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Low self-awareness of individuals with severe traumatic brain injury can lead to reduced ability to take another person's perspective.
Aims of this study were (i) to verify whether a deficit or a lack of self-awareness can lead to difficulties in assuming another person's perspective after a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI); (ii) to verify whether perspective-taking deficits emerge more from performance-based tasks than self-reports; and (iii) to evaluate the possible relationships between perspective-taking difficulties and some clinical, neuropsychological, neuropsychiatric, and neuroimaging variables. The Interpersonal Reactivity Index, Empathy Quotient, first-order false-belief, and faux pas written stories were administered to 28 patients with severe TBI and 28 healthy controls. The Awareness Questionnaire was also administered to TBI patients and their caregivers. Patients were split into 2 groups (impaired self-awareness vs adequate self-awareness) on the basis of the discrepancy Awareness Questionnaire score. Both TBI groups obtained lower scores than healthy controls on the Fantasy subscale of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index, the reality question of the false-belief stories, and the memory questions of the faux pas test. Only impaired self-awareness patients tended to obtain lower scores in first-order false-belief detection. Impaired self-awareness patients also performed significantly worse than both healthy controls and adequate self-awareness patients on the faux pas tasks. The analysis suggests a causal relationship between low self-awareness and perspective-taking difficulties in this population of patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
How does Mo-dependent perchlorate reductase work in the decomposition of oxyanions?
Mo-Dependent perchlorate reductase (PcrAB), responsible for the ending step of anaerobic respiration of perchlorate reducing bacteria, catalyzes the conversion of perchlorate to chlorate and subsequently chlorite and is also able to deoxidate bromate, iodate, and nitrate. Herein, the reaction mechanisms for the PcrAB-catalyzed decomposition of these oxyanions have been investigated using density functional calculations and a chemical model constructed from the X-ray crystal structure. It is revealed that the reactions of halogen oxyanions proceed through a very fast O-X (X = Cl, Br, and I) heterolytic cleavage activated by the MoIV center, followed by a rate-limiting reduction of the resulting MoVI[double bond, length as m-dash]O back to MoIV dominated by the slow proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET). However, the O-N bond heterolysis in the nitrate decomposition has a barrier (16.2 kcal mol-1) comparable to the PCET-dominating reduction of MoVI[double bond, length as m-dash]O. This heralds an exciting future where a proper mutation of electron/proton transfer passage of perchlorate reducing bacteria may lead to a decomposition preference for halogen oxyanions rather than non-toxic nitrate, providing a friendly bioremediation method. Other open mechanistic questions are also addressed, where in particular an O-O rebound mechanism without PCET has been ruled out. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Eco-toxicological bioassay of atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with Photobacterium Phosphoreum T3.
A bioluminescent bacterium, Photobacterium phosphoreum T3 (PPT3), was used as a bio-indicator for the atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) to determine the eco-toxicity of PM2.5. The PM2.5 contains toxic chemicals, which reduce light output. The PM2.5 samples were collected in the period from March 2014 to January 2015 in Nanjing and analyzed for the chemical composition versus their eco-toxicity. The eco-toxicological responses of each toxicant were detected in PM2.5 samples with PPT3. The dose-response curves obtained were verified using the Weibull fitting function. According to the measured EC50 values (EC50, the concentration of a toxicant that inhibits 50% of the bioluminescence), the toxicity sequence was: B[a]P>hexa-PCB>tetra-PCB>tri-PCB>Pb(2+)>DEHP>Cu(2+)>DBP>BDE209>Zn(2+)>DMP>DEP, where B[a]P is benzo(a)pyrene, PCB is polychlorinated biphenyl, DEHP is diethylhexyl phthalate, DBP is dibutyl phthalate, BDE209 is decabromodiphenyl ether, DMP is dimethyl phthalate, and DEP is diethyl phthalate. All the PM2.5 samples analyzed proved to be weak toxic for PPT3. The toxicity of PM2.5 was assessed by the dose-addition of organic species and heavy metallic elements existing in PM2.5 with PPT3. The bioluminescence test showed that the metals and organics detected in PM2.5 promoted PM2.5 toxicity. The total detectable organics (denoted by ΣOrs) exhibited slightly higher toxicity than the total metals (denoted by ΣMs). In contrast, the sum of water-soluble ions (denoted by ΣIons) was beneficial to PPT3. The PM2.5 toxicity increased as the PM2.5 trapped more organics or metallic elements from the industrial or densely populated urban areas, where the PM2.5 had a high inhibition rate of bioluminescence for PPT3 in contrast to the residential PM2.5 samples, where the minimum inhibition rate was observed. The toxicity of PM2.5 samples varied with the mass concentrations, chemical constituents, and sampling locations. The chemicals in PM2.5, especially organic species and metallic elements, affected its eco-toxicity. These data provided good understanding of the atmospheric PM2.5 pollution in the large portion of the East China. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A new quantitative PCR multiplex assay for rapid analysis of chromosome 17p11.2-12 duplications and deletions leading to HMSN/HNPP.
A 1.4-Mb tandem duplication, including the gene for peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) in chromosome 17p11.2-12 is responsible for 70% of the cases of the demyelinating type 1 of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy I (CMT1A/HMSN I). A reciprocal deletion of this CMT1A region causes the hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP). The CMT1A duplication increases the PMP22 gene dosage from two to three, the HNPP deletion reduces the gene dosage from two to one. Currently, routine diagnosis of HMSN/HNPP patients is mainly performed with polymorphic markers in-between the repetitive elements flanking the CMT1A region. These show quantitative and/or qualitative changes in case of a CMT1A duplication and a homozygous allele pattern in case of HNPP deletion. In HNPP patients the deletion is usually confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). We now developed a reliable, single tube real-time quantitative PCR assay for rapid determination of PMP22 gene dosage directly. This method involves a multiplex reaction using FAM labelled Taqman-probe with TAMRA quencher derived from PMP22 exon 3 and a VIC labelled probe with non-fluorescent quencher from exon 12 of the albumin gene as internal reference. Copy number of the PMP22 gene was determined by the comparative threshold cycle method (deltadeltaCt). Each sample was run in quadruplicate and analysed at two different threshold levels. The level giving the smallest standard deviation was scored. We evaluated this method through the retrospective analysis of 252 HMSN patients with known genotype and could confirm the previous findings in 99% of cases. Two patients were wrongly diagnosed with microsatellite analysis while quantitative real-time PCR identified the correct genotype, as confirmed by FISH. Thus, this method shows superior sensitivity to microsatellite analysis and has the additional advantage of being a fast and uniform assay for quantitative analysis of both CMT1A and HNPP. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of the safety of end-to-end (EEA) stapling anastomoses across linear stapled closures.
An experimental study involving circular stapled anastomoses across linear stapled closures is presented. Although the staples were deformed, cut in two, and sometimes uninjured, no complications were found. These data support the use of this technique, which is currently employed in clinic practice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sperm ultrastructure and spermatogenesis in the lizard, Tropidurus itambere.
Spermatogenesis, with emphasis on spermiogenesis, is described for the lizard, Tropidurus itambere, using light microscopy, phase contrast and epifluorescence, as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Cellular differentiation involves events of chromatin condensation, nuclear elongation and the formation of structural complexes, such as the acrosomal and axonemal ones. Other new characteristics, exclusive for this species, include various aspects of the subacrosomal granule, the insertion of the pro-acrosomal vesicle and the development of these structures to participate in the acrosomal complex. Radial projections occurjust above the nuclear shoulders, which have been recognized already from the beginning of cellular elongation. The development of the midpiece, the dense bodies, formation of the flagellum and elimination of residual cytoplasm result in the final characterization of the mature spermatozoon. Comparisons between Tropiduridae and other lizard families are made. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Oxidative DNA damage by a metabolite of carcinogenic and reproductive toxic nitrobenzene in the presence of NADH and Cu(II).
The mechanism of DNA damage induced by metabolites of nitrobenzene was investigated in relation to the carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity of nitrobenzene. Nitrosobenzene, a nitrobenzene metabolite, induced NADH plus Cu(II)-mediated DNA cleavage frequently at thymine and cytosine residues. Catalase and bathocuproine inhibited the DNA damage, suggesting the involvement of H2O2 and Cu(I). Typical free hydroxyl radical scavengers showed no inhibitory effects on DNA damage. Nitrosobenzene caused the formation of 8-oxo-7, 8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine in calf thymus DNA in the presence of NADH and Cu(II). ESR spectroscopic study has confirmed that nitrosobenzene is reduced by NADH to the phenylhydronitroxide radical even in the absence of Cu(II). These results suggest that nitrosobenzene can be reduced non-enzymatically by NADH, and the redox cycle reaction resulted in oxidative DNA damage due to the copper-oxygen complex, derived from the reaction of Cu(I) with H2O2. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Enhanced proliferation, attachment and osteopontin expression by porcine periodontal cells exposed to Emdogain.
Emdogain (EMD) is an enamel matrix derivative extracted from developing porcine teeth with demonstrated periodontal regenerative potential. EMD has been shown to influence a number of properties of periodontal ligament cells including proliferation, cell attachment and matrix synthesis. To date, the effect of EMD on the epithelial cell rests of Malassez (ERM) is unknown. In this study, periodontal ligament fibroblasts, ERM, alveolar bone cells and gingival fibroblasts were obtained from porcine periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and gingiva. This study investigated, in vitro, the effect of EMD at three concentrations on proliferation, cell attachment and expression of mRNA for two mineralised tissue-related proteins (osteopontin and bone sialoprotein). As for other periodontal cells, the ERM proliferative response was enhanced by EMD. Attachment assays revealed a highly significant increase for ERM and gingival fibroblasts after EMD treatment at all concentrations. This study has also shown that EMD stimulated expression of osteopontin mRNA by ERM and alveolar bone cells. The results from this study provide evidence that EMD enhanced cellular events related with proliferation, attachment and osteopontin mRNA expression by porcine periodontal cells, in a manner consistent with its role in periodontal regenerative therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Small-scale fuel variation alters fire intensity and shrub abundance in a pine savanna.
Small-scale variation in fire intensity and effects may be an important source of environmental heterogeneity in frequently burned plant communities. We hypothesized that variation in fire intensity resulting from local differences in fuel loads produces heterogeneity in pine savanna ground cover by altering shrub abundance. To test this hypothesis, we experimentally manipulated prefire fuel loads to mimic naturally occurring fuel-load heterogeneity associated with branch falls, needle fall near large pines, and animal disturbances in a frequently burned longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) savanna in Louisiana, USA. We applied one of four fuel treatments (unaltered control, fine-fuel removal, fine-fuel addition, wood addition) to each of 540 (1-m2) quadrats prior to growing-season prescribed fires in each of two years (1999 and 2001). In both years fuel addition increased (and fuel removal decreased) fuel consumption and maximum fire temperatures relative to unaltered controls. Fuel addition, particularly wood, increased damage to shrubs, increased shrub mortality, and decreased resprout density relative to controls. We propose that local variation in fire intensity may contribute to maintenance of high species diversity in pine savannas by reducing shrub abundance and creating openings in an otherwise continuous ground cover. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Noble metals on the nanoscale: optical and photothermal properties and some applications in imaging, sensing, biology, and medicine.
Noble metal nanostructures attract much interest because of their unique properties, including large optical field enhancements resulting in the strong scattering and absorption of light. The enhancement in the optical and photothermal properties of noble metal nanoparticles arises from resonant oscillation of their free electrons in the presence of light, also known as localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). The plasmon resonance can either radiate light (Mie scattering), a process that finds great utility in optical and imaging fields, or be rapidly converted to heat (absorption); the latter mechanism of dissipation has opened up applications in several new areas. The ability to integrate metal nanoparticles into biological systems has had greatest impact in biology and biomedicine. In this Account, we discuss the plasmonic properties of gold and silver nanostructures and present examples of how they are being utilized for biodiagnostics, biophysical studies, and medical therapy. For instance, taking advantage of the strong LSPR scattering of gold nanoparticles conjugated with specific targeting molecules allows the molecule-specific imaging and diagnosis of diseases such as cancer. We emphasize in particular how the unique tunability of the plasmon resonance properties of metal nanoparticles through variation of their size, shape, composition, and medium allows chemists to design nanostructures geared for specific bio-applications. We discuss some interesting nanostructure geometries, including nanorods, nanoshells, and nanoparticle pairs, that exhibit dramatically enhanced and tunable plasmon resonances, making them highly suitable for bio-applications. Tuning the nanostructure shape (e.g., nanoprisms, nanorods, or nanoshells) is another means of enhancing the sensitivity of the LSPR to the nanoparticle environment and, thereby, designing effective biosensing agents. Metal nanoparticle pairs or assemblies display distance-dependent plasmon resonances as a result of field coupling. A universal scaling model, relating the plasmon resonance frequency to the interparticle distance in terms of the particle size, becomes potentially useful for measuring nanoscale distances (and their changes) in biological systems. The strong plasmon absorption and photothermal conversion of gold nanoparticles has been exploited in cancer therapy through the selective localized photothermal heating of cancer cells. For nanorods or nanoshells, the LSPR can be tuned to the near-infrared region, making it possible to perform in vivo imaging and therapy. The examples of the applications of noble metal nanostructures provided herein can be readily generalized to other areas of biology and medicine because plasmonic nanomaterials exhibit great range, versatility, and systematic tunability of their optical attributes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Geophysical variables and behavior: LXXXV. Sudden infant death, bands of geomagnetic activity, and pc1 (0.2 to 5 HZ) geomagnetic micropulsations.
Pc1s (continuous pulsations) within the geomagnetic field, whose durations are about 30 minutes but which can reoccur several times nightly, are observed during periods when global geomagnetic activity is very low (less than 10 nT). The hypothesis that these 0.2 to 5 Hz synchronized micropulsations or hydromagnetic emissions might stimulate physical chemical cascades within the brain that precipitate the sudden death in infants was tested by correlational analysis for a two-year period (1960-1961) for Ontario. Results were consistent with the hypothesis that the monthly incidences of these unexpected deaths, pcl micropulsations and geomagnetic activity less than 10 nT displayed a shared source of variance. Implications are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effects of diazepam in cardio depressant concentration on the function of isolated rat heart in ischemia-reperfusion.
