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The adjustment of cost measurement to account for learning.
This note discusses the adjustment of cost measurement to account for learning. By learning is meant improvements in productive efficiency resulting from use of a (health) technology in routine practice. A recently proposed method is shown to be potentially misleading. Alternatively, it is suggested that the total cost is decomposed in treatment cost and learning cost. Furthermore, if there is uncertainty about the long-run unit cost, learning will reveal the true cost. A method to adjust the learning cost for the value of this information is illustrated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A maximum likelihood method for secondary analysis of nested case-control data.
Many epidemiological studies use a nested case-control (NCC) design to reduce cost while maintaining study power. Because NCC sampling is conditional on the primary outcome, routine application of logistic regression to analyze a secondary outcome will generally be biased. Recently, many studies have proposed several methods to obtain unbiased estimates of risk for a secondary outcome from NCC data. Two common features of all current methods requires that the times of onset of the secondary outcome are known for cohort members not selected into the NCC study and the hazards of the two outcomes are conditionally independent given the available covariates. This last assumption will not be plausible when the individual frailty of study subjects is not captured by the measured covariates. We provide a maximum-likelihood method that explicitly models the individual frailties and also avoids the need to have access to the full cohort data. We derive the likelihood contribution by respecting the original sampling procedure with respect to the primary outcome. We use proportional hazard models for the individual hazards, and Clayton's copula is used to model additional dependence between primary and secondary outcomes beyond that explained by the measured risk factors. We show that the proposed method is more efficient than weighted likelihood and is unbiased in the presence of shared frailty for the primary and secondary outcome. We illustrate the method with an application to a study of risk factors for diabetes in a Swedish cohort. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Total synthesis of (-)-anisatin.
A novel synthetic route to (-)-anisatin has been developed. Our synthesis features a rhodium-catalyzed 1,4-addition of an arylboronic acid, an intramolecular Diels-Alder reaction of an ortho-quinone monoketal, a stereoselective [2,3]-Wittig rearrangement, and construction of the oxabicyclo [3.3.1] skeleton via cleavage of an epoxide by a primary amide. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pulmonary aspergillosis: an alternative diagnosis to lung cancer after positive [18F]FDG positron emission tomography.
[(18)F]Fluorodexyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) scans have significantly improved the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer, but false-positive scans are known to occur due to inflammatory and infectious diseases. Recognition of the conditions leading to false-positive scans is important. Single or multiple pulmonary nodules, with or without cavitation, are classical findings in acute and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Clinical features of pulmonary aspergillosis are very similar to those of lung cancer. This report highlights pulmonary aspergillosis as an alternative diagnosis to lung cancer in patients with positive [(18)F]FDG PET scans and the need to strive for presurgical histological diagnosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of carvedilol on the prevention of nitrate tolerance in patients with chronic heart failure.
This study was designed to evaluate the effect of carvedilol on nitrate tolerance in patients with chronic heart failure. The attenuation of cyclic guanosine 5'-monophosphate (cGMP) production due to inactivation of guanylate cyclase by increased superoxide has been reported as a mechanism of nitrate tolerance. Carvedilol has been known to combine alpha/beta-blockade with antioxidant properties. To evaluate the effect of carvedilol on nitrate tolerance, 40 patients with chronic heart failure were randomized to four groups that received either carvedilol (2.5 mg once a day [carvedilol group, n=10]), metoprolol (30 mg once a day [metoprolol group, n=10]), doxazosin (0.5 mg once a day [doxazosin group, n=10]) or placebo (placebo group, n=10). Vasodilatory response to nitroglycerin (NTG) was assessed with forearm plethysmography by measuring the change in forearm blood flow (FBF) before and 5 min after sublingual administration of 0.3 mg NTG, and at the same time blood samples were taken from veins on the opposite side to measure platelet cGMP. Plethysmography and blood sampling were obtained serially at baseline (day 0); 3 days after carvedilol, metoprolol, doxazosin or placebo administration (day 3); and 3 days after application of a 10-mg/24-h NTG tape concomitantly with carvedilol, metoprolol, doxazosin or placebo (day 6). There was no significant difference in the response of FBF (%FBF) and cGMP (%cGMP) to sublingual NTG on day 0 and day 3 among the four groups. On day 6, %FBF and %cGMP were significantly lower in the metoprolol, doxazosin and placebo groups than on day 0 and day 3, but these parameters in the carvedilol group were maintained. These results indicated that carvedilol may prevent nitrate tolerance in patients with chronic heart failure during continuous therapy with NTG. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of esCCO and transthoracic echocardiography for non-invasive measurement of cardiac output intensive care.
The esCCO monitor (ECG- estimated Continuous Cardiac Output, Nihon Kohden(®)) is a new non-invasive tool for estimating cardiac output (CO). It derives CO from the pulse wave transit time (PWTT) estimated by the ECG and the plethysmographic wave. An initial calibration is needed to refine the relation linking pulse pressure (measured by arterial pressure cuff) to PWTT. To assess the accuracy and reliability of the esCCO system, we performed an analysis of agreement of CO values obtained by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). Thirty-eight intensive care unit patients were prospectively included. CO was determined simultaneously using esCCO (CO(esCCO)) and TTE (CO(TTE)) as our reference method. A total of 103 paired readings from 38 patients were collected. The correlation coefficient between CO(esCCO) and CO(TTE) was 0.61 (P<0.001). The Bland and Altman analysis corrected for repeated measures showed a bias of -1.6 litre min(-1) and limits of agreement from -4.7 to +1.5 litre min(-1), with a percentage error (2 sd/mean CO) of 49%. The correlation for CO changes was significant (R=0.63, P<0.001), but the concordance rate was poor (73%). Polar plot analysis showed an angular bias of -9° with radial limits of agreement from -54° to +36°. The bias appeared to correlate with systemic vascular resistance (R=-0.45, P<0.001). In critically ill patients, the performance of the esCCO monitor was not clinically acceptable, and this monitor cannot be recommended in this setting. Moreover, the esCCO failed to trend CO data reliably. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Study of the carbohydrate component of cathepsin D].
A content of neutral sugars and N-acetyl-glucosamine in homogeneous cathepsin D preparations from a variety of vertebrate organs was determined. A more detailed study of the carbohydrate component was carried out with chicken liver cathepsin D preparation. It was shown that carbohydrates constitute 20% of the molecule of this cathepsin and contain glucosamine (11.6%) and mannose (10%). Removal of the major portion of the carbohydrates by treatment with mixture of glycosidases did not lead to any significant decrease of biological activity. This finding suggests that the carbohydrate component is not essential for the biological activity of the enzyme. Analysis of distribution of carbohydrates in the peptides of the trypsin hydrolyzate of cathepsin D allows conclusion that the enzyme molecule has several carbohydrate chains attached to different sites of the molecule. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Predictors of referral for specialized psychosocial oncology care in patients with metastatic cancer: the contributions of age, distress, and marital status.
This study examines the rate and prediction of referral for specialized psychosocial oncology care in 326 patients with metastatic GI or lung cancer. Referral information was abstracted from medical records and hospital databases. Patients completed measures of psychosocial and physical distress and functioning. Routine referral occurred in 33% of patients, and in 42% and 44%, respectively, of those scoring high on measures of depression (Beck Depression Inventory [BDI]-II >or= 15) and hopelessness (Beck Hopelessness Scale >or= 8). Univariate analyses indicated that referral was associated with younger age, unmarried status, living alone, presence of more depressive symptoms, hopelessness, and attachment anxiety, and with less social support, self-esteem, and spiritual well-being (all P < .05). Among the significantly depressed (BDI-II >or= 15), 100% of those less than 40 years of age, but only 22% of those age 70 years or older were referred. Multivariate analyses indicated that referral was associated with younger age, unmarried status, and presence of more depressive symptoms. Moreover, increasing age was associated with a progressively lower likelihood of referral independent of the level of distress. Routine referral of patients with metastatic cancer for psychosocial oncology care was predicted by presence of more severe depressive symptoms, younger age, and unmarried status. The rate of referral progressively declined with each decade of age, even among those with significant distress. These findings are consistent with some aspects of Andersen's model of health care utilization. The extent to which referred patients represent those who are most likely to benefit deserves further investigation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Unhealthy habits and practice of physical activity in Spanish college students: the role of gender, academic profile and living situation.
The aim of this study is to identify personal factors associated with drugs use and the practice of physical activity in a college student population in northwest Spain. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and April 2010 using a self-administered questionnaire including questions concerning gender, age, course and year of study, living arrangements and work. Participants were asked also about current tobacco use, alcohol drinking and heavy episodic drinking, illegal drugs use, and frequency of physical activity. Prevalences were calculated and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to calculate separate models for the different habits making adjustments for the demographic variables. Most of students consumed alcohol (78.3%), with 31.7% consuming tobacco and 34% having used illegal drugs at some point. The prevalence of sufficient physical activity was about 22.7% and it was clearly lower in women and in courses no linked with sports. Women have been lesser consumers of illegal drugs and alcohol. However, heavy episodic drinking is clearly associated with women. Living with friends was noticed as a risk factor, both for tobacco use and the consumption of alcohol and illegal drugs, when compared with living at home. Courses of study connected with sport, health and education showed a lower prevalence of drug uses than the other courses analysed. Since distribution of drug use and insufficient physical activity depending on gender, living arrangement and the course of study, it would be appropriate to design more efficient interventions of health promotion take these differences into account. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Inter- and intra-laboratory variability in rat growth assays for estimating protein quality of foods.
Protein efficiency ratio (PER), relative PER (RPER), net protein ratio (NPR), relative NPR (RNPR), and nitrogen utilization (NU) methods were investigated in an interlaboratory rat growth study. Six collaborating laboratories studied 7 protein sources (ANRC casein; minced beef; soya assay protein, SAP; pea flour; whole wheat flour, WW; rapeseed protein concentrate, RPC; and egg white solids, EW), and their 10 supplementary or complementary mixtures (casein + Met, SAP + Met, pea flour + Met, WW + Lys, WW + casein, WW + beef, WW + SAP, WW + pea flour, WW + RPC, WW + EW). Test protein(s) were added at the 8% level (N X 6.25). Casein + Met was used as the reference protein. Interlaboratory variation (estimated as between-laboratories coefficients of variation) of PER (up to 17.2%) was greater than that of RPER (up to 14.9%), NU (up to 9.5%), NPR (up to 7.0%), and RNPR, which had the lowest variability (up to 4.7%). In most cases, intralaboratory variation (estimated as within-laboratories coefficients of variation) for all the methods was less than 5%. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Superficial doses from serial tomotherapy delivery.
Serial tomotherapy patients are treated using a commercial computer-controlled treatment planning and delivery system and a linear accelerator in arc mode. Target volumes are irradiated using sequential 1.68-cm-thick slices with the patient moved between each successive slice delivery. Due to the method of delivery, superficial doses from a course of intensity modulated radiation therapy may be significantly different from doses delivered with conventional radiation therapy. An experimental investigation was conducted to determine the superficial depth-dose distribution for geometric target volumes. Treatment plans were conducted for 5-cm-diam, 5-cm-long right cylindrical target volumes embedded in a 16-cm-diam, 12-cm-long water-equivalent cylindrical phantom. Three experiments were conducted with centrally located, off-centered, and superficial targets. Doses at superficial depths were measured using 3 x 3 x 1 mm3 thermoluminescent dosimetry chips. For all three targets, the measured doses were slightly greater than the calculated doses. Doses measured in the buildup region for the superficial target indicated that bolus would be required to provide the prescribed dose at the phantom surface. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cerebral infarct in apparent transient ischemic attack.
Fifty-seven patients with transient ischemic attacks in the carotid territory had CTs 3 to 28 days after the last episode. Sixteen (28%) showed an infarct appropriate to the symptoms. Infarcts were more likely with longer mean duration of attacks, longer duration of the longest attack, longer total duration of symptoms, and smaller number of attacks. Age, sex, type and extent of hemisphere symptoms, and vascular risk factors had no influence. If attacks lasted more than 45 to 60 minutes, the risk of infarction was more than 80%; most were actually infarcts. So-called TIAs included two subgroups, true TIA and CITS (cerebral infarction with transient signs), which corresponded respectively to a short (mean, 21 minutes) or long (mean, 6 hours) duration of attack. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Localization of the renal cortical imaging agent 99mTc-Sn-DMSA in the bowel.
Renal imaging in 2 patients with severe renal disease (serum creatinine greater than 10 mg/dl) showed deposition of 99mTc-Sn-DMSA in the bowel. Like 203 Hg-chlormerodrin, this radionuclide may be associated with a hepatobiliary excretory mechanism in patients with renal impairment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Production of isoamyl acetate in ackA-pta and/or ldh mutants of Escherichia coli with overexpression of yeast ATF2.
The gene coding for alcohol acetyltransferase ( ATF2), which catalyzes the esterification of isoamyl alcohol and acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA), was cloned from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and expressed in Escherichia coli. This genetically engineered strain of E. coli produced the ester isoamyl acetate when isoamyl alcohol was added externally to the cell culture medium. Various competing pathways at the acetyl-CoA node were inactivated to increase the intracellular acetyl-CoA pool and divert more carbon flux to the ester synthesis pathway. Several strains with deletions in the ackA-pta and/or ldh pathways and bearing the ATF2 on a high-copy-number plasmid were constructed and studied. Compared to the wild-type, ackA-pta and nuo mutants produced higher amounts of ester and an ackA-pta-ldh-nuo mutant lower amounts. Isoamyl acetate production correlated well with intracellular coenzyme A (CoA) and acetyl-CoA levels. The ackA-pta-nuo mutant had the highest intracellular CoA/acetyl-CoA level and hence produced the highest amount of ester (1.75 mM) during the growth phase under oxic conditions and during the production phase under anoxic conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Solution-Processable Superatomic Thin-Films.
