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Contrast Agent Mass Spectrometry Imaging Reveals Tumor Heterogeneity.
Mapping intratumoral heterogeneity such as vasculature and margins is important during intraoperative applications. Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) has demonstrated potential for intraoperative tumor imaging using validated MS profiles. The clinical translation of DESI-MS into a universal label-free imaging technique thus requires access to MS profiles characteristic to tumors and healthy tissues. Here, we developed contrast agent mass spectrometry imaging (CA-MSI) that utilizes a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent targeted to disease sites, as a label, to reveal tumor heterogeneity in the absence of known MS profiles. Human breast cancer tumors grown in mice were subjected to CA-MSI using Gadoteridol revealing tumor margins and vasculature from the localization of [Gadoteridol+K](+) and [Gadoteridol+Na](+) adducts, respectively. The localization of the [Gadoteridol+K](+) adduct as revealed through DESI-MS complements the in vivo MRI results. DESI-MS imaging is therefore possible for tumors for which no characteristic MS profiles are established. Further DESI-MS imaging of the flux of the contrast agent through mouse kidneys was performed indicating secretion of the intact label. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stent migration complicating treatment of inferior vena cava stenosis after orthotopic liver transplantation.
A case of inferior vena cava (IVC) stenosis after orthotopic liver transplantation was treated with balloon angioplasty and Wallstent placement. There was stent migration into the right atrium (RA), and percutaneous removal of the stent was attempted without success. Open cardiac surgery was required for stent removal and repair of aortic/RA fistula. Months later, recurrent IVC stenosis was successfully treated with placement of large Z stents after additional failed surgical repair. At 2 years follow-up, the patient is asymptomatic and Doppler ultrasonography demonstrated the stent to be patent and well-positioned. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tryptophan metabolism: utility of plasmatic assay in phenylketonuria, a study in 6 adult patients.
Phenylketonuria (PKU, OMIM 261600) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism caused by a deficiency of the hepatic enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH; EC 1.14.16.1). If untreated, the disease leads to an important intellectual disability (IQ <50). Although many facts are common between phenylalanine (Phe) and tryptophan (Trp) metabolism, little is known about Trp metabolism modification in PKU. Our aim was to evaluate the modifications of Trp metabolism in a phenylketonuric population. A monocentric study was conducted between October 2016 and March 2017. Every phenylketonuric fasting adults were included during their annual follow up. For each patient, 9 analytes of Trp metabolism were quantified in peripheral blood using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Mann and Whitney tests (p <0.05) were carried out in StatView 5.0 software. A total of 6 PKU patients were studied. Significant modification of Trp metabolism was shown. Indeed, three analytes, i.e. tryptophan, kynurenine and 3-hydroxykynurenic acid, were significantly lower in phenylketonuric than in healthy population (p-value <0.05), without known confounding factors. This study shows a significant modification of Trp metabolism in peripheral blood of phenylketonuric patients. Nevertheless, more investigations are necessary to confirm the modification of Trp metabolism in PKU and to determine how this metabolism is involved in neurological symptoms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Correction: The dilemma in prioritizing chemicals for environmental analysis: known versus unknown hazards.
Correction for 'The dilemma in prioritizing chemicals for environmental analysis: known versus unknown hazards' by Anna Sobek et al., Environ. Sci.: Processes Impacts, 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c6em00163g. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Exfoliative dermatitis: presenting sign of internal malignancy.
Exfoliative dermatitis is most commonly associated with antecedent cutaneous disorders, medications, and lymphoreticular malignancies. Three patients with exfoliative dermatitis associated with internal carcinoma are described. The importance of thorough evaluation of all patients who present with exfoliative dermatitis is stressed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact of narrow-band imaging in screening colonoscopy.
Narrow band-imaging (NBI) enhances mucosal visualization of the vascular network and surface structure and helps to increase the visibility of neoplasia by improving contrast. Studies on the detectability of colorectal neoplastic lesions using NBI have primarily been reported in Western countries, but the published opinions and conclusions remain controversial at the present time. Our earlier prospective pilot study demonstrated that NBI colonoscopy significantly improved detection of flat lesions, which are more likely to be missed, particularly on the right side of the colon. It is especially important that even examiners performing routine screening colonoscopies become sufficiently familiar with flat and depressed lesions and then take full advantage of the endoscopic systems and specific image enhancement functions currently available for improved detection of flat and diminutive lesions. Adequate bowel preparation is another important consideration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of a single pentagastrin injection on diamine oxidase activity in the rat intestinal mucosa.
The effect of a single injection of pentagastrin on diamine oxidase (DAO) activity in the rat intestinal mucosa was examined. The animals of subsequent groups were sacrificed by decapitation at 6, 12 and 24 h after the administration of pentagastrin or 0.9% NaCl (controls). Diamine oxidase activity was also tested in entire animals. The intestinal fragments were rinsed with 0.9% NaCl. The mucosal scrapings were frozen in liquid nitrogen. Diamine oxidase activity increased in the 24 h after the administration of pentagastrin, when compared with respective controls. No significant differences at other times were evident. The present data are in agreement with the hypothesis that DAO is an enzyme involved in the negative feedback control mechanism of intestinal mucosa cell proliferation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isolation of inclusion bodies from vegetative Clostridium perfringens: partial purification of a 47 kDa inclusion protein.
A refractile inclusion body produced by vegetative cells of Clostridium perfringens at temperatures above 40 degrees C was isolated and partially characterized. The inclusion was composed of protein and could be solubilized by sodium dodecyl sulphate plus either dithiothreitol or beta-mercaptoethanol. The solubilized inclusion showed no antigenic relationship with Cl. perfringens enterotoxin. One major band with an apparent MW of 47 kDa was demonstrated after polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the solubilized inclusion. Both enterotoxin-positive and enterotoxin-negative strains produced the inclusion body. No effect on the morphology of several eucaryotic cell lines was observed when solubilized or intact inclusion was added to the cell cultures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Polymer optical fiber Bragg grating acting as an intrinsic biochemical concentration sensor.
We demonstrate an intrinsic biochemical concentration sensor based on a polymer optical fiber Bragg grating. The water content absorbed by the polymer fiber from a surrounding solution depends on the concentration of the solution because of the osmotic effect. The variation of water content in the fiber causes a change in the fiber dimensions and a variation in refractive index and, therefore, a shift in the Bragg wavelength. Saline solutions with concentration from 0% to 22% were used to demonstrate the sensing principle, resulting in a total wavelength shift of 0.9 nm, allowing high-resolution concentration measurements to be realized. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Oxidative stress developed during open heart surgery induces apoptosis: reduction of apoptotic cell death by ebselen, a glutathione peroxidase mimic.
Apoptosis, a genetically controlled programmed cell death, has been found to play a role in ischemic reperfusion injury in several animal species including rats and rabbits. To examine whether this also is true for other animals, a surgically relevant model was established using an isolated in situ swine heart. Hearts were subjected to 15 min of normothermic regional ischemia by left anterior descending artery (LAD) occlusion followed by 30 min of normothermic cardioplegic arrest and 3 h of reperfusion. Oxygen free radicals have been shown to be the inducers of apoptosis and because reperfusion of ischemic myocardium is associated with the generation of free radicals, an additional group of hearts was preperfused with three different doses (5, 10, and 25 nM) ebselen, a glutathione peroxidase mimic, for 15 min before 15 min of LAD occlusion. Hearts were then subjected to 30 min of normothermic cardioplegic arrest followed by 3 h of reperfusion at normothermia. Control experiments were performed by perfusing the hearts for 4 h at normothermia. Two other groups of hearts were subjected to either 30 or 60 min of LAD occlusion followed by 30 min of cardioplegic arrest without subjecting them to reperfusion. At the end of each experiment, hearts were processed for the evaluation of apoptosis and DNA laddering. The in situ end-labeling (ISEL) technique was used to detect apoptotic cardiomyocyte nuclei while DNA laddering was evaluated by subjecting the DNA obtained from the cardiomyocytes to 1.8% agarose gel electrophoresis followed by photographing under UV illumination. The apoptotic cells appeared only after 90 min of reperfusion, as demonstrated by the intense fluorescence of the immunostained genomic DNA when observed under fluorescence microscopy. None of the ischemic hearts showed any evidence of apoptosis. These results were corroborated with the findings of DNA fragmentation showing increased ladders of DNA bands in the same reperfused hearts. The presence of apoptotic cells and DNA fragmentation in the myocardium was abolished by preperfusing the hearts in the presence of 10 nM ebselen, which also moderated the oxidative stress developed in the heart. Apoptotic cells and DNA ladders were completely absent in the hearts subjected to either 30 or 60 min of LAD occlusion. The results demonstrate that reperfusion of the ischemic heart induces apoptosis, which can be reduced with ebselen by reducing the oxidative stress associated with ischemia/reperfusion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Barriers to supported education implementation: implications for administrators and policy makers.
The economic impact of a lack of educational achievement for individuals with psychiatric disabilities is profound. Current poor economic conditions exacerbate the effects of low educational levels. This article presents the current educational barriers faced by individuals with psychiatric disabilities and introduces one potential solution: supported education. Supported education is an emerging best practice which holds promise for helping individuals with psychiatric disabilities in their pursuit of educational goals. However, additional barriers stand in the way of widespread supported education implementation. Recommendations are included for policymakers and community mental health centers to help increase the penetration of this much-needed service. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prepulse inhibition of the blink reflex is abnormal in functional movement disorders.
Patients with functional movement disorders also typically have functional somatic symptoms, including pain, fatigue, and sensory disturbance. A potentially unifying mechanism for such symptoms is a failure in processing of sensory inputs. Prepulse inhibition is a neurophysiological method that allows for the study of preconscious somatosensory processing. The objective of this study was to assess prepulse inhibition in patients with functional movement disorders and healthy control subjects. We analyzed the effect of a weak electrical stimulus to the index finger (prepulse) on the magnitude of the R2 response of the blink reflex induced by electrical stimuli delivered to the supraorbital nerve in 22 patients with clinically established functional movement disorders and 22 matched controls. Pain, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms were assessed using self-rated questionnaires. In addition, in patients we assessed motor symptom severity. Prepulses suppressed the R2 response of the blink reflex in both groups, by 36.4% (standard deviation: 25.6) in patients and by 67.3% (standard deviation: 16.4) in controls. This difference was significant (P < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between motor and nonmotor symptom measures and prepulse inhibition size. Impaired prepulse inhibition of the blink reflex suggests an abnormal preconscious processing of somatosensory inputs, which can be interpreted within predictive coding accounts of both functional movement disorders and functional somatic syndromes. Our results, along with previous findings of a reduced prepulse inhibition in fibromyalgia syndrome, support a possible unified pathophysiology across functional neurological and somatic syndromes with noteworthy implications for diagnostic classification and development of novel biomarkers and treatments. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Creating certainty and confidence with indirect bonding.
Indirect bonding offers a superior method of adhering brackets to teeth, but few orthodontists use it. The neglect of this procedure has many origins, including expense, lack of expertise, and inconsistent results. This paper presents an indirect-bonding method that can be used to expedite bonding appointments and make them more pleasant for patients and clinicians alike. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
FTZ-F1 and FOXL2 up-regulate catfish brain aromatase gene transcription by specific binding to the promoter motifs.
Cytochrome P450 aromatase (cyp19) catalyzes the conversion of androgens into estrogens. Teleosts have distinct, ovarian specific (cyp19a1a) and brain specific (cyp19a1b) cyp19 genes. Previous studies in teleosts demonstrated regulation of cyp19a1a expression by the NR5A nuclear receptor subfamily as well as a fork head transcription factor, FOXL2. In the present study, we investigated the involvement of fushi tarazu factor 1, FTZ-F1, a NR5A subfamily member, and FOXL2 in the regulation of cyp19a1b expression in brain of the air-breathing catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Based on the synchronous expression pattern of cyp19a1b, FTZ-F1 and FOXL2 in the brain, we isolated the 5' upstream region of cyp19a1b to analyse regulatory motifs. Promoter motif analysis revealed FTZ-F1/NR5A1 and FOXL2 binding nucleotide sequences. Transient transfection studies showed that FTZ-F1 and FOXL2 together enhanced the transcriptional activity of cyp19a1b gene in mammalian cell lines. Mutation in either of their putative binding sites within the cyp19a1b promoter abolished this effect. Electrophoretic gel mobility shift experiments indicated that FTZ-F1 and FOXL2 proteins bind to the synthesized radio-labelled oligomers used as probes and mobility shifted upon addition of their respective antibodies. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay confirmed the binding of both these transcription factors to their corresponding cis-acting elements in the upstream region of cyp19a1b. To our knowledge, this study is the first report on the transcriptional regulation of cyp19a1b by FTZ-F1 and FOXL2 in a teleost fish. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cyclic AMP and ethanol interact to control apoptosis and differentiation in hypothalamic beta-endorphin neurons.
