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Acute effects of static stretching on the hamstrings using shear elastic modulus determined by ultrasound shear wave elastography: Differences in flexibility between hamstring muscle components.
Static stretching (SS) with hip flexion and knee extension is often used to stretch the hamstrings. However, it is unclear whether there are the differences in the acute effect of this SS maneuver on flexibility between each component of the hamstrings, namely the semitendinosus (ST), semimembranosus (SM), and biceps femoris (BF) muscles. The aims of this study were to investigate the acute effects of SS on the flexibility of the individual muscle components of the hamstrings, and to examine the difference in the acute effect of SS between these components using shear elastic modulus as the index of muscle flexibility. Twenty healthy men (age, 23.4 ± 2.3 years) volunteered for this study. The shear elastic modulus of the ST, SM and BF muscles were measured using ultrasound shear wave elastography before (PRE) and immediately after (POST) 5 min of SS. Measurements of shear elastic modulus were taken with the knee at 90° (slack position) and 45° (extension position) of flexion. In all muscles, the shear elastic modulus at both knee angles decreased significantly after SS. The percentage change in the shear elastic modulus from PRE to POST in the muscles at 45° of knee flexion was greatest in the SM. These results suggest that SS with hip flexion and knee extension has acute effects on increasing flexibility of the hamstring muscle components, especially the SM muscle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Phagocytosis of latex beads and bacteria by hemocytes of the triatomine bug Rhodnius prolixus (Hemiptera: Reduvidae).
Insect circulating hemocytes are primarily responsible for the immune defense against parasites and pathogens. Here, we have analyzed phagocytosis of both biotic (bacteria) and abiotic (latex) particles by circulating hemocytes of 5th-instar nymphs of the triatomine bug Rhodnius prolixus. The following hemocyte types were identified: prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, granulocytes, oenocytoids and adipohemocytes. There was a considerable change in the relative percentage of plasmatocytes and prohemocytes in the hemolymph after challenge with both latex beads and bacteria. Granulocytes and oenocytoids also change their relative percentage in response to latex bead and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. No significant change was observed in adipohemocytes at any time or treatment. Our data demonstrated that plasmatocytes were the only cell type involved in phagocytosis of foreign particles. As in mammal cells, phagocytosis by both zipper and trigger mechanisms were observed for the uptake of latex beads and bacteria. Neither melanization nor micro-aggregation was observed towards latex particles or Escherichia coli. On the other hand, R. prolixus produced a strong melanization reaction against S. aureus, thus showing that differences exist in the responses to E. coli and to S. aureus. Ultrastructural changes observed in plasmatocytes, adipohemocytes and oenocytoids suggest that these hemocyte types are directly involved in the immune defense of R. prolixus against foreign particles. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization of HETEs and related conjugated dienes by UV spectroscopy.
Three distinct pairs of HETEs can be distinguished on the basis of their UV spectra. We used hydroxy-linoleates (hydroxy-octadeca-cis-trans-dienoates) as a base for comparisons; both the 9- and 13-hydroxy isomers have identical chromophores with lambda max near 234 nm. The presence of a double bond three carbons removed from the conjugated diene (the chromophore of 9- and 11-HETE) causes a shift in the observed lambda max to near 235 nm. A double bond beta to the chromophore (5- and 15-HETE) gives a further shift of 1.5 nm, giving a lambda max between 236-236.5 nm. With double bonds in both these positions (8- and 12-HETE), the lambda max is observed near 237 nm. It is apparent that the exact lambda max of the cis-trans diene chromophore is influenced in a consistent way by the adjacent methylene interrupted cis double bonds. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Validation of SELDI-TOF MS serum protein profiles for renal cell carcinoma in new populations.
Currently, no suitable biomarker for the early detection or follow-up of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is available. We aimed to validate previously reported potential serum biomarkers for RCC obtained with Surface Enhanced Laser Desorption Ionisation-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (SELDI-TOF MS) in our laboratory using distinct patient populations. Two sets of sera from RCC patients and healthy controls (HC) were gathered from different institutes and analysed according to published procedures. The first set (40 RCC, 32 HC) consisted of mainly presurgery samples from patients with disease stages I-IV. The second set (26 RCC, 27 HC) were mostly sera from patients with stage-IV disease, drawn after nephrectomy. Only the increased expression of the previously found serum amyloid-alpha (SAA) peak cluster could be validated in a similar RCC patient subset in both our populations in two independent analyses. It was seen both in early- and late-stage disease and in pre- and postsurgery samples. These results were also confirmed by ELISA. Other previously identified biomarker candidates (mass-to-charge ratio's (m/z) 3900, 4107, 4153, 5352 and 5987) proved difficult to reproduce upon duplicate analysis. Modification of the analytical protocol for these markers resulted in their detection, but we did not achieve satisfactory classification of patients and controls with these alleged biomarkers in any of our two sample sets. Instead, two new peaks (m/z 4289 and 8151) were identified with better performance (sensitivity and specificity approximately 65-90%) for separating patients from controls in the first sample set. Concluding, only the SAA peak cluster was validated as a robust RCC biomarker candidate, which is present in a specific subset of these patients, regardless of disease stage or nephrectomy status. In addition, two new peaks were seen which might prove useful as biomarkers, provided these are validated in new populations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recycling behaviour of householders living in multicultural urban area: a case study of Jarva, Stockholm, Sweden.
The recycling behaviour of multicultural householders was investigated in the urban area of Järva, northwest Stockholm, Sweden, which is home to a significant proportion of immigrants from different parts of the world. Different ethnic minorities currently make up an important proportion of the urban population in Sweden, but little is known about their recycling behaviour and attitudes. Using quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (interviews) methodology, possible determinants of recycling behaviour were investigated among Järva householders. It was found that attitude toward the importance of recycling had a positive correlation and was the main determinant of recycling behaviour among these householders. In contrast, environmental concern, satisfaction with the facilities provided, recycling confidence, community identity and socio-demographical factors showed no correlation with their recycling behaviour. Other results of the study indicated a need to investigate the specific behaviour of multicultural householders regarding source-separated collection and the recycling of hazardous, electronic and bulky wastes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Descriptive epidemiology of de novo acute leukaemia in the Sultanate of Oman.
A hospital-based epidemiological study of de novo acute leukaemia was carried out in the Sultanate of Oman, a sparsely populated Arabian Gulf country which has undergone rapid and dramatic socio-economic changes recently. A total of 65/99 Omanis (66%) were diagnosed as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and 34/99 (34%) as acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Trends and peak values in age-specific incidence rates for ALL are generally in line with those of Western countries. The proportion of T-ALL cases is however higher than that in Caucasian populations but lower than in many non-white populations. AML frequency particularly in childhood is similar to that observed in many African countries. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
R72P polymorphism of TP53 in ulcerative colitis patients is associated with the incidence of colectomy, use of steroids and the presence of a positive family history.
P53 tumor suppressor protein is one of the pivotal regulators for genome integrity, cell cycle and apoptosis. The most commonly and extensively studied single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of p53 is Arg>Pro substitution on codon 72 (R72P). Although we know that the SNP has unique functional effects on the protein, its clinical significance is not clearly identified yet. Aim of the study was to access the relationship between R72P genotype distribution and clinical variables in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Genomic DNA samples were extracted from 95 UC, 50 CRC, and 219 healthy controls. R72P genotype analysis was carried out with polymerase chain reaction following by restriction enzyme digestion. We observed that Pro allele carriage is a strong risk factor for CRC (OR = 3.03; 95%CI = 1.91-2.40; p = 0.003), but only modest association with UC (OR = 1.61; 95%CI = 0.98-2.65; p = 0.059) (Pro/Pro and Pro/Arg genotypes vs. Arg/Arg genotype). We did not find any correlation between genotype distribution of the polymorphism and clinical parameters of CRC, but in UC, Pro/Pro genotype was significantly related to an inflammatory bowel disease family history (OR = 8.0; 95%CI = 1.68-38.08, p = 0.015), and Arg/Pro genotype was significantly associated with the history of disease-related colectomy (OR = 17.77; 95%CI = 0.98-323.34, p = 0.012) and steroid use (OR = 10.14; 95%CI = 2.63-39.12, p = 0.0002). Our data suggest that R72P variant seems to be associated with high risk for development of CRC but carries low risk for development of UC. R72P genotypes might be a useful predictive marker for surgical and medical treatment of UC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Use of purified streptokinase in empyema and hemothorax.
Enzymatic debridement of the pleural cavity for retained hemothorax or empyema is a frequently overlooked option. Thirteen of fourteen patients (93%) with retained pleural collections underwent successful enzymatic debridement and tube drainage with purified streptokinase injections. The average increase in chest tube output following streptokinase injections was 158%. No significant adverse reactions occurred. One patient required thoracotomy when streptokinase therapy failed. Two others had successful resolution of their pleural collections but required thoracotomy for other indications. There were two deaths (14%), which were unrelated to the use of streptokinase or residual empyema. Intrapleural streptokinase is a safe, effective means of removing retained proteinaceous collections in the pleural space. It is a useful adjunct to chest tube drainage and may obviate the need for more invasive procedures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Identification of Y chromosome material in an XX male by means of fluorescent in situ hybridization].
This article describes a case of 46,XX male, the most frequent form of sex reversal syndromes in humans. A method of identifying Y chromosome material in these and other patients with structural chromosomal abnormalities involving chromosome Y is given. Chromosomes from a phenotypically normal male child without any congenital malformation, where prenatal diagnosis revealed the female karyotype 46,XX, were analysed using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). The analysis revealed an X chromosome, containing Y chromosome sequences on the tip of the short arm. The sequences are not normally visible in conventional cytogenetic analyses of XX males. The breakpoint on Y was determined to be in the region of Yp11.2, which is proximal for the putative sex determining gene on Y. The results are consistent with theories of abnormal crossing-over during the paternal meiotic cell division where meiotic recombination can give rise to structural abnormalities, which can then cause sex reversal syndromes. Prenatal diagnosis of structural sex chromosome abnormalities has become available using the FISH method. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cytoarchitecture of the human superior olivary complex: nuclei of the trapezoid body and posterior tier.
The superior olivary complex (SOC) is a cluster of nuclei situated in the caudal brainstem tegmentum that forms an essential component of the auditory pathway. The SOC includes two principal nuclei, the medial and lateral superior olives (MSO and LSO respectively), that have clear roles in sound source localization. Surrounding the principal nuclei are a number of periolivary nuclei (PON) that vary significantly between mammalian species but function in multiple aspects of hearing. Although the PON have been studied in numerous laboratory animals, these nuclei have not been delineated in human. The major goal of this study is to, based on myeloarchitecture, location, neuronal morphology and cytoarchitecture, define the PON within the human SOC and provide estimates of neuronal number within these nuclei. Results from the study of twelve human brainstems provide evidence for six morphologically distinct cell groups: three within the trapezoid body and three along the posterior aspect of the SOC. Based on the analysis of human tissue stained for myelin, Nissl substance, or impregnated with silver, the human PON appear largely homologous to the PON described in other low-frequency hearing animals. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplants for patients with relapsed acute leukemia: long-term outcome.
We assessed the long-term outcome of patients with relapsed acute myeloid (n=86) or acute lymphoid leukemia (n=66), undergoing an allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation in our unit. The median blast count in the marrow was 30%. Conditioning regimen included total body irradiation (TBI) (10-12 Gy) in 115 patients. The donor was a matched donor (n=132) or a family mismatched donor (n=20). Twenty-two patients (15%) survive disease free, with a median follow-up of 14 years: 18 are off medications. The cumulative incidence of transplant related mortality is 40% and the cumulative incidence of relapse related death (RRD) is 45%. In multivariate analysis of survival, favorable predictors were chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) (P=0.0003), donor other than family mismatched (P=0.02), donor age less than 34 years (P=0.02) and blast count less than 30% (P=0.07). Patients with all four favorable predictors had a 54% survival. In multivariate analysis of relapse, protective variables were the use of TBI (P=0.005) and cGvHD (P=0.01). This study confirms that a fraction of relapsed leukemias is cured with an allogeneic transplant: selection of patients with a blast count <30%, identification of young, human leukocyte antigen-matched donors and the use of total body radiation may significantly improve the outcome. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hyponatremia: diagnosis, complications, and management including V2 receptor antagonists.
Recent studies have consistently demonstrated the common prevalence of hyponatremia in the hospital and intensive care settings, and how it correlates with untoward outcomes. This review discusses the classification, diagnosis, and pathophysiology of hyponatremia and how these agents may influence its management, and also examines the available treatment options and their weaknesses and strengths. This review is timely and relevant, as mild degrees of serum sodium lowering may be associated with adverse neurologic and musculoskeletal effects. These findings have the potential to transform our approach to managing hyponatremia. A major advance in our ability to treat hyponatremia was the introduction and approval of aquaretics (vaptans). Emerging data on vaptans and their potential role to treat hyponatremia in the settings of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, congestive heart failure, and liver cirrhosis are presented. Vaptans will likely play an important role in treating hyponatremia, given their clinical effectiveness and tolerability. Cost remains a hindrance for vaptans, and more studies are needed to further define their best utilization in hyponatremic patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sub-tenon's block: a national United Kingdom survey.
