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A urodynamics protocol to optimally assess men with post-prostatectomy incontinence.
To propose a urodynamic protocol to comprehensively assess all parameters of post prostatectomy incontinence (PPI). Sixty men with a history of PPI after radical prostatectomy prospectively underwent a standardized video urodynamics protocol. A 7F urethral catheter was used for standard cystometry, abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP), and pressure flow measurements. The International Continence Society nomogram classified obstruction and further classification of obstruction was based on fluoro voiding cystourethrography and non-invasive flow rates (free Qmax). Twenty-four (40%) men had detrusor overactivity with 8 (13%) also having detrusor overactivity incontinence. Only one patient had impaired compliance. All men had urodynamic stress incontinence, but 21 (35%) men demonstrated it only after removal of the urethral catheter. For men leaking with and without the urethral catheter, the respective ALPP was significantly different, 86.3 and 67 cmH2O, respectively (P = 0.002). The men who leaked only in the absence of the urethral catheter had significantly higher ALPP measurements, P < 0.001. After reclassification using the fluoroscopic images of the bladder outlet and free Qmax, only 13.3% patients were obstructed. The proposed urodynamic protocol allows for an optimal assessment of bladder and sphincter dysfunction and outlet obstruction in men with PPI. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
DOPA decarboxylase activity in the nervous system and the ctenidium of the freshwater clam, Musculium (Sphaerium) transversum.
Dopa decarboxylase was measured in ganglia, connectives, branchial nerve and ctenidium of the clam, Musculium transversum. DOPA decarboxylase inhibitors (STH, HMD, and alpha-methyl-DOPA) reduced the enzymatic activity in all extracts. Ligation and extirpation of the visceral ganglion and branchial nerve significantly decreased the enzymatic activity in the ctenidium. Scanning electron microscopic observations showed numerous degenerative changes in nerve cells with progressive destruction of axons within the branchial nerve. In conclusion, it appears that lateral ctenidial cilia are dependent upon the decarboxylase activity of the visceral ganglion and branchial nerve. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An exploration of sarcasm detection in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
The present research explored the ability of children with ADHD to distinguish between sarcasm and sincerity. Twenty-two children with a clinical diagnosis of ADHD were compared with 22 age and verbal IQ matched typically developing children using the Social Inference-Minimal Test from The Awareness of Social Inference Test (TASIT, McDonald, Flanagan, & Rollins, 2002). This test assesses an individual's ability to interpret naturalistic social interactions containing sincerity, simple sarcasm and paradoxical sarcasm. Children with ADHD demonstrated specific deficits in comprehending paradoxical sarcasm and they performed significantly less accurately than the typically developing children. While there were no significant differences between the children with ADHD and the typically developing children in their ability to comprehend sarcasm based on the speaker's intentions and beliefs, the children with ADHD were found to be significantly less accurate when basing their decision on the feelings of the speaker, but also on what the speaker had said. Results are discussed in light of difficulties in their understanding of complex cues of social interactions, and non-literal language being symptomatic of children with a clinical diagnosis of ADHD. The importance of pragmatic language skills in their ability to detect social and emotional information is highlighted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Assignment of dominant inherited nocturnal enuresis (ENUR1) to chromosome 13q.
Nocturnal enuresis, or nightly bedwetting in children more than seven years of age affects about 10% of seven-year-old children, with a wide range of frequencies between populations. The affliction is often linked to major social maladjustments and occupies considerable time in general practice. From the age of seven there is a spontaneous cure rate of 15% per year, such that few remain affected after the age of 16 years. There are two types of nocturnal enuresis: type I (PEN1, primary) with at least three nightly episodes in children above seven years, where the child has always had the disorder and type II (secondary) where the child has been dry for at least six months, but enuresis has recurred. Among some 400 Danish, mostly three-generation families, we have found 17 families with nocturnal enuresis. Eleven of these family had type I nocturnal enuresis (PEN1) that appeared to follow an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance with penetrance above 90%. We now describe strong evidence of linkage with the DNA polymorphisms D13S291 (Z = 3.55; theta M = F = 0.07) and D13S263 (Z = 2.67; theta M = F = 0.08). Multipoint analysis indicates that these markers flank the disease locus at chromosome 13q13-q14.3. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Human diseases and genomic imprinting.
In summary, there are a number of conditions where genomic imprinting effects are recognized to be associated clinical disorders of importance in humans. There may be many more. Genomic imprinting should be suspected in any disorder with overgrowth, undergrowth, or behavior abnormalities. Disorders with unusual pattern of inheritance should be studied for the possibility that genomically imprinted gene(s) are involved. Understanding the mechanisms of genomic imprinting has major ramifications in terms of recurrence risk, prediction of whether offspring will be affected, and risk of malignancy. Of particular concern is the potential for uniparental disomy when trisomy is found during prenatal diagnosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Unit cost of common illness management: a comparison between a primary care unit and a community pharmacy in Thailand.
Aim This study was to perform unit cost analysis of managing common illnesses comparing between a primary care unit (PCU) and a community pharmacy. PCU is a key point of access for primary care in Thailand. Although a community pharmacy is an ideal setting, it has not been successfully incorporated in Thailand's health service. Common illnesses are encountered everyday by community pharmacists, an appropriate compensation for this service has not been established. A primary care service of one educational institution was a study site. Eight common illnesses were emphasised. Patient visits were observed, prospectively at community pharmacy and retrospectively at PCU, during August to October 2013. Labour and material costs related to management of common illnesses were recorded. Total cost divided by total patient visits determined the unit cost. For the community pharmacy, patients were followed up after 3-14 days of visit to evaluate the effectiveness. Sensitivity analysis was performed by varying direct medical cost at ±10-30%. Findings At the community pharmacy, community pharmacists performed multiple tasks including interviewing and assessing patients, choosing an appropriate treatment and dispensing. Of 9141 visits, 775 (8.5%) with common illnesses were included. Upper respiratory disorder was found the highest 41.9% (325/755). Unit cost of treatment ranged from 54.16 baht (£1.18) for pain to 82.71 baht (£1.80) for skin disorder. Two-thirds of pharmacy visits (77.9%, 539/692) reported complete recovery. Managing common illnesses at the PCU was performed by nurse assistants, nurses, doctors and pharmacists. Of 6701 patient visits to the PCU, 1545 (23.1%) visits were at least one of the eight illnesses. Upper respiratory disorder was the majority, 53.0% (771/1454). Unit cost of treatment ranged from 85.39 baht (£1.86) for eye/ear to 245.93 baht (£5.36) for sexual health. Managing common illness at a community pharmacy shows satisfactory effectiveness with lower unit cost. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A metallic (EDT-DSDTFVSDS)2.FeBr4 salt: antiferromagnetic ordering of d spins of FeBr4- ions and anomalous magnetoresistance due to preferential pi-d interaction.
The 2:1 salt of a new donor molecule, EDT-DSDTFVSDS with FeBr4- ion, (EDT-DSDTFVSDS)2.FeBr4 showed an essentially metallic behavior despite a small upturn in the electrical resistance below ca. 30 K (electrical conductivities at 290 and 4.2 K are 200 and 170 S cm-1, respectively). The Fe(III) d spins of the FeBr4- ions in this salt were subject to antiferromagnetic ordering at 3.3 K by virtue of a strong pi-d interaction (Jpid) which is comparable to that in a molecular metallic conductor, lambda-(BETS)2.FeCl4, and of a very weak d-d interaction (Jdd). This strong pi-d interaction was evidenced by a large and negative magnetoresistance effect (ca. 20% at 5 T) as well as by the appearance of a large dip in the resistance at the magnetic field (ca. 2.0 T) parallel to the easy axis for the spin-flop transition of the Fe(III) d spins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of bird ingestion on seed germination of Sorbus commixta.
To determine the effects of ingestion by birds on seed germination, we performed germination experiments in the field and laboratory with Sorbus commixta. The germination of four groups of seeds was compared: ingested seeds, seeds defecated in feces after feeding of fruits to birds; extracted seeds, seeds deliberately extracted from the fruit pulp; juiced seeds, seeds plus the juice of the pulp after seeds had been deliberately extracted from the pulp; intact seeds, seeds in untreated intact fruits. In the laboratory, intact and juiced seeds hardly germinated, but ingested and extracted seeds germinated. Thus, the pulp and its juice appeared to inhibit germination, but seeds could germinate without ingestion by birds once the seeds had been manually extracted from the pulp. In the field, intact fruits did not germinate in the first spring, because the seed was still covered with pulp. The pulp of intact seeds decomposed during the first summer, and thus, the seeds had the potential to germinate during the second spring. In fact, most intact seeds do not germinate during the second spring either, since they lose their viability during the first summer. Thus, under natural conditions, most seeds of Sorbus commixta cannot germinate without bird ingestion. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transformation by extracellular DNA produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Most Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains are capable of producing extracellular DNA. Very closely linked chromosomal markers (leu+ and trp+) were co-transferred to P. aeruginosa PAO1819 (leu9001, trp9008) by the extracellular DNA produced by P. aeruginosa strains IFO3445 and PAO1 at a frequency of 10(-7) to 10(-8). Treatment of the extracellular DNA with DNase, heating at 95 C or sonication completely destroyed its transforming ability. The R plasmid in the extracellular DNA produced by P. aeruginosa IFO3445 (RP4) or PAO2142 (RLb679) could be transferred to Escherichia coli ML4901 or P. aeruginosa PAO1819. The resultant transformants showed identical resistance patterns in the respective donors, and the sizes of the DNAs of RLb679 and RP4 isolated from the transformants were the same as those in the respective donors. These results demonstrate that the extracellular DNA contains both chromosomal DNA and plasmid DNA, and that it exhibits transforming ability. This implies that transformation by the extracellular DNA produced by P. aeruginosa may occur in nature and this seems to be of clinical importance in view of the spread of R plasmids among pathogens. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Knockout mouse models and mammary tumorigenesis.
The generation of transgenic mice overexpressing activated forms of oncogenes has greatly advanced our understanding into their roles in mammary tumor initiation, promotion and progression. However, targeted disruption of tumor suppressor genes often results in lethality at stages prior to mammary tumor formation. This obstacle can now be overcome using several approaches including conditional knockouts that delete genes of interest in a spatial and temporal manner. This review summarizes recent studies on tumor suppressor genes, including APC, ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, PTEN and p53, in knockout mouse models and our understanding of the possible mechanisms underlying mammary tumorigenesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Combination of cobalt labelling with immunocytochemical reactions for electron microscopic investigations on frog spinal cord.
Cobalt staining of primary afferents in frog spinal cord was combined with peroxidase-antiperoxidase pre-embedding or immunogold post-embedding immunocytochemical labelling. Our results have shown that cobalt labelling can easily be distinguished from both of the immunoreaction end products. The protocol of cobalt labelling did not affect the immunoreactivity of structures. The morphology and synaptology of cobalt labelled and immunostained profiles in our sections were very similar to those reported in previous studies using different double labelling techniques. These results indicate that this new combined method could be used as an alternative double labelling technique in electron microscopic studies on nervous tissues. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel 4,4'-bispyridyl-5,5'-perfluoroalkyl-2,2'-bisoxazol with antitumoral activity via cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis.
The compound 6a is a novel bisoxazol derivative with high cytotoxic properties in vitro against different human tumor-derived cell lines and with similar efficiency against epithelial, haematopoietic and mesenchymal tumor cells. Although the molecular mechanism is not yet fully defined, cell cycle analysis revealed that 6a induces efficiently G0/G1 phase arrest in colon adenocarcinoma HT-29 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Induction of cell death is observed, a possible explanation for the antiproliferative profile of the molecule. The compound was well tolerated at doses that allowed to examine its antitumor activity against human xenografts of the HT-29 cell line implanted s.c. in nude mice. Treatment of mice with 4 mg/kg of the compound resulted in a 60% inhibition of tumor growth. These observations support the use of 6a for the generation of more potent derivatives that could be used as new anticancer agents. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Peptide vaccine therapy for leukemia.
Despite recent advances in the treatment of leukemia, many patients will relapse and novel therapeutic strategies are therefore needed. The identification of a number of leukemia-associated antigen (LAA) and advances in understanding the fundamentals of tumor immunology have fostered the progress of both active (vaccines) and adoptive immunotherapy. Preliminary results from a number of studies suggest that vaccination using peptides derived from a number of LAA induce immune responses which may translate into clinical responses. These promising early results point the way to optimizing the administration of peptide vaccines. In this review, we will focus on the results of clinical trials of vaccination in leukemia and potential strategies to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy in the future. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical and laboratory evaluation of a commercial kit for measurement of serum free thyroxin ("Amerlex Free T4").
Different indexes of thyroid function were determined in conjunction with values obtained with a new commercial radioimmunoassay kit for serum free thyroxin, in 49 apparently healthy subjects, 87 pregnant women, and 142 outpatients attending the thyroid clinic. The results indicate a diagnostic success rate of 88% when free thyroxin was measured instead of estimating the so-called free thyroxin index. Furthermore, in three cases of papillary carcinoma the concentration of free thyroxin was increased, although all the other laboratory tests indicated a euthyroid state. Technically, the method is simple, rapid, and precise, and it would be of most value in the small hospital laboratory lacking the facilities of a comprehensive thyroid-function test service. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma in a Child Presenting as a Solitary Plantar Hyperkeratotic Plaque.
