text
stringlengths 1
10.9k
| meta
dict |
|---|---|
Sequence analysis and tissue expression of a non-Bohr beta-globin cDNA from Atlantic salmon.
The presence of a haemoglobin protein which does not exhibit a Bohr effect has been found only in fish living in fast flowing waters. We report the cloning of the first non-Bohr effect beta-globin cDNA from an adult Atlantic salmon kidney bank. Nucleotide sequence analysis of this cDNA shows that the predicted beta-globin peptide comprises 147 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 15 975 Da and an overall amino acid homology of 40 to 50% to higher vertebrates and 60-90% to fish sequences. This sequence confirms the important amino acid residues which are changed thus causing loss of the Bohr effect [Powers, D.A. and Edmunson, A.B. (1972) Multiple hemoglobins of catostomid fish. J. Biol. Chem. 247, 6686-6693; Brunori, M. (1975) Molecular adaptation to physiological requirements: the hemoglobin system of trout. Curr. Topics Cell. Regul. 9, 1-39]. This loss allows the haemoglobin protein to have a higher oxygen affinity, as it does not release oxygen when the pH of the surrounding environment decreases, which is an important ability for the fish in times of stress. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Milk from cows fed a diet with a high forage:concentrate ratio improves inflammatory state, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function in rats.
Excessive energy intake may evoke complex biochemical processes characterized by inflammation, oxidative stress, and impairment of mitochondrial function that represent the main factors underlying noncommunicable diseases. Because cow milk is widely used for human nutrition and in food industry processing, the nutritional quality of milk is of special interest with respect to human health. In our study, we analyzed milk produced by dairy cows fed a diet characterized by a high forage:concentrate ratio (high forage milk, HFM). In view of the low n-6:n-3 ratio and high content of conjugated linoleic acid of HFM, we studied the effects of this milk on lipid metabolism, inflammation, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress in a rat model. To this end, we supplemented for 4 wk the diet of male Wistar rats with HFM and with an isocaloric amount (82 kJ, 22 mL/d) of milk obtained from cows fed a diet with low forage:concentrate ratio, and analyzed the metabolic parameters of the animals. Our results indicate that HFM may positively affect lipid metabolism, leptin:adiponectin ratio, inflammation, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress, providing the first evidence of the beneficial effects of HFM on rat metabolism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical and structural outcomes after arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears with and without platelet-rich product supplementation: a meta-analysis and meta-regression.
The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of all Level I and Level II studies comparing the clinical or structural outcomes, or both, after rotator cuff repair with and without platelet-rich product (PRP) supplementation. A literature search of the PubMed and EMBASE databases was performed to identify all Level I or II studies comparing the clinical or structural outcomes, or both, after arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears with (PRP+ group) and without (PRP- group) PRP supplementation. Data included outcome scores (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES], University of California Los Angeles [UCLA], Constant, Simple Shoulder Test [SST] and visual analog scale [VAS] scores) and retears diagnosed with imaging studies. Meta-analyses compared preoperative, postoperative, and gain in outcome scores and relative risk ratios for retears. Meta-regression compared the effect of PRP treatment on outcome scores and retear rates according to 6 covariates. Minimum effect sizes that were detectable with 80% power were also calculated for each study. Eleven studies were included in this review and a maximum of 8 studies were used for meta-analyses according to data availability. There were no statistically significant differences between the PRP+ and PRP- groups for overall outcome scores or retear rates (P > .05). Overall gain in the Constant score was decreased when liquid PRP was injected over the tendon surface compared with PRP application at the tendon-bone interface (-6.88 points v +0.78 points, respectively; P = .046); however, this difference did not reach the previously reported minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for Constant scores. When the initial tear size was greater than 3 cm in anterior-posterior length, the PRP+ group exhibited decreased retear rates after double-row repairs when compared with the PRP- group (25.9% v 57.1%, respectively; P = .046). Sensitivity power analyses revealed that most included studies were only powered to detect large differences in outcome scores between groups. There were no statistically significant differences in overall gain in outcome scores or retear rates between treatment groups. Gain in Constant scores was significantly increased when PRPs were applied at the tendon-bone interface when compared with application over the top of the repaired tendon. Retear rates were significantly decreased when PRPs were used for the treatment of tears greater than 3 cm in anterior-posterior length using a double-row technique. Most of the included studies were only powered to detect large differences in outcome scores between treatment groups. In addition, an increased risk for selection, performance, and attrition biases was found. Level II, meta-analysis of Level I and Level II studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Restaurant menu labeling: impact of nutrition information on entree sales and patron attitudes.
This study examined changes in sales of low fat/low cholesterol foods targeted in a restaurant menu labeling program. Sales of labeled items were tracked before and after the program was introduced, and a subsample of patrons were surveyed for information on visibility and comprehension of the menu labels. Two of the four restaurants had significant increases in the sales of targeted foods following labeling. Comparisons between patrons dining in restaurants which had an increase in sales (I--increase restaurants) to those dining in restaurants which had no overall shift in sales (NI--no increase restaurants) revealed no differences in patron awareness or comprehension of the menu labels. There were age and gender differences between I and NI restaurants, with I restaurants having proportionally more males, and a younger clientele. Taste was the primary reason given by patrons for their entree choice, regardless of whether or not it was labeled. In all four restaurants women and older patrons were more aware of the program and more responsive to its recommendations. These findings suggest that environmental strategies may be an effective method of encouraging dietary changes in the general population, but patron characteristics such as age and gender may influence receptivity to this type of intervention. Future studies aimed at developing effective point of purchase education programs should evaluate these patron characteristics and include more powerful behavior change strategies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alternatives for unsuccessful living donor kidney exchange pairs.
Living donor kidney exchange has become an efficient solution for recipients with incompatible donors. Here we describe the fate of all patients that were enrolled in our program during 2004-2010. Data on registration, computerized matching, cross matching, and transplantations within or outside the program were collected. Between January 2004 and December 2010, 422 pairs were registered. To create new combinations a match procedure was run 28 times with a median input of 14 (7-22) new pairs and a median of 55 (16-92) participating pairs. Matches were found for 127/185 (69%) cross match-incompatible pairs and 91/237 (38%) ABO-incompatible pairs. 141 of the 218 matched pairs successfully donated and received kidneys in exchange. There were 77 transplants cancelled for medical or psychological reasons, and an alternative solution was found for 26 of these. So in total 167 (141 + 26) patients received a transplant. Of the remaining 51 cancelled transplants, 26 pairs dropped out, 22 patients found an alternative transplantation outside the program and 3 are still waiting. For the 204 unmatched couples, 46 are still in the program while 34 others dropped out, and 124 found an alternative living kidney donor. After 7 years, 39% of participants received a kidney within the exchange program, 35% were transplanted outside the program, 14% of the pairs were delisted and 12% are still waiting. Among the 146 patients who received a kidney outside the program, 47 were transplanted with a deceased donor kidney, 21 found another donor, 37 received an ABO-incompatible transplant and 41 were transplanted in a domino-paired procedure triggered by an non-directed donor. In the 7 years of our Living Donor Kidney Exchange Program 313/422 (74%) of the participating patients were transplanted. Approximately half of them (167/313, 53%) received a kidney through the exchange program, while 47 (15%) received a deceased donor kidney and 99 (32%) were transplanted through other living donation programs. The exchange program proved to be highly successful not only in its direct results but also indirectly by triggering alternative solutions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Explicit and implicit heroin-related cognitions and heroin use among patients receiving methadone maintenance treatment.
Craving is an important issue in substance use disorder. To achieve a better understanding of the cognitive processing systems of craving, the cognitive processes of craving have been considered as two distinct processes. One system, based on rule-based inferences and named explicit cognition, is more conscious and effortful. The other system, based on prior learned association and named implicit cognition, is unconscious and effortless. How explicit and implicit cognitions are associated with heroin use in patients with methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is not clear. This study aimed to explore the relationship between explicit and implicit cognition and heroin use in patients undergoing MMT. This study recruited one-hundred forty intravenous heroin users. The participants were invited to provide social-demographic data, the severity of substance dependence and explicit cognition with regard to heroin. Then, participants completed a computerized test to assess implicit cognition with regards to heroin. This study found that explicit and implicit heroin-related cognitions were associated with the frequency of heroin use. There was an interaction effect between implicit and explicit cognition on the frequency of heroin use. This study also found that higher explicit heroin-related cognition was a risk factor for continuing heroin use. Both explicit and implicit cognitions were associated with the frequency of heroin use in patients undergoing MMT, but only explicit cognition was associated with whether patients could stop using heroin during MMT. Therefore, the status of heroin use in patients undergoing MMT may be related to different cognitive processes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chromatographic determination of harmalans in the urine of autistic children.
This paper presents a new approach to autism - a complex and still enigmatic condition. We present the results of our preliminary research which was based on the detection of the hallucinogenic substance 6- (or 10-)methoxyharmalan in the urine samples of autistic children with the use of chromatographic methods. Additionally, we aim to describe the relationship between the level of tryptophan and harmalan, and the influence of supplementation on the level of this compound. We applied HPLC-UV/vis, HPLC-DAD and LC-MS in order to determine McIsaac's compound in the urine samples obtained from autistic children (n = 132) and healthy individuals (n = 10). The level of tryptophan was quantified with the use of GC-MS. Our research shows the presence of the McIsaac's compound in 110 samples of ASD children contrary to healthy children, where it was not found. No relationship between the level of tryptophan and 6-methoxyharmalan was noticed. The study shows a strong influence of melatonin supplementation on the presence of the McIsaac's compound. We believe that the results of our research can contribute to a better understanding of autism spectrum disorders. Moreover, our findings can form the basis for other studies focused on autism, eventually making it possible to understand its etiology. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Direct versus indirect revascularization procedures for moyamoya disease: a comparative effectiveness study.
OBJECTIVE Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic cerebrovascular disease that can lead to devastating neurological outcomes. Surgical intervention is the definitive treatment, with direct, indirect, and combined revascularization procedures currently employed by surgeons. The optimal surgical approach, however, remains unclear. In this decision analysis, the authors compared the effectiveness of revascularization procedures in both adult and pediatric patients with MMD. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed for studies of MMD. Using complication and success rates from the literature, the authors constructed a decision analysis model for treatment using a direct and indirect revascularization technique. Utility values for the various outcomes and complications were extracted from the literature examining preferences in similar clinical conditions. Sensitivity analysis was performed. RESULTS A structured literature search yielded 33 studies involving 4197 cases. Cases were divided into adult and pediatric populations. These were further subdivided into 3 different treatment groups: indirect, direct, and combined revascularization procedures. In the pediatric population at 5- and 10-year follow-up, there was no significant difference between indirect and combination procedures, but both were superior to direct revascularization. In adults at 4-year follow-up, indirect was superior to direct revascularization. CONCLUSIONS In the absence of factors that dictate a specific approach, the present decision analysis suggests that direct revascularization procedures are inferior in terms of quality-adjusted life years in both adults at 4 years and children at 5 and 10 years postoperatively, respectively. These findings were statistically significant (p < 0.001 in all cases), suggesting that indirect and combination procedures may offer optimal results at long-term follow-up. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Malabsorption and complex superior mesenteric vascular anomalies. Apropos of a case].
Radiological, and particularly arteriographic examinations in a 28-year-old man investigated for a malabsorption syndrome with exsudative enteropathy demonstrated the presence of a complex anomaly of mesenteric artery and vein vascularization. The diagnosis, based on these findings, was chronic or recurrent valvulus of the mesentery on an intestinal malposition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diagnosis of chlamydial infection in the female urogenital tract, and treatment with doxycycline.
Microbiologic diagnostic tests (comprising phase-contrast microscopy, fungal cultures, staining cytology, and immunofluorescence microscopy with monoclonal antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis) were performed in 100 women with recurrent urogenital infections. The incidence and localization of Chlamydia trachomatis are reported. The therapeutic efficacy of systemic treatment with doxycycline in this group was evaluated. All of the 25 patients in whom treatment and treatment results could be supervised reported marked or complete relief of symptoms after ten days of treatment with 200 mg/day of doxycycline. All clinical findings were normal, and immunofluorescence microscopy showed that the microorganisms were eradicated in all patients. Doxycycline was well tolerated, with only two patients reporting mild abdominal pain, which did not require termination of treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influences of excitatory amino acid receptor agonists on nucleus of the solitary tract neurons receiving aortic depressor nerve inputs.
Neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) of the anesthetized rat were classified according to their responses to aortic depressor nerve stimulation: monosynaptic neurons (MSNs), polysynaptic neurons (PSNs) and non-aortic depressor nerve-evoked neurons (NENs). Agonists for excitatory amino acid (EAA) receptors were applied by microiontophoresis at currents of 5 to 40 nA. At these "doses," the nonselective EAA agonist glutamate (100 mM) increased the firing rate of some MSNs (5/9), PSNs (6/8) and NENs (16/20) (P < .01 for each group). Some neurons in each group were very resistant to glutamate, even at high ejecting currents. In addition, most NTS neurons were excited by selective EAA agonists, (RS)-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (10 mM), kainate (10 mM), N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (100 mM) and trans-(1S,3R)-1-amino-1,3-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid (100 mM). As with glutamate, some NTS neurons in each class were also very resistant to selective EAA agonists. Statistical analysis indicated that N-methyl-D-aspartic acid, but not (RS)-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid and kainate, was more potent on PSNs than on MSNs or NENs (P < .01 for each comparison). There was a trend for trans-(1S,3R)-1-amino-1,3-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid to be more potent on MSNs than on PSNs or NENs (P = .09 and .07, respectively). Our results suggest that all EAA receptor subtypes are involved in baroreceptor afferent integration within NTS, and NTS neurons appear to possess different combinations of EAA receptor subtypes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of cyclosporin A on plasma lipids during the first year after renal transplantation.
