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[Epidural anesthesia with a combination of narcotic analgesics and local anesthetics in the surgical treatment of arterial occlusion of the leg].
Comparative characteristics of epidural anesthesia with local anesthetics and a combination of the latter with narcotics in the reconstruction of arterial segments of lower extremities in 123 patients were given. The use of narcotics decreases the frequency of introduction of the drugs into the epidural space, does not induce persistent arterial hypotension and practically excludes different complications associated with epidural anesthesia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Repeated ruminal acidosis challenges in lactating dairy cows at high and low risk for developing acidosis: feeding, ruminating, and lying behavior.
An experiment was conducted to determine whether the susceptibility to ruminal acidosis, as defined through differences in days in milk (DIM), milk production level, and ration composition, influences cow feeding, ruminating, and lying behavior and whether these behaviors change during an acute bout of ruminal acidosis. Eight ruminally cannulated cows were assigned to 1 of 2 acidosis risk levels: low risk (LR, mid-lactation cows fed a 60:40 forage:concentrate ratio diet) or high risk (HR, early lactation cows fed a 45:55 forage:concentrate diet). As a result, diets were intentionally confounded with DIM and milk production to represent 2 different acidosis risk scenarios. Cows were exposed to an acidosis challenge in each of three 14-d periods. Each period consisted of 3 baseline days, a feed restriction day (restricting total mixed ration to 50% of ad libitum intake), an acidosis challenge day (1 h meal of 4 kg of ground barley/wheat before allocating the total mixed ration), and a recovery phase. Feeding, rumination, and standing/lying behavior were recorded for 2 baseline days, on the challenge day, and 1 and 4 d after the challenge day for each cow. Across the study, there were no differences in measures of standing, lying, or feeding behavior between the 2 groups of cows. The HR cows did, on average, spend less time ruminating (491 vs. 555 min/d) than the LR cows, resulting in a lesser percentage of observed cows ruminating across the day (44.6 vs. 48.1%). The acidosis challenge resulted in changes in behavior in all cows. Compared with the baseline, feeding time increased on the first day after the challenge (395 vs. 310 min/d), whereas lying time decreased (565 vs. 634 min/d). Rumination time decreased the first day following the challenge (436 min/d) relative to the baseline (533 min/d), but increased the following day (572 min/d). Fewer cows were observed to be ruminating at a given time on the first day following the challenge as compared with the baseline period. Despite this, on a herd level, numerous observations of the proportion of cows ruminating at any one time would need to be taken to accurately detect an acute bout of acidosis using changes in rumination behavior. Overall, these results suggest that risk of acidosis may have little overall effect on general behavior, with the exception of rumination. Furthermore, an acute bout of acidosis alters behavioral patterns of lactating dairy cows, particularly rumination behavior, and identification of these changes in behavior through repeated measurements may assist in the detection of an acidosis event within a herd. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pulmonary metastatic microangiopathy of colon cancer presenting as a "tree in bud" pattern.
The authors report an unusual case of a "tree in bud" pattern of vascular origin caused by colon cancer metastases. A 60-year-old man presented for routine follow-up of a colon tumour resected surgically 15 years previously. Clinical examination, laboratory tests, including carcino-embryonic antigen and inflammatory parameters, and chest radiograph were normal. Multislice CT of the lungs revealed the presence of several "tree in bud" opacities. The connection to the pulmonary arteries was well depicted by reformatted maximal intensity projection images. Biopsy of some of the nodules was characterized by mucinous material and neoplastic cells within the small vessels, consistent with metastases from the known colon adenocarcinoma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of adjuvants that enhance the therapeutic antibody response to host IgE.
In the development of a novel vaccine against atopic allergies, we have screened for adjuvants that enhance the therapeutic antibody response against self immunoglobulin E (IgE). The response against self IgE is induced by administration of a vaccine antigen, which contains both self and non-self IgE regions, together with an adjuvant. We evaluated five commonly used adjuvants; Freund's, aluminium hydroxide, ISCOMs, Montanide ISA 51 and Montanide ISA 720, and found that the mineral oil-based adjuvants; Montanide ISA 51 and Freund's induced at least 5-10-fold higher anti-self IgE titers than any of the other candidates. However, with one exception, Alum, the immune responses against the carrier, i.e. the non-self regions, were similar for all adjuvants, indicating that the ability to induce responses against self and non-self antigens differ among adjuvants. The responses against non-self IgE were more than 50-fold higher than antibody responses against self IgE in both the Freund's and Montanide 51-administered animals, indicating that the response against self molecules is markedly inhibited by tolerance-inducing mechanisms. Co-administration of Montanide ISA 51 with immuno-stimulatory substances from bacteria; muramyldipeptide (MDP), monophosphoryl-lipid A (MPL) or a formyl-methionine-containing tripeptide (fMLP), did not elevate the anti-self IgE response. Hence, adjuvants based on pure mineral oil without additional immuno-stimulatory substances appear to be the best adjuvant candidates in therapeutic vaccines aimed at regulating the in vivo levels of self-proteins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Seasonal dynamics of the helminths of bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) in a subtropical region.
Seasonal prevalence and abundance of the helminths of bluegill sunfish in a Louisiana oligohaline bayou were measured by a survey and a field "live-box" experiment. The survey took place from the spring of 1997 to the summer of 1998 and examined fish that were <7 cm. Three trematode species, Phagicola nana (Heterophyidae), Ascocotyle tenuicollis (Heterophyidae), and Posthodiplostomum minimum (Diplostomatidae), and 2 nematode species, Camallanus oxycephalus (Camallanidae) and Spinitectus carolini (Cystidicolidae), were examined. Camallanus oxycephalus was the only helminth that showed a distinct seasonal pattern. Abundance and prevalence peaked in summer, which was likely driven by concerted reproductive cycles of females. The survey data indicated that the other helminths fluctuated over time but did not seem to follow a distinct seasonal pattern. The fluctuations could be attributed to the variable nature of the habitat or to the stochastic events that influence transmission dynamics, particularly isolated events such as tropical storms, which cause dramatic changes in salinity. The live-box experiment successfully measured recruitment of A. tenauicollis and suggested a seasonal component of the distribution of this species, which was possibly caused by temperature-dependent emergence of cercariae from the snail intermediate host. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analyzing renal glomeruli with the new stereology.
The highly specialized architecture of the renal glomerulus is altered in a variety of disease states. Morphometric methods, including stereological methods, have been widely used to analyze these changes in both animal and human glomeruli. However, many of the methods available until recently were biased and provided incomplete information. The past few years have witnessed the development of a new generation of unbiased stereological methods. Another advantage of these new methods and strategies is that they are less influenced by technical artifacts than the traditional methods. This chapter describes how these new stereological methods can be used to quantify glomerular morphology. Parameters considered include glomerular number and volume; glomerular cell number and size; and the length, surface area, and number of glomerular capillaries. Methods for obtaining data for average glomeruli as well as individual glomeruli are described. Technical details are included wherever possible. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Milestones in medical management of trauma.
Trauma care appears to be a relatively young science because of the major strides made after World War II. A historical foundation of today's practice is provided, with interesting anecdotes concerning some of the pioneers, their motivations, and the reactions of their medical peers. A chronology of trauma care highlights the growth of multiple fields of science that eventually blended to become the basis for modern care. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
TNF and ubiquitin at the crossroads of gene activation, cell death, inflammation, and cancer.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is crucial for innate immunity, but deregulated TNF signaling also plays an eminent role in the pathogenesis of many chronic inflammatory diseases and cancer-related inflammation. The signals that mediate both the beneficial and the harmful effects of TNF are initiated when TNF binds to its receptors on the surface of target cells. TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) is ubiquitously expressed, whereas TNFR2 is mainly expressed on lymphocytes and endothelial cells. This review focuses on the molecular and physiological consequences of the interaction of TNF with TNFR1. The different outcomes of TNF signaling originate at the apical signaling complex that forms when TNF binds to TNFR1, the TNFR1 signaling complex (TNF-RSC). By integrating recently gained insight on the functional importance of the presence of different types of ubiquitination in the TNF-RSC, including linear ubiquitin linkages generated by the linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC), with the equally recent elucidation of the mode in which ubiquitin-binding domains interact with specific di-ubiquitin linkages, this review develops a new concept for the way the concerted action of different ubiquitination events enables the TNF-RSC to generate its signaling output in a spatio-temporally controlled manner. Finally, it will be explained how these new findings and the emerging concept of differential ubiquitination governing the TNF-RSC may impact future research on the molecular mechanism of TNF signaling and the function of this cytokine in normal physiology, chronic inflammation, and cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Exploring functional outcomes and allied health staffing levels in an inpatient paediatric rehabilitation unit.
This study provides data from a paediatric tertiary hospital on the length of stay, functional improvement and allied health workload for children and adolescents on active inpatient rehabilitation programs. An audit was conducted of records of patients managed through an inpatient rehabilitation program at a 359 bed tertiary children's hospital in Brisbane, Australia between December 2014 and December 2015. Data relating to diagnosis, length of stay, functional change, occasions of allied health service and hours of patient attributable allied health professional time were collected. Data on 94 children and adolescents with a total of 102 rehabilitation episodes of care were sourced. The greatest average length of stay was for the "Stroke" group. The highest average allied health professional contact hours were for the "Brain Dysfunction - Traumatic" group. The greatest average functional change was observed in the "Brain Dysfunction- Traumatic group." Physiotherapy accounted for the largest proportion of allied health professional service time, with an average of 32% of total time. This review from a tertiary hospital-based inpatient paediatric rehabilitation service provides information regarding the length of stay, functional change and allied health workload for children and adolescents on active inpatient rehabilitation programs. As expected, total and rehabilitation episode length of stay, functional improvement and allied health contact and input varied according to diagnostic groups. This information is likely to be of value to other Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine inpatient units when developing staffing for services and benchmarking service delivery. Implications for Rehabilitation Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine supports children and adolescents to achieve the highest level possible of physical, cognitive, psychological and social functioning following accident or injury. There are little data in the literature to inform the optimal allied health staffing levels required for intensive inpatient multidisciplinary for children and adolescents suffering acquired neurological impairments. Data from this tertiary hospital-based paediatric inpatient rehabilitation program provide information on the length of stay, functional improvement and allied health professional contact for patients across broad diagnostic groupings. This information is useful for other paediatric rehabilitation services when planning for allied health staffing in service development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterisation and vascular expression of nitric oxide synthase 3 in amphibians.
In mammals, nitric oxide (NO) produced by nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3) localised in vascular endothelial cells is an important vasodilator but the presence of NOS3 in the endothelium of amphibians has been concluded to be absent, based on physiological studies. In this study, a nos3 cDNA was sequenced from the toad, Rhinella marina. The open reading frame of R. marina nos3 encoded an 1170 amino acid protein that showed 81 % sequence identity to the recently cloned Xenopus tropicalis nos3. Rhinella marina nos3 mRNA was expressed in a range of tissues and in the dorsal aorta and pulmonary, mesenteric, iliac and gastrocnemius arteries. Furthermore, nos3 mRNA was expressed in the aorta of Xenopus laevis and X. tropicalis. Quantitative real-time PCR showed that removal of the endothelium of the lateral aorta of R. marina significantly reduced the expression of nos3 mRNA compared to control aorta with the endothelium intact. However, in situ hybridisation was not able to detect any nos3 mRNA in the dorsal aorta of R. marina. Immunohistochemistry using a homologous R. marina NOS3 antibody showed immunoreactivity (IR) within the basal region of many endothelial cells of the dorsal aorta and iliac artery. NOS3-IR was also observed in the proximal tubules and collecting ducts of the kidney but not within the capillaries of the glomeruli. This is the first study to demonstrate that vascular endothelial cells of an amphibian express NOS3. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aromatic thiol pKa effects on the folding rate of a disulfide containing protein.
The production of proteins via recombinant DNA technology often requires the in vitro folding of inclusion bodies, which are protein aggregates. To create a more efficient redox buffer for the in vitro folding of disulfide containing proteins, aromatic thiols were investigated for their ability to increase the folding rate of scrambled RNase A. Scrambled RNase A is fully oxidized RNase A with a relatively random distribution of disulfide bonds. The importance of the thiol pK(a) value was investigated by the analysis of five para-substituted aromatic thiols with pK(a) values ranging from 5.2 to 6.6. Folding was measured at pH 6.0 where the pK(a) value of the thiols would be higher, lower, or equal to the solution pH. Thus, relative concentrations of thiol and thiolate would vary across the series. At pH 6.0, the aromatic thiols increased the folding rate of RNase A by a factor of 10-23 over that observed for glutathione, the standard additive. Under optimal conditions, the apparent rate constant increased as the thiol pK(a) value decreased. Optimal conditions occurred when the concentration of protonated thiol in solution was approximately 2 mM, although the total thiol concentration varied considerably. The importance of the concentration of protonated thiol in solution can be understood based on equilibrium effects. Kinetic studies suggest that the redox buffer participates as the nucleophile and/or the center thiol in the key rate determining thiol disulfide interchange reactions that occur during protein folding. Aromatic thiols proved to be kinetically faster and more versatile than classical aliphatic thiol redox buffers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The induction of suppressor T cells by concanavalin A is independent of cellular proliferation and protein synthesis.