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-associated Kaposi sarcoma (KS) among the pediatric population is a rare entity in North America and Europe, and its cutaneous manifestations are not well defined in the literature. The investigators report the case of a boy with an AIDS-associated KS presenting as an infiltrated hyperkeratotic plaque of the plantar arch. An 11-year-old African boy with congenital human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) had a skin biopsy of the plantar lesion that was consistent with a KS. The patient also presented intestinal and pulmonary symptoms; combined chemotherapy regimen and highly active antiretroviral therapy were given in the presence of systemic involvement. AIDS-associated KS poses a particular challenge to clinical diagnosis, since it can manifest with a variety of lesions. Dermatologists should have a low threshold for performing a skin biopsy in patients with HIV. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Safety and efficacy of retrograde cerebral perfusion as an adjunct for cerebral protection during surgery on the aortic arch.
The best adjunct for cerebral protection during aortic arch reconstruction remains controversial. Retrograde cerebral perfusion (RCP) as an adjunct to profound hypothermic circulatory arrest (PHCA) extends the tolerable period of brain ischemia by flushing emboli and air from the cerebral circulation while maintaining hypothermia. We examined our experience with RCP to determine its efficacy in patients undergoing complex arch reconstruction. We retrospectively evaluated 879 patients undergoing arch reconstruction using RCP from July 1997 to March 2013. Perioperative risk factors were analyzed as predictors of neurologic injury and mortality. Survival for the type of arch reconstruction and for the interval of PHCA was calculated. Of the 879 patients, 671 underwent hemiarch and 208 total arch replacement. The mean age was 65 ± 13.3 years, and 61.6% were men. The total arch patients had longer mean periods of PHCA (39 vs 21 minutes, P < .001) and RCP (37 vs 19 minutes, P < .001). However, the incidence of transient neurologic dysfunction (3.0% vs 2.4%, P < .813) and permanent neurologic dysfunction (1.3% vs 1.9%, P < .519) was similar for both techniques. Mortality was greater in the hemiarch group (4.8% vs 0.5%, P < .003). Patients requiring >40 minutes of PHCA had outcomes similar to those requiring less. The 1-, 5-, and 10-year survival was similar, regardless of the procedure performed or interval of PHCA. RCP is a safe and effective adjunct for cerebral protection during arch surgery. Patients requiring more extensive arch reconstruction are not at greater risk of permanent neurologic dysfunction or perioperative mortality. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Proteoglycans synthesized by the hepatic granulomas isolated from schistosome-infected mice and by the granuloma-derived connective tissue cell lines.
Proteoglycans synthesized in vitro by periovular granulomas isolated from livers of schistosome-infected mice were compared with those produced by granuloma-derived cell lines: the primary cell line GR and the permanent cell line GRX. Proteoglycans were metabolically labelled with 35S-sulfate and extracted with 4 M guanidine-HCl containing 2.0% Triton X-100, in the presence of proteinase inhibitors. The radiolabelled proteoglycans were purified and characterized by anion-exchange, gel-filtration and affinity-column chromatography. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HS-PGs) and chondroitin sulfate/dermatan sulfate-containing proteoglycans (CS/DS-PGs) were detected in both the culture medium and the cell-associated fractions obtained from GR cells. More than 90% of the cell-associated HS-PG from these cells contained a hydrophobic portion, as evidenced by their ability to bind to octyl-Sepharose. In contrast, among the secreted proteoglycans, it was the CS/DS-PG and not the HS-PG that bound to this resin. The major fractions of cell-associated and secreted proteoglycans from GRX cells were HS-PGs. Similar to HS-PGs from GR cells, 50% of the cell-associated HS-PG bound to octyl-Sepharose, while only 20% of secreted proteoglycans (HS-PGs) bound to this resin. The proteoglycans purified from the whole granuloma were composed mainly of DS-PG, of a size and hydrophobicity similar to the CS/DS-PG from GR cells. Possible correlations among the structure, secretion, distribution and function of proteoglycans in granulomatous reactions are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cholesterol enriched diet enhances malondialdehyde modification of proteins in cerebral microvessels of rabbits.
To determine the role of dietary cholesterol on malondialdehyde (MDA) modification of proteins, the cerebral microvessels of rabbits fed a cholesterol enriched diet for 8 weeks were compared to control rabbits. The MDA proteins were estimated with immunoblotting using a specific polyclonal antiserum against MDA proteins. Cholesterol-fed rabbits had a significantly increased MDA protein band at 175 kDa compared to control rabbits (65.6 +/- 6.8 OD versus 16.5 +/- 2.5 OD, P < 0.01). An increase in MDA protein was also found in rabbits intravenously injected with 2 mg of MDA-modified low density lipoproteins or MDA-modified rabbit serum albumin (RSA) at 0, 2, and 4 weeks of observation. The MDA proteins were not increased in cerebral tissue of cholesterol-fed rabbits. It is concluded that a high cholesterol diet is associated with increased MDA modification of proteins in cerebral microvessels. The mechanism could be related to increased circulatory MDA proteins since exogenously administered MDA-LDL or MDA-RSA resulted in similar increases in MDA proteins in cerebral microvessels. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Corneal permeability to bunazosin in rabbits.
Topical and systemic absorption of bunazosin after topical instillation was investigated in rabbits. Corneal permeability of bunazosin in vivo was increased by the addition of caprylic acid in amounts equimolar to bunazosin. Aqueous humor levels of bunazosin were significantly elevated. These results correlated well with those obtained in vitro experiments. Contrarily, the levels of plasma were not significantly affected and only slightly lowered by caprylic acid. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High-affinity uptake of [3H]GABA by submucous ganglion cells, nerve fibres and peri- and para-vascular fibres in guinea-pig and rat intestine.
Segments of the intestinal wall from the guinea-pig and rat were dissected, and laminae from the submucous layer subjected to light microscopic [3H]GABA autoradiography. The laminae were carefully prepared so that their planar arrangement could be easily viewed. Intense labelling of fine processes by [3H]GABA was found in the different laminae of the submucous including Henle's or Schabadasch's plexus, the vascular nerve plexus, and a network of fibres subjacent to the muscularis mucosae. This labelling was extensive and represented neuronal-specific high-affinity uptake of radiolabelled GABA. The pattern of labelling was different between the laminae; however, within individual laminae, the distribution of labelled fibres was characteristic of the local nerve networks. Ganglia displayed intense labelling of neuropil and ganglion cells. These results provide strong evidence for the presence of GABAergic nerve cells and processes in the mammalian intestinal submucosa. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
NMDA receptor dependence of the input specific NMDA receptor-independent LTP in the hippocampal CA1 region.
An important characteristic of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampal CA1 region is that it is specific for those synapses which are active during the induction event. This input specificity is commonly attributed to the location and properties of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor channel. Experiments using strong high-frequency orthodromic activation have suggested that input-specific LTP can occur also in the absence of NMDA receptor activation. The present experiments have re-examined this question. They were performed in the CA1 region of hippocampal slices, and the synaptic strength was evaluated from the initial slope of the dendritically recorded field potential. In agreement with previous reports, 0.5 s, 200 Hz, orthodromic trains were found to lead to a substantial input-specific LTP (averaging 62%) in the presence of the competitive NMDA receptor antagonist D-(-)-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid (D-AP5) (20 microM). Under conditions of higher NMDA receptor blockade considerably less LTP was evoked. In 50 microM D-AP5 and 20 microM chloro-kynurenate LTP averaged 13.4%, and after addition of 20 microM (+)-dizicilpine maleate (MK-801) LTP averaged 5.9%. On the other hand, in 20 microM D-AP5 and 20 microM of the calcium channel antagonist nifedipine LTP averaged 49.9%. The present results suggest that NMDA receptor activity remaining in high concentrations of AP5 is sufficient to underly LTP induction under strong induction conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of Outcomes and Frequency of Graft Failure With Use of Free Versus In Situ Internal Mammary Artery Bypass Conduits (from the PREVENT IV Trial).
Although in situ internal mammary artery (is-IMA) grafting remains the most frequent conduit in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), circumstances may necessitate free grafting of the IMA (f-IMA), though differences in outcomes have not been fully characterized. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical and angiographic outcomes of is-IMA versus f-IMA coronary bypass grafts in patients who underwent elective CABG surgery. In 1,829 patients in the angiographic cohort of PREVENT IV, 1,572 (85.9%) had at least 1 IMA graft; of these, 34 (2.2%) patients had at least 1 f-IMA graft and 1,538 (97.8%) had at least 1 is-IMA graft without additional f-IMA grafts. Characteristics of patients, procedure, and grafts/targets were compared between cohorts. Primary endpoints included death, myocardial infarction, and revascularization, as well as incidence of graft failure (stenosis >75%) on angiography at 12-18 months postoperatively. Patients receiving is-IMA grafts were more often of white race and higher weight. Aortic cross-clamp time was shorter in the f-IMA cohort (39.5 vs 57.0 min, p = 0.04), but duration of bypass was similar (93.5 vs 100.0 minutes, p = 0.793). Of the in situ grafts, 97.3% were via the left internal mammary artery (LIMA), 86.6% were of good quality, and the left anterior descending (LAD) was bypassed in 88.2%. This compares with free grafts, which were via the LIMA in 68.0%, of good quality in 96.1%, and bypassed the LAD in 58.8% and first obtuse marginal (OM1) in 23.5%. Rates of death, myocardial infarction, and revascularization were similar between groups. The rate of graft failure was higher in f-IMA grafts (23.3%) compared with is-IMA grafts (8.5%; p < 0.01). Although clinical outcomes were similar with use of free versus in situ IMA grafts, higher rates of graft failure were encountered with use of the f-IMA graft. In conclusion, in situ grafts should be the preferred conduit for patients who undergo CABG surgery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thioredoxin messenger ribonucleic acid is regulated by estradiol in the rat uterus.
Thioredoxin is a major cellular dithiol reductant with a large number of functions in electron transport and thiol redox control of enzymes and transcription factors. To investigate the expression and regulation of thioredoxin in the uterus, 35 rats were ovariectomized (OVX) and treated 14 days after surgery with either growth hormone (GH), dexamethasone (DEX), or estradiol (E2), or combinations of these, for 24 h. Thioredoxin mRNA levels were determined by solution hybridization. The animals receiving E2 or a combination of E2 and DEX showed significantly increased thioredoxin mRNA levels, by 4-fold and 5-fold, respectively, as compared to the OVX control group. The GH or GH+DEX-treated groups did not display any difference in thioredoxin mRNA levels. Thioredoxin mRNA was also measured at different time points in uteri from OVX rats treated with daily E2 injections and was found to be transiently increased, with a maximum 48 h after the initiation of the E2 treatment. In contrast, the thioredoxin mRNA level in the liver of OVX rats was about 10-fold higher than in the uterus but remained unaffected by the different hormone treatments. We conclude that thioredoxin mRNA is expressed in the rat uterus, and up-regulated by E2 in a tissue-specific manner, with a maximum at 48 h after the initiation of hormone treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Invasive vs non-invasive treatment in acute coronary syndromes and prior bypass surgery.
We evaluated the association between invasive and non-invasive management and hospital and 6-month outcomes in patients with a prior coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) who experienced an acute coronary syndrome. Data were analysed from patients with a prior CABG who developed an acute coronary syndrome and were enrolled in the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events. From 44,991 patients included in the study, 3853 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 3356 received non-invasive treatment approaches while 497 underwent invasive treatment (percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI] within 48 h of admission). The primary composite endpoint of death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and recurrent ischaemia during hospitalization was similar in patients in the non-invasive and invasive groups (31% vs 30%, respectively; P=0.53). The rates of hospital mortality (non-invasive 3.4% vs invasive 3.2%) and non-fatal myocardial infarction (3.4% vs 5.1%, respectively) were similar. At 6-month follow-up, the mortality rate was 6.5% in the non-invasive group vs 3.4% in the invasive group (P<0.02); the combined endpoint of death or myocardial infarction was lower in the invasive group (P<0.01). Multivariable analysis showed that, at 6-month follow-up, the combined endpoint of death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and rehospitalization for heart disease was similar (P=0.10). A greater proportion of patients in the invasive group required unscheduled diagnostic and therapeutic invasive procedures compared with those in the non-invasive group (angiography 15.4% vs 8.1%; PCI 10% vs 5.0%; both P<0.001). The results from this observational study show no statistically significant differences in hospital outcomes between acute coronary syndrome patients with a prior CABG who undergo invasive or non-invasive treatment. Invasively treated patients experienced higher rates of readmission and additional cardiac procedures than non-invasively treated patients but a lower incidence of cardiovascular complications at 6 months. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fibroblast growth factor-stimulated phosphorylation of a lipocortin I-like protein is S-phase cell cycle specific in human vascular endothelial cells.