The serum lipid profile of renal transplant recipients from the Indian subcontinent is not available. Cyclosporin A causes dyslipidaemia, a major risk factor for coronary artery disease which is a significant cause of mortality in these patients. We compared the effect of two dosage schedules of cyclosporin A on the lipid profile of transplant recipients. Two hundred and eight renal allograft recipients were randomized to receive either a high or a low dose of cyclosporin A for 12 months. Their cholesterol and triglyceride levels were measured at monthly intervals for the first six months and at the ninth and twelfth months. The area under the curve was measured and multiple linear regression analysis was done. ANOVA for repeated measures was carried out. Patients receiving a higher dose of cyclosporin A had higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to those receiving the lower dose schedule. The multivariate analysis showed that a low dose of cyclosporin A was significantly associated with reduced cholesterol (p < 0.07) and triglyceride levels (p < 0.04) after controlling the effect of other covariates. ANOVA for repeated measures showed that cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the low-dose cyclosporin A group (p < 0.05). Low dose cyclosporin A reduces the risk of dyslipidaemia in Indian renal transplant recipients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Protein biosynthetic activity of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in inflammatory arthropathies. Increased synthesis and release of fibronectin.
We have investigated protein synthesis and release by polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) to compare the protein biosynthetic activity of peripheral blood PMN and inflammatory synovial fluid (SF) PMN from patients with inflammatory arthropathies. We analyzed and compared the protein profiles produced by these cells, using patient matched peripheral blood and SF PMN as well as peripheral blood PMN from normals. Twenty-five patients with either rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or gout were studied. Fluorographs of SDS-polyacrylamide slab gels, performed using cell supernatants from metabolically labelled cells, revealed an increased release of de novo synthesized proteins by inflammatory SF PMN compared to peripheral blood PMN. Under reducing conditions, 4 clearly distinguishable high molecular mass products were observed (Mr 230,000, 185,000, 170,000 and 95,000). Two of the protein bands were found to be gelatin binding (Mr 230,000 and Mr 95,000). By Western blot, the Mr 230,000 protein was found to be fibronectin and the Mr 95,000 protein was shown to be identical to a recently described gelatinase. Thus, the activation of PMN in inflammation is accompanied by an increased release of a number of de novo synthesized proteins, including fibronectin. Our studies directly pertain to the in vivo inflammatory process since the PMN were not activated artificially in vitro. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus as a community pathogen.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is an established nosocomial pathogen, with hospital-based outbreaks occurring worldwide. An increase in MRSA infections without risk factors has been recently documented in several reports. A prospective study was conducted over a 36-month period to determine the prevalence and risk factors for community-acquired MRSA infection at King Fahad Hospital of the University Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia. Patients hospitalized within the previous 12 months or transfers from hospitals or nursing homes were excluded. The number of patients with community-acquired MRSA disease increased from a single patient in 1998 to fifteen patients in the year 2000 and the percentage of community-acquired MRSA/total number of MRSA increased from 5% to 33%. Fifteen (75%) of 20 patients with community-acquired MRSA infection had no discernible characteristics of MRSA infections. Skin and soft tissue infections were the predominant presentation. Most MRSA isolates (95%) were susceptible to multiple antibiotics. Our data suggest that MRSA is an emerging community pathogen. Hospital infection control strategies will have to be redefined and community approaches developed to reduce transmission. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genotype, phenotype and cancer: role of low penetrance genes and environment in tumour susceptibility.
Role of heredity and lifestyle in sporadic cancers is well documented. Here we focus on the influence of low penetrance genes and habits, with emphasis on tobacco habit in causing head and neck cancers. Role of such gene-environment interaction can be well studied in individuals with multiple primary cancers. Thus such a biological model may elucidate that cancer causation is not solely due to genetic determinism but also significantly relies on lifestyle of the individual. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cloning of human telomeres by complementation in yeast.
Telomeres confer stability on chromosomes by protecting them from degradation and recombination and by allowing complete replication of the end. They are genetically important as they define the ends of the linkage map. Telomeres of lower eukaryotes contain short repeats consisting of a G-rich and a C-rich strand, the G-rich strand running 5'-3' towards the telomere and extending at the end. Telomeres of human chromosomes share characteristics with those of lower eukaryotes including sequence similarity as detected by cross-hybridization. Telomeric repeats from many organisms can provide telomere function in yeast. Here we describe a modified yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) vector with only one telomere which we used to clone human telomeres by complementation in yeast. YACs containing human telomeres were identified by hydridization to an oligonucleotide of the trypanosome telomeric repeat. A subcloned human fragment from one such YAC is immediately subtelomeric on at least one human chromosome. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of continuous dexamethasone treatment on differentiation capabilities of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cells.
Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cells (hBMMCs) originate from cell populations in the bone marrow and are capable of differentiating along multiple mesenchymal lineages. To differentiate hBMMCs into osteoblasts, adipocytes and chondrocytes, dexamethasone has been used as a differentiation reagent. We hypothesized that dexamethasone would augment the responsiveness of BMMCs to other differentiation reagents and not define the lineage. This study investigated the effect of continuous treatment with 100 nM dexamethasone on the differentiation of BMMCs into three different lineages. hBMMCs cultured with continuous dexamethasone treatment (100 nM) exhibited higher mRNA expression levels of osteogenic markers and higher positive rates of colony forming unit assays for osteogenesis compared to hBMMCs treated with dexamethasone only during the differentiation culture. Furthermore, continuous dexamethasone treatment augmented bone formation capability of monkey-derived BMMCs in a bone induction experimental model at an extra skeletal site. In addition, continuously dexamethasone-treated hBMMCs formed larger chondrogenic pellets and expressed SOX9 at higher level than the control BMMCs. Likewise, continuous dexamethasone treatment facilitated adipogenic differentiation based on mRNA level and colony forming unit analysis. To investigate the mechanism of the augmentation of differentiation, further studies on apoptosis were conducted. The studies indicated that dexamethasone selectively induced apoptosis of some populations of hBMMCs which were thought to have poor differentiation capability. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reducing and Reversing the Diphosphene-Diphosphinylidene Energy Separation.
The dependence of the relative energies of 116 diphosphene and diphosphinylidene compounds on the modification of their structures is studied theoretically. Optimized geometries and relative energies are reported for all structures. With the purpose of investigating the effects of various substituents on the parent PPH2 and HPPH molecules, isodesmic reaction energies were obtained for single and double substitution. In the case of the substitution of both H atoms by lithoxy (OLi) or ONa groups is the diphosphinylidene type structure found to be lower in energy. For the lithoxy group, the energy difference amounts to 33 kcal/mol at CCSD(T) cc-pVTZ level of theory. This result is explained through the natural population analyses, where a very favorable Coulombic attraction is found in the OLi substituted diphosphinylidene structure. The order of the effectiveness of the substituents in lowering the relative energy of the diphosphinylidene structure is OLi > ONa > OH > OSiH3 > OCH3 > OPh > NH2 > N(CH3)2 > F > ONH2 > OBH2 > CH3 > OOH > Ph > BF2 > PH2 > SiH3 > SH > HC═O > Cl > CF3 > Br > SiF3 > NF2 > NO2 > C≡CH > OF > CN. Natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis explains other qualitative bonding features, for example, phosphorus-phosphorus bond orders as large as 2.5 for R2PP structures and as small as 1.6 for RPPR structures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel mutation in GJB1 (c.212T>G) in a Chinese family with X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
Gap junction protein beta 1 (GJB1) gene mutations lead to X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMTX) disease. We investigated a Chinese family with CMTX and identified a novel GJB1 point mutation. Clinical and electrophysiological features of the pedigree were examined, and sequence alterations of the coding region of GJB1 that encode connexin32 were determined by direct sequencing. Sequence alignment of the mutation site was performed using Clustal W. Mutation effects were analysed using PolyPhen-2, SIFT and Mutation Taster software. The three-dimensional structures of the mutant and wild-type proteins were predicted by modeling with SWISS MODEL online software. The affected family members displayed typical Charcot-Marie-Tooth phenotypes, but phenotypic heterogeneity was observed. Nerve conduction velocities of all affected patients were slow. Sequencing of GJB1 revealed a heterozygous T>G missense mutation at nucleotide 212 in the proband, the proband's mother and the proband's daughter. The affected male sibling of the proband displayed a hemizygous missense mutation with T>G transition at the identical position on the GJB1 gene. This mutation resulted in an amino acid change from isoleucine to serine that was predicted to lead to tertiary structural alterations that would disrupt the function of the GJB1 protein. A novel point mutation in GJB1 was detected, expanding the spectrum of GJB1 mutations known to be associated with CMTX. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The role of psychosomatic medicine in public health (hygieiology): an approach for lifestyle-related disease].
In the twenty-first century it has been hypothesized that lifestyle-related disease will account for more than 70% of all disease; thus, in the twenty-first the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related disease will be of primary importance. Lifestyle differs from individual to individual. In the past preventive medicine has targeted groups while clinical medicine has dealt with disease. However, in the twenty-first century it will be necessary to integrate the two approaches to meet the needs of the individuals. Measures following the primary prevention of lifestyle-related disease will be the vital and they can only be delivered by primary care medicine. As a model that covers the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related diseases, based on the conventional biomedical model, a systematic medical model that attaches importance to the relativity of all factors and individuality will be necessary. The medical model for psychosomatic medicine is the Bio-psycho-socio-ethical (ecological) model, and psychosomatic medicine has specific methods for implementing this model. We have used this perspective to explain the role of psychosomatic medicine in public health (hygieiology). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of visual feedback information on isometric contraction of forearm flexor muscles in men and women after ischemic stroke.
The aim of this study was to determine the effect of visual feedback information (VFI) on the isometric contraction of the forearm flexor muscles in men and women after an ischemic stroke when doing a physical load at 20% of strength. The study included healthy subjects (n=20) and subjects after ischemic stroke (n=20). The study was conducted in Lithuanian Sports University. The measurements of maximum voluntary strength (MVS) and accurate isometric contraction were performed using an isokinetic dynamometer Biodex System Pro 3. The absolute errors of isometric contraction of the right arm muscles at 20% of MVS were similar in all the groups during the attempt with visual feedback information. The smallest absolute errors of the healthy subjects were 1.42±0.35 Nm when the task was performed with visual feedback and the greatest absolute errors were 4.69±0.95 Nm (P<0.01) while performing the task without visual feedback. Meanwhile, the smallest and greatest absolute errors of the subjects after ischemic stroke were 1.32±0.45 Nm and 5.05±0.63 Nm, respectively, while performing the task without visual feedback (P<0.01). Maximum voluntary strength was greater in all the groups of men. The absolute errors of isometric contractions of the right and left arm muscles tended to increase in both the men and the women when there was no visual feedback information. The women and the men after an ischemic stroke produced greater absolute errors when performing the task with the right and left arm without visual feedback information than the healthy subjects. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fixed-point observation of Oncomelania nosophora in Kofu Basin--establishment of monitoring system of schistosomiasis japonica in Japan.
There are still many Oncomelania snails that inhabit the Kofu Basin, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, which had been declared free of schistosomiasis japonica. Due to the need to monitor the situation, a fixed-point observation system using GIS from GPS is being examined. In addition, in broad present or former endemic areas, survey areas are being managed by remote sensing with satellite images or aerial photographs. A simple and effective monitoring method by mobile GIS using PDAs was developed, risk or hazard maps were prepared and a system that would enable a response in the event of reemergence is being examined. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Video-nailfold-microscopy and local cold test: morphological and hemodynamic correlates in 124 healthy subjects.
Video-nailfold-microscopy in combination with a local cooling test were used to determine morphological and hemodynamic reference values with their variabilities such as sex, age, blood pressure and smoking habits in 124 healthy volunteers. In our non-smoking population (n = 90) neither arterial blood pressure nor age or the sex of the subjects had any significant influence on the morphological or hemodynamic parameters, even after the local cooling test. However, cooling the skin caused in all cases a rapid, temporary decrease in the velocity of blood flow through the capillaries. The small group of chronic smokers (n = 34) showed no sex differences in any of the measured variables even when compared with sex and age matched non-smokers. It may be concluded that video-capillaroscopy, a non-invasive technique, can be used in clinical practice for studying the physiology and pathophysiology as well as the dynamic response to local cooling in microcirculatory diseases of the human skin. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Degree of biotinylation in nucleic acids estimated by a gel retardation assay.
A simple and nonradioactive gel retardation assay was established in order to separate weakly biotinylated nucleic acids according to the number of biotin molecules with which they are labeled. The method uses streptavidin to retard biotinylated RNA (Bio-RNA) in nondenaturing polyacrylamide gels; the streptavidin-Bio-RNA complexes are detected by silver staining. From the quantitative analysis of the band distribution, the average number of biotinylated nucleotides incorporated in a particular preparation may be calculated. The degree of biotinylation was analyzed with this method by studying the incorporation of Bio-4-UTP or Bio-11-UTP into RNA by in vitro transcription with T7 RNA polymerase. We found that both Bio-UTPs were incorporated into RNA by T7 polymerase three to four times less efficiently than unmodified UTP and that the average degree of biotinylation depended in a simple and calculable way on the Bio-UTP to total UTP ratio during transcription. Therefore, RNA transcripts with a defined average degree of biotinylation can be synthesized by T7 RNA polymerase simply by setting the Bio-UTP to total UTP ratio to the appropriate value. The gel retardation assay was also used to determine the average number and distribution of biotinyl residues in photobiotinylated RNA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Preoperative prognostic factors for squamous cell carcinomas of the thoracic esophagus].