A survey was undertaken to ascertain current practices in ophthalmic regional anesthesia with an emphasis on sub-Tenon's block. Despite its increasing use, there are currently no guidelines for its explicit management. An anonymized postal questionnaire survey was sent to 173 consultant anesthesiologist members of the British Ophthalmic Anaesthesia Society. Sub-Tenon's blocks were regularly performed by 87.8% of respondents. The majority used a blunt metal cannula via the inferonasal quadrant. Local anesthetic was placed post-equatorially by 58% of respondents and deep posteriorly by 16.7%; 18% used vasopressors. There was no agreement for aseptic precautions, international normalized ratio, platelet levels, or venous access. Complications included vascular and muscular injuries, a case of fainting, and several cases of dysrhythmias. Current United Kingdom guidelines for monitoring patients were not being followed. These results show a need for robust national guidelines, especially in view of increasing use, indications, and potential risks of sub-Tenon's block. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Synthesis and dosimetry features of novel sensitive thermoluminescent phosphor of LiF doped with Mg and Dy impurities.
Lithium fluoride doped with Mg and Dy was fabricated for the first time using melting method. The optimum concentrations of impurities and thermal treatment were studied to achieve high thermoluminescence (TL) sensitivity. TL sensitivity of the fabricated phosphor is close to that of TLD-100 powder. Tm-Tstop technique was used to identify the number of overlapped TL glow peaks. Initial rise, isothermal decay and computerized glow curve deconvolution (CGCD) methods were applied to obtain kinetic parameters of the prepared TL material. Three component glow peaks were distinguished at temperatures 395, 448 and 510 K. Other TL properties such as fading, linearity of dose response and reusability are also presented and discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Leukemic transformation of polycythemia vera: a single center study of 23 patients.
Acute leukemia (AL) may occur as rare and late event of polycythemia vera (PV). The current study included 23 patients who developed acute leukemia in a cohort of 414 consecutive PV patients with long-term observation (3208 person years of follow-up). Kaplan-Meier Product-Limit method was used to estimate the cumulative probability of survival; Gehan-Wilcoxon test was applied to compare survival in different groups of patients. Median age was 68 years, and 18 patients (78%) were > 60 years of age. At diagnosis of AL, most patients had a white blood count > 10 x 10(9)/L (n = 17; 74%), Hgb < 10 g/dL (n = 13; 57%), and platelet count > 50 x 10(9)/L (n = 17; 74%). Of 14 patients in whom cytogenetic analysis was available at leukemic transformation, 12 showed high-risk abnormalities including complex karyotype (n = 10), del (7)(q22) sole (n = 1) and del (X)(q26) sole (n = 1), whereas 2 had a normal karyotype. In patients whose karyotype was available at diagnosis of PV, cytogenetic evolution was documented at progression to AL. Treatment consisted of supportive care and/or low-dose chemotherapy (n = 15), or induction chemotherapy (n = 8). This included idarubicin plus cytarabine (n = 3), high-dose cytarabine (n = 4), and fludarabine-based regimen (n = 1). Allogenic stem cell transplantation was offered to a single patient, who is alive at Day + 70. The outcome of patients was poor, with a median survival of 2.9 months (range, 0.6-20.1 mos), with no significant differences between palliation and intensive treatments. AL following PV has distinct clinical and biologic features. Outcome of patients is poor irrespective of the treatment employed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Angiotensin II stimulates alpha3(IV) collagen production in mouse podocytes via TGF-beta and VEGF signalling: implications for diabetic glomerulopathy.
The podocyte is bathed in an angiotensin II (AngII)-rich ultrafiltrate, but the impact of AngII on podocyte pathobiology is not well known. Because podocytes play a direct role in the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) thickening of diabetes, the alpha3(IV) collagen chain was examined. Podocyte expression of alpha3(IV) collagen may involve the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) systems. Cultured mouse podocytes were treated with various doses of AngII for selected periods of time, with or without inhibitors of TGF-beta and VEGF signalling, SB-431542 and SU5416, respectively. TGF-beta1 and VEGF were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); alpha3(IV) collagen, TGF-beta type II receptor and phospho-Smad2 were assayed by immunoblotting. AngII >or=10(-10) M was found to stimulate the production of alpha3(IV) collagen significantly in as short a time as 3 h. The expression of alpha3(IV) collagen was influenced by the TGF-beta system, but AngII did not increase the podocyte's production of TGF-beta1 ligand; rather, it increased the expression of the TGF-beta type II receptor and activated the TGF-beta signalling system through Smad2. Despite the TGF-beta receptor upregulation, synergy between AngII and TGF-beta1 to boost alpha3(IV) collagen production was not observed. However, blockade of TGF-beta signalling with SB-431542 prevented AngII from stimulating alpha3(IV) collagen production. Podocyte expression of alpha3(IV) collagen was also increased by the autocrine activity of VEGF. Podocytes were stimulated to secrete VEGF by 10(-10) M or higher AngII after 48 h. Blockade of the endogenous VEGF activity by SU5416 prevented AngII-stimulated alpha3(IV) collagen production. AngII stimulates the podocyte to produce alpha3(IV) collagen protein via mechanisms involving TGF-beta and VEGF signalling. Alterations in alpha3(IV) collagen production may contribute to GBM thickening and perhaps proteinuria in diabetes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Active Seattle: achieving walkability in diverse neighborhoods.
The Active Living by Design project based in Seattle (Active Seattle) advocated for policies and projects in diverse communities supporting a more walkable city, while using social marketing and education to get more people walking more often. Walking audits were carried out in select diverse neighborhoods, resulting in recommendations for policy change and built-environment improvements. Advocacy for city-scale policies also occurred. Walking maps and other social-marketing products promoted behavior change. Major Safe Routes to School activities occurred and were made possible by separate funding sources. Positive results of Active Seattle included an increase in funding for pedestrian infrastructure, a pedestrian master plan, a Complete Streets policy, substantial increase in Safe Routes to School activity, and institutionalization of active living and active transportation within partner agencies. Challenges included institutional prioritization for improving pedestrian infrastructure, funding inequity, and a community need that was greater than could be fulfilled. Efforts to overcome funding inequities or other resistance to pedestrian-oriented physical projects will benefit from high-visibility campaigns that have a lasting impact on public perception and decision makers' political will. To reach vulnerable populations that have substantial barriers to increasing walking frequency, extensive staff time for outreach is needed. Changing the built environment to encourage walking may be a long-term solution in communities with diverse populations. Influencing and educating local government officials to make active living projects and policies a high budgetary priority is essential for large-scale impact and long-term change. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recurrent varicose veins: incidence, risk factors and groin anatomy.
To investigate the recurrence rate after sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) ligation and great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping for varicose veins (VV), to evaluate risk factors for recurrence and to classify the anatomy of the recurrence in the groin. Design. Clinical follow-up study. Eighty-nine consecutive patients with 100 operated legs were re-examined clinically and with duplex after 6-10 years. Fourteen groins were re-explored, 13 after varicography. The anatomy in the groin was classified according to the Edinburgh system. The original medical records were examined to check for risk factors which could lead to a recurrence. Fifty-seven legs had incompetent veins in the groin according to duplex. In 54 of them, it was possible to define whether the incompetent veins emanated from the former SFJ. Varicography and operative findings correlated well to duplex. The main difficulty was to distinguish neovascularization from residual branches. No significant risk factor for recurrence was found in the medical records. Recurrence of VV after SFJ ligation is common irrespective of perioperative difficulties or the surgeon's experience. The anatomy of recurrence in the groin is difficult to classify according to the Edinburgh system mainly because neovascularization is difficult to verify. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of midazolam on the quality and duration of anaesthetic recovery in healthy dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy or castration.
To determine whether the use of a single dose of midazolam affects quality and duration of the recovery period in healthy dogs undergoing elective castration or ovariohysterectomy. Prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, masked clinical trial. Seventy-four client-owned dogs undergoing neutering. Following cage demeanour scoring using a simple descriptive scale (SDS), dogs were premedicated with acepromazine (0.03 mg kg-1) and pethidine (3 mg kg-1) intramuscularly (quadriceps muscle). Twenty minutes later sedation was scored with an SDS. Male dogs were induced with midazolam (0.25 mg kg-1) (group M) or an equivalent amount of Hartmann's solution (group P) and propofol intravenously (IV). Female dogs were induced with propofol alone and were administered midazolam (group M) or Hartmann's solution (group P) 5 minutes before intraoperative manipulation of the first ovary. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Intraoperative analgesia was provided with morphine (0.3 mg kg-1 IV) prior to the start of surgery. Male dogs were administered intratesticular lidocaine (1 mg kg-1). All dogs were administered meloxicam (0.2 mg kg-1 IV) at the end of the procedure, and recovery was scored with an SDS following extubation and 30 minutes later. Time to extubation, head lift, sternal position and standing and complications during recovery were recorded. Data are presented as median (range). Time to standing was significantly longer in animals in group M [56 (13-179) minutes] than in group P [44 (4-137) minutes], and the early recovery score in group M [3 (2-6)] was overall worse than in group P [3 (1-5)]. Significantly more dogs in group M (n = 30) than in group P (n = 22) displayed hypotension. The administration of midazolam prolonged time to standing and had a mild negative effect on the quality of recovery in a pooled population of healthy male and female dogs undergoing neutering. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Severe 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) infection and increased mortality in patients with late and advanced HIV disease.
To describe the clinical course of infection by 2009 (H1N1) influenza virus in different stages of HIV disease. Prospective, observational study. During the pandemic period, HIV-infected patients presenting respiratory symptoms at a third level referral hospital in Mexico City were tested for 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viral RNA. Clinical files were prospectively analyzed. Infection by H1N1 was confirmed in 30 (23.8%) of the total 126 HIV-infected patients studied. In the group of patients with 2009 H1N1 virus infection, 16 (53.3%) were hospitalized, 12 (40%) had active opportunistic infections and six (20%) died. In the group of 96 patients not infected with 2009 H1N1 virus, 54 (56.25%) were hospitalized with opportunistic infections and 12 (12.5%) died. For all hospitalized patients, being on HAART and having undetectable HIV viral loads at hospitalization was associated with higher survival (P = 0.019). Patients with 2009 H1N1 virus infection had a higher mortality rate, even after adjusting for HAART (P = 0.043). Coinfection by HIV and H1N1 2009 virus was more severe in patients with opportunistic infections, as shown by longer hospital stays (P = 0.0013), higher rates of hospitalization (P < 0.0001), use of mechanical ventilation (P = 0.0086) and death (P = 0.026). Delayed administration of oseltamivir in hospitalized patients was significantly associated with mortality (P = 0.0022). Our data suggest that infection by 2009 H1N1 is more severe in HIV-infected patients with late and advanced HIV disease than in well controlled patients under HAART. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetically Derepressed Nucleoplasmic Stellate Protein in Spermatocytes of D. melanogaster interacts with the catalytic subunit of protein kinase 2 and carries histone-like lysine-methylated mark.
The X-chromosome-linked clusters of the tandemly repeated testis-specific Stellate genes of Drosophila melanogaster, encoding proteins homologous to the regulatory beta-subunit of the protein kinase casein kinase 2 (CK2), are repressed in wild-type males. Derepression of Stellate genes in the absence of the Y chromosome or Y-linked crystal locus (crystal line) causes accumulation of abundant protein crystals in testes and different meiotic abnormalities, which lead to partial or complete male sterility. To understand the cause of abnormalities in chromosome behavior owing to Stellate overexpression, we studied subcellular localization of Stellate proteins by biochemical fractionation and immunostaining of whole testes. We showed that, apart from the known accumulation of Stellate in crystalline form, soluble Stellate was located exclusively in the nucleoplasm, whereas Stellate crystals were located mainly in the cytoplasm. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments revealed that the alpha-subunit of the protein kinase CK2 (CK2alpha) was associated with soluble Stellate. Interaction between soluble Stellate and CK2alpha in the nucleus could lead to modulations in the phosphorylation of nuclear targets of CK2 and abnormalities in the meiotic segregation of chromosomes. We also observed that Stellate underwent lysine methylation and mimicked trimethyl-H3K9 epigenetic modification of histone H3 tail. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of carboxyl and sulfhydryl residues on rabbit small intestinal brush-border membrane Na(+)-glucose cotransporter.
The role of sulfhydryl (SH) and carboxylic acid residues in Na(+)-dependent glucose uptake, Na(+)-dependent phlorizin binding, and substrate exchange by the rabbit small intestinal brush-border membrane (BBM) Na(+)-glucose cotransporter was examined in sodium dodecyl sulfate-BBM vesicles. The sulfhydryl reagent p-chloromercuribenzoate (PCMB) inhibited all three measures of cotransporter function in a dithiothreitol-sensitive manner with similar K0.5 values (concn of PCMB resulting in 50% inhibition). PCMB sulfonate had no effect on Na(+)-glucose cotransporter function < 250 microM. The carboxylic acid reagent 1-ethyl-3-(4-azonia-4,4-dimethylpentyl)carbodiimide no effect on Na(+)-glucose cotransporter function. N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) inhibited all three measures of cotransporter function with similar K0.5 values for inhibition. Inhibition by DCCD did not require addition of a nucleophile. In contrast, PCMB-pretreated cotransporter was insensitive to DCCD in the absence of added nucleophile with respect to substrate transport (Na(+)-dependent glucose uptake) but not Na(+)-dependent phlorizin binding. These results indicate an intravesicular or lipophilic environment for both the PCMB-reactive SH residue and the DCCD-reactive carboxylic acid residues, suggesting that a SH residue may act as an endogenous nucleophile for interaction of DCCD with the Na(+)-glucose cotransporter and suggesting that different carboxylic acid residues may be involved in Na(+)-dependent glucose uptake and Na(+)-dependent phlorizin binding. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Modified technique for total cavopulmonary connection.