Atomically precise nanoscale clusters could assemble into crystalline ionic crystals akin to the atomic ionic solids through the strong electrostatic interactions between the constituent clusters. Here we show that, unlike atomic ionic solids, the electrostatic interactions between nanoscale clusters could be frustrated by using large clusters with long and flexible side-chains so that the ionic cluster pairs do not crystallize. As such, we report ionic superatomic materials that can be easily solution-processed into completely amorphous and homogeneous thin-films. These new amorphous superatomic materials show tunable compositions and new properties that are not achievable in crystals, including very high electrical conductivities of up to 300 S per meter, ultra low thermal conductivities of 0.05 W per meter per degree kelvin, and high optical transparency of up to 92%. We also demonstrate thin-film thermoelectrics with unoptimized ZT values of 0.02 based on the superatomic thin-films. Such properties are competitive to state-of-the-art materials and make superatomic materials promising as a new class of electronic and thermoelectric materials for devices. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pressure-controlled versus volume-controlled ventilation: does it matter?
Volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) and pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) are not different ventilatory modes, but are different control variables within a mode. Just as the debate over the optimal ventilatory mode continues, so too does the debate over the optimal control variable. VCV offers the safety of a pre-set tidal volume and minute ventilation but requires the clinician to appropriately set the inspiratory flow, flow waveform, and inspiratory time. During VCV, airway pressure increases in response to reduced compliance, increased resistance, or active exhalation and may increase the risk of ventilator-induced lung injury. PCV, by design, limits the maximum airway pressure delivered to the lung, but may result in variable tidal and minute volume. During PCV the clinician should titrate the inspiratory pressure to the measured tidal volume, but the inspiratory flow and flow waveform are determined by the ventilator as it attempts to maintain a square inspiratory pressure profile. Most studies comparing the effects of VCV and PCV were not well controlled or designed and offer little to our understanding of when and how to use each control variable. Any benefit associated with PCV with respect to ventilatory variables and gas exchange probably results from the associated decelerating-flow waveform available during VCV on many ventilators. Further, the beneficial characteristics of both VCV and PCV may be combined in so-called dual-control modes, which are volume-targeted, pressure-limited, and time-cycled. PCV offers no advantage over VCV in patients who are not breathing spontaneously, especially when decelerating flow is available during VCV. PCV may offer lower work of breathing and improved comfort for patients with increased and variable respiratory demand. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of basic fibroblast growth factor on left ventricular geometry in rats subjected to coronary occlusion and reperfusion.
Previous studies have demonstrated myocardial salvage by basic fibroblast growth factor administration following chronic myocardial ischemia or acute myocardial infarction. To study the effect of bFGF on left ventricular morphometry following coronary occlusion and reperfusion episode in rats. bFGF (0.5 mg) or placebo was continuously administered for a period of one week using an implanted osmotic pump. Animals were sacrificed 6 weeks after surgery and myocardial cross-sections were stained with Massontrichrome and with anti-proliferating cell nuclear antigen antibody. LV area, LV cavity diameter, LV cavity/wall thickness ratio, and injury size were unchanged compared with control animals. Proliferating endothelial cells were significantly more abundant in injured compared with normal myocardium, but with no differences between animals treated or not treated with bFGF. One week of systemic bFGF administration following coronary occlusion and reperfusion had no additional effect on LV geometry or cellular proliferation in rats. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Drought-tolerant Streptomyces pactum Act12 assist phytoremediation of cadmium-contaminated soil by Amaranthus hypochondriacus: great potential application in arid/semi-arid areas.
Microbe-assisted phytoremediation provides an effective approach to clean up heavy metal-contaminated soils. However, severe drought may affect the function of microbes in arid/semi-arid areas. Streptomyces pactum Act12 is a drought-tolerant soil actinomycete strain isolated from an extreme environment on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China. In this study, pot experiments were conducted to assess the effect of Act12 on Cd tolerance, uptake, and accumulation in amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) under water deficit. Inoculated plants had higher Cd concentrations (root 8.7-33.9 %; shoot 53.2-102.1 %) and uptake (root 19.9-95.3 %; shoot 110.6-170.1 %) than non-inoculated controls in Cd-treated soil. The translocation factor of Cd from roots to shoots was increased by 14.2-75 % in inoculated plants, while the bioconcentration factor of Cd in roots and shoots was increased by 10.2-64.4 and 53.9-114.8 %, respectively. Moreover, inoculation with Act12 increased plant height, root length, and shoot biomass of amaranth in Cd-treated soil compared to non-inoculated controls. Physiochemical analysis revealed that Act12 enhanced Cd tolerance in the plants by increasing glutathione, elevating superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, as well as reducing malondialdehyde content in the leaves. The drought-tolerant actinomycete strain Act12 can enhance the phytoremediation efficiency of amaranth for Cd-contaminated soils under water deficit, exhibiting potential for application in arid and semi-arid areas. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Kefir Peptides Prevent Hyperlipidemia and Obesity in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obese Rats via Lipid Metabolism Modulation.
Obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. Obesity is a complex metabolic disorder that is linked to numerous serious health complications with high morbidity. The present study evaluated the effects of kefir peptides on high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in rats. Kefir peptides markedly improved obesity, including body weight gain, inflammatory reactions and the formation of adipose tissue fat deposits around the epididymis and kidney, and adipocyte size. Treating high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats with kefir peptides significantly reduced the fatty acid synthase protein and increased the p-acetyl-CoA carboxylase protein to block lipogenesis in the livers. Kefir peptides also increased fatty acid oxidation by increasing the protein expressions of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α, and hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 in the livers. In addition, administration of kefir peptides significantly decreased the inflammatory response (TNF-α, IL-1β, and TGF-β) to modulate oxidative damage. These results demonstrate that kefir peptides treatment improves obesity via inhibition of lipogenesis, modulation of oxidative damage, and stimulation of lipid oxidation. Therefore, kefir peptides may act as an anti-obesity agent to prevent body fat accumulation and obesity-related metabolic diseases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Quality control for sampling of PCDD/PCDF emissions from open combustion sources.
Both long duration (>6h) and high temperature (up to 139°C) sampling efforts were conducted using ambient air sampling methods to determine if either high volume throughput or higher than ambient air sampling temperatures resulted in loss of target polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDDs/PCDFs) from a polyurethane foam (PUF) sorbent. Emissions from open burning of simulated military forward operating base waste were sampled using EPA Method TO-9A for 185 min duration using a filter/PUF/PUF in series combination. After a 54 m(3) sample was collected, the sampler was removed from the combustion source and the second PUF was replaced with a fresh, clean PUF. An additional 6h of ambient air sampling (171 m(3)) was conducted and the second PUF was analyzed to determine if the PCDD/PCDF transferred from the filter and the first PUF. Less than 4.4% of the initial PCDD/PCDF was lost to the second PUF. To assess the potential for blow off of PCDD/PCDF analytes during open air sampling, the mobility of spiked mono- to hepta-PCDD/PCDF standards across a PUF sorbent was evaluated from ambient air temperatures to 145°C with total volumes between 600 L and 2400 L. Lower molecular weight compounds and higher flow amounts increased release of the spiked standards consistent with vapor pressure values. At 600 L total sampled volume, the release temperature for 1% of the tetra-CDD (the lowest chlorinated homologue with a toxic compound) was 87°C; increasing the volume fourfold reduced this temperature to 73°C. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes in hemostatic parameters after oral and transdermal hormone therapy in postmenopausal women.
Hormone therapy (HT) can be prothrombotic risk factor. We compared the effects of oral HT (o-HT) and transdermal HT (t-HT) on the kinetic of clot formation and fibrinolysis in postmenopausal women after 6 months HT using a multiparameter test. We observed that after HT, the level of fibrinogen was higher than in controls (Fg 3.12 g/l vs. 4.24 g/l (o-HT); 3,7 g/l (t-HT); p < 0.001) and values of velocity of polymerization in o-HT group were increased (95.84 mOD/min vs. 146.50 mOD/min, p < 0.001) compared to controls. Maximum absorbance of formed clots was higher in o-HT group (0.279 vs. 0.312, p < 0.001) than in controls, but in t-HT group was lowest (0.268). Fibrin lysis half-time increased in both HT groups (controls 17.16 min vs. 31.43 min (o-HT); 23.34 min (t-HT) p < 0.001) compared to values in controls. The results of our study show that o-HT caused the changes in clot formation and fibrinolysis than t-HT in postmenopausal women. The increased level of fibrinogen and its accelerated kinetics of polymerization as well as a lower rate of clot lysis may partly explain the increase in venous thrombosis and cardiovascular events reported after the use of HT, especially the oral form of that. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Echinococcus metacestodes as laboratory models for the screening of drugs against cestodes and trematodes.
Among the cestodes, Echinococcus granulosus, Echinococcus multilocularis and Taenia solium represent the most dangerous parasites. Their larval stages cause the diseases cystic echinococcosis (CE), alveolar echinococcosis (AE) and cysticercosis, respectively, which exhibit considerable medical and veterinary health concerns with a profound economic impact. Others caused by other cestodes, such as species of the genera Mesocestoides and Hymenolepis, are relatively rare in humans. In this review, we will focus on E. granulosus and E. multilocularis metacestode laboratory models and will review the use of these models in the search for novel drugs that could be employed for chemotherapeutic treatment of echinococcosis. Clearly, improved therapeutic drugs are needed for the treatment of AE and CE, and this can only be achieved through the development of medium-to-high throughput screening approaches. The most recent achievements in the in vitro culture and genetic manipulation of E. multilocularis cells and metacestodes, and the accessability of the E. multilocularis genome and EST sequence information, have rendered the E. multilocularis model uniquely suited for studies on drug-efficacy and drug target identification. This could lead to the development of novel compounds for the use in chemotherapy against echinococcosis, and possibly against diseases caused by other cestodes, and potentially also trematodes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Secondhand Smoke Enhances Lung Cancer Risk in Male Smokers: An Interaction.
Previous studies revealed that some indoor air pollutants and fine particle matter can interact with active smoking, enhancing lung cancer risk in smokers. Secondhand smoke (SHS), with remarkable differences from active smoking, contributes significantly to indoor air pollution and generates a considerable amount of fine particle matter, may cause a similar interaction with active smoking. Information on lifetime SHS along with active smoking and other confirmed or suspected risk factors for lung cancer was collected in this case-referent study. Odds ratios and the 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of smoking status in different levels of SHS were evaluated. Potential multiplicative and additive interactions were explored. Compared with never-smokers without SHS, current smokers who were exposed to a high level of SHS demonstrated the highest odds ratio (15.13, 95% CI: 8.60, 26.65), almost doubles the effect in the current smokers without SHS. Significant additive interactions between current smoking and high level of SHS were observed for all lung cancers (synergy index = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.24) and the squamous carcinoma subgroup. High level of SHS exposure greatly enhanced lung cancer risk among current smokers, consistent with an additive interaction; while this interaction was predominant for the squamous carcinoma. The results provide new evidence to the rationale of promoting global smoking cessation. Some indoor air pollutants can interact with active smoking, yielding a synergistic effect on inducing lung cancer. SHS, with noticeable differences from active smoking, is a major source of indoor air pollution. However, little has been known about the effect of SHS in smokers and whether there is a similar interaction between SHS and active smoking. In this study, we evaluated their separate and joint effects and indeed found a more than additive interaction between them. This finding suggests a potential problem of gathering smoking aggravating by venue restriction policies and re-advocates policy efforts on smoking cessation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preparation and characterization of "dextran-magnetic layered double hydroxide-fluorouracil" targeted liposomes.
This work was aimed at assessing the preparation and characteristics of "dextran-magnetic layered double hydroxide-fluorouracil" liposomes (DMFL). DMFL was prepared by the optimized reverse evaporation method, which concerned the entrapment efficiency and slow-released effect. The factors affecting the entrapment efficiency of DMFL were studied using orthogonal design, and the optimum conditions are: weight ratio of lecithin to cholesterol (2:1), weight ratio of lecithin to DMF (7:1), emulsification time (30 min) and temperature (50 °C). The characteristics of optimized DMFL on encapsulation efficiency, mean diameter and pH value were 85.47±0.83, 160.4±0.55 nm and 6.58±0.05, respectively. In vitro drug release profile of DMFL followed the Higuchi release model equation Q=9.2338t(1/2)+22.821. The magnetic targeting results showed that DMFL had sensitive magnetic targeted responsibility. The results of XRD, FT-IR and TEM indicated that the structure and property of DMF were not destroyed during the process of forming DMFL, and the phospholipid bilayer and the hexagonal skeleton DMF were obvious and complete after being lyophilized powder. This lyophilized method could be used to store the DMFL easily. These results suggested that DMFL had the potential for developing as a practical preparation for administration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[A frequency selection method of NIR spectroscopy for discrimination of maize seed varieties].
A frequency selection method of NIR spectroscopy was proposed in the present paper for discrimination of maize seed varieties. A criterion function was defined to evaluate the discriminative ability of NIR spectroscopy at different frequencies, and then features of maize seed varieties were extracted accordingly for further processing. By eliminating correlation between features at different frequencies, the selected features are guaranteed to contain as much information of inter-variety difference as possible. Also, features with larger variances are preferred to suppress the impact of noise. Experiment results demonstrate that our frequency selection method can achieve high recognition rate with less spectroscopy features than traditional methods. Specifically, a recognition rate as high as 94.16% can be attained with NIR spectroscopy with only 30 frequencies. Simulation results show that recognition rate of NIR spectroscopy at selected frequencies is stable with small disturbance of frequencies, which verifies the robustness of the authors' method. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stopping and time reversing a light pulse using dynamic loss tuning of coupled-resonator delay lines.
