily for the kinetic data. The data are consistent with a mechanism in which the metal:ligand complex formed initially on reaction of iron(III) with the ligand subsequently decomposes through an electron transfer step. Morin forms a 1:1 metal:ligand complex while quercetin forms a 2:1 metal:ligand complex. Both ligands showed evidence for the involvement of the iron hydroxo dimer Fe2(OH)2(4+) in the complex formation reaction at the hydroxy-carbonyl moiety. The iron(III) assisted decomposition of the initial iron(III) complex formed was also investigated and the rate constants evaluated. Both the complex formation and subsequent electron transfer reactions of iron(III) with these ligands were monitored using UV-visible spectrophotometry. All of the suggested mechanisms and calculated rate constants are supported by calculations carried out using global analysis of time dependant spectra. | 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2007.07.041 |
pubmed_768_8301 | The role of fire in expanding the global distribution of savanna is well recognized. Empirical observations and modeling suggest that fire spread has a threshold response to fuel-layer continuity, which sets up a positive feedback that maintains savanna-forest bistability. However, modeling has so far failed to examine fire spread as a spatial process that interacts with vegetation. Here, we use simple, well-supported assumptions about fire spread as an infection process and its effects on trees to ask whether spatial dynamics qualitatively change the potential for savanna-forest bistability. We show that the spatial effects of fire spread are the fundamental reason that bistability is possible: because fire spread is an infection process, it exhibits a threshold response to fuel continuity followed by a rapid increase in fire size. Other ecological processes affecting fire spread may also contribute including temporal variability in demography or fire spread. Finally, including the potential for spatial aggregation increases the potential both for savanna-forest bistability and for savanna and forest to coexist in a landscape mosaic. | 10.1007/s00285-014-0757-z |
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