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Relation between viability of vaginal polymorphonuclear leukocytes and presence of histologic chorioamnionitis.
The number and percentage of viable vaginal polymorphonuclear leukocytes (vPMNs) are known to be increased in women who experience preterm labor. Whether those parameters may be associated with the presence of histologic chorioamnionitis (CAM) is not known. We investigated prospectively 39 women at 26.3 +/- 6.2 weeks of gestation. The following were determined in vaginal washings: total number of vPMNs and the percent that were viable, the pH, and the concentrations of granulocyte elastase and interleukin-8 (IL-8). In addition, the white blood cell count and the serum level of C-reactive protein were determined in peripheral blood. The placenta and the umbilical cord were examined histologically with special reference to the presence of CAM. The optimal cutoff value for prediction of histologic CAM was obtained for each variable using receiver operating characteristic curves. A multivariate logistic-regression model was used to determine the independent risk factors for this disorder. Histologic CAM was present in ten women (37.1 +/- 3.8 weeks) and absent in 29 women (38.2 +/- 1.5 weeks). The total number of vPMNs, the percent of viable vPMNs, and the IL-8 level were all significantly increased in the women with CAM, in contrast to those without CAM. When the optimal cutoff value for each of seven covariates was entered into the model, only the percent of viable vPMNs, > or = 11%, demonstrated a significant relationship with histologic CAM (odds ratio 26.9; 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 545; p < 0.05). Women with a % viability of vPMNs of > or = 11% were at a significantly higher risk for histologic CAM. Data suggest that an influx of PMNs into the vagina occurs continuously in patients with histologic CAM. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Cranial trauma and prehospital care. Evaluation of the effectiveness of early treatment].
The role of pre-hospital care is still to be stressed especially in case of head injuries. We compared two groups of head injuries (total 50 patients, 38 politrauma) transported by traditional ambulance (28 patients) or by EMS helicopter (22). The two populations had similar values of the considered indices (TS, ISS, GCS, TRISS). They significantly were different only for the "free therapy time". Patients transported by ambulance showed an higher incidence (p less than 0.01) of acute complications (like hemorrhage and hypovolemic shock) despite the same gravity score indices. The index applied for the follow-up valuation, does not show any difference in the two groups. This may be due to the unreliability of the used scores if they are applied without any correlation with the quality of care during the transport. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interaction of hesperetin glucuronide conjugates with human BCRP, MRP2 and MRP3 as detected in membrane vesicles of overexpressing baculovirus-infected Sf9 cells.
The citrus flavonoid hesperetin (4'-methoxy-3',5,7-trihydroxyflavanone) is the aglycone of hesperidin, the major flavonoid present in sweet oranges. Hesperetin 7-O-glucuronide (H7G) and hesperetin 3'-O-glucuronide (H3'G) are the two most abundant metabolites of hesperetin in vivo. In this study, their interaction with specific ABC transporters, believed to play a role in the disposition and bioavailability of hesperetin, was studied using Sf9 membranes from cells overexpressing human BCRP (ABCG2), MRP2 (ABCC2) and MRP3 (ABCC3). Both H7G and H3'G were tested for their potential to activate and inhibit ATPase activity, and to inhibit vesicular transport by these transporters. Both H7G and H3'G demonstrated interaction with all tested ABC transporters, especially with BCRP and MRP3. An interesting difference between H7G and H3'G was seen with respect to the interaction with BCRP: H7G stimulated the ATPase activity of BCRP up to 76% of the maximal effect generated by the reference activator sulfasalazine, with an EC(50) of 0.45 µM, suggesting that H7G is a high affinity substrate of BCRP, whereas H3'G did not stimulate BCRP ATPase activity. Only moderate inhibition of BCRP ATPase activity at high H3'G concentrations was observed. This study provides information on the potential of hesperetin glucuronide conjugates to act as specific ABC transporter substrates or inhibitors and indicates that regio-specific glucuronidation could affect the disposition of hesperetin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in human neoplasias: a new protein enters the scene.
The small 25 kDa peptide, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), first known as an antibacterial factor of natural immunity, and an acute phase protein, is currently one of the most interesting and enigmatic proteins involved in the process of tumor development. The aim of the present review is to point out the main contradictory, sometimes even paradoxical, effects attributed to NGAL in human neoplasias. For instance, acting as an intracellular iron carrier and protecting MMP9 from proteolytic degradation, NGAL has a clear pro-tumoral effect, as has already been observed in different tumors (e.g. breast, stomach, oesophagus, brain) in humans. Moreover, in thyroid carcinomas, NGAL is strongly induced by NF-kB, an important factor involved both in tumor growth and in the link between chronic inflammation and neoplastic development. However, on the contrary, some studies have demonstrated that NGAL can inhibit the pro-neoplastic factor HIF-1alpha, FA-Kinase phosphorylation and also VEGF synthesis, thus suggesting that, in alternative conditions, NGAL also, paradoxically, has an anti-tumoral and anti-metastatic effect in neoplasias of, for example, the colon, ovary and pancreas. Finally, in the field of clinical oncology, attention is currently focused on the potential use of NGAL levels in making an early diagnosis, establishing a prognosis and predicting response to different treatments. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A new defective retroviral vector system based on the Bryan strain of Rous sarcoma virus.
We have constructed a helper cell line and vector system based on the Bryan high titer (BH) strain of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV). BH-RSV is a defective virus which lacks an env gene; however, if env is supplied in trans, it replicates to a very high titer. Like BH-RSV, the vector contains gag and pol genes and lacks an env gene. The helper cell line supplies env in trans and permits the production of infectious virions. To construct the helper cell line the subgroup A env gene from the Schmidt-Ruppin-A (SRA) RSV was stably transfected into Qt6 cells, a chemically transformed quail fibroblast line. To minimize homology between the vector and helper cell line, transcription of the env gene is driven by a MuLV LTR, and 3' processing is controlled by the simian virus 40 (SV40) polyadenylation signal. This combination of vector and helper cells can be used to produce high-titer viral stocks in which recombinant replication-competent virus have not been detected even when the stocks were used to inoculate chickens. This system should be useful for developing transgenic chickens, studying cell lineage, and introducing genes into cultured cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of gingival connective tissue in determining epithelial differentiation.
Free grafts of connective tissue, without epithelium, were transplanted from either the keratinized gingiva or the non-keratinized alveolar mucosa (controls) into areas of the alveolar mucosa in seven monkeys. The grafts were placed in pouches created in the connective tissue as close as possible to the overlying epithelium. After 3-4 weeks, the transplants were exposed by removal of the overlying tissue in order to allow epithelialization from the surrounding non-keratinized alveolar mucosa. The transplants were examined clinically and histologically at time peiods between 1 and 12 months. The gingival connective tissue grafts became covered with keratinized epithelium displaying the same characteristics as those of normal gingival epithelium. The alveolar mucosa transplants were covered with non-keratinized epithelium. This indicated that gingival connective tissue is capable of inducing the formation of a keratinized gingival epithelium. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Pregnancy related cervical cytological changes and clinical management].
To investigate characteristics of cervical cytology and management in pregnant women. From Aug. 2006 to Jan. 2010, 5152 pregnant women who received antenatal and postpartum examination underwent cervical cytological screening by liquid-based cytological test (LCT) in China-Japan Friendship Hospital. The cytological diagnosis was in accordance with the Bethesda system (TBS) 2001 diagnosis and classification system. The abnormal LCT results were followed up at 3 months after postpartum. The diagnosis of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were based on colposcopic examination and biopsy during pregnant. The diagnosis of atypical glandular cells (AGC) was based on curettage and biopsy at postpartum 6 weeks. The histopathology of biopsy were compared and analyzed. (1) Cervical cytological changes related with pregnancy: among 5152 cases, it was found navicular cells in 3215 cases (62.40%), decidual cells in 783 cases (15.20%), reactive glandular cells in 369 cases (7.16%), and trophoblastic cells in 55 cases (1.07%). (2) LCT results: among 5152 cases, the normal samples were 4125 cases (80.07%), the inflammatory samples were 542 cases (10.52%), and the samples of abnormal epithelial cells were 485 cases (9.41%). Among those abnormal cases, 291 cases (5.65%) were in atypical squamous cells (ASC), 153 cases (2.97%) were in low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL), 33 cases (0.64%) were in HSIL, 1 case (0.02%) were in SCC and 7 cases (0.14%) were in AGC. (3) Histological pathology results: all women with HSIL and SCC underwent colposcopic examination and biopsy, it was found 28 cases in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)II-III, 1 cases in adenosquamous carcinoma. 7 women underwent curettage and biopsy at postpartum 6 weeks which were diagnosed by AGC, the histopathological diagnosis was all negative. The concordance rate of cytopathologic and histopathologic diagnosis was 71% (29/41). (4) FOLLOW-UP: 485 women with abnormal LCT results were all followed up to 3 months at postpartum. Women with HSIL, SCC and AGC undergoing biopsy showed normal LCT results during follow-up. Those women with ASC and LSIL did not undergo colposcopic examination and biopsy. The regression rate was 72.3% (321/444) at postpartum 3 months. The navicular cells were primarily morphological characteristics of cytology during pregnant and postpartum women. Some changes were easily confused with malignant lesions. It should be careful discrimination, and avoid excessively diagnosis and misdiagnosis. It suggested that we should follow up those women closely and expand the indication of colposcopic biopsy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Active cycle of breathing technique for cystic fibrosis.
People with cystic fibrosis experience chronic airway infections as a result of mucus build up within the lungs. Repeated infections often cause lung damage and disease. Airway clearance therapies aim to improve mucus clearance, increase sputum production, and improve airway function. The active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT) is an airway clearance method that uses a cycle of techniques to loosen airway secretions including breathing control, thoracic expansion exercises, and the forced expiration technique. To compare the clinical effectiveness of ACBT with other airway clearance therapies in cystic fibrosis. We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register, compiled from electronic database searches and handsearching of journals and conference abstract books. We also searched the reference lists of relevant articles and reviews.Date of last search: 02 August 2012. Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled clinical studies, including cross-over studies, comparing ACBT with other airway clearance therapies in cystic fibrosis. Two review authors independently screened each article, abstracted data and assessed the risk of bias of each study. Sixty studies were identified of which 18 (375 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Five randomised controlled studies (127 participants) were included in the meta-analysis; four were of cross-over design. The 13 remaining studies were cross-over studies with inadequate reports for complete assessment.Included studies compared ACBT to autogenic drainage, airway oscillating devices, high frequency chest compression devices, conventional chest physiotherapy, and positive expiratory pressure. Patient preference varied: more patients preferred autogenic drainage over ACBT; more preferred ACBT over airway oscillating devices; and more were comfortable with ACBT versus high frequency chest compression. No significant difference was seen in sputum weight, lung function, or oxygen saturation between ACBT and autogenic drainage or between ACBT and airway oscillating devices. There was no significant difference in lung function and the number of pulmonary exacerbations between ACBT and ACBT plus conventional chest physiotherapy. All other outcomes were either not measured or had insufficient data for analysis. There is insufficient evidence to support or reject the use of ACBT over any other airway clearance therapy. Five studies, with five different comparators, found that ACBT was comparable to other therapies in outcomes such as patient preference, lung function, sputum weight, oxygen saturation, and number of pulmonary exacerbations. Longer-term studies are needed to more adequately assess the effects of ACBT on outcomes important for patients such as quality of life and patient preference. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Golgi study of the mouse striatum: age-related dendritic changes in different neuronal populations.
The Van der Loos modification of the Golgi-Cox method and morphometric analyses were used to study the neuronal types in the striatum of adult (3, 6, and 10 months) and aged (20, 25, and 30 months) C57BL/6N mice. In adult mice six types of striatal neurons were distinguished primarily on the basis of the morphology of their cell body and dendrites. Each of these types was compared with morphologically similar neurons from previous Golgi classifications in other species and discussed within the framework of recent immunocytochemical work. With similar methods the age-related changes occurring on the dendrites of three of the six striatal types were also analyzed. In the medium-sized neuron with spine-laden dendrites, various dendritic tree shapes and sizes were distinguished in all age groups studied. Qualitative observations as well as measurements of total dendritic length per cell suggested that the dendrites in this type may both grow and regress throughout the life span, although signs of dendritic atrophy and regression were observed only in the aged groups. In the other two types of neuron, one a medium aspiny cell with thin varicose dendrites and the other a large spiny neuron with many dendrites, measurements of total dendritic lengths revealed sustained growth of the tree well into advanced age, followed by moderate regression in the oldest groups. The present findings also indicate that the dendrites of each type of striatal neuron follow unique temporal patterns of growth and regression during the life span of the mouse. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Trapezio second metacarpal joint: anatomical study and clinical matters].
An unusual dislocation of the column of the thumb associated with a fracture of the base of the second metacarpal inspired an anatomical study of the trapeziosecond metacarpal joint. Forty-five dissections of the palmar aspect of trapeziometacarpal joint aimed at focusing on palmar ligaments and tendons reinforcing the joints. Trapeziosecond metacarpal joint is a constant little diarthrosis reinforced by a palmar ligament stressed between the crest of the trapezium and the base of the second metacarpal. The tendon of flexor radialis carpi muscle is an active link due to strong vinculae to trapezium bone and distal attachment to the bases of both second and third metacarpals. The connections between the trapezium and the base of the second metacarpal bone play a role in the treatment of thumb instability and their mechanical importance is illustrated in our original clinical observation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[DISSEMINATED PERITONEAL LEYOMYOMATOSIS--PRACTICAL APPROACH TO DIAGNOSIS].
Disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis (DPL) is a rare condition characterized by the presence of multiple histologically benign smooth muscle nodules on the surface subperitoneal tissue simulating macroscopic peritoneal carcinomatosis. This disease is rare, but in recent years, in connection with the widespread introduction of laparoscopic surgery, the reports of disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis occurring after laparoscopic morcellation, were frequent. The knowledge of DPL is necessary to develop methods of prevention, and individualized treatment depending on the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations in each patient. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Homologous constitutive expression of Xyn III in Trichoderma reesei QM9414 and its characterization.