We introduce a light-stopping process that uses dynamic loss tuning in coupled-resonator delay lines. We demonstrate via numerical simulations that increasing the loss of selected resonators traps light in a zero group velocity mode concentrated in the low-loss portions of the delay line. The large dynamic range achievable for loss modulation should increase the light-stopping bandwidth relative to previous approaches based on refractive index tuning. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
YouTube™ videos related to human papillomavirus: the need for professional communication.
YouTube ™ is a frequently visited website that contains a large and diverse collection of health-related videos. The aim of this study was to identify the most popular videos on YouTube™.com related to human papillomavirus (HPV) and describe their content. This cross-sectional study involved using the search terms "HPV" and "human papillomavirus" to determine a purposive sample composed of an equal number of the most popular "professional" (n=35) and "consumer" (n=35) videos identified. Video content was analyzed and those videos related to HPV vaccination in any way were analyzed further to denote the nature of the message. The majority of videos (81.4%) provided general information related to HPV, discussed the association of HPV infection and the development of cancer (81.4%), and addressed HPV screening (64.3%). Just under one-half (n=34) of the videos addressed vaccination. Fifteen of these were neutral, while six were encouraging and 13 were discouraging. The videos included in this study were viewed ~17 million times, which indicates their potential for influencing public awareness and opinions. Of the videos devoted to HPV vaccination, few were encouraging. These videos may impede efforts to increase rates of HPV vaccination, which are already far below target levels. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Trans-dominant mutation affecting restriction and modification in Escherichia coli K-12.
We have analysed the mechanism of action of a ts mutation in E. coli, which has an effect on the expression of the restriction and modification phenotype. The frequencies of recombinants obtained in transduction experiments support the idea that the temperature sensitive mutation is located outside the hsd operon in the gene denoted hsd.X. Complementation experiments demonstrated the trans-dominant nature of the temperature sensitive mutation. The possible role of the hsd.X product in the formation of EcoR.K and EcoM.K complexes and their interaction with the recognition site on the DNA is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Use of real-time ultrasound during central venous catheter placement: Results of an APSA survey.
The purpose of this study was to document the attitudes and practice patterns of pediatric surgeons regarding use of RTUS with CVC placement. An analytic survey composed of 20 questions was sent via APSA headquarters to all practicing members. Answers were summarized as frequency and percentage. Distributions of answers were compared using the chi-square tests. P-values ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant. 361 of 1072 members chose to participate for a response rate of 34%. Most placed CVCs into the subclavian veins (SCV) of patients without coagulopathy, with the left SCV chosen approximately four times more often than the right. Conversely, RTUS use at the internal jugular vein (IJV) was significantly greater than that for the SCV (p<0.001). Coagulopathy, multiple previous catheters, and morbid obesity were identified as patient characteristics that would encourage RTUS use. The most commonly cited potential barriers to RTUS use were lack of formal ultrasound training and the belief that ultrasound is not necessary. Variability exists among pediatric surgeons regarding use of RTUS during CVC placement. Additional studies are needed to document actual frequency of use, how RTUS is implemented, and its efficacy of preventing adverse events in children. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Use of ultrasonography and contrast radiography for snake gender determination.
The purpose of this paper is to characterize the sonographic and radiographic features of hemipenes in male snakes and to use these features for gender determination. The sonographic and radiographic examination of 17 male and 10 female snakes, whose gender was determined previously by probing, were evaluated by one examiner who was unaware of the gender. Sonographically, hemipenes appeared funnel shaped with an echogenic thin wall and hypo to anechoic contents. Radiographically, hemipenes filled by positive contrast medium appeared as funnel-shaped radiopacities pointing caudally. Snake gender was correctly determined in all snakes using sonography (accuracy = 100%). Radiographic accuracy was 81.4%. Interpretation of radiographic examinations was limited by poor distribution of the contrast medium within the hemipenes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Childhood IQ and cardiovascular disease in adulthood: prospective observational study linking the Scottish Mental Survey 1932 and the Midspan studies.
This study investigated the influence of childhood IQ on the relationships between risk factors and cardiovascular disease (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke in adulthood. Participants were from the Midspan prospective cohort studies which were conducted on adults in Scotland in the 1970s. Data on risk factors were collected from a questionnaire and at a screening examination, and participants were followed up for 25 years for hospital admissions and mortality. 938 Midspan participants were successfully matched with their age 11 IQ from the Scottish Mental Survey 1932, in which 1921-born children attending schools in Scotland took a cognitive ability test. Childhood IQ was negatively correlated with diastolic and systolic blood pressure, and positively correlated with height and respiratory function in adulthood. For each of CVD, CHD and stroke, defined as either a hospital admission or death, there was an increased relative rate per standard deviation decrease (15 points) in childhood IQ of 1.11 (95% confidence interval 1.01-1.23), 1.16 (1.03-1.32) and 1.10 (0.88-1.36), respectively. With events divided into those first occurring before and those first occurring after the age of 65, the relationships between childhood IQ and CVD, CHD and stroke were only seen before age 65 and not after age 65. Blood pressure, height, respiratory function and smoking were associated with CVD events. Relationships were stronger in the early compared to the later period for smoking and FEV1, and stronger in the later compared to the earlier period for blood pressure. Adjustment for childhood IQ had small attenuating effects on the risk factor-CVD relationship before age 65 and no effects after age 65. Adjustment for risk factors attenuated the childhood IQ-CVD relationship by a small amount before age 65. Childhood IQ was associated with CVD risk factors and events and can be considered an important new risk factor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of antacid and H2 receptor antagonists on the intestinal absorption of folic acid.
Intestinal folic acid transport is a saturable process with a pH optimum of 5.5 to 6.0. Because of the possible effects of antacids and acid-lowering drugs on the pH of the proximal small intestine, the influence of these drugs on folic acid absorption was studied by using tritium-labeled pteroylmonoglutamic acid (PGA) in 30 subjects (21 women, nine men) of 56 to 89 years of age. Both cimetidine and an antacid containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide reduced folate absorption from a liquid formula meal (p less than 0.01, p less than 0.001, respectively). Although ranitidine also caused a fall in folic acid absorption from the liquid meal, the change was not statistically significantly different from when PGA was given with the meal alone. Both histamine receptor antagonists tended to maintain a high intraluminal pH in the proximal small intestine after meals, which in part could explain the inhibition of folate absorption. However, neither drug was found to chemically interact with folic acid, and neither drug inhibited the dihydrofolate reductase. The antacid was found to precipitate folic acid at a pH of greater than 4.0, thus removing it from the aqueous phase. This appears to be the explanation for the lowered folate absorption in the presence of antacid. Although the effects of these drugs on reducing folic acid absorption were relatively small, such reductions could become clinically significant in chronic antacid or H2 receptor antagonist use or intensive antacid or H2 receptor antagonist use by individuals eating diets that are marginal in folate content. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[A comparative evaluation of an immunoenzyme analytical method using a fluorogenic or chromogenic substrate in determining the Marburg virus antigen].
A comparative evaluation of the developed variants of indirect solid-phase enzyme immunoassay using fluorogenic and chromogenic substrates for the determination of Marburg virus antigen was carried out. The resolving capacity of this method was 3.8 x 10(-9) g of protein for the former and 3.1 x 10(-8) g of protein for the latter substrate. Cross titrations demonstrated the lack of common antigens with Ebola virus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Trimodality therapy in stage III non-small cell lung cancer: prediction of recurrence by assessment of p185neu.
In a trimodality treatment approach for stage III non-small cell lung cancer the prognostic impact of pretherapeutic p185neu assessment was evaluated. Fifty-four patients were admitted to chemotherapy followed by twice-daily radiation with concomittant low-dose chemotherapy and subsequent surgery. Immunohistochemical assessment of p185neu expression was performed in paraffin-embedded mediastinal lymph node metastases, by mediastinoscopy biopsy prior to therapy. Paraffin-embedded biopsies of mediastinal lymph node metastases were available in 33 cases. Seven out of eight patients with positive p185neu staining developed distant metastases, in contrast to seven out of 25 negative cases. Expression of p185neu in mediastinal lymph node metastases was a significant predictor for progression-free survival (p=0.047) and resulted mainly from significant differences in metastases-free survival (p185neu-positive versus p185neu-negative: median, 11 versus 19 months; 2- and 3-yr rates, 13% and 0% versus 40% and 32%; p=0.04). On the basis of these preliminary results it was concluded that further evaluation of p185neu expression in trials on neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy is warranted. When the prognostic impact of p185neu in such trials with larger patient numbers is confirmed, this may contribute to the identification of stratification variables for future treatment approaches of non-small cell lung cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vasculogenic mimicry is associated with high tumor grade, invasion and metastasis, and short survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) has increasingly been recognized as a form of angiogenesis. In VM, epithelial cells are integrated into the malignant tumor vasculature. An association has been observed between VM and poor clinical prognosis in some malignant tumors. However, whether VM is present and clinically significant in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. In this study, we determined whether VM was present in HCC and whether it was associated with tumor grade, invasion and metastasis, and survival duration. We collected paraffin-embedded HCC tumor samples, along with complete clinical and pathologic data for all the cases, and performed immunohistochemical staining for CD31, CD105 (endoglin), hepatocyte, vascular endothelial growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9. The VM status was compared with the clinical and pathological data using statistical tests. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test were used to compare survival durations between patients with and without VM. The VM vessel cells were CD31 and CD105-negative and hepatocyte and vascular endothelial growth factor-positive, showing that they were not derived from endothelial cells but were HCC tumor cells. Patients with VM had a higher metastasis rate than did those without VM (P=0.003). Consistent with this finding, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were present in all the VM cases but were found less frequently in non-VM cases (P<0.05). The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that patients in the VM group had a significantly shorter survival duration than did those in the non-VM group. In conclusion, VM is a marker of poor clinical prognosis in HCC: Its presence may be associated with a high tumor grade, invasion and metastasis, and short survival. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pharmacokinetics of recombinant factor VIIa in the rat--a comparison of bio-, immuno- and isotope assays.
Recombinant human factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is an activated coagulation factor for intravenous use as a haemostatic agent in haemophiliacs who generate antibodies against factor VIII or IX. Plasma kinetic studies are important for the understanding of the action of rFVIIa which is exerted in the vascular compartment of the body, more specifically on the vessel walls at the site of injury. In the present study, rats were dosed 100 or 500 micrograms/kg 125I-rFVIIa i.v., without any side effects being observed, and the plasma profile of rFVIIa was studied by 3 different assays that were shown to correlate well at early times post-dose: trichloroacetic acid (TCA)-precipitable drug-related radioactivity, rFVIIa antigen determination by ELISA technique, and the assay of clot activity which is the only clinically applicable assay. The plasma concentration curve could be resolved into 1-3 exponentials, depending on the FVIIa detection principle that was employed. Initially, there was a short (ca. 10 min) phase of increasing concentrations before the attainment of Cmax. This was followed by a plasma recovery (Cmax x plasma volume/dose) in the vicinity of one half of the administered dose. The initial volume of distribution (V1) corresponded to the vascular compartment whereas the volume of distribution at steady state (Vss) was somewhat larger. Whole body clearance (CL-B) of rFVIIa was approx. 1 ml/min per kg, and mean residence time (MRT) and the half-life assumed to be associated with the loss of biological activity was approx. 1 h and 20-45 min, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
How to use practice guidelines in the intensive care unit: Diagnosis and management of unstable angina.
Practice guidelines are often based on expert opinion, and are sometimes based on research evidence, but are usually a mix of both. The goal of this article is to aid in the evaluation of the validity of practice guidelines. The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research Practice Guideline on Management of Unstable Angina and other relevant primary and synthetic research. Critical appraisal of guidelines requires understanding how guideline developers identified, appraised, and summarized the evidence, and how they chose the values reflected in their recommendations. To determine whether guidelines are applicable in our practice, we look for clear and concise recommendations about specific populations, describing common options linked to clinically important outcomes. Guidelines must be considered in light of local skills, culture, and resources, and need to be individualized to different patients and settings. As better evidence and new clinical insights emerge, guidelines require updating. The ultimate value of a guideline is determined by evaluating its effect on process of care, resource utilization, and most importantly, patient outcomes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isolation and epidemiological study of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium from patients of a haematological unit in Poland.
Enterococcus faecium has recently emerged as a serious nosocomial pathogen. Vancomycin resistant enterococci (VRE) have been isolated in Europe and the USA since 1988. This is the first report on isolation of vancomycin resistant E. faecium (VREM) strains in Poland, from Haematological Unit patients in the Clinical Hospital in Gdańsk. In total, 6412 samples were examined between December 1996 and October 1997. Five hundred and five isolates of Enterococcus spp. were collected. One hundred and one were classified as Enterococcus faecium of which 49 were resistant to vancomycin (MIC > 256 mg/L) and teicoplanin (MIC > 256 mg/L), characteristic of the VanA phenotype. Twenty-nine patients were infected or colonized. A PCR-based specific diagnostic assay confirmed the phenotype. The multiplex PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism patterns were consistent with VanA-type of vancomycin-resistant E. faecium for all isolates examined. These isolates were epidemiologically-related as shown by PCR-fingerprinting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Supported employment for persons with serious mental illness: current status and future directions.
