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Age and malignant melanoma: comparison of variables in different age-groups.
Variables were compared in patients with clinical stage I superficial spreading melanoma who had been divided into three age-groups. The study included 736 consecutive patients who were prospectively entered into the data base of the Melanoma Cooperative Group of New York University Medical Center. Compared with the younger patients ( less than 40 years), older patients (greater than or equal to 60 years) had superficial spreading melanomas that were, on average, of greater thickness, level, and diameter. Younger patients were more likely than older patients to show evidence that their melanomas arose from preexisting nevocytic nevi. There was no difference in the 10-year survival between groups when melanomas were matched by thickness. Thus it is as important to perform periodic total cutaneous examinations in the elderly as it is in younger persons, and age alone should not determine management strategies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Colchicine for acute gout.
Gout is one of the most common rheumatic diseases worldwide. Colchicine is regarded as beneficial in the treatment of acute gout, but has a high frequency of gastrointestinal adverse events. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of colchicine for relief of the signs and symptoms of acute gouty arthritis, compared to placebo and other treatment interventions. We searched the following electronic databases to March 2006: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, Issue 1, 2006), MEDLINE (from 1966), EMBASE (from 1980), CINAHL (from 1982), AMED (from 1985), Web of Science (from 1945) and Current Controlled Trials. Published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials evaluating symptom relief and adverse outcomes of colchicine therapy in acute gout were considered for this review. Two reviewers independently screened search results for inclusion, collected the data in a standardized form and assessed the methodological quality of the trial using validated criteria. Results for continuous outcome measures were expressed as weighted mean differences. Dichotomous outcome measures were pooled using relative risk. The number needed to treat was calculated for significant outcomes. One RCT (N=43) comparing colchicine to placebo for the treatment of acute gout was included in this review. The results favour the use of colchicine over placebo with an absolute reduction of 34% for pain and a 30% reduction in clinical symptoms such as tenderness on palpation, swelling, redness, and pain. The number needed to treat (NNT) with colchicine versus placebo to reduce pain was 3 and the NNT to reduce clinical symptoms was 2. All participants treated with colchicine experienced gastrointestinal side effects (diarrhea and/or vomiting) and the number needed to harm (NNH) with colchicine versus placebo was 1. No studies comparing colchicine to NSAIDs or other treatments such as corticosteroids or ACTH were identified. Colchicine is an effective treatment for the reduction of pain and clinical symptoms in patients experiencing acute attacks of gout, although in the regimen studied its low benefit to toxicity ratio limits its usefulness. It should be used as a second line therapy when NSAIDs or corticosteroids are contraindicated or ineffective. More evidence is needed to compare the efficacy of colchicine to that of NSAIDs or corticosteroids, the current first line therapy for acute gout. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Use of atomic force microscopy for estimation of the morphometric indices of blood cells].
The possibility of using the atomic-force microscopy for the evaluation of the geometrical characteristics of blood cells has been shown. It has been found by comparing the hemocyte morphometric indices obtained at different modes of scanning that noncontact and semicontact methods are adequate for the estimation of the size and geometry of biological objects. The scanning of cells in the semicontact mode leads to the irreversible deformation of samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Racial/Ethnic differences in B-type natriuretic peptide levels and their association with care and outcomes among patients hospitalized with heart failure: findings from Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure.
This study sought to determine if there were differences in B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels across racial/ethnic groups and in their association with quality of care and in-hospital outcomes among patients with heart failure (HF). It remains unclear whether BNP levels and their associations with quality of care and prognosis vary by race/ethnicity among patients hospitalized with HF. Using Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure (GWTG-HF), patient characteristics and BNP levels at admission were compared among 4 racial/ethnic populations: white, black, Hispanic, and Asian. The associations between BNP, quality of care, in-hospital mortality, and length of stay (LOS) across these groups were analyzed. A total of 92,072 patients (65,037 white, 19,092 black, 6,747 Hispanic, and 1,196 Asian) from 264 hospitals were included. Median BNP levels were higher in Asian (1,066 pg/ml) and black (866 pg/ml) patients than in white (776 pg/ml) and Hispanic (737 pg/ml) patients, and race/ethnicity was independently associated with BNP levels (p < 0.0001). Irrespective of race/ethnicity, patients in higher BNP quartiles (Q3, Q4) were more likely to be older and male and have lower body mass index, reduced ejection fraction, and renal insufficiency, whereas those in the lowest quartile (Q1) were more likely to have diabetes. With some exceptions, there were no significant racial/ethnic differences in the association of BNP levels with performance measure adherence. In multivariate analysis, elevated BNP levels remained associated with longer LOS and increased mortality in all racial/ethnic groups. Asian and black patients with HF had higher BNP levels at admission compared with white and Hispanic patients. BNP levels at admission provided prognostic value for in-hospital mortality and hospital LOS irrespective of race/ethnicity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stimulatory effect of zinc-chelating dipeptide on deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells.
Whether deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells is stimulated by zinc, an activator of bone formation, was investigated in vitro. After subculture for 3 days, the cells were cultured for up to 3 days (72 h) with zinc sulfate or zinc-chelated dipeptide (beta-alanyl-L-histidinato zinc; AHZ) in the range of 10(-7) to 10(-5) M. The culture with zinc compounds (10(-5) M) produced a significant increase of cell number, DNA content, and protein concentration in the cells, as reported previously. The culture with zinc compounds (10(-6) and 10(-5) M) clearly stimulated DNA synthesis in the homogenate, when it was estimated by the incorporation of [3H]deoxythymidine 5'-triphosphate into the DNA in the homogenate of cells. The AHZ effect was greater than that of zinc sulfate. The culture together with cycloheximide (19(-6) M) completely abolished the zinc compounds (10(-5) M)-induced increase of DNA synthesis in the cells, suggesting that the zinc compound effect is based on a newly synthesized protein component. Moreover, when zinc sulfate (10(-7) and 10(-6) M) or AHZ (10(-8) to 10(-5) M) was added into the reaction mixture with the homogenate of cells cultured without zinc compounds, the DNA synthesis was clearly increased. The effect of addition of zinc compounds (10(-6) M) on the DNA synthesis was completely inhibited by the presence of staurosporine (10(-8) M), an inhibitor of protein kinase C, or okadaic acid (10(-7) M), an inhibitor of protein phosphatase. The present study demonstrates that zinc compounds have a stimulatory effect on DNA synthesis in osteoblastic cells. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Detection of Epstein-Barr virus in the tonsils in infectious mononucleosis].
Tonsils of 50 patients with infectious mononucleosis were examined for the presence of Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigens (EBNA) and in 11 cases for the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nucleic acid sequences. In tonsillar tissue of 42 patients less than 1 to 40 per cent EBNA-positive cells could be demonstrated by anticomplement immunofluorescence. 10 out of 11 tonsils examined by in situ hybridization contained less than 1 to 50 per cent cells with EBV nucleic acid sequences. The histological examination indicated that cells labelled by in situ hybridisation are in the majority proliferating B-lymphocytes and to a small extent cells of tonsillar epithelium. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Selective cyclopalladation of R3P=NCH2Aryl iminophosphoranes. Experimental and computational study.
The orientation of the orthopalladation of iminophosphoranes R3P=NCH2Aryl (R=Ph, Aryl=Ph (1a), C6H(4)-2-Br (1b), C6H4-Me-2 (1e), C6H3-(Me)(2)-2,5 (1f); R=p-tolyl, Aryl=Ph (1c); R=m-tolyl, Aryl=Ph (1d); R3P=MePh2P, and Aryl=Ph (1g)) has been studied. 1a reacts with Pd(OAc)2 (OAc=acetate) giving endo-[Pd(micro-Cl){C,N-C6H4(PPh2=NCH2Ph)-2}]2 (3a), while exo-[Pd(micro-Br){C,N-C6H4(CH2N=PPh3)-2}]2 (3b) could only be obtained by the oxidative addition of 1b to Pd2(dba)3. The endo form of the metalated ligand is favored kinetically and thermodynamically, as shown by the conversion of exo-[Pd(micro-OAc){C,N-C6H4(CH2N=PPh3)-2}]2 (2b) into endo-[Pd(micro-OAc){C,N-C6H4(PPh2=NCH2Ph)-2}]2 (2a) in refluxing toluene. The orientation of the reaction is not affected by the introduction of electron-releasing substituents at the Ph rings of the PR3 (1c and 1d) or the benzyl units (1e and 1f), and endo complexes (3c-3f) were obtained in all cases. The palladation of MePh2P=NCH2Ph (1g) can be regioselectively oriented as a function of the solvent. The exo isomer [Pd(micro-Cl){C6H4(CH2N=PPh2Me)-2}]2 (exo-3g) is obtained in refluxing CH2Cl2, while endo-[Pd(micro-Cl){C,N-C6H4(PPh(Me)=NCH2Ph)-2}]2 (endo-3g) can be isolated as a single isomer in refluxing toluene. In this case, the exo metalation is kinetically favored while an endo process occurs under thermodynamic control, as shown through the rearrangement of [Pd(micro-OAc){C6H4(CH2N=PPh2Me)-2}]2 (exo-2g) into [Pd(micro-OAc){C,N-C6H4(P(Ph)Me=NCH2Ph)-2}]2 (endo-2g) in refluxing toluene. The preference for the endo palladation of 1a and the kinetic versus thermodynamic control in 1g has been explained through DFT studies of the reaction mechanism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Immunization with plasmid DNA encoding the integral membrane protein, Sm23, elicits a protective immune response against schistosome infection in mice.
Schistosomes are helminth parasites infecting at least 200 million people worldwide. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of using a nucleic acid vaccine to induce protective immune responses to the Schistosoma mansoni integral membrane protein Sm23. C57BL/6 mice were immunized by intramuscular injection in three separate vaccination trials. ELISA and Western Blot analyses indicated that mice immunized with a DNA plasmid construct encoding Sm23 (Sm23-pcDNA) generated specific IgG for Sm23, while sera from mice immunized with the control pcDNA plasmid did not. The vaccine elicited IgG(2a), and IgG(1) antibody isotypes. We also tested the adjuvant activity of IL-12 and IL-4 on humoral responses to Sm23. Co-immunization with plasmid encoding IL-12 did not affect the level of anti-Sm23 IgG(2a), but did reduce the IgG(1) level. In contrast, co-injection with a plasmid encoding IL-4 significantly reduced the level of anti-Sm23 IgG(2a), while the level of IgG(1) was largely unchanged. Importantly, the Sm23-pcDNA vaccine provided statistically significant levels of protection against challenge infection (21-44%, P<0.001-0.02). Co-administration of plasmids encoding either IL-12 or IL-4 did not significantly enhance this protective effect. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Excitatory amino acid receptors coupled to the nitric oxide/cyclic GMP pathway in rat cerebellum during development.
The coupling of excitatory amino acid receptors to the formation of nitric oxide (NO) from arginine during the postnatal development of rat cerebellum was assayed in slice preparations by measuring cyclic GMP accumulation. In the immature tissue, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and glutamate were highly efficacious agonists, whereas alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (AMPA) and quisqualate evoked only small responses. The effect of glutamate at all concentrations tested (up to 10 mM) was abolished by the NMDA antagonist, (+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5,10-imine maleate (MK-801). In adult slices, AMPA and quisqualate were much more effective and their effects were inhibited by 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione, an antagonist for ionotropic non-NMDA receptors, whereas the apparent efficacy of NMDA was greatly reduced. The major changes took place between 8 and 14 days postnatum and, in the case of NMDA, part of the loss of sensitivity appeared to reflect a decline in the ambient levels of glycine with age. Moreover, a component of the response to glutamate in the adult was resistant to MK-801. Cyclic GMP accumulations induced by NMDA and non-NMDA agonists alike were Ca(2+)-dependent and could be antagonized by competitive NO synthase inhibitors in an arginine-sensitive manner, indicating that they are all mediated by NO formation. With one of the inhibitors, L-NG-nitroarginine, a highly potent component (IC50 = 6 nM) evident in slices from rats of up to 8 days old was lost during maturation, indicating that there may be a NO synthase isoform which is prominent only in the immature tissue. Cyclic GMP levels in adult slices under "basal" conditions were reduced markedly by blocking NMDA receptors, by inhibiting action potentials with tetrodotoxin, or by NO synthase inhibition, suggesting that the endogenous transmitter released during spontaneous synaptic activity acts mainly through NMDA receptors to trigger NO formation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Inferior Turbinate Reduction: Diode LASER or Conventional Partial Turbinectomy?
Hypertrophy of inferior nasal turbinate is one of the most common causes for nasal obstruction (NO). As diode laser has proven to be as effective as any other lasers, our objective was to study various primary outcomes of its use of diode laser like improvement in NO, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative pain, and rapidity of healing. The study was undertaken to compare the various outcomes by diode laser turbinate reduction (LTR) and conventional partial inferior turbinectomy (PIT). A nonrandomized controlled trial was conducted on 2 groups: One group (30 cases) underwent LTR and PIT was performed in the other group (30 cases). The improvement in NO was measured postoperatively up to 6 months. Intraoperative bleeding was measured and postoperative pain scores were assessed each day up to fifth postoperative day. Lastly, rapidity of healing was evaluated until 6 months. Subjective relief of NO was 90.8% in LTR group, whereas it was 65% in PIT group at 6-month follow-up, which was statistically significant (P < .05). Pain scores were higher until 5 days in PIT group compared to LTR group (P = .0001). Intraoperative bleeding mean scores (milliliters) were 8.03 in LTR group compared to 23.29 in PIT group (P = .00001). Rapidity of healing was faster in LTR group with mean scores of 3.03 weeks in comparison to PIT group where it was 6.33 weeks (P = .00001). Compared to the conventional technique, the outcomes were better with diode laser and caused less morbidity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Maternal depression, maternal expressed emotion, and youth psychopathology.
