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A three-year experience with CCPD in a university-based dialysis and transplantation program.
A three-year experience with CCPD in adults and children in a university-based Dialysis and Transplantation Program is presented. Fifty-one patients began treatment from March of 1984 through February of 1987 (5 infants less than age three years, 11 children ages 3 to 17 years and 35 adults, of whom 8 had diabetes mellitus). The approach to treatment selection and the results of treatment including peritonitis rates and patient outcomes are described in the different groups. CCPD has become the treatment of choice for infants and children with ESRD awaiting kidney transplantation. In adults it is a considered a reasonable alternative, and may be the preferred dialysis, modality, in elderly patients, patients with diabetes mellitus and patients with severe cardiovascular disease who require or prefer assistance, who wish to be at home, and who tolerate hemodialysis poorly. This segment of the dialysis population appears to be increasing steadily. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Treatment of motor urge incontinence with the beta 2-sympathomimetic drug clenbuterol (author's transl)].
15 female patients with motor urge incontinence were treated with Clenbuterol (30--40 micrograms daily, orally) for 4--6 weeks. Urodynamic controls showed the reduction or suppression of detrusor contractions. Bladder capacity increased. We found no change in the maximum urethral closure pressure due to the medication. Side effects were few. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Toxicogenomic Effects in Rat Blood Leukocytes and Chemoprophylaxis of Radiation-Induced Carcinogenesis.
Toxicogenomic parameters were studied in the blood of female rats after exposure to ionizing γ-radiation in a dose of 4 Gy and chemoprophylaxis with α-difluoromethylornithine, eleutherococcus or leuzea extracts, which were used in animals with morphological manifestations of tumor growth under conditions of radiation-induced carcinogenesis. Life-time evaluation of toxicogenomic effects was carried out by express method for measurements of blood nucleotid DNA - fluorescent indication. The level of hyperaneu/polyploidy increased in the blood leukocytes of control rats 30 days after radiation exposure. A significant decrease of genotoxicity as a result of drug treatment in comparison with the number and multiplicity of tumors in irradiated animals was found only in the endocrine and reproductive organs of rats treated by eleutherococcus extract. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The separation of substituted carbohydrates by high-performance liquid chromatography.
Separation of a wide variety of partially and completely substituted carbohydrates was achieved by using two types of gel permeation columns. The relative retention time was dependent on two factors: the relative polarity of the carbohydrate and its molecular weight. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Direct liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry determination of underivatized glyphosate in rice, maize and soybean.
The residue determination of the widely used herbicide glyphosate (GLY) is highly problematic due to its amphoteric character, low mass and lack of chemical groups that might facilitate its detection. Most methods developed up to now have employed pre-column or post-column derivatization to form fluorescent derivatives and/or to reduce the polar character of the analyte facilitating its chromatographic retention. The aim of this work is to evaluate the feasibility of performing the direct LC-MS/MS determination of GLY residues in vegetables. After testing several Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography (HILIC) columns, Obelisc N was selected due to its better chromatographic retention. LC-MS/MS determination has been performed in negative ionization mode, monitoring up to four transitions to give high reliability to the identification/confirmation process. This approach has been evaluated for the determination of GLY residues in rice, maize and soybean samples, and the method validated at different concentrations in compliance with the maximum residue limits established in the current legislation. After sample extraction with water, a combination of extract dilution, partition with dichloromethane, and solid phase extraction (SPE) using Oasis HLB cartridges (depending on the sample matrix under analysis) was applied. Quantification was made by using isotope-labeled GLY as internal standard and calibration in solvent. The methodology developed allows the rapid determination of GLY residues avoiding the derivatization step typically applied for this herbicide. The most critical issue is the robustness of the Obelisc N column, which was found to suffer rapid degradation with time. Extreme care and continuous testing of retention times and peak shapes is required for a reliable determination. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Macrophages and tuberculosis.
Almost one third of the world's population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis. Each year there are eight million new cases of tuberculosis and three million deaths from the disease worldwide. Mtb is an intracellular pathogen that resides predominantly within macrophages. Paradoxically, macrophages also represent the first line of defense against this pathogen. Significant recent advances have been made in understanding the mechanisms by which Mtb gains entry into the macrophage, suppresses the microbicidal activities of this host cell, and ultimately subverts cell-mediated immune responses that eradicate the infection. This article reviews recent findings that contribute to our understanding of the roles played by mononuclear phagocytes in the immune response against tuberculosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity of the differentiation-inducing agent 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA) against rat choriocarcinoma.
The acyclic nucleoside phosphonate 9-(2-phosphonylmethoxyethyl)adenine (PMEA) has previously been shown to be a strong inducer of differentiation in several tumor cell lines. We have now investigated the in vitro differentiation-inducing and the in vivo antitumor, properties of PMEA in a rat choriocarcinoma tumor cell model. PMEA at 2 to 50 microM induced choriocarcinoma RCHO cell differentiation in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner, as monitored by morphological changes, induction of alkaline phosphatase and production and secretion of progesterone. Likewise, a clear dose-response relationship was established for the in vivo antitumor activity of PMEA in choriocarcinoma-bearing rats. (R)-PMPA, a structural analogue of PMEA which is much less effective than PMEA in inducing differentiation in vitro did not demonstrate any in vivo antitumor activity. This observation points to the specificity of the differentiation-inducing potential of PMEA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Synthesis and preliminary antimicrobial evaluation of new 7-(N-pyrrolyl) derivatives of cephalosporins.
A series of seven new cephalosporins was prepared for preliminary microbiological evaluation by N-acylation of 7-aminocephalosporanic acid with substituted N-pyrrolylcarboxylic acids via mixed anhydrides. The chemical structure of the compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR and mass spectral data. The 7-(N-pyrrolyl) cephalosporin derivatives were tested in vitro by the disc diffusion method upon 3 strains and subsequent determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the most active ones upon 29 strains. The products of the series exhibited antibacterial activity. They showed selective potency against gram-positive and were practically inactive against gram-negative microorganisms. The compound 3-[(acetyloxy)methyl]-7-([2-[3-(ethoxycarbonyl)-2-methyl-5-phenyl-1H-1-pyrrolyl]acetyl]amino)-6-oxo-7,7a-dihydro-2H,6H-aceto[2,1-b][1,3]thiazine-4-carboxylic acid (4a) was outlined as more active than the reference cefazolin (CAS 23325-78-2) in regard to S. pyogenes and some strains of S. aureus, the MIC of 4a against S. pyogenes were at least 4-fold lower. The toxicological evaluations of the starting N-pyrrolylcarboxylic acids showed no acute toxicity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Psychometric properties of the world health organization disability assessment schedule II -12 Item (WHODAS II) in trauma patients.
The 12-item WHODAS II is widely used for assessing disability among different populations. This study aimed at assessing the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the 12-item WHODAS II among trauma patients. In this methodological study, 220 patients aging 15-65-year-old hospitalized in Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Kashan, Iran, were studied. The WHODAS II was used for data collection. The reliability of this schedule was assessed by evaluating its internal consistency. Its validity was evaluated by using the known-groups approach and the convergent validity method. The exploratory and the confirmatory factor analysis techniques were also used for assessing the factor structure of the schedule. The mean of participants' ages was 34.7±14.5 years. Most of the participants were male patients (84.1%), had multiple injury (77.7%), and had been injured in road traffic accidents (76.8%). The Cronbach's alpha of the WHODAS II was 0.91, confirming its acceptable internal consistency. Known-groups comparisons revealed that this schedule can satisfactorily differentiate among patients with different severity of trauma (P value<0.0001). The results of exploratory factor analysis showed that the WHODAS II had a two-factor structure while the confirmatory factor analysis revealed that one-factor model fitted the data. Study findings suggest that the Persian version of the 12-item WHODAS II is a valid and reliable scale for assessing trauma patients' disability. More Large-scale studies are needed for assessing the validity and the reliability of this schedule among other patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Living on the edge: Family caregivers' experiences of caring for post-stroke family members in China: A qualitative study.
Globally, one-third of the 15 million people with stroke suffer permanent physical, cognitive, and emotional impairment. Because of traditional Chinese culture and the limited development of the primary healthcare system, most stroke survivors are cared for and live with their family after hospital discharge. However, previous literature shows a lack of qualitative studies on family caregivers' experience of caring for their relatives in China. The aim of this study was to explore the experience of family caregivers taking care of stroke survivors in China. An explorative design was used wherein qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with family caregivers in China. Family caregivers were selected from one city and three communities using a purposive sampling method until no new data were generated (n = 26). A thematic analysis was used for the data analysis in this study. Family caregivers' experience was described as living on the edge, which pulled their lives in multiple directions, created an unstable situation, and reduced their well-being and health. The participants believed they had total responsibility and felt that this was expected from both themselves and society. Little external understanding and insufficient support was emphasised, resulting in the caregivers feeling all alone, drained by caring, and like prisoners in their own lives. The family caregivers had to face all of the family events and make all of the decisions by themselves. They expressed love for their family members with stroke, but this was often overshadowed by feelings of sadness, depression, sensitivity, and anger. This resulted in an inability to see how things could improve and in the family caregivers being uncertain about the future. All of these findings increased understanding and added knowledge of this topic that has been seldom studied in China. Healthcare authorities and professionals should recognise and understand the lives and situations of family caregivers since their relatives had a stroke to further identify their difficulties and needs. Appropriate and effective support, both from government and society, should be planned and implemented for family caregivers to relieve them from caring for their relatives with stroke and maintaining the quality of their own lives. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Serovars, bacteriophage types and antimicrobial sensitivities associated with salmonellosis in dogs in the UK (1954-2012).
Serovars and bacteriophage (phage) types were determined for 442 isolates of Salmonella enterica from dogs in the UK submitted to the Scottish Salmonella Reference Laboratory from 1954 to 2012. The most frequent serovars were Salmonella Typhimurium (196 isolates; 44.3 per cent), Dublin (40 isolates; 9.0 per cent), Enteritidis (28 isolates; 6.3 per cent), Montevideo (19 isolates; 4.3 per cent), Virchow (10 isolates; 2.3 per cent), Heidelberg (8 isolates; 1.8 per cent) and Derby (8 isolates; 1.8 per cent), along with 55 other recognised serovars among 127 other isolates, and six incompletely classified isolates. Serovars were frequently represented by strains commonly associated with poultry, cattle or pigs and their products. Among 196 Salmonella Typhimurium isolates from dogs, the most frequent phage types (definitive types) were the multiple antimicrobial-resistant strains DT104 (62 isolates), DT204c (18 isolates) and DT193 (8 isolates), along with antimicrobial sensitive wild finch strains DT40 (13 isolates) and DT56 variant (8 isolates). Eleven of 28 isolates of Salmonella Enteritidis were phage type 4. S enterica was frequently recovered from faecal or intestinal samples of dogs with diarrhoea, although many dogs had concurrent infection with other enteric pathogens. Salmonella Dublin was recovered from the brain and/or cerebrospinal fluid of two dogs with meningoencephalitis. Salmonella Kedougou was isolated from the joint fluid of a dog with septic arthritis. Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Dublin were each recovered from the vaginas of bitches that had aborted. Isolates of Salmonella Enteritidis phage types 1, 4 and 8, Salmonella Typhimurium DT104, Salmonella Dublin and Salmonella Indiana were isolated from clinically healthy dogs in households where the same strains were recovered from human beings with diarrhoea. The pattern ampicillin-chloramphenicol-spectinomycin-streptomycin-sulfamethoxazole-tetracycline (ACSpSSuT) was the most frequent resistance phenotype and was observed in 44 (13.3 per cent) of 330 isolates. Dogs in the UK are exposed to a wide variety of serovars of S enterica, sometimes associated with clinical disease, and represent a zoonotic risk. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dietary protein source affects lipid metabolism in the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax).
The study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of dietary protein sources on lipogenesis and fat deposition in a marine teleost, the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Four isonitrogenous (crude protein (CP, Nx6.25), 44% DM) and isoenergetic (22-23 kJ/g DM) diets were formulated to contain one of the following as the major protein source: fish meal (FM), one of two soy protein concentrates (SPC) and corn gluten meal (CGM). Apparent digestibility coefficients of the diets and raw ingredients, as well as soluble nitrogen (ammonia and urea) and phosphorus excretion were measured. Growth rates of seabass fed plant protein-based diets were significantly lower than those fed fish meal based diet. The protein utilisation was strongly correlated to the dietary essential amino acids index. Measurements of N excretion (ammonia and urea nitrogen) confirmed these data. Daily fat gain at the whole body level ranged between 1.1 to 1.7 g/kg BW, with the highest values being recorded in fish fed the fish meal based diet. Levels of plasma triglycerides and cholesterol were lower in fish fed soy protein diets than in those fed the diet solely based on fish meal. Soy protein rich diets decreased the activities of selected hepatic lipogenic enzymes (glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, malic enzyme, ATP-citrate lysase, acetylcoenzyme A carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase). Highest lipogenic enzyme activities where found in fish fed the fish meal diet, except for fatty acid synthetase which was increased in seabass fed the corn-gluten meal based diets. Overall data suggest that dietary protein sources affects fat deposition and the lipogenic potential in European seabass. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Changes of blood circulation of the extremity with tibia shaft defects treated with external fixation].
