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Differing calcium requirements for regulatory effects of ATP, ATP gamma S and adenosine on O2.- responses of human neutrophils.
In formyl peptide stimulated human neutrophils the enhancement of O2.- responses by ATP and ATP S requires extracellular calcium. In contrast, the inhibitory effects of adenosine are independent of a calcium requirement. Rates of O2.- generation are not affected by these adenine compounds. Rather, ATP and ATP S cause a sustained period of generation whereas adenosine causes an abrupt early termination of the O2- response. The differing calcium requirements for regulatory effects of adenine compounds on O2.- responses of stimulated neutrophils suggests that ATP (or ATP gamma S) and adenosine may exert their effects at different points in the pathway of signal transduction events. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preoperative Administration of Jidabokuippo, a Kampo Medicine, Alleviates Postoperative Pain after Tooth Extraction with Mandible Bone Removal under General Anesthesia: A Prospective, Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial.
This study aimed to determine the efficacy of preoperative administration of Jidabokuippo (JDI), a Kampo medicine, in treating postoperative pain after tooth extraction with mandible bone removal. This single-blind, randomized controlled study was conducted among two groups of adult patients who were scheduled to undergo tooth extraction with mandible bone removal under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly assigned to either the JDI or control group. Before surgery, the JDI group received JDI (7.5 g), whereas the control group did not receive any treatment. Patients and the evaluator were blinded to the treatment status. At 0, 1, 3, and 24 h after anesthesia recovery, an investigator recorded the severity of postoperative pain and nausea using a numeric rating scale (0, no pain or nausea; 10, worst imaginable pain or nausea). The number of patients who requested nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and that of additional NSAID administration within 24 h from anesthesia recovery, and the time to the first NSAID request from anesthesia recovery was also measured. The severity of postoperative pain was significantly lower in the JDI group compared with the control group at 3 and 24 h after anesthesia recovery (p < 0.001 each). Both the number of patients requesting NSAID and additional NSAID administration after anesthesia recovery were significantly smaller in the JDI group than in the control group (p = 0.006, p < 0.001). The time to first NSAID request from anesthesia recovery was significantly longer in the JDI group compared with control group (p < 0.001). The severity of nausea did not differ significantly between the groups. No significant side effects related to JDI were noted during the trial. JDI administration before general anesthesia effectively decreased the severity of postoperative pain after anesthesia recovery in patients who underwent tooth extraction with mandible bone removal. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Trinuclear rhodium complexes and their relevance for asymmetric hydrogenation.
Various trinuclear rhodium complexes of the type [Rh(3)(PP)(3)(mu(3)-OH)(x)(mu(3)-OMe)(2-x)]BF(4) (where PP = Me-DuPhos, dipamp, dppp, dppe; different ligands and mu-bridging anions) are presented, which are formed upon addition of bases such as NEt(3) to solvate complexes [Rh(PP)(solvent)(2)]BF(4). They were extensively characterized by X-ray diffraction and NMR spectroscopy ((103)Rh, (31)P, (13)C, (1)H). Their in situ formation resulting from basic additives (NEt(3)) or basic prochiral olefins (without addition of another base) can cause deactivation of the asymmetric hydrogenation. This effect can be reversed by means of acidic additives. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Differentially expressed genes in resistant and susceptible Bombyx mori strains infected with a densonucleosis virus.
We investigated variations in the gene expression of Bombyx mori following infection with a densonucleosis virus (BmDNV-Z). Two B. mori near-isogenic lines, Jingsong and Jingsong.nsd-Z.NIL, which are highly susceptible and completely resistant to BmDNV-Z, respectively, were used in this study. The infection profiles of BmDNV-Z in the midguts of the B. mori Jingsong and Jingsong.nsd-Z.NIL larvae revealed that the virus invaded the midguts of both of these strains. However, its proliferation was notably inhibited in the midgut of the resistant strain. By using the suppression subtractive hybridization method, three cDNA libraries were constructed to compare BmDNV-Z responsive gene expression between the two silkworm lines. In total, 151 differentially expressed genes were obtained. Real-time qPCR analysis confirmed that 11 genes were significantly up-regulated in the midgut of the Jingsong.nsd-Z.NIL strain following BmDNV-Z infection. Our results imply that these up-regulated genes might be involved in B. mori immune responses against BmDNV infection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of an interdisciplinary educational program on antipsychotic prescribing among nursing home residents with dementia.
To assess the effect of an interdisciplinary educational program in reducing the use of antipsychotics in nursing home residents with dementia. We conducted a longitudinal pilot study to test the implementation of a 7-month interdisciplinary educational program in a fixed cohort of residents with dementia receiving antipsychotics. The program included consciousness-raising, educational sessions, and clinical follow-up. Administrators, physicians, pharmacists, nursing staff, and personal care attendants were involved. The effect of the program was assessed over a 6-month period, in terms of the proportion of discontinuations and dose reductions of antipsychotics. Repeated measures for use of other psychotropics and restraints, frequency of disruptive behaviors, and stressful events experienced by nursing staff and personal care attendants were simultaneously assessed. Among the 81 residents still present at the end of the program, there were 40 (49.4%) discontinuations and 11 (13.6%) dose reductions. No significant changes were found in the use of other psychotropics, the use of restraints, or in the number of stressful events experienced by nursing staff and personal care attendants. The frequency of disruptive behaviors decreased significantly over the 6-month period (p<0.001). Our interdisciplinary educational program led to a substantial reduction in the number of residents receiving antipsychotics and to a decrease in the frequency of disruptive behaviors. Our findings suggest that implementation of recognized practice guidelines could be an effective way to target residents who might not benefit from antipsychotics or who may tolerate a dose reduction. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Viral nucleic acid synthesis in HSV infected neural cells.
HSV-1 replication and synthesis of viral DNA and RNA have been examined in gliomas of human (COX) and rat origin (C6) and in mouse neuroblastomas (D2). COX cells fully support HSV-1 replication and show patterns of viral DNA and RNA synthesis similar to those seen in continuous line cells. HSV-1 also grows to high titers in D2 cells but without concomitant high levels of viral DNA and RNA synthesis in the infected cells. Finally, HSV-1 established a persistent infection in C6 cells. Viral mRNA and DNA synthesis could not be detected in these cultures. At cycles of approximately 15--20 days, the persistently infected cultures exhibited massive CPE and relatively high production of infectious HSV. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Erratum: An Instrumented Pull Test to Characterize Postural Responses.
An erratum was issued for: An Instrumented Pull Test to Characterize Postural Responses. Author affiliations were updated. The affiliations for Joy Tan were updated from: 1. Department of Medical Bionics, The University of Melbourne 2. Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital to: 1. Department of Medical Bionics, The University of Melbourne 2. Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital 4. The Bionics Institute The affiliations for Thushara Perera were updated from: 1. Department of Medical Bionics, The University of Melbourne 3. Department of Neurology, Austin Hospital to: 1. Department of Medical Bionics, The University of Melbourne 4. The Bionics Institute. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Redox cycling of 1,2-naphthoquinone by thioredoxin1 through Cys32 and Cys35 causes inhibition of its catalytic activity and activation of ASK1/p38 signaling.
1,2-Naphthoquinone (1,2-NQ) is an atmospheric chemical capable of (1) redox cycling with electron donors and (2) covalent modification of nucleophilic groups on proteins. In the present study, we investigated its interaction with the redox protein, thioredoxin1 (Trx1), which led to oxidative stress-dependent cell damage. In experiments with purified wild-type Trx1 and its double mutant (32S/35S Trx1), we found that incubation of Trx1 with 1,2-NQ resulted in a redox cycling reaction, generating superoxide and hydrogen peroxide involving Cys32 and Cys35 and an arylation reaction resulting in covalent modification of Lys85 together with a loss of Trx activity. A significant fraction of the lost Trx1 activity following interaction with 1,2-NQ was restored by dithiothreitol. Exposure of RAW264.7 cells to 1,2-NQ generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and caused a decrease in Trx activity. Trx is a negative regulator of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), and under the conditions of the experiment, 1,2-NQ activated ASK1 and p38, leading to PARP cleavage and apoptotic cell death that were blocked by pretreatment with polyethylene glycol-catalase. These results suggest that Trx1 readily undergoes oxidative modification by 1,2-NQ through the proximal thiols Cys32 and Cys35. It seems likely that ROS production concomitant with decline in cellular Trx activity plays a role in the activation of ASK1/p38 signaling to promote apoptotic cell death cause by 1,2-NQ exposure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Caring for women living with ovarian cancer: recommendations for advanced practice nurses.
This article summarizes advice for advanced practice nurses (APNs) that grew out of research with women living with premenopausal ovarian cancer. We claim that the process of diagnosis and being told, battle metaphors, treatment expectations, the patient's sense of normalcy, her sense of being heard, her ability to make sense of her new world, her inability to have children, issues of sexuality, and the irrelevance of most support groups are important considerations in the treatment of such women. The APN's major role in caring for these women is understanding the experience as it informs the APN's practice and serving as advocates for the women. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Functional results of angular-stable plate fixation in displaced proximal humeral fractures.
The availability of angular-stable plate/screw systems led to a euphoric use of these implants for the treatment of displaced proximal humerus fractures. The high implant costs seem to be justified by a potentially improved outcome. Thirty one patients (20 female, 11 male, mean age: 62+/-16 years) with two-, three- and four-part proximal humerus fractures (Neer classification) were operated using the proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS). The mean follow-up time was 19+/-3 postoperative months (range: 340-720 days). Functional results (Constant score, UCLA-score) were analysed and compared to an equivalent historic control group of 60 patients operated for the same fracture types using two one-third tubular plates. Additionally, total implant costs for each technique were compared. Complications in the PHILOS group included one implant failure with refracture, one secondary dislocation, two cases of subacromial impingement, and two cases of partial avascular necrosis of the humeral head. The mean Constant score (age- and sex-matched) was 80+/-11% for the affected side and 104+/-13% for the healthy side. The UCLA scores were excellent in 10%, good in 67%, and fair in 23% of the patients. Complication rate and functional results did not differ significantly from the control group treated with one-third tubular plates. Implant costs were significantly higher for the PHILOS group (684+/-40 Euro vs. 158+/-20 Euro, p<0.05). Our study showed similar functional results using either plate. Although the PHILOS plate may provide important advantages in specific situations, such as osteoporotic bone, its use as a standard must be carefully judged under the economic aspect of the significant higher implant costs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Apoptosis-mediated in vivo toxicity of hydroxylated fullerene nanoparticles in soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.
Although a number of manufactured nanoparticles are applied for the medical and clinical purposes, the understanding of interaction between nanomaterials and biological systems are still insufficient. Using nematode Caenorhabditis elegans model organism, we here investigated the in vivo toxicity or safety of hydroxylated fullerene nanoparticles known to detoxify anti-cancer drug-induced oxidative damages in mammals. The survival ratio of C. elegans rapidly decreased by the uptake of nanoparticles from their L4 larval stage with resulting in shortened lifespan (20 d). Both reproduction rate and body size of C. elegans were also reduced after exposure to 100 μg mL(-1) of fullerol. We found ectopic cell corpses caused by apoptotic cell death in the adult worms grown with fullerol nanoparticles. By the mutation of core pro-apoptotic regulator genes, ced-3 and ced-4, these nanoparticle-induced cell death were significantly suppressed, and the viability of animals consequently increased despite of nanoparticle uptake. The apoptosis-mediated toxicity of nanoparticles particularly led to the disorder of digestion system in the animals containing a large number of undigested foods in their intestine. These results demonstrated that the water-soluble fullerol nanoparticles widely used in medicinal applications have a potential for inducing apoptotic cell death in multicellular organisms despite of their antioxidative detoxifying property. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluating the Impact of Legacy P and Agricultural Conservation Practices on Nutrient Loads from the Maumee River Watershed.
The recent resurgence of hypoxia and harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie, driven substantially by phosphorus loads from agriculture, have led the United States and Canada to begin developing plans to meet new phosphorus load targets. To provide insight into which agricultural management options could help reach these targets, we tested alternative agricultural-land-use and land-management scenarios on phosphorus loads to Lake Erie. These scenarios highlight certain constraints on phosphorus load reductions from changes in the Maumee River Watershed (MRW), which contributes roughly half of the phosphorus load to the lake's western basin. We evaluate the effects on phosphorus loads under nutrient management strategies, reduction of fertilizer applications, employing vegetative buffers, and implementing widespread cover crops and alternative cropping changes. Results indicate that even if fertilizer application ceased, it may take years to see desired decreases in phosphorus loads, especially if we experience greater spring precipitation or snowmelt. Scenarios also indicate that widespread conversions to perennial crops that may be used for biofuel production are capable of substantially reducing phosphorus loads. This work demonstrates that a combination of legacy phosphorus, land management, land use, and climate should all be considered when seeking phosphorus-loading solutions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Transcatheter arterial embolization in the treatment of maxillary artery pseudoaneurysm hemorrhage: a case report].
Internal maxillary arterial pseudoaneurysm is a potential complication of maxillofacial surgery. A 34-year old woman with maxillary sinus cancer undergoing multiple endoscopic sinus surgery,and subsequently developed acute massive nasal hemorrhage. She was eventually successfully treated with intravascular embolization. The recurrence of nasal hemorrhage was not observed during a seven-month follow up. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of different air-polishing powders on dentin bonding.
Air-polishing is routinely used for professional tooth cleaning. Therefore, the aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of different air-polishing powders on dentin bonding. Dentin bond strengths of a resin composite (Clearfil AP-X) bonded with different classes of adhesives (4-step etch-and-rinse: Syntac; 3-step etch-and-rinse: OptiBond FL; 2-step etch-and-rinse: Single Bond Plus; 2-step self-etching: AdheSE, Clearfil SE Bond, Clearfil Protect Bond, One Coat Self-Etch Bond; all-in-one/mix: Xeno III; all-in-one/no mix: Clearfil S3 Bond, G-Bond) were measured on flattened dentin surfaces. In test groups, specimens were air polished with Prophypearls (calcium carbonate) or ClinPro Prophypowder (glycine) prior to bonding. Microtensile bond strengths were evaluated after 24 h of storage at 37 degrees C in water. Surfaces and resin-dentin interfaces were observed by SEM, TEM, and CLSM. Mean bond strengths varied from 18 to 73 MPa in control groups. Calcium carbonate air polishing generally caused significantly reduced dentin bond strengths (p < 0.05). TEM exhibited severe nanoleakage after calcium carbonate air polishing. Glycine did not affect dentin bonding performance of the adhesives under investigation. Calcium carbonate air polishing should be avoided when dentin-bonded restorations are applied. Glycine powder is an alternative. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nasal tolerance to experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis: tolerance reversal by nasal administration of minute amounts of interferon-gamma.
