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Retriever300 | Arundo donax cane as a precursor for activated carbons preparation by phosphoric acid activation.
Canes from Arundo donax, a herbaceous rapid-growing plant, were used as precursor for activated carbon preparation by phosphoric acid activation under a self-generated atmosphere. The influence of the carbonization temperature in the range 400-550 degrees C and of the weight ratio phosphoric acid to precursor (R = 1.5-2.5) on the developed porous structure of the resulting carbons was studied for 1 h of carbonization time. Surface properties of the activated carbons were dependent on a combined effect of the conditions employed. Carbons developed either with R = 1.5 over the range 400-500 degrees C, or with R = 2 at 500 degrees C exhibited surface areas of around 1100 m2/g, the latter conditions promoting a larger pore volume and enhanced mesoporous character. For both ratios, temperature above 500 degrees C led to reduction in porosity development. A similar effect was found for the highest ratio (R = 2.5) and 500 degrees C. The influence of carrying out the carbonization either for times shorter than 1 h or under flowing N2 was also examined at selected conditions (R = 2, 500 degrees C). Shorter times induced increase in the surface area (approximately 1300 m2/g), yielding carbons with smaller mean pore radius. Activated carbons obtained under flowing N2 possessed predominant microporous structures and larger ash contents than the samples derived in the self-generated atmosphere. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever301 | Aerobic Exercise-Assisted Cardiac Regeneration by Inhibiting Tryptase Release in Mast Cells after Myocardial Infarction.
BACKGROUND
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) contributes critically to the mortality, morbidity, and economic problem of illness globally. Exercise is a share of everyone's life. Some evidence-based studies have frequently shown a progressive correlation between physical activity and good health.
OBJECTIVE
The effects of daily exercise on cardiomyocyte size, collagen content (fibrosis), and releasing mast cells (MCs') tryptase of the model of myocardial infarction (MI) were assessed.
METHODS
40 rats were coincidentally spread into sham+inertia (control), sham+exercise, infarction+inertia, and infarction+exercise groups. An experimental model of acute MI was induced in infarction groups. One week after surgery, exercising groups were allowed to an aerobic exercise program for six weeks. At the endpoint of the study, all examinations were performed.
RESULTS
We found lesser fibrosis in sham+exercise and infarction+exercise groups compared to sham+inertia and infarction+inertia groups, respectively (p = 0.023, p = 0.001). Also, infarction groups were significantly lower than sham groups (p < 0.05) and the infarction+exercise group was significantly lower than the infarction+inertia group (p < 0.05). The effect of exercise on MCs while increased MC density and degranulation occur at the site of fibrosis, we demonstrated that exercise decreases both total MC density and degranulation in both sham and infarction groups (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry examinations were significantly higher expression of MCs' tryptase in infarction groups than sham groups (p < 0.05, p < 0.0001).
CONCLUSION
Exercise improves fibrosis and cardiac function in both healthy and MI rats by inhibiting released MCs' tryptase. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever302 | Prognostic factors for patients with anal cancer treated with conformal radiotherapy-a systematic review.
AIMS
Anal cancer is primarily treated using concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT), with conformal techniques such as intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) now being the standard techniques utilised across the world. Despite this, there is still very limited consensus on prognostic factors for outcome following conformal CRT. This systematic review aims to evaluate the existing literature to identify prognostic factors for a variety of oncological outcomes in anal cancer, focusing on patients treated with curative intent using contemporary conformal radiotherapy techniques.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A literature search was conducted using Medline and Embase to identify studies reporting on prognostic factors for survival and cancer-related outcomes after conformal CRT for anal cancer. The prognostic factors which were identified as significant in univariable and multivariable analysis, along with their respective factor effects (where available) were extracted. Only factors reported as prognostic in more than one study were included in the final results.
RESULTS
The results from 19 studies were analysed. In both univariable and multivariable analysis, N stage, T stage, and sex were found to be the most prevalent and reliable clinical prognostic factors for the majority of outcomes explored. Only a few biomarkers have been identified as prognostic by more than one study - pre-treatment biopsy HPV load, as well as the presence of leukocytosis, neutrophilia and anaemia at baseline measurement. The results also highlight the lack of studies with large cohorts exploring the prognostic significance of imaging factors.
CONCLUSION
Establishing a set of prognostic and potentially predictive factors for anal cancer outcomes can guide the risk stratification of patients, aiding the design of future clinical trials. Such trials will in turn provide us with greater insight into how to effectively treat this disease using a more personalised approach. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever303 | Intra-operative radiation therapy for osteosarcoma in the extremities.
The outcome following intra-operative radiation therapy in the treatment of osteosarcoma in the extremity in 33 patients was evaluated for oncological and functional results. Local recurrence occurred in seven cases, six of which were in a non-irradiated region, indicating inappropriate planning of the radiation field. Twenty-one patients underwent either prosthetic replacement (14) or amputation (7). Irradiated tumours were left in situ in the remaining 12 patients. In this latter group no degenerative joint changes were observed radiologically. Twenty-six patients experienced local complications, of which fracture of the irradiated bone was the most significant. Associated intramedullary nailing showed encouraging results in preventing fracture. Although IORT is effective for the local control of osteosarcoma in extremities, critical patient selection and improvements of treatment protocol are required in order to obtain a satisfactory outcome. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever304 | [Systemic Antimicrobials Consumption and Expenditures in Departments of Surgery of Multi-Profile Hospitals in the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus: Results of Multicentre Pharmacoepidemiological Study].
The results of the systemic antimicrobials (AM) consumption and expenditures assessment in the departments of surgery of multi-profile hospitals in different regions of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus in 2009-2010 based on retrospective collection and analysis of the data from the hospital expenditure notes using ATC/DDD methodology are presented. The average AM consumption and expenditure rates in the above mentioned departments varied from 24.9 DDD/100 bed-days to 61.7 DDD/100 bed-days depending on the department profile, with beta-lactams (cephalosporins and penicillins) share in the consumption being as high as 70-90%, followed by fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides. Only 55-70% of the consumed AM belonged to the drugs of choice, whereas the improper AM consumption and expenditure rates amounted up to 10-18%. The study outputs can be used for the budget allocation and AM distribution improvement in the departments of surgery, as well as for the development and efficacy control of the local antimicrobial stewardship programs. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever305 | Complex life cycle of Pterygodermatites peromysci, a trophically transmitted parasite of the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus).
The aim of this study is to experimentally verify the intermediate host of a common gastrointestinal nematode, Pterygodermatites peromysci, infecting the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus) and describe the complex life cycle. As with other nematodes in the family Rictulariidae, adult worms reside in the small intestine of the host, and infective eggs are shed into the environment where they are ingested by scavenger insects. A field survey of common nocturnal insects on the forest floors of central Pennsylvania was conducted to identify the putative intermediate host. Encysted nematode larvae were recovered from the hemocoel of three species of camel cricket, Ceuthophilus pallidipes, Ceuthophilus guttulosus, and Ceuthophilus gracilipes. The mean prevalence of infection was 11-17%, and the intensity of infection ranged from 1 to 41 cysts per cricket. Laboratory white-footed mice were infected with cysts harvested from the three species of crickets. Cysts taken from the C. pallidipes produced the highest level of infection (41%); the adult worms recovered from the mice were confirmed as P. peromysci. Laboratory infections of naive C. pallidipes with P. peromysci eggs yielded a 70% infection rate, further verifying that the cricket C. pallidipes is a suitable intermediate host for P. peromysci. We discuss the importance of identifying the intermediate host for understanding the transmission dynamics of a trophically transmitted parasite. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever306 | New drugs and strategies for management of Clostridium difficile colitis.
Approaches for management of Clostridium difficile infection continually evolve as research reveals shifts in epidemiology, microbial pathogenesis, disease severity states, and response to therapy. These new discoveries significantly impact diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, given the high morbidity associated with this common nosocomial infectious diarrhea. Critically ill patients are at an increased risk of developing diarrheal illness like C. difficile and succumbing to potentially fatal complications of this infection. Early diagnosis of severe disease state may improve patient outcomes. In this article, we review treatment strategies and new approaches for the management of C. difficile in critically ill patients. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever307 | Exposure to sunlight reduces the risk of myopia in rhesus monkeys.
Exposure to sunlight has recently been postulated as responsible for the effect that more time spent outdoors protects children from myopia, while early life exposure to natural light was reported to be possibly related to onset of myopia during childhood. In this study, we had two aims: to determine whether increasing natural light exposure has a protective effect on hyperopic defocus-induced myopia, and to observe whether early postnatal exposure to natural light causes increased risk of refractive error in adolescence. Eight rhesus monkeys (aged 20-30 days) were treated monocularly with hyperopic-defocus (-3.0D lens) and divided randomly into two groups: AL group (n=4), reared under Artificial (indoor) Lighting (08:00-20:00); and NL group (n=4), exposed to Natural (outdoor) Light for 3 hours per day (11:00-14:00), and to indoor lighting for the rest of the light phase. After being reared with lenses for ca. 190 days, all monkeys were returned to unrestricted vision until the age of 3 years. Another eight age-matched monkeys, reared with unrestricted vision under artificial lighting since birth, were employed as controls. The ocular refraction, corneal curvature and axial dimensions were measured before lens-wearing (at 23±3 days of age), monthly during the light phase, and at the age of puberty (at 1185+3 days of age). During the lens-wearing treatment, infant monkeys in the NL group were more hyperopic than those in the AL group (F=5.726, P=0.032). Furthermore, the two eyes of most NL monkeys remained isometropic, whereas 3 of 4 AL monkeys developed myopic anisometropia more than -2.0D. At adolescence, eyes of AL monkeys showed significant myopic anisometropia compared with eyes of NL monkeys (AL vs NL: -1.66±0.87D vs -0.22±0.44D; P=0.002) and controls (AL vs Control: -1.66±0.87D vs -0.05±0.85D; P<0.0001). All differences in refraction were associated with parallel changes in axial dimensions. Our results suggest that exposure to natural outdoor light might have an effect to reduced hyperopic defocus-induced myopia. Also, the data imply that early life exposure to sunlight may help to maintain normal development of emmetropization later in life, and thus lower the risk of myopic anisometropia in adolescent monkey. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever308 | Ultrastructure of the ovarian medulla in the newly hatched chick treated with human chorionic gonadotropin.
The ultrastructural characteristics of the ovarian medulla of the newly hatched white leghorn chick were studied in control animals and compared with chicks that were treated with human chorionic gonadotropin during embryonic development. The ovarian medulla was mainly occupied by epithelial cells which formed cords or islets surrounded by a basal lamina. Within this epithelial compartment, steroidogenic cells, poorly differentiated cells and a lacunary system could be recognized. When chicks were treated with human chorionic gonadotropin, steroidogenic cells became discernible; there was an increment in the amount of cytoplasm and the area of mitochondria. Poorly differentiated cells exhibited signs of stimulation, and transitional images suggested the transformation of these cells into steroidogenic cells. The epithelial cells of the lacunar system also displayed stimulated cytoplasmic organelles. Evidence was supplied suggesting that relatively undifferentiated cells persist in the ovarian medulla until hatching and can develop into steroidogenic cells under gonadotropic stimulation. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever309 | The increased activity of TRPV4 channel in the astrocytes of the adult rat hippocampus after cerebral hypoxia/ischemia.
The polymodal transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channel, a member of the TRP channel family, is a calcium-permeable cationic channel that is gated by various stimuli such as cell swelling, low pH and high temperature. Therefore, TRPV4-mediated calcium entry may be involved in neuronal and glia pathophysiology associated with various disorders of the central nervous system, such as ischemia. The TRPV4 channel has been recently found in adult rat cortical and hippocampal astrocytes; however, its role in astrocyte pathophysiology is still not defined. In the present study, we examined the impact of cerebral hypoxia/ischemia (H/I) on the functional expression of astrocytic TRPV4 channels in the adult rat hippocampal CA1 region employing immunohistochemical analyses, the patch-clamp technique and microfluorimetric intracellular calcium imaging on astrocytes in slices as well as on those isolated from sham-operated or ischemic hippocampi. Hypoxia/ischemia was induced by a bilateral 15-minute occlusion of the common carotids combined with hypoxic conditions. Our immunohistochemical analyses revealed that 7 days after H/I, the expression of TRPV4 is markedly enhanced in hippocampal astrocytes of the CA1 region and that the increasing TRPV4 expression coincides with the development of astrogliosis. Additionally, adult hippocampal astrocytes in slices or cultured hippocampal astrocytes respond to the TRPV4 activator 4-alpha-phorbol-12,-13-didecanoate (4αPDD) by an increase in intracellular calcium and the activation of a cationic current, both of which are abolished by the removal of extracellular calcium or exposure to TRP antagonists, such as Ruthenium Red or RN1734. Following hypoxic/ischemic injury, the responses of astrocytes to 4αPDD are significantly augmented. Collectively, we show that TRPV4 channels are involved in ischemia-induced calcium entry in reactive astrocytes and thus, might participate in the pathogenic mechanisms of astroglial reactivity following ischemic insult. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever310 | Using micro-cognition biomarkers of neurosystem dysfunction to redefine ADHD subtypes: A scalable digital path to diagnosis based on brain function.
Symptom-based diagnosis does not align with underlying neruropathology, confounding new treatment development and treatment selection for individual patients. Using high precision micro-cognition biomarkers of neurosystem dysfunction acquired during digital neurotherapy (DNT), we characterized subgroups of ADHD children with different neuropathology. K-means clustering applied to 69 children 6-9 years old with ADHD using performance variables from a Go/NoGo test normalized against 58 typically developing (TD) children identified four subgroups that were validated and further characterized by micro-cognition biomarkers extracted from thousands of responses during the DNT. The clusters differed on emblematic features of ADHD. Cluster 4 showed poor response inhibition and inconsistent attention. Cluster 3 showed only poor response inhibition and the other two showed neither. Cluster 2 showed faster and more consistent responses, higher detection of simple targets and better working memory than TD children but marked performance decrements when required to track multiple targets or ignore distractors. Cluster 1 showed much greater ability recognizing members of abstract categories rather than natural categories that children learn through physical interaction with the environment while Cluster 4 was the opposite. Fine-grained, low-cost, noninvasive, and scalable digital micro-cognition biomarkers can identify patients with the same symptom-based diagnosis but differing neuropathology. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever311 | Paradoxical reactions in Buruli ulcer after initiation of antibiotic therapy: Relationship to bacterial load.
BACKGROUND
We investigated the relationship between bacterial load in Buruli ulcer (BU) lesions and the development of paradoxical reaction following initiation of antibiotic treatment.