The individual placement and supported (IPS) model of supported employment is the most empirically validated model of vocational rehabilitation for persons with schizophrenia or another serious mental illness. Over 18 randomized controlled trials have been conducted throughout the world demonstrating the effectiveness of supported employment at improving competitive work compared to other vocational programs: IPS supported employment is defined by the following principles: 1) inclusion of all clients who want to work; 2) integration of vocational and clinical services; 3) focus on competitive employment; 4) rapid job search and no required prevocational skills training; 5) job development by the employment specialist; 6) attention to client preferences about desired work and disclosure of mental illness to prospective employers; 7) benefits counseling; and 8) follow-along supports after a job is obtained. Supported employment has been successfully implemented in a wide range of cultural and clinical populations, although challenges to implementation are also encountered. Common challenges are related to problems such as the failure to access technical assistance, system issues, negative beliefs and attitudes of providers, funding restrictions, and poor leadership. These challenges can be overcome by tapping expertise in IPS supported employment, including standardized and tested models of training and consultation. Efforts are underway to increase the efficiency of training methods for supported employment and the overall program, and to improve its effectiveness for those clients who do not benefit. Progress in IPS supported employment offers people with a serious mental illness realistic hope for achieving their work goals, and taking greater control over their lives. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sensorineural and conductive hearing loss associated with lateral semicircular canal malformation.
Lateral semicircular canal (LSCC) malformation is one of the most common radiological inner ear malformations. Traditionally, inner ear malformations are thought to be associated with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Recent experience with patients with LSCC malformation suggested that LSCC malformation may be associated with both SNHL and conductive hearing loss (CHL). The auditory phenotype associated with LSCC malformation is not well delineated. The objective of this study is to define the nature of the hearing loss associated with LSCC malformation. Retrospective review Retrospective review of clinical records, audiological evaluation, and imaging studies. Two patients with unilateral and 13 patients with bilateral LSCC malformation were identified. LSCC malformation was associated with CHL in 14% (4 ears), SNHL in 71% (20 ears), normal hearing in 11% (3 ears) and CHL due to atresia in one ear. Hearing loss varied from mild to profound but did not correlate with the severity of LSCC malformation. In bilateral malformation, the hearing loss was asymmetric in half of the cases. Malformation of the posterior limb of the LSCC was always associated with a large vestibular aqueduct. An absent or rudimentary LSCC was invariably associated with a cochlear abnormality. LSCC malformation, like other inner ear malformations such as large vestibular aqueduct and X-linked mixed deafness with perilymph gusher, can be associated with CHL, SNHL, or normal hearing. Children with unexplained conductive hearing loss often undergo exploratory surgery to improve hearing. Given that inner ear malformations may be associated with a pure CHL, it is critical that children undergo computed tomography scan of the temporal bone prior to undergoing exploratory surgery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Distribution of specific IgG subclasses in patients with pertussis and in healthy persons].
To assess level of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 to complex of antigens of Bordetella pertussis in patients with whooping cough and healthy children and adults. Levels of anti-pertussis IgG subclasses in sera of patients with pertussis and healthy children and adults were measured with solid phase immunoenzyme assay using peroxidase-conjugated monoclonal antibodies to human IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4. In patients with pertussis, IgG1-IgG3-IgG2-IgG4 type of distribution of subclasses with predominance of IgG1 and IgG3 was revealed. In healthy children and adults the character type of subclasses distribution was IgG1-IgG2-IgG4 with absent or low level of IgG3. Detection of specific IgG3 mainly in patients with pertussis allows to consider them as a reliable serological sign of pertussis infection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The evolution of plants and animals under domestication: the contribution of studies at the molecular level.
Protein molecules are essential catalysts in life processes and also form much of the substance of living material. Their three dimensional structures determine their biological function. Their biosynthesis is primarily determined by arrays of nucleic acid macromolecules (DNA and RNA), and the amino acid sequences that constitute their long spatially organized peptide-chain molecules reflect at one remove this DNA coding system, and thus record a step-by-step history of some of the viable genetic events (natural or man-controlled) that have created the organism and the breed. Amino acid sequences can be used to trace the progress of controlled breeding in two ways: by extrapolation back from living breeds, and by analysis of ancient protein material. Of the latter, bone or tendon or skin collagens and hair keratins are the most perfectly preserved as molecular structures through 20,000 years and indeed much longer. Amino acid sequences are expensive to determine (collagen has 1052 amino acid residues), and the potential of this palaeobiological information has been as yet little exploited. The first approach has, however, been more explored, in both plants and animals. Several protein systems must be studied in conjunction to reveal the phylogenetic threads in any one breed. As the three dimensional quaternary structure of protein molecules becomes more appreciated in relation to biological function, and as new techniques and procedures are developed, amino acid sequence data can become more informative in our ultimate understanding of early selective breeding. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Increased lipoperoxide levels and antioxidant system in colorectal cancer.
In this study, lipid peroxide and glutathione (GSH) levels, GSH peroxidase, GSH S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activities were investigated in tumorous and nontumorous colorectal tissues obtained from ten patients diagnosed with colon and rectum cancer. Histopathological evaluations, including type, stage, necrosis and lymphocyte infiltration, were also performed for each patient. According to the results, lipid peroxide and GSH levels and the activities of GSH peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase were found to be increased, while GSH S-transferase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activities remained unchanged in tumors compared to adjacent normal tissues of subjects with colorectal cancer. However, the considerable interindividual variations were found in these parameters. A definite interrelation between histopathological results with lipid peroxidation and antioxidant system was not observed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ethical problems in the relationship between health and work.
Throughout history, the relationship between employers and workers has been subject to the equilibrium of power, to legislative norms, to ethical considerations, and more recently to scientific knowledge. The authors examine the ethical conflicts that arise from the application of scientific knowledge to preventive health policies in the workplace. In particular, they discuss the ethical conflicts in the application of screening practices, in the setting of "allowable limits" of harmful work exposures, and in the right of workers to be informed about work hazards. Ethical problems are also created by conflicting interests in the protection of the environment, the health of the general public, and the health of the working population, and by conflicting interests among workers, and even within the individual worker, as in the case of "fetal protection" policies. The authors emphasize the positive use of scientific information and respect for human dignity in resolving these conflicts. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of low molecular weight heparin vs. unfractionated heparin in gynecological surgery.
In a double-blind, randomized trial, the antithrombotic effect and haemorrhagic complications of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) (Heparin fragment 2165, KabiVitrum) and unfractionated heparin (UH) were compared. LMWH (5000 anti-XaU) was injected every 24 h, UH (5000 IU) every 12 h; both drugs by subcutaneous injection. During 1984-85, 215 patients were examined clinically and by plethysmography. Venography was performed whenever DVT was suspected. None of the patients proved to have DVT. Bleeding complications were found in 54% of the cases. The LMWH group had a statistically significant predominance of bleeding complications as reflected by wound haematomas (p = 0.02) and the number of blood transfusions (p = 0.02). The heparin concentration was higher in the LMWH group (mean 0.13 IU/ml) than in the UH group (mean 0.13 IU/ml) measured 2 h after the injection. In the doses administered, LMWH and UH seem effective in the prevention of thrombosis. The increased bleeding tendency in the LMWH group probably was a consequence of the to high dosage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Visual outcome after proton beam irradiation of uveal melanoma.
Prognostic factors for visual loss following proton irradiation of uveal melanoma were evaluated for 440 eyes treated from 1975 to 1984, with visual acuity 20/200 or better before treatment. Analysis involved Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards analysis with visual outcome defined as worse than 20/200. Prognostic factors were tumor height: rate ratio (ratio of rate of visual loss for one category of the variable relative to the rate of visual loss for a reference category of that variable) of 5.26 (95% confidence interval, 2.66-10.39) for tumors greater than 5 mm compared to tumors 3.0 mm or less in height; distance of tumor from the optic disc and fovea: rate ratio 2.59 (1.63-4.11) for tumors 2DD or less from both the optic disc and fovea compared to those greater than 2 DD from these structures. Also predictive of visual loss were tumor location close to disc only, or close to fovea only, macular detachment, worse pretreatment vision, and higher radiation doses delivered to both the disc and fovea, and lens. Regression analysis using a visual acuity scale gave similar results. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antioxidant potential of sesamol and its role on radiation-induced DNA damage in whole-body irradiated Swiss albino mice.
Sesamol (SM) is a dietary phytochemical present in the processed sesame oil. In this present study we have evaluated the antioxidant potential of SM and its role in the protection of radiation-induced DNA damage in γ-irradiated mice. The antioxidant properties of SM were evaluated by using different in vitro antioxidant assays. SM shows scavenging effect against hydroxyl (OH), superoxide anion (O(2)(-)), nitric oxide, 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid radical cation (ABTS(+)) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. Our results demonstrate that SM exhibits strong antioxidant property in all the in vitro assays. When mice were exposed to 7 Gy γ-radiations there was an increase in % tail DNA, tail length, tail moment and Olive tail moment in blood lymphocytes. SM (100mg/kg b.wt) pretreatment significantly decreased the % tail DNA, tail length, tail moment and Olive tail moment in irradiated mice lymphocytes. These results suggest that SM protects γ-radiation-induced DNA damage in mice lymphocytes, which may be attributed to its antioxidant property. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinicopathological profile of an unusual case of chondroid syringoma: a case report.
Chondroid syringoma or mixed tumor of the skin is an uncommon tumor that typically presents as small, solitary, slow growing, firm, subcutaneous or intracutaneous nodule. It presents commonly in the head and neck region. This is a case report of 45-year-old female who presented with multiple masses in the flank, chest wall, arm, -thigh and neck measuring 10, 6, 3.5, 2 and 1 cm in maximum dimension. FNAC and excision biopsy revealed benign chondroid syringoma. This is a rare case of chondroid syringoma exhibiting large size, multiplicity and unusual locations in flank, chest wall and thigh. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
GLUT4 overexpression in db/db mice dose-dependently ameliorates diabetes but is not a lifelong cure.
We previously reported that overexpression of GLUT4 in lean, nondiabetic C57BL/KsJ-lepr(db/+) (db/+) mice resulted in improved glucose tolerance associated with increased basal and insulin-stimulated glucose transport in isolated skeletal muscle. We used the diabetic (db/db) litter mates of these mice to examine the effects of GLUT4 overexpression on in vivo glucose utilization and on in vitro glucose transport and GLUT4 translocation in diabetic mice. We examined in vivo glucose disposal by oral glucose challenge and hyperinsulinemic-hyperglycemic clamps. We also evaluated the in vitro relationship between glucose transport activity and cell surface GLUT4 levels as assessed by photolabeling with the membrane-impermeant reagent 2-N-(4-(1-azi-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)benzoyl)-1,3-bis(D-mannose-4-yloxy)-2-propylamine in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles. All parameters were examined as functions of animal age and the level of GLUT4 overexpression. In young mice (age 10-12 weeks), both lower (two- to threefold) and higher (four- to fivefold) levels of GLUT4 overexpression were associated with improved glucose tolerance compared to age-matched nontransgenic (NTG) mice. However, glucose tolerance deteriorated with age in db/db mice, although less rapidly in transgenic mice expressing the higher level of GLUT4. Glucose infusion rates during hyperinsulinemic-hyperglycemic clamps were increased with GLUT4 overexpression, compared with NTG mice in both lower and higher levels of GLUT4 overexpression, even in the older mice. Surprisingly, isolated EDL muscles from diabetic db/db mice did not exhibit alterations in either basal or insulin-stimulated glucose transport activity or cell surface GLUT4 compared to nondiabetic db/+ mice. Furthermore, both GLUT4 overexpression levels and animal age are associated with increased basal and insulin-stimulated glucose transport activities and cell surface GLUT4. However, the observed increased glucose transport activity in older db/db mice was not accompanied by an equivalent increase in cell surface GLUT4 compared to younger animals. Thus, although in vivo glucose tolerance is improved with GLUT4 overexpression in young animals, it deteriorates with age; in contrast, insulin responsiveness as assessed by the clamp technique remains improved with GLUT4 overexpression, as does in vitro insulin action. In summary, despite an impairment in whole-body glucose tolerance, skeletal muscle of the old transgenic GLUT4 db/db mice is still insulin responsive in vitro and in vivo. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Letting the genome out of the bottle: prospects for new drug development.
Use of the information gained from sequencing the Mycobacterium tuberculosis genome will enable scientists to accelerate the development of reagents for improved tuberculosis control. Cloning and expressing genes encoding the enzymes involved in cell-wall biosynthesis will provide the tools for screening millions of novel compounds. Cell wall inhibitors will be mainly useful in treating resistant disease, but cost factors are likely to limit the application of novel compounds in the design of new treatment regimens. More effective might be an approach to target metabolic processes that are essential even in nondividing bacteria. A third target for drug action is elimination of latent disease through a drug that acts in synergy with the immune response. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structure of the Xenopus laevis TFF-gene xP4.1, differentially expressed to its duplicated homolog xP4.2.
TFF-peptides (formerly P-domain peptides, trefoil factors) represent major secretory products of mucous epithelia in mammals and amphibia. The nucleotide sequence of a large portion of a gene encoding the TFF-peptide xP4.1 from Xenopus laevis and its genomic organization were determined in the present study. The peptide xP4.1 containing four TFF-domains is thought to represent the functional frog homolog of human TFF2 (formerly hSP). The xP4.1 gene analyzed spans a region of about 7 kb and consists of six exons. Each TFF-domain is encoded by a single exon flanked by type 1 introns typical of shuffled modules. The 5'-upstream region contains a TATA-box, and potential binding sites for hepatocyte nuclear factor 3 and AP-1. Furthermore, the cDNA sequence of a transcript named xP4.2 with 91% similarity to xP4.1 is presented. RT-PCR analysis revealed that xP4.1 and xP4.2 genes are differentially expressed. xP4.1 transcripts are detectable only in the stomach, but not in the esophagus, whereas xP4.2 transcripts are found both in the esophagus and in the stomach with a descending gradient from fundus to antrum. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Restructuring of Lipid Membranes by an Arginine-Capped Peptide Bolaamphiphile.