Across development, maternal depression has been found to be a risk factor for youth psychopathology generally and youth depression specifically. Maternal Expressed Emotion (EE) has been examined as a predictor of outcome among youth with depression. The present study explored the associations between youth psychopathology and two predictors-maternal depression within the child's lifetime and maternal EE-in a study of children at risk for depression. One hundred and seventy-one youth, ages 8-12, and their mothers participated. To assess maternal and youth psychopathology, dyads were administered structured diagnostic assessments, and mothers and children completed self-report measures of their own depressive symptoms. In addition, mothers completed the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist-Parent Report Version (CBCL) for their children. Maternal EE was assessed based on the Five Minute Speech Sample. History of maternal depression was associated with high maternal EE, and the combination of maternal depression history and maternal EE was associated with children's own reports of higher depressive symptoms. Current maternal depressive symptoms were associated with mothers' reports of children's Internalizing scores on the CBCL, and maternal depression history, current maternal depressive symptoms, and maternal EE were strongly associated with mothers' reports of children's Externalizing and Total Problem scores on the CBCL. History of maternal depression and a rating of high or borderline Critical EE (characterized by maternal critical comments and/or reports of a negative relationship) were independently associated with children's depression diagnoses. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Staging of prostate cancer: value of the combined information of endorectal MRI, biopsy Gleason score, and preoperative PSA level].
To evaluate the predictive value of MR imaging criteria, the biopsy Gleason score, and preoperative PSA levels for differentiating between T2 and T3 prostate carcinomas. Endorectal MR images of 81 patients (median age: 65 years, range: 48 to 81 years) who had biopsy-proven prostate cancer and underwent a radical prostatectomy were analyzed retrospectively. The existence of different imaging features were recorded for each patient. A radiological analysis comprising all used imaging criteria was also performed for every patient. Optimal cut-off levels for the biopsy Gleason score and preoperative PSA levels were obtained using ROC analyses. Subsequently, a logistic regression analysis was performed to identify features which make a significant contribution to the prediction of the tumor stage. Histological examination showed that 24 patients (29.6 %) had a T3 tumor and 57 patients (70.4 %) had a T2 tumor. The mean preoperative PSA level was 9.4 ng/ml (+/- 7 ng/ml), and the median Gleason score was 6 with a range of 4 to 8. The radiological judgment comprising all imaging criteria led to a sensitivity of 54.2 % and specificity of 79 % for the detection of a T3 tumor. The obliteration of the rectoprostatic angle (regression coefficient B = 2.30; standard error (se) = 0.80; p = 0.002) and the biopsy Gleason score (B = 1.16; se = 0.3; p = 0.001) were the parameters with the highest independent predictive value for the diagnosis of an extracapsular tumor spread. The other radiological criteria and the preoperative PSA level were not statistically significant. A combination of the parameters "obliteration of the rectoprostatic angle" and "biopsy Gleason score" led to a sensitivity and specificity of 75 % and 79 %, respectively (existence of one parameter sufficient). The optimal cut-off value was a Gleason score of 7 for the differentiation between T2 and T3 prostate carcinomas. In our study, only the criteria "obliteration of the rectoprostatic angle" and "biopsy Gleason score" were of predictive value for the diagnosis of a T3 prostate carcinoma. The other MR imaging criteria and the preoperative PSA levels had no additional benefit. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Design and an efficient synthesis of new thiorotenone derivatives.
A series of novel 4-aryl-thiopyrano[3,4-b]pyran-5-one derivatives were synthesized through an efficient one-pot three-component reaction under solvent-free conditions. This work provides a new series of derivatives of thiorotenone with potential biological activity for biomedical screening. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ovarian stimulation in previous failures from in-vitro fertilization: distinction of two groups of poor responders.
Forty-three patients who responded poorly to previous stimulation with clomiphene citrate (CC)/human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) for IVF were followed during 70 further cycles. Eighteen patients had a normal FSH response to CC in the previous cycle, while 25 had an abnormal FSH response. Three stimulation protocols were used: buserelin/HMG, CC/HMG and HMG only. No difference between the two groups was observed in the dose of HMG used for any stimulation protocol. More cycles were cancelled due to a poor response in the abnormal response group compared to the normal response group. In the completed cycles, the maximum oestradiol level and number of oocytes retrieved were lower in the abnormal response group compared to the normal response group. The total pregnancy rate per patient, including spontaneous conceptions during the study period, was lower in the abnormal response group compared to the normal response group, 4 versus 33%. We conclude that poor responders with an abnormal FSH response to CC have a latent ovarian failure with a low chance of success in further IVF attempts. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
B7-H4 expression promotes tumorigenesis in ovarian cancer.
It has been previously shown that B7-H4, one of the B7 family members that serve as negative regulators of T cell function, has altered expression levels in a variety of cancers, overexpression of B7-H4 promotes cellular transformation. However, there is still lack of adequate evidence to establish a direct connection between B7-H4 expression and malignant transformation. Herein, we constructed pE-green fluorescent protein-N1/B7-H4 mammalian expression vector and transfected into B7-H4-negative human ovarian cancer cell line SKOV3. Cellular proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion, motility, and invasion were examined in vitro. Cells injected subcutaneously into severe combined immunodeficient mouse were analyzed for the possible functions of B7-H4 in ovarian tumorigenesis in vivo. Fluorescence microscopy studies confirmed that the B7-H4-green fluorescent protein localizes in the cytoplasm of SKOV3/B7-H4 cells, whereas green fluorescent protein is uniformly distributed throughout the cell. B7-H4 promoted cellular proliferation rate and increased cell adhesion, migration, and invasion. In addition, SKOV3 cells expressing B7-H4 gained growth advantage in the xenograft model in vivo. These studies demonstrate that B7-H4 directly promotes malignant transformation of ovarian cancer cell line, and provides a potential therapeutic strategy for targeting B7-H4 to inhibit progression of human ovarian cancers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A case-control study on lymphocytic subsets in elderly bearing a gastroenteric cancer.
The aim of this work is to evaluate the differences in lymphocytic sub-classes between elderly patients with gastroenteric cancer and elderly patients with a non neoplastic disease. A group of 88 patients over 60, consecutively admitted to the III Division General Surgery for gastro-enteric cancer has been collected for the study, the control group consisted of 74 patients also over 60, consecutively admitted over the same period for benign abdominal diseases. In all patients the following data were measured: body mass index (BMI), white blood cells (WBC), total lymphocytes, total T lymphocytes (CD3+), helper T lymphocytes (CD4+), suppressor T lymphocytes (CD8+), CD4+/CD8+ ratio, B lymphocytes, CD5+ B lymphocytes, activated T lymphocytes (CD3+ HLA-DR+), CD4+ "naive" lymphocytes (CD4+ CD45 RA+), CD4+ "memory" lymphocytes (CD4+ CD45 RO+), NK lymphocytes (CD16+ 56+), red blood cells (RBC), total serum cholesterol, albumin, total serum proteins. The main lymphocytic subsets were on an average lower in the cancerous elderly group with respect to the non cancerous. As the tumour progressively increases in size (T), total lymphocytes significantly decrease, while CD4+ progressively decreases with nodal involvement (N). In the cancerous elderly, we found a lower immune response. The immune system appears to be less efficient also in association with tumor growth, especially when T and N get worse. The response of effector cells to the tumour seems not specific. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic background of acute coronary syndromes.
Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) are one of the major causes of mortality nowadays. Although much is known about factors involved in atherogenesis and acute coronary events, there are still many cases in which a lack of classical risk factors, together with family history, suggests the presence of an unrevealed genetic predisposition and molecular mechanisms. This paper reviews genetic predisposition to ACS. It also indicates which genes are linked to the processes of destabilization and rupture of atherosclerotic plaque and thus may be potential targets for more effective prophylaxis and treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relationship between structure and stability of a Halipegus occidualis component population in green frogs: a test of selective treatment.
The aggregated nature of helminth parasite populations has led to the suggestion that selectively treating heavily infected hosts can efficiently reduce parasite abundance and morbidity within a host population. Moreover, it has been postulated that a selective treatment protocol might have long-term effects on parasite transmission by disrupting the stability attributed to aggregated parasite population distributions by theoretical models. Long-term investigation has demonstrated year-to-year consistency in the population dynamics of Halipegus occidualis in green frogs from Charlie's Pond, North Carolina. In 1996, removal of all but 1 worm from each frog with > or =15 worms reduced the estimated component worm population by 45%, thereby decreasing mean intensity and aggregation (variance-to-mean ratio) of H. occidualis in the frogs by 85% and 63%, respectively. The following year, mean intensity, aggregation, and host colonization trends returned to pretreatment levels, indicating no effect of worm removal and demonstrating the stability of this host-parasite system. Although this result might be attributable to inefficient treatment or the presence of infection reservoirs, it is suggested that parasite population stability in this system might be governed by prevalence rather than intensity of adult worms. Therefore, repeated selective treatment might effectively modify intensity-dependent morbidity in similar host-parasite systems but should not affect further parasite transmission. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Metal enrichment and lead isotope analysis for source apportionment in the urban dust and rural surface soil.
To understand the metal accumulation in the environment and identify its sources, 29 different metal contents and lead (Pb) isotope ratios were determined for 40 urban dust samples, 36 surface soil samples, and one river sediment sample collected in the municipality of Beijing, China. Results showed that cadmium, copper (Cu), mercury, Pb, antimony (Sb), and zinc demonstrated to be the typical urban contaminants and mostly influenced by the adjacent human activities with higher content to background ratios and SD values. Among the 29 metal elements investigated, Cu and Sb were found to be the most distinct elements that were highly affected by the developing level and congestion status of the cities with much higher contents in dust in more developed and congested cities. There was a relatively wider range of Pb isotope ratios of country surface soil than those of urban dust. The results of source identification based on Pb isotope ratios showed that coal combustion was the first largest Pb source and vehicle exhaust was the second largest source. The sum of them accounted for 74.6% mass proportion of overall Pb pollution on average. The surface soil sample collected at an iron mine had the highest (204)Pb/(206)Pb, (207)Pb/(206)Pb, and (208)Pb/(206)Pb ratios indicating ore had much higher ratios than other sources. The fine particle subsamples had higher (204)Pb/(206)Pb, (207)Pb/(206)Pb, and (208)Pb/(206)Pb ratios than the coarse particle subsamples indicating more anthropogenic sources of coal combustion and vehicle exhaust for fine particles and more background influence for coarse particles. These results help with pinpointing the major Pb sources and applying suitable measures for the target sources. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel integrated rotor of axial blood flow pump designed with computational fluid dynamics.
Due to the smaller size, smaller artificial surface, and higher efficiency, axial blood pumps have been widely applied in clinic in recent years. However, because of its high rotor speed, axial flow pump always has a high risk for hemolysis, which the red blood cells devastated by the shearing of tip clearance flow. We reported a novel design with the integrated blade-shroud structure that was expected to solve this problem by abolishing the radial clearance between blade and casing designed with the techniques of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). However, the numerical simulation result of the newly designed structure showed an unexpected backflow (where flow velocity is reverse of the main flow direction) at the blade tip. In order to eliminate this backflow, four flow passes were attempted, and the expansion angles (which reflect the radial amplification of the flow pass, on the meridional section, and should be defined as the angle between the center line of the flow pass and the axial direction) of the blades of the integrated rotor are 0 degrees, 8 degrees, 15 degrees, and 20 degrees, respectively. In the CFD result, it could be easily found as the expansion angles increased, the backflow was restrained gradually, and was eliminated at last. After numerous "cut and try" circles, the pump model was finally optimized. The numerical simulation of this model also showed a stable hydraulic characteristic. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Primary intraosseous cavernous hemangioma of the toe.
Intraosseous cavernous hemangioma is an uncommon benign vascular tumor. A 21-year-old man presented with a small painless swelling of the left foot's long toe. X-ray examination showed an outgrowing bony lesion that has cortical continuity in the tip of the long toe's distal phalanx lateral aspect. Preoperative examination yielded no final diagnosis. En bloc resection was performed. The histological diagnosis was intraosseous cavernous hemangioma. To the best of our knowledge, this case is a first report of primary intraosseous cavernous hemangioma of the toe. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Synergistic effects of low temperature in winter and ebb tide at night on Sonneratia apetala seedlings growth and key eco-physiological traits].
By setting up a set of simulated tidal systems with different air- and water temperature and tidal flood conditions, this paper studied the synergistic effects of low temperature in winter and ebb tide at night on the growth and key eco-physiological traits of Sonneratia apetala seedlings. Low air temperature depressed the seedlings growth, but the reduction in the seedling height and basal stem diameter was compensated 41.2% and 44.6%, respectively by a 5 degrees C increase of water temperature. Low air temperature (15 degrees C) reduced the leaf Fv/Fm significantly, indicating a dramatic reduction in the leaf photosynthetic capacity, whereas the flooded tide with higher water temperature could not compensate this damage. The flooded tide with high air temperature increased the proline and soluble sugar contents in mature leaves, which could protect the mature leaves from cold damage. When extreme cold events occurred, the flooded tide at night worked as a heat storage medium, which alleviated the cold damage on the seedlings growth and leaf physiological traits, and promoted the survival rate of S. apetala seedlings. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biochemical and metabolic response to nitrogen dioxide-induced endothelial injury.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a major oxidant constituent of vehicle emissions, is toxic to lung cells including endothelial cells. Since NO2 is a reactive free radical, one of the postulated mechanisms of NO2-induced pulmonary injury involves the peroxidation of membrane lipids. Therefore, this study evaluated the dose- and time-dependent effects of nitrogen dioxide exposure by measuring the biochemical and biophysical parameters, as well as the metabolic function, in porcine pulmonary artery and aortic endothelial cells in monolayer cultures. To evaluate the biochemical changes, the antioxidant enzyme GSH-reductase (GSH-red), GSH-peroxidase (GSH-per), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activities, as well as the lipid peroxide formation, glutathione (GSH) content, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were measured. Biophysical changes were measured by monitoring lipid fluidity in both the hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions of the plasma membrane. The uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) was measured as a metabolic function of endothelial cells. Confluent porcine pulmonary artery and aortic endothelial cells were exposed to 3 or 5 ppm NO2 or air (control) for 3-24 hours. After 3-, 6-, or 12-hour exposures to 3 or 5 ppm NO2, the GSH-red and G6PDH activities, as well as the lipid peroxide formation and LDH release, were not different from those of controls in both pulmonary artery and aortic endothelial cells. Exposure of the cells to 3 or 5 ppm NO2 for 24 hours resulted in significant increases in GSH-red (p less than 0.05) and G6PDH (p less than 0.001) activities in both cell types. Exposure to 5 ppm NO2 for 24 hours significantly (p less than 0.05) increased lipid peroxide formation and increased (p less than 0.01) LDH release in both the pulmonary artery and aortic endothelial cells. GSH-per activity and GSH content in NO2-exposed pulmonary artery and aortic endothelial cells were not different from those of controls, irrespective of NO2 concentration and exposure time. Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to measure the membrane lipid fluidity. Membrane fluidity in the hydrophobic region was measured by 1,6-diphenyl-1, 3, 5-hexatriene (DPH), an aromatic hydrocarbon that partitions into the hydrophobic interior of the lipid bilayer.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Endoscopic Endonasal Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Repair on the Ventral Midline Skull Base: A Single Neurosurgical Center Experience.