To investigate the effects of cardio depressant concentration of diazepam on the function of isolated rat heart in ischemia-reperfusion. This study was performed at the Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah, Iran from November 2006 to March 2007. Isolated, perfused rat hearts were subjected to 40 minutes normothermic global ischemia and 45 minutes reperfusion. Diazepam (100 microM) was added to the perfusion solution for 10 minutes before ischemia in the test group. Different cardiac variables including left ventricular developed pressure, heart rate, and coronary flow (CF) were measured. Rate pressure product (RPP) was calculated, during the ischemic period time until onset of ischemic contracture and maximum contracture were determined. In reperfusion, released lactate dehydrogenase enzyme in effluent was measured and cardiac functional recovery was determined. It was found that diazepam significantly decreased RPP and increased CF before ischemia. In the diazepam group (n=10), during ischemia, maximum contracture was significantly lower than the control group (n=14). Also, diazepam significantly increased functional recovery and coronary flow in reperfusion. Diazepam (100 microM) significantly decreased maximum contracture during ischemia, improved the recovery of myocardial function and CF in reperfusion. The results show that the cardio depressant concentration of diazepam is safe and relatively protective in the ischemia-reperfused isolated rat heart. These effects may be mediated by inhibition of calcium current in cardiomyocytes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structural analysis of doxorubicin-polymer conjugates.
Synthetic polymers poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), methoxypoly (ethylene glycol) polyamidoamine (mPEG-PAMAM-G3) and polyamidoamine (PAMAM-G4) dendrimers were used for encapsulation of antibiotic drug doxorubicin (Dox) and its analogue N-(trifluoroacetyl) doxorubicin (FDox) in aqueous solution at pH 7.4. Multiple spectroscopic methods, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and molecular modeling were used to characterize the drug binding process to synthetic polymers. Structural analysis showed that drug-polymer binding occurs via both H-bonding and hydrophobic contacts. The order of binding is PAMAM-G4>mPEG-PAMAM-G3>PEG-6000 with Dox forming more stable conjugate than FDox. Transmission electron microscopy showed significant changes in carrier morphology with major changes in the shape of the polymer aggregate as drug encapsulation occurred. Modeling also showed that drug is located in the surface and in the internal cavities of PAMAM with the free binding energy of -4.14 kcal/mol for Dox and -3.93 kcal/mol for FDox, indicating of spontaneous drug-polymer interaction at room temperature. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High-dose ascorbic acid increases intercourse frequency and improves mood: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Ascorbic acid (AA) modulates catecholaminergic activity, decreases stress reactivity, approach anxiety and prolactin release, improves vascular function, and increases oxytocin release. These processes are relevant to sexual behavior and mood. In this randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled 14 day trial of sustained-release AA (42 healthy young adults; 3000 mg/day Cetebe) and placebo (39 healthy young adults), subjects with partners recorded penile-vaginal intercourse (FSI), noncoital partner sex, and masturbation in daily diaries, and also completed the Beck Depression Inventory before and after the trial. The AA group reported greater FSI (but, as hypothesized, not other sexual behavior) frequency, an effect most prominent in subjects not cohabiting with their sexual partner, and in women. The AA but not placebo group also experienced a decrease in Beck Depression scores. AA appears to increase FSI, and the differential benefit to noncohabitants suggests that a central activation or disinhibition, rather than peripheral mechanism may be responsible. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nematicidal activity of (E,E)-2,4-decadienal and (E)-2-decenal from Ailanthus altissima against Meloidogyne javanica.
Methanol extracts of various plant parts of Ailanthus altissima were tested against the root knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica . Extracts of bark (ABE), wood (AWE), roots (ARE), and leaves (ALE) from A. altissima were investigated against freshly hatched second-stage juveniles (J(2)). AWE was the most active extract, with EC(50/3d) of 58.9 mg/L, while ALE, ARE, and ABE did not show nematicidal activity. The chemical composition of the extracts of A. altissima was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal, (E)-2-undecenal, (E)-2-decenal, hexanal, nonanal, and furfural were the most prominent constituents. (E,E)-2,4-Decadienal, (E)-2-decenal, and furfural showed the highest nematicidal activity against M. javanica , with EC(50/1d) = 11.7, 20.43, and 21.79 mg/L, respectively, while the other compounds were inactive at the concentrations tested. The results obtained showed that AWE and its constituents (E,E)-2,4-decadienal and (E)-2-decenal could be considered as potent botanical nematicidal agents. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Degradation of ciprofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole by ferrous-activated persulfate: implications for remediation of groundwater contaminated by antibiotics.
The wide occurrence of antibiotics in groundwater raised great scientific interest as well as public awareness in recent years due to their potential ability to spread antibiotic resistant gene and pose risk to humans. The present study investigated the ferrous ion (Fe(II)) activated decomposition of persulfate (S2O8(2-)), as a potential in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) approach, for remediation of groundwater contaminated by antibiotics. Fe(II)-persulfate mediated ciprofloxacin (CIP) degradation was found to be more efficient than sulfamethoxazole (SMX) at near neutral pH (pH6.0), probably due to the higher electric density in CIP molecule and its ability to form complex with Fe(II) as a ligand. Hydroxyl (HO) and sulfate radical (SO4(-)) were determined to be responsible for the degradation of CIP and SMX in Fe(II)-persulfate system by molecular probes. No enhancement in the degradation of CIP was observed when citrate (CA), ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) and (S,S)-ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinate (EDDS) were used as Fe(II) chelating agents in Fe(II)-persulfate system. For SMX, CA and EDTA accelerated the degradation by Fe(II)-persulfate. Degradation of antibiotics in river water matrix was nearly the same as that in Milli-Q water, implying the possibility of using Fe(II)-persulfate for antibiotics depletion under environmentally relevant condition. A comparison of the degradation efficiency of SMX with other sulfonamides and sulfanilic acid indicated that the heterocyclic ring has a large impact on the degradation of sulfonamides. Transformation products of CIP and SMX by Fe(II)-persulfate were analyzed by solid phase extraction-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPE-LC-MS) technique. Based on the intermediate products, Fe(II)-persulfate mediated CIP degradation pathways were tentatively proposed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular modeling of buspirone-serotonin receptor interactions.
Modern concepts of buspirone activity as an anxiolytic drug are reviewed. Particular attention is focused on the molecular aspects of buspirone interactions in the phases that simulate cellular environment. Three-dimensional models of buspirone-serotonin receptor complexes are discussed as well. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Bladder fistulae in Crohn's disease.
Ten patients with various stages of enterovesical fistulization in Crohn's disease are discussed. These fistulae can develop at different times in the course of the disease, but may also cause the presenting symptoms. Cystoscopy and radiologic examination rarely visualizes the fistulae. Conservative treatment by medication can sometimes suppress the symptoms, but cannot cure. Surgical treatment, which can consist of resection of intestine but need not involve resection of parts of the bladder, gives good results at least so far as the urinary infection is concerned. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The identification of hepatitis B virus X gene responsive elements reveals functional similarity of X and HTLV-I tax.
The human hepatitis B virus (HBV) X gene encodes a general transactivator which was suggested to be a potential factor in viral hepatocarcinogenesis. We show here that this protein transactivates the HBV enhancer linked either to the X gene promoter or heterologous promoters. Analysis of individual elements of the HBV enhancer revealed that the E element is sufficient to respond to X and is termed hence the X responsive element (XRE). Interestingly, XRE shares sequence similarity with the HTLV-I taxI responsive element (21 bp repeat or taxRE), and both elements bind similar nuclear proteins. The functional significance of this sequence similarity was demonstrated by the ability of XRE to respond to taxI. We also show that both X and taxI have the capacity to activate transcription through a second cis element, the NF-kappa B binding site. The response pattern of these viral regulators is also similar and both act in a concentration dependent manner. They are very active in low amounts, but almost inactive at high concentrations. Based on these observations, we suggest a common mechanism of action by regulator genes of distinct viruses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Infections in rheumatoid arthritis.
The purpose of this review is to provide an update concerning recent advances in the evidence- based study of serious infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with biological drugs or conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), concentrating on studies published in the last 18 months. New studies have further strengthened existing evidence relating the use of biological drugs to serious infections. The risk does not seem to be any different with short-term or long-term use. There is still a lack of conclusive studies identifying biomarkers, but it is plausible that the drugs have direct effects on cytokines and cell activity and then serious infections. The frequent infections of patients with RA may be due to the disease itself (altered immunological function, disability, immobility, joint surgery), extra-articular manifestations or DMARDs, immunosuppressants and steroids. The use of biological drugs lead to the development of serious infections including tuberculosis. Patients should be informed of their increased risk, and physicians need to be aware of these complications and how to treat them. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
What does Islam say about dieting?
Dieting is very important to maintain a healthy and peaceful life. Today, most of the health problems are related with dieting. Thus, the modern health science recommends a number of suggestions regarding dieting for better health such as learning the five basic food groups (grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and meat); eating three times a day; decreasing the amount of fat; increasing the amount of fruits, vegetables and grains; including an adequate amount of iron; and avoiding excessive rich food, salt, sugar, and fat. Religion can also play a vital role for our good health and lifestyle. The main concern of this paper was to present an analytical justification regarding what Islam as a religion advocates about dieting along with the modern food and nutrition sciences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Three-dimensional CT angiography: a new technique for imaging microvascular anatomy.
To date there has been no satisfactory research method for imaging microvascular anatomy in three dimensions (3D). In this article we present a new technique that allows both qualitative and quantitative examination of the microvasculature in 3D. In 10 fresh cadavers (7 females, 3 males, mean age 68 years), selected arteries supplying the abdominal wall and back were injected with a lead oxide/gelatin contrast mixture. From these regions, 30 specimens were dissected free and imaged with a 16-slice spiral computed tomographic (CT) scanner. Using three-dimensional CT (3D-CT) angiography, reconstructions of the microvasculature of each specimen were produced and examined for their qualitative content. Two calibration tools were constructed to determine (1) the accuracy of linear measurements made with CT software tools, and (2) the smallest caliber blood vessel that is reliably represented on 3D-CT reconstructions. Three-dimensional CT angiography produced versatile, high quality angiograms of the microvasculature. Correlation between measurements made with electronic calipers and CT software tools was very high (Lin's concordance coefficient, 0.99 (95% CI 0.99-0.99)). The finest caliber of vessel reliably represented on the 3D-CT reconstructions was 0.4 mm internal diameter. In summary, 3D-CT angiography is a simple, accurate, and reproducible method that imparts a much improved perception of anatomy when compared with existing research methods. Measurement tools provide accurate quantitative data to aid vessel mapping and preoperative planning. Further work will be needed to explore the full utility of 3D-CT angiography in a clinical setting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Assessment of bone strength at differentially-loaded skeletal regions in adolescent middle-distance runners.
Bone adaptations to loading extend beyond mineral accrual to geometric markers of bone strength. Available technology and regional differences in cortical bone dictate how bone strength is reported. Examination of bone strength at two differentially-loaded skeletal sites using hip structure analysis (HSA) and bone strength index (BSI) is under-explored in adolescent sporting populations. The purpose of this study was to compare HSA at the femoral neck and BSI at the distal tibia in adolescent middle-distance runners and age- and gender-matched controls. Four groups of 20 adolescents aged 14-18 years were composed of male and female middle-distance runners, and male and female controls. Distal tibial BSI was calculated using data from dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Calculations for femoral neck strength were acquired from DXA-derived HSA software. Female athletes displayed greater distal tibial BSI than controls t(38)=3.4, p=0.002, but femoral neck bone measures did not differ. In males, no group differences were found at either the distal tibia or femoral neck. In conclusion, exposure to similar high training loads may advantage female adolescent athletes more than male adolescent athletes compared with less active peers in bone strength at the distal tibia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Synthetic polycyclic musks in Hong Kong sewage sludge.
Synthetic polycyclic musks [Cashmeran (DPMI), Celestolide (ADBI), Phantolide (AHMI), Traseolide (ATII), Tonalide (AHTN), and Galaxolide (HHCB)] were determined in dewatered sludge samples from 10 major sewage treatment plants in Hong Kong using primary treatment (PT), secondary treatment (SecT) or chemical-enhanced primary treatment (CEPT) methods. The concentrations of HHCB, AHTN, AHMI and ADBI ranged from below detection limits to 78.6mg/kg dry weight. HHCB and AHTN were the two predominant polycyclic musks in sludge samples, suggesting the extensive use of these two polycyclic musks in Hong Kong. Polycyclic musk levels in CEPT sludge were significantly higher than those in SecT and PT sludge, suggesting that CEPT sludge has a higher ability to retain polycyclic musks. Comparisons to global concentrations revealed that HHCB and AHTN concentrations detected in Hong Kong sludge ranked first and second respectively. However, the estimated levels of HHCB and AHTN in the discharged effluent from sewage treatment plants may pose low potential risks to aquatic organisms according to the threshold effect levels derived for fish. Nevertheless, the polycyclic musks released in sewage treatment plant effluents may bioconcentrate and bioaccumulate in the marine environment in Hong Kong. Therefore, monitoring studies in marine ecosystems, particularly on the two prevailing polycyclic musks, are necessary. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Intelligibility of selected passages from the Speech Intelligibility Rating (SIR) test.
Two experiments were conducted to examine the intelligibility of 12 of the 72 passages of connected discourse prepared by Cox and McDaniel (1984, 1989) in the development of the Speech Intelligibility Rating (SIR) test. Intelligibility was assessed with a method-of-adjustment procedure in the presence of two maskers. One was a multi-talker babble with a variable S/N ratio environment that yields intelligibility scores that are potentially level-dependent because of the almost inevitable difference in speech intensity from passage to passage. The second was a signal-correlated noise with a constant S/N ratio environment that provides scores that are essentially level-independent. Two homogeneous subsets of nine passages each were identified that yield equivalent intelligibility scores. The outcome underscores the value of incorporating a signal-correlated noise masker that yields scores that are relatively unaffected by small differences in signal level among passages. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The relationship between rhythmic swallowing and breathing during suckle feeding in term neonates.
Little is known of the development of efficient coordination between suckle feeding and breathing in human infants. To establish baseline data, we recorded breathing and swallowing activity during bottle feeds in 23 infants at 14-48 h postnatal age. Most swallows (overall mean 68%) were organized into runs, with intervals starting at 0.6-0.8 s and slowing to 1-1.3 s after 30-40 s. The proportion of run swallows to total swallows increased significantly with age. Swallow intervals were regular (coefficient of variation = 18-38%) compared with breathing (coefficient of variation = 50%). Both breathing rate and tidal volume were significantly reduced by the onset of suckle feeding, and the pattern of respiratory airflow became markedly irregular. Mild transient desaturation was common, but was not accompanied by changes in heart rate. Swallows could occur in all phases of breathing. Overall, equal numbers of swallows were preceded by expiration and inspiration, but twice as many were followed by expiration compared with inspiration. Swallows were classified by the respiratory phases both preceding and following the swallow. Swallows occurred in all possible classifications in each of the infants studied. The incidence of the most frequent classification (inspiration-swallow-expiration), was 24% overall (individual range 5-50%). The phase relation between swallows and breaths changed frequently but showed occasional short periods of stability during which the breathing became regular and tidal volume increased. We conclude that at less than 48 h the normal infant has little coordination between swallowing and breathing rhythms and maintains rhythmic swallowing at the expense of eupnea. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Renal concentration gradients of salicylic acid and its metabolic congeners in the dog.