To study external skeletal fixation for long tubular bony defect by end to end compression with lengthening (EECL) and segmental bone transport by lengthening (STBL). About 20% - 30% of the original length was resected from the middle shaft of the tibia in 10 goats of 1 - 2 years of age. The bony defect ends were shortened step by step with the sulcated half-ring external fixator. Changes of the blood flow of the distant extremity were measured with pulse-dopplar monitor, reference blood flow, and angiograph. The blood flow of the distant extremity was not affected when bony defect was less than 15% of the original length. Blood circulation disorder would appear in the distant extremity when bony defect ranged from 15% to 20% of the original length. The distant extremity would necrose because of obstruction of blood circulation when bony defect was more than 20% of the original length. EECL can be recommended if bony defect is less than 15% of the original length. SBTL might be the only feasible way if bony defect is more than 20% of the original length. If bony defect is within 15% and 20%, EECL should be applied with great care while watching the extremity circulation with pulse-Dopplar monitor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Total alloplastic temporomandibular joint replacement: the Czech-Slovak initial experience.
In 2004, total alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement began in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. This paper presents initial subjective and objective data compiled between 2005 and 2009 from those cases. Data were collected from 27 patients (38 joints) reconstructed with the Biomet-Lorenz stock and custom TMJ prostheses during a mean follow-up period of 24 months. The variables of pain and mouth opening were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. Patients classified pain on a scale of 0-5 (none - unbearable). The extent of opening was investigated by a physician (the distance between the points of the incisors on the upper and lower jaw was measured). The most common indication for replacement was ankylosis. There was an improvement in pain score in 15 patients. 4 patients reported worsening of pain and 8 patients did not complain of pre- or postoperative pain. Mandibular opening increased from a mean of 17.7 mm preoperatively to a mean of 29.1mm postoperatively. There were complications related to the surgery, but no significant complications related to the devices. Total alloplastic TMJ replacement appears to be a safe and effective method of reconstruction in the patients in this initial study. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A randomised, double-blind comparison of the angiotensin II receptor antagonist, irbesartan, with the full dose range of enalapril for the treatment of mild-to-moderate hypertension.
To compare the anti-hypertensive efficacy, safety, and tolerability of irbesartan with those of the full dose range of enalapril in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension. A total of 200 patients were randomised to irbesartan 75 mg or enalapril 10 mg (once daily). Doses were doubled at Weeks 4 and/or 8 if seated diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was > or = 90 mm Hg. Trough blood pressure was measured after completion of a 4- to 5-week placebo lead-in period and again after 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks of treatment. Efficacy was evaluated by determining the change from baseline in trough seated blood pressure and the proportion of patients normalised (seated DBP <90 mm Hg) at Week 12. Safety and tolerability were assessed by adverse events reported by physicians, by patients in response to a specific-symptoms questionnaire, by open-ended questioning of patients by physicians, and by clinical laboratory evaluations. Both treatments significantly lowered blood pressure with no significant difference in efficacy between treatment groups. At Week 12, the percentage of patients titrated to either enalapril 40 mg or irbesartan 300 mg was 24% and 28%, respectively. The frequency of overall adverse events was similar in both groups. The incidence of cough in the enalapril and irbesartan groups was 17% and 10%, respectively. In contrast to other AII receptor antagonists, there was no change in uric acid concentrations with irbesartan. Irbesartan was as effective as the full dose range of enalapril. Irbesartan also demonstrated an excellent tolerability profile. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evidence for electrogenic sodium-bicarbonate cotransport in cultured rat cerebellar astrocytes.
We have studied the regulation of intracellular pH (pHi), and HCO3(-)-dependent membrane currents in cultured astrocytes from neonatal rat cerebellum, using the fluorescent pH-sensitive dye 2,7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5,6-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) and the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. The steady-state pHi was 6.96 in both nominally CO2/HCO3(-)-free, HEPES-buffered saline (6.96 +/- 0.14; n = 48) and in a saline containing 5% CO2/24 mM HCO3- (6.96 +/- 0.18; n = 48) (at pH 7.4). Inhibition of the Na+/H+ exchange by amiloride (2 mM) caused a significant decrease of pHi in nominally CO2/HCO3(-)-free saline. Addition of CO2/HCO3- in the continuous presence of amiloride induced a large and fast intracellular alkalinization. Removal of external Na+ also caused a fall of pHi, and addition of CO2/HCO3- in Na(+)-free saline evoked a further fall of pHi, while the outward current was reduced or even reversed. The stilbene 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid (DIDS, 0.3 mM) reduced the pHi recovery from the CO2/HCO3(-)-evoked acidification, and blocked the prominent intracellular acidification upon removal of CO2/HCO3-. Removal of external Cl- had little effect on these pHi changes. Lowering the external pH from 7.4 to 6.6 in CO2/HCO3(-)-containing saline produced a large and rapid intracellular acidification and inward current, which were both greatly reduced by DIDS and in the absence of CO2/HCO3-. The results suggest that the CO2/HCO3(-)-dependent current is partly due to a reversible bidirectional, electrogenic Na(+)-HCO3- cotransporter, which helps to regulate pHi in these cells. In addition, a prominent Na+/H+ exchanger contributes to extrude acid equivalents from these astrocytes to maintain the steady-state pHi. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Patterning the protochordate neural tube.
The complex vertebrate nervous system has evolved from a simpler nervous system such as that seen in present-day protochordates. Through a recent accumulation of gene-expression data, together with fine anatomical studies, we are now able to identify both how the neural tube was patterned when it first evolved and what is truly novel in the vertebrate neural tube. We are entering a new era in the understanding of how the evolution of novel vertebrate structures is linked to genetic evolution. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Restoration of diabetes-induced changes in enteric nerves by phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate.
Treatment of segments of ileum from 8-week streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats with phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) in vitro resulted in restoration of the diabetes-induced changes in the expression of enteric VIP- and galanin-like immunoreactive nerve fibres. The increase in fluorescence intensity and density of VIP- and galanin-like immunoreactivity observed in 8-week streptozotocin-treated rats was reduced to a near normal level after 40 min incubation of diabetic tissues in Krebs solution containing PDBu (100 nM). The tissue content of VIP was also affected (control = 2.1 +/- 0.31 pmol/cm; diabetic = 4.6 +/- 0.48 pmol/cm; diabetic + PDBu = 2.9 +/- 0.91 pmol/cm) after incubation with PDBu. The significance of these findings in relation to the possible role of protein kinase C in the regulation of expression and/or storage of these enteric neuropeptides in normal and diabetic states is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Current comment. (xix). Why don't general practitioners refer their disabled Asian patients to district nurses?
Research into the needs of disabled people in Central Birmingham and their use of community health and social services has shown that Asian people are 'underusers' of these services, particularly district nursing. We have found that in this district, general practitioners (GPs) refer the majority of district nurses' disabled patients, but they are not referring Asians. Possible explanations--that elderly Asians have low contact rates with GPs, lack knowledge about the district nursing services, or refuse to use the service--are not supported by the research data. More likely explanations are offered--that GPs hold stereotyped views about Asians and their needs, have a misunderstanding of the role and function of the district nurse and inflexible assumptions about the 'typical' patient seen by the district nurse. Attention is drawn to the urgent need for GPs to address these issues and for further research as the numbers of older Asians are set to rise sharply. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Lactase persistence versus decline in human adults: multifactorial events are involved in down-regulation after weaning.
In nonhuman mammals, lactase activity declines during or after weaning. In contrast, about one half of the human species maintains high lactase activity even in adulthood. To clarify this difference, this study examined some parameters for which contrasting observations have been reported in connection with lactase decline. Lactase activity, lactase messenger RNA (mRNA) levels, and in vitro lactase biosynthesis were determined in normal jejunal samples from a large group of white adults, all born in or near Naples. Of 44 individuals, 10 were lactase persistent and 34 were hypolactasic. Biosynthesis of prolactase correlated well with lactase mRNA levels, indicating transcriptional control; it did less so with steady-state lactase activity. Examination of lactase mRNA levels and lactase activity/lactase mRNA ratios revealed a heterogeneous pattern of lactase mRNA level, lactase synthesis, and activity in both lactase persistent and hypolactasic subjects. Both transcriptional and posttranscriptional factors cause the decline of intestinal lactase. This probably explains the multifarious observations that most studies on adult-type hypolactasia have reported. The single overriding factor distinguishing lactase-persistent subjects from hypolactasic subjects is the high rate of lactase biosynthesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Why withdrawal? Why not withdrawal? Men's perspectives.
Withdrawal is an ancient and prevalent form of male contraception which has largely been ignored by family planning programme managers all over the world. The objective of this study was to understand men's perspectives on withdrawal use, both users and non-users. In-depth interviews with 62 male factory workers in western Turkey are reported, on use of withdrawal, attitudes to family planning, information on contraception, marital and sexual experience, and gender values and attitudes. Advantages reported both by users and non-users of withdrawal were being free from side effects, ease of access and having no cost. While current users said withdrawal was easy to use and practical, non-users complained about the difficulties of using withdrawal, that it was coitus-dependent, caused anxiety and decreased pleasure during sexual intercourse. Current users emphasised taking responsibility as husbands for family planning and protecting their wives from possible adverse effects of contraceptives. Withdrawal should be seen as a valuable choice in a world where increasing method choice, male participation and responsibility taking in reproductive health are all desirable. With its cited advantages withdrawal is likely to fill an important niche among current contraceptive practices and deserves more attention and support. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sleep and cardiorespiratory characteristics of infant victims of sudden death: a prospective case-control study.
We studied the polygraphic sleep recordings of 30 infants who eventually died of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and those of 60 matched control infants. All records were extracted from 20,750 sleep studies collected prospectively in 10 sleep laboratories. Of the 30 future SIDS victims, 5 were siblings of SIDS victims and 9 were studied after an apparent life-threatening event. For each SIDS victim, two normal control infants were matched for sex, gestational age, postnatal age and weight at birth. The future SIDS infants were reported to have more frequent episodes of regurgitations after feeding (p = 0.01) and profuse sweating during sleep (p = 0.01) than the control subjects. Only two polysomnographic variables characterized the future SIDS infants. Compared to control subjects, the SIDS infants moved less during sleep (p = 0.04) and had significantly more frequent obstructed breathing events. Obstructive and mixed apneas were seen in 23 of 30 future SIDS victims, but in only 9 of 60 control subjects (p = 0.01). The obstructed and mixed apneas lasted longer in the SIDS than in the control infants (p = 0.01) but did not exceed 15 seconds. The obstructed breaths occurred mainly in rapid eye movement sleep (78% of the events) and were accompanied by drops in heart rates to 68 beats per minute and in SaO2 levels to 75%. The present report adds further indirect evidence for a possible sleep-related impairment of respiratory control in some infants who eventually died of SIDS. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Laser Doppler velocimetry of fingertips during heat provocation in normals and in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon.
Measurements of Laser Doppler flow were performed on the fingertip during heating in a group of normals and in a group of patients with different types of Raynaud's phenomenon. During heating a group of 24 normals was distinguished from a group of 29 primary Raynaud's patients. A group of 17 patients with secondary Raynaud's phenomenon due to scleroderma and 8 patients with arteriographically proven severe vascular occlusive disease of the fingers showed a significantly lower response in comparison to the two above-mentioned groups. Patients with or without slight or severe trophic skin lesions were identified. In patients with scleroderma the maximal vasodilation during heating was inversely related to the number of organs affected. In conclusion, measurements of the hyperaemia during heating may play a role in determining the degree of obstructive vascular involvement in Raynaud's phenomenon. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Measurement of absolute blood iodine concentration during digital subtraction ventriculography.
A system to measure the absolute iodine concentration (mg iodine/milliliter blood) in the left ventricle (LV) during digital subtraction ventriculography has been developed. The technique uses a catheter to draw blood from the LV through a detection cell. This occurs as the iodine bolus passes through the heart. The cell determines iodine concentration by measuring x-ray attenuation as the iodinated blood passes between a low-power x-ray tube and a diode detector. In vitro and in vivo testing of the system was conducted. The system response was linear (r = 0.99) with respect to iodine concentration. This response was independent of hematocrit. Dispersion of contrast medium in the catheter caused distortion of the shape of the time-concentration curve. The impulse response of the system was measured and found to be independent of hematocrit. A correction algorithm based on Wiener filter deconvolution was developed. In vitro testing using simulated time-concentration curves demonstrated that the rms error in the iodine measurement after dispersion correction did not exceed 4% over the region of the time-concentration curve extending from the peak to the point on the tail where the signal fell to 50% of its peak value. Cardiac output was measured from the time-concentration curve via the indicator-dilution method in an animal model. This cardiac output measurement (COI) agreed closely with cardiac output measured simultaneously with an aortic flow probe (CO(P)), namely, COI = 1.02 CO(P)-0.03 L/min, r = 0.95, SEE = 10%, p < 0.001.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alterations of protein metabolism in acromegaly.
