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A wealth of information to apply to lymphoedema management.
Garry Cooper, Lecturer in Adult Nursing and Lymphoedema, Birmingham City University, considers how increasing knowledge in the field needs to be translated into effective, patient-focused services. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A meta-analysis of limb-salvage versus amputation in the treatment of patients with Enneking‡U pathologic fracture osteosarcoma.
The aim of this meta-analysis was to further explore whether the relapse, 5-year survival and metastasis the same or not between limb-salvage and amputation in the treatment of patients with limited stage Enneking II pathologic fracture osteosarcoma. An electronic search of the Medline, EMBASE and CNKI was done on October 2014. The clinical studies about amputation or limb-salvage surgery in the treatment of patients with limited stage Enneking II pathologic fracture osteosarcoma were searched and reviewed. The effect size of relapse, 5-year survival and metastasis between the amputation and limb-salvage surgery were pooled by stata11.0 software (Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA, http://www.stata.com;) using random or fixed effect model. The funnel plot and Egger's line regression test were used for evaluation of publication bias. A total of 89 studies were identified and seven articles with 200 cases in the limb-salvage surgery group and 84 subjects in the amputation group were finally included in the meta-analysis. The pooled data indicated that no statistical different of risk for developing relapse between limb-salvage and amputation was found relative risk (RR) =1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71-2.79, (P = 0.33). The 5-year survival rate of patients underwent limb-salvage surgery was smaller than patients received amputation RR = 1.86, 95%CI: 1.19-2.89, (P = 0.01); the metastasis rate of patients underwent limb-salvage surgery was significant decreased compared with patients received amputation RR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.34-0.94, (P = 0.03). No publication bias was existed in this meta-analysis. Limb-salvage surgery does not increased the risk of relapse compared with amputation in the treatment of patients with limited stage Enneking II pathologic fracture osteosarcoma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Screening outcome in women repeatedly recalled for the same mammographic abnormality before, during and after the transition from screen-film to full-field digital screening mammography.
The aim of this study was to retrospectively determine screening outcome in women recalled twice for the same mammographic lesion before, during, and after transition from screen-film (SFM) to full-field digital screening mammography (FFDM). We included women with a repeated recall for the same mammographic abnormality (37 at subsequent SFM-screening, obtained between January 2000-April 2010; respectively 54 and 65 women with a prior SFM-screen or FFDM-screen followed by subsequent FFDM-screening, obtained between May 2009-July 2013). At SFM-screening, repeated recalls for the same lesion comprised 1.2 % of recalls (37/3217), including 13 malignancies (positive predictive value (PPV), 35.1 %). During the SFM to FFDM transition (SFM-screen followed by FFDM-screen), FFDM recalls comprised more repeated recalls for the same lesion (2.2 %, P = 0.002), with a lower PPV (14.8 %, P = 0.02). This proportion increased to 2.8 % after transition to FFDM (i.e., two successive FFDM-screens), with 16 malignancies (PPV, 24.6 %). Invasive cancers at repeated recall were smaller than interval cancers (T1a-c, 79.4 versus 46.8 %, P = 0.001), with less lymph node involvement (20.6 versus 46.5 %, P = 0.007). More women are repeatedly recalled for the same mammographic abnormality during and after the transition from SFM to FFDM-screening, with comparable cancer risks before and after the transition. These cancers show better prognostic characteristics than interval cancers. • FFDM-screening increases the number of repeated recalls for the same mammographic abnormality. • The PPV of these recalls is comparable before and after transition to FFDM-screening. • Cancers diagnosed after a repeated recall are smaller than interval cancers. • These cancers also show less lymph node involvement than interval cancers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Continuous absorption background and decoherence in quantum dots.
We consider theoretically the role of crossed transitions on the interband optical properties of quantum dots. These transitions, which involve one bound state and one delocalized state, are inherent to the joint nature of the valence-to-conduction density of states in quantum dots. We show that they play a crucial role both on the interband absorption and on the broadening of the quantum dot lines. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Prevalence of psychiatric disorders among teenage offenders].
There has been a significant number of adolescents admitted to National Youth Service of Chile (SENAME) detention centers in recent years, specifically since the promulgation of a law reform on juveniles' penal responsibility for people aged 14 to 18 years (2006). To determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in adolescent male offenders aged between 14 and 17 years. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Kids and Adolescents (MINI-KID) was applied to 489 adolescents admitted to detention centers, to determine the presence of psychiatric disorders. (Hypo) maniac episodes, eating disorders, pervasive developmental disorders, tic disorders, and psychotic disorders were excluded. Furthermore, for purposes of analysis, 23 cases that used a substance of abuse or had signs of consumption the day of the interview were excluded. Eighty six percent of respondents had at least one psychiatric disorder. The most common were substance use disorders (76%). Among these, marijuana dependence disorder had the higher frequency (51%). Disruptive behavior disorders had also a high prevalence (38%), followed by anxiety disorders (27%), attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (26%), and affective disorders (21%). There is a high prevalence of psychiatric morbidity among teenage offenders which could undermine rehabilitation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hepatitis B surface antigenaemia in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.
To determine the prevalence of HBsAg among blood donors in Ilorin, in the middle belt area of Nigeria. Cross sectional. University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. 100 patients from antenatal clinic, 100 patients from STD clinic and 295 healthy blood donors from UITH. Prevalence of HBsAg. One hundred and sixteen (23.4pc) of the subjects were positive for HBsAg. These included 16pc of ANC patients, 36pc of STD patients and 21.7pc of blood donors. The positivity rate among STD patients was significantly higher than among ANC patients (p < 0.01) and blood donors (p < 0.01). The positivity rate among patients above 34 years of age was higher than in those of 15 to 34 years. The above positivity rates are higher than those previously reported in Nigeria and may indicate increasing prevalence. The highest rate found among STD clinic patients may have identified them as a reservoir group to which control programmes need to be targeted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Plasma vitamin A in haemodialysis patients.
Different high performance liquid chromatographic systems were applied to the investigation of vitamin A metabolism in subjects undergoing haemodialysis. Plasma levels of retinol, retinyl esters and retinoic acid were measured. There was a significant elevation of plasma retinol and dialysis failed to normalise this level. No correlation with plasma concentrations of creatinine or urea was found. No differences in retinyl ester and retinoic acid levels were observed between healthy subjects and haemodialysis patients. These results suggest that retinol accumulation is not caused by a deficiency in its oxidative metabolism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Efficient C-H/C-N and C-H/C-CO-N conversion via decatungstate-photoinduced alkylation of diisopropyl azodicarboxylate.
Tetrabutylammonium decatungstate (TBADT) accelerated the addition of C-H bonds to the N═N double bond of diisopropyl azodicarboxylate (DIAD) under irradiation conditions. The photoinduced three-component coupling between cyclic alkanes, CO, and DIAD was also achieved to give the corresponding acyl hydrazides. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Open reduction and endobutton fixation of displaced fractures of the lateral end of the clavicle in younger patients.
Displaced fractures of the lateral end of the clavicle in young patients have a high incidence of nonunion and a poor functional outcome after conservative management. Operative treatment is therefore usually recommended. However, current techniques may be associated with complications which require removal of the fixation device. We have evaluated the functional and radiological outcomes using a novel technique of open reduction and internal fixation. A series of 16 patients under 60 years of age with displaced fractures of the lateral end were treated by open reduction and fixation using a twin coracoclavicular endobutton technique. They were followed up for the first year after their injury. At one year the mean Constant score was 87.1 and the median Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 3.3. All fractures had united, except in one patient who developed an asymptomatic fibrous union. One patient had post-traumatic stiffness of the shoulder, which resolved with physiotherapy. None required re-operation. This technique produces good functional and radiological outcomes with a low prevalence of complications and routine implant removal is not necessary. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pulmonary vascular pressures of strenuously exercising Thoroughbreds after administration of varying doses of frusemide.
The frusemide dose-response for attenuation of exercise-induced pulmonary capillary hypertension was studied in 7 healthy, exercise-conditioned Thoroughbred horses using previously described haemodynamic procedures. Four different doses of frusemide were tested: 250 mg regardless of bodyweight (amounting to 0.56 +/- 0.03 mg/kg bwt), 1.0 mg/kg bwt, 1.5 mg/kg bwt and 2.0 mg/kg bwt. Frusemide was administered i.v., 4 h before exercise. Haemodynamic data were obtained at rest and during treadmill exercise performed at 14.2 m/s on a 3.5% uphill grade; this workload elicited maximal heart rate of horses. Airway endoscopy was performed post exercise to detect exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH). In standing horses, frusemide administration resulted in a significant (P<0.05) decrease in mean pulmonary arterial, pulmonary capillary and pulmonary artery wedge pressures, but significant differences among the various frusemide doses were not observed. In the control experiments, exercise caused significant increments in the right atrial as well as pulmonary arterial, wedge, and capillary pressures, and all horses experienced EIPH. Following frusemide administration, the exercise-induced rise in right atrial and pulmonary vascular pressures was significantly attenuated, but significant differences between the frusemide doses of 250 mg, 1.0 mg/kg, and 1.5 mg/kg were not discerned and all horses remained positive for EIPH. Although a further significant (P<0.05) attenuation of the exercise-induced rise in pulmonary capillary blood pressure occurred when frusemide dose increased from 250 mg to 2.0 mg/kg bwt, all horses still experienced EIPH. It is concluded that a linear response to increasing frusemide dosage in terms of attenuation of the pulmonary capillary hypertension does not exist in strenuously exercising Thoroughbred horses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Primary Powered Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy in the Setting of Acute Dacryocystitis and Lacrimal Abscess.
The purpose of the present study is to report authors' experience of primary powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy in the setting of acute dacryocystitis and lacrimal sac abscess. A prospective interventional case series of 20 primary powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomies were performed in 20 patients presenting with acute dacryocystitis and lacrimal sac abscess at a tertiary eye care center from April to December 2013. None of the patients received preoperative antibiotics. All cases were operated by single surgeon (M.J.A.) using a standard described technique. All patients were intubated for 6 weeks. A minimum follow up of 6 months after stent removal was considered for the final analysis. The main outcome measures were the resolution of infection and the anatomical and functional successes of the surgical procedure. The mean age at presentation was 39.2 years. Sixty percent of patients (12/20) presented with acute dacryocystitis, 35% (7/20) with a lacrimal abscess, and 5% (1/20) with a dacryopyocele following a failed probing. None of the cases received preoperative antibiotics. Ten percent of patients (2/20) underwent additional septoplasty. All the cases showed resolution of pain and swelling at 1 week follow up. Two patients were noted to have small edge granulomas of the ostium, which were successfully managed by focal excision. At the final follow up, anatomical success was achieved in 95% (19/20) and functional success in 90% (18/20) of the patients. Primary powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is an effective modality in the management of acute dacryocystitis and lacrimal abscess, and result in rapid resolution of the disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Androstadienone resulted in a rightward shift of women's preference for sexually dimorphic male faces across the continuum of femininity-masculinity.
As a derivative of testosterone, androstadienone (AND) can influence human psychological and physiological states. To explore the influence of AND on women's preferences for male sexual dimorphic faces in a mate-choice context, we asked 52 females in the luteal phase to choose one from four sexual dimorphic male faces in a long-term and short-term context while inhaling 250 μm of AND or a placebo odor on two consecutive days. Results revealed that participants had a greater and lesser preference for the +30% masculinized and 60% feminized faces, respectively, while inhaling AND, as compared to when inhaling the placebo. The AND intervention resulted in a rightward shift of the women's preference for male sexual dimorphic faces across the continuum of femininity-masculinity. The current findings highlight that AND may influence women's preference for male sexually dimorphic faces in a mate-choice context. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Size, node status and grade of breast tumours: association with mammographic parenchymal patterns.
A case-control study was designed to assess the association of mammographic parenchymal patterns with the risk of in-situ and invasive breast cancer. In addition, the relationship between tumour characteristics and mammographic patterns were also investigated. A total of 875 patients with breast cancer were selected and matched with 2601 controls. Mammographic parenchymal patterns of breast tissue were assessed according to Wolfe's classification, and statistical analysis was by conditional logistic regression. Relative to the N1 pattern, the odds ratios of having an invasive breast cancer associated with the P2 and DY patterns were 1.8 and 1. 4, respectively. In addition, the odd ratios of having an invasive grade 3 breast cancer associated with the P2 and DY patterns were 2. 8 and 3.9, respectively. Relative to the combined N1/P1 pattern, the odd ratios of having a breast cancer smaller than 14 mm, 15-29 mm, or larger than 30 mm associated with the combined high-risk P2/DY pattern (P2 + DY) were 1.2, 1.6, and 2.0, respectively. Finally, women with the P2/DY pattern were twice as likely to have a breast cancer which had already spread to the axillary nodes, compared to women with women with the N1/P1 pattern (odds ratios of 2.1 and 1.4, respectively). Our results confirm previous findings suggesting that mammographic parenchymal patterns may serve as indicators of risk for breast cancer. Our results also suggest that mammographic parenchymal patterns are associated with the stage at which breast cancer is detected. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of oral health behavior of female dental hygiene students and interns of Saudi Arabia by using Hiroshima University Dental Behavioural Inventory (HU-DBI).
