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Carbon nanotubes for electrochemical biosensing.
The aim of this review is to summarize the most relevant contributions in the development of electrochemical (bio)sensors based on carbon nanotubes in the last years. Since the first application of carbon nanotubes in the preparation of an electrochemical sensor, an increasing number of publications involving carbon nanotubes-based sensors have been reported, demonstrating that the particular structure of carbon nanotubes and their unique properties make them a very attractive material for the design of electrochemical biosensors. The advantages of carbon nanotubes to promote different electron transfer reactions, in special those related to biomolecules; the different strategies for constructing carbon nanotubes-based electrochemical sensors, their analytical performance and future prospects are discussed in this article. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alarms may be inaudible in some Gambro Artis dialysis systems.
In Gambro Artis dialysis systems with software version 6.04.16, a problem with the audible alarm mechanism may prevent users from hearing alarms. The unit will still display visual alarm indicators. Gambro is replacing the audible alarm mechanisms in affected units at no cost as part of an upgrade. Until the upgrade is performed, facilities with affected systems should inform users that alarms may be inaudible and should ensure that units are positioned so that users have clear, unobstructed views of status lights and displays. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Intravenous electrocardiography helps inexperienced operators to place totally implantable venous access device more accurately.
Proper tip position is a major determinant of totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD) outcome. The aim of this study is to analyze the potential utilization of intravenous electrocardiography (IV-ECG) to help inexperienced operators for TIVAD placement. This is a retrospective, observational, uni-institutional study. 331 patients receiving TIVAD implantation from July 2008 to December 2008 were recruited. In IV-ECG group, IV-ECG was used to help decide catheter tip location and catheter length. In Landmark group, catheter length was decided by surface landmarks. Catheter tip position was confirmed by post-operative supine chest X-ray. There were 153 patients in IV-ECG group, and 178 patients in Landmark group. No immediate reoperation due to catheter mal-position was noted in IV-ECG group, but it happened in eight patients in Landmark group. In IV-ECG group, 97.3% of the catheter tip located at proper position (within 2 cm from junction of right atrium and superior vena cava, as compared to 88.8% of the tip position in Landmark group was proper. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There was no complication associated with the use of IV-ECG. IV-ECG is a safe and convenient method to help inexperienced operators placing TIVAD. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of short and long term exercise on intracellular glycogen and fat in pigeon pectoralis.
In an attempt to determine the functional role of the component broad white and narrow red fibre types during activity, the pectroalis muscle of the adult pigeon (Columba livia) was electrically stimulated in situ after anaesthetizing the birds with sodium pentobarbital. For examination of the effect of short term exercise, the pectoral muscle of one side was stimulated through the innervating brachial plexus, using an electronic stimulator for 1 hr, and a biopsy sample was taken from the stimulated muscle. The stimulation was resumed for 17 hr more with additional doses of anaesthesia, and a muscle sample was taken after the decapitation of the birds in the long term experiment. Muscle samples from non-stimulated pigeons under identical conditions served as control. Fixed and frozen sections were made from the samples and were stained with Periodic Acid-Schiff's reagent for the demonstration of glycogen, while additional frozen muscle sections were stained with Fettrot 7B according to Pearse, A.G.E. (1960) for the demonstration of neutral lipids in the specimen. Thus histochemical examinations were made to study effects of short and long term exercises on energy stores in skeletal muscles. Short-term stimulation resulted in a selective depletion of intracellular glycogen stores from white fibre populations whereas prolonged long term stimulation resulted in the resynthesis of glycogen within these fibres and a concomitant reduction in the intracellular fat and glycogen reserves in most red fibres. It is postulated that during flight the white fibres indulge only in brief bursts of intense phasic activity such as in quick take-off, rapid accelerations or sudden manoeuvres and utilize glycogen as fuel whereas the red fibres perform sustained activity as in cruising flight and metabolize chiefly fat. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Kappa opioids: therapeutic considerations in epilepsy and CNS injury.
Epilepsy and CNS injury identify a heterogenous group of diseases, many of which exhibit refractoriness (e.g., the partial epilepsies) to established drug therapy or, as in the case of brain and spinal cord injuries of variable etiologies, remain a formidable target for successful drug development. As such, the search for safe, effective antiepileptic and neuroprotective drugs continues. Although several CNS targets have been identified for drug development, especially the excitatory amino acid receptors, free-radical systems, gangliosides, and nitric oxide, etc., the opioid system and its diversity of receptors have, until recently, received little attention. This review attempts to focus on one opioid system, namely the kappa receptor class of opioid ligands, specifically addressing the potential anticonvulsant and neuroprotective properties of the arylacetamide series of kappa opioid analgesics as novel pharmacotherapeutic approaches to the treatment of epilepsy, stroke, or trauma related brain or spinal cord injury. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Osteopontin and calcium stone formation.
Osteopontin (OPN) is a phosphorylated protein of wide tissue distribution that is found in association with dystrophic calcification including in the organic matrix of kidney stones. It is a strong inhibitor of crystal formation and growth in vitro, but there is still debate regarding its effects upon crystal adhesion to tubular epithelial cells. In this brief review, we will outline the evidence implicating OPN in stone disease with the primary emphasis being on the interaction of OPN with calcium oxalate (CaOx), the major constituent of calcium containing stones. Finally, preliminary data is presented regarding the amounts and features of OPN present in the urine of stone formers and normal individuals. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The place of laparoscopy in the investigation of infertility (author's transl)].
An assessment of the value of hysterosalpingography (HSG) and laparoscopy was made on the basis of a comparison of the respective findings obtained during routine investigation of 105 women attending the Infertility Clinic. The results of the two procedures concurred in 76% of the women; in the remaining cases, apparently normal findings on HSG had to be rectified on the basis of laparoscopic investigation and vice versa. The divergent results are discussed in detail. In particular, intramural obstruction of the tubes diagnosed on HSG often appears to be merely functional and the presence or absence of adhesions in the region of the tubes must be viewed with reservation. HSG and laparoscopy should be considered complementary, not rival procedures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transcriptome analysis and crop improvement (a review).
The identification and characterization of differential gene expression from tissues subjected to stress has gained much attention in plant research. The recognition of elements involved in the response to a particular stress enhances the possibility of promoting crop improvement through direct genetic modification. However, the performance of some of the 'first generation' of transgenic plants with the incorporation of a single gene has not always been as expected. These results have stimulated the development of new transgenic constructions introducing more than one gene and capable of modifying complex pathways. Several techniques are available to conduct the analysis of gene regulation, with such information providing the basis for novel constructs specifically designed to modify metabolism. This review deals with techniques that allow the identification and characterization of differentially-expressed genes and the use of molecular pathway information to produce transgenic plants. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Concurrent infections of pseudorabies virus and porcine bocavirus in China detected by duplex nanoPCR.
Nanoparticle-assisted polymerase chain reaction (nanoPCR) is a novel method for the simple, rapid, and specific amplification of DNA and has been used to detect viruses. A duplex nanoPCR molecular detection system was developed to detect pseudorabies virus (PRV) and porcine bocavirus (PBoV). Primers were selected to target conserved regions within the PRV gE gene and the PBoV NS1 gene. Under optimized nanoPCR reaction conditions, two specific fragments of 316 bp (PRV) and 996 bp (PBoV) were amplified by the duplex nanoPCR with a detection limit of 6 copies for PRV and 95 copies for PBoV; no fragments were amplified when other porcine viruses were used as template. When used to test 550 clinical samples, the duplex nanoPRC assay and a conventional duplex PCR assay provided very similar results (98.1% consistency); single PRV infections, single PBoV infections, and concurrent PRV and PBoV infections were detected in 37%, 15%, and 9% of the samples, respectively. The results indicate that the novel duplex nanoPCR assay is useful for the rapid detection of PRV and PBoV in pigs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aedes aegypti in Jamaica, West Indies: container productivity profiles to inform control strategies.
To describe the Aedes aegypti container profile in the three parishes of Portland, St. Anns and St. Catherine, Jamaica. Traditional stegomyia and pupae per person indices. A total of 8855 containers were inspected. A. aegypti were breeding in 19.2% of the 4728 containers in Portland, in 6.7% of the 2639 containers in St. Ann, and in 27.2% of the 1488 containers in Tryhall Heights, St. Catherine. Container types differed between Portland (P > 0.02) on one hand and St. Ann and Tryhall Heights, St. Catherine on the other hand: there were with no vases or potted plants with water saucers in St. Ann and St. Catherine. A. aegypti were breeding in more containers in St. Catherine (38%) (38% in wet season and 21% in the dry season) than in Portland (19%) or St. Ann (6%), both of which had more containers but A. aegypti breeding in fewer: 17.7% and 11.2% in the wet and 20.4% and 3.5% in the dry seasons respectively. The daily production of adult mosquitoes in the three study sites was 1.51, 1.29 and 0.66 adult female mosquitoes per person in Portland, St. Ann and St. Catherine during the dry season and 1.12, 0.23 and 1.04 female mosquitoes per person in the wet season respectively. All three communities are at risk for dengue outbreaks and vector control should concentrate on reducing the mosquito populations from the most productive containers before a new dengue virus serotype is introduced into Jamaica. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The quantitative effect of visual and tactile stimuli on the prey-catching behaviour of ferrets (Putorius furo L.).
The influence of visual and tactile stimuli on the elicitation of prey-catching behaviour of ferrets was to be studied. For this study 16 animals, males and females, some naive and others experienced in catching and killing mice and rats were used. The behaviour of the ferrets toward 16 dummies with different characteristics was analysed under standardized conditions. Prey catching reactions of ferrets can be elicited by moving dummies. Dummies up to a certain size reliably elicit hunting reactions if they are moving at a speed of 25 cm/sec to 45 cm/sec. Moving objects, more than double the size of a ferret, cause avoiding reactions. Objects with a fur-like surface release more biting than objects with a hard surface. When hunting, ferrets-innately-tend to aim at the most anterior part of the "prey" and to bite into it, independent of whether there is a head-like structure with a neck or not. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Immunization with a low-dose replicon DNA vaccine encoding Phl p 5 effectively prevents allergic sensitization.
Replicase-based DNA vaccines stimulate T(H)1-biased immune responses at ultralow doses and induce self-removal of transfected cells through apoptosis. Both aspects are important requirements for efficient and safe DNA-based immunotherapy of type I allergies. A Sindbis virus replicon-based DNA vaccine encoding the major timothy grass pollen allergen Phl p 5 was evaluated for its antiallergic potential compared with a conventional DNA vaccine in a BALB/c mouse model of allergy. Mice were intradermally prevaccinated with plasmid DNA, followed by sensitization and intranasal allergen provocation with recombinant Phl p 5. In vitro proliferation and cytokine secretion was measured in splenocyte cultures. Distribution of IgG1, IgG2a, and IgE antibody subclasses was determined by means of ELISA. IgE-mediated degranulation was measured with the basophil release assay. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was analyzed for eosinophils, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IFN-gamma. Mucus production, inflammatory infiltrates, and epithelial damage were determined in lung sections. Both vaccines induced T(H)1-biased immune responses, resulting in suppression of functional IgE, reduction of eosinophilia in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and alleviation of lung pathology. However, immunization with the replicon DNA vaccine elicited these effects at a 100-fold lower dose compared with the conventional DNA vaccine. The increased immunogenicity of replicon-based DNA vaccines allows for application of extremely low doses, thereby eliminating the concerns associated with conventional DNA vaccines, which have to be administered at milligram amounts to induce immune reactions in human subjects. Their high safety profile makes replicon-based DNA vaccines promising candidates for treatment of type I allergies in the clinic. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Geometric and densitometric standardization of intraoral radiography through use of a modified XCP system.
The purposes of this study were to examine the density correction afforded by curve-fitting algorithms and to investigate whether the device we developed significantly improves the reliability of longitudinal alveolar process bone radiographic density measurements. Stepwedges were radiographed over a range of impulse settings, and curve-fitting algorithms were fitted to sets of step images on each digitized film. Differences between the actual thicknesses of an alternate set of steps and their corresponding thickness estimates were calculated. Next, clinicians made periapical radiographs from interproximal bony sites on a dry skull using our imaging device. Differences in bone densities between corresponding regions of interest taken 1 week apart were calculated. Analysis of variance and Duncan's Multiple Range test demonstrated that piecewise linear, third-degree polynomial, and fourth-degree polynomial curves provided significantly better estimates of stepwedge thickness than did sigmoid or first degree polynomial-curves (P < .05) and that the differences between repeat bone density measurements made with density correction were significantly less than those made without density correction (P < .05). Piecewise linear, third-degree polynomial, and fourth-degree polynomial curve-fitting algorithms provided the best densitometric correction. The use of our imaging device increased the reliability of longitudinal bone density measurements. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Revisiting an equivalence between maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood methods in phylogenetics.