Growth hormone is a powerful anabolic hormone necessary for normal growth, but its importance in maintaining the cellular and protein mass in adult life is still unclear. However, it is viewed as a drug capable of combating the tissue loss and some metabolic derangements of aging. Growth hormone excess causes acromegaly, a disease characterized by overgrowth of some tissues and multiple metabolic abnormalities. The purpose of this article is to review recent knowledge in acromegaly considering it as a model for clarifying aspects of growth hormone action on body composition, protein dynamics and molecular mechanisms in adult life. Acromegaly induces well-documented changes in body fat (decreased), and bone density and water retention (increased), but there are less-clear changes in protein and body cell-mass accretion. Recent studies related insulin resistance to glucose metabolism to accelerated fat oxidation and described the reversibility of such alterations after surgical or pharmacologic therapy. Less attention was paid to changes in protein metabolism. Acromegalics are profoundly insulin-resistant to the antiproteolytic action of insulin, but amino acids are channelled towards protein synthesis because they are still normally spared from oxidation by insulin. This insulin resistance persists months after the surgical cure of acromegaly when glucose metabolism is already normalized. Recent studies suggested that increased use of fat for fuel by growth hormone may also promote protein anabolism and reduce amino acid oxidation. Despite important advances in understanding molecular mechanisms in acromegaly, the specific effects on body cell and protein mass and the specific modulation of local protein dynamics remain poorly defined. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Diagnosis and treatment of anterior and posterior shoulder dislocation. II. Treatment].
In Part I the anatomy, biomechanics, different pathologic changes, and diagnostic tools for anterior and posterior instability were discussed. In this second part, treatment of an acute dislocation is introduced. Furthermore different surgical procedures and their indications are discussed. Algorithms for treatment of first-time dislocation, chronic anterior instability, and posterior instability are presented. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cisplatin and etoposide as second-line chemotherapy in patients with small cell lung cancer.
Twenty-seven evaluable patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) resistant to, or relapsed after induction combination chemotherapy (CT) were treated with etoposide (VP16) plus cisplatin (DDP). Previous treatment was: alternating CT with cyclophosphamide (C), adriamycin (A), methotrexate (M), procarbazine (P) (CAMP)/VP16, BCNU (B), hexamethylmelamine (H) (VP16 BH) in 16 patients; C, A, vincristine (CAV) in 6 patients; C, A, and VP16 (CAVP16) in 5 patients. We observed 2 (7%) complete responses (CR) and 9 (33%) partial responses (PR). Duration of CRs was 8 and 14 weeks, respectively. PRs lasted a median of 22 weeks (range 16-44). Seven of 21 (33%) patients previously treated with VP16 responded to DDP plus VP16 (D-V). These results confirm D-V regimen as active in SCLC patients even when heavily pretreated. Our 33% response in patients who had VP16 in their induction treatment regimen provides further evidence of an important potentiating effect of DDP, as reported in animal system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Species names based on photographs: debate closed.
Discussions of current issues of broad interest in zoological taxonomy are encouraged in Zootaxa (Zhang 2007). One recent topic examines species names based on photographs without preserved specimens. This is not a new topic: as Ceríaco et al. (2016) correctly noted, this topic was previously discussed about a decade ago in Zootaxa (Dubois & Nemésio 2007; Donegan 2008), and was soon followed by a series of opinions and rebuttals when the critically endangered species Galápagos pink land iguana-Conolophus marthae Gentile & Snell, 2009-was named without a preserved holotype (Donegan 2009; Nemésio 2009a,b; Dubois 2009; Gentile & Snell 2009; Minelli 2009). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Satisfaction of a new telephone consultation service for prenatal and postnatal health care.
In October 2017, the 'Prenatal and Postnatal Health Care Service in Nara (PPHSN)' has piloted the introduction of a new telephone consultation service to support prenatal and postnatal health care and childcare. This study aimed to document the feasibility, acceptability and satisfaction with the service provided by a trained nurse specialist who can access to clinician support when necessary. The pilot study was conducted between November 2017 and February 2018. Japanese women who are undergoing a health checkup at the Nara Medical University hospital for delivery and post-partum women who had recently (<1 year) given birth at this hospital (they are raising a child) were invited to participate in the study. They called a free mobile phone number, and spoke to a trained nurse to consult maternal and newborn care practices. The PPHSN project also provided information for supporting raising a child. The postal survey of the PPHSN service was conducted in March 2018. A total of 26 participants were enrolled. The questionnaire was answered by 23 (88.5%) participants, of which over half (52.2-95.7%) of participants declared they were 'strongly agree' plus 'agree' regarding 'patient-centered care', 'communication and information', 'technical quality', 'efficiency', 'access and convenience (feasibility)', and 'willing to use the service again (acceptability)'. The majority (95.7%) of respondents reported being willing to use the service again for a similar health problem. This study provided the first evidence of satisfaction with telephone or social networking consultation service by nurse specialists in Japan. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Photodynamic therapy of rabbit endometrial transplants: a model for treatment of endometriosis.
The potential of photodynamic therapy for endometriosis was evaluated by autotransplantation of endometrial tissue in 15 female virgin New Zealand white rabbits. After maturation, 14 animals were injected intravenously with 10 mg/kg of dihematoporphyrin ether (DHE) and, 24 hours later, transplants were exposed to 630 nm light at 100 to 210 mW/cm2. Sixteen transplants received 100 J/cm2, 10 transplants received 50 J/cm2; 13 untreated transplants served as controls. In the remaining animal that did not receive DHE, 3 transplants were irradiated with 100 J/cm2. Six days after treatment, transplants were harvested with the underlying musculature, and multiple sections were examined histopathologically. Complete endometrial epithelial destruction was seen in 13 of 16 transplants (81%) in the 100 J/cm2 group and in 6 of 10 transplants (60%) in the 50-J/cm2 group. Nearly complete endometrial epithelial destruction was seen in 2 other transplants in each group. No damage occurred in either the 3 transplants that received 100 J/cm2 without prior DHE or in the 13 transplants with DHE and no irradiation. The sensitivity of ectopic rabbit endometrial tissue encourages further evaluation of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of human endometrial disorders. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of surfactants for dynamic surface modification of poly(dimethylsiloxane) microchips.
In the present report, the use of negatively charged surfactants as modifiers of the background electrolyte is reported using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) microchips. In particular, the use of anionic surfactants, such as sodium dodecyl sulfate, phosphatidic acid, and deoxycholate, was studied. When surfactants were present in the run buffer, an increase in the electroosmotic flow (EOF) was observed. Two additional effects were also observed: (i) stabilization of the run-to-run EOF, (ii) an improvement in the electrochemical response for several biomolecules. In order to characterize the analysis conditions, the effects of different surfactant, electrolyte, and pH were studied. EOF measurements were performed using either the current monitoring method or by detection of a neutral molecule. The first adsorption/desorption kinetics studies are also reported for different surfactants onto PDMS. The separation of biologically important analytes (glucose, penicillin, phenol, and homovanillic acid) was improved decreasing the analysis time from 200 to 125 s. However, no significant changes in the number of theoretical plates were observed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Parasites of Chamois in New Zealand.
Abstract Sir, - Andrews'((2)) checklist of helminth parasites of wild ruminants in New Zealand recorded the presence of 10 species of gastrointestinal nematodes in chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra rupicapra L.) from "Central South Island". In October 1978 we examined 28 freshly-shot chamois cadavers from the Harper-Avoca watershed in the headwaters of the Rakaia River. Six of the nematode species reported by Andrews were found again; viz. Ostertagia ostertagi, O. circumcincta, O. trifurcata, Nematodirus filicollis, Oesophagostomum venulosum and Trichuris ovis. The 4 species found by Andrews that were not recovered by us from the animals we examined were: Trichostrongylus axei, T. vitrinus, Spiculotragia spiculoptera and S. asymmetrica. On the other hand we found 4 helminths not encountered by Andrews: 3 nematodes: Nematodirus spathiger (Railliet, 1896), N. abnormalis (May, 1920), and Chabertia ovina (Fabricius, 1794), and 7 specimens of the cestode Moniezia expansa (Rud., 1805). Nematodirus spathiger was the most commonly encountered Nematodirus species, but generally the numbers of all 3 species encountered were low as might be expected in a sample of adult and almost year-old animals. It is probable that most of the adults had acquired some measure of immunity((3)), and the most susceptible group, the kids, would not be born until late November. Because peptic digestion was not used to recover juveniles from the intestinal submucosa, only small numbers of adults were obtained. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of antisense suppression of transforming growth factor-beta3 gene on lactotropic cell proliferation.
The mechanism by which oestrogen regulates lactotropic cell proliferation is not well understood. Recently it has been shown that a transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) gene-related peptide, TGF-beta3, is produced in the lactotropes and stimulates lactotropic cell proliferation in vitro. In this study, the role of this growth factor in oestrogen-induced lactotropic cell proliferation was determined in vitro using oligonucleotide designed to inhibit TGF-beta3 gene expression. We used the oligonucleotide in an antisense orientation, which is complementary to regions in the TGF-beta3 message. Oligonucleotides in sense and missense orientation were also used. We found that the antisense sequence that was effectively incorporated into pituitary cells produced a marked inhibition of the stimulatory action of oestrogen on lactotropic cell proliferation. Sense and missense oligonucleotides produced no significant effects on oestrogen-stimulated lactotropic cell proliferation. The growth-inhibitory effect of antisense oligonucleotide was blocked by TGF-beta3 peptide. These results suggest that TGF-beta3 may be involved in the processes that mediate oestrogen-regulated lactotropic cell proliferation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Duration of apnea needed to confirm brain death.
To determine the duration of respiratory arrest needed to attain a PaCO2 level high enough to provide maximal stimulation of respiration, we evaluated changes in PaCO2, PaO2 and apH during periods of apnea lasting as long as 10 minutes in 10 apparently brain-dead subjects. Before apnea, mean PaCO2 was 33 mm Hg. In seven subjects who did not breathe for 10 minutes, the mean rate of rise of PaCO2 was 3.2 mm Hg per minute. PaCO2 at 4 minutes was 50 mm Hg and at 10 minutes was 67 mm Hg. Three subjects breathed, two after less than 2 minutes of apnea, when PaCO2 was 47 and 54 mm Hg, and one after 4.5 minutes, when PaCO2 was 47 mm Hg. These data indicate: (1) that the threshold for respiratory stimulation may approach a PaCO2 of 60 mm Hg in patients with brain damage; (2) that the rate of increase in PaCO2 is such that, even in a normocapnic subject after 3 minutes of apnea, the PaCO2 may not be sufficiently high to stimulate respiration; and (3) if a patient is hypocapnic prior to the onset of apnea, PaCO2 may not reach 60 mm Hg even after 15 minutes. To confirm absolute apnea, then, blood gas monitoring is necessary for verification of normocapnia prior to the beginning of apnea. In the absence of blood gas determinations, no fixed period of apnea, sufficient in all cases to establish absolute apnea, can be ascertained. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Fatty acid metabolic and perfusion abnormalities in hypertrophied myocardium assessed by dual tracer tomography using thallium-201 and iodine-123-beta-methylpentadecanoic acid].
Fatty acid metabolic and perfusion abnormalities associated with cardiac hypertrophy were investigated using dual tracer tomography with thallium and a cardiac metabolic tracer, 15-(p-iodophenyl)-3-R, S-methylpentadecanoic acid (BMIPP), in eight patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and in three with hypertension (HT). Thallium and BMIPP uptakes were scored and analyzed in 143 segments (13/heart) by comparison with the left ventricular wall thickness measured by two-dimensional echocardiography. Complete agreement of both scores in HT patients was significantly higher than that in HCM patients (64% vs 24%, p < 0.001), while a lower BMIPP uptake compared to that of thallium (mismatching) was observed more frequently in HCM than in HT patients (65% vs 31%, p < 0.001). The wall thickness significantly (p < 0.005) correlated with BMIPP uptake score. HCM patients showed a low BMIPP uptake in 22 hypertrophic segments (59%) and 15 non-hypertrophic segments (41%), and reduced BMIPP uptake in 29% hypertrophic segments, while HT patients showed just five segments with decreased BMIPP uptake of which 4 were non-hypertrophic and only one hypertrophic. The left ventricular ejection fraction assessed by radionuclide ventriculography was normal and no regional wall motion abnormality was detected in any patient by echocardiographic and scintigraphic studies. Metabolic abnormalities detected by the iodine-123-beta-methyl fatty acid analog in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may be independent of thallium myocardial perfusion, regional wall motion, or the magnitude of cardiac hypertrophy, suggesting that fatty acid imaging may be useful in investigating the pathogenesis and subclinical abnormality of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and differentiation from secondary, induced cardiac hypertrophy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Measurement of function: actions for the future.
Occupational therapy is built on solid principles that strongly support a functional approach to measurement and intervention. We must realign our thinking to ensure that our routine actions in practice and research demonstrate our strong commitment to contextually relevant performance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diagnostic techniques in head and neck cancer.
The evaluation of a patient with a cancer in the head and neck should begin with a complete history. A thorough physical examination will aid in determining the tumor extent. Finally, diagnostic techniques have been outlined that can help in determining the extent of the primary tumor and metastases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Elective transfer of one embryo results in an acceptable pregnancy rate and eliminates the risk of multiple birth.
To avoid multiple pregnancies without compromising pregnancy rates (PR) is a challenge in assisted reproduction. We have compared pregnancy results among 74 elective one-embryo transfers (group 2) and 94 transfers where only one embryo was available (group 1). All the fresh embryo cycles during 1997 in two clinics in Helsinki were analysed, and cumulative PR among these couples after frozen-thawed embryo transfers up to June 1998 were counted. In group 2, where at least two embryos were available for transfer, and only one was transferred on day 2 or 3, the PR per embryo transfer was 29.7%. In group 1, the PR per embryo transfer was 20.2%. In group 2, the cumulative PR after frozen-thawed embryo transfers was 47.3% per oocyte retrieval. Over the same time, 742 two-embryo transfers were carried out. The PR per embryo transfer was 29.4% in these subjects, but 23.9% of these pregnancies were twins. The implantation rates, as well as the PR, were highest when the embryos were at the four- to five-cell stage on day 2 (35.8 versus 9.7% compared with the two- to three-cell stage, P < 0.001) or at the six- to eight-cell stage on day 3 (45.5%). The PR per embryo transfer was higher when a grade 1 or 2 embryo was transferred compared with a grade three embryo (34. 0 and 26.7% versus 8.8% respectively, P < 0.05). In women 35 years or younger, the PR per elective one-embryo transfer was 32.8%. The corresponding figure in women older than 35 years was 18.8%. On the basis of these results, elective one-embryo transfer can be highly recommended, at least in subjects who are younger than 35 years of age, and who have grade one or grade two embryos available for transfer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comprehensive data on ionising radiation from Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in the town of Miharu, Fukushima Prefecture: The Misho Project.