To evaluate and compare oral health behavior of female dental hygiene students/interns (stu/int) studying in private and government universities of Saudi Arabia. An English version of Hiroshima University Dental Behavioral Inventory (HU-DBI) was self-administered by 85 dental hygiene stu/int of government and private university colleges and responses were collected. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, logistic regression models and independent t tests were performed. A significantly higher mean HU-DBI score was observed among the clinical dental hygiene stu/int (7.50 ± 1.55) and students of government universities (7.59 ± 1.72) as compared to the preclinical students (6.61 ± 2.03) stu/int studying in private university (6.69 ± 1.46). Considerable differences in oral health behaviours were observed between dental hygiene stu/int of government and private universities and preclinical and clinical level of dental hygiene education. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Ultrasonography--selective use for diagnosis in spine pathology].
A series of 5 patients diagnosed with a meaningful influence of ultrasound has been presented. In 2 cases the changes within iliopsoas muscle were found, sacral anterior meningocele, neoplastic infiltration of the great retro-perineal vessels from the fourth lumbar vertebral body metastasis and neurofibromatosis of cervical spinal canal were diagnosed in the remaining cases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
CdTe quantum dots as probes for near-infrared fluorescence biosensing using biocatalytic growth of Au nanoparticles.
A near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence sensing strategy for glucose and xanthine has been developed based on the interaction between CdTe quantum dots (QDs) and biocatalytic generated Au nanoparticles. The fluorescence of CdTe QDs is modulated by changing concentration of AuCl4- and Au nanoparticles during the growth process of Au nanoparticles. Two cases were considered. In the first case, the glucose oxidase (GOx) catalyzes the oxidation of glucose to generate H2O2. Under the catalysis of Au nanoparticles seeds, the AuCl4- is reduced by the H2O2 to form the Au nanoparticles. In the second case, the xanthine oxidase acts as the reducing reagents to reduce AuCl4- forming Au nanoparticles. The interaction between CdTe quantum dots (QDs), AuCl4-, and Au nanoparticles resulted in the fluorescence changes of CdTe QDs, allowing the detection of glucose and xanthine. The effects of Au nanoparticles and AuCl4- on the fluorescence of CdTe QDs were discussed. A model was developed to explain the mechanism of the CdTe QDs fluorescence changes by biocatalytic growth of Au nanoparticles. The difference in the Stern-Volmer quenching constant between AuCl4- and Au nanoparticles is the dominant factor for the CdTe QDs fluorescence changes. The developed method provides low limits of detection, wide linear ranges, and detection wavelengths in the NIR region and can be easily extended to other substrate/oxidase systems. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Novel Au Catalysis Strategy for the Synthesis of Au@Pt Core-Shell Nanoelectrocatalyst with Self-Controlled Quasi-Monolayer Pt Skin.
Design of catalytically active Pt-based catalysts with minimizing the usage of Pt is a major issue in fuel cells. Herein, for the first time, we have developed a Au catalytic reduction strategy to synthesize a Au@Pt core-shell electrocatalyst with a quasi-monolayer Pt skin spontaneously formed from the gold surface catalysis. In the presence of presynthesized gold nanocrystals (used as the catalyst and Au seeds) and 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid buffer (used as reductant), under the Au surface catalysis, platinum ions can be reduced and deposited on the gold nanocrystals to form a Pt skin surface with a quasi-monatomic thickness. In the present strategy, Pt ions can be reduced only under the catalysis of gold surface and thus when the surface of Au NPs is covered by a monatomic Pt layer, the reduction reaction of Pt ions will be spontaneously turned off. Therefore, the significant advantage of this synthesis strategy is that the formation of quasi-monolayer Pt skin surface can be self-controlled and is completely free of controlling the dosage of platinum ions and the size distribution of Au cores. The synthesized Au@Pt core@shell structure exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activities for oxygen reduction reaction and methanol oxidation reaction, which are 6.87 and 10.17 times greater than those of Pt/C catalyst, respectively. The present study provides a new strategy for obtaining high-performance bimetallic/multimetallic electrocatalysts with high utilization of precious metals. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stimulation of prostaglandin biosynthesis by urine of the human fetus may serve as a trigger for parturition.
Urine of the human fetus stimulated prostaglandin biosynthesis in vitro by increasing the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. The stimulatory activity in urine from fetuses delivered at term after labor of spontaneous onset was greater than that in urine from fetuses delivered by cesarean section at term before the onset of labor. Such stimulation of prostaglandin biosynthesis by the fetal membranes, by way of a substance released into the urine and thence into amniotic fluid, could serve as a signal for the initiation of parturition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lack of fatty acid specificity in the lipolysis of oligo and polyunsaturated triacylglycerols by milk lipoprotein lipase.
Native soybean and rapeseed oils and native and rearranged cod liver and peanut oils were subjected to partial hydrolysis with milk lipoprotein lipase and the fatty acid composition and molecular association in the substrates and lipolysis products were determined. In both native and rearranged oils the lack of significant differences in the fatty acid composition and molecular association between the residual and total triacylglycerols suggested that all triacylglycerols were attacked by the lipoprotein lipase at about the same rate. Any enrichment of a specific fatty acid in the diacyl- or monoacylglycerol products of a native oil generally reflected the preferential association of the fatty acid with the 2-position, and to a lesser extent the sn-3-position of the glycerol molecule and was accompanied by a decreased level of the corresponding free fatty acid product. In general, the products of the rearranged oils closely resembled the original triacylglycerols in the fatty acid composition. It is concluded that lipoprotein lipase does not show any detectable specificity for the unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids with double bonds located at carbons 3 to 19 from the carboxyl end of the fatty acid molecules. These findings are compatible with the possible binding of the substrate to lipoprotein lipase through atoms involved in the acyl ester groups of the triacylglycerol molecules. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Continuous river monitoring of the diatoms in the diagnosis of drowning.
The diagnosis of drowning is one of the most difficult in forensic pathology. Diatom analysis has been proposed to provide supportive evidence of drowning but the reliability and applicability of quantitative and qualitative diatom analysis in the diagnosis of drowning is still disputed in the literature. In order to further examine such cases, the authors report the development of a water monitoring system based on algae performed each month at three aquatic locations where drowning victims are frequently found. Water samples and stones were taken from the surface and from the bed of the river. This protocol was performed during 1993 with analyses both on water samples and human tissue samples (30 bodies). The diatom profile of the drowning sites was compared with the tissue analysis. The extraction of diatoms from the tissues was performed with an enzymatic digestion method using Proteinase K. Results indicate that the monitoring of river diatom populations is an accurate method of generating profiles of the river flora, which can then be compared with the diatom genera found in tissues. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Induction of eryptosis by cyclosporine.
Side effects of cyclosporine treatment include anemia. Most recent studies have found that anemia may be caused by triggering of suicidal erythrocyte death (eryptosis), i.e. activation of an erythrocyte scramblase and phosphatidylserine exposure at the erythrocyte surface. Phosphatidylserine exposing cells are rapidly cleared from circulating blood by phagocytosis. Stimulators of erythrocyte membrane scrambling include cytosolic Ca(2+) and ceramide, which are increased by entry through Ca2+-permeable cation channels and by activation of a sphingomyelinase, respectively. The present study has been performed to test for an effect of cyclosporine on eryptosis. Erythrocytes from healthy volunteers were exposed to cyclosporine, and phosphatidylserine exposure (annexin V binding), cell volume (forward scatter), cytosolic Ca2+ activity (Fluo3-dependent fluorescence), ceramide formation (anti-ceramide-FITC antibody), and 45Ca2+ uptake were determined by flow cytometry and tracer flux measurements, respectively. Exposure of erythrocytes to cyclosporine triggered annexin V binding and significantly enhanced the increased annexin V binding both following glucose depletion and after hyperosmotic or isotonic cell shrinkage. However, cyclosporine significantly decreased cytosolic Ca2+ activity and did not stimulate 45Ca2+ uptake. Instead, cyclosporine transiently stimulated ceramide formation, decreased the cytosolic ATP concentration and potentiated the decline of cytosolic ATP concentration following glucose depletion. Elevated ceramide levels and ATP depletion, in turn, sensitize the erythrocytes for the eryptotic effects of Ca2+. The present observations may provide a mechanistic explanation for the anemia following treatment with this important immunosuppressive drug. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effect of functional disorders of deep veins of the lower extremities on the clinical course of varicose veins].
Results of the complex clinical and phlebographic examination of 106 patients with the varicose disease were studied. It was established that the degree of alterations of the venous outflow was dependent on the spread of ectasia of profound veins, while the clinical form of ectasia of the profound veins--on the state of the valve system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Image-spherizing-based planeness detecting method for a micro-channel plate.
Based on the mathematical models proposed by the image spherizing algorithm, a novel planeness detecting method for a micro-channel plate (MCP) is presented. After describing the theory of the image spherizing algorithm, a straight line image is chosen as a standard picture, and the imaging simulation for a deformed MCP is performed. According to the simulated results, the deformation characteristic of the MCP and the mechanism of the image twisting phenomenon were analyzed. Finally, the double lines method, which specializes in planeness detection, is proposed. The experimental result obtained by interferometer shows that the profile characteristics of a deformed MCP are consistent with the theoretical analysis. To verify the effectiveness of the double lines method, we measured the planeness of 100 pieces of MCP and then defined the detecting standard: a micro-channel plate will be treated as a defective product when the twisting angle of the two orthogonal lines in the reflected image is greater than 40°, whereas the product will meet the military standard when the twisting angle is smaller than 7°. In this method, the planeness detection could be completed only by observing the reflected image of the MCP, even in a harsh environment. In particular, the accuracy can reach 1 μm and it has been applied to the MCP production process. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tolypocladium terricola sp. N., a new mosquito-killing species of the genus Tolypocladium Gams (Hyphomycetes).
A new entomopathogenic species of the genus Tolypocladium, T. terricola is described from a soil sample from Finalnd. From other known Tolypocladium species, T. terricola differs in morphology, production of secondary metabolites and possession of relatively strong mosquitocidal activity. The fungus is characterized by broad oval conidia (2.5 x 2 microns) with one pointed end which are produced in grape-like clusters, and are not firmly adherent. When treated with T. terricola, mosquito larvae show typical features of intoxication characterized by the concentration of larvae in the centre of cup, hanging by their siphons on the surface. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Watermelon glyoxysomal malate dehydrogenase is sorted to peroxisomes of the methylotrophic yeast, Hansenula polymorpha.
We have studied the fate of the watermelon (Citrullus vulgaris Schrad.) glyoxysomal enzyme, malate dehydrogenase (gMDH), after synthesis in the methylotrophic yeast, Hansenula polymorpha. The gene encoding the precursor form of gMDH (pre-gMDH) was cloned in an H. polymorpha expression vector downstream of the inducible H. polymorpha alcohol oxidase promoter. During methylotrophic growth, pre-gMDH was synthesized and imported into peroxisomes, where it was enzymatically active. The apparent molecular mass of the protein located in H. polymorpha peroxisomes was equal to that of pre-gMDH (41 kDa), indicating that N-terminal processing of the transit peptide had not occurred in the yeast. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Contribution of platelets to increased plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 in severe preeclampsia.
Plasminogen activator inhibitor activity and antigen were evaluated in plasma, serum and platelet lysate in patients with severe preeclampsia (n = 12), and in normal pregnant women (n = 21). Other parameters, including beta-thromboglobulin and platelet count, were also evaluated. A significant increase (p less than 0.05) in beta-thromboglobulin was observed in platelet poor plasma of preeclamptic women when compared with that of normal pregnant women, and the platelet count was lower in the preeclamptic group than in the normal pregnant group. A significant increase in plasminogen activator inhibitor activity and antigen was observed in platelet poor plasma of the preeclamptic group as compared with normal pregnant women, whereas platelet lysate from preeclamptic women showed a significant decrease in both plasminogen activator inhibitor activity and antigen as compared with that of normal pregnant women. No correlation between beta-thromboglobulin and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 antigen in platelet poor plasma was observed, but a significant inverse correlation (r = -0.78, p less than 0.05) between beta-thromboglobulin in platelet poor plasma and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 antigen in platelet lysate was obtained in preeclamptic patients. However, in platelet poor plasmas obtained from normal platelet rich plasmas activated with thrombin (0.1 IU/ml, 37 degrees C, 1 min), an increase of about 300 ng/ml in beta-thromboglobulin was observed while the increase in plasminogen activator inhibitor was only 4 ng/ml.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparative study of the colchicine binding site and the assembly of fish and mammalian microtubule proteins.