Xylanase III (Xyn III), a specific endoxylanase that belongs to family 10 of the glycoside hydrolases, was overexpressed in Trichoderma reesei QM9414 using a constitutive strong promoter of the gene encoding pyruvate decarboxylase (pdc). The maximum recombinant xylanase activity achieved was 817.2 ± 65.2 U/mL in the transformant fermentation liquid. The productivities of Xyn III accounted for approximately 53% of the total protein secreted by the recombinant. The enzyme was optimally active at 60 °C and pH 6. The recombinant Xyn III was stable at pH 5-8. This is the first report on the homologous expression of xyn3 in T. reesei QM9414. The properties of Xyn III make it promising in a variety of industrial use. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Telithromycin-associated hepatotoxicity: Clinical spectrum and causality assessment of 42 cases.
Telithromycin is the first of a new class of ketolide antibiotics with increased activity against penicillin-resistant and erythromycin-resistant pneumococci. This agent received approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2004 for treatment of upper and lower respiratory infections. Following market introduction, spontaneous reports of telithromycin-associated hepatotoxicity, including frank liver failure, were received. To address these reports, an ad hoc group with expertise in spontaneous adverse events reporting and experience in evaluating drug-induced liver injury was formed, including members of the FDA, other federal agencies, and academia. The primary objective of this group was to adjudicate case reports of hepatic toxicity for causal attribution to telithromycin. After an initial screening of all cases of liver injury associated with telithromycin reported to FDA as of April 2006 by one of the authors, 42 cases were comprehensively reviewed and adjudicated. Five cases included a severe outcome of either death (n = 4) or liver transplantation (n = 1); more than half were considered highly likely or probable in their causal association with telithromycin. Typical clinical features were: short latency (median, 10 days) and abrupt onset of fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice, sometimes with the presence of ascites even in cases that resolved. Concurrence in assignment of causality increased after agreement on definitions of categories and interactive discussions. Telithromycin is a rare cause of drug-induced liver injury that may have a distinctive clinical signature and associated high mortality rate. Consensus for attribution of liver injury to a selected drug exposure by individual experts can be aided by careful definition of terminology and discussion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The synthetic RGDS peptide inhibits the binding of fibrinogen lacking intact alpha chain carboxyterminal sequences to human blood platelets.
The alpha chain 572-574 Arg-Gly-Asp sequence of fibrinogen appears to play only a minor role in platelet aggregation based on the ability of fibrinogen preparations lacking alpha chain carboxyterminal segments to support platelet aggregation, but synthetic Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser (RGDS) peptides are capable of inhibiting platelet aggregation and fibrinogen binding. The present study thus examined the ability of RGDS peptides to inhibit platelet interactions with a plasmic degradation product of fibrinogen (8D-50) that resembles an intermediate fragment X. Gel-filtered, human blood platelets suspended in 0.01 mol/L HEPES-buffered modified Tyrode's solution, pH 7.5, were stimulated with 20 mumol/L adenosine diphosphate and the binding of 125I-labeled 8D-50 or intact fibrinogen (0.01 to 0.6 mg/mL) assessed in the presence of 0 to 117 mumol/L RGDS. The data revealed that RGDS decreased the apparent affinity of 8D-50 and intact fibrinogen for platelets but did not affect the maximum number of binding sites. RGDS thus appears to be a competitive inhibitor not only of intact fibrinogen (Ki = 12 +/- 2 mumol/L) but also of 8D-50 (Ki = 15 +/- 3 mumol/L) (mean +/- SD, n = 3). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Improving accessibility: the experience of a Canadian Mental Health Agency.
This article describes the process undertaken by a community mental health organization in Toronto, whose staff are predominantly white and unilingual, to be more accessible and responsive to Toronto's diverse ethnic communities. Board, staff, and consumer input provided guidance for the development of antidiscrimination and antiracism policies, and subsequently for expectations that each program find ways to implement these policies. The article focuses on events and opportunities of one of the programs that led to connections being established between the organization and the Somali community. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Data-driven rational biosynthesis design: from molecules to cell factories.
A proliferation of chemical, reaction and enzyme databases, new computational methods and software tools for data-driven rational biosynthesis design have emerged in recent years. With the coming of the era of big data, particularly in the bio-medical field, data-driven rational biosynthesis design could potentially be useful to construct target-oriented chassis organisms. Engineering the complicated metabolic systems of chassis organisms to biosynthesize target molecules from inexpensive biomass is the main goal of cell factory design. The process of data-driven cell factory design could be divided into several parts: (1) target molecule selection; (2) metabolic reaction and pathway design; (3) prediction of novel enzymes based on protein domain and structure transformation of biosynthetic reactions; (4) construction of large-scale DNA for metabolic pathways; and (5) DNA assembly methods and visualization tools. The construction of a one-stop cell factory system could achieve automated design from the molecule level to the chassis level. In this article, we outline data-driven rational biosynthesis design steps and provide an overview of related tools in individual steps. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Use of statistical classifiers as support tools for the diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia in patients on chronic hemodialysis.
Discriminant analysis, logistic regression and neural network models were applied to the diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia in hemodialyzed patients. The ability of the three quantitative approaches to distinguish between subjects suffering or not from iron-deficiency anemia was compared by re-substitution and cross-validation testing. Methods performance was evaluated by means of sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. All the methods performed globally well (sensitivity and specificity > 0.85), revealing that the problem is classifiable. Neural networks showed the highest accuracy, both in the re-substitution (models developed and tested on the complete data set) and 3-way cross-validation (data set randomly splitted into 3 developmental and validation data sets) testing. These preliminary results suggest that the correct classification of iron status in the hemodialytic population can be treated as a pattern classification problem, for which neural networks and traditional statistical modelling can be a valuable aid to the clinical diagnosis of iron-deficiency anemia. A better performance of the neural network model must be confirmed through prospective testing on a larger data set. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Anticancer Efficacy of Platinum Azidothymidin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Via Affecting the Telomerase and the BcL-2 Genes Expression.
The study of correlation between cancer biomarkers after treatment with anticancer drugs would represent a promising insight into the effectiveness of the drug. In this study, after induction of hepatocellular carcinoma, rats were divided into four groups: groups A and B as healthy or control group and negative untreated cancer group respectively; groups C and D were treated with platinum azido-thymidine (0.9 mg/kg/day), a novel anti-cancer drug, and azido-thymidine (AZT) (0.3 mg/kg/day) respectively. After induction of cancer, the telomerase and Bcl-2 expression were evaluated by real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), and also Bcl-2 concentration and telomerase activity were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and telomerase repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) respectively. A significant correlation was observed between telomerase and Bcl-2 in untreated HCC-induced rats as compared to the control group. In untreated cancer group, a direct significant correlation between telomerase activity and expression (r = 0.453, p = 0.022*) and also a negative significant correlation between telomerase activity and Bcl-2 concentration (r = - 0.43, p = 0.034*) and also between telomerase and Bcl-2 expression (r = - 0.088, p = 0.006*) was observed. In drug-treated groups, there was a significant negative correlation between telomerase expression and Bcl-2 concentration (r = - 0.45, p = 0.025) only in the AZT-treated groups. Our results indicated a correlation between cancer factors in the untreated cancerous group B and in treated groups only limited to the azithoimidin-treated group (group D). Hence, it may be possible to use this strategy to develop remarkable anticancer drugs in future studies, though this hypothesis requires more in-depth research. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Construction and validation of a questionnaire to measure the health beliefs of general practice patients.
The health belief model has been widely used as a conceptual framework for understanding and explaining compliance behaviour. A weakness characterizing work in the area has been lack of standardization of measurement of the components of the health belief model. This paper describes the development and validation of a questionnaire to measure these components. The questionnaire was designed for use with general practice patients who have a wide range of different illnesses, therefore the nature of the patients' illness is not mentioned in the content of the items. Principal components analysis was used to determine the dimensions underlying patients' beliefs. Principal components analysis and application of Cronbach's alpha statistic identified four reliable sub-scales of the questionnaire. The sub-scales measured patient's beliefs about: the threat caused by illness, the efficacy of traditional medical care, the way illness is dealt with and the barriers to taking medications. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A dual-frequency applied potential tomography technique: computer simulations.
Applied potential tomography has been discussed in relation to both static and dynamic imaging. We have investigated the feasibility of obtaining static images by measuring profiles at two frequencies of drive current to exploit the differing gradients of electrical conductivity with frequency for different tissues. This method has the advantages that no profile for the homogeneous medium is then needed, and the electrodes can be coupled directly to the skin. To demonstrate the principle, computer simulations have been carried out using published electrical parameters for mammalian tissues at frequencies of 100 and 150 kHz. The distribution of complex electric potentials was calculated by the successive over-relaxation method in two dimensions for an abdominal cross-section with 16 electrodes equally spaced around the surface. From the computed electrode potentials, images were reconstructed using a back-projection method (neglecting phase information). Liver and kidney appeared most distinctly on the image because of their comparatively large conductivity gradients. The perturbations in the electrode potential differences between the two frequencies had a mean value of 5%, requiring accurate measurement in a practical system, compared with 150% when the 100 kHz values were related to a simulation of homogeneous saline equal in conductivity to muscle. The perturbations could be increased by widening the separation of the frequencies. Static imaging using a dual-frequency technique appears to be feasible, but a more detailed consideration of the electrical properties of tissues is needed to determine the optimum choice of frequencies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transfer of pediatric trauma patients to a tertiary pediatric trauma centre: appropriateness and timeliness.
To study the appropriateness of, and time taken, to transfer pediatric trauma patients in New South Wales to The Children's Hospital at Westmead (CHW), a pediatric trauma center. All trauma patients transferred to CHW from June 2003 to July 2004 were included in the study. Indications and time periods relevant to the transfer of the patient from the referring institute were retrieved and analyzed. Pediatric and adult retrieval services were compared. Three hundred ninety-eight patients were transferred to CHW, of whom 332 were from the metropolitan region. Falls and burns were the commonest mechanism of injury. Burn was the commonest indication for transfer (107 of 398). Mean Injury Severity Score was eight. Nearly half the patients had minor injuries (Injury Severity Score<9). Patients spent an average of 5 hours at the referring hospital. Pediatric retrieval ambulances had significantly longer mean transfer times than did nonpediatric ambulance services with a total time spent of about 2.64 hours versus 1.30 hours, respectively. For aeromedical transfers, on the other hand, the difference between pediatric retrieval services and nonpediatric air ambulances was not significant. The majority of the patients transferred had minor injuries. Pediatric trauma patients spend considerable time in their referring hospitals. Pediatric retrieval services appear to take significantly longer to transfer patients than nonpediatric ambulance transfers even after allowing for patient age and injury severity. Although this did not result in mortality or morbidity, there appears to be considerable scope for a reduction in transfer times through better coordination of these services. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A systematic, holistic and integrative process of self-control for voicing with optimal coping effects in teachers. 2. A process of change--an expert's opinion.
A learning strategy is presented for eustress-euvoicing, which prevails over distress-disvoicing. It is based on the understanding of the mechanisms of stress-voicing, conceived as a dynamic circular process of interacting entities, i.e. stressors/signals-arousal/activation-emotion-coping-effects (SAECE), which is the rationale for a multidisciplinary approach in coaching professional voice users. A systematic, holistic and integrative process of self-control (SHIPS) is directed by functional analysis and consists of awareness and change. Emotion, a mixture of appraisal, affect and movement, is the pivot in SHIPS. SHIPS with (student) teachers aims at the competence of voicing (V) in an optimal (O) way of coping (C), which means vocal communication that is effective (E) to meet a balance in physical, interpersonal and existential wellness when responding to demands and challenges in the individual teacher's (T) field of communication (VOCE-T). The process of change intends to influence the course of multiple interactions in SAECE. SHIPS (de)conditions distressors and eutressors related to (non)-integrated coping. The (student) teacher and coach are conscious and active participants in the process of change that aims at (un)learning of attitudes and skills for coping by VOCE-T. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effects of mangiferin on cytokines in rats with chronic bronchitis and expression of macrophage COX-2 in mice].
To explore the mechanism of anti-inflammatory effect of mangiferin. The model of chronic bronchitis in rat was established by LPS + smoke. The activity of SOD, content of MDA and NO in BALF and serum, content of TNF-alpha and IL-8 were determined. The expression of RAW264.7 macrophage COX-2 mRNA induced by LPS in mice was detected by RT-PCR. The activity of SOD, the content of NO in BALF and serum in rat with chronic bronchitis were significantly higher with high, medium and low-dose of lg mangiferin (400,200,100 mg x kg(-1)), while the content of MDA, and the content of TNF-alpha and IL-8 in lung tissues were lower. The expression of RAW264.7 macrophage COX-2 mRNA induced by LPS was significantly reduced by mangiferin with 200,100, 50 micromol x L(-1). The anti-inflammatory mechanism of mangiferin is to relieve inflammation by raising the activity of SOD and content of NO and reducing the content of MDA and the expression of TNF-alpha, IL-8 and COX-2 mRNA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Poynting's theorem and luminal total energy transport in passive dielectric media.
Without approximation the energy density in Poynting's theorem for the generally dispersive and passive dielectric medium is demonstrated to be a system total dynamical energy density. Thus the density in Poynting's theorem is a conserved form that by virtue of its positive definiteness prescribes important qualitative and quantitative features of the medium-field dynamics by rendering the system dynamically closed. This fully three-dimensional result, applicable to anisotropic and inhomogeneous media, is model independent, relying solely on the complex-analytic consequences of causality and passivity. As direct applications of this result, we show (1). that a causal medium responds to a virtual, "instantaneous" field spectrum, (2). that a causal, passive medium supports only a luminal front velocity, (3). that the spatial "center-of-mass" motion of the total dynamical energy is also always luminal and (4). that contrary to (3). the spatial center-of-mass speed of subsets of the total dynamical energy can be arbitrarily large. Thus we show that in passive media superluminal estimations of energy transport velocity for spatially extended pulses is inextricably associated with incomplete energy accounting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization of antilytic peptide antibody: application for the detection of lytic-based hybrid peptide in serum samples.