In this study we have determined the role of cyclic AMP on the function and differentiation of beta-endorphin (beta-EP) neurons in rat fetal hypothalamic cell cultures. Addition of Bt2cAMP or the cAMP elevating agent, forskolin, in cultures, dose and time dependently increased beta-endorphin secretion. The increased beta-EP secretion after Bt2cAMP or forskolin treatment was associated with proopiomelanocortin gene expression, enhanced neurite growth, and increased neuronal viability. Determination of internucleosomal cleavage of DNA by agarose gel electrophoresis revealed that apoptosis occurred in hypothalamic neurons during the first 6-8 days in culture. Addition of Bt2cAMP during this developmental period inhibited DNA degradation in hypothalamic neurons. Furthermore, incubation with various doses of ethanol, which is known to reduce intracellular levels of Bt2cAMP, increased DNA degradation in these cells. Ethanol-induced DNA degradation was blocked by concomitant incubation with Bt2cAMP. Histochemical identification of apoptotic cells following ethanol and Bt2cAMP treatments further revealed that apoptosis occurred in beta-EP neurons during the developmental period, and that ethanol increased and Bt2cAMP reduced apoptotic beta-EP cell numbers. These results suggest that ethanol neurotoxicity on beta-EP neurons during early neuronal differentiation involves an apoptotic process and that the cAMP signaling system plays an important role in controlling apoptosis and differentiation of the beta-EP neuronal system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Alcohol's impact on children and families. A population survey].
Alcohol is widely used among young families, and leisure time is frequently family time. Heavy alcohol consumption can adversely affect children. The objective of this work is to measure the harm to others in Chile. This descriptive and probabilistic study forms part of a collaborative research funded by Thai Health and WHO. The survey was adapted by co-researchers and applied to a nationally representative sample of 1500 Chileans over 18years of age. A total of 408 respondents (27.2%) lived with children at home. Of this total, 10.5% felt that the use of alcohol by any member of the family had adversely affected a child. The most common adverse effects were verbal violence (29.7%), domestic violence (23.1%), unsupervised homes (18.7%), lack of money to provide basic needs of the child (14.3%), and physical violence (7.7%). Furthermore, in 6.6% of the cases child or family services agencies became involved. In almost half of the cases (46.3%), the drinker was the father, mother or step-parents. This was followed by other relatives (24.4%) and brothers (4.9%), or guardian of the child (2.4%). These data support the clinical observation that alcohol is common in Chilean homes. Its consumption not only damages the physical and mental health of the drinker but also those around him. Verbal violence and witnessing serious physical violence are frequent issues, as well as economic problems that end up with the inability to provide the child with its basic needs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prognostic factors in patients undergoing complete resection of pulmonary metastases of colorectal cancer: a multi-institutional cumulative follow-up study.
The aim of this retrospective study was to establish the prognostic factors for overall survival after pulmonary resection for lung metastases of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). The baseline characteristics and outcomes of 266 CRC patients undergoing complete pulmonary resection were collected from 19 institutions by the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR) Study Group. We used the Cox proportional hazard regression to identify independent prognostic factors for OS. The 5-year overall survival rate of patients undergoing complete resection of isolated pulmonary metastases was 56.5 %. The independent unfavorable prognostic factors after pulmonary resection included stage T4 (p = 0.0004) and N2 (p = 0.0082) as primary cancer-related factors, and more than three metastases (p = 0.0342), bilateral distribution (p = 0.0450), metastatic disease-free interval (DFI) of less than 2 years (p = 0.0257), and a preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level greater than 5.0 ng/mL (p = 0.0209) as pulmonary metastases-related factors. This retrospective analysis suggested that the indications for pulmonary resection of CRC metastases should be decided not only by the status of lung metastases, but also by pulmonary-related factors such as the T and N stage of the primary lesion, preoperative CEA level, and the DFI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Experimental spike-and-wave discharges induced by pentylenetetrazol and tolerance to repeated injections: an electrophysiological and biochemical study.
This study was designed to obtain experimental data to correlate duration of spike-and-wave (SW) paroxysms with levels of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) in several brain regions after intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of subconvulsive doses of PTZ in Wistar rats. The influence of subconvulsive doses of PTZ on blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and tolerance of PTZ to repeated injections were also studied. Intraperitoneal administration of subconvulsive doses of PTZ (25 mg/kg) in single doses resulted in SW activity which accounted for 20% of the continuous electrical brain activity recorded during the first hour after i.p. administration. Brain PTZ levels (cortex, midbrain, cerebellum) were within the range 19.2-34.9 micrograms/g. Repeated doses of PTZ showed a significant decrease in SW activity with no change in PTZ brain levels. As PTZ bioavailability was the same after either a single dose or after repeated doses, the decrease in SW activity may be due to PTZ tolerance. No alterations in the BBB were induced by PTZ subconvulsive doses. The experimental data reported in this study may be useful to quantify modifications of biochemical parameters or to evaluate antiepileptic drugs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Possible role of endogenous histamine in mediation of LPS-induced secretion of corticosterone in mice.
Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced a strong secretion of corticosterone in C3H/HeN mice with a concomitant increase in the splenic histidine decarboxylase activity. Treatment of the mice with alpha-fluoromethyl histidine, a suicide substrate for the enzyme, markedly attenuated both the secretion and the increase. In C3H/HeJ mice, LPS provoked little corticosterone release and induction of the enzyme. However, these mice responded to tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate with a large increase in both this secretion and enzyme activity. Injection of LPS produced a comparable increase in the serum histamine and corticosterone level and activity of histidine decarboxylase in various tissues of genetically mast-cell-deficient W/WV mice and in closely related +/+ mice. These results suggest that secretion of corticosterone caused by LPS is mediated by histamine produced through induction of histidine decarboxylase in non-mast cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Discrete dinuclear complex to extended 2D compound in a Cu-azido system by controlling coligand stoichiometry: synthesis and magneto-structural correlations.
This article describes syntheses, structural characterizations and magnetic studies of two different Cu(II)-azido compounds, a discrete dinuclear complex and an extended 2D network. The compounds, [Cu(μ(1,1)-N3)(N3)(Me2en)]2 (1) and [Cu3(μ(1,1,1)-N3)2(μ(1,1,3)-N3)(μ(1,1)-N3)2(μ(1,3)-N3)(Me2en)]n (2), have been synthesized by controlling the relative concentration of the blocking ligand, N,N-dimethylethylenediamine (Me2en). Compound 1 is a dinuclear compound which is formed by a doubly asymmetric μ(1,1)-N3 bridging ligand, while 2 is a rare Cu-azido system where four different types of binding modes of azide ligands are present in a single compound. Compound 2 contains a hexanuclear core, where the Cu(II) centres are connected to each other by μ(1,1,1), μ(1,1) and μ(1,1,3) bridging azide ligands. The hexanuclear core acts as a secondary building block and further assembles via μ(1,3) and μ(1,1,3) azide groups, forming a 2D network in the crystallographic ac plane. Interestingly, temperature-dependent magnetic study suggests that the dinuclear compound 1 exhibits an antiferromagnetic interaction through the μ(1,1)-N3 bridge, which has also been supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In the case of 2, an overall dominant ferromagnetic interaction is observed while antiferromagnetic interaction operates between the hexanuclear cores. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Generation of lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid by monolayer cultures of tracheal epithelial cells and intact tracheal segments from rabbits.
We compared the profile of lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid (AA) generated by cultured rabbit tracheal epithelial (TE) cells with that produced by intact rabbit tracheal segments at baseline and following addition of exogenous AA or calcium ionophore A23187. Lipoxygenase metabolites in effluent media were resolved by high-pressure liquid chromatography and quantitated by radioimmunoassay for monohydroxyeicosanoid (HETE) and leukotriene (LT) metabolites [5-, 12-, and 15-HETE; LTB4, LTC4, LTD4]. Following incubation with exogenous AA (10 micrograms/ml), cultured TE cells generated immunoreactive products that coeluted with authentic 5-, 12-, and 15-HETE standards. 12-HETE was the predominant metabolite. Whereas the generation of HETEs by TE monolayers was dependent on addition of exogenous AA, intact tracheal segments demonstrated a baseline production of 12-HETE and lesser amounts of 5- and 15-HETE as well as unidentified metabolites with UV absorbance at 280 nm. Incubation of tracheal segments with AA resulted in augmented metabolite production. In cultured TE cells, small quantities of HETEs were present intracellularly esterified to membrane phospholipids or free in the cytosol, and significant increases in free cytosolic 12- and 15-HETE were detected postincubation with AA. Calcium ionophore (5 microM) did not induce significant increases in HETE production in either cultured TE cells or tracheal segments. Minimal or no immunoreactive LTs B4, C4, and D4 were produced by TE monolayers or tracheal segments at baseline or following addition of AA or ionophore. Production of HETEs by cultured TE cells was not associated with decreased viability, release of intracellular lactic dehydrogenase, or loss of cells from the monolayers. Preincubation of monolayer cultures or tracheal segments with 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid prior to addition of exogenous AA inhibition metabolite production. Our observations provide further documentation for the generation of lipoxygenase metabolites by TE cells and suggest that the array of metabolites generated by cultured TE cells may not be representative of the entire spectrum of AA metabolites produced by intact native epithelium. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Kinetics of low density lipoprotein interactions with rabbit aortic wall following balloon catheter deendothelialization.
The kinetics of the interaction of circulating lipoproteins with the balloon catheter-injured aortic wall of rabbits were investigated. The fate of radioiodinated low density lipoprotein (LDL) was followed up to 48 hours after intravenous injection and compared with radioiodinated albumin injected simultaneously. The accumulation of LDL was calculated from the radioactivity in the aortic tissue divided by the average specific activity, measured from the area below the plasma radioactivity versus the time curve, and expressed as cpm/ml/hr. It was observed that the aortic area of endothelial regeneration (AER), which is relatively impermeable to Evans blue dye and shows very little albumin concentration, accumulated considerably more LDL than control (uninjured) tissues. Furthermore, removal of labeled lipoprotein from the intima during a 24-hour efflux period following the initial 48-hour loading period indicated that there was greater removal from normal and deendothelialized aortic (DEA) tissues than from neointima covered by endothelium. These findings are consistent with previous observations indicating changes in the morphological and chemical composition of AER. There is evidence that greater neointimal lipid accumulation in response to endothelial injury parallels the concentration of glycosaminoglycans (GAG). The relatively increased accumulation of label in AER, while plasma-specific activity is rapidly decreasing, indicates that there may be an ionic interaction of GAG with LDL in the AER. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
γ irradiation with different dose rates induces different DNA damage responses in Petunia x hybrida cells.
In plants, there is evidence that different dose rate exposures to gamma (γ) rays can cause different biological effects. The dynamics of DNA damage accumulation and molecular mechanisms that regulate recovery from radiation injury as a function of dose rate are poorly explored. To highlight dose-rate dependent differences in DNA damage, single cell gel electrophoresis was carried out on regenerating Petunia x hybrida leaf discs exposed to LDR (total dose 50 Gy, delivered at 0.33 Gy min(-1)) and HDR (total doses 50 and 100 Gy, delivered at 5.15 Gy min(-1)) γ-ray in the 0-24h time period after treatments. Significant fluctuations of double strand breaks and different repair capacities were observed between treatments in the 0-4h time period following irradiation. Dose-rate-dependent changes in the expression of the PhMT2 and PhAPX genes encoding a type 2 metallothionein and the cytosolic isoform of ascorbate peroxidase, respectively, were detected by Quantitative RealTime-Polymerase Chain Reaction. The PhMT2 and PhAPX genes were significantly up-regulated (3.0- and 0.7-fold) in response to HDR. The results are discussed in light of the potential practical applications of LDR-based treatments in mutation breeding. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Proteomic approaches in neuroblastoma: a complementary clinical platform for the future.
Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the most common solid tumors of childhood and displays a remarkable diversity in both biologic characteristics and clinical outcomes. Availability of high-throughput 'omics technologies and their subsequent application towards oncology has provided insight into the complex pathways of tumor formation and progression. Investigation of NB 'omics profiles may better define tumor behavior and provide targeted therapy with the goal of improving outcomes in patients with high-risk disease. Utilization of these technologies in NB has already led to advances in classification and risk stratification. The gradual emergence of NB-directed proteomics adds a layer of intricacy to the analysis of biologic organization but may ultimately provide a better comprehension of this complex disease. In this review, we cite specific examples of how NB-directed proteomics has provided information regarding novel biomarkers and possible therapeutic targets. We finish by examining the impact of high-throughput 'omics in the field of NB and speculate on how these emerging technologies may further be incorporated into the discipline. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Differentiated cervical intraepithelial neoplasia-associated invasive cervical squamous cell carcinoma as a source of major cytopathological and surgical pathological discrepancy in Papanicolaou smear screening tests.
Differentiated cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (dCIN) analogous to differentiated squamous intraepithelial neoplasia of the vulva is characterised by the proliferation of atypical cells limited to the basal/parabasal layers. Exfoliative cytology of dCIN has not been investigated. A 46-year-old woman, with a history of normal Papanicolaou (Pap) smear up to 2 years prior to the occurrence of postcoital vaginal bleeding had two consecutive Pap smears, which only revealed atypical squamous cells of unknown significance (ASCUS). The subsequent cervical biopsy revealed dCIN. The cone biopsy showed the invasive cervical squamous cell carcinoma (ICC) that developed from the overlying dCIN. Review of 32 consecutive cases of ICC revealed a second case of dCIN-associated ICC (Group 1) preceded by ASCUS suspicious for high-grade neoplastic cells. In both cases, the ASCUS were keratinised atypical cells without koilocytosis. In addition, there were another seven cases showing focal dCIN associated with extensive usual CIN (Group 2). In comparison with the remaining 24 cases with usual CIN (Group 3), Group 2 lesions occurred in younger patients (mean ages of 36 ± 3 vs 47 ± 9 years) and were associated with shorter intervals after the last normal Pap smears. Pap smears in Group 2 occasionally consisted only of ASCUS cells. dCIN may occur in the cervix and accounts for a short interval of normal Pap smears and false negative or low-grade Pap smears in ICC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CSF 5-HIAA and exposure to and expression of interpersonal violence in suicide attempters.