Salicylic acid and its principal metabolic product, salicyluric acid, are ultrafiltered at the glomeruli, secreted by the proximal segment and undergo back diffusion; the net effect being an accumulation of salicylates in the cortex. The back diffusion of salicylate is pH-sensitive (salicylurate is not) and its secretion is less sensitive than that of salicylurate to depression by probenecid. There was an increasing concentration gradient of these salicylates from outer cortex to innermost medulla. The clearance of salicyluric acid exceeded glomerular filtration rate even at very low urine flow and was not pH-dependent, so that total salicylate accumulation in the medulla was less affected by adjustment of urinary pH. Increasing perfusion of the nephron markedly reduced the inner medulla/cortical concentration ratios and segmental concentrations of salt and urea and reduced the cortical concentrations of salicylates. Diuresis may decrease the medullary concentration of salicylates, depending on the rate and duration of increased urine flow. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of AFLP and STS markers closely linked to the def locus in pea.
The recessive mutation of the def gene of pea (Pisum sativum L.) leads to the loss of the hilum, the abscission zone between the seed and the pod. Thereby, it reduces the free dispersal of the seeds through pod shattering. As a prerequisite for a gene isolation via a map-based cloning approach, bulked segregant analysis followed by single plant analyses of over 200 homozygous individuals of a population of 476 F2 plants derived from a cross between 'DGV' (def wild-type) and 'PF' (def mutant), were used to detect markers closely linked to the def locus. The AFLP technique in combination with silver staining was used to maximize numbers of reproducible marker loci. Fifteen AFLP loci showed a genetic distance less than 5 and two of them less than 1 centiMorgans (cM) to the gene of interest. AFLPs were converted into sequence tagged sites (STSs) and into a newly refined AFLP-based single locus marker named the 'sequence specified AFLP' (ssAFLP). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro photodynamic properties of chalcogenopyrylium analogues of the thiopyrylium antitumor agent AA1.
Several series of chalcogenopyrylium dyes were prepared with one or two 4-anilino substituents at the 2- and 6-positions and with phenyl, 4-N,N-dimethylanilino, or 4-(N-morphilino)phenyl substituents at 2- and/or 4-positions. The dye series are all related in structure to AA1, a thiopyrylium dye that targets mitochondria. The chalcogenopyrylium nuclei included sulfur, selenium, and tellurium at the 1-position. Key intermediates in the dye synthesis were the corresponding Delta-4H-chalcogenopyran-4-ones. All of the dyes of this study were evaluated for dark and phototoxicity toward Colo-26 cells in vitro. There was no correlation of dark toxicity with either the reduction potential of the chalcogenopyrylium dye or the n-octanol/water partition coefficient, log P. Several of the dyes of this study (thiopyrylium dyes 1-S and 13-S, selenopyrylium dyes 1-Se, 2-Se, 3-Se, 4-Se, 13-Se, 14-Se, and 27-Se, and telluropyrylium dye 13-Te) showed added phototoxicity upon irradiation. Dyes with the highest therapeutic ratio as measured by dark toxicity/phototoxicity (15 J cm(-2) of 360-800-nm light) had values of log P of 1.0-1.2. Studies of cytochrome c oxidase activity in whole R3230AC cells suggested that dyes 1-S and 3-Se, with values of log P of 2.2 and 1.7, respectively, were localized in the mitochondria. Cytocrome c oxidase activity in whole cells was inhibited by 1-S and 3-Se in the dark. Chalcogenopyrylium dyes 2-Se, 4-Se, 13-Te, and 14-Se inhibited whole-cell cytochrome c oxidase activity only following irradiation, which suggests that these dyes relocalized to mitochondria following irradiation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of a text messaging intervention on influenza vaccination in an urban, low-income pediatric and adolescent population: a randomized controlled trial.
Influenza infection results in substantial costs, morbidity, and mortality. Vaccination against influenza is particularly important in children and adolescents who are a significant source of transmission to other high-risk populations, yet pediatric and adolescent vaccine coverage remains low. Traditional vaccine reminders have had a limited effect on low-income populations; however, text messaging is a novel, scalable approach to promote influenza vaccination. To evaluate targeted text message reminders for low-income, urban parents to promote receipt of influenza vaccination among children and adolescents. Randomized controlled trial of 9213 children and adolescents aged 6 months to 18 years receiving care at 4 community-based clinics in the United States during the 2010-2011 influenza season. Of the 9213 children and adolescents, 7574 had not received influenza vaccine prior to the intervention start date and were included in the primary analysis. Parents of children assigned to the intervention received up to 5 weekly immunization registry-linked text messages providing educational information and instructions regarding Saturday clinics. Both the intervention and usual care groups received the usual care, an automated telephone reminder, and access to informational flyers posted at the study sites. Receipt of an influenza vaccine dose recorded in the immunization registry via an electronic health record by March 31, 2011. Receipt was secondarily assessed at an earlier fall review date prior to typical widespread influenza activity. Study children and adolescents were primarily minority, 88% were publicly insured, and 58% were from Spanish-speaking families. As of March 31, 2011, a higher proportion of children and adolescents in the intervention group (43.6%; n = 1653) compared with the usual care group (39.9%; n = 1509) had received influenza vaccine (difference, 3.7% [95% CI, 1.5%-5.9%]; relative rate ratio [RRR], 1.09 [95% CI, 1.04-1.15]; P = .001). At the fall review date, 27.1% (n = 1026) of the intervention group compared with 22.8% (n = 864) of the usual care group had received influenza vaccine (difference, 4.3% [95% CI, 2.3%-6.3%]; RRR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.10-1.28]; P < .001). Among children and adolescents in a low-income, urban population, a text messaging intervention compared with usual care was associated with an increased rate of influenza vaccination. However, the overall influenza vaccination rate remained low. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01146912. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of different shipping temperatures (∼22 °C vs. ∼7 °C) and holding media on blastocyst development after overnight holding of immature equine cumulus-oocyte complexes.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an important tool for equine embryo production in both clinical and research settings. In clinical ICSI programs, immature equine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) are often collected at the mare's location and shipped to the ICSI laboratory. To simplify shipment and aid scheduling of subsequent procedures, COCs can be held overnight at room temperature (∼22 °C) before placement into maturation culture, with no detrimental effect on meiotic or developmental competence. A recent study indicated that it might be possible to hold COCs overnight at cold (∼4 °C) temperatures. If so, this might allow longer holding periods that would ease shipping requirements. In this study, we compared oocyte maturation rates, as well as cleavage and blastocyst rates after ICSI, for COCs held at either room or cold temperatures overnight before the onset of in vitro maturation. In Exp. 1, COCs were shipped overnight in a commercial embryo holding medium, ViGRO (Vg), in insulated containers designed to hold at either room temperature (RT, ∼22 °C) or cold temperatures (Cold, ∼7 °C). Subsequent rates of in vitro maturation, cleavage and blastocyst formation were significantly higher in the RT treatment (39%, 90% and 41%, respectively) than in the Cold treatment (23%, 60% and 17%, respectively, P < .05). In Exp. 2, we compared Vg medium with a second commercial embryo holding medium, SYNGRO (Sy). There was no significant difference between Vg and Sy groups in any evaluated parameter within either RT or Cold treatments. Within each medium group and for both media combined, the rates of in vitro maturation, cleavage and blastocyst formation were significantly higher in the RT treatment (42%, 81% and 42%, respectively for the combined media) than in the Cold treatment (29%, 54% and 10%, respectively for the combined media, P < .05). We conclude that shipment of immature equine COCs at cold temperatures (∼7 °C) is detrimental to subsequent in vitro maturation and embryo production. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Initial investigation OF 222Rn in the Tbilisi urban environment.
Georgia has geological formations with high uranium content, and several buildings are built with local materials. This can create potentially high radon exposures. Consequently, studies to mitigate these exposures have been started. This study presents a preliminary investigation of radon in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. An independent radiological monitoring program in Georgia has been initiated by the Radiocarbon and Low-Level Counting Section of I. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University with the cooperation of the Environmental Monitoring Laboratory of the Physics/Health Physics Department at Idaho State University. At this initial stage the E-PERM systems and GammaTRACER were used for the measurement of gamma exposure and radon concentrations in air and water. Measurements in Sololaki, a densely populated historic district of Tbilisi, revealed indoor radon (222Rn) concentrations of 1.5-2.5 times more than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency action level of 148 Bq m(-3) (4 pCi L(-1)). Moreover, radon-in-air concentrations of 440 Bq m(-3) and 3,500 Bq m(-3) were observed at surface borehole openings within the residential district. Measurements of water from various tap water supplies displayed radon concentrations of 3-5 Bq L(-1) while radon concentrations in water from the hydrogeological and thermal water boreholes were 5-19 Bq L(-1). In addition, the background gamma absorbed dose rate in air ranged of 70-115 nGy h(-1) at the radon test locations throughout the Tbilisi urban environment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Doppler echocardiography measurement of diastolic filling parameters in acute changes of pre- and afterload in healthy probands].
For a more precise understanding of the net effects of acute alterations of pre- and afterload on left-ventricular filling, loading conditions were altered in normal subjects. The specific purpose of this study was to investigate if Dopplerechocardiographically derived transmitral flow patterns are able to differentiate the manner of loading condition. In 24 normal subjects (13 female, 11 male, mean age 44.1 +/- 11.5 years) the following Doppler variables were analyzed at baseline, after rapid infusion of volume (preload increase), nitroglycerine (preload decrease), isometric exercise (afterload increase) and converting enzyme inhibitor (afterload decrease): peak and integrated early (E, Ei) and late (A, Ai) diastolic flow velocities, their ratios (E/A, Ei/Ai), the percentage of atrial contribution (ACON) and the times of acceleration (Az) and deceleration (Dz) of early filling. Preload reduction as well as afterload increase led to a similar filling pattern with a significant decrease (p < 0.05 from baseline) of E and Ei, increase of A and Ai, and, consequently, a reduction of E/A and Ei/Ai. The atrial contribution to filling increased during both alterations; Az and Dz were reduced. Following the increase of preload, only the increase of E and Ei was statistically significant, while afterload reduction showed no significant differences. Different loading conditions alter Doppler-derived diastolic filling patterns. But the transmitral flow profile is not specific enough to differentiate in which manner loading conditions have been altered. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Polarization of cinnamoyl-CoA substrates bound to enoyl-CoA hydratase: correlation of (13)C NMR with quantum mechanical calculations and calculation of electronic strain energy.
When alpha,beta-unsaturated substrates bind to the active site of enoyl-CoA hydratase, large spectral changes can be observed [D'Ordine, R. L., et al. (1994) Biochemistry 33, 12635-12643]. The differences in the isotropic magnetic shieldings of the free and active site-bound forms of the carbonyl, alpha-, and beta-carbons of the substrates, hexadienoyl-CoA, cinnamoyl-CoA, and (N,N-dimethyl-p-amino)cinnamoyl-CoA have been experimentally determined. The carbonyl and beta-carbons are all deshielded, while the alpha-carbons show increased shielding. These chemical shift perturbations are interpreted to suggest that the pi-electrons of the enoyl thiolester are polarized when bound at the active site. Using the crystal structure of (N,N-dimethyl-p-amino)cinnamoyl-CoA bound at the enzyme active site, the shielding tensors were calculated at three different levels of theory, up to a density functional theory model that included all of the contiguous active site residues. These calculations successfully reproduced the observed spectral changes and permitted the electronic polarization of the substrate to be quantified as an electron density difference map. The calculated electron density difference confirms the loss of electrons at the electrophilic beta-carbon and carbonyl carbon, while a slight increase in electron density at the alpha-carbon where proton donation occurs during the hydration reaction and a larger increase in electron density at the carbonyl oxygen are predicted. The energy required to polarize the electrons to the observed extent was calculated to be 3.2 kcal/mol. The force that provides the requisite energy for the polarization is the interaction of the electric field generated by the protein at the enzyme active site with the polarizable electrons of the substrate. Because the induced electronic polarization is along the predicted reaction pathway, the extent of substrate activation by the induced electronic strain is catalytically relevant. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic stability in calves of a single strain of bluetongue virus.
Newborn calves were inoculated IV with highly plaque-purified bluetongue virus (BTV), serotype 10. The electrophoretic migration patterns of RNA segments and proteins of viruses isolated from calves at intervals after inoculation were compared. In addition, sera collected from calves at intervals after inoculation were compared for their abilities to neutralize several virus isolates from the same calf. Viremia persisted in calves for up to 56 days. Differences were not detected in the electrophoretic migration pattern of RNA segments or proteins of any of the BTV isolates. All calves produced high titers of neutralizing antibody to the original BTV inoculum by 28 days after inoculation, and significant (greater than or equal to 4-fold) differences were not detected in the neutralizing titers of sera to viruses collected at intervals after inoculation. The plaque-purified strain of BTV appeared to be stable genetically in infected calves, and failure to demonstrate antigenic variation among isolates indicated that antigenic shift was not the mechanism that allowed viremia to persist in BTV-infected calves. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The myocardial protective effects of a moderate-potassium adenosine-lidocaine cardioplegia in pediatric cardiac surgery.
We sought to evaluate a moderate-potassium cardioplegic solution using adenosine and lidocaine as the arresting and protecting cardioprotective combination in pediatric cardiac surgery. One hundred thirty-four patients with congenital heart disease were randomly allocated to one of 3 groups according to the cardioplegia formula used: the high-potassium (HP) group (K(+), 20 mmol/L), 46 patients; the high-potassium adenosine-lidocaine (HPAL) group (K(+), 20 mmol/L; adenosine, 0.7 mmol/L; and lidocaine, 0.7 mmol/L), 44 patients; and the moderate-potassium adenosine-lidocaine (MPAL) group (K(+), 10 mmol/L; adenosine, 0.7 mmol/L; and lidocaine, 0.7 mmol/L), 44 patients. Hemodynamic data during the operation and postoperative data were recorded. Serum cardiac troponin I concentrations were examined at the time points of before cardiopulmonary bypass and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours after aortic crossclamp removal. At the end of cardiopulmonary bypass and modified ultrafiltration, the systolic and pulse pressures of the MPAL group were significantly increased compared with the respective values of the HP group. At the time points of 1 to 12 hours after reperfusion, the levels of serum cardiac troponin I were significantly decreased in the MPAL group compared with those in the HP and HPAL groups. The MPAL cardioplegia formula was associated with better myocardial protective effects. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prefrontal contributions to visual selective attention.