Factors that govern the induction of suppressor T cells after stimulation with concanavalin A (Con A) were investigated in a two-stage culture system. Normal mouse spleen cells were incubated with Con A in the presence of a variety of drugs and then assayed for suppressive activity by means of a secondary anti-sheep erythrocyte response in vitro. The inclusion of inhibitors of mitosis (vinblastine sulphate or mytomycin C) or protein synthesis (cycloheximide or pactamycin) into normal spleen cell cultures containing Con A failed to inhibit the subsequent development of suppressor cells. Furthermore, spleen cells from mice previously irradiated with 900 rad or injected with cyclophosphamide expressed a level of suppressor activity after Con A stimulation which was equivalent to that of normal spleen cells. However, the inclusion of drugs that inhibit microtubule or microfilament function (colchicine or cytocholasin B) did prevent suppressor cell induction. Kinetic studies also revealed that significant suppressor activity was detectable in normal spleen cells after only 3 h exposure to Con A. These results indicate that the induction of suppressor T cells in this system is a maturation event involving changes in the cell membrane and is entirely independent of protein synthesis and cellular proliferation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The sexualization of the medical.
The medicalization of sex is part of an already-in-place discursive problem that can be illuminated by looking at efforts to sexualize the medical. "Erectile dysfunction," "female sexual dysfunction," and their real and imagined pharmacopia, do not constitute the medicalization of sex; they are effects of sex already having been-to borrow a term from Peter Conrad ( 1992 )-healthicized. The equation of sex and health, as cultural common sense, has made health seem like the natural discourse for thinking about sex in the first place. Reversing the terms of this special issue, and using the methodology of rhetorical analysis, this article looks at the person with cancer as a sexualized subject-someone whose health is represented as intimately tied to his or her sex life. It suggests that, in public discourse-and notably in movies and on television-sex is the comic ending of the illness narrative. In light of this narrative move, the ability to have good sex joins the ability to be positive and cheerful as a (Western) cultural imperative of illness experience, in general, and cancer experience, in particular. Public representations of illness virtues often fail, then, to answer realistically the compelling question, "How shall I be ill?" | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Noninvasive imaging oral absorption of insulin delivered by nanoparticles and its stimulated glucose utilization in controlling postprandial hyperglycemia during OGTT in diabetic rats.
This work examined the feasibility of preparing a pH-responsive nanoparticle (NP) system composed of chitosan and poly(γ-glutamic acid) conjugated with ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (γPGA-EGTA) for oral insulin delivery in diabetic rats during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). OGTT has been used largely as a model to mimic the period that comprises and follows a meal, which is often associated with postprandial hyperglycemia. Based on Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), this work also demonstrated the ability of γPGA-EGTA to protect insulin from an intestinal proteolytic attack in living rats, owing to its ability to deprive the environmental calcium. Additionally, EGTA-conjugated NPs were effective in disrupting the epithelial tight junctions, consequently facilitating the paracellular permeation of insulin throughout the entire small intestine. Moreover, results of positron emission tomography and computer tomography demonstrated the effective absorption of the permeated insulin into the systemic circulation as well as promotion of the glucose utilization in the myocardium, and skeletal muscles of the chest wall, forelimbs and hindlimbs, resulting in a significant glucose-lowering effect. Above results indicate that as-prepared EGTA-conjugated NPs are a promising oral insulin delivery system to control postprandial hyperglycemia and thus may potentially prevent the related diabetic complications. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Age of menopause and menopausal symptoms in HIV-infected women.
The objective of this study was to examine the median age of menopause, factors associated with postmenopausal status, and the prevalence of menopausal symptoms in HIV-infected women. We surveyed 120 HIV-infected women between 40 and 57 years old who attended an inner city infectious diseases clinic. Ninety-five percent of the women surveyed were African American and almost half of the women (44%) had used methadone, heroin, cocaine, marijuana, or a combination of these drugs within the past 6 months. Eighty-seven percent had smoked cigarettes at least some time during their life and 45% drank alcohol between the ages of 40 and 49 years old. Thirty women were postmenopausal (having no menstrual periods in the previous 12 consecutive months), 31 were perimenopausal (having 1-11 periods within the previous 12 months), and 59 were premenopausal (having 12 or more periods within the previous 12 months). The median age of menopause was 50 years old (95% confidence interval = 49, 53). In a multivariate model, methadone use within the past 6 months was associated with postmenopausal status. We did not find an association between postmenopausal status and body mass index, number of pregnancies, CD4 cell counts, HIV viral load, individual and grouped antiretroviral therapies, cigarette smoking, and current or past oral contraceptive use. In multivariate analysis, postmenopausal status was associated with hot flashes and cocaine use was associated with vaginal dryness. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Plaster of Paris pellets containing antibiotics in the treatment of bone infection. New combinations of plaster with antibiotics].
The author has tested the action of antibiotic-loaded plaster of Paris loaded pellets in 15 patients with success in 13. Previous studies using plaster of Paris for filling bone defects are noted, plaster being well tolerated and absorbable. Gentamycin, Fucidin and Cefazolin were tested first. In a second series, Netilmicin, Amikacin, Rifamycin and Rifampicin were also used. The preparation of the pellets is fully described. In most instances they can be sterilized by gamma rays except for Fucidin and Cefazolin. Several hundred pellets can be used simultaneously. A study of the elimination of antibiotic in the urine was made. It was concluded that the concentrations obtained by this method in the tissues were highly satisfactory. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical characteristics of canine fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCE): a systematic review of 393 cases (1973-2013).
Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCE) is common in dogs; however, there is conflicting information in the veterinary literature regarding clinical characteristics and data on recovery in severe cases is sparse. A systematic review of canine FCE was performed to delineate the natural history of this disease. 322 previously reported cases and 71 previously unreported cases were identified for inclusion. Source publications were identified via PubMed central search and by references from review articles. Previously unreported cases were identified via computerised medical records search at two veterinary institutions. FCE was most common in middle-aged large breed dogs (30 per cent); however, the miniature schnauzer was the most frequently reported individual breed and small breeds comprised 24 per cent of all reported cases. The most common neuroanatomical localisation was a T3-L3 myelopathy (33.1 per cent). Prognosis for recovery of ambulation was good to excellent with 85 per cent of cases regaining the ability to walk unassisted, most within 3 weeks. Persistent neurological deficits were common in patients that recovered ambulation (49.1 per cent). When nociception was absent in the affected limbs at initial presentation, rate of recovery was lower (10 per cent); however, this data is likely biased by limited follow-up in more severe cases. Future prospective studies should evaluate prognosis for more severely affected patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Does hydrophobic hydration destabilize protein native structures?
Water in the immediate vicinity of a non-polar solute has characteristically low entropy and high heat capacity at 25 degrees C. Common opinion has been that the insolubility of such species is caused by thermodynamic changes associated with the formation of these layers of abnormal water, 'hydrophobic hydration'. Recently, however, it has been proposed instead that hydrophobic hydration favors solution of hydrocarbons, or hydrocarbon sidechains, in water and therefore promotes protein unfolding. It is argued here that available data do not convincingly support this hypothesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hormonal regulation of the growth and steroidogenic function of human granulosa cells.
The aim of this study was to assess development-related interactions between gonadotropins and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) on DNA synthesis and steroidogenesis in human granulosa cells. "Immature" granulosa cells were obtained from follicles during the late luteal phase or first half of the follicular phase; "mature" granulosa cells came from follicles during the second half of the follicular phase but before the midcycle LH surge; and granulosa-lutein cells were obtained as a by-product of in vitro fertilization. Granulosa cells were cultured for 96 h in serum-free medium 199 with and without LH or FSH, and in the presence and absence of IGF-I. The cell monolayers were then incubated with [3H]methyl thymidine to assess DNA synthesis. Spent culture medium was assayed for progesterone and estradiol content. Immature granulosa cells: Tritiated thymidine uptake in granulosa cell cultures from immature follicles were significantly increased by IGF-I. FSH was able to maintain or increase basal and IGF-I stimulated growth whereas LH had no effect. Basal progesterone production was low and not increased by either FSH or LH. However, treatment with FSH, but not LH, increased aromatase activity. Mature granulosa cells: IGF-I also stimulated thymidine uptake. However, whereas FSH either maintained or increased thymidine uptake by these cells, LH dose dependently suppressed thymidine uptake. This inhibitory action of LH was accentuated by the presence of IGF-I. Despite the inhibitory effect of LH on thymidine uptake, the gonadotropin markedly stimulated steroid production and the maximal steroidogenic response to LH was equivalent to 3-fold greater than that to FSH. Granulosa-lutein cells: Patterns of basal and IGF-I- and gonadotropin-stimulated steroid synthesis were similar to those observed for mature granulosa cells but steroid production rates were higher. Suppression of basal and IGF-I-stimulated thymidine uptake by LH was even more pronounced. These results suggest that the granulosa cell LH receptor, once expressed, negatively regulates cell growth and, simultaneously, positively regulates steroid synthesis. This development related event could be crucial to the mechanism whereby granulosa cells cease to divide and commence maximal rates of steroid synthesis in response to the LH surge. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Protective effects of extract of Ginkgo biloba against ethanol-induced oxidative injury in rat testes].
This study was designed to investigate whether EGB protect against ethanol-induced oxidative injury in rat testes. The rats were pretreated with EGB (4.8,9.6 mg/100g bw per day) before 30% ethanol administration (2.37g/kg bw by gastric incubation). Ninety days later, the rats were killed in order to measure the activities of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Reductase (GST), Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-Px), Catalase (CAT) and the contents of Glutathione (GSH), Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Malondialdehyde (MDA)in rat testes. The microsomal fractions were obtained by the method of differential centrifugation, and HO-1 (Heme Oxygenase-1) activity in testicular microsomal was measured. To examine the expression of HO-1 mRNA by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Compared with ethanol group, ROS, and MDA contents significantly decreased in EGB group testes, respectively (P < 0.05). GST, GSH-Px, CAT, SOD activities, and GSH content in EGB group testes elevated markedly (P <0.05). EGB could enhance HO-1 mRNA expression remarkably. It is suggested that EGB as a preventive antioxidant can protect against ethanol-induced testicular injury, which may be associated with HO-1 activity enhancement, free radicals elimination, lipid per-oxidation reaction inhibition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neurotransmitter modulation of Fos- and Jun-like proteins in the turtle retina.
The expression of the Fos and Jun families of nuclear phosphoproteins can be induced by a variety of extracellular stimuli and is known to participate in the transcriptional regulation of target genes. To examine the role of these transcription factors in retinal function, we used polyclonal antisera to localize these protein families in the turtle retina. Fos-like immunoreactivity was in many somata in the inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers. In contrast, Jun-like immunoreactivity was in a smaller number of amacrine cells and many somata in the ganglion cell layer. The monostratified dendritic arbors of one prominent amacrine cell type with Jun-like immunoreactivity were also labeled. There were no dramatic differences in the levels of Fos-like immunoreactivity or Jun-like immunoreactivity between light- or dark-adapted retinas. We examined the effects of excitatory amino acids and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the expression of these proteins in vitro. In some experiments, cobalt was used to block synaptic transmission. The excitatory amino acids increased both Fos- and Jun-like immunoreactivity, while GABA generally showed no such stimulatory effect. In cobalt-treated retinas, the same cell types had Jun-like immunoreactivity as seen in the controls, but overall levels of immunoreactivity were increased. In cobalt-treated dark-adapted retinas, some excitatory amino acids increased cytoplasmic Fos-like immunoreactivity in the somata and processes of large cells in the ganglion cell layer. Our results suggest that Fos- and Jun-related proteins may play an important role in the postsynaptic responses to amino acid transmitters in a wide variety of amacrine and ganglion cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Immunological factors and renal allograft survival for more than fifteen years: a single center study from Tunisia.
Late loss of kidney allograft, caused by immunological and non-immunological factors, remains a major problem in the field of transplantation. The aim of this study was to analyze the risk factors affecting long-term kidney graft survival more than 15 years. In a retro-spective analysis, clinical and laboratory variables and outcome of 330 patients who received a kidney transplant from living or cadaveric ABO-compatible donors at the Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis between 1986 and 2005 were recorded. A total of 58 patients who had follow-up data longer than 15 years constituted the subjects of this study. Patients were classified into two groups: Group I (Gp I), those who had kidney graft survival more than 15 years and Group II (Gp II), those who had kidney graft survival less than 15 years. There were 27 patients in Gp I (46.5%) and 31 in Gp II (53.5%). Graft loss in Gp II patients occurred in the first year in 15.1%, at three years in 35.5 %, at five years in 71 % and at 10 years in 83.9 %. The cause of graft loss was chronic graft dysfunction in 24 cases (77.4%), recurrence of the original kidney disease in three and graft versus host disease, urinary fistula, vascular rejection and graft rupture in one case each. There was no statistically significant difference between recipient and donor age or sex, duration on dialysis, number of acute rejections and infections between the two groups. Eleven of 27 patients (40.7 %) in Gp I and eight of 31 patients (25.8 %) in Gp II received total mismatched kidneys while the others received kidneys with varying degrees of match. The HLA DR2 matching was higher in Gp I (44.4 %) than in Gp II (29 %), whereas DR3 matching was higher in Gp II (45.2 %) in comparison with Gp I (11.1 %). Cross-match was negative in all our patients. Thirteen patients (48.1%) in Gp I and 17 (54.8 %) in Gp II.had a history of having episode(s) of acute rejection The number of acute rejection episodes did not contribute significantly to long-term graft survival in our series. Delayed graft function significantly lowered long-term graft survival; it was seen in seven cases in Gp I (25.9 %) versus 23 cases in Gp II (74.2 %) (X2=13.46). In our study, the long-term graft survival was similar to what is reported from developed countries. The main risk factors were HLA DR matching and delayed graft function. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Reference the YY/T 0841-2011 standard to improve preventive maintenance of medical electrical equipment and experience].