Serotonin is implicated in impaired impulse control, aggression and suicidal behaviour. Low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of the serotonin metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) have been found in violent suicide attempters, suicide victims and in violent offenders. CSF 5-HIAA concentrations have both genetic and environmental determinants. Childhood trauma may have an effect on central monoamine function as an adult. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship of CSF 5-HIAA and the exposure to and the expression of violence in childhood and during adult life measured with the Karolinska Interpersonal Violence Scale (KIVS). 42 medication free suicide attempters underwent lumbar puncture and were assessed with the Karolinska Interpersonal Violence Scale (KIVS) to assess history of childhood exposure to violence and lifetime expressed violent behaviour. In women, but not in men, CSF 5-HIAA showed a significant negative correlation to exposure to violence during childhood. Furthermore, suicide attempters with low CSF 5-HIAA were more prone to commit violent acts as an adult if exposed to violence as a child compared to suicide attempters with high CSF 5-HIAA. In the non-traumatized group, CSF 5-HIAA showed a significant negative correlation to expressed violent behaviour in childhood. Although central serotonergic function has important genetic determinants, exposure to childhood trauma may also affect serotonergic function. Low serotonergic function may facilitate impaired aggression control in traumatized suicide attempters. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Homocysteine thiolactone inhibits insulin signaling, and glutathione has a protective effect.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and insulin resistance are independent factors for cardiovascular disease. Most of the angiotoxic effects of homocysteine are related to the formation of homocysteine thiolactone and the consequent increase in oxidative stress. The oxidative stress has also been shown to impair insulin action, therefore leading to insulin resistance. In order to study a putative direct effect of homocysteine on insulin signaling, we have characterized the molecular counter-regulation of the early events in the signal transduction of the insulin receptor, and the metabolic end-point of glycogen synthesis. We employed HTC rat hepatoma cells transfected with the human insulin receptor. A 10 min exposure to homocysteine thiolactone (50 microM) resulted in a significant inhibition of insulin-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor beta-subunit and its substrates IRS-1 and p60-70, as well as their association with the p85 regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. These effects led to impairment of the insulin-stimulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity, which plays a central role in regulating insulin action. Thus, insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis was also inhibited by homocysteine thiolactone. To investigate whether oxidative stress was mediating the counter-regulatory effect of homocysteine thiolactone on insulin signaling, we preincubated the cells (5 min) with 250 microM glutathione prior to the incubation with homocysteine (10 min) and subsequent insulin challenge. Glutathione completely abolished the effects of homocysteine thiolactone on insulin-receptor signaling and restored the insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis. In conclusion, these data suggest that homocysteine thiolactone impairs insulin signaling by a mechanism involving oxidative stress, leading to a defect in insulin action. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Endometrial response to unopposed estrogens remains unaltered in patients with chronic renal failure receiving hemodialysis.
Most patients with chronic renal failure who are on maintenance hemodialysis are anovulatory and have menstrual abnormalities. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of organic causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in this group of patients exposed to unopposed estrogens. Eighteen patients with chronic renal failure and abnormal uterine bleeding underwent vacuum curettage. The histopathologic findings were compared with a group of 154 premenopausal women who had abnormal uterine bleeding without detectable organic causes. Excluding patients with secretory and atrophic endometrium, only 2 of 8 patients (25%) with chronic renal failure had endometrial lesions while 44 of 131 patients (33.6%) had either endometrial polyp, simple or atypical endometrial hyperplasia or endometrial carcinoma (p > 0.05). The uremic environment caused by chronic renal failure does not alter the endometrial responsiveness to unopposed estrogens and may lead to the development of endometrial lesions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Early use of immunosuppressives or TNF antagonists for the treatment of Crohn's disease: time for a change.
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder that follows a progressive and destructive course. Ultimately, uncontrolled inflammation leads to bowel damage from disease-related complications such as strictures, fistulas and abscesses and surgical resection. Conventional 'step-care', whereby corticosteroids and immunosuppressives are prescribed sequentially, is an incremental approach to treatment that does not prevent disease progression and conveys an important risk of adverse events from repeated courses of corticosteroids. Although the immunosuppressives azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine and methotrexate are corticosteroid-sparing, they are not highly effective for inducing mucosal healing or preventing disease progression. Tumour necrosis factor antagonists induce and maintain mucosal healing and reduce surgery and hospitalisation rates. This holds out the possibility that long-term use of these agents may prevent bowel damage. Combination therapy with immunosuppressives and tumour necrosis factor antagonists is likely the best strategy for achieving optimal outcomes in patients at high risk of disease progression. However, accurate prognostic markers must be identified to guide patient selection. Long-term prospective studies with robust outcomes are still needed to establish definitively the efficacy and safety of early combination therapy to prevent bowel damage, loss of gastrointestinal tract function and permanent disability. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diminished material properties and altered bone structure in rat femora during pregnancy.
Pregnancy and lactation are known to cause structural and mechanical changes in bone, but the effects of pregnancy alone have not been evaluated thoroughly. This study used radiographic measurements, torsion testing, mineral analyses, and histological evaluation to determine whether there are changes in bone material and geometric properties during pregnancy in the growing rat, as implied by earlier biochemical and histological studies. The bones of pregnant 9 to 12-week-old rats and controls that were not pregnant and were matched by age (but not weight) were evaluated at times corresponding to 5, 10, 15, and 20 days of the 23-day gestation period to address the following questions: (a) How is the growth of whole bone affected by pregnancy in the growing rat (as determined by radiographic analyses)? (b) How are the mechanical properties (structural and material) of whole bone affected by pregnancy (as assessed by torsion testing)? (c) Are there changes in the characteristics of bone mineral during pregnancy (as determined by measurement of mineral content and x-ray diffraction analyses)? and (d) Are there detectable morphological or ultrastructural differences between the bones of pregnant and control rats (as assessed by analyses based on histology and back-scattered electron imaging)? The presence of statistically significant differences in this study was determined initially on the basis of a two-factor analysis of variance. In general, significant differences were noted only at late gestation (day 20), when the bones were longer and had a greater outer radius and cortical thickness; this indicates that more growth occurred during pregnancy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Availability, affordability, and consumption of fruits and vegetables in 18 countries across income levels: findings from the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study.
Several international guidelines recommend the consumption of two servings of fruits and three servings of vegetables per day, but their intake is thought to be low worldwide. We aimed to determine the extent to which such low intake is related to availability and affordability. We assessed fruit and vegetable consumption using data from country-specific, validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires in the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study, which enrolled participants from communities in 18 countries between Jan 1, 2003, and Dec 31, 2013. We documented household income data from participants in these communities; we also recorded the diversity and non-sale prices of fruits and vegetables from grocery stores and market places between Jan 1, 2009, and Dec 31, 2013. We determined the cost of fruits and vegetables relative to income per household member. Linear random effects models, adjusting for the clustering of households within communities, were used to assess mean fruit and vegetable intake by their relative cost. Of 143 305 participants who reported plausible energy intake in the food frequency questionnaire, mean fruit and vegetable intake was 3·76 servings (95% CI 3·66-3·86) per day. Mean daily consumption was 2·14 servings (1·93-2·36) in low-income countries (LICs), 3·17 servings (2·99-3·35) in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), 4·31 servings (4·09-4·53) in upper-middle-income countries (UMICs), and 5·42 servings (5·13-5·71) in high-income countries (HICs). In 130 402 participants who had household income data available, the cost of two servings of fruits and three servings of vegetables per day per individual accounted for 51·97% (95% CI 46·06-57·88) of household income in LICs, 18·10% (14·53-21·68) in LMICs, 15·87% (11·51-20·23) in UMICs, and 1·85% (-3·90 to 7·59) in HICs (ptrend=0·0001). In all regions, a higher percentage of income to meet the guidelines was required in rural areas than in urban areas (p<0·0001 for each pairwise comparison). Fruit and vegetable consumption among individuals decreased as the relative cost increased (ptrend=0·00040). The consumption of fruit and vegetables is low worldwide, particularly in LICs, and this is associated with low affordability. Policies worldwide should enhance the availability and affordability of fruits and vegetables. Population Health Research Institute, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, AstraZeneca (Canada), Sanofi-Aventis (France and Canada), Boehringer Ingelheim (Germany and Canada), Servier, GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, King Pharma, and national or local organisations in participating countries. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Follicle cell development is partly independent of germ-line cell differentiation in Drosophila oogenesis.
The developmental potential of the cells of the somatic follicular epithelium (follicle cells) was studied in mutants in which the differentiation of the germ-line cells is blocked at different stages of oogenesis. In two mutants, sn 36a and kelch, nurse cell regression does not occur, yet the follicle cells around the small oocyte continue their normal developmental program and produce an egg shell with micropylar cone and often deformed operculum and respiratory appendages. Neither the influx of nurse cell cytoplasm into the oocyte nor the few follicle cells covering the nurse cells are apparently required for the formation of the egg shell. In the tumor mutant benign gonial cell neoplasm (bgcn) the follicle cells can also differentiate to some extent although the germ-line cells remain morphologically undifferentiated. Vitelline membrane material was synthesized by the follicle cells in some bgcn chambers and in rare cases a columnar epithelium, which resembled morphologically that of wild-type stage-9 follicles, formed around the follicle's posterior end. The normal polarity of the follicular epithelium that is characteristic for mid-vitellogenic stages may, therefore, be established in the absence of morphologically differentiating germ-line cells. However, the tumorous germ-line cells do not constitute a homogeneous cell population since in about 30% of the analyzed follicles a cell cluster at or near the posterior pole can be identified by virtue of its high number of concanavalin A binding sites. This molecular marker reveals an anteroposterior polarity of the tumorous chambers. In follicles mutant for both bgcn and the polarity gene dicephalic the cluster of concanavalin A-stained germ-line cells shifts to more anterior positions in the follicle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sorting of B lymphoblasts based upon cell diameter provides cell populations enriched in different stages of cell cycle.
Here we report analysis and correlation of changes in cell size and cycle state resulting from exposure of murine B lymphocytes to the mitogens lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and dextran sulfate (DxSO4). Cell cycle changes are assessed by flow cytofluorometric analysis of acridine orange stained cells. Cell diameters are determined by flow cytometric analysis of the pulse-width (time of flight) of the axial light extinction signal. Results indicate that within 12 h of exposure of B cell populations to these mitogens, cells displaying increased diameter and containing increased RNA can be detected. Under these conditions, increased RNA content is considered indicative of G0 to G1 transition or entry into cell cycle (Darzynkiewicz et al., 1976). Progressive increases in cell size and transition through G1, S, G2, and M occur in parallel during 48 h of culture with mitogens. Sorting of cells based upon size followed by cell cycle analysis reveals a direct correlation between cell size and cycle phase. Specifically, cells 4.5-5.5 microns in diameter are in primarily G0. Cells 5.5-7.0 microns in diameter are in early G1. Populations of cells 7.0-10 microns in diameter are comprised of late G1 and S phase cells. Populations of cells 10-12 microns in diameter consist of S, G2, and M phase cells. The importance of this correlation is discussed in view of needs to more rigorously define B cell populations for investigations of biochemical events of and accessory cell requirements for activation of B lymphocytes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Getting your research published: adapting the thesis style.
Writing a research report is similar to the research experience; both are processes with many distinct steps. Break your research project into parts and write about key accomplishments as you complete each milestone in the project. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The quantitative alteration of 5s rRNA during the development of mammalian erythroid cells and its effect on DNA synthesis in SP2/0 mouse myeloma cells.
Mouse myeloma cells (SP2/0) were incubated with 125I-5s rRNA from rabbit reticulocytes and processed for autoradiography. The results indicated that 5s rRNA could pass into the nuclei of mouse myeloma cells. In a separate experiment, SP2/0 were incubated with cold 5s rRNA, then with 3H-TdR and processed for autoradiography. It was found that in the mouse myeloma cells, DNA synthesis and cell division were obviously suppressed. In another series of experiments, rRNA was extracted from rabbit bone marrow, reticulocytes and erythroid cells and from rat embryonic liver and erythroid cells. The rRNA was analyzed by agarose electrophoresis. It was found that the amount of 5s rRNA in various stages of erythroid development changed along with the denucleating process. Thus it seems likely that 5s rRNA from mammalian erythroid cells could play a role in reversing the malignant phenotype of tumor cells and denucleation of mammalian erythroid cells through inhibiting DNA synthesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Validation of a targeted DNA microarray for the clinical evaluation of recurrent abnormalities in chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Recurrent genomic alterations, mainly losses and gains of specific chromosomes and/or regions, in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are recognized as important independent predictors of prognosis and disease progression. The current standard clinical practice for identifying these alterations is chromosome analysis and in situ hybridization with probes targeting 4-5 chromosome regions. We sought to apply array comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) technology for the simultaneous detection of genomic imbalances of all loci implicated in CLL. DNA from enriched B-cells from CLL patients were analyzed by array-CGH on a customized CLL BAC array. Copy number changes were detected in 87% of samples with a sensitivity of 100% in samples with clonal abnormalities present in at least 23% of the cells. Furthermore, in nine cases genomic alterations were observed that were undetectable by standard cytogenetic and/or FISH analyses. One of these patients had a 13q14 deletion that was missed by the clinical CLL FISH panel probe set. Our results suggest that a subset of potentially significant genomic alterations in CLL is being missed by the current available techniques. Furthermore, this pilot study clearly shows the robustness, high sensitivity, and high specificity for the targeted CLL microarray analysis as well as the potential for use in routine screening in CLL. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: diagnosis and treatment.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a clinical condition characterized by a malabsorption syndrome due to an increase in microorganisms within the small intestine. The main mechanisms restricting bacterial colonization in the upper gut are the gastric acid barrier, mucosal and systemic immunity and intestinal clearance. When these mechanisms fail, bacterial overgrowth develops. Diarrhea, steatorrhea, chronic abdominal pain, bloating and flatulence are common symptoms and are similar to those observed in irritable bowel syndrome. Breath tests (glucose and/or lactulose breath tests) have been proposed as a sensitive and simple tool for the diagnosis of bacterial overgrowth, being non-invasive and inexpensive compared to the gold standard represented by the culture of intestinal aspirates. Antibiotic therapy is the cornerstone of SIBO treatment. Current SIBO treatment is based on empirical courses of broad-spectrum antibiotics since few controlled studies concerning the choice and duration of antibiotic therapy are available at present. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular and functional characterization of pigeon (Columba livia) tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3.
Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 3 (TRAF3) plays a key antiviral role by promoting type I interferon production. We cloned the pigeon TRAF3 gene (PiTRAF3) according to its predicted mRNA sequence to investigate its function. The 1704-bp full-length open reading frame encodes a 567-amino acid protein. One Ring finger, two TRAF-type Zinc fingers, one Coiled coil, and one MATH domain were inferred. RT-PCR showed that PiTRAF3 was expressed in all tissues, with relatively weak expression in the heart and liver. In HEK293T cells, over-expression of wild-type, △Ring, △Zinc finger, and △Coiled coil PiTRAF3, but not a △MATH form, significantly increased IFN-β promoter activity. Zinc finger and Coiled coil domains were essential for NF-κB activation. In chicken HD11 cells, PiTRAF3 increased IFN-β promoter activity and four domains were all contributing. R848 stimulation of pigeon peripheral blood mononuclear cells and splenocytes significantly increased expression of PiTRAF3 and the inflammatory cytokine genes CCL5, IL-8, and IL-10. These data demonstrate TRAF3's innate immune function and improve understanding of its involvement in poultry antiviral defense. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Concurrent increase of oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation together with mitochondrial DNA mutation in human lung tissues during aging--smoking enhances oxidative stress on the aged tissues.
Although mutation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in human tissues has been established to associate with intrinsic aging, the impact of environmental factors on the formation and accumulation of mtDNA mutations and oxidative DNA damage in human tissues is poorly understood. We have investigated the levels of mtDNA with the 4977-bp deletion and A3243G point mutation, oxidative DNA damage (indicated by the formation of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, 8-OH-dG), and lipid peroxides in lung tissues from smokers and nonsmokers of subjects of different ages. The results showed concurrent age-dependent increase of the 4977-bp deleted mtDNA (P < 0.001), 8-OH-dG (P < 0.05), and lipid peroxides (P < 0.05) in the human lung. In the group of subjects above 60 years old, smokers had more extensive DNA damage and lipid peroxidation than did the nonsmokers. However, the levels of mtDNA with the 4977-bp deletion and A3243G point mutation in the lung of smokers were not significantly different from those of the age-matched nonsmokers. Taken together, these results suggest that accumulation of mtDNA with the 4977-bp deletion together with oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxides is associated with aging and that smoking enhances oxidative damage in human lung tissues. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Focusing on outcomes and methods in removable prosthodontics trials: a systematic review.
The aim of this study was to systematically examine the outcomes of interest of trials in removable prosthodontics and to assess their overall quality. Electronic databases were searched up to August 2011 and complemented by hand searching for published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the field of removable prosthodontics in the six major prosthodontic and implant journals. The primary outcome of RCTs was considered as the outcome of interest of this review, and only manuscripts in which the study's primary outcome was reported in the abstract were included. Outcomes were classified according to the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) classification. The quality of individual reports of RCTs was assessed following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions (Higgins & Green, www.cochrane-handbook.org). The search retrieved 86 reports of RCTs. Among these publications, 43% reported a patient-oriented primary outcome. Most of the publications did not present a clear description of sequence generation (54%) or allocation concealment (65%). Blinding of participants, clinicians, and outcomes assessors was not applicable or reported in most trials. Handling of withdrawals and losses was adequate in 52% of trials. Although published RCTs in removable prosthodontics have increased over time, efforts should be made to increase patient-reported outcomes and the methodological quality of these reports. Such improvement will lead to a better body of evidence in the field, thus providing increased support for clinical decision-making. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of solvent exposure on testosterone levels and butyrylcholinesterase activity in mice.
In female and male mice the effect of exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) seen at the lowest concentration is an increase in liver weight. The activity of plasma butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) increases even more than the liver weight at corresponding concentrations, but only in the males. Depletion of testosterone through castration or destruction of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, are the only other ways to experimentally induce corresponding increases in BuChE. Plasma BuChE activity increase was found to be a common reaction after exposure to TCE, perchloroethylene, chloroform, methylene chloride and carbon tetrachloride and also after exposure to ethanol. Other solvents such as toluene, xylene, benzene and 1,1,1-trichloroethane had little or no effect on BuChE activity. Normal and castrated male mice were continuously exposed for one month to 150 p.p.m. TCE. The increase in BuChE activity after the exposure was of the same magnitude as the increase seen after castration. BuChE activity in castrated males was not further increased by TCE exposure. Administration of testosterone with osmotic minipumps for 13 days almost restored the normal testosterone and BuChE levels in castrates. The effect of TCE exposure on BuChE activity in these animals was the same as on normal males. Testosterone levels were not influenced by the TCE exposure in normal males or in castrates given testosterone. No sex hormone binding globulins (SHBG) could be detected in the mice. BuChE activity changes induced through solvent exposure are therefore neither directly nor indirectly (through SHBG) due to effects on testosterone. The results from these animal experiments do not support the epidemiological findings of decreased testosterone levels in humans exposed to solvents. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Patterns of splenic arterial enhancement on computed tomography are related to changes in portal venous pressure.
One of the striking features of splenic imaging is variable heterogeneous gyriform arterial enhancement on dynamic computed tomography (CT). We speculated that these patterns of arterial enhancement may reflect changes in splenic micro-circulation related to changes in portal venous pressure. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated arterial phase CT scans performed before and after liver transplantation (n=91), as this is the most effective way of alleviating portal hypertension. We developed novel grading systems to assess heterogeneity. Two control groups were used: patients with cirrhosis undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) (n=28) and patients with cirrhosis on the liver transplant waiting list who had repeated CT scans (n=28). Splenic arterial heterogeneity increased in 55% of transplant patients compared with 14% in the TACE patients and 4% in the waiting list patients (P<0.0001). Mean Hounsfield units in areas of splenic enhancement were 71.7±2 before transplant and 90.1±2.5 after transplant (P<0.01). In contrast, there were no significant changes following TACE (86.3±4.2 vs. 83.5±4.5; P=NS) or in waiting list patients (80.9±4.6 vs. 73.8±3.7; P=NS). We have shown the heterogeneous gyriform enhancement patterns significantly increase following liver transplantation but not after TACE or in waiting list patients. We suggest that these changes are due to the reduction in portal venous pressure and likely reflect changes in splenic micro-circulation. These changes may be important in the pathophysiology of hypersplenism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact of student pharmacist-led naloxone academic detailing at community pharmacies in Texas.
Each U.S. state and the District of Columbia has passed legislation expanding access to naloxone, the opioid overdose antidote. Most naloxone access laws allow for standing orders, whereby prescribers may authorize pharmacists to dispense naloxone without an outside prescription. A recent study from our group assessing naloxone accessibility via standing order identified continued access barriers. The present study assessed whether brief, in-person, student-led academic detailing of community pharmacists improved naloxone accessibility. A telephone audit of all 2317 CVS, Walgreens, H-E-B, and Walmart pharmacies in Texas was conducted to determine naloxone accessibility under standing orders. Within 2 months following the initial audit, student pharmacists visited the Austin and San Antonio, Texas area pharmacies that indicated they would not dispense naloxone without a prescription, to provide brief (<5 minutes) academic detailing to the pharmacist on duty. Students followed a scripted outline designed to inform pharmacists about naloxone standing orders and naloxone use for opioid overdose response. Then they provided a flyer and requested that it be displayed in the pharmacy to inform patients about naloxone. An identical telephone audit was conducted 1-2 weeks following the education. Of the 49 pharmacies receiving education, 37 (76%) responded that they would dispense naloxone without an outside prescription appropriately. When comparing each pharmacy before and after detailing, respectively, it was observed that 51% versus 71% (P = 0.008) stocked naloxone; 43% versus 71% (P = 0.002) would dispense naloxone to a third-party customer; and 12% versus 37% (P = 0.005) would submit a claim to the insurance of a third-party customer. Student-led academic detailing was effective in improving pharmacists' willingness to dispense naloxone under standing orders and increasing naloxone accessibility from community pharmacies. Studies beyond Texas chain pharmacies are warranted to validate the effectiveness of this technique on a larger scale. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Significance of molecular signaling for protein translation control in neurodegenerative diseases.
It has long been known that protein synthesis is inhibited in neurological disorders. Protein synthesis includes protein transcription and translation. While many studies about protein transcription have been done in the last decade, we are just starting to understand more about the impact of protein translation. Protein translation control can be accomplished at the initiation or elongation steps. In this review, we will focus on translation control at initiation. Neurons have long neurites in which proteins have to be transported from the cell body to the end of the neurite. Since supply of proteins cannot meet the need of neuronal activity at the spine, protein locally translated at the spine will be a good solution to replace the turnover of proteins. Therefore, local protein translation is an important mechanism to maintain normal neuronal functions. In this notion, we have to separate the concept of global and local protein translation control. Both global and local protein translation control modulate normal neuronal functions from development to cognitive functions. Increasing lines of evidence show that they also play significant roles in neurodegenerative diseases, e.g. neuronal apoptosis, synaptic degeneration and autophagy. We summarize all the evidence in this review and focus on the control at initiation. The new live-cell imaging technology together with photoconvertible fluorescent probes allows us to investigate newly translated proteins in situ. Protein translation control is another line to modulate neuronal function in neuron-neuron communication as well as in response to stress in neurodegenerative diseases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A grouped retina provides high temporal resolution in the weakly electric fish Gnathonemus petersii.
Weakly electric fish orient, hunt and communicate by emitting electrical pulses, enabling them to discriminate objects, conspecifics and prey. In addition to the electrosensory modality - although dominating in importance in these fishes - other modalities, like vision, play important roles for survival. The visual system of Gnathonemus petersii, a member of the family mormyridae living in West African blackwater streams shows remarkable specializations: Cone photoreceptors are grouped in bundles within a light reflecting tapetum lucidum, while the rods are also bundled but located at the back within a light-scattering guanine layer. Such an organization does not improve light sensitivity nor does it provide high spatial resolution. Thus, the function of the grouped retinal arrangement for the visual performance of the fish remains unclear. Here we investigated the contrast sensitivity of the temporal transfer properties of the visual system of Gnathonemus. To do so, we analyzed visual evoked potentials in the optic tectum and tested the critical flicker fusion frequency in a behavioral paradigm. Results obtained in Gnathonemus are compared to results obtained with goldfish (Carassius auratus), revealing differences in the filter characteristics of their visual systems: While goldfish responds best to low frequencies, Gnathonemus responds best at higher frequencies. The visual system of goldfish shows characteristics of a low-pass filter while the visual system of Gnathonemus has characteristics of a band-pass filter. Furthermore we show that the visual system of Gnathonemus is more robust towards contrast reduction as compared to the goldfish. The grouped retina might enable Gnathonemus to see large, fast moving objects even under low contrast conditions. Due to the fact that the electric sense is a modality of limited range, it is tempting to speculate that the retinal specialization of Gnathonemus petersii might be advantageous for predator avoidance even when brightness differences are small. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Abdominal angina and intestinal gangrene--a catastrophic presentation of arterial fibromuscular dysplasia: case report and review of the literature.
A 5-year-old boy presented with episodic, postprandial abdominal pain and hypertension. A few days after the onset of symptoms, the pain became more severe, and progressed into a picture of acute abdomen and intestinal obstruction. Urgent laparotomy findings showed the presence of small bowel gangrene. Pathology findings of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA), which was found to be occluded, showed intimal fibroplasia. The patient died 7 weeks after the onset of symptoms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Jugular foramen syndrome.
The jugular foramen syndrome (JFS) specifically refers to paralysis to the IX-XIth cranial nerves. In a more general meaning, however, any combination of palsies affecting the last four cranial nerves has been referred to as a JFS. The anatomy of the jugular foramen and the structures which traverse it are reviewed. Two cases histories of a JFS are described; the first with chronic otitis media, and the second with a glomus tumor. A variety of neoplasms, vascular insults, infections, and trauma have been reported to cause JFS. Treatment is directed toward the underlying cause. A variety of radiological techniques which are useful in the investigation of JFS are outlined. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antibodies in Escherichia coli urinary tract infection.
In 105 adults with E.Coli urinary tract infections, IgG coated bacteriuria was found in 8/9 with acute pyelonephritis (PN), 17/20 with chronic PN, and in only 2/76 with lower UTI. IgA was present in 66% of PN, but IgA secretory piece in less than 10%. These urinary IgG antibodies were, at least in part, synthesised in the kidney because serum IgG antibodies were detected by indirect immunofluorescence in only half the patients. 06, 018, 022 E.Coli serotypes were the three most frequently found O groups, but their prevalence in PN is not significant. The immunology of urinary tract infection (UTI) is still a subject of little interest in adult nephrology; but antibody production is a well-characterised event in pyelonephritis (PN), the study of which seems to be the best indirect procedure for localising the site of UTI. We have analysed the production of urinary and humoral antibodies, and their correlation with E.Coli serotypes in patients with E.Coli UTI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
African trypanosomiasis: naturally occurring regulatory T cells favor trypanotolerance by limiting pathology associated with sustained type 1 inflammation.