The faculty of attention endows us with the capacity to process important sensory information selectively while disregarding information that is potentially distracting. Much of our understanding of the neural circuitry underlying this fundamental cognitive function comes from neurophysiological studies within the visual modality. Past evidence suggests that a principal function of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is selective attention and that this function involves the modulation of sensory signals within posterior cortices. In this review, we discuss recent progress in identifying the specific prefrontal circuits controlling visual attention and its neural correlates within the primate visual system. In addition, we examine the persisting challenge of precisely defining how behavior should be affected when attentional function is lost. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Substance abuse and family illness: evidence from health care utilization and cost-offset research.
Although the substance abuse treatment community recognizes that physical and psychological problems are common among families with a substance-abusing member, third-party funding for comprehensive treatment of the families of substance abusers is limited. Failure to provide treatment for these collateral effects of substance abuse on the family is thought to reduce the efficacy of substance abuse treatment, increase the risk of relapse, and leave untreated secondary pathology among family members. This article presents a review of health care utilization and cost-offset studies of the collateral effects of substance abuse on the family to aid administrators and planners in documenting the economic advantages of comprehensive treatment for the families of substance abusers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular biology techniques for identifying dermatophytes and their possible use in diagnosing onychomycosis in human toenail: a review.
Traditional methods of diagnosing onychomycosis, such as microscopy, histologic staining, and cultures, may not provide the clinician with documentation before initiating antifungal drug therapy. DNA technology now supplies the tools for increased sensitivity, speed, and accuracy in the diagnostic arena by allowing for the amplification, qualification, and quantitation of DNA. These techniques, already being used to identify many infectious agents, may soon be commonly applied to onychomycosis. This report reviews some of the DNA-based techniques that are currently being used to identify dermatophytes and their possible diagnostic use. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effectiveness of health education programs on exercise behavior among patients with heart disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Regular exercise has been shown to be beneficial to patients with heart disease. Previous studies have indicated that health education can effectively increase participants' physical activity. However, no systematic review was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of health education programs on changing exercise behavior among patients with heart disease. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of health education programs on exercise behavior among heart disease patients. Potential studies were retrieved in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMbase, PsycINFO, the British Nursing Index and Archive, Science Direct, and ERIC via EBSCOhost. Meta-analysis was done using the random-effect model. Thirty-seven studies were identified. Only 12 studies delivered health education based on various theories/models. Twenty-eight studies were included in the meta-analyses. The results showed that health education had significantly positive effects on exercise adherence (risk ratio = 1.35 to 1.48), exercise duration (SMD = 0.25 to 0.69), exercise frequency (MD = 0.54 to 1.46 session/week), and exercise level (SMD = 0.25), while no significant effects were found on exercise energy expenditure and cognitive exercise behavior. Health education has overall positive effects on changing exercise behavior among heart disease patients. Few theoretical underpinning studies were conducted for changing exercise behavior among heart disease patients. The findings suggest that health education improves exercise behavior for heart disease patients. Health professionals should reinforce health education programs for them. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Still creationism after all these years: understanding and counteracting intelligent design.
Despite denials by proponents of intelligent design (ID) that ID is creationism, critical analysis by scientists and scholars, as well as statements by the proponents of ID themselves, has established beyond any doubt ID's true identity as neo-creationism. Despite de-emphasizing elements of earlier creationism such as belief in a young earth and "flood geology," ID bears marks of its descent from "creation science" and is defined by its leading proponents in overtly religious, and specifically Christian, terms. These facts enabled the plaintiffs in the first ID legal case, Kitzmiller et al. v. Dover Area School District (2005), to win a decisive victory over the Dover, PA, school board, which had required that a pro-ID statement be read to biology students at Dover High School. Kitzmiller was also a defeat for ID proponents at the Discovery Institute's Center for Science and Culture (CSC). Yet, although the CSC continues efforts to undermine the teaching of evolution even in the wake of this defeat, their tactics are increasingly stale and transparent. Their current strategy, disguising pro-ID policy proposals with code language to avoid using the term "intelligent design," is yet another tactic used by earlier creationists after consistent legal defeats. Moreover, the ID movement's continued execution of their agenda has enabled ID critics to compile an ever-lengthening list of further congruencies between ID and creation science. Such powerful evidence of ID's identity as neo-creationism, combined with modest but promising demographic changes in the United States, suggest that increased public support for teaching evolution is possible through effective outreach to the relevant demographic groups. Scientists must take advantage of this opportunity to cultivate such support and to counteract ID by engaging in pro-science activism, making use of the many resources available to support their efforts. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization of several phospholipase activities and diacylglycerol/2-monoacylglycerol lipases in rat alveolar macrophages.
We measured phospholipase activities in both the microsomal and the cytosolic enriched fractions of rat alveolar macrophages by using exogenous arachidonic acid-labeled phospholipids. The microsomal fractions contain a neutral calcium-independent phospholipase A2 (PLA2) which acts on substrates phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylinositol (PI), a calcium-independent PLA2 acting on phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and a neutral calcium-dependent PI-specific PLC. The cytosolic fractions contain calcium-dependent phospholipase: PLA2 that hydrolyses PC at alkaline pH, and a neutral PI-specific phospholipase C (PLC). The largest release of arachidonic acid from PI occurred with the cytosolic fractions at pH 6 in the presence of calcium. That hydrolysis involved a PLA2, and a PLC followed by the action of a diacyglycerol and 2-monoacylglycerol lipases. The cytosol also contains a calcium-independent PLA2 acting on PE. Our investigation shows that rat alveolar macrophages possess a number of phospholipases, as well as diacylglycerol and 2-monoacylglycerol lipases. The above enzymes could play an essential role in the remodeling of membrane phospholipids in resting cells, and the generation of physiologically active lipids in activated cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neuropsychopharmacologic properties of a Schumanniophyton problematicum root extract.
Schumanniophyton problematicum is a plant popular among Nigerian native healers for the treatment of psychotic patients (madness). An extract obtained by ethanol extraction of the roots caused reductions in respiratory rate, body and limb tone, startle response and spontaneous locomotor activity after i.p. injection in mice, and was capable of inhibiting amphetamine-induced hyperactivity and stereotypic behaviour. It also induced passivity, piloerection, hypothermia and prolonged pentobarbital sleeping time. The i.p. LD50 of the extract in mice was 2.37 g/kg. The effects of the extract appear to be due to depression of central and autonomic system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar discectomy: a critical appraisal.
Percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal lumbar discectomy (PETD) is one of the surgical techniques for the treatment of the lumbar disc herniations. Fenestration of the annulus and partial resection of the nuclear substance are achieved percutaneously by a posterolateral approach under local anaesthesia. The results of the first 42 patients are evaluated regarding the learning curve and indications for this procedure. The mean follow-up time was 15 months. Excellent and good results were evaluated as successful and the overall success rate is 77 %. All six patients with foraminal disc herniations in whom a free fragment could be removed had excellent results. Military personnel can return to work quickly without deficits with the use of this technique. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Controlled release of β-carotene in β-lactoglobulin-dextran-conjugated nanoparticles' in vitro digestion and transport with Caco-2 monolayers.
Undesirable aggregation of nanoparticles stabilized by proteins may occur at the protein's isoelectric point when the particle has zero net charge. Stability against aggregation of nanoparticles may be improved by reacting free amino groups with reducing sugars by the Maillard reaction. β-Lactoglobulin (BLG)-dextran conjugates were characterized by SDS-PAGE and CD. Nanoparticles (60-70 nm diameter) of β-carotene (BC) encapsulated by BLG or BLG-dextran were prepared by the homogenization-evaporation method. Both BLG and BLG-dextran nanoparticles appeared to be spherically shaped and uniformly dispersed by TEM. The stability and release of BC from the nanoparticles under simulated gastrointestinal conditions were evaluated. Dextran conjugation prevented the flocculation or aggregation of BLG-dextran particles at pH ∼4-5 compared to very large sized aggregates of BLG nanoparticles. The released contents of BC from BLG and BLG-dextran nanoparticles under acidic gastric conditions were 6.2 ± 0.9 and 5.4 ± 0.3%, respectively. The release of BC from BLG-dextran nanoparticles by trypsin digestion was 51.8 ± 4.3% of total encapsulated BC, and that from BLG nanoparticles was 60.9 ± 2.9%. Neither BLG-BC nanoparticles nor the Maillard-reacted BLG-dextran conjugates were cytotoxic to Caco-2 cells, even at 10 mg/mL. The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) of Caco-2 cells to BC was improved by nanoencapsulation, compared to free BC suspension. The results indicate that BC-encapsulated β-lactoglobulin-dextran-conjugated nanoparticles are more stable to aggregation under gastric pH conditions with good release and permeability properties. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of adenylate cyclase activators on porcine skeletal muscle in malignant hyperpyrexia.
The effect of adenylate cyclase activation on the in vitro contractures of control and malignant hyperpyrexia susceptible (MHS) porcine muscle was investigated. While fluoride and molybdate ions potentiated drug-induced contractures in control muscle, other activators of adenylate cyclase (forskolin and noradrenaline) did not. Furthermore, fluoride and molybdate had no effect on MHS skeletal muscle contractility. Cyclic AMP content, basal adenylate cyclase activity and molybdate-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity of MHS skeletal muscle was not significantly different from that of control muscle. It is concluded that increased activity of adenylate cyclase does not represent the primary skeletal muscle defect which predisposes to porcine MH. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Near-infrared emitting Ca5 (PO4 )3 Cl:Eu2+ ,Nd3+ phosphor for modification of the solar spectrum.
Intense near-infrared (NIR) emitting phosphors Ca5 (PO4 )3 Cl:Eu2+ ,Nd3+ were synthesized using a conventional solid-state reaction method and characterized using X-ray diffraction, reflectance, photoluminescence (PL) emission and PL excitation (PLE) spectroscopy, and PL lifetime measurements. The emission could be excited by broad band radiation in the nUV region as a consequence of Eu2+ →Nd3+ energy transfer. The efficiency of Eu2+ →Nd3+ energy transfer was as high as 80.8%. Two components observed in the decay curves could be identified with Eu2+ substituting different Ca2+ sites. Eu2+ lifetimes were shortened after Nd3+ doping. Near infra-red emission intensity was limited by Nd3+ →Nd3+ energy transfer and the consequent concentration quenching. The critical distance for Nd3+ →Nd3+ energy transfer was estimated to be 11.41 Å. Absorption of nUV radiations followed by conversion to NIR indicated the potential application in solar photovoltaics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Contralateral recurrence of carotidynia during steroid therapy.
A 44-year-old woman presented with contralateral recurrence of carotidynia during steroid therapy at 1 month after onset. Carotidynia can present with a multiphasic clinical course and can affect the neck bilaterally. Therefore, patients with carotidynia should be observed even after remission. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pediatric deep space neck infections: the Medical College of Wisconsin experience.
A retrospective review was performed on 39 patients with deep space neck infection admitted to the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin over a nine year period. The signs and symptoms as well as issues of diagnosis and treatment were reviewed with attention to the use of computed tomography (CT) scans. Beta hemolytic streptococcus was the most commonly cultured organism followed by alpha hemolytic streptococcus. Sixteen patients underwent CT scans. Twelve were diagnosed with an abscess by CT scan. An abscess was confirmed in ten patients. Necrotic lymph nodes mimicked abscesses on CT scans and resulted in negative surgical findings. Airway obstruction occurred in 30% of the children in the study. Children under the age of 36 months had a significantly higher rate of airway obstruction upon presentation compared to older children (P < 0.05). There should be a high index of suspicion of upper airway compromise in children under the age of 36 months with a deep neck infection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vivo phage display to identify M cell-targeting ligands.
The purpose of this study was to use in vivo phage display screening technology to identify novel lead peptides that target delivery to M cells and to follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) of the intestine. Phage display libraries were screened in vivo within the gastrointestinal tract of a rat model by successive screenings across four cycles of selection. Following four cycles of in vivo screening, we identified 30 unique peptide sequences that bound to Peyer's patch tissue, human Caco-2, and rat IEC-6 epithelial cells. Two of the lead targeting peptides, peptides P8 (LETTCASLCYPS) and P25 (VPPHPMTYSCQY), were shown to bind to receptors on the surface of human intestinal tissue. The L-form, D-form, retro-inverted D-form, and selective Cys-to-Ala site-directed mutants of peptides P8 and P25 were also shown to retain binding to Caco-2 cell membranes when immobilized on the surface of a model particulate. Finally, the D-peptide analog of peptide P8 (yqcsytmphppv) enhanced the delivery of polystyrene particles to M cells in vivo in a mouse model, and these particles were delivered into Peyer's patch tissue, as determined by confocal microscopy. In summary, we have identified novel ligands that target M cells and Peyer's patch tissue, and thus may have utility in the targeted oral delivery of vaccines and vaccine carrier systems to the mucosal immune system within the gastrointestinal tract. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Risk factors for sick leave due to low back pain: a prospective study.
The objectives of this prospective study were to identify predictive factors for sick leave of 8 days or more due to low back pain (LBSL) and to compare them with predictive factors for low back pain with no or shorter sick leave (LB) in a cohort of French workers. The predictive factors for LBSL were a past history of low back pain (odds ratio [OR], 7.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.1 to 13), a low employment grade (OR, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.7 to 11), heavy smoking (OR, 5.5; 95% CI, 2.3 to 13), a pain score different from zero (OR, 4.9; 95% CI, 2.5 to 9.7), required bending backward or forward at work every day repetitively (OR, 7.4; 95% CI, 2.3 to 23), overall social integration (OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.3 to 3.3), and low social support at work (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.6 to 7.3). Low social support at work and bending backward or forward at work were more strongly associated with LBSL than with LB (P = 0.02 and P < 0.01, respectively). The implications of the results of this prospective study are that both the level of biomechanical exposure and the psychosocial work environment, especially social support, represents important dimensions to consider in the reduction of work absenteeism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of an imprinted gene, Meg3/Gtl2 and its human homologue MEG3, first mapped on mouse distal chromosome 12 and human chromosome 14q.
The paternal duplication of mouse distal chromosome 12 leads to late embryonal/neonatal lethality and growth promotion, whereas maternal duplication leads to late embryonal lethality and growth retardation. Human paternal or maternal uniparental disomies of chromosome 14q that are syntenic to mouse distal chromosome 12 have also been reported to show some imprinting effects on growth, mental activity and musculoskeletal morphology. For the isolation of imprinted genes in this region, a systematic screen of maternally expressed genes (Megs) was carried out by our subtraction-hybridization method using androgenetic and normally fertilized embryos. We have isolated seven candidate clones of the mouse Meg gene. Among them, we identified a novel maternally expressed imprinted gene, Meg3, on mouse distal chromosome 12 and showed that it was identical to the Gtl2 gene. We also found that the human homologue MEG3 on chromosome 14q was also monoallelically expressed. This is the first identification of the imprinting gene, both on mouse distal chromosome 12 and on human chromosome 14q, respectively. Because there are no obvious open reading frames in either the mouse Meg3/Gtl2 or human MEG3, the function of these genes remains unclear. However, this result will provide a good basis for the further investigation of several important imprinted genes in this chromosomal region. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antithrombotic effects of synthetic pentasaccharide with high affinity for plasma antithrombin III in non-human primates.