To identify preoperative survival prognostic factors in patients with resectable squamous cell carcinoma of the thoracic esophagus. From January 1982 to September 1999, 868 patients underwent surgery for esophageal carcinoma in our department, including 493 for squamous cell carcinoma of the thoracic esophagus. The following parameters were retrospectively included in univariate and multivariate analysis: age, sex, undernutrition, dysphagia, tumor diameter and nodal involvement on the CT-scan, preoperative treatment, surgical technique, curative resection, pTNM classification, histologic type and postoperative complications. The actuarial survival was determined. Survival prognostic factors were dysphagia, nodal involvement on CT-scan and depth of tumor invasion at pathological examination. Three groups of patients were identified on the two preoperative variables: group 1: patients without dysphagia (n=102), group 2: patients with dysphagia but without nodal involvement on the CT- scan (n=244), group 3: patients with dysphagia and with nodal involvement on the CT- scan (n=147). The median survivals were 62.4, 19.1 and 14.4 months in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively, and 5-year actuarial survivals were 50%, 21% and 11% (P<0.009). Our study confirms that dysphagia and nodal involvement on the CT-scan are simple preoperative prognostic factors in patients with resectable squamous cell carcinoma of the thoracic esophagus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
1-week withdrawal from 8 weeks alcohol consumption protects the heart from sepsis-induced dysfunction.
Gram-negative sepsis causes a depression of the myocardium such that ventricular function curves generated on isolated perfused hearts removed from septic rats are displaced downward and to the right of control. Alcohol consumption can also cause a depression of the myocardium, especially if the period of alcohol feeding is prolonged. However, even before overt changes in the myocardium can be measured as a result of alcohol consumption, chronic alcoholism can result in a potentiation of sepsis-induced cardiac depression (Am. J. Physiol. 250:H1857-H1863, 1991). The purpose of the present study was to determine if 1 week of withdrawal of alcohol from the diet after 8 weeks of alcohol consumption would reverse the potentiation by alcohol of sepsis-induced cardiac depression. Animals were fed an ethanol-containing diet in which ethanol contributed 36% of the total calories. Rats were fed this diet or a control liquid diet for 8 weeks, and then some animals were taken off the alcohol diet and placed on the control diet for 1 week. Sepsis was induced in control-fed, alcohol-fed or withdrawal animals by the administration of Escherichia coli into the dorsal subcutaneous space. Nonseptic animals received sterile saline in this space. The following day animals were anesthetized, and the hearts were removed and studied as isolated working hearts. Hearts removed from septic and alcohol septic animals showed severe depression of cardiac contractile performance. Hearts from the withdrawal group, however, were less compromised by sepsis and showed only a few signs of cardiac dysfunction. Withdrawal from alcohol for 1 week thus resulted in protection of the heart from sepsis-induced cardiac depression. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The allegory of a mountain: an environmental introduction to neurotoxicology.
Overall, the area of human neurotoxicity offers significant difficulties as well as challenges in our attempts to maintain or enhance human well being. Many of the substances to which humans are being exposed are relatively new to the environment, i.e., the products of a sophisticated industrial development. As a result humans are exposed to volatile organic compounds not previously present in our environment in significant amounts. It is important to maintain our industrial complex and the economic growth of our society. The use of volatile organic compounds is often important to the success of the industry. However, it is also important for us to determine what concentration of a given substance may produce short-term effects or chronic long-term effects. Human exposure to these potentially toxic levels could then be prevented. This is especially true because once irreversible damage occurs there is no medical treatment that can lead to improvement. Therefore, prevention of neurotoxic injury is essential. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of L-nitro-arginine methyl ester, acetylcholine, and adenosine on mean blood pressure, pulse pressure, and pulse pressure amplification in rats.
The blood pressure pattern in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) involves three main characteristics: increase in mean blood pressure (MBP); increase in thoracic aorta (proximal) and iliac (distal) pulse pressure (PP); disappearance of the normal PP amplification between the proximal and the distal arteries. Whether pharmacologic agents may reduce MBP with different or even opposite effects regarding PP and PP amplification has been poorly investigated. In SHRs and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) anesthetized rats, the NO inhibitor l-nitro-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) was infused at the dosage of 1 mg/kg for 30 min. Before and after infusion, 7 microg/kg/min acetylcholine (Ach) and 200 mg/kg adenosine (Ado) were perfused for 4 min. Proximal and distal intra-arterial BP was monitored throughout the procedure. In both WKYs and SHRs, l-NAME increased proximal and distal systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), and MBP but not PP. Before l-NAME, SBP, DBP, and MBP were significantly reduced by Ado and Ach. After l-NAME, such blood pressure reductions were abolished with Ach but not Ado. In both strains, the proximal and distal PP, when expressed in percent reduction of MBP, were significantly higher under Ado than under Ach. The Ado but not Ach changed PP amplification, causing a reduction in WKYs and an increase in SHRs independent of l-NAME. Vasodilating agents may reduce MBP with significantly different effects on PP. The Ado alters PP amplification, an effect not obtained with the nitric oxide endothelium-dependent vasorelaxing agent Ach. Tail SBP measurements cannot predict such dissociated changes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Magnetic properties of cyano-bridged Ln3+-M3+ complexes. Part I: trinuclear complexes (Ln3+ = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm; M3+ = FeLS, Co) with bpy as blocking ligand.
The reaction of Ln(NO3)3(aq) with K3[Fe(CN)6] or K3[Co(CN)6] and 2,2'-bipyridine in water/ethanol led to eight trinuclear complexes: trans-[M(CN)4(mu-CN)2{Ln(H2O)4(bpy)2}2][M(CN)6].8H2O (M = Fe3+ or Co3+, Ln = La3+, Ce3+, Pr3+, Nd3+, and Sm3+). The structures for the eight complexes [La2Fe] (1), [Ce2Fe] (2), [Pr2Fe] (3), [Nd2Fe] (4), [Ce2Co] (5), [Pr2Co] (6), [Nd2Co] (7), and [Sm2Co] (8) have been solved; they crystallize in the triclinic space group P and are isomorphous. They exhibit a supramolecular 3D architecture through hydrogen bonding and pi-pi stacking interactions. A stereochemical study of the nine-vertex polyhedra of the lanthanide ions, based on continuous shape measures, is presented. No significant magnetic interaction was found between the lanthanide(III) and the iron(III) ions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clarithromycin versus penicillin in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis.
The safety and efficacy of oral clarithromycin 250 mg every 12 h treatment and of oral penicillin VK (the potassium salt of phenoxymethylpenicillin) 250 mg every 6 h were compared in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis caused by Streptococcus pyogenes in an eight centre in-vivo study. A total of 243 patients were enrolled in the study and 125 patients were evaluated for efficacy; evaluable patients included 67 patients in the clarithromycin treatment group and 58 patients in the penicillin VK group. Both antibiotic regimens were effective in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis. The clinical cure rate during the initial post-treatment period (between two and ten days post-treatment) for the penicillin VK treated group was 98% (57/58) and for the clarithromycin treated group was 96% (64/67). The bacteriological cure rate during the initial post-treatment period for the penicillin VK treated group was 97% (56/58) and for the clarithromycin treated group was 100% (67/67). A total of 17 patients reported adverse events; seven patients were in the clarithromycin treatment group and ten patients in the penicillin VK treatment group. One patient in the penicillin VK group was withdrawn because of the severity of the adverse advent (balanitis). No clinically significant differences were reported between the two treatment groups for haematology, blood chemistry, or urinalysis evaluations. Oral clarithromycin 250 mg 12-hourly treatment was as safe and effective as penicillin VK 250 mg 6-hourly in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization of the mRNA capping apparatus of the microsporidian parasite Encephalitozoon cuniculi.
A scheme of eukaryotic phylogeny has been suggested based on the structure and physical linkage of the enzymes that catalyze mRNA cap formation. Here we show that the intracellular parasite Encephalitozoon cuniculi encodes a complete mRNA capping apparatus consisting of separate triphosphatase (EcCet1), guanylyltransferase (EcCeg1), and methyltransferase (Ecm1) enzymes, which we characterize biochemically and genetically. The triphosphatase EcCet1 belongs to a metal-dependent phosphohydrolase family that includes the triphosphatase components of the capping apparatus of fungi, DNA viruses, and the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. These enzymes are structurally and mechanistically unrelated to the metal-independent cysteine phosphatase-type RNA triphosphatases found in metazoans and plants. Our findings support the proposed evolutionary connection between microsporidia and fungi, and they place fungi and protozoa in a common lineage distinct from that of metazoans and plants. RNA triphosphatase presents an attractive target for antiprotozoal/antifungal drug development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ipsilateral lobectomy versus bilateral lobar resection in papillary thyroid carcinoma: a retrospective analysis of surgical outcome using a novel prognostic scoring system.
From a multivariate analysis of more than 14,200 patient-years' experience with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), we devised a prognostic scoring system based on patient age, tumor grade, extent, and size (AGES). This scoring system can identify patients at increased risk of PTC mortality and was employed as an adjustment variable for analyzing the role of different types of surgical treatment in 860 PTC patients. Cancer mortality at 25 years in patients with an AGES score of 3.99 or less was 1% after ipsilateral lobectomy (n = 131) and 2% after bilateral resection (n = 603), whether subtotal or total (p = 0.15). Of patients with an AGES score of 4 or more, those who underwent lobectomy alone (n = 30) had a mortality rate from PTC at 25 years of 65%, while those undergoing bilateral resection (n = 86) had a lower rate of 35% (p = 0.06). For patients at minimal risk (score of 3.99 or less) of PTC death, no improvement in survival was demonstrable when patients underwent more than ipsilateral lobectomy. However, in a subgroup (score of 4 or more) identified to be at significant risk of PTC death, the survival after bilateral resection was much higher than after ipsilateral lobectomy alone. In neither the "minimal" nor the "higher" risk subgroup was PTC survival significantly improved by the performance of total thyroidectomy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Optimal chest compression in cardiopulmonary resuscitation depends upon thoracic and back support stiffness.
A biomechanical analysis of the constant peak displacement and constant peak force methods of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has revealed that optimal CC performance strongly depends on back support stiffness, CC rate, and the thoracic stiffness of the patient being resuscitated. Clinically the results presented in this study suggest that the stiffness of the back support surfaces found in many hospitals may be sub-optimal and that a backboard or a concrete floor can be used to enhance CC effectiveness. In addition, the choice of optimal CC rate and maximum sternal force applied by clinicians during peak force CPR is ought to be based on a general assessment of the patient's thoracic stiffness, taking into account the patient's age, gender, and physical condition; which is consistent with current clinical practice. In addition, it is important for clinicians to note that very high peak sternal forces, exceeding the limit above which severe chest wall trauma and abdominal injury occurs, may be required for optimal CC during peak force CPR on patients with very stiff chests. In these cases an alternative CPR technique may be more appropriate. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The value of the measurement of serum prostate specific antigen in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and untreated prostate cancer.
Serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels were measured in 139 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and in 88 patients with prostate cancer who were managed by deferred treatment. Acute urinary retention and large prostate glands tended to be associated with high PSA levels, but at levels greater than 10 ng/ml there was a significant risk of carcinoma being found on subsequent histological examination. The risk of progression of untreated prostate cancer was associated with levels of PSA greater than 20 ng/ml and with a high rate of change of PSA level. The value of measuring PSA in these patients is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Word frequency and age effects in normally developing children's phonological processing.
Eleven kindergarten-age students and 11 second-grade students were asked to perform each of four phonological processing tasks: (a) confrontation naming of object drawings, (b) rapid sequential naming of object drawings and letters, (c) segmentation of words into sounds, and (d) blending sounds to produce words. Response accuracy and, for the picture naming tasks, response latency were measured. In addition, single-word reading ability and silent reading comprehension were evaluated. Results indicated that high-frequency stimuli were named faster and, in one task, more accurately than low-frequency stimuli. Blending sounds to produce high-frequency words was less difficult than blending sounds to produce low-frequency words, but word frequency did not affect sound segmentation performance. Children in second grade generally were faster and more accurate than kindergarten children in naming pictures. They also were able to segment more sounds and correctly blend sounds to produce more target words than kindergarten students. Confrontation naming accuracy, rapid object- and letter-naming latency, and sound segmentation and blending accuracy were intercorrelated and were related to word recognition and to reading comprehension. Serial naming speed was highly related to phonological awareness in kindergarten, whereas confrontation naming accuracy was highly related to phonological awareness in second grade. A limited cognitive resources framework was adopted to interpret these findings. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A beta adrenergic stimulant (salbutamol) versus clomipramine in depression: a controlled study.
A controlled study comparing salbutamol (6 mg/day) to clomipramine (150 mg/day), both given by intravenous infusion, was performed on depressed inpatients (10 per group). The symptomatology was evaluated by two blind observers at days 0, 5, and 15 using the Hamilton Rating Scale. Both treatments were effective on the overall symptomatology but the onset of action of salbutamol was more rapid. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Emergency surgical cytological diagnosis of cancer metastases to the lymph nodes].
Breast and lung cancer patients showed certain changes in the cellular patterns of intact regional lymph nodes in cases of metastatic involvement of nodes in adjacent areas. Such changes suggest further search for metastases in the zone of regional metastatic spread. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro generation of tumoricidal properties in human alveolar macrophages following interaction with endotoxin.
Human alveolar macrophages (AM) obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage from healthy nonsmoking donors exhibited primarily low levels of cytolytic activity against allogeneic tumor target cells. These AM acquired enhanced capacity to kill tumor cells following a 24-hr incubation in vitro with endotoxin [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)]. Maximal tumoricidal activity of LPS-activated AM as measured by lysis of tumor target cells was obtained after incubation with tumor cells for 72 hr. LPS-activated AM lysed allogeneic tumor cell lines of different origins but did not affect normal, nonneoplastic cells. We conclude that LPS induces human AM to become tumoricidal. This method should be useful in studies on therapeutic agents enhancing AM-mediated cytotoxicity in situ. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Favorable prognosis after late relapse of Hodgkin's disease.