We examined whether the phosphorylation of a 34 kDa lipocortin I-like protein may be associated with internalization process of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) in human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVE) cells. We show that: 1) exposure of synchronized HUVE cells to basic FGF for an appreciable time lag (> or = 30 min) at 37 degrees C and subsequent phosphorylation at 37 degrees C are required to obtain an increased 32P-labelling of a 34 kDa substrate; 2) this FGF-stimulated phosphorylation occurs in S phase but not G1 phase of the growth cycle; 3) the 34 kDa substrate appears to be phosphorylated on tyrosine residues; 4) a major fraction of the 34 kDa 32P-labelled substrate is immunoprecipitated with an antibody that has been raised against human lipocortin/annexin of type I. It is suggested that internalized FGF-receptor/kinase complexes might be primarily responsible for the phosphorylation of the 34 kDa lipocortin I-related protein in S phase HUVE cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy: effects of age, duration of diabetes, glycemic control, and vascular factors.
The aim of this study was to determine the factors associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and more particularly its relation to precisely assessed microangiopathy. Peripheral neuropathy was assessed in 135 diabetic patients: 28 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), 85 non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), and 22 insulin-treated NIDDM patients, on the basis of both clinical findings and extensive electrophysiological testing (four motor nerves and four sensory nerves, and right and left Hoffmann's reflex), using a total of 20 parameters. The percentage of women with severe clinical neuropathy was significantly higher than that of men, and the clinical neurological stage correlated significantly with age and duration of diabetes. According to multivariate analysis the clinical stage correlated only with gender and duration of diabetes. Several electrophysiological parameters were significantly more abnormal in women and correlated with age, type and duration of diabetes, and recent glycemic control. The multivariate analysis showed that 17 electrophysiological parameters correlated with duration of diabetes, nine correlated with age, seven with glycemic control, and only one with gender. The presence of clinical neuropathy also correlated with presence of retinopathy, arterial hypertension, macroangiopathy, and biological signs of nephropathy. All the electrophysiological parameters were significantly more abnormal in patients with retinopathy or macroangiopathy than in patients without these complications. Separate parameter analysis showed that at least one abnormal electrophysiological parameter was almost always found in patients with retinopathy, macroangiopathy, or incipient nephropathy, but abnormalities were also found to a slightly lesser extent in patients without these complications. Multivariate analysis showed that when duration of diabetes, retinopathy, macroangiopathy, and biological signs of nephropathy were introduced into the model, 11 electrophysiological parameters correlated with duration of diabetes, 11 with retinopathy, seven with macroangiopathy, and five with a sign of nephropathy. This study demonstrates that age and glycemic control have an effect, and diabetes duration a major effect on peripheral nerve function. It suggests that vascular factors may participate in the development of nerve lesions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of the Composite International Diagnostic interview (CIDI-Auto) with clinical diagnosis in a suicidal population.
The objective was to examine agreement between routine clinician diagnoses of DSM-IV Anxiety, Depressive, Substance-Use disorders with diagnoses generated by CIDI-Auto Version 2.1, administered by trained interviewers. Subjects were 329 deliberate self poisoning patients at a tertiary referral center in Australia. Tests of agreement were: percentage agreement, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and Cohen's kappa coefficients, for 1 month and 12 month CIDI diagnoses. Agreement was poor (kappa <0.40) for Anxiety, Depressive and Substance-Use disorders. Since diagnosis largely determines subsequent treatment, these findings did not support the use of the less expensive CIDI-Auto procedure to replace clinical diagnosis by experienced clinicians for this group of patients exhibiting suicidal behavior. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of arthroscopic training using a porcine knee model.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of arthroscopic skills training. A routine diagnostic arthroscopic exercise using a porcine knee was performed. A checklist of 10 tasks was used in the training and the time taken to complete the checklist was evaluated, and the Arthroscopic Surgery Skill Evaluation Tool (ASSET) score was used to score the training and evaluate the practice session. A total of 14 residents attended this training, including five first- and second-year residents, five third- and fourth-year residents, and four orthopedic fellows. The ASSET score and time taken to complete the task checklist were evaluated, and the first and third practice sessions were scored to evaluate the effectiveness of the training. The mean ASSET score improved from 21.8 in the first practice session to 24.9 in the third session ( p < 0.001); the time taken to complete the task checklist decreased from 242 s in the first practice session to 207.5 s in the third session ( p < 0.001). The ASSET score and the time taken to complete the task improved in all groups between the first and third practice sessions. The degree of improvement in the ASSET score and the time taken to complete the task checklist between the first and third practice sessions in each group were not statistically different among the groups ( p = 0.857, p = 0.263, respectively). Porcine knees provide good material for residents and young orthopedic surgeons for teaching and training of arthroscopic surgical techniques. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Survey of Preventable Disaster Deaths at Medical Institutions in Areas Affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake: Retrospective Survey of Medical Institutions in Miyagi Prefecture.
Introduction In 2015, the authors reported the results of a preliminary investigation of preventable disaster deaths (PDDs) at medical institutions in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake (2011). This initial survey considered only disaster base hospitals (DBHs) and hospitals that had experienced at least 20 patient deaths in Miyagi Prefecture (Japan); therefore, hospitals that experienced fewer than 20 patient deaths were not investigated. This was an additional study to the previous survey to better reflect PDD at hospitals across the entire prefecture. Of the 147 hospitals in Miyagi Prefecture, the 14 DBHs and 82 non-DBHs that agreed to participate were included in an on-site survey. A database was created based on the medical records of 1,243 patient deaths that occurred between March 11, 2011 and April 1, 2011, followed by determination of their status as PDDs. A total of 125 cases of PDD were identified among the patients surveyed. The rate of PDD was significantly higher at coastal hospitals than inland hospitals (17.3% versus 6.3%; P<.001). Preventable disaster deaths in non-DBHs were most numerous in facilities with few general beds, especially among patients hospitalized before the disaster in hospitals with fewer than 100 beds. Categorized by area, the most frequent causes of PDD were: insufficient medical resources, disrupted lifelines, delayed medical intervention, and deteriorated environmental conditions in homes and emergency shelters in coastal areas; and were delayed medical intervention and disrupted lifelines in inland areas. Categorized by hospital function, the most frequent causes were: delayed medical intervention, deteriorated environmental conditions in homes and emergency shelters, and insufficient medical resources at DBHs; while those at non-DBHs were disrupted lifelines, insufficient medical resources, delayed medical intervention, and lack of capacity for transport within the area. Preventable disaster death at medical institutions in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred mainly at coastal hospitals with insufficient medical resources, disrupted lifelines, delayed medical intervention, and deteriorated environmental conditions in homes and emergency shelters constituting the main contributing factors. Preventing PDD, in addition to strengthening organizational support and functional enhancement of DBHs, calls for the development of business continuity plans (BCPs) for medical facilities in directly affected areas, including non-DBHs. Yamanouchi S , Sasaki H , Kondo H , Mase T , Otomo Y , Koido Y , Kushimoto S . Survey of preventable disaster deaths at medical institutions in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake: retrospective survey of medical institutions in Miyagi Prefecture. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2017;32(5):515-522. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Superstition, faith, delusion].
The superstitious person makes use of various projective mechanisms and establishes a connection between two events or between an object and an event which are not causally related. Superstition can be understood as a narcissistic attempt at compensation by persons lacking self-confidence, who feel themselves to be under an existential threat. Religious belief can be defined as a commitment to an ultimate meaning in life. Absolute faith requires hope, in fact genuine faith is unthinkable without hope. A prerequisite, an underlying emotional substrate, of the development of faith is trust, in the sense of basic trust. A characteristic of genuine religious belief is orthopraxy, the practical application of faith in this world. The integrity of religious belief is in itself vulnerable, since, unlike delusion, it can be modified. Delusion is a disturbance of thought content which is maintained with absolute conviction. The deluded person is not capable of doubting or correcting the false belief. Transition from faith to superstition and vice versa is often fluid. Superstition can be the starting point for delusional ideas. It must be distinguished from delusion and in most cases it is easy to do so. The superstitious person feels secure in his world, while the deluded person breaks out of this security and places himself outside the community, outside the society that supports him. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Treatment of end-stage renal disease by transplantation: clinical results with 111 cases.
The efficacy of renal transplantation for patients with end-stage renal disease was reviewed in 108 patients receiving 111 transplants followed for an average of two and one-half years after transplantation. Overall patient survival decreased 10 per cent per year from 90 per cent after the first year to 70 per cent at three years. Kidney survival was slightly less, with a similar pattern. Patients with better tissue matches and living related donor allografts had fewer and less severe rejections and better ultimate function than did patients with poor tissue matches and cadaver allografts. However, a significant number of patients with poor tissue matches and cadaver allografts had excellent results. Eighty-six per cent of all survivors with functioning kidneys had serum creatinines of 2.0 mg./100 ml. or below. Mortality was associated primarily with sepsis from a variety of bacterial, fungal, viral and protozoan organisms often associated with other complications such as rejection or gastrointestinal bleeding. Recipients over the age of 40 were in a higher risk group. Rejection per se, however, played a minor role. Urological and skeletal complications were a major source of morbidity but were not associated with mortality. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cochlear microphonic potentials: a new recording technique.
A new instrumentation and a particular method for detecting and recording cochlear microphonic potentials (CMPs) are described here. The CMPs were recorded in rats by means of pure tones (4,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, and 250 Hz) and intraepidermic electrodes; the electrocochleography technique was avoided. An experimental design that included the use of a glutamatergic agonist (kainic acid [KA]) and an aminoglycoside antibiotic (kanamycin [KANA]) was carried out to demonstrate the origin of the recorded potential. Morphological studies showed that KA selectively eliminated the afferent type I dendrites of the spiral ganglion, while the administration of KANA resulted in the absence of outer hair cells. When CMPs were recorded after KA administration, no alterations were detected. In contrast, KANA administration resulted in the absence of any selective electrophysiological activity corresponding to CMPs. All these results were compared with the recording of the compound action potential of the eighth nerve obtained by electrocochleography. These findings and the great specificity of the reproduction of the sound stimulus confirm that the CMPs can be recorded by the new equipment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pulmonary edema presenting as positive vitreous pressure.
The ocular causes of increased vitreous pressure during intraocular surgery are well known. It can also be precipitated by systemic causes. We describe a patient whose first manifestation of pulmonary edema was forward bowing of the iris and posterior capsule and to increased vitreous pressure. The possible perioperative causes that may contribute to the production of pulmonary edema are examined. Recommendations for dealing with these are presented. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An unusual presentation of a B-cell cutaneous lymphoma mimicking as nasolabial cyst.
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes which leads to solid tumors in the lymphoid organs involving lymph nodes, spleen, liver, bone marrow and skin. Primary cutaneous lymphoma, a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, can be classified as cutaneous T-cell or cutaneous B-cell lymphoma. These tumors are mostly T-cell origin and mainly locate on trunk, extremities and scalp or forehead. In this article, we report a 22-year-old female case without any symptoms of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma except a sign mimicking nasolabial cyst in the nasolabial fold, who was pathologically diagnosed with cutaneous B-cell lymphoma following surgery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Diagnosis and therapy in multiple sclerosis].
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease the central nervous system. Its first manifestation and clinical course of the disease is highly heterogeneous. The diagnosis is based on the verification of neurological deficits, the development of the clinical course and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and spine. The therapy comprises disease modifying drugs (DMD), therapy for acute relapses and escalation therapy according the German MS-Therapy-Consensus-Group (MSTKG). An early therapy initiation and a systematic therapy of acute relapses and symptoms determine the modern MS-management. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The peri-operative implications of herbal medicines.
An increasing number of patients are taking herbal medicines such as echinacea, garlic, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, St John's Wort, valerian, ephedra, kava, grapefruit juice and ginger. Although these herbal medications are considered 'natural' products that may have some benefits, adverse effects such as increased bleeding tendencies and drug interactions are associated with their use. Surgeons and anaesthetists may be unaware of their patients' use of these medications because it is common for patients not to disclose their use of this form of medication, and both surgeons and anaesthetists often fail to enquire about their use. Anaesthetists and surgeons must be familiar with the effects of herbal medicines and should specifically enquire about the use of herbal medicines during pre-operative assessment. Currently available data suggest that all herbal medicines should be ceased 2 weeks before surgery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Rapid analytic method for adriamycin and metabolites in human plasma by a thin-film fluorescence scanner.
A rapid and highly sensitive method is described for the quantitative determination of adriamycin and metabolites in plasma. Adriamycin (Ad) with daunorubicin added as the internal standard was extracted from plasma with chloroform-isopropanol (1:1), separated by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and quantitated in situ via a fluorescence scanning technique. This method represents one of the very few reliable quantitative TLC methods and is suitable for the routine determination of Ad in plasma in amounts as low as 2 ng/ml. Plasma Ad levels at 24 hours in rabbits and in patients both given a 1-mg/kg dose, previously regarded as difficult to be measured, are now easily measurable using as little as 0.5 ml of plasma. Multiple samples (ten to 15) can be analyzed by this method within a day. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The evolutionary and revolutionary genesis of affluence and its consequences].
In the course of the "Neolithic Revolution", while the warming after the glacial period about 13,000 years ago was starting, the crucial evolution of mankind took place, which has consequences to this day. With the beginning of agriculture and metallurgy a transition from an accidental outlook on life to a deliberate shaping of life set in. A chance from almost egalitarian tribal societies oriented solely towards consumption into production societies organized in a hierarchically complex way was not solely the result of an adaptation to climatic conditions, but also of a positively selecting evolution of the intellect. Following the socially relevant upheavals connected with this, the prerequisites for starting modest prosperity only for a privileged few across millenniums were created. Problems and future prospects of today's global distribution of affluence are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Electronenmicroscopic Studies on Cells of Listeria monocytogenes Treated with Enterocin (author's transl)].