Data related to radioactivity released from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) accident on 15 March 2011 gathered by residents of Miharu, Fukushima Prefecture, and by Tohoku University are presented. These data sets consist of (1) the earliest radiation monitoring by a Geiger counter in the town, (2) ratios of radioactivity between (132)Te and (137)Cs for a wide area between Fukushima and Tokyo, (3) radiation measurement of soil samples collected from 18 school grounds, and (4) external radiation exposure of 1400 students using OSL badges. By combining and analysing these various data sets, a curve for the cumulative total external exposure as a function of time, with 16 : 00 h on 15 March 2011 being time zero, is obtained. The average cumulative external dosage is estimated to be 10 mSv (σ = 4.2 mSv) over 10 years. In addition, the initiative that the residents of Miharu took in response to the FDNPP accident, which became known as The Misho Project (MP), is documented; in particular, the time at which the municipality instructed the immediate ingestion of iodine tablets by those under the age of 40, 13 : 00 h on 15 March 2011, is assessed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Multiprogrammable cardiac pacemakers. Applications, results, and follow-up.
More than 50 percent of patients with implanted pulse generators live more than 5 years and 35 percent survive beyond 10 years. For such patients, programmable pulse generators offer the flexibility to safely prolong battery life and to alter pacing function based on clinical and electrophysiologic requirements. Further, the potential to diagnose and treat pacing system malfunctions noninvasively in the future may significantly reduce the discomfort, inconvenience, and cost of reoperation. Physicians should select programmable models based on proved system reliability, clinical needs, and the availability of supervised follow-up programs. Finally, the safe and efficacious application of programmable pulse generators requires knowledge of pacing electrophysiology and techniques, and a thorough acquaintance with the operating characteristics of the systems selected for implantation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
One-Dimensional Carrier Confinement in "Giant" CdS/CdSe Excitonic Nanoshells.
The emerging generation of quantum dot optoelectronic devices offers an appealing prospect of a size-tunable band gap. The confinement-enabled control over electronic properties, however, requires nanoparticles to be sufficiently small, which leads to a large area of interparticle boundaries in a film. Such interfaces lead to a high density of surface traps which ultimately increase the electrical resistance of a solid. To address this issue, we have developed an inverse energy-gradient core/shell architecture supporting the quantum confinement in nanoparticles larger than the exciton Bohr radius. The assembly of such nanostructures exhibits a relatively low surface-to-volume ratio, which was manifested in this work through the enhanced conductance of solution-processed films. The reported core/shell geometry was realized by growing a narrow gap semiconductor layer (CdSe) on the surface of a wide-gap core material (CdS) promoting the localization of excitons in the shell domain, as was confirmed by ultrafast transient absorption and emission lifetime measurements. The band gap emission of fabricated nanoshells, ranging from 15 to 30 nm in diameter, has revealed a characteristic size-dependent behavior tunable via the shell thickness with associated quantum yields in the 4.4-16.0% range. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
General anesthesia for caesarean delivery in a pregnant woman affected by acute myocardial infarction.
Acute myocardial infarction rarely occurs in women during childbearing age (1:20,000), but maternal mortality rate is high (11%). Management of pregnant woman affected by myocardial infarction could be a challenge for obstetricians, cardiologists and anesthetists. In this report, we present the management of a 36 years-old nulliparous woman affected from hypertension and dyslipidemia, who experienced acute myocardial infarction at 25th gestational week and was scheduled for caesarean delivery at 35th week. General anesthesia for cesarean section was conducted using sevoflurane and remifentanil target controlled infusion (TCI); the patient was monitored with ECG, pulse oximetry, invasive blood pressure, haemodynamic measurement by lithium dilution cardiac output (LiDCO plus) and bispectral index. The titrated use of remifentanil and the close control of hemodynamic parameters by LiDCO plus monitoring may contribute to improve maternal outcome and newborn well-being in the management of general anesthesia for caesarean section. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Anti-Toxoplasma effect of activated mouse macrophages induced by interferon-gamma combined with TNF-alpha].
To compare the inhibitory effect of the macrophages activated by IFN-gamma combined with TNF-alpha against RH strain and Fukaya strain. The average parasite proliferation rates of the two strains within the cytokine-activated M phi s were calculated at different times post-challenge, the nitric oxide (NO) levels in the medium supernatant were simultaneously determined. In the macrophages activated by 100 U each of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha, the invaded tachyzoites of RH strain were completely killed, while the invaded tachyzoites of Fukaya strain remained slow proliferation with significantly lower levels of NO detected at 24 h post challenge. The difference in the anti-Toxoplasma effect of the activated macrophages against RH and Fukaya strains might be attributed to the different amount of NO produced by the macrophages. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The West Virginia Cancer Registry: historical development and preliminary results.
This article is designed to provide the medical community with an overview of the West Virginia Cancer Registry (WVCR), a population-based registry, which was established in 1993 with both federal and state funding. The WVCR is managed through the Bureau for Public Health's Division of Surveillance and Disease Control in the Office of Epidemiology and Health Promotion, and all data is confidential. The staff of the WVCR consists of a director, a cancer data supervisor, two abstractors, a secretary, and a voluntary, 13-member Cancer Advisory Committee. The initial findings of the WVCR have shown that for each 100,000 West Virginia women, 90.1 were discovered with invasive breast cancer in 1992, an increase from 86.8 in 1991. The invasive cervical cancer rate increased from 10.8 to 12.9 during this same time period. In addition, the age-adjusted death rate for cervical cancer rose from 3.6 cases per 100,000 women in 1991 to 3.8 in 1992. However, the age-adjusted death rate for breast cancer fell to 24.7 per 100,000 women in 1992, compared to 25.5 in 1991. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Defining candidate drug characteristics for Long-QT (LQT3) syndrome.
Mutations of the SCN5A gene can significantly alter the function of cardiac myocyte sodium channels leading to increased risk of ventricular arrhythmia. Over the past decade, detailed Markov models of the action potential of cardiac cells have been developed. In such models, the effects of a drug can be treated as alterations in on- and off rates between open and inactivated states on one hand, and blocked states on the other hand. Our aim is to compute the rates specifying a drug in order to: (a) restore the steady-state open probability of the mutant channel to that of normal wild type channels; and (b) minimize the difference between whole cell currents in drugged mutant and wild type cells. The difference in the electrochemical state vector of the cell can be measured in a norm taking all components and their dynamical properties into account. Measured with this norm, the difference between the state of the mutant and wild-type cell was reduced by a factor of 36 after the drug was introduced and by factors of 4 over mexitiline and 25 over lidocaine. The results suggest the potential to synthesize more effective drugs based on mechanisms of action of existing compounds. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Assessment method for supporting programs for social activities of the elderly by city, town and village governments in Japan].
The authors developed a questionnaire to assess the activities of supporting programs for social activities for the elderly conducted by city, town and village governments, based on the number of such programs. This study aims to examine the validity of the questionnaire. We conducted a study of 145 cities, towns and villages from two prefectures in Japan using the questionnaire. The questionnaire asks government officers whether they had each of 32 programs, and the number of programs in total, as well as each of four domains of social activities (i.e., employment, social participation/volunteering, education/training, individual activities) were calculated. They were also asked to classify each of the programs into one of four domains of social activity to which the programs were most related; they were asked to rate how active the programs were for each domain in their community. To examine the validity of the questionnaire, the following indicators were assessed: (1) proportion of reported programs which were not covered by the questionnaire; (2) concordance of classification of programs into four domains of social activity with those judged by government officers; (3) correlations between number of programs and self-rated activity levels by government officers; and (4) correlations of number programs with characteristics of cities, towns or villages. The results indicated that the list of programs covered most of the programs. Proposed classification of programs into four domains of social activities which they are most related to agreed with judgments by officials. The number of programs positively correlated with self-rated activity levels by officers for employment and education/training domains in both prefectures; and for social participation/volunteering and individual activities in one of the prefecture. The numbers of programs for employment of the elderly positively correlated with the total population of the community, number of staffs, proportion of people employed in the tertiary industries and total budget for social welfare of the elderly; it negatively correlated with proportion of people employed in the primary industries. It is suggested that the list of programs in the questionnaire is applicable and assessment based on the number of programs by four social activity domains is valid to some extent in either prefecture. The questionnaire can be improved further, e.g., by adding other programs to the list. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of breathing and skin stimulation techniques on labour pain perception of Turkish women.
To determine the effect of breathing techniques and nurse-administered massage on the pain perception of pregnant woman during labour. The present study was conducted among pregnant women (75% primiparous) admitted to the SSK Bakirkoy Women and Children's Hospital (Istanbul, Turkey) between January 1, and September 1, 2000. The patients were in their 38th to 42nd week of pregnancy, not at high risk and expected to have normal vaginal delivery. They were selected from volunteers by nonrandom sampling. The present study involved 40 cases, with 20 in the experimental group and 20 in the control group. Data were obtained through the visual analogue scale, inspection form, observation form and postnatal interview form. The study investigators provided information about labour, breathing techniques and massage to the pregnant women assigned to the experimental group at the beginning of labour (latent phase). A study investigator also accompanied them during labour. These women received nurse-administered massage and were encouraged to breathe and perform self-administered massage. They were also instructed to change their positions and to relax. Study results demonstrated that nursing support and patient-directed education concerning labour and nonpharmacological pain control methods (eg, breathing and cutaneous stimulation techniques) were effective in reducing the perception of pain by pregnant women (when provided in the latent labour phase before delivery), leading to a more satisfactory birth experience. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Band offsets at semiconductor-oxide interfaces from hybrid density-functional calculations.
Band offsets at semiconductor-oxide interfaces are determined through a scheme based on hybrid density functionals, which incorporate a fraction alpha of Hartree-Fock exchange. For each bulk component, the fraction alpha is tuned to reproduce the experimental band gap, and the conduction and valence band edges are then located with respect to a reference level. The lineup of the bulk reference levels is determined through an interface calculation, and shown to be almost independent of the fraction alpha. Application of this scheme to the Si-SiO2, SiC-SiO2, and Si-HfO2 interfaces yields excellent agreement with experiment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Beneficial vascular and metabolic effects of cobalt-ATP in spontaneously hypertensive rabbits with diffuse chronic cerebral ischaemia.
The in vivo effects of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) have not been investigated in cerebrovascular diseases. The use of the long-acting cobalt-ATP complex (Co-ATP) permits us to observe the effects of ATP without the influence of its metabolites. This study was designed to compare the effects of intravenous Co-ATP on the cerebral blood flow (CBF), polarographically detected oxygen currents (O2a), mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), heart rate, respiration rate, cerebral electrical activity, arterial blood gases, pH, and glucose in 13 normotensive (NT) rabbits to those in 14 stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive (HT) animals. CBF was measured by the hydrogen and heat clearance methods. In response to Co-ATP, MABP decreased and CBF increased significantly in both groups. The decrease in MABP was more marked in HT rabbits, while CBF response was 25% smaller than in NT animals. The ratio of O2a to CBF diminished moderately and simultaneously with the CBF increase in NT rabbits. In HT rabbits, the decrease in O2a/CBF was larger and began when CBF response reached its maximum. We suggest that despite the restricted CBF response, long-acting ATP should still be taken into consideration as a supplementary treatment of hypertensive encephalopathy because of its beneficial effects on cerebral metabolism and hypertension. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Determination of phthalates in food packing materials by electrokinetic chromatography with polymeric pseudostationary phase.
Polymeric pseudostationary phase (PSP), formed by random copolymer poly (stearyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) (P(SMA-co-MAA)), was used in electrokinetic chromatography (EKC) to separate 15 kinds of phthalates (PAEs). The organic solvent modifier is a key factor for the separation of PAEs. Without organic solvents, only four kinds of PAEs with smaller molecular weight could be separated in the running buffer containing 1% P(SMA-co-MAA). The other eleven kinds of PAEs with larger molecular weight could be separated within 25 min by adding 40% (v/v) methanol and 2% (v/v) 1-butanol in the running buffer. The linear ranges of 15 kinds of PAEs were between 2 and 200mg/L, and the limit of detection based on the ratio of signal to noise of 3 were between 1 and 3mg/L. The method was applied to determination of PAEs in 6 kinds of food packing materials. The recoveries were between 81% and 118% with the RSD less than 4%. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The 'value' of values clarification in cancer-related decision aids.