The laterolateral anastomosis between the superior vena cava and the pulmonary artery trunk is presented as a modified technique for total cavopulmonary connection. This procedure was successfully performed on a 9-year-old girl, associated with the exclusion of the right atrium, for the treatment of tricuspid atresia and transposition of the great arteries. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Physiological classification of oral viridans streptococci.
The human mouth harbors large numbers of a variety of greening streptococci. For many years the classification and nomenclature of these organisms have been confused, but recent studies have clarified the situation considerably. Five distinct species can be distinguished among the oral streptococci S mutans, S sanguis, S mitior, S milleri, and S salivarius, and these may be identified using a simple scheme consisting of seven physiological tests. Further subdivisions within these species may be achieved using serological methods. A small number of oral streptococci remain which cannot easily be identified with existing schemes. These may represent additional species that, as yet, have not been adequately described. There seems little justification for continuing the practive of calling all alpha-hemolytic streptococci simple "Streptococcus viridans". | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gamma knife surgery in brain melanomas: absence of extracranial metastases and tumor volume strongest indicators of prolonged survival.
To review a series of patients who underwent Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) to identify prognostic factors for local growth control and survival. During the period 1996-2006, 77 patients (42 men and 35 women) with a total of 143 metastases underwent GKS. A solitary lesion was present in 40 patients (51.9%). Growth control was achieved in 114 of 128 (89.1%) tumors and 59 of 70 (84.3%) patients. The median survival was 7 months (range 0-73 months) after GKS and 67 months (range 4-327 months) from the time of diagnosis. Patients with absence of extracranial disease lived longer than patients with more widespread disease-median 16 months (range 3-52 months) versus 6 months (range 0-73 months; P = 0.014). A total tumor volume of less than 5 cc was associated with longer survival (P = 0.041). Survival was significantly longer in recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) class 1 (22 months) than RPA class 2 (7 months) and RPA class 3 (3 months; P = 0.008). Even in cases of treatment failure with tumor growth or appearance of new metastases, GKS slowed down the cerebral disease with no significant reduction in the duration of survival. GKS for melanoma brain metastasis provides a high rate of local tumor control. Survival is longest for well-functioning patients with absence of extracranial metastases or with an intracerebral total tumor volume less than 5 cc. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Prolymphocytic leukemia: the therapeutic strategy].
Prolymphocytic leukemia (PLL) is a malignant lymphoproliferative disorder, characterized by massive splenomegaly, predominance of prolymphocytes in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, minimal lymph nodes enlargement and poor prognosis. It accounts for a 5-10% case of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Patients age is usually over the fifth decade, the disease is 4.1 more common in males. More than 80% are B-lymphocytic derived cells showing a post-thymic phenotype. Median survival of B-PLL patients is 3 years, while only 7 months in T-PLL. Standard therapy of CLL with alkylating agents and prednisone have been not much effective in the treatment of PLL with a response rate of about 20%. Up to date no ideal treatment is available for PLL. A realistic goal is probably to achieve a clinical course transformation, from aggressive to mild, thus changing from short to long term prognosis. For this purpose the initial therapeutic approach cannot be limited to a single agent only. Splenic irradiation, intensive anthracyclines-based regimens, leukapheresis combine together represent the best therapeutic choice. Alkylating agents with or without prednisone may play a role in keeping indolent clinical course. Fludarabine has shown antileukemic activity against PPL even in patients resistant. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Paradoxical cerebral air embolism without an intracardiac septal defect. Case report.
Cerebral air embolism occurred in a patient undergoing trigeminal rhizotomy in the sitting position. During the acute episode, a murmur was detected by the Doppler probe and foam was aspirated from the central venous catheter. The patient did not regain consciousness postoperatively, and computerized tomography demonstrated diffuse cerebral infarction. Subsequently, the patient died, and neuropathological examination revealed multifocal discrete infarcts in the gray and white matter with normal intervening brain. No intracardiac septal defects were present. This is the first fully documented case of cerebral air embolism of venous origin in the absence of intracardiac septal defects, and reemphasizes the hazards of operative procedures in the sitting position. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[hTERT promoter regulated replication-selective adenovirus CNHK300 in treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma].
To evaluate the therapeutic efficiency of replicative adenovirus CNHK300 targeted at telomerase-positive hepatocellular carcinoma. Human liver cancer cell line HepGII and Hep3B, human embryonic kidney cell line 293, and normal human fibroblasts of the line BJ were cultured and added with adenoviruses CNHK300, ONYX-015 (55 000 protein deleted adenovirus), or wtAd5 (wild type 5) with different multiplicity of infection (MOI) for 7 days. 293 cells were used to measure the titer of the filial generation virus from different cells. The cell survival rate was calculated by MTT method 2, 4, 6, and 8 days after. Different cells were added with CNHK300 virus and then the E1A protein in the cytoplasm was measured by western blotting. Fluorescence microscopy was used to observe the CNHK300-EGFP proliferation after the cells were cultured and added with the virus for 1.5 hours. The replicative viruses CNHK300 and wtAd5 proliferated rapidly in HepGII and Hep3B cells since 24 hours after inoculation and proliferated 40625 and 65326 times respectively with a proliferation potential similar to that of the wild-type adenovirus and much higher than that of the ONYX-015 virus. CNHK300 of the MOI of 0.0002 killed half of the cancer cells, especially those of the line Hep3B, within 5 approximately 6 days, and CNHK300 virus of the MOI of 0.5 pfu/cell killed almost all the HepGII cells in the 8th day, with a killing power lower than that of the wild-type virus and higher than that of the ONYX-015 cells. The IC(50) was as low as MOI of 0.002 pfu/cell for the Hep3B cell and was as high as MOI of 100 pfu/cell for the BJ cell. CNHK300 was a less powerful killer of fibroblasts than wild-type virus. E1A expression was shown by western blotting in 293 cells and CNHK300-infected liver cancer cells, but not in the CNHK300-infected normal human fibroblasts. Fluorescence microscopy showed only isolated fluorescence-positive fibroblasts till the 10th day of infection, but obvious proliferation of CNHK300-EGFP virus since the 3rd day and fluorescence-positive cells in sheets by the 7th day, however, the fluorescent intensity was weakened since the 10th day. Tumor-selective adenovirus CNHK300 replicates in telomerase-positive liver cancer cells efficiently as well as wtAd5 and causes oncolysis, but has severely attenuated proliferation and cytolysis in normal cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Inhibition of isotretinoin teratogenicity by acetylsalicylic acid pretreatment in mice.
Although isotretinoin (ITR) has been suggested to cause malformations via cytopathic effects on embryonic cells, the molecular mechanisms of ITR cytotoxicity in teratogenesis are not clear. Since ITR undergoes metabolism by prostaglandin synthase to a potentially cytotoxic peroxyl free radical, the possible role of prostaglandin synthase metabolism as a modulator of ITR teratogenicity was evaluated. Craniofacial and limb abnormalities were noted in fetuses on day 18.5 of gestation following administration of ITR to pregnant CD-1 mice in a three dose regimen of 100 mg/kg at 4 hr intervals on day 10.5 of gestation (plug day = day 0.5 of gestation). Mice were also treated with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), an irreversible inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase component of prostaglandin synthase, at doses of 20 and 60 mg/kg body weight 2 hr prior to each ITR dose. ASA pretreatment of mice receiving ITR treatment showed a dose-dependent decrease in the overall incidence of malformations, number of defects per fetus, and the incidence of specific craniofacial and limb defects. Equivalent doses of ASA given to control mice did not cause malformations or alter the incidence of resorptions. These results demonstrate that ASA is able to ameliorate the teratogenic effects of ITR observed in fetal mice near term and indicate that prostaglandin metabolism could play a mechanistic role in ITR teratogenicity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Scaling laws in cognitive sciences.
Scaling laws are ubiquitous in nature, and they pervade neural, behavioral and linguistic activities. A scaling law suggests the existence of processes or patterns that are repeated across scales of analysis. Although the variables that express a scaling law can vary from one type of activity to the next, the recurrence of scaling laws across so many different systems has prompted a search for unifying principles. In biological systems, scaling laws can reflect adaptive processes of various types and are often linked to complex systems poised near critical points. The same is true for perception, memory, language and other cognitive phenomena. Findings of scaling laws in cognitive science are indicative of scaling invariance in cognitive mechanisms and multiplicative interactions among interdependent components of cognition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Comparative contribution of ultrasonography and tomodensitometry in the diagnosis of retroperitoneal adenopathies].
CT and sonography were compared in 78 cases of retroperitoneal lymph nodes. The results obtained with both methods are similar. Thus, ultrasound can be chosen as the first procedure in the evaluation of retroperitoneal lymph nodes. CT will be used as a complement in case of technically insufficient sonograms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Intracranial pressure and mean arterial pressure: possibilities and necessity of their control].
Already Cushing pointed out that intracranial volume, thus the intracranial pressure, or ICP should exhibit an equilibrium state. Brain receives about 15% of the heart stroke volume. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) which is under control of an autoregulatory system, results from the cerebral perfusion pressure, or CPP being the difference between the mean arterial pressure and ICP. Intracranial pathology results in a reduced CBF, that under extreme conditions can lead to death. The up-to-date experiments indicate that both the ICP and arterial pressure can be successfully monitored for a quite long period. These observations make the choice of optimum therapy easier. According to some researchers such a monitoring has been introduced as a regular method of the neurosurgical intensive care. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Death by homicide in National Collegiate Athletic Association athletes between 2003 and 2013.
The incidence of homicide-related death among individuals of college age in the United States population is estimated at 15.5/100,000. The incidence of homicide among National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletes is unknown. To investigate the rate of homicide-related death in NCAA athletes and to identify associated risk factors. The NCAA Resolutions list, NCAA catastrophic insurance claims, media reports, and published NCAA demographic data were used to identify student athlete deaths and total participant seasons from 2003-04 through 2012-13. Homicide-related deaths were analysed by sex, race, division, sport, method, location, and circumstance. Internet searches were used to gather case details. Forty-two cases of homicide-related death were identified from 4,242,519 individual participant seasons during the ten-year study period. The incidence of homicide-related death in NCAA athletes was 1.0/100,000. The incidence in males was 1.45/100,000 and in females was 0.4/100,000 (relative risk (RR) 2.9, p=0.01). The incidence in black athletes was 4.2/100,000 and in white athletes was 0.4/100,000 (RR 7.0, p<0.001). The highest sport-specific homicide-related death rate was in American football (3.7/100,000), with a RR of 4.4 (p=0.002) compared to all other sports. 88% of cases occurred off-campus. 38% of cases occurred at a social gathering, and 38% of cases occurred in a place of residence. 74% involved a fatal shooting. Homicide-related deaths in NCAA athletes occur most commonly in males, black athletes, and American football players. Understanding the incidence, risk factors, and circumstances of homicide-related deaths in college athletes may assist NCAA institutions in developing preventative measures. University of Washington Human Subjects Application, HSD No. 42077. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) virus prevalence and virus genome characterization in field-collected ticks (Ixodes ricinus) from risk, non-risk and former risk areas of TBE, and in ticks removed from humans in Germany.
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is recognized as the most important viral tick-borne zoonosis in 27 countries in Europe. In this study, ticks were collected in Germany from two non-risk areas in the states of Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, where several single human TBE cases have occurred in recent years. Ticks were also collected from a region in Thuringia, known to be a former risk area for TBE virus (TBEV), where numerous human cases were reported between 1960 and 1975. Detection of TBEV RNA was conducted by real-time RT-PCR. No TBEV was detected in any field-collected ticks. However, ticks were also collected from volunteers living in Bavaria. Three of 239 ticks from this collection were positive for TBEV genome and two genetically distinct TBEV strains were detected and characterized. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in controlling lymph node metastasis for locally advanced gastric cancer in a Chinese population.
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of FOLFOX6, SOX and XELOX as neoadjuvant chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer. The study retrospectively assessed clinicopathological data of patients who received a radical D2 gastrectomy for gastric cancer from January 2010 to January 2013.The patients were either not administered neoadjuvant chemotherapy (control) or were given FOLFOX6, SOX and XELOX prior to surgery. The metastatic rate was also higher for the control group compared with the three chemotherapy regimens in N2 station lymph nodes (P < 0.001). The SOX group had significantly lower metastatic total and N2 station lymph nodes than FOLFOX6 and XELOX (P < 0.01). The frequency of metastatic lymph nodes relative to total lymph nodes examined was 9.9, 6.6, 3.9 and 5.3% for control, FOLFOX6, SOX and XELOX groups, respectively. In conclusion, SOX may be the most effective of these treatments as preoperative chemotherapy for Chinese patients with advanced gastric cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
New immune connections in osteoclast formation.
Osteoimmunology is an interdisciplinary research field that investigates the interplay of the skeletal and immune systems at the molecular level. The interaction between immune cells and osteoclasts has been a major topic in this field. As osteoclasts are derived from the monocyte/macrophage lineage, the macrophage-osteoclast interaction has long been studied. The T cell-osteoclast interaction has also attracted much attention in the study of bone destruction in arthritis. In addition, recent reports have revealed new players linking osteoclasts and other immune cells, including B cells and dendritic cells. Thus, a large number of molecules are in fact shared by osteoclasts and immune cells. These findings will lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of diseases affecting both systems and will provide a molecular basis for novel therapeutic strategies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Combined effects of high-fat diet and ethanol induce oxidative stress in rat liver.