Tolerance to B cell-mediated experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG), an animal model for myasthenia gravis (MG) in humans, can be achieved by nasal administration of the autoantigen acetylcholine receptor (AChR). Nasal tolerance induction requires only 1/1000 of the amount of AChR used for oral tolerance induction, but is as effective in preventing EAMG. To investigate whether nasally induced tolerance to EAMG can be influenced by nasal administration of cytokines, recombinant rat IFN-gamma (total 5000 U/rat), a combination of AChR and IFN-gamma or AChR alone was given nasally to Lewis rats before immunization with AChR and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). One additional group of rats received the same amount of AChR nasally in conjunction with IFN-gamma (total 5000 U/rat) intraperitoneally. AChR given alone nasally induced effective tolerance to EAMG whereas rats receiving AChR + IFN-gamma by the nasal route exhibited a similar disease pattern, and similarly escalated T and B cell responses to AChR when compared to control EAMG rats. In contrast, administration of IFN-gamma i.p. together with AChR nasally did not affect the induction of tolerance to EAMG. IFN-gamma given alone nasally did not affect clinical EAMG. This study demonstrates that nasal tolerance can be modulated by nasal administration of minute amounts of IFN-gamma. Nasal administration of certain cytokines with beneficial effects might broaden the effectiveness of applying nasal tolerance as a potential therapeutic means of preventing autoimmune diseases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of a decision-support system for preoperative staging of prostate cancer.
The usefulness and effectiveness of a decision-support system for preoperative staging of prostate cancers (PCES) were evaluated. The study population consisted of 43 consecutive patients with the preoperative diagnosis of prostate cancer who underwent surgical operation. Results obtained using the PCES were compared with staging by four urology attending physicians and five urology residents. The effect of PCES consultation on the physicians' staging of prostate cancer was also evaluated. To confirm the usefulness of the clinical findings of prostate-specific antigen, prostate-specific antigen density, prostate volume, and abnormal Gleason score in the PCES, their receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer were plotted. The values of the areas under the curves were 0.772, 0.800, 0.531, and 0.752. The stage of prostate cancer was correctly determined by the PCES for 38 of the 43 patients, yielding 88.4% preoperative diagnostic accuracy. The PCES was significantly more accurate than two of the attending physicians and all residents. PCES consultation improved the residents' staging accuracy to approximately that of the attending physicians. The effect of PCES consultation on the residents' staging was significantly (p < 0.001) greater than the effect on the physicians' staging. The PCES may be useful in the preoperative staging of prostate cancers, especially during residency. The system's accuracy in determining the stage of advanced prostate cancer may make it possible to avoid unneccesary surgical operations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects on growth and metabolism of growth hormone treatment for 3 years in 36 children with Prader-Willi syndrome.
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex genetic disorder whose many manifestations include obesity and short stature. Diabetes, osteoporosis, and scoliosis are common. We evaluated the effects of human growth hormone (hGH). A prospective cohort study of 36 children (1-15 years of age) with genetically confirmed PWS who were given hGH (mean dose 0.033 ± 0.006 mg/kg/day) for 36 months. At baseline and once yearly, we evaluated growth, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), body composition, bone mineral density (BMD), glucose tolerance, serum lipids, and spinal radiographs. Height gain over the 3-year period was 1.2 SD score. Lean body mass increased significantly during each treatment year. Total body fat decreased by 5.42 and 1.17% in the 1st and 2nd years, respectively. BMD remained unchanged during therapy. IGF-1 and homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance increased, and glucose intolerance was found in 22.7% of patients at baseline and 0% at 3 years. None of the patients had diabetes. Their lipid profile improved. Scoliosis was present in 27.8% of the patients at baseline and 47.2% at 3 years. GH treatment in children with PWS has multiple beneficial effects on growth and body composition. Tolerance is good, with an improvement in glucose metabolism, although IGF-1 levels and insulin resistance parameters should be monitored closely. The high rate of scoliosis warrants monitoring by a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) does not affect epidermal wound healing.
We studied the effect of 95% DMSO on dermal/epidermal healing and microbiol flora in partial-thickness wounds. Wounds of 0.3 mm were made in the skin of Yorkshire pigs with a keratome and treated daily with either 95% DMSO, water, or they were left untreated. Wounds were excised on Days 2-7 and the dermis was separated from the epidermis. The dermis was assayed for collagen biosynthesis (by measuring the production of [14C]hydroxyproline (HP) and amount of radioactive peptides released after collagenase digestion) and absolute HP (by spectrophotometric analysis). The epidermis was evaluated macroscopically for resurfacing. Aerobic bacteria from unwounded and wounded skin were identified and quantitated. There were no significant differences between treatment groups in HP incorporation or absolute collagen content from Days 2-6 after wounding. HP incorporation in the total protein fractions and in the collagenase digestible fractions were analogous. Collagen biosynthesis was similar in both unwounded, untreated, and unwounded DMSO-treated skin. Epidermal healing did not differ between treatment groups. There were no differences in the number or types of bacteria in wounds between treatment groups. These results indicate that topical DMSO is neither beneficial nor harmful in the healing of superficial wounds. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Satiation effects with reversible figures.
Three experiments were performed to examine the rate at which reversible perspective figures (Necker cubes) undergo apparent reversal, as a function of selected stimulus variables. 100 subjects were instructed not to inhibit or to promote reversals of perspective, but to remain neutral. The data indicated: (1) an incomplete cube reverses less frequently than does a corresponding complete figure, (2) two adjacent cubes reverse in synchrony when of equal luminance but often out of phase when differing in luminance, (3) a shift of the cube's retinal position causes its reversal rate to drop to baseline level. These results suggest that the reversal effect increases over time due to a localized rather than general process, and are thus compatible with a sensory satiation model of perceptual alternation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Excess of cancers in Europe: a study of eleven major cancers amenable to lifestyle change.
Worldwide an estimated 11 million cancer cases were diagnosed in 2002, one quarter being in Europe. We estimated the potential in avoidable numbers and proportions of 11 cancers amenable to prevention (cancers of the oral cavity, oesophagus, stomach, colorectal, pancreas, laryngeal, lung, female breast, endometrium, kidney and bladder) in 28 European countries. We assumed that the aggregated rate of 3 countries with lowest incidence to be attainable throughout Europe. The difference between the age- and gender-specific national cancer incidence rates and the lowest rate observed in 2002 was determined and defined as "avoidable." Of the 1.4 million adult cases of selected cancers and countries within our study, 363,000 (59%) cancers in males and 326,000 (45%) cancers in females were hypothetically avoidable. Among men, the proportion was largest in Hungary (77%) and among women, in Belgium (54%). Assuming that differences in cancer incidence are not attributable to genetic susceptibility or diagnostic activity, about 50% of all cases of these 11 cancers could be potentially avoided, especially by decreased smoking among men. Interventions directed at reducing smoking, obesity and alcohol use as well as increasing physical activity and fruit and vegetable intake are necessary to attain lower incidence rates. It is important to recognize that the actual preventable cancer by eliminating currently known risk factors is somewhat less than we have estimated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analytical procedures for the quantification of isotopic amino acid incorporation into photosynthetic proteins of Synechocystis PCC 6803.
The mechanism of oxygen evolution has been an enigma for nearly two centuries. Pioneering work by Bessel Kok, Pierre Joliot, and many others during the last quarter century has provided valuable insight into this most unique and important chemical reaction. The late 1970s and early 1980s saw the introduction of biochemical techniques for the purification of photosynthetic complexes that have, in turn, stimulated the biophysical chemists and spectroscopists to apply high resolution techniques in order to resolve the structure/function relationships in these protein complexes. Valuable information about events at the atomic level can be gained through isotopic substitution of particular amino acids thought to be important in the catalytic process. The ability to generate functional auxotrophs in the photosynthetic cyanobacterium Synechocystis 6803 has been used successfully to identify the redox active components Z and D as tyrosine residues in the reaction center of Photosystem II. In this report, we present results of the application of specific isotopic labeling for high resolution spectroscopy of purified PS II particles. We have developed analytical procedures for monitoring the incorporation of both (2)H and (17)O labeled amino acids by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopic analysis. We also show that the growth curve of cells subjected to obligate auxotrophy displays two distinct stationary phases; one that corresponds to depletion of exogenous amino acids, and a second that corresponds to the normal cell density at stationary phase. Cells harvested at the second stationary phase show little or no retention of the labeled amino acid. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thermodynamics of the anthracycline-nuclei interactions in drug-resistant and drug-sensitive K562 cells.
Fluorescence emission spectra from anthracycline-treated cells suspended in buffer have been used to measure the uptake of three anthracycline derivatives: Adriamycin (ADR), 4'-o-tetrahydropyranyl-Adriamycin (THP-ADR) and aclacinomycin (ACM) in drug-sensitive and drug-resistant K562 cells. The concentration of drug bound to the nucleus and free in the cytoplasm, at steady state, as well as the concentration of drug bound to the nucleus at equilibrium state have been determined at temperatures ranging from 6 degrees to 40 degrees. The enthalpies for the binding of ADR, THP-ADR and ACM to nuclei equal -35 +/- 3, -35 +/- 3 and -30 +/- 3 kJ/mol, respectively. These values compare with the enthalpies of binding of these drugs to naked DNA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro comparability of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) bone densitometers.
Six Hologic QDR-1000 DEXA bone densitometers at different centers across the USA were compared to determine the intermachine variability. Nine scans in succession were acquired on each machine using a single anthropomorphic lumbar spine phantom (manufactured by Hologic). Values for BMC, area, and BMD were recorded for each measurement. Means, standard deviations (SD), and coefficients of variation (CV) were calculated for each machine. All the CVs (BMC, area, BMD) were less than 1% (range 0.3%-0.6%). The CV of the means at the six sites were 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.5% for BMC, area, and BMD, respectively. Although several significant differences for BMC, area, and BMD were noted by ANOVA between machines at different sites, the difference between the highest and lowest means of the individual machines was only 1.1%, 1.31%, and 1.07% for BMC, area, and BMD. The small variations between the DEXA systems are encouraging for researchers involved in multicenter trials in which data are pooled. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Navigator-echo-based MR provides high-resolution images and precise volumetry of swine livers without breath holding or injection of contrast media.
The accurate calculation of hepatic volume by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) is complicated by the need for breath holding and the injection of contrast media. These are often contraindicated in patients with liver failure, and we examined the ability of unenhanced 3-dimensional (3-D) navigator-echo-based MR (NE-MR) to accurately image livers and measure volumes without breath holding compared to unenhanced (plain) or gadolinium-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid enhanced MR (Gd-MR) in miniature swine (n = 8). Without breath holding, diaphragm movement monitoring with NE-MR reduced motion artifacts in hepatic images compared with the other modalities. Without the injection of contrast media, the signal-to-noise ratios of the images obtained using NE-MR were significantly higher than those from plain MR; Gd-MR was superior to NE-MR, however (79.5 +/- 7.5 vs. 63.2 +/- 6.0 or 97.8 +/- 8.1, respectively; P < 0.01 for each). Overall, NE-MR produced improved high-resolution liver images. Consequently, liver volumes calculated based on NE-MR images were more highly correlated with actual liver weights compared to plain or Gd-MR in the whole livers (n = 8; r = 0.937 vs. 0.835 or 0.904, respectively). Also, NE-MR demonstrated significantly strong correlation between actual weights and volumetry-calculated volumes in regenerative livers 7 days after massive hepatectomy (n = 10, r = 0.989, P < 0.01). In conclusion, our results indicate that without breath holding or the injection of contrast media, 3-D NE-MR can provide both high-resolution liver images and precise hepatic volumes in patients with liver failure due to liver surgery (massive hepatectomy and living donor liver transplantation) or fulminant hepatic failure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Rheumatoid atlantoaxial instability treated by anterior transarticular C1-C2 fixation. Case report.
The authors present a case that demonstrates the usefulness of anterior transarticular screw fixation in the treatment of instability due to rheumatoid arthritis. The surgical technique of this infrequently used procedure is presented. A 35-year-old female patient with medical history significant for rheumatoid arthritis complained of persistent headache and upper neck pain. Examination revealed a decreased range of cervical rotational motion. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine revealed anterior displacement of C1, destruction of the left lateral atlantoaxial articulation and bony erosion of the C2 vertebral body below the base of the odontoid. Dynamic radiographs showed increased C1-C2 mobility. The authors used a right anterolateral approach to the cervical spine to perform fixation of lateral atlantoaxial articulations by means of titanium cannulated compressive screws. On 4-month follow-up examination, successful C1-C2 stabilization was documented. Despite restriction of neck rotation, the patient reported satisfactory improvement and re-turned to work. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Polymorphic microsatellite loci for two Atlantic oyster species: Crassostrea rhizophorae and C. gasar.
Using a CA/CAA enriched library screening procedure, we isolated and characterised a total of seventeen polymorphic microsatellite loci for two species of Crassostrea with recognised economic importance. Eleven microsatellite loci were developed for C. rhizophorae, a Western Atlantic species for which no microsatellites were previously known. Another six loci were developed for C. gasar, a species that occurs on both sides of the South Atlantic, adding to the ten loci previously described for the species. The levels of polymorphism were estimated using 24 C. rhizophorae from Southeast Brazil (São Paulo) and 23 C. gasar individuals from North Brazil (Maranhão). The number of alleles per polymorphic locus varied from 3 to 27, and the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged between 0.174 and 0.958 and between 0.237 and 0.972 in C. rhizophorae and C. gasar, respectively. No linkage disequilibrium was found between any locus pair, and four of them exhibited deviations from Hardy-Weinberg expectations. Of the 17 loci developed, 8 cross-amplified in C. gigas and 13 in C. virginica. These markers are useful for evolution and population genetics studies of Crassostrea species and may provide fundamental data for the future cultivation of native oysters in Western Atlantic. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Life beyond Z11.
The ACOSOG Z0011 (Z11) trial demonstrated the presence of a group of breast cancer patients with some residual axillary disease who did not benefit from axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in the presence of whole breast radiotherapy and systemic therapy at short term follow-up. It is important that further long-term follow-up of this cohort continues. The outcomes of those patients fitting Z11 criteria who do not undergo ALND should be recorded on a prospective register to ensure close observation should any late divergence in overall survival develop. It is also essential that future studies are inclusive of groups excluded from Z11 rather than simply a re-hash of the trial. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis plus conventional care with pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis plus facilitated percutaneous coronary intervention in acute myocardial infarction.