In this paper, we interpret the new YY/T 0841-2011 standard and contrast the difference between it and GB9706.1-2007 standard. Then, we improved the current preventive maintenance work. After the improvement, we not only have more effective detection of the electrical safety performance of all kinds of medical electrical equipment, but also reduce the workload of clinical engineers, improve efficiency, and reduce the risk of electrical shock. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea following endocopic trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery: Experience from 337 patients].
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is a frequent complication after trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery. We try to determine the incidence, risk factors, diagnostic procedures, and management of CSF leaks following trans-sphenoidal pituitary macroadenoma surgery. A retrospective analysis of 337 patients data. Postoperative CSF leaks occurred in 11 patients (3,1%). Ten patients had to be reoperated. Three patients had meningitis. Intraoperative CSF leak is the only significant predictive factor of postoperative CSF leak. Revision surgery, wide opening of the sella turcica and insufficient reconstruction of the sellar floor also seem to play a role (for six cases of postoperative CSF leak, the closure material had been excluded). Prevention of the postoperative CSF leak needs screening of intra-operative CSF leak. The strength of the sellar floor is essential in order to avoid the ejection of the closure material, related to the intracranial pression. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Backscatter from metal surfaces in diagnostic radiology.
Backscatter from four commonly used metals (aluminum, lead, copper, and iron) was measured under diagnostic imaging conditions, using screen-film systems as detectors. The results indicate that for an 80-kV filtered beam and Par Speed/XRP system, backscatter increases as aluminum (Al) thickness increases until it reaches a plateau of approximately 12% at 50 mm Al. The amount of backscatter from any of these four metals increases as the tube voltage is raised from 60 to 115 kV. Measured backscatter depends strongly on the screens used, possibly due to their attenuation and energy response. Backscatter from aluminum was significantly greater than that from the other metals tested. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The true cost of monitoring antibiotic levels.
Antibiotic assays are most often ordered for the purpose of toxicity monitoring, which usually involves determination of peak and trough antibiotic concentrations in the blood. The cost of monitoring antibiotic levels is probably higher than is commonly appreciated. Factors that contribute to the cost of this service include staffing the microbiology laboratory with appropriate personnel, who are responsible for determining the adequacy of sample collection and related patient information; analyzing the specimens in a timely manner; and taking action to modify drug dosage and dosage intervals in light of the test results. There are also costs related to the reagents, consumables, and equipment used in the assay, as well as to revenue and capital overheads. Additional clinical and laboratory costs can be incurred in the event of litigation pursuant to antibiotic-induced toxicity. With hospital and government policymakers devoting increasing attention to the escalating costs of health care, pressure to move away from the routine use of drugs having dose-related toxicity may increase, the objective being to save on assay costs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Could refuge theory and rivers acting as barriers explain the genetic variability distribution in the Atlantic Forest?
The Atlantic Forest is one of the most species-rich ecoregions in the world. The historical origins of this richness and the evolutionary processes that produced diversification and promoted speciation in this ecosystem remain poorly understood. In this context, focusing on Passiflora contracta, an endemic species from the Atlantic Forest distributed exclusively at sea level along forest edges, this study aimed to characterize the patterns of genetic variability and explore two hypotheses that attempt to explain the possible causes of the genetic diversity in this region: the refuge and riverine barrier theories. We employed Bayesian methods combined with niche modeling to identify genetically homogeneous groups, to determine the diversification age, and identify long-term climate stability areas to species survival. The analyses were performed using molecular markers from nuclear and plastid genomes, with samples collected throughout the entire geographic distribution of the species, and comparisons with congeners species. The results indicated that populations were genetically structured and provided evidence of demographic stability. The molecular markers indicated the existence of a clear structure and the presence of five homogeneous groups. Interestingly, the separation of the groups coincides with the geographical locations of local rivers, corroborating the hypothesis of rivers acting as barriers to gene flow in this species. The highest levels of genetic diversity and the areas identified as having long-term climate stability were found in the same region reported for other species as a possible refuge area during the climatic changes of the Quaternary. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of Intraoperative Sedation With Dexmedetomidine Versus Propofol on Acute Postoperative Pain in Total Knee Arthroplasty Under Spinal Anesthesia: A Randomized Trial.
In patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia, we compared the postoperative analgesic effect of intraoperative sedation with dexmedetomidine versus propofol. We hypothesized that sedation with dexmedetomidine would result in lower postoperative opioid analgesic consumption than with propofol. Forty-eight patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to either a dexmedetomidine group (n = 24), which received a loading dose of 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine over 10 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.1-0.5 μg·kg·hour, or a propofol group (n = 24), which received a continuous infusion of propofol via a target-controlled infusion to maintain the effect-site concentration within a range of 0.5-2.0 μg/mL. The drug infusion rate was determined according to the sedation level, targeting a modified observer's assessment of alertness/sedation score of 3 or 4. The cumulative amounts of fentanyl administered via intravenous patient-controlled analgesia were recorded at 24 and 48 hours postoperatively (primary outcome). The postoperative numerical rating scale for pain was assessed at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours (secondary outcome). The postoperative use of additional rescue analgesic (ketoprofen) and antiemetic drugs was also compared between the 2 groups at 24 and 48 hours. Dexmedetomidine significantly reduced postoperative fentanyl consumption (median [interquartile range]) during 0-24 hours (45 [30-71] vs 150 [49-248] μg, P = .004; median difference = -105 μg [99.98% CI, 210-7.5]), 24-48 hours (90 [45-143] vs 188 [75-266] μg, P = .005; median difference = -98 μg [99.98% CI, 195-45]), and 0-48 hours (135 [68-195] vs 360 [146-480] μg, P = .003; median difference = -225 μg [99.98% CI, 405-7.5]). The numerical rating scale (median [interquartile range]) was lower at 6 hours (1 [0-2] vs 2 [1-3], P = .003), 12 hours (1 [1-2] vs 3 [2-3], P < .001), 24 hours (1 [1-2] vs 3 [2-3], P < .001), and 48 hours (2 [2-3] vs 3 [3-4], P < .001) after surgery in the dexmedetomidine group compared to the propofol group. No significant intergroup differences were observed in the amount of rescue analgesics and antiemetics at 24 hours (P = .155 and P = .482) and 48 hours (P = .082 and P = .153) after surgery. Intraoperative dexmedetomidine sedation was associated with a small but clinically important reduction in postoperative opioid use after total knee arthroplasty. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Synthesis, Raman spectra and crystal structures of [Cu(XeF2)n](SbF6)2 (n=2, 4).
Pure [Cu(XeF2)2](SbF6)2 was prepared by the reaction of Cu(SbF 6) 2 with a stoichiometric amount of XeF2 in anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (aHF) at ambient temperature. The reaction between Cu(SbF6)2 and XeF2 (1:4 molar ratio) in aHF yielded [Cu(XeF2)4](SbF6)2 contaminated with traces of Xe 2F 3SbF6 and CuF2. The 6-fold coordination of Cu(2+) in [Cu(XeF2)2](SbF6)2 includes two fluorine atoms from two XeF2 ligands and four fluorine atoms provided by four [SbF6](-) anions. The neighboring [Cu(XeF 2)2](2+) moieties are connected via two [SbF6] units, with the bridging fluorine atoms in cis positions, into infinite [Cu(eta(1)-XeF2)2](cis-eta(2)-SbF 6)2[Cu(eta(1)-XeF 2)2] chains. Because of the high electron affinity of Cu(2+), coordinated XeF2 shows the highest distortion (Xe-Fb=210.2(5) pm, Xe-Ft=190.6(5) pm) observed so far among all known [M(x+)(XeF2)n](A)x (A=BF4, PF6, etc.) complexes. The four equatorial coordination sites of the Cu(2+) ion in [Cu(XeF 2) 4](SbF6)2 are occupied by four XeF 2 ligands. Two fluorine atoms belonging to two [SbF6] units complete the Cu (2+) coordination environment. The neighboring [Cu(XeF2)4](2+) species are linked via one [SbF6] unit, with bridging fluorine atoms in trans positions, into linear infinite [Cu(eta(1)-XeF2)4](trans-eta(2)-SbF6)[Cu(eta(1)-XeF2)4] chains. To compensate for the remaining positive charge, crystallographically independent [SbF6](-) anions are located between the chains and are fixed in the crystal space by weak Xe...F(Sb) interactions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Immunochemical characterization of a Mr 115 lens fiber cell-specific extrinsic membrane protein.
Monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies have been produced against a lens fiber cell extrinsic membrane protein, with a relative molecular weight of approximately 115 kd. Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA) of retina, ciliary body-iris, liver, and skeletal muscle, utilizing these antibodies, suggest that the antigen is unique to the lens. Immunocytochemistry indicates that the antigen is present only in the differentiated fiber cell, and is absent from the lens epithelium. Further, immunocytochemical reactivity is predominantly associated with the fiber cell plasma membrane. However, sequential extraction of fiber cell homogenate, followed by quantitative, competitive ELISA analysis, indicates that most of the antigen is recovered in the neutral buffer extract. ELISA analysis using monoclonal antibodies indicates that an analogous antigen is present in human and rabbit lenses. On the basis of these results we characterize this antigen as a conserved extrinsic membrane protein, which is unique to the differentiated lens fiber cell. The relationship of this antigen to a previously described Mr 95 beaded filament-associated protein is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nutritional considerations and dental management of children and adolescents with HIV/AIDS.
The HIV infected child has increased caloric needs, yet multiple factors interfere with adequate nutritional intake. Nutritional support is needed to maintain optimum nourishment during the symptomatic period, in order to prevent further deterioration of the nutritional status during acute episodes of infection, and to improve the nutritional status during the stable symptom free period. With the advent of better methods of detection and better therapies, we are beginning to see HIV infected children surviving longer; and thus coming under the care of a host of affiliated medical personnel, including dentists. Oral health care workers need to provide dental care for HIV-infected patients and recognize as well as understand the significance of oral manifestations associated with HIV infection. The present article reviews, on the basis of literature, nutritional status, nutrition assessment and counseling in HIV/AIDS children and adolescents. Dental treatment considerations in these, as well as modifications in treatment if required, are also discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Roseovarius nitratireducens sp. nov., a halotolerant bacterium isolated from a saline lake.
A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile and ovoid- to rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated TFZT, was isolated from a water sample of a saline lake in Xinjiang, China and subjected to polyphasic taxonomic investigation. Strain TFZT grew at 4-42 °C and pH 6.5-10.0 (optimum, 30 °C and pH 7.0) and with 0.5-18.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 1.5 %). According to phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain TFZT was assigned to the genus Roseovarius with highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 97.5 % to Roseovarius tolerans EL-172T, followed by Roseovarius azorensis SSW084T (96.6 %) and Roseovarius mucosus DSM 17069T (95.5 %). Digital DNA-DNA hybridization (DDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) were determined to evaluate the genomic relationship between strain TFZT and R. tolerans EL-172T. Digital DDH estimation (22.80±2.35 %) as well as ANI (80.1 %) proved the dissimilarity of strain TFZT. Chemotaxonomic analysis showed that strain TFZT contained ubiquinone-10 as the predominant respiratory quinone and possessed summed feature 8 (comprising C18 : 1 ω7c and/or ω6c) and C16 : 0 as the predominant form of fatty acid. The polar lipids of strain TFZT consisted of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine and five unidentified lipids. The DNA G+C content was 65.4 mol% (by genome sequencing). Based on the polyphasic taxonomic characterization, strain TFZT is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Roseovarius, for which the name Roseovarius nitratireducens sp. nov. is proposed (type strain TFZT=MCCC 1K03339T=KCTC 52967T). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fecal occult blood testing: a false sense of security?
Recent screening studies with fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) report that one of three patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) can be cured of the disease; minimal attention has been given to the two of three patients who despite repeated screening go on to die of silent CRC. We report the known "miss rate" (known false negatives) of our 14-year ongoing program of FOBT that was organized in 1979 to detect early CRC. From October 1979 through December 1993, 36,034 FOBT kits were distributed to patients who were without gastrointestinal complaints at Hines Veterans Affairs Hospital. The test was considered positive if at least one result of the six tests was positive and negative if the test result was equivocal. Patients with negative FOBT received a new test kit each year by mail. A positive test was followed by full colonoscopy or an air contrast barium enema if a full colonoscopy was not possible. The overall return rate was 47.8%. CRC was detected in 115 patients: 94 had a favorable and 21 had an unfavorable Duke's C or D or lymphoma prognosis. Of 21 patients 13 (62%) had initially tested FOBT negative (missed lesion). Of the 21 cases of advanced CRC 15 (71.43%) were in the descending, sigmoid, or rectosigmoid colon or rectum. (1) The majority (82%) of all CRC detected by FOBT screening are diagnosed at a favorable stage. (2) The majority of known advanced CRC (62%) escape early detection with FOBT. (3) Five (62.5%) of eight of the advanced CRC cases discovered on initial FOBT and 10 (76.9%) of 13 of advanced CRC cases missed on initial FOBT but detected in subsequent years were in the left colon and most likely in the range of the flexible sigmoidoscope. (4) FOBT as a sole screening test may provide a false sense of security, especially in patients with advanced left-side CRC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biodistribution of Antibody-MS2 Viral Capsid Conjugates in Breast Cancer Models.