Purified enterocin E1A, a bacteriocin produced by Streptococcus faecium E1, had a strong bactericidal activity on susceptible cells of Listeria monocytogenes. Electronmicroscopic observation of thin sections of L. monocytogenes, treated with enterocin E1A at a concentration that gave 0.1% survivors, revealed that the predominant features of morphological alterations concern the partial dissolution of the cell content and the damage of the cell envelope which enabled an efflux of cell-material. Not frequently intact protoplasts and greatly elongated cells were observed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Palladium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrophosphorylation of norbornenes.
[reaction: see text] By using Josiphos ligands, palladium-catalyzed hydrophosphorylation of norbornenes with hydrogen phosphonates proceeded efficiently to give the corresponding phosphonates in high enantioselectivities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The complete mitochondrial genome of the armored catfish, Hypostomus plecostomus (Siluriformes: Loricariidae).
The complete mitochondrial genome of the armored catfish, Hypostomus plecostomus, was determined by next generation sequencing of genomic DNA without prior sample processing or primer design. Bioinformatics analysis resulted in the entire mitochondrial genome sequence with length of 16,523 bp. The H. plecostomus mitochondrial genome is consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and 1 control region, showing typical circular molecule structure of mitochondrial genome as in other vertebrates. The whole genome base composition was estimated to be 31.8% A, 27.0% T, 14.6% G, and 26.6% C, with A/T bias of 58.8%. This work provided the H. plecostomus mitochondrial genome sequence which should be valuable for species identification, phylogenetic analysis and conservation genetics studies in catfishes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Radioprotector indralin at early and late manifestations of local radiation injuries.
Experimental model of acute local radiation injuries (LRI) was the degree of radiation skin burns of mouse paws, observed through the 10 day within 1 month after local γ -60Co-irradiation at the doses of 20-45 Gy. For late local radiation injuries with a maximum of over 6 months after exposure to radiation, model was the contracture of animal paws and post-radiation amputation of limbs of the mouse. In the experiments on mice radioprotector indralin (B-190) IP as direct α1-adrenomimetic has a expressed protective effect on reducing acute and late LRI, equal in terms of dose reduction factor (DRF) 1.4 -1.5 that was comparable to their efficacy during radiation injuries of hematopoietic tissues. Indralin fully retain its radioprotective properties (DRF = 1.5-1.7) in the condition of repeated radioprotector administration through one day at total dose of 57 Gy (three times 19 Gy) of fractionated γ -irradiation. The protective effect of indralin improved at parenteral administration in the place of local irradiation. The local topical application of indralin in the ointments or in solution of dimethylsulfoxide has radioprotective effect, equal in the term of DRF to 1.3 -1.5 at acute and late LRI. Indralin also possessed a expressed radioprotective properties (DRF = 1.5) in decrease radiation injuries of salivary glands during local irradiation of head of rats. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dose reconstruction in deforming lung anatomy: dose grid size effects and clinical implications.
In this study we investigated the accumulation of dose to a deforming anatomy (such as lung) based on voxel tracking and by using time weighting factors derived from a breathing probability distribution function (p.d.f.). A mutual information registration scheme (using thin-plate spline warping) provided a transformation that allows the tracking of points between exhale and inhale treatment planning datasets (and/or intermediate state scans). The dose distributions were computed at the same resolution on each dataset using the Dose Planning Method (DPM) Monte Carlo code. Two accumulation/interpolation approaches were assessed. The first maps exhale dose grid points onto the inhale scan, estimates the doses at the "tracked" locations by trilinear interpolation and scores the accumulated doses (via the p.d.f.) on the original exhale data set. In the second approach, the "volume" associated with each exhale dose grid point (exhale dose voxel) is first subdivided into octants, the center of each octant is mapped to locations on the inhale dose grid and doses are estimated by trilinear interpolation. The octant doses are then averaged to form the inhale voxel dose and scored at the original exhale dose grid point location. Differences between the interpolation schemes are voxel size and tissue density dependent, but in general appear primarily only in regions with steep dose gradients (e.g., penumbra). Their magnitude (small regions of few percent differences) is less than the alterations in dose due to positional and shape changes from breathing in the first place. Thus, for sufficiently small dose grid point spacing, and relative to organ motion and deformation, differences due solely to the interpolation are unlikely to result in clinically significant differences to volume-based evaluation metrics such as mean lung dose (MLD) and tumor equivalent uniform dose (gEUD). The overall effects of deformation vary among patients. They depend on the tumor location, field size, volume expansion, tissue heterogeneity, and direction of tumor displacement with respect to the beam, and are more likely to have an impact on serial organs (such as esophagus), rather than on large parallel organs (such as lung). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The functional and dynamometer-tested results of transtendinous flexor hallucis longus transfer for neglected ruptures of the Achilles tendon at six years' follow-up.
Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer is a well-recognized technique in the treatment of the neglected tendo Achillis (TA) rupture. We report a retrospective review of 20/32 patients who had undergone transtendinous FHL transfer between 2003 and 2011 for chronic TA rupture. Their mean age at the time of surgery was 53 years (22 to 83). The mean time from rupture to surgery was seven months (1 to 36). The mean postoperative follow-up was 73 months (29 to 120). Six patients experienced postoperative wound complications. The mean postoperative Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) was 83 (40 to 100) and the mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 94.3 (82 to 100). Tegner scoring showed a mean reduction of one level from the pre-injury level of activity. There was a mean reduction of 24% (4 to 54) in dynamometer-measured strength of ankle plantarflexion, in comparison with the non-operated side. The hallux had a mean of only 40% (2 to 90) strength of plantarflexion in comparison with the contralateral side. We conclude that transtendinous FHL transfer for neglected TA ruptures, with a long harvest to allow reattachment of the triceps surae, provides reliable long-term function and good ankle plantarflexion strength. Despite the loss of strength in hallux plantar flexion, there is little comorbidity from the FHL harvest. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:584-9. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Oral complications of cancer therapies. Surveillance cultures.
Surveillance cultures can be defined as an attempt to take microbiologic inventory, usually for bacteria and fungi, occasionally for viruses, at predetermined times during a patient's clinical course. They are useful in understanding the epidemiology of infection, evaluating techniques of infection prevention, assaying the effectiveness of preventive techniques, and guiding therapeutic decisions when empiric antimicrobial therapy is indicated. As such, they are most frequently used for patients at high risk of infection, such as those with acute leukemia receiving remission induction chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation therapy. The sites sampled most frequently for surveillance cultures are the nose, oral cavity (pharynx or gingiva), and either the perianum or a stool specimen. Since hospital microbiology laboratories are not designed for the requirements of surveillance culturing, it is essential that such cultures only be obtained following appropriate communication and agreement with the laboratory directors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel anti-osteoporotic agent that protects against postmenopausal bone loss by regulating bone formation and bone resorption.
Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a bone metabolism disease that is caused by an imbalance between bone-resorbing osteoclast and bone-forming osteoblast actions. Herein, we describe the role of troxerutin (TRX), a trihydroxyethylated derivative of rutin, in ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis and its effects on the regulation of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. In vivo, OVX female mice were intraperitoneally injected with either saline, 50 mg/kg TRX, or 150 mg/kg TRX for 6 weeks and then sacrificed for micro-computed tomography analyses, histological analyses, and biomechanical testing. In vitro, RAW264.7 cell-derived osteoclasts and MC3T3-E1 cell-derived osteoblasts were treated with different concentrations of TRX to examine the effect of TRX on osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption, as well as on osteogenesis and mineralization. In this study, we demonstrated that TRX prevented cortical and trabecular bone loss in ovariectomized mice by reducing osteoclastogenesis and promoting osteogenesis in vivo. In vitro, TRX inhibited the formation and activity of RAW264.7-derived osteoclasts and the expression of nuclear factor of activated T-cells 1 and cathepsin K. Meanwhile, TRX improved the osteogenesis and mineralization of MC3T3-E1 by enhancing the expression of Runt-related transcription factor 2, Osterix, and collagen type 1 alpha 1. Our data demonstrated that TRX could prevent OVX-induced osteoporosis and be used in a novel treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Age-related and infection intensity-related shifts in antibody recognition of defined protein antigens in a schistosome-exposed population.
This study compared patterns of recognition of defined Schistosoma haematobium adult worm antigens by serum antibodies from schistosome-exposed Zimbabweans aged 5-18 years. The population was stratified by age and infection intensity into 9 groups within which serum specimens were pooled and used to screen for protein recognition by 2-dimensional Western blotting. Recognized proteins were identified by electrospray ionizing tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 71 antigens were recognized by >or=1 of the serum pools. The recognition varied distinctly with host age and infection intensity, with some isoform-specific responses. The repertoire of antigens recognized increased with age, peaking in the oldest participants whose had no or mild-to-moderate infection intensity. The intensity of antigen recognition also increased with age, peaking in the oldest participants with the heaviest infection intensity. The recognition of specific schistosome antigens, both in terms of the diversity of antigens recognized and the intensity of antigen recognition, increased with duration of exposure to infection, supporting the hypothesis that the slow development of schistosome-acquired immunity is due to the slow accumulation of responsiveness to relevant parasite antigens. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vasodilator effects of red wines in subcutaneous small resistance artery of patients with essential hypertension.
It has been suggested that in animal models, red wine may have a protective effect on the vascular endothelium. However, it is not known whether this effect is also present in human small vessels and whether it is specific for certain wines. The objective of this study is to compare the vasodilator effects in subcutaneous small resistance arteries of wines with different flavonoid content as well as of ethanol vs. wines in normotensive (NT) subjects and in patients with essential hypertension (EH). Twenty-six EH and 27 NT were included in the study. Subcutaneous small resistance arteries were dissected and mounted on a micromyograph. Then we evaluated vasodilator responses as concentration-response curves (20, 30, and 50 microl) to the following items: (i) a red wine produced in small oak barrels ("en barrique": EB) (Barolo Oberto 1994), (ii) a red wine produced in large wood barrels (LB) (Barolo Scarzello 1989), (iii) a red wine produced in steel tanks (Albarello Rosso del Salento 1997), and (iv) a white wine produced in steel tanks in the presence or absence of an inhibitor of the nitric oxide (NO) synthase (L-NMMA 100 micromol/l). A dose-dependent vasodilator effect of red wines (particularly EB and LB) was detected in both NT and HT. The observed response was not reduced after preincubation with L-NMMA. Our results suggest red wines are more potent vasodilator than ethanol alone, possibly depending on the content of polyphenols or tannic acid. HT show similar responses compared with NT, indicating that red wine is not harmful in this population. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cytoplasmic STAT3 represses autophagy by inhibiting PKR activity.
In a screen designed to identify novel inducers of autophagy, we discovered that STAT3 inhibitors potently stimulate the autophagic flux. Accordingly, genetic inhibition of STAT3 stimulated autophagy in vitro and in vivo, while overexpression of STAT3 variants, encompassing wild-type, nonphosphorylatable, and extranuclear STAT3, inhibited starvation-induced autophagy. The SH2 domain of STAT3 was found to interact with the catalytic domain of the eIF2α kinase 2 EIF2AK2, best known as protein kinase R (PKR). Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of STAT3 stimulated the activating phosphorylation of PKR and consequent eIF2α hyperphosphorylation. Moreover, PKR depletion inhibited autophagy as initiated by chemical STAT3 inhibitors or free fatty acids like palmitate. STAT3-targeting chemicals and palmitate caused the disruption of inhibitory STAT3-PKR interactions, followed by PKR-dependent eIF2α phosphorylation, which facilitates autophagy induction. These results unravel an unsuspected mechanism of autophagy control that involves STAT3 and PKR as interacting partners. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Experiences with laser therapy in different forms of glaucoma with open and closed chamber angle].
Results of laser treatment of open-angle and angle-closure glaucomas are communicated. Argon laser trabeculoplasty was performed in 78 eyes with open-angle glaucoma. The most favorable site for photocoagulation was the gone between the pigmented and nonpigmented trabecular meshwork. Forty-two eyes with angle-closure glaucoma were treated by argon laser gonioplasty. This method proved successful in chronic angle-closure glaucoma and for the prophylactic management of acute angle-closure glaucomas. A combination of argon laser gonioplasty and argon laser trabeculoplasty was used in 16 eyes. Both methods were found to be effective in treating certain forms of juvenile glaucoma. A further 11 eyes with acute angle-closure glaucoma were treated by Nd-YAG laser iridotomy, 9 of them successfully. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relationships of Fetal-Type Erythropoiesis versus Nitric Oxide Production and Glycated Hemoglobin Levels in Diabetics.