Early and complete reperfusion is the main treatment goal in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The timely optimal reperfusion strategy might be a pre-hospital initiated pharmacological reperfusion with subsequent facilitated percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This approach has been compared with pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis only to determine whether either one of these methods offer advantages with respect to final infarct size. Patients with STEMI were randomized to either pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis (half-dose reteplase+abciximab) with standard care (n=82) or pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis with facilitated PCI (n=82). Primary endpoint was the infarct size assessed by delayed enhancement magnetic resonance. Secondary endpoints were ST-segment resolution at 90 min and a composite of death, re-myocardial infarction, major bleeding, and stroke at 6 months. The infarct size was lower after facilitated PCI with 5.2% [interquartile range (IQR) 1.3-11.2] as opposed to 10.4% (IQR 3.4-16.3) after pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis (P=0.001). Complete ST-segment resolution was 80.0% after facilitated PCI vs. 51.9% after pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis (P<0.001). After facilitated PCI, there was a trend towards a lower event rate in the combined clinical endpoint (15 vs. 25%, P=0.10, relative risk 0.57, 95% CI 0.28-1.13). In patients with STEMI, additional facilitated PCI after pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis results in an improved tissue perfusion with subsequent smaller infarct size as opposed to pre-hospital combination-fibrinolysis alone. This translates into a trend towards a better clinical outcome. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Studies on the mechanism by which exogenous glucose is converted into liver glycogen in the rat. A direct or an indirect pathway?
To quantify the extent to which exogenous glucose is used directly or indirectly for hepatic glycogen synthesis, fasted rats were given [U-14C,3-3H] glucose intragastrically, intravenously, or as a component of a solid diet eaten ad libitum. In all cases liver glycogen was deposited at high linear rates over a 3-h period. Portal vein glucose levels seldom exceeded 8 mM. At a time when the specific activities of 3H and 14C in circulating glucose were identical with those in the administered material their values in newly synthesized glycogen were reduced by 72-88% and 50-65%, respectively. An intragastric load of unlabeled glucose sufficient to suppress completely hepatic glucose output greatly stimulated the incorporation of intravenously infused [14C]bicarbonate, [14C]lactate, [14C]alanine, and [14C] glutamine into liver glycogen. Using an improved assay the ability of liver homogenates to phosphorylate glucose at concentrations of 5-10 mM was found to be far short of what would be needed if glucose were used directly to support hepatic glycogen synthesis in vivo. These data support the notion that in the rat a major fraction of liver glycogen deposited in response to exogenous carbohydrate is formed by a pathway involving glucose leads to C3 unit leads to glycogen, although the site of the initial steps in the sequence is not yet known. The limited capacity of the liver to utilize intact glucose for glycogen synthesis might reside in its limited capacity to phosphorylate the sugar at physiological concentrations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antibody responses to bacterial antigens in the pregnant ewe.
The humoral immune response to the novel antigen Brucella abortus (S19) was examined in nonpregnant ewes and in ewes at different stages of pregnancy. Both the primary and secondary responses were monitored, by measuring the levels of total antibody, Immunoglobulin G (IgG), and complement fixing antibody. Results showed that total antibody production was significantly (p<0.01) impaired in late pregnancy and that IgG titres persisted at significantly (p<0.05) higher levels in non-pregnant animals late in the primary response and following the booster inoculation. Complement fixing antibody levels were significantly higher in non-pregnant ewes and animals inoculated post-partum. These results suggest that active immunity can be altered during pregnancy, with qualitative changes in the class and biological activity of antibody. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A 1H MRS study of probable Alzheimer's disease and normal aging: implications for longitudinal monitoring of dementia progression.
In order to evaluate the capability of 1H MRS to monitor longitudinal changes in subjects with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD), the temporal stability of the metabolite measures N-acetylaspartate and N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NA), total Creatine (Cr), myo-Inositol (mI), total Choline (Chol), NA/Cr, mI/Cr, Chol/Cr and NA/mI were investigated in a cohort of normal older adults. Only the metabolite measures NA, mI, Cr, NA/Cr, mI/Cr, and NA/mI were found to be stable after a mean interval of 260 days. Relative and absolute metabolite measures from a cohort of patients with probable AD were subsequently compared with data from a sample of normal older adult control subjects, and correlated with mental status and the degree of atrophy in the localized voxel. Concentrations of NA, NA/Cr, and NA/mI were significantly reduced in the AD group with concomitant significant increases in mI and mI/Cr. There were no differences between the two groups in measures of Cr, Chol, or Chol/Cr. Significant correlations between mental status as measured by the Mini-Mental State Examination and NA/mI, mI/Cr and NA were found. These metabolite measures were also significantly correlated with the extent of atrophy (as measured by CSF and GM composition) in the spectroscopy voxel. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structural elucidation of sumanene and generation of its benzylic anions.
The structure of sumanene in a solid state was elucidated. The silyl-substituted sumanene was stereoselectively synthesized through generation of the benzylic anions of sumanene. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Presentation and outcome of diabetic foot ulcers in Saudi Arabian patients.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate associated risk factors, clinical presentation, and outcome of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in a Saudi Arabian hospital. This is a prospective study of diabetic patients with foot ulcers at Saudi Aramco Medical Services Organization. The participants were referred to a wound care specialist. The study was conducted from December 2003 to December 2004 and included a total of 62 patients (30 men and 32 women). The mean age (SD) was 64.8 years (+ 12 years), with a range from 39 to 82 years. During the study period, 19% (12 of 62) of patients had amputations represented by 2 above-knee amputations, 3 below-knee amputations, and 7 limb-sparing surgeries. All patients with DFUs who underwent surgical amputation had a Wagner Classification of grade 4 (n = 9; 75%) or grade 5 (n = 3; 25%). Three patients (25%) had prior surgical limb-sparing amputations, and 11 (91%) patients were on insulin therapy. The associated risk factors with amputation were hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, absence of pedal pulses, and ischemic heart disease (P < .05). DFUs continue to be an important cause of morbidity and resulted in an amputation rate of 19%. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structure and mutational analysis of the PhoN protein of Salmonella typhimurium provide insight into mechanistic details.
The Salmonella typhimurium PhoN protein is a nonspecific acid phosphatase and belongs to the phosphatidic acid phosphatase type 2 (PAP2) superfamily. We report here the crystal structures of phosphate-bound PhoN, the PhoN-tungstate complex, and the T159D mutant of PhoN along with functional characterization of three mutants: L39T, T159D, and D201N. Invariant active site residues, Lys-123, Arg-130, Ser-156, Gly-157, His-158, and Arg-191, interact with phosphate and tungstate oxyanions. Ser-156 also accepts a hydrogen bond from Thr-159. The T159D mutation, surprisingly, severely diminishes phosphatase activity, apparently by disturbing the active site scaffold: Arg-191 is swung out of the active site resulting in conformational changes in His-158 and His-197 residues. Our results reveal a hitherto unknown functional role of Arg-191, namely, restricting the active conformation of catalytic His-158 and His-197 residues. Consistent with the conserved nature of Asp-201 in the PAP2 superfamily, the D201N mutation completely abolished phosphatase activity. On the basis of this observation and in silico analysis we suggest that the crucial mechanistic role of Asp-201 is to stabilize the positive charge on the phosphohistidine intermediate generated by the transfer of phosphoryl to the nucleophile, His-197, located within hydrogen bond distance to the invariant Asp-201. This is in contrast to earlier suggestions that Asp-201 stabilizes His-197 and the His197-Asp201 dyad facilitates formation of the phosphoenzyme intermediate through a charge-relay system. Finally, the L39T mutation in the conserved polyproline motif (39LPPPP43) of dimeric PhoN leads to a marginal reduction in activity, in contrast to the nearly 50-fold reduction observed for monomeric Prevotella intermedia acid phosphatase, suggesting that the varying quaternary structure of PhoN orthologues may have functional significance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Visual deprivation fails to reduce calbindin 28kD or GABA immunoreactivity in the rhesus monkey superior colliculus.
Antibody labeling of the calcium-binding protein calbindin 28kD (CaBP) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is altered by short-term monocular deprivation in the lateral geniculate nucleus and visual cortex of adult primates. It is not known whether these alterations occur in other subcortical visual structures. We therefore have examined antibody labeling to CaBP and GABA in the superior colliculus (SC) of visually deprived Rhesus monkeys. One group was monocularly enucleated as adults. The other monkeys experienced different types of monocular and binocular deprivation from birth, including occlusion of one eye, and/or surgically induced aphakia, optically corrected with extended-wear contact lenses, or an intraocular lens implant. Some of these monkeys also had one eye enucleated prior to perfusion. In the SC of normal monkeys, CaBP-immunoreactive neurons formed three laminar tiers within SC, one within the zonal layer (ZL) and upper superficial gray layer (SGL), another bridging the optic and intermediate gray layers, and a third within the deep gray layer. CaBP neurons within the upper tier had small pyriform or stellate morphologies while those in the deeper tiers were slightly larger neurons, most with a stellate morphology. GABA-immunoreactive neurons were densely distributed within the SGL and more sparsely distributed within the deeper layers. These cells were mostly small neurons with horizontal, pyriform, or stellate morphologies. Neither monocular enucleation nor occlusion nor aphakia combined with continuous occlusion of the fellow eye produced any visible reduction in antibody labeling in cells or neuropil within the SC. Full-field measures of labeling intensity (optical density) within the ZL and upper SGL revealed no consistent differences between the SC contralateral or ipsilateral to the affected eye in either CaBP- or GABA-labeled sections. Measures of the optical density, number, and size of labeled neurons also showed no consistent effects of enucleation and/or occlusion. We therefore conclude that the retino-geniculostriate and retino-collicular systems differ in their response to deprivation which is likely due to the significant overlap of retinal axons from the two eyes that occurs in the SC of the Rhesus monkey. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Use of bremsstrahlung radiation to monitor Y-90 tumor and whole body activities during experimental radioimmunotherapy in mice.
Large differences in uptake between tumors, even for the same size, frequently observed in clinical and experimental radioimmunotherapy (RAIT), make monitoring of uptake in individual tumors imperative in comparing protocols. 90Y, widely-used for RAIT, emits no gamma radiation and absorption of the beta particle in tissue makes its detection unsuitable for in vivo monitoring. We tested whether bremsstrahlung radiation, produced when betas are decelerated by nuclei, could be used to monitor tumor uptake. Subcutaneous human LS174T colon carcinoma tumors were grown in the upper thigh of nude mice and labeled antibody injected intracardially. With the tumor placed in the 2 cm-diameter aperture in a lead collimator, photons with energies from 100 to 200 keV transmitted through plastic, which absorbed the beta particles, were counted to maximize shielding from the rest of the body. The contribution of the normal tissues was subtracted by counting the non-tumor-bearing leg in the same position. Excretion was calculated from whole body activity determined by removing the collimator, placing the mouse in a syringe surrounded by tissue-equivalent material 10 cm from the detector, and counting photons between 200 and 740 keV to minimize the effect of tissue attenuation. For tumors larger than 0.14 gm, a good correlation was obtained between the in vivo bremsstrahlung measurements and the measurements on excised tumors in a calibrated well counter. Similar excretion rates observed in all the animals suggested that the whole body counting was accurate. Bremstrahlung detection appears feasible and reliable for monitoring both tumor and whole body activities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interleukin 1 and tumor necrosis factor do not regulate protein balance in skeletal muscle.
Recent studies have claimed that interleukin 1-containing preparations increase skeletal protein degradation similar to that seen during infection and inflammation. However, preparations employed have contained other products of activated macrophages, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha. In the present report, we investigated the capability of recombinant-derived murine and human interleukins 1-alpha and 1-beta and human tumor necrosis factor-alpha to affect skeletal protein synthesis and degradation both in vitro and in vivo. Partially purified products of Staphylococcus albus-stimulated human blood monocytes increased skeletal protein degradation both in vivo and in vitro. However, none of the recombinant interleukin 1 nor the human tumor necrosis factor-alpha preparations had any impact on skeletal protein balance. Both recombinant interleukin 1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha stimulated the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Furthermore, a polyclonal antibody to human interleukin 1 eliminated the lymphoproliferative response to partially purified monocyte preparations (interleukin 1 activity), but failed to abrogate the increased skeletal protein degradation in vitro. This study demonstrates that although interleukin 1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha induce a PGE2 response by skeletal muscle in vitro, some macrophage product distinct from either interleukin 1 or tumor necrosis factor-alpha is responsible for the accelerated skeletal protein degradation seen with partially purified human blood monocyte products. Elevated PGE2 levels do not appear to regulate skeletal protein balance in vitro. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Challenge with lipopolysaccharides or Freund's adjuvant? What is the best option to trigger acute phase protein production in broilers?
Broilers were injected at 10 days of age with either Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides (LPS) or with Freund's adjuvants (FA) to investigate its triggering effect on the acute phase reaction (APR). First the kinetics of certain APP was studied by sampling blood 4 h, 8 h, 12 h and 24 h post injection with LPS. Ovotransferrin (OVT) and α-1 acid glycoprotein (AGP) concentration increased with time post injection (PI) with LPS to reach a plateau at 12 and 24 h PI. Caeruloplasmin (CP) did not increase with time PI. Compared to injection with phosphate buffered saline, OVT concentrations were higher when injecting chicks with LPS at all time points PI. At 24 h PI, LPS injection resulted in higher OVT and AGP concentration compared to injection with FA. It is recommended to use LPS instead of FA to trigger the APR. The best time point to sample blood for APP determination is 24 h PI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High performance liquid chromatography of glucose using a post-column reactor of immobilized enzyme followed by electrochemical detection (glucose-LCEC).
A sensitive and selective, reasonably fast method for the determination of glucose content has been developed. A glucose oxidase immobilized column was coupled to a small-size anion exchange column/borate buffer chromatograph. The hydrogen peroxide produced in the enzyme reaction was detected directly by an amperometric detector using a platinum working electrode. The detection limit was 0.03 ppm (1.5 x 10(-7) M, 3 pmol/injection). The linear dynamic range was three orders of magnitude at least. The system was stable and reproducible both in short- and long-term operation. The proposed method is suitable for analysis of complicated matrices of biological samples because of its good selectivity and sensitivity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Validity of the single-item question on self-rated health status in first generation Turkish and Moroccans versus native Dutch in the Netherlands.