We previously reported that a novel targeted drug termed hybrid epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-lytic peptide, made by chemical conjugation of targeted binding peptide and cell-killing, lytic-peptide components, has selective cytotoxic activity that allows it to discriminate between normal and cancer cells. In addition, in vivo analysis revealed that this hybrid peptide displays significant antitumor activity in a xenograft model of human breast and pancreatic cancer in mice. Here, we characterized antilytic peptide antibody, which was raised from rabbit serum using the antigen of lytic peptide conjugated with keyhole limpet hemocyanin. It was found that antilytic peptide antibody is specific to the lytic peptide as assessed by both ELISA and surface plasmon resonance analysis and can also bind to EGFR-lytic peptide. Epitope mapping analysis using Biacore showed that two successive lysine regions in the lytic-peptide sequence are significant for recognition by this antibody. In addition, it was shown that this antibody can detect lytic-based hybrid peptide in serum samples from mouse blood and also in cultured breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell samples by immunocytochemical staining experiments. It was found that the maximum concentrations of this peptide in serum were reached within 15-30 min of i.v. administration of EGFR-lytic peptide to mice. These results indicate that this antibody will be a useful tool for the detection of lytic-based peptides to investigate their in vivo stability and pharmacokinetics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biodesulfurization.
Microbial sulfur-specific transformations have been identified that selectively desulfurize organic sulfur compounds in fossil fuels. Recent discoveries related to biodesulfurization mechanisms may lead to commercial applications of biodesulfurization through engineering recombinant strains for over-expression of biodesulfurization genes, removal of end product repression, and/or by combining relevant industrial and environmental traits with improvements in bioprocess design. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization of Fyn-mediated tyrosine phosphorylation sites on GluR epsilon 2 (NR2B) subunit of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor.
The N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors play critical roles in synaptic plasticity, neuronal development, and excitotoxicity. Tyrosine phosphorylation of NMDA receptors by Src-family tyrosine kinases such as Fyn is implicated in synaptic plasticity. To precisely address the roles of NMDA receptor tyrosine phosphorylation, we identified Fyn-mediated phosphorylation sites on the GluR epsilon 2 (NR2B) subunit of NMDA receptors. Seven out of 25 tyrosine residues in the C-terminal cytoplasmic region of GluR epsilon 2 were phosphorylated by Fyn in vitro. Of these 7 residues, Tyr-1252, Tyr-1336, and Tyr-1472 in GluR epsilon 2 were phosphorylated in human embryonic kidney fibroblasts when co-expressed with active Fyn, and Tyr-1472 was the major phosphorylation site in this system. We then generated rabbit polyclonal antibodies specific to Tyr-1472-phosphorylated GluR epsilon 2 and showed that Tyr-1472 of GluR epsilon 2 was indeed phosphorylated in murine brain using the antibodies. Importantly, Tyr-1472 phosphorylation was greatly reduced in fyn mutant mice. Moreover, Tyr-1472 phosphorylation became evident when hippocampal long term potentiation started to be observed, and its magnitude became larger in murine brain. Finally, Tyr-1472 phosphorylation was significantly enhanced after induction of long term potentiation in the hippocampal CA1 region. These data suggest that Tyr-1472 phosphorylation of GluR epsilon 2 is important for synaptic plasticity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Digestion of insulin derivatives with subtilisin: a kinetic study.
Native, denatured, performic acid-oxidized or S-sulfo insulin and S-sulfo or performic acid-oxidized A- and B-chains were digested with subtilisin type Carsberg. The proteolysis was followed by measuring the uptake of alkali through autotitration. The kinetic study shows the existence of 2 first-order reaction classes which differ markedly in rate constant. The number of bonds split with fast and with slow reactions has been calculated. Only one of a total of 12 cleavable bonds in native insulin is opened by fast reaction. In the denatured protein the number of bonds split by the fast reaction increases to 4 and in the oxidized and S-sulfo protein 3 bonds are cleaved, while the slow cleavable bonds number 2 and 7, respectively, The kinetic study of the proteolysis of S-sulfo A-chain and of oxidized or S-sulfo B-chain shows that two bonds are split in A-chain with the fast and slow reactions, while in B-chain only one of the six cleavable bonds is susceptible to fast attack. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cripto-1: an embryonic gene that promotes tumorigenesis.
Several studies have shown that cell fate regulation during embryonic development and oncogenic transformation share common regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways. Indeed, an embryonic gene member of the EGF-Cripto-1/FRL1/Cryptic family, Cripto-1, has been implicated in embryogenesis and in carcinogenesis. Cripto-1 together with the TGF-beta ligand Nodal is a key regulator of embryonic development and is a marker of undifferentiated human and mouse embryonic stem cells. While Cripto-1 expression is very low in normal adult tissues, Cripto-1 is re-expressed at high levels in several different human tumors, modulating cancer cell proliferation, migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and stimulating tumor angiogenesis. Therefore, inhibition of Cripto-1 expression using blocking antibodies or antisense expression vectors might be a useful modality not only to target fully differentiated cancer cells but also to target a subpopulation of tumor cells with stem-like characteristics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Network meta-analysis on the effects of the acupuncture-related therapy on ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome].
To review systematically the safety and effectiveness of acupuncture-related therapies on ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). From PubMed, EMbase, the Cochrane Library, China Biology Medicine disc (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database and VIP database, the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on PCOS were retrieved in the period from the date of database establishment to January 8, 2018. Two researchers screened the articles, extracted the data and assessed the bias risk of the eligible trials independently. Using Stata 13.0 and WinBUGS 1.4.3 software, the data were analyzed. A total of 39 RCTs were collected, including 4605 cases of PCOS and 14 kinds of acupuncture-related therapies and the comprehensive therapies. The short-term therapeutic effects were observed. The results of mesh meta-analysis showed: regarding the ovulation rate, the effects of the acupuncture-medication therapy were better than western medication. The top 6 therapeutic measures were the treatment with acupoint thread-embedding therapy and medication (93.3%), the treatment with moxibustion and Chinese herbal medicine (91.4%), moxibustion (74.5%), the treatment with acupuncture and medication (65.7%), the treatment with acupuncture-moxibustion and auricular point therapy (61.9%) and the treatment with acupuncture and auricular point therapy (49.6%). Regarding the pregnancy rate, the effects of the acupuncture-medication therapy were better than western medication. The top 6 therapeutic measures were the treatment with acupuncture and auricular point therapy (91.5%), the treatment with moxibustion and Chinese herbal medication (86.9%), the treatment with acupuncture-moxibustion and auricular point therapy (81.1%), the treatment with acupoint thread-embedding therapy and medication (69.4%), the treatment with acupuncture and medication (66.1%) and the treatment with placebo and western medication (58.7%). Among acupuncture-related therapies, the combined treatment is more advantageous than single therapy and its safety is superior to western medication. The combined therapies are various in advantages. Because of the limitation of the present researches, it needs a large scale of RCTs with rational design, high quality and proper methods to verify this research conclusion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[SiRNA technology, the gene therapy of the future?].
A new era in genetics started 17 years ago, when co-suppression in petunia was discovered. Later, co-suppression was identified as RNA interference (RNAi) in many plant and lower eukaryote animals. Although an ancient antiviral host defense mechanism in plants, the physiologic role of RNAi in mammals is still not completely understood. RNAi is directed by short interfering RNAs (siRNAs), one subtype of short double stranded RNAs. In this review we summarize the history and mechanisms of RNAi. We also aim to highlight the correlation between structure and efficacy of siRNAs. Delivery is the most important obstacle for siRNA based gene therapy. Viral and nonviral deliveries are discussed. In vivo delivery is the next obstacle to clinical trials with siRNAs. Although hydrodynamic treatment is effective in animals, it cannot be used in human therapy. One possibility is organ selective catheterization. The known side effects of synthesized siRNAs are also discussed. Although there are many problems to face in this new field of gene therapy, successful in vitro and in vivo experiments raise hope for treating human disease with siRNA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Echocardiographic diagnosis in diseases of the tricuspid valve].
In eight patients with right ventricular disease the diagnostic value of echocardiography is demonstrated. More time and technical equipment is needed than for left-ventricular analysis, but the echocardiography must be done in rheumatic valve disease or in chronic right heart insufficiency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interpersonal Psychotherapy and the Treatment of Eating Disorders.
Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for the treatment of eating disorders is a brief treatment that addresses the social and interpersonal context in which the disorder begins and is maintained. IPT is classified as a strongly supported evidence-based treatment of bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder, and more research is needed to understand the effectiveness of IPT for anorexia nervosa and IPT for preventing excess weight gain. This article describes the core components and elements of IPT, the empirical evidence that supports its effectiveness, efforts to increase the dissemination and implementation of IPT, and future directions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic variation and differentiation in the Japanese five-lined skink, Eumeces latiscutatus (Reptilia: Squamata).
The genetic variation in Eumeces latiscutatus from the main islands of Japan and the northern Ryukyus was investigated and compared with that of its close relatives (E. okadae and E. marginatus) using allozyme data. All three samples from the northern Tokara Island Group, currently identified as E. latiscutatus, were shown to belong to E. marginatus and not to E. latiscutatus. The non-monophyly of the northern Tokara samples and the great genetic differences within these samples may have resulted from colonization from more than one source population by northeastward overseas dispersal. The samples from the Izu Peninsula were genetically much closer to E. okadae than the other conspecific ones. This indicates that the samples from the Izu Peninsula and the other samples of E. latiscutatus should be treated as distinct species, and that E. latiscutatus from the Izu Peninsula and E. okadae from the Izu Island Group may be treated as conspecific. Samples from western Japan were genetically well differentiated from those of eastern Japan. Within the western group, the samples from the Osumi Island Group was genetically distinct from those from the other regions, by possessing unique alleles. Our phenograms also reveal a distant affinity between samples from the Danjo Island Group and the main islands of Japan. This may be the result of long geographic isolation of the Osumi and Danjo Island Groups from Kyushu. By contrast, samples from Sapporo and Aomori were poorly differentiated genetically in spite of the long separation of these two localities by the Tsugaru Strait. This suggests that overseas dispersal of E. latiscutatus occurred across this strait after its formation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A combined experimental and theoretical study of the polar [3 + 2] cycloaddition of electrophilically activated carbonyl ylides with aldehydes and imines.
Numerous 2,5-diaryl-1,3-dioxolane-4,4-dicarbonitriles and 2,4-diphenyl-1,3-oxazolidine-5,5-dicarbonitriles have been synthesized by [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions between carbonyl ylides generated from epoxides and aldehydes or imines. In contrast to the use of aldehydes (3,4,5-trimethoxybenzaldehyde, piperonal, 1-naphthaldehyde, indole-3-carboxaldehyde, furan-2-carboxaldehyde, and thiophene-2-carboxaldehyde), the reactions performed with imines (N-(phenylmethylene)methanamine, N-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-ylmethylene)propylamine, N-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-ylmethylene)butylamine, and N-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-ylmethylene)benzylamine) proceed diastereoselectively. The effect of microwave irradiation on the outcome of the reaction was studied. The mechanism of these [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions has been theoretically investigated using DFT methods. These cycloadditions, which have one-step mechanisms, consist of the nucleophilic attack of the aldehyde oxygen or imine nitrogen on the carbonyl ylide. For the reaction with aldehydes, a back-donation effect is responsible for the unexpected reverse charge transfer found at the transition structure. The analysis of the reactivity indexes indicates that the large electrophilic character of the carbonyl ylides induces them to act as strong electrophiles in these polar [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Adverse reaction to a fissure sealant: report of case.
A six-year-old girl with a known allergy to mites had her first permanent molars sealed with Delton. On the night of the treatment day, she began to have asthmatic trouble. Urticaria appeared a few days later. Treatment with cortisone gave no relief. When the fissure sealant material was taken away, the asthma and urticaria disappeared. Possible explanations to the reaction are discussed in the report. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Urinary cyclic AMP excretion during volume expansion in the rat.
We have studied the effect of volume expansion with 0.9% saline solution (10% body weight in 1 h) on urinary cyclic AMP excretion in rats. In nine normal rats urinary cyclic AMP excretion (picomoles/minute) was 113.9+/-9.9 during the control period, rose significantly to 171+/-20 during the first 10 min of expansion, came back to control levels for the next 20 min, and finally decreased significantly to 48.8+/-13.2 at the end of the expansion period. In nine parathyroidectomized rats control cyclic AMP excretion was 78.0+/-4.5, did not rise during expansion, and decreased significantly (to 33.7+/-4.1) at the end of the expansion period. The transient increase in cyclic AMP excretion observed in normal rats could be due to parathyroid hormone release. Our studies do not allow us to explain the subsequent decrease noted in both groups. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of aging on neurogenic vasodilator responses evoked by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: relevance to wound healing.
We have previously shown an age-related decline in the modulation of skin vascular reactivity by sensory nerves that correlates with a decline in wound repair efficacy. This study was designed to examine the possibility that improving the functional ability of aged sensory nerves using noninvasive transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) could also accelerate tissue repair. TENS of the sciatic nerve, combined with measuring blood flow responses in the rat hind-footpad using laser Doppler flowmetry, was used to establish the vascular effects. Following TENS (using parameters 20V, 5 Hz for 1 min), similar increases in vascular responses were obtained in both young (13.2+/-0.9 cm2) and old rats (11.6+/-2.3 cm2). In contrast, capsaicin-pretreated rats showed markedly diminished responses. Sympathetic fibers did not appear to modulate these sensory nerve responses. In the second part, a thermal wound was induced (using a CO2 laser) in the interscapular region of old rats (under anesthesia). In the active treatment group, TENS was applied twice daily for the initial 5 days, and the sham group received inactive TENS. Using the healing endpoint as the time when full wound contraction occurred, the active group required 14.7+/-0.2 days for complete healing, a significant improvement over the sham group (21.8+/-0.3 days). We contend that low-frequency TENS can improve the vascular response of old rats. In addition, wound healing in aged rats can be accelerated by peripheral activation of sensory nerves at low-frequency electrical stimulation parameters. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Tooth loss in Brazil: analysis of the 2010 Brazilian Oral Health Survey].