Individuals affected by liver steatosis seldom have symptoms of liver injury, but may be particularly vulnerable to oxidative insults. In this study, we evaluated liver redox alterations produced by acute ethanol administration to rats that were fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Adult male Wistar rats were fed HFD or standard diet (controls) for 1 month; a group of animals from each condition were gavaged with 35% (vol/vol) ethanol every 12h for the last 3 days of the experiment. Total lipid content determined in liver showed lipid accumulation after HFD or HFD combined with ethanol. HFD alone induced a significant rise of seric alanine aminotransferase levels and a marked reduction of antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione transferase). Ethanol alone caused a significant rise of seric cholesterol levels and enhanced mitochondrial H2O2 production, but without apparent oxidative stress as evaluated by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) assay. The combination of HFD and acute ethanol caused an increase of TBARS, indicating lipid peroxidation, most likely as a consequence of a decrease in antioxidant defenses induced by HFD and of an increase in reactive oxygen species production induced by ethanol. Principal component analysis, based on all the measured parameters, that is, serum liver function tests, antioxidant enzyme activities, mitochondrial H2O2 release, and TBARS, indicated that HFD and ethanol act as two independent factors. In conclusion, our results show that HFD or acute ethanol alone produce, at the most, mild liver injury, whereas their combination triggers oxidative stress, possibly inducing a progression toward liver disease. Hence, our data indicate that a diet too rich in fat is a serious risk factor for the occurrence of liver injury deriving from acute ethanol consumption. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Family resemblance for plasma lipids and lipoprotein concentrations in blacks. Cincinnati Lipid Research Clinic Family Study.
Our specific aim in this study was to assess the family resemblance for lipids and lipoproteins in blacks randomly selected from the Princeton School District's Family Study cohort, and compare the family resemblance of lipids and lipoproteins between the blacks and whites from the same cohort. There were 160 white and 59 black nuclear families ascertained through randomly selected family study probands. Familial correlations were estimated by the method of maximum likelihood. Father-child and sib-sib correlations were of larger magnitude in whites than blacks for each lipid and lipoprotein, with the exception of high density lipoprotein cholesterol, where the correlations in blacks were higher than in whites. Estimates of genetic heritability were larger in whites than in blacks for each lipid and lipoprotein, with the exception of high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Whereas environment has a substantial effect on high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in both blacks and whites, there may be a greater genetic effect accounting for higher levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol in blacks. This is highlighted in our current study by the consistent observation in blacks of increased measures of within-family resemblance for high density lipoprotein cholesterol alone, of all lipids and lipoproteins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ventilatory ratio: a simple bedside measure of ventilation.
Measures of oxygenation are traditionally used to monitor the progress of patients on positive pressure ventilation. Although CO2 elimination depends on fewer variables, measures of CO2 elimination are comparatively overlooked except when monitoring patients who are difficult to ventilate. CO2 elimination is dependent upon CO2 production and alveolar ventilation, which together determine Pa(CO2). Alveolar ventilation is the efficient portion of minute ventilation ('E'). In the clinical setting, problems with CO2 elimination are observed as increasing Pa(CO2), increasing minute ventilation, or both. In conventional tests of respiratory function, actual measurements are frequently compared with predicted measurements. However, this approach has rarely been applied to the measurement of ventilatory efficiency. We have developed a ratio, called the ventilatory ratio (VR), which compares actual measurements and predicted values of minute ventilation and Pa(CO2). VR = (V(E measured) x Pa(CO2 measured))/(V(E predicted) x Pa(CO2 predicted)). V(E predicted) is taken to be 100 (ml kg(-1) min(-1)) based on predicted body weight, and Pa(CO2 predicted)) is taken to be 5 kPa. Inspection shows VR to be a unitless ratio that can be easily calculated at the bedside. VR is governed by carbon dioxide production and ventilatory efficiency in a logically intuitive way. We suggest that VR provides a simple guide to changes in ventilatory efficiency. A value close to 1 is predicted for normal individuals and an increasing value would correspond with worsening ventilation, increased CO2 production, or both. VR is a new tool providing additional information for clinicians managing ventilated patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nutrition for the Australian Rules football player.
This review summarises past and present nutritional practices of Australian Rules Football players, noting changes that have occurred as the footballers have become more receptive to scientific input. Australian Rules Football is a unique sport, with matches involving intermittent high intensity sprints between periods of jogging and walking and repeated physical contact. Endurance, speed, strength, power and agility are essential physical characteristics. Australian Rules footballers exhibit a wide range of anthropometrical attributes due to the positional requirements of the game. Dietary surveys indicate that footballers of the 1980's consumed a diet similar to that of the general Australian population consisting of 44%, 37.5%, 15% and 3.5% of carbohydrate (CHO), fat, protein and alcohol, respectively. However, as dietitians are becoming an integral part of the support staff of teams there is evidence that nutritional practices conducive to optimal sporting performance are now being followed. Due to the prolonged duration and intermittent high intensity activity pattern of Australian Rules, nutritional supplementation such as fluid and CHO intake during training and competition and creatine intake may be beneficial; however, further research needs to be conducted in the field to determine its importance in Australian Rules Football. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Investigation of a ponding irrigation system to recycle agricultural wastewater.
This article presents the results of natural carrying capacity of ponding irrigation system in Taoyuan agricultural zone, Taiwan. Both the systematic water quality and the ponding effects were examined. The ponding irrigation system included a flow channel and storage ponds. The data showed that most water characteristics deteriorated gradually from upper- to down-stream in the flow channel and the flow channel was not attributed to any self-purification in agricultural returning water practically. On the other hand, the results of storage ponds indicated that they can provide a natural treatment (i.e., the outlet water quality of the ponds is more desirable than that of the inlet). Consequently, the ponding irrigation system offers the natural self-purification in ponds to reuse and recycle the returning agricultural wastewater and to extend the irrigation capacity and efficiency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A molecular dissection of the glycoprotein hormone receptors.
In glycoprotein hormone receptors, a subfamily of rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors, the recognition and activation steps are carried out by separate domains of the proteins. Specificity of recognition of the hormones thyrotropin (TSH), lutropin (LH), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and follitropin (FSH) involves leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) present in an N-terminal ectodomain, and can be associated with a limited number of residues at key positions of the LRRs. The mechanism by which binding of the hormones results in activation is proposed to involve switching of the ectodomain from a tethered inverse agonist to a full agonist of the serpentine, rhodopsin-like region of the receptor. Unexpectedly, the picture is complicated by the observation that promiscuous activation of one of the receptors (FSHr) by hCG or TSH can result from activating mutations affecting the serpentine region of the receptors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Proposal of Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry (BOCDR).
We propose a Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry (BOCDR), which can measure the distribution of strain and/or temperature along an optical fiber from a single end, by detecting spontaneous Brillouin scattering with controlling the interference of continuous lightwaves. In a pulse-based conventional Brillouin optical time-domain reflectometry (BOTDR), it is difficult in principle to achieve a spatial resolution less than 1 m, and the measurement time is as long as 5-10 minutes. On the contrary, the continuous-wave-based BOCDR can exceed the limit of 1-m resolution, and realize much faster measurement and random access to measuring positions. Spatial resolution of 40 cm was experimentally demonstrated with sampling rate of 50 Hz. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Item analysis of the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test.
The Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test was administered to 200 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated. Most items adequately discriminated between problem and nonproblem drinkers, but several questions assessing severe alcoholism symptoms did not consistenly differentiate between the 2 groups. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Frequent loss of estrogen and progesterone receptors in human prostatic tumors determined by quantitative real-time PCR.
Relative gene expression of the estrogen receptors (ER)-alpha (NR3A1) and ER-beta (NR3A2) along with progesterone receptors PR-A and PR-B (NR3C3) was determined by quantitative real-time PCR in a previously characterized panel of paired human prostate tumor and surrounding unaffected tissue (Prostate 54:275). In approximately half of these cases, a 10-fold or greater reduction in the relative mRNA levels of ER-beta but not ER-alpha was found in the cancer as compared to normal tissue, which was also observed with unpaired samples. Immunohistochemical staining for ER-beta and ER-alpha closely paralleled mRNA expression patterns for both receptors in paired samples. Reduced relative expressions of PR-B and total PR-A and PR-B isoforms were also observed in prostate tumor as compared to unaffected tissue, implying a potential role of PR in prostate tissue. The relative decrease in ER-beta is greater than that observed in prior studies, suggesting that paired samples more accurately reflect differences within individual cases. These findings favor the concept that ER-beta mediates anti-proliferative signals and its loss in prostatic tumor promotes proliferation of these cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stereoscopic occlusion junctions.
Portions of surfaces in a binocularly viewed scene may be 'half occluded', that is, visible in only one eye. The human visual system uses zones of half occlusion to help segment the visual scene and infer figure-ground relationships at object boundaries. We developed a quantitative model of the depth-discontinuity cue provided by half occlusion. Half occlusions are revealed by two-dimensional interocular displacements of binocularly viewed occlusion junctions, such as T junctions. We derived a formula relating this two-dimensional displacement, or 'pseudodisparity', to binocular disparities and orientations of occluding and occluded contours. In human psychophysical experiments, perceived depth and contour orientation quantitatively depended on pseudodisparity, as predicted by our model, implying that the visual system senses quantitative variations in interocular junction position to reconstruct occlusion geometry. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Histochemical and ultrastructural studies of inclusion bodies found in tissues from three siblings with I-cell disease.
Tissues from three siblings with inclusion-cell (I-cell) disease (a 16 month old boy and two fetuses aborted at 20 and 18 weeks) were investigated histologically, histochemically and ultrastructurally. The lymphocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, epithelial cells and histiocytes of various organs were affected. The cells had many intracytoplasmic vacuoles, which showed positive staining with colloidal iron, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), alcian blue, and Sudan III and IV. Ultrastructurally, the cells contained various inclusion bodies, showing vesicles, granules, flocculent material, amorphous electron-dense globules and myelin structures. The amounts and ultrastructural features of the inclusion bodies differed among the various kinds of cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High resolution MR technique in the diagnosis of mesial temporal sclerosis. Correlative MRI and pathological features.
Mesial temporal sclerosis, otherwise known as hippocampal sclerosis, is the most common entity associated with medically intractable temporal lobe epilepsy. The neuronal loss and gliosis of the hippocampus that is pathologically characteristic of this disorder is thought to serve as an epileptogenic substrate. Accurate identification and localization of this pathology is crucial before surgery is considered to potentially cure medically intractable seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging plays a central role in the presurgical work-up. We present a 44-year-old man with a history of intractable partial complex seizures secondary to right-sided mesial temporal sclerosis and discuss the magnetic resonance imaging findings utilizing a high resolution technique. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aortic Wall Injury Related to Endovascular Therapy for Aortic Coarctation.
Aortic wall complications can occur in unrepaired aortic coarctation (CoA) and after surgical repair or endovascular treatment. This review summarizes the available literature and current understanding of aortic wall injury (AWI) surrounding the management of CoA, focusing specifically on acute and follow-up AWI after endovascular treatment. There have been 23 reported cases of aortic rupture after endovascular treatment for CoA, including angioplasty alone, bare metal stenting, and primary covered stent therapy. Even if these published cases represent only a minority of ruptures that have actually occurred, the incidence is substantially <1%. The incidence of acute aneurysm formation was 0% to 13% after angioplasty, 0% to 5% after bare metal stent placement, and <1% after covered stent placement. The reported incidence and natural history of both acute and new AWI during follow-up after endovascular therapy for CoA varies considerably, likely secondary to ascertainment and reporting biases and inconsistent definitions. Although important AWI after endovascular treatment of CoA seems to be declining in frequency with increasing experience and improving technology, it remains one of the most important potential adverse outcomes. Long-term surveillance for new AWI and monitoring of existing AWI is mandatory, with institution of appropriate treatment when necessary. A central research focus in this population should be determination of the appropriate treatment for both native and recurrent CoA across various ages with regard to limiting recurrent CoA and preventing associated aortic wall complications, in addition to determining the appropriate treatment of various AWI. Consistent definitions and reporting are necessary to truly understand the incidence of, risk factors for, and measures protective against AWI after angioplasty or stent implantation for CoA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Growth dynamics of the four main craniofacial dimensions in relation to orthodontic finding--a longitudinal study].
Analysis of growth dynamics of the four main craniofacial dimensions at the transition point from primary into mixed dentition was performed in order to better determine the effect of individual orthodontic anomalies starting to manifest at that time, on the direction and extent of the alterations observed. A sample consisting of 73 children aged 3.5-5.5 years, free of any overt symptoms of orthodontic anomalies, were re-examined at the age of 6.5-8.5 years and divided into groups according to orthodontic findings then obtained. Mean values (and their differences) of the defined parameters obtained on the first and second measurement were analyzed, both for the sample in total and separately, according to the orthodontic findings in mixed dentition. Based on this data, specific relationships between alterations in each craniofacial dimension and maxillary morphology, specific for particular anomaly, were determined. In the group free of growth dynamics anomalies, both facial and both cranial parameters were almost identical. More or less expressed alterations of a single facial or cranial parameter in dysgnathic subjects may have been related to oral symptoms of the respective anomaly. At the same time, results obtained in the study suggested the size of the four main craniofacial dimensions to differ as early as in primary dentition, and become grouped, depending on the development of future orthodontic anomaly. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Induction of cellular necrosis by the glutathione peroxidase mimetic ebselen.
