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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Summary of Clinical Practice Guideline Recommendations-Using the Evidence to Guide Physical Therapist Practice.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common upper extremity nerve compression syndrome. Patients with CTS experience reduced sensation, dexterity, and function. Irreversible changes in nerve structure and function due to demyelination and axonal damage can occur in long-standing cases. Published in the May 2019 issue of JOSPT, clinical practice guidelines for CTS summarize the best available evidence on incidence and prevalence, pathophysiology, classification, risk factors, examination techniques, and interventions. These guidelines provide practical recommendations for physical therapy examination, diagnosis, and treatment. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(5):359-360. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.0501. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Translational regulation of plastid gene expression in Euglena gracilis.
Translation of plastid messenger RNAs depends on aminoacyl-tRNAs formed by charging plastid-encoded tRNAs with cognate amino acids. The enzymes involved, chloroplast aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, are encoded in the nucleus. Both the tRNAs and the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are stimulated in synthesis if dark-grown cells are exposed to light. However, their accumulation during light-induced chloroplast development in Euglena gracilis starts with an appreciable lag-phase. During this period the availability of charged tRNAs probably limits protein synthesis. Due to the contemporary need of glutamyl-tRNAGluGAA in chlorophyll synthesis this particular tRNA is very likely depleted. Based on an analysis of glutamate codon frequency in known plastid genes, the effect of a glutamyl-tRNAGluGAA limitation on the translation of plastid messages is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Drought- and desiccation-induced modulation of gene expression in plants.
Desiccation is the extreme form of dehydration. Tolerance of desiccation is acquired by seeds and in resurrection plants, a small group of angiosperms. Desiccation tolerance is the result of a complex cascade of molecular events, which can be divided into signal perception, signal transduction, gene activation and biochemical alterations leading to acquisition of tolerance. Many of these molecular processes are also observed during the dehydration of non-tolerant plants. Here we try to give an overview of the gene expression programmes that are triggered by dehydration, with particular reference to protective molecules and the regulation of their expression. Potential transgenic approaches to manipulating stress tolerance are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Resident Education in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether obstetrics and gynecology trainees feel satisfied with the female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) education received in residency. This is a survey study of obstetrics and gynecology residents in the United States and Puerto Rico during the 2015-2016 academic year. The anonymous 29-question survey was approved by the Hartford HealthCare institutional review board. Responses were included only if the trainee had ever rotated on the FPMRS service. Descriptive analyses were performed using mean and SD for continuous data; categorical data were described using frequencies, expressed as percentages. The results were analyzed for statistical significance using χ for categorical variables and Student t test for continuous variables. All results yielding P < 0.05 were deemed statistically significant. Of the 333 responses received, 172 met criteria for inclusion. Regarding amount of training in FPMRS, 126 trainees (73.3%) reported satisfaction, 40 (23.3%) reported too little training, and 6 trainees (3.5%) reported too much. Residents in programs with a board-certified FPMRS surgeon more commonly reported satisfaction with training (75.0 vs 28.6%, P = 0.02). When fourth-year residents were asked if they would feel comfortable performing specific surgical procedures independently after graduation, the percentage answering affirmatively ranged from 23.6% to 98.8%. Satisfaction with training in FPMRS has improved, but poor confidence performing surgical procedures compared with previous reports demonstrates that improvements in resident training are still needed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Degree and Timing of Intensive Blood Pressure Lowering on Hematoma Growth in Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial-2 Results.
Degree and timing of blood pressure (BP) lowering treatment in relation to hematoma growth were investigated in the Intensive Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial-2 (INTERACT2). INTERACT2 was an international clinical trial of intensive (target systolic BP [SBP], <140 mm Hg) versus guideline-recommended (SBP, <180 mm Hg) BP lowering in 2839 patients within 6 hours of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage and elevated SBP (150-220 mm Hg), in which 964 had repeat cranial computed tomography at 24 hours. ANCOVA models assessed categories of SBP reduction and time to target SBP on 24-hour hematoma growth. Greater SBP reduction was associated with reduced hematoma growth (13.3, 5.0, and 3.0 mL for <10, 10-20, and ≥20 mm Hg, respectively; P trend<0.001). In the intensive treatment group (n=491), the least mean hematoma growth was in patients who achieved target SBP <1 hour (2.6 mL) versus to those in target at 1 to 6 (4.7 mL) and >6 hours (5.4 mL). The smallest mean absolute hematoma growth (2.0 mL) was in those achieving target SBP 5 to 8 times versus 3 to 4 (3.1 mL) and 0 to 2 times (5.2 mL). Intensive BP lowering with greater SBP reduction, which is achieved quickly and maintained consistently, seems to provide protection against hematoma growth for 24 hours. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00716079. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Potential of participatory action research for clients, professionals and researchers in mental healthcare].
In participatory action research (par), researchers, practitioners and the community engage in a research process together. This research approach has the potential to assist in bridging the research-practice gap by starting from practice needs and using joint expertise and experiences to enrich scientific knowledge, optimise clinical practice and empower stakeholders from different backgrounds.<br/> AIM: To discuss the potential benefits of par for clients, professionals and researchers in the field of mental healthcare.<br/> METHOD: Starting from the literature on par, fundamental characteristics and benefits of this research approach in the field of mental healthcare are described and illustrated with an example from practice.<br/> RESULTS: par in mental healthcare can contribute to enriching prepositional and practical knowledge, facilitate positive social change in care delivery, empower all stakeholders, and ultimately make a significant contribution to the integration of research and practice.<br/> CONCLUSION: par is valuable for clients, professionals and researchers in a variety of projects in mental healthcare. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Are mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width useful parameters in children with acute rheumatic carditis?
Rheumatic fever (RF) is an inflammatory disease caused by autoimmune response to a preceding group A streptococcal infection. Mean platelet volume (MPV) reflects the platelet size and the rate of platelet production in bone marrow, and it may be used as an indicator of platelet activation and severity of inflammation. Fifty-three consecutive patients diagnosed with acute rheumatic carditis and 53 control subjects were enrolled into this study. Leukocyte and platelet counts were significantly higher in patients with acute carditis before treatment compared with controls, whereas MPV and platelet distribution width (PDW) values were not significantly different between groups. Platelet counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) values were decreased significantly in patients with RF after treatment. There was not a significant difference in terms of platelet count between the controls and the patient group after treatment. ESR was found to be correlated with CRP in patients before and after treatment. In conclusion, the results of our study showed that MPV and PDW levels do not change during acute rheumatic carditis before and after treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The use of balloon catheter in surgical treatment of renal angiomyolipoma with a caval thrombus: 1 case report and literature review].
To present one cases of the use of balloon catheter in surgical treatment of renal angiomyolipoma involving the renal vein and vena cava as a tumor thrombus and review literatures. Abdominal ultrasound and CT and MRI demonstrated a large right renal mass with tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava. Right nephrectomy and en-bloc removal of the intra caval tumor thrombus were performed. A balloon catheter was used to block vena cava under the level of liver vena during the operation. The pathological diagnosis was angiomyolipoma. The length of the tumor thrombus was 6.5 cm. The patient recovered well 1 year after surgery. Renal angiomyolipoma with a tumor thrombus should be paid more attention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of vasopressin in stimulation of ACTH secretion by angiotensin II in conscious dogs.
Three series of experiments were performed in conscious dogs to test the possibility that the stimulation of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) release by angiotensin II (ANG II) is mediated by arginine vasopressin (AVP). In the first protocol, the effect of ANG II on ACTH release was studied in dogs in which endogenous AVP levels had been increased by water deprivation. Water deprivation for 24 h increased plasma AVP concentration from 3.0 +/- 0.5 to 7.7 +/- 0.5 pg/ml (P less than 0.01) and increased the AVP response to the highest dose of ANG II (20 ng X kg-1 X min-1). Despite these changes, water deprivation failed to increase the ACTH response to ANG II. Next, the contribution of endogenous AVP to the stimulation of ACTH release by ANG II was examined using the V1-receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5Tyr[Met]-AVP (10 micrograms/kg iv). The ACTH response to ANG II in the presence of the AVP antagonist (66.4 +/- 3.1 to 100.1 +/- 15.9 pg/ml) was not significantly less than that in its absence (53.0 +/- 4.8 to 72.2 +/- 11.1 pg/ml). Finally, ANG II and AVP were infused in combination to determine whether there is a synergism between these two peptides in the release of ACTH. In one protocol, AVP and ANG II were infused separately and in combination. The ACTH response to ANG II and AVP in combination (48.7 +/- 6.5 to 61.5 +/- 8.5 pg/ml) was not enhanced compared with the responses to ANG II (59.8 +/- 7.3 to 71.0 +/- 10.1 pg/ml) or AVP (48.8 +/- 5.7 to 55.6 +/- 6.5 pg/ml) alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Electrical stimulation of leg muscles increases tibial trabecular bone formation in unloaded rats.
Rat head-down hindlimb suspension (HS) has been shown to induce hindlimb cancellous bone loss. As HS is known to associate unloading with progressive disappearance of hindlimb muscle contractions, we investigated whether persisting muscle motion could modify suspension-induced bone disorders or even prevent them. Chronic electrical stimulation (ES) was applied to leg muscles of rats during 3-wk hindlimb suspension, the lack of support for hindlimbs maintaining a hypodynamic situation. The histomorphometric characteristics of the proximal tibial metaphysis were analyzed. At the end of this protocol of combined suspension and stimulation, trabecular bone loss remained similar to that of nonstimulated HS animals. However, trabecular bone cell activity parameters showed greater bone formation after muscle stimulation in unloaded animals, with significantly increased osteoblastic, osteoid, and mineralizing surfaces. In addition, periosteal mineral apposition rate and cancellous bone formation rate, markedly decreased by suspension, were not significantly different in suspended stimulated compared with normal loaded animals. This enhanced formation activity could be related to persistence of muscle activity, as shown by partial preservation of muscle mass. However, direct electrical effects on bone cannot be excluded. Thus, despite muscle stimulation, with enhanced bone formation, isolated suppression of hypokinesia has not been able to counteract bone effects of unloading. This finding supports the hypothesis of the importance of mechanical loading to maintain bone architecture. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Abnormal bone remodeling in patients with spontaneous painful vertebral fracture.
The application of tetracycline-based iliac bone histomorphometry to the study of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis has given conflicting results. Accordingly, we performed this procedure in 78 postmenopausal white women with one or more vertebral fractures identified according to rigorous criteria that excluded other causes of vertebral deformity and 66 healthy postmenopausal white women recruited from the same geographic region; the groups did not differ in age or weight. In each subject, measurements were made separately on the cancellous (Cn), endocortical (Ec), and intracortical (Ct) subdivisions of the endosteal envelope. In the fracture patients, osteoblast surface was reduced substantially on each subdivision, most markedly on the Cn surface, where about 25% of the deficit was in cuboidal (type II) osteoblasts, suggesting impaired recruitment; the remaining 75% of the deficit was in intermediate (type III) cells, suggesting earlier transition from type III to type IV (flat) cells. On the Ec and Ct surfaces, the deficit was exclusively in type III cells. Mean bone formation rate was reduced by about 18% on the Cn but not on the Ec or Ct surfaces. The deficit was more significant in subjects matched for Cn BV/TV when adjusted for the inverse regression on osteocyte density and after logarithmic transformation. The difference in bone formation rate resulted from a corresponding reduction in wall thickness without a change in activation frequency. The frequency distribution of bone formation rate was more skewed to the left in the fracture patients than in the controls. Osteoclast surface was significantly lower on each subdivision. The variation in osteoblast surface, bone formation rate, and osteoclast surface was significantly greater in the fracture patients than in the controls, with more abnormally low and abnormally high values. The data suggest the following conclusions: (1) The histologic heterogeneity of postmenopausal osteoporosis is reaffirmed; (2) the different subdivisions of the endosteal envelope, although in continuity, behave differently in health and disease; (3) a combination of defective osteoblast recruitment and premature osteoblast apoptosis would account for the deficit in type II and III cells and the reductions in wall thickness and bone formation rate on the Cn surface and the previously reported osteocyte deficiency in Cn bone; (4) premature disaggregation of multinuclear to mononuclear resorbing cells could account for the osteoclast deficit; and (5) some patients with vertebral fracture have one or another disorder of bone remodeling that at present cannot be identified by noninvasive means. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Outcomes with perioperative fat emulsions containing omega-3 fatty acid: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Results of a meta-analysis of data from clinical studies comparing patient outcomes and hospital length of stay (LOS) in surgical patients receiving fish oil (FO)-containing i.v. fat emulsions (IVFEs) versus non-FO-containing IVFEs are presented. Computerized searches of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Coch rane CENTRAL databases were performed in August 2014 to identify English-language articles on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing FO-containing and non-FO-containing IVFEs in adult surgical patients receiving parenteral nutrition. Selected articles were analyzed for methodological and publication bias and study heterogeneity (I2 statistic). Data from 19 RCTs (total n = 1,167) were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with use of non-FO-containing IVFEs (products based in soybean oil [SO], medium-chain triglycerides, or olive oil), use of FO-containing IVFEs was associated with reduced infectious morbidity (odds ratio [OR], 0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.30-0.65; p < 0.0001; I2 = 0%); the effect size was greatest for FO-containing versus SO-based IVFEs. Relative to use of SO-based IVFEs, use of FO-containing IVFEs was associated with a significant reduction in hospital LOS (weighted mean difference, -2.70 days; 95% CI, -3.60 to -1.79 days; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0%). The results of the meta-analysis indicated that FO-containing IVFEs could improve infectious morbidity and LOS. The overall effect of reducing infectious morbidity and LOS was found to be the greatest in comparison with the SO-based IVFEs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Osteonecrosis in a chemically induced rat model of human hemolytic disorders associated with thrombosis--a new model for avascular necrosis of bone.