Most relapses of Hodgkin's disease (HD) occur within the first 2 years after diagnosis, but they may develop after a longer observation period. The aim of this study was to define the incidence, clinical course, and prognostic factors for late relapse (LR) of Hodgkin's disease. For this purpose, the authors defined LR as relapse that occurred in patients who achieved a complete remission that lasted a minimum of 24 months. During the years 1974-1994, 375 patients with newly diagnosed HD were treated at out institution. Of these patients, 223 remained free of disease for at least 2 years. In addition, 26 patients had been in complete remission for a minimum of 24 months after salvage treatment. Thus, 249 patients were identified as being at risk of LR, and they were the study subjects. The median age was 29 years. Fifty-nine percent of the patients had early stage disease (Stage I/II), and 48% underwent staging laparotomy. Ninety patients presented B symptoms at diagnosis, and 87 had bulky disease. Treatment consisted of radiotherapy for 68 patients, chemotherapy for 68, and combined modality therapy for 113. With a median follow-up of 125 months (range, 22-287 months), the authors observed LR in 25 patients (10%). The estimated relapse rate at 15 years was 13.4%. Relapse occurred after a median disease free interval of 45 months (range, 25-113 months), and it involved sites of previous disease in 70% of the patients. Age > 30 years and treatment with radiotherapy alone were the only significant independent predictors for an increased risk of LR. At a median of 79 months (range, 6-168 months) after therapy for LR, 20 patients were still alive and free of disease (1 of them after rescue treatment for second relapse), and 5 had died (3 of HD, 2 of second tumor). The estimated overall survival (OS) after LR was 82% at 8 years. OS was not significantly different for LR patients than for those who did not relapse. The actual incidence of LR emphasizes the need for continuous follow-up of patients treated for HD. LR, if properly managed with conventional therapy, does not compromise survival. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Does 5, 7-Dihydroxytryptamine injection into nucleus accumbens cause hyperacusis?
Hyperacusis may be defined as diminishing tolerance to moderate and high intensity sounds in people with normal hearing sensitivity. Serotonin plays a critical role in some of auditory tasks including startle reflex and prepulse inhibition. Serotonin deficiency can cause some diseases which can coincide with hyperacusis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the probable influence of serotonergic depletion in nucleus accumbens (NAcc) on the startle reflex. The startle reflexes were examined in Wistar rats (n: 48) in different intensities with and without the background noise. The amplitude of startle reflex significantly increased in NAcc-injected rats without background noise, while this difference disappeared in the presence of background noise in all intensities. These data proposed that the injection of 5, 7-Dihydroxytryptamine (5, 7-DHT) into nucleus accumbens will cause hyperacusis-like behavior, and strengthens the possibility of the role of serotonin and nucleus accumbens in hyperacusis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Brief Report: An Exploratory Study of the Diagnostic Reliability for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Previous research shows inconsistency in clinician-assigned diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We conducted an exploratory study that examined the concordance of diagnoses between a multidisciplinary assessment team and a range of independent clinicians throughout Australia. Nine video-taped Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) assessments were collected from two Australian sites. Twenty-seven Australian health professionals each observed two video-recordings and rated the degree to which the individual met the DSM-5 criteria for ASD. There was 100% agreement on the diagnostic classification for only 3 of the 9 video clips (33%), with the remaining 6 clips (66%) reaching poor reliability. In addition, only 24% of the participating clinicians achieved 'good' or 'excellent' levels of agreement (Cohen's kappa > 0.6) with the original ASD assessment. These findings have implications for clinical guidelines for ASD assessments. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tilt and decentration of bag-fixated intraocular lenses: a comparative study between capsulorhexis and envelope techniques.
Malposition of an intraocular lens (IOL) may cause symptoms such as glare, halos, and other visual aberrations. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of two different anterior capsulotomy techniques on IOL tilt and decentration. Bag-fixated IOL implantation after uncomplicated extracapsular cataract extraction was performed using both envelope (65 eyes) and continuous circular capsulorhexis (CCC) technique (42 eyes). Eyes were followed-up at least 6 months postoperatively. While the mean IOL decentration after envelope technique was found to be 0.65 mm, this was 0.15 mm after CCC technique. On the other hand, the mean actual tilting angle of IOL after envelope technique was 5.66 degrees, whereas this was 1.13 degrees after CCC technique. The aforementioned differences were statistically significant (p < 0.01, and p < 0.01). Furthermore, in 17 eyes (26.1%) where envelope technique and in 29 (69.0%) eyes where CCC technique was used demonstrated no IOL tilt and decentration. This study shows that the CCC technique may result in less optical problems due to IOL malposition compared to the envelope technique. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Use of devices for spine immobilization for trauma patients at the emergency department: review of the literature].
Trauma care implies the use of various devices for partial or total spine immobilization in order to prevent secondary damages due to medical interventions. The aim of this review of the medical and nursing literature of the last 10 years is the analysis of the latest evidences produced and the comparison with the recommendations provided by the most recent clinical guidelines. The following key-words were used ("cervical collar", "spinal board", "trauma", "vacuum mattress", "stretcher", "emergency department", "spinal trauma") and clinical trials, surveys and descriptive studies were searched in Pub-med. According to the most recent studies the spine table should be removed within two hours from the arrival to the Emergency Department in favour of a stretcher with a padded rigid surface. Safety straps for securing the patient on the spinal board should replace spider burlap for trauma patients. Of utmost importance is the correct positioning of a cervical collar of the right size, the positioning of low pillows under occipitis in order to obtain the neutral position of the head and its stabilization through the blocking of the head and trunk. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reduction of a larval herring population by jellyfish predator.
The scyphomedusa Aurelia aurita consumes large amounts of yolk-sac herring larvae in Kiel Fjord. The decline of the larval herring population in late spring coincides with a major population growth of the jellyfish. The size of the larval herring population seems to be more significantly affected by the size of the predator stock than by the size of the parental herring stock. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ultra-early intravenous stroke thrombolysis: do all patients benefit similarly?
We previously reported increased benefit and reduced mortality after ultra-early stroke thrombolysis in a single center. We now explored in a large multicenter cohort whether extra benefit of treatment within 90 minutes from symptom onset is uniform across predefined stroke severity subgroups, as compared with later thrombolysis. Prospectively collected data of consecutive ischemic stroke patients who received i.v. thrombolysis in 10 European stroke centers were merged. Logistic regression tested association between treatment delays, as well as excellent 3-month outcome (modified Rankin scale, 0-1), and mortality. The association was tested separately in tertiles of baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale. In the whole cohort (n=6856), shorter onset-to-treatment time as a continuous variable was significantly associated with excellent outcome (P<0.001). Every fifth patient had onset-to-treatment time≤90 minutes, and these patients had lower frequency of intracranial hemorrhage. After adjusting for age, sex, admission glucose level, and year of treatment, onset-to-treatment time≤90 minutes was associated with excellent outcome in patients with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 7 to 12 (odds ratio, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-1.70; P=0.004), but not in patients with baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale>12 (odds ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.76-1.32; P=0.99) and baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 0 to 6 (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.78-1.39; P=0.80). In the latter, however, an independent association (odds ratio, 1.51; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-2.01; P<0.01) was found when considering modified Rankin scale 0 as outcome (to overcome the possible ceiling effect from spontaneous better prognosis of patients with mild symptoms). Ultra-early treatment was not associated with mortality. I.v. thrombolysis within 90 minutes is, compared with later thrombolysis, strongly and independently associated with excellent outcome in patients with moderate and mild stroke severity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development and validation of a patient-report measure of fatigue associated with depression.
Among researchers and clinicians who treat depression, there is growing interest in treatment of specific residual symptoms such as fatigue. However, there is no available measure that provides a detailed assessment of fatigue associated with depression. Thus, the purpose of the current study was to develop and validate a patient-reported outcome measure designed to assess depression-related fatigue and its impact. The Fatigue Associated with Depression Questionnaire (FAsD) was developed based on literature review, clinician interviews, and focus groups and cognitive debriefing interviews with patients. Then, a draft questionnaire was administered to a sample of patients with depression. Statistical analysis first focused on item reduction and subscale identification, followed by psychometric evaluation of the FAsD. The per protocol sample (n = 317) was primarily female (68.1%), with a mean age of 47.0 years. Based on item performance and exploratory factor analysis, three items were dropped from the draft FAsD, yielding a final 13-item questionnaire with two subscales (experience and impact). The FAsD demonstrated good internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alphas ≥ 0.88) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients ≥ 0.78). The FAsD demonstrated construct validity through strong correlations with measures assessing fatigue/energy and symptoms of depression. The FAsD also discriminated among groups of participants differentiated by clinician ratings of global severity of depression (CGI-S). Limitations include heterogeneity of current treatments received by the sample, as well as lack of knowledge regarding the extent to which FAsD scores were influenced by patients' treatments rather than the depression itself. In this initial psychometric evaluation, the FAsD demonstrated good reliability, validity, and factor structure. This questionnaire may be a useful tool for evaluating treatment interventions that focus specifically on fatigue associated with depression. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A combined experimental and computational study of novel nanocage-based metal-organic frameworks for drug delivery.
Three new metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with chemical formulae [(CH3)2NH2] [Sm3(L1)2(HCOO)2(DMF)2(H2O)]·2DMF·18H2O (1), [Cu2(L2)(H2O)2]·2.22DMA (2) and [Zn2(L1)(DMA)]·1.75DMA were synthesized and structurally characterized. 1 and 2 show a classical NbO-like topology and have two types of interconnected cages. 3 exhibits an uncommon zzz topology and has two types of interconnected cages. These MOFs can adsorb large amounts of the drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and release it in a progressive way. 5-FU was incorporated into desolvated 1, 2 and 3 with loadings of 0.40, 0.42, and 0.45 g g(-1), respectively. The drug release rates were 72%, 96% and 79% of the drug after 96 hours in 1, 120 hours in 2 and 96 hours in 3, respectively. Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations were performed to investigate the molecular interactions during 5-FU adsorption to the three novel materials. The GCMC simulations reproduced the experimental trend with respect to the drug loading capacity of each material. They also provided a structural description of drug packing within the frameworks, helping to explain the load capacity and controlled release characteristics of the materials. 5-FU binding preferences to 1, 2 and 3 reflect the diversity in pore types, chemistry and sizes. The calculated drug load is more related to the molecular properties of accessible volume Vacc than to the pore size. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gallstone detection at CT in vitro: effect of peak voltage setting.
This study was a retrospective single-institutional study approved by the Committee on Human Research and was HIPAA compliant. A waiver for informed consent was granted. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of four peak voltage settings on the in vitro conspicuity of gallstones in an anthropomorphic phantom at computed tomography (CT). An anthropomorphic phantom was scanned with (n = 86) or without (n = 85) gallstones at CT by using 80, 100, 120, and 140 kVp. The sensitivity for gallstone detection was significantly higher at 140 kVp (86% [74 of 86] for reader 1 and 81% [70 of 86] for reader 2) than at lower voltage settings (up to 67% [58 of 86] for reader 1 and 63% [54 of 86] for reader 2, P < .05 for each reader), regardless of gallstone size (<1.0 cm vs > or =1.0 cm in diameter, P < .05 for each reader). CT attenuation measurements were not useful for determination of gallstone composition. Abdominal CT performed at 140 kVp may be useful when gallstone disease is of clinical concern. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Site of initial diabetes education does not affect metabolic outcomes in children with T1DM.
To determine the difference in metabolic outcomes at 1 and 2 yr post type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) diagnosis in children depending on the site of initial diabetes education: inpatient, vs. outpatient, vs. mixed locations. A retrospective chart review was performed for all patients with new onset antibody positive T1DM, aged 1-18 yr old, diagnosed in 2004-2009, and followed for at least 1 yr in a diabetes program at a tertiary academic health care center. Patients were divided into three groups based on the site of initial diabetes education: inpatient, outpatient, and mixed locations. The primary outcome was A1c at 1 and 2 yr. We enrolled 238 children (133 boys), mean (± SD) age 9.9 (± 4.1). A1c levels did not differ among inpatient, outpatient, and mixed location groups at 1 and 2 yr post diagnosis (p = 0.85 and p = 0.69, respectively) and the long-acting insulin doses were similar at 1 and 2 yr (p = 0.18 and p = 0.15, respectively). There was no difference in the number of acute diabetes complications between the groups. At 1 yr, 21.8% of outpatient-educated children were on insulin pump therapy in contrast to 14.7% of inpatient and 2.7% of mixed educated groups (p = 0.04). Families of children with new onset T1DM can be successfully and safely educated in a clinic setting. An 'education' admission for a medically stable patient is not necessary most of the time, however, clinical judgment and careful assessment of the family's coping and learning capabilities are important when determining the site of education. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A radioimmunoassay-based method for measuring the true affinity of a monoclonal antibody with trace amounts of radioactive antigen: illustration with the products of a cell-free protein synthesis system.
This communication describes a novel highly sensitive method for measuring the affinity of a monoclonal antibody for its antigen. It is based on a radioimmunoassay in which the antigen is labeled with radioactivity. It is therefore particularly well adapted to the study of trace amounts of radiolabeled polypeptide chains produced either in vivo, or in vitro by a cell free protein synthesis system or by chemical radiolabeling. It offers several advantages over previously described methods. Though making use of insolubilized antibody, it does measure the true affinity constant of the monoclonal antibody in solution for the antigen. It can be used even when the antigen is present at concentrations far below the dissociation constant of the antibody/antigen complex. It does not require the antigen or the antibody to be purified. In most cases, it requires no sophisticated equipment. This method could be easily adapted to the determination of the equilibrium constant of any type of protein/ligand system. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Assessing inflammation and its role in comorbidities among persons living with HIV.
This article describes the use of biomarkers in expanding our understanding of chronic non-AIDS comorbidities among persons living with HIV (PLWH) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). We review current evidence that biomarkers of chronic immune activation and inflammation associate with a broad spectrum of end-organ diseases in PLWH. We discuss how ART may impact inflammation associated with HIV infection and the degree to which inflammation persists despite effective suppression of viral replication in plasma. We then discuss the limitations of the current literature, which lacks evidence of causality and disproportionately involves a few protein biomarkers that are unable to disentangle complex and overlapping biological pathways. Premature end-organ disease among PLWH has been repeatedly associated with higher levels of blood biomarkers reflecting inflammation and immune activation, which, despite viral suppression and CD4 T-cell increases after ART treatment, remain elevated relative to uninfected persons. There remain important unanswered questions with implications for the development of anti-inflammatory treatment strategies aimed at mitigating excess risk for end-organ comorbidities among PLWH. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A role for sensory nerves in the late asthmatic response.