Tuffley and Steel (Bull. Math. Biol. 59:581-607, 1997) proved that maximum likelihood and maximum parsimony methods in phylogenetics are equivalent for sequences of characters under a simple symmetric model of substitution with no common mechanism. This result has been widely cited ever since. We show that small changes to the model assumptions suffice to make the two methods inequivalent. In particular, we analyze the case of bounded substitution probabilities as well as the molecular clock assumption. We show that in these cases, even under no common mechanism, maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood might make conflicting choices. We also show that if there is an upper bound on the substitution probabilities which is 'sufficiently small', every maximum likelihood tree is also a maximum parsimony tree (but not vice versa). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aharonov-Bohm oscillations in the presence of strong spin-orbit interactions.
We have measured highly visible Aharonov-Bohm (AB) oscillations in a ring structure defined by local anodic oxidation on a p-type GaAs heterostructure with strong spin-orbit interactions. Clear beating patterns observed in the raw data can be interpreted in terms of a spin geometric phase. Besides h/e oscillations, we resolve the contributions from the second harmonic of AB oscillations and also find a beating in these h/2e oscillations. A resistance minimum at B=0 T, present in all gate configurations, is the signature of destructive interference of the spins propagating along time-reversed paths. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pergolide and Parkinson's disease: new preparation. No clear benefit.
(1) Levodopa is the cornerstone of therapy for Parkinson's disease, and bromocriptine is the reference drug for patients who develop motor complications on levodopa. (2) Pergolide, a dopamine agonist, is now marketed in France for the treatment of motor complications associated with levodopa therapy. (3) Four trials comparing pergolide with bromocriptine have been published. The methodological quality of these trials varies, and their published reports often lack detail. (4) Taken together, these trials fail to demonstrate that pergolide provides a tangible clinical advantage over bromocriptine. (5) Pergolide has not been compared with other dopamine agonists in double-blind trials. (6) Pergolide has the same safety profile as other dopamine agonists. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Carboxyl-functionalized superparamagnetic Fe3O4/poly(St-co-MPS)/SiO2 composite particles for rapid and sensitive immunoassay.
Superparamagnetic Fe3O4/poly(St-co-MPS)/SiO2 composite particles with the average size of 140 nm were functionalized with carboxyl group by emulsion polymerization. Functionalized particles with carboxyl contents of 13.6 and 136 micromol/mL were prepared by changing the amount of acrylic acid monomer used in the polymerization. After conjugation with human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) antibody, the particles were used to construct lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) for the detection of hCG in solution. The quantitative analysis could be finished in 20 min by using the magnetic particles as labels. The detection limit of LFIA was determined to be 1 and 5 IU/L respectively for the magnetic particles with carboxyl contents of 13.6 and 136 micromol/mL. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Zinc toxicity on cultured cortical neurons: involvement of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors.
Neuronal injury induced by the excessive release of endogenous Zn2+ at central glutamatergic synapses may contribute to the pathogenesis of epileptic brain damage. We explored the possibility that N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors might be involved in Zn2+ neurotoxicity. Exposure of murine cortical cell cultures to 300-1000 microM concentrations of Zn2+ for 15 min resulted in widespread neuronal degeneration, accompanied by the release of lactate dehydrogenase to the bathing medium. Both non-competitive and competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonists attenuated this degeneration. However, the participation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in Zn2+ neurotoxicity was atypical. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ attenuated N-methyl-D-aspartate neurotoxicity but potentiated Zn2+ neurotoxicity, whereas increasing extracellular Ca2+ potentiated N-methyl-D-aspartate neurotoxicity but attenuated Zn2+ neurotoxicity. Furthermore, the nature of the antagonism of Zn2+ neurotoxicity induced by N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonists was qualitatively different from that seen with other N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated events. The block of Zn2+ neurotoxicity induced by the non-competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist MK-801 was better overcome by increasing Zn2+ concentration than the block induced by the competitive antagonists D-aminophosphonovalerate and CGS-19755. We hypothesize that N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-gated channels contribute to Zn2+ toxicity by providing a route of Zn2+ influx into neurons. Consistent with this idea, intracellular Zn2+ visualized by the fluorescent Zn2+ chelator, N-(6-methoxy-8-quinolyl)-p-toluenesulfonamide, rose during Zn2+ exposure; this rise was increased by N-methyl-D-aspartate and reduced by either N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonists or high Ca2+.2+ in neuronal cell homeostasis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A new approach to chromosomal abnormalities in sperm from patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia: detection of double aneuploidy in addition to single aneuploidy and diploidy by five-color fluorescence in situ hybridization using one probe set.
To determine the frequencies of disomy, nullisomy, total aneuploidy, and diploidy in the sperms of infertile men. A controlled prospective study. Assisted reproductive technology (ART)/IVF Unit and Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Meram Medical Faculty, Konya, Turkey. Infertile men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) and normal fertile donors. After slide preparation from semen samples, sperm nuclei were analyzed for chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X, and Y by five-color fluorescence in situ hybridization. The sperm aneuploidy (disomy and nullisomy) and diploidy rates were determined according to the number of signals detected for each probe in infertile and fertile men. Patients with OAT had a significantly higher incidence of disomy (except chromosome 18 and XX disomy), nullisomy (except chromosome 18), and diploidy than normal fertile controls. In addition to double disomy, double nullisomy and disomy+nullisomy were observed in patients with OAT, but none of these were seen in controls. In this study patients with OAT had an increased rate of sperm aneuploidy and diploidy. This finding suggest that patients with OAT may be at an increased risk of producing aneuploid and triploid offsprings. For this reason, it may be very important to perform the sperm fluorescence in situ hybridization in patients with OAT. Thus, a more informative genetic counseling might be given to couples with male factor infertility who are at an increased risk of having aneuploid offsprings and triploid conceptions before intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of AMP-activated protein kinase in the molecular adaptation to endurance exercise.
What are the molecular signals induced by muscle contraction that result in an increase in GLUT4, hexokinase 2, mitochondrial oxidative enzymes, and other adaptations to endurance exercise training? Could repetitive activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) be responsible in part? There is substantial evidence for a role of AMPK in inducing adaptations to endurance training: 1) AMPK is activated in response to muscle contraction; 2) chronic chemical activation of AMPK results in increases in GLUT4, hexokinase 2, UCP-3, and citric acid cycle enzymes; 3) muscle contraction and chemical activation of AMPK both result in increases in PGC-1alpha, a transcriptional coactivator involved in stimulation of mitochondrial biogenesis; and 4) increases in muscle PGC-1 alpha, delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase, and mitochondrial DNA induced by chronic creatine phosphate depletion in wild-type mice are not observed in dominant-negative AMPK mice. These observations lend credence to the hypothesis that AMPK activation induced by muscle contraction is responsible in part for adaptations to endurance exercise training. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aberrant activity and connectivity of the posterior superior temporal sulcus during social cognition in schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia is associated with significant impairments in social cognition. These impairments have been shown to go along with altered activation of the posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS). However, studies that investigate connectivity of pSTS during social cognition in schizophrenia are sparse. Twenty-two patients with schizophrenia and 22 matched healthy controls completed a social-cognitive task for functional magnetic resonance imaging that allows the investigation of affective Theory of Mind (ToM), emotion recognition and the processing of neutral facial expressions. Moreover, a resting-state measurement was taken. Patients with schizophrenia performed worse in the social-cognitive task (main effect of group). In addition, a group by social-cognitive processing interaction was revealed for activity, as well as for connectivity during the social-cognitive task, i.e., patients with schizophrenia showed hyperactivity of right pSTS during neutral face processing, but hypoactivity during emotion recognition and affective ToM. In addition, hypoconnectivity between right and left pSTS was revealed for affective ToM, but not for neutral face processing or emotion recognition. No group differences in connectivity from right to left pSTS occurred during resting state. This pattern of aberrant activity and connectivity of the right pSTS during social cognition might form the basis of false-positive perceptions of emotions and intentions and could contribute to the emergence and sustainment of delusions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Phosphorescence quenching of fac-tris(2-phenylpyridyl)iridium(iii) complexes in thin films on dielectric surfaces.
We study the influence of the film thickness on the time-resolved phosphorescence and the luminescence quantum yield of fac-tris(2-phenylpyridyl)iridium(iii) [Ir(ppy)3]-cored dendrimers deposited on dielectric substrates. A correlation is observed between the surface quenching velocity and the quenching rate by intermolecular interactions in the bulk film, which suggests that both processes are controlled by dipole-dipole interactions between Ir(ppy)3 complexes at the core of the dendrimers. It is also found that the surface quenching velocity decreases as the refractive index of the substrate is increased. This can be explained by partial screening of dipole-dipole interactions by the dielectric environment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analysis of the reports of high-level commissions that have comprehensively reviewed US public policy on brain death.
The notion of brain death from its inception has not been uniformly understood with many grisly conceptions of it as it pertains to reliability and to organ donation. Accordingly, the aforementioned recitation of statutes and commission reports has served a useful societal role in addressing controversies and misconceptions while promulgating unifying foundational concepts and guidance in practical translation to clinical practice. There is clearly a consensus that statutory uniformity across jurisdictions is important and that there are two ways to define death. The first is the traditional cardiopulmonary criteria of cessation of cardiac function and breathing. The second is through established procedures to reliably determine the presence of total brain death with the presence of a comatose state which is irreversible. Another common thread through the ethically focused reports has been recognition that organ donation and death are temporally and geographically associated but there is emphasis that the processes of determination of death(by somatic or cerebral criteria) must be logically, ethically, and procedurally separate from the procedures for performing organ harvesting and transplantation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Malignant testicular tumors: cytogenetic and molecular biology principles].
The common cytogenetic finding characteristic of human malignant testicular germ-cell tumors is the presence of an isochromosome of the short arm of chromosome 12, i(12p), suggesting alterations in the proto-oncogenes (e.g., c-Ki-ras2) or putative tumor suppressor genes (TSG) that are localized here. However, to date there is no proof for such alterations. Conversely, alterations in expression of the retinoblastoma gene, a classical TSG, have been reported for the majority of testicular tumors. Other molecular genetic alterations have been described, affecting genes that are involved in the normal regulation of spermiogenesis, such as the c-kit gene product and its ligand SCF, as well as hst1, which is normally expressed in embryonal tissues only. The well-documented sensitivity of testicular tumors to chemotherapeutic agents may be caused by decreased activity of the glutathione S-transferase detoxification enzymes, as well as alterations of the expression of this gene family. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro shoot regeneration from leaf mesophyll protoplasts of hybrid poplar (Populus nigra x P. maximowiczii).
Protoplasts were isolated from leaf mesophyll of hybrid poplar (Populus nigra X P. maximowiczii) with a mean yield of 10.4 x 10(6) protoplasts per g fresh weight using 2.0% Cellulase 'Onozuka' R-10, 0.8% Macerozyme R-10, 1.2% Hemicellulase, 2.0% Driselase, and 0.05% Pectolyase Y-23 with CPW salts solution containing 0.6 M mannitol, 0.002 M DTT, 3 mM MES at pH 5.6. A liquid plating method produced the highest frequency of dividing protoplasts (48.6%) using an MS medium without NH4NO3. The highest percent of colony formation was 22.8%, produced with fabric supported semi-solid (0.5% w/v) agar plating method using the same culture medium. Growing cell colonies and/or micro-calli were transferred to a fresh semisolid agar medium containing 0.44 μM BAP and 9.0 μM 2,4-D. Multiple shoots were produced from protoplast-derived callus after culture on MS medium containing 6.8 μM zeatin. After root induction on half-strength MS medium that lacked growth regulators, shoots were transferred to pots containing artificial soil mix. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Osseous manifestations of Bourneville-Pringle disease].
Tuberous sclerosis (Bourneville-Osseous Manifestations of Bourneville-Pringle's Disease) is a rare disease characterised by the clinical traid of epilepsy, mental retardation and adenoma sebaceum. In addition of this triad a number of patients shows other visceral, neurocutaneus or osseous manifestations. We describe the radiological findings of two patients with typical skeletal changes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pregnancy in association with mitral valve prolapse.
Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is considered to be the most common valvular heart lesion in adult females of reproductive age. Our report reviews the obstetrical performance and outcome of 34 pregnancies in 15 women with MVP. In 12 (80%) patients cardiac lesion was suspected due to enigmatic dyspnoea and palpitation during antenatal period. Four mothers required propranolol for cardiac arrhythmias. However, all of them tolerated pregnancy and labour well. Four pregnancies (11.8%) ended in spontaneous abortion and 1 mother had intrauterine fetal death due to severe pregnancy-induced hypertension. There were 25 (73.5%) term and 3 (8.8%) preterm neonates without congenital abnormality. One preterm neonate had tracheo-oesophageal fistula and died 6 hours after corrective surgery. The mean birth weight of 2.8 kg was appropriate for mean gestation of 38.5 weeks when compared to the Institute's reference neonatal weight curve. Infective endocarditis prophylaxis was recommended in cases having mitral regurgitation and complicated delivery. Awareness of this common cardiac lesion, thorough cardiovascular examination during pregnancy, early detection and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias if any, are the essential steps to prevent rare but dreaded maternal complications. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Layer number and stacking sequence imaging of few-layer graphene by transmission electron microscopy.