METHODS
This was a longitudinal study involving BU patients from June 2013 to June 2017. Fine needle aspirates (FNA) and swab samples were obtained to establish the diagnosis of BU by PCR. Additional samples were obtained at baseline, during and after treatment (if the lesion had not healed) for microscopy, culture and combined 16S rRNA reverse transcriptase/ IS2404 qPCR assay. Patients were followed up at regular intervals until complete healing.
RESULTS
Forty-seven of 354 patients (13%) with PCR confirmed BU had a PR, occurring between 2 and 42 (median 6) weeks after treatment initiation. The bacterial load, the proportion of patients with positive M. ulcerans culture (15/34 (44%) vs 29/119 (24%), p = 0.025) and the proportion with positive microscopy results (19/31 (61%) vs 28/90 (31%), p = 0.003) before initiation of treatment were significantly higher in the PR compared to the no PR group. Plaques (OR 5.12; 95% CI 2.26-11.61; p<0.001), oedematous (OR 4.23; 95% CI 1.43-12.5; p = 0.009) and category II lesions (OR 2.26; 95% CI 1.14-4.48; p = 0.02) were strongly associated with the occurrence of PR. The median time to complete healing (28 vs 13 weeks, p <0.001) was significantly longer in the PR group.
CONCLUSIONS
Buruli ulcer patients who develop PR are characterized by high bacterial load in lesion samples taken at baseline and a higher rate of positive M. ulcerans culture. Occurrence of a PR was associated with delayed healing.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02153034. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever312 | Alternatively spliced murine lyn mRNAs encode distinct proteins.
Two lyn proteins of 56 and 53 kDa have been observed in immunoprecipitates from a variety of murine and human cell lines and tissues. We report the cloning and nucleotide sequence of two distinct murine lyn cDNAs isolated from an FDC-P1 cDNA library. One of the cDNAs, designated lyn11, encodes a protein of 56 kDa which shares 96% similarity with human lyn. The other cDNA, designated lyn12, encodes a protein of 53 kDa. The proteins differ in the presence or absence of a 21-amino-acid sequence located 24 amino acids C terminal of the translational initiation codon. Using RNase protection analysis, we have identified mRNAs corresponding to both cDNAs in murine cell lines and tissues. Sequence analysis of murine genomic clones suggests that the distinct mRNAs are alternatively spliced transcripts derived from a single gene. Expression of both cDNAs in COS cells leads to the production of lyn proteins with the same molecular weight as the two forms of lyn proteins immunoprecipitated from extracts of FDC-P1 cells and mouse spleen. Subcellular fractionation studies and Western immunoblotting analysis suggest that both isoforms of lyn are membrane associated. The association of both lyn isoforms with the membrane fraction supports the notion that lyn, like other src-related kinases, may interact with the intracellular domain of cell surface receptors. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever313 | Ultrastructural changes following treatment with a microwave pulse in the oocyst of Eimeria magna Perard, 1925.
The ultrastructure of oocysts of Eimeria magna was studied before and after their exposure to unique pulse of microwaves (2.450 MHZ; 600 W) of different durations (10, 15 and 20 s). Following treatment, the progressive destruction of the three layers of the oocyst wall was observed, the innermost being destroyed first. Internal structures were also affected, resulting in swollen mitochondria, a loss of ribosomes and fragmentation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum; moreover, the wall-forming bodies were no longer identifiable. Further studies using microwave pulses on biological material should be carried out to improve our understanding of the consequences of such treatment and to investigate its utility in the control of transmissible pathogenic organisms. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever314 | [Polishing of Bowman's membrane with diamond burr in the treatment of recurrent corneal erosion syndrome].
PURPOSE
To study the effectiveness of polishing Bowman's membrane with a diamond burr (DBPBM) in the treatment of recurrent corneal erosion syndrome (RCES).
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The study included 22 patients (22 eyes) with RCES aged 20-56 years who underwent our original modification of DBPBM. All patients had keratotopography examined, endothelial cell density measured, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the cornea taken before and after the procedure. Additionally, conjunctival scraping, blood test for types I and II herpes (fluorescent antibody method) were performed before the surgery. Post-operative treatment included 1-2 weeks of anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial steroid therapy, and 6 months of artificial tear Cationorm usage.
RESULTS
Rehabilitation of all patients after the procedure went quickly, and no relapses were noted during the follow-up. Complete epithelialization of the area of surgical intervention under soft contact lens occurred over 2-3 days. Epithelial thickness was measured with OCT including epithelial mapping; after the surgery, it was almost even over the entire corneal surface. No complications such as induced post-operative refractive error or corneal haze were registered during the course of the study. Disruption of basal epithelial layer and epithelial basal membrane in the area of erosion relapse detected with scanning electron microscopy confirmed the need for their removal in the course of the surgery.
CONCLUSION
Conservative treatment of RCES rarely yields results. Removal of inadequate epithelium and following DBPBM using our original method is a highly effective and accessible procedure for RCES treatment with low risk of complications and relapse. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever315 | Pain and arthritis.
Address arthritis-associated pain as a disease entity, not as a sensory entity. Attempt to classify chronic pain as nociceptive pain, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia-type pain, or psychogenic pain (very uncommon); specific treatment approaches are required for these different types of pain. Overcome your negative bias against fibromyalgia and review recent discoveries that have led to classification of fibromyalgia as a biologically-based neurosensory disorder. Use the simple and convenient ways that are available to measure pain and its concomitants (fatigue, poor sleep, depression, anxiety, and impaired physical functioning) both at initial evaluation and in follow-up visits as a guide to therapy. Do not fear use of opioids; just be careful with this class of drug. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever316 | Phenylalaninylargininylarginine: a novel tripeptide exerting Zn(2+)-dependent, insulin-mimetic inhibitory action on myocardial proteolysis.
A novel tripeptide, Phe-Arg-Arg, was found to exert a potent, insulin-mimetic inhibitory action on lysosomal proteolysis in the Langendorff-perfused rat heart. This tripeptide was synthesized based upon its partial structural analogy to the biguanide anti-hyperglycaemic agent, phenformin (phenylethylbiguanide), which has previously been found to exert a Zn(2+)-dependent inhibitory action on lysosomal proteolysis. Hearts were biosynthetically labelled with [3H]leucine in vitro. The percentage change in subsequent release of [3H]leucine (2 mM non-radioactive leucine) was determined in non-recirculating perfusate. The background Zn2+ content of the perfusate was determined to be 20 nM. Major endogenous Zn2+ buffers were present in molar excess of Zn2+: 0.1 mM citrate, 0.2% BSA, and complete physiological amino acids. Infusion of maximally effective levels of chloroquine (30 microM) or insulin (5 nM) caused a 38% inhibition of total proteolysis, which corresponds to the lysosomal subcomponent. In the presence of background levels of perfusate Zn2+ the infusion of Phe-Arg-Arg (10 microM), insulin (5 nM), or phenformin (2 microM) maximally caused a 39% inhibition of [3H]leucine release. Combined infusion of maximally effective levels of insulin and Phe-Arg-Arg, or maximal levels of chloroquine and Phe-Arg-Arg did not cause additive inhibition of [3H]leucine release greater than the 39% inhibition caused by either agent alone, regardless of the order of infusion. Addition of physiological concentrations of Zn2+ (1 microM) to the background perfusate Zn2+ accelerated the insulin-mimetic action of submaximally effective levels of Phe-Arg-Arg, and increased its potency. Prior chelation of background Zn2+ by a 3 h perfusion with CaNa2 EDTA (2 microM) reversibly delayed the time course of Phe-Arg-Arg action and decreased its potency at submaximal concentrations. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever317 | Optimal sparse solution for fluorescent diffuse optical tomography: theory and phantom experimental results.
We present a method to accurately localize small fluorescent objects within the tissue using fluorescent diffuse optical tomography (FDOT). The proposed method exploits the localized or sparse nature of the fluorophores in the tissue as a priori information to considerably improve the accuracy of the reconstruction of fluorophore distribution. This is accomplished by minimizing a cost function that includes the L1 norm of the fluorophore distribution vector. Experimental results for a milk-based phantom using a fiber-based cw FDOT system demonstrate the capability of this method in accurately localizing small fluorescent objects deep in the phantom. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever318 | Thrombin activity and early outcome in unstable angina pectoris.
BACKGROUND
The blood coagulation system is frequently activated in the acute phase of unstable angina, but it is unknown whether the augmented function of the hemostatic mechanism may serve as a marker of increased risk for an early unfavorable outcome.
METHODS AND RESULTS
Plasma concentrations and 24-hour urinary excretion of fibrinopeptide A were prospectively determined in 150 patients with unstable angina. All patients underwent 24-hour Holter monitoring, during which time urine was collected; at the end of this period, a blood sample was taken and coronary arteriography was performed. The patients were followed up for the occurrence of cardiac events (death and myocardial infarction) until they underwent coronary revascularization or until they were discharged from the hospital. Fibrinopeptide A plasma levels and 24-hour urinary excretion were found to be abnormally elevated in 50% and 45% of the study population, respectively. During hospitalization, 11 patients developed myocardial infarction and 2 patients died. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated a significantly higher probability of developing cardiac events in patients with abnormal rather than normal plasma levels of fibrinopeptide A (P<.01), whereas no difference in outcome was observed between patients with normal and those with abnormal 24-hour urinary excretion. Cox regression analysis showed that the only variables independently related to an early unfavorable outcome were the presence of persistent ischemia during 24-hour Holter monitoring (P<.0001), the presence of intracoronary thrombosis at angiography (P=.016), and abnormal fibrinopeptide A plasma levels (P=.038).
CONCLUSIONS
Patients with unstable angina pectoris and abnormal fibrinopeptide A plasma levels are at increased risk for an early unfavorable outcome. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever319 | The Nernst effect and the boundaries of the Fermi liquid picture.
Following the observation of an anomalous Nernst signal in cuprates, the Nernst effect has been explored in a variety of metals and superconductors during the past few years. This paper reviews the results obtained during this exploration, focusing on the Nernst response of normal quasi-particles as opposed to the one generated by superconducting vortices or by short-lived Cooper pairs. Contrary to what has been often assumed, the so-called Sondheimer cancelation does not imply a negligible Nernst response in a Fermi liquid. In fact, the amplitude of the Nernst response measured in various metals in the low-temperature limit is scattered over six orders of magnitude. According to the data, this amplitude is roughly set by the ratio of electron mobility to Fermi energy, in agreement with the implications of semi-classical transport theory. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever320 | A Theoretical Framework for Implementable Nucleic Acids Feedback Systems.
Chemical reaction networks can be utilised as basic components for nucleic acid feedback control systems' design for Synthetic Biology application. DNA hybridisation and programmed strand-displacement reactions are effective primitives for implementation. However, the experimental validation and scale-up of nucleic acid control systems are still considerably falling behind their theoretical designs. To aid with the progress heading into experimental implementations, we provide here chemical reaction networks that represent two fundamental classes of linear controllers: integral and static negative state feedback. We reduced the complexity of the networks by finding designs with fewer reactions and chemical species, to take account of the limits of current experimental capabilities and mitigate issues pertaining to crosstalk and leakage, along with toehold sequence design. The supplied control circuits are quintessential candidates for the first experimental validations of nucleic acid controllers, since they have a number of parameters, species, and reactions small enough for viable experimentation with current technical capabilities, but still represent challenging feedback control systems. They are also well suited to further theoretical analysis to verify results on the stability, performance, and robustness of this important new class of control systems. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever321 | Renalase rs10887800 polymorphism is associated with severe pre-eclampsia in southeast Iranian women.
Evidence has shown that pre-eclampsia (PE) is associated with an increased level of catecholamines. Renalase is a catecholamine-metabolizing enzyme, which contributes to the occurrence of hypertension. In the current study, we aimed to assess the relation between two renalase gene ( RNLS) polymorphisms, including rs2576178 at the 5'-flanking region and rs10887800 at intron 6, near the exon/intron border and PE susceptibility. In this case-control study, 179 women with PE and 202 normotensive pregnant women were genotyped for RNLS rs2576178 and rs10887800 polymorphisms by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. There was no association between RNLS rs10887800 and rs2576178 polymorphisms and PE, neither in the dominant nor in the recessive model. Although there was no association between RNLS rs10887800 polymorphism and mild PE, this polymorphism was associated with 2.2-fold higher risk of severe PE in the recessive model (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-4.4; P = 0.01) but not in the dominant model. The RNLS rs2576178 and rs10887800 polymorphisms were not associated with PE severity. The RNLS rs10887800 and rs2576178 GG/GG combined genotypes were associated with 8.4- and 16.7-fold higher risk of PE and severe PE, respectively (OR, 8.4; 95% CI, 1-71.1; P = 0.048 and OR, 16.7; 95% CI, 1.6-167; P = 0.018). Also, the G-G haplotype was associated with 1.7-fold risk of PE and mild PE (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.4; P = 0.009 and OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.5; P = 0.02). The RNLS rs10887800 polymorphism was associated with severe PE. The RNLS rs10887800 and rs2576178 GG/GG combined genotypes and G-G haplotype were associated with higher risk of PE. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever322 | (Dys)regulation of Synaptic Activity and Neurotransmitter Release by β-Amyloid: A Look Beyond Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis.
Beside its widely studied role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), β-amyloid (Aβ) is a normal and soluble product of neuronal metabolism that regulates several key physiological functions, exerting neuromodulatory effects on synaptic plasticity, memory, and neurotransmitter release. Such effects have been observed to occur in a hormetic fashion, with Aβ exhibiting a dual role influenced by its concentration, the different isoforms, or aggregation forms of the peptide. However, to date, our knowledge about the physiological functions of Aβ and, in particular, its modulatory role on synaptic activity and neurotransmission in the normal brain is fragmentary, thus hindering a clear comprehension of the biological mechanisms underlying the derangement from function to dysfunction. In particular, according to the amyloid cascade hypothesis, the switch from physiology to pathology is linked to the abnormal increase in Aβ levels, due to an imbalance in Aβ production and clearance. In this regard, increased Aβ levels have been hypothesized to induce early defects in synaptic function and such alterations have been suggested to account, at least in part, for the onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms (e.g., apathy, anxiety, changes in mood, depression, and agitation/aggression), frequently observed in the prodromal stage of AD. Therefore, understanding the biological mechanisms underlying early synaptic alterations in AD is a key starting point to frame the relevant time windows for AD treatment and to gain insight into AD etiopathogenesis. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever323 | Phosphorylation of serine 779 in fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 and 2 by protein kinase C(epsilon) regulates Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling and neuronal differentiation.