In allergic asthma, exposure to relevant antigens leads to an early asthmatic response (EAR) followed, in certain subjects, by a late asthmatic response (LAR). Although many subjects with asthma consider LAR to be one of the defining symptoms of their disease, and despite its widespread use in the clinical assessment of new therapeutic entities, the mechanism underlying the LAR remains unclear. A study was undertaken using ovalbumin-sensitised and challenged Brown Norway rat and C57BL/6J mouse models which recapitulate phenotypic features of allergic asthma including the LAR and its susceptibility to clinically effective agents. In conscious animals an EAR was followed by a LAR. The LAR was subjectively evidenced by audible (wheeze) and visual signs of respiratory distress associated with quantifiable changes in non-invasive lung function assessment. Treatments that attenuated the EAR failed to impact on the LAR and, while anaesthesia did not impact on EAR, it abolished LAR. A key role for airway sensory neuronal reflexes in the LAR was therefore hypothesised, which was confirmed by the blockade observed after administration of ruthenium red (non-selective cation channel blocker), HC-030031 (TRPA1 inhibitor) and tiotropium bromide (anticholinergic) but not JNJ-17203212 (TRPV1 inhibitor). These results suggest that LAR involves the following processes: allergen challenge triggering airway sensory nerves via the activation of TRPA1 channels which initiates a central reflex event leading to a parasympathetic cholinergic constrictor response. These data are supported by recent clinical trials suggesting that an anticholinergic agent improved symptoms and lung function in patients with asthma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Concomitant osteitis fibrosa cystica and ameloblastoma of the mandible.
A patient with a multiloculated cystic lesion of the mandible, and clinical as well as biological features of hyperparathyroidism is presented. This association suggesting the diagnosis of brown tumor was actually due to an ameloblastoma of the mandible. Such a concomitant association of an ameloblastoma with symptomatic hyperparathyroidism has never been reported to our knowledge. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
First Report of the Cereal Cyst Nematode Heterodera filipjevi on Wheat in Serbia.
The most globally recognized and economically important nematode on wheat is the cereal cyst nematode (CCN) complex (1). One of the most important species of this group is Heterodera filipjevi (Madžidov, 1981) Mulvey and Golden, 1983. During regular soil quarantine control in September 2010, Heterodera sp. cysts were found in soil samples originating from a wheat field in Gunaroš, Vojvodina Province, in northern Serbia. The wheat was a winter crop grown in a dryland production system and had an average cyst density of 2.50/100 cm3 of soil. Morphologically, the cysts were golden brown and lemon shaped with a posterior protuberance. The vulval cone was bifenestrate with horseshoe-shaped semifenestra, bullae, and underbridge. Cyst measurements (n = 30) ranged as follows: cyst length (without neck): 511.50 to 899.00 μm, cyst width: 201.50 to 682.00 μm, fenestral length: 44.80 to 65.60 μm, fenestral width: 24.00 to 40.00 μm, vulval bridge length: 12.80 to 20.80 μm, vulval bridge width: 6.40 to 14.40 μm, vulval slit: 6.00 to 12.80 μm, and underbridge length: 60.00 to 112.00 μm. The second-stage juveniles had an offset head, stylet with characteristic anchor-shaped basal knobs, four incisures, and a conical tail with a rounded tip. The J2 morphometrics (n = 30) were: length: 447.30 to 611.10 μm, width: 22.40 to 25.60 μm, stylet: 20.80 to 24.00 μm, tail length: 56.00 to 68.80 μm, tail width: 14.40 to 19.20 μm, and hyaline length: 35.20 to 44.80 μm. The ITS region was used for molecular analysis. Each DNA sample was extracted from a single cyst. Sequencing was done with primers TW81 and AB28 (2). In comparison with other H. filipjevi populations, the obtained sequence (GenBank Accession No. JX235959) revealed 99 to 100% similarity. Morphological and molecular data confirmed the existence of H. filipjevi. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of H. filipjevi from Serbia. Since wheat has important socioeconomic value for Serbia, after extensive surveys, additional phytosanitary measures may be necessary to prevent the spread of this parasite. References: (1) J. M. Nicol et al. Current Nematode Threats to World Agriculture. Genomics and Molecular Genetics of Plant-Nematode Interactions, Springer, New York, 2011. (2) A. M. Skantar et al. J. Nematol. 39:133, 2007. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Gestational and nongestational trophoblastic tumors distinguished by DNA analysis.
In three patients in whom a diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic tumor was possible on the basis of pathology and elevated levels of serum human chorionic gonadotrophin, locus-specific minisatellite probes were used to identify restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) in DNA from the tumor, the patient, and her partner. On the basis of results from these studies, one tumor, originally diagnosed as a germ cell tumor, was reclassified as a gestational choriocarcinoma, whereas a second tumor, diagnosed as gestational choriocarcinoma, was shown to be of nongestational origin. In the third case, a diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic tumor was confirmed, but in this case the androgenetic origin of the tumor indicated that it was derived, not from the antecedent term pregnancy, but from a previous pregnancy with hydatidiform mole. This study clearly demonstrates the value of DNA analysis in the classification of tumors with trophoblastic differentiation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Conditioned freezing (generalized motor inhibition) in several rat strains: its usefulness in assessing somato-vegetative responses to nociceptive stress.
Conditioned initial freezing duration was timed in the light-dark box test. Four genetically diverse groups of rats (Wistar, Long Evans, Brattleboro heterozigous for diabetes insipidus, Brattleboro homozygous for diabetes insipidus) were employed. 0.6 mA and 1.8 mA footshocks were administered as nociceptive stressors. The results showed that freezing duration easily and conveniently measures the animal's capacity of responding to stress. This finding is discussed in terms of genetically determined hormonal make-up and of CNS receptorial mechanisms. Initial freezing duration is proposed as a tool to evaluate stress responses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization study of the sporulation kinetics of Bacillus thuringiensis.
A wild-type and an rDNA strain of Bacillus thuringiensis were cultured in a net-draft-tube modified 20-L airlift bioreactor. A comparison of the sporulation patterns suggests that the early sporulation strain has a lower final spore count. Results from off-gas analysis suggests that the CO(2) profile could be an alternative indication to spore counts for the examination of fermentation performance or even the mortality in bioassay of the cultivation product. The difference in mortality tests exhibited by the microorganism was attributed to different patterns of sporulation as well as different levels of gene control inside the cell itself. The sporulation kinetics of B. thuringiensis was simulated by a simple modified Hill equation, where the initial glucose concentration could affect the timing of the onset of sporulation. The equation matches well with the experimental sporulation data for B. thuringiensis in both wild-type and rDNA strains. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Accuracy of intraocular pressure measurement using a noncontact Keeler tonometer].
Using a contactless tonometer of Keeler Co. the authors assessed the intraocular pressure in enucleated eyeballs and compared the values with the intraocular pressure assessed in the eyeballs by means of a water manometer. In the second stage the scatter of assessed values in the eyeballs was compared with the scatter of values obtained by measurements in patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Disruption of B-cell homeostatic control mediated by the BLV-Tax oncoprotein: association with the upregulation of Bcl-2 and signaling through NF-kappaB.
Transactivating proteins associated with complex onco-retroviruses including human T-cell leukemia virus-1 (HTLV-1) and bovine leukemia virus (BLV) mediate transformation using poorly understood mechanisms. To gain insight into the processes that govern tumor onset and progression, we have examined the impact of BLV-Tax expression on ovine B-cells, the targets of BLV in experimentally infected sheep, using B-cell clones that are dependent on CD154 and gammac-common cytokines. Tax was capable of mediating progression of B-cells from cytokine dependence to cytokine independence, indicating that the transactivator can over-ride signaling pathways typically controlled by cytokine receptor activation in B-cells. When examined in the presence of both CD154 and interleukin-4, Tax had a clear supportive role on B-cell growth, with an impact on B-cell proliferation, cell cycle phase distribution, and survival. Apoptotic B-cell death mediated by growth factor withdrawal, physical insult, and NF-kappaB inhibition was dramatically reduced in the presence of Tax. Furthermore, the expression of Tax was associated with higher Bcl-2 protein levels, providing rationale for the rescue signals mediated by the transactivator. Finally, Tax expression in B-cells led to a dramatic increase of nuclear RelB/p50 and p50/p50 NF-kappaB dimers, indicating that cellular signaling through NF-kappaB is a major contributory mechanism in the disruption of B-cell homeostasis. Although Tax is involved in aspects of pathogenesis that are unique to complex retroviruses, the viral strategies associated with this transactivating oncoprotein may have wide-ranging effects that are relevant to other B-cell malignancies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evidence against the acid-growth theory of auxin action.
Four experimental predictions of the 'acid-growth theory' of auxin (indole-3-acetic acid, IAA) action in inducing cell elongation were reinvestigated using abraded segments of maize (Zea mays L.) coleoptiles. i) Quantitative comparison of segment elongation and medium-acidification kinetics measured in the same sample of tissue reveals that these IAA-induced processes are neither correlated in time nor responding coordinately to cations present in the medium. ii) Exogenous protons are not able to substitute for IAA in causing segment elongation at the predicted pH of 4.5-5.0. Instead, external buffers induce significant segment elongation only below pH 4.5, reaching a maximal response at pH 1.75-2.5. Acid and IAA coact additively, and therefore independently, in the whole range of feasible pH values. iii) Neutral or alkaline buffers (pH 6-10) are unable to abolish the IAA-mediated growth response and have no effect on its lag-phase. iv) Fusicoccin, at a concentration producing the same H(+) excretion as high concentrations of IAA, is ineffective in inducing segment elongation. Moreover, sucrose and other sugars can quantiatively substritute for IAA in inducing H(+) excretion but are likewise ineffective in inducing elongation. It is concluded that these results are incompatible with the acid-growth theory of auxin action. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Trends in hospitalization for community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in New York City, 1997-2006: data from New York State's Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System.
To describe trends in hospitalizations with community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infection in New York City over 10 years and to explore the demographics and comorbidities of patients hospitalized with CA-MRSA infections. Retrospective analysis of hospital discharges from New York State's Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database from 1997 to 2006. All patients greater than 1 year of age admitted to New York hospitals with diagnosis codes indicating MRSA who met the criteria for CA-MRSA on the basis of admission information and comorbidities. We determined hospitalization rates and compared demographics and comorbidities of patients hospitalized with CA-MRSA versus those hospitalized with all other non-MRSA diagnoses by multivariable logistic regression. Of 18,226 hospitalizations with an MRSA diagnosis over 10 years, 3,579 (20%) were classified as community-associated. The CA-MRSA hospitalization rate increased from 1.47 to 10.65 per 100,000 people overall from 1997 to 2006. Relative to non-MRSA hospitalizations, men, children, Bronx and Manhattan residents, the homeless, patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and persons with diabetes had higher adjusted odds of CA-MRSA hospitalization. The CA-MRSA hospitalization rate appeared to increase between 1997 and 2006 in New York City, with residents of the Bronx and Manhattan, men, and persons with HIV infection or diabetes at increased odds of hospitalization with CA-MRSA. Further studies are needed to explore how changes in MRSA incidence, access to care, and other factors may have impacted these rates. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Reversible dysfunction of myocardial contraction].
It has been known for more than 20 years that in some patients after revascularization partial or complete improvement of previous left ventricular dysfunction occurs. The condition for this improvement is viable myocardium, i.e. contractile reserve. Chronic reversible contractile dysfunction, also called hibernating myocardium heart muscle is along with the presence of acute reversible dysfunction--a stunned myocardium the prerequisite for this improvement. In the submitted review the authors try to present at least some contemporary views on the pathophysiological mechanism of the development of a hibernated myocardium. The normal blood flow through the heart muscle at rest in the majority of reversibly dysfunctional segments is a change as compared with the formerly accepted definition. The authors mention histological changes of the hibernating myocardium, in particular so-called dedifferentiation. Attention is paid to a review and comparison of methods used at present to detect a viable myocardium. From the aspect of clinical practice it appears that unless revascularization occurs, the presence of a viable heart muscle is a factor which causes a poorer prognosis of the patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine-biocytin as a new hepatobiliary imaging agent in mice coinjected with bilirubin.
We evaluated 99mTc-labeled mercaptoacetyltriglycine (99mTc-MAG3)-biocytin as a hepatobiliary imaging agent in the absence and presence of bilirubin in mice. We then compared its pharmacokinetic parameters; peak liver/heart activity ratio (rmax) and half clearance time (HCT) with those of 99mTc-labeled diisopropyl-iminodiacetic acid (99mTc-disofenin). Balb/c mice were injected intravenously with hepatobiliary agent (99mTc-MAG3-biocytin or 99mTc-disofenin) alone or in combination with bilirubin at two doses (7 and 14 mg/kg) dissolved in 5% human serum albumin. Images were acquired every 15 s for 30 min with a gamma-camera equipped with a pinhole collimator. Dynamic images showed rapid hepatic uptake of 99mTc-MAG3-biocytin, with rapid clearance from the blood and rapid excretion via the biliary system. Its hepatic uptake was not affected by bilirubin coinjection, whereas 99mTc-disofenin coinjected with bilirubin showed a higher blood background than 99mTc-disofenin alone. These qualitative findings were reflected in pharmacokinetic parameters, rmax and HCT. The rmax was obtained from plots of time versus liver/heart activity ratios obtained in equal-area regions of interest over the heart and liver. The HCT was calculated from the hepatic clearance curve from plots of time versus liver activity. 99mTc-MAG3-biocytin without bilirubin coinjection showed an rmax of 8.9+/-1.3 and an HCT of 399+/-36 s. These values did not change even when 14 mg/kg of bilirubin were coinjected. By contrast, the parameters for 99mTc-disofenin with bilirubin were significantly (p < 0.01) affected by 14 mg/kg of bilirubin coinjection: rmax was decreased from 7.9+/-2.5 to 1.4+/-0.2 and HCT was increased from 292+/-32 s to 782+/-133 s. 99mTc-MAG3-biocytin hepatobiliary scintigraphy in mice is not affected by bilirubin coinjection, and this hepatobiliary agent appears to offer promise for estimating hepatic function in patients with high bilirubin levels. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Hepatocellular carcinoma: the significance of cirrhosis for treatment and prognosis--retrospective study].