A method based on dark field transmission electron microscopy is developed to quantitively investigate the layer number and stacking order of multilayer graphene, demonstrated here on multilayer crystalline graphene synthesized by chemical vapor deposition. Our results show that the relative intensities of first- and second-order diffraction spots and contrast in corresponding dark field images are sufficient to identify the layer number and stacking order of graphene with layer number up to seven (7) or more with few-nanometer spatial resolution. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Exploring natural variation of photosynthesis in a site-specific manner: evolution, progress, and prospects.
Site-specific changes of photosynthesis, a relatively new concept, can be used to improve the productivity of critical food crops to mitigate the foreseen food crisis. Global food security is threatened by an increasing population and the effects of climate change. Large yield improvements were achieved in major cereal crops between the 1950s and 1980s through the Green Revolution. However, we are currently experiencing a significant decline in yield progress. Of the many approaches to improved cereal yields, exploitation of the mode of photosynthesis has been intensely studied. Even though the C4 pathway is considered the most efficient, mainly because of the carbon concentrating mechanisms around the enzyme ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, which minimize photorespiration, much is still unknown about the specific gene regulation of this mode of photosynthesis. Most of the critical cereal crops, including wheat and rice, are categorized as C3 plants based on the photosynthesis of major photosynthetic organs. However, recent findings raise the possibility of different modes of photosynthesis occurring at different sites in the same plant and/or in plants grown in different habitats. That is, it seems possible that efficient photosynthetic traits may be expressed in specific organs, even though the major photosynthetic pathway is C3. Knowledge of site-specific differences in photosynthesis, coupled with site-specific regulation of gene expression, may therefore hold a potential to enhance the yields of economically important C3 crops. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Breaking the silence on elder abuse.
Elder abuse has been described as the silent crime-silent, but not insignificant. The magnitude of the problem for Canadians was revealed in a national survey of 2,000 randomly selected seniors residing in private dwellings: four per cent of respondents reported some form of abuse. The perpetrators were usually people in positions of trust, such as family members or caregivers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Bis(glycinato-kappa2N,O)dinitrosylmolybdenum(0) and bis(2-aminoethanethiolato-kappa2N,S)dinitrosylmolybdenum(0) acetonitrile monosolvate.
The title compounds, [Mo(C(2)H(4)NO(2))(2)(NO)(2)], (I), and [Mo(C(2)H(6)NS)(2)(NO)(2)].CH(3)CN, (II), contain distorted octahedral complexes in which the monoanionic N,S- and N,O-bidentate ligands coordinate the molybdenum centres in different modes. The anionic O atoms of the glycinate ligands in (I) are coordinated trans to the nitrosyl ligands and the amine N atoms are located trans to each other, whereas in (II) the anionic S atoms are coordinated trans to each other and the amine N atoms are located trans to the nitrosyl ligands. Each compound has a single complete complex in the asymmetric unit on a general position. Six N-H...O contacts with N...O distances of less than 3.2 A are observed in (I) between the amine groups and the nitrosyl and carboxylate O atoms. In the 1:1 solvate (II), the acetonitrile molecule forms short N-H...N contacts (N...N < 3.2 A) between the solvent N atoms and one of the amine H atoms. In addition, three weak intermolecular N-H...S interactions (N...S > 3.3 A) contribute to the stabilization of the structure of (II). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dielectric investigation of electrically oriented ferroelectric smectic mixture CS-1013.
From dielectric spectroscopic study, a first-order ferroelectric phase transition has been observed in ferroelectric smectic mixture CS-1013 having the phase sequence Cr-SmC*-SmA-N*-Iso. Frequency (100 Hz-10 MHz) and temperature-dependent dielectric measurements have been performed on an electrically aligned sample (thickness 15+/-1 microm) gold coated on glass plates. In the unidirectionally aligned sample, two dielectric relaxation modes (Goldstone mode and soft mode) have been clearly observed in the ferroelectric SmC* phase while only one relaxation mode (soft mode) is visualized in the paraelectric SmA phase. Low-frequency molecular relaxation was also observed in the smectic phases. The experimental results have also been analyzed at different temperatures and biasing voltages for an understanding of the dynamics of dielectric processes in the ferroelectric phase. Finally, we proposed the "pseudospin" model for understanding the ferroelectric-antiferroelectric transition in liquid crystals. We associate the tilt angle straight theta and the pitch of the helix, respectively, with biaxial (b) and uniaxial (u) anisotropy parameters as fluctuating parameters around their stability limit (corresponding to the crystalline values). Here, the director acts as the pseudospin variable. This gives rise to a transverse Ising type (or anisotropic Heisenberg model under the mean-field approximation). It is then shown that such a model with fluctuations of (b) and (u) would explain the ferroelectric and antiferroelectric phase transitions in such liquid crystals. Using Landau theory and the stability conditions, we have also shown, in brief, the feasibility of different types of phase transitions in the ferroelectric liquid crystal system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The differential effect of angiotensin II and angiotensin 1-7 on norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine concentrations in rat hypothalamus: the involvement of angiotensin receptors.
Angiotensin 1-7 has been recently claimed the active member of the angiotensins' family. In the present study we compared the effect of angiotensin II and angiotensin 1-7 on the concentration of dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine and some of their metabolites in the rat hypothalamus, where the levels of angiotensins are particularly high. Intracerebroventricular injection of angiotensin II, but not angiotensin 1-7, time-dependently elevated the levels of both epinephrine (p < 0.05) and norepinephrine (p < 0.05) in the hypothalamus and both effects could be prevented by intracerebroventricular injection of either AT(1) (candesartan), AT(2) (PD123319) or AT(1-7) (A-779) receptor antagonist. Neither angiotensin II nor angiotensin 1-7 produced any changes in the level of dopamine, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, homovanilic acid, serotonin, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, or tryptophan at any time point in comparison with the control groups. However, AT(1) but not AT(2) receptor blockade, unmasked the stimulatory effect of angiotensin 1-7 on dopamine concentration in the hypothalamus. Thus, angiotensin II and its active metabolite angiotensin 1-7 regulate selectively, albeit differentially, adrenergic, noradrenergic and dopaminergic systems in the hypothalamus, the effects that involve AT(1), AT(2) and AT(1-7) angiotensin receptors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification and Mechanistic Studies of a Cell Cycle Regulator JP18 from a Library of Synthetic Indole Terpenoid Mimics.
We constructed a small library of indole terpenoid mimics using a hybridizing strategy to link various indole and α,β-unsaturated enone building blocks together. Prepared compounds were evaluated for the cytotoxicity against a panel of cancer cell lines. An indolyl ketone called JP18 was identified as a cell cycle regulator, and the underlying mechanism was investigated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Itaconic acid production from glycerol using Escherichia coli harboring a random synonymous codon-substituted 5'-coding region variant of the cadA gene.
Aspergillus terreus cadA, encoding cis-aconitate decarboxylase, is an essential gene for itaconic acid (IA) biosynthesis, but it is primarily expressed as insoluble aggregates in most industrial hosts. This has been a hurdle for the development of recombinant strategies for IA production. Here, we created a library of synonymous codon variants (scv) of the cadA gene containing synonymous codons in the first 10 codons (except ATG) and screened it in Escherichia coli. Among positive clones, E. coli scvCadA_No8 showed more than 95% of expressed CadA in the soluble fraction, and in production runs, produced threefold more IA than wild-type E. coli in Luria-Bertani broth supplemented with 0.5% glucose. In M9 minimal media containing 0.85 g/L citrate and 1% glycerol, E. coli scvCadA_No8 produced 985.6 ± 33.4 mg/L IA during a 72-h culture after induction with isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside. In a 2-L fed-batch fermentation consisting of two stages (growth and nitrogen limitation conditions), we obtained 7.2 g/L IA by using E. coli by introducing only the scv_cadA gene and optimizing culture conditions for IA production. These results could be combined with metabolic engineering and generate an E. coli strain as an industrial IA producer. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 1504-1510. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development and validation of a chiral liquid chromatographic method, based on Chiralpak to quantify enantiomers of (+/-)-DRF 2725 in rat plasma: lack of inversion of ragaglitazar (S(-)-DRF 2725) to its antipode in plasma.
A selective, accurate and reproducible high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method for the separation of individual enantiomers of DRF 2725 [R(+)-DRF 2725 and S(-)-DRF 2725 or ragaglitazar] was obtained on a chiral HPLC column (Chiralpak). During method optimization, the separation of enantiomers of DRF 2725 was investigated to determine whether mobile phase composition, flow-rate and column temperature could be varied to yield the base line separation of the enantiomers. Following liquid-liquid extraction, separation of enantiomers of DRF 2725 and internal standard (I.S., desmethyl diazepam) was achieved using an amylose based chiral column (Chiralpak AD) with the mobile phase, n-hexane-propanol-ethanol-trifluoro acetic acid (TFA) in the ratio of 89.5:4:6:0.5 (v/v). Baseline separation of DRF 2725 enantiomers and I.S., free from endogenous interferences, was achieved in less than 25 min. The eluate was monitored using an UV detector set at 240 nm. Ratio of peak area of each enantiomer to I.S. was used for quantification of plasma samples. Nominal retention times of R(+)-DRF 2725, S(-)-DRF 2725 and I.S. were 15.8, 17.7 and 22.4 min, respectively. The standard curves for DRF 2725 enantiomers were linear (R(2) > 0.999) in the concentration range 0.3-50 microg/ml for each enantiomer. Absolute recovery, when compared to neat standards, was 70-85% for DRF 2725 enantiomers and 96% for I.S. from rat plasma. The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) for each enantiomers of DRF 2725 was 0.3 microg/ml. The inter-day precisions were in the range of 1.71-4.60% and 3.77-5.91% for R(+)-DRF 2725, S(-)-DRF 2725, respectively. The intra-day precisions were in the range of 1.06-11.5% and 0.58-12.7% for R(+)-DRF 2725, S(-)-DRF 2725, respectively. Accuracy in the measurement of quality control (QC) samples was in the range 83.4-113% and 83.3-113% for R(+)-DRF 2725, S(-)-DRF 2725, respectively. Both enantiomers and I.S. were stable in the battery of stability studies viz., bench-top (up to 6 h), auto-sampler (up to 12 h) and freeze/thaw cycles (n = 3). Stability of DRF 2725 enantiomers was established for 15 days at -20 degrees C. The application of the assay to a pharmacokinetic study of ragaglitazar [S(-)-DRF 2725] in rats is described. It was unequivocally demonstrated that ragaglitazar does not undergo chiral inversion to its antipode in vivo in rat plasma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dilution of dye improves parametrial SLN detection in patients with cervical cancer.
Aim of this study to improve the detection rate of parametrial sentinel nodes in patients with early cervical cancer by using a new dosage of blue dye in a randomized trial. Standard labelling volume of 4 ml Patent Blue was compared to 2 ml Patent Blue diluted with 8 ml NaCl 0.9% in 60 patients using a randomized protocol. Tc-99 was not applied in any patient. All patients underwent open lymphadenectomy. In each arm 30 patients were enrolled. Overall detection rate of sentinel nodes was 93.3%. Both groups did not differ with regard to patient's age, BMI, tumor stage, number of lymph nodes harvested, number of sentinel nodes detected and detection rate. Significantly more patients with parametrial sentinel nodes were detected in the diluted protocol (37.0% vs. 10.3%) which is due to the lateral part of the cardinal ligament (29.6% vs. 6.9%). In our study overall detection of sentinel nodes using a dye was high. The diluted solution of Patent Blue led to a higher detection rate of parametrial sentinel nodes. These findings might help explain the discrepancy between the high reported rate of parametrial lymph nodes in anatomical studies compared with the low rates in clinical sentinel series. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Rhodium-catalyzed approach to Mannich-type products using aldimine, alpha,beta-unsaturated ester, and hydrosilane.
A rhodium-catalyzed method for the synthesis of beta-amino esters was accomplished in a one-pot procedure from aldimine, alpha,beta-unsaturated ester and hydrosilane. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Presence of normal human cell surface antigens in plasma of athymic mice bearing a human colon carcinoma and in normal human plasma.
The mixed haemadsorption (MHA) method was employed for detection of several normal antigenic components on the surface of human colon carcinoma cells (HT-29). The antigens were expressed by cells in monolayer cultures and in suspensions prepared by monolayer trypsinization, and by cells of tumours growing progressively in athymic mice. The plasma of such animals bearing medium sized and large, non-necrotic tumours contained all the antigens, as determined by the radial diffusion immune haemolysis method (RDIH); the plasma of animals with small or large heavily necrotic tumours did not contain detectable amounts of any of the determinants. The half-life of the determinants in the circulation as extracellular entities was ca. 20 h. The same antigens, and fibronectin, were found to be ubiquitously represented in normal human plasma. It is proposed that the presence of membrane antigens in plasma is the result of physiological shedding of cell surface constituents by living cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Uterine perforation by a cystoperitoneal shunt, an unusual cause of recurrent vaginal discharge.