The pentasaccharide (PS) comprising the minimal heparin structure capable of binding with antithrombin III (ATIII) and exhibiting anti-factor Xa (anti-fXa) activity in plasma without producing detectable antithrombin activity, has been evaluated for its relative antithrombotic and antihemostatic effects in a baboon model combining both platelet-rich and fibrin-rich thrombosis. Thrombosis was produced in a two-component thrombogenic device incorporated into an exteriorized femoral arteriovenous (AV) shunt in baboons; the proximal component constituted a segment of collagen-coated tubing and induced platelet-rich arterial-type thrombus, while the distal component consisted of an expanded chamber producing static and disturbed flow and initiated fibrin-rich venous-type thrombosis. Thrombus formation was measured as the deposition of 111In-platelets and the accumulation of 125I-fibrin. PS was administered intravenously to maintain plasma anti-fXa activity at three different levels: a) low dose (LD) 0.3 +/- 0.1 U/ml; b) intermediate dose (ID) 0.6 +/- 0.1 U/ml; and c) high dose (HD) 5.6 +/- 0.4 U/ml. In untreated controls, thrombus formed rapidly, reaching a plateau by 40 min of 2.3 +/- 0.2 x 10(9) platelets and 0.62 +/- 0.04 mg fibrin deposited on the collagen segments, and 1.9 +/- 0.4 x 10(9) platelets and 3.3 +/- 0.4 mg fibrin accumulated in the chambers.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of endosomal epidermal growth factor receptor signaling targets by functional organelle proteomics.
Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) signal transduction is organized by scaffold and adaptor proteins, which have specific subcellular distribution. On a way from the plasma membrane to the lysosome EGFRs are still in their active state and can signal from distinct subcellular locations. To identify organelle-specific targets of EGF receptor signaling on endosomes a combination of subcellular fractionation, two-dimensional DIGE, fluorescence labeling of phosphoproteins, and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry was applied. All together 23 EGF-regulated (phospho)proteins were identified as being differentially associated with endosomal fractions by functional organelle proteomics; among them were proteins known to be involved in endosomal trafficking and cytoskeleton rearrangement (Alix, myosin-9, myosin regulatory light chain, Trap1, moesin, cytokeratin 8, septins 2 and 11, and CapZbeta). Interestingly R-Ras, a small GTPase of the Ras family that regulates cell survival and integrin activity, was associated with endosomes in a ligand-dependent manner. EGF-dependent association of R-Ras with late endosomes was confirmed by confocal laser scanning immunofluorescence microscopy and Western blotting of endosomal fractions. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib was used to confirm EGF-dependent regulation of all identified proteins. EGF-dependent association of signaling molecules, such as R-Ras, with late endosomes suggests signaling specification through intracellular organelles. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Trust-based economics with medicine outcome-based pricing].
In recent decades, the pharmaceutical industry as built a high level of confidence thanks to innovative medicines that improve both duration and quality of life. Some recent scandals have however discredited this industry, now suspected of cheating or bribery. Even the scientific progresses are challenged on the ground of possible conflicts of interests and value uncertainty. This situation is deleterious. Simultaneously the economic crisis exacerbates the payers' expectations in terms of clinical value and value/price ratio. It also stimulates the demand for outcomes in real life. This induces a new economic approach for the market access of highly expensive reimbursable drugs. It consists in paying only for drugs actually proven effective in terms of actual outcomes, with a full or partial refund of the payer in case of failure, according to accurate and simple criteria in so called "performance agreement". Confidence is restored accordingly. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thrombosis in particular organ veins.
Renal vein thrombosis in early infancy is a complication of dehydration and prolonged hypotension. The onset is usually acute and the most common clinical signs are uni- or bilateral frank masses, hematuria, proteinuria and thrombocytopenia. In most cases, with conservative management, the late outcome is favorable. In the adult, renal vein thrombosis is often a silent complication of the nephrotic syndrome, the hypercoagulability of which may be an important factor in the pathogenesis of the thrombosis. Clinically, the presentation of a sudden complete occlusion is that of severe abdominal and lumbar pain with hematuria and loss of function of the kidney that suffers hemorrhagic infarction. Physical examination often reveals an enlarged kidney. With gradual occlusion, renal function is preserved. The initial diagnostic approach is with ultrasound studies and computed tomography; definitive diagnosis is established by renal venography or by selective renal arteriography. In general, a conservative approach including the use of anticoagulant treatment is preferred to surgical intervention. Priapism is a persistent painful penile erection due to ischemic or non-ischemic causes; therapeutic intracavernosal injection of papaverine is becoming the most common cause. In early and mild stages, aspiration of blood from the corpora cavernosa supplemented with intracavernosal irrigation with alpha-stimulating agents is the procedure of first choice; in late and severe ischemia, a shunt procedure may become necessary. Hepatic vein thrombosis occurs in association with a number of conditions considered predisposing factors including the use of oral contraceptives. The clinical picture may be that of an acute illness with abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, ascites and hepatic failure as well as early death. More often, the onset is insidious with slowly developing ascites and wasting. For the diagnosis, hepatic scintigraphy may be helpful but, at present, ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance scanning are procedures of choice. There is, as yet, no adequate treatment. A fatal outcome may be prevented by surgical decompression of the congested liver and, in recent years, liver transplantation has been employed. Portal vein thrombosis, in children, is usually considered a complication of umbilical sepsis or a result of a congenital abnormality of the portal vein. In adults, the most frequent causes are hepatic cirrhosis and neoplasia. Clinically, there may be a sudden appearance of ascites with resolution in a symptom-free interval until the onset of other features of portal hypertension occur. Currently, ultrasound real-time imaging supplemented with Doppler capability, computed tomography and magnetic resonance scanning provide the necessary diagnostic information. Variceal hemorrhage is often the first major complication requiring treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of combined oral contraceptives in the management of acne and seborrhea.
Acne and seborrhea (or facial oiliness) are related androgenic skin disorders which affect a high proportion of women after menarche. They can have a negative effect on psychological well-being and social life. Androgens play an important role in the pathogenesis of acne through the stimulation of sebum secretion, increasing sebaceous gland size and possibly through follicular hyperkeratinization. Conversely, estrogens decrease sebum production by suppressing gonadotropin release and androgen production and increasing sex hormone binding globulin production. One of the treatment options for these conditions is hormonal therapy, especially for women who require contraception. The effect of combined oral contraceptives in androgenic skin disorders depends on their estrogen:progestogen balance and on the antiestrogenic activity of the progestogen component. Improved understanding of what women value about oral contraceptives suggests that the choice of product should be tailored as much as possible to the individual. Several combined oral contraceptives containing new-generation progestogens (e.g. desogestrel, gestodene) or progestational antiandrogens (e.g. cyproterone acetate, chlormadinone acetate) have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of women with acne, although comparisons between trials are difficult because of differing endpoints. Seborrhea has been less well studied, but the few studies that are available show an improvement in women with this condition using combined oral contraceptives. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thrombus aspiration during primary percutaneous coronary intervention improves myocardial reperfusion and reduces infarct size: the EXPIRA (thrombectomy with export catheter in infarct-related artery during primary percutaneous coronary intervention) prospective, randomized trial.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact on myocardial perfusion and infarct size as assessed by contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) of a manual thrombectomy device, Export Medtronic (EM) (Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota), as adjunctive therapy in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in a subset of patients with anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). PPCI may cause thrombus dislodgment, leading to microvascular damage. One hundred seventy-five STEMI patients were randomly assigned to standard percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (n = 87) or EM-PCI (n = 88). The primary end points were the occurrence of myocardial blush grade > or =2 and the rate of 90-min ST-segment resolution >70%. The CE-MRI substudy was performed in 75 patients with anterior STEMI to assess microvascular obstruction and infarct size. Myocardial blush grade > or =2 and ST-segment resolution occurred more frequently in the EM-PCI group (88% vs. 60%, p = 0.001; and 64% vs. 39%, p = 0.001). In the acute phase, microvascular obstruction extent was significantly lower in the EM-PCI group and at 3 months, infarct size was significantly reduced only in the EM-PCI group. A lower incidence of cardiac death in the EM-PCI group (4.6% vs. 0%, log-rank test p = 0.02) was observed at 9 months. Thrombectomy prevents thrombus embolization and preserves microvascular integrity reducing infarct size, and it therefore represents an useful adjunctive therapy in PPCI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Assessment of cutaneous and ocular irritancy: a decade of research on alternatives to animal experimentation.
Over the past decade increasing societal and scientific pressure has promoted the development of alternatives to local tolerance testing in laboratory animals. The use of isolated organs, fertilized hen's eggs, and cell culture systems has been proposed as well as the study of a toxicant's biochemical effects and structure-activity relationships. This paper critically reviews the current status of these approaches and discusses the preliminaries for the establishment of alternative methods in the process of safety assessment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Resources employed by health researchers to ensure ethical research practice.
There is little empirical evidence about what resources health researchers use in order to make decisions about the ethical conduct of human research. Undertaking an empirical examination of how researchers understand research ethics and how they address ethical issues in research practice can lead to a richer understanding of how researchers approach research ethics. Our findings are based on interviews with 54 Australian health researchers. We conclude that, despite the considerable time devoted to ethics review, ethics committees and research guidelines were not seen as valuable resources for researchers undertaking research in the field. Although researchers did not perceive ethics committees as a resource when faced with ethical issues in the field, they nevertheless perceived the process of ethics review as beneficial to them; this allowed them to clarify their research, make decisions about the ethical conduct of the research, as well as offering them a sense of protection when undertaking research. In the actual undertaking of research practice, it was their past professional experience and personal values that researchers considered most useful resources when encountering ethical problems. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Update on calcium-channel blocking agents.
The pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and adverse effects of three calcium-channel blocking agents--verapamil, nifedipine, and diltiazem--are reviewed. Verapamil, nifedipine, and diltiazem are absorbed well after oral dosing, but absolute bioavailability of each is reduced substantially by a first-pass effect. Each drug is metabolized extensively (verapamil and diltiazem to moderately active metabolites) by the liver. A substantial percentage of each drug is bound to plasma proteins, but the binding is of clinical importance only for nifedipine (92--98% protein bound). Intravenous verapamil has become the agent of first choice for treatment of acute paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT); use of chronic oral verapamil therapy for prophylaxis remains controversial. Verapamil and diltiazem have been evaluated with mixed results for atrial flutter and fibrillation. For treatment of myocardial ischemia, calcium-channel blockers may be of some value (possibly in combination with nitrates of B blockers). All three agents have been studied in patients with exertional angina with good results. Calcium-channel blockers appear to be equal with nitrates for treatment of variant angina. Patients with hypertropic cardiomyopathy have been treated with verapamil and nifedipine with promising results. Nifedipine has been effective for treatment of essential hypertension. Adverse effects of calcium-channel blockers have been relatively minor or infrequent. Diltiazem overall has the best side-effect profile, with adverse effects causing discontinuation of therapy in about 2--10% of patients; verapamil in intermediate (8--10%) and nifedipine the worst (17%) in this respect. The most common side effects generally are fatigue, headache, dizziness, skin rash, and peripheral edema. While they generally should be reserved for patients in whom more conventional therapy has failed (except those with PSVT), calcium-channel blockers appear to have a valid role as reserve agents for exertional and variant angina, cardiomyopathy, and hypertension. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Unrepeated 200-km transmission of 40-Gbit/s 16-QAM signals using digital coherent receiver.
We demonstrate unrepeated 200-km transmission of 40-Gbit/s 16-QAM signals using a digital coherent receiver, where the decision-directed carrier-phase estimation is employed. The phase fluctuation is effectively eliminated in the 16-QAM system with such a phase-estimation method, when the linewidth of semiconductor lasers for the transmitter and the local oscillator is 150 kHz. Finite-impulse-response (FIR) filters at the receiver compensate for 4,000-ps/nm group-velocity dispersion (GVD) of the 200-km-long single-mode fiber and a part of self-phase modulation (SPM) in the digital domain. In spite of the launched power limitation due to SPM, the acceptable bit-error rate performance is obtained owing to high sensitivity of the digital coherent receiver. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dielectrophoretic growth of metallic nanowires and microwires: theory and experiments.
Dielectrophoresis-assisted growth of metallic nanowires from an aqueous salt solution has been previously reported, but so far there has been no clear understanding of the process leading to such a bottom-up assembly. The present work, based on a series of experiments to grow metallic nano- and microwires by dielectrophoresis, provides a general theoretical description of the growth of such wires from an aqueous salt solution. Palladium nanowires and silver microwires have been grown between gold electrodes from their aqueous salt solution via dielectrophoresis. Silver microwire growth has been observed in situ using light microscopy. From these experiments, a basic model of dielectrophoresis-driven wire growth is developed. This model explains the dependence of the growth on the frequency and the local field enhancement at the electrode asperities. Such a process proves instrumental in the growth of metallic nanowires with controlled morphology and site specificity between the electrodes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preparation of protein crystals for X-ray structural study.
The knowledge of accurate molecular structures obtained by X-ray protein crystallography is now inevitable for rational drug design and for understanding the molecular basis underlying genetic disorders found in patients. However, preparing protein crystals suitable for structural analysis is currently the bottleneck in structure determination by this method. The intent of this chapter is to present current methods of preparing protein crystals for structural studies for a wide range of biologists who have access to macromolecules but do not know how to handle them for crystallization. The chapter includes the pretreatment of a protein prior to the crystallization experiment, initial screens, and optimization of the crystallization conditions for further X-ray study. Finally, handling considerations that are important for a protein intended for crystallization experiments are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of growth factors and gut regulatory peptides on nutrient uptake in ovine muscle cell cultures.
Effects of gut regulatory peptides and growth factors on the uptake of 2-aminoisobutyric acid (AIB) and 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DOG) were examined in differentiated ovine satellite cell cultures. Insulin and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) gave maximal increases of 160-180% of controls for AIB and over 190% for 2-DOG. IGF-I showed half-maximal effects at 0.1-1 nM, and insulin at 1-10 nM. Bovine growth hormone (0.01-100 nM) had no effect. Gastrin, gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), bombesin and somatostatin had no action in either the absence or presence of insulin. In primary cultures epidermal growth factor (EGF) increased the uptake of AIB (133-137%) and 2-DOG (171-176%). In clonal lines, EGF had little effect on nutrient uptake but still simulated protein synthesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Beneficial effects of strategies for primary prevention of diabetes on cardiovascular risk factors: results of the Indian Diabetes Prevention Programme.
In subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) who participated in the Indian Diabetes Prevention Programme (IDPP), abnormalities related to body mass index, waist circumference (WC), blood pressure (BP), lipid profile and electrocardiography were analysed (at baseline and third-year follow-up) in control, lifestyle modification (LSM), metformin (MET) and LSM + MET groups. At baseline, elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) showed the highest (78.6%) and total cholesterol (TC) showed the lowest (42%) prevalence. At follow-up, prevalence of hypertension (BP > or = 130/> or = 85 mmHg) had increased significantly in all groups. Cardiovascular abnormalities were lower in intervention groups, with the lowest rates in the MET group (p=0.013 vs. control); the LDL-C level decreased in intervention groups. In this programme, Asian Indian IGT subjects were observed to have a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. LSM and MET had beneficial effects on the atherogenic phenotype of lipids but had no influence on blood pressure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of acetylcholine on cerebral circulation.
Effects of intravertebral, intracarotid, and intravenous infusion of acetylcholine on cerebral blood flow (CBF) and metabolism was studied in 17 baboons anesthetized with pentobarbital. We measured CBF by the bilateral jugular venous outflow technique using two electromagnetic flowmeters. Effect of acetylcholine infusion on cerebral vascular response to hypercapnia was also assessed. Intravertebral infusion of acetylcholine (0.01 mg/kg/min) increased CBF by 27% and cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen by 19% and decreased cerebral vascular resistance by 25%. On intracarotid injection of acetylcholine, only an 8% increase in CBF was observed, and intravenous infusion produced no change in the parameters observed. Acetylcholine administered by any of the three routes did not enhance the CBF response to hypercapnia. Increase in CBF on intravertebral administration of acetylcholine is associated with an arousal effect and an increase in cerebral metabolism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The Malady of Emperor Frederick III. and Virchow's diagnostic role].
Crownprince Frederick Wilhelm of Prussia was once the hope of the liberal movement in Germany. He embodied and lived a humanistic ideal based on the spirit of the enlightenment. Starting in January 1887 the passionate pipe smoker suffered on an unusual long hoarseness. A polyp of the vocal cord was diagnosed. Although this diagnosis seemed harmless, an odyssee was launched that made history. Rudolf Virchow-the foremost pathologist of that time-was involved in the following histological diagnosis. His role and that of the sprouting histopathology will be presented in this essay. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The GNAS1 T393C polymorphism predicts survival in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx.
In previous studies, we have demonstrated that the T-allele of a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the Galphas gene (T393C) correlates with increased Galphas expression and hence apoptosis. The T-allele was associated with a favorable outcome in a variety of human cancers, for example, carcinoma of the urinary bladder, kidney, colorectal, oro- and hypopharynx. The prognostic value of the T393C SNP was retrospectively evaluated in an unselected series of patients treated with curative intent for laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas including all tumor stages with different therapeutic regimens. DNA analysis was performed using DNA from paraffin-embedded tissue samples from 157 patients (142 men, 15 women) with a median follow-up of 68 (3-143) months. The various genotypes were correlated with the overall survival. Survival was significantly dependent on the T393C genotype in advanced American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stages (III-IV) with an apparent gene-dose effect (P = .0437). Five-year survival rates were 76% for TT, 49% for TC, and 43.5% for CC. In multivariate analysis including age at diagnosis, AJCC stage, grade, gender, and T393C genotypes, patients with CC genotype displayed a higher risk for death with a hazard ratio of 2.59 (95% confidence interval: 1.01-6.64, P = .047) compared with the reference group consisting of T393 homozygous individuals. The T393C SNP is a prognostic marker that could help to identify high risk patients suffering from head and neck cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tissue response resulting from different force magnitudes combined with corticotomy in rats.
To evaluate the amount of hyalinization and root resorption after application of light and heavy forces during corticotomy-assisted tooth movement. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were used. Eight animals were the control group (day 0). The other 40 animals were randomly divided into two groups using the split-mouth technique: (1) corticotomy combined light force (CLF) and (2) corticotomy combined heavy force (CHF). Nickel-titanium closed coil springs that generated 10 g (light force) and 50 g (heavy force) were used for maxillary first molar movement. three-dimensional root volume was evaluated at 0, 14, and 28 days. Percent hyalinization was analyzed at 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days by histomorphometric analysis. The CHF group showed significantly lower cervical root volume than the CLF group at 28 days. Compared with day 0, the CHF group showed significantly less root volume in both distobuccal and distopalatal roots at 28 days. The hyalinization percentages in the CHF group were significantly higher than the CLF group at days 3 and 21. Heavy force combined with corticotomy produced more periodontal ligament hyalinization and root resorption than the light force combined with corticotomy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diffuse vertebral body metastasis from a glioblastoma multiforme: a technetium-99m Sestamibi single-photon emission computerized tomography study.
The authors report on a case of right temporal glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) that metastasized to multiple bone regions (dorsolumbar vertebrae and iliac bone) 8 months after initial diagnosis, despite combined radio- and chemotherapy. Results of a whole-bone single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) study using the imaging agent Sestamibi (MIBI) revealed extracranial metastases from the GBM. A magnetic resonance imaging study of the dorsolumbar spinal region completed the radiological investigation. Cells immunoreactive to glial fibrillary acidic protein were observed in a specimen obtained from the right iliac bone. Postmortem examination confirmed metastasis to extracranial bone and revealed two other metastatic localizations in the lung and heart. This is the first reported case of extracranial bone metastasis from a GBM demonstrated on a whole-bone MIBI SPECT scan. In patients with malignant glioma and lower-back pain (especially prolonged pain), bone metastasis, although uncommon, does occasionally occur and its possibility should be investigated; a MIBI SPECT study may prove useful in this regard. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structural analysis of pigeon lens crystallins by near-infrared Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy.
Crystallins from pigeon eye lenses were isolated and purified by gel-permeation and anion-exchange chromatographies and characterized by gel electrophoresis, amino acid analysis and Raman spectroscopy. alpha- and beta-Crystallins could be obtained in relatively pure forms by single-step size-exclusion chromatography whereas an extra step of ion-exchange chromatography was needed for the separation of delta crystallin from the beta-crystallin fraction. In contrast to most characterized vertebrate species, a large amount of glycogen is eluted as a high molecular form in the first peak of gel filtration column. Structural analyses of total crude soluble proteins and purified alpha-, beta- and delta-crystallin fractions were made with respect to their amino acid compositions and characteristic near-IR Fourier-transform Raman spectra. The results indicate that the major secondary structures of alpha- and beta-crystallins are mainly anti-parallel beta-pleated sheet in nature as judged by the Raman signals at 1242 (amide III) and 1669-1670 cm-1 (amide I) whereas delta-crystallin consists of a significant content of alpha-helices as evidenced by the Raman signal at 1657-1660 cm-1 (amide I). The low intensity of S-S disulfide stretching vibration at 508-510 cm-1 coupled with the presence of S-H stretching at 2560-2580 cm-1 for alpha-, beta- and delta-crystallin pointed to the fact that sulfhydryl groups in most crystallins are resistant to air oxidation during the process of homogenization and protein extraction. It is also found that the relative Raman signal intensities of Tyr, Phe, and Trp residues in purified crystallins correlate very well with the data obtained from amino acid analysis. Especially noteworthy is the demonstrated usefulness of applying Raman techniques in the detection of the microenvironments of the aromatic amino acids such as Tyr and Trp in the native crystallins, which may prove useful in the study of contribution of these aromatic residues to crystallin packing and stability. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
How to measure the information gained from one symbol.
Information theory provides a powerful framework to analyse how neurons represent sensory stimuli or other behavioural variables. A recurring question regards the amount of information conveyed by a specific neuronal response. Here we show that the commonly used definition for this quantity has a serious flaw: the information accumulated during subsequent observations of neural activity fails to combine additively. Additivity is a highly desirable property, both on theoretical grounds and for the practical purpose of analysing population codes. We propose an alternative measure for the information per observation and prove that this is the only definition that satisfies additivity. The old and the new definitions measure very different aspects of the neural code, which is illustrated with visual responses from a motion-sensitive neuron in the primate cortex. Our analysis allows additional interpretation of several published results, which suggests that the neurons studied are operating far from their information capacity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CD134 Costimulation Couples the CD137 Pathway to Induce Production of Supereffector CD8 T Cells That Become IL-7 Dependent.
The TNFR superfamily members 4-1BB (CD137) and OX40 (CD134) are costimulatory molecules that potently boost CD8 and CD4 T cell responses. Concomitant therapeutic administration of agonist anti-CD137 and -CD134 mAbs mediates rejection of established tumors and fosters powerful CD8 T cell responses. To reveal the mechanism, the role of CD137 expression by specific CD8 T cells was determined to be essential for optimal clonal expansion and accumulation of effector cells. Nonetheless, dual costimulation induced production of supereffector CD8 T cells when either the specific T cells or the host alone bore CD137. Perhaps surprisingly, the total absence of CD137 prevented anti-CD134 augmentation of supereffector differentiation demonstrating an unappreciated link between these related pathways. Ultimately, it was reasoned that these powerful dual costimulatory responses involved common gamma family members, and we show substantial increases of CD25 and IL-7Ralpha-chain expression by the specific CD8 T cells. To investigate this further, it was shown that IL-7 mediated T cell accumulation, but importantly, a gradual and preferential effect of survival was directed toward supereffector CD8 T cells. In fact, a clear enhancement of effector differentiation was demonstrated to be proportional to the increasing amount of IL-7Ralpha expression by the specific CD8 T cells. Therefore, dual costimulation through CD137 and CD134 drives production and survival of supereffector CD8 T cells through a distinct IL-7-dependent pathway. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Bombesin injection into the central amygdala influences feeding behavior in the rat.
The present study was performed to determine whether low doses (10 or 40 ng) of bombesin microinjected into the amygdala could modify solid food intake. Forty ng of bombesin in 24 h deprived rats caused transient inhibition of food intake. This inhibitory effect was eliminated by prior bombesin antagonist treatment. A series of quantitative behavioral tests indicated that low doses of bombesin application specifically reduced food intake without altering the behavioral pattern or influencing the body temperature. The present results suggest, that bombesin-like peptides may act as a satiety signal in the central part of the amygdala. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CLPTM1L polymorphism as a protective factor for lung cancer: a case-control study in southern Chinese population.
Variants of the cleft lip and palate trans-membrane 1 like (CLPTM1L) gene, located on chromosome 5p15.33, were previously determined to influence lung cancer susceptibility. Here, we performed a case-control study to examine the potential association of CLPTM1L single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with lung cancer in a Chinese Han population. We selected four SNPs in the CLPTM1L gene that were previously reported to be associated with lung cancer. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the strength of the relationship between each CLPTM1L SNP and lung cancer risk. Allelic model analysis revealed that the minor alleles of all four SNPs were significantly associated with decreased lung cancer risk. Similar significant results were detected using genetic model analysis. In addition, we observed a protective effect of haplotype "TT" in the CLPTM1L gene. Our results verified that certain CLPTM1L polymorphisms are protective factors against lung cancer in a southern Chinese Han population and may be potential diagnostic and molecular markers for lung cancer patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of prostaglandin F2 alpha on the bovine fetal ruminal wall in vitro.
Strips of rumen wall from bovine fetuses were incubated in an organ bath with prostaglandin F2 alpha (0.13 to 33.76 microgram/ml). The highest reactivity with a submaximal dose (17.03 microgram/ml) was observed in the period between 3.0 and 7.9 months of fetal age. A smaller response, but higher than in 1.0 to 2.9 months old fetuses, was observed in the 8.0 to 8.9 months fetuses. The period of the highest reactivity to prostaglandin F2 alpha coincides with the age of onset of papillary morphogenesis and the period of highest reactivity to autonomic and putative transmitter drugs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic analysis of coagulation properties, curd firming modeling, milk yield, composition, and acidity in Sarda dairy sheep.
Sheep milk is an important source of food, especially in Mediterranean countries, and is used in large part for cheese production. Milk technological traits are important for the sheep dairy industry, but research is lacking into the genetic variation of such traits. Therefore the aim of this study was to estimate the heritability of traditional milk coagulation properties and curd firmness modeled on time t (CFt) parameters, and their genetic relationships with test-day milk yield, composition (fat, protein, and casein content), and acidity in Sarda dairy sheep. Milk samples from 1,121 Sarda ewes from 23 flocks were analyzed for 5 traditional coagulation properties by lactodynamographic tests conducted for up to 60min: rennet coagulation time (min), curd-firming time (k20, min), and 3measures of curd firmness (a30, a45, and a60, mm). The 240 curd firmness observations (1 every 15 s) from each milk sample were recorded, and 4 parameters for each individual sample equation were estimated: rennet coagulation time estimated from the equation (RCTeq), the asymptotic potential curd firmness (CFP), the curd firming instant rate constant (kCF), and the syneresis instant rate constant (kSR). Two other derived traits were also calculated (CFmax, the maximum curd firmness value; and tmax, the attainment time). Multivariate analyses using Bayesian methodology were performed to estimate the genetic relationships of milk coagulation properties and CFt with the other traits; statistical inference was based on the marginal posterior distributions of the parameters of concern. The marginal posterior distribution of heritability estimates of milk yield (0.16±0.07) and composition (0.21±0.11 to 0.28±0.10) of Sarda ewes was similar to those often obtained for bovine species. The heritability of rennet coagulation time as a single point trait was also similar to that frequently obtained for cow milk (0.19±0.09), whereas the same trait calculated as an individual equation parameter exhibited larger genetic variation and a higher heritability estimate (0.32±0.11). The other curd firming and syneresis traits, whether as traditional single point observations or as individual equation parameters and derived traits, were characterized by heritability estimates lower than for coagulation time and for the corresponding bovine milk traits (0.06 to 0.14). Phenotypic and additive genetic correlations among the 11 technological traits contribute to describing the interdependencies and meanings of different traits. The additive genetic relationships of these technological traits with the single test-day milk yield and composition were variable and showed milk yield to have unfavorable effects on all measures of curd firmness (a30, a45, a60, CFP, and CFmax) and tmax, but favorable effects on both instant rate constants (kCF and kSR). Milk fat content had a positive effect on curd firmness traits, especially on those obtained from CFt equations, whereas the negative effects on both coagulation time traits were attributed to the milk protein and casein contents. Finally, in view of the estimated heritabilities and additive genetic correlations, enhancement of technological traits of sheep milk through selective breeding could be feasible in this population. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Importance of microbiologic examination of vaginal secretions in the reproductive period].