We study the self-assembly of arginine-capped bolaamphiphile peptide RA3R (A: alanine, R: arginine) together with its binding to model membranes and its cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity. Anionic 2-oleoyl-1-palmitoyl- sn-glycero-3-phospho-rac-(1-glycerol) sodium salt/2-oleoyl-1-palmitoyl- sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPG/POPE) vesicles and zwitterionic 1,2-dioleoyl- sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine/2-oleoyl-1-palmitoyl- sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC/DOPC) vesicles are used as model membranes to mimic bacterial and mammalian cell membranes, respectively. We show that RA3R adopts a polyproline-II collagen-like conformation in water. Binding of RA3R to POPG/POPE vesicles induces a strong correlation between the lipid bilayers, driven by RA3R/POPG attractive electrostatic interaction together with a shift of the intramolecular POPE zwitterionic interaction toward an attractive electrostatic interaction with the RA3R. Populations of RA3R/POPG/POPE vesicles comprise different bilayer spacings, dA and dB, controlled by the conformation of the lipid chains corresponding to the Lβ (gel-like) and Lα (liquid-crystal) phases, respectively. Cryo-TEM images reveal the presence of vesicles with no internal structure, compartmentalized thin-wall vesicles, or multilayer vesicles with uncorrelated layers and compartmentalization depending on the RA3R/POPG/POPE composition. In contrast, the interaction of RA3R with multilamellar POPC/DOPC vesicles leads to the decorrelation of the lipid bilayers. RA3R was tolerated by skin fibroblast cells for a concentration up to 0.01 wt %, while 0.25 wt % RA3R proved to be an efficient antibacterial agent against Gram-positive bacteria L. monocytogenes. Our results highlight the ability of RA3R to distinguish between bacterial and mammalian cells and establish this peptide as a candidate to reduce the proliferation of L. monocytogenes bacteria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Urokinase-related proteins in human urine. Isolation and characterization of single-chain urokinase (pro-urokinase) and urokinase-inhibitor complex.
Urokinase-related proteins were purified from 60-liter batches of human urine collected into the protease inhibitor aprotinin to prevent proteolytic degradation. Three homogeneous species were obtained by chromatography on zinc chelate-Sepharose, SP-Sephadex C-50, Sephadex G-100, benzamidine-Sepharose, and immunoadsorption on a murine anti-human urokinase monoclonal antibody. One urokinase-related protein with Mr 95,000 representing a complex of two-chain urokinase with an inhibitor accounts for about 70% of the total urokinase-related antigen in urine. Nucleophilic agents dissociate the complex into active two-chain urokinase and a protein with Mr 45,000-50,000 which is immunologically distinct from urokinase. Approximately 25% of the urinary urokinase-related antigen represents a single-chain molecule with Mr 54,000. This highly purified single-chain molecule was obtained with a yield of 5 micrograms/liter of urine. Only trace amounts (less than 5%) of the urokinase-related antigen were recovered as free two-chain urokinase. The urinary single-chain urokinase-related protein has no specific affinity for fibrin. It has a very low activity on Pyroglu-Gly-Arg-p-nitroanilide, a urokinase-specific synthetic substrate, but directly activates plasminogen following Michaelis-Menten kinetics with Km = 0.7 microM and kcat = 0.0011 S-1. The single-chain molecule is rapidly converted to active two-chain urokinase by plasmin. Active two-chain urinary urokinase has a very high amidolytic activity and activates plasminogen with Km = 60 microM and kcat = 1.4 S-1. It is concluded that the urokinase-related proteins in human urine consist of about 25% of single-chain urokinase (10-20 micrograms/liter) and of about 75% two-chain urokinase (40-50 micrograms/liter), the bulk of which is complexed to an inhibitor. Because even in freshly voided urine most of the urokinase-related antigen is already converted to two-chain urokinase, urine does not seem to be a suitable source for the large-scale purification of single-chain urokinase. In view of the very significant intrinsic plasminogen-activating properties of single-chain urokinase, it should not be considered to be a proenzyme form of urokinase. The dramatic differences of its kinetic constants from those of urokinase render the designation single-chain urokinase equally inadequate. Consequently, the designation "single-chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator" was recently adopted by the International Committee on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, July 13-14, 1985). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alkaline-sulfite pretreatment and use of surfactants during enzymatic hydrolysis to enhance ethanol production from sugarcane bagasse.
Sugarcane bagasse is a by-product from the sugar and ethanol industry which contains approximately 70 % of its dry mass composed by polysaccharides. To convert these polysaccharides into fuel ethanol it is necessary a pretreatment step to increase the enzymatic digestibility of the recalcitrant raw material. In this work, sugarcane bagasse was pretreated by an alkaline-sulfite chemithermomechanical process for increasing its enzymatic digestibility. Na2SO3 and NaOH ratios were fixed at 2:1, and three increasing chemical loads, varying from 4 to 8 % m/m Na2SO3, were used to prepare the pretreated materials. The increase in the alkaline-sulfite load decreased the lignin content in the pretreated material up to 35.5 % at the highest chemical load. The pretreated samples presented enhanced glucose yields during enzymatic hydrolysis as a function of the pretreatment severity. The maximum glucose yield (64 %) was observed for the samples pretreated with the highest chemical load. The use of 2.5 g l(-1) Tween 20 in the hydrolysis step further increased the glucose yield to 75 %. Semi-simultaneous hydrolysis and fermentation of the pretreated materials indicated that the ethanol yield was also enhanced as a function of the pretreatment severity. The maximum ethanol yield was 56 ± 2 % for the sample pretreated with the highest chemical load. For the sample pretreated with the lowest chemical load (2 % m/m NaOH and 4 % m/m Na2SO3), adding Tween 20 during the hydrolysis process increased the ethanol yield from 25 ± 3 to 39.5 ± 1 %. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Four steroidal alkaloids from the leaves of Buxus sempervirens.
Four new steroidal alkaloids, N20-formylbuxaminol E [(20S)-16alpha-hydroxy-20-(formylamino)-3beta-(dimethylamino)-9,10 -seco-buxa-9(11),10(19)-diene] (1), O16-syringylbuxaminol E [(20S)-16alpha-syringoyl-3beta-(dimethylamino)-20-(amino)-9, 10-seco-buxa-9(11),10(19)-diene] (2), N20-acetylbuxamine G [(20S)-20-(acetylamino)-3beta-(methylamino)-9,10-seco-buxa-9(11),1 0(19)-diene] (3) and N20-acetylbuxamine E [(20S)-20-(acetylamino)-3beta-(dimethylamino)-9,10-seco-buxa-9(11) ,10(19)-diene] (4) were isolated from the leaves of Buxus sempervirens. Their structures were determined mainly on the basis of 2D NMR studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Does the Degree of Septal Deviation Affect Cribriform Plate Dimensions and Middle Turbinate Length?
To investigate the effect of septal deviation severity on the dimensions of the lateral lamina of the cribriform plate (LLCP), middle turbinate length (MTL), and the angle of the lateral lamella of the cribriform plate (ALLCP). Paranasal computed tomography (CT) scans of 148 patients with septum deviation (102 males, 46 females; age range 18-63 years) were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to the measured angle of nasal septal deviation as mild (<9°), moderate (9-15°), or severe (>15°). Height and width of LLCP, MTL, and ALLCP on both sides were measured and these parameters were compared between the groups according to the septal deviation side. The nasal septum was deviated to the right in 73 patients (49.3%) and to the left in 75 patients (50.7%). The LLCP dimensions, MTL, and ALLCP between the groups at the contralateral side were not statistically different (P > 0.05). The LLCP height, ALLCP between the groups at the ipsilateral side were not statistically different (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in the LLCP width at the ipsilateral side between the groups (P = 0.039). The MTL at the ipsilateral side was significantly different between the groups (P = 0.003). The severity of nasal septum deviation in patients with nasal septum deviation affects the ipsilateral LLCP width and the ipsilateral MTL. These findings suggest that the increase in the severity of septum deviation in patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery does not increase the risk of possible damages that may occur in LLCP. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mobility during the neolithic and bronze age in northern ireland explored using strontium isotope analysis of cremated human bone.
As many individuals were cremated in Neolithic and Bronze Age Ireland, they have not featured in investigations of individual mobility using strontium isotope analysis. Here, we build on recent experiments demonstrating excellent preservation of biogenic (87) Sr/(86) Sr in calcined bone to explore mobility in prehistoric Northern Ireland. A novel method of strontium isotope analysis is applied to calcined bone alongside measurements on tooth enamel to human remains from five Neolithic and Bronze Age sites in Northern Ireland. We systematically sampled modern vegetation around each site to characterize biologically available strontium, and from this calculated expected values for humans consuming foods taken from within 1, 5, 10 and 20 Km catchments. This provides a more nuanced way of assessing human use of the landscape and mobility than the 'local' vs. 'non-local' dichotomy that is often employed. The results of this study 1) provide further support for the reliability of strontium isotope analysis on calcined bone, and 2) demonstrate that it is possible to identify isotopic differences between individuals buried at the same site, with some consuming food grown locally (within 1-5 Km) while others clearly consumed food from up to 50 Km away from their burial place. Hints of patterning emerge in spite of small sample numbers. At Ballynahatty, for instance, those represented by unburnt remains appear to have consumed food growing locally, while those represented by cremated remains did not. Furthermore, it appears that some individuals from Ballynahatty, Annaghmare and Clontygora either moved in the last few years of their life or their cremated remains were brought to the site. These results offer new insights into the choice behind coterminous cremation and inhumation rites in the Neolithic. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:397-413, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Clinical study of carumonam].
To evaluate the clinical efficacy of carumonam (CRMN, AMA-1080), the drug was used in the treatment of 10 patients including 4 with pneumonia and each with acute tonsillitis, chronic bronchitis, Mycoplasma pneumonia, primary atypical pneumonia (PAP), chronic pyelitis, and acute cystitis. Since beta-lactam antibiotics were not active against Mycoplasma pneumonia and PAP, these diseases were excluded from the clinical efficacy evaluation of CRMN. Responses were excellent in 1 patient and good in 7. Side effects were not observed. The laboratory test recognized slight elevations of GOT, GPT and eosinophilia in 1 patient and a slight leucopenia in another upon the administration of CRMN. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cica-Care: adhesive gel sheet.
Keloid and hypertrophic scars can be a complication of burns, surgery and other traumas. Cica-Care (Smith & Nephew) has been developed for the prevention and treatment of such scars. This product focus presents the clinical features of both types of scars, highlighting the difference between them, and outlines the treatment options which include surgery, pressure treatment and pharmacological treatments. The mechanism of action of Cica-Care is still uncertain, but it appears to soften, flatten and blanch scars. The specific care of the gel sheet, including skin acclimatization, is also described. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Age as a prognostic factor in cancer of the cervix: the UAMS experience.
Current literature has conflicting reports as to the effect of age on prognosis in cancer of the uterine cervix. In order to evaluate this in our patient population we undertook a retrospective chart review of 235 cases of cervical cancer that were seen at the Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute (CARTI) and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) from March 1974 to June 1985 and were followed for a minimum of 54 months. State, grade and age greater than 70 years were significant predictors. Factors that were not statistically significant were race and morphology. Age less than 40, approached statistical significance as a predictive value. Our patients younger than age 40 had a tendency toward a slightly decreased survival when compared to those ages 40-60 and also a much decreased disease-free interval (50 months versus 97 months). This paper was presented on October 25, 1990 at Student Research Day at UAMS. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ethnic comparisons of the 12 month prevalence of mental disorders and treatment contact in Te Rau Hinengaro: the New Zealand Mental Health Survey.
To compare ethnic groups for the 12 month prevalence of mental disorders and 12 month treatment contact in Te Rau Hinengaro: The New Zealand Mental Health Survey. Te Rau Hinengaro: The New Zealand Mental Health Survey, undertaken in 2003 and 2004, was a nationally representative face-to-face household survey of 12,992 New Zealand adults aged 16 years and over, including Māori (n = 2595), Pacific people (n = 2236) and a composite Other ethnic group (predominantly European) (n = 8161). Ethnicity was measured using the 2001 census ethnicity question. A fully structured diagnostic interview, the World Health Organization World Mental Health Survey Initiative version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0) was used to measure disorder. The overall response rate was 73.3%. The 12 month prevalence of any mental disorder was highest in Māori (29.5%; 26.6, 32.4), followed by Pacific people (24.4%; 21.2, 27.6) and Others (19.3%; 18.0, 20.6). Adjustment for age, sex, education and household income reduced differences: Māori (23.9%; 21.3, 26.4), Pacific (19.2%; 16.4, 22.1) and Other (20.3%; 18.9, 21.6). A similar pattern was seen for serious disorder and most individual disorders or disorder groups. After adjustment, Māori were most different from Pacific people and Others for substance use disorder. Both Māori and Pacific people had a higher prevalence of bipolar disorder than Others. Pacific people had the lowest prevalence of major depressive disorder. Among those with disorder, the proportion with a visit for mental health problems to any service was highest among Others (41.1%; 38.1, 44.1), with Māori (32.5%; 28.3, 36.7) intermediate and Pacific (25.4%, 19.4, 31.4) lowest. Adjustment did not alter ethnic differences in service contact. Māori, and to a lesser extent Pacific people, have a higher prevalence of 12 month mental disorders than Others. Differences are reduced after adjusting for sociodemographic correlates. Relative to need, Pacific people in particular and Māori are less likely than Others to have contact with services (health or non-health), regardless of sociodemographic circumstances. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The vascularization of human flexor tendons within the digital synovial sheath region--structureal and functional aspects.