To estimate the mean number of missing teeth, lack of functional dentition and total tooth loss (edentulism) among adolescents, adults and the elderly in Brazil, comparing the results with those of 2003. Data from 5,445 adolescents aged 15-19, 9,779 adults aged 35-44 and 7,619 elderly individuals aged 65-74, participants in the Brazilian Oral Health Survey (SBBrasil) 2010, were analyzed. The mean missing teeth, proportion of lack of functional dentition (< 21 natural teeth) and proportion of edentulism (total tooth loss) were estimated for each age group, each state Capital and each macro region. Multivariable logistic regression (tooth loss) and Poisson (absence of functional dentition and edentulism) analyses were performed in order to identify socioeconomic factors and demographic characteristics associated with each outcome. The prevalence of tooth loss among adolescents was 17.4% (38.9% in 2002-03) ranging from 8.1% among those earning higher income to almost 30% among those with less schooling. Among adolescents, females, those with black or brown skin and those with the lowest levels of income and schooling had a higher prevalence of tooth loss. Lack of functional dentition affected nearly ¼ of adults, it was higher among women, among those with black and brown skin and among those with the lowest levels of income and schooling. Mean missing teeth in adults decreased from 13.5 in 2002-03 to 7.4 in 2010. More than half of elderly is edentulous (similar to the 2002-03 findings); higher prevalence of edentulism was found among women and those with the lowest levels of income and schooling. Among adolescents the mean missing teeth ranged from 0.1 (in Curitiba, South Brazil and Vitória, Southeast Brazil) to 1.2 (in the North countryside). Among adults the lowest mean missing teeth was found in Vitória (4.2) and the highest in Rio Branco, North Brazil (13.6). A remarkable reduction in tooth loss among adolescents and adults was identified between 2010 and 2003. Among the elderly, tooth loss figure remained the same. In spite of important achievements in tooth loss figures, social and regional inequalities persist. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Understanding the uncertainty associated with particle-bound pollutant build-up and wash-off: A critical review.
Accurate prediction of stormwater quality is essential for developing effective pollution mitigation strategies. The use of models incorporating simplified mathematical replications of pollutant processes is the common practice for determining stormwater quality. However, an inherent process uncertainty arises due to the intrinsic variability associated with pollutant processes, which has neither been comprehensively understood, nor well accounted for in uncertainty assessment of stormwater quality modelling. This review provides the context for defining and quantifying the uncertainty associated with pollutant build-up and wash-off on urban impervious surfaces based on the hypothesis that particle size is predominant in influencing process variability. Critical analysis of published research literature brings scientific evidence together in order to establish the fact that particle size changes with time, and different sized particles exhibit distinct behaviour during build-up and wash-off, resulting in process variability. Analysis of the different adsorption behaviour of particles confirmed that the variations in pollutant load and composition are influenced by particle size. Particle behaviour and variations in pollutant load and composition are related due to the strong affinity of pollutants such as heavy metals and hydrocarbons for specific particle size ranges. As such, the temporal variation in particle size is identified as the key to establishing a basis for assessing build-up and wash-off process uncertainty. Therefore, accounting for pollutant build-up and wash-off process variability, which is influenced by particle size, would facilitate the assessment of the uncertainty associated with modelling outcomes. Furthermore, the review identified fundamental knowledge gaps where further research is needed in relation to: (1) the aggregation of particles suspended in the atmosphere during build-up; (2) particle re-suspension during wash-off; (3) pollutant re-adsorption by different particle size fractions; and (4) development of evidence-based techniques for assessing uncertainty; and (5) methods for translating the knowledge acquired from the investigation of process mechanisms at small scale into catchment scale for stormwater quality modelling. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Can normalization of vascular cytoadhesive activity be explained by the anti-atherosclerosis effect of growth hormone?].
The increased mortality caused by premature atherosclerosis has been shown among patients with hypopituitarism receiving conventional hormone treatment but with unsubstituted growth hormone deficiency. This experience belongs among the most important arguments in favour of replacement with growth hormone. The mechanisms of the antiatherogenic effect of growth hormone are poorly understood. The protective effect of growth hormone on the vascular endothel and its intervention in the clotting process, which have not been yet elucidated, may be the causative factors. The endothelial damage as given by measuring of circulating soluble cytoadhesive molecules sE-selectin, sP-selectin and intercellular adhesive molecule 1 (ICAM 1) was measured in 15 adult panhypopituitaric patients before and after 1 year treatment with recombinant human growth hormone. The blood levels of all of these cytoadhesive molecules decreased significantly (p < 0.01) during the treatment. None of the concomitantly followed coagulation tests (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, antithrombin III, von Willebrand's factor and D-dimer) was significantly changed during the treatment. The tendency to decrease (p = 0.054) was observed with antithrombin III. The decrease of circulating cytoadhesive molecules in blood during the treatment of growth hormone gives evidence for its protective effect, either direct or mediated, on the vascular endothel. These findings could bring an explantation for the premature atherosclerotic changes in hypopituitarism and antiatherogenic effect of growth hormone. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sex pheromone components of the turnip moth,Agrotis segetum : Chemical identification, electrophysiological evaluation and behavioral activity.
Analysis of female abdominal tips ofAgrotis segetum by means of GC-MS showed the presence of 13 aliphatic acetates and alcohols. (Z)-7-Dodecenyl acetate was found to be the main component in the extracts at amounts of about 1 ng/female. (Z)-9-Tetradecenyl acetate and (Z)-7-dodecenol were present to the extent of 49 and 19%, respectively, of the main component. Minor components could be identified as decyl acetate, (Z)-5-decenyl acetate, dodecyl acetate, (Z)-9-dodecenyl acetate, tetradecyl acetate, a tetradecenyl acetate, hexadecyl acetate, a hexadecenyl acetate, (Z)-5-decenol, and (Z)-9-tetradecenol. The presence and biological activity of decyl acetate, (Z)-5-decenyl acetate, and (Z)-7-dodecenyl acetate in the extracts could be detected by GC-EAD. Tested by EAG (Z)-5-decenyl acetate evoked the highest response among pheromone candidates, followed by (E)-5-decenyl acetate and (Z)-7-dodecenyl acetate. Single-cell recordings from 100 male antennal sensilla trichodea revealed receptorcells highly sensitive to (Z)-5-decenyl, (Z)-7-dodecenyl, (Z)-8-dodecenyl, and (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate as well as (Z)-5-decenol. The (Z)-5-decenyl, (Z)-7-dodecenyl, and (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate receptors were activated significantly also by female extracts. When tested in a tube olfactometer, a blend of decyl, (Z)-5-decenyl, (Z)-7-dodecenyl, and (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate evoked the same male response as did female glands.Tested in the field, this blend was more attractive than virgin females. Other authors previously reported many of the compounds identified in the present study. However, both quantitative and qualitative discrepancies exist among the various investigations, possibly due to the existence of geographical races. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The recQ gene of Escherichia coli K12: primary structure and evidence for SOS regulation.
A 2,695 bp chromosomal segment of Escherichia coli K12 containing the recQ gene was sequenced. Analysis of the sequence revealed an open reading frame thought to represent recQ, with a clockwise direction of transcription relative to the standard genetic map of E. coli K12 and having a coding capacity for a protein of Mr 68,350. The -10 region of the presumptive recQ promoter overlapped the putative terminator for the upstream gene pldA, and was immediately followed by a 15 bp stretch of DNA bearing a strong resemblance to the reported sequences of LexA repressor binding sites. This latter finding suggested the possibility of SOS regulation of recQ gene expression, which was substantiated by experiments with recQ-lacZ fusions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of serotonergic agents on isolation-induced aggression.
A series of serotonergic agents were assessed for their ability to antagonize isolation-induced aggression and their activity to disrupt performance in the rotorod motor coordination test. All compounds with 5-HT1A activity [buspirone, gepirone, ipsapirone, tandospirone (SM-3997), 8-OH-DPAT, Wy-48,723, BMY-7378, Wy-47,846] reduced aggression at doses below those which produced debilitation in the rotorod motor coordination test. In addition, the 5-HT3 antagonist zacopride failed to attenuate aggression or produce debilitation at any of the doses tested; however, the 5-HT2 antagonist ritanserin inhibited aggressive behavior at a high dose which was not debilitating. Benzodiazepines (chlordiazepoxide, diazepam and lorazepam), and antidepressant (desipramine) and an antipsychotic (haloperidol) reduced aggressive behavior only at debilitating doses. Activity at the 5-HT1A receptor, and possibly nonsedative anxiolytic activity, appears to be related to antagonism of isolation-induced aggression. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diagnosis and management of histoplasmosis.
Histoplasmosis occurs throughout the world but is more common within the endemic areas of North America, particularly in fertile river valleys. Disease manifestations range from asymptomatic infection in the normal host with low-inoculum exposure to rapidly fatal, disseminated infection in the severely immunocompromised host, emphasizing the importance of cellular immunity in defense against Histoplasma capsulatum. Diagnosis depends on a high index of suspicion, knowledge of the clinical and epidemiologic features of the infection, and a thorough understanding of the uses and limitations of fungal cultural and serological laboratory procedures. Recently, a method has been developed for rapid diagnosis based on detection of a polysaccharide antigen in body fluids of patients with histoplasmosis. Amphotericin B remains the preferred treatment for more severe forms of histoplasmosis, particularly in the immunocompromised host, but oral treatment with ketoconazole or newer imidozoles appears to be effective in less severe infections in non-immunocompromised individuals. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Long-term Persistence with Mirabegron versus Solifenacin in Women with Overactive Bladder: Prospective, Randomized Trial.
To compare persistence with medication and the reasons for discontinuation of mirabegron or solifenacin therapy up to12 months in women with overactive bladder (OAB). Female OAB patients who presented to women's urology clinics were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, two-arm study. Patients were randomized to receive mirabegron at 25-50 mg (n = 76) or solifenacin at 2.5-5 mg (n = 72). The persistence rate and the reasons for discontinuation were investigated up to 12 months. The 12-month persistence rate was 12.2% in the mirabegron group versus 20.1% in the solifenacin group and there were no significant differences of the persistence rates during the study (n.s). Patients discontinued treatment because of lack of efficacy (21.6%), spontaneous improvement (18.2%), and side-effects (17.6%), while 19.6% were lost to follow up. Discontinuation due to side-effects was significantly more frequent in the solifenacin group than the mirabegron group (27.3 vs. 7.9%, P < 0.05). In contrast, discontinuation due to lack of efficacy was significantly more frequent in the mirabegron group than the solifenacin group (36.8 vs. 5.6%, P < 0.05). This study demonstrated low persistence rates over 12 months for both mirabegron and solifenacin, although the reasons for discontinuation were somewhat different. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Documented atrial fibrillation recurrences after pulmonary vein isolation are associated with diminished quality of life.
Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) aims at eliminating symptomatic atrial fibrillation. In this regard, the most relevant indication for this procedure is the reduction of symptoms and improvement of quality of life (QoL) in patients who remain symptomatic despite antiarrhythmic drug treatment. We investigated the relation between documented atrial fibrillation recurrences and QoL in patients after PVI. One hundred and six PVIs were performed in 99 patients. Follow-up was mainly performed at referring hospitals. Short Form 36 (SF-36) QoL questionnaires were completed before and 1 year after PVI. Electrocardiographic recordings from the first postprocedural year were retrospectively collected, 3 months blanking excluded. Atrial fibrillation recurrence was defined as any recurrence of atrial arrhythmia documented on ECG or 24-h-Holter. Before PVI, patients had lower QoL than the general Dutch population in 7/8 SF-36 questionnaire subscales (sumQoL 419.4 ± 161 vs. 617.9, P < 0.001). Atrial fibrillation recurred in 52 (49%) patients. In these patients, four subscales increased following PVI (physical functioning P < 0.001, role physical P = 0.006, bodily pain P = 0.011 and social functioning P = 0.047). SumQoL remained lower than the general Dutch population (546.7 ± 157, P = 0.003). In patients without documented recurrences, QoL improved to a level similar to that of the general Dutch population (602.9 ± 148; P = 0.46). The number of electrocardiographic recordings was lower in the group without documented recurrences (2.5 ± 1.8 vs. 3.8 ± 1.7, P = 0.002). In patients without documentation of atrial fibrillation, QoL increased up to the level of the general population after PVI, but it remained lower in patients with recurrences. In the latter group more ECGs were done, suggesting that QoL relates particularly to symptomatic episodes. Improvement of QoL is therefore an important attribute of PVI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Palmitate oxidation rate and action on glycogen synthase in myoblasts from insulin-resistant subjects.
Elevated plasma lipid and nonesterified fatty acid concentrations reduce insulin-mediated glucose disposal in skeletal muscle. Cultured myoblasts from 21 subjects were studied for rates of palmitate oxidation and the effect of palmitate on glycogen synthase activity at the end of an 18-h incubation in serum- and glucose-free media. Oxidation rates of 40 microM palmitate in cultured myoblasts correlated with the fasting glucose (r = 0.71, P = 0.001), log fasting insulin (r = 0.52, P = 0.03), and insulin-mediated glucose storage rate (r = -0.50, P = 0.04) of the muscle donors. Myoblast glycogen synthase activity can be regulated by 240 microM palmitate, but the changes are associated with the basal respiratory quotient and not with the insulin resistance of the muscle donor. These results indicate that myoblasts producing elevated palmitate oxidation rates in vitro can be used to identify skeletal muscle abnormalities which are primary contributors to insulin resistance in vivo. Effects of 240 microM palmitate on myoblast glycogen synthase activity appear to be mechanistically different from the relationship between myoblast palmitate oxidation rates and insulin resistance of the muscle donor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Overexpression of lymphocytic GD3 ganglioside and presence of anti-GD3 antibodies in patients with HIV infection.