Tolerance to African trypanosomes requires the production of IFN-gamma in the early stage of infection that triggers the development of classically activated macrophages controlling parasite growth. However, once the first peak of parasitemia has been controlled, down-regulation of the type 1 immune response has been described. In this study, we have evaluated whether regulatory T cells (Tregs) contribute to the limitation of the immune response occurring during Trypanosoma congolense infection and hereby influence the outcome of the disease in trypanotolerant C57BL/6 host. Our data show that Foxp3+ Tregs originating from the naturally occurring Treg pool expanded in the spleen and the liver of infected mice. These cells produced IL-10 and limited the production of IFN-gamma by CD4+ and CD8+ effector T cells. Tregs also down-regulated classical activation of macrophages resulting in reduced TNF-alpha production. The Treg-mediated suppression of the type 1 inflammatory immune response did not hamper parasite clearance, but was beneficial for the host survival by limiting the tissue damages, including liver injury. Collectively, these data suggest a cardinal role for naturally occurring Tregs in the development of a trypanotolerant phenotype during African trypanosomiasis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Incarcerated Women's Experiences and Perceptions of Participating in Research.
The research process within prisons has largely considered researchers' perspectives. Only one known study explicitly examined incarcerated persons' perceptions and no known studies have explored incarcerated persons' experiences with research on sensitive topics. This study examines incarcerated women's experiences with participating in research on victimization. A thematic analysis was conducted on responses to open-ended questions about participating in a research study from 227 women in two prisons who participated in a study about victimization. Women prisoners were overwhelmingly positive about participating in the research study with the vast majority willing to participate in a future study. Participants believed participating in the study provided opportunities for them to share their story, heal, reflect, grow, and help others. Some women mentioned that discussing certain topics created uncomfortable emotions and memories. Participants perceived benefits of participating in research. Implications for research in prisons are presented. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The relationship between fast bowling workload and injury in first-class cricketers: a pilot study.
This study examined the relationship between the bowling workload of first-class fast bowlers and injury with the aim of identifying a "safe" fast bowling workload threshold. Twelve male fast bowlers (mean age 25 years) from an Australian state cricket squad were observed for the 1999--2000 cricket season. Workload was quantified by examining fixture scorecards and conducting surveillance at training sessions. Injury data were obtained from Cricket Australia's Injury Surveillance System. The seasonal incidence of injury was high with seven bowlers sustaining nine injuries. Whilst injured bowlers did not tend to bowl a greater number of deliveries on the day of injury, a significant increase in deliveries per session was observed in the 8-21 days prior to the date of injury (mean= 77) as compared with the rest of the season (mean= 60, p< 0.02). Bowlers with a weekly bowling workload above the mean of 203 deliveries were at an increased risk of injury (Risk Ratio (RR)= 6.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00-35.91). Those bowlers who bowled in five or more sessions in any 7-day period were also at an increased risk of injury (RR= 4.5, 95% CI 1.02 to 20.12). A consistent relationship between high bowling workload and injury was observed. The risk of injury was much higher for those bowlers with a sessional, weekly and monthly bowling workload above the group mean, especially when this high workload was consistent and sustained. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A scoring framework for assessing anatomy competence of undergraduate preclinical students.
Recent higher education changes toward outcomes-based education emphasize competent learners, but a widely accepted definition of competence is still lacking. Although the importance of anatomy in health professions education is recognized, there is still uncertainty about what anatomical competence entails and how to assess it. This study aimed to provide a framework for assessing anatomical competence, using an anatomy competence score, for the anatomy course in the undergraduate medical learning program at the University of the Free State in South Africa. All assessments within the dissection program of two student groups (July 2012 to June 2014) were explored to determine the representation of the three competence domains: knowledge, skill and application in context. Student performance in the final objective structured practical examination (OSPE) was investigated for the three domains and the different body regions. Knowledge had ±50% representation in assessments and the different body regions (in final OSPE) for both groups, and skill and application represented ±25% each in both groups. The best average student performance was in the skill domain (64% and 67% for the respective groups). All domains showed good reliabilities (> 0.75) and student performance correlated well between the domains (P < 0.001). This study suggests a representation ratio of 2:1:1 between knowledge, skill and application (i.e., 50% knowledge and 25% skill and application respectively), for anatomical competence assessment. However, this ratio depends on the assessment type, the stage of the anatomy course and the institutional context. Nonetheless, it provides a guideline for ensuring that assessments address all competence domains. Anat Sci Educ 9: 319-329. © 2015 American Association of Anatomists. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Hyperechogenic fetal bowel as a marker of fetal cystic fibrosis].
Hyperechogenic bowel (HB) occurs in 0.1 to 1.8% of normal pregnancies. In most cases it has no consequence for the foetus, but can be associated with cystic fibrosis (CF), chromosomal defects, genetic syndromes, viral infections, gastrointestinal pathology, missed gravidity, IUGR and preterm labour. Assessment the risk of the foetus having CF or other abnormalities when HB was detected during ultrasound screening in the second trimester of pregnancy in our centre. Retrospective study. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Fetal Medicine and Genetics, KNTB a.s. Zlín. Retrospective analysis of 149 cases of HB between 17 to 22 weeks of pregnancy detected from January 2008 to April 2012. HB was evaluated according to its degree of echogenicity (Slotnik/Abuhamed classification), presence or absence of other ultrasound markers and the result of first trimester combined screening result. When stage II or III HB and/or borderline risk in first trimester screening, and presence of other ultrasound markers was detected, amniocentesis (AMC) was performed to investigate the karyotype, mutations in the CFTR gene and presence of viral infections (cytomegalovirus and parvovirus B19). If stage I or II HB and/or negative I. trimester screening and no other ultrasound markers, viral infections and mutations in the CFTR gene were investigated form maternal blood. If positive, paternal blood sampling testing for mutation in the CFTR gene was performed. If a mutation was detected in both parents, AMC was performed. Mutations of the CFTR gene was investigated with a commercial panel of 33 to 50 most common mutations. Postnatally the outcome of neonatal screening for CF(IRT) and any newborns with congenital malformations were ascertained. HB was seen in 149 foetuses, AMC was performed in 94 (63%), and blood sampling in 55 (37%). Two mutations in the CFTR gene associated with a severe form of CF (deltaF508/3849 KBC +10 T) were found in one foetus from the AMC group with stage III HB. The parents decided to terminate the pregnancy. The incidence of HB in our group was 0.7%. In 4 foetuses (2.7%) with stage II HB heterozygous deltaF508 mutation was found, in the rest no mutations were detected. Parents of heterozygous carriers underwent genetic consultation. Postnatal CF screening (IRT level from a heel prick sample) was negative; therefore no further molecular genetic analysis was performed. Infection was detected in three foetuses; one case was managed with intrauterine transfusion and in the other two cases parents decided for termination. Four cases (2.7%) were terminated because of severe congenital anomalies. Minor congenital abnormalities were detected in seven (4.7%) cases. Intrauterine death was detected in three (2%) pregnancies. Based on our results, HB can be considered as a significant marker for the risk of CF, especially in HB stages II and III. It also demonstrates the importance of this marker for the risk of other foetal abnormalities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gamma irradiation effects on stability of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres containing clonazepam.
This work was aimed at evaluating the effects of gamma irradiation on the stability of microspheres made of a poly(lactide-co-glycolide) copolymer (PLGA) and loaded with 15% w/w of clonazepam (CLO). The influence of CLO on PLGA radiolysis mechanisms and the identification of possible irradiation markers were also investigated. Microspheres were prepared by means of a spray-drying method. gamma Irradiation was carried out either under vacuum or in air, at a dose of 25 kGy, by using a 60Co source. The stability of CLO loaded microspheres was evaluated over a 6-month period on the basis of drug content and dissolution profile. Radiolysis mechanisms were investigated by using electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. The microspheres irradiated under vacuum were stable over the considered period of time. After irradiation in air, CLO release rate increased by approximately 10%, and did not change further in the following period of storage. The EPR analysis showed some radicals arising from both the polymeric matrix and the active ingredient. Polymer/CLO spin transfer reactions suggest that CLO had a radio-stabilising effect on the polymeric matrix. In the loaded microspheres, the intensity in time of the CLO radical signal is sufficient for its possible use as irradiation marker. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The use of transducer-tipped ultrasound catheter for recanalization of thrombotic arterial occlusions.
Ultrasound energy is currently being used and intensively investigated for recanalization of thrombotically occluded arteries. The ultrasonic energy is mainly applied either by a transcutaneous approach or by a percutaneous approach through a catheter with an external ultrasound transducer. Catheter-delivered transducer-tipped ultrasound thrombolysis is a new and innovative method. In this article we summarize the current available data on the use of this new type of catheter and discuss future directions and clinical applications. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Damage control resuscitation.
Damage Control Resuscitation (DCR) is a novel concept that draws together a series of technical and organisational advances in combat casualty care. It is consistent with and encapsulates the established concept of damage control surgery (DCS). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sigma-1 receptor antagonism as opioid adjuvant strategy: enhancement of opioid antinociception without increasing adverse effects.
While opioids are potent analgesics widely used in the management of pain, a number of well-known adverse effects limit their use. The sigma-1 receptor is a ligand-regulated molecular chaperone involved in pain processing, including modulation of opioid antinociception. However, data supporting the potential use of sigma-1 receptor ligands as suitable opioid adjuvants are based on studies that use non selective ligands. Also, safety issues derived from combination therapy are poorly addressed. In this study we used the new selective sigma-1 receptor antagonist S1RA (E-52862) to characterize the effect of selective sigma-1 receptor blockade on opioid-induced efficacy- and safety-related outcomes in mice. S1RA (40 mg/kg) had no effect in the tail-flick test but did enhance the antinociceptive potency of several opioids by a factor between 2 and 3.3. The potentiating effect of S1RA on morphine antinociception did not occur in sigma-1 receptor knockout mice, which supports the selective involvement of the sigma-1 receptor. Interestingly, S1RA co-administration restored morphine antinociception in tolerant mice and reverted the reward effects of morphine in the conditioned place preference paradigm. In addition, enhancement of antinociception was not accompanied by potentiation of other opioid-induced effects, such as the development of morphine analgesic tolerance, physical dependence, inhibition of gastrointestinal transit, or mydriasis. The use of sigma-1 receptor antagonists as opioid adjuvants could represent a promising pharmacological strategy to enhance opioid potency and, most importantly, to increase the safety margin of opioids. S1RA is currently in phase II clinical trials for the treatment of several pain conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interaction of Shiga toxin from Escherichia coli with human intestinal epithelial cell lines and explants: Stx2 induces epithelial damage in organ culture.
Shiga toxins (Stx) produced by Escherichia coli are associated with systemic complications such as haemolytic-uraemic syndrome. The mechanism of Stx translocation across the epithelial barrier is unknown as human intestinal epithelium lacks receptor Gb3. In this study, we have examined the interaction of purified Stx1 and 2 with Caco-2 (Gb3+) and T84 (Gb3-) cell lines, and determined the effects of Stx on human intestine using in vitro organ culture (IVOC). Stx exposure caused inhibition of protein synthesis and apoptosis in Caco-2 but not in T84 cells. However, both Stx1 and 2 were transported to the endoplasmic reticulum, and the Stx1 A-subunit was cleaved in a furin-dependent manner in both cell lines. Thus, a Gb3-independent retrograde transport route exists in T84 cells for Stx that does not induce cell damage. IVOC demonstrated increased epithelial cell extrusion in response to exposure to Stx2, but not Stx1, in both small intestine and colon. Pretreatment of Stx2 with Stx2-specific antibody abrogated this effect. Overlaying frozen sections with Stx showed lamina propria, but not epithelial, cell binding that paralleled Gb3 localization, and included endothelium and pericryptal myofibroblasts. This indicates that human intestinal epithelium may evince Stx2-induced damage in the absence of Gb3 receptors, by an as yet unrecognized mechanism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dose-dependent effect of rosuvastatin in the regulation of metalloproteinase expression.
The importance of rosuvastatin at therapeutic dosage in regulating the release, activity, protein level, and expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 was investigated. Human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells were stimulated, in vitro, in a serum-free medium with rosuvastatin at various concentrations (2, 4, 7, and 10 ng/mL, which correspond to the maximal plasma concentration observed in healthy men after a daily oral intake of 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg, respectively). The release of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the conditioned medium was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and confirmed by Western blot, the activity and expression were determined by zymography and polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells stimulated with rosuvastatin at 7 and 10 ng/mL had a significant lower release, activity, protein level, and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, when compared with those stimulated at 2 and 4 ng/mL (MMP-2 =p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001, respectively; MMP-9 =p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001, respectively). The effects of rosuvastatin in reducing MMP-2 and MMP-9, which might stabilize the atherosclerotic plaques, are dose-dependent. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Primary precutting versus conventional over-the-wire sphincterotomy for bile duct access: a prospective randomized study.