Isolated microtubules from cod (Gadus morhua) are apparently more stable to colchicine than bovine microtubules. In order to further characterize this difference, the effect of the colchicine analogue 2-methoxy-5-(2,3,4-trimethoxyphenyl)-2,4,6-cyclo heptatrien-1-one (MTC) was studied on assembly, as measured by turbidity and sedimentation analysis, and on polymer morphology. MTC has the advantage to bind fast and reversible to the colchicine binding site of tubulin even at low temperatures. It was found to bind to one site in cod brain tubulin, with affinity (6.5 +/- 1.5) x 10(5)M-1 at both low or high temperature, similarly to bovine brain tubulin. However, the effect of the binding differed. At substoichiometric concentrations of MTC bovine brain microtubule assembly was almost completely inhibited, while less effect was seen on the mass of polymerized cod microtubule proteins. A preformed bovine tubulin-colchicine complex inhibited the assembly of both cod and bovine microtubules at substoichiometric concentrations, but the effect on the assembly of cod microtubules was less. At higher concentrations (5 x 10(-5) to 1 x 10(-3) M), MTC induced a large amount of cold-stable spirals of cod proteins, whereas abnormal polymers without any defined structure were formed from bovine proteins. Spirals of cod microtubule proteins were only formed in the presence of microtubule associated proteins (MAPs), indicating that the morphological effect of MTC can be modulated by MAPs. The effects of colchicine and MTC differed. At 10(-5) M colchicine no spirals were formed, while at 10(-4) M and 10(-3) M, a mixture of spirals and aggregates was found. The morphology of the spirals differed both from vinblastine spirals and from the spirals previously found when cod microtubule proteins polymerize in the presence of high Ca2+ concentrations. The present data show that even if the colchicine binding site is conserved between many different species, the bindings have different effects which seem to depend on intrinsic properties of the different tubulins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fertility performance and obstetric outcomes among women with previous cesarean scar pregnancy.
The purpose of this study was to assess fertility performance and obstetric outcomes after treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy. We conducted a retrospective study in a large tertiary hospital in Israel. The study included 18 women with a diagnosis of cesarean scar pregnancy between 2000 and 2009. The incidence of cesarean scar pregnancy among our parturient patients was 1 per 3000 for the general obstetric population and 1 per 531 among those with at least 1 cesarean delivery. Sixteen were treated primarily with methotrexate. Two were treated primarily by surgery, and 2 more were treated by surgery after failed methotrexate treatment. After cesarean scar pregnancy treatment, 7 women conceived spontaneously, and 1 conceived by in vitro fertilization-intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The remaining 10 (55%) did not wish to conceive again. Two of the women who became pregnant (25%) had recurrent cesarean scar pregnancy. This study shows encouraging results for fertility performance and obstetric outcomes after treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy. Nevertheless, the risk of recurrent cesarean scar pregnancy is not negligible. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Spectroscopic and electrochemical studies of DNA breakage induced by dopamine and copper ion.
Dopamine may show some biological activities in antitumor and cell apoptosis. Herein, we attempted to employ UV-Vis, CD, and electrochemical methods to investigate the interaction between DNA and dopamine. Both the spectroscopic and electrochemical evidence indicated that dopamine, which was a cation, could interact with polyanion DNA. However, this kind of interaction, mainly by a static electronic force, did not result in any damage of the DNA structure. This situation was quite different when Cu ion was added to the dopamine-DNA system; an obvious change in the color of the solution and in the spectra of UV-Vis and CD showed that some chemical changes occurred in this system, and that the DNA native structure was destroyed. The results of gel electrophores further revealed that DNA might be broken into small segments by dopamine in the presence of Cu ion. The possible reaction mechanisms are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
PC program for determining the dose necessary to produce a given amount of change.
Given a simple linear regression equation of the form D = alpha + beta Z, it is well-known how to predict, and construct confidence intervals for, the value of D corresponding to a given Z. In this paper we describe, illustrate and make available a menu-driven PC program which can be used to solve the inverse problem, namely, to estimate and construct confidence intervals for the value of Z corresponding to a given value of D. We describe the procedure in the context of a dose-response relationship, where it is desired to estimate the dose (Z) to effect a given amount of change (D), but the method is more general than this. In particular, it may be usefully applied in calibration problems where one may wish to estimate the true value of a measurement given the value as read from a measuring device. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The blood supply of the papillary muscles of the left ventricle in the Hereford cattle.
The blood supply of the Papillary Muscle (PM) of the left ventricle, cranial (PM) and caudal (PM), in Hereford cattle was studied. The results obtained from the dissection of 50 hearts injected with neoprene latex, indicated that the cranial PM is supplied by collateral of the Ramus descendens paraconalis in all cases, alone or together with vessels from the Ramus circumflexus of the Arteria coronaria sinistra. The caudal PM is supplied from arteries coming mainly from the Ramus circumflexus of the A. coronaria sinistra, and also from the Ramus descendens subsinuosus and Ramus descendens paraconalis. When present, the A. diagonalis supplies the cranial PM and in some cases the caudal PM too. Thus this vessel can be termed "artery of the papillary muscle". | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Short-term poststimulatory response characteristics of the human acoustic stapedius reflex: monotic and dichotic stimulation.
Two experiments were performed to study short-term poststimulatory response characteristics of the human acoustic stapedius reflex in the time and intensity domains. In experiment 1, monotic magnitude-intensity functions (MIFs) were obtained for a 20-ms test stimulus preceded by a conditioning stimulus varying in duration (20, 50, 100, 500 ms) and level (-10, 0, +10 dB re: stapedius-reflex threshold) and temporally separated from the test stimulus by various interstimulus intervals (ISIs) (0, 20, 50, 100, 500 ms). Experiment 2 was similar in design except that conditioner and test stimuli were presented dichotically and fewer ISIs were used. Both experiments demonstrated that a prior conditioning stimulus produced significant increases in test-stimulus response magnitude. These poststimulatory effects were characterized by complex interactions among stimulus variables (conditioner duration, conditioner level, and interstimulus interval) with similar interactions occurring for both monotic and dichotic stimuli. A simple superposition effect of the responses to the conditioner and test stimulus does not account for the effect of prior stimulation since responses often exceeded the sum of the responses to the conditioner and the test stimulus alone. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Expression of nicotinamide edenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase gene in placenta of patients with pregnancy induced hypertension].
To investigate the expression of nicotinamide edenine dinucleotide (NADH) dehydrogenase gene in the placenta of patients with pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) and the role of NADH dehydrogenase in PIH pathogenesis. Using (32)P dATP labeled human NADH dehydrogenase cDNA probe, the expression of NADH dehydrogenase gene in placental tissues of 10 normal late pregnant (NLP) women and 10 PIH patients was detected by dot blot. Mean A of each hybridization dot was measured by image analysis system to compare NADH dehydrogenase mRNA level in PIH placentae with that in NLP placenta. The NADH dehydrogenase gene values in patients with PIH and NLP were 21 +/- 6 and 56 +/- 16. The level of NADH dehydrogenase mRNA in PIH placenta was significantly higher than that in normal placenta (P < 0.05). Elevated expression of NADH dehydrogenase gene may play a role in PIH pathogenesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical electromyomechanographic and electromyographic studies in decurarization with pymadine.
The authors present a clinical evaluation of a new drug - pymadine - reversing the non-depolarization block. The drug was administered to 21 patients. Full return of neuromuscular conduction was obtained. The drug is not an anticholinergic agent, has no side effects and does not require atropine administration. The authors recommend its use in patients with high cardiovascular and respiratory operative risk. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Duration of diabetes and screening coverage for retinopathy among patients with type 2 diabetes.
Despite reporting of the Wisconsin Epidemiologic Study of Diabetic Retinopathy(1) and the Diabetic Retinopathy Awareness Program(2) that diabetes duration was a significant predictor for adherence to vision care guidelines, reports of estimates of screening coverage for diabetic retinopathy taking into account diabetes duration have been lagging. This article estimates considering diabetes duration, the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and screening coverage for diabetic retinopathy among type 2 diabetic patients. As part of a treatment program at a High-Resolution Diabetes Center in Spain, type 2 diabetic patients attending the center from January 2003 to January 2005 were invited to participate in the study. Data on age, sex, and diabetes were recorded into a questionnaire, as was information about previous eye examinations. Polaroid(R) photographs were taken of the eye fundus with the poorest visual acuity using a nonmydriatic retinal camera. A total of 217 type 2 diabetic patients entered the program. The average age and duration of diabetes was 60.9 years and 7 years, respectively. Screening coverage for diabetic retinopathy was higher in those with a longer duration of diabetes (chi(2) = 36.5; p = 0.001). Fifty percent of patients had developed some retinopathy within the first 5 years after the diagnosis of the disease, but only 26.1% had received a previous fundus examination. These results argue for screening programs for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus focused on the subgroup of patients with diabetes duration of 5 years or less. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Processing temporal agreement in a tenseless language: an ERP study of Mandarin Chinese.
Human languages are equipped with an impressive repertoire of time-encoding devices which vary significantly across different cultures. Previous research on temporal processing has focused on morphosyntactic processes in Indo-European languages. This study investigated the neural correlates of temporal processing in Mandarin Chinese, a language that is not morphologically marked for tense. In a sentence acceptability judgment task, we manipulated the agreement between semantically enriched temporal adverbs or a highly grammaticalized aspectual particle (-guo) and temporal noun phrases. Disagreement of both the temporal adverbs and the aspectual particle elicited a centro-parietal P600 effect in event-related potentials (ERPs) whereas only disagreeing temporal adverbs evoked an additional broadly distributed N400 effect. Moreover, a sustained negativity effect was observed on both the words following the critical ones and the last words in sentences with temporal disagreement. These results reveal both commonalities and differences between Chinese and Indo-European languages in temporal agreement processing. In particular, we demonstrate that temporal reference in Chinese relies on both lexical semantics and morphosyntactic processes and that the level of grammaticalization of linguistic devices representing similar temporal information is reflected in differential ERP responses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The structures of the carbohydrate moieties of bovine blood coagulation factor IX (Christmas factor).
Bovine blood coagulation factor IX (Christmas factor) contains four asparagine-linked sugar chains in one molecule. The sugar chains were quantitatively liberated as radioactive oligosaccharides from the polypeptide moiety by hydrazinolysis followed by N-acetylation and NaB3H4 reduction. The structures of these sugar chains were determined by sequential exoglycosidase digestion in combination with methylation analysis. Bovine factor IX contained two unique penta- and tetrasialyl triantennary sugar chains with the structures shown below in addition to tetra-, tri-, and disialyl biantennary sugar chains of Sia alpha 2 leads to 3 Gal beta 1 leads 3(Sia alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6[Sia alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(Sia alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNac beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3]Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, Sia alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6[Sia alpha 2 leads to 3Gal beta 1 leads to 3(Sia alpha 2 leads to 6)GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3]Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc, and Sia alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 6(Sia alpha 2 leads to 6Gal beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 2Man alpha 1 leads to 3)Man beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc beta 1 leads to 4GlcNAc and their partially desialized forms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Understanding homeopathy.
Interest in homeopathy is growing because of the costs and impersonality of modern medical care and the increase in infectious diseases that do not respond to allopathic medicine. Extreme dilutions are the main reason many scientists doubt the effectiveness of homeopathic products. Scientists have petitioned the Food and Drug Administration to hold homeopathic products to the same standards as other drugs. While some studies support the efficacy of homeopathy, controlled clinical studies determining effective levels of dilution for these substances are needed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
New agents in follicular lymphoma.
The follicular lymphomas are indolent diseases that are highly responsive to various combinations of standard chemotherapy drugs. Nevertheless, until recently, no regimen had improved patient outcome. The incorporation of effective and well-tolerated monoclonal antibodies, such as rituximab, into chemoimmunotherapeutic strategies provided the first evidence that survival of these patients could be prolonged. Nevertheless, follicular lymphoma remains incurable and characterized by recurrent relapses requiring additional treatment. An increasing number of effective drugs are now being evaluated either alone or in combinations including the chemotherapy drugs bendamustine and bortezomib. More targeted agents include monoclonal antibodies and their derivatives such as drug-antibody conjugates and small modular immunopharmaceuticals. Other agents inhibit various cellular pathways including those triggered by the B-cell receptor, including spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) and Bruton's tyrosine kinase, and other intracellular pathways such as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), PI3-kinase, and apoptosis, and drugs that target the tumor microenvironment, notably the immunomodulatory agent lenalidomide. The development of combinations of these agents should be based on scientific rationale with correlative studies to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms of action and resistance of the drugs and the biology of the tumor to further improve the outcome of patients with follicular lymphoma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in the intraoperative assessment of mitral valve disease.