We describe the first reported case of uterine perforation by a cystoperitoneal shunt. The mechanism of this unusual complication is unclear. A 17-year-old patient had a cystoperitoneal shunt for a porencephalic cyst. She presented with recurrent watery vaginal discharge. A pelvic ultrasound examination showed that the uterus had been perforated by the distal tip of the shunt. The cystoperitoneal shunt was converted to a ventriculo-atrial shunt, and the vaginal discharge subsequently resolved. The appearance of light and clear vaginal discharge in a patient with a cystoperitoneal shunt raises the possibility of uterine perforation. This can be confirmed by ultrasound and analysis of the discharge. Removal of the shunt leads to spontaneous closure of the uterine defect. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Successful intra-arterial thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke in the immediate postpartum period: case report.
Stroke in pregnancy and the puerperium is a rare but potentially devastating event. We present the case of a previously healthy woman who underwent a cesarean delivery and experienced a middle cerebral artery thrombosis in the immediate postpartum period that was subsequently lysed with intra-arterial urokinase. The patient made a complete neurologic recovery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful intra-arterial thrombolysis for ischemic stroke in the postpartum period. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Growth pattern of the maxillary sinus in the miniature pig (Sus scrofa).
The biological role of the paranasal sinuses is obscure, can be elucidated through a cross-sectional growth study of the maxillary sinus in miniature pigs. The maxillary sinus area was obtained from lateral cephalograms of left skull halves of 103 female miniature pigs of known ages, from newborn to 24 months. Out of several nonlinear models, the growth of the maxillary sinus was best described with the Gompertz model. The first derivative of the Gompertz curve revealed an increase in the growth rates of the maxillary sinus until 4 months, after which sinus growth slowed down. The eruption of the permanent molars did not seem to have a significant influence on this growth pattern. Furthermore, growth in maxillary sinus size in the miniature pig does not follow growth in skull size closely, which showed the highest growth rates in newborn animals. In addition, a correlation analysis revealed that the relationship between maxillary sinus area and different characteristics of the masticatory apparatus (including linear cranial dimensions, and the dry weight of the masseter and zygomatico-mandibularis muscles) were influenced greatly by skull size. These results suggest that the existence of pneumatic cavities within the mammalian skull is not satisfactorily explained solely by an architectural theory. Epigenetic factors are likely to influence the final shape of the maxillary sinus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Elevated expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and inflammatory cytokines in the alveolar macrophages after esophagectomy.
To evaluate the role of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) and inflammatory cytokines in alveolar macrophages (AMs) after esophagectomy in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury. Prospective, exploratory, open-labeled clinical study. Intensive care unit and operating room in a university hospital. Thirteen patients receiving esophagectomy with carcinoma of the esophagus (postesophagectomy group), ten patients just before the surgery (preoperation group), and seven patents receiving surgery less invasive than esophagectomy (other surgery group) were selected. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and blood samples were obtained from study groups. The AMs in the BALF collected from each group were stained immunohistochemically with antibodies against iNOS, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8. The intensities of these expressions were determined by semiquantitative cytofluorometric system. NOx (NO2- + NO3-), IL-6, and IL-8 levels in the BALF and plasma were measured concurrently. The expressional intensities of iNOS, IL-6, and IL-8 in AMs obtained from the postesophagectomy group were maximal 24 hrs after the skin incision and significantly more evident than those from other groups. The IL-6, IL-8, and NOx levels in BALF and IL-6 and IL-8 levels in plasma in the postesophagectomy patients were also elevated. The intensities of iNOS and inflammatory cytokines expressions in AMs were closely related to postoperative respiratory failure. The activation of topical alveolar macrophages may be involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary complications in the postoperative period after esophagectomy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sorption of tebuconazole onto selected soil minerals and humic acids.
The aim of the present study was to investigate tebuconazole sorption on common soil minerals (birnessite, ferrihydrite, goethite, calcite and illite) and humic acids (representing soil organic matter). Tebuconazole was used (i) in the commercial form Horizon 250 EW and (ii) as an analytical grade pure chemical. In the experiment with the commercially available tebuconazole, a significant pH-dependent sorption onto the oxides was observed (decreasing sorption with increasing pH). The highest sorption was found for ferrihydrite due to its high specific surface area, followed by humic acids, birnessite, goethite and illite. No detectable sorption was found for calcite. The sorption of analytical grade tebuconazole on all selected minerals was significantly lower compared to the commercial product. The sorption was the highest for humic acids, followed by ferrihydrite and illite and almost negligible for goethite and birnessite without any pH dependence. Again, no sorption was observed for calcite. The differences in sorption of the commercially available and analytical grade tebuconazole can be attributed to the additives (e.g., solvents) present in the commercial product. This work proved the importance of soil mineralogy and composition of the commercially available pesticides on the behavior of tebuconazole in soils. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Electrophysiological analysis of the effects of ginkgo biloba on visual processing in older healthy adults.
Several studies have tested the efficacy of ginkgo biloba using compromised visual systems and have found improvement in vision. We measured functional changes in the visual system of older, healthy adults to see if ginkgo extract EGb 761 would increase performance in the normal visual system. Two electrophysiological measures were taken during baseline, placebo, and treatment conditions: visual evoked potentials were used to assess changes in low-level functioning of the visual pathways, and P300 recognition responses were measured to assess higher order processing. No significant effect was found in the lower level visual pathways. However, when using regression analysis across age to assess higher order functioning, an improvement was found. The results suggest that the higher order processing stages, which may be influenced by cognition, decline more rapidly than do lower level processing stages in healthy adults as a function of age, and that the use of ginkgo biloba extract may improve the functioning of this system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cardiovascular risk of high- versus moderate-intensity aerobic exercise in coronary heart disease patients.
Exercise performed at higher relative intensities has been found to elicit a greater increase in aerobic capacity and greater cardioprotective effects than exercise at moderate intensities. An inverse association has also been detected between the relative intensity of physical activity and the risk of developing coronary heart disease, independent of the total volume of physical activity. Despite that higher levels of physical activity are effective in reducing cardiovascular events, it is also advocated that vigorous exercise could acutely and transiently increase the risk of sudden cardiac death and myocardial infarction in susceptible persons. This issue may affect cardiac rehabilitation. We examined the risk of cardiovascular events during organized high-intensity interval exercise training and moderate-intensity training among 4846 patients with coronary heart disease in 3 Norwegian cardiac rehabilitation centers. In a total of 175 820 exercise training hours during which all patients performed both types of training, we found 1 fatal cardiac arrest during moderate-intensity exercise (129 456 exercise hours) and 2 nonfatal cardiac arrests during high-intensity interval exercise (46 364 exercise hours). There were no myocardial infarctions in the data material. Because the number of high-intensity training hours was 36% of the number of moderate-intensity hours, the rates of complications to the number of patient-exercise hours were 1 per 129 456 hours of moderate-intensity exercise and 1 per 23 182 hours of high-intensity exercise. The results of the current study indicate that the risk of a cardiovascular event is low after both high-intensity exercise and moderate-intensity exercise in a cardiovascular rehabilitation setting. Considering the significant cardiovascular adaptations associated with high-intensity exercise, such exercise should be considered among patients with coronary heart disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thermal Transport Model of Short-Pulse Laser Microscale Ablation for Poly(methyl methacrylate) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene/Polyvinyl Chloride.
This study analytically investigates the picosecond laser ablation of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)/polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Pulsed laser ablation is a well-established tool for polymers. However the ablation mechanism used in laser processing of polymers is not thoroughly understood. This study utilizes a thermal transport model to analyze the relationship between the ablation rate and laser fluence. This model considers the energy balance at the decomposition interface. The calculated variation of the ablation rate with the logarithm of the laser fluence agrees with the measured data. This study also validates that the variation of the ablation rate with the logarithm of the laser fluence obeys Beer's law. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A new method for the detection of hydroxyl radical production by phagocytic cells.
Benzoic acid, a specific scavenger of hydroxyl radical (OH.) is known to be oxidized as the result of a reaction with OH.. We have determined that the decarboxylation of benzoic acid can be used to detect OH. generated in cell-free systems and human granulocytes. Benzoic acid is oxidized by the xanthine-xanthine oxidase enzyme system. This system is known to generate O2-, H2O2 and OH.. This oxidation is inhibited by superoxide dismutase, catalase and mannitol. Therefore, the oxidation of benzoic acid occurs by a mechanism similar to that reported for the oxidation of methional to ethylene and involves OH.. Resting granulocytes do not oxidize benzoic acid. However, marked oxidation of this substrate occurs during the phagocytosis of opsonized zymosan particles, indicating the production of OH. by these cells. The reaction can be inhibited by superoxide dismutase, catalase, azide and mannitol. Therefore, the production of OH. in the cell may be similar to that observed in the cell-free system. The granulocytes of a patient with known chronic granulomatous disease did not oxidase benzoic acid, indicating a defect in the generation of OH. by these cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Spectra studies on the interaction of Mn2+ and poly N-isopropylacrylamide].
The interaction of Mn2+ and poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) was studied by using UV-Vis, FTIR and fluorescence spectroscopic methods. The results indicated that Mn2+ could be bonded to oxygen atoms of carbonyl in PNIPAAm and form the complex of Mn2+ -PNIPAAm. It was found that there existed efficient Förster energy transfer from Mn2+ to PNIPAAm due to the emission spectra of Mn2+ overlapping the excitation spectra of PNIPAAm and that the emission peak of Mn2+ at 561 nm disappeared in Mn2+ -PNIPAAm complex. Therefore the fluorescence intensity at 307 nm was increased by 314%. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Impact of Protein Nutritional Supplementation for Massive Weight Loss Patients Undergoing Abdominoplasty.
As more patients undergo bariatric surgery to assist with weight loss, the demand for post-bariatric body contouring surgery, to address both functional and aesthetic concerns, is increasing. However, high wound healing complication rates remain a significant problem for these patients. One theory is that chronic malnourishment and hypoproteinemia may contribute significantly to these wound healing complications. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of pretreatment protein nutritional supplementation on wound healing in post-bariatric surgery massive weight loss patients undergoing abdominoplasty. Our hypothesis was that protein supplementation would decrease wound healing complications. A retrospective review was performed of 23 post-bariatric surgery patients undergoing abdominoplasty who received pretreatment protein nutritional supplementation. This group was compared with a historical control group of 23 post-bariatric surgery patients who underwent abdominoplasty in the period immediately before the implementation of the protein supplementation protocol. Patient demographics and procedural characteristics were similar for the two groups. Forty-six patients were identified who had undergone abdominoplasty, half of whom were prescribed the protein supplementation protocol. Overall wound healing complication rates were significantly lower in the protein-supplemented group (0.0% vs. 21.8%, p = 0.04). There was no significant difference between the protein supplementation and historical control groups in regards to total complication rate. Pretreatment protein supplementation is a simple intervention that can significantly decrease wound healing complications in post-bariatric surgery massive weight loss patients undergoing abdominoplasty. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4: Therapeutic. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A MicroRNA302-367-Erk1/2-Klf2-S1pr1 Pathway Prevents Tumor Growth via Restricting Angiogenesis and Improving Vascular Stability.
Angiogenic hypersprouting and leaky vessels are essential for tumor growth. MicroRNAs have unique therapeutic advantages by targeting multiple pathways of tumor-associated angiogenesis, but the function of individual miRNAs of miR302-367 cluster in angiogenesis and tumors has not yet been fully evaluated. To investigate the functions of miR302-367 in developmental angiogenesis and tumor angiogenesis and explore the molecular mechanisms of microRNA for the treatment of pathological neovascularization-related diseases. Here, we show that miR302-367 elevation in endothelial cells reduces retinal sprouting angiogenesis and promotes vascular stability in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro. Erk1/2 is identified as direct target of miR302-367, and downregulation of Erk1/2 on miR302-367 elevation in endothelial cells increases the expression of Klf2 and in turn S1pr1 and its downstream target VE-cadherin, suppressing angiogenesis and improving vascular stability. Conversely, both pharmacological blockade and genetic deletion of S1pr1 in endothelial cells reverse the antiangiogenic and vascular stabilizing effect of miR302-367 in mice. Tumor angiogenesis shares features of developmental angiogenesis, and endothelial specific elevation of miR302-367 reduces tumor growth by restricting sprout angiogenesis and decreasing vascular permeability via the same Erk1/2-Klf2-S1pr1 pathways. MiR302-367 regulation of an Erk1/2-Klf2-S1pr1 pathway in the endothelium advances our understanding of angiogenesis, meanwhile also provides opportunities for therapeutic intervention of tumor growth. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Forskolin inhibits expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA via inhibiting the mitogen activated protein kinase in C6 cells.