Precut is a well-known technique that is used if repeated attempts at common bile duct (CBD) cannulation fail. Opinions on the complication rate of precut are conflicting, however. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy and complication rate of precut used as a primary method of CBD access with the efficacy and safety of the conventional technique. During the 19-month study period, consecutive patients who were scheduled for first-time endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) for a variety of biliary disorders were randomized into two groups: patients in group A underwent conventional wire-guided biliary cannulation followed by ES (with precut being performed only when this failed); in patients in group B precut was used as a primary technique to gain biliary access, followed by wire-guided ES. We used a specially designed, modified Erlangen type of sphincterotome for precutting. A total of 291 patients (100 men, 191 women; mean +/- SD age 65 +/- 17.5 years) were recruited: 146 patients were assigned to group A (conventional approach) and 145 to group B (primary precut approach). The indications for ES were comparable in the two groups. In group A, wire-guided cannulation of the CBD failed in 42 patients. Secondary precut was successful in 41 of these patients, leading to an overall success rate of 99.3 %. In group B, the ES success rate using primary precut was 100 % at the first attempt. The mean time to successful deep CBD cannulation was 8.3 +/- 2.1 minutes in group A and 6.9 +/- 1.8 minutes in group B ( P < 0.001). The incidence of mild to moderate pancreatitis was similar in the two groups (2.9 % in group A vs. 2.1 % in group B, P > 0.05). Mild bleeding occurred in only one patient (from group A) and this was controlled by epinephrine injection. None of the study patients developed severe pancreatitis or perforation. In experienced hands, an approach using primary precut appears to be at least as successful and safe as a conventional approach using guide-wire-based CBD cannulation followed by ES, and might also be a quicker method. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Added benfluorex in obese insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes.
To determine the effect of benfluorex on glycaemic control in obese insulin-requiring Type 2 diabetes, 76 patients (aged 53.8 +/- 12.8 years) receiving insulin (> or = 0.5 IU/kg) and an appropriate low-calorie diet were evaluated after a 1-month run-in followed by a 3-month double-blind treatment period (3 tablets daily) with benfluorex (B; n = 37) vs placebo (P; n = 39). At inclusion, the B and P groups respectively did not differ in body weight (80.9 +/- 10.3 vs 77.2 +/- 9.1 kg), body mass index (BMI) (30.1 +/- 4.6 vs 29.0 +/- 2.3 kg/m2) or fasting blood glucose (11.22 +/- 4.33 vs 10.35 +/- 4.42 mmol/l). However, daily insulin dose and HbA1c levels were higher in the B group (59.9 +/- 18.6 vs 50.4 +/- 12.8 IU, p = 0.012; and 7.72 +/- 1.60 vs 6.96 +/- 1.27%, p = 0.025, respectively). After 3 months of treatment, the decrease in daily insulin dose was greater in the B group (8.7 +/- 10.1 vs 2.7 +/- 8.1 IU; p = 0.032), with a decrease in HbA1c (-0.73 +/- 1.74%, p = 0.026), vs no change in the P group (+0.01 +/- 1.65%, NS) and a tendency towards a greater decrease in fasting blood glucose (-1.43 +/- 5.41 vs +0.42 +/- 3.78 mmol/l respectively). Body weight and BMI were also lower in the B group (1.77 ñ 2.27 vs 0.21 ñ 2.68 kg, p = 0.013; and 0.64 +/- 0.84 vs 0.07 +/- 1.07 kg/m2, p = 0.019, respectively) in parallel with the decrease in insulin dose. Triglycerides decreased in the B group vs an increase in the P group (-0.54 +/- 2.04 vs +0.21 +/- 0.70 mmol/l p = 0.06). Total cholesterol decreased within the B group (-0.47 +/- 1.01 mmol/l; p = 0.013) and vs the P group (intergroup p = 0.006). Adverse events were reported in 11 patients in the B group vs 5 in the P group (NS), causing dropout in only one case (intercurrent illness, P group). Addition of benfluorex in obese insulin-requiring Type 2 diabetes thus enhances glycaemic control and lowers both daily insulin requirement and body weight. Benfluorex + insulin is a valid alternative for obese patients who remain poorly controlled despite insulin or who require high doses of insulin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[History and medicine: the inheritance of an age-old paradigm].
Based on inheritance of a common model of knowledge, drawing links between history and medicine represents a proposal to not abandon the contribution the past has to make when reflecting upon the current stage of scientific production in both fields. With this in mind, the present study endeavors to discuss history's and medicine's common ground and their historicity, the articulations possible between the two fields, and, lastly, the elements that should be taken into account when researching relations between them. The article proposes a network approach that will demonstrate (1) that both medical and historical studies display a narrative epistemology, used as a means of addressing specific knowledge about their objects of study and (2) that figures of language--the metaphor above all--have an important role to play in the construction and dissemination of both fields. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fluorous hydroformylation.
The application of fluorous phosphine-modified catalysts for the hydroformylation of olefins is reviewed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of free radicals and lipid peroxidation in gastric mucosal injury induced by ischemia-reperfusion in rats.
Ischemia and reperfusion are of the greatest importance in the pathology of many diseases. We investigated the roles of oxygen-derived free radicals and lipid peroxidation in gastric mucosal injury, such as spotty and linear hemorrhagic erosions, induced in rats by ischemia-reperfusion. The gastric mucosal injury and the increase in thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reactants in the gastric mucosa induced by ischemia-reperfusion were significantly inhibited by treatment with SOD and catalase. These results suggest that oxygen-derived free radicals and lipid peroxidation play important roles in the pathogenesis of acute gastric mucosal lesions induced by ischemia-reperfusion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Understanding the basis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in the era of the next-generation sequencing.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of heritable connective tissue disorders (HCTDs) defined by joint laxity, skin alterations, and joint hypermobility. The latest EDS classification recognized 13 subtypes in which the clinical and genetic phenotypes are often overlapping, making the diagnosis rather difficult and strengthening the importance of the molecular diagnostic confirmation. New genetic techniques such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) gave the opportunity to identify the genetic bases of unresolved EDS types and support clinical counseling. To date, the molecular defects have been identified in 19 genes, mainly in those encoding collagen, its modifying enzymes or other constituents of the extracellular matrix (ECM). In this review we summarize the contribution of NGS technologies to the current knowledge of the genetic background in different EDS subtypes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic strain differences in the development of peritoneal fibroproliferative processes in mice.
Fibroproliferative processes are regulated by a wide variety of tissue components and genetic factors. However, whether there are genetic differences in peritoneal fibroproliferative tissue formation, with consequent differences in response to drug treatment, is unclear. We characterize the influence of the genetic background on peritoneal fibroproliferative tissue induced by sponge implants in DBA/1, Swiss, C57BL/6, and BALB/c mouse strains. In addition, responses to dipyridamole in the implants were evaluated. Angiogenesis, assessed by intra-implant hemoglobin content, was highest in Swiss mice, whereas levels of vascular endothelial growth factor were highest in C57BL/6 mice. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and of inflammatory enzymes (myeloperoxidase- and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase) were also strain-related. The pro-fibrogenic markers transforming growth factor beta-1 and collagen were lowest in implants placed in DBA/1 mice, whereas those in C57BL/6 mice had the highest levels. Differential sensitivity to dipyridamole was also observed, with this compound being pro-angiogenic in implants placed in DBA/1 mice but antiangiogenic in implants placed in Swiss. An overall anti-inflammatory response was observed in the inbred strains. Antifibrogenic effects were observed only in implants placed in C57BL/6 mice. These important strain-related differences in the development of peritoneal fibrosis and in response to dipyridamole must be considered in the design and analysis of studies on fibrogenesis in mice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vertebroplasty for the treatment of osteoporotic compression spinal fracture: comparison of remedial action at different stages of injury.
Outstanding results have been achieved using vertebroplasty for the treatment of osteoporotic compression spinal fractures, and a number of studies have reported the results from the application of this procedure. This study compared the results of vertebroplasty used at the different stages of injury. A retrospective study reviewing the period between January 2001 and July 2001 investigated 68 patients who underwent single-level vertebroplasty: 22 patients within 2 weeks of the injury, 22 patients 2 weeks to 2 months after the injury, and 24 patients more than 2 months after the injury. Clinical evaluations compared the results of treatment at different injury stages during a mean follow-up period of 13 months. Although all the patients undergoing vertebroplasty in the acute and subacute stages reported satisfaction within 1 week of the operation, only 72.7% of the acute-stage group reported satisfaction with 24 hours of surgery. Moreover, evidence of cement leakage after vertebroplasty was detected for 27.3% of the acute-stage patients. This percentage significantly higher than for the patients in the subacute and chronic stages. Radiographic examination showed that new, adjacent compression fracture had occurred for 10.3% of the patients, with anterior interbody restabilization occurring for 11.8%. The results for vertebroplasty treatment of osteoporotic compression fractures appear to be injury stage dependent, with patients in the acute-injury stage needing longer recovery times, and with cement leakage quite common. These findings lead to the conclusion that the subacute stage is optimal for vertebroplasty. Furthermore, it is suggested that the use of spinal orthoses and postsurgical supplementation for the bone matrix reduces the risk of new, adjacent compression fractures and increases anterior interbody restabilization. Importantly, the findings suggest that a presurgical magnetic resonance imaging evaluation is an absolute necessity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Association of number of positive nodes and cervical stroma invasion with outcome of advanced endometrial cancer treated with chemotherapy or whole abdominal irradiation: a Gynecologic Oncology Group study.
To determine whether the number of positive pelvic nodes (PPN), cervical stromal involvement (CSI), and/or lymphovascular space involvement (LVSI) were prognostic factors among women with advanced endometrial carcinoma treated with adriamycin plus cisplatin (AP) or whole abdominal irradiation (WAI). Data were abstracted from records of patients treated with adjuvant WAI or AP in a GOG randomized trial. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the association of CSI and PPN with differences in PFS and OS while adjusting for treatment and previously studied factors. WAI was randomly allocated to 202 and AP to 194 eligible patients. CSI (n=93 total) was associated with a 44% increase in risk of progression and a 33% increase in risk of death. There was a trend for increasing number PPN being associated with a 7% per positive node increase in risk of progression/death. For CSI, the estimated unadjusted treatment hazard ratios (HRs) were: PFS 0.85 (0.53, 1.38); OS 0.81 (0.50, 1.33). For metastatic disease limited to a single PPN (n=25), the unadjusted HRs were: PFS 0.96 (0.34, 2.74); OS 0.73 (0.24, 2.18). The test of homogeneity of treatment effect (ie., AP vs WAI) across subgroups (CSI, number of positive pelvic nodes) was not statistically significant for either endpoint, thus supporting the superiority of chemotherapy as reported in the original manuscript. The presence of CSI and increasing number of PPN were associated with poor prognosis. On average, patients with CSI experienced improved PFS and OS when treated with AP relative to WAI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Two-dimensional electrophoresis of human urinary proteins following concentration by dye precipitation.
The use of dye precipitation for concentration of proteins prior to 2-DE has been demonstrated by application to human urine. The precipitation methods (T. Marshall and K. M. Williams, Clin. Chem. 1993, 39, 2314-2318; T. Marshall et al., Electrophoresis 1995, 16, 28-31) have been adapted for two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) by modifying the reagent composition and adding sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) to the assay mixture. These modifications extend the precipitation range of the methods and overcome the problem of soluble glycoprotein-dye complexes. The protein-dye complex is recovered by centrifugation and dissolved in a small volume of sample denaturing buffer. The dye separates from the protein on 2-DE (forming a sharp band at the anodal end of the isoelectric focusing gel) so that the positional coordinates of the polypeptides are unaffected by the treatment. Dye precipitation provides a simple, rapid and highly economic method for concentrating urines of low to intermediate protein content (0.02-0.50 g/L) prior to 2-DE analysis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Glutamine attenuates hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury in mice.
1. Glutamine is an amino acid that is used to treat various diseases. Glutamine has been reported to have protective effects in human pulmonary epithelia-like cells exposed to hyperoxia. However, the effects of glutamine in hyperoxia-induced lung injury have not been investigated in vivo. 2. Mice treated with saline or glutamine [(750 mg/kg) intravenously] were randomly exposed to hyperoxia for 48 or 72 h. Control mice treated with saline or glutamine were exposed to room air. Cytokine levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), heat shock protein (HSP) 70, the wet/dry (W/D) weight ratio, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and pathoglogical findings in lung tissue were evaluated to determine the effects of glutamine on acute lung injury. In addition, survival was monitored. 3. Lung expression of HSP70 was significantly enhanced in both the control (room air) and 48 and 72 h hyperoxic glutamine-treated mice. The W/D ratio, BALF concentrations of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6, MDA levels, MPO activity, neutrophil infiltration and interstitial oedema in lung tissue were significantly lower at 48 and 72 h of hyperoxia in glutamine-treated mice compared with saline-treated mice. 4. In a separate series of experiments evaluating survival, after 96 h continuous exposure to hyperoxia, all saline-treated mice died. In contrast, all glutamine-treated mice died after 108 h exposure to hyperoxia. 5. The data suggest that glutamine administered to mice during hyperoxia has a protective effect against hyperoxia-induced acute lung injury and improves survival. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Revascularization of the distal vertebral artery (3d segment). Indications in the treatment of vertebrobasilar insufficiency].
This article reviews 11 cases of distal revascularization of the extracranial vertebral artery above C2. Revascularization was indicated in 7 cases of extensive atheromatous stenotic or occlusive lesions, 3 cases of dissecting aneurysm, and one case of cervical malformation of the vertebral artery. The procedure of choice was a venous graft - in the C1/C2 space in 10 cases and above C1 in the eleventh. Doppler tests, ultrasound and arteriography demonstrated the patency of all the bypasses, and this was confirmed, 6 months to 3 years postoperatively, by Doppler and ultrasound. No neurological anomalies were observed either during the postoperative course or subsequently. The satisfactory results obtained would seem to justify extension of indications to include the treatment of atheromatous lesions of the supra-aortic trunks, and also adjacent vascular tumors (vertebral bone tumors, or complex cervical malformations of the vertebral artery). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transmission dynamics of two dengue serotypes with vaccination scenarios.