The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of real-time 3-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography in the intraoperative assessment of mitral valve (MV) pathology and to compare this novel technique with 2-dimensional (2D) transesophageal echocardiography. Forty-two consecutive patients undergoing MV repair for mitral regurgitation (MR) were studied prospectively. Intraoperative 2D and 3D transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE) examinations were performed using a recently introduced TEE probe that provides real-time 3D imaging. Expert echocardiographers blinded to 2D TEE findings assessed the etiology of MR on 3D transesophageal echocardiography. Similarly, experts blinded to 3D TEE findings assessed 2D TEE findings. Both were compared with the anatomic findings reported by the surgeon. At the time of surgical inspection, ischemic MR was identified in 12% of patients, complex bileaflet myxomatous disease in 31%, and specific scallop disease in 55%. Three-dimensional TEE image acquisition was performed in a short period of time (60 +/- 18 seconds) and was feasible in all patients, with optimal (36%) or good (33%) imaging quality in the majority of cases. Three-dimensional TEE imaging was superior to 2D TEE imaging in the diagnosis of P1, A2, A3, and bileaflet disease (P < .05). Real-time 3D transesophageal echocardiography is a feasible method for identifying specific MV pathology in the setting of complex disease and can be expeditiously used in the intraoperative evaluation of patients undergoing MV repair. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Infection Studies in Pigs and Porcine Airway Epithelial Cells Reveal an Evolution of A(H1N1)pdm09 Influenza A Viruses Toward Lower Virulence.
We analyzed the virulence of pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza A viruses in vivo and in vitro. Selected viruses isolated in 2009, 2010, 2014, and 2015 were assessed using an aerosol-mediated high-dose infection model for pigs as well as air-liquid interface cultures of differentiated airway epithelial cells. Using a dyspnea score, rectal temperature, lung lesions, and viral load in the lung as parameters, the strains from 2014-2015 were significantly less virulent than the strains isolated in 2009-2010. In vitro, the viruses from 2009-2010 also differed from the 2014-2015 viruses by increased release of infectious virus, a more pronounced loss of ciliated cells, and a reduced thickness of the epithelial cell layer. Our in vivo and in vitro results reveal an evolution of A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses toward lower virulence. Our in vitro culture system can be used to predict the virulence of influenza viruses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
EFFECTS OF DISTANCE BETWEEN POLLEN DONOR AND POLLEN RECIPIENT ON FITNESS COMPONENTS IN ESPELETIA SCHULTZII.
The effect of flowering time and of distance between pollen donor and pollen recipient on the proportion of filled achenes, aborted seeds, and seedling survivorship was studied in populations of Espeletia schultzii in the Venezuelan Andes. Hand-pollinations were performed in two different years and at different times during the flowering season. Pollinations within-population included crosses between plants within a few meters to a maximum of 500 m apart and between-population pollinations included crosses between plants more than 10 km and up to 78 km away. Late in the flowering season, plants suffered a reduction in the proportion of filled achenes and an increase in aborted seeds. The proportion of filled achenes and aborted seeds did not vary significantly between the distances between pollen and ovules in crosses done early in the flowering season. However, the proportion of filled achenes in crosses between individuals within 30 m distance were very variable, either very successful or not successful. Beyond 30 m, for some of the populations, the frequency of unsuccessful crosses was almost 0. This pattern was observed at three elevation sites in two consecutive years. When crosses were done late in the flowering season, the proportion of filled achenes was lower in crosses between close individuals and between very distant ones. Seedling survivorship varied significantly between the crossing distances at the higher elevation only. The results show that a clear effect of the incompatibility alleles on the crossing success of the plants is present in the different populations examined, while they suggest that the effect of inbreeding or outcrossing depression is less clear but might still be present only under certain conditions. Late in the season, when plants might have fewer resources available for reproduction and at the high and intermediate site where cold and dry environmental conditions are less favorable for the plants, the discrimination among distances was stronger. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
UV light inactivation of hepatitis A virus, Aichi virus, and feline calicivirus on strawberries, green onions, and lettuce.
A majority of illnesses caused by foodborne viruses are associated with fresh produce. Fruits and vegetables may be considered high-risk foods, as they are often consumed raw without a specific inactivation step. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate nonthermal treatments for the inactivation of foodborne pathogens. This study investigates the UV inactivation of three viruses: feline calicivirus (a surrogate for norovirus), and two picornaviruses, hepatitis A virus and Aichi virus. Three produce types were selected for their different surface topographies and association with outbreaks. Green onions, lettuce, and strawberries were individually spot inoculated with 10(7) to 10(9) 50% tissue culture infective doses (TCID50) of each virus per ml and exposed to UV light at various doses (< or = 240 mW s/cm2), and viruses were eluted using an optimized recovery strategy. Virus infection was quantified by TCID50 in mammalian cell culture and compared with untreated recovered virus. UV light applied to contaminated lettuce resulted in inactivation of 4.5 to 4.6 log TCID50/ml; for contaminated green onions, inactivation ranged from 2.5 to 5.6 log TCID50/ml; and for contaminated strawberries, inactivation ranged from 1.9 to 2.6 log TCID50/ml for the three viruses tested. UV light inactivation on the surface of lettuce is more effective than inactivation on the other two produce items. Consistently, the lowest results were observed in the inactivation of viruses on strawberries. No significant differences (P > 0.05) for virus inactivation were observed among the three doses applied (40, 120, and 240 mW s/cm2) on the produce, with the exception of hepatitis A virus and Aichi virus inactivation on green onions, where inactivation continued at 120 mW s/cm2 (P < 0.05). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The regularity of cycles and ovarian efficiency in a group of Friesland cows.
Delayed ovulation was recorded in 17,34% and anovulation in 17,66% of 623 oestrus periods in 32 Friesland cows. Cycle length was abnormal in 19,19% of 568 cycles and was associated with an increase in the incidence of defective ovulation. Inseminations failed in 24,6% of cases despite normal ovulatory function at oestrus while in nine out of 134 inseminations sperm retained its fertilizing capacity in the female tract between 24 and 72 hours. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biotransformation of macrolide antibiotics using enriched activated sludge culture: Kinetics, transformation routes and ecotoxicological evaluation.
The biotransformation of three prominent macrolide antibiotics (azithromycin, clarithromycin and erythromycin) by an activated sludge culture, which was adapted to high concentrations of azithromycin (10 mg/L) was investigated. The study included determination of removal kinetics of the parent compounds, identification of their major biotransformation products (TPs) and assessment of ecotoxicological effects of biotransformation. The chemical analyses were performed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry, which enabled a tentative identification of TPs formed during the experiments. The ecotoxicological evaluation included two end-points, residual antibiotic activity and toxicity to freshwater algae. The enriched activated sludge culture was capable of degrading all studied macrolide compounds with high removal efficiencies (>99%) of the parent compounds at elevated concentrations (10 mg/L). The elimination of all three macrolide antibiotics was associated with the formation of different TPs, including several novel compounds previously unreported in the literature. Some of the TPs were rather abundant and contributed significantly to the overall mass balance at the end of the biodegradation experiments. Biodegradation of all investigated macrolides was associated with a pronounced reduction of the residual antibiotic activity and algal toxicity, indicating a rather positive ecotoxicological outcome of the biotransformation processes achieved by the enriched sludge culture. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lymph node ratio as a predictor of outcome in patients with oropharyngeal cancer.
To evaluate the utility of lymph node ratio (LNR) as a potential prognostic predictor and to test whether LNR may be useful as a potential selection criterion for adjuvant treatment in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSSC). This retrospective study included 384 patients with regionally metastasized OPSCC who underwent primary surgery with or without adjuvant therapy from 1980 to 2010. LNR was calculated as the ratio of positive lymph nodes to the total number of lymph nodes removed during neck dissection. Statistical analysis using a Cox regression model was carried out. The 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) was 73%. An individual LNR peak at 0.1 was closest to the median of 0.0909, and both were set as cut-off values. Patients in the group greater than median had a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.472 for a DSS event; this was close to an HR of 2.513 for LNR >0.1. In multivariate analysis, LNR showed a markedly stronger HR with regard to survival in comparison with the grouped pN classification. The covariate treatment modality did not meet the assumption of the Cox regression, and it was therefore not possible to comment reasonably on the issue of whether LNR could be a potential selection criterion for adjuvant treatment. Lymph node ratio is in itself a valuable additional prognostic factor for risk stratification. According to the current results, the most valuable LNR for OPSSC is expected to be located in the range from 0.09 to 0.1. Further investigations in large prospective trials will be required to allow evidence-based recommendations for treatment decisions based on the LNR. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Serotonin axon terminals in the ventral tegmental area of the rat: fine structure and synaptic input to dopaminergic neurons.
The serotoninergic (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) innervation of the rat ventral tegmental area (VTA) was examined by light and electron microscopic radioautography following intraventricular infusion of [3H]5-HT. The [3H]5-HT labeled processes were characterized with respect to their regional distribution, ultrastructure and relationships with all neurons, including dopaminergic neurons, identified in the same sections using immunocytochemistry for the localization of the catecholamine-synthesizing enzyme, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). By light microscopy, [3H]5-HT labeled axons and axonal varicosities were detected throughout the interfascicular nucleus and ventral portion of the VTA. By electron microscopy, [3H]5-HT-labeled axons were found to be mainly small and unmyelinated, although a few showed several lamellae of myelin. The labeled varicosities measured 0.6 micron in mean diameter and contained many small, round or flattened agranular vesicles and a few large granular vesicles. More than 18% showed synaptic specializations in single thin sections. Most of these synapses were asymmetric and established on dendritic shafts. Based on the probability of seeing such synaptic specializations in single thin sections, it was estimated that as many as 50% of the labeled 5-HT terminals formed synaptic contacts in the VTA. In dually labeled light microscopic sections, [3H]5-HT-accumulating processes often appeared adjacent to TH-immunoreactive perikarya and proximal dendrites. Electron microscopy demonstrated that terminals with radioautographic labeling for 5-HT formed conventional synapses both with TH-labeled and unlabeled dendrites in the VTA. Many additional 5-HT terminals lacking recognizable synaptic densities were directly apposed to TH-labeled dendrites and were isolated from the rest of the neuropil by thin glial leaflets. These results suggest that 5-HT neurons innervate both dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic neurons in the VTA and may influence mesocortical and mesolimbic efferent systems through synaptic as well as non-synaptic mechanisms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A prostaglandin endoperoxide analog increases gastric emptying and suppresses gastric secretion in rhesus monkeys.
The effects of a stable endoperoxide analog, U-46619, were studied in five conscious chair-adapted rhesus monkeys. A dye dilution technique was used to determine simultaneously gastric fractional emptying, fluid output and ion output. A continuous infusion of either saline or U-46619 (0.2 micrograms/kg/min i.v.; 1 or 2 micrograms/kg/min s.c.) was given during a basal period and after distension of the stomach with an 80-ml water load. These studies demonstrate that U-46619 increases basal, but not postload fractinal emptying, and inhibits parietal secretion. These actions are similar to some of the effects of prostacyclin, prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2 alpha on gastric emptying and secretion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Posterior glottic diastasis: mechanically deceptive and often overlooked.
Dysphonia secondary to posterior glottic aerodynamic incompetence can often be recognizable acoustically, but difficult to document visually. This mechanical impairment in posterior glottic closure is the result of injury caused by airway instrumentation. The difficulty of recognition of this entity is due to posterior supraglottic soft tissue that obscures the complete view during posterior glottic adduction, the lack of a structural organization of the cricoarytenoid region injury that leads to this disorder, and the lack of nomenclature. A retrospective assessment was done on 3 patients who underwent surgical reconstruction to correct posterior phonatory incompetence subsequent to laryngotracheal intubation. All 3 had sustained an injury to the cricoarytenoid joints, and 2 of the 3 had undergone paraglottic space medialization laryngoplasty that failed to solve the posterior glottic insufficiency. New procedures were designed and performed in these patients to correct the posterior glottic incompetence and are described: laryngofissure and partial posterior cricoid resection, endoscopic pharyngoepiglottic-aryepiglottic fold advancement-rotation flap with interarytenoid interposition, and interarytenoid submucosal implant augmentation. Although the academic literature is replete with reports describing stenosis resulting from impaired cricoarytenoid joint abduction, the term glottic diastasis provides nomenclature for the inability to normally adduct the arytenoid cartilages. The initial experience with surgical reconstruction is preliminary, but encouraging. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular typing study of the Microsporum canis strains isolated from an outbreak of tinea capitis in a school.
Tinea capitis is a dermatophyte infection of the scalp that occurs most often in prepubescent children. Tinea capitis may be transmitted by shared use of contaminated hairbrush, by contact with fomites or by direct physical contact with an infected person. Occasionally, outbreak of tinea capitis would happen under some special conditions. Last year, we found an outbreak of tinea capitis in a school due to Microsporum canis. In epidemiological study, we performed the prevalence survey to all of the exposed persons by physical examinations and mycological laboratory tests, including KOH preparation and fungal cultures. We also investigated the environment in the school. In molecular typing study of the M. canis isolated from patients and the environment, random primer amplification polymorphic DNA (RAPD) method, the specific amplification of subrepeat element in the ribosomal DNA nontranscribed spacer (NTS), and the analysis of DNA sequence in the intertranscribed spacer (ITS) of rDNA were performed. The total number of exposed children was seventy-one, among them forty-two were attacked by tinea capitis. The ratio between boy and girl was 13:1. The ages of the patients was ranged from 3.5 years old to 10 years old. Four patients bred cat or dog as pet. Most patients appeared noninflammatory type of tinea capitis and several patients were inflammatory type. Under microscopic examination the invaded hair were all ectothrix. The pathogens isolated from these patients were M. canis. And we also isolated M. canis from the carpet and the pillowcase in the school. The patterns of total strains of M. canis in the RAPD method and PCR amplification of the rDNA NTS region study were identical, and the isolates from patients and the environment contained the same DNA sequences in the ITS region. The outbreak of tinea capitis was caused by M. canis. The M. canis isolated from patients and from the environment were probably the same origin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Odds-on favourite.