This study investigated the potential contribution of nitric oxide (NOx) production to enhanced fetal hemoglobin (HbF) synthesis in patients with diabetes. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), HbF, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), plasma glucose levels, and serum NOx concentrations were measured in 350 diabetics and 125 healthy subjects. There were no significant correlations between HbF and HbA1c levels, nor between HbF and plasma glucose levels. However, serum NOx concentrations in patients with HbF >1.0% (76.2 ± 32.4 μmol/L) were significantly higher than those with HbF ≤ 1.0% (47.3 ± 29.8 μmol/L, p <0.05). Inversely, patients with moderately increased serum NOx levels >98.1 μmol/L (75th percentile of patients) exhibited significantly higher HbF levels than those with decreased serum NOx levels <34.2 μmol/L (25th percentile of patients) (1.16 ± 0.41 vs. 0.62 ± 0.28%, p <0.05). After excluding the subjects with high NOx levels, elevated HbF concentrations returned to a level not significantly different from the control value. Serum NOx concentrations were significantly correlated with HbF (r = 0.32, p <0.05) and hsCRP levels (r = 0.35, p <0.05) in diabetic patients. In conclusion, long-term glycemic control does not contribute to fetal-type erythropoiesis, but increased NOx production seems to play an important role in the enhanced HbF synthesis of diabetics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biochemical characterization of basilase, a fibrinolytic enzyme from Crotalus basiliscus basiliscus.
Snake venoms, especially from the Crotalidae family, contain a variety of enzymes that prevent blood coagulation by virtue of their fibrinolytic enzymes. Nineteen snake venoms were screened for fibrinolytic activity and the highest activity was found in the venom of Crotalus basiliscus basiliscus venom. The active principle, basilase, was isolated, purified, and found to have fibrinolytic and fibrinogenolytic activity. It had a molecular weight of 22,000 and 1 mol of zinc per mole of protein associated with it. The proteolytic activity of the enzyme against dimethyl casein was inhibited by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and alpha 2-macroglobulin. It did not inactivate alpha 2-macroglobulin. Basilase did not have any of the following activities: thrombin-like, factor X-like, protein C activating, or urokinase-like. It caused neither hemorrhage nor platelet aggregation. In spite of its proteolytic activity, basilase did not hydrolyze the membranes of platelets. Basilase had 24% alpha-helix, 31% beta-sheet, 25% turns, and 20% unordered structure, as determined by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. Basilase is an enzyme that hydrolyzes fibrin directly without activation of plasminogen. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Child seat belt guidelines: Examining the 4 feet 9 inches rule as the standard.
Current American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations regarding transition from child safety/booster seat to adult safety belt use indicate that children should be at least 4 feet 9 inches, 8 years old, or 80 pounds. Proper fit in the vehicle seat, assessed with a five-point fit test, should also be met. Although most children reach 4 feet 9 inches around age 8 years, each child and vehicle presents a unique combination; thus a child may not fit appropriately in all vehicle types using only the 4 feet 9 inches requirement. We enrolled children, aged 7 years to 12 years, into our study. Height, weight, and demographic data were obtained. A Child Passenger Safety Technician then performed the five-point fit test in each of a uniform lineup of five vehicles. Data were collected on fit in the standard vehicle seat and also in a booster seat. We set 90% as the threshold proportion of children who meet all criteria for proper fit to validate current recommendations of a height of 4 feet 9 inches. Data were collected on 388 children. The percentage of 90% proper fit was met in the compact car and small sport-utility vehicle (SUV). However, only 80 (77%) of 104 students (p < 0.0001) that were 4 feet 9 inches or higher fit properly in the large SUV, only 87 (83%) of 105 students (p = 0.02) fit properly in the pickup truck, and only 91 (89%) of 102 students (p = 0.74) fit properly in the minivan. Substantial proportions of children meeting current height guidelines for an adult seat belt do not meet safety requirements for fit, especially in larger, commonly used vehicles (large SUVs and trucks). This emphasizes the need for evaluation of fit by a trained personnel and/or development of standard back seat dimensions in all vehicles for maximum safety. Epidemiologic study, level III; Therapeutic study, level V. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Metabolism and tissue distribution study of Vaccaria seeds (Wang-Bu-Liu-Xing) in benign prostatic hyperplasia model rat: toward an in-depth study for its bioactive components.
Vaccaria seeds (Wang-Bu-Liu-Xing), a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been used as an emperor herb of many ancient formulas to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in clinic. However, its metabolism and tissue distribution, especially in the target tissue, had not been investigated so far. Based on the hypothesis that the components which exert effect against BPH of Vaccaria seeds would be measureable in target tissue (prostate), in vivo metabolism and tissue distribution of Vaccaria seeds in rats were profiled using a specific and sensitive high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS/MS). As a result, 19 major constituents in the Vaccaria seeds decoction and 19 constituents in rat plasma, feces and tissues after oral administration of Vaccaria seeds decoction were identified. Accurate mass measurement for molecular ions and characteristic fragment ions could represent reliable identification criteria for these compounds. Two prototypes were detected in prostate. An in vitro metabolism analysis of them was studied after incubation with rat intestinal flora and rat liver microsome (RLM) in this paper, which is helpful for further investigation of the potential effect of these two components. The result of this study provided meaningful information for further pharmacology research on Vaccaria seeds. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Long term follow up of suicide in a clinically depressed community sample.
The purpose of this study was to examine how sex differences in suicide rates unfolded in a long-term follow up of patients who had been diagnosed with major depression. Patients who were diagnosed with major depression in the Chichester/Salisbury Catchment Area Study were followed for 49 years. Recorded deaths from suicide were compared with rates that were predicted from historical data on suicide mortality rates from 1960 onwards. An overall suicide rate of 3.4% was found in the present sample. Sixteen women and three men died from suicide. Women's suicide rates were significantly higher than the level predicted based on general population trends. Men showed a barely non-significant trend in the same direction. The diagnosis of clinical depression was associated more strongly with increased risk for suicide among women compared with men. Of the female suicides, 13 had been diagnosed with endogenous depression. While suicide rates are significantly higher for men in the general population, and for depressed patients of both sexes, the depression may be a particularly strong predictor of suicide risk among women. The dataset does not provide information about processes that mediate the relationship between depression and suicide mortality. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Two cases of acute pulmonary embolism in head and neck tumor surgery].
A male patient with hypopharyngeal cancer accepted operation under general anesthesia. Sixth day after surgery in patient with sudden chest pain and obvious difficulty in breathing. Blood oxygen saturation of 90%. The electrocardiogram showed: ST-T change,Tv6 flat;blood gas analysis: pH 7. 491, PCO2 34. 1 mmHg, PO2 54. 7 mmHg; D-Dimer 3. 87 mg/L; white blood cell 17. 50 × 10(9)/L. CTPA showed: right pulmonary artery embolism,pulmonary infection. Another male patient with the right tonsil cancer accepted operation under general anesthesia. Fourth day of patient suddenly appear bosom frowsty and obvious difficulty in breathing. Blood oxygen sat- uration of 88%. Blood gas analysis: pH: 7. 48, PCO2 : 33 mmHg, PO2 : 57 mmHg; D-Dimer: 2. 97 mg/L; white blood cell:11. 80 × 10(9)/L. CTPA showed: the main pulmonary artery and right pulmonary artery branch embolism, pulmonary inflammation. Both were diagnosised as acute pulmonary embolism and recovered well after giving anticoagulant therapy in time. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of early postnatal overnutrition of rats on fatty acid composition of membrane lipids.
The influence of early postnatal overnutrition on fatty acid composition of erythrocyte, thrombocyte and liver mitochondria membrane lipids was studied in male rats (3, 6 and 11 months old) reared in small nests (2 pups per dam) in comparison to normally bred rats (12 pups per dam). Independent of age elevated proportions of palmitic and stearic acid at the expense of linoleic and arachidonic acid were found in all membrane lipids investigated in the postnatally overfed animals. These changes are discussed in relation to the enhanced lipogenesis with increased body fat accumulation in this animal model of a dietary induced obesity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Monte Carlo analysis of the conformation of DNA catenanes.
We used a Monte Carlo method to study the conformational properties of catenanes between two nicked DNA rings. We calculated the writhe induced by catenation as a function of the linking number between the two rings. The simulations modeled catenated rings of equal size as well as rings differing in length by a factor of 3. For both classes of catenanes, the calculated values of writhe agreed very well with the experimental measurements of catenation-induced supercoiling made by Wasserman et al. Therefore, the equilibrium value of DNA twist is not changed significantly by catenation. We found that the induced writhe increased linearly with catenane linking number, but was independent of DNA length and of effective helical diameter. We conclude that induced writhe is a general feature of catenation, and that it depends primarily on the ratio of lengths of the linked rings and the number of catenane interlocks. In contrast, catenane conformation varied qualitatively with catenation linking number, DNA length, and double helix diameter. At the values of these parameters for catenanes isolated from cells, catenane conformations were strikingly irregular. Nonetheless, the local concentration of two sites on separate but linked rings increased greatly with catenane linking number. This increase is similar to that brought about by (-) supercoiling to DNA sites in cis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biochemistry and physiology of anabolic hormones used for improvement of meat production.
A number of hormones are involved in endocrine regulation of growth. In general, these hormones enhance body protein accretion and metabolise fat stores resulting in increased lean growth rates. Most practical importance was obtained by sex hormones (oestrogens and androgens), beta-agonists and growth hormone - whether legally or illegally. Efficiency of growth promotion ranges between 0% and +20% depending on the prerequisites such as species, breed, gender, age, reproductive status, body score or feeding of the animals. Oestrogens and androgens mediate their activity via intracellular receptors - directly in muscular tissue as well as indirectly via stimulation of growth hormone from the hypophysis and other growth factors from liver plus several further organs. In addition, mineral absorption in the gut is improved. The outstanding efficiency of trenbolone is based on its androgenic plus antiglucocorticoid activity. Melengestrolacetate is thought to act indirectly via stimulation of endogenous ovarian oestradiol in non-pregnant heifers. The necessary dosages and residue formations depend on the pharmacokinetic parameters of each substance and extrapolations between compounds are hardly possible. Growth hormone and beta2-agonists use independent pathways for growth promotion not related to steroid biochemistry. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Acute effect of equicaloric meals varying in glycemic index and glycemic load on arterial stiffness and glycemia in healthy adults: a randomized crossover trial.
Dietary carbohydrate quality and quantity fluctuate but it is unknown which attribute takes precedence in vascular health preservation. We investigated all four permutations of glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) on acute vascular and glycemic responses. Twenty-one healthy adults were screened for this crossover trial. Seventeen (8 M:9 F; 26.7 ± 12.3 y; BMI 22.2 ± 2.8 kg/m2) entered randomization and completed the study, receiving four isocaloric meals, varying in GI and GL, in random order at least 3 days apart. The four meals included either chickpeas (GI = 28, GL = 14, 50 g available carbohydrates (CHO)), a small potato portion (GI = 85, GL = 14, CHO = 17 g), pasta (GI = 45, GL = 42, CHO = 94 g) or a large potato portion (GI = 85, GL = 42, CHO = 50 g) as the source of carbohydrate. Augmentation index (AIx) and central and peripheral blood pressure were measured fasting, 1, 2, 3, and 4 h post-consumption. Capillary blood glucose was analyzed fasting, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 min. A reduction in AIx from baseline was observed 4 h following the chickpeas (low GI-low GL) (p = 0.046). The incremental area under blood glucose curves were significantly higher 2 h post-consumption following high compared with low GL meals (p < 0.001). Despite doubling carbohydrates, there was no difference in glycemic response between the large potato (high GI-high GL) and the pasta (low GI-high GL) meals. No significant differences in AIx or blood pressure were seen between meals. Low GI, low-carbohydrate meals may support a healthy vascular tone. Varying meal GI and GL results in different glycemic profiles, which are not necessarily predicted by carbohydrate content. Further investigations on cardiometabolic profiles to meals varying in GI and GL are warranted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of group A rotaviruses from Zambian fruit bats provides evidence for long-distance dispersal events in Africa.
Group A rotavirus (RVA) is a major cause of diarrhea in children worldwide. Although RVA infects many animals, little is known about RVA in bats. The present study investigated the genetic diversity of RVA in Zambian bats. We identified RVA from two straw-colored fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) and an Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus), and analyzed the genome sequences of these strains. Genome segments of the RVA strains from Zambian E. helvum showed 97%-99% nucleotide sequence identity with those of other RVA strains from E. helvum in Cameroon, which is 2800 km from the sampling locations. These findings suggest that migratory straw-colored fruit bat species, distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, have the potential to disseminate RVA across long distances. By contrast, the RVA strain from Zambian R. aegyptiacus carried highly divergent NSP2 and NSP4 genes, leading us to propose novel genotypes N21 and E27, respectively. Notably, this RVA strain also shared the same genotype for VP6 and NSP3 with the RVA strains from Zambian E. helvum, suggesting interspecies transmission and genetic reassortment may have occurred between these two bat species in the past. Our study has important implications for RVA dispersal in bat populations, and expands our knowledge of the ecology, diversity and evolutionary relationships of RVA. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Thermodynamic effects of laser irradiation of implants placed in bone: an in vitro study.