To present the results of endoscopic endonasal repair of ventral midline skull base cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak (VMSBL) at our institution and to discuss the technique and results from a neurosurgical perspective. A retrospective analysis of all VMSBL cases that underwent endoscopic endonasal skull base approach (EESBA) for CSF leak repair at a single tertiary neurosurgical center was performed. Twenty six patients with an average age of 44.4 (range: 17-63) years were included in the study. The etiology of VMSBL was spontaneous in 16 patients, traumatic in 7, and iatrogenic in 3. The leakage site was the cribriform plate in 13 patients, ethmoidal cells in 7, and sphenoid sinus in 3. There were multiple leaks in 3 patients. This approach for VMSBL repair was performed 28 times on 26 patients. The success rate was 88.5% (23/26 patients) after primary endoscopic repair and 96% after the second attempt. The location of the leakage site relative to the upper attachment of the middle turbinate played a crucial role in the anteriorly located VMSBL, which made an impact on the surgical repair plan. All the 16 cases with accompanying meningoencephaloceles were treated successfully by EESBA. Use of vascularized pedicled flaps to support the repair site resulted in 100% success after primary repair. EESBA is safe and highly effective and can be a first-line surgical treatment option for VMSBL. In addition, it enables adequate reconstruction of ventral midline skull base meningoencephaloceles regardless of size and location. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Immunoblots of hydrophobic OmpL39 of Leptospiral interrogans with immunoprotective Mb E4B7G5].
The immunoprotective Mb E4B7G5 against outer membrane antigens from L. interrogans serovar Lai strain 017 were produced and used in immunoblots of the OMP of six strains of L. interrogans (017, 601, 603, 609, 620 and 245). The OMP from the six strains, which partitioned into the hydrophobic detergent phase, contained four-seven major proteins bands of 66 kd-16 kd. It was found that Mb E4B7G5 recognized only specifically the 39 kd antigenic band of strain 017, 601, 603 and 609, and did not recognize apparently any bands of strains 620 and 245. The findings suggest that Mb E4B7G5 be valuable for separating protective antigen of OMP and studying genetic vaccines. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Identification of an essential tyrosyl residue in the binding site of Schizophyllum commune xylanase A.
Ultraviolet difference spectroscopy studies with the Schizophyllum commune xylanase in the presence of inhibitors and substrates indicated the participation of one or more tyrosyl residues in the binding of substrates to xylanase. Chemical modification experiments with group-specific reagents in the absence and presence of substrates confirmed the essential role of a tyrosyl residue in substrate binding while discounting the participation of tryptophan. A fourth-derivative absorbance spectroscopic method was developed to facilitate the quantitation of modified tyrosyl and tryptophanyl residues. This analysis showed that two tyrosyl residues of the xylanase are modified by tetranitromethane in the absence of substrate with the concomitant loss of catalytic activity. Protection of the xylanase with xylooligosaccharides resulted in the nitration of only one residue, and such enzyme derivatives retained 94% catalytic activity. Differential modification of the xylanase with tetranitromethane generated an enzyme derivative with the characteristic absorbance at 428 nm of 3-nitrotyrosine. Amino acid analysis and N-terminal sequencing of peptides with strong absorbance at 428 nm isolated from the protease-digested modified enzyme by reverse-phase HPLC identified the essential residue as Tyr97. Alignment of the S. commune xylanase amino acid sequence with those of the 18 other known family G xylanases revealed that Tyr97 is a conserved aromatic residue, further suggesting its essential role in substrate binding. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Presence of C5b-9 complement complex and S-protein in human myocardial areas with necrosis and sclerosis.
Myocardial fragments with acute infarction (10 cases), scars after chronic infarction (6 cases), areas with focal sclerosis and necrosis (8 cases) compared with normal myocardial areas (8 cases), were processed for indirect and double-labelling immunoperoxidase techniques to localize C5b-9 neoantigens, S-protein, C3d and apolipoprotein B. Granular masses of C5b-9 and C3d and diffuse areas of S-protein and apolipoprotein B were localized in the acute or chronically damaged areas but not in areas free of lesion. Double-labelling data revealed similarly damaged areas of localization for C5b-9 and S-protein, and for C3d and apolipoprotein B, respectively, on rather different than usual tissue structures. C5b-9 determination by ELISA from myocardial eluates revealed lower levels of neoantigens in normal areas (2.3 +/- 0.3 micrograms/g dried tissue), higher levels in areas with sclerosis (7.9 +/- 0.7 micrograms/g dried tissue) and the highest amounts in areas with acute infarction (11.1 +/- 1.2 micrograms/g dried tissue). The presence of C5b-9 neoantigens in damaged myocardial areas with a different localization than S-protein is suggestive of local complement activation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Preparation-Practice Gap: An Integrative Literature Review.
The purpose of this integrative literature review was to evaluate and synthesize the evidence regarding the existence, extent, and significance of a preparation-practice gap-namely, the deficits in knowledge and skills that novice nurses may demonstrate on entry into the clinical setting and the identified best practices to narrow this gap. An integrative literature review was performed. A final set of 50 articles were included in the review. Three main themes permeate the evidence: a preparation-practice gap exists; this gap is costly; and closing the preparation-practice gap will likely rely on changes in undergraduate education and on-the-job remediation (i.e., nurse residency or preceptor programs). The preparation-practice gap is a challenge that has faced the nursing profession for years. Efforts to close this gap can be justified on the hopes of decreasing turnover (and its attendant costs), boosting morale of novice nurses and their preceptors, decreasing stress among the novice nurses, and improving patient safety. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Controllable labelling of stem cells with a novel superparamagnetic iron oxide-loaded cationic nanovesicle for MR imaging.
To investigate the feasibility of highly efficient and controllable stem cell labelling for cellular MRI. A new class of cationic, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPION)-loaded nanovesicles was synthesised to label rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells without secondary transfection agents. The optimal labelling conditions and controllability were assessed, and the effect of labelling on cell viability, proliferation activity and multilineage differentiation was determined. In 18 rats, focal ischaemic cerebral injury was induced and the rats randomly injected with 1 × 10(6) cells labelled with 0-, 8- or 20-mV nanovesicles (n = 6 each). In vivo MRI was performed to follow grafted cells in contralateral striata, and results were correlated with histology. Optimal cell labelling conditions involved a concentration of 3.15 μg Fe/mL nanovesicles with 20-mV positive charge and 1-h incubation time. Labelling efficiency showed linear change with an increase in the electric potentials of nanovesicles. Labelling did not affect cell viability, proliferation activity or multilineage differentiation capacity. The distribution and migration of labelled cells could be detected by MRI. Histology confirmed that grafted cells retained the label and remained viable. Stem cells can be effectively and safely labelled with cationic, SPION-loaded nanovesicles in a controllable way for cellular MRI. • Stem cells can be effectively labelled with cationic, SPION-loaded nanovesicles. • Labelling did not affect cell viability, proliferation or differentiation. • Cellular uptake of SPION could be controlled using cationic nanovesicles. • Labelled cells could migrate along the corpus callosum towards cerebral infarction. • The grafted, labelled cells retained the label and remained viable. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Metabolic disorders of cattle.
Goldberger discovered human pellagra was a non-infectious disease, affecting mostly the small and the timid in overcrowded institutions. Symptoms were diarrhoea, dermatitis and dementia. The staff and older children escaped the disease. They ate the meat and left the small and timid with the gravy. The 'Goldberger syndrome' is observed during competitive feeding of livestock, in ketotic animals and in the zinc depleted which are lethargic and pick all day at their feed. The pellagra preventative factor was later found to be nicotinic acid, derived from the amino acid tryptophan. Deficiencies of copper, magnesium, vitamin B6 (activated by a zinc kinase) inhibit the conversion of tryptophan to nicotinic acid. Stresses, including liver diseases, malabsorption, iron overload, porphyria, marasmus, cold stress, pregnancy, lactation, antibiotics and sulfa drugs, all increase dietary needs of nicotinic acid. Elevated free fatty acids and ketone bodies in the blood are associated with ketosis, zinc depletion and the pre-diabetic state. There is a diminished uptake of glucose by the tissues, a condition also found in parturient paresis of dairy cows when elevated hydrocortisone promotes insulin resistance and hyperglycaemia. This defect in insulin response leads to a diabetic-like state. The major predisposing factor in parturient paresis of dairy cows is hypocalcaemia. Gut absorption of dietary calcium may not meet the primary demands of lactation initiation until bone calcium mobilisation is established. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Predictive factors of local recurrence and survival following primary surgical treatment of phyllodes tumors of the breast.
The phyllodes tumor is characterized by its tendency to recur locally and occasionally to metastasize. Local recurrence and death from metastases are occasional, but consistent, theme in reports of patients with phyllodes tumors (PTs). The aim of this study was to determine parameters that influence outcome in this uncommon neoplasm. Data from 79 patients with phyllodes tumors were reviewed retrospectively, reclassifying the pathological material using the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. The median age of the patients was 42 years with a range from 16 to 70 years. The tumor size ranged from 2.5 to 24 cm, with a median of 11 cm. Based on the criteria proposed by WHO, 31 cases were benign tumors (39.2%), 27 borderline tumors (34.2%), and 21 malignant tumors (26.6%). The median duration of follow up was 60 months ranging from 3 to 138 months. Following local excision, the local recurrence rates were 14.3%, 50%, and 75% in patients with benign, borderline, and malignant tumors; respectively, while after wide local excision the local recurrence rates were 0%, 36.3% and 40%; respectively. Whereas, 0%, 8.3%, and 8.3% of patients with benign, borderline and malignant tumors; respectively, locally recurred after mastectomy. The 5-year disease free survival was 63.3% after local excision, 70% after wide local excision, and was 87% after mastectomy (p=0.04). Distant metastases (DM) were recorded in 10 patients (12.6%) after a median duration of 14 months (range 3- 36). All cases with DM died after an average of 5 months with a range of 1 to 11 months. Distant metastases developed in 3.2%, 11.1%, and in 28.6% of patients with benign, borderline and malignant tumors; respectively. The 5-year survival with no evidence of disease was 90% for the patients with benign tumors compared to 69% for borderline and 61% for malignant PTs (p= 0.02). The histotype of phyllodes tumors and resection margins were the principal determinants of local recurrence and distant metastases. Complete surgical excision by either wide local excision or mastectomy if necessary is important in the primary surgical treatment of phyllodes tumors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Seeing through the parasites' eyes.
| {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The specific release of sialytransferase activity by human hepatoma cell lines.
Sialyltransferase (EC 2.4.99.1) is released in large amounts by two hepatoma cell lines (SK-H-MA and CLH) established from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (hepatoma). This release requires protein synthesis and glycoprotein synthesis, but not cell division. In contrast, sialyltransferase is released in minimal amounts by a cell line derived from normal human liver (Chang). The hepatoma cells also contain more surface and cellular sialyltransferase activity than Change cells. Hepatoma sialyltransferase has properties similar to other sialyltransferases. Using a calibrated Sephadex G-200 column, it is resolved into two forms with molecular weights of 65 000 and 80 000. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Aortic flow measurement by transesophageal Doppler effect].
Continuous measurement of cardiac output by thermodilution is invasive, impractical and unpleasant for the patient. We propose to measure descending aortic blood flow with a specially designed intra-oesophageal Doppler echo probe. The apparatus is composed of two main parts. First an A scan system makes possible the measurement of the diameter of the vessel, second a continuous wave velocimeter is used to measure the spatial mean velocity of the blood. An output calculator determines the descending aortic blood flow. The oesophageal catheter contains three ultrasonic transducers at its tip mounted on an epoxy resin bracket produced by moulding. They are connected to a flexible hose placed inside a flexible polyvinyl sheath whose outer diameter is 6.8 mm and length is 50 cm. A cylindrical latex balloon is mounted on this sheath which is water inflated to minimum pressure, ensuring a good ultrasonic coupling between the transducers and the oesophageal wall. Connection between the probe and the apparatus is made by three coaxial cables. Three isolator-transformers are built into the connector cable to ensure a safe electrical circuit. After having bled the probe of any air, the balloon is deflated. The probe is gently introduced into the oesophagus by nasal or oral route until the transducers are situated between the 5th and 6th vertebra. The balloon is then inflated to minimum pressure with 10 ml of distilled water contained in a syringe. To find the aorta, the velocimeter is first used like a Doppler stethoscope. The probe is rotated into a position corresponding to the maximum level of Doppler signal.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Numerical investigation of the impact of reflectors on spectral performance of Raman fibre laser.
Using a cavity mode model we study numerically the impact of bandwidth and spectral response profile of fibre Bragg gratings on four-wave-mixing-induced spectral broadening of radiation generated in 6 km and 22 km SMF-based Raman fibre lasers. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cellular oncogenes in human teratocarcinoma cell lines.