The FGF receptors (FGFRs) control a multitude of cellular processes both during development and in the adult through the initiation of signaling cascades that regulate proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Although FGFR tyrosine phosphorylation and the recruitment of Src homology 2 domain proteins have been widely described, we have previously shown that FGFR is also phosphorylated on Ser(779) in response to ligand and binds the 14-3-3 family of phosphoserine/threonine-binding adaptor/scaffold proteins. However, whether this receptor phosphoserine mode of signaling is able to regulate specific signaling pathways and biological responses is unclear. Using PC12 pheochromocytoma cells and primary mouse bone marrow stromal cells as models for growth factor-regulated neuronal differentiation, we show that Ser(779) in the cytoplasmic domains of FGFR1 and FGFR2 is required for the sustained activation of Ras and ERK but not for other FGFR phosphotyrosine pathways. The regulation of Ras and ERK signaling by Ser(779) was critical not only for neuronal differentiation but also for cell survival under limiting growth factor concentrations. PKCε can phosphorylate Ser(779) in vitro, whereas overexpression of PKCε results in constitutive Ser(779) phosphorylation and enhanced PC12 cell differentiation. Furthermore, siRNA knockdown of PKCε reduces both growth factor-induced Ser(779) phosphorylation and neuronal differentiation. Our findings show that in addition to FGFR tyrosine phosphorylation, the phosphorylation of a conserved serine residue, Ser(779), can quantitatively control Ras/MAPK signaling to promote specific cellular responses. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever324 | Effects of temperature on larval development, alkaloid production and microsporidiosis in the two-spotted lady beetle, Adalia bipunctata L. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae).
Nosema adaliae, a microsporidian pathogen described from the two-spotted lady beetle, Adalia bipunctata L., delays larval development when A. bipunctata is reared under laboratory conditions at 25 °C. In nature, lady beetles often experience a wide range of environmental temperatures, but little is known regarding the effects of microsporidian pathogens on lady beetles when they are reared at higher and lower temperatures. In this study, the effects of elevated rearing temperatures and microsporidiosis were observed on larval development time and mortality, sex ratios, alkaloid content (adaline and adalinine), and adult morphometrics. Uninfected larvae (24 h-old) were provided either an uninfected or N. adaliae-infected conspecific egg and subsequently reared at three temperatures (25 °C, 27.5 °C or 30 °C). After the egg was eaten, larvae were provided a diet of green peach aphids and their development was recorded daily. Following eclosion, a subsample of adults were photographed for microscopic measurements and reflex-fluid was collected for alkaloid analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Afterwards, all individuals were examined to determine the number that had become infected, and the same subsample was used to assess the severity of infection. Development time was delayed significantly for larvae that consumed a N. adaliae-infected egg, and infected larvae took significantly longer to develop at 25 °C than at 27.5 °C or 30 °C. No differences were observed for larval mortality or sex ratios. The relative proportion of adaline increased when larvae were reared at 30 °C, but adaline concentration was not affected by the pathogen, N. adaliae. Adults reared at 25 °C had larger body measurements when compared to those reared at 27.5 °C and 30 °C. Overall, adults that had eaten a N. adaliae-infected A. bipunctata egg as larvae had similar body measurements to those that ate an uninfected egg. When comparing male and female measurements, a significant interaction between infection status, temperature and sex was observed for elytra length and head capsule width only. These measurements were similar for uninfected and N. adaliae-infected females across all temperatures. However, when reared at 25 °C, uninfected males had significantly smaller elytra and head capsules than did infected males; but when reared at 30 °C, no significant difference was observed for these measurements. Both percent infection and average spore count decreased at 27.5 °C and 30 °C. These results suggest that temperatures above 25 °C have a mitigating effect against N. adaliae in A. bipunctata. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever325 | Healthy hearts in pediatric heart transplant patients with an exercise and diet intervention via live video conferencing-Design and rationale.
BACKGROUND
Pediatric heart transplant (PedHtx) patients have increased cardiovascular risk profiles that affect their long-term outcomes and quality of life. We designed a 12- to 16-week diet and exercise intervention delivered via live video conferencing to improve cardiovascular health. Our methodology and baseline assessment of the first 13 enrolled patients are reported.
METHODS
Inclusion criteria are as follows: (a) 8-19 years old; (b) heart transplant >12 months; (c) ability to fast overnight; (d) cardiac clearance by cardiologist; and (e) presence of an adult at home during exercise sessions for patients <14 years old. Exclusion criteria are as follows: (a) acute illness; (b) latex allergy; (c) transplant rejection <3 months ago; and (d) multi-organ transplantation. The intervention consists of one diet and three exercise sessions weekly via live video conferencing. Study visits are conducted at baseline, intervention completion, and end of maintenance period.
RESULTS
A total of 13 participants (15.2 [2.3] years) have been enrolled. Median percent-predicted VO2 max was 56.8 [20.7]% (10 patients <70%). Ten patients had abnormal endothelial function (reactive hyperemia index <1.9; 1.4 [0.325]) and 11 patients had stiff arteries (pulse wave velocity ≧5.5 m/s for 15-19 years, ≧4.5 m/s for 8-14 years; 5.6 [0.7] m/s). Patients had suboptimal diets (saturated fat: 22.7 [23.8] g/d, sodium: 2771 [1557] mg/d) and were sedentary at a median of 67.5 [13.8]% of their time.
CONCLUSIONS
Baseline assessment confirms that PedHtx patients have abnormal cardiac, vascular, and functional health indices, poor dietary habits, and are sedentary. These results support the rationale to test the feasibility and impact of a non-pharmacologic lifestyle intervention in this patient population. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever326 | The postoperative chest in lung cancer.
Most of the complications following lung cancer surgery occur in the early postoperative period and can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Delayed complications can also occur. Diagnosing these complications can be challenging because clinical manifestations are non-specific. Imaging plays an important role in detecting these complications in a timely manner and facilitates prompt interventions. Hence, it is important to have knowledge of the expected anatomical alterations following lung cancer surgeries, and the spectrum of post-surgical complications and their respective imaging findings to avoid misinterpretations or delay in diagnosis. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever327 | Epidemiologists of the Future: Data Collectors or Scientists?
Epidemiology is the study of epidemics. It is a biological science that includes expertise in many disciplines in social and behavioral sciences. Epidemiology is also a key component of preventive medicine and public health. Unfortunately, over recent years, academic epidemiology has lost its relationship with preventive medicine, as well as much of its focus on epidemics. The new "-omics" technologies to measure risk factors and phenotypes, and advances in genomics (e.g., host susceptibility) consistent with good epidemiology methods will likely enhance epidemiology research. There is a need based on these new technologies to modify training, especially for the first-level doctorate epidemiologist. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever328 | The use of surfactants in 2009.
Surfactant replacement therapy has been available for about 25 years, revolutionising neonatal respiratory care after its introduction in the 1980s. Along with antenatal steroids, surfactants improve survival for preterm babies and they are now recommended routinely as early in the course of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) as possible. Prophylactic treatment, although appearing ideal, exposes some babies who might manage perfectly well on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to intubation and ventilation, which may increase the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Recent studies attempt to determine the optimal balance between avoiding ventilation by using CPAP and giving surfactant in a timely fashion to babies with RDS. Surfactants are also used for conditions other than RDS, such as meconium aspiration, pulmonary haemorrhage and pneumonia, although the evidence base for their use in these indications is much weaker. Recently, surfactants have been used to deliver steroids directly to the lungs and this seems to be a promising technique worthy of further study. Finally, the quest goes on to develop a synthetic product that can match the effects of animal derived natural surfactants and could be produced at lower cost. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever329 | An evaluation of a local clinical supervision scheme for practice nurses.
This paper presents the findings of an evaluation of a local clinical supervision scheme for practice nurses in Leicestershire, UK. A baseline and a follow-up postal questionnaire were sent to all practice nurses (including supervisors) and general practice senior partners to find out how far the objectives of the local scheme had been met during the first year of implementation. Two focus groups gathered qualitative data about the process of implementation. Twelve months after implementation 12% of practice nurses and over two thirds of GPs reported that they were unaware of the scheme. Forty-three percent of practice nurses did not know who their local supervisor was; most reported that they would like to have known. Eighteen percent of practice nurses reported uptake of supervision through the local scheme. The benefits of involvement were professional development tailored to individual learning needs and regular opportunities to share work-related problems with peers; about a third reported benefits for the practice as well. The existing availability of peer support and time needed to undertake clinical supervision were common reasons given for non-involvement in the scheme. Misconceptions about the purpose of clinical supervision presented further obstacles. At follow-up over half of the practice nurses remained undecided about their future involvement in the scheme. If the benefits associated with clinical supervision are to be realized, the obstacles that currrently hinder practice nurses' involvement need addressing. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever330 | Coordination of xylem hydraulics and stomatal regulation in keeping the integrity of xylem water transport in shoots of two compound-leaved tree species.
Hydraulic segmentation between proximal and distal organs has been hypothesized to be an important protective mechanism for plants to minimize the detrimental effects of drought-induced hydraulic failure. Uncertainties still exist regarding the degree of segmentation and the role of stomatal regulation in keeping hydraulic integrity of organs at different hierarchies. In the present study, we measured hydraulic conductivity and vulnerability in stems, compound leaf petioles and leaflet laminas of Fraxinus mandshurica Rupr. and Juglans mandshurica Maxim. growing in Changbai Mountain of Northeast China to identify the main locality where hydraulic segmentation occurs along the shoot water transport pathway. Stomatal conductance in response to leaf water potential change was also measured to investigate the role of stomatal regulation in avoiding extensive transpiration-induced embolism. No major contrasts were found between stems and compound leaf petioles in either hydraulic conductivity or vulnerability to drought-induced embolism, whereas a large difference in hydraulic vulnerability exists between compound leaf petioles and leaflet laminas. Furthermore, in contrast to the relatively large safety margins in stems (4.13 and 2.04 MPa) and compound leaf petioles (1.33 and 1.93 MPa), leaflet lamina hydraulic systems have substantially smaller or even negative safety margins (-0.17 and 0.47 MPa) in F. mandshurica and J. mandshurica. Under unstressed water conditions, gas exchange may be better optimized by allowing leaflet vascular system function with small safety margins. In the meantime, hydraulic safety of compound leaf petioles and stems are guaranteed by their large safety margins. In facing severe drought stress, larger safety margins in stems than in compound leaf petioles would allow plants to minimize the risk of catastrophic embolism in stems by sacrificing the whole compound leaves. A strong coordination between hydraulic and stomatal regulation appears to play a critical role in balancing the competing efficiency and safety requirements for xylem water transport and use in plants. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever331 | Duration of renal failure as risk factor for conjunctival squamous metaplasia.
OBJECTIVE
To assess ocular surface changes in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), to compare the results with the duration of illness.
STUDY DESIGN
Impression cytology from 48 patients with CRF on regular hemodialysis and 16 age- and sex-matched control subjects were studied. Specimens were taken from the temporal bulbar conjunctiva using cellulose acetate filter paper.
RESULTS
Among the patients with CRF who were ill for 0-10 years, 25 patients (78.1%) disclosed grade 0-1, and 7 patients (21.9%) disclosed grade 2-3 cytologic changes, whereas in those with the duration of CRF > 10 years, 9 patients (56.2%) had grade 0-1 and 7 patients (43.8%) had grade 2-3 changes. Specimens from the control group revealed 93.8% grade 0-1 and 6.2% grade 2-3 changes (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSION
The ocular surfaces of patients with CRF differ significantly from those of normal individuals, and the severity of conjunctival changes is related to the duration of CRF. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever332 | Effect of referral pattern and histopathology grade on surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps.
BACKGROUND AND AIMS
The incidence of surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps is rising. The aims of this study were to evaluate referral patterns to surgery for nonmalignant polyps, to compare outcomes between surgery and endoscopic resection (ER), and to identify factors associated with surgery in a university-based, tertiary care center.
METHODS
Patients referred to colorectal surgery (CRS) for nonmalignant colorectal polyps between 2014 and 2019 were selected from the institution's integrated data repository. Clinical characteristics were obtained through chart review. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with surgery for nonmalignant polyps.
RESULTS
Six hundred sixty-four patients with colorectal lesions were referred to CRS, of which 315 were for nonmalignant polyps. Most referrals (69%) came from gastroenterologists. Of the 315 cases, 136 underwent surgery and 117 were referred for attempt at ER. Complete ER was achieved in 87.2% (n = 102), with polyp recurrence in 27.2% at a median of 14 months (range, 0-72). When compared with surgery, ER was associated with a lower hospitalization rate (22.2% vs 95.6%; P < .0001), shorter hospital stay (mean, .5 ± .9 vs 2.23 ± 1 days; P < .0001), and fewer adverse events (5.9% vs 22.8%; P = .0002). Intramucosal adenocarcinoma on baseline pathology (odds ratio, 5.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-28.2) and referrals by academic gastroenterologists (odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-5.72) were associated with a higher likelihood of surgery on multivariate analysis.
CONCLUSIONS
Gastroenterologists commonly refer nonmalignant colorectal polyps to surgery, even though ER is effective and associated with lower morbidity. Both referrals from academic gastroenterologists and baseline pathology of intramucosal adenocarcinoma were factors associated with surgery. All colorectal polyps should be evaluated in a multidisciplinary approach to identify lesions suitable for ER before embarking in surgery. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever333 | Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for mantle cell lymphoma-update of the prospective trials of the East German Study Group Hematology/Oncology (OSHO#60 and #74).
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with an often aggressive course, incurable by chemotherapy. Consolidation with high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (autoSCT) has a low transplant-related mortality but does not lead to a survival plateau. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is associated with a higher early mortality, but can cure MCL. To investigate alloSCT for therapy of MCL, we conducted two prospective trials for de novo MCL (OSHO#74) and for relapsed or refractory MCL (OSHO#60). Fifteen and 24 patients were recruited, respectively. Induction was mainly R-DHAP alternating with R-CHOP. Conditioning was either Busulfan/Cyclophosphamide or Treosulfan/Fludarabin. Either HLA-identical siblings or matched-unrelated donors with not more than one mismatch were allowed. ATG was mandatory in mismatched or unrelated transplantation. Progression-free survival (PFS) was 62% and overall survival (OS) was 68% after 16.5-year follow-up. Significant differences in PFS and OS between both trials were not observed. Patients below 56 years and patients after myeloablative conditioning had a better outcome compared to patients of the corresponding groups. Nine patients have died between day +8 and 5.9 years after SCT. Data from 7 long-term surviving patients showed an excellent Quality-of-life (QoL) after alloSCT. AlloSCT for MCL delivers excellent long-term survival data. The early mortality is higher than after autoSCT; however, the survival curves after alloSCT indicate the curative potential of this therapy. AlloSCT is a standard of care for all feasible patients with refractory or relapsed MCL and should offer to selected patients with de novo MCL and a poor risk profile. For defining the position of alloSCT in the therapeutic algorithm of MCL therapy, a randomized comparison of autoSCT and alloSCT is mandatory. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever334 | Convergence spasm in conversion disorders: prevalence in psychogenic and other movement disorders compared with controls.