The single-item question on self-rated health has been used in many studies as a global measure of general health. It is unclear whether ethnic minority groups in the Netherlands attach the same meaning to the single-item question as the native Dutch people do. To assess the validity of using the single-item question on self-rated health in comparing health status in native Dutch with first generation Turkish and Moroccan ethnic groups in the Netherlands. The associations between self-reported chronic illnesses and self-rated health were used to examine convergent validity, and self-rated health and health care use for predictive validity using logistic regression analysis. In general, chronic illnesses were associated with fair health and poor health ratings in all the ethnic groups but there were important differences in associations between the groups. There were significant interactions between ethnicity and chronic illnesses on fair health, and poor health, independent of socio-demographical factors. There was also significant interaction between ethnicity and self-rated health on health care uses. These findings indicate that the meaning(s) attached to the single-item question differ between these ethnic groups. The study findings suggest that the use of the single-item question on self-rated health to compare native Dutch with the first generation Turkish and Moroccan ethnic groups is not valid. These findings imply that researchers need to be cautious about the interpretation of self-rated health ratings when comparing different ethnic groups. A qualitative research is needed to find out more about how these single-item ratings are being interpreted by Turkish and Moroccan elderly in the Netherlands. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Predicting Protein Disorder for N-, C-, and Internal Regions.
Logistic regression (LR), discriminant analysis (DA), and neural networks (NN) were used to predict ordered and disordered regions in proteins. Training data were from a set of non-redundant X-ray crystal structures, with the data being partitioned into N-terminal, C-terminal and internal (I) regions. The DA and LR methods gave almost identical 5-cross validation accuracies that averaged to the following values: 75.9 +/- 3.1% (N-regions), 70.7 +/- 1.5% (I-regions), and 74.6 +/- 4.4% (C-regions). NN predictions gave slightly higher scores: 78.8 +/- 1.2% (N-regions), 72.5 +/- 1.2% (I-regions), and 75.3 +/- 3.3% (C-regions). Predictions improved with length of the disordered regions. Averaged over the three methods, values ranged from 52% to 78% for length = 9-14 to >/= 21, respectively, for I-regions, from 72% to 81% for length = 5 to 12-15, respectively, for N-regions, and from 70% to 80% for length = 5 to 12-15, respectively, for C-regions. These data support the hypothesis that disorder is encoded by the amino acid sequence. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Perineal descent at defecography in women with straining at stool: a lack of specificity or predictive value for future anal incontinence?
To determine (1) whether patients complaining of straining at stool have pelvic floor descent and anal abnormalities similar to those of patients with anal incontinence and (2) whether these patients are prone to develop anal incontinence. To answer the first question we used defecography to study perineal floor position at rest, during maximal contraction of the anal sphincter and during straining, and we performed anorectal manometry in 46 women with straining at stool but without anal incontinence at the beginning of the study, and in 46 women with idiopathic anal incontinence, matched for age. To answer the second question, we performed a 5-year follow-up study to determine whether anal incontinence had developed in those women with straining at stool. Perineal floor position at rest, during maximal contraction of the sphincter and during straining, resting pressure in the upper part of the anal canal, maximal amplitude and duration of the voluntary contraction were similar in the 46 women with straining at stool and the 46 women with idiopathic anal incontinence. In the follow-up study, 24 of the 46 women with straining at stool were contacted. The incidence of anal incontinence after 5 years was higher among these 24 women than in a control group of 20 women (13 out of 24 versus three out of 20, for women with straining at stool versus controls respectively; P < 0.01). The 13 patients with straining at stool who became incontinent had, at the initial investigation, a lower maximal amplitude of voluntary contraction, greater perineal descent at rest and less elevation of the pelvic floor during maximal contraction of the anal sphincter than the other women (P < 0.05). Women with chronic straining at stool have perineal descent at rest and during straining similar to that of incontinent women. Women with chronic straining are also prone to develop anal incontinence, suggesting that perineal descent at defecography in women with straining at stool may predict future anal incontinence. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Perspectives on the AIDS epidemic: the experience within the United States.
As of 13 June 1988 a cumulative total of 64,896 AIDS cases and 36,480 AIDS-related deaths had been reported to the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Of the 63,880 adults afflicted, 63% were homosexual or bisexual men; 19% were intravenous drug users; 7% were homosexual men who were also I.V. drug users; 4% were heterosexuals; 3% were blood transfusion recipients; 1% were hemophiliacs; and 3% were people for whom risk factor information was incomplete. Of the 1,016 children with AIDS, 77% were born to a parent who had or was at risk for AIDS, 13% were blood transfusion recipients, 6% were hemophiliacs, and 4% were children for whom risk factor information was incomplete. Serologic surveys have provided information regarding the extent of HIV infection in high-risk groups. The number of AIDS cases projected through 1992 using the methods of extrapolation and back-calculation are 310,000 and 380,000 cases, respectively. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Regional xenon 133 cerebral blood flow and cerebral technetium 99m HMPAO uptake in unmedicated patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder and matched normal control subjects. Determination by high-resolution single-photon emission computed tomography.
We measured regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) with the xenon 133 (133Xe) inhalation method and with regional cerebral uptake of technetium 99m d,l-hexamethyl propyleneamine oxime (99mTc-HMPAO) by single-photon emission computed tomography in 10 adult male patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and in 10 age-matched adult male normal controls. With the 133Xe method, there were no significant differences in cortical or basal ganglia blood flow between the patients with OCD and their matched controls. In the patients, there was a positive relationship between rCBF and the severity of both obsessive and compulsive symptoms (average r = .48). These rCBF findings were consistent with those of earlier reports of increased rCBF in patients with OCD who were undergoing imaginal flooding and who had exacerbation of symptoms following m-CPP administration. 99mTc-HMPAO is a lipophilic molecule that crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to a hydrophilic form that is trapped in the brain. The amount that is trapped is determined primarily by blood flow, but also by membrane permeability and kinetics of conversion of the 99mTc-HMPAO to the hydrophilic form. Compared with their matched controls, the patients with OCD had significantly increased 99mTc-HMPAO uptake in the high dorsal parietal cortex bilaterally, in the left posterofrontal cortex, and in the orbital frontal cortex bilaterally. Possible explanations include (1) increased rCBF that was not detected with 133Xe, (2) increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier and/or cell membranes, and (3) increased conversion and trapping of the lipophilic, injected form of 99mTc-HMPAO in these regions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The D/H ratio and the evolution of water in the terrestrial planets.
The presence of liquid water at the surface of the Earth has played a major role in the biological evolution of the Earth. None of the other terrestrial planets--Mercury, Venus and Mars--has liquid water at its surface. However, it has been suggested, since the early seventies, from both geological and atmospheric arguments that, although Venus and Mars are presently devoid of liquid water, their surfaces could have been partially or completely covered by water at some time of their evolution. There are many possible diagnostics of the long-term evolution of the planets, either from the present characteristics of their surfaces or from their present atmospheric compositions. Among them, the present value of the D/H ratio is of particular interest, although its significance in terms of long term evolution has been challenged by some authors. Recent progress has been made in this field. We now have evidence for higher D/H ratios on Mars and Venus than on Earth, with an enrichment factor of the order of 5 on Mars, and about 100 on Venus. Any scenario for the evolution of these planets must take this into The most recent models on the evolution of Mars and Venus are reviewed in light of these new measurements. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Perinatal Maternal Depressive Symptoms as an Issue for Population Health.
The importance of maternal depression for child outcomes is well established, and impairments in psychosocial function and parenting are as severe in women with high subsyndromal levels of depressive symptoms as they are in women with clinical depression. The author conducted a systematic review that explored the association between maternal depressive symptoms and child neurodevelopmental outcomes, including in neuroimaging studies. The results strongly suggest that the influences of maternal depressive symptoms operate across a continuum to influence child outcomes, implying that maternal depression may appropriately be considered an issue of population health. This conclusion is strengthened by recent findings that reveal distinct influences of positive maternal mental health on parenting and child outcomes. [AJP AT 175: Remembering Our Past As We Envision Our Future April 1851: Fleetwood Churchill, "On the Mental Disorders of Pregnancy and Childbed" "Women affected with any degree of mental derangement during pregnancy are more disposed than others to puerperal mania. But the serious character of these attacks is even deepened by the fact, abundantly established, that the evil is not limited to the mother. Not only may organic diseases of the body be transmitted to the infant, but a predisposition to insanity, thus multiplying the distress in a most alarming ratio." (Am J Psychiatry 1851; 7:297-317 )]. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of social cognitive processing theory and optimism in positive psychosocial and physical behavior change after cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The physical and psychosocial 'health' behaviors of cancer patients have become a more pressing issue as 5-year survival rates continue to rise. This study investigated: (a) the extent of positive change in four psychosocial behaviors and two physical health behaviors, (b) the role of psychosocial predictors (drawn from theories of Social Cognitive Processing and optimism) in positive behavior change after cancer diagnosis and treatment, and (c) the possible influence of social desirability in reports of positive psychosocial and physical behavior change. The behavior showing the greatest positive change was time spent reflecting on life priorities; the behavior that was least likely to change after diagnosis and treatment was exercise. Optimism, social support, and cancer-related intrusions were positively associated with increases in physical health behaviors. Only optimism was positively associated with increases in psychosocial behaviors. Reports of positive change in physical and psychosocial behaviors were only modestly correlated. Social desirability was unrelated to reports of positive behavior change. Results are interpreted in light of theories of adaptation to cancer diagnosis and treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes in tissue fatty acid composition during the first month of growth of the king penguin chick.
The switch from yolk to food (myctophid fishes) as the nutrient source for the newly hatched chick of the king penguin ( Aptenodytes patagonicus) results in a profound change in the pattern of fatty acid provision. This is characterized by major increases in the proportionate intake of n-3 polyunsaturates (20:5n-3 and 22:6n-3) and long chain (C(20-24)) monounsaturates, accompanied by relatively lower levels of n-6 polyunsaturates (18:2n-6 and 20:4n-6). The effects of this change on the fatty acid composition of tissue lipids during the first month of growth, a period of tissue maturation leading to thermal emancipation, were determined. The composition of adipose tissue triacylglycerol responded rapidly to the switch in nutrient source, the proportion of long chain monounsaturates (mainly 20:1n-9 and 22:1n-11) increasing five-fold between hatch and emancipation while the relative levels of 20:5n-3 and 22:6n-3 also increased significantly, by 3- and 1.2-fold, respectively. At emancipation, the fatty acid profile of adipose tissue triacylglycerol was essentially identical to that of the diet. At hatch, the main polyunsaturates of muscle phospholipid were 20:4n-6, 20:5n-3, and 22:6n-3, respectively, forming (w/w of fatty acids) 13.2%, 5.0%, and 12.0%. By emancipation, 20:4n-6 had decreased to 4.8%, 20:5n-3 increased to 10.9%, and 22:6n-3 at 11.4% showed little change. The main polyunsaturate in brain phospholipid at hatch was 22:6n-3 (19.3%): this remained almost constant until day 15 but then increased significantly to 23.6% by emancipation. Significant but minor changes in the proportions of 20:4n-6 (from 5.2% at hatch to 3.5% at emancipation) and 20:5n-3 (from 3.0% to 3.9%) were also observed in brain phospholipid. The data do not allow us to completely distinguish changes that are solely diet driven from those which are a consequence of tissue differentiation. Nevertheless, it is evident that, whereas the fatty acid composition of adipose tissue responds faithfully to the change in nutrient source, the phospholipids of muscle and, especially, of brain are much more refractory to the effects of diet during this period of tissue maturation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Association between PUFA intake and serum concentration and mortality in older adults: A cohort study.
PUFA intake is associated with reduced cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in the general population; however, evidence about this association in older adults is controversial. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between PUFA intake and serum concentration, and the association of these variables with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. in this cohort study, we selected 927 community dwelling adults aged ≥65 years enrolled in the InCHIANTI study from 1998 to 2000 and followed-up for 9 years. The association between PUFA intake and serum concentration was evaluated using scatterplot and Pearson correlation test; all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regressions adjusted for potential confounders. mean age of the population was 75 years (SD 7.3), 55% were women. There was no association between overall PUFAs, linolenic and linoleic acid intake and their serum concentration. There was no association between quartiles (Q) of PUFA intake and all-cause mortality: compared to Q1 of PUFA intake, the adjusted HR (95% CI) for overall mortality were: 1.05 (0.74-1.50) in Q2, 1.10 (0.76-1.58) in Q3, and 0.98 (0.68-1.41) in Q4; this lack of association was confirmed for cardiovascular mortality. Compared to Q1, participants in the fourth quartile of PUFA serum concentration had lower risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted HR [95%CI]: Q2 1.10 [0.79-1.53], Q3 0.84 [0.60-1.19], Q4 0.66 [0.44-0.995]), no association was found for cardiovascular mortality. In our sample of community-dwelling older adults, PUFA intake is not associated with PUFA serum concentration. Interventions to modulate PUFA concentration based on dietary intake may not be effective in preventing mortality in this population. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gross Motor Skills in Children With Idiopathic Clubfoot and the Association Between Gross Motor Skills, Foot Involvement, Gait, and Foot Motion.
Little is known regarding gross motor skills (GMS) in children with idiopathic clubfoot (IC). This study describes GMS, specifically foot involvement and asymmetries, and analyses the association between GMS, gait, and foot status in children with IC. Gross motor tasks and gait were analyzed in children with IC and typically developed (TD) children. GMS were assessed using videotapes and the Clubfoot Assessment Protocol (CAP). The Gait Deviation Index (GDI) and GDI-Kinetic were calculated from gait analyses. Children were divided into bilateral, unilateral clubfoot, or TD groups. To analyze asymmetries, feet within each group were further classified into superior or inferior foot, depending on their CAP scores. Correlations identified associations between CAP and GDI, GDI-Kinetic, passive foot motion, and Dimeglio Classification Scores at birth in the clubfeet. In total, 75 children (mean age, 5 years) were enrolled (bilateral n=22, unilateral clubfoot n=25, TD=28). Children with clubfeet demonstrated significantly lower GMS, gait, and foot motion compared with TD children. One leg standing and hopping deviated in 84% and 91%, respectively, in at least one foot in children with clubfoot. Gross motor asymmetries were evident in both children with bilateral and unilateral involvement. In children with unilateral clubfoot, contralateral feet showed few deviations in GMS compared with TD; however, differences existed in gait and foot motion. The association between GMS and gait, foot motion, and initial foot status varied between poor and moderate. Gross motor deficits and asymmetries are present in children with both bilateral and unilateral IC. Development of GMS of the contralateral foot mirrors that of TD children, but modifies to the clubfoot in gait and foot motion. The weak association with gait, foot motion, and initial clubfoot severity indicates that gross motor measurements represent a different outcome entity in clubfoot treatment. We therefore, recommend gross motor task evaluation for children with IC. Level II-prognostic studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Traditional birth attendants in Mexico: advantages and inadequacies of care for normal deliveries.