We have analysed, by Northern blots, the expression of 14 cellular oncogenes in nine cell lines established from human teratocarcinomas. All lines expressed considerable amounts of p53, c-Ki-ras2, c-Ha-ras1, c-raf1, N-myc, and c-fos. Low level expression of c-myc was detected in some lines. Southern blot experiments revealed no amplification or rearrangement of the c-Ki-ras2, N-myc or c-fos genes. Using a rapid dot-blot screening procedure, based on a combination of in-vitro amplification of ras-specific sequences and oligonucleotide hybridization, we could detect no activation of Ha-ras or Ki-ras or any unexpressed N-ras sequences secondary to a point mutation at codons 12, 13, or 61. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hoodia gordonii: a natural appetite suppressant.
Several species of the stapeliads, a group of stem succulents belonging to the family Apocynaceae are reported on in the ethnopharmacology literature and many of the references relate to their use as food plants. The most important of these plants is Hoodia gordonii, which during the past decade has risen from an almost forgotten spiny, desert plant to an important commercial appetite-suppressant herbal. The aim of this review is to summarize the botany, ethnopharmacology and phytochemistry of Hoodia gordonii. Journal articles and books were used to collect information on Hoodia gordonii and related species. Many books and articles documented the use of stapeliad species as food plants and earlier references refer to the use Hoodia species as a thirst quencher. However, prior to the publication of the patent application, only a single reference referring to the use of Hoodia pilifera as appetite suppressant was found. The structures of several steroid glycosides isolated from Hoodia gordonii are summarized. Hoodia gordonii illustrates how a combination of ethnobotany and scientific research can lead to a commercial product which can greatly benefit the indigenous people. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Control of spin angular momentum in quasi-phase-matched material.
A method to control spin angular momentum (SAM), based on mutual effects of a electro-optic effect and a quasi-phase-matched (QPM) technique in QPM material, is proposed. By controlling the external electric field or operating wavelength, the transfer between left- and right-handed circularly polarized photons is achieved, thus the total SAM is manipulated. The external electric field needed in this method for the complete modulation of the total SAM per photon from 0 to ħ is as low as 0.44 kV/cm. This method will see its applications in micromanipulation by light. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A study on client selection criteria and services for home health care--C.V.A., head and spinal cord injury in patients.
This study was done to clarify the types of health care that should be offered. It focus on developing client selection criteria based on the needs of inpatients with cerebral vascular diseases, head injuries and spinal cord injuries. Two research methods were adopted. One was a methodological approach for developing client selection criteria and the other was analytical approach to clarify the types of services to be offered. From the research findings, the following summarized conclusions have been drawn. 1. The problem and item criteria used to select patients requiring home health care, namely, a prototype evaluation tool, consisted of 12 items in four areas; physiological status, functional status, psychological status and environmental status. After assessing each item at three levels, the categorization was done according to the classification criteria. The item internal consistency of the completed tool was .8358, .8390, the interrater reliability was in the range of 84 percent-98 percent and the classification consistency was 92 percent. As external criteria, the relationship of the prototype tool to the Health Status Scale, the Barthel Index of Functional Status Assessing Devices and the number of health problems of the patient was examined and all were found to be statistically significant, verifying the validity of the tool. 2. Using the tool to classify the inpatients according to the established client selection criteria, 84.2 percent were classified as patients requiring home health care, 8.8 percent were assessed as suitable for outpatient care and 7.0 percent were assessed as patients needing to be hospitalized. 3. Clients assessed as requiring home health care had 72 different kinds of health problems, which could be classified into four categories; 54 types of physiological status problems, 8, psychological, 6, functional and 4, environmental status problems. For each problem, the percentage of patients who suffered from the disorders ranged from 2.1 percent-66 percent. More than half of the subjects had problems related to urination, paralysis, contracture or locomotion. For the physiological category, many of the health problems were due to disorders of muscles and bone, whereas skin and breathing disorders were relatively low. The mean number of health problems in this category as 11.1. 4. Reviewing the literature, it was found that home health care consisted of 10 activity areas, namely, sanitation, nutrition, breathing, skin, body temperature maintenance, medication, assessment and observation, education and counselling.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes in bone mineral density and markers of bone remodeling during lactation and postweaning in women consuming high amounts of calcium.
A randomized clinical intervention trial to determine effects of lactation and 1 g of calcium (Ca) on bone remodeling was conducted in 15 women (calcium = 7, placebo [P] = 8) consuming 1.3-2.4 g of Ca/day from diet + prenatal supplement. Study periods were baseline, < or = 2 weeks postpartum; lactation, 3 months lactation; and postweaning, 3 months postweaning. Bone mineral density (BMD) corrected for body weight was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Indicators of calcium metabolism, bone turnover, and lactation were measured: calcium metabolism, parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25[OH]2D); bone turnover, formation, procollagen I carboxypeptides (PICP), osteocalcin, and bone alkaline phosphatase (B-ALP), resorption, tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP); and lactation, prolactin (PRL). Mean BMD changes differed by site: baseline to lactation -4.3% (P) (p < 0.04) and -6.3% (Ca) (p < 0.01) at the lumbar spine (L2-L4) and 5.7% gains of the ultradistal (UD) radius (Ca) (p < 0.04); lactation to postweaning, -6% to -11% at all sites of the radius and ulna (Ca, P) (p < 0.04) +3% at L2-L4 (Ca) (p < 0.03); baseline to postweaning, (UD) radius -5.2% (P) (p < 0.03), UD radius + ulna -6% to -8% (Ca, P) (p < 0.04) but no significant loss of L2-L4 or total body. Bone turnover markers were higher at lactation than postweaning: PICP (+34%, p < 0.001), osteocalcin (+25%, p < 0.01), TRAP (+11%, p < 0.005) as well as PRL (+81%, p < 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hepatic expression of hemochromatosis genes in two mouse strains after phlebotomy and iron overload.
Iron homeostasis is tightly regulated in mammals according to the needs of erythropoiesis and the iron stores present. This regulation is disrupted in hereditary hemochromatosis (HH), a genetic disorder characterized by increased intestinal iron absorption, leading to iron overload. The genes coding for HFE, transferrin receptor 2 (TFR2), ferroportin (SLC40A1 or FPN1), hepcidin (HEPC) and hemojuvelin (HJV or RGMC) are responsible for different types of genetic iron overload. All these genes are highly expressed in the liver and their protein products are likely components of a single hepcidin-related pathway. In order to gain insights into the molecular relationship among the HH proteins we evaluated the hepatic expression of HH genes in conditions of iron restriction or overload. Data were obtained after phlebotomy, to activate the erythroid regulators and following parenteral iron dextran loading, to activate the store regulators, in two mice strains (C57BL/6 and DBA/2). HH genes and proteins expression were analyzed by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction and by Western blotting, respectively. Hepc RNA was reduced after phlebotomy and increased in iron overload. A statistically significant reduction of hepatic Fpn1 RNA expression was observed after phlebotomy; this effect was more evident in the DBA/2 strain. Fpn1 increased in C57BL/6 mice, but not in the DBA/2 ones in parenteral iron loading. Fpn1 protein did not change substantially in either condition. Hfe, Rgmc and Tfr2 expression was not influenced by phlebotomy. In parenteral iron overload, Tfr2 gene and protein expression decreased concomitant to the increase in Hepc, while Hfe RNA remained constant. Our results indicate that regulation of hepatic Fpn1 differs from that reported for duodenal Fpn1. Furthermore, taken the differences in gene expression in dietary overload (increased Hfe but not Tfr2), distinct roles are suggested for Hfe and Tfr2 in Hepc activation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Kainate-induced inactivation of NMDA currents via an elevation of intracellular Ca2+ in hippocampal neurons.
1. Ionic currents and the cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) were recorded in rat hippocampal neurons in culture using the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique and confocal laser scanning microscopy with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator Fluo-3 or dual-emission microspectrofluorimetry with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator Indo-1. The excitatory amino acids, kainate and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), were repeatedly applied to the neurons using either a fast perfusion system or pressure-ejection from micropipettes. 2. Conditioning (1-10 s) applications of NMDA induced desensitization of NMDA currents. Recovery from desensitization, estimated from analysis of the amplitudes of short (20-50 ms) test NMDA currents, was double exponential. The time constant of the first phase was < 2 s and for the second phase it was in the range 10-50 s. 3. Conditioning applications of kainate decreased the amplitude of NMDA currents. Recovery of NMDA currents from kainate-induced inactivation was slow and could be fitted with a single exponential. The time constant of recovery was in the range 10-50 s and increased with prolongation of the conditioning pulse of kainate. 6-Cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX; 20 microM) prevented kainate-induced inactivation of NMDA currents. 4. Depolarizing voltage pulses (1-10 s) also induced an inactivation of NMDA currents with a slow recovery. The time course of the recovery increased with prolongation of depolarizing pulses and with an elevation of external calcium. Cadmium, a blocker of voltage-gated channels, prevented development of the depolarization-induced inactivation of NMDA currents. 5. Simultaneous recording of ionic currents and fluorescence of Ca(2+)-sensitive dyes showed that application of kainate, NMDA, or depolarizing pulses resulted in a rise of [Ca2+]i. Cadmium (100 microM) reversibly blocked [Ca2+]i transients induced by depolarizing pulses without modification of kainate-induced rise in fluorescence intensity. 6. For equal inward currents the elevation of [Ca2+]i was approximately 3.5-fold higher for applications of NMDA than for kainate. 7. Strong buffering of [Ca2+]i prevented the inactivation of NMDA currents induced by kainate or by depolarization. 8. Our results suggest that in the hippocampal neurons kainate produces inactivation of NMDA currents via an elevation of [Ca2+]i. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Successful treatment of venous congestion in free skin flaps using medical leeches.
Of 74 patients with extensive skin loss of the upper and lower extremities who were treated with free skin flaps, 20 patients presented with venous insufficiency within the immediate 6 to 12 hours following surgery. In 17 of these patients, the venous congestion after free tissue transfer was successfully treated with medical leeches. The remaining three skin flaps did not survive, despite leeching, as well as exploration and revision of the venous anastomoses. The results from this small number of patients with free skin tissue transfer are encouraging, suggesting that in the presence of venous congestion, the use of medicinal leeches is a desirable modality of treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Traumatic stress: a personal view from combat.
What follows is my personal account of the effects of traumatic stress disorder as it is caused by the effects of combat. I tell it in the first person because it is the most effective way to emphasize the highly personal, traumatic nature of combat stress and because it is my own story. I have endeavored to explain how combat stress occurs, what happens to the individual as a result and how a person can recover from its effects. I offer my story because I think that there are thousands of men who have been in offensive combat, who may have lived my life, but who have not had the opportunity to tell their story about why they hurt. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Extracorporeal fetal support: a new animal model with preservation of the placenta.
Previous models of support for premature sheep fetuses have consisted of cesarean delivery followed by catheterization of umbilical or central vessels and support with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The limitations of these models have been insufficient blood flow, significant fetal edema, and hemorrhage related to anticoagulation. We performed a gravid hysterectomy on 13 ewes between 135 and 145days gestational age. The uterine vessels were cannulated bilaterally and circulatory support was provided via ECMO. Successful transition was defined as maintenance of fetal heart rate for 30minutes after establishing full extracorporeal support. Circuit flow was titrated to maintain mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) of 70-75%. Seven experiments were successfully transitioned to ECMO, with an average survival time of 2hours 9minutes. The longest recorded time from cannulation to death was 6hours 14minutes. By delivering a circuit flow of up to 2120ml/min, all but one of the transitioned uteri were maintained within the desired SvO2 range. We report a novel animal model of fetal ECMO support that preserves the placenta, mitigates the effects of heparin, and allows for increased circuit flow compared to prior techniques. This approach may provide insight into a technique for future studies of fetal physiology. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Traumatic rupture of the aorta with ductus diverticulum: a case history.
Traumatic rupture of the aorta is a life-threatening injury with an extremely high mortality rate if not promptly diagnosed and surgically repaired. Accurate diagnosis depends on a high index of suspicion and the correct assessment of the angiographic features revealed by aortography. A case is presented that illustrates the angiographic findings in a patient with traumatic rupture of the aorta with an accompanying ductus diverticulum. A ductus diverticulum, which is located just distal to the aortic isthmus, can be confused with an aortic tear angiographically and vice versa. The case discussed demonstrates the difference between these two entities. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development and utilisation of a medium to isolate phenanthrene-degrading Pseudomonas spp.
In this study, we isolated phenanthrene degraders belonging to Pseudomonas spp. by combining the selective force of two previously described media. The two compounds, sodium lauryl sarcosine and trimethoprim, from the Gould S1 medium, were added to minimal agar plates sprayed with phenanthrene. Pseudomonas spp. that could produce clearing zones were isolated in one step from the rhizosphere without first selecting for Pseudomonas spp. and subsequently screening for degraders or vice versa. Enumeration and isolation of Pseudomonas spp. attached to the rhizosphere showed clear differences between two types of soil. Rhizosphere-attached phenanthrene degraders (from Pseudomonas spp.) were isolated from a former coal gasification site, but were absent in an agricultural soil subjected to organic farming. We isolated 23 phenanthrene degraders producing clearing zones from the rhizosphere of barley roots. All of these 23 isolates (of which 16 were fluorescent in UV light) proved to be members of the Pseudomonas RNA homology group I, on the basis of results of the analytical profile index (API) test system and classic taxonomic tests. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Relationship between physical self-concept and alcohol and tobacco use behaviours in adolescents].
The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of gender, alcohol use, smoking behaviour and the practice of sport on physical self-concept among Spanish students of physical education. A total of 1,008 students (M age=15.94, SD=89) participated in the study, and completed the physical self-concept questionnaire (PSQ). The results revealed that physical self-concept was related to gender, alcohol use, smoking behaviour and the practice of sport. The best perception of body image was found in women who did not smoke and participants (male and female) who did not do sport. On the other hand, being male and practicing sport predicted general physical self-concept. This study shows the relevance of the belief that smoking is associated with good body image and that sport is practiced to improve physical appearance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A multisubstrate kinetic mechanism of dopamine transport in the nucleus accumbens and its inhibition by cocaine.