A key component of decision aids (DAs) are the Value Clarification Exercises (VCEs), however, rates of completion VCEs are variable. The aim of this paper is to propose explanations for these variations. A review of the rates of completion and the reasons provided across eleven studies evaluating five different DAs was conducted. Retrospective evaluation does not appear to be an indication of prospective use. Differences in mode of administration are unclear. Gender does not appear to have a difference on completion rates. Complexity of the decision appears to reflect rates of VCE completion. The main reason provided for non-completion of VCEs was that patients had already made a decision. VCEs have shown a trend to producing better congruence between values and choices, but it remains unclear how VCEs impact on the quality of the decision. Value of VCEs in treatment decision-making has not been previously established and our data indicate information alone might be enough to clarify concepts. DAs are becoming more widely used in practice. It is important to understand the elements in a treatment decision-making so that the burden on the patient is at a minimum in practice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel bispecific tetravalent antibody fusion protein to target costimulatory activity for T-cell activation to tumor cells overexpressing ErbB2/HER2.
Persistent activation of T-lymphocytes requires two signals: one is initiated by T-cell receptor binding to antigenic peptide presented by MHC molecules. In addition, binding of the B7 family members CD80 or CD86 on professional antigen presenting cells to CD28 on T cells is considered to provide an important costimulatory signal. Activation without costimulation induces T-cell unresponsiveness or anergy. To selectively localize costimulatory activity to the surface of tumor cells and enhance activation of tumor-specific T cells, we have developed a novel molecular design for bispecific costimulatory proteins with antibody-like structure. Within a single polypeptide chain we have assembled the IgV-like, CD28-binding domain of human CD86 (CD86(111)) together with hinge, CH2 and CH3 domains of human IgG1, and the scFv(FRP5) antibody fragment which recognizes the ErbB2 (HER2) protooncogene present at high levels on the surface of many human tumor cells. Upon expression in the yeast Pichia pastoris, the resulting CD86(111)-IgG-scFv(FRP5) protein could be purified as a homodimeric, tetravalent molecule from culture supernatants using single-step affinity chromatography. Bispecific binding of the molecule to ErbB2 on the surface of tumor cells and to the B7 counter receptor CTLA-4 was demonstrated by FACS analysis. Potent costimulatory activity of chimeric CD86(111)-IgG-scFv(FRP5) was confirmed by its ability to stimulate the proliferation of primary human lymphocytes pre-activated by low concentrations of anti-CD3 antibody. Our results suggest that such multivalent soluble proteins which combine specific targeting to tumor cells with costimulatory activity may become useful tools to elicit and/or improve T-cell mediated, tumor-specific immune responses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects induced by Apis mellifera venom and its components in experimental models of nociceptive and inflammatory pain.
The effects induced by Apis mellifera venom (AMV), melittin-free AMV, fraction with molecular mass < 10 kDa (F<₁₀) or melittin in nociceptive and inflammatory pain models in mice were investigated. Subcutaneous administration of AMV (2, 4 or 6 mg/kg) or melittin-free AMV (1, 2 or 4 mg/kg) into the dorsum of mice inhibited both phases of formaldehyde-induced nociception. However, F<₁₀ (2, 4 or 6 mg/kg) or melittin (2 or 3 mg/kg) inhibited only the second phase. AMV (4 or 6 mg/kg), but not F<₁₀, melittin-free AMV or melittin, induced antinociception in the hot-plate model. Paw injection of AMV (0.05 or 0.10 mg), F<₁₀ (0.05 or 0.1 mg) or melittin (0.025 or 0.050 mg) induced a nociceptive response. In spite of inducing nociception after paw injection, scorpion (Tityus serrulatus) or snake (Bothrops jararaca) venom injected into the dorsum of mice did not inhibit formaldehyde-induced nociception. In addition, AMV (6 mg/kg), but not F<₁₀ (6 mg/kg) or melittin (3 mg/kg), inhibited formaldehyde paw oedema. Concluding, AMV, F<₁₀ and melittin induce two contrasting effects: nociception and antinociception. AMV antinociception involves the action of different components and does not result from non-specific activation of endogenous antinociceptive mechanisms activated by exposure to noxious stimuli. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Evaluation of the effectiveness of a protocol designed to improve glycemic control in hospitalized internal medicine patients with hyperglycemia].
Our aims were to assess the effectiveness of a diabetes (DM) management protocol to increase scheduled insulin therapy and to improve glycemic inpatient control. We designed an analytical retrospective cohort study comparing 2 groups of medical services hospitalized patients with a primary of secondary discharge diagnosis of DM, before (group PRE) and after (group POS) the delivery of a DM management protocol. We analyzed the quality of attention by process indicators (cumulative probability of receive scheduled insulin therapy, evaluated with Kaplan-Meier analysis) and result indicators (adjusted glucose differences (group POS - group PRE), evaluated with multivariate regression models). A number of patients (355) were included (228 group PRE and 127 group POS). The median time to scheduled insulin regimen beginning was 1 (CI 95%: 0-2.5) day in group POS and 4 (CI 95%: 2-6) days in group PRE (p=0.056). First 48 hours mean glucose in patients without scheduled insulin therapy was lower in group POS than in group PRE (163.9 versus 186.7 mg/dl; p=0.025). The first 24 hours mean glucose was significantly lower in patients of group POS, with a difference between both groups of -24.8 mg/dl (CI 95%: -40.5-(-9); p=0.002). Stratified analysis showed statistically significant mean in-hospital glucose difference only in the nothing by mouth situation (-29.8 mg/dl; CI 95%: -58.9-(-0.6); p=0.045). The delivery of an institutional protocol can improve hospitalized DM patients management quality. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography in neonates and infants suspected of caval or aortic thrombosis.
Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)is a well-established technique in older children and adults. No studies have focused on its use in neonates and small infants. Our objective was to study the use of gadolinium-enhanced MRA in neonates and infants suspected of caval or aortic thrombosis. Gadolinium-enhanced MR angiography was performed on seven neonates and small infants for the evaluation of caval or aortic thrombosis. Gadolinium-DTPA at a dose of 0.3 mmol/kg (minimum dose 1 ml) was injected using a power injector (0.2 ml/s). Contrast-enhanced MRA was performed using a 3-D, fast, radiofrequency spoiled gradient-echo sequence (TR/TE: 4.8/1.1, flip angle 45 degrees , matrix 256 x 128, slice thickness 2.6 mm interpolated to 1.3 mm, FOV variable, NEX=1.0). Diagnostic-quality angiograms were obtained in all seven neonates. Superior vena cava thrombosis was identified in two neonates, and abdominal aortic thrombosis was present in one neonate. It is practical to perform gadolinium-enhanced MRA in neonates weighing as little as 600 g for the detection of caval or aortic thrombosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Plasma cell iron--clinical and morphologic features.
In order to identify the major clinical features and laboratory findings in patients with plasma cell iron, the authors reviewed the medical records and marrow aspirates of 53 consecutive patients with plasma cell iron hospitalized at Nashville Veterans Administration Hospital over a seven-year period. Plasma cell iron was associated most commonly with alcoholism and occurred in marrows with increased, normal, and decreased iron stores. In patients with decreased marrow iron, plasma cells were the major site of stainable iron. Plasma cell iron was found in patients without other morphologic changes of alcoholism such as megaloblastosis, erythroid vacuolization, and ringed sideroblasts. Plasma cell iron could be demonstrated in biopsy and autopsy material from extra-marrow sites. Ultrastructural studies showed iron always was located in membrane bound lysosomal vesicles of plasma cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Magnetic resonance in the assessment of renal function.
The kidneys are the most important organs to maintain homeostasis. In the assessment of renal functional disorders laboratory tests offer only indirect hints on location of the disease; radionuclide nephrography is hampered by low spatial resolution and radiologic methods provide only limited quantitative information. The MRI technique with fast pulse sequences and renally eliminated contrast agent has the capability of combining both anatomic and functional information. This article gives an overview on functional MRI of the kidneys with its possibilities and limitations. The clinical application of functional MRI allows a better understanding of some pathologic conditions such as urinary tract obstruction, renal insufficiency, effects of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, different states of hydration, effects of drugs, vascular disorders, and effects of transplantation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of the saline infusion test and the fludrocortisone suppression test for the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism.
For the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism (PA), confirmatory testing is mandatory and different function tests can be employed. There are, however, sparse data comparing the fludrocortisone suppression test (FST) and the saline infusion test (SIT). Patients with PA (n=90) or essential hypertension (n=65) were studied. They underwent one or the other test or both of them. Using the DPC Siemens aldosterone radioimmunoassay, we found that the SIT led to a stronger suppression of aldosterone than the FST. Post-test aldosterone-to-renin ratios (ARRs) and the percentage of suppression of aldosterone serum concentrations performed worse. The same results were observed in patients who underwent both FST and SIT. Some patients had divergent results in both tests. For the SIT, a lower cutoff value should be used than for the FST for the adequate identification of patients with unilateral PA. Long-term prospective studies are needed to address the question at what cutoff values patients benefit from subtype differentiation of PA. We discuss here possible explanations for divergent results obtained with both tests. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Comparison of routine use of two chromogenic media ChromID CPS (bioMérieux) and UriSelect4 (Bio-Rad) for the detection of Escherichia coli and major uropathogenics in urine].
Escherichia coli is the most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections. Its rapid and specific identification in urine samples represents a major challenge within the rendering results and optimizing the management of the patient. We aimed to compare the sensitivity and specificity of two commercially available chromogenic media for E. coli: ChromID CPS (Biomérieux) and UriSelect4 (Bio(-)Rad), without carrying out further tests. 99 consecutive and non-redundant urine samples considered to be infected were simultaneously plated onto blood agar and the two chromogenic media. Colony color and bacterial growth quantification were compared 18 and 48 hours after incubation. Bacteria were identified with mass spectrometry. A complementary analysis on 80 bacterial strains known to pose potential identification problems was performed. 43 urines samples grew E. coli, and 42 of them were pink-colored on the two chromogenic mediums, as expected (sensibility=97.7%). Growth quantification was significantly greater on blood agar than on chromogenic media (p<0.001).We noted specificity issues at the complementary analysis with the UriSelect4 medium: Citrobacter freundii and some strains of Citrobacter brakii, Enterobacter cloacae and Hafnia alvei were pink-colored, and could be misidentified as E. coli. ChromID CPS medium did not show such misidentification. In conclusion, the agar ChromID CPS proved to be greater than the UriSelect4 agar in our work in terms of specificity of direct identification of E. Coli, without the use of additional test. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pulmonary microsporidiosis in a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. A case report.
Microsporidian protozoa are increasingly recognized as pathogenic organisms related to host immunosuppression. We report a case of pulmonary microsporidiosis detected in aspirated bronchial material and in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid collected from a 26-year-old, male acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patient presenting pulmonary symptoms and known to have intestinal microsporidiosis. The diagnosis was made on cytologic examination of the material processed according to the Papanicolaou technique, evaluated by Giemsa, Gram's, Grocott and chromotrope-2R modified trichrome preparations and by fungi-fluor fluorescent mycology stain. Our findings reveal an important fluorescent property of intracellular microsporidian spores, heretofore undescribed in the literature. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact on cognitive function-are all statins the same?
Dementia is a major public health concern, affecting an estimated 7% of the population over 65 and 30% over 80 years of age. There is mounting evidence in the literature from meta-analyses of high-quality prospective cohort studies that statins may have a positive impact in reducing the incidence of dementia. Little is known, however, on whether certain types of statins are more impactful than others. This narrative review specifically explores the various properties of different statin types and whether these differences lead to a clinically significant differential impact on cognitive function. We critically evaluate the literature, emphasizing interesting and important new findings, and overall aim to bring the reader up-to-date on evidence-based recommendations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Generation and characterization of 11 novel est derived microsatellites from Vicia faba (Fabaceae).
Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were developed for faba bean using expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from the NCBI database to study for genetic diversity. • A total of 11 novel EST-SSR loci were generated and characterized when tested on four populations of 29 faba bean individuals from China and Europe. The number of alleles (A) ranged from 1 to 3 in each population, and observed heterozygosity (H(O)) and expected heterozygosity (H(E)) ranged from 0 to 0.5000 and 0.6400, respectively. Furthermore, transferable analysis revealed that eight of these loci (72.73%) amplified in Pisum sativum L., six of which (75.00%) detected polymorphism. • The developed markers in this study will provide valuable tools for genetic diversity, resource conservation, genetic mapping, and marker-assisted breeding of faba bean in the future. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Executive well-being: updating of positive stimuli in working memory is associated with subjective well-being.
A growing literature shows that the ability to control affective information in working memory (WM) plays an important role in emotional functioning. Whereas most studies have focused on executive processes relating to emotion dysregulation and mood disorders, few, if any, have looked at such processes in association with happiness. In this study, we examined whether the ability to update positive and negative stimuli in WM (assessed with an affective n-back task) is related to the cognitive and affective components of subjective well-being. Participants who were better at retaining and updating specifically positive (not negative) information in WM displayed higher levels of life satisfaction and affect balance, both at the trait level and in daily life. These results suggest that effective updating of positive information in WM may underlie happy people's ability to maintain and further enhance positive thoughts and emotions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder and prostate in children.
We compare 8 patients wth rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder and prostate who underwent either a radical extirpative operation, chemotherapy and radiotherapy or biopsy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The excellent survival in the former and the uniformly fatal outcome in the latter suggest that chemotherapy and radiotherapy are not substitutes for a radical extirpative operation. Indeed, proper care of these patients includes all 3 modalities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A photoactivatable microRNA probe for identification of microRNA targets and light-controlled suppression of microRNA target expression.