The selenium-based compound ebselen is a powerful antioxidant, a potent anti-inflammatory agent and a potential neuroprotective compound. Several studies have demonstrated that part of the biological effect of ebselen is the result of the inhibition of apoptosis. We show in this report that ebselen induced the necrotic cell death of Sp2/0-Ag14 hybridoma cells. This process was rapid, with over 90% of the cells being dead after a 2 h exposure to 50 microM ebselen. The toxic effect of ebselen could not be prevented by the caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-fmk but could be blocked with thiol-containing compounds. Interestingly, ebselen addition completely prevented caspase activation in cycloheximide-treated Sp2/O-Ag14 cells, indicating that this antioxidant interferes with the apoptotic machinery. Our results indicate that some cell types are acutely sensitive to the toxic effect of ebselen, and that ebselen-induced cell death interferes with apoptotic processes. These observations are of particular importance since ebselen is currently used in clinical trials for possible use as therapeutic agent for stroke. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pathways mediating Ca2+ entry in rat cerebellar granule cells following in vitro exposure to methyl mercury.
Cell imaging and the Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorophore fura-2 were used to examine methyl mercury's effect on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat cerebellar granule cells, a cell type preferentially targeted by methyl mercury. In vitro methyl mercury exposure (0.2-5.0 microM) induced a biphasic rise in fura-2 fluorescence ratio, consisting of a small first phase due to Ca2+ release from intracellular store(s) and a much larger second phase which required Ca2+ influx. The time-to-onset of these fura-2 fluorescence changes was inversely correlated with methyl mercury concentration. When examining various Ca2+ entry pathways as possible targets contributing to Ca2+ influx, we found that excitatory amino acid pathways were not directly involved. In contrast, the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blockers nifedipine and omega-conotoxin-MVIIC significantly delayed the time-to-onset of both phases, a response inconsistent with mere inhibition of Ca2+ entry. The nonselective voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel blocker Ni2+ had no effect on the methyl mercury response. Because methyl mercury alters cell membrane potentials, we hypothesized that voltage-dependent Na+ channels were activated initially; however, tetrodotoxin did not alter the methyl mercury-induced increases in fura-2 fluorescence ratio. Thus, methyl mercury alters Ca2+ homeostasis in cerebellar granule cells through nifedipine- and omega-conotoxin-MVIIC-sensitive pathways, suggesting that L-, N-, and/or Q-type Ca2+ channels may play a role in methyl mercury's mode of action or entry. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Robotic radical prostatectomy with preservation of the prostatic fascia: a feasibility study.
To describe a feasibility study of our ability to preserve the prostatic fascia in men undergoing robotic radical prostatectomy. The prostate is covered anterolaterally by prostatic fascia, also called lateral pelvic fascia or the parietal layer of endopelvic fascia. The prostatic fascia is rich in vessels, nerves, and smooth muscle. We hypothesized that preservation of this fascial layer may result in improved postoperative potency. The technique was first attempted in 15 men undergoing radical cystoprostatectomy, in which accidental entry to the prostatic tissue is not critical. Thereafter, it was performed in 6 impotent men undergoing robotic radical prostatectomy. The fascia was excised and stained for prostate-specific antigen and neural and muscle tissue. The technique was then performed in 35 potent men (Sexual Health Inventory for Men score greater than 21) undergoing robotic radical prostatectomy. Postoperative potency was evaluated with a self-administered questionnaire (Sexual Health Inventory for Men). Under the magnification of the da Vinci robotic system, and also shown histologically, the prostatic fascia is a multifascial layer of fibrovascular tissue, covering the anterolateral aspect of the prostate. It stains positive for smooth muscle and nerves, but negative for prostate-specific antigen. The amount of neural tissue in the fascia is variable, but never exceeds that in the neurovascular bundle. At 12 months of follow-up, 34 (97%) of 35 men undergoing fascia-preserving robotic radical prostatectomy had erections strong enough for vaginal penetration, and 30 (86%) had normal erections (Sexual Health Inventory for Men greater than 21). Preservation of the prostatic fascia is safe and feasible, without compromising the surgical margins, and allows enhanced preservation of neural tissue during robotic prostatectomy with an apparent improvement in potency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prevalence and diversity of mycoviruses infecting the plant pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens.
Rice false smut caused by Ustilaginoidea virens is a destructive disease in many rice-growing areas. Mycoviruses have been described in many fungal species, but there is little information regarding mycoviruses in U. virens. In this study, double-stranded (ds) RNA banding patterns were assessed in 198 wild-type isolates of U. virens obtained from different geographical regions in China. The presence of viral infections was unusually common in U. virens: 188 of the 198 isolates contained dsRNA elements with viral characteristics, and the presence of mixed infections with two or more related or unrelated mycoviruses was commonly detected. The GX-1 isolate contained four dsRNA mycoviruses: Ustilaginoidea virens RNA virus 1 (UvRV1) belonging to Totiviridae, Ustilaginoidea virens RNA virus 4 (UvRV4) belonging to an unclassified family which includes the Curvularia thermal tolerance virus, and the last two probably belonging to Partitiviridae. Biological comparisons of virus-free and infected fungal isolates revealed that UvRV1 strain GX-1 and UvRV4 were likely cryptic, since the infected strains did not show apparent symptoms or debilitation. Northern blotting experiments revealed that UvRV1 strain GX-1 and UvRV4 were frequently found in U. virens, irrespective of the place of origin, and similarly sized dsRNA bands were not always of similar sequence. Thus, our findings suggest that mycoviruses infecting U. virens in China are widespread and highly diverse. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Swallowing recovery following anterior tongue and floor of mouth surgery.
Videofluoroscopic and clinical data are presented for postsurgical recovery of tongue and hyoid activity during swallowing. Comparison is made to normal controls. Postsurgery, but prior to radiotherapy, both the lingual propulsive gesture and hyoid velocity were slower than normal. These features of the swallow had returned to the normal range following radiotherapy. The general sequencing of swallowing events, and the relationship of the end of the tongue propulsion to anterior hyoid motion were normal in those patients able to swallow. In this patient group, postsurgical radiotherapy did not prevent continued recovery of swallowing function sufficient for oral nutrition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Anesthesiological co-diagnosis "difficult intubation": effects on the reimbursement situation of a university hospital].
Within the German diagnosis related groups (G-DRG) system, the accurate coding of the co-morbidity "failed or difficult intubation (T88.4)" may be relevant with respect to reimbursement. In this study, the impact of this typical anesthesia co-morbidity on revenues of an university hospital was investigated. The computerized records of 21,204 anesthesia procedures from the year 2005 were scanned for failed or difficult intubations. The results were checked for accordance with the coding recommendation of the Medical Service of the Health Insurance Funds (MDK) with respect to the co-morbidity T88.4. For all valid cases, the DRG, the diagnosis code and the co-morbidity codes were retrieved from the hospital information system. Subsequently all cases were regrouped with the GetDRG grouper (Fa. GEOS), taking the co-morbidity T88.4 in account. Out of the 21,204 patients, 12,261 were intubated for general anesthesia. A failed or difficult intubation according to the definition of the expert group of social medicine was documented in 276 anesthesia cases (2.3%). In 31 cases the coding of the co-morbidity T88.4 led to an increase in revenue by grouping the case in a different DRG. Using the base rate of the year 2005 (EUR 3,379.66), the surplus in basic points of 17.093 resulted in an additional reimbursement of EUR 57,768.53. With this study it was shown that the consequent coding of the co-morbidity T88.4 during anesthesia can lead to increased reimbursement. A prerequisite is the accurate documentation and coding by the attending anesthetist. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Superior Water Sheeting Effect on Photocatalytic Titania Nanowire Coated Glass.
Simple, rapid, and inexpensive fabrication of self-cleaning glass surfaces based on wet chemical deposition of H2Ti3O7 (trititanate) and subsequent transformation of it into TiO2 (anatase) nanowires on pristine glass surfaces is reported. Despite the low, 55%, surface coverage, the nanowire roughened glass surface showed self-cleaning properties comparable to much thicker, over 100-nm-thick, TiO2 nanoparticle coated glasses. The superwettable surface showed 12° contact angle. Moreover, ultraviolet (UV) and natural light activated photocatalysis remained effective at enhancing the self-cleaning process in the case of the TiO2 nanowire coated glass. Time-resolved study of the water droplet spread in millisecond time scales revealed that capillary forces induced by the random nanowire network significantly enhance the water sheeting effect of these textured glass surfaces. Time-resolved experiments revealed that the spreading velocity of the droplets were enhanced by 19% for the TiO2 nanowire roughened surface and reached a v0 = 508 mm/s initial spreading speed. Outdoor experiments validated the concept that TiO2 nanowire coated glass possess self-cleaning properties with significantly reduced titania content compared to nanoparticle based films. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CRYOPYRIN-ASSOCIATED PERIODIC SYNDROME-ASSOCIATED UVEITIS AND PAPILLITIS.
To report a case of uveitis and papillitis in a patient with cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome. Case report. A 44-year-old white woman with a long history of inflammatory arthritis, diffuse erythematous rashes and hives, and hearing loss was referred to the Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution for an evaluation of chronic ocular inflammation. She was diagnosed with bilateral papillitis and uveitis after a comprehensive eye examination, which included dilated fundoscopy, optic nerve ocular coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and B-scan ultrasonography. She was later diagnosed with cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome, an interleukin-1-driven autoimmune disease, as confirmed by genetic testing. Soon after starting treatment with anakinra, a human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, she experienced rapid improvement of her ocular and systemic symptoms, including rash, uveitis, and arthritis. Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome-associated ocular inflammation in remission with anakinra 100-mg daily subcutaneous injection. Anakinra is a very effective treatment for both cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome and cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome-associated ocular inflammation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Experimental radiation synovectomy by 165Dy ferric hydroxide macroaggregate.
The short half-life beta emitter 165Dy coprecipitated as a macroaggregate with ferric hydroxide (FHMA) has been shown to destroy knee synovium in the antigen-induced arthritic rabbit. Using 153Gd as a gamma tracer for leakage studies revealed that the leakage of this system from rabbit knee joints never exceeded 1.2% over 24 hours. This is such less than the leakage rates reported from any human studies or our rabbit studies using 198Au. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antibacterial prescribing patterns of doctors in the Irish Republic.
Antibacterial prescribing patterns of general practitioners and hospital doctors in a survey carried out this year (1982) were compared with those seen in previous surveys in 1977 and 1973. Since 1973, marked differences in preference for certain drugs in the treatment of urinary tract infection and diarrhoea were seen. Ampicillin, favourite antibiotic for treatment of respiratory infection in the previous surveys, remained first choice therapy in 1982 of both general practitioners and hospital doctors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
New concepts and methods in the study and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
This paper reviews progress in the use of 24-hour distal esophageal pH monitoring in the study of gastroesophageal reflux. This technique records acid exposure as numbers of reflux episodes and time required by the esophagus to return this acid juice to the stomach. These data afford an opportunity to conceptualize the pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease in relation to physiologic activities such as alimentation, sleep, and postural change. This knowledge will enable the clinician to critically focus attention on important issues of patient management and therapy as they relate to the pathophysiology of this disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
On describing mental states.
The later work of Wittgenstein was a major contribution to the philosophy of mind. One theme in his writings was a critique of the assumption that reports of psychological experience in ordinary language can be regarded as descriptions of inner states and processes. Some implications of this critique for our understanding of descriptive psychopathology and the use of psychological models in psychiatry are examined. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[A simple method for determination of flurbiprofen in human plasma by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry].
A method for gas chromatograph-mass spectrometric assay has been developed for the quantitation of flurbiprofen in human plasma. Extraction or condensing procedure was not required and the method reduced time involved in sample preparation. The analytes were separated on the fused-silica capillary column. The operating conditions were: injector, 250 degrees C; detector, 300 degrees C; and column, 50-280 degrees C. The total gas flow-rate of helium (carrier) was 50 ml.min-1 and the pressure of column inlet was 100-200 kPa. The retention time was 18.1 min and the limit of quantitation was 0.5 microgram.ml-1. This method provides an easy and simple method for the detection of flurbiprofen. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of albumin in human physiology and pathophysiology.
Albumin is one of the major products of hepatic protein synthesis. Although it is a small molecule, it is an important diagnostic and prognostic determinant, as well as a useful therapeutic agent. A review of the evolution and structure of albumin as well as a description of its colloidal and buffering properties is presented. Synthesis, distribution, and catabolism, the major determinants of serum albumin level, are discussed. Emphasis is given to those mechanisms responsible for the regulation of these processes, including the importance of nutritional status on substrate availability, energy supply, and hormonal modulation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sonohysterography versus hysteroscopy in the diagnosis of endouterine polyps.
The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the usefulness of abdominal and vaginal sonohysterography (SHG; considered both singly and in combination) for the diagnosis of uterine polyps. Fifty fertile women hospitalized for hysterectomy for benign gynecologic indications were enrolled. Main outcome measures were preoperative conventional vaginosonography, transabdominal and vaginal SHG, hysteroscopy and histologic evaluation of the surgical specimen. Conventional vaginosonography had a sensitivity of 33.3% and a specificity of 100%; the predictive values of abnormal and normal scans were 100 and 79.5%, respectively. Transabdominal SHG had a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 100%. The predictive value of an abnormal scan was 100%; that of a normal scan 91.2%. Vaginal SHG had a sensitivity of 58.3% and a specificity of 100%; the predictive value of an abnormal scan was 100%, that of a normal scan 86.1%. The combination of the two kinds of SHG had a sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity of 100%; the predictive value of an abnormal test was 100% and that of a normal test 96.9%. The sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of abnormal and normal hysteroscopic examination were all 100%. In conclusion, the presence of endouterine polyps can be effectively investigated by SHG; nevertheless, hysteroscopy is more sensitive, being capable of detecting even very small endouterine neoformations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Radionuclide regurgitant index: value and limitations.