Kinetic studies of dopamine transport into suspensions of nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and effects of Na+ and Cl- as cosubstrates were performed using rotating disk electrode voltammetry. To mimic chemical neurotransmission, dopamine was added as a rapid pulse, and transporter-mediated clearance of dopamine was evaluated kinetically. This paradigm was shown to approximate a zero trans entry transport experiment. Dopamine was taken up with apparent Km and Vmax values of 1.3 microM and 375 pmol/s/g wet weight, respectively. Transport exhibited apparent trans acceleration. Substitution of Na+ with choline or Cl- with isethionate reduced dopamine transport with reaction orders of two and unity, respectively, accompanied by reductions in Vmax with no changes in Km. Apparent K(Na) and K(Cl) values were 70.0 and 92.1 mM, respectively. Dopamine transport in NAcc was found to follow a partially random, sequential mechanism in which dopamine and Na+ bind randomly to the transporter followed by binding of Cl- before transport. Cocaine inhibited dopamine transport and the influences of the other substrates allosterically with an overall Ki of 0.30 microM. Thus, the general kinetic mechanism of the transport of dopamine in the NAcc is identical to that previously reported by this laboratory for dopamine transport in the striatum. However, the dopamine transporter in the NAcc is more tightly regulated by Na+, possesses a higher kinetic turnover rate, is four times more sensitive to cocaine than the striatal transporter, and exhibits cocaine inhibition independent of [substrate]. These findings suggest that cocaine modulates chemical signaling in NAcc differently than in striatum, providing down-regulation of function irrespective of [substrate], thereby enhancing dopaminergic signaling more robustly in the NAcc than in the striatum. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Zinc-alpha 2-glycoprotein has ribonuclease activity.
Zinc-alpha 2-glycoprotein (Zn alpha 2gp) is widely distributed in body fluids and in various epithelia; its gene has been completely sequenced, but its function has long remained elusive. We have found that Zn alpha 2gp has RNase activity, comparable to onconase but two orders of magnitude less than RNase A. The RNase activity of Zn alpha 2gp is characterized by maxima in pH at 7.5, in ionic strength at 50 mM NaCl, and in temperature at 60 degreesC. It is strongly inhibited by ZnCl2, but unaffected by MgCl2. It is partially inactivated (down to 20%) by the placental RNase inhibitor. On synthetic polyribonucleotide substrates, the RNase activity of Zn alpha 2gp is specific for pyrimidine residues [poly(C) and poly(U) equally] and cleaves only single-stranded RNA. For onconase, it has been demonstrated that the RNase activity depends on pyroglutamic acid (pyr 1) as the N-terminus; Zn alpha 2gp also has pyr 1, while RNase A does not. Alignment of the amino acid sequences of Zn alpha 2gp and onconase or RNase A reveals only modest matches. Despite the more substantial overall structural homology of Zn alpha 2gp to class I major histocompatibility complex proteins, Zn alpha 2gp has not been proven to be associated with the immune response and, conversely, we could not detect RNase activity in six class I HLA heavy chains. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effect of chronic prostatitis on zinc concentration of prostatic fluid and seminal plasma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Prostatitis is a common disease in urology departments. Prostatic zinc accumulation is connected with the secretory function of the prostate, and zinc concentrations present in prostatic diseases differ greatly from the normal level. Studies have investigated the effect of chronic prostatitis on zinc concentration of prostatic fluid and seminal plasma, but have shown inconsistent results. Hence, we performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of chronic prostatitis on the zinc concentration of prostatic fluid and seminal plasma. Systematic literature searches were conducted with PubMed, Embase, Science Direct/Elsevier, CNKI and the Cochrane Library up to March 2015 for case-control studies that involved the relationship between chronic prostatitis and zinc concentration of prostatic fluid and seminal plasma. Meta-analysis was performed with Review Manager and Stata software. Standard mean differences (SMDs) of zinc concentration were identified with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) in a random- or fixed-effects model. Our results illustrated that the zinc concentrations in prostatic fluid and seminal plasma from chronic prostatitis patients were significantly lower than normal controls (SMD [95% CI] -246.71 [-347.97, -145.44], -20.74 [-35.11, -6.37], respectively). The sample size of each study was relatively small, and a total of 731 chronic prostatitis patients and 574 normal controls were investigated in all fourteen studies. Several studies related to the subject were excluded due to lack of control data or means and standard deviations. The present study illustrates that there was a significant negative effect of chronic prostatitis on zinc concentrations of prostatic fluid and seminal plasma. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to better illuminate the negative impact of chronic prostatitis on zinc concentrations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Selected Reaction Monitoring to Measure Proteins of Interest in Complex Samples: A Practical Guide.
Biology and especially systems biology projects increasingly require the capability to detect and quantify specific sets of proteins across multiple samples, for example the components of a biological pathway through a set of perturbation-response experiments. Targeted proteomics based on selected reaction monitoring (SRM) has emerged as an ideal tool to this purpose, and complements the discovery capabilities of shotgun proteomics methods. SRM experiments rely on the development of specific, quantitative mass spectrometric assays for each protein of interest and their application to the quantification of the protein set in various biological samples. SRM measurements are multiplexed, namely, multiple proteins can be quantified simultaneously, and are characterized by a high reproducibility and a broad dynamic range. We provide here a practical guide to the development of SRM assays targeting a set of proteins of interest and to their application to complex biological samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Safety of implementing a sleep protocol in hospitalized patients.
Although good sleep during hospitalization may promote positive outcomes, some patients and clinicians may have concerns about nursing interventions designed to reduce night-time sleep disturbances. A randomized prospective trial of an intervention to promote sleep was conducted with stable, post-operative oncology patients. Eligible patients were randomized to receive usual nursing care overnight or sleep-promoting interventions. All thirty-seven surgeons in the organization agreed to let their qualified patients participate. One hundred and forty-four patients met the study criteria. Of those, 117 (81%) consented to participate, while 27 (19%) declined. The primary reason for non-enrollment was wanting to be checked on throughout the night (n = 21, 78%). There were no adverse events during the study period. Patients' perceptions of pain and nausea control among the two groups were equivalent. An intervention to decrease sleep disturbances can be safely executed in a post-operative population while maintaining adequate symptom management. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
AMG 479, a fully human anti-insulin-like growth factor receptor type I monoclonal antibody, inhibits the growth and survival of pancreatic carcinoma cells.
Pancreatic carcinoma is a leading cause of cancer deaths, and recent clinical trials of a number of oncology therapeutics have not substantially improved clinical outcomes. We have evaluated the therapeutic potential of AMG 479, a fully human monoclonal antibody against insulin-like growth factor (IGF) type I receptor (IGF-IR), in two IGF-IR-expressing pancreatic carcinoma cell lines, BxPC-3 and MiaPaCa2, which also differentially express insulin receptor (INSR). AMG 479 bound to IGF-IR (K(D) 0.33 nmol/L) and blocked IGF-I and IGF-II binding (IC(50) < 0.6 nmol/L) without cross-reacting to INSR. AMG 479 completely inhibited ligand-induced (IGF-I, IGF-II, and insulin) activation of IGF-IR homodimers and IGF-IR/INSR hybrids (but not INSR homodimers) leading to reduced cellular viability in serum-deprived cultures. AMG 479 inhibited >80% of basal IGF-IR activity in BxPC-3 and MiaPaCa2 xenografts and prevented IGF-IR and IGF-IR/INSR hybrid activation following challenge with supraphysiologic concentrations of IGF-I. As a single agent, AMG 479 inhibited (∼ 80%) the growth of pancreatic carcinoma xenografts, and long-term treatment was associated with reduced IGF-IR signaling activity and expression. Efficacy seemed to be the result of two distinct biological effects: proapoptotic in BxPC-3 and antimitogenic in MiaPaCa2. The combination of AMG 479 with gemcitabine resulted in additive inhibitory activity both in vitro and in vivo. These results indicate that AMG 479 is a clinical candidate, both as a single agent and in combination with gemcitabine, for the treatment of patients with pancreatic carcinoma | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Economic crisis and health policy in the Netherlands.
Beginning with a brief historical overview of health policy in the Netherlands from 1945-1960 (a period of restoration of the capitalist economy after World War II) until 1960-1970 (a period of capitalist expansion), this paper discusses the health policy of the Dutch state under the present conditions of economic crisis. The main characteristics of this policy are growing state intervention, reorganization of the decision-making process, deinstitutionalization of health care, a laissez-faire policy with regard to services in the so-called first echelon of the health sector, reprivatization of health costs, and an ideological emphasis on individual responsibility for health and self-care. The paper concludes with a discussion of the various strategies proposed for the health sector by the Left and the connection between prevention and social struggle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Is bone marrow biopsy always indicated in patients with primary cutaneous marginal zone B-cell lymphoma?
Bone marrow involvement at the time of diagnosis is uncommon in patients with primary cutaneous marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (PCMZL). Moreover, in these patients such involvement is rarely found in isolation on diagnosis. Typically the few patients with PCMZL who have early bone marrow involvement also present secondary nodal or visceral involvement, which is detected by other staging studies (usually computed tomography). In recent years, this has given rise to some debate about whether a bone marrow biopsy should be routinely performed in patients diagnosed with PCMZL in view of the good prognosis and low incidence of bone marrow infiltration and/or extracutaneous involvement in this type of lymphoma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Optimal truncation and optical efficiency of an apertured coherent lidar focused on an incoherent backscatter target.
Two earlier computations of the optimal truncation of Gaussian beams for a simple, focused, coherent lidar that used an incoherent backscatter target with identical circular transmitter and receiver apertures differ because they refer to different receiver geometries. The definitions of heterodyne and systemantenna efficiencies are reviewed in light of the discrepancy and are used to compare the optical performance of systems with apertures illuminated by beam profiles that are not Gaussian. The heterodyne efficiency is less than 0.5 for all cases considered here. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relationship among cellular diacylglycerol, sphingosine formation, protein kinase C activity, and parathyroid hormone secretion from dispersed bovine parathyroid cells.
To separate the role of changes in parathyroid diacylglycerol (DG) from other effects of extracellular calcium, we studied the effect of inhibition of DG metabolism on PTH secretion and cellular DG content in acutely dispersed bovine parathyroid cells. R 59 022, an inhibitor of DG kinase, increased cellular DG, but significantly decreased PTH secretion. Particulate protein kinase C (PKC) activity decreased in bovine parathyroid cells incubated at high extracellular calcium or in the presence of R 59 022, which is the opposite of what was observed in the presence of the phorbol ester, phorbol myristate acetate. Sphinganine, a normal cellular product that is a known inhibitor of PKC, significantly inhibited PTH secretion at low extracellular calcium, but had no significant effect at normal or high extracellular calcium. We then measured sphingosine in bovine parathyroid cells incubated with high extracellular calcium or R 59 022. Both conditions were associated with significant elevations of cellular sphingosine. These studies suggest that inhibition of PTH secretion and PKC activity by enhanced cellular DG may result from the activation of an inhibitory second messenger pathway involving the sphingoid lipids. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Postoperative numerical rating scale in patients undergoing gynecological laparotomy under general anesthesia combined with either single epidural injection or transverses abdominis plane block].
After the operation, early postoperative ambulation has been recommended for thromboprophylaxis. As more anticoagulant drugs have become available, hemorrhagic complication of epidural anesthesia is the focus of attention. Recently, the spread of ultrasound-guided nerve block has improved the efficacy of the transversus abdominis plane block Therefore, we compared transversus abdominis plane block with epidural anesthesia regarding postoperative numerical scale in patients undergoing gynecological surgery. Doses of administrated narcotics during anesthesia, frequencies of administration of analgesics and vomiting up to 24 hours postoperatively, and numerical rating scale (NRS) at the first and 18th postoperative hours were retrospectively surveyed in patients undergoing gynecological laparotomy. Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane combined with either single epidural injection of 6-12 ml of 0.375- 0.75% lopivacaine with 2-4 mg of morphine in 16 patients (Epi group) or ultrasound-guided transverses bilateral abdominis plane block (TAPB) using 20 ml of 0.375% lopivacaine, respectively, in 16 patients (TAP group). No significant differences were found in age, height, weight, ASA-physical status, volume of intraoperative blood loss and surgical time. Both the total administrated doses of remifentanil and fentanyl during anesthesia in TAP group were significantly larger than those in Epi group. Number of postoperative vomiting was larger in Epi group. However, NRS at the postoperative first and 18th hours showed no significant differences between the two groups. The technique of ultrasound-guided TAPB is relatively easy compared with that of epidural injection and TAPB has an advantage in availability in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy. No significant difference in postoperative NRS between two groups in this survey suggests that TAPB in combination with appropriate postoperative pain service is useful in patients contraindicated to epidural puncture. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of gingival crevicular fluid and peri-implant crevicular fluid levels of sclerostin, TWEAK, RANKL and OPG.
The combination of local and systemic factors play role in the pathogenesis of periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Host-derived enzymes, cytokines and other proinflammatory mediators play an integral role in this destruction. The aim of this study is to evaluate gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and peri-implant crevicular (PICF) fluid levels of sclerostin, TNF-related weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-beta ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin OPG in periodontal and peri-implant tissues in disease and health conditions and also to assess the potential for use as biomarkers. The study population was consisted of 50 women and 41 men, in the total of 91 individuals, with a mean age of 51.84 ± 14.05. Periodontitis (n = 22), periodontal health (n = 17), peri-implantitis (n = 27) and peri-implant health (n = 25) groups were established according to clinical and radiographic examination results of 39 teeth and 52 implants restored with fixed prosthetic restorations. In all groups, periodontal and peri-implant parameters (probing depth, gingival recession, gingival bleeding time index, gingival index, and plaque index) were recorded and GCF and PICF samples were also collected. Sclerostin, TWEAK, RANKL and OPG levels in GCF and PICF were measured with ELISA tests. Peri-implantitis group presented significantly higher levels of Sclerostin (p = 0.002), TWEAK(p < 0.0001), RANKL(p < 0.0001), and OPG (p = 0.037) compared to peri-implant health group. Similarly, significantly higher levels of TWEAK (p = 0.001), RANKL(p < 0.0001), and OPG(p = 0.025) were detected in periodontitis group when compared to periodontal health group. Statistically significant correlations were also noted between biochemical parameters and clinical parameters. Findings of this study evaluating four different bone metabolism related proteins at the same time, suggests levels of sclerostin may be a biomarker for peri-implant disease presenting significantly higher levels in the peri-implantitis group than in the peri-implant health group. Moreover, levels of TWEAK can be a good indicator for both periodontal and peri-implant disease, due to the correlations with periodontal clinical parameters and the higher levels of TWEAK in diseased sites compared to the healthy sites for both dental implants and teeth. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Restoration of gap junctions in the regenerative process of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury.