The recent announcement that the UK's first 'super-casino' will be built in Manchester has caused dismay in Blackpool, which had been tipped as favourite to win the licence. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The reputation of punishers.
Punishment is a potential mechanism to stabilise cooperation between self-regarding agents. Theoretical and empirical studies on the importance of a punitive reputation have yielded conflicting results. Here, we propose that a variety of factors interact to explain why a punitive reputation is sometimes beneficial and sometimes harmful. We predict that benefits are most likely to occur in forced play scenarios and in situations where punishment is the only means to convey an individual's cooperative intent and willingness to uphold fairness norms. By contrast, if partner choice is possible and an individual's cooperative intent can be inferred directly, then individuals with a nonpunishing cooperative reputation should typically be preferred over punishing cooperators. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Decreased pathology and prolonged survival of human DC-SIGN transgenic mice during mycobacterial infection.
Dendritic cell (DC)-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3 grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN: CD209) is a C-type lectin that binds ICAM-2,3 and various pathogens such as HIV, helicobacter, and mycobacteria. It has been suggested that Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of pulmonary tuberculosis, interacts with DC-SIGN to evade the immune system. To directly analyze the role of human DC-SIGN during mycobacterial infection, we generated conventional transgenic (tg) mice (termed "hSIGN") using CD209 cDNA under the control of the murine CD11c promoter. Upon mycobacterial infection, DCs from hSIGN mice produced significantly less IL-12p40 and no significant differences were be observed in the secretion levels of IL-10 relative to control DCs. After high dose aerosol infection with the strain M. tuberculosis H37Rv, hSIGN mice showed massive accumulation of DC-SIGN(+) cells in infected lungs, reduced tissue damage and prolonged survival. Based on our in vivo data, we propose that instead of favoring the immune evasion of mycobacteria, human DC-SIGN may have evolved as a pathogen receptor promoting protection by limiting tuberculosis-induced pathology. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Kinetic models for peptide-induced leakage from vesicles and cells.
In this article analytical expressions for peptide-induced membrane leakage are presented. Two different models for time-dependent leakage have been developed. In the first, the leakage is assumed to be coupled by pores formed by the peptides. In the second model the peptide is assumed to induce a stress/perturbation in the membrane, and in order to reduce the stress, rearrangements in the membrane are induced. The leakage is coupled to these rearrangements, and when equilibrium is achieved no more leakage occurs. From the kinetic models simple fitting routines have been developed involving only two fitting parameters, and these have been used to fit experimental data for two prion protein-derived peptides as well as the honey bee toxin melittin in both vesicles and erythrocytes with good results. The fitted parameters provide both a quantitative and a qualitative basis for interpreting the experimental results. In addition a model for the peptide concentration-dependent leakage is presented, which was used to fit experimental data for leakage induced by the prion protein-derived peptides. The models presented in this article are compared with other models for peptide-induced membrane leakage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High resolution and sensitivity gamma camera with active septa. A first Monte Carlo study.
Gamma cameras are of great interest due to their high potential in the field of Nuclear Medicine Imaging. They allow for an early diagnosis of reduced size tumors, and also for a wide variety of preclinical studies with the aim of designing more effective treatments against cancer. In this work we propose a significantly improved multi-pinhole collimator gamma camera and perform a first Monte Carlo analysis of its characteristics. Maintaining the configuration of a multi-pinhole collimator with a high degree of overlapping (thus with a high sensitivity), we add a new element, an active septa, that besides acting as a collimator, is able to measure the impact coordinates of the incident photon. This way one is able to unambiguously identify through which pinhole any gamma ray passes before being detected. The result is a high sensitivity and resolution multi-pinhole gamma camera with an arbitrarily large field of view. As a consequence, the final reconstructed image does not suffer from the undesired artifacts or truncation associated to the multiplexing phenomenon. In this study we focus on the development of a system able to visualize in 3D tumors, nodes and metastasis in real time in the operating room with very low dose. We also briefly analyse and propose a novel design for a Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transcription factor NF 1 expression in involuting mammary gland.
Transcripts of each of the four NF1 genes (NF1 A, B, C (CTF/NF1) and X) are expressed in both lactating and involuting mouse mammary gland but there is an indication that increased expression of an NF1 C (CTF/NF1) transcript accompanies early involution. The involution-associated 74 kD NF1 and the 114 kD lactation-associated NF1 are recognised by an anti-NF1 C-specific antibody that does not cross-react with other NF1 proteins. It is most likely that this lactation/involution switch in NF1 factors represents a change in expression of NF1 C (CTF/NF1) proteins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Predictors of psychotherapy outcome for children at a community mental health center.
This study assessed the utility of multiple predictors of outcome for 268 child clients and their families who received psychotherapy at a community mental health center for children. Outcome was measured by the number of therapy sessions attended, the length of therapy, and improvement ratings of the child and family made by independent judges. Regression analyses revealed that the strongest predictors of outcome were previous exposure to therapy, therapist type (permanent professional staff vs. intern), family constellation, therapist experience, and referral source. Implications for treatment planning and future research are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Primary salivary duct carcinoma of the lung, mucin-rich variant.
Primary salivary gland-type lung cancer is a heterogeneous group of neoplasms arising from the seromucinous glands of the respiratory tract. Histopathologically, they are identical to salivary gland neoplasms of the head and neck. While mucoepidermoid carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma are overwhelmingly the most common subtypes found in the lung, reports of uncommon subtypes can be found in the literature. We report a case of a 73-year-old woman with primary lung salivary duct carcinoma, mucin-rich variant--an exceedingly rare subtype of an already rare malignant salivary-type neoplasm. One case of primary lung salivary duct carcinoma has been reported in the literature; however, the mucin-rich variant has never been described in the lung. Furthermore, the tumor in our case bears a rare BRAF G464V mutation. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a BRAF G464V mutation detected in a salivary duct carcinoma or any other salivary-type neoplasm. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A population-based study of inter-generational attitudes towards consanguineous marriages in north-eastern Brazil.
The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate beliefs, attitudes and reproductive behaviours in relation to consanguinity in a population living in the backlands of north-eastern Brazil. Data were collected by face-to-face interview from 147 high school students aged 13-20 years and from 532 elderly individuals aged 60 years and over from Brejo dos Santos in the state of Paraíba in 2017. The frequency of consanguineous marriage was found to have increased over the generations, being 15.9% in the parents of the elderly participants, 17.1% in the elderly participants themselves and 20.5% in their descendants. Although 258 (50.9%) of the elderly interviewees opposed consanguineous union, 341 (65.3%) would approve of the marriage of their children with relatives. Both the young (n=108 or 78.3%) and elderly (n=398 or 80.4%) interviewees believed that consanguineous marriages were no more durable than non-consanguineous marriages (p=0.578). Additionally, 408 (82.4%) of the elderly individuals and 108 (80.6%) of the students recognized that spouses in consanguineous unions experience conflicts, just like other couples do (p=0.625). In both groups, the majority of the participants did not believe that consanguinity increased the risk of having children with disabilities. The regression of the two continuous variables 'age' and 'positive attitudes score' showed a significant correlation, suggesting that younger individuals are more susceptible to the influence of cultural factors contributing to consanguinity, such as the opinions of their parents and grandparents. The belief that consanguineous unions are more durable showed a significant difference between elderly individuals in consanguineous and non-consanguineous unions (p=0.001); the former were 2.42 more likely to believe that marriages between relatives contributes to marriage durability. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development of specific collagen scaffolds to support the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells.
Type I Collagen matrices of defined porosity, incorporating carbonate substituted hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals, were assessed for their ability to support osteo- and chondrogenic differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells (HBMSCs). Collagen-HA composite scaffolds supported the osteogenic differentiation of HBMSCs both in vitro and in vivo as demonstrated by histological and micro-CT analyses indicating the extensive penetration of alkaline phosphatase expressing cells and new matrix synthesis with localised areas immunologically positive for osteocalcin. In vivo, extensive new osteoid formation of implant origin was observed in the areas of vasculature. Chondrogenic matrix synthesis was evidenced in the peripheral regions of pure collagen systems by an abundance of Sox9 expressing chondrocytes embedded within a proteoglycan and collagen II rich ECM. The introduction of microchannels to the scaffold architecture was seen to enhance chondrogenesis. Tissue specific gene expression and corresponding matrix synthesis indicate that collagen matrices support the growth and differentiation of HBMSCs and suggest the potential of this platform for understanding the ECM cues necessary for osteogenesis and chondrogenesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Bladder leiomyoma in a 17-year-old male patient].
Bladder leiomyoma is a rare tumor, its frequency being estimated below 1%. We report the case of a 17-year-old mole patient presenting with hematuria and lower urinary tract irritative symptoms whose work up discovered two small bladder tumors. After TUR of the lesions the diagnosis of bladder leiomyoma was established; no recurrences have appeared on follow-up. Bladder leiomyoma is a benign tumor, therefore surgery should be the most conservative. Bibliographic review of the Spanish urologic journals shows that this is the youngest patient reported to date. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ultrasound-guided drainage of fluid-containing masses using angiographic catheterization techniques.
A new method combining experience of ultrasonic diagnostic and puncture technique with the use of existing angiographic tools is described. Using this method, intraabdominal fluid-containing mass lesions were drained for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. In three patients, severe life-threatening lesions were successfully diagnosed and treated solely by this method. In one other case the method greatly facilitated major surgery. The importance of integration of diagnostic radiology and ultrasound is stressed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thyroid ultrasonography as a tool for detecting thyroid autoimmune diseases and predicting thyroid dsfunction in apparently healthy subjects.
In order to establish its usefulness for the diagnosis and follow-up of thyroid autoimmune diseases, thyroid ultrasonography together with free T4 (FT4), free T3 (FT3), TSH, antibodies (Tg Ab) and thyroperoxidase antibodies (TPO Ab) were performed and re-evaluated during a 3-yr follow-up in 482 apparently healthy subjects, living in a borderline iodine-sufficient urban area. Thyroid dysfunction was found in 7 out of 12 (58.3%) subjects with circulating thyroid autoantibodies, who also had thyroid hypoechogenicity (2 had overt and 3 subclinical hypothyroidism at booking; 2 developed subclinical hypothyroidism during the follow-up), and in none of the 12 subjects with normal thyroid echostructure (chi2=7.26, p=0.007). Thyroid dysfunction was found in 4 out of 29 (13.7%) subjects with negative Tg and/or TPO Ab who also had thyroid hypoechogenicity (1 had Graves' disease at booking, 1 developed Graves' disease and 2 subclinical hypothyroidism during the follow-up), and in none of the 429 with normal thyroid echostructure (chi2=82.03, p<0.0001). Although positive TPO and/or Tg Ab were more frequent (24/482, 5%) in subjects with thyroid dysfunction (7/11) than in those who remained euthyroid during the study (17/471, chi2=69.66, p<0.0001), thyroid hypoechogenicity had a higher sensitivity than the positivity of thyroid autoantibody tests (100 vs 63.3%) for diagnosing or predicting thyroid dysfunction. 1) thyroid ultrasonography is a useful tool to detect thyroid autoimmune disease in apparently healthy subjects; 2) present and future thyroid dysfunction is more readily predicted by a hypoechogenic pattern at thyroid ultrasound than by the occurrence of serum thyroid autoantibodies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
IL-17, IL-6 and IFN-γ in Systemic Sclerosis Patients.
Systemic sclerosis (Ssc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by cutaneous and visceral fibrosis and its pathogenesis is incompletely understood. T helper cells are key regulators of the immune response and they seem to be involved in Ssc clinical manifestations. The aim of the study is to determine key cytokines secreted by Th1 (IFN-γ), Th2 (IL-6) and Th17 (IL-17) in Ssc patients and correlate them with specific manifestations of Ssc patients. 35 consecutive Ssc patients and 20 age and sex matched controls were recruited. Serum IL-17, IFN-γ and IL-6 were determined using ELISA method. Serum IL-17 and IL-6 levels were not significantly different in Ssc patients and controls. Serum IFN-γ levels were higher in Ssc patients when compared to controls. Higher serum IFN-γ levels associated with pulmonary hypertension. After adjusting for gender and age, IL-17 levels remained independently associated with some clinical manifestations of Ssc patients (telangiectasia and high activity score of Ssc). Th17 and Th1 cell responses are active in Ssc patients as their cytokines associated with higher disease activity scores and pulmonary manifestations. Th17 and Th1 specific activity and homing within Ssc patients still needs to be defined and determined in order to target them as potential future therapeutic targets in Ssc patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Estimation of serum acid proteases at pH 1.8 and pH 3.5 in patients with duodenal ulcer, gastric ulcer and gastric carcinoma.