Here, we report a novel dual-functional microRNA (miRNA) probe, PA-miRNA, for miRNA target identification and light control of miRNA target expression. PA-miRNA is a miRNA mimic with a 3'-biotin tag linked via a photo-cleavable linker. Using PA-miR-34a, intracellular targets of miR-34a in HeLa cells were isolated and confirmed. Moreover, PA-miR-34a upon transfection into HeLa cells was inactive until light irradiation to break the photo-cleavable linker to release functional miR-34a. We demonstrated that miR-34a target expression as well as miR-34a-promoted cell apoptosis were regulated by PA-miR-34a in a photo-controllable manner. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hydrophobic interactions in the hinge domain of DNA polymerase beta are important but not sufficient for maintaining fidelity of DNA synthesis.
We previously described a general mutator form of mammalian DNA polymerase beta containing a cysteine substitution for tyrosine 265. Residue 265 localizes to a hydrophobic hinge region predicted to mediate a polymerase conformational change that may aid in nucleotide selectivity. In this study we tested the hypothesis that van der Waals and hydrophobic contacts between Y265 and neighboring residues are important for DNA synthesis fidelity and catalysis, by altering interactions in the hinge domain via substitution at position 265. Consistent with the importance of hydrophobic interactions, we found that phenylalanine, leucine, and tryptophan substitutions did not alter significantly the steady-state catalytic efficiency of DNA synthesis, relative to wild type, while the polar serine substitution decreased catalytic efficiency 6-fold. However, we found that all substitutions other than phenylalanine increased the error frequency, relative to wild type, in the order serine > tryptophan = leucine. Therefore, maintenance of the hydrophobicity of residue 265 was not sufficient for maintaining fidelity of DNA synthesis. We conclude that while hydrophobic interactions in the hinge domain are important for fidelity, additional factors such as electrostatic and van der Waals interactions contributed by the tyrosine 265 aromatic ring are required to retain wild-type fidelity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
HIV reverse-transcriptase drug resistance mutations during early infection reveal greater transmission diversity than in envelope sequences.
Drug resistance mutations (DRMs) can serve as distinct, nonpolymorphic markers for evaluating diversity of expressed HIV-1. We screened for DRMs during early-acute viremia and examined the diversity in reverse transcriptase (RT) relative to envelope (env) in cases of transmitted drug resistance. We evaluated 111 longitudinal plasma samples collected every 2-7 days from 15 individuals who seroconverted for HIV-1 infection in 1994-2000. The samples were screened with sensitive polymerase chain reaction assays for the commonly transmitted M41L and K70R mutations and for K65R, which was undetected by bulk sequencing. Mutation-positive samples were further characterized by clonal sequencing of RT and env V1-V3. Drug resistance mutations were detected in 4 of 15 seroconverters at 5-50 days of viral nucleic acid expression; most mutations disappeared about the time of seroconversion. Clonal sequencing verified low-level K65R at frequencies of 0.4%-4.9%. In each case, K65R coexisted unlinked with variants carrying 2-5 thymidine analog mutations at frequencies of 1.6%-23.0%. In one seroconverter, variants with M184V and nonnucleoside RT inhibitor mutations were also identified at first RNA expression. Each seroconverter displayed a homogeneous V1-V3 env population. Reverse-transcriptase DRMs demonstrate that the breadth of variants in transmission may be greater than what is reflected in envelope sequences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The importance of carcinogen dose in chemoprevention studies: quantitative interrelationships between, dibenzo[a,l]pyrene dose, chlorophyllin dose, target organ DNA adduct biomarkers and final tumor outcome.
Chlorophyllin (CHL) is a potent antimutagen in vitro, an effective anti-carcinogen in several animal models, and significantly reduced urinary biomarkers of aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1)) exposure in a human population. Here we report an expanded analysis of CHL chemoprevention using the potent environmental hydrocarbon dibenzo[a,l]pyrene (DBP). A dose-dose matrix design employed over 12 000 rainbow trout to evaluate the interrelationships among dietary carcinogen dose, anti-carcinogen dose, carcinogen-DNA adduct levels at exposure and eventual tumor outcome in two target organs. Included was an evaluation of the pharmaceutical CHL preparation (Derifil), used previously in a study of individuals chronically exposed to AFB(1). CHL was pre-, co- and post-fed at doses of 0-6000 p.p.m. and co-fed with DBP at doses of 0-371.5 p.p.m. for 4 weeks. This protocol generated a total of 21 dose-dose treatment groups, each evaluated with three or more replicates of 100 animals. The DBP-only treatment produced dose-responsive increases in liver and stomach DBP-DNA adducts, whereas increasing CHL co-treatment doses produced successive inhibition in liver (49-83%) and stomach (47-75%) adduct levels at each DBP dose examined. The remaining 8711 trout were necropsied, 10 months later. DBP treatment alone produced a logit incidence versus log [DBP] dose-response curve in stomach that was linear; CHL co-treatment provided dose-dependent tumor inhibition which ranged from 30 to 68% and was predictable from the adduct response. The Derifil CHL preparation was also found to effectively reduce DNA adduction and final tumor incidence in stomach (as well as liver), with a potency compatible with its total chlorin content. Liver tumor incidence in the DBP-only groups appeared to plateau near 60%. At DBP doses of <or=80 p.p.m., increasing CHL doses generally reduced tumor incidence and multiplicity consistent with early DNA adducts as biomarkers. At 225 p.p.m. DBP, however, very high CHL doses were required to reduce tumor incidence below the 60% plateau. Apparent tumor multiplicity in liver was neither linear nor monotonic with DBP dose, but peaked at 80 p.p.m. DBP and declined at 225 p.p.m., where it was increased by all but one CHL dose. Consequently, the effects of a given CHL dose and the predictivity of DNA adducts as biomarkers were highly dependent on carcinogen dose. These results underscore the critical importance of establishing carcinogen-end point dose-response relationships in chemoprevention studies, and the potential otherwise for misleading interpretations in chemoprevention studies carried out solely at high-carcinogen dose. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High concentration of sodium butyrate suppresses osteoblastic differentiation and mineralized nodule formation in ROS17/2.8 cells.
Periodontitis is a destructive disease that is likely the result of the activities of different microbial complexes, including anaerobic Gram-negative periodontopathic bacteria. Butyric acid (sodium butyrate; BA) is a major metabolic by-product of anaerobic Gram-negative periodontopathic bacteria present in subgingival plaque. This study was undertaken to examine the effect of BA on the expression of osteogenesis-related transcription factors and mineralized nodule formation in osteoblastic ROS17/2.8 cells. The cells were cultured with 0 (control), 10(-5), 10(-4), or 10(-3) M BA for up to 7 days. The gene and protein expression levels of transcription factors such as Runx2, Osterix, Dlx5, Msx2, and AJ18, as well as extracellular matrix proteins such as bone sialoprotein (BSP) and osteocalcin, were examined using real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Mineralized nodule formation was detected by alizarin red staining. The expression of Runx2, Osterix, Dlx5, and Msx2 decreased significantly in the presence of 10(-3 )M BA compared to the control, whereas AJ18 expression increased significantly. Mineralized nodule formation decreased markedly in the presence of 10(-3) M BA. Alkaline phosphatase activity and the expression of bone sialoprotein and osteocalcin decreased significantly in the presence of 10(-3) M BA compared to the control. These results suggest that 10(-3) M BA suppresses osteoblastic differentiation and mineralized nodule formation in ROS17/2.8 cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The comparative morphology of pit organs in elasmobranchs.
The pit organs of elasmobranchs (sharks, skates and rays) are free neuromasts of the mechanosensory lateral line system. Pit organs, however, appear to have some structural differences from the free neuromasts of bony fishes and amphibians. In this study, the morphology of pit organs was investigated by scanning electron microscopy in six shark and three ray species. In each species, pit organs contained typical lateral line hair cells with apical stereovilli of different lengths arranged in an "organ-pipe" configuration. Supporting cells also bore numerous apical microvilli taller than those observed in other vertebrate lateral line organs. Pit organs were either covered by overlapping denticles, located in open grooves bordered by denticles, or in grooves without associated denticles. The possible functional implications of these morphological features, including modification of water flow and sensory filtering properties, are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Effect of various physical factors on clinical and laboratory indicators and on nonspecific resistance of the body in reactive arthritis].
Application of UV-therapy and acupuncture in the complex therapy and rehabilitation of reactive arthritis patients had a positive effect on the disease course. The clinical efficacy of the compared physiotherapy methodologies is determined, to a certain degree, by the increase in the nonspecific resistance of the organism in this category of patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Primary health care in Turkey: a passing fashion?
The Alma-Ata Declaration has long been regarded as a watershed in the health policy arena. The global goal of the World Health Organization, 'Health for All by the Year 2000' through primary health care, has attracted many countries both in the developed and the developing world and commitments to this end have been made at every level. However, albeit this consensus on the paper, a common and explicit definition of the concept has not been reached yet. This paper aims at discussing various definitions of primary health care that emerged after the Declaration and also presenting a case study from Turkey, a country that advocates primary health care in her recent health policy reform attempts. After setting the conceptual framework for discussion the Turkish case is presented by using research carried out among Turkish policy-makers at different levels of the State apparatus. It has been concluded that application of primary health care principles as defined in the broad definition of the concept requires major changes or rather shake-ups in Turkey. These areas are outlined briefly at the end of the paper. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Koinophilia groups sexual creatures into species, promotes stasis, and stabilizes social behaviour.
In a population whose members' genomes are subject to degradation by random mutations, the heritable vigour of the most common phenotypes is unquestionable (though not necessarily optimal), and that of fringe individuals is always suspect. Natural selection will therefore support the evolution of an affinity for modal mates (i.e. koinophilia). The population's genetic make-up can then not readily be invaded by non-cryptic mutations. This imposes considerable phenotypic conservatism on sexually reproducing creatures, and inexorably canalizes them into sexually isolated, phenotypically distinct species. The model predicts, and the empiric data confirms, that the phenotypic gaps between largely monomorphic sexual species do not characterize the taxonomy of longstanding apomicts, where variation below the genus level is often continuous. The bias against the propagation of all forms of phenotypic novelty and non-conformity stabilizes social animals against selfish mutants, thus removing the barriers to the evolution of "group adaptations". | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Examining the psychometric properties of the Hindi version of Family Accommodation Scale-Self-Report (FAS-SR).
Family accommodation (FA) is the phenomenon whereby caregivers assist or facilitate rituals or behaviours related to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). There is a need for a self-rated instrument to assess this construct in resource-strained clinical settings of India. To explore the factor structure of Hindi version of Family Accommodation Scale-Self Rated version (FAS-SR) and compare its validity with the gold standard Family Accommodation Scale-Interviewer Rated (FAS-IR) scale. The Hindi version of FAS-SR scale and FAS-IR scale was applied on 105 caregivers of patients with OCD. The initial factor analysis yielded three-factor models with an eigenvalue of >1 and the total variance explained by these factors was 72.017%. The internal consistency of the 19-item scale was 0.93 indicating good inter-item correlation. There was a significant positive correlation between FAS-IR scale total score and all the factors of the FAS-SR Scale. The average measure ICC was 0.889 with a 95% confidence interval from 0.783 to 0.981 (F (62,84)=37.547, p<001) indicating high degree of reliability between the Hindi version of FAS-SR and the FAS-IR scale. FAS-SR is a practical alternative to FAS-IR and has the potential to be used widely in an Indian setting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Soil denitrification rates in different type riparian zones in maoershan mountainous region of China].
Soil samples were collected from forested, clear-cut, and grassy riparian zones under forest background and from forested and barren riparian zones under cropland background in the Maoershan mountainous region of China. The samples were incubated in laboratory, and their denitrification potentials were determined by nitrate-deduction method. The results showed that under crop-land background, soil denitrification rate was the highest in forested riparian zone and the lowest in barren riparian zone, with the deduction rate of nitrate varied from 46.79%-91.13% and 15.64% -81.84%, respectively. Under forest background, soil denitrification rate decreased in the order of clearcut > forested > grassy riparian zone, with the deduction rate of nitrate being 42.06%-90.39%, 28.24%-85.73% and 21.44%-83.11%, respectively. The denitrification rate was higher in subsurface layer than in deeper layer, and the denitrification potential was limited by the available carbon and nitrate, being the greatest in the forested riparian zone under cropland background. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Differential tropism of HIV-1 isolates for distinct thymocyte subsets in vitro.
Understanding the interaction between HIV and developing thymocytes is crucial in determining how HIV infection perturbs the immune system. We determined which thymocyte subsets can harbor and express HIV. HIV expression in mature and immature thymocytes obtained from surgical specimens from non-infected children was determined after in vitro infection with the syncytium-inducing, cytopathic NL4-3 and the non-syncytium-inducing, relatively noncytopathic JR-CSF isolates. Intracellular staining for the HIV p24gag antigen was combined with cell surface phenotyping to determine thymocyte subsets expressing HIV. Infection was quantitated by polymerase chain reaction on sorted subsets. NL4-3 replicated faster and to higher titers and caused a more severe decrease of all CD4-bearing thymocytes than did JR-CSF. In addition, both immature CD1+ and mature CD1-thymocytes expressed NL4-3, whereas only mature CD1-cells expressed JR-CSF. The tropism of NL4-3 for these immature cells suggests a mechanism for a more profound impact on T-cell maturation than that seen with JR-CSF. We also found that thymocytes lacking cell surface CD4 (CD4-CD8- and CD4-CD8+ subsets) expressed virus with either isolate late in infection, when viral levels were high. The CD4-CD8- cells expressing HIV were mature CD3bright T-cell receptor (TCR) alpha/beta bright cells. These results show that NL4-3 can be expressed by thymocytes at immature and mature stages of differentiation and cause severe loss of CD4+ cells. Thus, tropism of a virus for immature cells can affect the capability of the thymus to produce new T lymphocytes leading to a greater impact on development and functions of the immune system. It is proposed that this in vitro model can be used to study pathogenic mechanisms in the thymus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antihyperlipidemic bioactivity of Alpinia officinarum (Hance) Farw Zingiberaceae can be attributed to the coexistance of curcumin, polyphenolics, dietary fibers and phytosterols.