Gap junctions mediate intercellular communication and play an important role in cell proliferation and differentiation. The present study examined the expression of the gap junction protein connexin 32 in rat gastric mucosa during the regenerative process of ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury. Absolute ethanol (0.5 mL/100 g bodyweight) was administered to rats via gastric intubation. Following the treatment, rats were killed periodically, and gastric tissues were processed for indirect immunofluorescence microscopy using an anti-connexin 32 antibody. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E), periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) staining were also performed in serial sections. Gastric injuries were limited in the mucosal layer. The injury was most severe 1 h after treatment, and was completely resolved by the 4th day after treatment. The number of immunoreactive spots for gap junctions was markedly decreased 1 h after the ethanol treatment. Reappearance of these immunostaining gap junctions occurred with repair of the injury. The reappearance of connexin 32 after injury was delayed in comparison with both the histologic resolution of the injury and the normalization of PAS-stained mucus. In contrast, the time course of reappearance of gap junctions closely paralleled the appearance of BrdU-labelled cells. These results indicate that morphologic repair is different to the recovery of cell maturity and cell proliferation in the regenerative gastric mucosa. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effects of static magnetic fields on bone.
All the living beings live and evolve under geomagnetic field (25-65 μT). Besides, opportunities for human exposed to different intensities of static magnetic fields (SMF) in the workplace have increased progressively, such SMF range from weak magnetic field (<1 mT), moderate SMF (1 mT-1 T) to high SMF (>1 T). Given this, numerous scientific studies focus on the health effects and have demonstrated that certain magnetic fields have positive influence on our skeleton systems. Therefore, SMF is considered as a potential physical therapy to improve bone healing and keep bones healthy nowadays. Here, we review the mechanisms of effects of SMF on bone tissue, ranging from physical interactions, animal studies to cellular studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A human case of urogenital myiasis caused by Psychoda sp. larvae in Tripoli, Libya
Urogenital myiasis caused by Psychoda spp. involving human are very rare and present with unusual symptoms. Larvae belonging to Psychoda sp. (Diptera: Psychodidae) were found in the urogenital tract of a 9-year-old girl, who lives in Tajoura, Libya, and had suffered from genital pruritus and moving larvae in urine. This is the first record of such case in Libya. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prevalence and risk factors of H. pylori from dyspeptic patients in northwest Ethiopia: a hospital based cross-sectional study.
Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and infection with H. pylori is considered essential for its development. Helicobacter pylori infects more than 50% of the world's population with higher prevalence in developing countries than developed countries. The prevalence of H. pylori varies in different societies and geographical locations. The objectives of this study were to estimate the seroprevalence and determine the risk factors of H. pylori infection in dyspeptic patents in Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study involving 209 dyspeptic patients was carried out from February 15 to April 30, 2013. Five to ten ml venous blood was collected from each dyspeptic patient and analyzed for detection of Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin (IgG). The socio-demographic characteristic, hygienic practices, alcohol consumption, sources of drinking water and types of latrine were also obtained with a pre-tested questionnaire. The overall seroprevalence of Helicobacter pylori was 72.2%. There was statistically significant difference in the prevalence of H. pylori among age groups (p=0.02). Seroprevalence of H. pylori was higher in those patients who used unprotected surface water (76.4%) than those with access to piped tap water (65.9%). There was also statistically significant differences in prevalence of H. pylori with the habit of hand washing before meal (p=0.01) and alcohol consumption (p=0.001). The prevalence of H. pylori was high in the study area and increased with age of dyspeptic patients. Alcohol consumption and the type of drinking water are risk factors that have associations with the prevalence of H. pylori. Molecular epidemiological techniques can show a true picture of H. pylori and improvement in the drinking water quality is recommended. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hydrofluoric acid inhalation injury.
Hydrofluoric acid has a unique mechanism for causing devastating injuries when it contacts human tissue. Although a great deal of literature exists for cutaneous exposures, inhalational exposures have not been as well studied. Although most cases of severe inhalational exposures to hydrofluoric acid are rapidly lethal, here we present a case of a patient who presented with a severe inhalation injury who survived. This case highlights the extreme complexity of managing this kind of injury and the need for more experimental research to develop better treatment options. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Factors affecting flight activity of Ophraella communa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), an exotic insect in Japan.
The exotic beetle Ophraella communa LeSage was first found in 1996 in Japan and has rapidly expanded its distribution. This study examined the effect of several factors on the flight activity of this beetle and estimated its dispersal potential by measuring its flight time on a flight mill system. The beetles exhibited low flight activity at the age of 1-3 d posteclosion; however, after 4 d, it increased and thereafter remained high. The beetles reduced flight activity under the dark photophase, although they flew during both light and dark phases. Flight activity was lower in adults reared from hatching under a 12:12 (L:D)-h photoperiod than in those reared under a 16:8-h photoperiod; the shorter photoperiod was found to induce reproductive diapause. This photoperiodic response could explain seasonal changes in flight activities in which fourth-generation adults displayed the lowest activity before overwintering. The female beetles flew, at maximum, for 385 min during a 23-h experimental period. Based on this value, the flight distance was estimated to be 25 km/23 h, suggesting a high dispersal potential of this beetle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cervicomedullary injury after pneumococcal meningitis with brain edema.
To demonstrate a rare but potential mechanism of quadriplegia in a patient with fulminant pneumococcal meningitis complicated by severe intracranial hypertension. Case report. Intensive care unit. A 21-year-old man who presented with 3 days of headache, combativeness, and fever. Antibiotics and steroids were initiated after lumbar puncture yielded purulent cerebrospinal fluid and streptococcus pneumoniae. The patient's course was complicated by severe cerebral edema necessitating intracranial pressure monitoring and intracranial pressure-targeted therapy. Within 5 days he developed quadriplegia and areflexia. Brain and cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging revealed patchy areas of T2 signal hyperintensity with associated gadolinium enhancement in the superior cervical spinal cord, cerebellar tonsils, and medulla. Quadriplegia secondary to tonsillar herniation in fulminant meningitis is rare but should be considered in patients with acute quadriparesis after treatment of increased intracranial pressure. Magnetic resonance imaging signal changes and gadolinium enhancement may be demonstrated. Significant improvement of cord symptoms can be expected. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Relative bioavailability of trimeprazine tablets investigated in man using HPLC with electrochemical detection.
The stability, partition coefficient, plasma protein binding, red blood cell distribution, and whole blood concentrations of trimeprazine were investigated. Trimeprazine solution was stable for 6 months at -20 degrees C and 3.5 months at 40 degrees C. In whole blood trimeprazine was stable for 5 weeks at -20 degrees C, 24 h at 4 degrees C, 4 h at 25 degrees C and 1 h at 37 degrees C. The apparent hexane-water partition coefficient varied from 1.50 (at pH 4.83) to over 100 (at pH 10.54). The fraction bound to plasma protein exceeded 0.9 as estimated by equilibrium dialysis with correction for volume shift. The mean plasma/red blood cell concentration ratio was 1.17 and the mean red blood cell/plasma distribution coefficient was 8.65. Six healthy adult males received single 5 mg doses of trimeprazine in a syrup (5 mg in 10 ml) and tablets with at least two weeks between doses. Blood was collected for 48 h. The mean (+/- s.e.m.) times for peak blood concentrations were 3.5 +/- 0.22 h for the syrup and 4.5 +/- 0.43 h for the tablets. There were no significant differences in Cmax values. The overall mean (+/- s.e.m.) terminal phase half-life was 4.78 +/- 0.59 h. Mean (+/- s.e.m.) areas under the concentration time curves from 0 to infinity (AUC infinity) were 11.0 +/- 1.99 ng h-1 ml-1 and 7.67 +/- 1.05 ng h-1 ml-1 for syrup and tablets, respectively. The mean relative bioavailability for the tablets was approximately 70% with respect to the syrup. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
MRONJ risk of adjuvant bisphosphonates in early stage breast cancer.
Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has most commonly been associated with bisphosphonates. The routine uses of these drugs are now well established predominantly in metastatic cancer with bone involvement, multiple myeloma, hypercalcaemia, osteoporosis and Paget's disease. Recently, however, the use of bisphosphonates in early breast cancer has shown a reduction in breast cancer recurrence and breast cancer deaths. This new indication for their use approximates to a further 20,000 women per year in the UK being prescribed bisphosphonates. In this article, we consider the dental impact of this new use of bisphosphonates, report on the rates of MRONJ seen in early breast cancer bisphosphonate trials and discuss strategies aimed at minimising the risk of bisphosphonate-exposed patients developing MRONJ. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fungemia caused by Verticillium species in an immunocompromised child.
The incidence of fungal infections is increasing due to immunocompromised states. We report a case of fungaemia due to a rare fungus - Verticillium, in a 6 year old child diagnosed as a case of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia- L1 with high grade fever. The patient was treated with amphotericin B with a good clinical response. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Single-dose cefazolin versus cefonicid for antibiotic prophylaxis in cesarean delivery.
The purpose of this prospective investigation was to compare a single intravenous dose of cefazolin to a single dose of cefonicid as prophylaxis for women having unscheduled cesarean delivery. In a double-blind, randomized design, 96 patients were assigned to receive a 1-g dose of cefazolin and 103 patients were designated to receive a 1-g dose of cefonicid. The antibiotics were administered after delivery of the infant. The two groups were comparable with respect to recognized risk factors for postcesarean infection. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the incidence of standard febrile morbidity, endomyometritis, urinary tract infection, wound infection, and bacteremia. There were also no significant differences between the groups in the fever index or the duration of hospitalization. We conclude that cefazolin and cefonicid provide a similar degree of prophylaxis against infection in patients having unscheduled cesarean delivery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Between-laboratory quality control of automated analysis of IgG antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus.
Measurement of IgG antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus is an important criterion for the diagnosis of aspergilloma, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, and extrinsic allergic alveolitis. In the present study, we compared IgG antibody analysis against A. fumigatus using 2 widely used automated immunochemistry systems. In a between-laboratory quality control program, good agreement was found between the results from laboratories that used the ImmunoCAP system; however, a laboratory that used the Immulite 2000 system found approx. 2-fold higher antibody levels in the quality control samples than did the ImmunoCAP system. Measurements of IgG against A. fumigatus in patient sera were significantly correlated (r(s) = 0.77, P < 0.0001). These results demonstrate that analysis of IgG antibodies against A. fumigatus with these 2 systems has reached a level of standardization that allows for direct comparison of quantitative results from different laboratories. For longitudinal analysis of IgG against A. fumigatus, reagents from the same manufacturer should be used. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of the biotechnological potential of a novel purified protease BS1 from Bacillus safensis S406 on the chitin extraction and detergent formulation.
An extracellular alkaline stable protease BS1 from a new bacteria strain, Bacillus safensis S406, isolated from the Sfax solar saltern, was purified and characterized. The enzyme was purified to homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation, Sephadex G-75 gel filtration, Mono-Q anion-exchange chromatography and ultrafiltration, with a 12.70-fold increase in specific activity and 20.29% recovery. The enzyme has a molecular weight of 29kDa and appeared as a single band on native-PAGE. The optimum pH and temperature values of its proteolytic activity were pH 11.0 and 60°C, respectively. BS1 was tested for the deproteinization of shrimp wastes to extract chitin. An enzyme-protein ratio of 10U/mg of proteins allows to eliminate 93% of protein linked to the chitin after 3h hydrolysis at 45°C. Being very active in alkaline conditions, the potential application of BS1 in laundry formulation was investigated. The enzyme showed high stability in the presence of non-ionic surfactants and some commercial liquid and solid detergents, suggesting its eventual use in detergent formulations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mucinous appendiceal neoplasms: pathologic classification, clinical implications, imaging spectrum and mimics.
Mucinous appendiceal neoplasms are uncommon, but important to recognize with imaging due to malignant potential. Peritoneal seeding and pseudomyxoma peritonei can occur with both frankly malignant as well as low-grade appendiceal neoplasms. Prospective imaging identification of potential appendiceal neoplasm is paramount to clinical/surgical management. When a mucinous appendiceal neoplasm is suspected, a right hemicolectomy with lymph node dissection is the preferred surgical management. Unfortunately, accurate preoperative diagnosis can be challenging due to a wide range of clinical presentations and overlapping imaging appearances of appendiceal neoplasms with benign entities. Using the 2010 World Health Organization (WHO) pathologic classification as a framework, we provide a comprehensive multi-modality pictorial essay detailing the broad array of imaging findings of mucinous appendiceal neoplasms and common imaging mimics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The auricular VX2 carcinoma: feasibility of complete tumor resection.
The aim of the study was to test the feasibility of resection of VX2 auricular squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in New Zealand White rabbits (NZW), its influence on the regional and distant metastases and the general prognosis. In 71 NZW rabbits, successful in sano wide margin resection of auricular VX2 SCC was performed 7 days after tumor induction. The animals were sacrificed and examined for metastases after 6 weeks. Local recurrences occured in 7% of the animals. In 28.2% lymph node (LN) and in 15.5% distant metastases developed. Regional metastases presented in 100% of the animals with recurrence and in 22.7% of the RO animals (p < 0.001). Distant metastases presented in 80% of the animals with local recurrence and in 10.6% of the R0 animals (p < 0.001). Of the animals with local control, those with N+ had a significantly higher incidence of distant metastases (46.7%) compared to those with N0 (0%, p < 0.001). Local control and LN involvement were found to be important prognostic factors for early tumor-related death. The VX2 auricular model resembles head and neck (HN) SCC in humans morphologically, pathophysiologically and as a complex neoplastic disease. In the experimental setting it behaved similarly to the clinical situation of wait-and-see in N0 HNSCC patients. Tumoral microemboli present a possible mechanism for the development of recurrences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Multiple exostosis: a short study of abnormalities near the growth plate.