This study has demonstrated the mechanism of protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent inhibition of astrocytic nitric oxide production and inducible NO synthase mRNA expression induced by lipopolysaccharide. In C6 glioma cells, the stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 1 microg/ml) evoked increases of nitric oxide (NO) production, NO synthase (iNOS) mRNA expression, phosphorylation of p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p-p38), and the activation of NF kappa B. LPS-induced NO production and iNOS mRNA expression were inhibited by the pretreatment with forskolin (FSK; 5 microM) in a dose-dependent manner, and which were reversed by PKA inhibition by compound H89. Furthermore, LPS-induced increases of p-p38, but not activation of NF kappa B, were also reduced by FSK and H89 reversed the FSK-induced inhibition response. The dose-dependent inhibition of NO production and iNOS mRNA expression by compound SB203580 (p38 inhibitor) suggests the participation of p38 in PKA-dependent inhibition of LPS-induced NO production and iNOS mRNA expression. However, the activation of NF kappa B by LPS also not affected by SB203580. Therefore, our results suggest that, in C6 glioma cells, LPS-induced NO production and iNOS gene expression may be regulated by PKA pathway through the reduction of activity of p38 kinase. This inhibitory role of PKA may not involve the activation of NF kappa B. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Glucose oxidase/cellulose-carbon nanotube composite paper as a biocompatible bioelectrode for biofuel cells.
Biofuel cells are devices for generating electrical energy directly from chemical energy of renewable biomass using biocatalysts such as enzymes. Efficient electrical communication between redox enzymes and electrodes is essential for enzymatic biofuel cells. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been recognized as ideal electrode materials because of their high electrical conductivity, large surface area, and inertness. Electrodes consisting entirely of CNTs, which are known as CNT paper, have high surface areas but are typically weak in mechanical strength. In this study, cellulose (CL)-CNT composite paper was fabricated as electrodes for enzymatic biofuel cells. This composite electrode was prepared by vacuum filtration of CNTs followed by reconstitution of cellulose dissolved in ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate. Glucose oxidase (GOx), which is a redox enzyme capable of oxidizing glucose as a renewable fuel using oxygen, was immobilized on the CL-CNT composite paper. Cyclic voltammograms revealed that the GOx/CL-CNT paper electrode showed a pair of well-defined peaks, which agreed well with that of FAD/FADH2, the redox center of GOx. This result clearly shows that the direct electron transfer (DET) between the GOx and the composite electrode was achieved. However, this DET was dependent on the type of CNTs. It was also found that the GOx immobilized on the composite electrode retained catalytic activity for the oxidation of glucose. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Malignant Brenner tumor and transitional cell carcinoma of the ovary: a comparison.
The clinical and pathologic features of 16 malignant Brenner tumors (MBT) having an associated benign Brenner component were compared with 29 primary ovarian transitional cell carcinomas (TCC), neoplasms differing from MBT only in that a benign Brenner component was absent. Transitional cell carcinoma represented a more aggressive neoplasm. Twenty of twenty-nine (69%) presented in advanced stages (II-IV) compared with only three of sixteen (19%) MBT. Among stage IA tumors, only three of seven (43%) patients with TCC were well at last contact, compared with nine of eleven (88%) patients with Stage IA MBT. In addition to not having a benign Brenner component, TCC lacked the prominent stromal calcification common in most benign and malignant Brenner tumors. Transitional cell carcinoma is sufficiently different from MBT in that it is reasonable to suppose that ovarian TCC arises directly from pluripotential surface epithelium of the ovary and from cells with urothelial potential, rather than from a benign or proliferative Brenner tumor precursor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Consistency of immigrant and country-of-birth suicide rates: a meta-analysis.
Multifaceted evidence (family, twin, adoption, molecular genetic, geographic and surname studies of suicide) suggests genetic risk factors for suicide. Migrant studies are also informative in this context, but underused. In particular, a meta-analysis of the associations of immigrant (IMM) and country-of-birth (COB) suicide rates is unavailable. Thirty-three studies, reporting IMM suicide rates for nearly 50 nationalities in seven host countries (Australia, Austria, Canada, England, the Netherlands, Sweden and the USA), were retrieved. Total-population IMM and COB suicide rates were strongly positively associated (combined rank-order correlation across 20 eligible studies: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.56-0.73, P < 10(-9)). The effect generalized across both sexes, host countries and study periods. Following the logic of the migrant study design of genetic epidemiology, the correspondence of IMM and COB suicide rates is consistent with the assumption of population differences in the prevalence of genetic risk factors for suicide. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Associations of maternal personal exposure to air pollution on fetal weight and fetoplacental Doppler: A prospective cohort study.
We determined the influence of maternal air pollution exposure during each trimester of pregnancy on fetal and birth weight and fetoplacental hemodynamics. In total, 366 women with singleton pregnancies were prospectively followed in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) were measured during each trimester using passive personal samplers. We evaluated fetal weight and Doppler velocimetry data from the umbilical, middle cerebral, and uterine arteries in the 3rd trimester, and birth weight. Multivariate analysis was performed, controlling for known determinants of fetal weight. Exposure to higher levels of O3 during the 2nd trimester was associated with higher umbilical artery pulsatility indices (PIs) [p=0.013; beta=0.017: standard error (SE)=0.007]. Exposure to higher levels of O3 during the 3rd trimester was associated with lower umbilical artery PIs (p=0.011; beta=-0.021; SE=0.008). Our results suggest that in the environment of São Paulo, O3 may affects placental vascular resistance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An active method for tracking connectivity in temporally changing brain networks.
The inference of connectivity in brain networks has typically been performed using passive measurements of ongoing activity across recording sites. Passive measures of connectivity are harder to interpret, however, in terms of causality - how evoked activity in one region might induce activity in another. To obviate this issue, recent work has proposed the use of active stimulation in conjunction with network estimation. By actively stimulating the network, more accurate information can be gleaned regarding evoked connectivity. The assumption in these previous works, however, was that the underlying networks were static and do not change in time. Such an assumption may be limiting in situations of clinical relevance, where the introduction of a drug or of brain pathology, might change the underlying networks structure. Here, an extension of the evoked connectivity paradigm is introduced that enables tracking networks that change in time. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Altered balance of the aminogram in patients with sepsis - the relation to mortality.
Protein metabolism is important in healing wounds, supporting immune function, and maintaining lean body mass. Determination of adequate requirements of amino acids has not been thoroughly clarified in critically ill patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate 23 plasma amino acids in patients with sepsis and determine prognostic factors. This study was a retrospective study. Plasma aminograms were measured in patients with sepsis. We evaluated minimum and maximum values of each amino acid and evaluated prognostic factors by multivariate logistic regression analysis and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis. The study comprised 77 patients. The median intensive care unit (ICU) stay was 30 days (interquartile range 19.5-55.5 days). Whole mortality rate was 39.0%. Maximum values of glutamine, glutamate, glycine, alanine, methionine, phenylalanine, and histidine and minimum values of glutamate, taurine, serine, isoleucine, leucine, tyrosine, ornithine, tryptophan, and arginine were significantly different between survivors and non-survivors (P < 0.05). Statistical analysis using CART analysis revealed the minimum value of glutamate and maximum value of methionine to be significant prognostic factors for mortality (P < 0.05). Plasma aminograms were significantly altered in patients with sepsis. Altered balance of aminograms was significantly associated with mortality in patients with sepsis requiring a long ICU stay. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diagnostic value of four clinical tests for the evaluation of subscapularis integrity.
The lift-off, internal rotation lag sign, belly-press, and bear-hug tests are widely used to evaluate the integrity of the subscapularis. We hypothesized that these tests might reflect different types of subscapularis tears and sought to ascertain whether these tests accurately determine the severity of the internal rotation strength deficit and fatty degeneration. Isokinetic testing and the 4 clinical tests were used preoperatively to evaluate 312 patients who had undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery. Of these, 37 patients had a full-thickness subscapularis tear, 96 had a partial-thickness tear, and 179 had no tear. For differentiating any tears from an intact subscapularis, the most sensitive test was the belly-press test (27.8%), and the most specific test was the lift-off test (100%). For differentiating a full-thickness tear from a partial tear, the most sensitive test was the belly-press test (56.8%), and the most specific was the lift-off test (96.9%). A positive lift-off test also most reflected loss of internal rotation strength (mean, 72.2%; 95% confidence interval, 61.9-82.5), followed by the internal rotation lag sign (55.1%; 44.2-66.1) and the belly-press test (45.9%; 36.4-54.4). A positive lift-off test was highly specific for the detection of a full-thickness subscapularis tear and to reflect severe fatty degeneration. The lift-off, internal rotation lag sign, belly-press, and bear-hug tests sequentially predict internal rotation strength deficit and provide discrimination of internal rotation strength impairment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The relation between serum cytokeratin 18 and acute pancreatitis: can it be a serological predictive marker?
Acute pancreatitis is well defined as pancreatic inflammation due to the activation of pancreatic enzymes secondary to several etiological factors. In the majority of patients, the clinical symptoms are self-limited, but it can also cause tissue necrosis and severe organ failures. In experimental animal models, it has been shown that wide apoptotic cell death is related to a clinically mild presentation of acute pancreatitis. Cytokeratin 18, a cytoskeletal protein, is shown to be related with apoptosis. In this study, we aimed to show the relation between serum cytokeratin 18 and the clinical presentation of acute pancreatitis in humans. A total of 54 acute pancreatitis patients were enrolled into the study. Patients were classified as mild or severe pancreatitis according to Ranson's criteria. There were 36 (66.7%) patients in the mild pancreatitis group (score < 6), and 18 (33.3%) patients in the severe pancreatitis group (score ≥ 6). During the first admission, blood samples were obtained for serum cytokeratin 18 levels. Cytokeratin 18 levels in the mild pancreatitis group were significantly higher than in the severe pancreatitis group (271.2 ± 45.5 vs. 152.6 ± 38.2 IU/L; p < 0.001). There was a negative correlation between the disease activity score (Ranson score) and the serum cytokeratin 18 levels (p < 0.001; r = -0.724). This first human study suggests that cytokeratin 18 (marker of apoptosis) might be a serological predictive marker for acute pancreatitis for disease activity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A negative allosteric modulator modulates GABAB-receptor signalling through GB2 subunits.
An γ-aminobutyric acid type B (GABAB)-receptor mediates slow and prolonged synaptic inhibition in the central nervous system, which represents an interesting target for the treatment of various diseases and disorders of the central nervous system. To date, only one activator of the GABAB-receptor, baclofen, is on the market for the treatment of spasticity. Inhibitors of the GABAB-receptor, such as antagonists, show anti-absence seizure activity and pro-cognitive properties. In a search for allosteric compounds of the GABAB-receptor, although several positive allosteric modulators have been developed, it is only recently that the first negative allosteric modulator (NAM), CLH304a (also named Compound 14), has been reported. In the present study, we provide further information on the mechanism of action of CLH304a, and also show the possibility of designing more NAMs, such as CLH391 and CLH393, based on the structure of CLH304a. First we show that CLH304a inhibits native GABAB-receptor activity in cultured cerebellar granular neurons. We then show that CLH304a has inverse agonist properties and non-competitively inhibits the effect of agonists, indicating that it binds at a different site to GABA. The GABAB-receptor is a mandatory heterodimer made of GB1 subunits, in which agonists bind, and GB2 subunits, which activate G-proteins. By using various combinations made up of wild-type and/or mutated GB1 and GB2 subunits, we show that CLH304a acts on the heptahelical domain of GB2 subunits. These data revealed the possibility of designing innovative NAMs acting in the heptahelical domain of the GB2 subunits, offering novel possibilities for therapeutic intervention based on GABAB-receptor inhibition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Use of a calibrated melamine-formaldehyde latex for the luminescence microscopic study of phagocytosis in a macrophage culture].
The possibility has been demonstrated of the use of calibrated melamine-formaldehyde latex for studying phagocytosis as an object not undergoing intracellular digestion. Latex was discovered to be actively phagocytized by macrophages and to exert no toxic action on them. A study was made of the time course of changes in the color and brightness of the fluorescence of the latex phagocytized particles in macrophages intravitally fluorochrominated by acridine orange. These changes were demonstrated to be analogous to those observed previously during phagocytosis of bacteria and other objects. The data obtained demonstrate once more the transition of the fluorescent complex from lysosomes to phagosomes and the lack of the relationship of these changes with intracellular death and digestion of the phagocytized objects. The possibility has been also shown to differentiate between phagocytized particles of latex and those located outside the cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fat-gram counting and food-record rating are equally effective for evaluating food records in reduced-fat diets.
To compare rates of adherence to low-fat diets using food-record rating and fat-gram counting, to evaluate dietary adherence using the fat-gram counting method, and to assess correlations between food-record rating and fat-gram counting. A diet monitoring and observation study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of food-record rating and fat-gram counting to evaluate dietary adherence. Subjects were randomly assigned to the food-record rating group of the fat-gram counting group. Each participant was asked to complete four 3-day food records. Food records were evaluated by food-record rating for one group and by fat-gram counting for the other. Each record was then scored using the alternate system. For a subset, manually calculated fat-gram values were compared for accuracy with values from the Nutrient Data Systems database. Mantel-Haenszel chi 2, regression, and K analyses were used to evaluate adherence rates and within-subject agreement between fat-gram counting and food-record rating. Seventy-eight participants were recruited from a lipid-lowering research trial conducted in Houston, Tex. Strong correlations were found between fat-gram values calculated manually and those calculated using the Nutrient Data Systems. No significant differences in adherence rates were found between the food-record rating and fat-gram counting groups. Fat-gram counting is at least as effective as food-record rating in monitoring dietary fat content. Dietitians can use it as an alternative dietary fat-monitoring procedure for clinical practice and research. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel homozygous 1-bp deletion in the NOBOX gene in two Brazilian sisters with primary ovarian failure.