Lasers have been proposed for various applications involving dental implants, including uncovering implants and treating peri-implantitis. However, the effect of laser irradiation on the implant surface temperature is only partially known. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the effect of irradiation with diode, carbon dioxide, and Er:YAG lasers on the surface temperature of dental implants placed in bone, in vitro. For this study, one dental implant was placed in a bovine rib. A trephine bur was used to create a circumferential defect to simulate peri-implantitis, and thermocouples were placed at the coronal and apical aspect of the implant. The implant was irradiated for 60 s using four different lasers independently and change in temperature as well as time to reach a 10 °C increase in temperature were recorded. There was wide variability in results among the lasers and settings. Time for a 10 °C increase ranged from 0.9 to over 60 s for the coronal thermocouple and from 18 to over 60 s for the apical thermocouple. Maximum temperature ranged from 5.9 to 70.9 °C coronally and from 1.4 to 23.4 °C apically. During laser irradiation of dental implants, a surface temperature increase beyond the "critical threshold" of 10 °C can be reached after only 18 s. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor facilitates the restoration of resistance to opportunistic fungi in leukopenic mice.
Administration of recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), which induces hemopoietic precursor cells to proliferate and differentiate into neutrophils, protected leukopenic mice infected with opportunistic fungi. Mice were injected with cyclophosphamide and were then subcutaneously (s.c.) or intravenously (i.v.) administered 15-120 micrograms G-CSF kg-1 day-1 for 3 days. The number of peripheral blood neutrophils in the G-CSF treated mice was significantly increased 48 h after G-CSF administration. All leukopenic mice infected with either Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans or Aspergillus fumigatus were significantly protected by treatment with the G-CSF. Moreover, G-CSF treatment caused a decrease in the number of viable yeasts in kidneys of Candida infected mice. These data suggest that prophylactic therapy with G-CSF may be useful against fungal infections in an immunocompromised host. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Triple anterior screw fixation of an acute combination atlas-axis fracture. Case report.
The authors report the successful treatment of an acute combination atlas-axis fracture in an 85-year-old man using anterior odontoid and C1-2 transarticular facet screw fixation and a Philadelphia collar. Treatment with halo brace immobilization failed, and the patient experienced recurrent episodes of oxygen desaturation when placed partially prone for chest physiotherapy. If a posterior approach is not feasible, an anterior odontoid and C1-2 transarticular facet screw fixation can be considered as a salvage procedure for patients with acute combination atlas-axis fractures. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Broadband optical cloak and illusion created by the low order active sources.
In present work, we demonstrate an optical cloak and illusion by appropriate design of a cluster of active sources. As pointed out by Vasquez and coworkers, the merit of such proposal with active controls is to overcome the drawback of narrow operating frequency and intrinsic loss inherent in the cloaking device made of metamaterials. Accordingly, the illusion device designed thuswise has a broadband operating frequency. By use of the rigorous multiple scattering theory, we have performed the simulations. It is shown that the active illusion device can be used as an beam rotator. In particular, we have shown that the active sources can even be reduced to dipole ones, which is expected to enable much easier experimental implementation of the cloaking and illusion effect. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of endothelin in the age dependent increase in renal vascular resistance in the rat kidney.
Endothelin (ET) is a powerful vasopressor agent that is activated in a number of pathophysiologic states where renal perfusion is reduced. Since renal vasoconstriction occurs as part of renal aging, we investigated the possibility that ET may be activated in the old kidney. These experiments involved acutely blocking endogenous ET with Bosentan (a non-peptide mixed antagonist to both ET receptor types ETA and ETB), in Sprague-Dawley male rats of various ages: young (4 5 months), middle-aged (12-13 months) and old (19-20 months). Experiments were performed in chronically catheterized, conscious rats, studied under unstressed conditions. Renal hemodynamics and sodium excretion were measured before and during acute ET receptor blockade. In all three age groups, Bosentan had no effect on glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal plasma flow (RPF), renal vascular resistance (RVR), blood pressure (BP) or urine flow. Sodium excretion increased significantly with Bosentan but the natriuresis was similar in rats of all ages. These results suggest that ET does not contribute to the renal vasoconstriction of the old rat kidney. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Major histocompatibility complex class II deficiency: clinical manifestations, immunologic features, and outcome.
Major histocompatibility complex class II deficiency (bare lymphocyte syndrome) is a rare primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by profound defects in human leukocyte antigen class II expression, inconsistent and incomplete expression of human leukocyte antigen class I molecules, and a complete lack of cellular and humoral immune responses to foreign antigens. To define the clinical and immunologic characteristics, outcome, and natural history of major histocompatibility complex class II deficiency, we retrospectively analyzed 30 consecutive patients. Clinical onset occurred in the first year of life, usually involving recurrent bronchopulmonary infections and chronic diarrhea. The clinical course was complicated by viral meningoencephalitis, hepatitis, cholangitis, and various autoimmune phenomena. Prognosis was very poor: the mean age at the time of death was 4 years. The main cause of death was overwhelming viral infection. Recent advances in bone marrow transplantation have raised hopes of curative treatment: 6 of 14 patients who underwent bone marrow transplantation were cured. Long-term survival after human leukocyte antigen-identical and haploidentical bone marrow transplantation seemed to depend primarily on the presence of preexisting viral infections. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The interaction of adriamycin with cardiolipin in model and rat liver mitochondrial membranes.
The interaction of adriamycin with cardiolipin in model membranes and in various membrane preparations derived from rat liver mitochondria was studied and the results are analyzed in the light of a possible specific interaction between adriamycin and cardiolipin. It was found that adriamycin binds to cardiolipin-containing model membranes with a fixed stoichiometry of two drug molecules per cardiolipin. Furthermore, the extent of drug complexation by mitochondria and mitoplasts (inner membrane plus matrix) is in reasonable agreement with their cardiolipin content. In contrast, adriamycin-binding curves of inner membrane ghosts and submitochondrial particles reveal considerable association to an additional site, presumably RNA. The evidence for the potential importance of RNA as a target comes from experiments on outer membranes and microsomes which both appear to bind substantial amounts of adriamycin. Removal of the major part of the RNA associated with these fractions by EDTA treatment is accompanied by a dramatic reduction of binding capacity. We propose that endogenous RNA present in mitochondria and mitoplasts is not accessible for adriamycin at low concentrations of the drug due to the presence of an intact lipid barrier. This potential site comes to expression in ghosts and submitochondrial particles, due to the absence of an intact lipid bilayer and due to the inside-out orientation of the limiting membrane, respectively. Electron microscopical studies show that adriamycin induces dramatic changes in mitochondrial morphology, similar to the uncoupler-induced effects described by Knoll and Brdiczka (Biochim. Biophys. Acta 733, 102-110 (1983). Adriamycin has an uncoupling effect on mitochondrial respiration and oxidative phosphorylation. The concentration dependence of this effect correlates with the adriamycin-binding curve for mitochondria which implies that only bound adriamycin actively inhibits respiration. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Repeated contact with subtoxic soman leads to synaptic vulnerability in hippocampus.
Soman, an anticholinesterase and dangerous nerve agent, produces convulsions, memory impairment, and cell loss in the brain, especially in the hippocampus. Soman-induced accumulation of acetylcholine initiates mechanisms responsible for the development of incapacitating seizures. The prolonged epileptiform nature of these seizures causes the release of another excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate, which has been linked to the toxic action of the nerve agent. Here, we tested whether subtoxic soman exposures influence the brain's sensitivity to glutamate-based excitotoxicity. Over a 1-week period, hippocampal slice cultures were exposed daily to a transient level of soman that produced no evidence of synaptic deterioration. After the subtoxic soman treatments, however, the tissue became vulnerable to a brief episode of glutamate receptor overstimulation that normally resulted in little or no excitotoxic damage. In those slice cultures treated with subtoxic soman, a decline in synaptic markers as well as an increase in spectrin breakdown occurred 24 hr after the mild excitotoxic event. Exposure to high soman concentrations alone produced similar synaptic degeneration, but without evident cell death, suggesting that synaptic decline is an early neurotoxicological response to the nerve agent. Interestingly, enhanced excitotoxic sensitivity caused the brain tissue to become susceptible to disparate insults initiated before or after the soman contact. These findings indicate that seemingly innocuous soman exposures leave the hippocampus sensitive to the types of insults implicated in traumatic brain injury and stroke. They also warn that asymptomatic contact with soman may lead to progressive synaptopathogenesis and that early indicators of soman exposure are critical to prevent potential brain injury. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neonatal seizures from in utero venlafaxine exposure.
Venlafaxine (Efexor), a selective noradrenergic reuptake inhibitor, is an important therapeutic option in the treatment of perinatal depression, but its effects on the newborn are uncertain. We present a report of two infants with neonatal seizures attributed to maternal use of venlafaxine. The first infant was hypotonic and required resuscitation at birth. The second was born in a good condition but developed clinically apparent seizures after the second day of life. Both infants responded rapidly to treatment with phenobarbitone that was weaned uneventfully by the first and second week of life. Both remain well at 1 year of age. Other causes of neonatal seizures were excluded and neurological investigations on these two infants were unremarkable. We suggest that all infants exposed to maternal venlafaxine, no matter their condition at birth, be monitored in hospital for at least 3 to 4 days in order to preempt and treat adverse neurological events. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clinical characteristics of patients undergoing surgical resection of benign liver tumors in Taiwan, an endemic area for hepatocellular carcinoma.
The management of benign liver tumors in Asian countries endemic for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may be different from that in western countries with a lower prevalence of HCC. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of surgically treated benign liver tumors in a liver disease treatment center in Taiwan, an area prevalent for HCC. Between January 1991 and June 2001, 57 patients with benign liver tumors underwent liver resection. The demographic data, radiologic diagnosis, and postoperative pathologic diagnosis of these patients were reviewed and analyzed. Cavernous hemangioma (n = 15), focal nodular hyperplasia (n = 12), and macro-regenerative nodule (n = 9) were the most frequent pathologic diagnoses of the resected liver tumors. HCC was the most frequent preoperative radiologic diagnosis (27/57, 47%). Four of the 9 macro-regenerative nodules had associated focal dysplastic change. All of the patients with macro-regenerative nodule had a preoperative imaging diagnosis of HCC. Only 1 liver biopsy was performed among the 57 patients. HCC was the most frequent preoperative radiologic diagnosis for benign liver tumors undergoing liver resection at a tertiary referral center in Taiwan. Macro-regenerative nodule of liver was commonly misdiagnosed as HCC by radiology alone in this study. In order to avoid unnecessary surgery, aspiration cytology should be performed for all patients without elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein and typical radiologic features of HCC. Patients with macro-regenerative nodules without atypical hepatocytes can be followed safely without surgical intervention, but when a macro-regenerative nodule with dysplastic change is found, it should be treated either by surgical resection or local ablation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The psychological impact of cancer.
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer is associated with a substantial psychiatric morbidity including anxiety, depression, sexual difficulties, body image problems, illness behaviour, and conditioned responses. Active enquiry is worthwhile since most problems are alleviated by treatment once they have been elicited. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vocal cord dysfunction diagnosed by four-dimensional dynamic volume computed tomography in patients with difficult-to-treat asthma: A case series.
Patients with asthma may also have vocal cord dysfunction (VCD), which leads to poor control of the asthma. Once patients are diagnosed with difficult-to-treat asthma with poor control, VCD should be excluded or treated accordingly. The gold standard for diagnosis of VCD is to perform a laryngoscopy. However, this procedure is invasive and may not be suitable for patients with difficult-to-treat asthma. Four-dimensional (4D) dynamic volume computed tomography (CT) is a noninvasive method for quantification of laryngeal movement, and can serve as an alternative for the diagnosis of VCD. Herein, we present a series of five cases with difficult-to-treat asthma patients who were diagnosed with VCD by 4D dynamic volume CT. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of VCD when poor control is noted in patients with asthma. Early diagnosis by noninvasive 4D dynamic volume CT can decrease excessive doses of inhaled corticosteroids. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Proposals for sample size calculation programs.
Numerous sample size calculation programs are available nowadays. They include both commercial products as well as public domain and open source applications. We propose modifications for these programs in order to even better support statistical consultation during the planning stage of a two-armed clinical trial. Directional two-sided tests are commonly used for two-armed clinical trials. This may lead to a non-negligible Type III error risk in a severely underpowered study. In the case of a reasonably sized study the question for the so-called auxiliary alternative may evolve. We propose that sample size calculation programs should be able to compute i) Type III errors and the so-called q-values, ii) minimum sample sizes required to keep the q-values below pre-specified levels, and iii) detectable effect sizes of the so-called auxiliary alternatives. Proposals i and ii are intended to help prevent irresponsibly underpowered clinical trials, whereas the proposal iii is meant as additional assistance for the planning of reasonably sized clinical trials. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Bone fracture and the healing mechanisms. A new method for evaluation of fracture healing by echo tracking].
Assessment of bone healing on radiographs is not necessarily objective. A clinical system was developed to quantify the stiffness of healing fractures of the tibia in patients by the echo tracking (ET) method in a manner similar to a three-point bending test. The lower leg was supported. An ultrasound probe was placed on the proximal and distal fragments and a load of 25 N was applied. With a multiple ET system, two probes measured the displacement of five tracking points on each of the proximal and distal fragments of the tibia, thereby detecting the bending of the two fragments generated by the load. ET angle was defined as the sum of the inclinations of the proximal and distal fragments. Patients with tibial fracture treated by a cast or internal fixation were measured over time. In patients with radiographically normal healing, the bending angle decreased exponentially over time. However, in patients with nonunion, the angle remained the same over time. It was demonstrated that the ET method could be clinically applicable to evaluate fracture healing as a versatile, quantitative and noninvasive technique. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Emotion perception and electrophysiological correlates in Huntington's disease.