To determine whether the presence of liver cirrhosis was related to the treatment options and survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Retrospective. A status investigation of all HCC patients who were treated in the period 2000-2007 at the Erasmus MC Hospital, Rotterdam, was performed. The treatments were analysed and the disease-free and total survival rate were calculated. HCC was diagnosed in 461 patients during the study period. Cirrhosis was present in 295 patients (64%). Treatment with curative intent was pursued in 184 patients through partial liver resection, orthotopic liver transplantation or radiofrequency ablation. The group of patients without cirrhosis contained significantly more women (38% versus 18%) (p < 0.001), showed less hepatitis B or C infection (34% versus 74%) (p < 0.001) and had a larger median tumour size (80 mm (range: 3-227) versus 35 mm (range: 8-200)) (p < 0.001). Patients without cirrhosis were mainly treated by partial liver resection (37% versus 10%) (p < 0.001) and less by liver transplantation (1% versus 13%) (p < 0.001) or radiofrequency ablation (5% versus 16%) (p = 0.001). Median follow-up was 31 months (range: 1-108). Without stratification according to treatment, the overall 3-year survival in patients with non-cirrhotic and cirrhotic HCC was 30% and 32%, respectively (difference not significant). Patients who had undergone potential curative treatment in cirrhotic or non-cirrhotic livers had a 3-year survival rate of 54% and 59%, respectively (difference not significant). The recurrence rate of HCC without cirrhosis was 39%, of which 31% in the first year. The recurrence rate with cirrhosis was 37%, of which 23% in the first year (difference not significant). The presence of liver cirrhosis was strongly associated with treatment options for patients with HCC but not with the prognosis for a recurrence of HCC or the survival rate following potential curative treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Embryonic origin of avian corneal sensory nerves.
Sensory nerves play a vital role in maintaining corneal transparency. They originate in the trigeminal ganglion, which is derived from two embryonic cell populations (cranial neural crest and ectodermal placode). Nonetheless, it is unclear whether corneal nerves arise from neural crest, from placode, or from both. Quail-chick chimeras and species-specific antibodies allowed tracing quail-derived neural crest or placode cells during trigeminal ganglion and corneal development, and after ablation of either neural crest or placode. Neural crest chimeras showed quail nuclei in the proximal part of the trigeminal ganglion, and quail nerves in the pericorneal nerve ring and in the cornea. In sharp contrast, placode chimeras showed quail nuclei in the distal part of the trigeminal ganglion, but no quail nerves in the cornea or in the pericorneal nerve ring. Quail placode-derived nerves were present, however, in the eyelids. Neural crest ablation between stages 8 and 9 resulted in diminished trigeminal ganglia and absence of corneal innervation. Ablation of placode after stage 11 resulted in loss of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal ganglion and reduced corneal innervation. Noninnervated corneas still became transparent. These results indicate for the first time that although both neural crest and placode contribute to the trigeminal ganglion, corneal innervation is entirely neural crest-derived. Nonetheless, proper corneal innervation requires presence of both cell types in the embryonic trigeminal ganglion. Also, complete lack of innervation has no discernible effect on development of corneal transparency or cell densities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Day patient versus in-patient: factors determining selection of acutely ill patients for hospital treatment.
In a prospective study the criteria and characteristics associated with the admission of acutely ill psychiatric patients to in-patient or day hospital care were examined. Over a four-month period, 54 patients were admitted to hospital and 43 to a day hospital. There was significantly more schizophrenics in the hospital. Day hospital patients were significantly younger, had shorter psychiatric histories, were considered less severely ill and had more insight into their illness. Hospital patients had poorer employment histories, and perceived their families as less supportive; admission had more often been requested by them or their families. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diagnostic and treatment services for patients with Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures (PNES): A survey of health professionals in urban China.
This study is intended to provide an overview of diagnostic and treatment services for patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) across China. Using a questionnaire devised by the PNES Task Force of Neuropsychiatry Commission of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), we conducted a survey among Chinese health professionals at the Sixth Advanced International Course: Clinical Epileptology. Descriptive analyses were performed. Responses from 102 eligible clinicians were analysed. Responses were received from urban areas in 20 provinces/municipalities around China. Most respondents were neurologists. The results showed that hospitals in urban China were mostly well-equipped, and that health professionals' understanding of PNES largely reflected current international expert opinion. However, many of the participants would not actually make the diagnosis, and most provided neither follow-up nor treatment (especially psychotherapy) for patients with PNES. Only about one third of the patients diagnosed with PNES were estimated to receive at least one appointment for psychological treatment. In the opinion of the respondents, tacit trauma (neglect and stress) play an important role in the development of PNES. The main obstacles to patients with PNES accessing health services for their condition were thought to be lack of knowledge or awareness among health professionals, patients and society. Despite good access to equipment, diagnostic and treatment services for patients with PNES in China are currently deficient. Education programs about PNES with different target groups, and more effective referral and social security systems emerge as particular development needs from this survey. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of insulin aspart in patients with type 2 diabetes: assessment using a meal tolerance test under clinical conditions.
1. Few studies have evaluated the pharmacokinetics of rapid-acting insulin analogues in patients with Type 2 diabetes, especially under clinical conditions. The aim of the present study was to assess both the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of insulin aspart in Type 2 diabetic patients who were being treated with the analogue alone. 2. Meal tolerance tests with and without self-injection of a customary dose of insulin aspart (0.05-0.22 U/kg) were conducted in 20 patients in a randomized cross-over study. 3. The dose of insulin aspart (per bodyweight) was significantly correlated with both the maximum concentration (r(2) = 0.59; P < 0.01) and area under the concentration-time curve for insulin aspart (r(2) = 0.53; P < 0.01). However, the time to maximum concentration (T(max)), which varied widely from < 60 to ≥ 120 min, was not associated with either dosage (r(2) = 0.02; P = 0.51) or body mass index (r(2) = 0.02; P = 0.57). Injection of insulin aspart exacerbated delayed hyperinsulinaemia after meal loading, mainly in patients with T(max) ≥ 120 min. With regard to pharmacodynamics, insulin aspart had favourable effects on postprandial hyperglycaemia, hyperglucagonaemia and hyperlipidaemia. 4. The T(max) for this insulin analogue differed greatly between individuals and delayed hyperinsulinaemia was particularly exacerbated in patients with higher T(max) values. Identification of the factors contributing to interindividual variation in the absorption lag time is essential for improving the efficacy and safety of insulin aspart. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Over the sands and far away: interpreting an Iberian mitochondrial lineage with ancient Western African origins.
There is an ongoing effort to characterize the genetic links between Africa and Europe, mostly using lineages and haplotypes that are specific to one continent but had an ancient origin in the other. Mitochondrial DNA has been proven to be a very useful tool for this purpose since a high number of putatively European-specific variants of the African L* lineages have been defined over the years. Due to their geographic locations, Spain and Portugal seem to be ideal places for searching for these lineages. Five members of a minor branch of haplogroup L3f were found in recent DNA samplings in the region of Asturias (Northern Spain), which is known for its historical isolation. The frequency of L3f in this population (≈1%) is unexpectedly high in comparison with other related lineages in Europe. Complete mitochondrial DNA sequencing of these L3f lineages, as well phylogenetic and phylogeographic comparative analyses have been performed. The L3f variant found in Asturias seems to constitute an Iberian-specific haplogroup, distantly related to lineages in Northern Africa and with a deep ancestry in Western Africa. Coalescent algorithms estimate the minimum arrival time as 8,000 years ago, and a possible route through the Gibraltar Strait. Results are concordant with a previously proposed Neolithic connection between Southern Europe and Western Africa, which might be key to the proper understanding of the ancient links between these two continents. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Expression of long non-coding RNA LINC00973 is consistently increased upon treatment of colon cancer cells with different chemotherapeutic drugs.
Early prediction of tumor relapse depends on the identification of new prognostic cancer biomarkers, which are suitable for monitoring tumor response to different chemotherapeutic drugs. Using RNA-Seq, RT-qPCR, bioinformatics, and studies utilizing the murine tumor xenograft model, we have found significant and consistent changes in the abundance of five lincRNAs (LINC00973, LINC00941, CASC19, CCAT1, and BCAR4) upon treatment of both HT-29 and HCT-116 cells with 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan at different doses and durations; both in vitro and in vivo. The most frequent changes were detected for LINC00973, whose content is most strongly and consistently increased upon treatment of both colon cancer cell lines with all three chemotherapeutic drugs. Additional studies are required in order to determine the molecular mechanisms by which anticancer drugs affect LINC00973 expression and to define the consequences of its upregulation on drug resistance of cancer cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of long-term wearing of high-heeled shoes on the control of the body's center of mass motion in relation to the center of pressure during walking.
High-heeled shoes are associated with instability and falling, leading to injuries such as fracture and ankle sprain. This study investigated the effects of habitual wearing of high-heeled shoes on the body's center of mass (COM) motion relative to the center of pressure (COP) during gait. Fifteen female experienced wearers and 15 matched controls walked with high-heeled shoes (7.3cm) while kinematic and ground reaction force data were measured and used to calculate temporal-distance parameters, joint moments, COM-COP inclination angles (IA) and the rate of IA changes (RCIA). Compared with inexperienced wearers, experienced subjects showed significantly reduced frontal IA with increased ankle pronator moments during single-limb support (p<0.05). During double-limb support (DLS), they showed significantly increased magnitudes of the frontal RCIA at toe-off and contralateral heel-strike, and reduced DLS time (p<0.05) but unaltered mean RCIA over DLS. In the sagittal plane experienced wearers showed significantly increased mean RCIA (p<0.05) and significant differences in the RCIA at toe-off and contralateral heel-strike (p<0.05). Significantly increased hip flexor moments and knee extensor moments at toe-off (p<0.05) were needed for forward motion of the trailing limb. The current results identified the change in the balance control in females after long-term use of high-heeled shoes, providing a basis for future design of strategies to minimize the risk of falling during high-heeled gait. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Re-engineering the operating room using variability methodology to improve health care value.
Variability in flow of patients through operating rooms has a dramatic impact on a hospital's performance and finances. Natural variation (uncontrollable) and artificial variation (controllable) differ and require different resources and management. The aim of this study was to use variability methodology for a hospital's surgical services to improve operational performance. Over a 3-month period, all operations at a referral center were classified as either scheduled (artificial variation) or unscheduled (natural variation). Data regarding patient flow were collected for all cases. From these data, mathematical models determined explicit resources to be allocated for scheduled and unscheduled cases, with isolation of the 2 flow streams. Services were allocated block time based on 80% prime time use, and scheduled cases were capped at 5:00 PM. Guidelines for operating room access were implemented to smooth the daily schedule and minimize artificial variation on the day of surgery. After implementation of this redesign, 12 months of data were compared with the previous 12-month period. Metrics analyzed included prime time use, overtime minutes, access for urgent or emergent cases, the number of room changes to the elective schedule on the day of surgery, and variation of daily schedules. Surgical volume and surgical minutes increased by 4% and 5%, respectively. Prime time use increased by 5%. Overtime staffing decreased by 27%. Day-to-day variability decreased by 20%. The number of elective schedule same day changes decreased by 70%. Staff turnover rate decreased by 41%. Net operating income and margin improved by 38% and 28%, respectively. Variability management results in improvement in operating room operational and financial performance. This optimization may have a significant impact on a hospital's ability to adapt to health care reform. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Design of microfission chamber for ITER operations.
Microfission chambers (MFCs) are one of the most important diagnostics for measuring neutron source strength in ITER. Using MFCs for high-power operations (fusion power of 100 kW-1 GW) and for low-power operations (<100 kW) in combination is one way to fulfill the target measurement requirements of ITER. The MFCs for high-power operations will be installed behind blanket modules in both the upper and lower outboard regions of the vacuum vessel so as to be insensitive to changes in the position of the plasma. For low-power operations, one possible location of MFCs is inside the equatorial (EQ) port. The effect of streaming neutrons and of changes in the position of the plasma on the responses of MFCs is estimated based on a neutron Monte Carlo calculation using the MCNP Version 5 code. Results suggest that the effect of streaming neutrons should be taken into account if the MFCs for high-power operations are installed closer than 20 cm to the gap between blanket modules. It has also been found for MFCs of low-power operations that the averaged output of the MFCs installed at the top and bottom of the EQ port is sensitive to horizontal plasma shifts but not to vertical shifts. This finding suggests that corrections based on the position of the plasma center will be needed for the absolute measurement of neutron source strength. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Potassium uranyl borate 3D framework compound resulted from temperature directed hydroborate condensation: structure, spectroscopy, and dissolution studies.
The equatorial coordination nature of the uranyl unit has resulted in only three uranyl borate 3D framework compounds reported so far formed from boric acid flux reactions conducted at 190 °C while all others are 2D layers. Here in this work, by increasing the reaction temperature to 250 °C, a new potassium uranyl borate K[(UO2)B6O10(OH)] (KUBO-4) framework compound is synthesized that shares the same layer topology with the previously reported 2D layered KUBO-1. The 3D structure of KUBO-4 is achieved by interlayer hydroborate condensation. The KUBO-4 was further characterized with single crystal XRD, SHG and fluorescence spectra, and TG/DSC measurements. A deep understanding regarding the dissolution behaviours of uranyl borate is achieved via solubility studies of the KUBO-1 and KUBO-4 performed using a combination of ICP-MS, powder XRD, and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. The results confirm the lack of stability of borates in aqueous solutions with the presence of coordinating ligands in the environment regardless of the structure types. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Serum anti-Müllerian hormone is associated with oocyte dysmorphisms and ICSI outcomes.