In Mexico, traditional birth attendants (TBAs) are an essential resource for health care, especially in small rural communities where they attend approximately 45% of all deliveries. Both rural and urban women seek care with the TBAs because, amongst other things, they share the same cultural codes. In this study, qualitative and quantitative methods were used to analyze the concepts, resources and process of care during birth in rural areas of the state of Morelos. Results show that the socio-economic characteristics of the TBAs are similar to those of the patients, that they share the same precarious living conditions, and the resources to which they have access for providing care during births. When choosing a TBA as a health care provider, both the economic aspect and the importance of a shared symbolism come into play. We observed advantages in some of the traditional practices which should be incorporated into the medical system, for example protection through the massage of the perineum at the moment of expulsion. Nevertheless, there are inadequacies for which the implementation of training programs is fundamental, before articulate primary care programs using the TBAs can be promoted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Frequency and prognostic significance of pericardial effusion in primary pulmonary hypertension. PPH Study Group. Primary pulmonary hypertension.
Pericardial effusion was noted in 43 of 79 patients (54%) with severe primary pulmonary hypertension. Larger effusion was associated with hemodynamic and echocardiographic evidence of right heart failure, impaired exercise tolerance, and a poor 1-year prognosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The association of short segment Barrett's esophagus with intestinal metaplasia in stomach.
The aims of this study were to investigate the presence of short segment Barrett's esophagus in people found to have tongue-like columnar mucosal protrusions in the distal esophagus and to determine the relationship between short segment Barrert's esophagus and Helicobacter pylori, gastritis and intestinal metaplasia observed in other parts of the stomach. The study included 50 patients (32 male, 18 female). Two biopsy specimens were taken from the antrum, at least 2 cm away from the pylorus, from the incisura angularis, corpus and cardia and four biopsy specimens were taken from tongue-like columnar protrusions (<3 cm long) above the gastroesophageal junction. Tissue samples were stained with hematoxyline-eosine, HID-Alcian blue pH 2.5 and modified Giemsa. Of the 50 subjects who were found to have tongue-like columnar protrusions above the gastroesophageal junction, short segment Barrett's esophagus was detected in nine (18%). Whereas all short segment Barretti's esophagus cases were associated with chronic gastritis, Helicobacter pylori was found to be positive in five (55.5%) of them and there was intestinal metaplasia in other parts of the stomach (antrum in two patients, incisura angularis in three, antrum and cardia in one) in six (66.6%) cases. In 41 patients without short segment Barrett's esophagus 33 (80%) had chronic gastritis, 27 (66%) had Helicobacter pylori infection and eight had intestinal metaplasia in different locations (there in antrum, four in incisura angularis, one in the antrum and cardia) of the stomach. An association between short segment Barrett's esophagus and intestinal metaplasia was found in different parts of the stomach. The link between intestinal metaplasia in the stomach and these metaplastic changes in the tubular esophagus requires evalation in larger and more comprehensive studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cognitive demand of eccentric versus concentric cycling and its effects on post-exercise attention and vigilance.
This study tested the hypotheses that eccentric cycling (ECC) would be more cognitively demanding than concentric cycling (CONC), and attention and vigilance would improve more after ECC than CONC. Thirty young adults performed CONC and two bouts of ECC (ECC1 and ECC2) for 20 min at a similar workload (227.5 ± 51.5 W) with 1-week apart. Cognitive load during exercise was assessed by the average error from the target torque over 1200 (60 rpm × 20 min) revolutions, choice reaction time (CRT), the NASA-task load index (NASA-TLX), and prefrontal cortex oxygenation and deoxygenation (HHb) by near-infrared spectroscopy. Attention and vigilance were assessed by a sustained attention to response task (SART) before, immediately, and at every 15 min for 60 min after exercise or sitting (control). Heart rate was lower during ECC1 (115.5 ± 20.3 bpm) and ECC2 (116.7 ± 21.0 bpm) than CONC (156.9 ± 19.4 bpm). The torque error was greater for ECC1 (26.1 ± 9.0%) and ECC2 (19.4 ± 9.0%) than CONC (10.8 ± 3.7%). CRT (CONC: 602.8 ± 69.0, ECC1: 711.1 ± 113.0, ECC2: 693.6 ± 122.6 ms) and mental demand in NASA-TLX (46.8 ± 25.8, 80.0 ± 15.3, 60.3 ± 17.6) were greater for ECC1 and ECC2 than CONC. Decreases in HHb were greater for ECC1 (- 0.41 ± 0.37 µM) and ECC2 (- 0.40 ± 0.40 µM) than CONC (0.10 ± 0.40 µM) and control (- 0.21 ± 0.28 µM). Attention and vigilance decreased 2-8% after 20-min sitting, but improved 2-10% immediately after ECC2, and did not decline from the baseline for 30 min after ECC1 or 60 min after CONC and ECC2. Cognitive load was greater during ECC than CONC, but post-exercise attention and vigilance changes were not largely different between ECC and CONC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The optimisation of the fast neutron and gamma-ray transmission set-up for moisture measurement of coke.
In the present paper, modelling calculations with the Monte Carlo (MCNP4C) code were performed for the optimisation of the fast neutron and gamma-ray transmission, set-up, used for the humidity measurement of coke. The optimisation focused on maximising the sensitivity of the neutron flux to humidity changes and on lowering neutron-counting error, both leading to higher accuracy of coke moisture determination. Different materials used for the source shielding and neutron collimation, together with different dimensions of the neutron collimators were studied. The results obtained from the Monte Carlo modelling correlate with the real instrument performance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Non-iterative determination of pattern phase in structured illumination microscopy using auto-correlations in Fourier space.
The artefact-free reconstruction of structured illumination microscopy images requires precise knowledge of the pattern phases in the raw images. If this parameter cannot be controlled precisely enough in an experimental setup, the phases have to be determined a posteriori from the acquired data. While an iterative optimisation based on cross-correlations between individual Fourier images yields accurate results, it is rather time-consuming. Here I present a fast non-iterative technique which determines each pattern phase from an auto-correlation of the respective Fourier image. In addition to improving the speed of the reconstruction, simulations show that this method is also more robust, yielding errors of typically less than λ/500 under realistic signal-to-noise levels. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Simultaneous observation of surface- and edge-states of a 2D topological insulator through scanning tunneling spectroscopy and differential conductance imaging.
A 2D form of Bi2Se3 which acts as a topological insulator was grown through colloidal synthesis method. The surface-states and edge-states of the nanoplates were simultaneously probed through scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS). At the interior, density of states (DOS) revealed the location of conduction and valence band edges. The DOS at the edges, on the other hand, brought out gapless conducting states along with a Dirac point at a non-zero value below the Fermi energy representing the Dirac cone of a 2D topological insulator. In differential tunnel conductance (dI/dV), images are recorded at different voltages and the two sections of the topological insulator can be viewed selectively or simultaneously with a clear contrast in illumination. Upon increasing the 2D-nanoplates thickness, the material turned into a 3D topological insulator with gapless surface states. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pigment epithelial detachment followed by retinal cystoid degeneration leads to vision loss in treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
Intravitreal antiangiogenic therapy is the major therapeutic breakthrough in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the leading diagnostic tool, but solid criteria for optimal therapeutic outcomes are lacking. A comprehensive analysis of structure/function correlations using Food and Drug Administration- and European Medicines Agency-approved substances and fixed and flexible regimens was performed. Post hoc analysis of a prospective, randomized multicenter clinical trial including 189 study sites. A total of 1240 patients with active neovascular AMD. Participants received intravitreal ranibizumab or aflibercept. A fixed regimen was used for 48 weeks followed by a flexible regimen until week 96. At monthly intervals, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured and retinal morphology was assessed by standardized OCT, including intraretinal cysts (IRCs), subretinal fluid (SRF), and pigment epithelial detachment (PED), presenting with a width ≥400 μm or a height of ≥200 μm. Results were correlated for each regimen, feature, and time. The BCVA outcomes in relation to retinal pathomorphology based on noninferiority for all treatment arms. In neovascular AMD, only IRC at baseline and persistent through week 12 had a negative impact on BCVA. With therapeutic intervention, exudative features such as IRC and SRF resolved rapidly in 74% of eyes, whereas PED responded only slowly with 38%. Independent of the type of regimen, fixed or flexible, retinal morphology correlated tightly with visual function. Intraretinal cysts consistently showed the lowest BCVA gains with either regimen or substance. With the switch from a fixed to a flexible pro re nata (PRN) regimen, progressive visual loss occurred exclusively in the group with primary PED presenting as the hallmark of neovascular activity and was induced by secondary formation of IRC in the neurosensory retina. The efficacy of antiangiogenic therapy in neovascular AMD is strongly determined by morphologic features. The subretinal pigment epithelium lesion underlying PED appears to be the primary indicator for progressive disease activity, whereas secondary cystoid degeneration is the most relevant imaging marker for visual function. Clinically, PED emerged as trigger for consecutive vision loss in PRN treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Scales to evaluate pain in elderly patients suffering from dementia. Help-tools for the physiotherapist, doctor, nurse and occupational therapist].
The purpose of this study was to determine which scales are being used to evaluate pain in old people suffering from dementia. A search strategy was developed to retrieve all articles (randomized controlled trials and clinical trials without randomization) published in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library Plus, PEDro and Dialnet and BMC Geriatrics from January 2000 to January 2012. Exclusion criteria were articles that did not use scales for evaluating pain in elderly patients suffering from dementia, and other type of articles (case studies, reviews...). Finally, 13 studies were included in this review. From the results obtained it appears that more studies are needed to confirm the pain scales used for the elderly suffering from dementia. Observational scales may be useful to evaluate pain in these patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Inflammatory pseudotumor of the liver in patients with recurrent pyogenic cholangitis: CT-histopathologic correlation.
To correlate computed tomographic (CT) features of inflammatory pseudotumors of the liver with histopathologic results in patients with recurrent pyogenic cholangitis. CT features of 13 cases of inflammatory hepatic pseudotumor in 10 patients with recurrent pyogenic cholangitis were reviewed. Diagnosis was made by means of surgical resection in all patients. CT scans were analyzed for the appearance of masses and ancillary findings in correlation with the histopathologic findings in each resected specimen. The masses were 2.0-7.0 cm (mean, 3.5 cm). At nonenhanced CT, the masses appeared as ill-defined, hypoattenuating lesions. At contrast material-enhanced CT, the masses exhibited central hypoattenuating areas with an iso- or hyperattenuating thickened periphery in four cases and a multiseptate appearance with hyperattenuating internal septa and periphery in nine cases. CT-histopathologic correlation showed that the central hypoattenuating area indicated the presence of chronic inflammatory infiltrates with foamy histiocytes, plasmacytes, and lymphocytes, while iso- or hyperattenuating areas in the periphery and internal septa of the mass represented fibroblastic proliferation. All patients had CT features of recurrent pyogenic cholangitis, such as hepatolithiasis, intrahepatic duct stricture and dilatation, common bile duct calculi, pneumobilia, or parenchymal atrophy. Although CT features are not specific, inflammatory pseudotumor should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients with recurrent pyogenic cholangitis and a hepatic mass detected at CT. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Naloxone attenuates development of hypertension in two-kidney one-clip Goldblatt rats.
The present experiments were designed to determine if an opiate antagonist affects blood pressure in two-kidney one-clip Goldblatt rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups. Group 1 received an infusion of saline intraperitoneally via an osmotic pump and left renal artery constriction (RAC). In group 2, rats were treated the same as group 1, except that they received an intraperitoneal infusion of naloxone (100 micrograms/h). Group 3 received the same infusion of naloxone without RAC. Naloxone-infused Goldblatt rats showed a significantly lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) than saline-infused Goldblatt rats (132 +/- 7 vs. 160 +/- 9 mmHg at day 14), but a higher SBP than control (132 +/- 7 vs. 106 +/- 1 mmHg). Infusion of naloxone did not significantly change SBP in normotensive rats. Renal renin activity in the clipped kidney was higher than in the nonclipped kidney in groups 1 and 2. Plasma renin activity (PRA) in both groups of Goldblatt rats was higher than in group 3, but no significant difference was found between the two groups of Goldblatt rats (groups 1 and 2). Naloxone (1.5 microM) did not affect the basal secretion of renin by isolated cortical slices from untreated rats. The present data demonstrate that naloxone significantly attenuates the development of hypertension in two-kidney one-clip rats. The attenuation of blood pressure was not associated with the changes in PRA, renal renin activity, or plasma aldosterone concentrations. The data support the hypothesis that the endogenous opioid system may be involved in the development of renovascular hypertension. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Visual outcome of accelerated fractionated radiation for advanced sinonasal malignancies employing photons/protons.
To investigate the visual outcomes of patients with advanced sinonasal malignancies treated with proton/photon accelerated fractionated radiation (AFR). Between 1991 and 2001, AFR was used to treat 36 patients with advanced stage primary (n=33) or recurrent (n=3) nasal or paranasal malignant tumors. Full ophthalmologic follow-up was documented. The median dose to the gross tumor volume (GTV) was 69.6 CGE (range 60.8-77). Visual complications were graded according to the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) and the late effects of normal tissue (LENT) scoring systems. The median follow-up was 52.4 months (range 17-122.8). Thirteen patients developed late visual/ocular toxicity. Cataracts were LENT grade 1 and 3 in 2 patients and 1 patient, respectively. One LENT grade 1 vascular retinopathy and 1 optic neuropathy were also observed. Three and five patients presented with nasolacrimal duct stenosis (CTC grade 2, 2 patients; CTC grade 3, 1 patient) and dry-eye syndrome (CTC grade 1, 1 patient; CTC grade 2, 4 patients), respectively. The 3- and 5-year probability of LENT/CTC grade > or =2 visual toxicity were 15.8+/-6.7% and 20.7+/-7.8%, respectively. AFR for locally advanced nasal cavity and paranasal sinus tumors enables delivery of 70 CGE to the tumor with acceptable ophthalmologic complications. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Minutes Therapy in Psoriasis.
Thirty one cases of widespread psoriasis were treated with daily short-term. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Benefit of systematic selection of pairs of cases matched by surgical specialty for surveillance of bacterial transmission in operating rooms.