The intrinsic vascularization of human flexor tendons within the digital sheath region was studied on fresh amputation specimens with the aid of angiographic and histochemical techniques. In the flexor digitorum profundus tendon, three separate vascular systems of various origin and with no or very little communication could be verified. In the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon, two such systems were observed. The volar surface of both tendons is more or less devoid of vessels. Moreover, at the proximal interphalangeal joint level, the flexor digitorum profundus tendon has a volar avascular zone, constituting about 1 mm, i.e., about one-third to one-fourth of the thickness of the tendon. It is assumed that the synovial fluid is of importance for the nutrition of the tendons and that therefore the synovial sheath should be preserved as much as possible. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Esophageal perforation and rupture: a comprehensive medicolegal examination of 59 jury verdicts and settlements.
Consequences accompanying esophageal perforation make this complication a prime litigation target. We characterize factors in jury verdicts and settlements regarding esophageal perforation, including operative procedure, patient demographics, alleged cause(s) of malpractice, outcome, and other factors. Pertinent court records were examined for the aforementioned factors. Gastroenterologists, general surgeons, and anesthesiologists were the most commonly named defendants. Two thirds of outcomes were for the defendant, and 11.9 % were settled (median--$650,000); 20.3% resulted in awarded damages (median--$1.2 M). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy was the most commonly litigated procedure, followed by intubation and Nissen fundoplication. Necessity of repair, delayed diagnosis, death, and inadequate consent were the most frequently cited factors in litigation. An understanding of the factors important in determining legal responsibility is of great interest for practitioners in multiple specialties. The requirement of surgical repair and a delay in diagnosis are two of the most common factors present in litigated cases resulting in a payment. The importance of explicitly listing esophageal perforation in the informed consent for esophagogastroduodenoscopy, abdominal surgery, and any patients at risk of intubation injury needs to be emphasized. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A new drimane sesquiterpenoid and a new triterpene lactone from fungus of Fomes officinalis.
A new sesquiterpenoid fomeffic acid (1) and a new triterpene lactone fomefficinin (2) were isolated from the fungus Fomes officinalis, together with another six known compounds fomitopsin C (3), dehydrosulfurenic acid (4), dehydroeburiconic acid (5), dehydroeburicoic acid (6), 3-keto-dehydrosulfurenic acid (7), and laricinolic acid (8). The structures and stereochemistry of 1 and 2 were determined by NMR and X-ray diffraction analyses. The sesquiterpenoid and five triterpenes were tested for cytotoxicity against HL-60, Bel-7402, and KB cancer lines in vitro, and they appeared to be modestly active. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relational coordination among nurses and other providers: impact on the quality of patient care.
The present study examined nurse reports of relational coordination between nurses and other providers and the impact of relational coordination on patient care quality. While communication between providers has been traditionally considered important to improve quality, relational coordination extends this view, emphasising the value of high-quality relationships exemplified by shared goals, shared knowledge and mutual respect; and high-quality communication that is timely, frequent, accurate and problem-solving. Direct care registered nurses (RNs) (n=747) completed surveys to assess relational coordination across five provider functions and six types of patient care units. Nurses also reported perceptions about patient care quality. In all analyses, relational coordination between nurses and other providers was significantly related to overall quality, in the expected directions. As relational coordination increased, nurses reported decreases in adverse events such as hospital-acquired infections and medication errors. Enhancing relational coordination between nurses and other providers is central to improving the quality of patient care. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSE MANAGERS AND NEW KNOWLEDGE: The emerging theory of relational coordination provides a useful new research-based framework for managers to use to improve provider relationships, communication and the quality of care. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Brain abscess after odontogenic infection].
Dentogenous infections are among the most frequent in the maxillo-facial area. Case report of a dentogenous-pyogenous-actinomycotic mixed infection, with the complication of a secondary brain abcess is given. Consecutively, the patient became an invalid. Origin and pathogenesis of the disease are described. Also, liberal incision and drainage as a preventive measure are recommended. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A three-day insulin-induced normoglycemia improves carbohydrate oxidation in type 2 diabetic subjects.
Two months of a better glycemic control improve carbohydrate oxidation in type 2 diabetes. However, this benefit is uncertain for a shorter duration. We tested the effect of 3 days of normoglycemia induced by an insulin infusion. Ten type 2 diabetic subjects (body mass index [BMI], 30.0 +/- 1.1; glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA(1C)], 10.1 +/- 0.5) were studied twice, before and after normal glucose levels were maintained by a 72-hour intravenous insulin infusion. Indirect calorimetry was performed 1 hour before (basal) and during the 3 hours after (postprandial) the ingestion of a standard meal (carbohydrates, 72 g; fat, 21 g; protein, 32 g), at noon. Carbohydrate storage was calculated as ingested carbohydrate - (postprandial glycosuria + suprabasal postprandial carbohydrate oxidation). After normoglycemia, glucose and triglyceride levels were decreased (basal glucose, 13.8 +/- 1.1 mmol/L to 8.8 +/- 0.5; postprandial, 14.9 +/- 0.9 to 11.0 +/- 0.5; basal triglycerides, 2.2 +/- 0.1 mmol/L to 1.6 +/- 0.2; postprandial, 2.7 +/- 0.2 to 1.9 +/- 0.2; all P <.01), C peptides were unchanged. Glycosuria (before, 0.30 mg/kg/min) was abolished after normoglycemia. Basal carbohydrate, lipid, protein oxidation, and energy production rates were unchanged. Postprandial carbohydrate oxidation was increased after normoglycemia (before, 1.33 +/- 0.38 mg/kg/min; after, 1.77 +/- 0.42; P <.05). Lipid oxidation and plasma free fatty acids (FFA) tended to be more suppressed by the meal after normoglycemia (not significant [NS]). Carbohydrate storage (before, 67,5 +/- 4.6 g; after, 65.7 +/- 3.6; NS) and diet-induced thermogenesis did not change after normoglycemia. Short-term insulin-induced normoglycemia improves the postprandial oxidation of carbohydrates, but not their storage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Determination of creatine kinase MB activity with the Du Pont aca: interferences from the sample matrix.
During the last three years we and other have observed discrepancies between results for creatine kinase isoenzyme MB as measured with the mechanized ion-exchange chromatographic method in the Du Pont aca and those by other techniques. These observations prompted us to investigate the influence of the matrix on the Du Pont CK-MB assay. We conclude that, apart from possible interferences by CK-MM, CK-BB, and both types of macro CK, the aca will give apparent CK-MB activities that are directly related to protein concentration and inversely related to sodium chloride concentration. Practical consequences for the routine and emergency laboratories are: no diluted samples are allowed; application is restricted to samples from patients suspected of acute myocardial infarction which show upper-normal total CK activity; and multiple timed samples are run, in order to recognize the typical change in enzyme pattern with time. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of topical dexamethasone on sensorineural hearing loss in endotoxin-induced otitis media.
Sensorineural hearing loss, which is limited to the cochlear basal turn, due to acute or chronic otitis media has been reported in clinical and experimental studies. In the present study, the effect of intratympanic dexamethasone on endotoxin-induced cochlear damage was investigated by measuring the cochlear blood flow and hearing. Ten male Sprague-Dawley rats were inoculated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and divided into 2 groups of five rats each. One hour after intratympanic inoculation, the group A received 40 microl of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) in the right middle ear cavity, group B received 40 microl of dexamethasone. The treated animals were examined 24 h after inoculation using auditory brainstem response (ABR) and cochlear blood flow (CBF). The elevated threshold decreased significantly after intratympanic dexamethasone administration compared to the PBS-treated group. Intratympanic dexamethasone administration to the round window of rats led to a statistically significant increase in CBF compared to the PBS-treated group (p <0.05). The response to round window application of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) in the dexamethasone-treated group was better than in the PBS-treated group. Our results showed that intratympanic dexamethasone treatment was effective in protecting the function of the cochlea against endotoxin-induced otitis media. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Combined blood purification for treating acute fatty liver of pregnancy complicated by acute kidney injury: a case series.
Acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) complicated by acute kidney injury (AKI) is serious and life-threatening for the mother. The present study aimed to determine the clinical efficacy of combined blood purification treatment (CBPT) in patients with AFLP complicated by AKI. The CBPT involves plasma exchange (PE) combined with continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH). The subjects were 17 patients with AFLP complicated by AKI. The CBPT was implemented based on the timely termination of pregnancy and general treatment. Changes in clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, liver ultrasounds, as well as Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Glasgow scores were evaluated. The efficacy and adverse reactions of the CBPT were also assessed. The CBPT was smoothly performed without any obvious adverse reaction. After treatment, the clinical manifestations, laboratory examinations, and liver ultrasonography significantly improved. Therefore, the SOFA scores correspondingly decreased 1 week after treatment [9 (range 5-11) vs. 3 (range 0-10), P = 0.002], and the median was close to normal by the second week. The clearance rate of the total bilirubin in PE was significantly higher than that in CVVH (37.2 vs. 7.9%, P = 0.000). The incidence of acute pulmonary edema in CVVH was less than that in PE (0 vs. 41.2%, P = 0.007). Finally, the maternal mortality was 5.88% (95% CI: 0-29%). Overall, we think that CBPT aids in the recovery of liver and kidney function. Different blood purification methods may be combined to integrate and maximize their advantages to improve the prognoses of patients with serious AFLP. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cardiovascular depressor responses to stimulation of substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area.
Experiments were done in alpha-chloralose-anesthetized, paralyzed, and artificially ventilated rats to investigate the effect of L-glutamate (Glu) stimulation of the substantia nigra (SN) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) on arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR). Glu stimulation of the SN pars compacta (SNC) elicited decreases in both mean AP (MAP; -18.9 +/- 1.3 mmHg; n = 52) and HR (-26.1 +/- 1.6 beats/min; n = 46) at 81% of the sites stimulated. On the other hand, stimulation of the SN pars lateralis or pars reticulata did not elicit cardiovascular responses. Stimulation of the adjacent VTA region elicited similar decreases in MAP (-18.0 +/- 2.6 mmHg; n = 20) and HR (-25.4 +/- 3.8 beats/min; n = 17) at approximately 74% of the sites stimulated. Intravenous administration of the dopamine D2-receptor antagonist raclopride significantly attenuated both the MAP (70%) and the HR (54%) responses elicited by stimulation of the transitional region where the SNC merges with the lateral VTA (SNC-VTA region). Intravenous administration of the muscarinic receptor blocker atropine methyl bromide had no effect on the magnitude of the MAP and HR responses to stimulation of the SNC-VTA region, whereas administration of the nicotinic receptor blocker hexamethonium bromide significantly attenuated both the depressor and the bradycardic responses. These data suggest that dopaminergic neurons in the SNC-VTA region activate a central pathway that exerts cardiovascular depressor effects that are mediated by the inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstrictor fibers to the vasculature and cardioacceleratory fibers to the heart. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cost-effectiveness of New Targeted Agents in the Treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common adult leukemia and is clinically heterogeneous. Integration of oral targeted therapies (OTTs) in the management of CLL has fundamentally altered CLL treatment pathways and improved outcomes for patients with CLL.We review the cost-effectiveness of OTTs in the treatment of CLL. We used MeSH (Medical Subject Heading) terms and keywords to search the National Library of Medicine online MEDLINE database (PubMed) for articles related to cost-effectiveness of OTTs in CLL care.Oral targeted therapies add considerable expense to the treatment of CLL for patients and the health care system. Cost-effectiveness analyses of OTTs are not uniform in their conclusions and depend on patient groups selected for analysis. Given the substantial increase in expense associated with integration of OTTs in CLL treatment, cost reduction methods are needed to ensure equitable access to novel therapies for all patients with CLL. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Grassland invader responses to realistic changes in native species richness.
The importance of species richness for repelling exotic plant invasions varies from ecosystem to ecosystem. Thus, in order to prioritize conservation objectives, it is critical to identify those ecosystems where decreasing richness will most greatly magnify invasion risks. Our goal was to determine if invasion risks greatly increase in response to common reductions in grassland species richness. We imposed treatments that mimic management-induced reductions in grassland species richness (i.e., removal of shallow- and/or deep-rooted forbs and/or grasses and/or cryptogam layers). Then we introduced and monitored the performance of a notorious invasive species (i.e., Centaurea maculosa). We found that, on a per-gram-of-biomass basis, each resident plant group similarly suppressed invader growth. Hence, with respect to preventing C. maculosa invasions, maintaining overall productivity is probably more important than maintaining the productivity of particular plant groups or species. But at the sites we studied, all plant groups may be needed to maintain overall productivity because removing forbs decreased overall productivity in two of three years. Alternatively, removing forbs increased productivity in another year, and this led us to posit that removing forbs may inflate the temporal productivity variance as opposed to greatly affecting time-averaged productivity. In either case, overall productivity responses to single plant group removals were inconsistent and fairly modest, and only when all plant groups were removed did C. maculosa growth increase substantially over a no-removal treatment. As such, it seems that intense disturbances (e.g., prolonged drought, overgrazing) that deplete multiple plant groups may often be a prerequisite for C. maculosa invasion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A review of regulatory decisions for environmental protection: part I - challenges in the implementation of national soil policies.
Since many soil studies have already revealed the possible risks to human health and the environment arising from contaminated soils it is therefore crucial to preserve soil quality under current and future conditions. In the last three decades a number of countries already introduced national policies and practices for the management of contaminated sites, and in 2002, an EU Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection was proposed by the European Commission. In this paper we review and analyse several national contaminated land policy regimes already in place in order to assess common elements and to identify specific needs in the development of national soil policies. We propose a framework that combines the D-P-S-I-R structure of policy evaluation with the Source-Pathway-Receptor approach to health risk assessment to support the development of effective country specific regulatory decisions for managing contaminated land in countries where these are yet to be implemented. The framework proposed allows decision makers to effectively use available information and to identify existing data gaps. As a result it is apparent that while there are technical aspects of site characterisation, risk assessment and remediation processes that could be commonly implemented at an EU level there are certain trans-scientific aspects that require political choices and need to be customized by EU Member States. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Long-term follow-up after intertrochanteric osteotomies for avascular necrosis of the femoral head.