The radionuclide regurgitant index, defined as left ventricular/right ventricular stroke counts obtained from gated equilibrium studies, has been reported to predict the presence and severity of left-sided valve regurgitation. This study evaluated the radionuclide regurgitant index in 100 patients in whom left-sided valve regurgitation was angiographically graded (0 to 4+) with regard to most severe mitral or aortic regurgitation. Regurgitation was graded 0 in 44 of the 100 patients, 1+ in 22, 2+ in 8, 3+ in 6 and 4+ in 20. The radionuclide regurgitant index was 0.9 to 1.5 in 51 patients, 1.6 to 2.4 in 23 and 2.5 to 12.0 in 26. The mean radionuclide regurgitant index was 1.34 in the group with no regurgitation and 1.60 in those with 1+, 2.01 in those with 2+, 2.80 in those with 3+ and 3.85 in those with 4+ regurgitation. There was a significant difference (p less than 0.05) in the radionuclide regurgitant index between patients with no regurgitation and each group with regurgitation and between groups with regurgitation separated by two or more grades of angiographic regurgitation. Twelve patients had a discordant radionuclide regurgitant index; their index either predicted clinically significant or severe regurgitation when they had no or trivial regurgitation, or predicted no or trivial regurgitation when they had clinically significant regurgitation. Eight of 10 patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of less than 0.30 had a discordant index (p less than 0.0005). All three patients with mitral valve prolapse associated with frequent ventricular extrasystoles had a discordant index (p less than 0.0005). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hereditary periodic fever syndrome sans fever or distinct periodicity presenting with psychosis.
The genetic basis for several hereditary periodic fever syndromes has been identified and consequently, the phenotypic spectrum of these disorders has broadened. We describe a young woman with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS), proven by mutational analysis, who presented with psychosis but without fever, symptom periodicity, or similar family medical history. This patient represents the first case of TRAPS-associated psychosis. This case illustrates the importance of mutation analysis for this group of disorders in individuals presenting with unexplained inflammatory symptoms and recurrent psychoses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Naturally derived materials-based cell and drug delivery systems in skin regeneration.
The objective of regenerative medicine is to provide cells with a local environment of artificial extracellular matrix where they can proliferate and differentiate efficiently and therefore, induce the repair of defective tissues according to the natural healing potential of patients. For this purpose, naturally derived materials are being widely used because of their similarities to the extracellular matrix, typically good biocharacteristics and inherent cellular interaction. Also, natural polymers can be engineered to release growth factors and related agents in response to physiologic signals to imitate the natural healing process and to promote fast tissue regeneration and reduce scarring in wounds. Although synthetic materials have been used extensively in tissue engineering fields, this review illustrates the contribution of natural materials and natural materials-based protein delivery systems to regenerative medicine research, with emphasis on the application of multifunctional vehicles for cell and growth factor delivery in skin regeneration research. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
THE INFLUENCE OF SYLLABIFICATION RULES IN L1 ON L2 WORD RECOGNITION.
Experiments with Korean learners of English and English monolinguals were conducted to examine whether knowledge of syllabification in the native language (Korean) affects the recognition of printed words in the non-native language (English). Another purpose of this study was to test whether syllables are the processing unit in Korean visual word recognition. In Experiment 1, 26 native Korean speakers and 19 native English speakers participated. In Experiment 2, 40 native Korean speakers participated. In two experiments, syllable length was manipulated based on the Korean syllabification rule and the participants performed a lexical decision task. Analyses of variance were performed for the lexical decision latencies and error rates in two experiments. The results from Korean learners of English showed that two-syllable words based on the Korean syllabification rule were recognized faster as words than various types of three-syllable words, suggesting that Korean learners of English exploited their L1 phonological knowledge in recognizing English words. The results of the current study also support the idea that syllables are a processing unit of Korean visual word recognition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Spatial relationship between neurotensinergic axons and cholinergic neurons in the rat basal forebrain: a light microscopic study with three-dimensional reconstruction.
Cholinergic neurons of the basal forebrain are known to project to the hippocampus and cerebral cortex wherein they play an important role in cortical activation, attention and memory. These neurons have been shown to possess neurotensin binding sites and to respond electrophysiologically to local application of neurotensin, indicating the presence of functional receptors on their membrane. In the present light microscopic study, the spatial relationship between neurotensinergic axons and cholinergic nerve cell bodies and proximal dendrites was investigated in the basal forebrain of the rat by dual immunostaining for neurotensin and choline acetyltransferase. Rostrally, neurotensinergic fibres were concentrated in the lateral septum and anterior substantia innominata, whereas cholinergic neurons were located in the medial septum, diagonal band of Broca and magnocellular preoptic nucleus. At high magnification, a few neurotensinergic axonal varicosities were observed in the region of cholinergic neurons, and fewer still in close proximity to cholinergic perikarya and proximal dendrites. Caudally, neurotensinergic fibres formed a dense plexus of varicose axons in the same regions where cholinergic neurons were located in the posterior substantia innominata and in the ventral and caudal aspects of the globus paltidus. At high magnification, many of these neurotensinergic varicosities were seen in close proximity to the cholinergic perikarya. These results suggest that cholinergic cells receive a much denser neurotensinergic innervation in the caudal than in the rostral aspect of the basal forebrain. This differential distribution is not reflected in the uniform density of neurotensin receptors and potent responses to neurotensin through the cholinergic cell population, suggesting the possibility that neurotensin's effects are mediated in part by a paracrine mechanism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Immunochemical identification of ubiquitin and heat-shock proteins in corpora amylacea from normal aged and Alzheimer's disease brains.
Corpora amylacea (CA) accumulation in the central nervous system (CNS) is associated with both normal aging and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). CA is reported to be primarily composed of glucose polymers, but approximately 4% of the total weight of CA is consistently composed of protein. CA protein resolved on sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed a broad range of polypeptides ranging from 24 to 133 kDa, with four abundant bands. Immunoblots of the profile of polypeptides solubilized from purified CA, showed positive ubiquitin (Ub) immunoreactivity for all the bands. Antisera to heat-shock proteins (hsp) 28 and 70 reacted selectively with bands of 30 and 67 kDa. These results show that Ub is associated with the primary protein components of CA and that the polypeptides are likely to be Ub conjugates. Immunostaining experiments were performed to specifically characterize the protein components of CA in brain tissue sections as well as those of CA purified from both AD and normal aged brains. In all cases CA showed positive reactions with antibodies to Ub, with antibodies raised against either paired helical filaments or hsp 28 or 70, the most prominent staining being with antibodies to Ub, hsp 28 or hsp 70. The presence of Ub and hsp 28 and 70, which are actively induced after stress, suggests that accumulation of altered proteins, possibly attributed to an increased frequency of unusual post-translational modifications or to a sustained physiological stress (related to both normal aging and neurodegenerative process), may be involved in the pathogenesis of CA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Polar Constituents, Essential Oil and Antioxidant Activity of Marsh Woundwort (Stachys palustris L.).
Stachys palustris, well-known as marsh woundwort, is a perennial herb growing in wet environments of Europe. Its tubers, leaves and seeds are eaten raw or cooked. Alike other Stachys species, the plant is also used as a traditional remedy. Despite S. palustris has been consumed for centuries, little is known about its chemical constituents. In this work the main secondary metabolites of S. palustris from Hungary and France have been analysed. From the plant ethanolic extracts, ethanoid glucosides, isoscutellarein derivatives, caffeoyl-quinic acids and iridoids have been isolated and structurally characterized by NMR. The essential oils were analysed by GC/MS and showed (E)-phytol, fatty acids and carbonylic compounds as the most abundant compounds. The radical scavenging capacity of plant ethanolic extracts, as evaluated by the DPPH assay, was noteworthy, with IC50 values of 92.08 - 105.42 μg/ml. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prolactin prevents acute stress-induced hypocalcemia and ulcerogenesis by acting in the brain of rat.
Stress causes hypocalcemia and ulcerogenesis in rats. In rats under stressful conditions, a rapid and transient increase in circulating prolactin (PRL) is observed, and this enhanced PRL induces PRL receptors (PRLR) in the choroid plexus of rat brain. In this study we used restraint stress in water to elucidate the mechanism by which PRLR in the rat brain mediate the protective effect of PRL against stress-induced hypocalcemia and ulcerogenesis. We show that rat PRL acts through the long form of PRLR in the hypothalamus. This is followed by an increase in the long form of PRLR mRNA expression in the choroid plexus of the brain, which provides protection against restraint stress in water-induced hypocalcemia and gastric erosions. We also show that PRL induces the expression of PRLR protein and corticotropin-releasing factor mRNA in the paraventricular nucleus. These results suggest that the PRL levels increase in response to stress, and it moves from the circulation to the cerebrospinal fluid to act on the central nervous system and thereby plays an important role in helping to protect against acute stress-induced hypocalcemia and gastric erosions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Expression of sclerostin scFv and the effect of sclerostin scFv on healing of osteoporotic femur fracture in rats.
Osteoporosis is a systemic metabolic disease characterized by low bone mass with deterioration of the bony microstructure which leads to both bone brittleness and increased risk of fracture. Sclerostin is a protein encoded by the SOST gene which is specifically expressed in osteocyte. Monoclonal antibodies of sclerostin can promote bone formation by antagonizing its inhibitory action. However, the effectiveness of monoclonal antibodies to exert such effects are limited by the large molecular mass and high immunogenicity. Here, we report that we purified a high immune affinity, single-chain antibody of SOST: SOST-single-chain Fv (scFv). Real-time polymerase chain reaction amplification of the variable regions of the heavy- and light-chain gene from a secretory anti-SOST antibody was performed. Animal experiments showed that SOST-scFv promoted bone healing in a rat model of osteoporosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prevalence and Clinicopathological Characteristics of BRAF Mutations in Chinese Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma.
This study was designed to identify the prevalence of BRAF mutations in Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma, and to reveal the association between BRAF mutations and clinicopathological characteristics in these patients. From October 2007 to February 2013, patients with newly diagnosed primary lung adenocarcinoma were detected for mutations in BRAF, EGFR, KRAS, HER2 and ALK. Clinicopathological characteristics, including sex, age, TNM stage, tumor differentiation, smoking status, histological subtypes, and survival information were analyzed. Of 1358 patients with lung adenocarcinoma, 20 patients were harboring BRAF mutations, including five BRAF V600E mutations and 15 BRAF non-V600E mutations. Among these, BRAF N581I and BRAF G593S were newly reported. BRAF mutations were associated with smoking status (odds ratio 3.28; 95 % CI 1.33-8.08; p = 0.008). In patients less than 60 years of age, BRAF mutations tended to have poor differentiation in tumor samples (70.0 vs. 35.1 %; p = 0.014), and were more likely to relapse (70 vs. 28 %; p = 0.008). A significant difference was found in relapse-free survival (RFS) between BRAF mutations and other mutations, but not in overall survival. The prevalence of BRAF mutations in Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma was approximately 1.5 %. BRAF mutations were more frequent in current smokers. Patients harboring BRAF mutations had a higher rate of recurrence and worse RFS compared with other patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Femoral vein blood flow during a total hip arthroplasty using a modified Heuter approach.
Several modifications to traditional surgical approaches for total hip arthroplasty (THA) have been introduced in an attempt to improve upon minimally invasive approaches and enhance short-term recovery. However, minimally invasive approaches are not without risk, including that of postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE). There has been no published literature evaluating the femoral vein during an anterior approach. We aimed to study femoral vein blood flow using duplex ultrasonography during THA performed through a modified Heuter approach. Peek flow and vessel cross-sectional area were affected by limb position as well as acetabular and femoral retractor placement. No VTE was observed, but there was observed femoral vein compression, which may represent a risk of postoperative VTE similar to that seen in standard surgical approaches for THA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of R146225 as a novel, orally active inhibitor of interleukin-5 biosynthesis.
Interleukin (IL)-5 regulates the growth, differentiation, and activation of eosinophils. When activated, eosinophils release an array of proinflammatory and cytotoxic products and act as prominent effector cells in the process of allergic inflammation. Depriving eosinophils of IL-5 may therefore represent a viable approach to treat allergic disorders. This study describes the identification of R146225, a novel six-substituted azauracil derivative, as a potent, orally active inhibitor of IL-5 biosynthesis, capable of reducing pulmonary eosinophilia in mice. In vitro, R146225 inhibited IL-5 protein formation by activated human whole blood (IC(50) = 34 nM), human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (IC(50) = 24 nM), and murine spleen cells (IC(50) = 6 nM). In contrast, the compound enhanced generation of interferon-gamma and had little or no inhibitory effect on the production of IL-2 and IL-4. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis of stimulated whole blood cells indicated R146225's ability to down-regulate IL-5 mRNA expression. In vivo p.o. administration of R146225 (2.5 mg/kg) to mice before an i.v. anti-CD3 antibody challenge reduced IL-5 but enhanced interferon-gamma serum levels, without affecting IL-2 and IL-4 production. Analogous to the in vitro results, R146225 suppressed splenic IL-5 mRNA expression, while message levels of the other cytokines remained unchanged. Moreover, p.o. dosing of R146225 (0.6-2.5 mg/kg) dose dependently reduced the pulmonary accumulation of eosinophils induced in mice by an intranasal instillation of Cryptococcus neoformans. Based on these data, R146225 may be useful in the therapy of eosinophil-driven allergic conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Frequency responses of hearing aids and their effects on the speech perception of hearing-impaired subjects.