Bone injury occurs in human hemolytic disorders associated with thrombosis, such as beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Exposure of rats to 2-butoxyethanol (BE) has been associated with hemolytic anemia, disseminated thrombosis, and infarction in multiple organs including bone. This rat model apparently mimics acute hemolysis and thrombosis in humans. To elucidate the extent of bone injury, male and female Fischer F344 rats were given 4 daily doses of 250 mg BE/5 ml water/kg of body weight. Tail vertebrae were studied by histopathology and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Thrombosis and infarction were seen in both sexes, but females were more severely affected. Lesions were characterized by extensive medullary fat necrosis, granulomatous inflammation, fibroplasia, growth plate degeneration, and new woven bone formation adjacent to necrotic bone trabeculae. MRI mean and standard deviation tissue-density data for both sexes indicated a significant (P < or = 0.05) decrease following 4-days treatment and a significant increase (P < or = 0.05) following an additional 24 days without treatment. Thus, MRI was useful in revealing BE-induced bone injury, which was predominantly necrotic initially and subsequently regenerative with proliferation of connective tissue and bone following postischemia recovery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Complications of liver cirrhosis, medical management].
Patients with liver cirrhosis bear a considerable risk of a variety of complications that involve virtually all organ systems. They can be addressed with a wide spectrum of drugs for acute interventions as well as for prophylactic purposes. At the same time, treatment of the underlying disease, the identification and treatment of triggering factors, and the possibility of liver transplantation should be kept in mind. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Total wrist fusion using the AO wrist fusion plate].
Arthrodesis of the wrist in order to improve functional use of the hand by reducing pain and improving grip strength. Painful destruction of both the radiocarpal and mediocarpal joint combined with contraindications to motion-preserving procedures. Conservative treatment insufficient. Patients who are pain-free and satisfied with a motion-preserving procedure (e.g., Wilhelm's denervation procedure) or conservative management (casting). Dorsal approach to the wrist. Removal of destroyed articular surfaces down to cancellous bone, filling the resulting defects with cancellous bone graft taken either from the the radius or the iliac crest. Stable fixation using the AO wrist fusion plate. Immediate active motion exercises of the fingers. Below-elbow cast for 2 weeks. 6 weeks postoperatively, X-ray control to judge bony healing. Normal use of the hand in daily life but avoiding pain-provoking activities. 26 (18 men, eight women) of the authors' first patients with arthrodesis of the wrist using the AO fusion plate were reexamined after a mean follow-up time of 18 months (minimum 6, maximum 32 months). The mean modified Mayo Wrist Score was 47 points (minimum 20, maximum 70 points), the DASH Score (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) averaged 46 points (minimum 4, maximum 81 points). 20 of the 26 patients were satisfied, but not all patients were completely free of pain. Eight out of a total of ten patients (seven men, three women) with a bilateral wrist arthrodesis were reexamined after a mean follow-up time of 66 months (minimum 27, maximum 74 months). The DASH Score was 55 points on average (minimum 38, maximum 73 points). All patients stated that their clinical situation had improved and that they were able to manage their daily activities without help. So it can be concluded that bilateral arthrodesis of the wrist is a valuable option, if all other possibilities are exhausted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A detailed assignment of NEXAFS resonances of imidazolium based ionic liquids.
In Near Edge X-Ray Absorption Fine Structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy X-Ray photons are used to excite tightly bound core electrons to low-lying unoccupied orbitals of the system. This technique offers insight into the electronic structure of the system as well as useful structural information. In this work, we apply NEXAFS to two kinds of imidazolium based ionic liquids ([C(n)C1im](+)[NTf2](-) and [C4C1im](+)[I](-)). A combination of measurements and quantum chemical calculations of C K and N K NEXAFS resonances is presented. The simulations, based on the transition potential density functional theory method (TP-DFT), reproduce all characteristic features observed by the experiment. Furthermore, a detailed assignment of resonance features to excitation centers (carbon or nitrogen atoms) leads to a consistent interpretation of the spectra. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Relations between iron levels in mothers and in their newborn infants].
The iron levels were evaluated in 124 pregnant women towards the end of their pregnancies and in their newborn babies in 4 maternity units in Paris and in the surroundings. Two-third of the women studied had total absence of iron reserves (shown by a serum ferritin level less than or equal to 12 micrograms/l). Those who were at the greatest risk of having iron deficiency or anaemia were immigrant, non continental french and multiparous women. The tissue reserves of iron in the newborn are not directly linked to the levels of iron in the mother but are probably linked to the foetal and maternal haemoglobin-synthesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Pseudomonas aeruginosa in dermatology].
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a ubiquitous Gram-negative bacillus characterized by its greenish color and sweetish smell, is at the origin of potentially severe forms of dermatosis, such as ecthyma gangrenosum which marks immunosuppression or reveals blood-poisoning, especially in children. It frequently colonizes chronic wounds and serious burns, and spongiotic or acantholytic dermatosis, especially when severe or localized in skinfolds. It requires special care because of its high resistance to antibiotics and antiseptics. It can also involve folliculitis favored by water sports or a nail disorder (chloronychia). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Correlations between gross and microscopic lesions in carcinogenic studies in mice.
Microscopic diagnoses of a number of spontaneous and induced neoplasms in mice were correlated with the gross findings of the ED01 and a number of other carcinogenic studies conducted at NCTR to determine the value of detailed histopathologic examinations in bioassay testing. The results indicated that for organs such as thymus, lung, adrenal, Harderian gland and urinary bladder 50% or more of the neoplastic lesions would be missed if at least one histological section were not examined from each organ. For organs such as the liver and mammary gland, a single tissue section did not greatly improve the ability to detect neoplastic lesions beyond that afforded by a thorough necropsy examination. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Total knee replacement in young, active patients: long-term follow-up and functional outcome: a concise follow-up of a previous report.
Concern exists regarding the long-term durability and effectiveness of total knee arthroplasty in young patients. We reviewed our experience with total knee arthroplasty in patients fifty-five years old and younger with severe osteoarthritis to determine the long-term outcomes. One hundred and fourteen total knee arthroplasties were performed in eighty-eight patients at an average patient age of fifty-one years. Clinical outcomes, survival analysis, and radiographs were all reviewed at the most recent follow-up. One hundred and eight knees (eighty-four patients) were followed up from May 2011 to 2012. At thirty years, survivorship without revision for any cause was 70.1% (twenty-five revisions) and survivorship with failure defined as aseptic revision of the tibial or femoral components was 82.5%. At thirty years, a significant difference existed in the survivorship free from tibial or femoral aseptic revision (p = 0.003) between the non-modular Insall-Burstein I component (92.3%) and the modular Insall-Burstein II component (68.3%). All patients were evaluated at an average time from the index total knee arthroplasty to the latest follow-up of 25.1 years (range, twenty to thirty-five years). Clinical evaluation was obtained in thirty-six patients with forty-five total knee arthroplasties. The average Hospital for Special Surgery score had improved from 57.9 points preoperatively to 85.3 points. The average Knee Society score was 87.4 points and the average Knee Society functional score was 62.1 points; the average knee motion was 110°. The mean Tegner and Lysholm activity score improved from 1.5 points preoperatively to 3.0 points. Radiographic review of forty-two knees that had undergone total knee arthroplasty demonstrated a mean 3.2° of valgus, with no cases of radiographically loose components. Total knee arthroplasty with use of a cemented posterior stabilized system, particularly a non-modular Insall-Burstein I design, was an effective treatment option with durable results for end-stage symptomatic osteoarthritis in this young cohort. These data should provide comparison for modern total knee arthroplasties and alternative procedures in young patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Choosing the appropriate side for subcutaneous port catheter placement in patients with mastectomy: ipsilateral or contralateral?
To evaluate long-term clinical follow-up results of implanting subcutaneous port catheters (SPCs) on ipsilateral or contralateral with mastectomy side in patients with axillary lymph node dissection. A total of 73 patients composed of ipsilateral (34 catheters) and contralateral (39 catheters) groups, with SPCs were included. All patients had lumpectomy or modified radical mastectomy for breast cancer. Ipsilateral and contralateral groups had similar patient characteristics. Five late complications were seen in the ipsilateral group and 2 late complications in the contralateral group. No statistical significant difference was seen between two groups in regard to late complications. Four complications of the ipsilateral group were classified as major group C and 1 as major group D, while 1 complication of the contralateral group was classified as minor group B and 1 as major group C according to Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) classification. No statistical significant difference was seen between complication rates of two groups in regard to SIR classification. SPC related complications do not differ in regard to ipsilateral or contralateral side selection on mastectomized patients with breast cancer and lymph node dissection. SPCs can be implanted on ipsilateral or contralateral sides of the operation in these patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Insulin and glyburide increase cytosolic free-Ca2+ concentration in isolated rat adipocytes.
We investigated the effect of insulin and a hypoglycemic sulfonylurea agent glyburide on cytosolic free-Ca2+ concentrations [( Ca2+]i) in isolated rat adipocytes. Both insulin and glyburide increased [Ca2+]i in a dose-dependent manner. Half-maximal effects were seen at 0.5 ng/ml of insulin and 0.5 microM glyburide. Nifedipine (25 microM), a Ca2+-channel blocker, inhibited the effect of both agents. The effect of insulin on [Ca2+]i was 40 and 70% potentiated by ambient glucose concentrations at 180 and 300 mg/dl, respectively. Depolarizing doses of potassium (40 mM) induced an increase in cytosolic Ca2+ that was also inhibited by nifedipine. It is suggested that both insulin and glyburide increase cytosolic free Ca2+ levels at least in part by promoting Ca2+ influx through voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structure and regulation of the SSA4 HSP70 gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
SSA4 is the only one of five heat-inducible HSP70 genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae whose expression is restricted to conditions of stress. Comparison of the nucleotide sequences of the SSA4 gene with other HSP70 genes indicates that it diverged from its most closely related yeast homologues hundreds of millions of years ago. However, a high degree of identity has been maintained between Ssa4p and other yeast 70-kDa heat-shock proteins at the amino acid level suggesting, in light of its distinct pattern of regulation, that it performs an important function. A 44-base pair region of the SSA4 promoter containing an extended match to the conserved eukaryotic heat-shock element (HSE) is necessary and sufficient to mediate heat-inducible regulation. HSESSA4 is capable of promoting only a low level of transcription under nonstress conditions. We present evidence in support of a revised definition of the functional HSE in S. cerevisiae, similar to the recently proposed modular Drosophila HSE. Elevated expression of several heat-shock proteins in an ssa1ssa2 double-mutant strain has previously been reported. The SSA4 promoter is activated in this strain. The increase in expression of SSA4 caused by deletion of these closely related genes is mediated via the same upstream activating sequences that activate transcription in response to heat shock. Activation of HSE-mediated transcription by disruption of constitutively expressed HSP70 genes supports an autoregulatory model of control of the heat-shock response. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of abdominal insufflation with nitrous oxide on cardiorespiratory measurements in spontaneously breathing isoflurane-anesthetized dogs.
Cardiorespiratory effects of abdominal insufflation were evaluated in 8 dogs during isoflurane anesthesia. Each dog was studied 3 times, in 1 of the following orders of insufflation pressures: 10-20-30, 20-30-10, 30-20-10, 10-30-20, 20-10-30, and 30-10-20 mm of Hg. Anesthesia was induced by use of a mask, dogs were intubated, and anesthesia was maintained by isoflurane in 100% oxygen. After instrumentation, baseline values were recorded (time 0), and the abdomen was insufflated with nitrous oxide. Data were recorded at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 minutes after insufflation. The abdomen was then desufflated, with recording of data continuing at 35 and 40 minutes. Mean arterial pressure increased at 5 minutes during 20 mm of Hg insufflation pressure, and from 20 to 30 minutes during 30 mm of Hg pressure. Tidal volume decreased from 5 to 30 minutes during 10 and 20 mm of Hg pressures, and from 5 to 40 minutes during 30 mm of Hg pressure. Minute ventilation decreased at 10 and 20 minutes during 20 mm of Hg pressure. End-tidal CO2 concentration increased from 5 to 30 minutes during 20 and 30 mm of Hg pressure. The PaCO2 decreased at 40 minutes during 10 mm of Hg pressure, at 30 minutes during 20 mm of Hg pressure, and from 10 to 40 minutes during 30 mm of Hg pressure. Values for pH decreased from 10 to 30 minutes during 20 and 30 mm of Hg pressures. The PaO2 decreased from 20 to 40 minutes during 10 mm of Hg pressure, at 30 minutes during 20 mm of Hg pressure, and from 10 to 40 minutes during 30 mm of Hg pressure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Radiographic aspects osteoarticular complications in Buruli ulcers].
The authors examine radiographic aspects of osteo-articular and soft tissue lesions on the basis of 30 files of in-patients suffering from Buruli ulcers. They specify the chronology and precociousness of certain signs: soft tissue lesions, bone demineralization, periostal apposition two months after the beginning of signs, and later osteolysis and joint complications. These lesions are not specific and occur contiguously to soft tissue lesions. The authors specify the part of secondary-infection germs in the appearance of bone lesions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Synergistic phage-antibiotic combinations for the control of Escherichia coli biofilms in vitro.