BACKGROUND
Convergence spasm refers to transient ocular convergence, miosis and accommodation associated with disconjugate gaze mimicking abducens palsy. While it may be a manifestation of brainstem pathology, this sign is often associated with conversion (somatisation) disorders and, if unrecognised as a sign of a psychogenic disorder, it may lead to unnecessary and occasionally invasive evaluation.
METHODS
To better characterise this neuro-ophthalmologic sign, 36 subjects were studied, 13 with psychogenic movement disorders, 11 with organic movement disorders and 12 normal controls. Patients were recorded during a manoeuvre to elicit convergence spasm and the videotapes were rated by two blinded raters on a scale of 0=normal, 1=mild convergence spasm and 2=marked convergence spasm.
RESULTS
Convergence spasm was present in 9/13 (69%) psychogenic movement disorders cases, 4/11 (36%) non-psychogenic movement disorders cases and 4/12 (33%) controls (p=0.049 when psychogenic vs non-psychogenic disorders or controls were compared). Inter-rater reliability analysis of the presence (rating 1 or 2) versus absence (rating 0) showed good agreement (27/36 or 75%; kappa 0.491, SE 0.141, p=0.002). Analysis for the presence of marked convergence spasm (rating 2) yielded agreement in 32/36 (88.9%) examinations (kappa 0.652, SE 0.154, p<0.001) with a specificity of 87% (sensitivity 15%).
CONCLUSION
Convergence spasm may provide benefit in the clinical examination of psychogenic movement disorders patients. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever335 | Association of low striatal dopamine d2 receptor availability with nicotine dependence similar to that seen with other drugs of abuse.
OBJECTIVE
All drugs of abuse induce a phasic dopamine release within the striatum that does not undergo habituation. Prolonged substance consumption impairs the natural function of the mesolimbic dopamine system, as shown by a decrease in the availability of striatal dopamine 2 (D(2)) receptors in patients suffering from cocaine, heroin, amphetamine, and alcohol dependence. However, it is unclear whether similar changes can also be observed in heavy-smoking nicotine-dependent smokers.
METHOD
In vivo D(2)/D(3) receptor availability was determined with [ (18)F]fallypride positron emission tomography in 17 heavy-smoking nicotine-dependent subjects and in 21 age-matched never-smoking comparison subjects. The smokers were scanned twice: first, during a period of usual consumption and second, 24 hours after smoking cessation.
RESULTS
Independent of the withdrawal status, the nicotine-dependent smokers displayed significantly less availability of D(2)/D(3) receptors within the bilateral putamen functionally covering parts of the dorsal striatum, as compared to the never-smoking subjects. Nicotine craving under the consumption condition correlated positively with D(2)/D(3) receptor availability within the ventral striatum but negatively with D(2)/D(3) receptor availability within the anterior cingulate and inferior temporal cortex.
CONCLUSIONS
Similar to other types of substance abuse, nicotine dependence is associated with low availability of dorsal striatal D(2)/D(3) receptors. In contrast to previous findings on abstinent alcohol-dependent patients, nicotine craving seems to be maintained by a region-specific shift in D(2)/D(3) receptor availabilities, with higher availability within the ventral striatum but lower availability within the anterior cingulate and inferior temporal cortex. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever336 | Improving cord blood unit quantity and quality at King Abdullah International Medical Research Center Cord Blood Bank.
BACKGROUND
Public cord blood banks (CBBs) store cord blood unit (CBU) donations for anyone in need. However, strict regulations need to be followed to build up high-quality bank products that can be used worldwide. We established a public CBB at a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. Here, we investigated the reasons behind rejecting or not collecting CBUs over 2 years (2011-2012) and which steps were implemented to improve the number and quality of storable units.
STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS
A total of 2891 mothers were evaluated. Reasons for rejecting donors, not collecting, and rejecting units before or after collection were analyzed and compared for the years 2011 and 2012.
RESULTS
A total of 1157 (40%) CBUs were not collected, mainly due to staff availability, and 564 (20%) CBUs were rejected. The main reason for rejecting donations was the mother's or neonate's health. Rejecting CBUs after collection was due to low volume. A total of 1170 (40%) CBUs were successfully collected for potential banking and sent for processing; however, 58% were rejected in the laboratory due to low total nucleated cell counts. Several changes were implemented during the 2 years including physician education and awareness, in utero collection, cesarean collection, and staff recruitment. These changes positively affected the numbers of our collected units. Out of the initially eligible mothers in 2011, only 17% were banked; this was increased to 33% in 2012.
CONCLUSIONS
We identified the problems with collecting CBUs for banking and will keep improving our selection process of recruiting more CBUs of high quality. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever337 | Fate of metals contained in waste electrical and electronic equipment in a municipal waste treatment process.
In Japan, waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) that is not covered by the recycling laws are treated as municipal solid waste. A part of common metals are recovered during the treatment; however, other metals are rarely recovered and their destinations are not clear. This study investigated the distribution ratios and substance flows of 55 metals contained in WEEE during municipal waste treatment using shredding and separation techniques at a Japanese municipal waste treatment plant. The results revealed that more than half of Cu and most of Al contained in WEEE end up in landfills or dissipate under the current municipal waste treatment system. Among the other metals contained in WEEE, at least 70% of the mass was distributed to the small-grain fraction through the shredding and separation and is to be landfilled. Most kinds of metals were concentrated several fold in the small-grain fraction through the process and therefore the small-grain fraction may be a next target for recovery of metals in terms of both metal content and amount. Separate collection and pre-sorting of small digital products can work as effective way for reducing precious metals and less common metals to be landfilled to some extent; however, much of the total masses of those metals would still end up in landfills and it is also important to consider how to recover and utilize metals contained in other WEEE such as audio/video equipment. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever338 | Effects of immobilization stress on renal sympathetic neurotransmission.
The effects immobilization stress on renal sympathetic neurotransmission as well as on heart, spleen and adrenal catecholamine content were examined in the rat. A single 2.5 hr stress period produced significant increases in blood pressure, heart rate, plasma norepinephrine and plasma epinephrine concentrations. However, no changes in renal catecholamine content or in stimulus-induced (1 Hz, 120 pulses, supramax. V) overflow of catecholamines were observed when the isolated perfused rat kidney was studied immediately after the 2.5 hr stress period. In contrast, the single stress period produced a 3-4 fold increase in cardiac epinephrine content while no effects on spleen or adrenal catecholamine content were observed. When stress was applied for 7 daily 2.5 hr periods, the repetition of the stress failed to produce any changes in renal neurotransmitter content or stimulus-induced overflow from the isolated perfused rat kidney. The data suggest that the accumulation of epinephrine into peripheral sympathetic nerves as a result of stress-induced adrenal catecholamine release is not a phenomenon which can be generalized to all regions of the cardiovascular system. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever339 | How I do it - selective amygdalohippocampectomy via a navigated temporobasal approach, when veins forbid elevation of the temporal lobe.
BACKGROUND
Selective amygdalohippocampectomy is an effective treatment option for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy associated with hippocampal sclerosis.
METHODS
To describe and emphasize potential pitfalls during selective amygdalohippocampectomy via a modified navigated temporobasal approach, in cases, where temporal basal veins hinder the required elevation of the temporal lobe.
CONCLUSIONS
Selective amygdalohippocampectomy via navigated temporobasal approach is a safe procedure that can reduce the rate of visual field deficits by avoiding damage of optic radiation. The option of a small subpial corticotomy of the inferior temporal gyrus allows sufficient elevation of the temporal lobe in cases with difficult basal venous anatomy. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever340 | Malignancy associated papillomaviruses and morphology of human bladder cancer.
Animal studies in rabbit and cattle have clearly demonstrated the contribution of host genetics, chemical carcinogens and immunosuppression to the conversion of papillomavirus induced benign regressing warts into malignant cancers. More significant is the role of vaccination both with whole tumour cell suspensions with whole virus and viral proteins, particularly L2 molecules, in causing progressing warts to regress. Early results in small scale studies of HPV16 E6/E7 vaccine in patients with cervical cancer have provided evidence that tumour regression can be induced in human papillomavirus induced tumours. These observations provided added impetus for more research to firm up the increasing, but still principally anecdotal, evidence that papillomaviruses may be involved in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer. Studies of carcinomas arising in cattle after BBV 4 infection show absence of fully infectious virus in the majority of tumours, though the tumours have persistent E7, E8 and LCR sequences. As this is all that is required for transformation, it may require in vitro molecular studies in human bladder cancer screening for such elements before final proof of involvement is confirmed. However, even before this is achieved, given the success in animal models of whole tumour cell vaccines, serious thought should be given to how to develop protocols for study of crude tumour cell vaccines in vivo. Such studies would need in vitro assays to seek evidence for specific antitumour immunity, focusing on studies of tumour infiltrating lymphocytes and their T cell receptor polymorphisms. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever341 | Development and evaluation of a patient education programme for children, adolescents, and young adults with differences of sex development (DSD) and their parents: study protocol of Empower-DSD.
BACKGROUND
Differences in sexual development (DSD) are rare diseases, which affect the chromosomal, anatomical or gonadal sex differentiation. Although patient education is recommended as essential in a holistic care approach, standardised programmes are still lacking. The present protocol describes the aims, study design and methods of the Empower-DSD project, which developed an age-adapted multidisciplinary education programme to improve the diagnosis-specific knowledge, skills and empowerment of patients and their parents.
METHODS
The new patient education programme was developed for children, adolescents and young adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome or XX-/or XY-DSD and their parents. The quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods include standardised questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and participatory observation. The main outcomes (assessed three and six months after the end of the programme) are health-related quality of life, disease burden, coping, and diagnosis-specific knowledge. The qualitative evaluation examines individual expectations and perceptions of the programme. The results of the quantitative and qualitative evaluation will be triangulated.
DISCUSSION
The study Empower-DSD was designed to reduce knowledge gaps regarding the feasibility, acceptance and effects of standardised patient education programmes for children and youth with DSD and their parents. A modular structured patient education programme with four generic and three diagnosis-specific modules based on the ModuS concept previously established for other chronic diseases was developed. The topics, learning objectives and recommended teaching methods are summarised in the structured curricula, one for each diagnosis and age group. At five study centres, 56 trainers were qualified for the implementation of the training programmes. A total of 336 subjects have been already enrolled in the study. The recruitment will go on until August 2022, the last follow-up survey is scheduled for February 2023. The results will help improve multidisciplinary and integrated care for children and youth with DSD and their families.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00023096 . Registered 8 October 2020 - Retrospectively registered. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever342 | [Clinical usefulness and limits of type & screen system].
Type & Screen (T & S) is a blood transfusion system devised, with the aims of reducing medical expenses, making effective use of blood preparations for surgery and saving labor in blood examination work. For T & S to be used, the technical support of a blood test technologist is required. The staff of transfusion services should make arrangements with anesthetists and surgeons to obtain a good understanding of T & S. The blood transfusion rate and the amount of blood prepared for patients should be reviewed periodically. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever343 | [Stickler's syndrome--an underdiagnosed condition?].
BACKGROUND
Stickler's syndrome is an autosomal dominantly inherited connective tissue disorder characterised by ocular, orofacial, skeletal and auditory features. The estimated prevalence is 1:10,000.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
We present a girl with the salient features of Stickler syndrome. Based on a literature search on Medline, we present an overview of this disorder.
RESULTS
The patient presented at birth with Pierre Robin sequence and bilateral exophtalmus. Serial ophthalmological investigations have revealed a non-progressive myopia of high degree and abnormalities of the vitreous gel architecture. From the age of three, she had joint hypermobility and joint pain. Her intelligence is normal, but she requires speech therapy because of problems with articulation.
INTERPRETATION
Recent research has provided a better understanding of the molecular genetic background of this condition. According to mutations in three genes encoding type II- and/or type XI-collagen, Stickler's syndrome can be subclassified into type 1, 2 and 3, but there is a considerable clinical overlap in symptoms. Patients with mild symptoms may be undiagnosed. Once the diagnosis is established, a coordinated multidisciplinary follow-up approach is recommended. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever344 | Dynamic shapes of floppy vesicles enclosing active Brownian particles with membrane adhesion.
Recent advances in micro- and nano-technologies allow the construction of complex active systems from biological and synthetic materials. An interesting example is active vesicles, which consist of a membrane enclosing self-propelled particles, and exhibit several features resembling biological cells. We investigate numerically the behavior of active vesicles, where the enclosed self-propelled particles can adhere to the membrane. A vesicle is represented by a dynamically triangulated membrane, while the adhesive active particles are modelled as active Brownian particles (ABPs) that interact with the membrane via the Lennard-Jones potential. Phase diagrams of dynamic vesicle shapes as a function of ABP activity and particle volume fraction inside the vesicle are constructed for different strengths of adhesive interactions. At low ABP activity, adhesive interactions dominate over the propulsion forces, such that the vesicle attains near static configurations, with protrusions of membrane-wrapped ABPs having ring-like and sheet-like structures. At moderate particle densities and strong enough activities, active vesicles show dynamic highly-branched tethers filled with string-like arrangements of ABPs, which do not occur in the absence of particle adhesion to the membrane. At large volume fractions of ABPs, vesicles fluctuate for moderate particle activities, and elongate and finally split into two vesicles for large ABP propulsion strengths. We also analyze membrane tension, active fluctuations, and ABP characteristics (e.g., mobility, clustering), and compare them to the case of active vesicles with non-adhesive ABPs. The adhesion of ABPs to the membrane significantly alters the behavior of active vesicles, and provides an additional parameter for controlling their behavior. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever345 | Aporphines. 25-trimethylislyl derivatives of N-methyl and N-propyl aporphines: gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric properties.
A series of synthetic, semisynthetic and naturally occurring aporphine alkaloids were converted to the O-trimethylsilyl derivatives, and analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. A discussion of structurally informative fragment ions along with gas chromatographic data is presented. Their applicability to the analysis of biological metabolites of apomorphine, a CNS active structural analog of dopamine, is discussed. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever346 | Sleep Patterns and Alertness in an Elite Super Rugby Team During a Game Week.