This study aimed to characterise, emotion perception deficits in symptomatic Huntington's disease (HD) via the use of event-related potentials (ERPs). ERP data were recorded during a computerised facial expression task in 11 HD participants and 11 matched controls. Expression (scrambled, neutral, happy, angry, disgust) classification accuracy and intensity were assessed. Relationships between ERP indices and clinical disease characteristics were also examined. Accuracy was significantly lower for HD relative to controls, due to reduced performance for neutral, angry and disgust (but not happy) faces. Intensity ratings did not differ between groups. HD participants displayed significantly reduced visual processing amplitudes extending across pre-face (P100) and face-specific (N170) processing periods, whereas subsequent emotion processing amplitudes (N250) were similar across groups. Face-specific and emotion-specific derivations of the N170 and N250 ('neutral minus scrambled' and 'each emotion minus neutral', respectively) did not differ between groups. Our data suggest that the facial emotion recognition performance deficits in HD are primarily related to neural degeneration underlying 'generalised' visual processing, rather than face or emotional specific processing. ERPs are a useful tool to separate functionally discreet impairments in HD, and provide an important avenue for biomarker application that could more-selectively track disease progression. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Experimental studies on a new bioactive bone cement: hydroxyapatite composite resin.
We developed hydroxyapatite composite resin (CAP) as a new type of bioactive bone cement. CAP is composed of 80% w/w hydroxyapatite granules (mean particle size: 2 microns) and bis-phenol-A glycidyl methacrylate-based resin. The setting time is 5 min and the peak curing temperature during polymerization is 46 degrees C. In this study, the mechanical strength of CAP and the biological behaviour of the CAP-bone interface were examined. The compressive strength of CAP was 260 MPa and this was about three times greater than that of commercial polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement. The tensile strength and fracture toughness of CAP also exceeded those of PMMA cement. CAP was implanted into the femoral condyles of rabbits. Two weeks later, new bone formation was already seen on the surface of the CAP implants. At 8 wk, bone was growing directly onto the surface of the CAP implants and no intervening fibrous tissue could be observed at the CAP-bone interface. These results show that CAP is a promising material which possesses superior mechanical strength and the biological property of achieving direct contact with bone. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Vitreous as tamponade in healing of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
The condition of the vitreous body was assessed by a photographic method after surgical treatment in 116 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment showing horseshoe-shaped retinal breaks. The condition was classified into three groups: 1) the cortical vitreous covered the retinal break under both static and kinetic conditions (complete type), 2) the cortical vitreous covered the break only under the static condition (incomplete type), and 3) the break was not covered by the cortical vitreous (uncovered type). The success rate of the primary surgery was 100% in both the complete and incomplete types, but it was 58% in the uncovered type, where the final success rate after the second surgery was only 89%. The radial retinal folds were found after surgery at a high incidence in the uncovered type. The time required for disappearance of the subretinal fluid was shorter in the complete than in the incomplete type; in the uncovered type it took a long time for the subretinal fluid to diminish. It was concluded that the cortical vitreous served as a tamponade to prevent vitreous fluid flow into the subretinal space, thus facilitating reattachment of the retina. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Endoscopic Mediastinal Staging in Lung Cancer Is Superior to "Gold Standard" Surgical Staging.
The objective was to evaluate whether endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS) or endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) staging techniques of the mediastinum for lung cancer can change the treatment plan compared with the "gold standard" of surgical staging. Patients were retrospectively identified from a prospectively collected database. Endoscopic staging was compared with the "gold standard" cervical mediastinoscopy (CM). In cases where mediastinoscopy was not performed, EBUS/EUS was compared with "ideal" CM, a virtual procedure, which was assumed to have 100% rates of sensitivity and specificity. EBUS was performed in 324 patients (99%), EUS in 295 patients (90%), and CM in 101 patients (31%); 226 patients (69%) were assumed to have undergone a virtual ideal CM and a virtual surgical mediastinal staging; 108 positive biopsies (33.0%) with endosonography had sampling of targets that were out of the scope of CM. Distant metastatic disease was diagnosed by EBUS/EUS in 7 patients (2.1%); 22 patients (6.7%) had positive targets outside the reach of the CM or virtual CM. If the 14 patients who had positive stations 5, 6, 10, and 11 are excluded (accessible with anterior mediastinotomy or extended cervical mediastinoscopy), there were 6 patients (1.8%) in whom endosonography upstaged the patient over ideal surgical mediastinal staging. In 20 patients (6.1%), ultrasound-guided biopsy made the diagnoses, which changed the treatment plan over CM and ideal CM. Combined EBUS- and EUS-guided biopsies can access more targets, including lung and distant metastasis, and thus have the potential to upstage patients compared with mediastinoscopy and change the treatment plan. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alternative interferons and immunomodulators in the treatment of hepatitis C.
Interferon-α (IFN-α) has been the mainstay of therapy for hepatitis C and is currently being combined with other drugs to improve the response rate. Newer therapeutic regimens are being developed to spare the use of IFN because of the important side effects associated with IFN-based therapy. However, there may still be a need for the use of IFN in certain populations. In addition, agents that mimic the actions of IFN but with fewer side effects may still be of major value. This review focuses on the development of alternative and new forms of IFNs and other immunomodulatory agents that may supplant IFN-α in combination therapy for hepatitis C. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Caring for older patients at an emergency department -- emergency nurses' reasoning.
The aim of the study was to use the experiences of emergency nurses to illuminate what constitutes good nursing care for patients 75 years or older transferred to emergency departments. Emergency departments have a medical technical character and the number of visits there increases dramatically as people age. Older patients require increased healthcare services in terms of nursing care, interventions and hospitalizations due to an increased complexity of their problems. For these reasons it is important to study what good nursing care of the older patients consists of at an emergency department from the emergency nurses' point of view. Ten emergency nurses from a university hospital emergency department in Sweden were interviewed. A thematic content analysis was performed. The study showed that it was necessary to be knowledgeable, to be understanding of the older patients' situation and to take responsibility for them in order to be able to provide good nursing care. The emergency nurses shifted focus from describing the central aspect of good nursing care to describing what hinders the provision of it. Their experience was that prioritizing medical procedures, everyday tasks and routines threatens good nursing care of older patients in emergency departments. The emergency nurses held that the older patient is often sent to an emergency department where the level of care is not appropriate to their needs. The result can be seen as a challenge for the organization and the nurses in the future; to prioritize differently, thereby maintaining a balance between good nursing and medical/technical tasks when treating older patients. The present day healthcare system is not organized to appropriately meet the needs of the older patients. Nurses themselves hold they can better serve the older patient. By sharing their experiences, both can be accomplished. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of jaw clenching on the electromyographic activities of 2 neck and 2 trunk muscles.
Symptoms of jaw dysfunction are often associated with neck muscle dysfunction or other musculoskeletal problems. This study attempted to quantify the effect of jaw clenching on the electromyographic (EMG) activity of certain neck, trunk, and jaw muscles. The authors recorded EMG muscle activity in the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, paravertebral, and rectus abdominis muscles in 10 university students at rest and during strong jaw clenching in supine and sitting positions. In both positions, jaw clenching resulted in increases in neck muscle activity ranging from 7.6 to 33 times resting muscle activity; for the trunk muscles, the increases ranged from 1.4 to 3.3 times resting activity. These results add further information to the concept of the interrelatedness of jaw, neck, and trunk muscle activity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Dynamic assessment of morphological awareness and third-grade literacy success.
The purpose of this study was to examine a dynamic assessment with graduated prompts to assess morphological awareness and determine whether such a task was related to third-grade literacy success. A dynamic assessment of morphological awareness was adapted and administered to 54 third-grade students in addition to a norm-referenced language and literacy battery. A dynamic assessment of morphological awareness measured a range of performance including that of emerging morphological awareness abilities and provided rich linguistic insights for how best to scaffold and prompt for such a skill. In addition, the dynamic morphological awareness measure was found to be significantly related to, and to contribute unique variance to, reading comprehension abilities. These results suggest that morphological awareness is an important factor to consider when addressing students' literacy performance in early elementary school and that dynamic assessment appears to be a clinically valuable tool when examining early morphological awareness abilities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[A programme to assist close relatives and lifelong partners in caring for persons suffering from depressions or schizophrenic disorders].
Lifelong partners or close relatives of persons suffering from mental disorders will naturally step in to help by assuming a great variety of tasks. By witnessing their relative's illness on a daily basis, they are exposed to many burdens with a negative impact on their own well-being. Hence, supporting the relatives of persons with mental disorders appears imperative. While there are various approaches to working with relatives, there are hardly any specific programmes for working with certain groups of relatives such as spouses, children or siblings. Basing on a discussion of the various approaches to looking after relatives, development of a programme is described aimed at specifically supporting spouses of persons suffering from depression or schizophrenia. The concept of our programme is presented and results of its evaluation by participants are reported. The initial experiences with the support programme are quite promising. An evaluation of its effects, based on a case-control-design, is currently under way. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Applied evolution: phylogeny-based approaches in natural products research.
Covering: up to 2019Phylogenetic methods become increasingly important in natural product research. The growing amount of genetic data available today is enabling us to infer the evolutionary history of secondary metabolite gene clusters and their encoded compounds. We are starting to understand patterns and mechanisms of how the enormous diversity of chemical compounds produced by nature has evolved and are able to use phylogenetic inference to facilitate functional predictions of involved enzymes. In this review, we highlight how phylogenetic methods can aid natural product discovery and predictions and demonstrate several examples how these have been used in the past. We are featuring a number of easy to use tools that aid tree building and analysis and are providing a short overview how to create and interpret a phylogenetic tree. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Enkephalin release and opioid receptor activation does not mediate the antinociceptive or sedative/hypnotic effects of nitrous oxide.
In previous studies using Fos expression as a marker of neuronal activation, we showed that nitrous oxide (N(2)O) activates bulbospinal noradrenergic neurons in rats and that destruction of these neuronal pathways leads to loss of N(2)O antinociceptive action. Based on previous rat studies it has been proposed that these noradrenergic neurons are activated through opioid receptors through the release of endogenous opioid ligands in the periaqueductal gray. Using mice with a disrupted preproenkephalin gene (Penk2 -/-) and the opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone, we investigated the role of enkephalinergic mechanisms and opioid receptor activation in the behavioral and bulbospinal neuron responses to N(2)O in mice. The antinociceptive response to N(2)O was investigated using the tail-flick, hot-plate, and von Frey assays, the sedative/hypnotic response was measured using rotarod and loss of righting reflex, and bulbospinal neuronal activation was assessed with pontine Fos immunostaining. No differences were observed between wild-type and Penk2 -/- mice for the antinociceptive, sedative/hypnotic, and pontine neuronal activation effects of N(2)O. Similarly, naltrexone did not block N(2)O-induced antinociception, sedation, or hypnosis. We conclude that neither enkephalin nor opioid receptors participate in either the antinociceptive or the sedative/hypnotic actions of N(2)O in mice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Myxomas of the external ear and their significance.
Myxomas of the external ear are extremely rare. We describe 27 such tumors in 22 of 152 patients with the complex of myxomas, spotty pigmentation, endocrine tumors, and schwannomas--a familial (autosomal dominant) syndrome. Eleven of the patients were male, and 11 were female; age range was from birth to 41 years. Nine patients were members of three affected families. The external auditory canal and the external ear were involved in 18 and five patients, respectively; in two, the exact ear location was not known. Three patients had both ear canal and external ear lesions. Two patients with ear canal myxomas had bilateral lesions. Six patients had recurrences after simple excision. The ear canal lesions often were accompanied by deafness due to occlusion of the canal; attachment to the canal wall was usually by a pedicle. Grossly, the lesions were mucoid and from 3 mm to 2 cm in greatest dimension. Microscopically, they were circumscribed but not encapsulated and were composed of scattered stellate and spindle cells set in a myxoid, capillary-rich matrix. An epithelial component (epidermal inclusion cysts or basaloid buds or both) was present in 14 tumors. Cardiac myxoma occurred in nine patients, Cushing's syndrome in three, and psammomatous melanotic schwannoma in three. In two patients, the ear myxoma was the presenting sign of the complex. Patients with myxoma of the external ear (and their primary relatives) should be considered at risk for the complex of myxomas, spotty pigmentation, endocrine tumors, and schwannomas and should be examined accordingly. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of androgens in sertoli cell proliferation and functional maturation: studies in mice with total or Sertoli cell-selective ablation of the androgen receptor.