The potential application of phage therapy for the control of bacterial biofilms has received increasing attention as resistance to conventional antibiotic agents continues to increase. The present study identifies antimicrobial synergy between bacteriophage T4 and a conventional antibiotic, cefotaxime, via standard plaque assay and, importantly, in the in vitro eradication of biofilms of the T4 host strain Escherichia coli 11303. Phage-antibiotic synergy (PAS) is defined as the phenomenon whereby sub-lethal concentrations of certain antibiotics can substantially stimulate the host bacteria's production of virulent phage. Increasing sub-lethal concentrations of cefotaxime resulted in an observed increase in T4 plaque size and T4 concentration. The application of PAS to the T4 one-step growth curve also resulted in an increased burst size and reduced latent period. Combinations of T4 bacteriophage and cefotaxime significantly enhanced the eradication of bacterial biofilms when compared to treatment with cefotaxime alone. The addition of medium (10(4) PFU mL(-1)) and high (10(7) PFU mL(-1)) phage titres reduced the minimum biofilm eradication concentration value of cefotaxime against E. coli ATCC 11303 biofilms from 256 to 128 and 32 μg mL(-1), respectively. Although further investigation is needed to confirm PAS, this study demonstrates, for the first time, that synergy between bacteriophage and conventional antibiotics can significantly improve biofilm control in vitro. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sirolimus allows early cyclosporine withdrawal in renal transplantation resulting in improved renal function and lower blood pressure.
This study evaluated whether cyclosporine (CsA) could be eliminated from a sirolimus (Rapamune, rapamycin, SRL)-CsA-steroid (ST) regimen at 3 months. This was an open-label study conducted in Europe, Australia, and Canada. Upon enrollment, 525 primary (90%) or secondary (10%) renal allograft recipients with cadaveric (89%) or living (11%) donors received 2 mg of sirolimus (troughs>5 ng/ml), CsA, and steroids. At 3 months+/-2 weeks, eligible patients were randomized (1:1) to remain on SRL-CsA-ST or to have CsA withdrawn and therapy continued with SRL (troughs 20-30 ng/ml)-ST. At 12 months, overall graft and patient survival were 89.1% and 94.9%, respectively. In the 430 (82%) randomized patients, there was no difference in graft survival (95.8% vs. 97.2%, SRL-CsA-ST vs. SRL-ST) or patient survival (97.2% vs. 98.1%, respectively). The incidence of biopsy-confirmed primary acute rejection was 13.1% during the prerandomization period. After randomization, the acute rejection rates were 4.2% and 9.8% for SRL-CsA-ST and SRL-ST, respectively (P=0.035). Renal function (calculated glomerular filtration rate, 57 vs. 63 ml/min, P<0.001) and blood pressure significantly improved when CsA was withdrawn. Hypertension, CsA nephrotoxicity, hyperuricemia, and Herpes zoster occurred statistically more frequently in patients remaining on CsA, whereas thrombocytopenia, abnormal liver function tests, and hypokalemia were reported more often for SRL-ST therapy. Sirolimus, CsA, and steroids for 3 months posttransplant, followed by elimination of CsA, is a safe and effective alternative to continuous therapy with sirolimus, CsA, and steroids that can result in better renal function and lower blood pressure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Whole-genome expression profiling defines the HrpL regulon of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000, allows de novo reconstruction of the Hrp cis clement, and identifies novel coregulated genes.
Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 is a model pathogen of tomato and Arabidopsis that uses a hypersensitive response and pathogenicity (Hrp) type III secretion system (T3SS) to deliver virulence effector proteins into host cells. Expression of the Hrp system and many effector genes is activated by the HrpL alternative sigma factor. Here, an open reading frame-specific whole-genome microarray was constructed for DC3000 and used to comprehensively identify genes that are differentially expressed in wild-type and deltahrpL strains. Among the genes whose differential regulation was statistically significant, 119 were upregulated and 76 were downregulated in the wild-type compared with the deltahrpL strain. Hierarchical clustering revealed a subset of eight genes that were upregulated particularly rapidly. Gibbs sampling of regions upstream of HrpL-activated operons revealed the Hrp promoter as the only identifiable regulatory motif and supported an iterative refinement involving real-time polymerase chain reaction testing of additional HrpL-activated genes and refinements in a hidden Markov model that can be used to predict Hrp promoters in P. syringae strains. This iterative bioinformatic-experimental approach to a comprehensive analysis of the HrpL regulon revealed a mix of genes controlled by HrpL, including those encoding most type III effectors, twin-arginine transport (TAT) substrates, other regulatory proteins, and proteins involved in the synthesis or metabolism of phytohormones, phytotoxins, and myo-inositol. This analysis provides an extensively verified, robust method for predicting Hrp promoters in P. syringae genomes, and it supports subsequent identification of effectors and other factors that likely are important to the host-specific virulence of P. syringae. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
miR-200b regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition of chemo-resistant breast cancer cells by targeting FN1.
Chemotherapy is a cornerstone treatment for early and advanced stage breast cancer patients. However, resistance to chemotherapy remains a major obstacle, resulting in disease relapse and progression. Emerging studies demonstrated that miRNAs regulate chemotherapy-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and drug resistance, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here we established a doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer cell line MCF-7/Adr, and found these cells exhibited an EMT phenotype featured by a fibroblast-like morphology, increased the capacity of migration and invasion, and underwent the changes of molecular markers of EMT including E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin. We then compared the miRNA expression profiles between MCF-7/Adr and parental MCF-7 by miRNA microarray, and identified miR-200b as the most dramatically down-regulated miRNA. Overexpression of miR-200b in chemo-resistant cells reversed the EMT phenotype and increased sensitivity to doxorubicin. Inhibition of miR-200b in parental cells induced EMT and resistance to doxorubicin. Furthermore, we characterized the target gene of miR-200b, and showed that overexpression of miR-200b down-regulated FN1 expression and the luciferase activity. Compared with the parental cells, FN1 was significantly elevated in MCF-7/Adr cells. Knockdown of FN1 reversed mesenchymal morphology, inhibited cell migration and invasion, and sensitized cells to doxorubicin. Our data suggest that miR-200b regulates EMT of chemo-resistant breast cancer cells by targeting FN1. miR-200b-based therapy may be an effective strategy in treating advanced breast cancer patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genistein as a Potential Anticancer Agent Against Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
The use of nutraceuticals as protection drugs against chronic diseases gained a vast success. Many studies found that nutraceuticals may reduce the tumorigenic actions of carcinogens, inhibiting the adhesion and proliferation of tumor cells. Genistein is a natural isoflavone preventing osteoporosis, menopause problems and heart diseases. It is also known in China and Japan for its anticancer properties. The available treatment protocols for Head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) have led to poor results and new therapies are necessary. In this paper, we will review anticancer therapeutic potential of genistein and in vitro and in vivo studies that suggest its potential role in the treatments of HNSCC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Practical upper limits of the optical extinction coefficients of aerosols.
The optical extinction coefficients of some common spherical-particle aerosols are compared to practical upper limits estimated from the Mie theory for the visible and ir wavelength regions. Equations are developed to relate required refractive indices of aerosol materials to wavelength, particle size, and other parameters, so that the practical upper limit of the extinction coefficient is obtained. Some common aerosols, e.g., phosphorus smoke and sulfuric acid mists, are found to give extinction coefficients approaching the practical limit in the far ir (8-13 microm). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effects of written educational material on parental health knowledge depending on socioeconomic status : A randomized controlled trial].
The nationwide prevention program "Parent Guide - Growing up Healthy" aims to improve parental health knowledge in Germany. At the birth of their first child, parents of any socioeconomic status (SES) are provided with written educational material that includes relevant health knowledge as well as basic information about routine health checkups for children. This study aimed at evaluating the program regarding 1) the effects on parental health knowledge and parental satisfaction with routine child health checkups, 2) the sensitivity of the effects on SES, and 3) parental acceptance of the written educational material. A longitudinal randomized controlled trial (RCT) was carried out with 1318 young parents recruited from 14 hospitals with maternity clinics in Germany. Parents of the intervention group received educational material whereas controls didn't receive material. Respondents completed interviews at the child's birth (T0) and first birthday (T1). Parental health knowledge at T1 was significantly higher (p = 0.005; partial eta2 = 0.006) in the intervention group but with a small effect size. The influence of the educational material was not moderated by SES (p = 0.456). Satisfaction with routine child health checkups did not differ significantly between the groups (p = 0.606). Parents showed high acceptance of the parent guide regardless of SES. Written educational material is an effective approach in increasing parental health knowledge and has the potential to reach all parents regardless of SES. A higher satisfaction with routine child health checkups could not be achieved by educational material. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Circulation of fluids in the gastrovascular system of a stoloniferan octocoral.
Cilia-based transport systems characterize sponges and placozoans. Cilia are employed in cnidarian gastrovascular systems as well, but typically function in concert with muscular contractions. Previous reports suggest that anthozoans may be an exception to this pattern, utilizing only cilia in their gastrovascular systems. With an inverted microscope and digital image analysis, we used stoloniferan octocoral colonies growing on microscope cover glass to quantitatively describe the movement of fluids in this system for the first time. Flow in stolons (diameter ≈300 μm) is simultaneously bidirectional, with average velocities of 100-200 μm/s in each direction. Velocities are maximal immediately adjacent to the stolon wall and decrease to a minimum in the center of the stolon. Flow velocity is unaffected by stolonal contractions, suggesting that muscular peristalsis is not a factor in propelling the flow. Stolon intersections (diameter ≈500 μm) occur below polyps and serve as traffic roundabouts with unidirectional, circular flow. Such cilia-driven transport may be the plesiomorphic state for the gastrovascular system of cnidarians. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cell cycle kinetics and commitment in newborn, adult, and tumoral astrocytes.
In terms of cell cycle phases, mammalian astrocytes maintain the capacity to leave G0/G1 and enter S phase in response to brain injury or due to neoplastic transformation. This report compares proliferative behavior in vitro, particularly departure from G0, in three types of rat astroglial cells-newborn astrocytes, astrocytes from gelatin implants into the traumatized striata of adults, and astrocytoma cells (C6 glioma). Newborn and adult astrocytes demonstrated nearly identical proliferation kinetics as determined by peaks in cell number and rates of DNA synthesis. C6 glioma (C6G) proliferated more rapidly. Exit from G0 was examined by shift-down of serum from 10 to 0.1% for 48 h, followed by return to 10% at time 0. Synchronization of newborn and adult astrocytes in this way resulted in a 12 h lag phase (G0/G1) followed by a 6-10-fold surge in DNA synthesis and a corresponding increase in S-phase nuclei from < 15% to > 70%. Timing of S-phase commitment was established in late G1 by resistance to the inhibitors cycloheximide and mevinolin. Decay of commitment was assessed by addition of hydroxyurea (HU) at 10 h to cause accumulation at the G1/S boundary. Removal of HU after an additional 14, 16, and 20 h resulted respectively in these percentages of maximal S-phase DNA synthesis in newborn and adult astrocytes: 75 +/- 9, 60 +/- 8, 23 +/- 3, and 87 +/- 20, 62 +/- 7, 34 +/- 5. In contrast, synchronization of C6G resulted in a 6 h lag before a surge in DNA synthesis and an increase in S-phase nuclei from < 20% to 100%. Cell cycle commitment occurred earlier with C6G, and decay of commitment was not observed, even after 20 h of HU treatment. Thus, these in vitro techniques for cell cycle analysis are applicable to astrocytes obtained from developing and adult brain, and to at least some astroglioma cells. Furthermore, this comparative study showed that important cell cycle parameters differ markedly in the non-tumoral astrocytes and glioma cells. These differences could lead to strategies for selective targeting of the proliferation of neoplastic astroglia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of detyrosinated tubulin on Na+,K+-ATPase activity and erythrocyte function in hypertensive subjects.
Formation of tubulin/Na(+),K(+)-ATPase (NKA) complex in erythrocytes of hypertensive subjects results in a 50% reduction in NKA activity. We demonstrate here that detyrosinated tubulin, which is increased in hypertensive erythrocytes membranes, enhances the inhibitory effect of acetylated tubulin on NKA activity. Moreover, we report a reduced content and activity of the enzyme tubulin tyrosine ligase in erythrocytes of hypertensive subjects. Such alterations are related to changes in erythrocyte deformability. Our findings indicate that the detyrosination/tyrosination cycle of tubulin is important in regulation of NKA activity, and that abnormalities in this cycle are involved in hypertension development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effective evidence-based catheter management: an update.
Every year over one million urinary catheters are inserted in NHS hospitals. Each of these has the potential to harm. Urinary catheters can lead to trauma and increase the risks of infection and bladder dysfunction. Urinary catheterization can have catastrophic effects on the bladder and a person's ability to regain continence in the future (Patel and Arya, 2001). Approximately 25% of urinary catheterizations are not clinically necessary. Certain groups of people, such as older people, are at a greater risk of unnecessary catheterization and its associated risks. This article explores the clinical indications for urinary catheterization, the importance of appropriate product selection, and acting to reduce the risk of infection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Midbody Positioning and Distance Between Daughter Nuclei Enable Unequivocal Identification of Cardiomyocyte Cell Division in Mice.
New strategies in the field of cardiac regeneration are directed at identifying proliferation-inducing substances to induce regrowth of myocardium. Current screening assays utilize neonatal cardiomyocytes and markers for cytokinesis, such as Aurora B-kinase. However, detection of cardiomyocyte division is complicated because of cell cycle variants, in particular, binucleation. To analyze the process of cardiomyocyte binucleation to identify definitive discriminators for cell cycle variants and authentic cardiomyocyte division. Herein, we demonstrate by direct visualization of the contractile ring and midbody in Myh6 (myosin, heavy chain 6)-eGFP (enhanced green fluorescent protein)-anillin transgenic mice that cardiomyocyte binucleation starts by formation of a contractile ring. This is followed by irregular positioning of the midbody and movement of the 2 nuclei into close proximity to each other. In addition, the widespread used marker Aurora B-kinase was found to also label binucleating cardiomyocytes, complicating the interpretation of existing screening assays. Instead, atypical midbody positioning and the distance of daughter nuclei on karyokinesis are bona fide markers for cardiomyocyte binucleation enabling to unequivocally discern such events from cardiomyocyte division in vitro and in vivo. The 2 criteria provide a new method for identifying cardiomyocyte division and should be considered in future studies investigating cardiomyocyte turnover and regeneration after injury, in particular in the postnatal heart to prevent the assignment of false positive proliferation events. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A chimeric alphavirus RNA replicon gene-based vaccine for human parainfluenza virus type 3 induces protective immunity against intranasal virus challenge.