To evaluate the association between serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and oocyte dysmorphisms in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. A retrospective study of data from 628 ICSI cycles with successful oocyte retrieval carried out at a single center in Tehran from November 2015 to July 2018. Cycles were divided into six groups by serum AMH level. Various oocyte dysmorphisms, quantity of retrieved oocytes, fertilization rates, cleavage-stage embryos, and pregnancy rates were compared among the groups. Serum AMH was associated with cytoplasm granulation, abnormally amorphous oocytes (P˂0.01), extended perivitelline space (P˂0.001), granulated perivitelline space (P˂0.05), fragmented polar body (P˂0.001), and average of oocyte quality index (AOQI) (P˂0.01). The total number of aspirated and metaphase ΙΙ oocytes increased with increasing AMH levels (P<0.001). There was no difference in the rate of fertilization or cleavage-stage embryos among the study groups; however, the pregnancy rate differed significantly (P<0.05). Serum levels of AMH were associated with specific oocyte dysmorphisms and AOQI. Serum AMH levels might influence both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the ovarian response to stimulation and also the pregnancy rate in ICSI cycles. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The andrologist from medicine of reproduction to sexual medicine: the Italian experience.
The main andrological areas of interest, male reproductive and - more recently - sexual dysfunctions are most appropriately viewed as symptoms of the couple with medical, psychological and behavioural components that cannot be treated in a mechanical, purely medicinal manner (sexual medicine). The patient and his sexual partner must be active participants in a full continuum of care (medical sexology), the new challenge for the renewed and enriched field of andrology. In this field, the cooperation between basic researchers (such as geneticists, neurophysiologists, pharmacologists, ethologists) and a wide group of clinicians (such as endocrinologists, psychologists and psycho-sexologists, psychiatrists, urologists and gynaecologists) is of paramount importance for the andrologist at the dawn of the new field of medical sexology, which will be full of scientific gratification in the years to come. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characteristic features of injuries in the knee in women.
There are anatomic and physiologic differences in the knee joints and supporting structures of males and females. These variations are most noticeable in the reduced muscle mass and increased mobility in women. Injuries to the knee in women differ from men because of these variations. Meniscal lesions are uncommon in women but sprains and strains occur more frequently. Internal derangements of the knee in women are often the result of their increased hypermobility. These include recurrent patellar subluxation and popliteal cysts. Meniscal tears in females are over-diagnosed and may result in unnecessary meniscectomies even in the hands of experienced orthopaedic surgeons. Arthrography and arthroscopy should increase diagnostic accuracy. Injuries in the knee in women may be reduced by better education as to the type of injury sustained, by better protection to the knee in supporting activities and by screening those women who might be more susceptible to injury. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prosthodontic decision-making: what unprompted information do dentists seek before prescribing treatment?
This study explored the nature of the unprompted information that clinicians seek before making a treatment decision and whether this decision corresponded with the clinical parameters of the case. Interns, general practitioners (GP) and prosthodontists (n = 70, mean age 33 years, range 23-68) were presented with a written vignette of partial edentulism that included two spaces and were invited to ask any questions for the purpose of making a treatment recommendation. A list of 48 potential question/answer items was available to the interviewer, of which 38 were asked. These were then allotted to four thematic categories. Mean number of questions asked did not differ significantly amongst groups, although prosthodontists asked significantly more questions in the 'clinical and radiographic information' category than GPs (P = 0.0001) and interns (P = 0.003). The relationship between a prescribed treatment and questions asked was tested by dichotomizing all recommendations into 'possible' or 'not possible' based on the authors' knowledge of the actual case history. There were no significant differences amongst the groups in the frequency of prescribing 'possible' treatment (Pearson chi-square 0.083 and 0.108 for upper and lower spaces, respectively), but those who prescribed 'possible' treatment asked significantly more questions in the 'clinical and radiographic information' category, specifically about bone adequacy in the edentulous areas: upper jaw (P = 0.0001) and lower jaw (P = 0.003). It may be concluded that prosthodontists generally opted for more 'possible' treatments, as well as seeking items of information that seemed to improve the chance of making recommendations that conformed to the actual case characteristics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Determination of adsorbed protein concentration in aluminum hydroxide suspensions by near-infrared transmittance spectroscopy.
Analysis of aluminum hydroxide based vaccines is difficult after antigen adsorption. Adsorbed protein is often assessed by measuring residual unadsorbed protein for quality control. A new method for the direct determination of adsorbed protein concentration in suspension using near-infrared (NIR) transmittance spectroscopy is proposed here. A simple adsorption system using albumin from bovine serum (BSA) and aluminum hydroxide as a model system is employed. The results show that the NIR absorbance at 700-1300 nm is correlated to the adsorbed BSA concentration, measured by the ultraviolet (UV) method, using the partial least square regression (PLSR) method to construct a calibration model. The linear concentration range of adsorbed BSA is from 0 to 1.75 mg/mL by using 10 mm path length cuvettes. The influence of the sedimentation in suspension, different buffers, and different aluminum hydroxide batches was investigated in this study. It shows that the batch variation is the main influence factor of this method, while the buffer variation has no influence. However, the pretreatment of spectral data by subtracting spectra of BSA blank control (aluminum hydroxide without BSA) can significantly reduce the batch influence, and the NIR predicted results show good agreement with the reference values. The NIR method might be the only direct method for the determination of adsorbed protein concentration in suspension so far. It is a nondestructive method, and it has great advantage for use in vaccine production as a method for quality control and quality assurance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Serum high-mobility group box-1 levels are positively associated with micro- and macroalbuminuria but not with cardiovascular disease in type 1 diabetes: the EURODIAB Prospective Complications Study.
High-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that may contribute to the pathogenesis of micro- and macrovascular complications commonly observed in diabetes. We investigated whether HMGB1 is associated with: i) markers of low-grade inflammation (LGI) and endothelial dysfunction (ED) and pulse pressure (PP, a marker of arterial stiffness); ii) prevalent nephropathy, retinopathy and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in type 1 diabetes; and iii) the potential mediating roles of LGI, ED and PP therein. This was a cross-sectional nested case-control study of 463 patients (226 women; mean age 40±10 years) with type 1 diabetes from the EURODIAB Prospective Complications Study. We used linear and binary or multinomial logistic regression analyses adjusted for traditional risk factors. Serum Ln-HMGB1 levels were positively associated with LGI and ED (standardised β=0.07 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.02-0.12) and β=0.08 (95% CI: 0.02-0.14) respectively), but not with PP. Higher Ln-HMGB1 (per unit) was associated with greater odds of micro- and macroalbuminuria: odds ratio (OR)=1.24 (95% CI: 0.90-1.71) and OR=1.61 (95% CI: 1.15-2.25) respectively, P for trend=0.004. Further adjustments for LGI or ED did not attenuate these associations. No such associations were found between Ln-HMGB1 and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), retinopathy or CVD, however. In type 1 diabetes, higher serum HMGB1 levels are associated with greater prevalence and severity of albuminuria, though not with eGFR, retinopathy and CVD. Prospective studies are needed to clarify the causal role of HMGB1, if any, in the pathogenesis of vascular complications in type 1 diabetes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isolation of a functional human interleukin 2 gene from a cosmid library by recombination in vivo.
A method has been developed that allows the isolation of genomic clones from a cosmid library by homologous recombination in vivo. This method was used to isolate a human genomic interleukin 2 (IL2) gene. The genomic cosmid library was packaged in vivo into lambda phage particles. A recombination-proficient host strain carrying IL2 cDNA sequences in a non-homologous plasmid vector was infected by the packaged cosmid library. After in vivo packaging and reinfection, recombinants carrying the antibiotic resistance genes of both vectors were selected. From a recombinant cosmid clone the chromosomal IL2 gene was restored. After DNA mediated gene transfer into mouse Ltk- cells human IL2 was expressed constitutively. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Understanding the performance of sulfate reducing bacteria based packed bed reactor by growth kinetics study and microbial profiling.
A novel marine waste extract (MWE) as alternative nitrogen source was explored for the growth of sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB). Variation of sulfate and nitrogen (MWE) showed that SRB growth follows an uncompetitive inhibition model. The maximum specific growth rates (μmax) of 0.085 and 0.124 h(-1) and inhibition constants (Ki) of 56 and 4.6 g/L were observed under optimized sulfate and MWE concentrations, respectively. The kinetic data shows that MWE improves the microbial growth by 27%. The packed bed bioreactor (PBR) under optimized sulfate and MWE regime showed sulfate removal efficiency of 62-66% and metals removal efficiency of 66-75% on using mine wastewater. The microbial community analysis using DGGE showed dominance of SRB (87-89%). The study indicated the optimum dosing of sulfate and cheap organic nitrogen to promote the growth of SRB over other bacteria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ultrasound assessment of antibiotic-induced pulmonary reaeration in ventilator-associated pneumonia.
To compare lung reaeration measured by bedside chest radiography, lung computed tomography, and lung ultrasound in patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia treated by antibiotics. Computed tomography, chest radiography, and lung ultrasound were performed before (day 0) and 7 days following initiation of antibiotics. A 26-bed multidisciplinary intensive care unit in La Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital (University Paris-6). : Thirty critically ill patients studied over the first 10 days of developing ventilator-associated pneumonia. : Antibiotic administration. Computed tomography reaeration was measured as the additional volume of gas present within both lungs following 7 days of antimicrobial therapy. Lung ultrasound of the entire chest wall was performed and four entities were defined: consolidation; multiple irregularly spaced B-lines; multiple abutting ultrasound lung "comets" issued from the pleural line or a small subpleural consolidation; normal aeration. For each of the 12 regions examined, ultrasound changes were measured between day 0 and 7 and a reaeration score was calculated. An ultrasound score >5 was associated with a computed tomography reaeration >400 mL and a successful antimicrobial therapy. An ultrasound score <-10 was associated with a loss of computed tomography aeration >400 mL and a failure of antibiotics. A highly significant correlation was found between computed tomography and ultrasound lung reaeration (Rho = 0.85, p < .0001). Chest radiography was inaccurate in predicting lung reaeration. Lung reaeration can be accurately estimated with bedside lung ultrasound in patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia treated by antibiotics. Lung ultrasound can also detect the failure of antibiotics to reaerate the lung. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Breastfeeding mothers' experiences: the ghost in the machine.
We critically review qualitative research studies conducted from 2000 to 2012 exploring Western mothers' breastfeeding experiences. We used the search criteria "breastfeeding," "qualitative," and "experiences" to retrieve 74 qualitative research studies, which were reduced to 28 when the terms "existential'' and "research'' were applied. We found that the impact of technology and the pervasive worldwide marketing of infant formula devalued breastfeeding mothers' narratives in a number of ways. Women's bodies were viewed as machine-like objects and the breast was seen as a disembodied object. Dominated by technological narrative, women's bodies were considered unpredictable and hormonal, needing to be managed by health care professionals. This means the disseminating breastfeeding discourse needs to be reinterpreted for practical use. We found that some of the researchers utilized narrative informed by phenomenological philosophy that appears to edge closer to understanding mothers' experiences in a more profound way than nonphenomenological research. However, we need to be mindful of the transparency of terms in replacing one form of technological narrative with another. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The impact of loss of control on movement BCIs.
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are known to suffer from spontaneous changes in the brain activity. If changes in the mental state of the user are reflected in the brain signals used for control, the behavior of a BCI is directly influenced by these states. We investigate the influence of a state of loss of control in a variant of Pacman on the performance of BCIs based on motor control. To study the effect a temporal loss of control has on the BCI performance, BCI classifiers were trained on electroencephalography (EEG) recorded during the normal control condition, and the classification performance on segments of EEG from the normal and loss of control condition was compared. Classifiers based on event-related desynchronization unexpectedly performed significantly better during the loss of control condition; for the event-related potential classifiers there was no significant difference in performance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Investigation of adaptation after liver transplantation using Roy's Adaptation Model.
In this study we explored the adaptation of transplant recipients in Turkey using the Roy Adaptation Model. A descriptive qualitative design was used with data collected from liver transplant recipients in either individual or group interviews between May 2009 and February 2010. Using deductive content analysis, four themes were identified in the data: physiological mode, self-concept mode, role function mode, and interdependence mode. Each theme included both adaptive and ineffective behaviors of liver transplant recipients. The findings of this study indicate that liver transplant recipients need information and support about their ineffective behaviors in all modes of the Roy Adaptation Model. The findings also support the use of a nursing model in the delivery of nursing care for liver transplantation recipients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recurrent fibrosarcoma of maxillary sinus involving the cranial base: A rare case.
Adult fibrosarcoma (FS) of the maxillary sinus and the cranial base is a rare soft tissue sarcoma which is clinically characterized by a high frequency of local repeated recurrence if not excised widely. At present, the standard treatment option for FS is surgical resection. Here, we report a case of a 46-year-old male with a 5 months history recurrent FS of the maxillary sinus. The patient possessed an enormous mass in the right maxillofacial region extending to the cranial base, as observed by computed tomography. Histologically, the lessions were composed of hypercellular cells with heterogenous groups. The recurrence and pathologically heterogenous groups of FS lead to therapeutic complexities. Due to the challenging anatomy in head and neck region, it is crucial to define the lesion areas and weigh the balance between life quality and functional reconstruction. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Central nervous system relapse in acute promyelocytic leukaemia in patients treated with all-trans retinoic acid.
All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is currently recommended as standard treatment for acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL). However, there has been increasing concern that ATRA is associated with unusual sites of relapse. We present three cases of APL previously treated with ATRA who ultimately relapsed within the central nervous system (CNS) and hypothesize that, by up-regulating intercellular adhesion molecules, ATRA may facilitate the passage of malignant promyelocytes across the blood-brain barrier. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preoperative selective portal vein embolizations are an effective means of extending the indications of major hepatectomy in the normal and injured liver.