Eight hearing-impaired subjects were tested with a binaural master hearing aid. This aid has "on-the-head" miniature transducers and has an adjustable frequency response. Five frequency responses were used, two of them were defined by their response in a 2-cm3 coupler: 1) uniform coupler gain (UCG), and 2) 6 dB per rise (6 dB). The other responses were defined in terms of functional gain (difference between unaided and aided thresholds): 3) uniform functional gain (UFG); 4 uniform hearing level (UHL); and 5) a simulation of a commercial hearing aid (AS). A significant difference between coupler and functional gain was seen. Discrimination was tested with a special closed-set word list which includes fifty monosyllabic words with a high percentage of voiceless phonemes. Discrimination scores were consistently better with the UHL response. The lowest scores were obtained with the AS response. The average difference in scores between these two responses was 18.4%. Further testing replicated these results and also compared the effects of a different type of word list phonetically balanced (PB); with these lists, the above-mentioned difference in scores was smaller in quiet (5.9%) but larger in noise (20.9%). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ruptured aortic cusp aneurysm in infective endocarditis.
We describe a patient affected by infective endocarditis with aortic aneurysm, waiting for valve replacement, in which aortic cusp rupture determined sudden heart failure. Diagnosis was performed by serial transthoracic echocardiograms and successful surgical valve replacement was performed in emergency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Membrane specializations and cytoplasmic channels of Schwann cells in mammalian peripheral nerve as seen in freeze-fracture replicas.
Mammalian Schwann cells in rat, rabbit and human fetal nerves were studied using several cryoprotective agents for electron microscopic study of freeze-fracture replicas. The findings in fixed and unfixed tissue reveal surface plasmalemma caveolar specializations and the outer layer membrane junctional complexes found in non-mammalian species. The plasmalemma also reveals a complex arrangement of contours outlining cytoplasmic channel networks distinct from the long-recognized Schmidt-Lanterman incisures and paranodal cytoplasmic loops. A specialized interconnected channel system in the outer "loose" myelin layer displays relatively uniform dimensions comparable in diameter to nodal microvilli, paranodal loops and some incisures. An adaxonal tubular channel system constituting the "axon-Schwann network" is found in the internodal region in addition to other variants of the adaxonal Schwann plasmalemma. The several forms of sequestration of Schwann cell cytoplasm presumably underlie the specialized needs of cytoplasmic continuity in a dynamic functional entity in which large domains of cytoplasm have been displaced by the formation of compact myelin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evidence-based management of upper tract urolithiasis in the spinal cord-injured patient.
The objective is to review the published literature on the aetiology and evidence-based management of stone disease in the spinal cord-injured patient. A PubMed and Medline search was performed using the terms 'spinal cord injury', 'paraplegia', 'stone', 'nephrolithiasis', 'urolithiasis', 'calculus', 'spinal cord injury' or 'paraplegia' with 'SWL', 'ureteroscopy', 'chemolysis' and 'PCNL.' The Cochrane database, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidelines and the Scottish Intercollegiate guidelines were searched using the terms 'spinal cord injury' and 'urolithiasis' and 'nephrolithiasis'. A total of 32 papers were identified, mainly case series or case-cohort studies with few contemporary papers. The risk of developing a renal stone after spinal cord injury (SCI) is between 7 and 20% over a period of 8-10 years. Stone formation may be related to early demineralisation of bone or chronic infection. Biochemical abnormalities are not significantly different between stone-forming and non-stone forming patients, though these patients differ from healthy controls. Presentation may be atypical, but is most commonly recurrent urinary tract infection. Treatment may be complicated by lower limb contractures limiting retrograde access. Several case series report success with shock wave lithotripsy varying from 50 to 70%, though comparisons are limited by heterogeneous indications and reporting. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy remains the gold standard for stones measuring 2 cm and above. Stone-free rates of 90% have been reported, though surgery was often complex with higher complication rates. Management of upper urinary tract stones in patients with SCI is complex regarding surgical technique, post-operative care and recurrence rates. Further contemporary case series must use standardised reporting tools to allow valid comparisons. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Bis-(3-allyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) sulfone decreases embryonic viability and alters hepatic mRNA expression at two distinct developmental stages in chicken embryos exposed via egg injection.
Concerns surrounding the toxicological effects and environmental prevalence of bisphenol A (BPA) have increased efforts to identify suitable safer replacement alternatives. Bis-(3-allyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) sulfone (TGSH) represents a potential BPA alternative; however, exposure and ecotoxicological data are scarce. To determine effects on embryonic viability, development, and hepatic mRNA expression at 2 distinct developmental periods (midincubation [day 11] and pipping [days 20-21]), TGSH was injected into the air cell of unincubated, fertilized chicken embryos at 4 concentrations ranging from 0 to 180 μg/g egg. Concentrations of TGSH increased in a dose-dependent manner in whole-embryo homogenates, and the estimated median lethal dose (LD50) based on embryonic viability at midincubation was 66 µg/g (95% confidence interval = 31-142 µg/g), which is similar to the BPA LD50 (∼ 67 μg/g) reported in a previous study. Modulation of hepatic gene targets from a chicken ToxChip polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array was observed at both developmental stages. At midincubation, 21/43 genes on the PCR array were significantly altered (by >1.5-fold) in the 180 μg/g dose group, whereas 9 and 6/43 were altered at pipping in the 9.2 and 48 μg/g groups, respectively. Predominant toxicity pathways included xenobiotic metabolism, lipid homeostasis, bile acid synthesis, and cell cycle regulation. The estrogen-responsive gene apolipoprotein II was significantly up-regulated in liver tissue of midincubation embryos at 180 μg/g; however, neither apolipoprotein II nor vitellogenin II were altered at the other concentrations or developmental time points. Given the importance of identifying suitable BPA replacement alternatives, the present study provides novel, whole-animal toxicological data for a BPA replacement alternative that has an effect on embryonic viability similar to that of the compound it could replace. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:530-537. © 2017 SETAC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of a novel cofilin-related molecule (Der f 31) as an allergen from Dermatophagoides farinae.
House dust mite (HDM) allergen is a major cause of allergic disease. In this study, two-dimensional immunoblot and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization tandem Time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) were used to identify Der f 31. After Der f 31 was cloned, expressed and purified, skin prick test (SPT), Immune inhibitory assays, Western blot, ELISA and asthmatic mouse model were employed to examine the allergenicity of recombinant Der f 31. The gene of Der f 31 includes 447 bps, and encoded 148 amino acids. Positive responses of SPT to r-Der f 31 were 32.5% in 43 HDM-allergic patients. r-Der f 31 can induce allergic pulmonary inflammation in the mouse model. In conclusion, Der f 31 is a novel subtype of dust mite allergens. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Self-care research: Where are we now? Where are we going?
The beneficial effects of self-care include improved well-being and lower morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. In this article we address the current state of self-care research and propose an agenda for future research based on the inaugural conference of the International Center for Self-Care Research held in Rome, Italy in June 2019. The vision of this Center is a world where self-care is prioritized by individuals, families, and communities and is the first line of approach in every health care encounter. The mission of the Center is to lead the self-care research endeavor, improving conceptual clarity and promoting interdisciplinary work informed by a shared vision addressing knowledge gaps. A focused research agenda can deepen our theoretical understanding of self-care and the mechanisms underlying self-care, which can contribute to the development of effective interventions that improve outcomes. During conference discussions, we identified seven major reasons why self-care is challenging, which can be grouped into the general categories of behavior change and illness related factors. We identified six specific knowledge gaps that, if addressed, may help to address these challenges: the influence of habit formation on behavior change, resilience in the face of stressful life events that interfere with self-care, the influence of culture on self-care behavioral choices, the difficulty performing self-care with multiple chronic conditions, self-care in persons with severe mental illness, and the influence of others (care partners, family, peer supporters, and healthcare professionals) on self-care. To achieve the vision and mission of the Center, we will lead a collaborative program of research that addresses self-care knowledge gaps and improves outcomes, create a supportive international network for knowledge transfer and support of innovations in self-care research, and support and train others in self-care research. Beyond these specific short-term goals, important policy implications of this work are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Otago Exercise Program in the United States: Comparison of 2 Implementation Models.
The Otago Exercise Program (OEP) is an evidence-based fall prevention program delivered by a physical therapist in 6 visits over a year. Despite documented effectiveness, there has been limited adoption of the OEP by physical therapists in the United States. To facilitate dissemination, 2 models have been developed: (1) the US OEP provided by a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant in the home or outpatient setting and (2) the community OEP provided by a non–physical therapist and a physical therapist consultant. It is unknown whether such modifications result in similar outcomes. The aims of this study were to identify the components of these 2 models, to compare participant characteristics for those components reached by each model, and to examine outcome changes by model and between models. This was a translational cohort study with physical therapists implementing the US OEP and trained providers implementing the community OEP. Data for physical performance, sociodemographic characteristics, and self-perception of function were collected at baseline and at 8 weeks. Participants in the community OEP were significantly younger and reported more falls compared with those in US OEP. Both sites reported significant improvements in most physical and self-reported measures of function, with larger effect sizes reported by the community OEP for the Timed “Up & Go” Test. There was no significant difference in improvements in outcome measures between sites. This was an evaluation of a translational research project with limited control over delivery processes. The sample was 96% white, which may limit application to a more diverse population. Alternative, less expensive implementation models of the OEP can achieve results similar to those achieved with traditional methods, especially improvements in Timed “Up & Go” Test scores. The data suggest that the action of doing the exercises may be the essential element of the OEP, providing opportunities to develop and test new delivery models to ensure that the best outcomes are achieved by participants. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
p53 protein transduction therapy: successful targeting and inhibition of the growth of the bladder cancer cells.
Virus-mediated gene therapy for bladder cancer has some problems, such as efficiency of gene delivery and safety issues. We have reported that poly-arginine peptide (11R) has the ability to increase protein transduction in cells. Here, we show that p53 protein transduction using 11R is useful for targeting to bladder tumors and suppressing the growth of bladder cancer cells. An 11R-fused p53 protein (11R-p53) was transduced in bladder cancer cell lines (J82 and T24) to evaluate the anti-tumor effect. Cell viability was assessed by performing the 4-[3-(4-iodophenyl)-2-(4-nitrophenyl)-2H-5-tetrazolio]-1,3-benzene disulfonate (WST) assay. To investigate whether 11R-p53 enhanced the effect on anti-cancer drug-dependent apoptosis of bladder cancer cells, the cell lines were cotreated with 11R-p53 and cis-diaminedichloroplatinum (CDDP). Apoptotic cells were identified using Hoechst staining. To investigate the efficiency of protein transduction mediated by 11R in bladder tumors in vivo, SCID mice were transplanted with J82 cells in the bladder and 11R-GFP was transurethrally transduced into the bladder. The transduction of 11R-GFP in the tumor was examined by confocal microscopy. 11R-p53 inhibited the growth of both J82 and T24 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The transduction of 11R-p53 enhanced CDDP-dependent induction of apoptosis. Transurethral application of 11R-GFP resulted in transduction of GFP in bladder tumors but not in the normal bladder epithelium or subepithelial tissues. The present results suggest that p53 protein transduction therapy may be a promising method for the treatment of bladder cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Constitutive Model and Cutting Simulation of Titanium Alloy Ti6Al4V after Heat Treatment.
As a typical high specific strength and corrosion-resistant alloy, titanium alloy Ti6Al4V is widely used in the aviation, ocean, biomedical, sport, and other fields. The heat treatment method is often used to improve the material mechanical properties. To investigate the dynamic mechanical properties of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V after heat treatment, dynamic compressive experiments under high temperature and high strain rate were carried out using split Hopkinson press bar (SHPB) equipment. The stress-strain curves of Ti6Al4V alloy under different temperatures and strain rates were obtained through SHPB compressive tests. The Johnson-Cook (J-C) constitutive equation was used for expressing the stress-strain relationship of titanium alloy under large deformation. In addition, the material constants of the J-C model were fitted based on the experimental data. An orthogonal cutting simulation was performed to investigate the cutting of Ti6Al4V alloy under two different numerical calculation methods based on the established J-C model using the finite element method (FEM). The simulation results confirm that the adiabatic mode is more suitable to analyze the cutting of Ti6Al4V alloy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reconstructive surgery for lower limb salvage.
The authors review the principles of reconstructive surgery for lower limb salvage after severe lower limb trauma to determine factors that have been used as decision-making criteria for limb salvage or amputation in severe lower extremity injuries and the methods of reconstruction and their outcome. The use of scoring systems and their value in acute decision making (primary amputation or limb salvage) are described. Soft-tissue reconstructive techniques, with emphasis on the use of flaps and the importance of selecting the best technique and time for the reconstruction are reviewed. Skeletal reconstructive techniques are described, including available options and currently held views on indications and use of the best contemporary methods. It is essential for the physician to make a good initial decision on the need for primary amputation or limb salvage. A multidisciplinary approach is fundamental to successful salvage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Turnover of monoamines in hippocampus of rats fed on vitamin E-deficient diet.