In this work we present a mathematical model that incorporates two Dengue serotypes. The model has been constructed to study both the epidemiological trends of the disease and conditions that allow coexistence in competing strains under vaccination. We consider two viral strains and temporary cross-immunity with one vector mosquito population. Results suggest that vaccination scenarios will not only reduce disease incidence but will also modify the transmission dynamics. Indeed, vaccination and cross immunity period are seen to decrease the frequency and magnitude of outbreaks but in a differentiated manner with specific effects depending upon the interaction vaccine and strain type. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Introducing a Gene Knockout Directly Into the Amastigote Stage of Trypanosoma cruzi Using the CRISPR/Cas9 System.
Trypanosoma cruzi is a pathogenic protozoan parasite that causes Chagas' disease mainly in Latin America. In order to identify a novel drug target against T. cruzi, it is important to validate the essentiality of the target gene in the mammalian stage of the parasite, the amastigote. Amastigotes of T. cruzi replicate inside the host cell; thus, it is difficult to conduct a knockout experiment without going through other developmental stages. Recently, our group reported a growth condition in which the amastigote can replicate axenically for up to 10 days without losing its amastigote-like properties. By using this temporal axenic amastigote culture, we successfully introduced gRNAs directly into the Cas9-expressing amastigote to cause gene knockouts and analyzed their phenotypes exclusively in the amastigote stage. In this report, we describe a detailed protocol to produce in vitro derived extracellular amastigotes, and to utilize the axenic culture in a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout experiment. The growth phenotype of knockout amastigotes can be evaluated either by cell counts of the axenic culture, or by replication of intracellular amastigote after host cell invasion. This method bypasses the parasite stage differentiation normally involved in producing a transgenic or a knockout amastigote. Utilization of the temporal axenic amastigote culture has the potential to expand the experimental freedom of stage-specific studies in T. cruzi. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Parental Vigilance in Caring for Their Children with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a complex heart malformation that requires life-saving treatments. Parents experience numerous challenges as they learn to parent a child with complex care requirements. The following research question guided this qualitative study: Is the parenting process among parents of a child with HLHS characterized by exaggerated vigilant parental action, and if so, how does this influence parental response? Situated within a larger program of pediatric cardiology research, this study included data from two grounded theory studies with parents of children with HLHS. This secondary analysis involved a thematic content analysis using sensitizing concepts of uncertainty, protectiveness, support, and mastery of complex care. Transcribed data from 55 interviews with 24 mothers and 17 fathers of young children with HLHS were analyzed for relevant and recurring themes. In mastering skills required to care for their child with HLHS, parents contrasted what was in their hands with what was out of their hands. Vigilant parental actions were evident as parents became skilled at providing complex care. Parents said they were sometimes excessive in their vigilant actions. In retrospect they viewed this vigilance as appropriate in some situations but exaggerated in other situations. Understanding parents' vigilant actions in response to their child's complex care can guide health care providers' interactions with families. Long-term follow up, both clinically and through research, is needed to assess the long-term consequences of exaggerated vigilant parental action on the child, parent, and family, and to determine and evaluate appropriate and timely intervention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Potential therapeutic use of antibodies directed towards HuIFN-gamma.
IFN-gamma is an important regulator of immune responses and inflammation. Studies in animal models of inflammation, autoimmunity, cancer, transplant rejection and delayed-type hypersensitivity have indicated that administration of antibodies against IFN-gamma can prevent the occurrence of diseases or alleviate disease manifestations. Therefore, it is speculated that such antibodies may have therapeutical efficacy in human diseases. Since animal-derived antibodies are immunogenic in patients several strategies are being developed in order to reduce or abolish this human anti-mouse antibody (HAMA) response. In our laboratory, we have constructed a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) derived from a mouse antibody with neutralizing potential for human IFN-gamma. A scFv consists of only variable domains tethered together by a flexible linker. The scFv was demonstrated to neutralize the antiviral activity of HuIFN-gamma in vitro and therefore might be considered as a candidate for human therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Simvastatin inducing PC3 prostate cancer cell necrosis mediated by calcineurin and mitochondrial dysfunction.
In the present study we analyzed the mechanisms of simvastatin toxicity for the PC3 human prostate cancer cell line. At 10 microM, simvastatin induced principally apoptosis, which was prevented by mevalonic acid but not by cyclosporin A, the inhibitor of calcineurin and mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT). At 60 microM, simvastatin induced the necrosis of PC3 cells insensitive to mevalonic acid. Cell necrosis was preceded by a threefold increase in cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration and a significant decrease in both respiration rate and mitochondrial membrane potential. Both mitochondrial dysfunction and necrosis were sensitive to the compounds cyclosporin A and bongkrekic acid, as well as the calcineurin inhibitor FK506. We have concluded that simvastatin-induced PC3 cells apoptosis is dependent on 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme-A reductase inhibition and independent of MPT, whereas necrosis is dependent on mitochondrial dysfunction caused, at least in part, by calcineurin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Excimer-monomer switch: a reaction-based approach for selective detection of fluoride.
A N-aryl-1,8-naphthalimide based sensor (ES-1) bearing a trimethylsilyl ether has been synthesized by a two-step reaction for quantitative detection of fluoride (F(-)). ES-1 exhibited monomer/excimer emissions at 410 and 524 nm respectively in CH2Cl2. In the presence of F(-), the desilylation of trimethylsilyl ether caused decay of the excimer emission as well as enhancement of the monomer emission to give a ratiometric signal. The fluoride-triggered desilylation showed a high reaction rate and high affinity to F(-) over nine other interfering anions. ES-1 provided a novel fluorescence assay based on excimer-monomer switch of N-aryl-1,8-naphthalimide to quantitatively measure F(-) with a detection limit of 0.133 ppm. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lanthanide metal-organic frameworks: searching for efficient solvent-free catalysts.
Three Ln-based 2D metal-organic frameworks with the formula [Ln(3,5-DSB)(Phen)] (Ln = La, Pr, Nd; 3,5-DSB = 3,5-disulfobenzoate; Phen = 1,10-phenathroline) were hydrothermally synthesized. They belong to two 2D structural types, and their nets own different topologies. The isostructural La and Pr compounds possess a uninodal 5-connected SP 2-periodic net (6,3). The Nd compound has a binodal 3- and 6-connected kgd net. The novel compounds exhibit excellent catalytic activities toward the cyanosilylation reaction under solvent-free conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Guillain-Barré syndrome associated with CASPR2 antibodies: two paediatric cases.
The pathogenesis of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is considered to be, at least in part, mediated by autoantibodies directed against neuronal antigens. Antibodies to contactin-associated protein-like 2 (CASPR2), part of the voltage-gated potassium channel complex (VGKC-complex), are associated with neurological disease predominantly affecting the peripheral nervous system but are not known to be associated with GBS. We report two cases of ganglioside antibody-negative paediatric GBS associated with CASPR2 antibodies. Both patients made a complete clinical recovery. The tissue distribution and function of CASPR2 make it a biologically plausible autoimmune target in GBS and its clinical relevance in GBS should be determined in further studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Selective early cardiolipin peroxidation after traumatic brain injury: an oxidative lipidomics analysis.
Enhanced lipid peroxidation is well established in traumatic brain injury. However, its molecular targets, identity of peroxidized phospholipid species, and their signaling role have not been deciphered. Using controlled cortical impact as a model of traumatic brain injury, we employed a newly developed oxidative lipidomics approach to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize the lipid peroxidation response. Electrospray ionization and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry analysis of rat cortical mitochondrial/synaptosomal fractions demonstrated the presence of highly oxidizable molecular species containing C(22:6) fatty acid residues in all major classes of phospholipids. However, the pattern of phospholipid oxidation at 3 hours after injury displayed a nonrandom character independent of abundance of oxidizable species and included only one mitochondria-specific phospholipid, cardiolipin (CL). This selective CL peroxidation was followed at 24 hours by peroxidation of other phospholipids, most prominently phosphatidylserine, but also phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. CL oxidation preceded appearance of biomarkers of apoptosis (caspase-3 activation, terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling-positivity) and oxidative stress (loss of glutathione and ascorbate). The temporal sequence combined with the recently demonstrated role of CL hydroperoxides (CL-OOH) in in vitro models of apoptosis suggest that CL-OOH may be both a key in vivo trigger of apoptotic cell death and a therapeutic target in experimental traumatic brain injury. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vascular function and arginine and dimethylarginines in gentamicin-induced renal failure: a possible effect of heme oxygenase 1 inducer hemin.
Increased oxidative stress and disturbance in nitric oxide bioavailability lead to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular complication in renal disease. Gentamicin (GM), a commonly used antibiotic, exhibits a toxic effect on renal proximal tubules. Prevention of its nephrotoxicity is important. Therefore, we investigated whether heme oxygenase 1 HO-1) induction influenced kidney and vascular function in GM-administered rats. GM (100 mg·kg-1·day-1; i.p.) was given to rats alone or together with hemin (20 mg·kg-1 on alternate days; i.p.) for 14 days. Plasma and kidney l-arginine, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) as well as kidney 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) levels and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were measured. Histopathological examinations of kidney and relaxation and contraction responses of aorta were also examined. GM increased serum SDMA, urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine levels and caused histopathological alterations in the kidney. GM elevated HO-1 protein and mRNA expressions, 4-HNE level, and MPO activity and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and l-arginine levels in the kidney. Decreased relaxation and contraction were detected in the aorta. Hemin restored renal oxidative stress and inflammatory changes together with vascular dysfunction, but did not affect SDMA, BUN, or creatinine levels. We conclude that HO-1 induction may be effective in improving renal oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction mediated by GM. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Independent lung ventilation during general anaesthesia--preliminary report].
Unitaleral lung pathology presents a serious challenge for the anaesthesiologist. Conventional ventilation usually leads to over distension of the non-affected lung and hypoventilation of the affected lung. The optimal ventilatory strategy in such situations, is intubation with a double lumen tube and independent lung ventilation with two respirators. This is expensive and difficult, especially in an operating room. A novel approach to this problem is based on the use of a single ventilator with a volume splitter, which enables the independent ventilation of each lung, with the same frequency but different volumes, I:E ratios and PEEPs. We used the splitter in thirty-four patients, of both sexes, aged 19-78 years, and scheduled for elective thoracic surgery. All patients were intubated with a double lumen tube and ventilated in the supine and lateral positions with and without the splitter. When the lateral position was used, the volume delivered by the ventilator was split equally to each lung. In the lateral position, without the splitter, the distribution of gas delivered by the ventilator was unequal: the dependent lung receiving 47.4 +/- 6.8% of the total volume, and the non-dependent lung receiving 52.6 +/- 6.8%. When the splitter was used, both lungs were ventilated with equal volumes. All patients were cardiovasculary stable. A novel method of ventilation during anaesthesia is described, opening up new possibilities for thoracic anaesthesia that allows easy and atraumatic independent lung ventilation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neurohormones and heart failure: the importance of aldosterone.
Heart failure is a major cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and its incidence is on the increase. The pathophysiology of heart failure is multi-factorial but recent studies suggest that aldosterone plays an important and independent role in its progression. Emerging evidence now suggests that aldosterone exerts renal-independent effects. It binds to its mineralocorticoid receptor to produce direct effects on the myocardium and vasculature, leading to damaging processes such as hypertrophy, necrosis, fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction, factors known to contribute to the pathophysiology of heart failure. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists have thus emerged as a new paradigm for the treatment of heart failure. The benefits of these agents on both morbidity and mortality when used in patients with chronic symptomatic heart failure have been demonstrated by recent trials. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Adult post-traumatic stress disorder: screening and treating in primary care.
Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affect patients' physical health and daily functioning. Primary care physicians should remember to screen for trauma history and symptoms of PTSD when patients present with somatization, chronic pain, or other unexplained symptoms. Perceived loss of control, including physical examinations and procedures, may be frightening, and physicians should ask the patient's permission before touching them. Patients who have PTSD benefit from treatment, including both psychopharmacology (primarily selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and psychotherapy. Finally, hearing patients' stories of trauma and exposure to very sick patients can be traumatizing for physicians, who are encouraged to actively engage in self-care activities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Expression of PEA3 and lack of correlation between PEA3 and HER-2/neu expression in breast cancer.
The ETS protein PEA3 functions as a transcription factor to regulate gene expression. Although members of the ETS family have been reported to be involved in tumor progression, ectopic expression of PEA3 has been shown to suppress tumor formation. Despite several studies demonstrated frequent expression of PEA3 and its high association with HER-2/neu and have suggested a potential role of PEA3 in breast cancer, contradictory result has shown that the PEA3 was associated with better survival rate in breast cancer. In the current study, we address this discrepancy by examining the expression of PEA3 and HER-2/neu on 289 archived breast cancer tumor tissues and their correlation with clinicopathologic factors and prognosis. The staining of PEA3 was further validated by in situ hybridization for PEA3 mRNA. We found PEA3 was positive in 22.2% (64/289) of all cases and only 25.6% (21/82) of HER-2/neu-overexpressing cases showed co-expression of PEA3. In contrast to HER-2/neu, PEA3 expression was not correlated with prognosis or major clinicopathologic factors, except for a negative correlation with lymphovascular permeation ( p=0.007). This study demonstrates that PEA3 expression is not correlated with HER-2/neu expression in breast cancer tumor tissues, nor is it associated with adverse clinicopathologic factors or prognosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Peptide deformylase inhibitors with non-peptide scaffold: synthesis and structure-activity relationships.