A variety of nanoscale scaffolds, including virus-like particles (VLPs), are being developed for biomedical applications; however, little information is available about their in vivo behavior. Targeted nanoparticles are particularly valuable as diagnostic and therapeutic carriers because they can increase the signal-to-background ratio of imaging agents, improve the efficacy of drugs, and reduce adverse effects by concentrating the therapeutic molecule in the region of interest. The genome-free capsid of bacteriophage MS2 has several features that make it well-suited for use in delivery applications, such as facile production and modification, the ability to display multiple copies of targeting ligands, and the capacity to deliver large payloads. Anti-EGFR antibodies were conjugated to MS2 capsids to construct nanoparticles targeted toward receptors overexpressed on breast cancer cells. The MS2 agents showed good stability in physiological conditions up to 2 days and specific binding to the targeted receptors in in vitro experiments. Capsids radiolabeled with 64Cu isotopes were injected into mice possessing tumor xenografts, and both positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) and scintillation counting of the organs ex vivo were used to determine the localization of the agents. The capsids exhibit surprisingly long circulation times (10-15% ID/g in blood at 24 h) and moderate tumor uptake (2-5% ID/g). However, the targeting antibodies did not lead to increased uptake in vivo despite in vitro enhancements, suggesting that extravasation is a limiting factor for delivery to tumors by these particles. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Self-Bound Quantum Droplets of Atomic Mixtures in Free Space.
Self-bound quantum droplets are a newly discovered phase in the context of ultracold atoms. In this Letter, we report their experimental realization following the original proposal by Petrov [Phys. Rev. Lett. 115, 155302 (2015)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.115.155302], using an attractive bosonic mixture. In this system, spherical droplets form due to the balance of competing attractive and repulsive forces, provided by the mean-field energy close to the collapse threshold and the first-order correction due to quantum fluctuations. Thanks to an optical levitating potential with negligible residual confinement, we observe self-bound droplets in free space, and we characterize the conditions for their formation as well as their size and composition. This work sets the stage for future studies on quantum droplets, from the measurement of their peculiar excitation spectrum to the exploration of their superfluid nature. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of biologic therapies targeting tumour necrosis factor-α on cutaneous mesenchymal stem cells in psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a Th1 immune-mediated, inflammatory disease, in which skin lesions appear many years before the related metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities, according to the theory of the 'psoriatic march'. Inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are directly implicated in determining both skin lesions and systemic involvement in psoriasis. Reactive oxygen species actively promote the secretion of inflammatory Th1 cytokines directly involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Evaluation of VEGF expression and production, nitric oxide (NO) production, iNOS expression, and the antioxidant response of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), both before and after 12 weeks of treatment with the TNF-α inhibitors adalimumab or etanercept. Biochemical, morphological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed in MSCs isolated from nonlesional, perilesional and lesional skin of patients with psoriasis, before and after treatment. The treatments were able to reduce the expression and production of VEGF, the expression of iNOS and the production of NO in MSCs of patients with psoriasis. TNF-α inhibitors also reduced the oxidative damage in MSC membrane and proteins, several antioxidant systems responded to treatments with a general inhibition of activities (glutathione S-transferase and catalase) and these effects were also supported by a general decrease of total oxyradical scavenging capacity towards hydroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite. TNF-α inhibitors are able to change the physiopathological pathway of psoriasis, and our results suggest their therapeutic effects already take place at the level of MSCs, which probably represent the cells primarily involved in the 'psoriatic march'. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The significance of the expression of Col IV and LN in nasal and paranasal sinus malignant tumor].
To study the pathological relationship between the expression of Col IV and LN in nasal and paranasal sinus malignant tumor (NPMT). The immunohistochemical technique was used to detected the expression of Col IV and LN in NPMT, para-cancer tissues and non-cancer tissues. There was a significance on the expression of the Col IV and LN in NPMT, para-cancer tissues and non-cancer tissues (P<0.01), and no significance in endepidermis and soft connective tissue of the NPMT (P>0.05). The Col IV and LN perhaps participate in tumorigenesis of NPMT, and may play the homoioplastic role in different pathological types of the NPMT. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Orthosteric and benzodiazepine cavities of the α1β2γ2 GABAA receptor: insights from experimentally validated in silico methods.
γ-aminobutyric acid-type A (GABAA) receptors mediate fast synaptic inhibition in the central nervous system of mammals. They are modulated via several sites by numerous compounds, which include GABA, benzodiazepines, ethanol, neurosteroids and anaesthetics among others. Due to their potential as targets of novel drugs, a detailed knowledge of their structure-function relationships is needed. Here, we present the model of the α1β2γ2 subtype GABAA receptor in the APO state and in complex with selected ligands, including agonists, antagonists and allosteric modulators. The model is based on the crystallographic structure of the human β3 homopentamer GABAA receptor. The complexes were refined using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. This allowed a broad description of the binding modes and the detection of important interactions in agreement with experimental information. From the best of our knowledge, this is the only model of the α1β2γ2 GABAA receptor that represents altogether the desensitized state of the channel and comprehensively describes the interactions of ligands of the orthosteric and benzodiazepines binding sites in agreement with the available experimental data. Furthermore, it is able to explain small differences regarding the binding of a variety of chemically divergent ligands. Finally, this new model may pave the way for the design of focused experimental studies that will allow a deeper description of the receptor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Left colonic cancer obstruction in Ivory Coast].
This retrospective study comes forward to study our management of left colonic cancer obstruction by evaluating the mortality and the morbidity. From 1984 to 2001, 21 patients with left colonic cancer obstruction were treated in emergency. They were 12 males and 9 females with a mean age of 40.6 years. All the patients had complete clinical and radiological colonic obstruction. The pre-operative neoplastic origin of the obstruction was unknown in 20 cases. Six patients had hepatic metastases and 6 ovarian metastases. Six patients were classified as Asa II and 6 other Asa III. Nineteen patients (90.5%) underwent Hartmann's operation. The 2 remaining patients had immediate anastomosis after colectomy, with diverting ileostomy. These procedures were associated with hepatectomy in 5 cases and annexectomy in 6 cases. Intestinal continuity restoration was possible in 13 cases between 6 months and 1 year. Operative mortality was 9.5% (2 cases). Deaths were due to evisceration caused by parietal suppuration in one case and heart failure in the other case. There was no anastomotic fistula. Mean hospital stay was 14 days (12-21). Survival was 84% at one year and 0% at 5 years. Our results suggest that Hartmann's operation is safe and may be usually performed in our conditions. However, near by amount colostomy and intra-operative colonic irrigation might be an alternating procedure in some selected patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Co-distribution of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and inositol trisphosphate receptors in an apical domain of gastrointestinal mucosal cells.
The Type 3 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor is expressed at high levels in gastrointestinal tissues. This receptor has 16 potential phosphorylation sites for calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM kinase II). To determine if the Type 3 InsP3 receptor is likely to be a physiologic substrate for CaM kinase II, localizations of the Type 3 InsP3 receptor and CaM kinase II were compared in tissues of the gastrointestinal tract. Cellular and subcellular localizations were determined by immunofluorescence microscopy in rat intestine, pancreas, and stomach, and in isolated rabbit gastric glands. Both proteins were found in the apical region of intestinal enterocytes, pancreatic acinar cells, and gastric parietal, chief, and surface mucous cells. CaM kinase II was found throughout the entire intracellular canalicular F-actin domain of parietal cells, whereas the type 3 InsP3 receptor was restricted to the neck region. Thus, in several gastrointestinal tissues the Type 3 InsP3 receptor is specifically localized to a portion of the apical cytoskeletal domain in which resides the calcium-responsive effector CaM kinase II. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cycling expression and cooperative operator interaction in the trp operon of Escherichia coli.
Oscillatory behaviour in the tryptophan operon of an Escherichia coli mutant strain lacking the enzyme-inhibition regulatory mechanism has been observed by Bliss et al. but not confirmed by others. This behaviour could be important from the standpoint of synthetic biology, whose goals include the engineering of intracellular genetic oscillators. This work is devoted to investigating, from a mathematical modelling point of view, the possibility that the trp operon of the E. coli inhibition-free strain expresses cyclically. For that we extend a previously introduced model for the regulatory pathway of the tryptophan operon in Escherichia coli to account for the observed multiplicity and cooperativity of repressor binding sites. Thereafter we investigate the model dynamics using deterministic numeric solutions, stochastic simulations, and analytic studies. Our results suggest that a quasi-periodic behaviour could be observed in the trp operon expression level of single bacteria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fermented Soybean Dregs by Neurospora crassa: a Traditional Prebiotic Food.
Soybean dregs fermented by Neurospora crassa is a typical traditional food in Gannan district of China. In this study, in vitro imitated gut fermentation was carried out to evaluate whether the oligosaccharides from this fermented soybean dregs had potential prebiotic properties. 11.91% of oligosaccharides were extracted from the fermented soybean dregs at the optimized condition which of 1:25 for ratio of soybean dregs (g) to 50% ethanol (ml), 90 min of extracted duration at 70 °C for twice. The soybean dreg oligosaccharides (SBOS) were progressively purified with Sevag method and on columns filled with AB-8 macroporous resin, and then identified as cellobiose by HPLC-ESI-MS and FT-IR. Oligosaccharides of soybean dregs with 800 mg/L significantly decreased pH value (p < 0.05) and ammonia N concentration (p < 0.05), and increased short chain fatty acid (SCFA) level (p < 0.05) in imitated gut fermentation compared with control group. It was shown that this fermented soybean dregs could be a potential prebiotic food. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hand Test characteristics of severely behavior handicapped children.
The Hand Test was administered to 98 severely behavior handicapped (SBH) children and a matched control group of public school children. The withdrawal score and associated variables, indicative of severe psychopathology, differentiated the two groups. In addition, a qualitative analysis of the SBH protocols tentatively suggested a preponderance of four behavioral types that could be described as the underproductive, perseverative, psychotic and impulsive child. Implications of these findings are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Rationalization versus rationing in surgery].
In the discussion on cost savings in public health, one can differentiate between rationalisation and rationing. In this context rationalisation means increase in productivity with reduced resources, or more efficient rationing of the available means in order to obtain sufficient room for manoeuvre in the public health system. By efficient use of the existing resources and adaptation to medically appropriate and necessary options one is able to define medical standards for treatment. These treatment standards enable the preservation of medical freedom of action as well as participation in scientific-technological progress with the help of consequent evaluation of treatment patterns. This process could result in the development of a so-called priorisation, i.e. active preference of certain indications or therapies, which correspond extensively to the expectations and priorities of all concerned persons. From the medical point of view explicit rationing of health performances has to be strictly rejected. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Coping strategies and social participation in older adults.
Social participation refers to daily activities, such as personal care and mobility, and social roles, such as interpersonal relationships and leisure. Although restrictions in participation in normal aging have been recognized, little research has been done to study the coping strategies used to alleviate those restrictions. The objective of the present study was to explore the relationships between cognitive and behavioural coping strategies and the social participation of community-dwelling older adults. The Assessment of Life Habits (LIFE-H) and the Inventory of Coping Strategies Used by the Elderly (ICSUE) were used to document social participation and coping strategies of 350 randomly recruited older adults living at home independently. Sociodemographic and health-related characteristics were also assessed. Regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between social participation, coping strategies and the other variables. Behavioural coping strategies were the most important factor associated with daily activities, social roles and total participation, followed by the type of living environment and age. These variables explained 33% (p=0.04), 13% (p=0.02), and 28% (p=0.00) of the variance of the models, respectively. The absence of any relationship between the cognitive coping strategies and social participation was a striking result. Our study suggests expanding current geriatric approaches to integrate knowledge on useful, safe and appropriate behavioural changes and to help older people acquire such strategies when they are lacking. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparing discrimination capabilities of fluorescence spectroscopy versus FT-ICR-MS for sources and hydrophobicity of sediment organic matter.
Characterizing the chemical and molecular composition of sediment organic matter (SeOM) provides critical information for a complete picture of global carbon and nutrient cycles, and helps to track the sources and the fate of organic carbon in aquatic environments. In this study, we examined fluorescence properties and the molecular composition of the alkaline-extractable organic matter (AEOM) of sediments in a coastal lake (Lake Sihwa) and its surrounding creeks (rural, urban, wetland, and industrial areas). Five fluorescence-based indices and 20 molecular parameters were selected from fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS), respectively, and utilized to discriminate the AEOM among five different sources as well as the chemical composition of hydrophobic acid (HoA) and hydrophilic (Hi) fractions. Ordination based on Bray-Curtis dissimilarity matrices showed that the fluorescence-based indices distinguished among urban, lake, and the three other sources, while the molecular parameters from FT-ICR-MS performed better in discriminating among the sources of rural, wetland, and industrial areas. Irrespective of the sources, the two different chemical fractions were statistically distinguished by their relative distributions of the UVA-humic-like fluorescent component and the carbohydrate molecular group. However, a rigorous test based on percent dissimilarities indicated no superior capability of either of the two tools in discriminating the sources or their two chemical fractions, which might be attributed to the inherent structural heterogeneity of SeOM and the limited analytical window of FT-ICR-MS for relatively large-sized molecules. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The histamine H4 -receptor (H4 R) regulates eosinophilic inflammation in ovalbumin-induced experimental allergic asthma in mice.