Bacterial transmission within and between successive surgical cases occurs in operating rooms (ORs), often includes anesthesia equipment as a reservoir, and can be monitored by collecting samples and identifying bacteria by genetic testing. We evaluated how to choose cases for active surveillance to quantify the effectiveness of interventions in 2 groups of ORs (eg, rooms with germicidal lighting vs those without). Data were from a 7 OR single-specialty gastrointestinal endoscopy suite and from a typical 8 OR multispecialty surgical suite. At the multispecialty hospital, 40.3% (SE 1.2%) of the total number of cases could be used for surveillance (ie, followed by another case of the same specialty and matched with a corresponding pair of cases from the other OR group). Random selection obtained fewer matched pairs than deliberate selection: mean ratio of random/deliberate = 0.64 (0.01) for the single-specialty and 0.51 (0.02) for the multispecialty suite (P <.001). The efficiency of sampling to obtain pairs of successive surgical cases of the same specialty is impaired markedly by randomly selecting pairs of cases (or using convenience sampling) as compared to choosing pairs deliberately. This is important because the number of cases that can be suitably used for surveillance of bacterial transmission will typically be less than one-half the total case number. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aneurysmal bone cyst in the horse.
An aneurysmal bone cyst was diagnosed in the distal metaphysis of Mt3 in a 9-month-old-Quarter Horse colt. The lesion developed between the fifth and ninth month of life and clinically appeared as a non-painful swelling which did not cause a lameness. Radiographs of the lesion showed expansion of the cortex and incomplete septa of new bone extending from the cortex into surrounding soft tissue. Surgical intervention revealed a blood filled cavity. The animal died during the immediate post-surgical period. Histopathologic evaluation of the lesion was performed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The complete nucleotide sequence of the glutamine synthetase gene (glnA) of Bacillus subtilis.
The glutamine synthetase (GS) gene from Bacillus subtilis PCI 219 was cloned in Escherichia coli using the vector pBR329. A plasmid, pSGS2, was isolated from a glnA+ transformant and the cloned GS gene was found to be located in a 3.6 kb DNA fragment. The nucleotide sequence of a 1.8 kb segment encoding the GS was determined. This segment showed an open reading frame which would encode a polypeptide of 444 amino acids. The amino acid sequence of this GS gene product has higher homology with that of the Clostridium acetobutylicum GS than that of the E. coli GS. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Three Distinct Nanoviruses, One of Which Represents a New Species, Infect Faba Bean in Ethiopia.
In all, 70 of 296 leaf samples (23.6%) collected from faba bean (Vicia faba) plants showing leaf yellowing and stunting in Ethiopia gave nanovirus-positive reactions when studied by triple-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using broad-spectrum monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) specific to nanoviruses. Further analysis of these samples with seven discriminating MAbs revealed contrasting epitope profiles that were categorized into roughly three serogroups, designated A, B, and C. Serogroup A was found in 89% of the nanovirus-positive samples whereas serogroups B and C were infrequently encountered. Sequence analysis of DNA-S and DNA-U1 of serogroup A, B, and C isolates suggested that each represents a distinct nanovirus species. Serogroup A comprised isolates of Faba bean necrotic stunt virus reported earlier only from Ethiopia and Morocco. The DNA-R, -S, -U1, and -U2 sequences of a serogroup B isolate closely resembled those of Faba bean necrotic yellows virus, providing first molecular evidence for its occurrence in Ethiopia. Sequence analysis of the eight genomic DNAs of a representative serogroup C isolate (Eth-231) showed that it shared overall nucleotide and amino acid sequence identities of only ≤70 and ≤74%, respectively, with other nanoviruses. This suggests that Eth-231 represents a new nanovirus species, for which the name faba bean yellow leaf virus is proposed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Options for the detection and identifications of agents causing viral hemorrhagic fevers].
Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) belong to the most deadly diseases. Therefore rapid detection and identification of causal agent is very important for epidemiological investigation and countermeasures. The review present all published information about VHF detection and identification, with focus on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. In the first part, basic information about microbiological diagnostic technique is provided. The second part is concerned with detection and identification methods for individual agents causingt VHFs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Cost of tetanus toxoid injection using a jet-injector (Imule) in collective immunization in Senegal: comparison with injection using a syringe and resterilizable needle].
Needle-less jet injectors were developed by the US army after World War II. Their principal use, however, has been in the administration of lyophilized vaccines from multidose vials to at-risk populations in developing countries. In 1983, a hepatitis B epidemic occurred among customers of a beauty clinic in California (USA) following the use of jet-injectors, demonstrating a clear risk of cross-contamination associated with this technique. As a result, the WHO and Unicef stopped recommending jet-injectors for collective immunizations in developing countries. To eliminate the risk of contamination, Pasteur Mérieux Sérums et Vaccins (now Aventis Pasteur) developed, in 1990, jet-injectors for use with single-use vaccine cartridges. These injectors were tested for tetanus toxoid, DTP, influenza, hepatitis A and typhoid Vi vaccination. The immunogenic reaction was as strong and the injection as well tolerated as for injections using a standard needle and syringe. The additional cost of the Imule technique was evaluated in a district-wide (127,000 inhabitants) tetanus toxoid immunization program at Velingara, Senegal in 1993. The total cost was estimated to be 1.51 FF (76 F CSA, 0.32 US dollars) for one dose of tetanus vaccine given by needle and syringe and 2.41 FF (121 F CSA, 0.56 US dollars) for one dose given by Imule. Thus, the additional cost of injection by ImuleTM was 0.90 FF (45 F CSA, 0.21 US dollars). The cost of cross infection in sub-Saharan Africa has been estimated to be 2.37 FF (118 F CSA, 0.55 US dollars) per injection if injection practices are not supervised. Therefore, the Imule technique may be considered to be cost-effective. However, the technique is still not completely reliable, as shown by the total breakdown of four jet injectors during this vaccination session. Lyophilized vaccines have also not been tested in the field. Vaccinators prefer Imule, training is easy and immunization can be carried out on a day-to-day basis with no vaccine wastage. Imule is not yet in mass production, which would reduce costs. In the face of the ever-increasing risk of cross-contamination during vaccination sessions in sub-Saharan Africa, the Imule technique deserves considerable attention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sleep disturbances in palliative cancer patients attending a pain and symptom control clinic.
The nature of sleep disturbances in palliative cancer patients has not been delineated clearly or fully understood due to limited clinical information. The purpose of this study was to describe sleep disturbance patterns, treatments, and communication in an advanced cancer outpatient population attending a pain and symptom control clinic. One hundred oncology outpatients who came for consultation at a multidisciplinary pain and symptom control clinic were asked and agreed to complete a self-report questionnaire that elicited information about their sleeping habits, sleep concerns, sleep enhancement strategies, and related communication with health care providers. The majority of participants (72%) reported a wide variety of sleep disturbances, after cancer diagnosis, with the three most frequent elevated symptoms (> or = 5) being not feeling rested in the morning (72%), difficulty staying asleep (63%), and difficulty falling asleep (40%). Approximately one-fifth of participants (19%) reported having insomnia problems prior to their cancer diagnosis. In a correlational comparison with four other symptoms (i.e., fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression), the three highest correlations were between difficulty falling asleep and fatigue (r = 0.612), early awakening and fatigue (r = 0.596), and difficulty falling asleep and anxiety (r = 0.572). Fifty-three percent of participants reported using a variety of interventions for their sleep problems, the most frequent being sleep medication (37%). Of the 52 participants who reported an elevated level of concern about their sleeping difficulties (> or = 5), 48 (92%) discussed their concerns with a health care provider. However, of the 20 participants with elevated symptoms (> or = 5) and low levels of concern (<5), only 7 (35%) communicated their concerns to a health care provider. The results of this study underline the importance of routine clinical assessments to detect sleep problems and interventions designed specifically to improve the overall sleep quality of cancer patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Physical activity interventions using mass media, print media, and information technology.
Media-based physical activity interventions include a variety of print, graphic, audiovisual, and broadcast media programs intended to influence behavior change. New information technology allows print to be delivered in personalized, interactive formats that may enhance efficacy. Media-based interventions have been shaped by conceptual models from health education, Social Cognitive Theory, the Transtheoretical Model, and Social Marketing frameworks. We reviewed 28 studies of media-based interventions of which seven were mass media campaigns at the state or national level and the remaining 21 were delivered through health care, the workplace, or in the community. Recall of mass-media messages generally was high, but mass-media campaigns had very little impact on physical activity behavior. Interventions using print and/or telephone were effective in changing behavior in the short term. Studies in which there were more contacts and interventions tailored to the target audience were most effective. A key issue for research on media-based physical activity interventions is reaching socially disadvantaged groups for whom access, particularly to new forms of communication technology, may be limited. There is a clear need for controlled trials comparing different forms and intensities of media-based physical activity interventions. Controlled studies of personalized print, interactive computer-mediated programs, and web-based formats for program delivery also are needed. The integration of media-based methods into public and private sector service delivery has much potential for innovation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pitfalls to avoid and positive approaches in the nurse-adolescent relationship.
The establishment of a therapeutic nurse-adolescent relationship can be facilitated by the nurse's awareness of specific personality characteristics prominent during the adolescent period. These characteristics not only color the adolescent's behavior, but they can elict marked responses from the nurse. Nurses must, therefore, be self-aware if they are to deal with adolescents objectively and therapeutically. Positive approaches to the nurse-adolescent relationship include the establishment of a therapeutic alliance, the use of reality-based limits, and an emphasis on insight-producing communication techniques. Problem areas to be alert for are over-identification with adolescent problems, responses based on surface behaviors, and manipulation by the adolescent. Nurses must also work at decreasing non-therapeutic attitudes such as viewing the adolescent as an "enemy" to be controlled, or as a potential person to be molded according to the nurse's personal goals and aspirations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact of Interhospital Transfer on Outcomes in Non-emergency Colorectal Surgery.
A paucity of data exists on the impact of transfer status on outcomes for patients undergoing non-emergency (urgent) colorectal surgery. This study characterized transferred patients undergoing urgent colorectal surgery and determined which patient comorbidities significantly contributed to poor outcomes. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2012 to 2013 was used. Urgent direct admissions undergoing colon, rectum, or small bowel operations were compared to urgent transfers using bivariate and multivariable analysis models. Primary outcomes were overall complications, hospital length of stay, and mortality. A total of 82,151 admissions were analyzed. After multivariable analysis, direct admission patients had nearly similar risk of complications (RR = 0.95; 95% CI 0.91-0.99) and length of hospital stay (7% shorter; 95% CI 4-9%), as well as no difference in mortality (RR = 0.94; 95% CI 0.80-1.11). Transfer status alone confers minimal risk toward higher complication rates and longer hospital length of stay in patients undergoing urgent colorectal surgery, and the poor outcomes observed in this cohort are largely due to patient comorbidities and disease severity. Our results suggest that outcomes in transferred colorectal surgery patients undergoing urgent operations depend mainly on operative acuity and clinical factors, and to a lesser degree transfer status. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Silencing the shutoff protein of Epstein-Barr virus in productively infected B cells points to (innate) targets for immune evasion.
During productive infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a dramatic suppression of cellular protein expression is caused by the viral alkaline exonuclease BGLF5. Among the proteins downregulated by BGLF5 are multiple immune components. Here, we show that shutoff reduces expression of the innate EBV-sensing Toll-like receptor-2 and the lipid antigen-presenting CD1d molecule, thereby identifying these proteins as novel targets of BGLF5. To silence BGLF5 expression in B cells undergoing productive EBV infection, we employed an shRNA approach. Viral replication still occurred in these cells, albeit with reduced late gene expression. Surface levels of a group of proteins, including immunologically relevant molecules such as CD1d and HLA class I and class II, were only partly rescued by depletion of BGLF5, suggesting that additional viral gene products interfere with their expression. Our combined approach thus provides a means to unmask novel EBV (innate) immune evasion strategies that may operate in productively infected B cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Prognostic evaluation of glycerol-induced cerebral blood flow measurement in asymptomatic unruptured cerebral aneurysm treatment].
To clarify the usefulness of glycerol-induced cerebral blood flow measurement (G-CBF) as a method for prognostic evaluation of an asymptomatic unruptured cerebral aneurysm (AUCA). Fifty-three patients (age: 26-72 years; ratio of males to females, 23: 30; 56 AUCAs) who were found to have an AUCA(s) on brain checkup at our hospital and then received treatment (direct or intravascular surgery) were the subject of our study. The patients underwent the N-type psychofunction test (NPT) and G-CBF. As the control group, G-CBF was also performed on 50 subjects (age: 36-73 years; ratio of males to females, 27; 23), who were found, by brain checkup, to have no intracranial disease. We investigated (1) the occurrence of post-treatment complications (symptoms/psychofunctional disorders) in the treated group, and compared (2) G-CBF between the complication-developing group, the non-complication-developing group, and the control group. (1) Complications were observed in 9 patients (17%), including convulsions in 2 patients, hemiparalysis in 1, disorientation in 3. Psychofunctional disorders (less than 80 points on the NPT score) were observed in all of the 9 patients developing complications, but could be determined as higher brain dysfunctions only in the 3 patients with disorientation. (2) The mean cerebral blood flow (mCBF) before glycerol administration was 34.17 +/- 4.82 ml/100 g/min in the complication-developing group, 32.41 +/- 7.29 ml/100 g/min in the non-complication-developing group, and 31.98 +/- 5.04 ml/100 g/min in the control group, showing no significant intergroup differences. The mean increased rate of cerebral blood flow (mIR) after glycerol administration was 7.05 +/- 3.96%, 23.63 +/- 5.5%, and 30.64 +/- 13.08%, respectively, showing a significantly lower increase in the complication-developing group (p < 0.01), particularly low in the frontal lobe. Paradoxical flow reactivity was observed in 2 patients, both of whom were in the complication-developing group. (1) The complication-developing group showed a significantly lower pre-treatment mIR (less than 10%), particularly low in the frontal lobe, (2) Paradoxical flow reactivity was observed only in the complication-developing group. (3) G-CBF was very useful for prognostic evaluation prior to the treatment of AUCA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The relationship between altered blood vessel structure, hypertension, and the sympathetic nervous system.
The relationship between sympathetic innervation and arterial medial development has been examined in normotensive, hypertensive, and diabetic rats. Using the jejunal artery as a model, the number of nerve fibres innervating the artery as determined from fluorescent preparations, and the medial thickness and lumen diameter as measured from resin embedded specimens were correlated from animals prepared in various ways. The rats used were normal Sprague-Dawley (SD), SD with induced hypertension, SD with diabetes induced with streptozotocin, SD sympathectomized with 6-hydroxydopamine, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), SHR treated with capsaicin to prevent hypertension development, Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY), and WKY treated with capsaicin. Examination of the jejunal arteries from these rats at 12 weeks of age following normal development, or 8 weeks of hypertension development, or 8 and 12 weeks of diabetes, showed that increased innervation occurred in the SHR under all conditions, and in the diabetic rats after 8 weeks of diabetes. Medial hypertrophy occurred in the SHR and in the SD hypertensive only. It is concluded that the special relationship which exists between the sympathetic innervation and arterial media in the SHR does not occur during hypertension development in the SD rat, nor is it necessary for normal medial development in the SD rat. The sympathetic innervation does appear to have a trophic influence on vascular smooth muscle of diabetic rats, at least in the early stages of the disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isokinetic profile of subjects with the ruptured anterior cruciated ligament.