Rhizoma A. officinarum (Hance) Farw, synonymously is called rhizoma galangae or smaller galangal (hereafter abbreviated as AO). Numerous studies reported that AO possesses anti-inflammatory, anticancer, chemoprotective, antibacterial, antifungal and diuretic properties. To understand whether AO exhibits antihyperlipidemic bioactivity and what is the mechanism of action, we performed chemical and animal studies using hamsters (age: 4 weeks, body weight: 45 ± 4 g). The grouping of the animals was as follows: control, high fat (HF) diet, HF + AO2%, HF + AO4%, HF + AO6%, HF + AO8% and HF + AO10%. AO contained curcumin 5.67 mg g(-1) (on wet basis), crude fiber 1.3% ± 0.0%, soluble diet fiber 92 ± 2 mg g(-1), insoluble diet fiber 502 ± 5 mg g(-1), and phytosterols 63.9 ± 1.6 mg/100 g. Its methanolic extract consisted of high polyphenolics 4927.8 ± 101.1 mgGAE/100 g and flavonoids 593.2 ± 22.2 mgQE/100 g. The enlarged organs, including liver, kidney, and spleen, which were elicited by HF were completely alleviated by AO supplement diets. Levels of serum cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-C, HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio for the control originally were 138 ± 6, 98 ± 4, 40 ± 5, 168 ± 7 mg dL(-1) and 0.24, which were elevated by HF to 319 ± 12, 223 ± 13, 108 ± 11, 194 ± 6 mg dL(-1) and 0.05, and alleviated completely by HF + AO8% and HF + AO10%. In vitro, AO extracts showed potent DPPH free radical-scavenging and superoxide anion scavenging capabilities. In vivo, AO (at dose ≥8%) dose-dependently alleviated levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, GSH, and MDA to 117 ± 6.9 U mL(-1), 32.9 ± 3.7 U mL(-1), 7.0 ± 1.7 μmol mL(-1) and 1.8 ± 0.4 nmol L(-1), respectively, exhibiting the remarkable antioxidative and antihyperlipidemic effects of AO. Conclusively, we are the first to report the occurrence of curcumin in rhizoma A. officinarum. Curcumin synergistically elicits promising anti-dyslipidemic bioactivity with coexisting total polyphenolics, dietary fibers and phytosterols. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cortical blindness and paraplegia following hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy as a complication of common krait bite.
A case report of a successful recovery from paraplegia and cortical blindness following anti-venom injection for a snake bite by a common krait is reported here. A 14-year old male patient was bitten by a common krait. On admission to a tertiary level hospital, he was started with antivenom serum. But the patient developed sudden respiratory distress following anaphylactic shock and he was kept on ventilation. The patient was discharged with paraplegia with loss of vision. He was diagnosed as a case of cortical blindness due to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Subsequently, the patient recovered from paraplegia and regained visual acuity of 6/60 in both eyes (best corrected). The boy was reexamined after four years. Evaluation of victims of neurotoxic snake bite for early signs of respiratory depression and prompt respiratory assistance, even if anti-venom is not available, is most essential as a life saving measure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of intracellular lumina in the repolarization process of a colonic adenocarcinoma cell line.
When glucose is added to the culture medium, some cells of the undifferentiated HT-29 line derived from a human colonic adenocarcinoma develop spherical structures, demonstrated to be intracellular by the ruthenium red staining method, which are bordered with microvilli, contain osmiophilic substances and resemble intracellular lumina. When glucose is replaced by galactose in the culture medium, the cells differentiate apical membranes bordered with microvilli. Our observations suggest that these new apical membranes correspond to the membranes of intracellular lumina which have opened outside the cells. We suggest that intracellular lumina may represent "compensation" for loss of polarity of epithelial cells and may be an important step in the repolarizing process of the cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Yessotoxin: risk assessment for public health. Justification of regulations of content in seafood].
Yessotoxin and its derivatives (about 90) are isolated from algae belonging to the species Protoceratium reticulatum, Gonyaulax cf. Spinifera, Lingulodinium polyedrum and from invertebrate organisms that feed on these algae. Previously yessotoxin have been associated with the group of diarrheal toxins. Later studies of the possible impact of yessotoxin on the activity of alkaline phosphatase allowed to exclude them from this group. Yessotoxin causes a violation of calcium entry in the cells, which, in turn, effects the calcium-calmodulin system and thus influences into homeostasis of the organism as a whole. It was shown that yessotoxin induces a biphasic change in the concentration of adenosine monophosphate, an initial increase with a subsequent relative decrease, within some minutes after adding the toxin to the lymphocytes cell culture. Yessotoxin has effects on immune system; which is manifested in an increase of cytokines level, by inducing the expression of the genes encoding them. Yessotoxin have impact into processes of cell adhesion via E-cadherin and, thus, could be an important factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease. It has been established that yessotoxin caused the development of apoptosis. In those cases all three mechanisms of cell death took place - apoptosis, paraptosis and autophagy. Yessotoxin's acute toxicity doses according to different data are from 100 to 500-750 μg per 1kg of body weight. Yessotoxin's acute reference dose (ARfD) - 25 μg/kg of body weight per day. The results of the analysis of yessotoxin level in shellfish meat showed that none of the studied samples contained more than 3.75 mg yessotoxin equivalents/kg shellfish meat. This level has been adopted by the European Union as the maximum acceptable level of yessotoxin in shellfish meat (EU Regulation N 786/2013). Presented data on the mechanism of action, toxicity and prevalence of yessotoxins make it necessary to establish regulations of their content in seafood, placed on the markets of the Eurasian Economic Union. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Which is worse? Comparison of ART outcome between women with primary or recurrent endometriomas.
Are live birth rates (LBR) different after ART cycles between women with primary or recurrent endometrioma? Women with recurrent endometrioma have similar LBR as compared to patients with primary endometrioma. Recurrence rate can be as high as 29% after endometrioma excision. Prior studies on management of endometrioma before ART involve primary endometriomas. There is limited information regarding the prognosis of women with recurrent endometriomas. A multicenter retrospective cohort study, including 76 women with primary and 82 women with recurrent endometriomas treated at the participating centers over a 6-year period. Women with endometrioma who underwent ART at three academic ART centers. Couples with another indication for ART were excluded. Female age, median number of prior failed ART cycles, proportion of patients with bilateral endometrioma (28 versus 28.9%), ovarian stimulation protocols, and total gonadotropin consumption were similar between the study groups. Numbers of metaphase two oocytes (5 versus 6), number of embryos transferred, and the proportion of patients undergoing blastocyst transfer were similar across the study groups. Clinical pregnancy rates (36.6 versus 34.2%, absolute difference 2.4%, 95% CI: -12.5 to 17.3%, P = 0.83) and LBR (35.4 versus 30.3%, absolute difference 5.1%, 95% CI: -9.5 to 19.7%, P = 0.51) per started cycle in recurrent and primary endometrioma were similar. Comparable success rates were also confirmed with logistic regression analysis (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.78-0.57, P = 2.3). The retrospective design has inherent limitations. Some women with severely decreased ovarian reserve after primary endometrioma excision may not have pursued further treatment. The management of endometrioma prior to ART is controversial but a different management strategy is not required for recurrent endometriomas. Since recurrent endometriomas do not have a worse impact on ART outcome than primary endometriomas, and repeat surgery has a higher risk for complications, conservative management without surgery can be justified. No funding or competing interests to declare. None. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Food formats for effective delivery of probiotics.
Probiotic bacteria are increasingly incorporated into food products intended to confer health benefits in the human gut and beyond. Little is known about how the food matrix and product formulation impacts probiotic functionality, even though such information is essential to scientific understanding and regulatory substantiation of health benefits. The food format has the potential to affect probiotic survival, physiology, and potentially efficacy, but few comparative studies in humans have been conducted. Human studies should account for the effects of the food base on human health and the bioactive components present in the foods that may augment or diminish interactions of the probiotic with the human host. Some studies show that food ingredients such as prebiotics and milk components can improve probiotic survival during the shelf life of foods, which may enhance probiotic efficacy through increased dose effects. Furthermore, there are indications that synbiotic products are more effective than either probiotics or prebiotics alone. Identification of probiotic adaptations to the food and gut environments holds promise for determining the specific cell components and potential bacterial-food interactions necessary for health benefits and determining how these factors are affected by changes in food formulation and host diet. These studies, combined with controlled human studies, are important future research activities for advancing this field. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alpha satellite DNA in neotropical primates (Platyrrhini).
The alpha satellite DNA of Old World (catarrhine) primates usually consists of similar, but not identical, ca. 170 bp sequences repeated tandemly hundreds to thousands of times. The 170 bp monomeric repeats are components of higher-order repeats, many of which are chromosome specific. Alpha satellites are found exclusively in centromeric regions where they appear to play a role in centromere function. We have found that alpha satellite DNA in neotropical (New World; platyrrhine) primates is very similar to its Old World counterpart: it consists of divergent ca. 170 bp subsequences that are arranged in tandem arrays with a ca. 340 bp periodicity. New and Old World alpha satellites share about 64% sequence identity overall, and contain several short sequence motifs that appear to be highly conserved. One exception to the tandemly arrayed 340 bp motif has been found: the major alpha satellite array in Chiropotes satanas (black bearded saki) has a 539 bp repeat unit that consists of a 338 bp dimer together with a duplication of 33 bp of the first monomeric unit and 168 bp of the second monomeric unit. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Opioid tolerance: a perioperative nursing challenge.
Opioid analgesia is used more frequently in patients with chronic pain unresponsive to non-opioid therapy. The result is a growing number of individuals admitted to the hospital for acute pain (trauma or surgery) who are opioid-tolerant. Nursing strategies to improve pain intervention in this population are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Defective development of the embryonic liver in N-myc-deficient mice.
The mechanisms involved in the formation and the differentiation of the liver remain unclear despite extensive studies. To investigate these events in mouse hepatic development, we have taken advantage of the N-myc mutant mouse line which exhibits abnormal liver development. N-myc mutant embryos die between 11.5 and 12.5 days postcoitum most probably from heart failure. In the present study, we report that at 11.5 days of gestation, extensive apoptosis restricted to the hepatocytes occurred in N-myc mutant liver when compared to wild-type samples. Moreover, the number of hematopoietic cells is reduced in the mutant liver. During early liver organogenesis, the N-myc gene is expressed in tissues involved in the induction and the differentiation of the hepatocytes. At 11.5 days postcoitum, both c-myc and N-myc genes are expressed in the liver. While c-myc is expressed at a high level in the organ per se, N-myc expression is mostly confined to the peripheral layer of the liver which will generate the Glisson's capsule. Taken together, the expression pattern of N-myc in the liver and the specific apoptosis of hepatocytes observed in N-myc mutants indicate that N-myc is required for hepatocyte survival and suggest that it is involved in the genetic cascade leading to normal liver development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The role of oils containing triacylglycerols and medium-chain fatty acids in the dietary treatment of obesity. The effect on resting energy expenditure and serum lipids].
Treatment of obesity with strict reducing diets is as a rule associated with the development of energetic efficiency manifested among others also by a decline of energy expenditure. The objective of the trial was to test whether addition of oils containing triacylglycerols with medium-chain fatty acid can prevent this decline and whether their administration can affect the lipid spectrum. Sixty obese patients were served for a four-week period of hospitalization at the obesitology unit a low-energy diet REDITA (Promil Co., N. Bydzov) providing 1596 kJ, 37 g protein, 50 g carbohydrate and 3 g fat. Part of the treatment was regular aerobic exercise, behavioural therapy to teach correct dietary habits and physical activity; physical activity was monitored by means of pedometers. From this group during the 3rd and 4th week 11 patients with similar characteristics were separated (age, body weight, BMI and energy expenditure at rest) as in the basic group. These patients were given daily 15 ml oil containing triacylglycerols with medium-chain fatty acids, MCT OIL (Mead Johnson, Evansville), providing 545 kJ. The resting energy expenditure was assessed in all patients every morning on fasting, immediately after awakening, using indirect calorimetry and it was corrected with regard to the respiratory quotient and excretion of catabolic nitrogen. The body composition was assessed at the beginning and at the end of the trial by hydrostatic weighing. Administration of oil containing triacylglycerols with medium-chain fatty acids (MCT OIL) prevented the decline of the resting energy expenditure (130.0 +/- 9.2 kJ/kg lean body mass/day, as compared with 126.5 +/- 7.2 kJ/kg lean body mass/day in the basic group: the difference is statistically not significant). Although addition of oil increased the energy intake by 545 kJ/day, the drop of body weight and BMI was comparable with that in the group of obese patients who did not receive the oil (10.3 +/- 1.1 kg vs. 10.6 +/- 0.5 kg). While during administration of the oil the resting energy expenditure did not change (5.97 +/- 0.30 kJ/min. vs. 5.24 +/- 0.58 kJ/min.), in obese patients who were only on the strict reducing diet it declined from 5.45 +/- 0.18 kJ/min. to 4.44 +/- 0.22 kJ/min. (p < 0.01). The significant drop of total cholesterol achieved by dietotherapy alone (5.41 +/- 0.21 mmol/l vs. 6.26 0.20 mmol/l before treatment) was not affected by administration of oil (4.86 +/- 0.28 mmol/l vs. 5.69 +/- 0.35 mmol/l before treatment). HDL-cholesterol, on the other hand, declined only in obese patients with dietotherapy (1.40 +/- 0.04 mmol/vs. 1.22 +/- 0.04 mmol/l after treatment, p < 0.01). The triacylglycerol values declined significantly in both groups (p < 0.01). It appears that administration of thermogenetically acting triacylglycerols with medium-chain fatty acids can prevent diet-induced energetic efficiency and can improve the long-term success of dietotherapy of obese patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Higher phthalate concentrations are associated with precocious puberty in normal weight Thai girls.