Using a simple hemoglobin method on the basis of Anson-Mirsky's method, acid protease levels in serum were measured at pH 1.8 (pepsin) and pH 3.5 (gastricsin) in 18 healthy controls and 14 patients with duodenal ulcer, 19 patients with gastric ulcer and 18 patients with gastric cancer. Though acid protease activity in pH 1.8 in duodenal ulcer has a tendency to show a little higher level than healthy controls, there is no significant difference in acid protease levels between controls and each of three diseases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relevance of an opioid, noscapine in reducing cystogeneses in rat experimental model of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Owing to grave socio-medical consequences, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly alarming endocrinopathy. For searching better therapeutics for PCOS, we present a rat model for PCOS using antiprogestin RU486 and evaluate the efficacy of noscapine for its treatment. Female Wistar rats weighing 200+/-10 g bwt, exhibiting regular estrous cycle were administered an oral dose of RU486 [20 mg/kg body weight (bwt)/day] in olive oil for 13 consecutive days and compared with controls receiving 0.1 ml olive oil/100 g bwt/day. PCOS induced rats were administered varying dosing regimens of noscapine and were further compared with flutamide, the conventional drug for PCOS. Consecutively, vaginal smears and ovulation was noted and rats from all the groups were sacrificed and serum hormone levels for LH, FSH, PRL, estradiol, and testosterone were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Uteri and ovaries were excised free of adjacent tissue, weighed and further recruited for ascertaining ovary histologic parameters. Our data go in accordance with previous studies where RU486 administered rats mimicked classical PCOS parameters seen in women. PCOS induced rats with ovulation blockade, persistent estrus and polycystic ovary resumed estrous cycle in 3-4 days post noscapine administration (120 mg/kg bwt/day). Folliculogenesis was followed by ovulation with reduced cystic manifestation and restored ovary and uterus weight. Biochemically, serum LH, PRL, estradiol, and testosterone concentration showed reduction while FSH and progesterone concentration increased significantly when compared with the conventional drug flutamide. The amelioration of PCOS by noscapine is a novel observation that makes it a potential candidate for being a better therapeutic modality. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The influence of anti-Mullerian hormone on folliculogenesis].
The main biological role of the anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is to induce the involution of the Muller ducts in embryos during differentiation of masculine gender. In case of women, AMH is produced in granular cells of primary, preantral and antral follicles. The expression of AMH initiates at the moment of the follicle recruitment and it lasts until the stage of an antral follicle. The level of this hormone decreases with age and in postmenopausal period is undetectable in blood. Therefore, AMH could be a useful marker of ovarian reserve. Multiple investigations have revealed higher AMH levels in the blood of PCOS patients. It is believed to be the consequence of the increased amount of small antral follicles. AMH is considered to have an essential role in folliculogenesis. It inhibits the process of recruitment of primordial follicles and modifies the growth of preantral and antral follicles by diminishing the sensitivity of follicles for FSH stimulation. The paper is a review of the present knowledge of the structure and activity of AMH. AR gene and protein. Participation of AMH in folliculogenesis and changes of AMH levels depending on structure and age of the ovary have also been discussed. Recent findings concerning the possibility of using AMH to assess ovarian reserve and efficiency of the stimulation of ovulation in infertile women have been presented. It is believed that increased knowledge concerning AMH might improve the diagnosis and treatment of infertility caused by lack of ovulation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mapping the melatonin receptor. 5. Melatonin agonists and antagonists derived from tetrahydrocyclopent[b]indoles, tetrahydrocarbazoles and hexahydrocyclohept[b]indoles.
Tetrahydrocyclopent[b]indoles, tetrahydrocarbazoles, and hexahydrocyclohept[b]indoles have been prepared as melatonin analogues to investigate the nature of the binding site of the melatonin receptor. The affinity of analogues was compared in a radioligand binding assay using chicken brain membranes and agonist and antagonist potency measured in clonal Xenopus laevis melanophore cells. Comparison of the N-acyl-3-amino-6-methoxytetrahydrocarbazoles (2) with N-acyl-4-(aminomethyl)-6-methoxy-9-methyltetrahydrocarbazoles (9) showed that the latter have much higher binding affinities for the chicken brain receptor. Comparison of N-acyl-1-(aminomethyl)-7-methoxy-4-methyltetrahydrocyclopent[b]ind oles (10), 6-methoxytetrahydrocarbazoles (9), and N-acyl-10-(aminomethyl)-2-methoxy-5-methylhexahydrocyclohept[b]ind oles (11) showed that the tetrahydrocarbazoles had the highest binding affinity with the cyclohept[b]indoles and the cyclopent[b]indoles having rather lower affinities. All of these observations are in agreement with our postulated model of melatonin orientation at the binding pocket in which the 3-amidoethane side chain is in a conformation close to the 5-methoxyl group, as is shown in the X-ray crystallographic structure of 9m and in the energy-minimized computed structures. Separation of the enantiomers of members from each of these three systems was accomplished by chiral HPLC. It was found that in all cases the (-)-enantiomer had a higher binding affinity than the (+)-enantiomer. An X-ray crystallographic analysis of the two enantiomers of 9a showed that the (+)-enantiomer had the (R) absolute stereochemistry. Since the sign of the Cotton curves, determined from circular dichroism studies, was the same for all (+)-enantiomers, it is assumed that the absolute stereochemistry at these centers is identical. In the Xenopus melanophore assay, the tetrahydrocarbazoles 2 (R = H) were mainly weak antagonists, while those with R = OMe were agonists. The biological behavior of the tetrahydrocarbazoles 9 (R = H) depended on R1, some being agonists and some antagonists, whereas those with R = OMe were generally agonists. Variation of the R and R1 groups in compounds of type 9 produced both agonists and antagonists. The tetrahydrocylopentaindoles 10 had similar biological properties to the corresponding analogues of 9, but the hexahydrocycloheptaindoles 11 showed a much greater propensity to be antagonists. In all cases the (S)-enantiomers were found to be more potent agonists than the (R)-enantiomers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Regulation of alpha 1-adrenergic receptor-coupled calcium flux in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells.
To study the role of the alpha-adrenergic receptor (AAR) pathway in the regulation of catecholamine-induced vascular contraction, we developed methods for the direct evaluation of AAR and AAR-coupled calcium efflux in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells derived from the rabbit aorta by enzymatic dissociation. AAR were characterized by the binding of the alpha 1- and alpha 2-selective radioligands [3H]-prazosin and [3H]-yohimbine, respectively. Norepinephrine-stimulated efflux of 45calcium from preloaded cells was measured as an index of AAR-mediated calcium flux. The [3H]-prazosin binding was of high affinity (Kd = 0.15 nM), saturable (Bmax = 75-125 fmol/mg protein), and competed for by agonists and antagonists in the order expected for an alpha 1 receptor. There was no specific binding of [3H]-yohimbine. Norepinephrine-stimulated 45Ca efflux was concentration-dependent (EC50 congruent to 100 nM), and potently blocked by prazosin (IC50 congruent to 0.1 nM), but not yohimbine (IC50 greater than 100 nM), indicating, together with the binding data, that norepinephrine-stimulated 45Ca efflux in this system is alpha 1 mediated. Following treatment of cells with 1-norepinephrine (0.1 nM) for 24 hours, the density of AAR and maximal norepinephrine-stimulated 45Ca efflux were decreased by 72% +/- 14% and 91% +/- 9%, respectively. This cultured cell system offers several advantages for study of the mechanisms of coupling and regulation of alpha-adrenergic receptors in vascular smooth muscle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Pseudo-tumoral calcinosis universalis].
Marked deposits of calcium salts were noted in the triceps and gluteal and peritrochanteric areas in a 16-yr-old girl. Blood calcium values basal and after stimulation were normal. The classification of the case as a form of pseudotumoral calcinosis universalis is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Indinavir plasma concentrations and resistance mutations in patients experiencing early virological failure.
Virological failure under protease inhibitor (PI)-based antiretroviral regimens is often not explained by the selection of resistance mutations. The role of low indinavir (IDV) plasma levels in treatment failure was assessed in 46 subjects experiencing early virological failure to a first-line IDV-containing triple combination. Overall, 69% of patients showed subtherapeutic IDV plasma levels (it was not detected at all in 75% of them). Subjects with detectable but suboptimal IDV levels developed more IDV resistance mutations. Thus, drug monitoring may be useful to assess treatment adherence and risk of drug resistance in early virological failures. This information may be crucial for choosing the most appropriate rescue intervention. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Detecting weak phase locking in chaotic system with dual attractors and ill-defined phase structure.
A quantitative approach was constructed for detecting phase locking in a chaotic system with complex attractor structure via stroboscopic method. We study the route to weak phase locking by analyzing the stroboscopic points. The onset of weak phase locking detected by using this statistical approach and the critical coupling strength calculated by Lyapunov exponent are matched well. Detailed structure of phase locking intensity is described by the Arnold tongue diagram. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Microcapsules of alginate/chitosan containing magnetic nanoparticles for controlled release of insulin.
The challenge of this work was to investigate the potential of alginate/chitosan beads containing magnetite nanoparticles as a drug delivery system. The insulin beads were prepared by dripping a solution of sodium alginate containing insulin into a CaCl(2) solution. Magnetite nanoparticles of 5 nm mean size were synthesized inside the alginate egg-box structure by co-precipitation of Fe(III) and Fe(II) in the presence of NH(4)OH. Quantitative analysis revealed that insulin encapsulation depends on the initial protein content and 35% of insulin was entrapped by alginate beads for a protein concentration of 10 wt%. It was verified that approximately 50% of the insulin was released to Milli-Q water in 800 h release experiments. The application of oscillating magnetic field increased three fold the insulin release. The results suggest that the alginate/chitosan system containing magnetite nanoparticles is a promising system for clinical applications of controlled release of insulin in the presence of an oscillating magnetic field in a subcutaneous implant approach. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Liver complications have reached a plateau as cause of hospital admission and death in HIV patients in Madrid.
Hospital admissions and deaths due to liver-related complications as result of chronic viral hepatitis are globally on the rise in HIV patients. However, a steady decline in liver-related hospitalizations and deaths has occurred at our HIV clinic in Madrid since year 2003. Hepatic complications are currently still responsible for 8.7% of all hospital admissions and one-third of in-hospital deaths, with hepatitis C virus infection by far the leading etiologic agent. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preferred step frequency during downhill running may be determined by muscle activity.
It is well established that metabolic cost is minimized at an individual's running preferred step frequency (PSF). It has been proposed that the metabolic minimum at PSF is due to a tradeoff between mechanical factors, however, this ignores muscle activity, the primary consumer of energy. Thus, we hypothesized that during downhill running, total muscle activity would be greater with deviations from PSF. Specifically, we predicted that slow step frequencies would have greater stance activity while fast step frequencies would have greater swing activity. We collected metabolic cost and leg muscle activity data while 10 healthy young adults ran at 3.0m/s for 5 min at level and downhill at PSF and ±15% PSF. In support of our hypothesis, there was a significant main effect for step frequency for both metabolic cost and total muscle activity. In addition, there was greater muscle activity in the stance phase during the slower step frequency while muscle activity was greater in the swing phase during the fast step frequency. This suggests that PSF is partially determined by the tradeoff between the greater cost of muscle activity in the swing phase and lower cost in the stance phase with faster step frequency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lidocaine disposition in obesity.
Fourteen obese men (mean weight 124 +/- 8 kg (+/- standard error of the mean), percent ideal body weight (IBW) 169 +/- 10%), 11 obese women (96 +/- 6 kg; 174 +/- 11% IBW), 19 control men (69 +/- 1 kg; 93 +/- 2% IBW), and 12 control women (59 +/- 2 kg; 102 +/- 3% IBW), all of similar age and without clinical or laboratory evidence of cardiac or renal dysfunction, received a single 25-mg intravenous dose of lidocaine. Elimination half-life was markedly prolonged in obese compared with control men (2.69 +/- 0.2 vs 1.62 +/- 0.06 hour, p less than 0.001) and in obese compared with control women (2.95 +/- 0.1 vs 2.08 +/- 0.06 hour, p less than 0.01). This was not the result of a change in clearance (men, obese vs control: 1,427 +/- 117 vs 1,346 +/- 86 ml/min, difference not significant, [NS]; women: 1,089 +/- 83 vs 1,162 +/- 84 ml/min, NS), but rather of an increased absolute volume of distribution (Vd) in obese men (325 +/- 29 vs 186 +/- 12 liters, p less than 0.001) and obese women (264 +/- 20 vs 209 +/- 15 liters, p less than 0.025). Vd corrected for total body weight was unchanged in obesity for both men (2.67 +/- 0.22 vs 2.71 +/- 0.18 1/kg, NS) and women (2.88 +/- 0.31 vs 3.57 +/- 0.25, NS), suggesting that lidocaine Vd increases in parallel with body weight in both sexes. Because lidocaine clearance is determined mainly by hepatic blood flow, these findings suggest that extremes of body weight do not change hepatic blood flow.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cardiovascular responses to acute and subchronic treatment with oxprenolol in spontaneously hypertensive rats at rest and at stress.