Liver tumors may be unresectable for volumetric reasons; the post-hepatectomy future remaining liver (FRL) will be too small to ensure survival. In some cases, preoperative selective portal vein embolization (PSPVE) of the tumorous part of the liver can permit the induction of hypertrophy of the FRL and convert patients from an unresectable to a resectable status. Analysis of the efficiency of PSPVE in changing the volume of the FRL and in permitting curative hepatectomy was performed in a retrospective study of 28 initially unresectable (for volumetric reasons), consecutive cases treated from September 1987 to September 1995. Fifty percent of the cases had damaged liver parenchyma. PSPVE was performed in various locations, according to the site of the tumor and impairment of the liver parenchyma. Twenty-five PSPVE (89%) successfully induced sufficient hypertrophy of the FRL. Explanations could be found retrospectively for the 3 failures. For the 28 cases, the mean increase in the FRL was 70%, and the mean ratio between the FRL and the whole functional liver changed from 21.5% before PSPVE, to 33.9% after PSPVE. Twenty-three patients could be hepatectomized (82%). With this technique, liver tumors considered to be unresectable, due to life-threatening volumetric insufficiency, may be considered resectable lesions, and there is an increase in the safety of some extended hepatectomies. These good results were mainly due to application of the distal and proximal free flow embolization technique, with non-absorbable material, and perhaps to the long interval of one month between PSPVE and hepatectomy. Indications in normal liver parenchyma are for patients with a very small left lobe or those requiring a right hepatectomy with wedge resections of the left liver. Indications for damaged liver parenchyma also include some cases requiring left trisegmentectomy or central hepatectomy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Old dance with a new partner: EGF receptor as the phenobarbital receptor mediating Cyp2B expression.
The decades-long quest for the phenobarbital (PhB) receptor that mediates activation of Cyp2B would appear fulfilled with the discovery by Mutoh et al., who found that PhB binds with pharmacological affinity to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). This finding provides a molecular basis for the suppression of hepatocyte EGFR signaling observed with PhB treatment, as previously noted in the context of tumor promotion. Although the PhB-mediated induction of Cyp2B expression through the association of a canonical nuclear receptor with the 5'-enhancer PBREM of Cyp2B is well known, direct binding of PhB to constitutive active androstane receptor (CAR, also known as NR1I3) typical of other xenobiotic-activated nuclear receptors has eluded detection. One EGF-activated pathway affected by the PhB-EGFR interaction is the loss of tyrosine phosphorylation of the scaffold protein RACK1. Dephosphorylated RACK1 provides the mechanistic link between the binding of PhB to EGFR and its effects on CAR by facilitating the interaction of serine/threonine phosphatase PP2A with inactive phosphorylated CAR. The dephosphorylation of CAR enables its translocation to the nucleus and activation of Cyp2B expression. Because EGFR and transducers RACK1, PP2A, and other partners are highly networked in numerous cellular pathways, this newly discovered partnership will surely reveal new fundamental roles for PhB beyond the regulation of drug metabolism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Disruption of hemoglobin oxygen transport does not impact oxygen-dependent physiological processes in developing embryos of zebra fish (Danio rerio).
Embryonic hemoglobin circulated by the developing heart in the early vertebrate embryo is widely assumed (without substantiation) to perform the same vital role of O2 carriage that it does in fetuses and adults. In order to challenge this assumption, we measured highly O2-dependent physiological variables like O2 consumption, cardiac performance, and initial swim bladder filling in the presence and absence of functional hemoglobin in the embryos and early larvae of the zebra fish, Danio ( = Brachydanio) rerio. Functional ablation of hemoglobin by carbon monoxide or phenylhydrazine did not reduce whole-animal O2 consumption, which was approximately 85 to 90 mumol.g-1.h-1. Similarly, no differences in heart variables like ventricular pressure development or heart rate, which increased from 135 to 175 bpm between stages 36h and 96h (indicating developmental stages 36 and 96 hours after fertilization, respectively), were observed in these experiments. Initial opening of the swim bladder was not influenced in the presence of CO-occupied hemoglobin but was significantly impaired when the embryonic hemoglobin was chemically modified by incubation with phenylhydrazine. That aerobic processes continue without hemoglobin O2 transport indicates the adequacy in the embryo of simple O2 diffusion alone even in developmental stages with extensive convective blood circulation generated by the heart. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Imaging the assembly and disassembly kinetics of cis-SNARE complexes on native plasma membranes.
Mild sonication of eukaryotic cells produces native plasma membrane sheets that retain their docked organelles, cytoskeleton structures and cytoplasmic complexes. While the delicate organization of membranous protein complexes remains undisturbed, their inner plasmalemmel leaflet can be rapidly exposed to bathing solutions, enabling specific biochemical manipulations. Here, we apply this system to track membrane-biochemistry kinetics. We monitor soluble NSF-attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex assembly and disassembly on the plasma membrane at high time resolution. The results suggest two-phase kinetics for the assembly process and dependence of the disassembly kinetics on both N-ethyl maleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) and soluble NSF-attachment protein (alpha-SNAP) concentrations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Summer Pruning as a Method for Reducing Flyspeck Disease on Apple Fruit.
Summer pruning of apples, as opposed to the conventional commercial practice of dormant pruning, consistently reduced the incidence of flyspeck on apple fruit by approximately 50% in each of 2 years in trees where no fungicides were applied. In commercial orchard blocks using fungicides, summer pruning also produced a slight but significant decrease in disease severity. There appear to be at least two mechanisms contributing to decreased flyspeck incidence and severity in summer-pruned apple trees. Summer pruning resulted in a small change in the apple canopy microclimate, decreasing the hours of relative humidity >95% in the canopy by 63% and increasing the evaporative potential. Summer pruning also resulted in improved spray deposition in the upper two-thirds of the tree canopy when applications were made with an airblast sprayer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hand eczema patients' knowledge of skin protection following a guided talk-A retrospective study with a follow-up questionnaire.
Several studies have assessed the effect of patient education regarding hand eczema (HE) severity and quality of life. Few studies, however, have evaluated patients' knowledge. To examine knowledge of skin protection in HE patients following a guided talk, and to identify variables associated with knowledge. HE patients referred to the outpatient dermatological clinic, Bispebjerg Hospital, between January 2013 and July 2014 were offered a guided talk on HE prevention. HE severity and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score were assessed. A questionnaire comprising 10 questions about skin protection was sent 1 to 2.5 years later. One hundred and twenty patients responded to the questionnaire (response 53.5%). The mean percentage of correct answers was 74.7%. Sixty per cent responded correctly to at least eight questions. Male sex, older age and education for >5 years were associated with a low level of knowledge. Education for 3 to 4 years (P = 0.045) was associated with a higher level of knowledge. No significant impact of previous/current atopic dermatitis, HE severity or previous information on skin protection was found with respect to level of knowledge. Females and patients with education for 3 to 4 years showed the highest level of knowledge, whereas males, older patients and patients with education for >5 years should be brought more into focus in skin protection programmes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of naloxone-3-glucuronide on colonic transit time in healthy men after acute morphine administration: a placebo-controlled double-blinded crossover preclinical volunteer study.
Constipation is a significant side effect of opioid therapy. We have previously demonstrated that naloxone-3-glucuronide (NX3G) antagonizes the motility-lowering-effect of morphine in the rat colon. To find out whether oral NX3G is able to reduce the morphine-induced delay in colonic transit time (CTT) without being absorbed and influencing the analgesic effect. Fifteen male volunteers were included. Pharmacokinetics: after oral administration of 0.16 mg/kg NX3G, blood samples were collected over a 6-h period. Pharmacodynamics: NX3G or placebo was then given at the start time and every 4 h thereafter. Morphine (0.05 mg/kg) or placebo was injected s.c. 2 h after starting and thereafter every 6 h for 24 h. CTT was measured over a 48-h period by scintigraphy. Pressure pain threshold tests were performed. Neither NX3G nor naloxone was detected in the venous blood. The slowest transit time was observed during the morphine phase, which was significantly different from morphine with NX3G and placebo. The pain perception was not significantly influenced by NX3G. Orally administered NX3G is able to reverse the morphine-induced delay of CTT in humans without being detected in peripheral blood samples. Therefore, NX3G may improve symptoms of constipation in-patients using opioid medication without affecting opioid-analgesic effects. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Osteogenic effects of flavonoid aglycones from an osteoprotective fraction of Drynaria fortunei--an in vitro efficacy study.
Drynaria fortunei (Kunze) J. Sm. is a traditional Chinese herb used for the treatment of osteoporosis and other bone metabolic disorders. Previous studies demonstrated that "small polar active fraction in Drynaria fortunei (SDF)"exerted osteoprotective effects in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. This study aims to investigate the constituents in SDF and systemically evaluate their osteogenic effects in vitro. Five flavonoid aglycones, naringenin, kurarinone, kushennol F, xanthogalenol, and sophoraflavanone G were identified in SDF. All the compounds did not show effects on proliferation of osteoblastic UMR 106 cells at the concentrations of 0.1-1000 nM, but significantly increased the ALP activity of the cells at most of the concentrations from 10 nm to 1000 nM. Xanthogalenol at the concentration of 100 nM significantly increased concentration of acid-solubilized calcium. ICI 182,780, antagonist of estrogen receptor (ER), diminished the effect of kushennol F on ALP activity and the effect of xanthogalenol on acid-solubilized calcium. In conclusion, flavonoid aglycones in SDF could promote differentiation and mineralization of osteoblastic UMR 106 cells in vitro, which was explained by activation of ER signaling pathway. This study provides scientific evidences for the conduction of in vivo experiments to confirm potential effects of flavonoid aglycones on preventing OVX-induced osteoporosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Demographic profile of Boróro Indians from Mato Grosso State, Brazil, 1993-1996].
This paper analyzes the demographic profile of the Boróro Indians from Mato Grosso State, Brazil, from 1993 to 1996. Data came from annual collection and registration of vital statistics conducted by the health service in three villages (Garças, Meruri, and Morada dos Boróro). The average annual population growth rate was 2.4%. Nearly half (44%) of the population was younger than 15 years (median 16 years). The crude birth rate was 30.9 per 1,000 and the crude death rate 7.3 per 1,000 inhabitants. The infant mortality rate was high (58.8 per thousand live births), probably resulting from precarious health conditions in the villages. The results showed that women married younger than men and that there were numerous unmarried adult men (26.7%) and women (13.3%), as compared to data from other indigenous groups. The total fertility rate of Boróro women was 4.3, quite low compared to other indigenous communities in Brazil. The study emphasizes the importance of systematically collecting and analyzing demographic data on indigenous populations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Forensically significant scavenging guilds in the southwest of Western Australia.
Estimation of time since death is an important factor in forensic investigations and the state of decomposition of a body is a prime basis for such estimations. The rate of decomposition is, however, affected by many environmental factors such as temperature, rainfall, and solar radiation as well as by indoor or outdoor location, covering and the type of surface the body is resting upon. Scavenging has the potential for major impact upon the rate of decomposition of a body, but there is little direct research upon its effect. The information that is available relates almost exclusively to North American and European contexts. The Australian faunal assemblage is unique in that it includes no native large predators or large detrivorous avians. This research investigates the animals that scavenge carcasses in natural outdoor settings in southern Western Australia and the factors which can affect each scavenger's activity. The research was conducted at four locations around Perth, Western Australia with different environmental conditions. Pig carcasses, acting as models for the human body, were positioned in an outdoor environment with no protection from scavengers or other environmental conditions. Twenty-four hour continuous time-lapse video capture was used to observe the pattern of visits of all animals to the carcasses. The time of day, length of feeding, material fed upon, area of feeding, and any movement of the carcass were recorded for each feeding event. Some species were observed to scavenge almost continually throughout the day and night. Insectivores visited the carcasses mostly during bloat and putrefaction; omnivores fed during all stages of decomposition and scavenging by carnivores, rare at any time, was most likely to occur during the early stages of decomposition. Avian species, which were the most prolific visitors to the carcasses in all locations, like reptiles, fed only during daylight hours. Only mammals and amphibians, which were seldom seen during diurnal hours, were nocturnal feeders. The combined effects of the whole guild of scavengers significantly accelerated the later stages of decomposition, especially in the cooler months of the year when natural decomposition was slowest. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
One-dimensional isoelectric focusing and immunoblotting of equine major histocompatibility complex class I antigens.
The cells of 60 randomly selected Hannoveranian warm-blooded horses were subjected to one-dimensional isoelectric focusing and immunoblotting with a cross-reacting monoclonal antibody (Bo 1) recognizing bovine class I antigens. The banding patterns were correlated with the serologically defined specificities of the ELA-A locus. ELA-A2 was correlated with four bands, while ELA-A5, ELA-W18, ELA-A6, ELA-A14 and ELA-A9 were correlated with a single band each. The complexity of the pattern and additional polymorphic bands which could not be correlated to any of the known ELA specificities may indicate biochemical variants of established serological specificities or still-undetected allelic products of more than one class I locus expressed at the surface of horse cells. Here we present the first description of the biochemical complex polymorphism of equine MHC class I molecules using one-dimensional isoelectric focusing. Direct comparison of biochemical and serological polymorphisms revealed potentials and limitations of both techniques which supplement each other. Their combination will improve and enhance the definition of expressed products of different loci in the ELA class I region. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Globus pharyngis: indications for flexible endoscopy?].
Flexible endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract usually does not form part of the primary diagnostic evaluation of the globus syndrome. In order to find out the value of this investigation in the differential diagnosis of globus sensation, 51 globus patients were examined by flexible endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Pathological findings requiring therapy were diagnosed in 70.6% of cases. The most frequent findings were reflux esophagitis (n = 24; 47%) and hiatal hernia (n = 25; 49%). In 16 cases (31.4%) these were accompanied by other pathological lesions. A total of 32 patients (62.7%) suffered from esophageal diseases as sole etiological factors of the globus syndrome, which allowed us to postulate a causative relationship in these cases. Flexible endoscopy, therefore, can contribute significantly to the differential diagnosis of the globus syndrome. The investigator should consider the potentially high diagnostic "yield" of flexible endoscopy for this indication, also. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.