This study was undertaken to analyze the role of disialoganglioside GD3 in HIV infection and disease progression. We report here the results obtained by both ex vivo and in vitro experiments on (1) surface and cytoplasmic expression and distribution of GD3 in HIV-infected cells, (2) the presence of anti-GD3 antibodies in sera of patients with HIV infection in various stages of the disease, and (3) the association of GD3 expression with HIV-related apoptotic events. GD3 expression was determined by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and lipid-bound sialic acid and by static and flow cytometric analyses in peripheral blood lymphocytes from 22 AIDS patients, 20 anti-HIV Ab(+) asymptomatic subjects, and 25 healthy donors. Results obtained clearly indicated a significantly higher expression of plasma membrane GD3 content in lymphocytes from HIV-infected patients with respect to healthy controls. These HIV-induced perturbations of glycosphingolipid metabolism could be detected in all stages of the disease, including asymptomatic individuals. In addition, a significant percentage of patients showing disease progression displayed in serum samples an increased presence of anti-GD3 antibodies. Interestingly, ex vivo studies of lymphocytes from patients with HIV infection also indicated that GD3 expression is strictly associated with annexin V binding, an early marker of apoptosis. Moreover, cytofluorimetric analysis showed that virtually all anti-p24 Ab-positive cells were also immunolabeled with anti-GD3 antibodies. Accordingly, in vitro studies showed a significant redistribution and increase in GD3 expression in cultured U937 cells chronically infected with HIV-1 with respect to uninfected counterparts. In conclusion, our data clearly indicate that a significant increase in GD3 content in HIV-infected lymphocytes can occur and that this GD3 overexpression is paralleled by the presence of anti-GD3 antibodies in the plasma of patients. This is the first demonstration that disialoganglioside GD3, independent of the therapeutic schedule employed, can be considered as one of the early markers of HIV infection and can contribute to the early events leading to T cell depletion by apoptosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Why do we have a uvula?: literature review and a new theory.
From ancient times up to the present day many different functions and conditions have been attributed to the uvula, many speculative and some with a more scientific basis. The uvula has been shown to have the ability to produce and secrete large quantities of thin saliva. A common complication of surgery involving removal of the uvula is pharyngeal dryness. We have observed that on phonation and swallowing the uvula swings back and forth in the oropharynx. We present a review of the literature on the uvula and propose a theory that the uvula bastes the throat and thereby helps keep it moist and well lubricated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Laboratory diagnosis of animal brucellosis].
Brucellosis is still a topical disease both in humans and in animals. The need for a laboratory diagnosis is very important to confirm the disease. The present article reviews the principal techniques used in the laboratory for the diagnosis of brucellosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antithrombotic agents stimulate the synthesis and modify the sulfation pattern of a heparan sulfate proteoglycan from endothelial cells.
Low molecular weight heparins, namely CY 216 and CY 222 (Sanofi/Choay); OP 622 and OP 386 (Opocrin); PK 10169 (Pharmuka); an oligosaccharide prepared from heparin by heparitinase II digestion; chemically sulfated glycosaminoglycans and polysaccharide namely Suleparoid (Syntex), Aprosulate (Luitpold-Werk); chemically modified glycosaminoglycans GAGPS and MPS (Luitpold-Werk) as well as unmodified heparin stimulate two to three fold the synthesis of a heparan sulfate with antithrombotic activity secreted by endothelial cells in culture. The stimulation is concentration dependent and specific for the endothelial cell. The [35S]-heparan sulfate synthesized in the presence of heparin and/or the tested antithrombotic agents has shown a high degree of sulfation of the iduronic acid residues as revealed by the analyses of the disaccharide products formed from the heparan sulfate by the action of bacterial heparitinases. The features of the above compounds in common with heparin are their polymeric nature and a high change density, as well as their pharmacological activities as potent antithrombotic agents "in vivo". These combined observations reinforce the proposition that the antithrombotic activity of heparin, low molecular weight heparins and the chemically modified polysaccharides could be related to the increased production of this peculiar heparan sulfate by endothelial cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Disposition of CP-671, 305, a selective phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor in preclinical species.
1. The disposition of (+)-2-[4-({[2-(benzo[1,3] dioxol-5-yloxy)-pyridine-3-carbonyl]-amino)-methyl)-3-fluoro-phenoxyl-propionic acid (CP-671,305), a potent and selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (subtype D), was characterized in several animal species in support of its selection for preclinical safety studies and potential clinical development. 2. CP-671,305 demonstrates generally favourable pharmacokinetic properties in all species examined. Systemic plasma clearance after intravenous administration was low in Sprague-Dawley rats (9.60+/-1.16 ml min(-1) kg(-1)), beagle dogs (2.90+/-0.81 ml min(-1) kg(-1)) and cynomolgus monkeys (2.94+/-0.87ml min(-1) kg(-1)) resulting in plasma half-lives > 5 h. Moderate to high bioavailability in rats (43-80%), dogs (45%) and monkeys (26%) was observed after oral dosing. In rats, oral pharmacokinetics were dose dependent over the dose range studied (10 and 25 mgkg(-1)). 3. CP-671,305 was > 97% bound to plasma proteins in rat, dog, monkey and human. 4. The principal route of clearance of CP-671,305 in rats and dogs was by renal and biliary excretion of unchanged drug. This finding was consistent with CP-671,305 resistance towards metabolism in hepatocytes and NADPH-supplemented liver microsomes from preclinical species and human. 5. CP-671,305 did not exhibit competitive inhibition of the five major cytochrome P450 enzymes, namely CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6 and 3A4 (IC50's > 50 microM). Likewise, no time-dependent inactivation of the five major cytochrome P450 enzymes was discernible with CP-671,305. 6. Overall, the results indicate that the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) profile of CP-671,305 is relatively consistent across preclinical species and predict potentially favourable pharmacokinetic properties in humans, supporting its selection for toxicity/safety assessment studies and possible investigations in humans. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular systematics of Acarus siro s. lat., a complex of stored food pests.
The astigmatid mite Acarus siro (Linnaeus 1758) is an important agricultural pest and environmental allergen. However, it is likely that many mites described in the literature as A. siro, collected from both outdoor and stored product habitats, may belong to one of its sibling species, A. farris [Ent. Ber. Amst. 2 (26) (1905) 20] or A. immobilis [Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. 11 (1964a) 413; Acarologia. 6 (Suppl) (1964) 101]. The three species are difficult to separate morphologically, gene exchange between some of them is possible and, although each species displays environmental preferences, they occur together in some environments. This raises a question about their separate species status. In a pilot study, we investigated whether genetic data supported the separate species status of these forms. Both nuclear (the second internal transcribed spacer region [ITS-2] of the ribosomal cistron) and mitochondrial (cytochrome oxidase subunit I, mtcoxI hereafter) loci were employed for this purpose. Mtcox1 data does not conflict the differentiation into three separate species and while the ITS2 data were problematic for this group of mites it suggested that a congener, Acarus gracilis [Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. 10 (1957) 753], is basal to the A. siro species complex. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes in cellular composition of kidney collecting duct cells in rats with lithium-induced NDI.
Lithium treatment for 4 wk caused severe polyuria, dramatic downregulation in aquaporin-2 (AQP-2) expression, and marked decrease in AQP-2 immunoreactivity with the appearance of a large number of cells without AQP-2 labeling in the collecting ducts after lithium treatment. Surprisingly, this was not all due to an increase in AQP-2-negative principal cells, because double immunolabeling revealed that the majority of the AQP-2-negative cells displayed [H(+)]ATPase labeling, which identified them as intercalated cells. Moreover, multiple [H(+)]ATPase-labeled cells were adjacent, which was never seen in control rats. Quantitation confirmed a significant decrease in the fraction of collecting duct cells that exhibited detectable AQP-2 labeling compared with control rats: in cortical collecting ducts, 40 +/- 3.4 vs. 62 +/- 1.8% of controls (P < 0.05; n = 4) and in inner medullary collecting ducts, 58 +/- 1.6 vs. 81 +/- 1.3% of controls (P < 0.05; n = 4). In parallel, a significant increase in the fraction of intercalated ([H(+)]ATPase-positive) cells was shown. Urine output, whole kidney AQP-2 expression, cellular organization, and the fractions of principal and intercalated cells in cortex and inner medulla returned to control levels after 4 wk on a lithium-free diet following 4 wk on a lithium-containing diet. In conclusion, lithium treatment not only decreased AQP-2 expression, but dramatically and reversibly reduced the fraction of principal cells and altered the cellular organization in collecting ducts. These effects are likely to be important in lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Radioimmunoassay for bovine tumor necrosis factor: concentrations and circulating molecular forms in bovine plasma.
Antisera against recombinant bovine tumor necrosis factor (rbTNF) were produced in rabbits immunized with rbTNF in Freund's complete adjuvant (F314) and used in a double antibody radioimmunoassay to measure plasma TNF. Assay standards were rbTNF. Iodination of rbTNF and chromatography on G-50 Sephadex with 50 mM EDTA, 0.1% BSA, 0.05 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.5 resulted in labelled rbTNF which was greater than 97% TCA precipitable (specific activity of 37.5 microCi/micrograms). F314 (1:80,000 dilution) bound 21% of 125I-rbTNF in a non-equilibrium assay at 4 C. Separation of bound and free 125I-rbTNF was accomplished by precipitation with goat anti-rabbit IgG prepared with 6% polyethyleneglycol (mw = 8000). Minimum detectable TNF was 4 pg/assay tube. Matrix effects of plasma were minimal. Recovery of rbTNF from plasma was linearly (recovered TNF = .932 * added TNF = .12; r = .99). Displacement curves of increasing amounts of plasma from calves challenged with endotoxin to effect an increase in endogenous TNF were parallel to the rbTNF standard curve. F314 failed to crossreact with any other cytokines tested except human TNF (less than 1%). Neither recombinant nor native bovine TNF significantly interacted with antisera for TNF of human or murine origin. Plasma TNF was acutely elevated in calves infused with endotoxin. Changes in plasma TNF were determined in samples from calves with chronic parasitic infection. Endogenous plasma TNF existed as a monomer with a molecular weight of 17,000, and was not bound to any plasma carrier protein. These data indicate that a specific RIA for bTNF capable of detecting changes in in vivo TNF levels has been established. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Role of caloric intake in the weight loss after jejunoileal bypass for obesity.
Sixty-five patients were studied prospectively after jejunoileal bypass for obesity. Dietary intake pre- and postoperatively was measured either directly by weighing food or by a research dietary history. Of 65 measurements, 59 were made at least 6 months after operation, when over 75% of weight loss had been achieved. Fat absorption was measured in 42 of the patients. The entire group ate fewer calories (mean +/- SE = 2595 +/- 135) postoperatively than preoperatively (mean +/- SE = 3261 +/- 138). This difference was highly significant (P less than 0.001). Forty-eight patients ate less after their operation. The caloric deficit calculated from the observed weight loss could be accounted for entirely by the estimated decrease in intake in 22 of the 48 patients who ate less postoperatively. Moreover, measured fat malabsorption accounted for only 31% of the observed weight loss in those who ate more postoperatively and 21% in those who ate less. We conclude that a decrease in caloric intake, along with malabsorption, is an important factor in the long term postoperative weight loss (1-9 months) after jejunoileal bypass for obesity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
One-hour blood-xylose test in diagnosis of cow's milk protein intolerance.
In this prospective study, 18 consecutive children suspected of cow's milk protein intolerance (C.M.P.I.) on clinical grounds were investigated before and after challenge with cow's milk. One-hour blood-xylose, serum-IgE, eosinophil count, serum-complement (C3) and a jejunal biopsy specimen for histology and disaccharidase activity were obtained from all patients before challenge. Serum-complement was measured again 24 h after the beginning of the challenge and the first three tests were repeated on the fifth day. A second jejunal biopsy was obtained in 9 of the first 10 children. 15 of the 18 children were considered to have C.M.P.I. The one-hour blood-xylose test emerged as a simple and valuable test in the diagnosis of C.M.P.I. A significant drop (51--81%) in the one-hour blood-xylose level was observed in all 15 patients. In all patients but one it dropped below 25 mg/dl. Mean value (+/- S.D.) for the group was 47.5 +/- 11.1 mg/dl before and 17.2 +/- 4.2 mg/dl after cow's milk ingestion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The proteome under translational control.
A single eukaryotic gene can give rise to a variety of protein forms (proteoforms) as a result of genetic variation and multilevel regulation of gene expression. In addition to alternative splicing, an increasing line of evidence shows that alternative translation contributes to the overall complexity of proteomes. Identifying the repertoire of proteins and micropeptides expressed by alternative selection of (near-)cognate translation initiation sites and different reading frames however remains challenging with contemporary proteomics. MS-enabled identification of proteoforms is expected to benefit from transcriptome and translatome data by the creation of customized and sample-specific protein sequence databases. Here, we focus on contemporary integrative omics approaches that complement proteomics with DNA- and/or RNA-oriented technologies to elucidate the mechanisms of translational control. Together, these technologies enable to map the translation (initiation) landscape and more comprehensively define the inventory of proteoforms raised upon alternative translation, thus assisting in the (re-)annotation of genomes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The micro-erythrocyte sedimentation rate in black neonates and children. Part I. Its value in suspected neonatal infection.
The normal ranges for the micro-erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in neonates have been established. The use of the micro-ESR technique as an aid to the diagnosis of neonatal infection has been assessed. This test is both simple and quick, needs a heel prick only and appears to have considerable value in predicting the presence of infection in neonates. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Study on the conformation changes of Lysozyme induced by Hypocrellin A: the mechanism investigation.