Sleep is a vital component of preparation, performance and recovery for a Super Rugby game. The purpose of this study was to quantify sleep behaviours and alertness of professional rugby union players during training and a game. Thirty-six rugby union players from a Super Rugby team wore a wrist-activity device (Readiband™) to measure sleep for 3 days before, 3 days after and on the night of an evening game. Players were separated into those selected to play the game (n = 23) and those who were not (n = 13). Alertness was assessed for all training and game times using bio-mathematical modelling. Alertness measures ≤90% were considered to reflect impaired reaction time. Those selected to play in the game progressively increased sleep duration over the nights prior to the game (by 92 min p ≤ 0.05) by delaying wake time. Players went to bed later after the game (02:20 ± 114 min vs 22:57 ± 60 min; p ≤ 0.001) which resulted in decreased sleep duration on game night compared to pre-game nights (296 ± 179 min vs 459 ± 78 min; p ≤ 0.05). Four players did not achieve any sleep on game night. Sleep duration appeared to be truncated by early morning training sessions (before 08:00) on the second and third mornings after the game. Alertness was >90% for all training and game times for all players. In conclusion, in the days leading into a Super Rugby game, players delay morning time at wake and consequently increase sleep duration with post-game sleep reduced in some. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever347 | Chaetotaxy of Psilotrema spiculigerum (Mühling, 1898) Odhner, 1913 (Trematoda: Psilostomatidae) cercariae.
The chaetotaxy of P. spiculigerum mature cercariae was studied. Unlike from the known in the literature up to now, the chaetotaxy of the cercariae was complemented as follows: a - the number and arrangement of the papillae on the dorsal, ventral and lateral surface of the body were first described; b - the arrangement of the papillae on the cephalic region and tail was corrected. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever348 | Effect of Antigen Retrieval Methods on Nonspecific Binding of Antibody-Metal Nanoparticle Conjugates on Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Tissue.
Immunohistochemical analysis of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues provides important diagnostic and prognostic information in pathology. Metal nanoparticles (NPs) and, in particular, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanotags as a new class of labeling reagents are promising to be used for multiplexed protein profiling on tissue sections. However, nonspecific binding of NPs onto the tissue specimens greatly hampers their clinical applications. In this study, we found that the antigen retrieval method strongly influences the extent of nonspecific binding of the antibody-SERS NP conjugates to the tissue. Our SERS labels comprised ca. 70 nm Au nanostars coated with ethylene glycol-modified Raman reporter molecules for hydrophilic stabilization and subsequent covalent bioconjugation to antibodies. We systematically investigated the influence of heat- and protease-induced epitope retrieval (HIER and PIER, respectively) on the immunostaining quality of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) on human prostate tissue sections. The best staining results were obtained with PIER. Pretreatment of the tissue sections by HIER led to selective but nonspecific adsorption of the antibody-Au nanostar conjugates onto epithelial cells, while enzymatic treatment within PIER did not. In addition to gold nanostars, also other types of metal NPs with different shapes and sizes (including ca. 20 nm quasi-spherical Au NPs and ca. 60 nm quasi-spherical Au/Ag nanoshells) as well as tissue sections from different organs (including prostate and breast) were tested; in each case the same tendency was observed, i.e., PIER yielded better results than HIER. Therefore, we recommend PIER for future NP-based tissue immunostaining such as immuno-SERS microscopy. Alternatively, for antigens that can only be unmasked by heating, PEGylation of the NPs is recommended to avoid nonspecific binding. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever349 | Yeast Golden Gate (yGG) for the Efficient Assembly of S. cerevisiae Transcription Units.
We have adapted the Golden Gate DNA assembly method to the assembly of transcription units (TUs) for the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in a method we call yeast Golden Gate (yGG). yGG allows for the easy assembly of TUs consisting of promoters (PRO), coding sequences (CDS), and terminators (TER). Carefully designed overhangs exposed by digestion with a type IIS restriction enzyme enable virtually seamless assembly of TUs that, in principle, contain all of the information necessary to express a gene of interest in yeast. We also describe a versatile set of yGG acceptor vectors to be used for TU assembly. These vectors can be used for low or high copy expression of assembled TUs or integration into carefully selected innocuous genomic loci. yGG provides synthetic biologists and yeast geneticists with an efficient new means by which to engineer S. cerevisiae. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever350 | [Work disability--a problem of many dimensions. Careful analysis can facilitate understanding].
Discrepancies between patients' and medical doctors' perceptions of disability as a result of illness and impaired function, respectively, is common in clinical practice. The evaluation of chronic pain is complicated, especially in a transcultural context. A multi-dimensional diagnostic schedule used at a health care center in a multiethnic community is discussed here. It encompasses somatic and psychiatric health, psychosocial pressure, social adaptation, pain communication, attitudes toward pain, and current place of employment. This schedule is used by two primary care physicians who assess patients' ability to participate in work and the extent to which their ability might be reduced. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever351 | Increased neutrophil mediator release in patients with pulmonary hypertension--suppression by inhaled iloprost.
Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) have been implicated in various vascular inflammatory processes. We isolated PMN from venous blood samples of 10 patients with severe primary pulmonary arterial hypertension (PPH), 7 patients with pulmonary hypertension secondary to chronic thromboembolism (CTEPH), and 12 healthy controls. When stimulated with the calcium-ionophore A23187, platelet activating factor (PAF) or the microbial agent n-formyl-Methionyl-Leucyl-Phenylalanine (fMLP), significantly increased release of elastase and superoxide anion was noted in both groups with pulmonary hypertension. Moreover, the neutrophils of CTEPH patients responded with an enhanced liberation of leukotriene (LT) B(4) and 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE). Inhalation of aerosolized iloprost (5 microg) caused a rapid decline in pulmonary vascular resistance, in both PPH and CTEPH. This hemodynamic response was paralleled by a significant suppression of ionophore- and ligand-induced elastase and superoxide release, as well as LTB(4) and 5-HETE formation. The neutrophil inhibitory effect of the inhalation maneuver was fully reproduced by in vitro incubation of neutrophils with 1-10 pg/ml iloprost for 2 hours. This is the first study to demonstrate that circulating neutrophils from patients with PPH and CTEPH possess an enhanced readiness to respond with inflammatory mediator generation to different stimulatory agents ex-vivo, and that PMN respiratory burst, elastase secretion and leukotriene generation are promptly reduced by an iloprost inhalation maneuver. Neutrophils might participate in the inflammatory processes in pulmonary arterial hypertension. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever352 | COVID-19 epidemic peaks distribution in the United-States of America, from epidemiological modeling to public health policies.
COVID-19 prediction models are characterized by uncertainties due to fluctuating parameters, such as changes in infection or recovery rates. While deterministic models often predict epidemic peaks too early, incorporating these fluctuations into the SIR model can provide a more accurate representation of peak timing. Predicting R0, the basic reproduction number, remains a major challenge with significant implications for government policy and strategy. In this study, we propose a tool for policy makers to show the effects of possible fluctuations in policy strategies on different R0 levels. Results show that epidemic peaks in the United States occur at varying dates, up to 50, 87, and 82 days from the beginning of the second, third, and fourth waves. Our findings suggest that inaccurate predictions and public health policies may result from underestimating fluctuations in infection or recovery rates. Therefore, incorporating fluctuations into SIR models should be considered when predicting epidemic peak times to inform appropriate public health responses. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever353 | [Pharmacokinetics and disposition of vinpocetine in rats].
A reverse-phase HPLC method for determination of vinpocetine in biological samples was developed. The method was simple, highly specific and accurate. After i.v. administration of vinpocetine in rats, the plasma concentration-time curves of vinpocetine was found to be fitted to a two-compartment open model. Dosing 5 and 10 mg.kg-1 vinpocetine in rats, the elimination of the drug from plasma accorded with linear kinetics and the elimination half-lives were shown to be 1.76 +/- 0.27 h. The volumes of distribution were 7.30 +/- 0.49 L.kg-1 (5 mg.kg-1) and 6.07 +/- 0.67 L.kg-1 (10 mg.kg-1) respectively. The drug levels were high in the lung, spleen, liver and kidney, moderate in brain, fat and testis and low in heart, muscle and blood. Our results demonstrate that vinpocetine was eliminated in a rapid rate and distributed widely in the body. The bioavailability of vinpocetine after ig administration was 54.54% in rats. A small amount of unchanged vinpocetine was detected in urine, feces and bile after i.v. and ig administration. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever354 | Differential Spo0A-mediated effects on transcription and replication of the related Bacillus subtilis phages Nf and phi29 explain their different behaviours in vivo.
Members of groups 1 (e.g. 29) and 2 (e.g. Nf) of the 29 family of phages infect the spore forming bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Although classified as lytic phages, the lytic cycle of 29 can be suppressed and its genome can become entrapped into the B. subtilis spore. This constitutes an alternative infection strategy that depends on the presence of binding sites for the host-encoded protein Spo0A in the 29 genome. Binding of Spo0A to these sites represses 29 transcription and prevents initiation of DNA replication. Although the Nf genome can also become trapped into B. subtilis spores, in vivo studies showed that its lytic cycle is less susceptible to spo0A-mediated suppression than that of 29. Here we have analysed the molecular mechanism underlying this difference showing that Spo0A differently affects transcription and replication initiation of the genomes of these phages. Thus, whereas Spo0A represses all three main early promoters of 29, it only represses one out of the three equivalent early promoters of Nf. In addition, contrary to 29, Spo0A does not prevent the in vitro initiation of Nf DNA replication. Altogether, the differences in Spo0A-mediated regulation of transcription and replication between 29 and Nf explain their different behaviours in vivo. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever355 | Tufts PACE Clinical Predictive Model Registry: update 1990 through 2015.
BACKGROUND
Clinical predictive models (CPMs) estimate the probability of clinical outcomes and hold the potential to improve decision-making and individualize care. The Tufts Predictive Analytics and Comparative Effectiveness (PACE) CPM Registry is a comprehensive database of cardiovascular disease (CVD) CPMs. The Registry was last updated in 2012, and there continues to be substantial growth in the number of available CPMs.
METHODS
We updated a systematic review of CPMs for CVD to include articles published from January 1990 to March 2015. CVD includes coronary artery disease (CAD), congestive heart failure (CHF), arrhythmias, stroke, venous thromboembolism (VTE), and peripheral vascular disease (PVD). The updated Registry characterizes CPMs based on population under study, model performance, covariates, and predicted outcomes.
RESULTS
The Registry includes 747 articles presenting 1083 models, including both prognostic (n = 1060) and diagnostic (n = 23) CPMs representing 183 distinct index condition/outcome pairs. There was a threefold increase in the number of CPMs published between 2005 and 2014, compared to the prior 10-year interval from 1995 to 2004. The majority of CPMs were derived from either North American (n = 455, 42%) or European (n = 344, 32%) populations. The database contains 265 CPMs predicting outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease, 196 CPMs for population samples at risk for incident CVD, and 158 models for patients with stroke. Approximately two thirds (n = 701, 65%) of CPMs report a c-statistic, with a median reported c-statistic of 0.77 (IQR, 0.05). Of the CPMs reporting validations, only 333 (57%) report some measure of model calibration. Reporting of discrimination but not calibration is improving over time (p for trend < 0.0001 and 0.39 respectively).
CONCLUSIONS
There is substantial redundancy of CPMs for a wide spectrum of CVD conditions. While the number of CPMs continues to increase, model performance is often inadequately reported and calibration is infrequently assessed. More work is needed to understand the potential impact of this literature. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever356 | Amygdala kindling decreases insulin-like growth factor-I receptor binding sites in the rat hippocampus.
The neural excitability characteristic of kindling has been linked to structural alterations such as mossy fiber sprouting and synaptic reorganization within the hippocampus. Recent evidence suggests that growth factors may play a key role in kindling-related synaptic plasticity. Insulin-like growth factors-I and -II (IGF-I/-II) and insulin are structurally-related pleiotropic growth factors known to be involved in neural growth and differentiation. In the present study, we investigated the effect of kindling on [125I]IGF-I, [125I]IGF-II and [125I]insulin receptor binding in the hippocampus of adult rats. Our results indicate a progressive decrease in [125I]IGF-I (but not [125I]IGF-II or [125I]insulin) binding sites in the CA1, hilus and the granule cell layer of the kindled rats compared to sham-stimulated rats. These results, in keeping with the established neurotrophic effects of IGF-I, suggest a potential role for this growth factor in mediating the structural alterations associated with kindling. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever357 | Cost-effectiveness analysis of fractional flow reserve versus angiography among patients with coronary artery disease undergoing borderline coronary lesions treatment in Iran.
BACKGROUND
The present study aimed to examine the cost-effectiveness of fractional flow reserve (FFR) versus angiography in treating borderline coronary lesions in patients with coronary artery stenosis in Iran. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, readmission and the most important cause of disability in many countries, including Iran.
METHODS
This was a cost-effectiveness study conducted from the perspective of the Ministry of Health in 2019. The effectiveness was determined using four indicators: Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs), major adverse cardiac events (MACE), angina, and number of used stents (mean). Only direct medical costs (DMC) were estimated. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of FFR versus angiography, A decision tree model was built by patient's level data.To coping with uncertainty Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) was performed.
RESULTS
Totally, 98 cases of FFR and 238 cases of angiography were included in the analysis. The average of QALY in FFR and angiography were 0.853 and 0.787, respectively. The cost of these methods were $6128 and $8388, correspondingly. Therefore, FFR was dominant compared to angiography. Results of the scatter plots and acceptability curve showed that FFR was more cost-effective than angiography in 94% and 96% of simulations for a threshold lower than $11,000 PPP. The PSA analysis confirmed the robustness of the study results.
CONCLUSION
The results indicated that FFR was more cost-effective than angiography in the cases studied in Iran. Consequently, FFR can be used as a high-priority diagnostic method and it is recommendable to be included in insurance coverage. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever358 | Stable sub-85 fs passively mode-locked Erbiumfiber oscillator with tunable repetition rate.
We present a sub-85 fs self-starting stretched-pulse passively mode-locked Erbium-fiber oscillator in a sigma setup with tunable repetition rate. The sigma cavity included a movable mirror enabling a tunable pulse repetition rate variation of +/- 1 % from 55.3 MHz to 56.4 MHz with continuous, uninterrupted mode-locked operation and an output power around 14 mW. Based on the wide tuning range of the repetition rate the presented fiber oscillator is a suitable candidate for applications in femtosecond spectroscopy or precision metrology around 1.56 microm. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever359 | Quantification of the Leydig cell compartment in testicular biopsies and association with biochemical Leydig cell dysfunction in testicular cancer survivors.