To further examine the mechanism of antihypertensive action, effects of a single (50mg/kg) and repeated oral administration (50 mg/kg per day, for 14 days) of oxprenolol on mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were studied in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats at rest and during handling stress. MAP was measured through a indwelling aortic cannula and HR was determined via chronically implanted electrodes. A single oral dose of oxprenolol produced a gradual fall in resting MAP. Although repeated dose of oxprenolol did not alter the developmental course of hypertension in SHR rats, a prompt and significant fall in MAP at rest was observed after the dose on the 14th day of the experiment. A single and repeated dose of oxprenolol attenuated the increase in MAP during handling stress, but these effects were less apparent when compared to the fall in resting MAP. Significant reductions in stress-induced tachycardia were observed both after a single and repeated dose, whereas resting HR tended to increase. These results indicate that some of the postulated antihypertensive mechanisms such as central inhibition of sympathetic outflow, peripheral inhibition of sympathetic nerve functions and suppression of cardiac output are not directly related to a fall in MAP observed in SHR rats after oxprenolol treatment. Time courses of the hypotensive effect of a single and repeated doses suggest that the accumulation of oxprenolol in active sites which appear to be located in deep compartments is required to develop hypotensive effect. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Potential new therapies for perinatal cerebral hypoxia-ischemia.
Recent studies in neonatal animals have shown that hypoxic-ischemic brain damage can be reduced by interventions initiated after the hypoxic-ischemic insult. In this article, the authors focus on potentially new modalities of therapy capable of preventing--or at least reducing--brain damage arising from perinatal cerebral hypoxia-ischemia. Management strategies include oxygen-free radical inhibitors and scavengers, excitatory amino acid antagonists, and calcium channel blocker. Additional information is provided regarding the critical role of glucose in perinatal cerebral hypoxia-ischemia and also the protective effect of hypothermia on preventing brain damage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Induction of SOCS-3 is insufficient to confer IRS-1 protein degradation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 is a key protein in insulin signaling. Several studies have shown that the expression of IRS-1 can be modulated by protein degradation via the proteasome and the degradation of IRS-1 can be related to insulin-resistant states. The degradation of IRS-1 has been shown to be induced by SOCS-1 and SOCS-3 via the ubiquitin pathway. The goal of our study was to determine if the induction of SOCS-3 correlated with increased IRS-1 degradation in cultured 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Interestingly, our studies have shown that there is little correlation between the induction in SOCS-3 expression and the degradation of IRS-1 in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Our results clearly demonstrate that treatment with leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) or cardiotrophin (CT)-1 strongly induces the expression of SOCS-3 in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes, but does not affect the degradation of IRS-1. On the contrary, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and insulin, which very weakly induce SOCS-3 expression, have profound effects on IRS-1 degradation. In summary, our results indicate that the expression of SOCS-3 does not correlate with the degradation of IRS-1 proteins in fat cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Methotrexate: from its introduction to non-oncologic therapeutics to anti-TNF-α.
The history of the rheumatologic use of methotrexate until the 1990s will be reviewed, beginning with its pharmacology, with the focus on rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The insufficient availability of cortisone in the 1950s as well as the early recognition of its potential toxicity stimulated searches for alternative anti-inflammatory drugs. Two related derivatives of folic acid, aminopterin and amethopterin (MTX,) were found to give rapid symptomatic relief in cases of psoriasis vulgaris and psoriatic arthritis. For several years MTX was used primarily to treat psoriasis, and the dermatologic treatment protocols came to be used by rheumatologists. Giving MTX weekly rather than daily was found to diminish the risk of toxic effects. MTX became favoured over cyclophosphamide because of its lack of carcinogenicity, and although azathioprine lacked the hepatotoxicity of MTX, its anti-rheumatic effects were considered to be somewhat weaker. Although trials of MTX for the treatment of severe RA began in the 1960s, the first placebo-controlled study of MTX in RA was reported in 1985 and a comparison with Myochrysine in 1987. MTX has replaced gold compounds because it has been found to be more rapidly effective and better tolerated. The mechanisms of its anti-rheumatic effects remain incompletely explained, as are explanations of instances of its failure. Its recent use in combination with anti-TNFα agents appears to be another therapeutic advance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A technique for presenting risk and outcome data to potential living renal transplant donors.
Transplant centers have become increasingly interested in living donor kidney transplantation and have always had the obligation to counsel these donors fairly. Counseling techniques vary markedly among centers and can include overly qualitative or unintentional but covertly prescriptive presentation of risk and benefit. We describe a simple technique using preprinted fields of stick figures for presenting important risk and benefit data to potential renal donors. We also suggest an approach to formulating basic statistics for donor counseling. Risk and benefit statistics can be presented visually and quantitatively in a way that minimizes the need for donor sophistication and also displays the "all or nothing" nature of adverse events in donor and recipient populations, as opposed to using of percentages or prescriptive phrases by the donor counselor. Such stick figure field counseling for living renal transplant donors accurately provides information to both donor and center, appropriately facilitates center impartiality, and may increase the center's and the donor's confidence in the counseling process. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of a Novel De Novo Heterozygous Deletion in the SOX10 Gene in Waardenburg Syndrome Type II Using Next-Generation Sequencing.
Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder associated with pigmentation abnormalities and sensorineural hearing loss. In this study, we investigated the genetic cause of WSII in a patient and evaluated the reliability of the targeted next-generation exome sequencing method for the genetic diagnosis of WS. Clinical evaluations were conducted on the patient and targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to identify the candidate genes responsible for WSII. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were performed to confirm the targeted NGS results. Targeted NGS detected the entire deletion of the coding sequence (CDS) of the SOX10 gene in the WSII patient. MLPA results indicated that all exons of the SOX10 heterozygous deletion were detected; no aberrant copy number in the PAX3 and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) genes was found. Real-time qPCR results identified the mutation as a de novo heterozygous deletion. This is the first report of using a targeted NGS method for WS candidate gene sequencing; its accuracy was verified by using the MLPA and qPCR methods. Our research provides a valuable method for the genetic diagnosis of WS. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Altered sleep latency and arousal regulation in mice lacking norepinephrine.
Latency to sleep and the amount of sensory stimulation required to awaken an animal are measures of arousal threshold, which are ultimately modulated by an arousal regulation system involving many brain areas. Among these brain areas and network connections are wake-promoting nuclei of the brainstem and their corresponding neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine (NE). In this study, we used mice that are unable to produce NE to study its role in regulating sleep latency after a variety of interventions, and to study arousal from sleep after sleep deprivation (SD). Sleep latency was measured after gentle awakening or after injections of saline, caffeine or modafinil. Sleep latency was also measured before and after partial restoration of NE pharmacologically. Arousal threshold was measured by recording the number of decibels of white noise required to wake each mouse from NREM sleep after 0, 3 and 3 + 3 h SD (3 h SD followed by < 2 min sleep, followed by an additional 3 h SD). Results showed that when mice were awakened without being touched, there were no differences in sleep latency between the genotypes. However, after an injection of saline, the control mice increased their sleep latency, whereas the NE-deficient mice did not. There were no group differences in sleep latency after treatment with either stimulant. The sleep latency difference between the genotypes was ameliorated by partial restoration of NE. The arousal threshold experiments revealed that significantly more noise was required to wake the NE-deficient mice after 3 and 3 + 3 h of SD. These findings show that mice lacking NE fall asleep more rapidly only after a mild stressor, such as an intraperitoneal injection. NE-deficient mice are also more difficult to wake up using audio stimulation after SD. The results presented here suggest that NE promotes wakefulness during transitions between sleep and wake under conditions involving mild stress and SD, but not under baseline circumstances. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Detection and modeling of disease susceptibility locus effects: how much can be learned from contrast of populations?
We report the results of our analyses of the GAW11 Problem 2 data set, using information from three different populations. In the first part of the paper, we used classical population genetic tests to compare affected individuals from the different populations, stratifying on the environmental factors. Thanks to existing linkage disequilibrium in one population, we found one of the disease susceptibility loci. In the second part of the paper, we used the marker association segregation chi 2 method to model the role of this disease susceptibility locus in the different populations and draw some inferences regarding the model used at that locus to generate the data. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dopaminergic Modulation of Sleep-Wake States.
The role of dopamine in sleep-wake regulation is considered as a wakefulness-promoting agent. For the clinical treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness, drugs have been commonly used to increase dopamine release. However, sleep disorders or lack of sleep are related to several dopaminerelated disorders. The effects of dopaminergic agents, nevertheless, are mediated by two families of dopamine receptors, D1 and D2-like receptors; the first family increases adenylyl cyclase activity and the second inhibits adenylyl cyclase. For this reason, the dopaminergic agonist effects on sleep-wake cycle are complex. Here, we review the state-of-the-art and discuss the different effects of dopaminergic agonists in sleep-wake states, and propose that these receptors account for the affinity, although not the specificity, of several effects on the sleep-wake cycle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Flow patterns and endothelial cell morphology in a simplified model of an artificial ventricle.
The aim of this study was to delineate the flow patterns in a non-unidirectional flow field inside a ventricle-shaped cell culture chamber, and examine the resulting morphology and integrity of the endothelium in select regions of the monolayer. The chamber was perfused by pulsatile flow, and the coherent motion of the fluid was studied using flow visualization aided by image analysis. Four distinct flow patterns were discerned and examined: central jet, flow impingement, flow separation, and recirculating eddies. The influence of these patterns on endothelial cell morphology was assessed after 20 h of exposure to flow. There were no signs of damage to the endothelium in the jet region nor was there evidence of cell alignment with the flow. Yet, there were changes in cell morphology and cytoskeletal architecture as compared to control. By contrast, within the eddies where the flow was highly disturbed, there was apparent damage to the endothelium. Thus, exposure of cells to random velocity fluctuations in regions of quasi-static flow compromises the integrity of the monolayer. Identification of such sites and acquisition of the knowledge necessary to protect the cells from denudation will be valuable for the endothelialization efforts of cardiac prostheses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
lrpap1 as a specific marker of proximal pronephric kidney tubuli in Xenopus laevis embryos.
LRPAP1, also known as receptor associated protein (RAP) is a small protein of 40 kDa associated with six of the seven members of the evolutionary conserved family of LDL receptors. Numerous studies showed that LRPAP1 has a dual function, initially as a chaperone insuring proper formation of intermolecular disulfide bonds during biogenesis of low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors and later as an escort protein during trafficking through the endoplasmic reticulum and the early Golgi compartment, preventing premature interaction of receptor and ligand. Because of the general influence of LRPAP1 protein on lipid metabolism, we analyzed the temporal and spatial expression of the Xenopus laevis ortholog of lrpap1. Here, we show that lrpap1 was expressed in the developing neural system, the eye and ear anlagen, the branchial arches, the developing skin and the pronephric kidney. The very high expression level of lrpap1 specifically in the proximal tubules of the developing pronephros establishes this gene as a novel marker for the analysis of pronephros formation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The treatment of depression in chronic low back pain: review and recommendations.
The prevalence of major depression in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) is approximately three to four times greater than that reported in the general population. In spite of these high prevalence rates, there have been few systematic attempts to investigate the efficacy of treatment for major depression in patients with CLBP. While several studies have examined the efficacy of antidepressant medication and psychological treatment in patients with chronic pain, most of these studies have focused on treating chronic pain rather than depression. The few studies that have specifically addressed the treatment of depression in CLBP indicate that tricyclic antidepressants and cognitive-behavioral approaches may be effective means of treating depressed chronic pain patients. Clinical issues related to diagnostic confounds, rehabilitation outcome, and conceptualizations of the relation between pain and depression are discussed. It is argued that, in patients with clinical levels of depression, treatment modalities specifically targeting depressive symptomatology deserve serious consideration as an integral component of pain management programs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effective relief of acute coronary syndrome.
Effective and early pain relief remains a clinical priority, presently no one agent offers the ideal solution to controlling the pain of ACS. The early use of opiates, betablockers and nitrates, as well as reassuring patients, both have vital roles to play in providing effective analgesia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Bodily aspects of mentalization: a therapeutic focus in the treatment of patients with severe medically unexplained symptoms].