The interactions between Lysozyme and Hypocrellin A are investigated in details using time-resolved fluorescence, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), circular dichroism spectroscopy (CD), three-dimensional fluorescence spectra, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques. The results of time-resolved fluorescence suggest that the quenching mechanism is static quenching. FTIR and CD spectroscopy provide evidences of the reducing of α-helix after interaction. Hypocrellin A could change the micro-environmental of Lysozyme according to hydrophobic interaction between the aromatic ring and the hydrophobic amino acid residues, and the altered polypeptide backbone structures induce the reduction of α-helical structures. Moreover, TGA study further demonstrates the structure changes of Lysozyme on the effect of Hypocrellin A. This study could provide some important information for the derivatives of HA in pharmacy, pharmacology and biochemistry. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of two oral formulations of canagliflozin after single-dose administration in healthy Chinese subjects .
This study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties and bioequivalence of two oral formulations of canagliflozin: a newly developed generic formulation (test) and a branded formulation (reference). A randomized, open-label, two-way crossover study was conducted in 55 healthy Chinese subjects. They were randomized to receive a single oral dose of 100 mg of test or reference canagliflozin tablets according to an open crossover design under fasting and fed states. Plasma canagliflozin concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and the pharmacokinetic parameters maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC0-t and AUC0-∞) were used to evaluate bioequivalence. The geometric mean ratio 90% confidence intervals for fasting Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞ were 85.14 - 114.40%, 102.14 - 106.51%, and 102.21 - 106.85%, respectively, and fed Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞ were 90.15 - 107.17%, 97.38 - 102.19%, and 96.78 - 101.92%, respectively. The mean values of tmax were prolonged in the test compared with the reference formulations. In addition, the mean values of tmax and Cmax for both formulations were significantly different under fed compared with fasting conditions, while there was no significant difference in AUC0-t or AUC0-∞ Conclusion: The two types of canagliflozin tablets were bioequivalent under both fasting and fed states, and both were generally well tolerated. . | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel technique for efficient construction of large scFv libraries.
The development of patient-tailored anti-tumor therapies requires large-scale production of antibodies for the purpose of screening specific tumor antibodies. Thus, the generation of a single chain fragment of variable region (scFv) library with a large repertoire is required for the selection of specific antibodies with high affinity. Presently, the generation of large scFv libraries is impeded by the low efficiency of cloning PCR fragments into phage display vectors, which is due to the low efficiency of the restriction digestion step required in the process. The aim of this study was to increase the efficiency of this critical step. We found methods that are formally believed to facilitate the digestion efficiency, such as adding longer tails to the primers or prolonging the incubation time, were inefficient. We then investigated the feasibility of using T/A cloning to improve the efficiency of cloning and found that when PCR fragments were first cloned into T-vector, and then subsequently subcloned into a phagemid, the cloning efficiency was dramatically increased. Our findings show that by utilizing this method the construction of a large scFv library can be easily accomplished. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Anal squamous carcinoma: a new AIDS-defining cancer? Case report and literature review.
Squamous anal cell carcinoma is a rare malignancy that represents the 1.5% to 2% of all the lower digestive tract cancers. However, an increased incidence of invasive anal carcinoma is observed in HIV-seropositive population since the widespread of highly active antiretroviral therapy. Human papillomavirus is strongly associated with the pathogenesis of anal cancer. Anal intercourse and a high number of sexual partners appear to be risk factors to develop anal cancer in both sexes. Anal pain, bleeding and a palpable lesion in the anal canal are the most common clinical features. Endo-anal ultrasound is the best diagnosis method to evaluate the tumor size, the tumor extension and the infiltration of the sphincter muscle complex. Chemoradiotherapy plus antiretroviral therapy are the recommended treatments for all stages of localized squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal in HIV-seropositive patients because of its high rate of cure. Here we present an HIV patient who developed a carcinoma of the anal canal after a long time of HIV infection under highly active antiretroviral therapy with a good virological and immunological response. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sjögren's syndome and extragonadal sex steroid formation: a clue to a better disease control?
Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphoplasmacytoid focal adenitis leading to mucosal dryness, with 9:1 female dominance and peak incidence at menopause. Due to autoimmune adenitis it can be speculated that the normal epithelial cell renewal has failed, possibly as a result of local intracrine failure to process dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Local intracrine/-cellular DHT deficiency seems to predispose to SS if estrogens are low, in menopausal women and in men. This intracrine failure could be the initial noxious stimulus, factor X, initiating the development of SS. Abnormal release and presentation of exocrine gland-derived antigens (Ag-epitopes), in a complex with major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II), by migratory dendritic cells (DC) activates T-cells in the regional lymph nodes. B-cells with the same specificity capture and present self-Ag to Th-cells which provide T-cell help. B-cells transform to plasma cells and start to produce autoantibodies (Ab) against these T-cell-dependent Ag. Ab against SS-A/Ro and SS-B/La ribonucleoproteins occur only in HLA-DQw2.1/DQw6 heterozygous individuals, but hY-RNA and RNA polymerase III transcripts in these Ag may in all SS patients stimulate toll-like receptors (TLR) 7 and 9 of the plasmacytoid DCs, because IFN-α and IFN-signature are produced. CD8+αEβ7+cytotoxic T-cells activated via cross-presentation recirculate to attack intracrine-deficient, apoptotic epithelial cells expressing self-Ag on their surface. Exocrine glands fall into the sphere of mucosal/gut-associated lymphatic tissue. This together with immune complexes spreads the immunological memory/aggression to extra-glandular sites explaining the systemic nature of the syndrome. Secondary SS could be explained by disturbed lymphocyte recirculation. There is no conclusive evidence that SS in those few men affected is more severe than in women, suggesting that sex steroid endo-/intracrinology has its major impact on the target tissue, not on immune modulation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Essential role of DHEA'. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Representative case series from public hospital admissions 1998 II: surgical adverse events.
To examine a representative case series of surgical adverse events in New Zealand public hospitals with a view to assessing their occurrence, causation, patient impact and preventability. An analysis was carried out on 326 surgical adverse events classified by reviewing physicians. These were identified from among 850 adverse events determined by two-stage retrospective review of a representative sample of 6579 medical records drawn from 13 public hospitals in 1998. From the four surgical categories--operative, fracture management, therapeutic, and system--there were 326 surgical adverse events, 38.4% of all adverse events identified. Surgical events had the same profile as adverse events overall. Four-fifths of surgical events were directly related to a surgical operation; these affected older patients and were less preventable than adverse events overall. A third of operative events were attributable to technical problems, another third to infections, with the remainder divided between haemorrhagic and cardiovascular complications. Therapeutic and system events had high preventability, and a significant proportion was related to delay in treatment. Half of events in fracture management were infection-related, patients were younger and, system events apart, had fewer extra bed days than other surgical events or events overall. The major causes of preventable events were avoidable delay in treatment (19.9%) and inadequate monitoring and supervision (13.6%), followed by personnel practising outside their expertise (8.0%) and inappropriate treatment (7.4%). On average, surgical events are associated with an extra 9.9 days in hospital, but they have a lower level of preventability than adverse events overall. Problems of infection, delay, and other aspects of the quality of care are identified for further consideration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Dynamic observation of carbofuran on symbolic enzymes in testis of rats].
To examine the effects of carbofuran on the testis of male rats. The activities of beta-glucuronidase (beta-G), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase(G-6-PD) and lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-x (LDHx) in serum and testis homogenate were determined for the rats given carbofuran at the dises of 0.3, 1.5 and 3.0 mg/kg orally for 7, 35 and 77 days. The results showed that after 7 days, the activities of beta-G in serum in all exposed groups were lower than those in control (P < 0.05). The activities of beta-G in testis homogenate in 0.3 mg/kg and 3.0 mg/kg were higher or lower than those in control (P < 0.05), respectively. After 77 days, the activities of G-6-PD in serum both in 1.5 mg/kg and 3.0 mg/kg were lower than those in control (P < 0.05). The activities of LDHx in testis homogenate in 3.0 mg/kg were lower than those in control (P < 0.05). It suggested that exposure to carbofuran could testis damage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Eimerian guilds (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in Richardson's (Spermophilus richardsonii) and Wyoming (Spermophilus elegans) ground squirrels.
Feces of Richardson's ground squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii) were examined to determine occurrence and prevalence of eimerian species and to compare guilds in these hosts to previously described guilds from Wyoming ground squirrels (Spermophilus elegans). Six species of Eimeria were collected from 100 Richardson's ground squirrels: Eimeria beecheyi (36% infected); Eimeria bilamellata (13%); Eimeria callospermophili-Eimeria morainensis complex (41%); Eimeria lateralis (6%); and Eimeria spermophili (9%). The species composition and prevalences were essentially identical in the 2 congeneric hosts. Three species were consistently more (> 30%) and 3 were consistently less (< 20%) prevalent in both host species. Furthermore, in both squirrel species the rare species were more prevalent in juveniles. Eimerian guilds such as these may be common to many species of ground-dwelling sciurid squirrels. The report of E. beecheyi in Richardson's ground squirrel constitutes a new host record for this species. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[New conceptions of structural organization of the active lymph drainage].
The review examines the history and the current state of the problem of structural bases of active lymph drainage from organs in human and mammalian animals. Two conceptions of lymphangion structure are compared that represent it as either valvular or intervalvular segments of lymphatic vessel functioning as active lymph drainage organizers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Separation of organophosphorus pesticides by using nano-liquid chromatography.
In the present research, the separation of a series of organophosphorus pesticides (fensulfothion, fenamiphos, profenofos, fonofos, isofenphos, dialifos, sulprofos and prothiofos), by using nano-liquid chromatography (nano-LC) with UV detection is described. Three 100 microm ID capillary columns, packed with different silica-based stationary phases (CN, C(18), and phenyl), were investigated. Among these, the phenyl column offered the best results in terms of chromatographic performance, and was selected for pesticide analyses. Parameters, such as sample dilution solvent, injection volume, mobile phase composition and flow rate, were optimized in order to define the ideal experimental conditions. With the aim of improving sensitivity, on-column focusing of large injection volumes was applied: a sensitivity increase of circa 100-fold was attained, with limits of detection (LODs) and quantification (LOQs) within the 4.4-37.5 and 14.5-125.0 ng/mL ranges, respectively. The method was validated, with satisfactory results, through the measurement of the following parameters: limits of detection and quantification, precision, linearity and recovery. Finally, five different baby foods, previously fortified with a solution of the eight aforementioned pesticides, and then subjected to liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase extraction clean-up, were analyzed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cross-infection control in dental laboratories.
The attitudes to cross-infection control of 800 dental laboratories registered with the Dental Laboratories Association have been surveyed. Considering the topicality of the subject material and the need for careful cross-infection control within and beyond the dental surgery, the response rate of 22% (175) was disappointingly low. As a result of the low response rate, the results should be seen as a guide only. Forty-nine percent of respondents had a cross-infection policy and of those with no policy 64% intended to implement one in the future. Thirty percent of laboratories receive known undisinfected work from the dental surgery. Of those items disinfected on arrival at the laboratory, those most frequently disinfected are dental impressions (77%) and dentures (51%). The most popular chemicals used for disinfection are household bleach, chlorhexidine and glutaraldehyde. Forty-four percent of the respondents generally (90% or more of the time) wear gloves when handling dental work received and opened in the laboratory. Seventy-four percent wear protective eye spectacles when trimming or polishing prostheses. Sixty-one percent used no disinfectant in the pumice and 93% did not disinfect the polishing instruments, eg wheels and mops. Forty-six percent had a policy for immunisation of staff against Hepatitis B. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Enzyme-resistant isomalto-oligosaccharides produced from Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B-1426 dextran hydrolysis for functional food application.
The extracellular dextransucrase from Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B-1426 was produced and purified using polyethylene glycol fractionation. In our earlier study, it was reported that L. mesenteroides dextransucrase synthesizes a high-molecular mass dextran (>2 × 10(6) Da) with ∼85.5% α-(1→6) linear and ∼14.5% α-(1→3) branched linkages. Isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMOs) were synthesized through depolymerization of dextran by the action of dextranase. The degree of polymerization of IMOs was 2-10 as confirmed by mass spectrometry. The nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analysis revealed the presence of α-(1→3) linkages in the synthesized IMOs. The IMOs were resistant to dextranase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase, and therefore can have potential application as food additives in the functional foods. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The effect of co-existing diseases with cholelithiasis on the course and results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy].
Six hundred laparoscopic cholecystectomies have been performed in patients with cholelithiasis. Co-existing chronic diseases have been noted in 28% of the operated patients. All these diseases have been known to increase operative risk in classic (open) cholecystectomy (hypertension, coronary disease, cardiac arrhythmias, diabetes mellitus, bronchial asthma). Statistical analysis of the body temperature following laparoscopic cholecystectomy, morbidity and duration of the postoperative hospitalization has revealed that there has been no significant increase in operative risk for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in these patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Results on the convergence of Braitenberg vehicle 3a.
Braitenberg vehicles are well-known models of animal behavior used as steering mechanisms in mobile robotics and artificial life. Because of their simplicity, they are mainly used for teaching robotics, while the lack of a quantitative theory has limited their use for research purposes. This article contributes to our formal understanding of Braitenberg vehicle 3a by presenting the convergence properties of its trajectories under parabolic-shaped stimuli. We show previously unreported features of the motion of the vehicle: the conditional stability, the oscillatory behavior, and the existence of periodic trajectories. The mathematical model used provides a theoretical relation between the environment, the internal control mechanism of the vehicle, and some morphological parameters, a link already found in experimental works. This work provides theoretical support for experimental research using Braitenberg vehicle 3a, and paves the way for further research in biology, robotics, and artificial life. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ca2+-induced phase separation in black lipid membranes and its effect on the transport of a hydrophobic ion.