A simple histological method to evaluate the Leydig cell compartment is lacking. We aimed to establish such a method and to investigate if Leydig cell hyperplasia of the biopsy contralateral to the tumour-bearing testicle in patients with testicular germ cell cancer is associated with biochemical signs of Leydig cell dysfunction after long-term follow-up. A case group of 50 long-term testicular germ cell cancer survivors without human chorionic gonadotropin elevation, 10 testicular germ cell cancer patients with elevated human chorionic gonadotropin and 10 controls without testicular malignancy were included. For each subject, 2-4 representative sections from their testicular biopsies were selected for analysis. Using the image processing program ImageJ (V.1.48, NIH), an area with a minimum of 50 tubules was selected and delineated (total selected area) and the total Leydig cell area was calculated by adding up every delineated Leydig cell group within the total selected area. Four different methods were tested for the ability to quantify the Leydig cell compartment. In the 50 testicular germ cell cancer survivors, associations between the area of the Leydig cell compartment and serum levels of testosterone and luteinising hormone were investigated using linear regression analysis. The Leydig cell compartment was best quantified by the total Leydig cell area/total selected area index, which was significantly larger in the human chorionic gonadotropin-positive patients than in controls (P = 0.00001). In the 50 human chorionic gonadotropin-negative testicular germ cell cancer survivors, increasing total Leydig cell area/total selected area was significantly associated with decreased levels of total testosterone and decreased total testosterone/luteinising hormone ratio after a median of 9-year follow-up. In conclusion, a new simple method, total Leydig cell area/total selected area, was established to estimate the Leydig cell compartment in testicular biopsies. The index identified Leydig cell hyperplasia in the contralateral biopsy in patients with testicular germ cell cancer, and it was associated with long-term biochemical Leydig cell dysfunction. Although in testicular germ cell cancer survivors, the clinical value is limited because the contralateral biopsies are not commonly available, we propose a closer andrological follow-up in any patient with an increased total Leydig cell area/total selected area index. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever360 | History of pulmonary critical care nursing and where we are going.
Pulmonary critical care nurses have played a prominent role in the ICUs from the inception of critical care units. This article describes how the history of pulmonary critical care nursing has evolved and discusses a few of the challenges in the years to come: stress imposed by working in a critical care environment, enhancing the care of patients by altering patterns of sedation and promoting early mobilization, and dealing with increasing infection rates. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever361 | Therapeutic approaches targeting renin-angiotensin system in sepsis and its complications.
Sepsis, caused by the inappropriate host response to infection, is characterized by excessive inflammatory response and organ dysfunction, thus becomes a critical clinical problem. Commonly, sepsis may progress to septic shock and severe complications, including acute kidney injury (AKI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction (SIMD), liver dysfunction, cerebral dysfunction, and skeletal muscle atrophy, which predominantly contribute to high mortality. Additionally, the global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) raised the concern of development of effectve therapeutic strategies for viral sepsis. Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may represent as a potent therapeutic target for sepsis therapy. The emerging role of RAS in the pathogenesis of sepsis has been investigated and several preclinical and clinical trials targeting RAS for sepsis treatment revealed promising outcomes. Herein, we attempt to review the effects and mechanisms of RAS manipulation on sepsis and its complications and provide new insights into optimizing RAS interventions for sepsis treatment. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever362 | Fat talks, liver and muscle listen.
Fat metabolism and glucose homeostasis are processes that are highly interconnected. Cao et al. (2008) now take this concept a step further by identifying a fatty acid metabolite generated in adipose tissue that regulates insulin sensitivity in liver and muscle. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever363 | Deficient interleukin-2 responsiveness of T lymphocytes from patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.
There is increasing evidence that primary biliary cirrhosis is associated with an alteration of the immune system. Although the cause remains unknown, it has been suggested that the immune system of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis is involved in the pathogenesis of their disease. We have investigated the T-cell function in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis and have found defective phytohemagglutinin-induced T-cell mitogenesis. Likewise, their blastogenic response to CD3 monoclonal antibody was also depressed, although the DNA synthesis induced by stimulation with phorbol esters (12-O-tetradecanoil-phorbol-13-acetate) plus ionophore (ionomycin) was normal. These alterations could not be ascribed either to a decreased synthesis of interleukin-2 or to a defective expression of interleukin-2 receptor after cellular activation. Moreover, this defective proliferative response of T lymphocytes was observed even in the presence of saturating concentrations of exogenous interleukin-2. These results represent evidence of the deficiency in the interleukin-2-dependent pathway found in T lymphocytes from patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever364 | [Treatment with cyclosporine of severe colitis in hemorrhagic rectocolitis. Apropos of 7 cases].
Cyclosporin has been suggested as an alternative treatment in severe acute ulcerative colitis. In a retrospective study, the outcome of seven ulcerative colitis patients treated by intravenous cyclosporin (mean dose 3.6 mg/kg/day) has been evaluated. Short-term results indicated full remission in 3/7 (43%) patients. At long term follow-up (one year), only 2/7 patients could avoid ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Two complications (one colonic perforation and one septicemia) were observed. Our results suggest that intravenous cyclosporin should not be recommended as a standard therapy in severe acute ulcerative colitis. Its use has to be limited in patients presenting a major contraindication for surgery and has to be performed by those experienced in both immunosuppressive treatment and inflammatory bowel disease. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever365 | [Current status of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy].
Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy has become an established standard procedure for the treatment of nephrolithiasis. Almost 100 lithotripters are installed in large and medium-sized urological departments in Germany. The number of treatments per year averages 660 ESWL sessions per hospital. Multifunctional use and non-urological ESWL therapy ensure maximum utilization of the lithotripter units. In additional hospitals mobile lithotripsy is provided. At present there is a trend toward ambulatory ESWL treatment. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever366 | Chitosan hydrogel-loaded MSC-derived extracellular vesicles promote skin rejuvenation by ameliorating the senescence of dermal fibroblasts.
BACKGROUND
The senescence of dermal fibroblasts (DFLs) leads to an imbalance in the synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, presenting so-called senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which ultimately leads to skin aging. Recently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as a promising cell-free therapy for degenerative diseases, which opens a new avenue for skin aging treatment.
METHODS
In this study, we utilized chitosan (CS) hydrogel for effective loading and sustained release of EVs. In vitro, we explored the rejuvenation effects of CS hydrogel-incorporated EVs (CS-EVs) on replicative senescence DFLs through a series of experiments such as senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining, RT-PCR, and Western blot analysis. Besides, we employed local multi-site subcutaneous injection to treat skin aging of naturally aged mice with CS-EVs and DiI fluorescent dye was used to label EVs to achieve in vivo real-time tracking.
RESULTS
CS-EVs can significantly improve the biological functions of senescent fibroblasts, including promoting their proliferation, enhancing the synthesis of ECM proteins, and inhibiting the overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Moreover, CS hydrogel could prolong the release of EVs and significantly increase the retention of EVs in vivo. After CS-EVs subcutaneous injection treatment, the aging skin tissues showed a rejuvenation state, manifested explicitly as the enhanced expression of collagen, the decreased expression of SASP-related factors, and the restoration of tissue structures.
CONCLUSIONS
CS hydrogel-encapsulated EVs could delay the skin aging processes by ameliorating the function of aging DFLs. Our results also highlight the potential of CS hydrogel-encapsulated EVs as a novel therapeutic strategy for improving aging skin to rejuvenation. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever367 | Ultrasensitive colorimetric detection of Cu2+ using gold nanorods.
We utilized Cu(2+) induced gold nanorod shortening in the presence of Na2S2O3 and NH3 for colorimetric sensing of copper ions. Compared with conventional methods, this method has good reproducibility, fast response time and very high sensitivity to Cu(2+). The sensor has a large dynamic range for Cu(2+) covering 5 nM to 500 mM with a detection limit of 1.6 nM, which is lower than previously reported for the colorimetric detection of copper ions. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever368 | Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to stroke in Ghana and Nigeria: A SIREN call to action.
INTRODUCTION
Stroke is a prominent cause of death, disability, and dementia in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The Stroke Investigative Research and Education Network works collaboratively with stroke survivors and individuals serving as community controls to comprehensively characterize the genomic, sociocultural, economic and behavioral risk factors for stroke in SSA.
PURPOSE
In this paper, we aim to: i) explore the attitudes, beliefs, and practices related to stroke in Ghana and Nigeria using the process of qualitative description; and ii) propose actions for future research and community-based participation and education.
METHODS
Stroke survivors, their caregivers, health care professionals, and community representatives and faith-based leaders participated in one of twenty-six focus groups, which qualitatively explored community beliefs, attitudes and practices related to stroke in Ghana and Nigeria. Arthur Kleinman's Explanatory Model of Illness and the Social Ecological Model guided the questions and/or thematic analysis of the qualitative data. We hereby describe our focus group methods and analyses of qualitative data, as well as the findings and suggestions for improving stroke outcomes.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The major findings illustrate the fears, causes, chief problems, treatment, and recommendations related to stroke through the views of the participants, as well as recommendations for working effectively with the SIREN communities. Findings are compared to SIREN quantitative data and other qualitative studies in Africa. As far as we are aware, this is the first paper to qualitatively explore and contrast community beliefs, attitudes, and practices among stroke survivors and their caregivers, community and faith-based leaders, and health professionals in multiple communities within Nigeria and Ghana. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever369 | De novo testicular tissue generation from non-testicular cell lines, biologic and synthetic scaffolds: Current findings and future translational applications.
In recent decades, reproductive science has revolutionized the options for biological parenthood for the 20-50% of infertility cases affected by male factors. However, current solutions exclude those who are infertile due to absent testicular tissue. This includes anorchic 46, XY individuals due to trauma or congenital factors and transgender men with a 46, XX genotype. There is a clinical need for methods to restore testicular function independent of pre-existing testicular tissue. This mini-review analyzes studies that have applied non-testicular cell lines to generate germline and non-germline testicular parenchymal components. While only 46, XY cell lines have been evaluated in this context to date, the potential for future application of cell lines from 46, XX individuals is also included. Additionally, the role of varied culture methods, media supplementation, and biologic and synthetic scaffolds to further support testicular parenchyma generation are critiqued. De novo testicular tissue generation in this manner will require a focus on both cellular and environmental aspects of tissue engineering. Put together, these studies highlight the future potential for expanded clinical, reproductive, and endocrine management options for individuals who are currently excluded from aspects of biologic reproduction most consistent with their gender identity and reproductive preferences. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever370 | Expression of hemoglobin variant migration by capillary electrophoresis relative to hemoglobin A2 improves precision.
We report the precision of the mean migration position of hemoglobin (Hb)S, HbC, HbG (Philadelphia), and HbD (Los Angeles) in 193 samples of whole blood assayed by capillary electrophoresis (CE) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). By expressing the migration of Hb variants by CE relative to that of HbA(2) in the same sample, there was a significant improvement in the coefficient of variation for each variant studied. The potential usefulness of expressing Hb variants relative to that of HbA(2) was evaluated by comparing the separation of 2 closely migrating Hbs. When expressed by their initial migrations on CE, 25 of the 43 cases of HbG and HbD overlapped. However, when the migrations of these variants were expressed relative to the HbA(2) in the same sample, the 24 cases of HbG separated completely from the 19 cases of HbD. These findings suggest that expressing Hb variants relative to an internal standard, such as HbA(2), may be of value for establishing a library of variant Hbs evaluated by CE. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever371 | Preserving self: from victim, to patient, to disabled person.
Open-ended, unstructured interviews were conducted with patients who had survived serious traumatic injury, and their experiences from impact to recovery analysed using grounded theory. A four-stage process of 'vigilance', 'disruption', 'enduring the self', and 'striving to regain the self' was delineated. The basic social psychological process of 'preserving self' explained the strategies used in each stage, and required deliberate action, focused energy and tremendous effort and will. The strategies used to preserve self changed in each stage of the model. At the beginning, when physical survival was in jeopardy, the strategies were primarily physical. Protecting self was a process of 'taking time out' and of shutting down, in the stage of disruption. In the stage of enduring the self, it was passively learning to 'take it' and to bear the treatments. Finally, in the stage of striving to regain the self, preserving the self was the work of regaining and redefining the self as a disabled person. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever372 | Current imaging and electromigration-induced splitting of GaN nanowires as revealed by conductive atomic force microscopy.
Current images of electromigration-induced common vapor-liquid-solid-grown GaN nanowires were obtained using a conductive atomic force microscope. Structural characterization indicated that these wurtzite (ZW) [0110] nanowires contained longitudinal zinc blende (ZB) defects as stacking faults. The current was attributed to tunneling current through the Schottky barrier between the AFM tip and a nanowire, which was dominated by the local nanowire surface work function. Due to the electromigration induced by large current densities around the defects, the axial splitting process of the nanowires was directly observed under continuous current scanning. The electromigration was likely enhanced by non-uniformly distributed electrostatic pressure around the axial ZW/ZB domain interfaces. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever373 | GM-CSF Administration Improves Defects in Innate Immunity and Sepsis Survival in Obese Diabetic Mice.
Sepsis is the leading cause of death in the intensive care unit with an overall mortality rate of 20%. Individuals who are obese and have type 2 diabetes have increased recurrent, chronic, nosocomial infections that worsen the long-term morbidity and mortality from sepsis. Additionally, animal models of sepsis have shown that obese, diabetic mice have lower survival rates compared with nondiabetic mice. Neutrophils are essential for eradication of bacteria, prevention of infectious complications, and sepsis survival. In diabetic states, there is a reduction in neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation; however, few studies have investigated the extent to which these deficits compromise infection eradication and mortality. Using a cecal ligation and puncture model of sepsis in lean and in diet-induced obese mice, we demonstrate that obese diabetic mice have decreased "emergency hematopoiesis" after an acute infection. Additionally, both neutrophils and monocytes in obese, diabetic mice have functional defects, with decreased phagocytic ability and a decreased capacity to generate ROS. Neutrophils isolated from obese diabetic mice have decreased transcripts of Axl and Mertk, which partially explains the phagocytic dysfunction. Furthermore, we found that exogenous GM-CSF administration improves sepsis survival through enhanced neutrophil and monocytes phagocytosis and ROS generation abilities in obese, diabetic mice with sepsis. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever374 | An intronic germline transition in the HNPCC gene hMSH2 is associated with sporadic colorectal cancer.