Between 1978 to 1994, 110 osteotomies were performed in 94 patients. Fifty hips (40 patients) were included in this study. Six hips were in stage II avascular necrosis (Arlet-Ficat staging) and 44 hips were in stage III. In 14 patients an etiologic association was discovered, the remaining 26 were considered idiopathic. The postoperative assessment (Harris score) showed that there is no statistic differences between sexes. Results strongly depend on the amplitude of the necrotic (Kerboul) angle (p < 0.01), the preoperative mobility of the hip (p < 0.01), and age. The best postoperative results are usually obtained in young, active, patients with unilateral involvement, a necrotic angle of less than 200 degrees, a good preoperative range of hip motion, and in which the osteotomy is performed before the collapse of sequestrum. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Function of liver mitochondria in alloxan diabetes].
State of liver mitochondria from rats with alloxane diabetes and the organelles polyenzyme systems were studied in correlation with glucose content in blood. At the initial and middle steps of the diabetes liver mitochondria were able to synthetize ATP but the rate of substrates oxidation was decreased. In severe forms of the diabetes latent impairments were developed in mitochondrial membranes. The phenomenon was accompanied by a decrease in activity of NADH-, succinate- and cytochrome c oxidizing systems as well as by a distinct decrease in the rate of ATP synthesis. Incorporation of exogenous cytochrome c into mitochondrial membranes was impaired and the mitochondria became more susceptible to the effect of heating and of hydrolytic enzymes degrading the organelles. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lizards reduce food consumption by spiders: mechanisms and consequences.
To determine the effect of lizards on webspider populations, we conducted a long-term field experiment in the Bahamas. Numbers of spider individuals were about 3 times higher in lizard-removal enclosures than in control enclosures with natural densities of lizards. Dietary analyses showed that lizards ate spiders and that lizard and spider diets overlapped substantially. Lizards reduced biomass of prey consumed by spiders; details indicated that they reduced biomass of large (> 4 mm) prey consumed by spiders more than biomass of small (≤4 mm) prey. Similarly, lizards reduced biomass of large aerial arthropods caught in sticky traps but not biomass of small aerial arthropods. We found no evidence that the lizard effect on prey consumption by spiders was caused by a spatial shift from areas with high aerial arthropod abundance to areas with low aerial arthropod abundance. Lizards reduced adult female cephalothorax width and fecundity of spiders. In a separate experiment, food-supplemented spiders were more fecund than control spiders. This study indicates that the interaction between lizards and spiders includes both predation and competition for food. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ethanol Induces Sedation and Hypnosis via Inhibiting Histamine Release in Mice.
Ethanol is one of the most highly abused psychoactive compounds worldwide and induces sedation and hypnosis. The histaminergic system is involved in the regulation of sleep/wake function and is a crucial player in promoting wakefulness. To explore the role and mechanism of the histaminergic system in ethanol-induced sedation and hypnosis, we recorded locomotor activity (LMA) and electroencephalography (EEG)/electromyography (EMG) in mice using an infrared ray passive sensor recording system and an EEG/EMG recording system, respectively, after administration of ethanol. In vivo microdialysis coupled with high performance liquid chromatography and fluorometry technology were used to detect histamine release in the mouse frontal cortex (FrCx). The results revealed that ethanol significantly suppressed LMA of histamine receptor 1 (H1R)-knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice in the range of 1.5-2.5 g/kg, but suppression was remarkably stronger in WT mice than in H1R-KO mice. At 2.0 and 2.5 g/kg, ethanol remarkably increased non-rapid eye movement sleep and decreased wakefulness, respectively. Neurochemistry experimental data indicated that ethanol inhibited histamine release in the FrCx in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that ethanol induces sedation and hypnosis via inhibiting histamine release in mice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analysis of substance use and its outcomes by machine learning I. Childhood evaluation of liability to substance use disorder.
Substance use disorder (SUD) exacts enormous societal costs in the United States, and it is important to detect high-risk youths for prevention. Machine learning (ML) is the method to find patterns and make prediction from data. We hypothesized that ML identifies the health, psychological, psychiatric, and contextual features to predict SUD, and the identified features predict high-risk individuals to develop SUD. Male (N = 494) and female (N = 206) participants and their informant parents were administered a battery of questionnaires across five waves of assessment conducted at 10-12, 12-14, 16, 19, and 22 years of age. Characteristics most strongly associated with SUD were identified using the random forest (RF)algorithm from approximately 1000 variables measured at each assessment. Next, the complement of features was validated, and the best models were selected for predicting SUD using seven ML algorithms. Lastly, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) evaluated accuracy of detecting individuals who develop SUD+/- up to thirty years of age. Approximately thirty variables strongly predict SUD. The predictors shift from psychological dysregulation and poor health behavior in late childhood to non-normative socialization in mid to late adolescence. In 10-12-year-old youths, the features predict SUD+/- with 74% accuracy, increasing to 86% at 22 years of age. The RF algorithm optimally detects individuals between 10-22 years of age who develop SUD compared to other ML algorithms. These findings inform the items required for inclusion in instruments to accurately identify high risk youths and young adults requiring SUD prevention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An Overview of Conceptualizations of Eating Disorder Recovery, Recent Findings, and Future Directions.
This review delineates issues in the conceptualization and operationalization of eating disorder recovery, highlights recent findings about recovery (since 2016), and proposes future directions. A longstanding problem in the field is that there are almost as many different definitions of recovery in eating disorders as there are studies on the topic. Yet, there has been a general shift to accepting that psychological/cognitive symptoms are important to recovery in addition to physical and behavioral indices. Further, several operationalizations of recovery have been proposed over the past two decades, and some efforts to validate operationalizations exist. However, this work has had limited impact and uptake, such that the field is suffering from "broken record syndrome," where calls are made for universal definitions time and time again. It is critical that proposed operationalizations be compared empirically to help arrive at a consensus definition and that institutional/organizational support help facilitate this. Themes in recent recovery research include identifying predictors, examining biological/neuropsychological factors, and considering severe and enduring anorexia nervosa. From qualitative research, those who have experienced eating disorders highlight recovery as a journey, as well as factors such as hope, self-acceptance, and benefiting from support from others as integral to the process of recovery. The field urgently needs to implement a universal definition of recovery that is backed by evidence, that can parsimoniously be implemented in clinical practice, and that will lead to greater harmonization of scientific findings. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chromosomal and genetic alterations of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced melanoma from TP-ras transgenic mice.
The TP-ras transgenic mouse line expresses an activated human T24 Ha-ras gene with a mutation in codon 12, regulated by a mouse tyrosinase promoter. The transgene is expressed in melanocytes of the skin, eyes, and brain. The mice develop cutaneous melanoma when treated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene. Cell lines have been generated from the cutaneous tumors and metastatic lesions. By using fluorescence in situ hybridization with mouse whole chromosome paints, the cell lines were characterized for chromosomal abnormalities. Key findings in the tumor cells included translocations of chromosome 4 and alterations in chromosome 6. One tumor cell line contained a double translocation involving chromosomes 3 and 6. To extend the results of the chromosome 4 painting, Southern analysis of the p15INK4B, p16INK4A, and p19INK4D genes was performed. Our data indicated that there were homozygous and partial allelic deletions and polymorphisms in the region of chromosome 4 containing these genes, resulting in the absence or reduced expression of the p16 product. These findings are similar to those reported for human melanoma, and the TP-ras transgenic mouse may therefore be a valuable model for studying novel strategies for melanoma prevention and treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Life after total laryngectomy].
This work relates the observation conducted in our outpatient clinic with fourteen patients who underwent a total laryngectomy due to a laryngeal and hypo pharyngeal cancer. The aims of our study were to analyse identity transformations and sociability modifications for these patients. It confirmed the social inequalities when a cancer occurs. Total laryngectomy upset or staggers the patients by impairing their appearance. Relations with other people are limited to the dearest because the tracheostomy and the deprivation of the original voice are regarded as disability that excludes them from the society. The physicians should be aware of the profound psychologic trouble and social changes attached to laryngeal cancer surgery to allow optimal care for the patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Human rabies--Texas and New Jersey, 1997.
On October 19 and October 23, 1997, a man in Texas and a man in New Jersey, respectively, died from rabies. This report summarizes the clinical features of these cases and the epidemiologic investigations by the Texas Department of Health and the New Jersey State Department of Health and Senior Services, which indicated that a bat-associated variant of the rabies virus was responsible for infection in both cases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A favorable clinical trend is associated with CD8 T-cell immune responses to the human papillomavirus type 16 e6 antigens in women being studied for abnormal pap smear results.
The goal of this study was to examine the role of CD8 T-cell responses to human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16) in a favorable clinical trend in women being studied for abnormal Pap smear results. Human papillomavirus-deoxyribonucleic acid testing and enzyme-linked immunospot assay using the HPV-16 E6 and E7 antigens were performed. The subjects with subsequent normal histologic diagnoses were considered to be "regressors" (n = 28), whereas those with histologic diagnoses of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 1, 2, or 3 were considered to have short-term persistence of cervical abnormality and were designated to be "persistors" (n = 37). There was a higher percentage of CD8 T-cell responses to the E6 antigen in the regressors (15/28 or 53.6%) when compared with the persistors (10/37 or 27.0%; p = .04), but there was no recorded response difference for the E7 antigen. Results were the same when the analyses for E6 included only subjects who were high-risk HPV-positive (p = .01). The CD8 T-cell immune responses to the HPV-16 E6 antigens but not to E7 antigens are associated with a favorable clinical trend regardless of HPV types currently detected. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
THE ANALYSIS OF SPONTANEOUS CLOSURE MECHANISMS AND REGENERATION OF RETINAL LAYERS OF A FULL-THICKNESS MACULAR HOLE: Relationship with Visual Acuity Improvement.
To analyze the spontaneous closure mechanisms, retinal layer regeneration, and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the full-thickness macular hole (FMTH). Ten eyes of 10 patients were studied. The measured outcomes included the time of persisting clinical symptoms and spontaneous closure of FTMH, BCVA, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) of vitreomacular interface. In a follow-up period, all eyes showed closure of FTMH (closure range: 3-64 weeks). The "bridging" phenomenon was a main mechanism of a spontaneous FMTH closure. Additionally, posterior vitreous detachment with the release of vitreomacular traction was observed in 4 eyes (40%). The statistical analysis showed that shorter the duration of symptoms, shorter the duration of the spontaneous FTMH closure (r = 0 673, P < 0 05). No significant association was observed between the time of spontaneous closure FTMH, the age of patients, and BCVA. The regeneration of the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and external limiting membrane (ELM) was confirmed in 10 and 9 eyes, respectively. In six eyes, connections between inner and outer segments of photoreceptors were rebuilt; in these cases, the final BCVA was the best. None of the eyes showed the regeneration of the connections between the outer segments of photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The main mechanism leading to a spontaneous closure of FTMH is the "bridging" phenomenon. Vitreous detachment and vitreomacular traction release are not necessary conditions promoting the closure of FTMH. Shorter duration of symptoms and regeneration of photoreceptors IS/OS interface provide a better final BCVA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gold nanoparticles coated with a pyruvated trisaccharide epitope of the extracellular proteoglycan of Microciona prolifera as potential tools to explore carbohydrate-mediated cell recognition.
The species-specific cell adhesion in the marine sponge Microciona prolifera involves the interaction of an extracellular proteoglycan-like macromolecular complex, otherwise known as aggregation factor. In the interaction, two highly polyvalent functional domains play a role: a cell-binding and a self-interaction domain. The self-recognition has been characterized as a Ca(2+)-dependent carbohydrate-carbohydrate interaction of repetitive low affinity carbohydrate epitopes. One of the involved epitopes is the pyruvated trisaccharide beta-d-Galp4,6(R)Pyr-(1-->4)-beta-d-GlcpNAc-(1-->3)-l-Fucp. To evaluate the role of this trisaccharide in the proteoglycan-proteoglycan self-recognition, beta-d-Galp4,6(R)Pyr-(1-->4)-beta-d-GlcpNAc-(1-->3)-alpha-l-Fucp-(1-->O)(CH(2))(3)S(CH(2))(6)SH was synthesized, and partially converted into gold glyconanoparticles. These mimics are being used to explore the self-interaction phenomenon for the trisaccharide epitope, via TEM aggregation experiments (gold glyconanoparticles) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) experiments (self assembled monolayers; binding forces). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Responses of round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) olfactory epithelium to steroids released by reproductive males.
The wild perciform teleost Neogobius melanostomus (the round goby) originated from the Ponto-Caspian region and is now a highly successful invasive species in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Males may attract females into their nests for spawning by releasing reproductive pheromones, and it has been previously shown that reproductive males synthesize and release the 5β-reduced and 3α-hydroxyl steroids 3α-hydroxy-5β-androstane-11,17-dione (11-oxo-etiocholanolone; 11-O-ETIO) and 3α-hydroxy-5β-androstane-11,17-dione 3-sulfate (11-oxo-etiocholanolone-3-sulfate; 11-O-ETIO-3-s) and 3α,17β-dihydroxy-5β-androstan-11-one 17-sulfate. In this study, we investigated properties of these released steroids by recording field potential responses from the olfactory epithelium (electro-olfactogram, EOG). The steroid 3α,17β-dihydroxy-5β-androstan-11-one 17-sulfate did not elicit olfactory responses while both 11-O-ETIO and 11-O-ETIO-3-s stimulated olfactory field potentials in the round goby, but not in the goldfish. Cross-adaptation analysis demonstrated that round gobies discriminated between11-O-ETIO and 11-O-ETIO-3-s (as well as etiocholanolone, ETIO) at the sensory level. Second messenger cascades depending on both cAMP and IP(3) were inferred for steroids from pharmacological inhibition studies, while the canonical teleost odors taurocholic acid (a bile acid) and L: -alanine (an amino acid) used only cAMP and IP(3), respectively. The round goby presents itself as an excellent species for the study of olfactory function of fish in the wild, given its possible use of these released steroids as pheromones. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prenatal management of fetal intrapericardial teratoma: a systematic review.