Voltage jump-current relaxation studies have been performed with dipicrylamine-doped black membranes of binary lipid mixtures. As in the case of the carrier-mediated ion transport (Schmidt, G., Eibl, H. and Knoll, W. (1982) J. Membrane Biol. 70, 147-155) no evidence was found that the neutral lipid phosphatidylcholine (DPMPC) and the charged phosphatidic acid (DPMPA) are heterogeneously distributed in the membrane over the whole range of composition. However, besides a continuous dilution of the surface charges of DPMPA by the addition of DPMPC molecules, different structural properties of mixed membranes influence the kinetics of the dipicrylamine transport. The addition of Ca2+ to the electrolyte induces a lipid phase separation within the membrane into two fluid phases of distinctly different characteristics of the translocation of hydrophobic ions. Thus, it is possible to determine a preliminary composition phase diagram for the DPMPA/DPMPC mixtures as a function of the Ca2+ concentration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Action of crystals of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis on the midgut of Aedes aegypti L. larvae, studied by electron microscopy].
Ingestion of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis crystals by Aedes aegypti larvae is followed by midgut epithelium disruption. Earliest ultrastructural changes consist of an enlargement of intra- and intercellular spaces in the basal region of the cell. Endoplasmic reticula disintegrate by forming spherical structures which increase in size during intoxication. Mitochondria are transformed at first into a condensed form, then become swollen with the disappearance of internal cristae. In the cardia cells, which secrete the peritrophic membrane, the Golgi apparatus may produce electron-dense secretion vesicles; in this event, the peritrophic membrane assumes an abnormal configuration. Before complete breakdown, a cellular hypertrophy is observed: few cells become balloon-like. At the same time, the microvilli decrease in size, widen and then disappear after a few hours exposure to crystal delta-endotoxin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Autologous fat injection for treatment of carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis of the thumb - a promising alternative].
Classical surgical options for osteoarthritis of the thumb carpometacarpal joint irreversibly des-troy the normal anatomy of the wrist. Although overall satisfaction rates with these procedures are high, time to achieve normal hand function and ability to work may take 12-16 weeks. Therefore a non-ablative less invasive surgical option would be interesting. We injected adipose tissue into the thumb carpometacarpal joint in a pilot study. Average preoperative pain according to a VAS was 7.4 in action and 3.8 during rest. It was reduced considerably to 2.2 in action and 0 during rest after 1 month and to 2.4 and 0.8, respectively, 3 months after surgery. The reduction of pain in action was statistically significant 1 month after injection (p=0.042). Average grip strength was 78% and pinch grip strength was 74% in comparison to the healthy side preop-eratively, 89% and 80% one month postoperatively and 93% and 89%, respectively, 3 months postoperatively. An average DASH score of 58 preoperative was reduced to 36 after 1 month and 33 after 3 months. The amelioration of hand function was statistically significant (p=0.042 and p=0.043). There were no side effects and all patients were satisfied. These preliminary results are promising. Adipose tissue injection seems to be an alternative to consider, especially as it does not exclude classical surgical options in cases of failure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Inhibitory Effect of Hydroxysafflor Yellow B on the Proliferation of Human Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cells.
A recent patent has been issued for hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) as a drug to prevent blood circulation disorders. Hydroxysafflor yellow B (HSYB), an isomer of HSYA with antioxidative effects, has been isolated from the florets of Carthamus tinctorius. The effects of HSYB on the proliferation of cancer cells and its mechanism of action have not been investigated. The aims of this study were to investigate the anti-cancer effects and the molecular mechanism of HSYB for breast cancer MCF-7 cells. MTT assays and colony formation assays were used to assess the survival and proliferation of MCF-7 cells, respectively. Hoechst 33258 and flow cytometry were used to measure cell apoptosis and flow cytometry to determine effects on the cell cycle. Western blots were used to measure protein levels. Treatment with HSYB reduced survival and proliferation of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, HSYB arrested the MCF-7 cell cycle at the S phase and downregulated cyclin D1, cyclin E, and CDK2. Compared with a control group, HSYB suppressed the protein levels of p-PI3K, PI3K, AKT, and p-AKT in MCF-7 cells. In addition, HSYB decreased the levels of Bcl- 2, increased the levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and caspase-9, and subsequently induced MCF-7 cell apoptosis. These data demonstrate that HSYB arrests the MCF-7 cell cycle at the S phase and induces cell apoptosis. Patent US20170246228 indicates that HSYB can be potentially used for the prevention and treatment of human breast cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Accurate prediction of deleterious protein kinase polymorphisms.
Contemporary, high-throughput sequencing efforts have identified a rich source of naturally occurring single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), a subset of which occur in the coding region of genes and result in a change in the encoded amino acid sequence (non-synonymous coding SNPs or 'nsSNPs'). It is hypothesized that a subset of these nsSNPs may underlie common human disease. Testing all these polymorphisms for disease association would be time consuming and expensive. Thus, computational methods have been developed to both prioritize candidate nsSNPs and make sense of their likely molecular physiologic impact. We have developed a method to prioritize nsSNPs and have applied it to the human protein kinase gene family. The results of our analyses provide high quality predictions and outperform available whole genome prediction methods (74% versus 83% prediction accuracy). Our analyses and methods consider both DNA sequence conservation, which most traditional methods are based on, as well unique structural and functional features of kinases. We provide a ranked list of common kinase nsSNPs that have a higher probability of impacting human disease based on our analyses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Determination of D1 and D2 dopamine receptor expression by Ntera-2 cells.
There is evidence that D1 and D2 dopamine receptors are co-expressed on some neurons. As a potential model of co-expression we examined Ntera-2 cells using RT-PCR, and showed that they express D2 but not D1 receptors. D2 dopamine receptor expression was confirmed by quinpirole inhibition of forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation. Absence of D1 dopamine receptors was confirmed by the inability of dopamine or SKF 81297 to increase cAMP. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Postural alterations in children with mouth breathing assessed by computerized biophotogrammetry.
To determine and compare the posture of children with obstructive (OMB) and functional mouth breathing (FMB) and children with nasal breathing (NB) using computerized biophotogrammetry, as well as to determine the viability and efficacy of this method. Evaluative and personalized methods were used for the capture and analysis of angle images obtained from 19 NB, 26 FMB and 17 OMB children of either gender aged 8 to 10 years on anterior, posterior and profile views. The nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to analyze the three groups as a whole and the Mann-Whitney test was used for pairwise comparison of the groups (p = 0.05). The angle related to the lateral knee condyle, lateral ankle malleolus and 5th metatarsal diaphysis (KAM) was significantly greater in NB than in FMB children. With respect to the angle related to the nasal external acoustic meatus and pogonion (GMM), nasal external acoustic meatus and manubrium (GME), and 2nd cervical vertebra, major cervical curvature point and 7th cervical vertebra (C2C7), significantly higher values were observed for the OMB group compared to NB children. The angle formed by the 2nd thoracic vertebra, the major prominent thoracic point and the 9th thoracic vertebra (T2T9) was significantly greater in FMB than in OMB children. Computerized biophotogrammetry was found to e a safe and reliable technique, allowing comparison between the children analyzed, as well as the detection of postural alterations in mouth breathing children. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Occupational categories and return to work after traumatic brain injury: a multicenter study.
To further evaluate determinants of return to work (RTW) after traumatic brain injury (TBI), with focus on the relation between preinjury occupational category and RTW outcome. Prospective collaborative cohort study. Seventeen National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research-designated Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems. Consecutive sample of 1341 patients (age range, 18-62y) who were hospitalized with a TBI diagnosis, received both acute neurotrauma services and inpatient rehabilitation services, consented to participate, were employed before injury, and completed a 1-year follow-up assessment. An inpatient interdisciplinary brain injury rehabilitation program. Competitive employment at 1 year postinjury. Participants were categorized into 1 of 3 groups depending on preinjury occupational title: professional/managerial (n=192), skilled (n=751), or manual labor (n=398). Chi-square analyses were computed to examine changes across occupation groups between preinjury occupation group and postinjury RTW. The rate of successful RTW was greatest for professional/managerial (56%), lower for skilled (40%), and lowest for manual labor (32%), yielding an odds ratio of 2.959 between the highest and lowest groups. Of those with successful RTW, most did so within the same occupational category grouping. A multiple logistic regression showed that preinjury occupation, education level, discharge FIM score, age, sex, marital status, and hospital length of stay each influenced RTW. Prior research has shown that preinjury employment status (employed vs unemployed) greatly influences the odds of successful RTW after TBI. A related hypothesis, that occupational classification also influences RTW outcome, has been understudied and has yielded conflicting results. The current study shows convincingly that the type of occupation influences RTW outcome, with the best prospect for RTW among people with professional/managerial jobs. Occupational category should be examined in the future development of predictive models for RTW after TBI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Psychological Outcomes of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Youth with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Results of the HAPPY-IBD Randomized Controlled Trial at 6- and 12-Month Follow-Up.
Youth with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often experience psychological difficulties, such as anxiety and depression. This randomized controlled study tested whether a 3-month disease-specific cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in addition to standard medical care versus standard medical care only was effective in improving these youth's psychological outcomes. As this study was aimed at prevention, we included 70 youth (10-25 years) with IBD and symptoms of subclinical anxiety and/or depression, and measured psychological outcomes at 6- and 12-month follow-up. In general, participants in both groups showed improvements in anxiety, depression, health-related quality of life, social functioning, coping, and illness perceptions, sustained until 12 months follow-up. Overall, we found no differences between those receiving additional CBT and those receiving standard medical care only. We assume that this can be explained by the perceived low burden (both somatically and psychologically) or heightened awareness of psychological difficulties and IBD. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02265588. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ehrlichia ewingii infection delays spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis through stabilization of mitochondria.
The uncultivable obligate intracellular bacterium Ehrlichia ewingii, previously known only as a canine pathogen, is the most recently recognized agent of human ehrlichiosis. E. ewingii is the only Ehrlichia species known to infect neutrophils. In the blood or in ex vivo culture, neutrophils generally have a short life span. In the present study, we investigated the effect of E. ewingii infection on spontaneous apoptosis of neutrophils. E. ewingii infection significantly delayed dog neutrophil apoptosis during ex vivo culture. The inhibitory effect on neutrophil apoptosis by E. ewingii was reversible on clearance of the organism. By using the fluorescent mitochondrial dyes Mitotracker Red 580 and JC-1, we found that E. ewingii infection stabilized mitochondrial integrity by maintaining mitochondrial membrane potential in neutrophils. These results suggest that E. ewingii delays spontaneous apoptosis of neutrophils via stabilization of host cell mitochondria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cultural safety in New Zealand and the United States: looking at a way forward together.
Cultural safety emerged in Aotearoa, New Zealand as a nursing response to bicultural interactions between indigenous Maori and other New Zealanders. The purpose of this research is to describe the meaning and experience of cultural safety as depicted by nurses in New Zealand and to illustrate the potential for this to inform U.S. nursing education and practice. This interpretive hermeneutic study explored cultural safety as described by 12 experienced nurses who were selected through snowball and purposive sampling. Audiotaped interviews were conducted after ethics approval. Interpretive analysis uncovered five themes that are described with data and paradigm cases. Cultural safety considers the perspective of the patient as the norm in contrast to the culture of health care. Understanding historical power differences and personal biases can help challenge victim-blaming responses by health care providers. Incorporating these understandings into reflective practice enhances the possibility of culturally safe learning for students and culturally safe care for patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical effects of heliox administration for acute bronchiolitis in young infants.
To assess the effect of heliox, a helium-oxygen mixture, on respiratory distress symptoms in young infants. Prospective, randomized, double-blind study. Pediatric ICU (PICU) of a university hospital. Twenty infants, all < 3 months old, admitted to the PICU with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis. All infants were randomly and blindly assigned to inhale either heliox or an air-oxygen mixture (airox) for 1 h under an oxyhood. After 1 h, the respiratory distress score was significantly lower in the heliox group compared with the airox group (3.05 vs 5.5, p < 0.01), with a significant reduction in accessory muscles use (p < 0.05) and expiratory wheezing (p < 0.01). In contrast, inspiratory breath sounds and cyanosis did not significantly differ between groups. The ex-premature infants of the heliox group had a higher respiratory distress score at baseline compared with the term infants of this group (5.8 vs 5.2, p < 0.05) and a comparable decrease in the score at 60 min. In young infants, even those born prematurely, heliox breathing induced a rapid reduction in accessory muscles use and expiratory wheezing. Further studies are needed to confirm the decreased respiratory muscle work of breathing during heliox inhalation in this population. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aralia elata var. mandshurica (Rupr. & Maxim.) J.Wen: An overview of pharmacological studies.