All changes in the knee that appear after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) lesion lead to difficulties in walking, running, jumping especially during sudden changes of the line of movement. This significantly impairs quality of life of these subjects and leads to decrease in physical activity. Knee injuries make 5% of all most severe acute sport injuries. The aim of the study was to determine strength of the thigh muscles in persons with unilateral rupture of the ACL and to evaluate potential bilateral differences between healthy and injured leg. This study involved 114 male athletes of different sport specialities with the clinical diagnosis of ACL rupture. Each subject had unilateral ACL rupture and the other leg was actually the control for this research. An isokinetic device was used to evaluate the muscle strength of thigh muscles. Testing was performed for two testing speeds, 60º/s and 180º/s. Data analysis showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) between the ACL and the healthy leg in the following parameters: peak torque for thigh extensors (Ptrq_E), angle to peak torque during extension (Ang_E), power of extension (Pow_E) and work during extension (Work_E). Analysing hamstrings to quadriceps (H/Q) ratio we found the unilateral disbalance of thigh muscle strength in ACL leg. A high level of validity makes isokinetic dynamometry the method for evaluation of thigh muscles strength and leaves this field of research open for new studies in order to improve both diagnostic and rehabilitation of patients with the insufficient ACL. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A role for the left hemisphere in spatial processing.
This study extended our recently reported evidence of a left hemisphere (LH) contribution to spatial processing on standard visuospatial tasks. The present investigation compared performance on these standard tasks with that on 'purer' experimental tasks. Two tasks of line orientation, two of shape rotation and a shape matching task were administered to 50 men with stable unilateral post-Rolandic missile injuries and 32 control subjects. A LH deficit was found on the standard task of line orientation but not the 'purer' task, suggesting that the LH plays a role in eliminating extraneous information, presented only in the standard test. As for shape rotation, the LH group was impaired on both tasks. On the shape matching task, both experimental groups were significantly slower than control subjects. It is proposed the LH makes an important contribution to mental rotation and the understanding of Euclidean geometrical shapes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Phase II trial of the use of gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil in the treatment of advanced pancreatic and biliary tract cancer.
In this phase II trial, we used the combination of gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) to treat 26 patients: 17 (65%) with advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma and 9 (35%) with advanced biliary tract adenocarcinoma (10 locally advanced and 16 metastatic); 15 (57.7%) male and 11 (42.3%) female; median age 58 (range, 39-68); median performance status 2 (range, 1-3). A total of 102 cycles were administered (median, 4 per patient). There were 8 objective responses, plus 1 complete response not confirmed by second-look laparotomy, thus the overall objective response rate was 30.7% (95% CI 12%-47%). Among the patients with biliary tract carcinoma, 33% (3/9) had PR. Six (23%) patients had stable disease (SD). All 8 responders and 3 of the patients with SD experienced clinical benefit (42%). The median overall survival was 9 months (range, 6-38), and the 1-year survival rate was 30%. The regimen was very well tolerated. One patient developed reversible World Health Organization grade IV febrile neutropenia. We observed grade III neutropenia in 11 (11%) cycles; grade III thrombocytopenia in 7 (7%) cycles; grade III mucositis in 7 (7%) cycles; and grade III diarrhea in 10 (10%) cycles. Asthenia grades I and II occurred in 30% of cycles and flulike syndrome grade II in 11 (11%) cycles. The combination of gemcitabine and 5-FU in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer produces promising activity and tolerability with the added potential for clinical benefit, and thus warrants further investigation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact of pinna compression on the RF absorption in the heads of adult and juvenile cell phone users.
The electromagnetic exposure of cell phone users depends on several parameters. One of the most dominant of these is the distance between the cell phone and the head tissue. The pinna can be regarded as a spacer between the top of the phone and the head tissue. The size of this spacer has not yet been systematically studied. The objective of this article is to investigate the variations of distance as a function of age of the exposed person, and the mechanical force on the pinna and how it affects the peak spatial specific absorption rate (psSAR). The distances were measured for adults and children (6-8 years of age) while applying a well-defined force on the pinna using a custom-developed measurement device. The average distances of the pinnae to the heads and their standard deviations showed no major differences between the two age groups: 10.5 +/- 2.0 mm for children (6-8 years) and 9.5 +/- 2.0 mm for adults. The pinnae of our anatomical high-resolution head models of one adult and two children were transformed according to the measurement results. The numerical exposure analysis showed that the reduced distance due to the pinna compression can increase the maximum 10 g psSAR by approximately 2 dB for adults and children, if the exposure maximum is associated with the upper part of the phone. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Syntheses of rod-shaped fluorescent 1,3,2-benzodiazaboroles with phosphonium, and phosphane chalcogenide acceptor functions.
A series of 1,4-phenylenes X-C(6)H(4)-BDB with a 1,3,2-benzodiazaborolyl (BDB) and a phosphorus based end group [X = PPh(2) (2), P(O)Ph(2) (3), P(S)Ph(2) (4), P(Se)Ph(2) (5), P(AuCl)Ph(2) (6) and P(Me)Ph(2) (7)] as well as 2-(2')thienyl-1,3,2-benzodiazaboroles with a second end group X [X = PPh(2) (8), P(S)Ph(2) (9), P(Se)Ph(2) (10) and P(Me)Ph(2) (11)] in the 5' position were synthesised using established methodologies. Molecular structures of 2-9 and 11 were determined by X-ray diffraction. Compounds 3, 4, 6, 7, 9 and 11 show intense blue luminescence in cyclohexane, toluene, chloroform, dichloromethane and tetrahydrofuran with pronounced solvatochromism. Thereby Stokes shifts in the range of 8950-10,440 cm(-1) and quantum yields up to 0.70 were observed in dichloromethane solutions. In contrast to this, for the selenides 5 and 10 quantum yields are small (<0.1). The absorption maxima (298-340 nm) are well reproduced by TD-DFT computations (B3LYB/G-311G(d,p)) and arise from strong HOMO-LUMO transitions. With the exception of 5 and 10 the HOMOs of the molecules under study are mainly located on the benzodiazaborole group. In 5 and 10 the HOMOs are on the selenium atoms. The LUMOs of all new neutral molecules are mainly represented by the phenylene or thiophene bridge. In the phosphonium cations the LUMOs have additional contributions from the phosphonium unit. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Significance of EGFR and p-ERK expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma].
To detect the expression of EGFR and p-ERK in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and investigate their clinical significance. Immunohistochemistry LSAB method was adopted to detect the expression of EGFR and p-ERK. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS statistical software package (10.0) to correlate their expression with clinical characteristics and prognosis. Positive staining for EGFR was observed in 39 of 55 cases (70.9%). The EGFR expression was correlated with clinical stage and gender. EGFR expression was correlated with poorer overall survival (OS) and shorter time to progression (TTP). Positive staining for p-ERK was observed in 29 of 55 cases (52.7%). There was a statistically significant association between positive p-ERK expression and advanced clinical stage. Positive p-ERK expression was correlated with poorer OS, disease-free survival (DFS) and TTP. EGFR expression was correlated with the expression of p-ERK. On multivariate analysis, age over 50 years was an independent poor prognostic factor for NPC. Both EGFR and p-ERK were not independent prognostic factors for NPC. Expressions of EGFR and p-ERK are detected in NPC. Their abnormally high expression signifies poor prognosis in NPC patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An application of numerical taxonomy to the study of the cerebral cortex of Natrix maura (L).
The separate cellular regions of the reptilian cerebral cortex were studied using Numerical Taxonomy. Three parameters were employed: a) The area occupied by each region at the several levels studied. b) The total area of the cell nuclei present in each level. c) The average are of these nuclei. Numerical Taxonomy resolves the problem by means of a dendrogram which represents the normalised distances, which indicate levels of similarity on absciassas. The elements studies are on the ordinate axis. The dendrogram shows the different levels of similarity existing between each one of the chosen populations. Depending upon the degree of similarity one may deduce the similarities or differences existing between these populations, and also the characteristics of each cellular population throughout the length of its presence in the cerebral cortex and the variations between the regions. These results, in the first place, relate to the four cortical regions: medialis cortex, dorsomedialis cortex, dorsalis cortex, and lateralis cortex, and in the second place, to each one of the regions within the entire telencephalic cortex. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pain in paediatric oncology: interviews with children, adolescents and their parents.
Pain diagnostics and treatment are crucial components in the care of children with cancer. This study evaluated the extent and causes of pain, the use of methods for monitoring pain intensity, principles of pain management and adverse effects of pain treatment. In addition, care, support and information given to children and parents were evaluated. Structured interviews were conducted with 55 children with malignant disease and their parents. Pain was a common symptom and a major problem during different phases of cancer treatment and pain evaluation was unsystematic. Pain due to treatment and procedures was a greater problem than pain due to the malignant disease itself, and two thirds of the pain experienced by these children seemed to have iatrogenic origin. Younger children and children with short disease duration were more concerned about procedural pain. Parents and children thought that more efficient pain treatment was often possible. Parents claimed to judge their child's pain better than professionals, and children and parents wanted more information on different aspects of pain and pain treatment. Pain identification and treatment can be substantially improved through increased use of methods for pain evaluation and through giving enhanced information to families about pain and pain treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Penile doppler ultrasound predicts cardiovascular events in men with erectile dysfunction.
Traditional risk factors used to assess cardiovascular risk miss a significant population who are indeed at risk for future cardiac events. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an emerging marker for future cardiovascular disease (CVD) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), especially in young and middle-aged men with vasculogenic ED. Cavernous arteries morphological alterations at penile colour doppler ultrasound (P-CDU) are used to find a vasculogenic ED. We investigated the possible relationship between cavernous arteries morphological alterations at P-CDU assessment and future MACE. We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 300 ED patients, aged 35-65 years (mean age 54.1 ± 7.1), with a follow-up period of 10 years. Patients underwent vascular evaluation including P-CDU, colour doppler ultrasound of the carotid and lower limbs arteries. At baseline data for glucose metabolism, lipid profile, hypertension and hormonal status were collected. During the follow-up period, the occurrence of MACE was evaluated. We found a strong association between cavernous arteries morphological alterations and CVD with a threefold increased risk of future MACE in comparison to patients with healthy cavernous arteries (RR 3.2, 95% CI 1.17-8.78). This association remained statistically significant after adjustment for CV risk factors (age, glycaemia, total cholesterol, hypertension and smoke). Morphological alterations of cavernous arteries are independently associated with an increased risk of future MACE. These data contribute to the formulation of the hypothesis that cavernous artery pathology at P-CDU is related to MACE. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Bone health screening, education, and referral project in northwest Iowa: creating a model for community pharmacies.
To identify women 60 years of age or older at risk for osteoporosis, provide education, and refer at-risk women to physicians through a community pharmacy screening program and to develop a model in community pharmacies for this service. Cross-sectional study. Northwest Iowa between August 2005 and October 2005. 159 women 60 years of age or older screened at five pharmacies. Five pharmacies completed education on osteoporosis, received training on use of the Achilles InSight by GE Lunar, and screened women 60 years of age or older for osteoporosis. Patients received education on osteoporosis and risk factors during the screening and were stratified as low, moderate, or high risk based on a T-score. Patients at risk were referred to their physician for further evaluation. Pharmacists telephoned patients at 3 and 6 months after screening to determine self-initiated or provider-initiated changes in their treatment plan. Descriptive population characteristics, proportion of participants with medical risk factors for osteoporosis, proportion of patients screened at risk, and proportion of physician or patient self-initiated changes instituted as a result of the screening. Of the 159 women screened, 53% were rated as moderate or severe risk and referred to their physicians. Three- and 6-month follow-up results revealed a high proportion of self-initiated lifestyle or medication changes and a small proportion of physician-initiated changes. The majority of women 60 years of age or older who attended a community pharmacy osteoporosis screening were at moderate or high risk for osteoporosis. A fee-for-service model was created for community pharmacists to improve recognition and treatment of patients at risk. A toolkit will be created for pharmacists to promote their role in improving the bone health of older patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Adding Solvent into Ionic Liquid-Gated Transistor: The Anatomy of Enhanced Gating Performance.
Most studies of ionic liquid (IL)-gated field effect transistors (FETs) focus on the extremely large electric field and capacitance induced in liquid/solid interfaces and correspondingly the significantly enhanced carrier density in semiconductors, which can appreciably improve the gating performance. However, how to boost the switching speed, another key property of gating performance of FETs, has been rarely explored. In this work, the gating performance of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) FETs, gated by the mixtures of IL/organic solvent (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate/acetonitrile, [Bmim][BF4]/ACN) at different ion concentrations, is investigated for both dynamic and static properties by a combination of molecular dynamics simulation and resistance network analysis. Results reveal that organic solvent can speed up the IL response time by a factor of about 40 times at the optimal ion concentration of 1.94 M, which is mainly attributed to the increased ionic conductivity of IL via the addition of organic solvent. Meanwhile, the surface charge distribution of MoS2 becomes more homogenous after the addition of organic solvent, which increases the conductivity of MoS2 by up to 2.4 times. Surprisingly, the optimal ion concentration for increased switching speed is nearly the same as that for achieving the highest MoS2 conductivity. Thus, our findings provide a strategy to simultaneously improve the dynamic and static gating performance of IL-gated FETs as well as a modeling technique to screen out the ideal ion concentration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reversible suppression of menstruation with progesterone antagonists in rhesus macaques.
A reliable means of menstrual suppression would greatly improve the quality of life for women. Information is lacking on the direct endometrial effects and appropriate dosages of new antiprogestins that may be useful for this purpose. The current work evaluated three different systems in macaque monkeys. First, the range of doses of two relatively new antiprogestins, ZK 137 316 and ZK 230 211, that would block progesterone action directly on the endometrium in artificially cycled, spayed rhesus macaques; second, the direct endometrial effects of ZK 230 211, a type III antiprogestin; and third, investigation of whether endometrial-suppressive doses administered chronically to intact, cycling monkeys could be used for reversible, menstrual suppression. The results in naturally cycling animals showed that ZK 137 316 blocked menstruation in all animals, but doses of 0.05 mg/kg blocked ovulation in 55.5% of animals and doses of 0.1 mg/kg blocked ovulation in 66.6% of the animals. However, all doses of ZK 230 211 that blocked menstruation also blocked ovulation. All progesterone antagonist (PA)-treated animals, regardless of dose, maintained normal follicular phase concentrations of oestradiol and returned to normal menstrual cyclicity within 15--41 days post-treatment. Therefore ZK 137 316, depending on dose, can allow ovulation but block menstruation, while ZK 230 211, a much more potent PA, blocks both ovulation and menstruation at all effective doses. Both PAs block unopposed oestrogenic action on the endometrium through their antiproliferative effects. Reversible amenorrhoea can be achieved with these two PAs, and they can protect the endometrium from the effects of unopposed oestrogen whether or not ovulation is blocked. Chronic, low dose PA treatment may provide a new option for women who wish to suppress their menstrual periods. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Viral infection causes rapid sensitization to lipopolysaccharide: central role of IFN-alpha beta.