Parainfluenza virus type 3 (PIV3) infections continue to be a significant health risk for infants, young children, and immunocompromised adults. We describe a gene-based vaccine strategy against PIV3 using replication-defective alphavirus vectors. These RNA replicon vectors, delivered as virus-like particles and expressing the PIV3 hemagglutinin-neuraminidase glycoprotein, were shown to be highly immunogenic in mice and hamsters, inducing PIV3-specific neutralizing antibody responses. Importantly, the replicon particle-based vaccine administered intramuscularly or intranasally protected against mucosal PIV3 challenge in hamsters, preventing virus replication in both nasal turbinates and lungs. These data suggest that the alphavirus replicon platform can be useful for a PIV3 vaccine and possibly other respiratory viruses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Roles for FGF8 in the induction, initiation, and maintenance of chick limb development.
We provide evidence that FGF8 serves as an endogenous inducer of chick limb formation and that its expression in the intermediate mesoderm at the appropriate time and place to trigger forelimb development is directly linked to the mechanism of embryonic kidney differentiation. One function of the limb inducer is to initiate Fgf8 gene expression in the ectoderm overlying the prospective limb-forming territories. FGF8 secreted by the ectoderm then appears to initiate limb bud formation by promoting outgrowth of and Sonic hedgehog expression in the underlying lateral plate mesoderm. FGF8 also maintains mesoderm outgrowth and Sonic hedgehog expression in the established limb bud. Our data thus point to FGF8 as a key regulator of limb development that not only induces and initiates the formation of a limb bud, but also sustains its subsequent development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[An experimental evaluation of new plastic materials in the surgery of osseous tuberculosis].
Experiments related with xenoplasty made in 108 rabbits are described. An original method of processing the spongy xenografts is suggested; it provides for both minimizing the immune response and for obtaining a new plastic material applicable for replacement of the postoperative osseous cavities. A complete healing of the operated bone and a close-to-norm recovery of osseous structures were ensured in experiments with animals. A similar result was obtained in experimental osseous tuberculosis after the removal of tuberculous foci. The study materials are passed over for testing in clinical practice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Discrimination of thyroglobulin from thyroid carcinoma tissue and that from benign thyroid tissues with use of competitive assay between lectin and anti-thyroglobulin antibody.
Thyroglobulin is produced only by thyroid follicular cells, and has a molecular weight of 660,000 and carbohydrate content of approximately 10%. The composition of carbohydrate chains on thyroglobulin from thyroid carcinoma has been reported to differ from that in normal thyroid tissue. In this study, heterogeneities of carbohydrate chains on thyroglobulin obtained from thyroid tissues were investigated by competitive reaction between lectin and anti-thyroglobulin monoclonal antibody. Concanavalin A, Lens culinaris agglutinin, Ricinus communis agglutinin-120 and Datura stramonium agglutinin were compared. The ratio of Lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive thyroglobulin to thyroglobulin was significantly lower in thyroid carcinoma than in normal thyroid tissue, Graves' disease and benign thyroid tumor. However, no differences between malignant and benign tissues were observed with the other lectins tested. Differences in carbohydrate chain on thyroglobulin were observed between malignant and benign thyroid tissues. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Developing a care program to better know the chronically critically ill.
Patients requiring prolonged periods of intensive care and mechanical ventilation are termed chronically critically ill. These patients present a challenge to the healthcare team. In the fast-paced environment of the intensive care unit, their slow progress can be a source of frustration. At the University Hospital Geneva, a team, led by a clinical nurse specialist, addressed this problem by implementing a new care program with a goal to better know this patient population and improve their care. Values of emancipatory practice development guided the project, which utilized an action research methodology. Key assessment tools included a nursing focused patient history at admission and weekly nursing rounds, which allowed for periodic holistic assessment and care planning. New interventions focused on communication, physical care, and providing a context of understanding for the patient beyond hospitalisation, operationalised as a patient diary. The structure of the new program allowed the nurses to develop new skills and provided an environment for dynamic reflection. The care of this demanding patient population is beginning to be perceived by nurses as challenging and interesting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Client interpersonal impacts as mediators of long-term outcome in cognitive-behavioral therapy integrated with motivational interviewing for generalized anxiety disorder.
A recent trial of generalized anxiety disorder treatment (Westra, H. A., Constantino, M. J., & Antony, M. M. (2016). Integrating Motivational Interviewing With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Severe Generalized Anxiety Disorder: An Allegiance-Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 84, 768-782. doi: 10.1037/ccp0000098 ) revealed that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) integrated with motivational interviewing (MI) outperformed CBT alone across a 12-month follow up. The present study examined whether this treatment effect was mediated by MI-CBT clients engaging over time in during-session interpersonal behaviors reflecting more friendly dominance, or agentic actions, and less friendly submissiveness (FS), or trustingly compliant actions both theory-specific MI mechanisms. Clients received 15 sessions of MI-CBT (n = 42) or CBT alone (n = 43). Therapists rated client interpersonal behavior following five sessions, and clients rated their worry at baseline, each session, and 6- and 12-month follow up. Mediator and outcome variables were derived from multilevel models. Mediation was tested using a bootstrapping procedure. There was a significant indirect effect for FS. As expected, CBT clients evidenced greater increases in FS than MI-CBT clients, which in turn, though unexpectedly, related to lower 12-month worry. However, long-term CBT outcomes remained inferior to MI-CBT outcomes even with CBT clients'greater increase in FS. Results suggest that CBT outcomes are more positive when clients trustingly comply; however, MI-CBT remained superior, but for as yet unexplained reasons. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of redox potential and pH changes on phosphorus retention by melter slag filters treating wastewater.
The release of phosphorus (P) and iron (Fe) from a melter slag filter in solutions of varying Eh and pH was examined. The filter had been removing P from waste stabilization pond effluent for several years. The study revealed that the highest P (95% of total P) and Fe (25% of total Fe) release from the slag occurred in the solution with the lowest Eh (-400 mV, relative to the standard hydrogen electrode, SHE) and lowest pH (4.9). Solutions with high pH (9.1) also proved favorable for P release (20 to 40% of total P) from the slag, at both reducing (-400 mV) and oxidizing (+300 mV) Eh. By contrast, solutions with pH 4.9 and 6.7 and oxidizing Eh (+300 mV) liberated the lowest P and Fe contents into the aqueous phase (<1% for both elements). The findings showed that Eh and pH are important parameters affecting P release from slag filters. At low Eh and low pH, P is released due to the dissolution of Fe oxides/oxyhydroxides, as supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). At high pH, P is desorbed from negatively charged Fe oxide/oxyhydroxide surfaces. The results of this investigation are pertinentto the design and operation of melter slag filters that treat all forms of P-rich waters, such as wastewater, stormwater, and farm runoff. The study demonstrated that P retention by melter slag filters is optimal in water bodies characterized by near-neutral pH and oxidizing Eh because these conditions favor P adsorption onto Fe oxides/oxyhydroxides. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cost-effectiveness of treatment strategies in women with PCOS who do not conceive after six cycles of clomiphene citrate.
This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of treatments for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who ovulate on clomiphene citrate but do not conceive after six cycles. A decision-analytic framework was developed for six scenarios: (1) three cycles of IVF; (2) continuation of clomiphene citrate for six cycles, followed by three cycles of IVF in case of no birth; (3) six cycles of gonadotrophins and three cycles of IVF; (4) 12 cycles of gonadotrophins and three cycles of IVF; (5) continuation of clomiphene citrate for six cycles, six cycles of gonadotrophins and three cycles of IVF; (6) continuation of clomiphene citrate for six cycles, 12 cycles of gonadotrophins and three cycles of IVF. Two-year cumulative birth rates were 58%, 74%, 89%, 97%, 93% and 98% and costs per couple were € 9518, € 7530, € 9711, € 9764, € 7651 and € 7684 for scenarios 1-6, respectively. Scenario 2 was the lowest cost option. The extra cost for at least one live birth in scenario 5 was € 629 and in scenario 6 € 630. In these subjects, continuation of treatment for six cycles of clomiphene citrate, 6 or 12 cycles of gonadotrophins and IVF is potentially cost-effective. These results should be confirmed in a randomized clinical trial. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Trajectories of frailty and related factors of the older people in Taiwan.
BACKGROUND/STUDY CONTEXT: This study aimed to identify the different trajectories of frailty and factors related to frailty among older adults over time. Data were obtained from a five-wave panel composed of older Taiwanese adults from 1993 to 2007 (N = 2306). Frailty was defined as the presence of three or more of the following criteria: shrinking, weakness, exhaustion, slowness, and low physical activity. A group-based model of trajectory analysis was applied with time-dependent and time-independent variables. Three trajectory groups were identified: maintaining nonfrailty, developing frailty, and high risk of frailty. Being female, older, and having a lower level of education were risk factors for being in the developing frailty group or high risk of frailty group. Physical risk factors and psychological factors were associated with frailty within each group. Higher financial satisfaction and social participation were protective factors from frailty for the developing frailty group and high risk of frailty group, respectively. Older adults should promote their health physically, psychologically, and socially. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prognostic factors in thin cutaneous malignant melanoma.
Thin melanomas can metastasize and be lethal. The predictive importance of tumor thickness in thin melanomas and the specific features identifying the patients at risk have not been investigated fully. Prognostic factors were analyzed in 585 patients with clinical Stage I invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma with a thickness of less than or equal to 0.8 mm. The patients were included in a population-based cancer registry in Stockholm county during 1976-1987. They constituted about 64% of all patients with thin melanomas who were diagnosed in the region during the study period. Information was available on age, sex, anatomic site of the tumor, histologic type of melanoma, level of invasion, tumor thickness, and tumor regression. In a Cox regression analysis, the prognostic importance of each factor was studied. By a case-control technique with individual matching for the identified independent predictors of recurrence, the additional prognostic information given by type and grade of inflammatory response, presence of vertical growth phase, mitotic rate/mm2, and histologic ulceration of the tumor was assessed. After a median follow-up time of 50 months, recurrent disease developed in 26 patients (4%). There was no difference in recurrence rate between patients treated with narrow (1-2 cm) or wide (5 cm) excision. Anatomic site, tumor thickness, level of invasion, and tumor regression were found to be independent prognostic factors in the multivariate analysis. In the case-control study, only grade of inflammatory reaction added significant prognostic information. No subgroup could be identified that was without risk of recurrent disease. Thin melanomas do not seem to constitute a separate form of melanoma, but compose one end of a continuous spectrum of biologic behavior. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Psoriasis complicated with venous thromboembolism: report of two cases and a literature review.
Cases of psoriasis complicated with venous thromboembolism are rarely reported. Here, we report two cases and review the current literature on the subject. Two patients with long-standing severe psoriasis presented with chest pain, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. The patients were diagnosed using lung ventilation-perfusion scans or computed tomographic pulmonary angiography. Anticoagulation or thrombolytic therapy was initiated, and long-term continuous anticoagulation with warfarin prevented any recurrences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Routine fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing following prolonged intubation: implications for management.
Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) will identify patients who are at high risk for pulmonary aspiration due to swallowing dysfunction after prolonged intubation. Based on the results of FEES, dietary recommendations can be made to decrease the incidence of aspiration after prolonged intubation. Patients who were intubated for at least 48 hours were evaluated for swallowing dysfunction by bedside FEES within 48 hours of extubation. Differences in potential risk factors between aspirators and nonaspirators were analyzed. Dietary recommendations were made and patients were followed up for signs of clinically significant aspiration. Community teaching hospital. Fifty-one consecutive patients with no previously documented swallowing disorder who required a minimum of 48 hours of intubation for mechanical ventilation. Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing was performed by a speech pathologist. Initial diet orders were determined by results of the swallowing study. Incidence of swallowing dysfunction following prolonged intubation and incidence of clinically significant aspiration following initiation of oral feeding. Incidence of swallowing dysfunction was 56% (27/48); 12 (25%) of 48 patients were silent aspirators. In comparing aspirators with nonaspirators, no significant differences in potential risk factors or comorbidities were seen. Nineteen (70%) of the 27 patients aspirated with thin-consistency test liquids, and the other 8 (30%) with puree consistency. No patients in this study group developed a clinically significant aspiration following initiation of appropriately modified diets. Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing identified swallowing dysfunction in more than 50% of patients intubated for longer than 48 hours, many of whom are silent aspirators. Dietary recommendations based on FEES results prevented clinically significant aspiration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chronic myelogenous leukemia primitive hematopoietic progenitors demonstrate increased sensitivity to growth factor-induced proliferation and maturation.