Aralia elata var. mandshurica (Rupr. & Maxim.) J.Wen syn. A. mandshurica Rupr. & Maxim is evaluated for its medicinal application. The aim of this study is to analyze pharmacological studies on A. elata var. mandshurica published until December 2015. The information regarding the chemistry, safety, effectiveness, and pharmacological and clinical effects of A. elata was systematically collected from the scientific literature through library catalogs; online services such as E-library.ru, Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A. elata is often considered an example of a medicinal plant used in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese traditional medicine. However, the contemporary applications of Aralia in officinal medicine result primarily from a large number of pharmacological and clinical investigations carried out in the former USSR in the mid-20th century. Since the 1950s, medicinal preparations from radices of A. elata and radices of A. mandshurica have secured an established position within Russian/USSR medicine as evidenced by the inclusion of the drug in recent editions of the National Pharmacopoeia of the USSR and in the Register of Medicinal Preparations of Russia. Pharmacological studies on animals have shown that Aralia increases physical working capacity and affords a stress-protective effect against a broad spectrum of harmful factors including cold stress, immobilization, UV irradiation, and low air pressure. The phytoadaptogen exerts an effect on the central nervous, reproductive, immune, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems; the metabolic syndrome including hypolipidemic and antidiabetic effects; and blood coagulation. Together with general properties of adaptogens, Aralia has its own specificity, which manifests in cardioprotective and antiarrhythmic activities. Studies on isolated organs, cells, and enzymes have revealed that Aralia preparations exhibit antioxidant activities and enhance sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase activity, inhibit endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated apoptosis markers (GRP78, CHOP, Caspase-12, and JNK), and increase phosphorylation of STAT3 and Bcl2/Bax ratio; they also show cytotoxic activities against some tumor cell lines; affect NF-κB and PPARs activities; and regulate biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammation-related protein expression, tissue respiration, and oxygen consumption. In healthy subjects, Aralia increases mental performance, working capacity, and endurance of movement. Numerous clinical trials have shown the efficiency of Aralia preparations in patients with traumatic brain injury (accompanied with asthenic syndrome and neurotic reactions, depression, neurasthenia, and psychasthenia), neurological diseases (accompanied with astheno-depressive and astheno-hypochondriasis syndromes), myasthenia syndrome (accompanied with chronic post-influenza arachnoiditis), and arterial hypotension. Aralia tincture and "Saparal" are useful as antiviral remedies. Radioprotective properties of Aralia have been reported in pregnant women. Synergistic antiobesity effect was reported for the combination of A. mandshurica and Engelhardtia chrysolepis extracts and antidiabetic effect for the combination of Aralia and glipizide. Promising stress-relieving effects of Aralia are reported for professionals whose work requires a high level of attention. Its proposed ability to moderate stress-induced damage and dysfunction in the cardiovascular tissue might make Aralia the adaptogen of choice among patients with higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. Because Aralia extract administration appears to affect plasma glucose level and hepatic lipid accumulation and ameliorate hyperinsulinemia, it might also provide benefits and be the adaptogen of choice for patients with obesity and diabetes. This review describes the considerable diversity of pharmacological effects of A. elata reported in numerous studies carried out in the former USSR and other countries, which have been confirmed over >47 years of use of the plant as an official medicinal remedy. The knowledge discussed in this review can be applied to the expansion of the use of this high-value plant in the pharmacotherapy of European and other countries and for the further discovery of new drugs based on the secondary metabolites of this plant. Modern approaches in mechanisms of action, including a study of gene expression profiling, suggest the most up-to-date challenges for the future research of Aralia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mimics of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was first described in 1967 by Ashbaugh and colleagues. Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a clinical syndrome, not a disease, and has no ideal definition or gold standard diagnostic test. There are multiple causes and different pathways of pathogenesis as well as various histological findings. Given these variations, there are many clinical entities that can get confused with ARDS. These entities are discussed in this article as "Mimics of ARDS." It imperative to correctly identify ARDS and distinguish it from other diseases to implement correct management strategy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Severe and unusual clinical manifestations of intolerance to cow's milk protein in 3 patients under 12 months of age].
Cow's Milk Protein Allergy/Intolerance (CMPA/CMPI), due to immunologic hypersensitivity to one or more milk proteins, includes several clinical presentations. We report three unusual cases of CMPA/CMPI, illustrating uncommon and misinterpreted clinical features, with the purpose to provide further evidence of the variety of CMPA/CMPI presentations in infancy. Our study shows that extreme care in assessing the clinical and feeding history of the patient is extremely important for the prompt and correct diagnosis of CMPA/CMPI in infants. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Successful defibrillation in the prone position.
Early defibrillation provides the greatest chance of survival after ventricular fibrillation. Conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation requires the patient to be in the supine position. Electrical treatment of arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation by means of a defibrillator back paddle in patients receiving prone ventilation in intensive care has been described. We report a case in which electrical defibrillation was successfully performed in the prone position in a patient undergoing complex spinal surgery. We suggest that, if defibrillation were required in ventilated patients positioned prone, defibrillation should be attempted in the prone position, as turning the patient supine would consume valuable minutes and reduce the chances of successful defibrillation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Total body bone mineral measurements in children with Prader-Willi syndrome: the influence of the skull's bone mineral content per area (BMA) and of height.
Background. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of body height and growth on total body measurements with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in children. Material and methods. Seventeen children with Prader-Willi syndrome were studied as part of a clinical investigation of the effect of growth hormone (Genotropin) treatment. Bone mineral areal mass (BMA), in g/cm2, was studied with DEXA at 0, 12, 24 and 30 months after the start of the study. The effect of increased bone volume on BMA was studied by making a rough estimate of bone width, which was correlated with BMA. Results. There was a weak correlation between total body BMA and body height (r = 0.58), which increased after exclusion of the head (r = 0.84). The BMA of the head was more than twice as high as that of the rest of the body. In the shortest children more than 50 % of the total bone mineral was contained in the skull, which decreased with height to below 20 % in the tallest children. The correlation between the so-called bone width and BMA (total body, head excluded) was 0.97. Conclusion. The results indicate that (a) the bone mineral content (BMC) of the head and (b) the bone volume and body height have a major influence on BMA measurements with DEXA in children. A theoretical method for evaluating the relative bone density (g/cm3) has also been described. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Projecting the medical costs of AIDS and ARC in the United States.
We projected the direct medical costs of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related complex (ARC) for the United States during the period 1987-1991, by applying current epidemiologic projections to state-of-the-art medical decision algorithms for diagnosis and treatment of AIDS-related illnesses. We included the cost of azidothymidine (AZT) therapy, as well as other therapeutic innovations likely to be approved by the FDA, and estimated average ARC patient treatment costs. By combining prospective study data on rates of progression to AIDS with current AIDS incidence data, we arrived at human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seroprevalence and AIDS incidence projection that were considerably lower than those of the Public Health Service. We estimated the average total medical costs per patient for AIDS in the 1990s at $27,950-$40,455 and for ARC at $3,621-$4,913 per year (1987 U.S. dollars). We projected the medical costs of AIDS and ARC at $2-4 billion annually by 1991, substantially lower than previous estimates. We projected that Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and other pulmonary complications would account for the largest share (over 40%) of AIDS medical costs, and that AZT therapy and medication would account for more than 25% of total ARC/AIDS treatment costs by 1991. In our estimates, the total medical costs of treating ARC patients could approach one-half of the costs of treating AIDS patients by 1991, primarily due to costs associated with AZT. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Eyes on 3D-current 3D biomimetic disease concept models and potential applications in age-related macular degeneration.
Three-dimensional cellular models that mimic disease are being increasingly investigated and have opened an exciting new research area into understanding pathomechanisms. The advantage of 3D in vitro disease models is that they allow systematic and in depth studies of physiological and pathophysiological processes with less costs and ethical concerns that have arisen with animal models. The purpose of the 30 approach is to allow crosstalk between cells and microenvironment, and with cues from the microenvironment,cells can assemble their niche similar to in vivo conditions. The use of 3D models for mimicking disease processes such as cancer, osteoarthritis etc., Is only emerging and allows multidisciplinary teams consisting of tissue engineers, biologist biomaterial scientists and clinicians to work closely together. While in vitro systems require rigorous testing before they can be considered as replicates of the in vivo model, major steps have been made,suggesting that they will become powerful tools for studying physiological and pathophysiological processes. This paper aims to summarize some of the existing 3D models and proposes a novel 3D model of the eye structures that are involved in the most common cause of blindness in the Western World,namely age-related macular degeneration (AMD). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structure and chromosomal localization of the human thrombospondin gene.
Thrombospondin (THBS1) is a large modular glycoprotein component of the extracellular matrix and contains a variety of distinct domains, including three repeating subunits (types I, II, and III) that share homology to an assortment of other proteins. Determination of THBS1 gene structure has revealed that the type I repeat modules are encoded by symmetrical exons and that the heparin-binding domain is encoded by a single exon. To further elucidate the higher level organization of THBS1, the gene was localized to the q11-qter region of chromosome 15. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of endosulfan and nonylphenol on the primordial germ cell population in pre-larval zebrafish embryos.
A variety of chemicals released into the aquatic environment are capable of targeting the reproductive system in fish and other vertebrates. Some of the effects observed in exposed adults may arise by permanent organizational changes that occur during embryogenesis, including changes in gonad structure and function. Little work has addressed the effects of pesticides and industrial chemicals, many of which are recognized as endocrine disrupting chemicals, on early embryos. The recent cloning of the vasa gene in zebrafish, the mRNA of which is found in fertilized eggs and is later segregated into the primordial germ cells (PGCs), has provided a unique opportunity to examine PGC migration and positioning in early embryos. We utilized antisense RNA probes to vasa mRNA in whole mount in situ hybridization analysis in order to examine the early migration and distribution of PGCs in embryos exposed to endosulfan and nonylphenol. The data reveal that these chemicals cause alterations in the distribution of PGCs along the anterior-posterior axis in 24-h-old embryos. This suggests that the previously reported alterations in juvenile and adult gonad structure of various aquatic vertebrates following exposure to pesticides and industrial chemicals could be related in part to alterations in early PGC distribution. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antibodies to T cells in sarcoidosis.
Antibodies to a proportion of T lymphocytes were detected in the sera of 9 of 15 patients with sarcoidosis. Patients were studied within one year of tissue diagnosis, none were taking steroids, and all had hilar adenopathy with pulmonary infiltrates (Stage II). Antibodies were identified by three assays using a panel of T cells purified (greater than or equal to 90%) from the peripheral blood of healthy donors by the nylon column technique. Nine of fifteen sarcoid inhibited the capacity of normal T cells to adhere to sheep red blood cells (E rosettes) with an average reduction of 33% (range 21-46%) from control values. Antibodies to T cells were also identified using the indirect immunofluorescent method; 7 of 15 sera contained antibodies (IgM and IgG) to a portion of T cells (mean 36%, range 24-52%). Four of these sera were also cytotoxic to a fraction (18-31%) of T cells when incubated (15 degrees, 90 min) in the presence of rabbit complement. The antibodies to T cells identified in the sera of sarcoid patients may account for some of the immunological abnormalities found in this disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Medicaid Stage 1 Meaningful Use EHR Incentive Payments Are Associated With Higher Quality but Not Improvements in Quality.
This was a retrospective cohort study of ambulatory care quality by physicians who received payment for Medicaid Stage 1 Meaningful Use (MU) in 2012 using New York State Medicaid Claims (2010-2013). Eight quality measures were used to compare performance of physicians who received payments to Adopt, Implement, or Use (AIU) an electronic health record in 2011 but not for MU in 2012 (AIU-only group) and physicians who cared for Medicaid patients but received no payments (no-incentive group), using propensity score-weighted difference-in-difference logistic regression analyses, clustering by physician. In all, 13 697 physicians and 913 476 patients were studied. In 2010, the MU group scored higher than both groups (vs AIU-only in 3 of 8 measures, 0.8-1.3 adjusted percentage points; vs no-incentive, 2 of 8 measures, 0.9-2.0 adjusted percentage points). The difference-in-difference analysis found no additional improvements in quality over time relative to either control group. Longer follow-up is needed to determine the effects of Stage 2 MU. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Follicle development and oocyte maturation during the immediate preovulatory period in Meishan and white hybrid gilts.
A study was carried out to compare preovulatory ovarian events in prolific Meishan gilts (which have high levels of embryo survival) with contemporary white hybrid control gilts. Gilts of similar reproductive ages (second or third oestrous cycle) were observed three times a day for oestrous behaviour and ovaries recovered at a time estimated as within 7 h of ovulation (white hybrid, n = 13; Meishan, n = 16). Preovulatory follicles were recovered (n = 195, white hybrid; n = 252, Meishan), and oocytes were aspirated and fixed for later identification of meiotic stage, and follicular fluid was frozen for subsequent determination of progesterone. The number of presumed ovulatory follicles recovered per animal was similar to the expected ovulation rate (15.0, white hybrid; 15.75, Meishan; P > 0.1); however, follicles from Meishan gilts were smaller (8.1 versus 9.0 mm, P < 0.001) and contained less follicular fluid (139.9 versus 187.6 microliters, P < 0.02) than did white hybrid gilts. Total follicular progesterone (88.7 ng per follicle, white hybrid; 77.4 ng per follicle, Meishan) and concentration of progesterone in follicular fluid (526 ng ml-1, white hybrid; 640 ng ml-1, Meishan) did not differ between the two breeds (P > 0.1). There were no breed differences in the extent of heterogeneity in follicular diameter, volume of follicular fluid, and total follicular progesterone and progesterone concentration (P > 0.1). However, classification of recovered oocytes into seven discrete meiotic stages revealed that more oocytes recovered from Meishan preovulatory follicles were in the more advanced stages of meiosis than were those recovered from white hybrid gilts (P < 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The employer's case for health management.
Employers' past solutions to rising health benefit costs--adopting managed care strategies, cost shifting to employees and reducing benefits-are no longer effectively controlling costs and are depressing the value of health benefits for employee recruitment and retention. An alternative strategy is to implement health management approaches that improve the health status of employees. These programs reduce medical costs and have a documented positive impact on workers' compensation, disability costs, absenteeism and productivity. Further, this approach is complementary to health care consumerism as a strategy for health improvement and benefit cost reduction and results in improved employee health, outlook and satisfaction. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Human placentation from nidation to 5 weeks of gestation. Part II: Tools to model the crucial first days.
Human pregnancy is unusual with respect to monthly spontaneous decidualisation as well as the degree of placental invasion and interaction with the decidualised endometrial stroma. This review covers in vivo animal models and in vitro cell culture models that have been used to study the earliest stages of human implantation and placentation from nidation to 5 weeks of gestation. The field has expanded rapidly in recent years due to the generation of human embryonic stem cell lines and the ability of some scientists to culture human blastocysts. These models have enabled researchers to begin to elucidate the interactions involved in human blastocyst apposition, adhesion and implantation. However, we still understand very little about the differentiation processes involved in the formation of the placenta. Continued improvements to current models, including the potential isolation of a human trophoblast stem cell, will significantly enhance our ability to define the molecular and structural events occurring during human implantation and early placental development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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