The cause of precocious puberty may be associated with genetics and other conditions such as central nervous system (CNS) insults, or the exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Phthalates is known to be one of the EDCs and have estrogenic and antiandrogenic activities, and may be associated with advanced puberty. The objective of the study was to determine the association between urinary phthalate metabolites and advanced puberty. A cross-sectional study was conducted in patients with precocious puberty (breast onset <8 years, n=42) and early puberty (breast onset 8-9 years, n=17), compared to age-matched controls (n=77). Anthropometric measurements, estradiol, basal and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)-stimulated follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, uterine sizes, ovarian diameters and bone ages (BA) were obtained. Urine samples were collected and mono-methyl phthalate (MMP) and mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and adjusted with urine creatinine. The median adjusted-MEP concentration in girls with precocious puberty, was greater than in normal girls (6105.09 vs. 4633.98 μg/g Cr: p<0.05), and had the same trend among early puberty and normal puberty (5141.41 vs. 4633.98 μg/g Cr: p=0.4), but was not statistically significant. Precocious puberty girls had an association with increased MEP concentration. This is the first report of the association between urinary phthalate levels and precocious puberty in Thai girls. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of oxadiarrhot on some mechanisms of the immune system.
The preliminary application of the preparation Oxadiarrhot has no effect on the progress and the result of bacterial and mixed (bacterial-viral) infections. In animals treated with the preparation antigen-reactive and antibody-productive cells show insignificant decrease in number. There is no essential influence of the preparation on the mononuclear phagocytes system--the alveolar macrophages and polymorphonuclears do not change their functions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Acute isolated cerebral mucormycosis in a patient with high grade non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
A 57-year-old female in complete remission of grade IV non-Hodgkin lymphoma whilst on intensive chemotherapy, suddenly developed unilateral hemispheric stroke with a fatal outcome in 3 days. She was apyrexial and had received antifungal prophylaxis during her treatment. Post-mortem examination showed complete thrombosis of the internal carotid artery leading to infarction in the territory of the middle and anterior cerebral arteries. Microscopic examination of the brain showed involvement of intra-cranial vessel walls and brain parenchyma by mucormyces, with no evidence of systemic mucormycosis. Isolated cerebral mucormycosis is a rare occurrence, more commonly found in intravenous drug abusers, but can occur in patients with haematological malignancy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
MR imaging of renal masses: correlation with findings at surgery and pathologic analysis.
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is useful in the characterization of renal masses. The MR imaging manifestations and pathologic diagnoses of 82 renal masses were reviewed and correlated. The MR imaging appearance of clear cell type renal cell carcinoma varies depending on the presence of cystic components, hemorrhage, and necrosis. Papillary renal cell carcinomas appear as well-encapsulated masses with homogeneous low signal intensity on T2-weighted images and homogeneous low-level enhancement after the intravenous administration of contrast material, or as cystic hemorrhagic masses with peripheral enhancing papillary projections. Transitional cell carcinoma may be seen as an irregular, enhancing filling defect in the pelvicaliceal system or ureter. Lymphomatous masses are usually hypointense relative to the renal cortex on T2-weighted images and enhance minimally on delayed gadolinium-enhanced images. Bulk fat is a distinguishing feature of angiomyolipoma. Oncocytoma has a variable and nonspecific appearance at MR imaging. MR imaging findings may allow the characterization of various renal masses and can provide valuable information for their clinical management. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
D-penicillamine and polymyositis: the significance of the anti-Jo-1 antibody.
A 57-yr-old lady developed polymyositis whilst taking D-penicillamine for RA. D-Penicillamine-induced polymyositis occurs in RA with a greater frequency than idiopathic polymyositis. Anti-acetyl choline receptor antibodies and ANA were positive, consistent with drug-induced disease. Anti-Jo-1 antibodies are considered specific for idiopathic myositis, and their presence was unexpected. Following withdrawal of the drug, the disappearance of the anti-Jo-1 and other antibodies coincident with clinical improvement, suggested that D-penicillamine was responsible for inducing antibody production. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Flow cytometric measurement of microparticles: pitfalls and protocol modifications.
Upon activation, many cells shed components of their plasma membranes as microparticles. Depending on the methods of preparation and analyses, microparticle counts may vary significantly between laboratories, making data analyses and clinical correlations challenging. To assess how variations in sample preparation affect microparticle measurements, blood samples from 13 healthy, adult volunteers were labeled with Annexin V, cell-specific antibodies, and antibodies against tissue factor (TF). Data were acquired and analysed using an EPICS XL-MCL flow cytometer. Annexin V(+) monocyte-, platelet-, endothelial-, or erythrocyte-derived microparticles accounted for 10.4%, 38.5%, 43.8%, and 7.3% of the total number of microparticles (13.7 +/- 3.0 x 10(3)/ml of whole blood), respectively. A similar distribution of cell types was seen for TF(+) microparticles (6.3 +/- 2.6 x 10(3)/ml of whole blood). No statistical difference was noted in microparticle distribution using either 19- or 21-gauge needles. Elevated levels of platelet- and erythrocyte-derived microparticles were detected in heparin and PPACK-anticoagulated samples as compared to samples anticoagulated with ACD or sodium citrate (P < 0.05, student's t-test). Additional centrifugation was critical for removing platelet contamination, which significantly affected microparticle counts. Finally, Annexin V(+) and TF(+) microparticles were significantly reduced upon sample storage at low temperatures. Microparticle levels are significantly affected by variations in sample preparation and storage. These results illustrate the need to standardize assay protocols in order to obtain consistent measurements. Our studies further optimize sample preparation for microparticle detection. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Addressing the primary care workforce: a study of nurse practitioner students' plans after graduation.
Primary care is a growing area, and nurse practitioners (NPs) hold promise for meeting the need for additional providers. This article reports on the future plans of more than 300 primary care NP students in family, adult, and adult gerontology programs. The sample was obtained through NP faculty, and data were collected via an online survey. Results indicated that although these students chose primary care, only 48% anticipated working in primary care; 26% planned to practice in rural areas, and 16% planned to work in an inner city. Reasons cited as important for pursuing a primary care position included the long-term patient relationship, faculty and preceptor mentors from the NP program, and clinical experiences as a student. Implications include providing more intensive faculty mentoring to increase the number of individuals seeking primary care positions after graduation and help with future career planning to meet personal career and nursing profession needs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Association of polyomavirus middle tumor antigen with 14-3-3 proteins.
To carry out its transformation function, the middle tumor antigen (MT) of murine polyomavirus associates with a number of cellular proteins involved in regulation of cell proliferation, including pp60c-Src, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, protein phosphatase 2A, Src homologous and collagen protein and growth factor receptor-binding protein 2. Here, two additional MT-associated proteins were identified as members of the 14-3-3 family of proteins. Yeast homologs of 14-3-3 proteins have recently been shown to play a role in the timing of mitosis. Thus, regulation of 14-3-3 protein function by MT may contribute to the development of neoplasia. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chlamydia psittaci in MALT lymphomas of ocular adnexals: the Austrian experience.
The presence of Chlamydia (C.) psittaci, C. pneumoniae and C. trachomatis DNAs in MALT lymphomas of ocular adnexals from 13 Austrian patients were studied. Gastrointestinal MALT lymphomas and gastritis specimens served as controls. Of 13 MALT lymphomas of the ocular adnexals, seven were positive for C. psittaci DNA. In contrast, one of 17 gastrointestinal specimens tested positive. All specimens were negative for C. trachomatis and C. pneumoniae DNAs. In conclusion, C. psittaci infection was observed in the majority of MALT lymphomas of ocular adnexals in Austrian patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Detection and prevention of maculopathy associated with antimalarial agents.
Rheumatologists use both cholorquine and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of systemic arthritic and immune disease. Hydroxychloroquine is much more expensive but is better tolerated by patients. My experience in watching patients being switched from one drug to another suggests that chloroquine is more effective in some patients than is hydroxychloroquine. Reynes thought that a review of the literature suggests that chloroquine is more toxic at 250 mg/day as compared to 400 mg of hydroxychloroquine if dose is based on these dosages. This theory may be related, in part, to the observation by Raines and associates that chloroquine crosses the blood-retinal barrier whereas hydroxychloroquine does not. Patients should be assessed 6 months after starting antimalarials. Routine automated perimetry is not indicated. An appropriate examination would include visual acuity testing, color-vision testing, Amsler grid testing, and corneal assessment. Patients should be dosed on the basis of ideal body weight (not actual body weight) to reduce the incidence of macular toxicity. Patients with no risk factors should be examined no more than once a year. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thalamic amnesia reconsidered: excitotoxic lesions of the intralaminar nuclei, but not the mediodorsal nucleus, disrupt place delayed matching-to-sample performance in rats (Rattus norvegicus).
Rats with large thalamic lesions affecting the mediodorsal (MDn) and intralaminar (ILn) nuclei are impaired performing delayed matching to sample tasks (DMTS). To determine the neurological basis of this deficit, we trained rats to perform a place DMTS task and then compared the effects of excitotoxic lesions of the MDn, the ILn, and the lateral internal medullary lamina (L-IML). The MDn lesion had little effect. The ILn group was significantly impaired throughout 8 months of training. The L-IML group exhibited an intermediate level of impairment. Varying the sample response requirement, retention intervals, and trial-to-trial congruence in the side reinforced, had predicted effects, as did variations in response latency. However, none of these factors interacted with the treatment effects. These findings indicate that DMTS performance is disrupted by lesions of the ILn but not the MDn. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Long-term corneal endothelial cell loss after cataract surgery. Results of a randomized controlled trial. Oxford Cataract Treatment and Evaluation Team (OCTET).
Three hundred thirty-three eyes were randomly assigned to three treatments for cataract: group A, intracapsular extraction plus contact lens; group B, intracapsular extraction plus Federov implant (Federov I lenses were made by Rayners Ltd, United Kingdom, based on a design by Professor Fyodorov); and group C, extracapsular extraction plus iridocapsular implant. Endothelial cell loss estimated at one and six months and yearly up to four years showed significantly greater loss in the two implant groups from one year onward. Continuing loss slowed down after the third year, except for the intracapsular extraction plus implant group, in which cell loss appeared complication related. Of operative factors, use of alpha-chymotrypsin significantly reduced cell loss, and pseudophakos contact increased cell loss. Postoperative complications associated with significantly greater cell loss were hypopyon, uveitis, subluxation, shallow anterior chamber, and cystoid macular edema. To date, five and four cases of bullous keratopathy were derived from implant groups B and C, respectively. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of acid and cleansing agents on shear bond strength and marginal microleakage of glass-ionomer cements.
The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effects of various dentin chemical pretreatments (a) on the shear bond strength of five glass-ionomer cements (GICs) and (b) on marginal microleakage of the five GICs used in association with resin composites in Class V restorations. The dentin treatments were: three acid agents (polyacrylic acid, tannic acid, orthophosphoric acid), three cleansing agents (Tubulicid blue solution, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium hypochlorite), and an aqueous solution as control. After dentin treatment, the test specimens were stored in water at 37 degrees C for 24 hr. Shear bond strength was determined with a universal testing machine at a cross-head speed of 0.5 cm/min. Sodium hypochlorite and polyacrylic acid significantly improved the adhesion of GICs to a different degree in the various materials. Regarding microleakage tests, 320 non-retentive cavities were prepared at the cementum-enamel junction in freshly extracted human teeth. The teeth were thermocycled, immersed in dye solution, and serial-sectioned longitudinally at three sites. Treatment with sodium hypochlorite was the most effective in reducing marginal leakage. The present results suggest that dentin treatment is an important step in all resin composite/GIC restorations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cognitive status and relocation stress: a test of the vulnerability hypothesis.
This study investigated whether cognitively impaired nursing home residents are at particular risk of experiencing harmful effects during a mass, intra-institutional, interbuilding relocation. A pretest-post-test experimental-comparison group design was used. Data on cognitive status, functional capacity, psychosocial health status, physical health status, and mortality were abstracted from the Minimum Data Set Plus and were analyzed using continuous and discrete survival analyses, controlling for covariates as well as baseline status of outcome variables. None of the Relocation x Cognitive Status interaction effects were significant. Relocation main effects indicated that movers in general were more likely than nonmovers to decline in physical health status. Evidence also emerged for a positive long-term effect of moving on psychosocial health status. These findings suggest cognitively impaired residents are not at unusual risk of harmful effects as a consequence of mass, interbuilding transfer. Given the significant relocation main effects, though, caution must be taken in moving cognitively impaired residents, as it should be in moving any residents. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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