We investigated whether primary chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) hematopoietic progenitors demonstrated altered proliferation and maturation in response to growth factor (GF) stimulation. The effect of GF stimulation on proliferation and expansion of committed and primitive progenitors (colony forming cells [CFC]) was evaluated. Culture of CML and normal CD34(+) cells with different GF for 7 days resulted in similar expansion of committed progenitors (CFC). In contrast, GF culture conditions that expanded normal primitive progenitors (week-6 long-term culture-initiating cells (LTC-IC)] led to depletion of CML LTC-IC numbers. GF culture also resulted in increased depletion of week-10 extended LTC-IC, which represent an even more primitive progenitor population, from CML compared with normal CD34(+) cells. CML CD34(+) cells enter into cycle more quickly than normal CD34(+) cells and CML CFC expansion was accelerated compared to normal CFC. Evaluation of primitive progenitor proliferation using PKH-26 and single-cell LTC-IC analysis demonstrated that the majority of CML LTC-IC remaining after GF culture originated from divided CD34(+) cells, whereas GF-cultured normal LTC-IC were derived mainly from undivided cells. Depletion of CML primitive progenitor numbers in association with increased proliferation suggests increased sensitivity to GF-induced maturation. These studies indicate that CML primitive progenitors have enhanced sensitivity to GF-induced cell division and maturation. Altered GF responsiveness may contribute to abnormal expansion of malignant myeloid cells in CML. These findings may also be applied toward the development of novel approaches to select benign stem cells in CML. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Coronary sinus flow is reduced in methamphetamine abusers: a transthoracic echocardiographic study.
To compare the coronary sinus flow among healthy participants, methamphetamine abusers without chest pain and those with chest pain. One hundred and eight methamphetamine abusers: 53 ones without chest pain, 55 ones with chest pain, free of ascertained coronary artery disease, were enrolled in this study. A control group of 50 age-matched male healthy participants was studied for comparison. Standard 2D, flow and tissue Doppler echo with measurements of cardiac morphologic and functional indicators, coronary sinus flow, and inferior vena cava (IVC) ultrasound with measurements of the IVC dimensions and their collapsibility index were performed, respectively. Compared to healthy participants, methamphetamine abusers had higher blood pressure, greater left ventricular mass index and more impaired diastolic function, with preserved cardiac sizes, systolic function and right atrial pressure. Methamphetamine abusers with chest pain had faster heart rate than those without chest pain and healthy participants. Coronary sinus flow was significantly less in methamphetamine abusers than in healthy participants (P < 0.05), and was extremely lower in those with chest pain than in healthy participants (about one-fourth) (P < 0.01). The area under the curve (AUC) of coronary sinus flow was 0.913 (0.864-0.962), and the cutoff value with 221.65 mL/min had sensitivity of 83.4%, specificity of 87.2% and accuracy of 85.2% for differentiating methamphetamine abusers from healthy participants. While the AUC of coronary sinus flow was 0.996 (0.989-1.003), and the cutoff value with 172.59 mL/min had sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 93.3% and accuracy of 96.5% for predicting methamphetamine abusers with chest pain. Coronary sinus flow is significant reduced in methamphetamine abusers, which is maybe a good indicator for indentifying methamphetamine abusers from normal population, and for predicting methamphetamine abusers with chest pain. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Secular trends of sports participation, sedentary activity and physical self-perceptions in Hong Kong adolescents, 1995-2000.
To assess the 5-year secular changes in sports participation, sedentary activity, and physical self-perceptions among Hong Kong adolescents. A total of 2932 and 5692 secondary students, aged 13-18 participated in the Health Related Behavior General (HRBG) Survey in 1995-1996 and 2000-2001, respectively. Extracurricular sports participation at least weekly or as a team member (none, 1-2 events, 3 or more events), sedentary activities (0-1 h/day, 2 h/day or more) including television/video watching and homework were assessed. Additionally, physical self-perceptions, physical fitness (fit/very fit, moderately fit, unfit/very unfit) and body weight (intention to lose weight, satisfied, intention to gain weight) were reported. Secular trends of sports participation, and sedentary activities and physical self-perceptions were assessed. During the 5 years, the prevalence of sports participation (at least weekly or membership) decreased significantly in boys. The prevalence of both TV/video watching and homework for at least 2 h/day increased significantly in both sexes. The prevalence of being unfit/very unfit increased significantly in girls. No significant secular difference in weight perception was observed for both sexes. Sports participation decreased and sedentary activities increased during the 5-year period. Physical self-perceptions did not change significantly, except an increase in being physically unfit was observed in girls. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Phase I/II study of S-1 plus cisplatin combined with peptide vaccines for human vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 and 2 in patients with advanced gastric cancer.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of vaccination with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A24-restricted human vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1)-1084 and VEGFR2-169 combined with chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer. HLA-A 2402-positive patients with advanced or recurrent adenocarcinoma of the stomach were vaccinated with VEGFR1-1084 and VEGFR2-169 combined with S-1 and cisplatin. The study included 22 patients (median age 60.5 years) who received at least one cycle of the combination therapy. No severe adverse effects caused by the vaccine therapy were observed except for an inflammatory reaction at the site of injection in 6 patients. Twelve patients (55%) showed partial response and 10 had stable disease after two cycles of the combination therapy. The disease control rate (partial response and stable disease) was 100% after two cycles. The median time to progression was 9.6 months and median overall survival was 14.2 months. VEGFR1-1084-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response was induced in 18 (82%) of the 22 patients and VEGFR2-169-specific CTL response was induced in 18 (82%) of the 22 patients. Patients showing CTL response to VEGFR2-169 peptide had significantly better prognosis than those without, as demonstrated by the overall survival (OS) and time to progression (TTP) (OS, p=0.028, TTP, p=0.006). The combination therapy was well tolerated and highly effective in advanced or recurrent gastric cancer. Substantial specific CTL for both peptides was frequently induced even under chemotherapy. Thus, cancer vaccination combined with standard chemotherapy warrants further analysis as a promising strategy for the treatment of advanced cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The effects of NOX4 and TGF-βinvolved in airway remodeling of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease].
To investigate the role of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate 4 (NADPH4,NOX4) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) involve in pathogenesis of airway remodeling in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Lung tissues from 36 COPD patients and 19 patients with normal lung function were enrolled in this study. The volume of airway smooth muscle (ASM)mass was evaluated. The expressions of NOX4, collagen Ⅳ (Col Ⅳ) and TGF-β were tested by a semi-quantitative morphological and/or immunohistochemistry staining method and Western blot, and their correlations with pulmonary functions were analyzed. ①Index of the percentage of the thickness of ASM/external diameter of small airway (WT%) and the percentage of the area of ASM/transverse area of small airway (WA%) were significantly higher in the COPD group than those in controls(P<0.05).②In COPD patients,epithelial cells metaplasia were found and α-SMA and Col Ⅳwere expressed in a part of epithelial cells. The expressions of α-small muscle actin (α-SMA) and Col Ⅰ were increased in COPD patients in comparison with the patients without obstructive airway disorders(P<0.05).③The expression of NOX4 in ASM and epithelial cells of COPD patients was significantly higher in comparison with the patients without COPD. The expression of NOX4 in ASM of small airway were statistically different among different COPD grade (P<0.05). Correlation analysis demonstrated that the level of NOX4 protein in ASM of small airway was inversely associated with pulmonary functions. ④The expression of TGF-β in COPD was significantly higher than that in patients without COPD. ⑤ Correlation analysis demonstrated that the level of NOX4 protein in ASM of small airway, WT% and WA% were inversely associated with pulmonary functions. ①The airway remodeling of COPD is characterized by increasing hyperplasia of small airway smooth muscle.②Remodeling of airway smooth muscle associats with severity of airflow limitation in COPD patients. ③The expressions of NOX4, TGF-β and α-SMA in COPD epithelial cells and small airway smooth muscle cells are significantly enhanced. The expressions of NOX4, α-SMA and TGF-β are positively correlated with the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary air flow, suggesting that TGF-β and NOX4 signaling may be involved in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease airway remodeling. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Anatomic basis of right renal vein extension for cadaveric kidney transplantation.
The right renal vein (RRV) may be difficult to anastomose in right cadaveric kidney transplantation, especially in obese recipients in whom iliac vessels are deep. In this study, gain of length and feasibility in the presence of vascular variations obtained with three common techniques of renal vein augmentation--clamshell (CS), transverse closure of the inferior vena cava (TC), and cava conduit (CC)--were analyzed and compared to the Carrel-patch technique. The renal vasculature and the inferior vena cava of 119 cadavers were accurately dissected and measured, and the vascular variations documented. The CS technique augmented the RRV at most by one fourth, the TC by one half the diameter of the inferior vena cava, and the CC by the length of the infrarenal inferior vena cava. An experienced transplant surgeon evaluated the situs for the feasibility of the techniques. The variations found were multiple veins (right, 23%; left, 6.7%), a retroaortal left vein (2.5%), a renal collar (6%); and multiple arteries (right, 20.2%; left, 19%). The RRV length varied from 21 to 71 mm, and the right renal artery (RRA) length varied between 44 and 111 mm. The RRA/RRV ratios ranged between 3.4 and 1.2. The achieved gains of length were 129% with the CS (possible in 81.5%), 190% with the TC (possible in 62.4%), and 388.4% with the CC (possible in 80.7%). The median RRV is one half the RRA in length so that length augmentation could be an advantage. Anatomic variations limit the choice of technique. Overall, augmentation was possible in 80%; the CS technique seldom resulted in a length equal to that of the RRA, the TC was the most susceptible to variations, and the CC always surpassed the RRA in length. Harvesting the RRV en bloc with the inferior vena cava enables the surgeon to best adapt donor vessels to the recipient's anatomy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis: case report with immunohistochemical analysis and literature review.
This report describes the case of a patient with multicentric reticulohistiocytosis. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed prominent markers of monocyte/macrophage origin, as well as the presence of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), and IL-12; the occurrence of the latter in this disease has not previously been reported. Clinical, laboratory, radiographic, and histologic findings in multicentric reticulohistiocytosis are reviewed. In addition, all published cases of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis which included reports of cytokine and immunohistochemical analysis are reviewed, and evidence for a monocyte/macrophage origin and role in disease pathogenesis is provided. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact of rapid diagnosis on management of adults hospitalized with influenza.
Rapid influenza testing decreases antibiotic and ancillary test use in febrile children, yet its effect on the care of hospitalized adults is unexplored. We compared the clinical management of patients with influenza whose rapid antigen test result was positive (Ag+) with the management of those whose rapid antigen test result was negative or the test was not performed (Ag0). Medical record review was performed on patients with influenza hospitalized during 4 winters (1999-2003). Hospital policy mandated influenza testing (antigen or culture) for all patients with acute cardiopulmonary diseases admitted from November 15 through April 15. A subset of patients participated in an epidemiological study and had reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction or serologic testing performed. Clinical data from Ag+ and Ag0 patients were compared. Of 166 patients with available records, 86 were Ag+ and 80 were Ag0. Antibiotic use (74 [86%] of 86 patients vs 79 [99%] of 80 patients; P = .002) was less and antibiotic discontinuance (12 [14%] of 86 patients vs 2 [2%] of 80 patients; P=.01) was greater in Ag+ compared with Ag0 patients. No significant differences in antibiotic days, length of hospital stay, or antibiotic complications were noted. Antiviral use (63 [73%] of 86 patients vs 6 [8%] of 80 patients; P<.001) was greater in Ag+ than Ag0 patients. Antigen status was independently associated with withholding or discontinuing antibiotics in multivariate analysis. Of 44 Ag+ patients deemed low risk for bacterial infection, 27 continued to receive antibiotics despite positive influenza test results. These patients more commonly had pulmonary disease and had significantly more abnormal lung examination results (P = .005) compared with those in whom antibiotics were withheld or discontinued. Rapid influenza testing leads to reductions in antibiotic use in hospitalized adults. Better tools to rule out concomitant bacterial infection are needed to optimize the impact of viral testing. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Curcumin causes promoter hypomethylation and increased expression of FANCF gene in SiHa cell line.
Curcumin and resveratrol were evaluated for their potential to cause reversal of promoter hypermethylation and associated gene expression of FANCF in SiHa cell line. Methylation specific PCR along with bisulphite sequencing revealed the demethylation of 12 CpG sites out of 15 CpG sites spanning ?280 to ?432 region of FANCF promoter after treatment with curcumin and fivefold up regulation of FANCF gene expression as shown by qRT-PCR. In vitro methylation assay also showed that M.SssI an analogue of DNMT1 was effectively inhibited at 50 lM concentration of curcumin. Resveratrol was not found to be effective in causing reversal of promoter hypermethylation of FANCF gene when used at 20 lM for 4 days in SiHa cell line. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical characteristics of patients seizure following the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake.
To investigate the clinical characteristics of patients with seizure following the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake. We retrospectively studied patients with seizure admitted to our hospital for 12weeks following the earthquake. We compared the clinical backgrounds and characteristics of the patients: before (the same period from the previous 3years) and after the earthquake; and the early (first 2weeks) and late (subsequent 10weeks) phases. A total of 60 patients with seizure were admitted to the emergency room after the earthquake, and 175 (58.3/year) patients were admitted before the earthquake. Of them, 35 patients with seizure were hospitalized in the Department of Neurology after the earthquake, and 96 (32/year) patients were hospitalized before the earthquake. In patients after the earthquake, males and non-cerebrovascular diseases as an epileptogenic disease were seen more frequently than before the earthquake. During the early phase after the earthquake, female, first-attack, and non-focal-type patients were seen more frequently than during the late phase after the earthquake. These characteristics of patients with seizure during the early phase after the earthquake suggest that many patients had non-epileptic seizures. To prevent seizures following earthquakes, mental stress and physical status of evacuees must be assessed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Passing the anaerobic threshold is associated with substantial changes in the gene expression profile in white blood cells.