Vaginal infections, during reproductive period are frequent and although not life treating, they can affect their normal functions. They can also affect women's fertility as well as the course of pregnancy. The outcome of pregnancy can be endangered due to the possibility of infection of newborn while passing trough birth canal of the infected mother. As statistically shown, bacterial vaginosis is considerably more often found with the patients having precancerous changes on cervix, or diagnosed cancer of cervix, comparing with women with healthy cervix. It can also cause the appearance of postoperative pelvic cellulitis after hysterectomy. On the other side, the presence of S. agalactiae in vaginal secretion may cause very serious and lethal infections of the newborn such as meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis. As for protozoa T. vaginalis it has been shown that it could cause reduced fertility ability and that during pregnancy it could damage fetal membranes and bring to its premature rupture and premature birth. There is also increased risk of cervix cancer. During reproductive period of women especially if risk factors are existing such as hormone therapy, diabetes mellitus type 1 and applications of wide range antibiotics, vaginal fungal infections caused by Candida can frequently appear. These infection apart from the discomfort like itch and affluent secretion they can also mean diagnostic and therapeutical problem. Regular microbiological test of women are highly recommended during reproductive period as standard for bacterial vaginosis, fungal and trichomonas infections. If those results appear negative, further microbiological tests are necessary. Such tests which are more elaborate, more timely and more expensive are referring to tests on chlamydia, microplasma and some viruses that can also be the cause of vaginal secretion disbalance in women during reproductive period. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Multisensory control of human upright stance.
The interaction of different orientation senses contributing to posture control is not well understood. We therefore performed experiments in which we measured the postural responses of normal subjects and vestibular loss patients during perturbation of their stance. Subjects stood on a motion platform with their eyes closed and auditory cues masked. The perturbing stimuli consisted of either platform tilts or external torque produced by force-controlled pull of the subjects' body on a stationary platform. Furthermore, we presented trials in which these two stimuli were applied when the platform was body-sway referenced (i.e., coupled 1:1 to body position, by which ankle joint proprioceptive feedback is essentially removed). We analyzed subjects' postural responses, i.e., the excursions of their center of mass (COM) and center of pressure (COP), using a systems analysis approach. We found gain and phase of the responses to vary as a function of stimulus frequency and in relation to the absence versus presence of vestibular and proprioceptive cues. In addition, gain depended on stimulus amplitude, reflecting a non-linearity in the control. The experimental results were compared to simulation results obtained from an 'inverted pendulum' model of posture control. In the model, sensor fusion mechanisms yield internal estimates of the external stimuli, i.e., of the external torque (pull), the platform tilt and gravity. These estimates are derived from three sensor systems: ankle proprioceptors, vestibular sensors and plantar pressure sensors (somatosensory graviceptors). They are fed as global set point signals into a local control loop of the ankle joints, which is based on proprioceptive negative feedback. This local loop stabilizes the body-on-foot support, while the set point signals upgrade the loop into a body-in-space control. Amplitude non-linearity was implemented in the model in the form of central threshold mechanisms. In model simulations that combined sensor fusion and thresholds, an automatic context-specific sensory re-weighting across stimulus conditions occurred. Model parameters were identified using an optimization procedure. Results suggested that in the sway-referenced condition normal subjects altered their postural strategy by strongly weighting feedback from plantar somatosensory force sensors. Taking this strategy change into account, the model's simulation results well paralleled all experimental results across all conditions tested. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Manubriosternal dislocation with spinal fracture: A rare cause for delayed haemothorax.
Type 2 manubriosternal dislocations with concomitant spinal fracture are rare and may be associated with thoracic visceral injuries. The complication of delayed haemothorax has not been reported yet. We report a case of a young male who suffered manubriosternal dislocation with chance type thoracic spine fracture due to fall of a tree branch over his back. The haemothorax presented late on day three. The possible injury mechanism is discussed along with review of literature. We conclude that a lateral chest radiograph is indicated in spinal fracture patients complaining of midsternal pain. Computerized axial tomography scan of chest with contrast is indicated to rule out visceral injuries and a chest radiograph should be repeated before the patient is discharged to look for delayed haemothorax. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Lynch syndrome in the hands of pathologists].
Lynch syndrome (formerly hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer) is the most common familial colorectal cancer syndrome with a known molecular genetic background. The syndrome is caused by a germline mutation of one of the genes encoding mismatch repair (MMR) proteins that are responsible for DNA replication errors repair. Impaired function of these proteins leads to microsatellite instability (MSI) and forms a suitable background for the development and progression of tumors, mainly colorectal cancer. Traditionally, Lynch syndrome was regarded to be responsible for 2 % of all cases of colorectal cancer, however recent estimates reach even 5 %. Due to this relatively high frequency, familial occurence, the absence of the premorbid phenotype and the development of malignant tumors during the productive years of life, the correct diagnosis becomes not only a medical, but also a socioeconomical problem. Unfortunately, clinical means of diagnostics of Lynch syndrome (like the Amsterdam criteria and Bethesda guidelines) lack sensitivity. It was shown that predictive models based on histological signs of MSI are more sensitive than the clinical criteria used to detect patients suspicious of Lynch syndrome. Of all MSI-H colorectal cancers, 1/5 is caused by Lynch syndrome, the rest being only sporadic cancers caused by epigenetic inactivation of a MMR protein. To rule out the sporadic cases, molecular genetic investigation of the BRAF gene and methylation analysis of MLH1 is used in the diagnostic workup of Lynch syndrome. The suspicion of Lynch syndrome, based on the results of the assortment of diagnostic methods mentioned above, should be proven by detection of a germline mutation of an MMR gene in peripheral blood, and followed by screening of family members, which is a necessary condition for efficient prevention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vocal and finger reaction times in stutterers and nonstutterers: differences and correlations.
The purposes of this study were (a) to assess whether the slower reaction times of stutterers are related to the etiology of the disorder or whether they are a by-product of it, and (b) to see if previously reported correlations between vocal and manual reaction times resulted from large numbers of trials. Fourteen adult stutterers and matched controls said "uh" or pressed a button in response to the offset of tones varying randomly in duration. Ten trials were used. The stutterers were significantly slower in both speech and nonspeech tasks, but the correlations between voice and manual reaction times were not significant. This suggested that stutterers' slower reaction times may be obtained without using large numbers of trials and that the correlation between the two tasks may depend on the number of trials used. The stutterers showed a significantly larger difference between vocal and manual reaction times than the nonstutterers. This suggested that the slower reaction times of stutterers are not entirely a by-product of the disorder. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The diagnostic performances of conventional strain elastography (SE), acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging and point shear-wave speed (pSWS) measurement for non-calcified thyroid nodules.
Non-calcified thyroid nodules are relatively difficult to diagnose only relying on features of at conventional US images. To investigate the diagnostic performances of conventional strain elastography (SE), acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) SE and point shear-wave speed (pSWS) measurement for non-calcified thyroid nodules. A total of 201 non-calcified thyroid nodules in 195 patients were studied. They were examined with conventional ultrasound (US), conventional SE, ARFI SE and pSWS measurement. Their diagnostic performances and multivariable models were assessed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and logistic regression analyses respectively. There were 156 benign and 45 malignant non-calcified nodules proven by histopathology or cystology. The mean diameters of the nodules were 21.2±10.8 mm. Areas under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) of elastography features (ranged, 0.488-0.745) were all greater than that of US (ranged, 0.111-0.332). At multivariate analysis, there were three predictors of malignancy for non-calcified nodules, including pSWS of nodule (odds ratio [OR], 34.960; 95% CI, 11.582-105.529), marked hypoechogenicity (OR, 16.223; 95% CI, 1.761-149.454) and ARFI SE grade (OR, 10.900; 95% CI, 3.567-33.310). US+SE+pSWS owned the largest AUC (0.936; 95% CI, 0.887-0.985; P < 0.05), followed by US+pSWS (0.889; 95% CI, 0.823-0.955), and the poorest was US (0.727; 95% CI, 0.635-0.819). ARFI SE and pSWS measurement had better diagnostic performances than conventional SE and US. When US combined with SE and pSWS measurement, it could achieve an excellent diagnostic performance and might contribute a better decision-making of FNA for non-calcified thyroid nodules. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Surgical decision-making in the treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts. Internal versus external drainage.
One hundred patients with documented pancreatic pseudocysts who underwent surgical drainage are reported on. Accurate assessment of the size and location of the pseudocyst using ultrasonography, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, angiography, and upper gastrointestinal roentgenography is essential. After diagnosis, the next 4 to 7 weeks is a critical period, after which surgical intervention becomes mandatory if the cyst has not resolved. This period between diagnosis and operation is hazardous and demands close clinical follow-up. When oepration is required, the preferred procedure continues to be internal drainage because it is associated with less morbidity and a lower mortality. However, external drainage appears to be a suitable second choice. Fewer than 10 per cent of the patients in this series who underwent external drainage developed fistulas, and the overall rate of late morbidity was acceptable. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tuning photochemistry: substituent effects on πσ* state mediated bond fission in thioanisoles.
We report a combination of experimental (velocity map imaging measurements of the methyl (Me) radical products) and ab initio electronic structure studies that explore the influence of substituents (Y) on the dynamics of S-Me bond fission following excitation to the first excited S1 states of thioanisole and three 4-substituted thioanisoles (4-YPhSMe, with Y = H, Me, MeO and CN). In all bar the case that Y = CN, the resulting 4-YPhS products are found to be formed predominantly in their excited (Ã) electronic state. In all cases, the relative yield of X̃ state products increases upon tuning to shorter excitation wavelengths and, in the specific case of bare thioanisole (as found previously by Lim and Kim, Nat. Chem., 2010, 2, 627), jumps when exciting on the parent resonance assigned to the S1(v7a = 1) level. Two conical intersections (CIs) in the RS-Me stretch coordinate are crucial to rationalising all of the observed dynamics. The first, (CI-1, between the diabatic (1)ππ* and dissociative (1)πσ* potential energy surfaces (PESs) at RS-Me∼ 2 Å) lies above the S1(v = 0) level in energy, and the calculated minimum energy path through this barrier involves substantial deviations from planarity in all bar 4-CNPhSMe. Beyond this barrier, the potential is quite steeply repulsive, and Me + 4-YPhS(Ã) products are the inevitable products if the molecular framework is unable to re-planarise within the time it takes for the dissociating molecules to pass through the region of CI-2 (between the diabatic (1)πσ* and ground (S0) states) where the product electronic branching is determined. The gradual increase in the yield of 4-YPhS(X̃) radicals upon tuning to shorter photolysis wavelengths, the much increased branching into PhS(X̃) products when exciting the PhSMe (S1, v7a = 1) level and the dominance of 4-CNPhS(X̃) products in the specific case that Y = CN can all be understood in terms of a (relative) lowering of the effective barrier associated with CI-1, thereby allowing access to the dissociative region of the PES at closer-to-planar geometries. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Purification and some properties of phospholipase C (alpha-toxin) of Clostridium perfringens.
1. Phospholipase C[EC 3.1.4.3] was purified from the culture filtrate of Clostridium perfringens by successive chromatographies on CM-Sephadex, DEAE-Sephadex, and Sephadex G-100. During the purification it was noted that, beside the monomer form of the enzyme which was purified, a part of the enzyme existed in active polymerized forms. 2. The purified preparation gave a single band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gave a single precipitin line in immunodiffusion with the National Standard gas gangrene (C. perfringens) antitoxin, indicating the homogeneity of the preparation. 3. The specific lecithin-hydrolyzing activity of the purified preparation was comparable to that of a preparation obtained by affinity chromatography, which had the highest specific activity previously reported. 4. The molecular weight of the purified enzyme was estimated to be 43,000 by SDS-polyacryl-amide gel electrophoresis, although the same preparation gave a molecular weight of 31,000 as determined by gel filtration on Sephadex G-150. From this and the above finding that a part of the enzyme exists in active polymerized forms, the discrepancy among reported values for the molecular weight of C. perfringens phospholipase C can be accounted for. 5. For maximum hydrolytic activity toward lecithin, the enzyme required sodium deoxycholate (SDC) and Ca2+ ions. In the presence of 6 mM Ca2+, the optimal molar ratio of SDC to lecithin for maximal hydrolytic activity was about 0.5 for dipalmitoyl lecithin and about 1.0 for egg lecithin. The effects of various divalent cations on the enzymatic hydrolysis were also investigated. 6. The effects of sodium deoxycholate and Ca2+ ions on the enzymatic hydrolysis are discussed, based on their possible roles in mixed micelle formation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of the metabolic control on latency values of visual evoked potentials (VEP) in patients with diabetes mellitus type 1.
The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between the metabolic control parameters of diabetes mellitus (glycemia and HbA1c) and visual evoked potentials (VEP) latency values. The study included 61 patients with diabetes mellitus type 1 that were hospitalized at the Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases due to the poor metabolic control. All patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 consisted of patients on conventional insulin therapy (CT); Group 2 included patients on CT at the moment of hospitalization, with a change towards intensified insulin therapy (IIT); and Group 3 consisted of patients on IIT. Patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) were excluded from the study. Metabolic control (glycemia and HbA1c) and VEP parameters were compared at the beginning of the study and six months later. After six months of strict glycoregulation, significant improvement in VEP parameters was followed by significant improvement of evaluated parameters of metabolic control. We found statistically significant reduction in frequency of pathological VEP findings, prolonged P100 latency and low amplitude potentials in Group 2, while in Groups 1 and 3 we found that these parameters did not significantly changed but the frequencies were lower. The VEP testing is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure which may help in early diagnosis of DR, prognosis during the metabolic control and treatment. If changes in the retina could be detected before DR is noticed using this noninvasive diagnostic procedure and include patients in a strict glycoregulation, we could be in the position to prevent serious complications that may cause blindness. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of additive hyaluronic acid on the lubricating ability in the temporomandibular joint.
In synovial fluid, hyaluronic acid (HA) is an essential component for the lubrication of joints, thus preventing friction. The relationship between HA and joint friction is not unambiguously established yet. In the present study, the effect of the application of HA on the frictional coefficient in the temporomandibular joint was evaluated. After measuring the frictional coefficient in intact porcine joints (n = 10), the subsequent effect of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) washing and gauze scouring and the application of HA was examined. Compared with the intact joint, the frictional coefficient was significantly larger after PBS washing and gauze scouring. Subsequent application of HA resulted in a significant decrease (50-75%) of the frictional coefficient. However, it did not recover to the same value as in the intact joints. Observations by scanning electron microscopy showed that after PBS washing, the amorphous layer of the articular cartilage was still intact, whereas it was partially collapsed after gauze scouring. In conclusion, the addition of HA did reduce the coefficient of friction under the experimental conditions in this study; the relevance to the clinical condition and the duration of the treatment effect in vivo require further investigation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Changes in brain monoamine neurotransmitter in iron deficiency nonanemic rats].