Via the histamine H4 -receptor (H4 R), histamine promotes the pathogenesis of experimental allergic asthma in mice. Application of H4 R antagonists during sensitization as well as during provocation reduces the severity of the disease. However, the specific cell types functionally expressing H4 R in experimental allergic asthma have not been well characterized in vivo. In this study, we identified the cell type(s) responsible for H4 R activity in experimental asthma and related physiological mechanisms. Using H4 R-deficient mice, we studied the role of H4 R in the sensitization and effector phase. DCs lacking H4 R expression during the in vitro sensitization reaction resulted in effector T cells unable to induce an entire eosinophilic inflammation in the lung upon adoptive transfer in vivo. Recipient mice lacking H4 R expression, which were adoptively transferred with H4 R(+/+) T cells polarized in the presence of H4 R(+/+) DCs, showed reduced signs of inflammation and ameliorated lung function. Here, we provide in vivo evidence that in experimental asthma in mice the H4 R specifically regulates activation of DCs during sensitization, while in the effector phase the H4 R is active in cells involved in the activation of eosinophils, and possibly other cells. A putative therapy targeting the H4 R may be an option for asthma patients developing IL-5-dependent eosinophilia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Feeling unrestricted by rules: Ostracism promotes aggressive responses.
The current research consisted of three studies (overall N = 338; 59 men; mean age = 19.98; SD = 1.75), which aimed to examine whether ostracism promotes aggression through enhanced feelings of rule negligence by adopting a multi-method approach. Participants were undergraduate students in a public university in Hong Kong and they only participated in one of the three studies. The results showed that ostracized participants reported higher levels of rule negligence and aggression than non-ostracized participants (Studies 1 and 2). Moreover, enhanced feelings of rule negligence significantly mediated the relation between ostracism and aggression (Studies 1 and 2). In addition, priming ostracized people with the importance of following social rules weakened the effect of ostracism on aggression (Study 3). In sum, these findings highlight the critical influence of rule negligence in understanding when and why ostracism promotes aggression and how to diminish such an effect. Implications were discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A survey of gregarines associated with Tenebrio molitor and Opatriodes vicinus in the central region of Saudi Arabia.
The present work recorded five species of septate gregarines in the intestine of two species of insects they were: Gregarina polymorpha (Hamm.), in the gut of Tenebrio molitor (L.), percentage of infection 100%, with a density of 2-6 and G. cuneata (Stein), in the gut of T. molitor (L.), percentage of infection 100% with a density of 15-17; Hirmocystis harpali (Watson), in the mid gut of Opatriodes vicinus (Fairmaire), percentage of infection 34%, with a density of 19-28 and Leidyana sp., in the mid gut of O. vicinus percentage of infection 17%, with a density of 2-11 and Spharorynchus chabaudi percentage of infection 33% with a density of 100-180 in an infected insect. Members of genus Gregarina are considered to be coccidian and malarial organisms, however, till now gregarines cause little or no damage to their hosts. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Five-year experience with burns from glass fireplace doors in the pediatric population.
Burns from contact with glass doors of gas fireplaces have been previously reported. The purpose of this study is to examine the incidence and severity of this injury in our population. Patients were identified for inclusion in the retrospective chart review study using the National Trauma Registry of the American College of Surgeons (NTRACS) and our local outpatient database. Criteria for inclusion were burn injuries sustained from contact with fireplace glass doors treated at our pediatric burn center from 2007 through 2011. Fifty children met these criteria, including two children whose burns were caused by electric fireplace glass doors. BSA burned was 1.5 ± 1.5% (mean ± SD), range 0.5 to 10%. Age was 27.2 ± 27.3 months, range 8 months to 13 years. Forty-five children (90%) had hand burns; of these, 18 children had bilateral hand involvement. Facial burns were found in three children (6%), and eight children (16%) had other areas burned. One patient developed cellulitis. Two patients required surgery. Six children (12%) required hospitalization; mean length of stay was 5.8 ± 5 days, range 1 to 5 days. Although the number of inpatient admissions was relatively few, 329 outpatient visits and 309 rehabilitation visits were required for treatment of these children. Nineteen patients (38%) required splints and six patients (12%) required scar treatment with pressure garments. Burns from contact with fireplace glass doors are a recurring problem. Toddlers are most at risk. Directed preventive strategies including parent education, safety warnings, and design modifications such as temperature sensors and barrier screens could be potentially helpful in reducing the incidence of this injury. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Assessment of murine lymph node lymphocyte priming with the tetrasialoganglioside GQ1b.
In vivo priming of lymphocytes by gangliosides was tested following active immunization of mice with the tetrasialoganglioside GQ1b coupled to a copolymer of L-lysine and DL-alanine. Lymphocytes derived from potential lymph nodes 17 days after immunization were triggered to incorporate tritiated thymidine after a 4-day incubation in polypropylene tubes precoated with GQ1b. Non-primed lymph node lymphocytes, primed lymphocytes incubated in non-coated tubes, and, more interestingly, primed lymphocytes incubated with the soluble ganglioside did not undergo mitogenic stimulation. The data suggest that the evaluation of the extent of in vivo priming of lymphocytes by gangliosides can be achieved only if these glycosphingolipids are bound to the substratum, whereas when applied to primed cells in soluble form they inhibit mitogenic activation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Coupled Manakov equations in multimode fibers with strongly coupled groups of modes.
We derive the fundamental equations describing nonlinear propagation in multi-mode fibers in the presence of random mode coupling within quasi-degenerate groups of modes. Our result generalizes the Manakov equation describing mode coupling between polarizations in single-mode fibers. Nonlinear compensation of the modal dispersion is predicted and tested via computer simulations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Toxicity of haloacetic acids to freshwater algae.
Haloacetic acids (HAA), such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), are commonly occurring by-products from disinfection and bleaching processes using sodium hypochlorite. Currently, the lowest no observed effect concentration (NOEC) for TCA is reported to be 8.7microgL(-1), which was derived from a toxicity study conducted in 1981 on Chlorella pyrenoidosa. The purity of the test material was not documented and it is unknown if other halogenated impurities or co-formulants were present. However, this NOEC is used to derive a predicted no effect concentration, which is used in various regulatory risk assessments. We present a range of algal toxicity studies conducted on five different algal species and two HAAs and observed no toxicity of TCA to C. pyrenoidosa at 115mgL(-1). The most sensitive species to TCA (NOEC, 3mgL(-1)) were Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata and Scenedesmus subspicatus, demonstrating that the toxicity of TCA to algae is over two orders of magnitude less sensitive than previously reported. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prevalence and diagnostic correlates of DSM-IV pathological gambling in psychiatric outpatients.
Studies of the prevalence of pathological gambling (PG) in psychiatric and substance abusing patients suggest that the disorder is not rare. Most studies have been of substance abusers in treatment, and the rate of PG has been found to be several times higher than the rate found in community based epidemiological surveys. However, only one study has examined the prevalence of PG in a heterogeneous sample of patients, and this was a study of psychiatric inpatients. We are not aware of any prior study of the prevalence of PG in a psychiatric outpatient sample. In the present report from the Rhode Island Methods to Improve Diagnosis and Services (MIDAS) project we examined the current and lifetime prevalence of PG in 1,709 psychiatric outpatients interviewed with a semi-structured diagnostic interview that included a module to diagnose DSM-IV PG. Forty (2.3%) patients had a lifetime history of DSM-IV PG, all of whom had at least one other DSM-IV axis I disorder. Patients with PG had significantly more axis I disorders than patients without PG, and had significantly higher rates of bipolar disorder, social phobia, panic disorder with agoraphobia, alcohol use disorder, and other impulse control disorders. Possible reasons for the low prevalence of PG in our sample are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Combretastatin A-4 phosphate suppresses development and induces regression of choroidal neovascularization.
Combretastatin A-4 (CA-4) is a naturally occurring agent that binds tubulin and causes necrosis and shrinkage of tumors by damaging their blood vessels. In this study the effect of a CA-4 prodrug, combretastatin A-4-phosphate (CA-4-P), was tested in two models of ocular neovascularization. The effect of CA-4-P was quantitatively assessed in transgenic mice with overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor in the retina (rho/VEGF mice) and mice with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) due to laser-induced rupture of Bruch's membrane. In rho/VEGF mice, daily intraperitoneal injections of 4.0 mg/kg CA-4-P starting at postnatal day (P)7, the time of onset of transgene expression, resulted in a significant reduction in the number of neovascular lesions and total area of neovascularization per retina at P21, compared with vehicle-injected mice. In mice with laser-induced rupture of Bruch's membrane, daily intraperitoneal injections of 75 or 100 mg/kg CA-4-P resulted in a significant reduction in the area of CNV at rupture sites compared with vehicle-injected mice. In mice with established CNV, daily intraperitoneal injections of 100 mg/kg CA-4-P for 1 week resulted in a significant reduction in CNV area at rupture sites compared with the baseline area before treatment or the area of CNV in vehicle-treated mice. These data indicate that CA-4-P suppresses the development of VEGF-induced neovascularization in the retina and both blocks development and promotes regression of CNV. Therefore, CA-4-P shows potential for both prevention and treatment of ocular neovascularization. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Correlations among measures of bladder function and comfort.
There is a need for standard functional and psychosocial measurements of compromised urinary bladder syndrome (CUBS). Utilizing Kolcaba's Comfort Theory, the purpose of this study was to assess the psychometric properties and relationships among 8 measures of comfort, status of urinary frequency and incontinence, and quality of life. A convenience sample of 47 persons (45 women, 2 men) ages 25 to 92, who had UI for more than 6 months, was recruited. Data were collected twice with a 2-week interval. We examined (a) 1 measure of the immediate outcome of comfort related to CUBS, (b) 5 measures of UI status, and (c) 2 measures of quality of life. Reliabilities were adequate for all measures. Relationships among variables are presented and discussed. Recommendations are made for measures that detect improvement over time related to first line interventions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Drug preference as a function of arousal and stimulus screening.
The sedating and arousing central nervous system effects of drugs have long been inferred to be a factor in their illicit use and abuse. The present study provides evidence to support this contention; specifically, preference for a particular drug is, in part, a function of arousal-seeking and stimulus-screening characteristics. In general, the results suggest that individuals who prefer central nervous system stimulants tend to have greater arousal-seeking tendencies and lower external stimulus screening ability than those who prefer central nervous system depressants. Opiate preferrers aligned more closely with stimulant preferrers than alcohol groups. Preferrers of hallucinogens were higher in internal stimulus screening than all other drug preference groups. Trait anxiety does not appear to be related to arousal seeking or to preference for arousing or sedating drugs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Platelet abnormalities in nephrotic syndrome.
Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common kidney disease associated with a significantly increased risk of thrombotic events. Alterations in plasma levels of pro- and anti-coagulant factors are involved in the pathophysiology of venous thrombosis in NS. However, the fact that the risk of both venous and arterial thrombosis is elevated in NS points to an additional role for blood platelets. Increased platelet counts and platelet hyperactivity have been observed in nephrotic children. Platelet hyperaggregability, increased release of active substances, and elevated surface expression of activation-dependent platelet markers have been documented. The mechanisms underlying those platelet alterations are multifactorial and are probably due to changes in plasma levels of platelet-interfering proteins and lipid changes, as a consequence of nephrosis. The causal relationship between platelet alterations seen in NS and the occurrence of thromboembolic phenomena remains unclear. Moreover, the efficiency of prophylactic treatment using antiplatelet agents for the prevention of thrombotic complications in nephrotic patients is also unknown. Thus, antiplatelet medication is currently not generally recommended for routine prophylactic therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preserving catalytic activity and enhancing biochemical stability of the therapeutic enzyme asparaginase by biocompatible multilayered polyelectrolyte microcapsules.
The present study focuses on the formation of microcapsules containing catalytically active L-asparaginase (L-ASNase), a protein drug of high value in antileukemic therapy. We make use of the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique to coat protein-loaded calcium carbonate (CaCO3) particles with two or three poly dextran/poly-L-arginine-based bilayers. To achieve high loading efficiency, the CaCO3 template was generated by coprecipitation with the enzyme. After assembly of the polymer shell, the CaCO3 core material was dissolved under mild conditions by dialysis against 20 mM EDTA. Biochemical stability of the encapsulated L-asparaginase was analyzed by treating the capsules with the proteases trypsin and thrombin, which are known to degrade and inactivate the enzyme during leukemia treatment, allowing us to test for resistance against proteolysis by physiologically relevant proteases through measurement of residual l-asparaginase activities. In addition, the thermal stability, the stability at the physiological temperature, and the long-term storage stability of the encapsulated enzyme were investigated. We show that encapsulation of l-asparaginase remarkably improves both proteolytic resistance and thermal inactivation at 37 °C, which could considerably prolong the enzyme's in vivo half-life during application in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Importantly, the use of low EDTA concentrations for the dissolution of CaCO3 by dialysis could be a general approach in cases where the activity of sensitive biomacromolecules is inhibited, or even irreversibly damaged, when standard protocols for fabrication of such LbL microcapsules are used. Encapsulated and free enzyme showed similar efficacies in driving leukemic cells to apoptosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Patient tolerance of the flexible CO2 laser for office-based laryngeal surgery.