High and moderate intensity endurance exercise alters gene expression in human white blood cells (WBCs), but the understanding of how this effect occurs is limited. To increase our knowledge of the nature of this process, we investigated the effects of passing the anaerobic threshold (AnT) on the gene expression profile in WBCs of athletes. Nineteen highly trained skiers participated in a treadmill test with an incremental step protocol until exhaustion (ramp test to exhaustion, RTE). The average total time to exhaustion was 14:40 min and time after AnT was 4:50 min. Two weeks later, seven of these skiers participated in a moderate treadmill test (MT) at 80% peak O(2) uptake for 30 min, which was slightly below their AnTs. Blood samples were obtained before and immediately after both tests. RTE was associated with substantially greater leukocytosis and acidosis than MT. Gene expression in WBCs was measured using whole genome microarray expression analysis before and immediately after each test. A total of 310 upregulated genes were found after RTE, and 69 genes after MT of which 64 were identical to RTE. Both tests influenced a variety of known gene pathways related to inflammation, stress response, signal transduction and apoptosis. A large group of differentially expressed previously unknown small nucleolar RNA and small Cajal body RNA was found. In conclusion, a 15-min test to exhaustion was associated with substantially greater changes of gene expression than a 30-min test just below the AnT. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mild Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H activation and annulation with alkyne MIDA boronates: short, efficient synthesis of heterocyclic boronic acid derivatives.
Taking advantage of Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H activation reactions, we have developed a mild, short, and efficient method for the synthesis of bench-stable 3-isoquinolone MIDA boronates. The reaction is practical and scalable. The product formed has been applied in the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction with high efficiency. This strategy has also been successfully expanded to the synthesis of MIDA boronate functionalized heterocycles such as isoquinoline, pyrrole, and indole. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Experiencing hypnotizability scale motor items by an amputee: a brief report.
The following brief report describes the experiences of a hand and arm amputee following the administration of the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility, Form A (HGSHS:A) of Shor and Orne, 1962. The participant passed two of the three motor items involving his missing limb. This report discusses the results of a postsession interview regarding our participant's experiences during hypnosis and briefly discusses phantom limb sensations in general. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relation of family problems to patterns of delinquent involvement among urban youth.
The relation of patterns of family problems and patterns of delinquent behavior over time was evaluated among a sample of inner-city minority adolescent males. Empirically derived groups were identified and included: nonoffenders, chronic minor offenders, escalators, and serious chronic offenders. Patterns of family problems were also identified and differentially related to delinquency groups. Members of the group involved in serious chronic offending were more likely to have families characterized by multiple problems including disruption, conflict, and lack of parental involvement, sometimes so extreme as to meet the legal requirement of neglect. They were also more likely to have families characterized by deviant behavior and attitudes. The finding of specific relations between types of family problems and patterns of delinquent behavior has important implications for intervention and prevention. Rather than assuming a general relation between family functioning and delinquent involvement, specific aspects of family functioning may need to be targeted to affect different patterns of delinquent involvement. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Evolution of cartilage in the skeletons of ancient anamniotes].
Owing to discoveries of ancient fossils of the Anamnia it was revealed that endo and exoskeletal tissue have an independent history of development. At early evolutional stages, the exoskeletal tissues were connected by various transitions and were at the stage of incomplete differentiation. During evolution variability of these tissues decreased; this resulted in disappearance of aspidin from the tegmentum, and dentin remained only in some primitive groups of fishes (sharks, Latimeria chalumnae, Lepidosteus osseus), while in most vertebrates the exoskeleton was formed exclusively from the osseous tissue. In the endoskeleton the cartilage evolutionally preceded the bone. It is rather difficult to draw any border between the calcified cartilage and the bone in the ancient vertebrates. When an osseous tissue healing occurs at some pathological processes in the vertebrae, a primitive state of the endoskeletal tissue is reproduced. Secondary progressive cartilage development during evolution in the anamnia is considered as a result of negative anabolism and connected with a slowed morphogenesis. Chondrification evidently increases plastic possibilities of the endoskeletal structures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Calcium sparks in human ventricular cardiomyocytes from patients with terminal heart failure.
Cardiomyocytes from terminally failing hearts display significant abnormalities in e-c-coupling, contractility and intracellular Ca(2+) handling. This study is the first to demonstrate the influence of end-stage heart failure on specific properties of Ca(2+) sparks in human ventricular cardiomyocytes. We investigated the frequency and characteristics of spontaneously arising Ca(2+) sparks in single isolated human myocytes from terminally failing (HF) and non-failing (NF) control myocardium by using the Ca(2+) indicator Fluo-3. The Ca(2+) sparks were recorded by line-scan images along the longitudinal axis of the myocytes at a frequency of 250Hz. After loading the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) with Ca(2+) by repetitive field stimulation (10 pulses at 1Hz) the frequency of the Ca(2+) sparks immediately after stimulation (t = 0s) was reduced significantly in HF compared to NF (4.15 +/- 0.42 for NF vs. 2.81 +/- 0.20 for HF sparks s(-1), P = 0.05). This difference was present constantly in line-scan recordings up to 15s duration (t = 15s: 2.75 +/- 0.65 for NF vs. 1.36 +/- 0.34 for HF sparks s(-1), P = 0.05). The relative amplitude (F/F(0)) of Ca(2+) sparks was also significantly lower in HF cardiomyocytes (1.33 +/- 0.015 NF vs. 1.19 +/- 0.003 HF, t = 0s) and during subsequent recordings of 15s. Significant differences between HF and NF were also present in calculations of specific spark properties. The time to peak was estimated at 25.75 +/-0.88ms in HF and 18.68 +/- 0.45ms in NF cardiomyocytes (P = 0.05). Half-time of decay was 66.48 +/- 1.89ms (HF) vs. 44.15 +/- 1.65ms (NF, P < 0.05), and the full width at half-maximum (FWHM) was 3.99 +/- 0.06 microm (HF) vs. 3.5 +/- 0.07 microm (NF, P < 0.05). These data support the hypothesis that even in the absence of cardiac disease, Ca(2+) sparks from human cardiomyocytes differ from previous results of animal studies with respect to the time-to-peak, half-time of decay and FWHM. The role of elevated external Ca(2+) in HF was studied by recording Ca(2+) sparks in HF cardiomyocytes with 10mmol external Ca(2+) concentration. Under these conditions, the average spark amplitude was increased from 1.19 +/- 0.003 (F/F(0), 2mmol Ca(2+)) to 1.26 +/- 0.01 (F/F(0), 10mmol Ca(2+)). We conclude that human heart failure causes distinct changes in Ca(2+) spark frequency and characteristics comparable to results established in animal models of heart failure. A reduced Ca(2+) load of the SR alone is unlikely to account for the observed differences between HF and NF and additional alterations in intracellular Ca(2+) release mechanisms must be postulated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tobacco cessation in India: how can oral health professionals contribute?
Tobacco use is described as the single most preventable cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with the World Bank predicting over 450 million tobacco-related deaths in the next fifty years. In India, the proportion of all deaths that can be attributed to tobacco use is expected to rise from 1.4% in 1990 to 13.3% in 2020 of which smoking alone will cause about 930,000 adult deaths by 2010. Many studies have shown that counseling from a health professional is an effective method of helping patients quit the tobacco habit. Tobacco cessation needs to be urgently expanded by training health professionals in providing routine clinical interventions, increasing availability and subsidies of pharmacotherapy, developing wide-reaching strategies such as quitlines, and cost- effective strategies, including group interventions. The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) emphasizes the vital contribution of participation of health professional bodies, as well as training and healthcare institutions in tobacco control efforts. Dentists can play an important role in helping patients quit using tobacco. One of the key strategies to reduce tobacco-related morbidity and mortality is to encourage the involvement of health professionals in tobacco-use prevention and cessation counselling. The dental office is an ideal setting for tobacco cessation services since preventive treatment services, oral screening, and patient education have always been a large part of the dental practice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alosetron.
Alosetron is a potent and highly selective serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist which has been evaluated for the management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It blocked the fast 5HT3-mediated depolarisation of guinea-pig myenteric and submucosal neurons in vitro, with half-maximal inhibition at approximately 55 nmol/L. Alosetron attenuated the visceral nociceptive effect of rectal distension in conscious or anaesthetised dogs. It increased the compliance of the colon to distension in patients with IBS and delayed colonic transit in patients with IBS or carcinoid diarrhoea and in healthy volunteers. A single dose of alosetron 4 mg increased in vivo fluid absorption in normal human small intestine. In clinical trials in patients with IBS, alosetron 1 mg twice daily was effective in relieving abdominal pain and discomfort. Alosetron was most effective in female patients and particularly in those with diarrhoea-predominant IBS. In patients with IBS and healthy volunteers who received alosetron, the most common adverse event was constipation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pharmacokinetics and hypotensive effect in healthy volunteers of pinacidil, a new potent vasodilator.
Preliminary investigation in 3 healthy volunteers suggested that intravenous pinacidil in a dose of 0.2 mg/kg had a potent but well-tolerated hypotensive action in the supine position. Facial flushing, uncomfortable chest sensation and distressing postural hypotension occurred at serum concentrations above 300 ng/ml. Pinacidil, 0.2 mg/kg, was given intravenously over 4 min to 15 healthy volunteers in the supine position. Maximum fall in mean arterial pressure (MAP) was 15.7 +/- 6.0 mmHg. Maximum rise in heart rate was 23.8 +/- 6.6 beats/min. Pinacidil serum distribution half-life (T1/2 alpha) was 13.4 +/- 8.5 min and elimination half-life (T1/2 beta) was 2.13 +/- 0.49 h. The apparent volume of distribution (Vd beta) was 90.3 +/- 13.21 and total body clearance was 31.1 +/- 9.61/h. Pinacidil was approximately 40% bound to plasma protein over the concentration range 40-400 ng/ml. Urinary excretion of unchanged pinacidil accounted for 5.7 +/- 1.3% of the administered dose over 24 hours and urinary excretion of the major metabolite, pinacidil pyridine-N-oxide, was 31.6 +/- 9.2% of the administered dose. It was concluded that intravenous pinacidil is a potent vasodilator hypotensive compound, with a duration of action between 1.5 and 2 h. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Regulation of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in rat liver by insulin and hydrocortisone].
Activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), its isoenzyme spectrum and kinetic properties of the partially purified enzyme were studied in liver tissue of intact rats as well as in animals treated with insulin and hydrocortisone. The data obtained suggest that the activation and inhibition of G6PD by insulin and hydrocortisone, respectively, are due most likely not to alterations in conformation of the enzymatic molecules, but to the opposite influence of these hormones on the content of the main fraction of the isoenzyme spectrum of G6PD, which accounts for 78-90% of its total activity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lack of control of liver gluconeogenesis in cholestatic rats with reduced portal blood flow.
Previous studies indicated a role for ischemia in the metabolic changes induced by cholestasis. Liver pyruvate kinase is a key enzyme for the concurrent control of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. In this experiment the control of pyruvate kinase activity was investigated in cholestatic rats. Pyruvate kinase kinetics changed from a sigmoidal type in sham-operated rats to a hyperbolic type in obstructed rats. The change in the enzymatic kinetics paralleled the reduction in the portal blood flow, which reached 50% of the control value 7 days after obstruction. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP (5 mumol/kg body wt) plus theophylline 0.1 mmol/L failed to inactivate the enzyme when injected into the portal veins of rats whose livers were obstructed 7 days before. Both the kinetics changes and the lack of phosphorylation control are compatible with ischemia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy (MELAS): pathological study and successful therapy with coenzyme Q10 and idebenone.
Two patients with mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and strokelike episodes (MELAS) in one family are reported. Pathological examination of case 1 showed ragged-red fibers, with 7% of the fibers being unstained by cytochrome c oxidase stain, peripheral nerve damage, multiple areas of softening in the cerebrum and midbrain, and spongy changes in the cerebrum, optic nerve and pons. Electron microscopic examination revealed abnormal accumulations of mitochondria in the skeletal muscle, smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. The activity of cytochrome c oxidase in the brain and liver showed a tendency to decrease. In case 2 (maternal aunt of case 1), muscular weakness and peripheral nerve damage improved by treatment with coenzyme Q10. By adding idebenone to the coenzyme Q10 therapy, the EEG and Wechsler's Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) improved. Furthermore, in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), the protein, lactate, and pyruvate decreased, and the monoamines and monoamine metabolites increased. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Research into the effects of astronaut motion on the spacecraft: a review.
The paper reviews the research that has been undertaken to understand and quantify the disturbance effects of the astronaut's motion inside and outside the spacecraft on the vehicle's attitude and acceleratory environment. In early investigations, the dynamic interaction of astronauts, modeled as point masses, and the spacecraft, modelled as a rigid body, was analyzed. Through ground-based experiments and the modeling of astronaut-induced forces and moments as stochastic processes, it became possible to estimate the magnitude and energy content of the loads produced by the astronaut. The first experiment in space to measure the astronaut-induced disturbances was conducted on the Skylab orbital station. Loads generated while performing routine operations were measured on board the Space Shuttle in 1994 and on the space station Mir in 1996-1997. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Glucocorticoids differentially control synthesis of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase in rat liver and brain.
Mammalian organisms possess two cholinesterases: acetylcholinesterase (AChE, EC 3.1.1.7.) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE, EC 3.1.1.8.). A clear explanation for this dual expression of acetylcholine-hydrolyzing enzymes is still missing. Better knowledge on how these two enzymes respond to various physiological or pharmacological factors would importantly contribute to the understanding of their function. The aim of the present study is to elucidate glucocorticoid (GC) influences on the synthesis of AChE and BuChE in rat liver and brain. Female Wistar rats were treated with dexamethasone until body weight loss was greater than 15%, signaling full expression of a GC response. At this stage, liver and brain were isolated and AChE and BuChE activities were determined in their homogenates. A new approach, based on precise radiometric measurements of AChE and BuChE activities in the polysomal fractions, prepared under non-denaturing conditions, was used to study GC influences on the early stages of biosynthesis of both enzymes. We found a differential GC influence on AChE and BuChE. In brain, only BuChE activity was affected (-30%), while AChE remained practically unchanged. In liver, BuChE activity fell by 60%, while AChE lost only 18% of its control activity. In case of BuChE, decreased activities in the whole homogenates correlated with decreased activities in the polysomal fractions, suggesting that early stages of enzyme biosynthesis were primarily affected. On the other hand, decreased AChE activity in liver homogenates was not paralleled by a significant change at the level of polysomal AChE activity in this organ, suggesting that higher AChE turn-over is primarily responsible for the decreased activity in homogenate. These results, together with the GC-mediated elimination of the correlation between brain and liver BuChE activities, strongly support the proposal of Edwards and Brimijoin (J.A. Edwards, S. Brimijoin, Effects of hypophysectomy on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase in the rat, Biochem. Pharmacol. 32 (1983) 1183-1189) that BuChE is regulated by systemically acting factors, including various hormones, while regulation of AChE is primarily tissue-specific. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Twenty years of bicarbonate solutions.