An iron deficiency nonanemic rat model was established by feeding with low-iron diet (11.9 mg/kg) to study if there exists biochemical abnormality in brain tissues. Iron contents of the brain, activities of monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the corpus striatum, and the contents of monoamine neurotransmitter and its metabolite in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus were determined by DCP-AES technique, enzyme histochemical method, and high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD), respectively. Results showed that iron contents and activities of MAO in brain tissues of iron deficiency nonanemic rats reduced significantly, and contents of norepinephrine (NE) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in cerebral cortex were significantly higher than those of controls, while 5-hydroxydroxytryptamine acid (5-HIAA) metabolite of 5-HT in the hippocampus was lower than that of controls. It indicated that there existed metabolic abnormality of monoamine neurotransmitter in the brain tissues of iron deficiency nonanemic rats. Also, this study laid a biochemical basis for abnormal mental and behavioral development caused by iron deficiency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Localization of sex steroid receptor cells, with special reference to thymulin (FTS)-producing cells in female rat thymus.
Using monoclonal antibodies against progestin receptors (PR) and estrogen receptors (ER), and polyclonal antibodies to thymulin (FTS) and keratin, localization of the sex steroid receptors was studied immunohistochemically in ovariectomized estrogen-treated rat thymus, with special reference to FTS-producing cells. Both ER- and PR-immunostained cells were mainly localized in the medullary region, especially at its periphery (i.e., the corticomedullary junction). A few cells were also situated in the subcapsular area. They were medium- to large-sized and had a dendritic cell process, some of which were immunohistochemically keratin- and FTS-positive, indicative of reticuloepithelial (RE) cells. Hassall's corpuscles were also receptor-positive and FTS-positive. T-cells were not immunostained with anti-ER, anti-PR or anti-FTS. Light microscopically, both ER and PR immunostainings were localized in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus of keratin-stained RE cells. Electron microscopically, both steroid receptors were shown more precisely to distribute as aggregates of osmiophilic black dots on polysomes and perinuclear space in the cytoplasm and on the euchromatin area in the nucleus. These results suggest that the sex steroids E and P exert their effects through receptors within RE cells which produce FTS to regulate T-cell differentiation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
p27 Kip1 inhibits HER2/neu-mediated cell growth and tumorigenesis.
HER2/neu, a receptor tyrosine kinase oncogene, promotes mitogenic growth and transformation of cancer cells. We previously identified that its oncogenic signals down-regulate the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 Kip1, which is defined as a haplo-insufficient tumor suppressor. Here, we applied the human p27 gene as a novel anticancer agent for HER2/neu-overexpressing cells under the control of a tetracycline (tet)-regulated gene expression system. Overexpression of p27 inhibits HER2/neu-activated CDK2 activity, cell proliferation, and transformation. Most significantly for clinical application, p27 expression in HER2/neu-overexpressing cells can be regulated in vivo and reduce the tumor volume in a tumor model. The findings demonstrate the applicability of employing p27 in HER2/neu-associated cancer gene therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Can proinflammatory cytokine gene expression explain multifidus muscle fiber changes after an intervertebral disc lesion?
Longitudinal case-controlled animal study. To investigate the effect of an intervertebral disc (IVD) lesion on the proportion of slow, fast, and intermediate muscle fiber types in the multifidus muscle in sheep, and whether muscle fiber changes were paralleled by local gene expression of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1-β. Structure and behavior of the multifidus muscle change in acute and chronic back pain, but the mechanisms are surprisingly poorly understood and the link between structure and behavior is tenuous. Although changes in muscle fiber types have the potential to unify the observations, the effect of injury on muscle fiber distribution has not been adequately tested, and understanding of possible mechanisms is limited. The L1-L2, L3-L4, and L5-L6 IVDs of 11 castrated male sheep received anterolateral lesions. Six control sheep underwent no surgical procedures. Multifidus muscle tissue was harvested at L4 for muscle fiber analysis using immunohistochemistry and L2 for cytokine analysis with polymerase chain reaction for local gene expression of TNF-α and interleukin-1β. The proportion of slow muscle fibers in multifidus was significantly less in the lesioned animals both ipsilateral and contralateral to the IVD lesion. The greatest reduction in slow fibers was in the deep medial muscle region. A greater prevalence of intermediate fibers on the uninjured side implies a delayed fiber-type transformation on that side. TNF-α gene expression in multifidus was greater on both sides in the lesion animals than in the muscle of control animals. Interleukin-1β was increased only on the injured side. These data provide evidence of muscle fiber changes after induction of an IVD lesion and a parallel increase in TNF-α expression. Proinflammatory cytokine changes provide a novel mechanism to explain behavioral and structural changes in multifidus. N/A. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Detection of human parechovirus in stool samples collected from children with acute gastroenteritis in Japan during 2007-2008.
Of 477 stool specimens, which had been screened for rotavirus, adenovirus, norovirus, sapovirus and astrovirus, collected from infants and children with acute gastroenteritis in pediatric clinics encompassing five localities (Sapporo, Tokyo, Maizuru, Osaka, and Saga) in Japan from July 2007 to June 2008, 247 negative samples (51.7%) were subjected to screening for human parechovirus. Human parechovirus (HPeV) was detected by RT-PCR using a primer pair to amplify 5'UTR region of its genome and was genotyped by sequencing of the VP1 gene. HPeV was detected in 20 of 247 specimens tested, and the detection rate was found to be 8.1%. Seventeen of the 20 strains that tested positive for HPeV were sequenced successfully the VP1 gene. The majority of the HPeV strains (n = 15) could be identified as HPeV1, and the remaining 2 strains could be typed as HPeV3. By phylogenetic and identical matrix analyses of HPeV VP1 sequences, HPeV1 should be divided into two lineages, and all of the Japanese studied HPeV1 strains belong to the lineage 2 accordingly. This is the first report of the circulation of HPeV, especially HPeV1 in Japan. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of stimulus features and instruction on response coding, selection, and inhibition: evidence from repetition effects under task switching.
The coding of stimuli and responses is crucial for human behaviour. Here, we focused primarily on the response codes (or response categories). As a method, we applied a combined dual-task and task-switch paradigm with a fixed task-to-hand mapping. Usually, negative effects (i.e., costs) are observed for response category repetitions under task switching. However, in several previous studies it has been proposed that such repetition effects do not occur, if the stimulus categories (e.g., "odd" if digits have to be classified according to their parity feature) are unequivocally mapped to specific responses. Our aim was to test this hypothesis. In the present experiments, we were able to distinguish between three different types of possible response codes. The results show that the participants generally code their responses according to abstract response features (left/right, or index/middle finger). Moreover, the spatial codes were preferred over the finger-type codes even if the instructions stressed the latter. This preference, though, seemed to result from a stimulus-response feature overlap, so that the spatial response categories were primed by the respective stimulus features. If there was no such overlap, the instructions determined which type of response code was involved in response selection and inhibition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Colistin, meropenem and rifampin in a combination therapy for multi-drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii multifocal infection. A case report.
A 16 year-old girl underwent a multifocal (lungs, skin, soft tissues) infection due to multiresistant Acinetobacter baumannii after a car crash. To treat such a severe disease we used a combination therapy of colistin (2 millions Units twice/day), rifampicin (600 mg/day), meropenem (1 g 3 times a day) after a synergistic activity test was performed (checkerboard method on Mueller-Hinton broth and 5x10(5) cfu/mL inoculum). After 24 days, when a significant clinical improvement was gained, the 3-drugs combination therapy was replaced with i.v. levofloxacin 500 mg twice/day but, after 10 days of quinolones therapy, fever started again and the same multidrug resistant (MDR) A. baumannii was isolated from the skin grafts, central venous catheter tip and bronchial alveolar lavage. A combination therapy with colistin and meropenem was therefore started and definitive defervescence was obtained after 10 days. This therapy was continued for 70 days even if the patient was apyretic because A. baumannii was still present in the skin secretions. After 109 days of hospitalization in our intensive care unit, the patient was transferred to a rehabilitative unit. This case shows how useful is, in selected cases, rediscovering old antibiotic drugs, specially when they are adopted as a combination therapy, and highlights the importance of the clinical microbiological laboratory as it may help clinicians in choosing the best drugs combination. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Acquired cystic kidney disease: occurrence, prevalence, and renal cancers.
Acquired cystic kidney disease (ACKD) is the result of cyst formation in the failing kidney. It has become more common because of increases in retention of the patients' own kidneys, growth in the dialysis population, and survival of long-term dialysis patients. We studied our chronic dialysis population for ACKD and renal cancers, and conducted a literature review of ACKD and renal cancer. We analyzed our chronic dialysis patients from 1979 through 1989 for native kidney retention, and studied patients undergoing their first kidney transplant at our center from 1967 through 1989. Our patients and those in literature reports were characterized by age, sex, race, underlying renal disease, dialysis time, and survival. We found that: 1) Native kidney retention in dialysis and transplant patients has increased linearly over the past 10 to 20 years and is now greater than 90% in both groups; 2) ACKD occurs in ESRD patients with all types of underlying kidney disease. 3) ACKD affects CAPD patients and HD patients equally; 4) ACKD affects both sexes equally and age is not a factor in the development of ACKD; 5) there appears to be a greater prevalence of ACKD in black patients with ESRD as compared to white patients with ESRD; 6) the prevalence of ACKD is a function of time on dialysis; 7) the incidence of renal cancer in ESRD is increased over that of the general population and occurs 80% of the time in patients with ACKD; 8) renal cancer can develop at any time in patients with ESRD and also occurs in renal transplant recipients; 9) the incidence of renal cancer in ESRD is 5 to 7 times greater in males than in females, and blacks are affected nearly twice as often as whites; and 10) the 5-year survival of patients with renal cancer and ESRD is approximately 35%--similar to that of patients not on dialysis. ACKD is an important complication of ESRD and will grow in importance as the population at risk continues to increase. These results support the need for investigation of 3-year dialysis patients for the presence of cystic disease and appropriate therapy based on findings. Further study is needed to discern the quantitative importance of ACKD and renal cancers in renal transplant patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Linking microbial respiratory activity with phospholipid fatty acid of biofilm from full-scale bioreactors.
Deficiency of researches on biotic community-driven biofilm activity makes biofilm regulation lack of quantitative response for decades. Based on three full-scale aerobic bioreactors in wastewater treatment plants, this study for the first time linked microbial respiratory activity with phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) of biofilm developed on fixed and suspended carriers. Results showed that C16:00, C18:00, C16:1, ω7c, C18:1, ω7c, C12:00 and C18:1ω9c were top six biomarkers of PLFA among different sources of samples and Gram-negative bacteria (G-) was more abundant than Gram-positive bacteria (G+) with average G-/G+ of 2.98. It's interesting to find defective revealing of PLFA-based biofilm activity by specific oxygen uptake rate (SOUR). Further modeling indicated that C16:00 achieved the optimal quantitative response to STOUR with the best model of composite, growth, or exponential curve (R2 = 0.416, p = 0.005). This research was promising to provide important reference for biofilm regulation and accurate control of biofilm-based process. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dose-dependent effect of donepezil administration on long-term enhancement of visually evoked potentials and cholinergic receptor overexpression in rat visual cortex.
Stimulation of the cholinergic system tightly coupled with periods of visual stimulation boosts the processing of specific visual stimuli via muscarinic and nicotinic receptors in terms of intensity, priority and long-term effect. However, it is not known whether more diffuse pharmacological stimulation with donepezil, a cholinesterase inhibitor, is an efficient tool for enhancing visual processing and perception. The goal of the present study was to potentiate cholinergic transmission with donepezil treatment (0.5 and 1mg/kg) during a 2-week visual training to examine the effect on visually evoked potentials and to profile the expression of cholinergic receptor subtypes. The visual training was performed daily, 10min a day, for 2weeks. One week after the last training session, visual evoked potentials were recorded, or the mRNA expression level of muscarinic (M1-5) and nicotinic (α/β) receptors subunits was determined by quantitative RT-PCR. The visual stimulation coupled with any of the two doses of donepezil produced significant amplitude enhancement of cortical evoked potentials compared to pre-training values. The enhancement induced by the 1mg/kg dose of donepezil was spread to neighboring spatial frequencies, suggesting a better sensitivity near the visual detection threshold. The M3, M4, M5 and α7 receptors mRNA were upregulated in the visual cortex for the higher dose of donepezil but not the lower one, and the receptors expression was stable in the somatosensory (non-visual control) cortex. Therefore, higher levels of acetylcholine within the cortex sustain the increased intensity of the cortical response and trigger the upregulation of cholinergic receptors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CC chemokines and interleukin-5 in bronchial lavage fluid from patients with status asthmaticus. Potential implication in eosinophil recruitment.
In status asthmaticus (SA), severe bronchial inflammation is associated with acute respiratory failure. Neutrophils are the prominent cells found in bronchi from SA patients, but eosinophils are also recruited within the first 48 h after the beginning of mechanical ventilation (MV). Interleukin (IL)-5 and CC chemokines have been directly implicated in the pathophysiology of allergic asthma. However, their involvement in SA had not been determined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the production of CC chemokines and of IL-5 in airways from ventilated patients with SA as compared with mild asthma (A), and to assess the role of these mediators in eosinophil recruitment. We measured levels of the chemokines monocyte chemotactic proteins (MCPs)-1 and -3; regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES); macrophage inflammatory peptide (MIP)-1alpha; and eotaxin; and of the cytokine IL-5 in bronchial lavage fluid (BLF) from 10 SA patients, four patients without respiratory disease but undergoing ventilation (V) who were receiving MV, 11 patients with A, and eight healthy volunteers (C). We further evaluated in vitro eosinophil chemotactic activity of BLF from the various groups. Levels of MCP-1, MIP-1alpha, RANTES, and IL-5 were significantly higher in the SA than in the V, A, and C groups. MCP-3 and eotaxin values were not significantly different in the SA and other groups; however, their levels, as well as those of MIP-1alpha, RANTES, and IL-5 correlated with eosinophil influx. Eosinophil chemotactic activity in BLF was increased in asthmatic subjects (A and SA groups) as compared with the other groups, and in SA patients as compared with A patients. Addition of neutralizing anti-IL-5, anti-MCP-3, anti-eotaxin, and anti-RANTES antibodies significantly inhibited the eosinophil chemotactic activity as compared with that of native BLF. This study shows that the levels of various CC chemokines and IL-5 are increased in airways of SA patients, and are potentially involved in eosinophil recruitment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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