The OmniGuide flexible carbon dioxide (CO(2)) laser can be readily used in the office but patient tolerance has not been established. The aim of this pilot study was to determine patient tolerance of the flexible CO(2) laser. As a reference point, the 585-nm pulsed-dye laser (PDL) was selected for comparison because it is the only office-based laser in which patient tolerance has specifically been studied. Prospective pilot study involving office-based surgery candidates with benign laryngeal pathology. Via flexible laryngoscopy, half of each lesion was treated with the CO(2) laser and the remaining half with the PDL, alternating the order of the lasers (to account for potential thermal injury from the first laser) and blinding the patient to treatment. Patients rated their discomfort immediately after each laser treatment and then completed postoperative questionnaires for discomfort and voice quality. Ten patients with benign laryngeal disease were included. All patients tolerated the office-based laser surgeries without difficulty. The CO(2) laser was extremely well tolerated, with mean pain and burning scores of 2.0 and 2.3, respectively, on a scale of 1-10 (10 being intolerable pain). Postoperative pain questionnaires demonstrated minimal discomfort after the laser treatment. Those with resolution of laryngeal disease had significant voice improvement. Flexible CO(2) laser laryngeal surgery is well tolerated in an office-based setting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Adhesive stripping to remove epidermis in junctional epidermolysis bullosa for revertant cell therapy.
Replacing mutant skin in epidermolysis bullosa (EB) by epithelial sheets of transduced autologous keratinocytes is the essential surgical step of ex vivo gene therapy. The same applies for revertant cell therapy in which epithelial sheets of revertant autologous keratinocytes are used. Revertant cells can be found in patches of normal skin in patients with junctional EB (JEB) due to revertant mosaicism caused by in vivo reversions. To develop a technique of adhesive tape stripping as a method for epidermis removal to prepare the acceptor site for revertant cell therapy in a patient with revertant mosaic JEB. We performed revertant cell therapy on a patient with mosaic type XVII collagen-deficient non-Herlitz JEB. Skin biopsies were taken from revertant skin on the wrist. Graft production took place on a 3T3-J2 feeder layer resulting in two 6 x 7 cm grafts. An innovative method that uses the pathological plane of least resistance of JEB skin was developed to prepare the acceptor site. A polyacrylate adhesive plaster was placed on the skin and then pulled off with the epidermis. The epidermis was easily removed with the plaster. The skin separated at the level of the lamina lucida, leaving a bloodless wound bed of naked lamina densa. Transplantation was successful; the acceptor site healed without scarring. However, blistering could be provoked. The functional repair was not achieved due to the low percentage of revertant cells in the graft. We conclude that adhesive stripping is a simple, effective and almost painless procedure for removing epidermis for ex vivo cell therapy in EB. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prior to use of estrogen replacement therapy, are users healthier than nonusers?
Observational studies have demonstrated that women who have used postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) are at reduced risk of coronary heart disease. The authors examined whether premenopausal women who subsequently elected to use ERT during menopause had a better cardiovascular risk factor profile prior to use than did nonusers. A total of 541 premenopausal women had their cardiovascular risk factors and psychosocial characteristics evaluated at study entry. After approximately 8 years, 355 women had become postmenopausal, and 157 women reported ERT use during the follow-up period (mean = 93.4 months). The authors compared the premenopausal characteristics of users with those of nonusers. Relative to nonusers, ERT users were better educated (63 vs. 81% with at least some college), and prior to the use of ERT had higher levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (1.49 vs. 1.59 mmol/liter), HDL2 (0.50 vs. 0.57 mmol/liter), HDL3 (0.98 vs. 1.02 mmol/liter), leisure physical activity (5, 122 vs. 7,158 Kjoules), and alcohol intake (7.5 vs. 9.7 g/day), and lower levels of apolipoprotein B (0.97 vs. 0.90g/liter), systolic blood pressure (112.1 vs. 107.1 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (73.8 vs. 71.4 mmHg), weight (68.5 vs. 64.2 kg), and fasting insulin (9.10 vs. 7.66 microU/liter). Prior to use of ERT, in comparison with nonusers, subsequent users reported on standardized questionnaires that they often exhibited Type A behavior, more aware of their feelings, motives, and symptoms, and had more symptoms of stress. Women who elect to use ERT have a better cardiovascular risk factor profile prior to the use of ERT than do women who subsequently do not use this treatment during the menopause, which supports the hypothesis that part of the apparent benefit associated with the use of ERT is due to preexisting characteristics of women who use ERT. This study underscores the widely recognized importance of randomized clinical trials to estimate the direct benefit of postmenopausal ERT for protecting women from cardiovascular disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Every two year follow-up of arthroplasties: myth or reality?].
In this article, we propose a simple calculation to project quantitatively the number of consultations implied by a systematic follow-up protocol for arthroplasty surgery. In France, this surveillance schedule has become mandatory and will have a pertinent impact on health care expenditures. The longevity of implanted prostheses as well as patient life expectancies can be used to estimate the number of consultations necessary for a regular follow-up. For example, a surgeon who performs 200 arthroplasty procedures per year will have to see 17 patients per week 20 years later. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Clinical analysis of 5 cases of relapsing polychondritis].
To describe the clinical manifestation of relapsing polychondritis(RP) and evaluate the medical therapy of RP, especially management of airway stenosis with intervening method. Retrospective analysis of 5 cases of RP treated in our hospital since 1995 with reviewing of large series of cases in reported literatures. RP is a rare multisystem disorder characterized by recurrent inflammation and progressive degeneration of cartilaginous structure and connective tissue. Medical treatment with corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs and dapsone could not interrupt the progression of the disease. Involvement of the respiratory tract is life-threatening and intervening therapy such as tracheostomy, endotracheal intubation or tracheobronchial stents is needed, one case of relieving severe dyspnea caused by extensive tracheobronchial collapse in RP with self-expanding metallic stents was presented. It is important to make the diagnosis of RP according to the clinical features and carry out medial treatment at early stage, positive airway pressure support and intervening methods to prevent the airway collapse should be considered when the laryngotracheobronchial involvement aggreviates. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Quantum calculations on water in the KcsA channel cavity with permeant and non-permeant ions.
Different ions in the pore of the KcsA channel behave differently, and we relate this to their solvation. We show that the selectivity is dependent, in part, on the solvation in the cavity (sometimes referred to as the vestibule, it is the region containing water molecules between the intracellular gate and the selectivity filter at the extracellular end of the pore). We have shown earlier that potassium is more dependent at the upper end of the cavity region on solvation by the threonines there, while sodium ion has more water molecules as ligands. In addition, sodium ion is placed asymmetrically, while potassium is nearly exactly symmetric with respect to the four-fold symmetry of the channel. We have now extended these calculations to rubidium and cesium ions, and find that rubidium solvation resembles that of potassium (and both are permeant ions), while cesium resembles sodium (and both are non-permeant), in terms of the geometry of up to eight hydrating, and four non-hydrating, water molecules. In each case, a maximum of 12 water molecules are relevant to the calculation. The placement of the water molecules in the two cases is essentially the same as found from the electron density in the X-ray structure of Zhou and MacKinnon. For Na(+) and K(+), we show that energy decreases from bulk to the cavity to the lowest position in the selectivity filter (accurate energy could not be calculated for the heavier ions). A separate calculation shows that fixing the Na(+) ion at the position of the K(+) minimum, followed by re-optimization produced a significantly modified system, not something that could be produced by thermal fluctuations. Moving the K(+) into the Na(+) position in the upper cavity led to a small increase in energy, approximately 3 k(B)T, but was accompanied by large shifts in the positions of hydrating waters, which would create a major kinetic barrier. Therefore, thermal fluctuations could not invalidate the conclusions of the main calculations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Insulin secretion in the conscious mouse is biphasic and pulsatile.
Islets in most species respond to increased glucose with biphasic insulin secretion, marked by a sharp first-phase peak and a slowly rising second phase. Mouse islets in vitro, however, lack a robust second phase. To date, this observation has not been extended in vivo. We thus compared insulin secretion from conscious mice with isolated mouse islets in vitro. The arterial plasma insulin response to a hyperglycemic clamp was measured in conscious mice 1 wk after surgical implantation of carotid artery and jugular vein catheters. Mice were transfused using clamps with blood from a donor mouse to maintain blood volume, allowing frequent arterial sampling. When plasma glucose in vivo was raised from approximately 5 to approximately 13 mM, insulin rose to a first-phase peak of 403+/-73% above basal secretion (n=5), followed by a rising second phase of mean 289+/- 41%. In contrast, perifused mouse islets ( approximately 75 islets/trial) responded with a similar first phase of 508+/- 94% (n=4) but a smaller and virtually flat second phase of 169+/- 9% (n=4, P<0.05). Furthermore, the slope of the second-phase response differed significantly from zero in mice (2.63+/-0.39%/min, P<0.01), in contrast to perifused islets (0.18+/- 0.14%/min, P>0.30). Mice also displayed pulsatile patterns in insulin concentration (period: 4.2+/- 0.4 min, n=8). Conscious mice thus responded to increased glucose with biphasic and pulsatile insulin secretion, as in other species. The robust second phase observed in vivo suggests that the processes needed to generate second-phase insulin secretion may be abrogated by islet isolation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Nutrition assessment protein].
Nutrition status must be estimated during a patient's hospitalization. Body weight, hemoglobin or serum albumin are used to estimate nutrition status, but they can not reflect the present nutrition status. Recently, rapid turnover protein(RTP) has been proposed as a nutrition assessment protein, reflecting real-time nutrition status. The halves in the serum of retinal-binding protein(RBP) and transthyretin (TTR) are 0.5 and 2 days, respectively. Their physiological variations, such as intra-individual, diet, and athletics, are within 10%, so they are suitable for monitoring present nutrition status. Because they are negative acute-phase reactants, we have to measure CRP as a marker for the acute-phase reaction. Measuring RBP and TTR as monitoring markers reveals the accurate, real-time nutrition status of the patient. Providing accurate information for a patient's nutrition situation will support cure and early discharge, and reduce medical costs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effective flocculation of target microalgae with self-flocculating microalgae induced by pH decrease.
A flocculation method was developed to harvest target microalgae with self-flocculating microalgae induced by decreasing pH to just below isoelectric point. The flocculation efficiencies of target microalgae were much higher than those flocculated only via pH decrease. The mechanism could be that negatively charged self-flocculating microalgal cells became positively charged during pH decrease, subsequently attracted negatively charged target microalgae cells to form flocs and settled down due to gravity. Microalgal biomass concentration and released polysaccharide (RPS) from target microalgae influenced flocculation efficiencies, while multivalent metal ions in growth medium could not. Furthermore, neutralizing pH and then supplementing nutrients allowed flocculated medium to be recycled for cultivation. Finally, Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficients (Rs) between flocculation efficiency and key factors were also investigated. These results suggest that this method is effective, simple to operate and allows the reuse of flocculated medium, thereby contributing to the economic production from microalgae to biodiesel. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Understanding optimization processes of electronic health records (EHR) in select leading hospitals: a qualitative study.
Little is known about optimization of electronic health records (EHR) systems in the hospital setting while adoption of EHR systems continues in the United States. To understand optimization processes of EHR systems undertaken in leading healthcare organizations in the United States. Informed by grounded theory approach, a qualitative study was undertaken that involved 11 in-depth interviews and a focus group with the EHR experts from the high performing healthcare organizations across the United States. The study describes EHR optimization processes characterized by prioritizing exponentially increasing requests with predominant focus on improving efficiency of EHR, building optimization teams or advisory groups, and standardization. The study discusses 16 types of optimization that interdependently produced 16 results along with identifying 11 barriers and 20 facilitators to optimization. The study describes overall experiences of optimizing electronic health records in select high performing healthcare organizations in the US. The findings highlight the importance of optimizing the EHR after, and even before, go-live and dedicating resources exclusively for optimization. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Bioactive glasses induce chemiluminescence by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
The effect of bioactive glasses on human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) were studied in vitro by a chemiluminescence (CL) assay. Eight different glasses were chosen. All glasses induced a rapid CL response by human PMNLs, which proved to be dose dependent. The CL response also seemed to depend on the durability of the glasses. The least durable glass caused the highest CL response, and highly durable glasses caused only low CL responses by the cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The multiple mechanisms of T cell receptor cross-reactivity.
The ability of a single T cell to recognize the diverse peptides it encounters is based on T cell receptor crossreactivity. In this issue of Immunity, Macdonald et al. (2009) and Borbulevych et al. (2009) provide new insights into the structural principles underlying this fundamental property of T cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The influence of irrigation-induced water table fluctuation on iron redistribution and arsenic immobilization within the unsaturation zone.
Given the long-term potential risk of arsenic (As)-contaminated agricultural soil to public health, the redistribution of iron (Fe) and immobilization of As within the unsaturation zone during irrigation and consequent water table fluctuations were studied via a column experiment and corresponding geochemical modeling. Experimental results show that As and Fe accumulated significantly at the top of the column during irrigation. A tremendous increase in As and Fe accumulation rates exists after water table recovery. It was deduced that Fe(II) and As(III) were oxidized directly by O2 at the period of low water table. But the production of hydroxyl radical (OH) was promoted at the period of high water table due to the oxidation of adsorbed Fe(II). The generated OH further accelerate the oxidation of Fe(II) and As(III). Moreover, the combination of As and Fe is more stronger at the top of the column due to the transformation of combined states of As from surface complexation into surface precipitation with the growth of Fe(III) minerals. This study details the processes and mechanisms of As and Fe immobilization within the unsaturation zone during different irrigation periods and accordingly provides some insights to mitigate As accumulation in topsoil. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy with barbed sutures and traditional laparoscopic myomectomy with barbed sutures.