For many years, lactate has been used successfully as a buffer in peritoneal dialysis solutions although its effectiveness in the correction of uremic acidosis and its biocompatibility on peritoneal resident cells have been questioned. In addition, some investigators have suggested other potential adverse metabolic effects resulting from the unphysiologically high lactate flux into the body during CAPD. These potential problems associated with lactate-containing CAPD solution prompted the search for alternative buffer-containing solutions. Bicarbonate, the physiological buffer, was considered when the problem of calcium and magnesium carbonate solubility was solved by the use of a two-compartment bag system allowing the mixing of bicarbonate and divalent cations immediately before infusion. The long-term tolerance, safety, efficacy and therapeutic value of a bicarbonate-buffered peritoneal dialysis solution have been evaluated for about 15 years. RCT studies demonstrated a benefit for acid base improvement, while observational reports showed other clinical effects such as a preservation of residual renal function, less inflammatory effect and peritonitis prevention. In addition, there is a consensus that local biocompatibility is improved. Therefore, as bicarbonate is the physiological buffer of the body, it should become the solution of choice in PD patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Uterine cervix cancer--profilactic activities and tobacco smoking. State 2010].
There are conducted several different prophylactic programs with the target to decrease the incidence as well as mortality according neoplastic diseases. In Poland since 2005 early detection of cervical cancer program have been held. It is directed to women between 25 and 59 years of age. Beside the cytological examination of the uterine cervix smear, for better definition of risk groups, all patients are requested to fill the questionnaire. Among factors that could be related to development of cancer in this localization is tobacco smoking. In this studies authors analized the changes of cervical cytology in respect of tobacco smoking by female patients. The results revealed a significant increase of high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) in smokers than in nonsmokers. In Non-smoking females or those who quite smoking the preneoplastic lesion of low or high grade decreased. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Thermodynamic characterization of di-, tri-, and tetranucleotide loci in parthenogenetic lizards Darevskia unisexualis].
Allelic polymorphism of three microsatellite loci from the genome of parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia unisexualis was characterized using analysis of free energy (Gibbs energy) of the DNA/DNA duplex formation within the stepwise mutational model. It was demonstrated that the number of microsatellite cluster monomericic units would change to decrease the mean free energy of the locus. In addition, based on the analysis of nucleotide composition, the GC content of each locus was evaluated, and belonging of the loci examined to certain isochore families was suggested. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
P-chirogenic binaphthyl-substituted monophosphines: synthesis and use in enolate vinylation/arylation reactions.
[reaction: see text] New phosphine ligands possessing both axial chirality and a chirogenic phosphorus center were prepared from (R)-2-bromo-2'-N,N-(dimethylamino)-1,1'-binaphthyl (1) via a simple Li-halogen exchange protocol. The asymmetric vinylation of a ketone enolate with (R,R(P))-2-(tert-butylphenylphosphino)-2'-N,N-(dimethylamino)-1,1'-binaphthyl (2a) afforded the coupling product with good enantiomeric excess. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isolation and characterization of a complementary DNA (galanin) clone from estrogen-induced pituitary tumor messenger RNA.
The administration of high levels of estrogen is a well established method for producing prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors in rodents but the mechanism of tumor induction is not clear. In this paper we describe a cDNA clone (pEIC) which has been isolated from an estrogen-induced pituitary tumor cDNA library. The mRNA transcript corresponding to the pEIC clone is 0.9 kilobase in length and is not detectable in normal pituitaries but is expressed as early as 3 h after estrogen stimulation. Nucleotide sequence analysis of two 700-base pair recombinant clones shows that they encode a 124-amino acid protein which is 70% identical to the porcine galanin precursor. The sequence of 29 amino acid residues coded for by the pEIC cDNA clone is 88% identical with porcine galanin with only three amino acid substitutions near the C terminus. This extensive homology suggests that the pEIC cDNA clone codes for rat galanin or a protein belonging to the galanin gene family. These results provide the first evidence of a physiological regulator (estrogen) of the expression of the galanin gene. They also imply that galanin is secreted by prolactin-secreting tumors. Because intracerebroventricular injection of galanin can stimulate prolactin secretion and galanin inhibits hypothalamic dopamine release, it is conceivable that galanin may play a role in the induction of prolactin-secreting tumors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effects of lithium on learning, memory, and mood (author's transl)].
In a double-blind study the effects of a 14-day lithium medication (dosage: 24 mval/d to 36 mval/d) were investigated. The subjects were 24 healthy male volunteers. The effect of lithium on their mood, ability to learn nouns, and memory of the words learnt was measured after 2 h and 14 days. In spite of a relatively low mean plasma lithium level on the 14th day (0.54 +/- 0.15 mmol/l), the lithium volunteers assessed themselves after 2 weeks of treatment as significantly less relaxed, less active, less socially involved, more bored, and more tired than the placebo group. As to learning, the lithium group showed only a slight impairment of performance compared to the placebo group. As to memory, there was only a significant difference in free recall over two weeks: the lithium group remembered fewer words than the placebo group. Additional motivation of free recall over 2 h was uneffective. It is discussed whether lithium changes spontaneous initial action and thereby the will to act. This could be interpreted as a change in the production of the characteristics of experience and behaviour. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recombinant goldfish thrombopoietin up-regulates expression of genes involved in thrombocyte development and synergizes with kit ligand A to promote progenitor cell proliferation and colony formation.
Thrombopoietin (TPO) is the principal regulator of thrombopoiesis and promotes the proliferation, differentiation and maturation of megakaryocytic progenitor cells in mammals. In this study we report on the molecular and functional characterization of goldfish TPO. Quantitative expression analysis of goldfish tpo revealed the highest mRNA levels in heart, followed by spleen, liver, brain, intestine and kidney tissues. Significant decrease of tpo and c-mpl expressions in goldfish primary kidney macrophage (PKM) cultures, as progenitor to macrophage development progressed, indicates that TPO is not involved in monopoiesis. Recombinant goldfish TPO (rgTPO) alone did not induce significant proliferation of progenitor cells, but TPO in cooperation with recombinant goldfish kit ligand A (rgKITLA) supported proliferation of progenitor cells in a dose-dependent manner. In response to rgTPO or a combination of rgTPO and rgKITLA, the mRNA levels of thrombopoietic markers cd41 and c-mpl as well as thrombo/erythropoietic transcription factors gata1 and lmo2 in sorted progenitor cells were up-regulated, while the mRNA levels of granulopoietic markers (cebpα and gcsfr) and the lymphoid transcription factor gata3 were down-regulated. Furthermore, rgTPO and rgKITLA synergistically stimulated thrombocytic colony-formation. Our results demonstrate that goldfish TPO has similar functions to mammalian TPO as a regulator of thrombopoiesis, and suggests a highly conserved molecular mechanism of thrombocyte development throughout evolution of vertebrates. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Professional satisfaction for doctors of the Mobile Emergency Team and the Emergency Coordinator Office 061. Region of Murcia].
The objective was to analyze the phenomenon of work satisfaction of doctors of the Mobile Emergency Team and the Emergency Coordinator Office 061 of the Region of Murcia. A observational, analytical and cross-sectional study of development carried out with the medical staff of the Casualty and Emergency Operations Department 061 of the Region of Murcia. Data collection was carried out in December 2013 and January 2014. NTP 394 was used. Work satisfaction: general satisfaction scale. nonparametric tests for 2 samples or k samples depending on type of comparison. A participation rate of 88.2% was obtained, in relation to the general job satisfaction, the average of the participants was 69.55 (SD = 14.4). Of the 15 items that make up the questionnaire, « work colleagues » is the factor with which doctors are more satisfied with, indicating that up to an 87%, show a positive assessment on this point. Being the second aspect most respondents valued their « job stability » with a percentage of positive ratings of 76.7%. The main findings clearly demonstrate the importance of inter-professional relations and human potential as the cornerstone in the exercise of the activity of healthcare professionals. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Protective effects of nicorandil on lipid peroxidation in ischemic and reperfused myocardium of rabbits].
The experiments of recirculating blood perfusion device showed that nicorandil (Nic) 0.15 mmol/L significantly decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), inhibited the release of creatine kinase (CK), counteracted the increase of coronary vascular resistance (CR), and abolished the reperfusion-induced arrhythmias in isolated rabbit hearts during ischemia and reperfusion. The results indicate that Nic has protective effects on myocardial ischemic and reperfused damage, which may relate to the prevention of lipid peroxidation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
On interplay between excitability and geometry.
Excitability is an intrinsic feature of a living matter. A commonly accepted feature of an excitable medium is that a local excitation leads to a propagation of circular or spiral excitation wave-fronts. This is indeed the case in fully excitable medium. However, with a decrease of an excitability localised wave-fragments emerge and propagate ballistically. Using FitzhHugh-Nagumo model we numerically study how excitation wave-fronts behave in a geometrically constrained medium and how the wave-fronts explore a random planar graph. We uncover how excitability controls propagation of excitation in angled branches, influences arrest of excitation entering a sudden expansion, and determines patterns of traversing of a random planar graph by an excitation waves. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Quality matters: A meta-analysis on components of healthy family meals.
A greater frequency of family meals is associated with better diet quality and lower body mass index (BMI) in children. However, the effect sizes are small, and it remains unclear which qualitative components of family meals contribute to these positive health outcomes. This meta-analysis synthesizes studies on social, environmental, and behavioral attributes of family meals and identifies components of family meals that are related to better nutritional health in children. A systematic literature search (50 studies; 49,137 participants; 61 reported effect sizes) identified 6 different components of healthy family mealtimes. Separate meta-analyses examined the association between each component and children's nutritional health. Age (children vs. adolescents), outcome type (BMI vs. diet quality), and socioeconomic status (SES; controlled vs. not controlled for SES) were examined as potential moderators. Positive associations consistently emerged between 5 components and children's nutritional health: turning the TV off during meals (r = .09), parental modeling of healthy eating (r = .12), higher food quality (r = .12), positive atmosphere (r = .13), children's involvement in meal preparation (r = .08), and longer meal duration (r = .20). No moderating effects were found. How a family eats together shows significant associations with nutritional health in children. Randomized control trials are needed to further verify these findings. The generalizability of the identified mealtime components to other contexts of social eating is also discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical assessment and rehabilitation of shoulder and knee sensorimotor control.
The orthopedic surgeon must perform a thorough evaluation of an unstable joint to derive the accurate diagnosis. One component of this examination is evaluation of the sensorimotor system. This article provides an overview of techniques and methodology used to assess the sensorimotor system. Rehabilitation concepts are presented to assist the physician during patient consultation following injury or surgery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Regioselective intramolecular oxidation of phenols and anisoles by dioxiranes generated in situ
A novel method for regioselective oxidation of phenols and anisoles has been developed in which dioxiranes, generated in situ from ketones and Oxone, oxidize phenol derivatives in an intramolecular fashion. A series of ketones with electron-withdrawing groups, such as CF(3), COOMe, and CH(2)Cl, were attached to phenols, anisoles, or aryl rings via a C(2) or C(3) methylene linker. In a homogeneous solvent system of CH(3)CN and H(2)O, oxidation of phenol derivatives 1-10 afforded spiro 2-hydroxydienones in 24-55% yields regardless of the presence of other substituents (ortho Me, meta Me or Br) on the aryl ring and the length of the linker. Experimental evidences were provided to support the mechanism that involves a regioselective pi bond epoxidation of aryl rings followed by epoxide rearrangement and hemiketal formation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Translation, adaptation and validation of a Portuguese version of the Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II.
The prevalence of obesity has increased worldwide. An assessment of the impact of obesity on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) requires specific instruments. The Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II (MA-II) is a widely used instrument to assess HRQoL in morbidly obese patients. The objective of this study was to translate and validate a Portuguese version of the MA-II.The study included forward and backward translations of the original MA-II. The reliability of the Portuguese MA-II was estimated using the internal consistency and test-retest methods. For validation purposes, the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between the Portuguese MA-II and the Portuguese versions of two other questionnaires, the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite (IWQOL-Lite).One hundred and fifty morbidly obese patients were randomly assigned to test the reliability and validity of the Portuguese MA-II. Good internal consistency was demonstrated by a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.80, and a very good agreement in terms of test-retest reliability was recorded, with an overall intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.88. The total sums of MA-II scores and each item of MA-II were significantly correlated with all domains of SF-36 and IWQOL-Lite. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between the MA-II total score and BMI. Moreover, age, gender and surgical status were independent predictors of MA-II total score.A reliable and valid Portuguese version of the MA-II was produced, thus enabling the routine use of MA-II in the morbidly obese Portuguese population. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Activated PKA and PKC, but not CaMKIIalpha, are required for AMPA/Kainate-mediated pain behavior in the thermal stimulus model.