Our knowledge about medically unexplained symptoms (mus) is increasing, but translating this knowledge into more effective treatment, particularly if symptoms are severe, continues to be problematical. To clarify the physical aspect of mentalisation (body-mentalisation) and to outline a theoretical perspective of body-mentalisation, starting from theories such as the attachment theory and the mentalisation theory, and to describe the diagnostic and therapeutic value of this approach. Clinical experience with body-mentalisation led to a systematic literature search (via PsycInfo and Medline). Body-mentalisation is the ability to detect the signals of our own and of other, to respond to them and perceive the links with underlying mental states. Poor body-mentalisation occurs frequently in patients with severe mus and can be treated successfully by means of intensive residential or day-therapy programmes. Body-mentalisation may turn out to be a useful concept in connection with the treatment of persons with severe mus. More research is needed to test the diagnostic validity and therapeutic relevance of this concept. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Can a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass be safely performed by surgical residents in a bariatric center-of-excellence? The learning curve of surgical residents in bariatric surgery.
A learning curve (LC) is a graphic display of the number of consecutive procedures performed necessary to reach competence and is defined by complications and duration of surgery (DOS). There is little evidence on the LC of surgical residents in bariatric surgery. Aim of the study is to evaluate whether the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) can be safely performed by surgical residents, to evaluate the LC of surgical residents for LRYGB and to assess whether surgical residents fit in the LC of the bariatric center which has been established by their proctors. Records of all 3389 consecutive primary LRYGB patients, operated between December 2007 and January 2016 in a bariatric center-of-excellence in Amsterdam, were reviewed. Differences in DOS were assessed by means of a linear regression model. Differences in complications (classified as Clavien-Dindo ≥ 2) were evaluated with the χ 2 or the Fisher exact test. Cases were clustered in groups of 70 for comparison and reported for residents with ≥70 cases as primary surgeon. Four surgeons (S1-4) and three residents (R1-3) performed 2690 (88.2%) and 361 (11.8%) of 3051 LRYGBs, respectively. Median (IQR) DOS was 52.0 (42.0-65.0) min for S1-4 versus 53.0 (46.0-63.0) min for R1-3 (p = 0.52). The LC of R1-3 in their first 70 cases (n = 210) differs significantly from the individual (n = 70) LCs of surgeon 1, 2, and 3, with remarkably shorter DOS for the residents (adjusted p < 0.0001; p < 0.001 and p = 0.0002, respectively) and the same amount of surgical complications 5.1% (137/2690) for S1-4 versus 3.0% (11/361) for R1-3 (p = 0.089). Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can be safely performed by surgical residents under supervision of experienced bariatric surgeons. Surgical residents benefit from the experience of their proctors and they fit faultlessly in the LC of the surgical team, as set out by their proctors in a large bariatric center-of-excellence. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Syntheses of tetrahydrofurobenzofurans and dihydromethanobenzodioxepines from 5-hydroxy-3-methyl-3H-benzofuran-2-one. Rearrangement and ring expansion under reductive conditions on treatment with hydrides.
5-Hydroxy-3-methyl-3H-benzofuran-2-one, 5, easily obtained from pyruvic acid and 1,4-cyclohexanedione, was used as a starting material to prepare (+/-)-5-hydroxy-3a-methyl-2,3,3a,8a-tetrahydro-furo[2,3-b]benzofuran, 10, and (+/-)-7-hydroxy-5-methyl-4,5-dihydro-2,5-methano-1,3-benzodioxepine, 14. Reduced reactivity relative to 5-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonylmethylene-3-methyl-3H-benzofuran-2-one, 6, was preliminarily studied. Meanwhile, a plausible mechanism with regard to the formation of 10 and 14, which included cyclization, rearrangement, and ring expansion of hemiacetal, 15, is proposed. Specific carbamates of phenols, 10 and 14, have shown impressive inhibitory activities against human acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) ex vivo. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Propofol or midazolam for sedation and early extubation following cardiac surgery.
The purpose of this randomized, double-blind study was to evaluate the efficacy of midazolam and propofol for postoperative sedation and early extubation following cardiac surgery. ASA physical status II-III patients scheduled to undergo elective first-time cardiac surgery with an ejection fraction > 45% were eligible. All patients received a standardized sufentanil/isoflurane anaesthesia. During cardiopulmonary bypass 100 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 propofol was substituted for isoflurane. Upon arrival in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), patients were randomized to either 10 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 propofol (n = 21) or 0.25 microgram.kg-1.min-1 midazolam (n = 20). Infusion rates were adjusted to maintain sedation within a predetermined range (Ramsay 2-4). The infusion was terminated after four hours. Patients were weaned from mechanical ventilation and their tracheas extubated when Haemodynamic stability, haemostasis, normothermia and mental orientation were confirmed. Haemodynamic measurements, arterial blood gas tensions and pulmonary function tests were recorded at specified times. There were no differences between the two groups for the time spent at each level of sedation, number of infusion rate adjustments, amount of analgesic and vasoactive drugs, times to awakening and extubation. The costs of propofol were higher than those of midazolam. There were no differences in haemodynamic values, arterial blood gas tensions and pulmonary function. We conclude that midazolam and propofol are safe and effective sedative agents permitting early extubation in this selected cardiac patient population but propofol costs were higher. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Lipo prostaglandin E1 administration in the acute stage following subarachnoid hemorrhage].
Prostaglandin (PG) E1 is a potent vasodilator on the peripheral vessels and also has an inhibitory action of platelet aggregation. Thus it is expected that PGE1 may be used for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm due to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Lipo-PGE1, lipid emulsified PGE1 less destroyed in the lung, has much longer half life time in the circulation than PGE1 which is rapidly inactivated in the lung. A pilot study, examining the clinical effect of Lipo-PGE1 on cerebral vasospasm, was performed. Of 27 patients with a ruptured anterior circulation aneurysm, who were operated on at acute stage, 12 were treated with Lipo-PGE1 and hypervolemic therapy (Lipo-PGE1 treated group) and 15 with hypervolemic only (control group). After the aneurysm was clipped, Lipo-PGE1, containing 15 micrograms of PGE1 was administered every 8 hours for 2 weeks. The appearance and severity of symptomatic vasospasm were less in the Lipo-PGE1 treated group than the control, and the outcome of the Lipo-PGE1 treated patients with or without vasospasm improved significantly at 1 month follow-up examination. The cerebral blood flow (CBF) measurements were performed three times, at first (1st), second to third (2nd) and fourth to sixth (3rd) week after SAH. In the Lipo-PGE1 treated group, the 1st CBF measurement was done before administration of Lipo-PGE1 started and the 2nd examination was performed after the completion of administration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Behavioral despair associated with a mouse model of Crohn's disease: Role of nitric oxide pathway.
Crohn's disease (CD) is associated with increased psychiatric co-morbidities. Nitric oxide (NO) is implicated in inflammation and tissue injury in CD, and it may also play a central role in pathogenesis of the accompanying behavioral despair. This study investigated the role of the NO pathway in behavioral despair associated with a mouse model of CD. Colitis was induced by intrarectal (i.r.) injection of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (10mg TNBS in 50% ethanol). Forced swimming test (FST), pharmacological studies and tissues collection were performed 72 h following TNBS administration. To address a possible inflammatory origin for the behavioral despair following colitis induction, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level was measured in both the hippocampal and colonic tissue samples. In parallel, hippocampal inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nitrite level were evaluated. Pharmacological studies targeting the NO pathway were performed 30-60 min before behavioral test. Colitis was confirmed by increased colonic TNF-α level and microscopic score. Colitic mice demonstrated a significantly higher immobility time in the FST associated to a significant increase of hippocampal TNF-α, iNOS expression and nitrite content. Acute NOS inhibition using either Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (a non-specific NOS inhibitor) or aminoguanidine hydrochloride (a specific iNOS inhibitor) decreased the immobility time in colitic groups. Moreover, acute treatment with both NOS inhibitors decreased the TNF-α level and nitrite content in the hippocampal samples. This study suggests that the NO pathway may be involved in the behavioral effects in the mouse TNBS model of CD. These findings endow new insights into the gut-brain communication during the development of colonic inflammation, which may ultimately lead to improved therapeutic strategies to combat behavior changes associated with gastrointestinal disorders. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Selective modulation of MHC class II chaperons by a novel IFN-γ-inducible class II transactivator variant in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells.
Class II transactivator (CIITA) plays a critical role in controlling major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II gene expression. In this study, two novel alternatively spliced variants of human interferon (IFN)-γ-inducible CIITA, one missing exon 7 (CIITAΔE7), the other with TAG inserted at exon 4/5 junction (CIITA-TAG), were identified and characterized. Both variants are naturally occurring since they are present in primary cells. Unlike CIITA-TAG, CIITAΔE7 is expressed more abundantly in lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells than in the non-transformed counterpart BEAS-2B cells following IFN-γ stimulation. Transfection experiments showed that CIITAΔE7 induced a markedly lower level of surface HLA-DR, -DP, -DQ expression than CIITA-TAG in A549 cells but not in BEAS-2B cells, although both variants elicited similar amounts of total DR, DP, and DQ proteins. This differential effect was correlated with, in A549 cells, decreased expression of Ii and HLA-DM genes, along with increased expression of HLA-DO genes. Ii and HLA-DM are chaperons assisting in HLA class II assembly, while HLA-DO functions to inhibit endosomal peptide loading and HLA class II membrane transport. These findings raise the possibility that CIITAΔE7 interacts with unknown cancer-associated factors to selectively modulate genes involved in the assembly and transport of HLA class II molecules. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hitch-hiking to a locus under balancing selection: high sequence diversity and low population subdivision at the S-locus genomic region in Arabidopsis halleri.
Hitch-hiking to a site under balancing selection is expected to produce a local increase in nucleotide polymorphism and a decrease in population differentiation compared with the background genomic level, but empirical evidence supporting these predictions is scarce. We surveyed molecular diversity at four genes flanking the region controlling self-incompatibility (the S-locus) in samples from six populations of the herbaceous plant Arabidopsis halleri, and compared their polymorphism with sequences from five control genes unlinked to the S-locus. As a preliminary verification, the S-locus flanking genes were shown to co-segregate with SRK, the gene involved in the self-incompatibility reaction at the pistil level. In agreement with theory, our results demonstrated a significant peak of nucleotide diversity around the S-locus as well as a significant decrease in population genetic structure in the S-locus region compared with both control genes and a set of seven unlinked microsatellite markers. This is consistent with the theoretical expectation that balancing selection is increasing the effective migration rate in subdivided populations. Although only four S-locus flanking genes were investigated, our results suggest that these two signatures of the hitch-hiking effect are localized in a very narrow genomic region. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Expression and transmission of a rodent retrovirus-like (VL30) gene family.
A transcriptionally active sub-set of the dispersed mouse VL30 family of proviral genetic elements was shown to be highly transmissible as a murine leukaemia virus pseudotype. Newly acquired VL30 proviruses (present at 1 to 2 copies per cell) were shown to be transcriptionally active. These data substantiate the hypothesis that this process of duplicative transposition may have played a major role in the evolution of the gene family and also demonstrate that VL30 elements would be capable of mediating oncogene activation by a promoter-insertion-type mechanism during leukaemia virus-induced tumourgenesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
New anti-angiogenesis agents: review of the clinical experience with carboxyamido-triazole (CAI), thalidomide, TNP-470 and interleukin-12.
Angiogenesis was postulated to be a critical prognostic factor and therapeutic focus for malignancy more than two decades ago. Recent studies indicate quantitative assessments of microvessel count to be an independent prognostic variable for disease-free and overall survival in a wide variety of tumors, and that angiogenesis may be a feasible target against which to intervene pharmacologically. Several new and old agents have been found to have anti-angiogenic activity and have reached clinical trial. This review will focus on four agents under investigation in the US: carboxyamido-triazole (CAI), thalidomide, TNP-470 and interleukin (IL)-12. CAI, originally identified for its anti-invasive capacity, has been shown to inhibit tumor and endothelial cell proliferation by inhibition of calcium uptake. It is administered orally, is generally well tolerated, and has been shown to induce disease stabilization and occasional reductions in tumor mass. Thalidomide was shown to inhibit growth factor-induced neovessel formation, a process that can also explain its earlier devastating clinical toxicity. It is administered orally, and is currently in phase II clinical trials for prostate cancer, glioblastoma multiforme and breast cancer. TNP-470 is a fumagillin analog that has been shown in in vivo models to be a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis at concentrations that are cytostatic to endothelial cells and tumor cells. Lastly, IL-12 may exert its anti-angiogenic effects through activation of interferon-gamma to up-regulate interferon-inducible protein-10, an anti-angiogenic cytokine. Phase I clinical trials of IL-12 have shown disease stabilization in several tumor types in response to s.c. administration or using genetically engineered IL-12-expressing patient fibroblasts. These promising new agents join the matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors as important new drugs in the anti-cancer armamentarium. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Endocrine modulation of the development and adult function of the avian song system.
Enough data are now available on the neurobiology of the avian song system and on the development and performance of song that sophisticated questions on the relations between the behavior and the neurobiology can be addressed. This review describes what is known of sex differences and individual differences in the neurobiology of the song system in mature birds. It summarizes data on the role of steroid hormones in the development of the song system and what is known of steroid-related adult plasticity in this system. Finally, it discusses hypotheses on the relations between structure and function in this system and suggests issues that must be addressed in future studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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