To elucidate whether robotic assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RALM) with barbed sutures is superior to traditional laparoscopic myomectomy (TLM) with barbed sutures. Medical records of all women with symptomatic uterine myomas who underwent RALM with barbed sutures or TLM with barbed sutures were reviewed. The patients were allocated into the two groups based on their financial considerations. Between July 2012 and March 2016, 78 patients underwent TLM (n = 52) or RALM (n = 26). Younger age, low parity, larger diameter of myoma and weight of removed myoma, and low incidence of prior histories of cesarean section were found in the RALM group, compared with TLM. An increase of surgical time (coefficient = 51.9 min, P < 0.001), length of hospital stay (coefficient = 0.47 days, P = 0.04) and duration of abdominal drain placement (coefficient = 0.53 days, P = 0.04) were found in the RALM group, compared with TLM. Nonetheless, there was no statistical difference in postoperative day 1 abdominal drainage between the RALM and TLM groups (median 95 mL vs. 110 mL, P = 0.21). Despite longer surgical time of RALM, RALM with barbed sutures did not show a significant decrease in postoperative abdominal drainage, compared with TLM with barbed sutures; and this hints that the use of barbed suture in TLM might diminish the superiority of RALM about the decrease of postoperative blood loss. Thus, TLM with barbed sutures remains a good alternative for laparoscopic myomectomy in the era of robot. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the right sinus of Valsalva with coronary AV fistula of the conus artery.
A 44-year-old man with atypical chest pain, anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the right sinus of Valsalva with coronary AV fistula of the conus artery is presented. I am aware of no other report of this combination of anomalies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Development of gene delivery system using PLGA nanospheres].
The development of nonviral vectors for the efficient and safe delivery to cells has long been awaited to facilitate gene therapy. Recently, many nonviral vectors modified with cationic lipids, cationic polymers, etc. have been reported. However, those nonviral vectors with cationic materials require improved stability, longer duration of gene expression, and reduced cytotoxicity. We successfully prepared mucoadhesive poly (lactide-co-glycolide) nanospheres (PLGA NS) by modifying the nanoparticulate surface with chitosan to improve mucosal peptide absorption after oral and pulmonary administration. Furthermore, we found that nucleic acid, which was not dispersed in the organic solvent, could be dispersed by forming a complex with cationic lipid. Using this phenomenon, polynucleic acids for gene therapy (plasmid DNA, antisense oligonucleotide, small interfering RNA, etc.) can be encapsulated into the matrix of the polymer particles with the emulsion solvent diffusion method. The advantages of this preparation method are its simple process and avoidance of an ultrasonication process for submicronization of particles. The resultant nanospheres show better cellular uptake and different gene therapeutic effects compared with conventional vectors due to their improved adherence to cells and sustained release of polynucleic acid in the cells. In conclusion, chitosan-coated PLGA NS can possibly be applied in nonviral vectors for gene therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Rapid alteration of c-myc and c-jun expression in leukemic cells induced to differentiate by a butyric acid prodrug.
The novel prodrug of butyric acid (BA), pivaloyloxymethyl butyrate, has been shown, in vitro, to induce differentiation and inhibit leukemic cell proliferation. The prodrug affects the cells in vitro at lower concentration and at least 100 times faster than does (BA). We have compared the ability of BA with that of its prodrug AN-9 to modulate the expression of the early regulating genes, c-myc and c-jun, in HL-60 cells. Exposure of HL-60 cells to the prodrug resulted in a decrease of c-myc and an increase of c-jun expression. The prodrug elicited this effect at lower concentrations and at least 100 times faster than BA. Since changes in the expression of c-myc and c-jun occur minutes after exposure of the cells to the prodrug, these genes are likely to play a major role in the early stages of the differentiation pathway. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The estimation of red cell superoxide dismutase activity.
A method is described for the estimation of red cell superoxide dismutase (erythrocuprein) and a normal range of activity established. It is likely that this enzyme is essential to the red cell for the detoxification of superoxide radicals, and plays a protective role similar to that of the glutathione-glutathione peroxidase system. It is suggested that superoxide dismutase deficiency may be an unrecognized cause of Heinz body hemolytic anemia. The separation of superoxide dismutase from hemoglobin by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis is also described. Normal superoxide dismutase activity was measured in one case of Wilson's disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Integration genetic linkage map construction and several potential QTLs mapping of Chinese shrimp (Fenneropenaeus chinensis) based on three types of molecular markers.
In this study, totally 54 selected polymorphic SSR loci of Chinese shrimp (Fenneropenaeus chinensis), in addition with the previous linkage map of AFLP and RAPD markers, were used in consolidated linkage maps that composed of SSR, AFLP and RAPD markers of female and male construction, respectively. The female linkage map contained 236 segregating markers, which were linked in 44 linkage groups, and the genome coverage was 63.98%. The male linkage map contained 255 segregating markers, which were linked in 50 linkage groups, covering 63.40% of F. chinensis genome. There were nine economically important traits and phenotype characters of F. chinensis were involved in QTL mapping using multiple-QTL mapping strategy. Five potential QTLs associated with standard length (q-standardl-01), with cephalothorax length (q-cephal-01), with cephaloghorax width (q-cephaw-01), with the first segment length (q-firsel-01) and with anti-WSSV (q-antiWSSV-01) were detected on female LG1 and male LG44 respectively with LOD> 2.5. The QTL q-firsel-01 was at 73.603 cM of female LG1. Q-antiWSSV-01 was at 0 cM of male LG44. The variance explained of these five QTLs was from 19.7-33.5% and additive value was from -15.9175 to 7.3675. The closest markers to these QTL were all SSR, which suggested SSR marker was superior to AFLP and RAPD in the QTL mapping. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Data analysis of stellar specklegrams with neural networks.
An artificial neural network is applied to analysis of specklegrams of binary stars. Parameters of a binary star, the angular separation and the position angle, are estimated from the specklegrams by use of neural networks for each parameter. It is shown that a neural network is useful to analyze stellar specklegrams of binary stars. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Central sleep apnea and Cheyne-Stokes respiration.
Cheyne-Stokes respiration with central sleep apnea (CSR-CSA) is a form of periodic breathing, commonly observed in patients with heart failure (HF), in which central apneas alternate with hyperpneas that have a waxing-waning pattern of tidal volume. Uniform criteria by which to diagnose a clinically significant degree of CSR-CSA have yet to be established. CSR-CSA is caused by respiratory control system instability characterized by a tendency to hyperventilate. Central apnea occurs when Pa(CO(2)) falls below the threshold for apnea during sleep due to ventilatory overshoot. Patients with CSR-CSA are generally hypocapnic, with a Pa(CO(2)) closer than normal to the apneic threshold such that even slight augmentation in ventilation drives Pa(CO(2)) below threshold and triggers apnea. Factors contributing to hyperventilation in HF include stimulation of pulmonary irritant receptors by pulmonary congestion, increased chemoreceptor sensitivity, reduced cerebrovascular blood flow, and recurrent arousals from sleep. Controversy remains as to whether CSR-CSA is simply a reflection of HF severity, or whether it exerts unique adverse effects on prognosis. The main adverse influence of CSR-CSA on cardiovascular function appears to be excessive sympathetic nervous system activity due to apnea-related hypoxia and arousals from sleep. A number of studies have examined the potential relationship between CSR-CSA and mortality in HF. Most reported that CSR-CSA was associated with an increased risk for mortality, but these studies were small. Further research is therefore needed to elucidate mechanisms which contribute to the pathogenesis of CSR-CSA, and to determine whether its treatment can reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with HF. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Risk factors for clinical mastitis in a random sample of dairy herds from the southern part of The Netherlands.
The incidence of clinical mastitis in dairy cows was estimated in 171 randomly selected dairy herds from the southern part of The Netherlands. A total of 1103 quarter cases was reported. The mean annual incidence rate was 12.7 quarter cases/yr per 100 cows. The modeling incidence rate of clinical mastitis at the herd level indicated that a number of risk factors were associated with a higher rate of clinical mastitis: one or more cows that were leaking milk, one or more cows with trampled teats, no disinfection of the maternity area after calving, consistent use of post-milking teat disinfection, Red and White cattle (Meuse-Rhine-Yssel) as the predominant breed, and an annual bulk milk somatic cell count < 150,000 cells/ml. The following risk factors were associated with a higher rate of clinical mastitis caused by Escherichia coli: cows with trampled teats, no disinfection of the maternity area after calving, consistent use of post-milking teat disinfection, use of a thick layer of bedding in the stall, and the stripping of foremilk before cluster attachment. The following risk factors were associated with a higher rate of clinical mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus: Red and White cattle (Meuse-Rhine-Yssel) as the predominant breed, cows with trampled teats, the stripping of foremilk before cluster attachment, no regular disinfection of the stall, no regular replacement of stall bedding, and an annual bulk milk somatic cell count < 150,000 cells/ml. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aryl amidation routes to dihydropyrrolo[3,2-e]indoles and pyrrolo[3,2-f]tetrahydroquinolines: total synthesis of the (+/-)-CC-1065 CPI subunit.
CC-1065 and the related duocarmycins are members of a structurally unique family of naturally occurring molecules and remain some of the most rigorously studied antitumor compounds to date. Herein we describe a total synthesis of the (+/-)-CC-1065 CPI subunit in an overall yield of 9.3% from commercially available 5-fluoro-2-nitrophenol. The key steps of this synthesis are a Diels-Alder reaction of an o-benzoxy-monoimine quinoid and an intramolecular aryl triflate amidation, which formed the pyrrolo[3,2-f]tetrahydroquinoline intermediate en route to CPI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Chronic subdural hematoma as a complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunts].
Nine cases of chronic subdural hematoma occurring after the insertion of ventriculo-peritoneal shunts are described. Three patients were children, two were adults with stenosis of the Sylvian aqueduct, and the last four had normal pressure hydrocephalus. Patients with chronic hydrocephalus were initially treated with burr holes associated to transient occlusion of the distal catheter of the diversion in order to promote reexpansion of the compressed hemisphere. Two shunt-dependent patients were successfully treated with a concurrent subdural-peritoneal shunt. In two cases a higher pressure shunt was inserted, and in another craniotomy with membranectomy was required to treat persistent subdural fluid accumulation. One patient died due to infectious complications of multiple procedures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antidiabetic effect of chronic administration of JTT-608, a new hypoglycemic agent, in diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rats.
We investigated the chronic effect of a new antidiabetic agent, trans-4-(methylcyclohexyl)-4-oxobutyric acid (JTT-608), in Goto-Kakizaki rats, a genetic model of non-obese type II diabetes mellitus. The rats were fed a liquid meal, three times a day, for 12 weeks. The rats were treated orally with JTT-608 (10-100 mg/kg) 10 min before each meal. Fasting blood glucose, triglyceride and hemoglobin A1c levels were reduced by JTT-608 at all dose levels during the experimental period. Blood glucagon-like peptide-1 level with 100 mg/kg JTT-608 increased at the end of the treatment period. JTT-608 (30-100 mg/kg) reduced urinary protein levels after administration for 5-12 weeks. In Goto-Kakizaki rats showing slight diabetic renal lesions, pathological examination revealed that JTT-608 reduced the incidence of vacuolation in renal tubules. JTT-608 (30-100 mg/kg) ameliorated the reduced motor nerve conduction velocities observed in the Goto-Kakizaki rats after administration for 12 weeks. We conclude that chronic administration of JTT-608 produces good blood glucose control and gradually arrests the development of diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Prevalence of urinary infections caused by GBS in diabetic patients].
On a randomized sample of 305 diabetic patients and of 479 controls was studied for an epidemiological research about the colonization of urinary tract by Group B-Streptococci (GBS). The detection rate was 16.44% in the diabetics, and 8.77% in the controls. and it was higher in diabetic women than diabetic men (R.P. 1.96, p < 0.05). The age, the model of diabetes treatment, and the metabolic control of diabetic people didn't be significatively correlated with GBS presence. Most of GBS that have been identified in diabetic patients were belonged to the sierotype I, whereas in the controls were belonged to the sierotype III. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Delivery of Therapeutic Proteins Using Electrospun Fibers-Recent Developments and Current Challenges.
Proteins play a vital role within the human body by regulating various functions and even serving as structural constituent of many body parts. In this context, protein-based therapeutics have attracted a lot of attention in the last few decades as potential treatment of different diseases. Due to the steadily increasing interest in protein-based therapeutics, different dosage forms were investigated for delivering such complex macromolecules to the human body. Here, electrospun fibers hold a great potential for embedding proteins without structural damage and for controlled release of the protein for therapeutic applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of protein-based carrier systems using electrospun fibers, with special emphasis on discussing their potential and key challenges in developing such therapeutic strategies, along with a prospective view of anticipated future directions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Superior vena cava syndrome due to mediastinal Gardner fibroma presenting as syncope.
Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome refers to the clinical manifestation due to an obstruction in the SVC; resulting in decreased venous return from the head, neck and upper extremities. The obstruction can occur either due to tumour invasion of the vessel wall with associated thrombus or due to vessel wall compression by the tumour mass. The patient being reported is a young male who presented with recurrent episodes of syncope and was found to have mediastinal Gardner fibroma causing SVC syndrome. Gardner fibroma is a benign soft tissue lesion; and its occurrence in the mediastinum resulting in SVC syndrome has not been reported yet. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sonotubometry. An acoustical method for objective measurement of auditory tubal opening.
The sound conduction method for measurement of the Eustachian tube opening has been studied and modifications made in the test procedure to increase its easy performance and reliability. By holding the sound source near to the nostril, mounting the microphone into a circumaural ear defender and by feeding the output of the microphone through a filter with a very narrow bandwidth (3.16 Hz) many of the pitfalls of the sound conduction technique described earlier could be removed. Recording of the transfer function between the nasal tip and external auditory meatus and recording of the spectrum of swallowing sound revealed that the useful frequency rang for the measurements was upwards from 5--6 kHz. By using the three frequencies 6, 7 and 8 kHz the method showed tubal opening in 90 or 95% of normal ears depending on whether the minimum amplitude accetped was greater than or equal to 5 or 1--4 dB, respectively. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Demonstration of low flow push-pull perfusion.
Methods to follow in vivo chemical composition provide information regarding the processes of intercellular communication. There is a need for methods that provide chemical information from small volumes of the central nervous system (CNS) without sacrificing neurochemical recovery. One method that offers potential for providing such information is push-pull perfusion. In this study a low flow push-pull perfusion system is introduced that provides high (70-80%) in vitro recoveries. A concentric probe design is used with a 27-gauge stainless steel outer cannula for saline infusion and an inner fused silica capillary for fluid withdrawal. Flow rates of 10-50 nl/min were reliably generated and were well matched in vitro. Sampling was performed in the striatum of an anesthetized rat generating a 0.5 microl sample every 12 min. Capillary electrophoresis was used to determine glutamate levels in each sample; the basal level was found to be 1.97+/-0.70 microM. The method described was also demonstrated to deliver L-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid through the perfusion solution while sampling. Post-sampling histological analysis demonstrates little tissue disturbance to the sampled region. These data provide evidence that low flow push-pull method is a viable alternative for studying neurochemical signaling in the CNS. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cultured human ectocervical epithelial cell differentiation is regulated by the combined direct actions of sex steroids, glucocorticoids, and retinoids.
During the menstrual cycle, the ectocervical epithelium undergoes a cyclic change in differentiation that is correlated with changes in the circulating levels of estrogens and progestins. To better understand the mechanisms underlying this regulation, we have developed an ectocervical epithelial cell (ECE cell) culture system that responds in a physiological manner to stimulation by estrogens and progestins. We have recently proposed that four classes of hormones (retinoids, estrogens, progestins, and glucocorticoids) may play an important role in regulating differentiation. In the present paper we test this hypothesis directly by making detailed dose-response curves. Our results demonstrate that estrogen increases ECE cell differentiation, as measured by release of cornified envelopes (superficial cells), while progesterone decreases envelope production. The effects are dose dependent and within the expected physiological range (0.01-10 nM estrogen; 0.1-100 nM progesterone). Very low concentrations of Ro 13-6298 (0.01-10 nM), a synthetic retinoid, decreased envelope production, while hydrocortisone (0.1-50 nM) increased envelope production and cell growth. Importantly, agents that enhance envelope production are neutralized by agents that reduce envelope formation and vice versa. Based on these findings we conclude 1) that the differentiation-enhancing actions of glucocorticoids and estrogens can be antagonized by either progestins or retinoids, and 2) that glucocorticoids and retinoids are likely to determine the ECE cell differentiation set-point in vivo, with the sex steroids directly modulating the phenotype of the ECE cells around this set-point during the menstrual cycle. Moreover, these results appear to explain some of the clinical descriptions of changes in ectocervical cell morphology resulting from hyper- and hypoestrogenic stimulation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mouse skin tumor promotion by sodium arsenate is associated with enhanced PCNA expression.
Drinking water contamination by arsenicals remains a major public health problem in many parts of the world more particularly in India and Bangladesh. Despite arsenic being a health hazard and implicated in human carcinogenesis, the experimental evidence available is much limited even now and the mechanisms involved during carcinogenesis and tumor promotions are not clear. Accordingly, in this study, we have studied the tumor promoter effects of sodium arsenate on mouse skin tumor promoter model system using 9,10-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA) as a initiating carcinogen. Our studies showed development of papillomas on mice skin treated with only DMBA. However, mice treated with DMBA on skin and administered arsenate (As) in drinking water showed development of well differentiated squamous cell carcinomas. Further, both by immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis studies higher levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was observed in mice treated with DMBA plus arsenate compared to only DMBA treated group. PCNA is known to be associated with S phase and DNA replication of the cell cycle. The plain controls and arsenate controls did not show significant difference either in tumor development or in PCNA levels. The present study demonstrates mouse skin tumor promoting effect of arsenate which seems to be associated with abnormal cell proliferation as indicated by higher levels of PCNA expression. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluating the impacts of soil data on hydrological and nonpoint source pollution prediction.
Soil data are one key input for most hydrological and nonpoint source (H/NPS) models, and quantifying the error transmission from soil data to H/NPS predictions is of great importance. In this study, two typical soil datasets were compared using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) in a typical mountainous watershed, the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, China. Besides, the effects of soil data resolution were evaluated, and the error transmission from soil data to watershed management strategy was assessed. The results indicate that model outputs are not sensitive to changes of soil data resolution but the choice of soil data greatly impacts the application of watershed models, in terms of the goodness-of-fit indicator, predicted data and related uncertainty. This soil data-induced error would be inevitably magnified from the flow simulation to the NPS prediction stage. This study could indicate that the choice of soil data will lead to significant differences in management schemes for specific pollution periods. These results provide information on the impacts of soil data on the functionality of watershed models and valuable information for the appropriateness of each soil database. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nagaoka ferromagnetism in the two-dimensional infinite-U Hubbard model.
We present different numerical calculations based on variational quantum Monte Carlo simulations supporting a ferromagnetic ground state for finite and small hole densities in the two-dimensional infinite-U Hubbard model. Moreover, by studying the energies of different total spin sectors, these calculations strongly suggest that the paramagnetic phase is unstable against a phase with a partial polarization for large hole densities delta approximately 0.40 with evidence for a second-order transition to the paramagnetic large doping phase. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chronic Q fever hepatitis complicated by extensive fibrosis.
Liver involvement is common in acute and chronic Q fever and consists of nonspecific hepatitis and granulomas without fibrosis. We report the case of a patient suffering from chronic Q fever with nonspecific hepatitis and granulomas, in whom progressive development of extensive liver fibrosis was documented by repeated biopsies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Compact susceptometer for studies under transverse field geometries at very low temperatures.
We present the design of a compact AC susceptometer for studies under arbitrarily oriented static magnetic fields, in particular magnetic fields oriented transverse to the AC excitation field. The small size of the susceptometer permits versatile use in conventional cryostats with superconducting magnet systems. The design of the susceptometer minimizes parasitic signal contributions while providing excellent thermal anchoring suitable for measurements in a wide range down to very low temperatures. The performance is illustrated by means of measurements of the transverse susceptibility at the magnetic field tuned quantum phase transition of the dipolar-coupled Ising ferromagnet LiHoF4. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Absence of strand-specific repair of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers in active genes in Drosophila melanogaster Kc cells.
Strand-specific excision repair of UV-induced cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers was investigated in three genes: Gart, Notch and white in the permanent Kc cell line derived from wild-type Drosophila melanogaster embryonic cells. In this cell line Gart and Notch are transcriptionally active, whereas white is not expressed. Cells were irradiated with 10 or 15 J/m2 ultraviolet (UV) light (predominantly 254 nm). In all three genes, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers were removed from the non-transcribed strand at the same rate and to the same extent as from the transcribed strand, indicating the absence of strand-specific repair in permanent Drosophila embryonic cell lines. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Colloids confined to a flexible container.
A model of hard spheres trapped inside a container of fluctuating shape is proposed to describe colloidal particles in a vesicle or in an emulsion droplet. The container is assumed to be the convex hull of the particles and is described by an integral geometric approach including volume and surface terms. In the limit of large volume coupling, the model reduces to the well-known geometric problem of natural bin packing. Using computer simulations and cell theory, we calculate equilibrium properties for various finite numbers of confined particles in conformations ranging from clusters to planar and linear structures and identify transitions between these different conformations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Muscarinic receptor stimulation induces TASK1 channel endocytosis through a PKC-Pyk2-Src pathway in PC12 cells.
Muscarinic receptor stimulation or protein kinase C (PKC) activation in rat adrenal medullary and PC12 cells rapidly induces tyrosine phosphorylation of TWIK-related-acid-sensitive K+ 1 (TASK1) channels with the subsequent clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Our previous study suggested that the muscarinic signal is transmitted to the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Src through PKC and Pyk2. Although PKC activation is known to stimulate Pyk2 in certain types of cells, its molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, proximity ligation assay (PLA) and other molecular biological approaches were used to elucidate the details of this muscarinic signaling in PC12 cells. When green fluorescent protein (GFP)-TASK1 was expressed, the majority of GFP-TASK1 was located at the cell periphery. However, the simultaneous expression of GFP-TASK1 and PKCα, but not PKCδ, led to GFP-TASK1 internalization. Muscarinic receptor stimulation resulted in transient co-localization of Pyk2 and Src at the cell periphery, and expression of kinase dead (KD) Pyk2 and Src, but not Pyk2 and KD Src, resulted in GFP-TASK1 internalization. PLA analysis revealed that in response to muscarine, PKCαactivates Pyk2 through phosphorylating its serine residues. These results indicate that muscarinic receptor stimulation induces TASK1 channel endocytosis sequentially through PKCα, Pyk2, and Src, and PKCα activates Pyk2 through phosphorylation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Two-dimensional time-resolved X-ray diffraction studies of live isometrically contracting frog sartorius muscle.
Results were obtained from contracting frog muscles by collecting high quality time-resolved, two-dimensional, X-ray diffraction patterns at the British Synchrotron Radiation Source (SERC, Daresbury, Laboratory). The structural transitions associated with isometric tension generation were recorded under conditions in which the three-dimensional order characteristic of the rest state is either present or absent. In both cases, new layer lines appear during tension generation, subsequent to changes from activation events in the thin filaments. Compared with the 'decorated' actin layer lines of the rigor state, the spacings of the new layer lines are similar whereas their intensities differ substantially. We conclude that in contracting muscle an actomyosin complex is formed whose structure is not like that in rigor, although it is possible that the interacting sites are the same. Transition from rest to plateau of tension is accompanied by approximately 1.6% increase in the axial spacing of the myosin layer lines. This is explained as arising from axial disposition of the interacting myosin heads in the actomyosin complex. Model calculations are presented which support this view. We argue that in a situation where an actomyosin complex is formed during contraction, one cannot describe the diffraction features as being either thick or thin filament based. Accordingly, the layer lines seen during tension generation are referred to as actomyosin layer lines. It is shown that these layer lines can be indexed as submultiples of a minimum axial repeat of approximately 218.7 nm. After lattice disorder effects are taken into account, the intensity increases on the 15th and 21st AM layer lines at spacings of approximately 14.58 and 10.4 nm respectively, show the same time course as tension rise. However, the time course of the intensity increase of the other actomyosin layer lines and of the spacing change (which is the same for both phenomena) shows a substantial lead over tension rise. These findings suggest that the actomyosin complex formed prior to tension rise is a non-tension-generating state and that this is followed by a transition of the complex to a tension-generating state. The intensity increase in the 15th actomyosin layer line, which parallels tension rise, can be accounted for assuming that in the tension-generating state the attached heads adopt (axially) a more perpendicular orientation with respect to the muscle axis than is seen at rest or in the non-tension-generating state. This suggests the existence of at least two structurally distinct interacting myosin head conformations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Further characterization of the chondroprogenitor zone in mandibular condyles of suckling mice. An ultrastructural and cytochemical study.
In the neonatal mouse the mandibular condyle serves as an important growth center for the developing mandible. The youngest cells in this organ are the chondroprogenitor cells that are the source for new differentiating chondroblasts. The present study provides new data concerning the fine structure and cytochemical characteristics of the cartilage precursor cells as seen in suckling mice. The condylar chondroprogenitor cells normally reveal a mesenchyme-like appearance with multiple, elongated cell processes that enable close contact between neighboring cells. These cells also exhibit a variety of pinocytotic vesicles, coated pits and appear to be actively involved in the internalization of a fluid-phase marker horseradish peroxidase. Further, the progenitor cells were found to contain trimetaphosphatase reaction products within lysosomal bodies and alkaline phosphatase reactivity along their plasma membrane. Precipitates of calcium complexes in the form of calcium pyroantimonate could be demonstrated in association with the plasmalemma of the cells as well as with the extracellular collagen fibrils. Matrix granules, representing cartilage proteoglycans, became a distinct feature following staining with ruthenium red and were found to be in close contact with the extracellular collagen fibrils and with the plasmalemma. Hence, in addition to their active role in cell proliferation, the progenitor cells are also involved in the synthesis and secretion of major extracellular macromolecules such as collagen and proteoglycans. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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