Primary ovarian failure (POF) is characterized by amenorrhea, hypoestrogenism, and elevated gonadotropin levels in women leading to infertility under the age of 40 years. POF is a heterogeneous disease with different causes, and several genes have been associated with the POF phenotype. Thus, Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed in a consanguineous family with two sisters affected by POF. All exons of both sisters were massively sequenced by WES, and the segregation was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The novel homozygous c.1489delT variant in the NOBOX gene was identified in the two sisters with POF. Their parents were heterozygous carriers of this variant and, therefore, consistent with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. The c.1489delT NOBOX variant has not been previously reported in any public available databases (1000Genomes, 6500ESP/EVS, ExAC, and gnomAD). Furthermore, this variant was neither present in 387 Brazilian exomes control individuals nor in 200 fertile Brazilian women screened by Sanger sequencing. We report the first familial case of a novel homozygous NOBOX variant with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance, thus allowing for a genetic diagnosis of primary ovarian failure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Medical education and training in Nepal: SWOT analysis.
To analyse the impact of the medical colleges that have been set up within the last two decades by production of the doctors and the effect on the health of the people. SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunities and threats) analysis of medical education in Nepal has been done by reviewing medical manpower produced by the different institutions in the undergraduate and postgraduate (PG) categories, their registration with the Nepal Medical Council in terms of the existing health scenario of the country. Shows severe shortage of basic sciences teachers. In the clinical areas ophthalmic manpower and services provided are exemplary. There are shortages and shortcomings in all areas if standard health care is to be provided to the Nepalese. There is a long way to go to provide the expected educational and medical services to foreigners prepared to pay more to avail of this in Nepal. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of male sex hormones on urodynamics in childhood: intersex patients are a natural model.
The effects of sex hormones on bladder function have been evaluated in adult females, especially in regard to postmenopausal incontinence and bladder irritability syndromes. These have not been investigated in children in regard to urodynamic findings. An intersex patient whose bladder is under the influence of androgens is a natural model to investigate the effects of male sex hormones on bladder function in females. To evaluate the urodynamic findings and clinical symptoms in a group of intersex patients and to determine how androgens influence bladder function in female children, clinical and urodynamic records of 12 intersex patients with adrenogenital syndrome were investigated retrospectively. The mean age was 9 +/- 5.7 years (1.5-18) and the mean follow-up period was 5.1 +/- 4.4 years (1-12). Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) was present in all cases. Only 3 patients had urinary symptoms and incontinence, but these findings did not correlate with their urodynamic findings. None of the patients required medications for their urinary symptoms. Nine are still being treated medically by the pediatric endocrine team with hydrocortisone for CAH. The upper urinary tract was found to be normal with no hydronephrosis. The mean bladder capacity (269 +/- 122 ml) was lower (86.7%) than the estimated capacity for age. The mean compliance was 20 +/- 13.7 ml/cmH2O. No unstable detrusor contractions were encountered. The most remarkable finding was this reduced bladder capacity of androgenized female patients for age, which shows the antagonistic effect of androgens on bladder urodynamics in females. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Theta rhythm of hippocampal CA1 neuron activity: gating by GABAergic synaptic depolarization.
Information processing and memory consolidation during exploratory behavior require synchronized activity known as hippocampal theta (theta) rhythm. While it is well established that the theta activity depends on cholinergic inputs from the medial septum/vertical limb of the diagonal band nucleus (MS/DBv) and theta discharges of GABAergic interneurons, and can be induced with cholinergic receptor agonists, it is not clear how the increased excitation of pyramidal cells could occur with increased discharges of GABAergic interneurons during theta waves. Here, we show that the characteristic theta activity in adult rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells is associated with GABAergic postsynaptic depolarization and a shift of the reversal potential from Cl(-) toward HCO(3)(-) (whose ionic gradient is regulated by carbonic anhydrase). The theta activity was abolished by GABA(A) receptor antagonists and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, but largely unaffected by blocking glutamate receptors. Carbonic anhydrase inhibition also impaired spatial learning in a water maze without affecting other sensory/locomotor behaviors. Thus HCO(3)(-)-mediated signaling, as regulated by carbonic anhydrase, through reversed polarity of GABAergic postsynaptic responses is implicated in both theta and memory consolidation in rat spatial maze learning. We suggest that this mechanism may be important for the phase forward shift of the place cell discharges for each theta cycle during the animal's traversal of the place field for that cell. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Experimental choices for the determination of carbonyl compounds in air.
The analysis of carbonyls in ambient air has received a great deal of scientific attention with the advancement of analytical techniques and increased demand for the build-up of its data base. In this review article, we have attempted to provide some insight into the relative performance of different instrumental approaches available for the analysis of ambient carbonyls with a major emphasis on high performance liquid chromatographic and gas chromatographic methods. Reported in several international standard procedures, derivatization of carbonyls with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH) with either an impinger or cartridges is the most commonly used method of HPLC detection. In this respect, a number of alternative hydrazine reagents have also been discussed for use with HPLC. In contrast, GC methods based on the combined application of adsorptive enrichment on solid sorbents and thermal desorption are examined with regard to their suitability for carbonyl analysis in air. Particular emphasis has been directed towards the advantages and drawbacks of these different instrumental techniques for ambient carbonyls. Based on this comparative approach, we discuss the suitability for each method for carbonyl analysis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The effect of CD8+ cells on isolation and replication of HIV-1].
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) seropositive individuals are known to have a population of CD8+T lymphocytes which can suppress the replication of the virus. Two hundred and twelve peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) samples obtained from 42 seropositive individuals were examined for HIV-1 isolation. HIV-1 recovery rate reached almost 90% by coculture of CD8+ cell-depleted PBMC with uninfected normal PBMC. These results indicated the usefulness of panning method of CD8+ cell for isolation of HIV-1 from asymptomatic carriers (AC). To investigate the suppressive effect of CD8+ cells on HIV-1 replication, we characterized HIV-1 isolates from the same blood samples obtained from five AC individuals before and after the removal of CD8+ cells. Comparative studies of paired isolates revealed significant differences in their replication kinetics in the presence of autologous or allogeneic CD8+ cells. The paired isolates from four out of 5 AC individuals revealed significant differences in their genetic structures, although their biological properties, such as replication rate of cell tropism, were almost the same between the paired isolates. One exception, that of paired isolates from one AC with clinical data of near AIDS-related complex showed a similar genetic structure and similar biological properties. Thus, we showed that many AC individuals during the early clinical stages simultaneously carried two or more replication-competent HIV-ls in vivo which have different genomic backgrounds and sensitivity to the antiviral effects of CD8+ cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Effect of Preventive Immunization on the Incidence of Allergic Conditions.
The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of preventive immunization on the incidence of allergies in Poland. 18,617 (53.8% female, 24.2% 6-7 years old, 25.4% 13-14 years old, 50.4% 20-44 years old) were selected by stratified cluster sampling method in 8 cities and 1 rural area. 4783 of whom underwent objective outpatient screening assessments. Study subjects were evaluated for any association between preventive immunization against rubella, measles, typhoid fever, smallpox and incidence of atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. There was no increased risk of allergy incidence in the majority of vaccinated subjects against rubella, measles, typhoid fever, or smallpox (OR from 0.42 (p<0.0001) to 1.34 (p<0.0001) with 95% CI from 0.27-0.65 to 1.19-1.50). Slightly increased risk of asthma was after vaccination against typhoid (OR=1.27; p<0.0001) and smallpox (OR=1.21; p=0.02). The risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) was also evaluated following vaccination against rubella (OR=1.34; p<0.0001), typhoid (OR=1.13; p=0.005), varicella (OR=1.18; p=0.003); rhinitis and AR following vaccination against measles (respectively OR=1.22; p<0.0005 and OR =1.21; p=0.0002). No higher risk of allergic diseases was demonstrated in vaccinated individuals diagnosed by doctor in an outpatient setting. These data do not demonstrate a causal relationship between vaccinations and allergic conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes in exercise capacity and anthropometric measures after Work It Out-a holistic chronic disease self-management program for urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Work It Out (WIO) program is a holistic chronic disease self-management and rehabilitation program in Queensland that is tailored for urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with/at risk of chronic disease. This study aimed to examine the overall changes in participants' exercise capacity and anthropometric measurements and to explore the correlations between these changes. Quasi-experimental prepost intervention study. A total of 406 participants self-identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who had attended one or more cycles of the program from 2014 to 2017, were included. Health information from the last review assessment was compared with that of the initial assessment using paired t-tests. Multivariate regression models were applied to explore the associations between changes in 6-min walk distance (6MWD) and anthropometric measurements. An increase in 6MWD (77 m, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 65, 90), as well as small reductions in waist circumference (WC) (-1.79 cm, 95% CI: -2.76 to -0.82) and hip circumference (-1.11 cm, 95% CI: -2.13 to -0.08) were identified. Statistically significant reductions were observed across all anthropometric measures in the respective highest tertiles (body mass index: -0.71, 95% CI: -1.35 to -0.07; weight: -2.59 kg, 95% CI: -4.84 to -0.34; WC: -5.09 cm, 95% CI: -6.99 to -3.20; waist to hip ratio: -0.033, 95% CI: -0.047 to -0.02). The increments of 6MWD in returning participants (92 m, 95% CI: 75 to 109) was found to be greater than those in one-off participants (59 m, 95% CI: 40-78). In particular, the percentage of 6MWD change from baseline was significantly correlated to the percentage of WC change after adjusting for age, gender, the number of pre-existing chronic conditions, and the number of cycles attended (coefficient: -1.33, 95% CI: -2.42 to -0.24). Significant improvement in functional exercise capacity and modest changes in anthropometric measurements were identified in WIO participants. WC change could be used as an indicator of the change of participants' six-minute walk distance. Findings may be useful for promoting and guiding similar health programs for improving chronic disease management in Australian Indigenous communities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Cutaneous histoplasmosis in nine patients with AIDS].
In AIDS patients the diagnosis of systemic mycosis is a clinical challenge. When cutaneous affection occurs, the diagnosis is difficult because of the non-specific clinical findings. We describe nine patients with AIDS and cutaneous histoplasmosis as the initial clinical manifestation. These patients were diagnosed from 1987 to 1998. In all the diagnosis of histoplasmosis was done by skin biopsy and fungal isolation. The main skin lesions were papules combined with pustules or nodules in 6 of 9 patients, ulcers (1/9), erythematous plaques (1/9) and nodules (1/9). Head and trunk were the main anatomical locations of the lesions. All had fever, 7/9 had liver and spleen enlargement and 5/9 had weight loss. At the time of diagnosis all patients had a low CD4+ lymphocyte counts with a mean of 47 cells/microL. Amphotericin B was the initial treatment followed by itraconazole. Five patients died, one day after diagnosis and four after 5, 8, 11 and 12 months. Four are alive at 3, 3, 19 and 26 months of follow-up. In AIDS patients the skin involvement by histoplasmosis should always be included among the differential diagnoses specially in patients with face and trunk papules and fever and hepatosplenomegaly. Skin and bone marrow cultures were the most reliable diagnostic methods, but skin biopsy was the fastest procedure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Monoclonal antibodies against rat leukocyte surface antigens.
Monoclonal antibodies have proven to be powerful tools for studying the properties of leukocyte surface antigens and the cells that express them. In the past decades many monoclonal antibodies (mAb) for identifying the different rat leukocyte surface antigens have been described. A list of mAb is provided in Table I below. The rat leukocyte surface antigens are divided into different sections, including rat CD antigens (a), rat leukocyte surface antigens without CD designation (b), rat major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens (c), rat T-cell receptors (d) and rat immunoglobulins (e). The molecular and functional characteristics of rat leukocyte surface antigens are discussed in more detail in some of the other chapters of this issue (e.g. Van den Berg et al., p. 45). A more extensive overview of the properties of leukocyte surface antigens is provided by Barclay et al. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hormone replacement therapy: compliance and cost after screening for osteoporosis.
To assess HRT compliance and cost 1 year after population screening for low bone density. Postal questionnaire sent out to women 1 year after having a bone density scan. Compliance with HRT, type of HRT and cost. Compliance with HRT after screening for women with low bone density was 48% for postmenopausal women and 59% for women with a simple hysterectomy. The most often used form of HRT was Estraderm (49%) for women with a hysterectomy, whilst for women with an intact uterus Prempak-C (54%) was the most popular. The average annual cost of treating women who had had a hysterectomy was 67 pounds whilst for women with an intact uterus it was 61 pounds, a non-significant difference. Approximately 50% of women with low bone density had started HRT within 1 year of having a densitometry examination. Previous reports of the cost advantage of treating women who had had a hysterectomy relative to those who had not has been overstated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Signal transduction events in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated by Schistosoma mansoni antigens.