LPS is the major active agent in the pathogenesis of Gram-negative septic shock. In this report we have studied the influence of concurrent viral infection on the outcome of LPS-induced shock. We find that infection with vesicular stomatitis virus sensitizes mice to LPS at an early time point following infection. Treatment of mice with the chemical IFN inducer, polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, has a similar effect. This hypersensitivity to LPS correlated with hyperproduction of TNF-alpha in vivo. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon were investigated using Ab-depleted and gene-targeted mice. Our results revealed that while NK cell depletion and elimination of IFN-gamma partially protected against the sensitizing effects of vesicular stomatitis virus and polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, the most striking effect was observed in IFN-alphabetaR-deficient mice. Thus hyperproduction of TNF-alpha was completely abrogated in IFN-alphabetaR-deficient mice, indicating that the principal mechanism underlying rapid virus-induced sensitization to LPS is an IFN-alphabeta-mediated priming of mice for an augmented production of TNF-alpha in response to LPS. This conclusion was further supported by the finding that pretreatment of mice with rIFN-alphabeta mimicked the effect of viral infection. In conclusion, our results reveal a previously unrecognized proinflammatory effect of IFN-alphabeta and point to a new pathway through which viral infection may influence the outcome of concurrent bacterial infection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Application of metal-organic framework as redox probe in an electrochemical aptasensor for sensitive detection of MUC1.
In this work, an electrochemical aptasensor was developed for sensitive detection of MUC1 based on metal-organic framework-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (Cu-MOF-RGO). Cu- MOF-RGO appeared to be suitable as a platform for immobilization of MUC1 aptamer, and also as an electrochemical probe, which exhibited well-defined peaks with good stability and reproducibility. Cu-MOF-graphene oxide (Cu-MOF-GO) nanocomposite was prepared and cast on the electrode surface, then in order to increase the conductivity of the electrode, GO was electrochemically reduced to RGO. In the presence of MUC1, the peak current of Cu in the nanocomposite decreased, which could be explained based on the formation of MUC1-aptamer complexes on the electrode, and consequence blocking the electron transfer of Cu at the electrode surface. Under optimum experimental conditions, a linear calibration curve was obtained by differential pulse voltammetry in the concentration range of 0.1 pM-10 nM (25 pg mL-1 - 2500 ng mL-1) with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.033 pM (7.5 pg mL-1) of MUC1. The proposed aptasensor offers acceptable selectivity, stability, and reproducibility in the determination of MUC1 spiked to human blood serum samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Quinonoid metal complexes: toward molecular switches.
The peculiar redox-active character of quinonoid metal complexes makes them extremely appealing to design materials of potential technological interest. We show here how the tuning of the properties of these systems can be pursued by using appropriate molecular synthetic techniques. In particular, we focus our attention on metal polyoxolene complexes exhibiting intramolecular electron transfer processes involving either the ligand and the metal ion or the two dioxolene moieties of a properly designed ligand thus inducing electronic bistability. The transition between the two metastable electronic states can be induced by different external stimuli such as temperature, pressure, light, or pH suggesting the use of these systems for molecular switches. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sonographic Evaluation of Bone Formation After Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy.
The aim of this study was to assess the applicability of sonography for evaluation of mandible bone healing after orthognathic surgery. The study included 10 patients who underwent orthognathic surgery. To assess new bone formation after sagittal split ramus osteotomy, the echo intensities of ultrasound (US) reflections of the proximal segment, distal segment, and bone gap were measured with a real-time US scanner at 1 day, 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks, and 2 and 4 months postoperatively. The mean echo intensity of US reflections of the bone gap gradually increased and became equivalent to that of bone surfaces by 4 weeks postoperatively. X-ray tomograms confirmed bone formation at the bone gap at the same time. This study indicates that sonography may be useful for evaluating osseous healing after orthognathic surgery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Early Posthepatoportoenterostomy Predictors of Native Liver Survival in Biliary Atresia.
Most infants with biliary atresia (BA) require liver transplantation (LT) after hepatoportoenterostomy (HPE), including those who initially clear jaundice. The aim of the present study was to identify clinical and routine laboratory factors in infants with BA post-HPE that predict native liver survival at 2 years. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 217 patients with BA undergoing HPE in Sydney, Australia and Toronto, Canada between January 1986 and July 2009. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression using backwards-stepwise elimination identified variables at 3 months after HPE most associated with 2-year native liver survival. Significant variables (P < 0.05) on univariate analysis included serum total bilirubin (TB) and albumin at 3 months post-HPE, bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis on initial liver biopsy, ascites of <3 months post-HPE, type 3 BA anatomy, age at HPE of >45 days, change in length z scores within 3 months of HPE, and center. On multivariate analysis, TB (P < 0.0001) and albumin (P = 0.02) at 3 months post-HPE, and center (P = 0.0003) were independently associated with native liver survival. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed an optimal cut-off value of TB <74 μmol/L (4.3 mg/dL; area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.8990) and serum albumin level >35 g/L (3.5 mg/dL; area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.7633) to predict 2-year native liver survival. TB and albumin levels 3 months post-HPE defined 3 groups (1: TB ≤74 μmol/L, albumin >35 g/L; 2: TB ≤74 μmol/L, albumin ≤35 g/L; 3: TB >74 μmol/L) with distinct short- and long-term native liver survival rates (log-rank P < 0.001). Length z scores 3 months post-HPE were poorer for group 2 than group 1 (-0.91 vs -0.30, P = 0.0217) with similar rates of coagulopathy. Serum TB and albumin levels 3 months post-HPE independently predicted native liver survival in BA when controlling for center. Serum albumin level <35 g/L in infants with BA who were no longer jaundiced at 3 months post-HPE was a poor prognostic indicator. Poorer linear growth and absence of significant coagulopathy suggest a role for early aggressive nutritional therapy in this group. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Phobic postural vertigo--a long-term follow-up (5 to 15 years) of 106 patients.
One hundred and six patients diagnosed between 1987 and 1998 to have somatoform phobic postural vertigo were examined in a follow-up study with a self-evaluating questionnaire. The improvement rate after a mean follow-up time of 8.5 years (5 to 15.9 years) was 75% (27% of the patients reported a complete remission). While the majority of these patients experienced improvement or remission during the first year after assessment of diagnosis and a short-term psychotherapeutic approach, some patients also had considerable improvement even after two or more years. There was a negative correlation between the duration of the condition before assessment of the diagnosis and the improvement/regression rate. The improvement/regression rate was independent of gender, age, preceding vestibular or non-vestibular organic disorders, and the various medical, physical, or psychotherapeutic interventions. Transient relapses occurred in 47% of the improved patients once or repeatedly. The probability of developing a relapse remained constant throughout the entire follow-up. None of the patients required a revision of the initial diagnosis on the basis of the questionnaire. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Agenesis of the corpus callosum associated with narcolepsy-cataplexy.
We describe a 24-year-old man with episodes of intense desire to sleep for periods ranging from 2min to 3h, episodes of generalized weakness and inability to speak without alteration of consciousness, frequent hypnagogic hallucinations during sleep and occasionally transient paralysis of limbs upon awakening. Brain MRI demonstrated elevation of the third ventricle, a characteristic lack of depiction of the corpus callosum and extension of the bihemispheric fissure to the third ventricle. We assume that structural changes of the base of frontal lobes, diencephalon and brainstem, can be accountable for symptomatic narcolepsy and cataplexy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recent advances in the discovery and development of flavonoids and their analogues as antitumor and anti-HIV agents.
Antitumor and anti-HIV flavonoids and their analogues will be reviewed with emphasis on those discovered in our laboratory. The active antitumor compounds include the antileukemic tricin (1) and kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (2) from Wikstroemia indica, the cytotoxic hinokiflavone (3) from Rhus succedanea, the cytotoxic isoflavone (8) from Amorpha fruticosa, two dihydroxypentamethoxyflavones (9, 10) from Polanisia dodencandra. The development of synthetic 2-phenyl-4-quinolones as potent cytotoxic antimitotic flavonoid analogues and 2-phenylthiochromen-4-ones as potent antitumor flavonoid analogues will be presented. Selected results from other laboratories and antitumor-related biological studies also will be discussed. Flavonoids have also been investigated as potential anti-HIV agents. In our laboratory, acacetin-7-O-beta-D-galactopyranoside (131) from Chrysanthemum morifolium and chrysin (102), as well as apigenin-7-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (130), from Kummerowia striata, have been found to exhibit anti-HIV activity. In other studies, some flavonoids and related compounds have been investigated as inhibitors of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, protease, and integrase. The isolation and structural modification of such plant-derived active principles provide a continuing source of potential antitumor and anti-HIV agents. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dietary deficiency of cystine and methionine in rats alters thiol homeostasis required for cyanide detoxification.
Nutritional status is an important factor in modulating the metabolic fate of xenobiotics. Sulfur amino acid (SAA) deficiency has been proposed as a risk factor for human neurological diseases among protein-poor populations subsisting on the cyanophoric plant cassava. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were used to develop and define a model of SAA deficiency for use in future studies examining cassava-related neurotoxicity. Rats were kept in metabolic cages for 7-21 d and fed a balanced diet (BD) of known composition or a comparable diet selectively deficient in methionine and cystine (SAA-free diet). Animals fed the SAA-free diet failed to thrive, lost body weight, excreted porphyrinic materials, and showed a steep and persistent reduction of urinary inorganic sulfate. In contrast, animals on the BD gained body weight and maintained baseline output of urinary inorganic sulfate. Urinary thiocyanate excretion did not differ between groups, but plasma thiocyanate concentrations reached double that in SAA-deficient rats. Increased plasma thiocyanate suggests mobilization of sulfur amino acids from endogenous sources. Liver glutathione and blood cyanide concentrations were similar in animals on the BD and the SAA-deficient diet. In summary, a diet free of methionine and cystine results in increased retention of inorganic sulfur as thiocyanate and a near absence of inorganic sulfur excretion in urine. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Protein-tyrosine phosphatase D1, a potential regulator and effector for Tec family kinases.
Etk, also named Bmx, is a member of the Tec tyrosine kinase family, which is characterized by a multimodular structure including a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, an SH3 domain, an SH2 domain, and a catalytic domain. The signaling mechanisms regulating Etk kinase activity remain largely unknown. To identify factor(s) regulating Etk activity, we used the PH domain and a linker region of Etk as a bait for a yeast two-hybrid screen. Three independent clones encoding protein-tyrosine phosphatase D1 (PTPD1) fragments were isolated. The binding of PTPD1 to Etk is specific since PTPD1 cannot associate with either the Akt PH domain or lamin. In vitro and in vivo binding studies demonstrated that PTPD1 can interact with Etk and that residues 726-848 of PTPD1 are essential for this interaction. Deletion analysis of Etk indicated that the PH domain is essential for PTPD1 interaction. Furthermore, the Etk-PTPD1 interaction stimulated the kinase activity of Etk, resulting in an increased phosphotyrosine content in both factors. The Etk-PTPD1 interaction also increased Stat3 activation. The effect of PTPD1 on Etk activation is specific since PTPD1 cannot potentiate Jak2 activity upon Stat3 activation. In addition, Tec (but not Btk) kinase can also be activated by PTPD1. Taken together, these findings indicate that PTPD1 can selectively associate with and stimulate Tec family kinases and modulate Stat3 activation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
EFFECTS OF COMPRESSION ON LYMPHEDEMA DURING RESISTANCE EXERCISE IN WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER-RELATED LYMPHEDEMA: A RANDOMIZED, CROSS-OVER TRIAL.
The use of compression garments during exercise is recommended for women with breast cancer-related lymphedema, but the evidence behind this clinical recommendation is unclear. The aim of this randomized, cross-over trial was to compare the acute effects of wearing versus not wearing compression during a single bout of moderate-load resistance exercise on lymphedema status and its associated symptoms in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). Twenty-five women with clinically diagnosed, stable unilateral breast cancer-related lymphedema completed two resistance exercise sessions, one with compression and one without, in a randomized order separated by a minimum 6 day wash-out period. The resistance exercise session consisted of six upper-body exercises, with each exercise performed for three sets at a moderate-load (10-12 repetition maximum). Primary outcome was lymphedema, assessed using bioimpedance spectroscopy (L-Dex score). Secondary outcomes were lymphedema as assessed by arm circumferences (percent inter-limb difference and sum-of-circumferences), and symptom severity for pain, heaviness and tightness, measured using visual analogue scales. Measurements were taken pre-, immediately post- and 24 hours post-exercise. There was no difference in lymphedema status (i.e., L-Dex scores) pre- and post-exercise sessions or between the compression and non-compression condition [Mean (SD) for compression pre-, immediately post- and 24 hours post-exercise: 17.7 (21.5), 12.7 (16.2) and 14.1 (16.7), respectively; no compression: 15.3 (18.3), 15.3 (17.8), and 13.4 (16.1), respectively]. Circumference values and symptom severity were stable across time and treatment condition. An acute bout of moderate-load, upper-body resistance exercise performed in the absence of compression does not exacerbate lymphedema in women with BCRL. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Safety and efficacy of 5-azacytidine treatment in myelodysplastic syndrome patients with moderate and mild renal impairment.
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with renal impairment (RI) were not assessed in the approval trials of 5-azacytidine, thus the optimal use of 5-azacytidine in such patients is currently undefined. We retrospectively analyzed 42 IPSS intermediate-2 and high-risk patients with moderate, mild or no RI undergoing 5-azacytidine therapy in a non-trial setting. We demonstrate that patients in all three groups achieved comparable responses and had similar overall and event-free survival. Likewise, both treatment toxicity and dose adjustments were not significantly influenced by renal function status. A transient but reversible decline in glomerular filtration rate was observed in patients either with or without RI, without affecting the therapeutic schedule. Our results provide the first evidence that 5-azacytidine is effective and well-tolerated in patients with mild and moderate RI and, if confirmed by prospective randomized studies, advocate that such patients can be managed in an analogous fashion to patients with normal renal function. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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