The role of androgens in the proliferation and maturation of Sertoli cells (SC) and the development of their capacity to support spermatogenesis remains poorly understood. We evaluated these functions in complete androgen receptor knockout (ARKO) and SC-selective androgen receptor knockout (SCARKO) mice. Compared with controls, ARKO mice exhibited a progressive reduction in SC number/testis, whereas SCARKOs showed minor changes, suggesting that androgen effects on SC number are not mediated via direct action on SCs. Immunoexpression of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), p27(kip1), GATA-1, and sulfated glycoprotein-2, which changes according to SC maturational status, occurred normally in ARKOs and SCARKOs. Functional capacity of SCs to support spermatogonia was similar in SCARKOs and controls, whereas ARKOs showed reduced capacity with age. SC capacity to support total germ cells revealed major deficits in ARKO and SCARKO adults, particularly with respect to postmeiotic germ cells. Using quantitative RT-PCR, the expression of SC markers was compared in d 50 testes. In ARKOs, expression of Pem, fatty acid binding protein, platelet-derived growth factor-A, and transferrin were all significantly reduced, whereas FSH receptor and AMH were increased. In SCARKOs, there were modest reductions in expression of cystatin-related gene highly expressed in testis and epididymis (cystatin-TE) and claudin-11, whereas expression of Pem, fatty acid binding protein, and platelet-derived growth factor-A was markedly reduced, highlighting these as potentially androgen-regulated SC genes that merit further study. In conclusion, androgen action is not required for maturation-dependent changes in immunoexpression of the SC markers AMH, p27(kip1), GATA-1, and sulfated glycoprotein-2 but is essential for expression of other SC genes, the attainment of normal SC number, and the support of meiotic and postmeiotic germ cell development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mapping cross-linking sites in modified proteins with mass spectrometry: an application to cross-linked hemoglobins.
The combined use of trypsin digestion and peptide mass mapping by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) is reported here as an effective and rapid means for identifying the cross-linking sites in human oxy hemoglobin A (HbA) cross-linked with either bis(3,5-dibromosalicyl)-succinate or -glutarate. MALDI-MS analysis of a nondigested sample of oxy HbA modified with bis(3,5-dibromosalicyl)-glutarate showed that cross-linking only occurred between the beta 1- and beta 2-protomers and not between alpha 1- and alpha 2- or alpha- and beta-protomers, along with a modification reaction on an un-cross-linked beta-chain. Results of the MALDI tryptic peptide mass maps of cross-linked hemoglobins showed several cross-linked peptides having masses consistent with: beta Val67-Lys95-XL-beta Val67-Lys95, beta Val67-Lys95-XL-beta Val67-Arg104, beta Val67-Arg104-XL-beta Val67-Arg104, where XL represents the succinyl or glutaryl bridging span moiety. Each of these peptides contains Lys82, the targeted residue for these reagents, substantiating the cross-linking sites at beta 1Lys82-beta 2Lys82. This approach in general will enable rapid identification of the cross-linking sites in engineered proteins or intracellularly recombinant cross-linked proteins when the mass of the cross-linker and the protein primary structure are known. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Projection of cancer incidence in five cities and cancer mortality in India.
Cancer is second largest non-communicable disease and it has a sizable contribution in the total number of deaths. It is important for the public health professionals to understand the dynamics of cancer incidence for future strategies. Therefore, this paper is attempted with the objective of projecting number of cancer incidence for five cities namely, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Bhopal and Mumbai and to estimate the cancer mortality rate for all India for the year 2008. The data were used from the Indian Council of Medical Research's publication of Population-Based Cancer Registry for the year 1999-2000. The population was calculated from the Census reports of 1991 and 2001. Causes-specific mortality report by the Central Bureau of Health Intelligence was used for estimating cancer mortality for all India. The age-specific rate method is utilized to project number of cancer incidence for the cities of Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Bhopal and Mumbai and to estimate cancer mortality in 2000 for all India. About 26.6% increase is expected in the registered number of cancer cases in these five cities and 52.68% increase is projected for Delhi which would mean highest number of cases in Delhi among these five cities within a span of eight years. And in Mumbai it is expected to have a marginal decline in the number of cases for the year 2008 (around -3.25%). The age adjusted analysis indicates that Mumbai is experiencing the higher incidence rate among the five cities studied herein. It is estimated about 50% cancer mortality is reported from the age group 55 and above years. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Brokering health policy: coalitions, parties, and interest group influence.
Assuming a position as broker between disconnected interests is one way for an interest group to influence the making of federal health policy. This study demonstrates how groups use their connections with political parties and lobbying coalitions to augment their brokerage positions and enhance their influence over policy making. Evidence is drawn from statistical analysis of 263 interviews with health policy elites and a qualitative case study of the debate over the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003. The results explain, in part, how interest groups play their brokerage roles as dispersed actors in a decentralized system, rather than as central mediators that intervene in a wide range of policy disputes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Enamel microabrasion and in-office bleaching for fluorosis: a case report].
Enamel microabrasion is a proven method of removing superficial intrinsic enamel discoloration defects from teeth. In many cases, with insignificant and unrecognizable loss of enamel, those defects can be permanently eliminated, improving the appearance of treated teeth. This article describes the treatment of one patient whose fluorotic brown stains were corrected with a combination of enamel microabrasion and in-office-bleaching technique with a hydrogen peroxide gel solution. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Study of the biogenesis and secretion of alkaline phosphatase and its mutant forms in Escherichia coli. I. Introduction of directed mutations into the alkaline phosphatase gene].
Various mutations in E. coli alkaline phosphatase gene were obtained by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis. They result in amino acid substitutions in the signal peptide cleavage site [Val for Ala(-1)] and in the N terminus of mature polypeptide chain: Ala for Arg(+1) and Gln for Glu(+4); Gln for Glu(+4). Enzyme activity was observed in all E. coli strains transformed by plasmids with cloned mutant genes. In addition, an amber mutation was introduced into the Arg(+1) position, and the synthesis of mutant alkaline phosphatase was shown in E. coli strains containing suppressor tRNAs specific for Ser, Gln, Tyr, Leu, Ala, Glu, Phe, Gly, His, Pro, and Cys. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of localized edema on whole-body and segmental bioelectrical impedance.
Tetrapolar whole-body (hand-foot) bioelectrical impedance (Z-body) is used in body composition analysis assuming homogeneous soft tissue hydration. Limbs and trunk contribute to Z-body by 90% and 10%, respectively. We determined the effect on Z-body of an edema localized in one leg. Resistance (R) and reactance (Xc) components of Z vector were measured at 50 kHz (BIA-101, RJL Systems, Akern, Italy) in 20 adult male patients without edema, before and 3 d after a femoropopliteal bypass that induced pitting edema in the leg. Z-body was measured from hand to foot on the right and left sides. Z from the leg (Z-leg) was measured from the pair of electrodes on the foot and the other pair on the trochanter. Data were analyzed with the vector bioelectric impedance analysis (Vector BIA) method (Piccoli's RXc graph with 95% confidence ellipses). Before surgery, the positions of the mean Z-body and Z-leg vectors from either side of the body were not significantly different (overlapping 95% confidence ellipses). After surgery, the mean Z-leg and Z-body vectors from the side without edema did not change position in the RXc plane with respect to the presurgery position. In contrast, the mean Z-leg and Z-body vectors of the body side with edema significantly (P < 0.05) shortened according to the Vector BIA patterns of fluid accumulation. Z-body in the side of the body without edema is not sensitive to the edema localized in the leg on the opposite side and therefore can be used in the assessment of body composition in patients with edema in one leg. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of dermal exposure to the pyrethroid insecticide deltamethrin on rat brain microanatomy and cholinergic/dopaminergic neurochemistry.
Deltamethrin is a pesticide largely used. Acute toxicity of this compound was extensively investigated, whereas less information is available on the effects of subchronic and/or chronic exposure to deltamethrin or on the effects of its dermal absorption. Sparse data are also available on deltamethrin neurotoxicity. This study has assessed in the rat the effects of dermal application of deltamethrin (30 mg/kg/day in cyclohexane for 4 weeks to the skin of the back of the neck) on microanatomy of cerebrocortical areas (frontal cortex and hippocampus) and on cholinergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission markers. Treatment with deltamethrin caused nerve cell loss and the appearance of signs of neuronal sufferance primarily in layer III of frontal cortex as well as in the dentate gyrus and to a lesser extent in the CA1 and CA3 subfields of hippocampus. Deltamethrin induced also astrogliosis. Cholinergic neurotransmission markers investigated in frontal cortex, hippocampus and striatum were acetylcholine (ACh), the synthesizing and catabolic enzymes choline acetyltransferase and acetylcholinesterase and the high affinity ACh uptake system labeled with [(3)H]hemicholinium-3. These markers were unaffected by deltamethrin administration. Dopamine and the dopamine plasma membrane transporter labeled with [(3)H]GBR 12935 were unaffected by treatment with deltamethrin in frontal cortex and decreased significantly in hippocampus and striatum. These findings indicate that dermal exposure to the pyrethroid insecticide deltamethrin using an administration module mimicking a possible long-lasting occupational skin contact is accompanied by cerebrocortical injury and loss of hippocampal and striatal dopamine and dopamine transporter. The sensitivity of dopaminergic system in our experimental model suggests that dermal exposure to deltamethrin could represent a risk factor for Parkinson's disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Surgery for sequelae of burns].
Burn injury remains one of the most devastating ordeal that a human being can sustain because of the function of the skin on vital and psychological levels. After-effects are mainly observed at cutaneous level as functional and aesthetically deformity contractures and may be linked with deeper lesions too. In most cases secondary surgical procedures are undertaken after stabilization of the inflammatory process but earlier surgery is needed in some cases because of problems encountered at ocular, mouth and neck levels mainly. All the possibilities of plastic surgery can be utilized. However in our practice Z plasties and skin grafts represent the basis of the burn reconstructive surgery while the more recent technique of tissue expansion has extended the part of local and regional flaps (but one should not use it as a routine method). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
On- vs. off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
To reduce complications during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) off-pump CABG was introduced; however, results have been mixed. The aim of this work was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of off-pump vs. on-pump CABG. To identify potential studies systematic searches were carried out using various databases. The search strategy included the key concepts of "cardiopulmonary bypass" AND "coronary artery bypass grafting" AND "off pump". This was followed by a meta-analysis investigating post-operative atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, ≤30day mortality, stroke, ventilation time, intensive care unit (ICU) stay and hospital stay. Fifty four studies (59 intervention groups), totalling 16,261 participants were analysed. Off pump CABG led to a significantly lower incidence of post-operative atrial fibrillation odds ratio (OR) 0.87 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.78 to 0.97, p=0.01), but no differences in either myocardial infarction OR 0.98 (95% CI 0.82 to 1.15, p=0.77) or ≤30day mortality OR 0.85 (95% CI 0.68 to 1.06, p=0.16). There was a strong trend towards a reduced incidence of stroke OR 0.77 (95% CI 0.59 to 1.00, p=0.05); however this did not quite reach significance. Ventilation time mean difference (MD) -3.78h (95% CI -4.75 to -2.82, p<0.00001); ICU stay MD -0.34days (95% CI -0.50 to -0.17, p<0.0001); and hospital stay MD -0.9days (95% CI -1.25 to -0.56, p<0.00001) were all significantly shorter in the off-pump group. Off-pump CABG has some benefits over on-pump CABG, particularly in relation to post-operative atrial fibrillation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Wounds with different aetiology treated using larval debridement therapy: presentation of two cases].
This paper describes two cases of wounds with different aetiology and dissimilar size which were treated with Larval Debridement Therapy. Two different techniques of Larval Debridement were used for each case: Free Range and BioFoam larvae. Observations and treatment were carried out in a Primary Health Centre in Barcelona, Spain. The application and observations were performed by two nurses with the collaboration of two family physicians. The Larval Therapy efficacy outcome was checked with an Ulcer Reverse Stage Scale (PUSH v2), by taking photographs and a Visual Analogue Pain Scale (VAPS) was completed by both subjects before and after the treatment. It was observed in both cases that the larval therapy caused debridement of all fibrin and collagen tissue, and the slough dropped to a normal level. As a consequence of this change the PUSH scale punctuations were improved. On the negative side, the therapy was associated with an increase in pain. The beneficial effect of applying Larval Therapy enables following a basic wound healing care plan. The larval debridement therapy did not pose any threat for the patients; they could go about their Activities of the Daily Life (ADL) without any change. These wound cases treated with larval debridement therapy are the first ones reported in the Primary Health Care field in Spain. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Etiopathogenesis of neurogenic pulmonary edema.
This comment focus on new findings in etiopathogenesis of neurogenic pulmonary edema. It highlights the importance of understanding of pathophysiology as well as proper diagnosis of this clinical entity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nipple aspirate fluid expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor predicts breast cancer diagnosis and advanced disease.
Tumor expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and uPA receptor (uPAR) are breast cancer prognostic factors. Less is known about their usefulness in breast cancer diagnosis. Nipple aspirate fluid (NAF) is secreted into the breast duct and collected noninvasively, making it potentially useful both in breast cancer diagnosis and prognosis. We determined the association of uPA, PAI-1, and uPAR levels in NAF with breast cancer (1) detection and (2) advanced disease. A total of 88 NAF specimens were collected from women with or without breast cancer, and uPA, PAI-1, and uPAR expression were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. uPA and uPAR were independent predictors of cancer presence; uPAR was also an independent predictor of advanced disease stage. Higher PAI-1 expression in breast cancer that was found with univariate analysis was not observed after logistic regression was applied. NAF evaluation of uPA, uPAR, and, perhaps, PAI-1 (significant only in univariate analysis) may provide useful breast cancer diagnostic and prognostic information. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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