Activation of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) is a common step of T cell stimulation. However, the relationship between PTKs and activation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from intestinal chronic schistosomiasis patients has not been explored yet. In this study, we investigated the participation of Lck and ZAP-70 protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs), as well as PLC-gamma1 and Shc proteins in PBMC activation by Schistosoma mansoni antigens. PBMC were stimulated with SEA (soluble egg antigen) or SWAP (soluble worm preparation), lysed, precipitated with specific antibodies and the level of tyrosine phosphorylation evaluated. Our results show that Lck and Shc were phosphorylated upon stimulation of the cells with SWAP, as well as with SEA. However, the phosphorylation level was more pronounced in SWAP than in SEA-stimulated cells. Phosphorylation of ZAP-70 was observed only in SWAP stimulated cells. Additionally, PLC-gamma1 phosphorylation was not observed in PBMC stimulated with SEA. Together, these results indicate that SEA and SWAP induce PBMC proliferation through distinct intracellular signaling pathways. Moreover, the weaker response of PBMC to SEA compared to SWAP stimulation suggests down-regulation of cells from intestinal chronic schistosomiasis patients to SEA, which may occur during immunomodulation to S. mansoni response. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Acute motor axonal neuropathy: an antibody-mediated attack on axolemma.
The acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) form of the Guillain-Barre syndrome is a paralytic disorder of abrupt onset characterized pathologically by motor nerve fiber degeneration of variable severity and by sparing of sensory fibers. There is little demyelination or lymphocytic inflammation. Most cases have antecedent infection with Campylobacter jejuni and many have antibodies directed toward GM1 ganglioside-like epitopes, but the mechanism of nerve-fiber injury has not been defined. In 7 fatal cases of AMAN, immunocytochemistry demonstrated the presence of IgG and the complement activation product C3d bound to the axolemma of motor fibers. The most frequently involved site was the nodal axolemma, but in more severe cases IgG and C3d were found within the periaxonal space of the myelinated internodes, bound to the outer surface of the motor axon. These results suggest that AMAN is a novel disorder caused by an antibody- and complement-mediated attack on the axolemma of motor fibers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Medium term outcome of 191 cases of coronary insufficiency technically operable and treated medically].
After evaluation by clinical examination, stress testing and coronary angiography, coronary patients may be classified into several subgroups according to the therapeutic orientation: 1) surgical and operable, 2) surgical but inoperable, 3) operable, but not immediately, 4) inoperable and not referred for operation. Groups 1 and 2 have severe ischaemia at rest or on exercise and an incomplete response to medical therapy: surgical revascularisation may be possible (Group 1) or not (Group 2). The surgical indication in Group 4 is not formal, but would be this so the operation would not be possible technically: this is the case for example in isolated thrombosis of the right coronary or left anterior descending arteries after infarction in their territories. This study concerns cases in Group 3; a total of 196 patients were deliberately treated medically after exercise stress testing had indicated a probable good prognosis despite patent coronary lesions (1.76 vessels with over 70% stenosis or thrombosis). Of the 1,181 patients who underwent exercise stress testing without therapy before coronary angiography between January 1979 and March 1983, 700 were operated (Group 1), 200 were inoperable (Group 2), 50 were inoperable and not referred for surgery (Group 4) and 196 were deliberate abstentions (Group 3); 35 patients underwent angioplasty; the average age of these 196 patients (168 men and 27 women) was 57.6 +/- 9 years (range 29 to 76 years). The incidence of single, double and triple vessel disease in this subgroup was 42%, 38% and 20%, respectively; 37% had previous infarction; 16% had atypical chest pain; 40% had stable angina, recent in 44% of cases.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transcriptional upregulation of retinoic acid receptor beta (RAR beta) expression by phenylacetate in human neuroblastoma cells.
Sodium phenylacetate (NaPA) has been shown to synergize with retinoic acid (RA) in inducing the differentiation of human neuroblastoma cells. Our studies indicated that NaPA can impact on the RA differentiation program by upregulating nuclear retinoic acid receptor-beta (RAR beta) expression. We have found that NaPA does not alter the half-life of RAR beta mRNA; thus, increased stability of mRNA levels does not contribute to NaPA induction. In contrast, NaPA was able to specifically activate a reporter gene construct (delta SV beta RE-CAT) which contains a retinoic acid response element (RARE beta) that is located in the RAR beta promoter. Activation of delta SV beta RE-CAT by NaPA also occurred in neuroblastoma cells cotransfected with a nuclear retinoic acid receptor expression vector, demonstrating the independence of this activation on cellular RAR levels. Taken together, our findings suggest that induction of RAR beta by NaPA is regulated at the level of transcription and mediated through the retinoic acid response element, RARE beta. This effect may account, at least in part, for the strong synergy between NaPA and RA in promoting neuroblastoma differentiation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinicopathologic significance of leptin and leptin receptor expressions in papillary thyroid carcinoma.
Epidemiologic studies have shown that obesity is associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer. Leptin, an adipocyte-derived cytokine, can act as a growth factor on certain normal and transformed cells. Aberrant expression of leptin or leptin receptor has been detected in some types of cancer. The aim of this study is to determine immunohistochemical expression of leptin and leptin receptor in papillary thyroid cancer to investigate the relationship between their expression and clinicopathologic features. The expression of leptin and leptin receptor was assessed in 49 primary neoplasms and 15 lymph node metastases using a semiquantitative immunohistochemical staining method. Leptin and leptin receptor were expressed in 37% and 51% of papillary thyroid cancer, respectively. They were not expressed in normal follicles. In the primary neoplasms and the metastatic nodes, expression of leptin correlated closely with leptin receptor (P < .001 for the primary neoplasms and P = .017 for nodal metastases). Expression of either protein was associated with greater neoplasm size (leptin expression, 32.0 +/- 10.7 vs 20.5 +/- 8.4 mm; P = .001; leptin receptor expression, 27.9 +/- 11.5 vs 21.4 +/- 9.0 mm; P = .032). Coexpression of leptin and leptin receptor in primary neoplasms had greater incidence of lymph node metastasis (P = .038). Expression of leptin and/or leptin receptor in papillary thyroid cancer is associated with neoplasm aggressiveness, including tumor size and lymph node metastasis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Autoimmune pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease: Case series and review of the literature.
An association between autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been documented, but its clinical significance remains unclear. Characterize the particular phenotypes of IBD and AIP in patients with both diseases (IBD-AIP). Retrospective study of patients with IBD-AIP followed at our IBD referral centre and literature search to identify previous reports of IBD-AIP patients. We found 5 cases of IBD-AIP in our records and 5 prior studies reporting 47 additional IBD-AIP patients. A combined analysis showed that most IBD-AIP patients were young males with ulcerative colitis, usually extensive, and that in all Crohn's disease cases, the colon was involved. IBD severity was heterogeneous across studies, ranging from mild disease to severe disease requiring colectomy. The most frequent type of AIP was idiopathic duct-centric pancreatitis (type 2) and it most often occurred after the diagnosis of IBD. AIP presentation and treatment were similar to those in the general population. AIP occurs rarely with IBD; in the other way around, up to 1/3 of AIP patients, especially type 2, may have concomitant IBD. IBD-AIP patients are usually males presenting extensive colitis. More data are needed on the impact of AIP, if any, in IBD course. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prostaglandin D2 reverses induced pulmonary hypertension in the newborn lamb.
We investigated the effects of PGD2 in six near-term newborn lambs with induced pulmonary hypertension (mean pulmonary arterial pressure equal to mean systemic arterial pressure). In each lamb PGD2 decreased mean pulmonary arterial pressure, increased pulmonary blood flow, and therefore decreased pulmonary vascular resistance without changing mean systemic arterial pressure. A bolus dose of 20 micrograms PGD2 decreased pulmonary arterial pressure by 30%, increased pulmonary blood flow by 45%, and decreased pulmonary vascular resistance by 54%; systemic arterial pressure increased by 4%. At all doses, pulmonary vascular resistance fell further than systemic vascular resistance, the ratio of percent change in pulmonary vascular resistance to percent change in systemic vascular resistance was approximately 2:1. Similar changes occurred with continuous infusions of PGD2. These effects suggest a role for PGD2 in the normal regulation of pulmonary vascular resistance and blood flow at birth. In addition, because PGD2 in these circumstances increases pulmonary blood flow and reduces pulmonary arterial pressure, it may merit further trials in nonhuman primates; it may be an appropriate agent for treating newborn infants with persistent pulmonary hypertension. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In- and outpatients with noncompaction: differences in cardiac and neuromuscular co-morbidity.
The prognosis of patients with left ventricular hypertrabeculation/noncompaction (LVHT) is controversial. LVHT is associated with neuromuscular disorders (NMD) and diagnosed echocardiographically in in- as well as outpatients. We compared cardiologic and neurologic findings and mortality in LVHT-patients according to their diagnosis established as in- or outpatients. Among 113 patients (33 females, mean-age 53 years), 91 were investigated neurologically. Fifty-nine inpatients were older (55 versus 50 years, p<0.05), more frequently referred because of heart failure (73 versus 37%, p<0.001), had more often diabetes (24 versus 7%, p<0.05), heart failure (81 versus 57%, p<0.01), a lower left-ventricular fractional-shortening (21 versus 26%, p<0.05) and more extensive LVHT (1.7 versus 1.5 affected walls, p<0.05). Fifty-four outpatients were referred more often because of chest-pain (33 versus 12%, p<0.01), myopathy (13 versus 2%, p<0.05), were more often neurologically normal (20 versus 7%, p<0.05) or had a specific NMD (28 versus 12%, p<0.05). During a mean follow-up of 3.8 years, mortality was 5.8%/year. Inpatients had a higher mortality (12.1 versus 2.1%/year, p=0.0002) and a shorter time between LVHT-diagnosis and death (1.7 versus 4.6 years, p=0.0197) than outpatients. Outpatients with LVHT have a better prognosis than inpatients. Inpatients with LVHT should be closely monitored. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Helping hypertensive clients help themselves: the nurse's role.
Nurses hve an important role in helping hypertensive clients accept, understand, and adhere to a therapeutic plan of self-care. This paper examines the nurses' role in helping hypertensive clients help themselves. Strategies include developing a therapeutic relationship, guiding, supporting, and teaching. The nurse can enhance the client-provider relationship by establishing a good rapport, being nonjudgmental, individualizing care, treating the whole person, and creating an effective clinic structure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A case of non-ossifying fibroma.
The authors describe a case of non-ossifying fibroma which, because of its particular clinical and radiographic features, had previously been diagnosed as osteoid osteoma. Taking this as the starting point, the relationship and the differential diagnosis between these two well-known disorders is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isolation and partial characterization of prothymosin alpha from porcine tissues.
Prothymosin alpha, an immunoactive polypeptide of 12 kDa, has been isolated from porcine thymus, spleen, lung and kidney. It lacks aromatic and sulfur-containing amino acids and has a high content of glutamic and aspartic acids. Tryptic digestion of porcine thymus prothymosin alpha yielded peptides which on separation, amino acid analysis and alignment with the known sequence of prothymosin alpha from rat and man showed that the amino terminal portion of the molecule is conserved and the few differences present are confined to the carboxy terminal. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Haemorrhoidal suffering].
Improvements in our understanding of the anatomy of haemorrhoids have prompted the development of new and innovative methods of treatment. Conservative treatment consists of dietary and lifestyle modifications. Standard interventional procedures in outpatient treatment are injection sclerotherapy and rubber band ligation. Among the surgical options for prolapsed haemorrhoids, formal haemorrhoidectomy now competes with stapled haemorrhoidopexy, which is less painful and allows shorter convalescence but may have a higher recurrence rate and needs further long-term evaluation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Abnormal electromyographic activity (decelerating burst and complex repetitive discharges) in the striated muscle of the urethral sphincter in 5 women with persisting urinary retention.
In five women with urinary retention, recordings from the striated muscle of the urethral sphincter revealed highly abnormal electromyographic (EMG) activity. Using a concentric needle electrode, recordings revealed very striking bursts of activity, referred to here as decelerating burst (DB) and complex repetitive discharges (CRD). Such EMG activity is exceedingly unusual in skeletal striated muscle and resembles most closely the rarely encountered condition of "pseudomyotonia". We suggest that this abnormal activity is associated with a failure of relaxation of the striated muscle of the urethral sphincter, which results in chronic retention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CRABP I expression and the mediation of the sensitivity of human tumour cells to retinoic acid and irradiation.