The purpose of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive overview on the clinical course, perinatal outcome, and effectiveness of prenatal management options for pericardial teratoma. A comprehensive search including Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and Scopus was conducted from inception to September 2016. All studies that reported the prenatal course of pericardial teratoma in singleton or twin gestations were considered eligible. Standardized forms were used for data abstraction by two independent reviewers. Out of 217 screened abstracts, 59 studies reporting 67 fetuses with pericardial teratoma were included. Twenty-three singleton fetuses and 3 fetuses in twin gestations underwent prenatal treatment, and 20 (76.9%) of them were hydropic at the time of intervention. Of those, 15/20 (75%) had a favorable outcome. In the non-intervention group (n = 41), 26 (63.4%) developed hydrops, and out of those, 8 (30.8%) had a favorable outcome. Prenatal fluid drainage and other prenatal techniques have been utilized in the treatment of intrapericardial teratoma. While most fetuses tolerated pericardiocentesis, the neonatal benefit of this procedure is still uncertain, and outcomes of other interventions had variable success. Prenatal intervention for pericardial teratoma may be an option in specialized units but, given the maternal and fetal risks, needs careful consideration. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Endoscopic cryotherapy for the management of gastric antral vascular ectasia.
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is an uncommon but clinically significant cause of chronic GI bleeding. To assess the efficacy and safety of cryotherapy for endoscopic treatment of GAVE. Patients received 3 sessions of endoscopic cryotherapy at 3-week to 6-week intervals and had a follow-up endoscopy 4 weeks thereafter. They were followed prospectively in terms of clinical and endoscopic response. Tertiary-care center, between October 2004 and April 2006. The patients were 43 to 89 years of age, with a diagnosis of GAVE and documented iron deficiency anemia. Eight patients had a history of overt GI bleeding. Eight patients (67%) had previously been treated with argon plasma coagulation (APC) (median 6 sessions, range 1-10 sessions) and failed to respond or had a recurrence. Twelve patients were enrolled. Six patients (50%) had a complete response, and 6 patients had a partial response. The mean number of units of blood transfused in the period of 3 months before cryotherapy and during the period of follow-up of 3 months was 4.6 and 1.7 units, respectively. An increased mean Hb level, from 9.9 to 11.3 g/dL, was noted. The average duration of the cryotherapy was 5 minutes (range 1-15 minutes). In 32 of 36 cryotherapy treatment sessions performed (89%), it was technically possible to treat more than 90% of GAVE lesions. There were no immediate cryotherapy-related complications, and none of the patients required admission after the procedure. A pilot study from a single center. Endoscopic cryotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for GAVE. It appears to be effective, even for GAVE refractory to APC therapy. Optimal cryogen, delivery device, and treatment protocols are yet to be determined. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pleiotropic effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-based therapies on vascular complications in diabetes.
Accelerated atherosclerosis and microvascular complications are the leading causes of coronary heart disease, end-stage renal failure, acquired blindness and a variety of neuropathies, which could account for disabilities and high mortality rates in patients with diabetes. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) belongs to the incretin hormone family. L cells in the small intestine secrete GLP-1 in response to food intake. GLP-1 not only enhances glucose-evoked insulin release from pancreatic β-cells, but also suppresses glucagon secretion from pancreatic α-cells. In addition, GLP-1 slows gastric emptying. Therefore, enhancement of GLP-1 secretion is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) is a responsible enzyme that mainly degrades GLP-1, and the half-life of circulating GLP-1 is very short. Recently, DPP-4 inhibitors and DPP-4-resistant GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists have been developed and clinically used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes as a GLP-1-based medicine. GLP-1R is shown to exist in extra-pancreatic tissues such as vessels, kidney and heart, and could mediate the diverse biological actions of GLP-1 in a variety of tissues. So, in this paper, we review the pleiotropic effects of GLP-1-based therapies and its clinical utility in vascular complications in diabetes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of thioridazine on the Automatic Clinical Analyzer serum tricyclic anti-depressant screen.
A patient who had ingested thioridazine and flurazepam was brought to the authors' emergency department. Initial laboratory evaluation included a positive result for a serum screening test for tricyclic anti-depressants performed with the DuPont Automatic Clinical Analyzer. This false positive test result caused considerable unnecessary treatment and expense for the patient. The authors have found that a serum thioridazine concentration of 125 ng/mL (within the usual therapeutic range for this drug) will produce a false positive automatic clinical analyzer serum tricyclic anti-depressant screen result. Because thioridazine is the most widely used phenothiazine and is prescribed more frequently than the most widely used tricyclic anti-depressant, it is important to recognize this cause of a false positive result. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Octahedral SnO2/Graphene Composites with Enhanced Gas-Sensing Performance at Room Temperature.
Although high-energy facets on metal oxides are usually active and preferred for gas sensing, it is difficult to expose them according to thermodynamics. In this work, nanocomposites of SnO2 and graphene are prepared by a hydrothermal method. The SnO2 nanoparticles change from a lance shape to an octahedral shape as the concentration of HCl in the solution is increased gradually from 6.5 to 10 vol %. However, the SnO2 nanoparticles have an elongated octahedral shape if the concentration of HCl is increased further. The octahedral SnO2 nanoparticles are mainly surrounded by high-surface-energy {221} facets, thus facilitating gas sensing. First-principles calculation shows that the surface energy and adsorption energy of the {221} facets are larger than those of the stable {110} facets, and so, the gas adsorption capacity on the {221} facets is better. Furthermore, because the Fermi level of the SnO2{221} facet is higher than that of graphene, the electrons are transferred from SnO2 nanoparticles to graphene sheets, enabling effective electron exchange between the composite and external NO2 gas. The excellent gas-sensing properties of the octahedral SnO2/graphene composites are ascribed to the high-surface-energy {221} facets exposed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Study on the relationship between congenital toxoplasmosis and monsters of cleft lip and palate accompanied by multiple malformation]
Toxoplasomsis is a zoonotic disease resulted from toxoplasma infection,This paper reports ten monsters that suffered from congenital cleft lip and palate accompanied antigens(RCEP,COA test) were positive.Toxoplasma antibodies (IHA,IFA,RIPEGA test) in mothers' serum were also positive.Microscopic examination revealed toxoplasma trophozoites and pseudocysts in the tissue of cleft lip and palate as well as viscera.In addition,We used SPA method to reveal toxoplasma in the tissue.We indicate that toxoplasma infection of pregnant women is one of the cause of monsters.It is the important biological factor and closely related to eugenics.Stomatologists must pay attention to this etiology. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Landau-Kleffner syndrome in Norway: long-term prognosis and experiences with the health services and educational systems.
We have conducted a retrospective study based on the medical records of 19 children with Landau-Kleffner syndrome and semistructured interviews of their parents. There was considerable heterogeneity in the children's symptoms. Eleven children were followed for more than 10 years (mean=14.4 years); four have normal language, four have moderate language problems, and three have no functional verbal language today. Late-onset language decline, short duration of the initial aphasic period, and marked fluctuations in speech abilities appeared to be associated with a positive outcome with respect to future language skills. The parents reported having to argue strongly with the health authorities and educational system to obtain a correct diagnosis and receive adequate help. Their main concern was not being taken seriously when they expressed their worries, and they expressed a strong wish for someone who could ensure that appropriate support measures were implemented and who could coordinate assistance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Apgar score associated with mode of delivery in São Paulo State, Brazil].
This paper analyzes Apgar score associated with mode of delivery for live births in São Paulo State, Brazil, 2003. Based on data from the State Data Analysis System Foundation (SEADE), logistic regression was analyzed for live births with low Apgar score (0 to 6) at the fifth minute of life per mode of delivery, adjusted for obstetric, demographic, and social factors. Birth weight, gestational age at delivery, number of prenatal visits, maternal age, marital status, and years of schooling were statistically significant, and (as expected) all exposure categories were associated with low Apgar score. In the unadjusted model, the odds ratio (OR) for low Apgar was 0.890 (95%CI: 0.836-0.948) for cesarean section compared to vaginal delivery. Nevertheless, in the adjusted model the OR was 1.045 (95%CI: 0.977-1.117) for cesarean section compared to vaginal delivery. Adjusted for obstetric, demographic, and social factors, mode of delivery was not statistically significant for low Apgar. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chondrons in cartilage: ultrastructural analysis of the pericellular microenvironment in adult human articular cartilages.
A combination of scanning and transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the morphology and ultrastructure of normal human articular cartilage sampled from adult amputation specimens. This study confirms our previous observations on canine articular cartilage, which showed middle and deep layer chondrocytes surrounded by a pericellular matrix and enclosed within a pericellular capsule composed of filamentous and fine fibrillar materials. Pores in the "felt-like" organization of the capsular weave progressively decreased in size from the inner to the outer border of the capsule. Matrix vesicles were found embedded within the capsular weave and distributed throughout the territorial matrix. It is suggested that the chondrocyte, its pericellular matrix, and capsule together constitute the "chondron," a primary functional and metabolic unit of cartilage that acts hydrodynamically to protect the integrity of the chondrocyte and its pericellular microenvironment during compressive loading. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Efficient epoxidation of olefins by H2O2 catalyzed by iron "helmet" phthalocyanines.
High yields of epoxides were obtained in the oxidation of a large range of olefins using 1.2-2 equiv. of H2O2 in the presence of iron helmet phthalocyanines. The involvement of high-valent iron oxo species was evidenced using cryospray mass spectrometry. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Increased prevalence of airway reactivity in children with eosinophilic esophagitis.
Asthma is prevalent in children with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) estimated at 24-42% in prior studies versus 9% for the general population. However, pulmonary function and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in children with EoE have not been previously defined. A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted of children ages 7-18 years with EoE and healthy controls. Methacholine bronchial challenge and exhaled nitric oxide were assessed. As measures of atopy and immune activation, peripheral blood was analyzed for total IgE, specific IgE to selected aeroallergens, eosinophil count, and serum cytokines including eotaxin. EoE subjects (n = 33) and healthy controls (n = 37) demonstrated similar, normal baseline spirometry. AHR occurred in 33% of children with EoE and 11% of healthy controls (P = 0.04; 95% confidence intervals [19%, 52%] and [4%, 26%], respectively). The majority of EoE subjects with AHR had no prior diagnosis of asthma. Overall, 69.7% of EoE subjects had either asthma or AHR. For EoE subjects, total serum IgE was the only biomarker associated with a greater risk of AHR (OR = 9.643, 95%CI 1.633, 56.925). EoE subjects with and without asthma were similar to healthy controls in mean levels of serum cytokines (IL-5, IL-9, EGF, FGF-2, eotaxin). In exploratory analyses, the subgroup with EoE and asthma without asthma controller therapy had higher mean FGF-2 than EoE subjects without asthma (110 pg/ml vs. 65 pg/ml, P = 0.0426). Asthma and AHR may be more prevalent than previous estimates in children with EoE. For subjects with EoE, elevation in serum IgE was associated with a greater risk of AHR. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Global variation in the pattern of differentiated thyroid cancer.
The prevalence of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is increasing worldwide. Iodine deficiency is a risk factor for follicular thyroid cancer (FTC). We compared DTC subtypes in an iodine-deficient country with a developed country. A retrospective review of thyroid cancer at tertiary centers in West Africa and the United States. All patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer from 1980 to 2004 were retrieved from the West African Center's Cancer Registry Database. The study period was divided into two groups: 1980 to 1989 and 1990 to 2004. In the American center, a review of patients undergoing surgery for thyroid cancer from 1997 to 2008 was performed. At the African institution, 322 patients underwent thyroidectomy for cancer from 1980 to 2004. Overall, 31.5% had papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), and 30.3% had FTC. From 1980 to 1989, 27.3% had PTC and 35.8% had FTC. From 1990 to 2004, 35.7% had PTC and 24.8% had FTC. At the American institution, 105 patients underwent surgery for thyroid cancer from 1997 to 2008; 79% had PTC and 7.6% had FTC. FTC is still common in developing countries, whereas PTC is the predominant subtype in developed countries. Efforts to decrease iodine deficiency may improve outcomes by changing to a less aggressive subtype. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel treatment processes of struvite with pretreated magnesite as a source of low-cost magnesium.
By crystallization process, phosphorus can be recycled from wastewater. However, the reagent cost limits the application of struvite precipitation. Magnesite, as a low-cost magnesium source, can result in a cost savings, while the poor dissolution offset of low-cost reagent. In this study, most of the pyrolysate of magnesite was dissolved by changing the process of reagent addition; the solubility of the pyrolysate was increased at acid wastewater. The removal rate of phosphate by the pyrolysate was higher than that of magnesite, the phosphate removal rate was from 70.2 to 88.2% at 600 °C, 0.5 h to 1200 °C, 3 h. Phosphate removal rate was achieved optimal when calcination temperature was 700 °C at 2 h. By adding the pyrolysate to acid wastewater (pH ≤ 2) before NH4Cl, phosphate removal rate was closed to that of MgCl2 as magnesium source, while magnesite was priced at similar levels to lime. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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