The aim of this study was to determine whether an intronic germline substitution in the hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) gene hMSH2 represents a genetic risk factor for sporadic CRC. Possible effects of this substitution were investigated by assessment of microsatellite instability and hMSH2 cDNA sequencing. Constitutional DNA from patients with sporadic CRC and healthy controls from the same region in Germany was analysed for the intronic germline T-->C transition six bases upstream of exon 13 of hMSH2. 29 of 106 patients (27%) were found to harbour the germline T-->C transition as opposed to only 13 of 125 controls (10%; P < 0.001; OR 3.2, CI 1.58-6.63). CRCs from patients with the substitution displayed neither clinical HNPCC-like features nor an increased rate of microsatellite instability. No abnormal cDNA sequence was found at the exon 12-13 border. These data suggest a 3.2-fold increased risk of sporadic CRC for individuals with the intronic hMSH2 transition. However, this substitution might not be pathogenic itself, but may be linked to a locus nearby that is. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever375 | A(3)Tt(5) phases Sr(3)Sn(5), Ba(3)Pb(5), and La(3)Sn(5). Structure and bonding in a series of isotypic metallic compounds with increased electron count and their comparison with the nominal zintl phase La(3)In(5).
A series of compounds that contain square pyramidal Tt(5) polyanions of tin and lead has been obtained in alkaline-earth or rare-earth metal-tetrel systems by direct fusion of the elements at 570 degrees C (Sr(3)Sn(5)), 1000 degrees C (Ba(3)Pb(5)), or 1300 degrees C (La(3)Sn(5)) followed by slow cooling or annealing. The crystal structures for all three have been refined in the Pu(3)Pd(5) structure type (orthorhombic, Cmcm, Z = 4) with cell dimensions of a = 10.644(2), 11.154(7), and 10.352(5) A, b = 8.588(1), 9.049(7), and 8.290(6) A, and c = 10.895(2), 11.370(5), and 10.652(5) A for Sr(3)Sn(5), Ba(3)Pb(5), and La(3)Sn(5), respectively. Square pyramidal clusters of the tetrel elements are weakly interlinked into chains via two types of longer intercluster interactions that are mediated by bridging cations and substantially influenced by cation size and the free electron count. The new compounds are all metallic (rho(295) approximately 10 (Sr(3)Sn(5)) to approximately 25 (La(3)Sn(5)) muOmega.cm), in agreement with simple valence considerations that predict two and five extra electrons per formula unit, respectively, beyond that necessary for closed-shell nido-Tt(5)(4)(-) anions. Extended Hückel tight-binding calculations on the new compounds as well as on La(3)In(5) reveal that bonding in the regions below and around the Fermi energies are dominated by general cation-anion interactions, that is, lattice covalency. Closed-shell bonding features for the classical Sn(5)(4)(-), In(5)(9)(-), etc. ions are also obvious but subsidiary to the heteroatomic interactions with the cations. The intercluster contacts are relatively unimportant in bonding. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever376 | Prediction of Effective Drug Combinations by an Improved Naïve Bayesian Algorithm.
Drug combinatorial therapy is a promising strategy for combating complex diseases due to its fewer side effects, lower toxicity and better efficacy. However, it is not feasible to determine all the effective drug combinations in the vast space of possible combinations given the increasing number of approved drugs in the market, since the experimental methods for identification of effective drug combinations are both labor- and time-consuming. In this study, we conducted systematic analysis of various types of features to characterize pairs of drugs. These features included information about the targets of the drugs, the pathway in which the target protein of a drug was involved in, side effects of drugs, metabolic enzymes of the drugs, and drug transporters. The latter two features (metabolic enzymes and drug transporters) were related to the metabolism and transportation properties of drugs, which were not analyzed or used in previous studies. Then, we devised a novel improved naïve Bayesian algorithm to construct classification models to predict effective drug combinations by using the individual types of features mentioned above. Our results indicated that the performance of our proposed method was indeed better than the naïve Bayesian algorithm and other conventional classification algorithms such as support vector machine and K-nearest neighbor. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever377 | Hydrolysis of L-cystine-di-beta-naphthylamide and neurohypophyseal peptides by the plasma of the snake Bothrops jararaca.
1. Bothrops jararaca plasma or serum hydrolysed L-cystine-di-beta-naphthylamide (CNAse activity) at a degree comparable to that of plasma or serum in pregnant women. 2. In adult snakes, activity was less in males. It was not altered in pregnancy but increased after delivery, being higher at pH 6.4 (unspecific enzymes) than at pH 7.9 (true pregnant woman plasma oxytocinase). 3. Its optimum pH was 5.9, different from that of other known enzymes that hydrolyse the same substrate. 4. Bothrops jararaca plasma also hydrolysed vasopressin, oxytocin and vasotocin. 5. These hydrolysing activities were unexpected for an ovoviviparous reptile. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever378 | Bioavailability and biological activity of liquisolid compact formula of repaglinide and its effect on glucose tolerance in rabbits.
This study is an extension of the previous enhancement of dissolution properties of repaglinide using liquisolid compacts. The development and validation of a highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay for the determination of repaglinide concentration in rabbit plasma for pharmacokinetic studies is described. Repaglinide optimizing formula was orally administered to rabbits and blood samples were used to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of repaglinide, which were compared to pharmacokinetic parameters of marketed tablets (Novonorm 2 mg). Also, to investigate the biological activity of this new formula, in comparison with the commercial product, oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), area under the curve and insulin levels were studied. Moreover, we studied the efficacy and safety of this new formula in several potencies (0.5, 1, and 2 mg) and blood glucose, insulin, kidney and liver functions. The relative bioavailability of repaglinide from its liquisolid compact formula was found to be increased significantly in comparison to that of the marketed tablet. In regard to urea and creatinine, no significant change was recorded after the administration of the commercial and the three potencies of the new formulation compared with the control group. Similarly, in liver function tests (serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, SGPT), there were no changes observed in its level. Regarding insulin levels, the commercial formula increased insulin levels insignificantly (3.52% change) while the new formula increased the insulin level significantly with a percent change of 37.6%. The results of the glucose tolerance test showed that the blood glucose level was decreased significantly after the commercial drug (percent change, 18.1%) while in groups treated with the new formulation the decrease was highly significant (p < 0.01) with a percent change of 29.98%. The change in area under the curve for blood glucose was significantly higher in the commercial drug plus glucose load than in the new formulation plus glucose load group (p < 0.05) in the periods of 30-45 min and 45-60 min. Furthermore, the new repaglinide formulation significantly decreased blood glucose levels more than the commercial formula. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever379 | Genome-wide association scan of korean autism spectrum disorders with language delay: a preliminary study.
OBJECTIVE
Communication problems are a prevalent symptom of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), which have a genetic background. Although several genome-wide studies on ASD have suggested a number of candidate genes, few studies have reported the association or linkage of specific endophenotypes to ASDs.
METHODS
Forty-two Korean ASD patients who showed a language delay were enrolled in this study with their parents. We performed a genome-wide scan by using the Affymetrix SNP Array 5.0 platform to identify candidate genes responsible for language delay in ASDs.
RESULTS
We detected candidate single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in chromosome 11, rs11212733 (p-value=9.76×10(-6)) and rs7125479 (p-value=1.48×10(-4)), as a marker of language delay in ASD using the transmission disequilibrium test and multifactor dimensionality reduction test.
CONCLUSION
Although our results suggest that several SNPs are associated with language delay in ASD, rs11212733 we were not able to observe any significant results after correction of multiple comparisons. This may imply that more samples may be required to identify genes associated with language delay in ASD. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever380 | Cassava/peanut intercropping improves soil quality via rhizospheric microbes increased available nitrogen contents.
BACKGROUND
Intercropping, an essential cultivation pattern in modern agricultural systems, increases crop yields and soil quality. Cassava and peanut intercropping systems exhibit advantages in solar utilization and cadmium absorption, etc. However, the inner mechanisms need to be elucidated. In this study, Illumina MiSeq platform was used to reveal the rhizospheric microbes and soil quality in cassava/peanut intercropping systems, and the results provided a reference for the application of this method in studying other intercropping systems.
RESULTS
Both intercropping cassava/peanut (IP) and intercropping peanut/cassava (IC) systems significantly increased available N, available K, pH value, and urease activity, comparing with that in monocropping cassava (MC) and monocropping peanut (MP) system. However, there were few effects on the total N, total P, total K, available P, organic matter, protease activity, catalase activity, sucrase activity, and acid phosphatase activity. Both IP and MP soils contained more bacteria and fungi than those in the IC and MC soils, which were mainly made of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. Intercropping remarkably increased the number of Nitrospirae in IP and IC soils comparing those in MC and MP soils. Redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that the abundances of DA101, Pilimelia, and Ramlibacter were positively correlated to the soil quality. These results suggest that intercropping enhances the available nitrogen content of soil through increasing the quantity of rhizospheric microbes, especially that of DA101 and Pilimelia.
CONCLUSIONS
The cassava/peanut intercropping system improves soil quality through increasing the available nitrogen content and abundance of DA101, Pilimelia, and Ramlibacter in the soil. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever381 | Proteomic Mapping of the Human Myelin Proteome.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative cognitive condition that affects individuals with an increasing prevalence in older age groups. There are currently five drugs on the market for AD but no new effective ones have been discovered for decades. There has been increasing interest in the use of natural remedies such as special diets and plant extracts but these require further study. Based on the known effects on white matter and neuronal conductance in Alzheimer's disease, we present a protocol for proteomic analysis of myelin-enriched brain fractions as a way of identifying potential biomarkers of efficacy. This fingerprint could be used in screening assays for novel compounds for treatment of AD. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever382 | Pulmonary mycosis in AIDS.
We retrospectively reviewed our series of 35 pulmonary mycosis in patients with AIDS, observed from 1987 to 1999, to correlate the imaging and pathologic findings. We further evaluated the frequency of fungal pneumonia before and after the use of a highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Early recognition of pulmonary mycosis is imperative in these patients and improved survival can be achieved with early CT detection and prompt institution of high-dose antifungal therapy. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever383 | Differential expression of clusterin according to histological type of endometrial carcinoma.
OBJECTIVE
Clusterin expression has been associated with various malignancies. Endometrial carcinoma is divided into endometrioid and papillary serous type carcinoma according to the histological characteristics and regarding to the unopposed estrogenic stimulation. In this study, we investigated the expression profiles of clusterin according to the histological types and the effect of estrogen stimulation on its expression in endometrial carcinoma.
METHOD
Clusterin expression in endometrial carcinoma tissues was examined by RT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry. 63 endometrioid and 10 papillary serous types of fresh cases and 81 endometrioid and 7 papillary serous types of paraffin-embedded cases were studied. Regulation of clusterin expression by beta-estradiol in HEC-1B and HEC-1A cells was investigated using RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Cell proliferative function of clusterin was examined in 293T cells.
RESULTS
We found higher expression of clusterin in endometrioid compared to papillary serous carcinoma using both immunohistochemistry (p=0.033) and Western blot analysis (p=0.024). The mRNA and protein expressions of clusterin in endometrioid carcinoma were higher than in benign endometrium (p=0.002). Forced expression of clusterin promoted 293T cell survival in a concentration-dependent manner, and estradiol treatment increased clusterin expression in HEC-1B but not in HEC-1A cells.
CONCLUSIONS
These data suggest that clusterin expression is related to endometrioid carcinoma of endometrium, in which estrogen is involved in the regulatory network of clusterin. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever384 | A comparative investigation and identification of Leptospira interrogans serogroup icterohaemorrhagiae strains by monoclonal antibody and DNA fingerprint analyses.
The identification of Leptospira interrogans icterohaemorrhagiae strains from a number of Reference Laboratories were confirmed using monoclonal antibody (MoAb) and DNA restriction endonuclease (EcoR1) analyses. With a few exceptions, strain fidelity was demonstrated. Three clinical isolates and one isolate from a rat (Rattus norvegicus) were identified on DNA fragment patterns and found to be similar to the reference strains, icterohaemorrhagiae copenhageni, I. "icterohaemorrhagiae" Ictero I and I. icterohaemorrhagiae RGA. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever385 | The channel cell of the terrestrial slug Ariolimax columbianus (Stylommatophora, Arionidae).
Studies were carried out to identify the route by which macromolecules and large volumes of fluid traverse the skin of terrestrial gastropods. Electron micrographs of the skin of the banana slug Ariolimax columbianus demonstrated that carbon particles can enter large, specialized cells and pass thence to the exterior. These cells, which are termed channel cells, range up to 500 micron in length; they reach from the external surface of the skin to deep within the subepithelial interstitium. At the light-microscope level they show a large central channel or reservoir apparently filled with homogeneous fluid; after injection of ink into the body cavity this central channel becomes ink-filled. Electron micrographs show cisternae of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, opening from the cell surface and occasionally traversing the entire cytoplasmic layer. The neurohormone arginine vasotocin stimulates fluid and particle movement through the channel cell; this response is inhibited by norepinephrine. Fluid output is dependent on the presence of a transwall hydrostatic pressure gradient of about 7 torr or above, as well as on activation of the channel cells. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever386 | Correlation between the Antibiotic Resistance Genes and Susceptibility to Antibiotics among the Carbapenem-Resistant Gram-Negative Pathogens.
In this study, the correlation between the antibiotic resistance genes and antibiotic susceptibility among the carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative pathogens (CRGNPs) recovered from patients diagnosed with acute pneumonia in Egypt was found. A total of 194 isolates including Klebsiella pneumoniae (89; 46%), Escherichia coli (47; 24%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (58; 30%) were recovered. Of these, 34 (18%) isolates were multiple drug resistant (MDR) and carbapenem resistant. For the K. pneumoniae MDR isolates (n = 22), blaNDM (14; 64%) was the most prevalent carbapenemase, followed by blaOXA-48 (11; 50%) and blaVIM (4; 18%). A significant association (p value < 0.05) was observed between the multidrug efflux pump (AcrA) and resistance to β-lactams and the aminoglycoside acetyl transferase gene (aac-6'-Ib) gene and resistance to ciprofloxacin, azithromycin and β-lactams (except for aztreonam). For P. aeruginosa, a significant association was noticed between the presence of the blaSHV gene and the multidrug efflux pump (MexA) and resistance to fluoroquinolones, amikacin, tobramycin, co-trimoxazole and β-lactams and between the aac-6'-Ib gene and resistance to aminoglycosides. All P. aeruginosa isolates (100%) harbored the MexAB-OprM multidrug efflux pump while 86% of the K. pneumoniae isolates harbored the AcrAB-TolC pump. Our results are of great medical importance for the guidance of healthcare practitioners for effective antibiotic prescription. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever387 | Differences in age of first hospitalization for schizophrenia among immigrants and nonimmigrants in a national case registry.