To examine the role cytoplasmic retinoic acid binding protein type 1 (CRABP I) and retinoic acid receptor beta 2 (RAR-beta 2) in mediating radiosensitization of human tumour cells in vitro by retinoic acid. Human squamous cell carcinoma cell lines of different types were treated with retinoic acid followed by irradiation. Radiation response under drug treatment was detected by colony-formation assay. mRNA and protein expression levels of CRABP I, RAR-beta and cyclin D1 were investigated under different treatment conditions by room temperature polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The retinoic acid-sensitive cell line HTB35 was transfected for inducible CRABP I overexpression to test the role of this protein in modulating the sensitivity to retinoic acid and radiation as well as in regulating RAR-beta 2 and cyclin D1 expression. The basal CRABP I level clearly correlated with the clonogenic survival of tumour cells and normal fibroblasts after treatment with retinoic acid and ionizing irradiation (IR). Cells expressing high basal CRABP I were more resistant to combined retinoic acid radiation treatment than cells with low basal expression. Overexpression of CRABP I in retinoic acid-sensitive HTB35 cells induced a retinoic acid-insensitive phenotype resistant to combined treatment with retinoic acid and radiation. This effect was independent of RAR-beta 2 expression. CRABP I overexpression resulted in stimulated cyclin D1 expression indicating the dependency of this cell cycle control protein on retinoic acid metabolism. CRABP I plays an important role not only in mediating the retinoid effects, but also in modulating the radiation sensitivity of tumour cells after combined retinoic acid radiation treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[A discussion on the difference between the set tide volume and the actual delivered tide volume in the respiratory care].
A discussion on the causes and managing methods of the difference between the set tide volume and the actual delivered tide volume during the respiratory care, is given in the paper and to help doctors and nurses to handle respiratory therapy on the basis of related people-machine engineering science principle and experimental analysis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effective follow-up strategies in soft tissue sarcoma.
The value of surveillance for detection of recurrences in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) after definitive surgical resection of the primary tumor is based on the premise that early recognition and treatment of local or distant recurrence can prolong survival. Surveillance strategies should meet the criteria of easy implementation, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. Although guidelines have been proposed for follow-up of patients with STS, there are few data in the medical literature on the effectiveness of these recommendations. We reviewed the effectiveness of a surveillance program for primary extremity STS in an effort to provide an evidence-based rationale for follow-up of STS. We concluded that clinical assessment of patient symptoms, chest X-ray imaging, and physical examination are effective strategies for follow-up of extremity STS. Chest X-ray imaging also appears to be cost-effective, at least for high-grade extremity STS. Imaging of the primary extremity site by computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on an annual basis and routine laboratory blood tests were ineffective strategies for recurrence detection. However, certain patient characteristics such as body habitus, previous radiation therapy, and location of the primary tumor site may require the use of CT scans and MRI for adequate clinical assessment. The role of specific surveillance strategies for recurrence detection for sarcomas of the trunk, head and neck, retroperitoneum, and viscera has yet to be defined. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Fibrinolytic inhibitory proteins of the hemostaseologic system in normal, inflammatory and bloody cerebrospinal fluid].
A quantitative immunochemical determination of the plasmin inhibitors alpha-1-antitrypsin, alpha-2-macroglobulin, and antithrombin-III of the fibronolytic system was carried out from normal, inflammatorily changed, and essentially sanguineous fluids. The low total inhibitor concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid is due to the 'restricted diffusion' caused by the blood/brain barrier function and the lacking synthesis for these proteins in the central nervous system. The inhibitor concentrations which in functional disorders of the blood/sbrain barrier and/or direct entering of blood are still--low as compared to the plasma produce a dissociation of the plasmin-inhibitor complex. The lacking interaction between the active enzyme and the inhibitor enables the occurrence of a free fibrinolytic activity in the cerebrospinal fluid. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of previous vitrectomy on incidence of macular oedema after cataract surgery in diabetic eyes.
To evaluate the effect of previous vitrectomy on the incidence of macular oedema (MO) after cataract surgery in diabetic eyes. Ninety phakic eyes of 70 patients with diabetes undergoing non-emergent vitrectomy surgery were reviewed for rates of postvitrectomy MO, cataract formation and postcataract surgery MO. Preoperative and final best-corrected visual acuity were recorded. Baseline risk characteristics were analysed. Postvitrectomy MO increases initially but then levels off at 28% by 4 years. Cumulative proportion of eyes requiring cataract surgery after vitrectomy climbs steadily, reaching 40% at 4 years and 60% at 8 years. Of those eyes which underwent vitrectomy and then subsequent cataract surgery, the incidence of postvitrectomy MO was 6% at 6 months, and that of postcataract surgery MO was 30% at 6 months (p<0.02). Previous clinically significant macular oedema (CSMO) predicted development of postcataract surgery MO (p<0.04). Previous vitrectomy does not appear to lessen rates of postcataract surgery MO. Cataract formation is common after vitrectomy in diabetic eyes, and risk of postcataract surgery MO is substantial and more likely in eyes with prior CSMO. Cataract formation and risk of postcataract surgery MO should be considered when assessing the long-term benefits of vitrectomy surgery in patients with diabetes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hyporesponsiveness of the systemic and mucosal humoral immune systems in chickens infected with Salmonella enterica serovar enteritidis at one day of age.
Newly hatched chicks lack immunological maturity, which could compromise their ability to respond to infection by pathogens such as Salmonella enterica serovar enteritidis (S. enteritidis; SE). A study was conducted in which chicks were infected with a sublethal dose of SE at 1 d posthatch, and the systemic and intestinal immune responses to the challenge were followed over time. Birds infected at this age experienced difficulty in clearing the infection, and 50% of the individual birds remained persistently infected until 23 wk of age. These birds exhibited only a marginal systemic and mucosal humoral immune response to the infection. No response or little response was observed 1 wk postchallenge; responses increased somewhat over time. On many of the sampling times, 50% or more of the culture-positive birds lacked a detectable plasma or intestinal response. Levels of 10(3) to 10(5) SE/g of feces could be found in the intestines of birds eliciting a good IgA response, indicating that, when these birds did respond mucosally, the IgA produced was incapable of clearing the organism once the infection was established. Birds infected during this time also experienced reduced ability to respond to vaccination. Compared with uninfected controls, depressed responsiveness to an S. enteritidis bacterin was observed in infected birds 1 and 2 wk after administration, whereas those individuals receiving an inactivated Newcastle disease vaccine (NDV) experienced a reduced response 4 and 6 wk postvaccination, indicating that the persistent infection affected the ability of the immune system to respond to homologous and heterologous antigens. These results demonstrate that exposure of chickens to SE early in life interferes with the ability of these individuals to respond humorally to the infection and to other antigenic stimuli; such effects can be observed for at least 23 wk. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Delayed ocular complications of mustard gas poisoning and the relationship with respiratory and cutaneous complications.
This study was aimed to determine the correlation between ocular complications and respiratory or cutaneous complications in a group of 40 Iranian veterans with late complications of sulphur mustard (SM) poisoning. Thorough ophthalmologic examination was performed on all severely SM-poisoned veterans in the province of Khorasan, Iran. Spirometric evaluation of pulmonary function, as well as estimation of the burned skin area, was performed for all the patients. The severities of ocular, respiratory and cutaneous complications were classified into four grades in each patient and were compared with each other, using Spearman's rank correlation test. Forty male patients (aged 43.8 +/- 9.8 years) with confirmed SM poisoning were studied 16-20 years after their initial exposure. Common symptoms were recorded as itching (42.5%), burning sensation (37.5%), photophobia (30%) and tearing (27.5%). Abnormal conjunctival and limbal findings were chronic conjunctivitis (17.5%), perilimbal hyperpigmentation (17.5%), vascular tortuosity (15%) and limbal ischaemia (12.5%). Abnormal corneal findings were subepithelial opacity (15%), corneal thinning (15%), diffuse corneal opacity (10%), neovascularization (7.5%) and epithelial defects (5%). A significant positive correlation was found between the severity of ocular and respiratory complications (r = 0.322, P = 0.043). Cutaneous complications revealed no significant correlation with either ocular or respiratory complications. SM causes delayed destructive lesions in the ocular surface and cornea, leading to progressive visual deterioration and ocular irritation. Late complications of SM poisoning in the eyes, respiratory system and skin are mainly due to SM's local irritant effects. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The usefulness of laser in the treatment of urethral stenosis].
Optical urethrotomy was introduced by Sachse in 1973 and it has a registered long-term recurrence rate of 75-80%. This stimulated the search for new therapies with less recurrences. Several types of laser were tried: Nd:YAG, KTP, Argon, Ho:YAG, diode,... Since the end of the '70s various types of laser are being used for the treatment of ureteral stenosis. To describe the usefulness of the laser energy in the treatment of ureteral stenosis, mainly recurrent stenosis and to analyze the current experience with various types of laser (diode, nd:yag, holmium, argon,...) We performed the systematic review of the bibliography, based on a medline search, and a detailed analysis of the selected articles. 1) The use of laser in the treatment of urethral stenosis is on the a valid, effective, and safe alternative option to optical urethrotomy, at least in the mid term; nevertheless, it has not demonstrated to date being better than that. 2) The election of treatment is surgeon dependent and, and no single technique has demonstrated to be clearly better than the others. 3) Prospective long-term studies with larger numbers of patients and longer follow-up are necessary. 4) Laser technology is extensive and it is not available in all centers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro assessment of the antimicrobial action and the mechanical ability of chlorhexidine gel as an endodontic irrigant.
The objective of this study was to assess the chlorhexidine gluconate gel as an endodontic irrigant. First the ability of chlorhexidine gel to disinfect root canals contaminated in vitro with Enterococcus faecalis was investigated. A scanning electron microscope was also used to evaluate its cleansing ability compared with endodontic irrigants commonly used, such as sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine gluconate liquid. The results indicated that the chlorhexidine gel produced a cleaner root canal surface and had an antimicrobial ability comparable with that obtained with the other solutions tested. It was concluded that chlorhexidine gluconate in gel form has potential for use as an endodontic irrigant. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alpha-neo-endorphin coexists with dynorphin-A(1-8) within intramurally lying perikarya of rat duodenum.
By the use of the immunofluorescent microscopic staining technique, adjacent serial sections through the rat duodenum were alternately stained with specific antisera directed to the opioid peptides alpha-neo-endorphin and dynorphin-A(1-8). alpha-Neo-endorphin immunoreactivity has been revealed exclusively within perikarya lying intramurally in the longitudinal muscle layer. These alpha-neo-endorphin and dynorphin-A(1-8) immunoreactive perikarya were large in diameter, round in shape, contained a large and round nucleus, and were recognized only occasionally there. alpha-Neo-endorphin immunoreactivity was coexistent with dynorphin-A(1-8)-positive material within these perikarya. Since no alpha-neo-endorphin material was detected within duodenal nerve fibres and terminals, it might be concluded that this peptide is further enzymatically cleaved to the opioid pentapeptide Leu-enkephalin during its axonal transport from intramural perikarya to nerve terminals and during its storage there. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Electronic Spectra of the Tetraphenylcyclobutadienecyclopentadienylnickel(II) Cation and Radical.
Properties of the tetraphenylcyclobutadienecyclopentadienylnickel(II) cation 1 and its tetra-o-fluoro derivative 1a have been measured and calculated. The B3LYP/TZP optimized geometry of the free cation 1 agrees with a single-crystal X-ray diffraction structure except that in the crystal one of the phenyl substituents is strongly twisted to permit a close-packing interaction of two of its hydrogens with a nearby BF4(-) anion. The low-energy parts of the solution electronic absorption and magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectra of 1 and 1a have been interpreted by comparison with TD-DFT (B3LYP/TZP) results. Reduction or pulse radiolysis lead to a neutral 19-electron radical, whose visible absorption and MCD spectra have been recorded and interpreted as well. The reduction is facilitated by ∼0.1 V upon going from 1 to 1a. Unsuccessful attempts to prepare several other aryl substituted derivatives of 1 by the classical synthetic route are described in the Supporting Information . | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recent Progress in Two-Dimensional Antimicrobial Nanomaterials.
Nowadays, microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, are regarded as new environmental pollutants and pose serious threats to public health. Yet, traditional disinfection approaches for bacteria and viruses are generally ineffective. Furthermore, they exhibit the disadvantages of high-energy consumption, environmental pollution, high cost, and toxic byproduct generation. In this respect, nanomaterials display promising antimicrobial capabilities due to their unique properties and provide solutions to the abovementioned issues. Herein, recent progress in the development of 2D nanomaterials displaying antimicrobial capabilities is highlighted. The structures, morphologies, and performances of essential metal, graphene, and nitride-based 2D antibacterial nanomaterials are summarized in detail. In addition, possible antimicrobial mechanisms and the relationship between structure and antimicrobial efficiency are elaborated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Polyglutamine expansion inhibits respiration by increasing reactive oxygen species in isolated mitochondria.
Huntington's disease results from expansion of the polyglutamine (PolyQ) domain in the huntingtin protein. Although the cellular mechanism by which pathologic-length PolyQ protein causes neurodegeneration is unclear, mitochondria appear central in pathogenesis. We demonstrate in isolated mitochondria that pathologic-length PolyQ protein directly inhibits ADP-dependent (state 3) mitochondrial respiration. Inhibition of mitochondrial respiration by PolyQ protein is not due to reduction in the activities of electron transport chain complexes, mitochondrial ATP synthase, or the adenine nucleotide translocase. We show that pathologic-length PolyQ protein increases the production of reactive oxygen species in isolated mitochondria. Impairment of state 3 mitochondrial respiration by PolyQ protein is reversed by addition of the antioxidants N-acetyl-L-cysteine or cytochrome c. We propose a model in which pathologic-length PolyQ protein directly inhibits mitochondrial function by inducing oxidative stress. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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