Peptide deformylase (PDF), which removes the formyl group at the N-terminal methionine residue of nascent protein, has been recognized as a potent target for antibacterial therapy. We report herein the synthesis and structure-activity relationship studies of non-peptide PDF inhibitors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Proclamation No. 214, 3 February 1988.
This Proclamation declares the second week of February 1988 and every year thereafter as Respect and Care for Life Week. The text of the Proclamation, including its preamble, is as follows: "Whereas, the UN Declaration on Rights of the Child provides that 'the Child, by reason of his physical and mental immaturity, needs special safeguards and care, including appropriate legal protection, before as well as after birth'; Whereas, Section 12, Article 2 of the Constitution provides that it is the policy of the State to 'protect the life of the mother and the life of the unborn from conception'; Whereas, available statistics detail the frightening losses of innocent human lives by abortion; and Whereas, in pursuance of the above constitutional mandate and in support of the UN universal declaration and in order to instill the same, as well as the value and sacredness of human life, in the minds and hearts of the Filipino people and thereby help reverse the above statistical trend, it becomes imperative to set aside a period of time for them to ponder and focus attention on their moral and constitutional obligations to protect human life or one's inherent right to life; Now, Therefore, I, Corazon C. Aquino, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare the second week of February 1988 and every year thereafter as "Respect and Care for Life Week" under the auspices of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Pro-Life Philippines, and other involved entities or organization[s]." | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of acupuncture on the levels of endothelin, TXB2, and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha in apoplexy patients.
In order to delve into the mechanism governing the treatment of apoplexy by acupuncture at yangming channel points as main points, we observed the changes in the endothelin (ET) level in plasma, TXB2 and 6-Keto-PGF1 alpha levels in urine in convalescent apoplexy patients during acupuncture treatment. The results showed that the ET level in plasma in convalescent apoplexy patients was significantly higher than that in healthy subjects (P < 0.05), and the ET level in plasma in patients was decreased after one course of acupuncture treatment. It was found that before treatment the TXB2 level in urine in apoplexy patients was significantly higher than in healthy subjects, and the 6-Keto-PGF1 alpha level in urine in the patients was significantly lower than that in healthy subjects, with an increased ratio of TXB2 to 6-Keto-PGF1 alpha. After acupuncture treatment, the TXB2 level in urine was lowered with a decrease in the ratio of TXB2 to 6-Keto-PGF1 alpha. All this indicated that one of the mechanisms governing acupuncture treatment of apoplexy acupuncture at yangming channel points as main points was that acupuncture could produce therapeutic effects by adjusting the imbalance of important vaso-active substances, ET, TXA2, and PGI2. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical and epidemiological significance of species identification of coagulase-negative staphylococci in a microbiological laboratory.
Although coagulase-negative staphylococci have been implicated in certain human infections, they are generally regarded as contaminants and their clinical significance has been questioned. To assess their role as pathogens, we studied 203 isolates of coagulase-negative staphylococci cultured from blood, wounds, body fluids (pleural, peritoneal and cerebrospinal), urine, and catheter tips. Patients' charts were reviewed and the clinical significance of these isolates was determined. Staphylococcus epidermidis accounted for 48% of isolates, S. hemolyticus for 33%, and other species (including S. capitis, S. hominis, S. warneri, S. cohnii, S. simulans, S. xylosus and S. saprophyticus) for the remaining 19%. There was no correlation between the pathogenicity and the species isolated, the source it was isolated from, or the pattern of antibiotic susceptibility. These observations suggest that identification of coagulase-negative staphylococcal species may be of limited value in predicting clinical significance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Biomechanical analysis through numerical simulation of rupture of the tibial posterior tendon in valgus flat foot: a cadeveric study].
The insufficiency of the posterior tibial tendon is the most common acquired cause of pain related to valgus flatfoot deformity in adults. The acquired flatfoot adult is a very painful symptomatic deformity resulting from a gradual stretching (attenuation) of the posterior tibial tendon and ligaments that support the arch of the foot. The progressive pain acquired flatfoot adult affects four times more women than men. Some factors that contribute to increased risk of acquired flatfoot in adults, are diabetes, hypertension and obesity. It is thought that the combination of the following events is the cause of acquired flatfoot adult. Johnson Strom classification modified by Mayerson evaluates in 4 stages. This study was divided into 3 stages: Stage 1: Dissection and three-dimensional analysis of the tendon, Step 2: Application of tools bioengineering to determine the causes of rupture of the tibial tendon: Stage 3: Evaluation of 24 patients with flatfoot disease valgus for describe the deformity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Epstein-Barr virus related central nervous system lymphoma in a child after renal transplantation.
In this report, we describe the development of a rapidly progressive Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) related cerebral lymphoma in an 11 year old girl, eight months after renal transplantation. No serological evidence for a persistent EBV infection was found, but Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA) could be demonstrated in the tumor. The clinical course of our patient was different from EBV-related syndromes in renal transplanted patients described in previous reports. Furthermore, pathological investigations of the biopsy specimen and tumor cells obtained at necropsy revealed a discrepancy in light chain expression. The possibility that lymphoproliferative disorders represent multiclonal B cell lymphomas is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Rapid changes in metabolic cold defense and GDP binding to brown adipose tissue mitochondria of rat pups.
To determine developmental changes of brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenic activity at defined circadian and thermal states, we evaluated the time course of cold-induced increases of in vitro guanosine 5'-diphosphate (GDP) binding in parallel with whole body metabolism (oxygen consumption, VO2) and core temperature (Tc) in 1- to 11-day-old rat pups. During the maximum phase of the juvenile diurnal cycle, Tc of littermates was recorded continuously and VO2 alternately until 2 min before animals were killed for removal of interscapular BAT. GDP binding after 1.5 h at thermoneutrality and its increase during physiologically comparable cold loads were significantly lower in 1-day-old pups than in 5- and 11-day-old pups. Cold defense was activated more rapidly in the older pups, but GDP binding in even the 1-day-old pups was significantly increased during the second 10-min period of cold exposure. We conclude that rapid changes in thermogenic activity, in connection with the known developmental changes in the dependence of the suckling rat's metabolic cold defense on maternal and sibling contact and circadian phase, will distort longitudinal studies of any fast-changing BAT parameter when the conditions immediately before tissue removal are not thoroughly controlled. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Obliteration of a coronary artery aneurysm with a PTFE-covered stent: endoluminal graft for coronary disease revisited.
This is the first reported use of the JOSTENT stent graft for aneurysm disease in native coronaries. Consideration can be given to using this polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-covered stent in situations such as dissections and restenosis in saphenous vein grafts or in long native coronary arteries without side branches, though further investigation is warranted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of selection for postweaning gain on testicular function in mice.
Changes in testicular and epididymal function and selected endocrine organ size were examined in a line of mice selected for rapid postweaning gain (M16) and in reciprocal crosses with an unselected pedigree control line (ICR). The larger body weight of the M16 line was accompanied by larger testes, epididymides, seminal vesicle, pituitary, thyroid and adrenal weights (P smaller than .01) although the testes, epididymides, seminal vesicle and adrenal weights of M16 mice, expressed per gram body weight, actually decreased (P smaller than .01) relative to the ICR line. Testicular and epididymal sperm reserves were higher in M16 mice but the difference was not significant. However, when adjusted for gland size, testicular and epididymal sperm reserves were lower in the M16 line (P smaller than .01). Absolute and relative weights of testes, epididymides and pituitary were larger (P smaller than .01) in M16 male times ICR female crosses than in ICR male times M16 female crosses. Although testicular and epididymal sperm reserves were higher in M16 male times ICR female males the reciprocal difference was significant only for testicular sperm (P smaller than .05). Heterotic effects were significant for both absolute and relative weights of testes, epididymides (P smaller than.01), pituitary (P smaller than .05) and relative weight of siminal vesicles (P smaller than .05). Although percent heterosis was 8.5 for testicular and epididymal sperm reserves, significant heterotic effects were found only for epididymal sperm (P smaller than .05). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Subarachnoid hemorrhage without detectable aneurysm. A review of the causes.
In 15% to 20% of patients with a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage, no aneurysm is found on the first angiogram. This review emphasizes that this group of patients is in fact heterogeneous and describes the clinical features, pattern of hemorrhage on early computed tomographic (CT) scan, prognosis, and proposed management in the several and distinct subsets of these patients. Patients in whom no aneurysm is revealed on the initial angiogram can be subdivided mainly according to the pattern of hemorrhage on an early CT scan. In two thirds of these patients the CT scan shows a perimesencephalic pattern of hemorrhage (ie, blood confined to the cisterns around the midbrain); these patients invariably have a good prognosis, which obviates the need for a second angiogram. Patients with diffuse or anteriorly located blood on CT scan are at risk of rebleeding. In most of these patients the source of hemorrhage is an occult aneurysm, but intracranial artery dissections, dural arteriovenous malformations, mycotic aneurysms, trauma, bleeding disorders, substance abuse, or a cervical origin of the hemorrhage should also be considered. Patients with no blood revealed on an early CT scan but with xanthochromic cerebrospinal fluid are extremely rare. These patients deserve a second reading of the scan for blood in the prepontine cistern, which can be the only site of hemorrhage in perimesencephalic hemorrhage. The prognosis and management of patients in whom no aneurysm is found on the initial angiogram depends on the pattern of hemorrhage on the initial CT scan. Patients should no longer be designated with the umbrella term "angiogram-negative subarachnoid hemorrhage." | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Blood rheology and oxygen uptake.
Continuously measured oxygen uptake during constant work exercise (15' 50W) reveals increasing oxygen consumption in individuals with elevated blood viscosity parameters, indicating persistent contribution of anaerobic glycolysis during steady state exercise far below expected "anaerobic threshold". Improvement of viscosity parameters by prostaglandin E1--infusion (Prostavasin) 40 micrograms i.v., naftidrofurylhydrogenoxalat (Dusodril pi) 400 mg i.v. or hemodilution with 500 ml 6% hydroxyethylamylum MW 40000 (Onkohaes) in 5 patients results in significant reduction of this oxygen gradient in subsequent exercise test. Integrated VO2 during exercise above the mean value at rest or the quotient of VO2 during 15 min by VO2 during 30 min (including recovery time) are not differing significantly due to high variations inter- and intraindividually. Oxygen gradient during submaximal constant exercise permits direct clinical determination of microcirculatory performance in involved muscle tissue as a function of blood viscosity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fear during labor.
The aims of the present study were to compare primiparous and multiparous women's experiences of fear of delivery during an early stage of active labor (cervix dilatation 3-5 centimeters) and to study whether fear of delivery, measured during the early stage of active labor, was a predictor of the amount of pain relief received during the remaining part of labor (cervix dilatation 5 cm - partus), of the duration of the remaining part of labor, and of the occurrence of instrumental vaginal delivery and emergency cesarean section. Thirty-five primiparous and 39 multiparous women answered the Delivery Fear Scale (DFS) once during the early stage of labor and before they had received any pain relief. Primiparous women reported higher levels of fear than multiparous women did. Fear during the first phase of labor predicted only the total amount of pain relief received during labor. The clinical implications of the study are that the delivery staff should consider women's fear during labor and pay attention especially to primiparous women's increased risk of higher levels of fear during an early stage of active labor, as compared with multiparous women's. The challenge for staff of a delivery ward is to support the woman in labor in a way that decreases fear, which in turn might reduce the woman's need of pain relief. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Toxic anterior segment syndrome following penetrating keratoplasty.
To describe an outbreak of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS) following penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and to examine its possible causes. Owing to a series of TASS following PK between June 6, 2007, and October 2, 2007, we reviewed the records of all patients who had undergone PK during that time. In addition to routine microbial tests on organ culture media, we looked for specific pathogens and endotoxins in all of the materials used for organ culture or PK. Furthermore, we analyzed all of the perioperative products and instrument processing. Of the 94 patients who underwent PK, we observed 24 cases of postoperative sterile keratitis. Causal research revealed that the accumulation of cleaning substances or heat-stable endotoxins on the surface of the routinely used guided trephine system was most likely responsible for the TASS. To our knowledge, this is the first report on TASS following PK. Suboptimal reprocessing of surgical instruments may be an important cause of TASS as in this series the TASS-like symptoms resolved after modified instrument-cleaning procedures. The standardization of protocols for processing reusable trephine systems might prevent outbreaks of TASS following PK. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Therapeutic bath and Alzheimer's disease].
To safeguard the quality of life of people suffering from Alzheimer's by the creation of an individual care plan, by identifying pleasurable activities or fond memories of the individual, thereby restoring a sense of present well being. The therapeutic bath, an action which might be considered somewhat straightforward, in fact enables the measurement of the capability of an elderly person to respond to stimulation by medical staff. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Plasma aldosterone and cortisol levels in experimental acute renal failure.
Deranged adrenal cortical function was previously described in different stress situations. The aim of this work was to study the plasma cortisol and aldosterone levels in acute renal failure induced by the uranyl nitrate injection or bilateral ureteral ligation. In both groups of uremic dogs on the first day of uremia there was a significant elevation of the plasma cortisol level, being more pronounced and lasting longer after bilateral ureteral ligation. In sham operated controls a modest elevation was recorded. The plasma aldosterone level rose significantly from the first day in both groups of uremic animals. A further progressive elevation continued the following days and a highly elevated aldosterone levels remained until the end of the experiments. A minor but significant elevation of plasma aldosterone was also found in sham operated controls. This study has established increased plasma cortisol and aldosterone levels attributable to the operative stress and failing kidney function in acute uremia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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