Secondary mechanical allodynia resulting from a thermal stimulus (52.5 degrees C for 45s) is blocked by intrathecal (i.t.) pretreatment with calcium-permeable AMPA/KA receptor antagonists, but not NMDA receptor antagonists. Spinal sensitization is presumed to underlie thermal stimulus-evoked secondary mechanical allodynia. We investigated whether this spinal sensitization involves activation and phosphorylation of calcium-dependent protein kinases (PKA, PKC and CaMKIIalpha), and examined if the noxious stimulus increases phosphorylated AMPA GLUR1 (pGLUR1 Ser-845 and pGLUR1 Ser-831). Secondary mechanical allodynia after thermal stimulation was not altered by i.t. pretreatment with control vehicles (saline or 5% DMSO). Comparable allodynia was observed after pretreatment with a selective CaMKIIalpha inhibitor (17 and 34nmol KN-93). In marked contrast, pretreatment with either a PKA (10nmol H89) or PKC (30nmol chelerythrine) inhibitor blocked allodynia. Western immunoblot analyses supported behavioral findings and revealed a thermal stimulus-evoked increase in spinal phosphorylated PKA and PKC, but not CaMKIIalpha. There was no increase in any of the total protein kinases. Although thermal stimulation did not change either pGLUR1 Ser-845 or pGLUR1 Ser-831, it was associated with an increase in cytosolic total GLUR1. Pretreatment with a selective calcium-permeable AMPA/KA receptor antagonist (5nmol joro spider toxin), but not an NMDA receptor antagonist (25nmol d-2-amino-5-phosphonovalerate, AP-5), blocked thermal stimulus-evoked increases in phosphorylated PKA and PKC, in addition to increased cytosolic GLUR1. These findings indicate that spinal sensitization in the thermal stimulus model does not involve CaMKIIalpha activation or AMPA GLUR1 receptor phosphorylation, and differs from that occurring in NMDAr-dependent pain states. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Image analysis in high-content screening.
The field of High Content Screening (HCS) has evolved from a technology used exclusively by the pharmaceutical industry for secondary drug screening, to a technology used for primary drug screening and basic research in academia. The size and the complexity of the screens have been steadily increasing. This is reflected in the fact that the major challenges facing the field at the present are data mining and data storage due to the large amount of data generated during HCS. On the one hand, technological progress of fully automated image acquisition platforms, and on the other hand advances in the field of automated image analysis have made this technology more powerful and more accessible to less specialized users. Image analysis solutions for many biological problems exist and more are being developed to increase both the quality and the quantity of data extracted from the images acquired during the screens. We highlight in this review some of the major challenges facing automatic high throughput image analysis and present some of the software solutions available on the market or from academic open source solutions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interaction of Vimang (Mangifera indica L. extract) with Fe(III) improves its antioxidant and cytoprotecting activity.
A standard aqueous stem bark extract from selected species of Mangifera indica L. (Anacardiaceae)--Vimang, whose major polyphenolic component is mangiferin, displays potent in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity. The present study provides evidence that the Vimang-Fe(III) mixture is more effective at scavenging 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and superoxide radicals, as well as in protecting against t-butyl hydroperoxide-induced mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced hepatocytes injury, compared to Vimang alone. Voltammetric assays demonstrated that Vimang, in line with the high mangiferin content of the extract, behaves electrochemically like mangiferin, as well as interacts with Fe(III) in close similarity with mangiferin's interaction with the cation. These results justify the high efficiency of Vimang as an agent protecting from iron-induced oxidative damage. We propose Vimang as a potential therapy against the deleterious action of reactive oxygen species generated during iron-overload, such as that occurring in diseases like beta-thalassemia, Friedreich's ataxia and haemochromatosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Hamstring injury prevention].
Hamstring muscle injury is the first diagnosis of injury in sports involving sprints. Its prevention represents a fundamental challenge for the technical and health professionals around the athletes. Risk factors have been described and can be used for screening at-risk individuals (age, history of hamstring injury, strength deficit). Although every determinant of the occurrence of these injuries has not yet been determined, and currently available preventive measures are not fully effective (eccentric muscle strengthening and strength deficit screening), these preventive measures do exist and must be implemented to the benefit of athletes before more comprehensive approaches are developed and demonstrate greater efficiency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Alteration of the QRS complex in electrocardiograms of healthy people in the course of test loading].
QRS amplitudes were analyzed in ECG records obtained from exercising healthy people to evaluate the sensitivity of QRS waves to exaggerated pulmonary ventilation, blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). Seventeen normal subjects aged >35 years were involved in a series of three test loading sessions aimed to define QRS alterations caused by shifting and rotation of the heart, and changes in conductivity of thoracic organs and tissues as a consequence of a different respiration pattern. They also participated in a second series of three loading sessions aimed to trace QRS alterations stemming from changes in central hemodynamics (systolic and diastolic BP and HR). Both series demonstrated a reliable S-wave rise that did not relate to the heart rotation caused by the diaphragm displacement due to deep respiration and change in body positioning but correlated with increases in systolic BP. These observations could have been induced by growth of the transmural myocadial pressure produced by isovolumic contractions during heavy test loading. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Radiosynthesis and evaluation of [11C]CMP, a high affinity GSK3 ligand.
Dysfunction of GSK3 is implicated in the etiology of many brain, inflammatory, cardiac diseases, and cancer. PET imaging would enable in vivo detection and quantification of GSK3 and can impact the choice of therapy, allow non-invasive monitoring of disease progression and treatment effects. In this report, the synthesis and evaluation of a high affinity GSK3 ligand, [11C]2-(cyclopropanecarboxamido)-N-(4-methoxypyridin-3-yl)isonicotinamide, ([11C]CMP, (3), (IC50 = 3.4 nM, LogP = 1.1) is described. [11C]CMP was synthesized in 25 ± 5% yield by radiomethylating the corresponding phenolate using [11C]CH3I. The radioligand exhibited modest uptake in U251 human glioblastoma cell lines with ∼50% specific binding. MicroPET studies in rats indicated negligible blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetration of [11C]CMP, despite its high affinity and suitable logP value for BBB penetration. However, administration of cyclosporine prior to [11C]CMP injection showed significant improvement in brain radioactivity uptake and the tracer binding. This finding indicates that [11C]CMP might be a P-gp efflux substrate and therefore has some limitations for routine in vivo PET evaluations in brain. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Charged particle ratio fluctuation as a signal for quark-gluon plasma
In this Letter we argue that the event-by-event fluctuations of the ratio of the positively charged and the negatively charged pions provide a signal for a quark-gluon plasma. The fact that quarks carry fractional charges is ultimately responsible for this distinct signal. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Application of sulfur microparticles for solid-phase extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from sea water and wastewater samples.
The application of sulfur microparticles as efficient adsorbents for the solid-phase extraction (SPE) and determination of trace amounts of 10 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was investigated in sea water and wastewater samples using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with an ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV). Parameters influencing the preconcentration of PAHs such as the amount of sulfur, solution flow rate and volume, elution solvent, type and concentration of organic modifier, and salt effect were examined. The results showed that at a flow rate of 10 mL min(-1) for the sample solutions (100mL), the PAHs could be adsorbed on the sulfur microparticles and then eluted by 2.0 mL of acetonitrile. For HPLC-UV analysis of extracted PAHs, the calibration curves were linear in the range of 0.05-80.0 μg L(-1); the coefficients of determinations (r(2)) were between 0.9934 and 0.9995. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) for eight replicates at two concentration levels (0.5 and 4.0 μg L(-1)) of PAHs were lower than 7.3%, under optimized conditions. The limits of detection (LODs, S/N = 3) of the proposed method for the studied PAHs were 0.007-0.048 μg L(-1). The recoveries of spiked PAHs (0.5 and 4 μg L(-1)) in the wastewater and sea water samples ranged from 78% to 108%. The simplicity of experimental procedure, high extraction efficiency, short sample analysis, and using of low cost sorbent demonstrate the potential of this approach for routine trace PAH analysis in water and wastewater samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Long-term prognosis of patients presenting first-ever vestibular symptoms in a community-based study.
Vestibular symptoms (VSs) are frequent complaints in patients attending ambulatory care and the emergency room. They may represent a peripheral vestibular disorder or a stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), yet many patients have VSs that cannot be clearly classified at presentation. This study aims to characterize and determine the long-term prognosis of these patients. In a prospective community-based study involving 104,700 individuals registered at 4 health centers of Northern Portugal, patients with a first-ever-in-lifetime focal neurologic symptom (FNS) were ascertained using comprehensive methods, including referrals from physicians working in the study area and data retrieved from emergency/discharge records. Physicians were encouraged to report/notify any patient who might have experienced an FNS, including those with vertigo or vertigo-like symptoms, imbalance, presyncope, or nonspecific dizziness. After neurologic assessment patients were classified as having a peripheral vestibular symptom (pVS), a stroke/TIA, or an unclassified vestibular symptom (uVS). They were followed up 7 years after the index event at the outpatient clinic; predictors of survival free from stroke or vascular events were determined using Cox proportional hazards models. Of the 1163 patients with an FNS, 360 (31.0%) were included, 16.7% had a stroke/TIA, 57.8% had pVS, and 25.6% had uVS. Most patients presented only isolated VSs (62.8%); 63% were women and mean age was 60.1 years (standard deviation = 16); hypertension (47.8%), hypercholesterolemia (41.9%), and diabetes (19.2%) were the most prevalent vascular risk factors (VRFs). Cranial computed tomography (CT) scan was performed in 63.3%. Adjusting for age, sex, VRFs, and diagnosis (TIA, pVS and uVS), the long-term risk of stroke was higher when CT showed silent infarctions (hazard rate [HR] = 3.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.63-9.60) and the risk of vascular events (stroke, myocardial infarction, or vascular death) was higher in patients with 2 or more VRFs (HR = 2.70; 95% CI, 1.25-5.86). Identical results were obtained when restricting the model to patients with pVS or uVS. First-ever-in-lifetime VSs are common in patients with FNS and may represent a good opportunity for preventing a serious vascular event, particularly in patients with vascular comorbidity (silent infarctions and VRFs). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Face selective translation of a cyclodextrin ring along an axle.
A cyclodextrin ring was face-selectively transferred between two stations linked by a 2-methylpyridinium group on an axle molecule. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid does not influence the intestinal microbial communities of broiler chickens.
The capacity for n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) to improve broiler chicken growth, influence the intestinal microbial communities, and modify the PUFA content of meat was studied. Male Cobb 500 chickens were fed 1 of 4 diets from hatch: control (standard diet with no additives), ZnB (standard diet with added antibiotics), 2% SALmate (standard diet with 2% SALmate, which is composed of 42% fish oil and 58% starch), and 5% SALmate (standard diet with 5% SALmate). A 7-d energy metabolism study was conducted between d 15 and 22 posthatch. Birds were killed at d 25 and intestinal samples were collected to assess microbial communities by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism and Lactobacillus PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Diet did not affect BW, feed intake, feed conversion, or ileal digestible energy (P > 0.05). Apparent ME was greater in ZnB-fed birds compared with all other diets (P < 0.05). Breast tissue levels of eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and total n-3 PUFA were elevated significantly in 2% SALmate- and 5% SALmate-fed chickens compared with control and ZnB diets (P < 0.05). No significant differences in overall microbial communities were observed in the ileum or cecum as assessed by terminal RFLP (P > 0.05). Birds fed 2% SALmate had a significantly different cecal Lactobacillus species profile compared with birds fed the control diet (P < 0.05); however, no differences were observed in birds fed 5% SALmate compared with birds fed all other diets. In addition to the expected increase in breast tissue n-3 fatty acid levels, a low level of dietary n-3 PUFA also altered the intestinal Lactobacillus species profiles. However, n-3 PUFA supplementation did not alter the overall microbial communities or broiler performance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Viral hepatitis in East Asia.
Viral hepatitis has a high prevalence in East Asia and is an important problem. Identification of the individual hepatitis viruses. A-E, has enabled researches to investigate the epidemiology and pathogenesis of viral hepatitis and its sequelae, and possible means of prevention. Because of improvement in hygiene in East Asia in recent decades, hepatitis A virus infection has decreased markedly. However, this has resulted in the younger population being susceptible to hepatitis A. Fortunately, effective active immunization for hepatitis A has become available. Hepatitis B is still rampant, especially in the southern part of East Asia where chronic infection is common. Patients who are chronic hepatitis B virus carriers are reservoirs for the virus and have a much higher risk of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HGC). Currently, hepatitis B infection is being brought under control in East Asia through mass immunization. Serologic and molecular epidemiologic studies have also revealed that Hepatitis C is prevalent in the region. Hepatitis C virus also contributes to the development of cirrhosis and HCC. No effect immunization is currently available, and hepatitis C can only be controlled by preventative measures. The epidemiology and pathogenesis of viral hepatitis is discussed in this review, including new viral hepatitis agents possibly responsible for non-A-E hepatitis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Predictors of Future Suicide Attempts Among Individuals Referred to Psychiatric Services in the Emergency Department: A Longitudinal Study.
This study examined which factors predict future suicide attempts (SAs) among people referred to psychiatric services in the emergency department (ED). It included consecutive adult (age >18 years) presentations (N = 6919) over a 3-year period to the two tertiary care hospitals in Manitoba, Canada. Medical professionals assessed each individual on 19 candidate risk factors. Stepwise logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curves examined the association between the baseline variables and future SAs within the next 6 months. A total of 104 individuals re-presented to the ED with future SAs. Of the 19 baseline variables, only two independently accounted for the variance in future attempts. High-risk scores using this two-item model were associated with elevated odds of future SA (odds ratio, 3.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.62-6.42; p < 0.01), but this was tempered by a low positive predictive value. Further evaluation is required to determine if this two-item tool could help identify people requiring more comprehensive risk assessment referred to psychiatry in the ED. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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