The pathogenesis of multiple exostosis has been controversial with many theories put forward including the structural/mechanical theory, which emphasizes that the osteochondroma arises in the displaced growth plate cartilage penetrating a defective periosteum. Recently, molecular genetics has offered the neoplastic model with tumor suppressor genes implicated in the development and pathogenesis of exostosis. In this study, we demonstrated the spectrum of histological abnormalities in the developing exostosis present on the surface of the bone at the physis. Seven skeletally immature patients with multiple exostoses were used in this study. The patients' families were advised of and consented to the proposed study. Coincident with removal of symptomatic exostoses that was adjacent to the physis, a thin strip of bone with overlying periosteum was removed to include the edge of the physis. This was followed by formalin fixation and routine paraffin embedding. We demonstrated the earliest lesion as a microchondroma within the periosteum adjacent to the normal physis (also called the 'groove of Ranvier'). More mature progressively larger lesions showing enchondral ossification were seen distally. The periosteum and the perichondrium were intact with normal physis. Our observations give support to the fact that precursor cells in the periosteum adjacent to the physis (also called the 'groove of Ranvier') gives rise to the chondrocytes that clonally expands and develops into exostosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In situ synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanocomposites using iron oxide nanofluids at ambient conditions.
This paper describes a simple method for the room temperature synthesis of magnetite/hydroxyapatite composite nanocomposites using ferrofluids. The in situ synthesis of magnetic-hydroxyapatite results in a homogenous distribution of the two phases as seen both in transmission electron micrographs and assembled to a micron range in the confocal micrographs. The selected area diffraction pattern analysis shows the presence of both phases of iron oxide and hydroxyapatite. To the dialyzed ferrofluid, the constituents of hydroxyapatite synthesis was added, the presence of the superparamagnetic iron oxide particles imparts directionality to the hydroxyapatite crystal growth. Electron probe microanalysis confirms the co-existence of both iron and calcium atoms. Vibrating Sample magnetometer data shows magnetization three times more than the parent ferrofluid, the local concentration of iron oxide nanoparticles affects the strength of dipolar interparticle interactions changing the energy barrier for determining the collective magnetic behavior of the sample. The limitations inherent to the use of external magnetic fields which can be circumvented by the introduction of internal magnets located in the proximity of the target by a minimal surgery or by using a superparamagnetic scaffold under the influence of externally applied magnetic field inspires us to increase the magnetization of our samples. The composite in addition shows anti-bacterial properties against the two gram (-ve) bacteria tested. This work is significant as magnetite-hydroxyapatite composites are attracting a lot of attention as adsorbents, catalysts, hyperthermia agents and even as regenerative medicine. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Teenage pregnancy among African-Americans: a qualitative examination of maternal education, teenage pregnancy, family dynamics, and conflict resolution.
This qualitative study is derived from interviews conducted during a larger quantitative study that examined facilitators and barrier to communication and negotiations in African American families whose teen daughters had one or more unwed teen pregnancies. Based on the larger study's findings that the education of the teens mother was a statistically significant factor in teen pregnancy, 17 robust interviews were analyzed in this study and sorted on variables of maternal education and teen pregnancies. From the analysis of the data, seven themes emerged. Findings indicated that almost all girls reported a lack of contact with a father and girls of higher educated mothers tended to have more supportive family structures than did girls of lower educated mothers. Most of the families rejected the teen pregnancy, although later some accepted the infant. In comparison to mothers with a higher level of education, mothers with a lower level of education leaned toward more absolutist and negative solutions without full discussions about ideas of sex with their teens. Discussion indicated the need for interventions based on negotiation principles and tactics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reversal of MRP-mediated vincristine resistance in KB cells by buthionine sulfoximine in combination with PAK-104P.
The mechanism of multidrug resistance protein (MRP)-mediated multidrug resistance (MDR) is still unclear. MRP reportedly transports some GSH conjugates. Recently, we demonstrated that a pyridine analog, 2-[4-(diphenylmethyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl 5-(trans-4,6-dimethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphosphorinan-2-yl)-2,6-dimethyl-4 -(3-nitrophenyl)-3-pyridinecarboxylate P-oxide (PAK-104P), that reversed P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated MDR directly interacted with MRP and completely reversed the vincristine (VCR) resistance in MRP-mediated MDR C-A120 cells. We investigated the reversing effect of PAK-104P in C-A120 cells in combination with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), another MDR-reversing agent with a different reversing mechanism. In immunoblots, MRP was overexpressed in C-A120 cells. The level of ATP-dependent [3H]VCR uptake was high in membrane vesicles from KB-C2 cells, but low in those from C-A120 and parental KB-3-1 cells. The sensitivity to VCR of C-A120 cells, but not of KB-C2 cells, was considerably increased by 100 microM BSO. VCR accumulation in C-A120 cells, but not in KB-C2 cells, was also enhanced by BSO. BSO did not inhibit ATP-dependent [3H]LTC4 uptake in C-A120 vesicles. The combination of BSO with PAK-104P at their low concentrations resulted in complete reversal of VCR resistance in C-A120 cells. These findings suggested that BSO might not directly interact with MRP and reversed resistance in MRP-mediated MDR cells by reducing the intracellular glutathione (GSH) level that was needed for the transport of drugs by MRP and suggested a role for the combination of drug resistance-modulating agents with different reversing mechanisms in the reversal of MRP-mediated MDR. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Recent Development of Thermoelectric Polymers and Composites.
Thermoelectric materials can be used as the active materials in thermoelectric generators and as Peltier coolers for direct energy conversion between heat and electricity. Apart from inorganic thermoelectric materials, thermoelectric polymers have been receiving great attention due to their unique advantages including low cost, high mechanical flexibility, light weight, low or no toxicity, and intrinsically low thermal conductivity. The power factor of thermoelectric polymers has been continuously rising, and the highest ZT value is more than 0.25 at room temperature. The power factor can be further improved by forming composites with nanomaterials. This article provides a review of recent developments on thermoelectric polymers and polymer composites. It focuses on the relationship between thermoelectric properties and the materials structure, including chemical structure, microstructure, dopants, and doping levels. Their thermoelectric properties can be further improved to be comparable to inorganic counterparts in the near future. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Comparison of coaches' perceptions and officials guidance towards health promotion in French sport clubs: a mixed method study.
Despite the call to improve health promotion (HP) in sport clubs in the existing literature, little is known about sport clubs' organizational capacity. Grounded within the setting-based framework, this study compares HP activities and guidance among 10 football clubs. At least three grassroots coaches from each club (n = 68) completed the Health Promoting Sports Clubs scale to assess their perceptions of HP; an official (n = 10) was interviewed about club's activities and official's guidance provided to coaches. A concurrent embedded design with quantitative results guiding the qualitative analysis was used. Despite no significant differences regarding coaches' perceptions of HP between the 10 sport clubs, except for the policy dimension, officials' interviews revealed some contradictions. Sport participation was recognized as automatically promoting HP, meaning that sport practice entails many benefits, without questioning the nature of the activities. HP was considered as a secondary aim in regard to sport performance, leading to the lack of written policies, partnerships and sporadic HP activities. Future interventions should consider: (i) the creation of required policy and long-term vision; (ii) the link between HP and sport performance; (iii) the rootedness of sport clubs within their community and (iv) guidelines towards HP from sport federations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Natural history of benign and malignant breast tumors seen in a screening center. 15-year retrospective study.
Two hundred patients with benign (173) or malignant (27) breast lesions were compared with 102 controls without any breast pathology but who had a family history of breast cancer. All these women had been first seen in a private breast clinic between 1971 and 1977. In 168 benign cases, 230 biopsies had been performed prior to the first visit to our screening Centers. The average age was 32.7 years at the time of the first benign biopsy, and 52 years at the time of cancer diagnosis. In this series, the ACTM (anamnesis, clinical examination, thermography, mastography) diagnostic scoring system, which we have been using since 1974, gave 6.7% false-negatives in the cancer group, 1% false-positive in the controls, no false-positive in 171 benign cases. A family history of breast and other malignant tumors was more frequent in the cancer group. Breast cancer patients had more children and fewer miscarriages. The hysterectomy rate (mean age, 40.4 years) was an appalling 62.5% of the whole series. Cancer cases had far less hysterectomies (31.8%) and a later spontaneous menopause (average, 51 years, as compared to 46.5). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The growing clinical importance of secondary tricuspid regurgitation.
Functional or secondary tricuspid regurgitation (STR) is the most frequent etiology of tricuspid valve pathology in Western countries. Surgical tricuspid repair has been avoided for years, because of the misconception that tricuspid regurgitation should disappear once the primary left-sided problem is treated; this results in a large number of untreated patients with STR. Over the past few years, many investigators have reported evidence in favor of a more aggressive surgical approach to STR. Consequently, interest has been growing in the physiopathology and treatment of STR. The purpose of this review is to explore the anatomical basis, pathophysiology, therapeutic approach, and future perspectives with regard to the management of STR. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Electrochemical immunosensor for rapid and sensitive determination of estradiol.
This work describes the preparation of an electrochemical immunosensor for estradiol based on the surface modification of a screen printed carbon electrode with grafted p-aminobenzoic acid followed by covalent binding of streptavidin (Strept) and immobilization of biotinylated anti-estradiol (anti-estradiol-Biotin). The hormone determination was performed by applying a competitive immunoassay with peroxidase-labelled estradiol (HRP-estradiol) and measurement of the amperometric response at -200 mV using hydroquinone (HQ) as redox mediator. The calibration curve for estradiol exhibited a linear range between 1 and 250 pg mL(-1) (r=0.990) and a detection limit of 0.77 pg mL(-1) was achieved. Cross-reactivity studies with other hormones related with estradiol at physiological concentration levels revealed the practical specificity of the developed method for estradiol. A good reproducibility, with RSD=5.9% (n=8) was also observed. The operating stability of a single bioelectrode modified with anti-estradiol-Biotin-Strept was nine days when it was stored at 8°C under humid conditions between measurements. The developed immunosensor was applied to the analysis of certified serum and spiked urine samples with good results. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Mutagenicity study of gadobenate dimeglumine formulation (E7155) (1)--Reverse mutation assays in S. typhimurium and E. coli tester strains].
The ability of gadobenate dimeglumine formulation (E7155) to cause gene mutations was assessed in five strains of Salmonella typhimurium (TA100, TA1535, TA98, TA1538, and TA1537) and a strain of Escherichia coli (CM891; WP2, uvrA-, pKM101) using the Ames test (agar plate assay). The results suggest that E7155 is non-mutagenic towards these bacterial tester strains. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The sphenoparietal sinus.
There is minimal detailed information regarding the sphenoparietal venous sinus found in the extant medical literature. Furthermore, there is controversy in the literature regarding drainage of the Sylvian vein into this sinus. The sphenoparietal sinus can potentially be encountered with cranial base approaches near the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone and may be found as one surgically traverses the superior orbital fissure. To further elucidate the anatomy of this structure, we injected this intracranial venous sinus with blue latex in 15 adult cadavers (30 sides) via cannulation of the cavernous sinus near the posterior part of the oculomotor trigone. Observations and measurements of this and nearby structures were then made. A left and right sphenoparietal sinus were found in all specimens and had a mean diameter of 2.5 mm for left sides and 3 mm for right sides. No statistical difference was noted between sides or sexes (P > 0.05). This structure generally began at the lateral tip of the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone and ended in the cavernous sinus near the passage of the ophthalmic nerve. In seven left sides and eight right sides, no discernible connection with the middle meningeal veins was noted. This sinus was found to have a connection with the Sylvian vein in all but one side. One sinus did not drain into the cavernous sinus but rather into the veins of the foramen rotundum. Ten specimens were noted to have previously undocumented temporal veins from the anterior temporal tip that drained into the sphenoparietal sinus. We think that these data will aid the clinician in the diagnosis of the pathology of this region and decrease morbidity that may follow manipulation of this venous sinus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The evolutionary psychology of human mating: a response to Buller's critique.
In this paper, I critique arguments made by philosopher David Buller against central evolutionary-psychological explanations of human mating. Specifically, I aim to rebut his criticisms of Evolutionary Psychology regarding (1) women's long-term mating preferences for high-status men; (2) the evolutionary rationale behind men's provisioning of women; (3) men's mating preferences for young women; (4) women's adaptation for extra-pair sex; (5) the sex-differentiated evolutionary theory of human jealousy; and (6) the notion of mate value. In sum, I aim to demonstrate that Buller's arguments contra Evolutionary Psychologists are left wanting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Protein and RNA turnover in preterm infants and adults: a comparison based on urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine and of modified one-way RNA catabolites.
Urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine in preterm infants (n = 42; 1,712 +/- 408 g, 4-91 days old) was 24.2 +/- 6 mumol/mmol creatinine or 2.26 +/- 0.56 mumol/kg body weight X day. In adults (n = 6; 66 +/- 10 kg, 17-50 years), the corresponding values were 10.5 +/- 1.1 mumol/mmol creatinine and 2.21 +/- 0.23 mumol/kg body weight X day. For both collectives, the breakdown per kg body weight of 3-methylhistidine-containing protein (i.e. actin and myosin) was similar, at approximately 0.7 g/kg X day (preterm infants 0.84, adults 0.60). Since the preterm infants studied contain approximately 21% muscle instead of the 43% found in adults, the 3-methylhistidine excretion in preterm infants probably indicates muscle (and intestinal) protein turnover to be about 3 times higher than in adults, a figure in accord with data on whole-body protein turnover in preterm infants and adults (approximately 15 g/kg X day and approximately 4 g/kg X day, respectively). Urinary excretion of pseudouridine (psi), 7-methylguanine (m7Gua) and N2, N2-dimethylguanosine (m2(2)G) can be used to estimate the turnover of rRNA, mRNA and tRNA, respectively. The values obtained (in mumol/mmol creatinine) in preterm infants are for psi: 164 +/- 32; for m7Gua: 39.1 +/- 9; and for m2(2)G: 10.6 +/- 2.1. In adults, the values are for psi: 25.3 +/- 3.1; for m7Gua: 4.8 +/- 0.89; and for m2(2)G: 1.53 +/- 0.38. This yields 3-4 times higher turnover rates in preterm infants than in adults for all 3 RNA classes: rRNA, 0.1 versus 0.038; tRNA, 1.87 versus 0.66; mRNA 2.35 versus 0.64 mumol/kg X day. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid gland with sustentacular cell-like cells in a patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia, type IIA. Report of a case with ultrastructural and immunohistochemical studies.