Turnover of noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) and their metabolites has been measured after a 15-day vitamin E-deficient diet in adult hippocampus. Moreover, we have measured in vitro receptor binding of [3H]5-HT in hippocampal membranes from control and vitamin E-deficient rats. Turnover rates of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and 5-hydroxy-3-indolacetic acid (5-HIAA) have been assayed from the disappearance rates after blocking by pargyline inhibition of monoamine oxidase (MAO). DA, NA, 5-HT, normetanephrine (NMN) and 3-methoxytyramine (3-MT) turnover rates have been measured as accumulation rates of DA, NA, 5-HT, NMN and 3-MT after pargyline inhibition of MAO. An increase was found in the turnover rate of DA between control and experimental animals. In contrast, no changes were found in the turnover rate of 3-MT and DOPAC. No change was found in the turnover rate of NA although there was an increase of the turnover rate of NMN in vitamin E-deficient diets. No changes was found in the turnover rate of 5-HT although there was a decrease of 5-HIAA turnover rate in the animals fed on a low vitamin-E diet. With respect to the 5-HT1 receptors, no changes were found in the affinity (kd) but the receptor number (Bmax) was increased in vitamin E-deficient rats. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The comparative information value of radiodiagnostic methods in the detection of stenosing lesions of the major arteries of the head].
To define the comparative informative value of different radiation diagnostic techniques, such as transcranial Doppler study (TCDS), duplex scanning (DS) of the great arteries of the head, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of vessels of the vessels of Willis and great arteries of the head, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), the authors analyze the results of examination of 15 patients with stenotic lesions of common carotid bifurcations and upper segments of inferior carotids. A full agreement of DSA and MRA findings was revealed in 6 patients; of them 5 and 1 patients had inferior carotid occlusion and subocclusion, respectively. There was mainly a discordance of data on lesion re-evaluation in < 90-99% (MRA revealed a complete lack of blood flow) and < 70% stenosis (changes were estimated as physiological turbulence in the bulb of the inferior carotid while analyzing MR images). A combination of MRA and DS of the great arteries of the head for diagnosis the presence and extent of stenosis and TCDS for evaluation of the activation of collateral circulatory pathways and a cerebrovascular reserve may virtually replace DSA which must probably be used only when the data obtained by different methods. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[A single physician or a group of specialists in the surgical ward. I: Impact on quality of the care provided by specialists].
The impact on quality of ward care provided by surgeons within two continuity schedules was assessed by explicit and implicit audit. In one schedule one surgeon provided care and in another a staff of surgeons provided care. The study included 214 consecutive inpatients. The study demonstrated that quality of ward care was unaffected by continuity schedule. In the single surgeon continuity schedule, however, nearly twice as many discharge letters were posted within four days (p < 0.001). Likewise, twice as many contained information that the patients had been informed about the diagnosis (p < 0.05). In both continuity schedules about 20% of the patients received inadequate care. Analysis of this finding demonstrated that more patients had been subject to inadequate follow-up in the single surgeon continuity schedule, whereas more patients had been subject to inadequate postoperative observation in the staff continuity schedule. In both schedules an equal number of patients had been subject to incomplete diagnoses and inadequate medical care. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Assessment of the efficacy of group counselling using cognitive approach on knowledge, attitude, and decision making of pregnant women about modes of delivery.
The choice of casarean deliveries by mothers is highly influenced by inadequate knowldge and negative attitudes towards vaginal birth. In this semi-experimental study, we compared knowledge, attitude, and decision making about modes of delivery between nulliparous pregnant women who received eight sessions of group consultation and those who took routine prenatal education. Contrary to the control group, the improvement of knowledge and attitudes were significant in the consultation group (p < 0.001), as well as mothers' decisions for vaginal birth (p = 0.03). Group consultation is an appropriate approach to improving knowledge, attitudes, and tendencies of mothers toward natural birth. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The receptor-like MLO protein and the RAC/ROP family G-protein RACB modulate actin reorganization in barley attacked by the biotrophic powdery mildew fungus Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei.
Cytoskeleton remodelling is a crucial process in determining the polarity of dividing and growing plant cells, as well as during interactions with the environment. Nothing is currently known about the proteins, which regulate actin remodelling during interactions with invading pathogens. The biotrophic powdery mildew fungus Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei (Bgh) invades susceptible barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) by penetrating epidermal cells, which remain intact during fungal development. In contrast, resistant host plants prevent infection by inhibiting penetration through apoplastic mechanisms, which require focusing defence reactions on the site of attack. We stained actin filaments in a susceptible Mlo-genotype and a near-isogenic race-non-specifically resistant barley mlo5-mutant genotype using fluorescence-labelled phalloidin after chemical fixation. This revealed that the actin cytoskeleton is differentially reorganized in susceptible and resistant hosts challenged by Bgh. Actin filaments were polarized towards the sites of attempted penetration in the resistant host, whereas when susceptible hosts were penetrated, a more subtle reorganization took place around fungal haustoria. Strong actin filament focusing towards sites of fungal attack was closely associated with successful prevention of penetration. Actin focusing was less frequent and seemingly delayed in susceptible wild-type barley expressing the susceptibility factor MLO. Additionally, single cell overexpression of a constitutively activated RAC/ROP G-protein, CA RACB, another potential host susceptibility factor and hypothetical actin cytoskeleton regulator, partly inhibited actin reorganization when under attack from Bgh, whereas knockdown of RACB promoted actin focusing. We conclude that RACB and, potentially, MLO are host proteins involved in the modulation of actin reorganization and cell polarity in the interaction of barley with Bgh. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Incomplete muscle activation after training with electromyostimulation.
Training with voluntary or electromyostimulation (EMS)-evoked eccentric contractions should produce complete muscle activation, since EMS and eccentric contractions preferentially recruit large motor units. Subjects (22 women ages 18-40) were randomly assigned to a voluntary (VOL; n = 8), EMS (n = 8), or control group. VOL and EMS groups trained the quadriceps at the same, increasing force levels 4 times/week for 6 weeks using voluntary or EMS-evoked eccentric contractions. VOL improved voluntary more than EMS-evoked eccentric strength. EMS improved EMS-evoked strength more than voluntary. EMS training improved EMS-evoked eccentric strength more than VOL training improved voluntary eccentric strength. EMS-evoked to voluntary force ratio increased from 0.57 (+/- 0.11) to 1.20 (+/- 0.35) in EMS and did not change in VOL (all changes p < .05). Six of eight EMS subjects produced greater EMS-evoked force posttraining, suggesting incomplete muscle activation after EMS training. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Safety and efficacy of infusional fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan (FOLFOXIRI) in Chinese patients with advanced colorectal cancer].
Objective: To establish the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin and irinotecan (FOLFOXIRI), and to evaluate the safety and efficacy in Chinese patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Methods: Patients were treated with a regimen consisting of infusional 5-fluorouracil (2 400 mg/m(2) on day 1), leucovorin (200 mg/m(2) on day 1), oxaliplatin (85 mg/m(2) on day 1), and irinotecan (at doses from 150 to 180 mg/m(2) on day 8) according to the dose-escalation schema. Treatment was repeated every 14 days. The UDP-glucuronosyl transferase (UGT) 1A1 genotypes were analyzed in the patients with dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). Results: A total of 12 patients with advanced colorectal cancer were included. The MTD of FOLFOXIRI in these patients was oxaliplatin 85 mg/m(2) day 1, leucovorin 200 mg/m(2) day 1, 5-fluorouracil 2 400 mg/m(2) day 1, and irinotecan 150 mg/m(2) day 8 every 2 weeks. The most common toxicities were nausea, diarrhea, leukopenia, neutropenia and fatigue. The DLTs were febrile neutropenia and diarrhea. The objective response rate was 66.7%. Conclusions: Our results indicate that FOLFOXIRI regimen is considered safe and effective in Chinese patients with advanced colorectal cancer, and the MTD of FOLFOXIRI regimen for Chinese patients with advanced colorectal cancer is recommended. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of Olfactorily Responsive Neurons in the Right Dorsal Habenula-Ventral Interpeduncular Nucleus Pathway in Food-Seeking Behaviors of Larval Zebrafish.
The habenula (Hb) plays important roles in emotion-related behaviors. Besides receiving inputs from the limbic system and basal ganglia, Hb also gets inputs from multiple sensory modalities. Sensory responses of Hb neurons in zebrafish are asymmetrical: the left dorsal Hb and right dorsal Hb (dHb) preferentially respond to visual and olfactory stimuli, respectively, implying different functions of the left and right dHb. While visual responses of the left dHb (L-dHb) have been implicated in light-preference behavior, the significance of olfactory responses of the right dHb (R-dHb) remains under-examined. It was reported that the R-dHb can gate innate attraction to a bile salt. However, considering a broad range of odors that R-dHb respond to, it is of interest to examine the role of R-dHb in other olfactory behaviors, especially food seeking, which is essential for animals' survival. Here, using in vivo whole-cell recording and calcium imaging, we first characterized food extract-evoked responses of Hb neurons. Responsive neurons preferentially locate in the R- but not L-dHb and exhibit either ON- (~87%) or OFF-type responses (~13%). Interestingly, this right-to-left asymmetry of olfactory responses converts into a ventral-to-dorsal pattern in the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN), a main downstream target of Hb. Combining behavior assay, we further found that genetic dysfunction or lesion of the R-dHb and its corresponding downstream ventral IPN (V-IPN) impair the food seeking-associated increase of swimming activity. Thus, our study indicates that the asymmetrical olfactory response in the R-dHb to V-IPN pathway plays an important role in food-seeking behavior of zebrafish larvae. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of pore geometry on the in vitro biological behavior of human periosteum-derived cells seeded on selective laser-melted Ti6Al4V bone scaffolds.
The specific aim of this study was to gain insight into the influence of scaffold pore size, pore shape and permeability on the in vitro proliferation and differentiation of three-dimensional (3-D) human periosteum-derived cell (hPDC) cultures. Selective laser melting (SLM) was used to produce six distinct designed geometries of Ti6Al4V scaffolds in three different pore shapes (triangular, hexagonal and rectangular) and two different pore sizes (500 μm and 1000 μm). All scaffolds were characterized by means of two-dimensional optical microscopy, 3-D microfocus X-ray computed tomography (micro-CT) image analysis, mechanical compression testing and computational fluid dynamical analysis. The results showed that SLM was capable of producing Ti6Al4V scaffolds with a broad range of morphological and mechanical properties. The in vitro study showed that scaffolds with a lower permeability gave rise to a significantly higher number of cells attached to the scaffolds after seeding. Qualitative analysis by means of live/dead staining and scanning electron micrography showed a circular cell growth pattern which was independent of the pore size and shape. This resulted in pore occlusion which was found to be the highest on scaffolds with 500 μm hexagonal pores. Interestingly, pore size but not pore shape was found to significantly influence the growth of hPDC on the scaffolds, whereas the differentiation of hPDC was dependent on both pore shape and pore size. The results showed that, for SLM-produced Ti6Al4V scaffolds with specific morphological and mechanical properties, a functional graded scaffold will contribute to enhanced cell seeding and at the same time can maintain nutrient transport throughout the whole scaffold during in vitro culturing by avoiding pore occlusion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Novel intronic variants of MICB (MHC class I chain-related gene B).
We report an eight-nucleotide duplication in intron 4 of the MICB allele 01021, which was found in samples from different ethnic backgrounds and in association with several HLA-B alleles. We suggest that this new MICB allele is evolutionarily older than HLA-B alleles. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Phenylpropanoids are key players in the antioxidant defense to ozone of European ash, Fraxinus excelsior.
Physiological and biochemical responses to ozone (O3) (150 ppb, 8 h day-1, 35 consecutive days) of two Italian provenances (Piedmont and Tuscany) of Fraxinus excelsior L. were evaluated, with special attention to the role of phenylpropanoids. Our results indicate (i) the high O3 sensitivity especially of Piedmont provenance (in terms of visible injury, water status, and photosynthetic apparatus); (ii) although the intra-specific sensitivity to O3 between provenances differs (mainly due to different stomatal behaviors since only Tuscany plants partially avoided the uptake of the pollutant gas), both provenances showed detoxification and defense mechanisms; (iii) the crucial participation of phenylpropanoids, with a key role played by flavonoids (especially quercitrin): among this class of metabolites, isoquercitrin is the principal player in the lower O3 sensitivity of Tuscany plants, together with lignins; (iv) although coumarins (typical compounds of Fraxinus) were severely depressed by O3, isofraxidin was triggered suggesting a key role in reactive oxygen species (ROS) detoxification, as well as trans-chalcone. Furthermore, the different behavior of verbascoside and oleuropein among provenances lead us to speculate on their influence in the tentatively repair or acclimation shown by Piedmont plants at the end of the exposure. Finally, the intra-specific O3 sensitivity may be also due to de novo peaks triggered by O3 not yet associated to some chemicals. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effect of cisapride on esophageal motility in healthy probands and patients with progressive systemic scleroderma].
Prokinetic agents might be useful in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) who have disturbed function of the lower esophageal sphincter and impaired acid-clearance of the tubular esophagus. We therefore compared, by means of esophageal manometry, the effect of 20 mg cisapride orally vs. placebo in 12 patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and proven esophageal dysfunction as well as in 10 healthy volunteers in a double-blind, prospective trial. An increase of the lower esophageal resting pressure from 18.1 +/- 2.4 mm Hg to 23.9 +/- 8.1 mm Hg* after cisapride administration was observed in healthy volunteers, and from 10.9 +/- 3.2 mm Hg to 13.6 +/- 4.0 mm Hg* in the PSS patients. The amplitudes of peristaltic waves in the distal part of the esophagus were increased by cisapride from 83.8 +/- 10.6 mm Hg to 95.6 +/- 15.5 mm Hg* in volunteers and from 28.9 +/- 12.8 mm Hg to 36.8 +/- 16.2 mm Hg in patients (*:P less than 0.05). These results indicate that cisapride has a therapeutic rationale in the treatment of esophageal dysfunction in PSS; further clinical investigations are justified. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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