While previous studies have found an increased incidence of schizophrenia in some immigrant groups, differences in age of onset in these groups has not been examined. The purpose of this study was to compare age of first hospitalization of (1) native-born people versus immigrants, (2) immigrants from different countries of origin, and (3) first generation immigrants versus second generation immigrants; and to reexamine gender differences in age of first hospitalization. Data were extracted on all first hospital admissions nationally for the years 1978-1992 (n = 10,902) from the National Psychiatric Hospitalization Case Registry of the State of Israel Ministry of Health. Immigrants were older at time of first hospitalization than nonimmigrants, with considerable variations between different countries of origin. Second generation immigrants (i.e., born in Israel to immigrant parents) had ages of first hospitalization similar to people with native-born parents. Males had earlier ages at first hospitalization than females. The results suggest that immigration may have a delaying effect on age of first admission and support previous findings regarding gender difference in age of onset. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever388 | Stimulated neutrophil locomotion: chemokinesis and chemotaxis.
All leukocytes are capable of responding chemotactically (oriented locomotion) and chemokinetically (stimulated nondirected or random locomotion) to a variety of chemical agents. A brief review of the in vitro and in vivo methods of studying neutrophil movement and our present knowledge of chemotactic factors is presented as well as a discussion on the mechanisms of stimulated movement. Two clinically important instances of defects in neutrophil movement, ie, the Chédiak-Higashi syndrome and a case of actin dysfunction, are herein described. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever389 | Cost savings for single event multilevel surgery in comparison to sequential surgery in ambulatory children with cerebral palsy.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in billable provider charges between single event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) based on comprehensive gait analysis and a staged surgical approach (SSA) without comprehensive gait analysis for the orthopedic treatment of ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP).
METHODS
The charges associated with nine common orthopedic surgical combinations (both unilateral and bilateral, soft tissue or soft tissue plus bony) for children with CP were determined and compared between SEMLS and SSA. The charges included surgical, anesthesia, operating room, recovery room, hospital stay, physical therapy, and, for SEMLS only, comprehensive computerized gait analysis.
RESULTS
Total charges to complete each combination was higher for SSA than for SEMLS. The differential ranged from $10,247 to $75,069 with the percentage difference ranging from 20% to 47%. The mean difference was $43,606 (p = 0.0002). The dollar difference (r = 0.98, p < 0.0001) and percentage difference (r = 0.79, p = 0.01) were both related to the total charge of the SEMLS surgery.
SIGNIFICANCE
Financial costs are lower for SEMLS vs. SSA for the treatment of multilevel gait issues in children with CP. The cost of gait analysis is much smaller than the cost differential between SEMLS and SSA. Although some patients who have SEMLS may need additional orthopedic surgery with associated costs, this is also possible for SSA. Therefore, due to the many benefits of SEMLS, which also include more informed treatment decision-making as well as reduced time away from school and work (for caregivers), SEMLS guided by gait analysis is recommended over SSA for the treatment of gait disorders in children with CP. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever390 | Stereoscopic presentation of computed tomography and magnetic resonance images.
This technical note describes a direct and simple method of stereoscopically presenting three-dimensional (3-D) CT and MRI volumetric models. This method has negligible cost both in monetary terms and in extra processing time, is extremely accessible, easy to learn and apply and can be effectively used in the absence of any sophisticated equipment. It has the potential to greatly boost the communications value of many complex studies where 3-D models are already normally generated. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever391 | Depression and its associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients attending ART clinics at Gimbi General hospital, West Ethiopia, 2018.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with depression among people living with HIV/AIDS attending Gimbi General hospital, West Ethiopia. Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted on 404 HIV/AIDS patients, from March 01 to March 30, 2018. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with depression. Possible association and statistical significance were measured using odds ratio at 95% confidence interval and P-value less than 0.05.
RESULTS
A total of 393 HIV/AIDS patients were included in this study. Out of this, 41.7% had depression. Perceived social stigma (AOR = 6.98, 95% CI 3.07, 15.86), opportunistic infection (AOR = 9.38, 95% CI 4.21, 20.89), adverse drug reaction (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI 1.58, 8.81), absence of family/social support (AOR = 9.97, 95% CI 3.57, 27.86), and presence of other chronic diseases (AOR = 6.14, 95% CI 1.66, 22.68) were significantly associated with depression. The level of depression among HIV/AIDS patient in this study was high. The clinician should early recognize and treat drug side effects, early detect and manage opportunistic infection and other chronic diseases, and give health information about the disease for the community to reduce social stigma. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever392 | Atheroembolic renal disease: effect on morbidity and survival after revascularization for atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis.
PURPOSE
Atheroembolic renal disease is increasingly found in older patients with general atherosclerosis. We evaluated the impact of atheroembolic renal disease on morbidity and survival after surgical revascularization for atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The study group comprised 44 patients who underwent surgical revascularization for atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis and concomitant intraoperative renal biopsy. Renal biopsy specimens were reviewed by a pathologist and evaluated for the presence or absence of atheroemboli, and the presence and severity of arteriolar nephrosclerosis. Postoperative patient data were reviewed to evaluate survival, and the incidence of renal and systemic morbid events. Patients were followed for 1 to 14.5 years (median 6.2) after surgical revascularization.
RESULTS
Atheroembolic renal disease was identified in the intraoperative biopsy specimen in 16 patients (36%, group 1) and was absent in 28 (64%, group 2), termed groups 1 and 2. Atheroembolic renal disease correlated significantly with decreased patient survival. The 5-year survival in groups 1 and 2 was 54 and 85%, respectively (p = 0.011). Similarly the incidence of systemic atherosclerotic complications was significantly higher in group 1 than group 2 (86 versus 58%, p <0.05). In addition, renal or renovascular complications developed in more group 1 than group 2 patients (p = 0.07). There was no significant association between the presence or severity of arteriolar nephrosclerosis and postoperative survival or morbid events.
CONCLUSIONS
Our results indicate that atheroembolic renal disease is associated with decreased survival and an increased incidence of atherosclerotic morbid events after surgical revascularization for atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis. This information may be useful for therapeutic decision making in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever393 | Calcium and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 modulate genes of immune and inflammatory pathways in the human colon: a human crossover trial.
BACKGROUND
A high dietary calcium intake with adequate vitamin D status has been linked to lower colorectal cancer risk, but the mechanisms of these effects are poorly understood.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to elucidate the effects of a Western-style diet (WD) and supplemental calcium and/or 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] on the colorectal mucosa.
DESIGN
We conducted 2 crossover trials to define molecular pathways in the human colorectum altered by 1) a 4-wk WD supplemented with and without 2 g calcium carbonate/d and 2) a 4-wk WD supplemented with 1,25(OH)2D3 (0.5 μg/d) with or without 2 g calcium carbonate/d. The primary study endpoint was genome-wide gene expression in biopsy specimens of the rectosigmoid colonic mucosa. Serum and urinary calcium concentrations were also measured.
RESULTS
Changes in urinary calcium accurately reflected calcium consumption. The WD induced modest upregulation of genes involved in inflammatory pathways, including interferon signaling, and calcium supplementation reversed these toward baseline. In contrast, supplementation of the WD with 1,25(OH)2D3 induced striking upregulation of genes involved in inflammation, immune response, extracellular matrix, and cell adhesion. Calcium supplementation largely abrogated these changes.
CONCLUSIONS
Supplementing 1,25(OH)2D3 to a WD markedly upregulated genes in immune response and inflammation pathways, which were largely reversed by calcium supplementation. This study provides clinical trial evidence of global gene expression changes occurring in the human colorectum in response to calcium and 1,25(OH)2D3 intervention. One action of 1,25(OH)2D3 is to upregulate adaptive immunity. Calcium appears to modulate this effect, pointing to its biological interaction in the mucosa. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00298545 Trial protocol is available at http://clinicalstudies.rucares.org (protocol numbers PHO475 and PHO554). | No pos | No neg |
Retriever394 | Deadliest catch: neutrophil extracellular traps in autoimmunity.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW
To summarize recent evidence on the pathogenic effects of neutrophils and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.
RECENT FINDINGS
NETs can orchestrate innate and adaptive immune dysregulation through diverse mechanisms. NETs induce potent inflammatory responses and represent sources of many autoantigens, creating a feed-forward loop that may perpetuate disease and lead to organ damage. NETs are also increasingly relevant in atherosclerosis and could contribute to the increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease in patients with autoimmunity.
SUMMARY
NET formation is increased in a variety of autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases and can have remarkable effects on cell and tissue-specific damage. Novel therapeutics that target NET formation or clearance is a promising strategy for clinical management of autoimmune diseases and may prevent chronic complications associated with these conditions. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever395 | Dual mechanisms diminishing tonic GABAA inhibition of dentate gyrus granule cells in Noda epileptic rats.
The Noda epileptic rat (NER), a Wistar colony mutant, spontaneously has tonic-clonic convulsions with paroxysmal discharges. In the present study, we measured phasic and tonic γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) current (I tonic) in NER hippocampal dentate gyrus granule cells and compared the results with those of normal parent strain Wistar rats (WIS). I tonic, revealed by a bicuculline-induced outward shift in holding current, was significantly smaller in NER than in WIS (P < 0.01). The frequency of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) was also significantly lower in NER than in WIS (P < 0.05), without significant differences in the IPSC amplitude or decay time between WIS and NER. I tonic attenuation in NER was further confirmed in the presence of GABA transporter blockers, NO-711 and nipecotic acid, with no difference in neuronal GABA transporter expression between WIS and NER. I tonic responses to extrasynaptic GABAA receptor agonists (THIP and DS-2) were significantly reduced in NER compared with WIS (P < 0.05). Allopregnanolone caused less I tonic increase in NER than in WIS, while it prolonged the IPSC decay time to a similar rate in the two groups. Expression of the GABAA receptor δ-subunit was decreased in the dentate gyrus of NER relative to that of WIS. Taken together, our results showed that a combination of attenuated presynaptic GABA release and extrasynaptic GABAA receptor expression reduced I tonic amplitude and its sensitivity to neurosteroids, which likely diminishes the gating function of dentate gyrus granule cells and renders NER more susceptible to seizure propagation. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever396 | Hypercrosslinked particles for the extraction of sweeteners using dispersive solid-phase extraction from environmental samples.
This work presents a new extraction material, namely, Q-100, based on hypercrosslinked magnetic particles, which was tested in dispersive solid-phase extraction for a group of sweeteners from environmental samples. The hypercrosslinked Q-100 magnetic particles had the advantage of suitable pore size distribution and high surface area, and showed good retention behavior toward sweeteners. Different dispersive solid-phase extraction parameters such as amount of magnetic particles or extraction time were optimized. Under optimum conditions, Q-100 showed suitable apparent recovery, ranging in the case of river water sample from 21 to 88% for all the sweeteners, except for alitame (12%). The validated method based on dispersive solid-phase extraction using Q-100 followed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry provided good linearity and limits of quantification between 0.01 and 0.1 μg/L. The method was applied to analyze samples from river water and effluent wastewater, and four sweeteners (acesulfame, saccharin, cyclamate, and sucralose) were found in both types of sample. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever397 | Imaging the surface morphology, chemistry and conductivity of LiNi1/3Fe1/3Mn4/3O4 crystalline facets using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy.
Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) using the X-ray fluorescence mode has been employed to elucidate the chemical structures at Ni, Fe, Mn and O sites from the (111) and (100) facets of micron-sized LiNi1/3Fe1/3Mn4/3O4 energy material particles. Furthermore, STXM imaging using electron yield mode has mapped out the surface conductivity of the crystalline particles. This study presents a novel approach that visualizes local element segregation, chemistry and conductivity variation among different crystal facets, which will assist further tailoring of the morphology and surface structure of this high voltage spinel lithium ion battery cathode material. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever398 | Interaction of hepatocyte growth factor and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs during gastric epithelial wound healing.
BACKGROUND/AIMS
Expression of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is upregulated at the margins of healing gastric ulcers. We investigated in vitro the interference of HGF, the selective COX-2 inhibitor NS-398 and the nonselective COX inhibitor indomethacin with gastric epithelial wound healing and actin microfilament (actin-MF) formation.
METHODS
Standardized gastric epithelial wounds, created in confluent RGM1 rat cell monolayers were treated with: HGF (10 ng/ml), NS-398 (1-100 microM) or indomethacin (0.01- 0.5 mM). The areas of re-epithelialization and cell proliferation were measured 24 h after wounding. Actin-MFs were labeled with fluorescein-conjugated phalloidin and their distribution was examined using a Nikon epifluorescence microscope.
RESULTS
HGF caused a significant increase in gastric monolayer wound re-epithelialization and this was not affected by mitomycin C. Both indomethacin and NS-398 inhibited HGF-stimulated re-epithelialization, but the basal wound re-epithelialization rate and cell proliferation was only significantly inhibited by indomethacin. HGF triggered actin stress fiber formation which was inhibited by both indomethacin and NS-398, but only indomethacin interfered with actin-MF formation at the baseline condition.
CONCLUSIONS
HGF significantly increased gastric wound re-epithelialization by activating cell migration which may be mediated by the COX-2 pathway. | No pos | No neg |
Retriever399 | Establishing neuronal identity in vertebrate neurogenic placodes.
The trigeminal and epibranchial placodes of vertebrate embryos form different types of sensory neurons. The trigeminal placodes form cutaneous sensory neurons that innervate the face and jaws, while the epibranchial placodes (geniculate, petrosal and nodose) form visceral sensory neurons that innervate taste buds and visceral organs. In the chick embryo, the ophthalmic trigeminal (opV) placode expresses the paired homeodomain transcription factor Pax3 from very early stages, while the epibranchial placodes express Pax2. Here, we show that Pax3 expression in explanted opV placode ectoderm correlates at the single cell level with neuronal specification and with commitment to an opV fate. When opV (trigeminal) ectoderm is grafted in place of the nodose (epibranchial) placode, Pax3-expressing cells form Pax3-positive neurons on the same schedule as in the opV placode. In contrast, Pax3-negative cells in the grafted ectoderm are induced to express the epibranchial placode marker Pax2 and form neurons in the nodose ganglion that express the epibranchial neuron marker Phox2a on the same schedule as host nodose neurons. They also project neurites along central and peripheral nodose neurite pathways and survive until well after the main period of cell death in the nodose ganglion. The older the opV ectoderm is at the time of grafting, the more Pax3-positive cells it contains and the more committed it is to an opV fate. Our results suggest that, within the neurogenic placodes, there does not appear to be a two-step induction of 'generic' neurons followed by specification of the neuron to a particular fate. Instead, there seems to be a one-step induction in which neuronal subtype identity is coupled to neuronal differentiation. | No pos | No neg |
Subsets and Splits