We report a case of a medullary carcinoma of the left lobe of the thyroid gland that occurred in a 57-year-old woman. The patient had undergone surgery for treatment of a bilateral-functioning pheochromocytoma when she was 39 years old. A medullary carcinoma of the thyroid gland and/or a pheochromocytoma had also been diagnosed in other family members. The tumor was composed of cells arranged in nests and large sheets separated by fibrous stroma that contained amyloid deposits. Elongated cells with thin, branched cytoplasmic projections that were strongly reminiscent of sustentacular cells usually found in paragangliomas were seen among the neoplastic cells. Immunohistochemical study showed a diffuse positive reaction for calcitonin and low-weight keratins (CAM 5.2) in neoplastic cells, whereas the sustentacular cell-like cells were positive for S100 protein. The reaction for thyroglobulin was negative. Electron microscopy disclosed large numbers of typical neurosecretory granules in the cytoplasm of tumor cells. The sustentacular cell-like cells showed elongated cytoplasmic processes and lacked neurosecretory granules. We concluded that the finding of sustentacular cell-like cells in a medullary carcinoma of the thyroid gland made its differential diagnosis from paraganglioma more problematic. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Preservation of renal function during gout treatment with febuxostat: a quantitative study.
Hyperuricemia can accelerate renal decline associated with aging. Chronic kidney disease is frequently seen in patients with hyperuricemia and gout. Assess the impact of urate-lowering therapy on renal function in subjects with gout who were treated with febuxostat for ≤ 48 months. Subjects from 2 phase 3 clinical studies were enrolled in the phase 3, long-term, open-label Febuxostat/Allopurinol Comparative Extension Long-Term (EXCEL) study. In the EXCEL study, 1086 subjects initially were treated with febuxostat 80 or 120 mg daily, or allopurinol 300 mg daily. The subjects were permitted to switch between doses of febuxostat and/or allopurinol during the first 6 months of treatment to achieve and maintain a serum uric acid (SUA) level ≥ 3 to < 6 mg/dL. For the analysis presented in this article, data from 551 subjects who received only febuxostat throughout the duration of both the phase 3 and EXCEL studies (≤ 48 months) were used to determine the impact of SUA reduction on estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs). At baseline of the 2 original phase 3 studies, subjects' mean SUA level was 9.8 mg/dL. Greater sustained decreases in subjects' SUA levels were associated with less renal function decline (P < 0.001) by statistical modeling. The study data predicted that for every 1 mg/dL of chronic reduction of SUA level in subjects with gout, there would be a preservation of 1.15 mL/min of eGFR. Sustained urate-lowering therapy with febuxostat appears to impede renal decline in patients with gout. The results discussed in this article support similar observations previously reported in 116 hyperuricemic subjects with gout who received febuxostat for ≤ 5 years. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Transplantation of fetal brain tissue into the site of intracerebral hemorrhage in rats.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether transplantation of fetal forebrain tissue into the hematoma site of rats with intrastriatal hemorrhage could improve the final neurological outcome. Nine to twelve days after collagenase-induced intracerebral hemorrhage, day 14 fetal forebrain fragments were transplanted into hematoma site. Quantitative measures of behavioral function were repeatedly evaluated until the rats were killed 10 weeks after grafting. Histology was used to assess the survival of the grafts and overall brain morphology. Surviving grafts were located in the residual cavity at the hematoma site. However, comparison of rats with live transplants to control rats with no transplant, sham transplant, or dead tissue transplant revealed no statistically significant differences in any of the motor tests. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Trial of analgesia by acupuncture].
The clinical trial involved 31 cases, 10 in stomatology. Acupuncture may produce analgesia after simple premedication. Of 21 abdominal operations, in 5 completion of effect using local infiltration of a few millilitres of lignocaine or intravenous pentazocine was required. In 7, general anaesthesia was required to complete the operation. All patients not receiving supplementary general anaesthesia were able to eat normally as soon as they were back in bed, passed flactus the same day and had a bowel movement the next day. Ten stomatological operations may be considered to be successful. Further pursual of these trials is justified. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alterations in cellular calcium handling as a result of systemic calcium deficiency in the developing chick embryo: II. Ventricular myocytes.
We have previously shown that cardiovascular anomalies, such as hypertension and tachycardia, develop in Ca(2+)-deficient, shell-less (SL) chick embryos cultured ex ovo, accompanied by elevated circulating catecholamines and higher alpha-adrenergic sensitivity of cardiovascular functions. Results described in the preceding work, using erythrocytes as an experimental system, show that cellular Ca2+ handling properties are also altered as a result of long-term calcium deficiency. To examine the relevance of these findings to cells of the cardiovasculature, we have analyzed and compared the Ca2+ handling characteristics of the heart cells of SL and normal (NL) embryos. For this study, isolated and cultured ventricular myocytes of SL and NL embryos were loaded with Fura-2 via transient membrane damage with glass beads. Compared to Fura-2/AM, bead loading yielded similar values and kinetic profiles of [Ca2+]i-dependent differential fluorescence and, in addition, did not affect cell viability and beating activity. The Fura-2 loaded ventricular myocytes were washed in Ca(2+)-free buffer and then analyzed by ratiometric fluorescence (350 nm/380 nm) microscopy for kinetic changes in [Ca2+]i (R350/380 values) as a function of [Ca2+]o and adrenergic modifiers. At 0.5 and 1.0 mM [Ca2+]o, SL cells showed significantly higher [Ca2+]i, higher beating rates, and faster rate of increase in [Ca2+]i compared to NL cells. At higher [Ca2+]o (3.5 mM), there was no significant difference in [Ca2+]i and beating rate between NL and SL cells. Treatment with norepinephrine (NE; 0.01-1 microM) at 1 mM [Ca2+]o substantially increased [Ca2+]i in both NL and SL cells. In the former, the NE effect was completely inhibited by beta-blockade (1 microM propranolol). In contrast, in SL cells, NE remained effective after beta-blockade, and combined alpha-blockade (1 microM prazosin) and beta-blockade was needed to inhibit completely the NE effect. In both NL and SL cells, treatment with NE substantially increased beating rates in a similar manner. Taken together, these findings suggest that Ca2+ handling and adrenergic regulation of the heart cells are significantly altered in the SL embryos, and that these alterations may be related to the development of impaired cardiovascular functions resulting from systemic Ca2+ deficiency. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Multi-level surface enhanced Raman scattering using AgOx thin film.
Ag nanostructures with surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activities have been fabricated by applying laser-direct writing (LDW) technique on silver oxide (AgOx) thin films. By controlling the laser powers, multi-level Raman imaging of organic molecules adsorbed on the nanostructures has been observed. This phenomenon is further investigated by atomic-force microscopy and electromagnetic calculation. The SERS-active nanostructure is also fabricated on transparent and flexible substrate to demonstrate our promising strategy for the development of novel and low-cost sensing chip. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Alkaloids from Senecio scandens].
To investigate the alkaloids from Senecio scandens. Compounds were isolated with silica gel and Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and their structures were determined by spectral analysis and chemical evidence. The hepatic cytotoxicity of isolated compounds was tested by MTT method in vitro. Six alkaloids were obtained and identified as adonifoline (1), 7-angeloylturneforcidine (2), hordenine (3), 1, 3, 6, 6-tetramethyl-5, 6, 7, 8-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-8-one (4), 4-(pyrrolidin-2-one) -phenyl acetic acid (5), (4-pyrrolidinophenyl) acetic acid (6). Compound 6 is a new natural product, compounds 3, 4 were obtained from the genus Senecio for the first time, compounds 2, 5 were obtained from this plant for the first time. Compound 1 showed significant growth inhibitory effect against hepatocyte at 100 micromol x L(-1). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A novel concept of radiosynthesis of a (99m)Tc-labeled dimeric RGD peptide as a potential radiotracer for tumor imaging.
Radiolabeled Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) peptides are promising agents for non invasive imaging of αvβ3 expression in malignant tumors. The integrin αvβ3 binding affinity and consequent tumor uptake could be improved when a dimeric RGD peptide is used as the targeting moiety instead of a monomer. Towards this, a novel approach was envisaged to synthesize a (99m)Tc labeled dimeric RGD derivative using a RGD monomer and [(99m)TcN](+2) intermediate. The dithiocarbamate derivative of cyclic RGD peptide G3-c(RGDfK) (G3=Gly-Gly-Gly, f=Phe, K=Lys) was synthesized and radiolabeled with [(99m)TcN](+2) intermediate to form the (99m)TcN-[G3-c(RGDfK)]2 complex in high yield (∼98%). Biodistribution studies carried out in C57/BL6 mice bearing melanoma tumors showed good tumor uptake [4.61±0.04% IA/g at 30min post-injection] with fast clearance of the activity from non-target organs/tissue. Scintigraphic imaging studies showed visible accumulation of activity in the tumor with appreciable target to background ratio. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Polymyoclonus, laryngospasm, and cerebellar ataxia associated with adenocarcinoma and multiple neural cation channel autoantibodies.
To describe and provide audiovisual documentation of a syndrome of polymyoclonus, laryngospasm, and cerebellar ataxia associated with adenocarcinoma and multiple neural cation channel autoantibodies. Case report with video. University hospitals. Patient A 69-year-old woman presented with subacute onset of whole-body tremulousness and laryngospasm attributed to gastroesophageal reflux. Further evaluation revealed polymyoclonus, cerebellar ataxia, and laryngospasm suspicious of an underlying malignant neoplasm. Surface electromyography of multiple limb muscles confirmed the presence of polymyoclonus. The patient was seropositive for P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channel antibody; subsequently, whole-body fluorine 18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and cervical lymph node biopsy revealed widespread metastatic adenocarcinoma. Follow-up serologic evaluation revealed calcium channel antibodies (P/Q type and N type) and potassium channel antibody. We highlight the importance of recognizing polymyoclonus. To our knowledge, this is also the first description of a syndrome of polymyoclonus, laryngospasm, and ataxia associated with adenocarcinoma and these cation channel antibodies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
ADMA induces monocyte adhesion via activation of chemokine receptors in cultured THP-1 cells.
Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous NOS inhibitor, is also an important inflammatory factor contributing to the development of atherosclerosis (AS). The present study was to test the effect of ADMA on angiotensin (Ang) II-induced monocytic adhesion. Human monocytoid cells (THP-1) or isolated peripheral blood monocyte cells (PBMCs) were incubated with Ang II (10(-6)M) or exogenous ADMA (30 microM) for 4 or 24h in the absence or presence of losartan or antioxidant PDTC. In cultured THP-1 cells, Ang II (10(-6)M) for 24h elevated the level of ADMA in the medium, upregulated the protein expression of protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT) and decreased the activity of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH). Both of Ang II and ADMA increased monocytic adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), elevated the levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, interleukin (IL)-8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and upregulated CCR(2) and CXCR(2) mRNA expression, concomitantly with increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and activation of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB. Pretreatment with losartan (10 microM) or PDTC (10 microM) abolished the effects mediated by Ang II or ADMA. In isolated PBMCs from healthy individuals, ADMA upregulated the expression of CXCR(2) mRNA, which was attenuated by losartan (10 microM), however, ADMA had no effect on surface protein expression of CCR(2). The present results suggest that ADMA may be involved in monocytic adhesion induced by Ang II via activation of chemokine receptors by ROS/NF-kappaB pathway. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Incorporation of N-ethylmaleimide into the membrane-bound ADP/ATP translocator. Isolation of the protein labeled with N-[3H]ethylmaleimide.
The incorporation of N-ethylmaleimide into the 30,000-Mr component of beef-heart mitochondria has been studied as a function of various ligands to the ADP/ATP carrier and the isolation of the N-ethylmaleimide-labeled protein is reported. 1. The incorporation of N-ethylmaleimide into the 30,000-Mr component is specifically stimulated by ADP and ATP. Thus by differential incorporation of N-ethylmaleimide, the 30,000-Mr component is preferentially labeled. 2. Addition of carboxyatractylate inhibits, whereas bongkrekate tolerates, the incorporation of N-ethylmaleimide. 3. After solubilization by Triton the purification of N-ethylmaleimide-labeled protein is facilitated in the presence of bongkrekate but not of carboxyatractylate, in agreement with the postulated existence of only a bongkrekate-N-ethylmaleimide-protein complex. The labeled protein was purified to homogeneity on hydroxyapatite in Triton and subsequently, after denaturation in dodecylsulfate, on Sepharose 6B. 4. The identify of the isolated labeled protein with the formerly isolated bongkrekate-protein or carboxyatractylate-protein complexes is confirmed by the isoelectric point and amino acid composition. 5. Two moles of N-ethylmaleimide must be incorporated into the 30,000-Mr component in order to inhibit fully the binding of one mole carboxyatractylate. This corresponds to one -SH group per unit. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Midkine downregulation increases the efficacy of quercetin on prostate cancer stem cell survival and migration through PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK pathway.
To examine the functions of growth factor midkine (MK) and a flavonoid quercetin on survival, apoptosis and migration of prostate cancer (PCa) stem cells (CSCs). CD44+/CD133+ and CD44+ stem cells were isolated from PC3 and LNCaP cells, respectively by magnetic-activated cell sorting system. 3D cell culture was used to evaluate the ability of quercetin, MK siRNA, and the combination of both to inhibit spheroid formation, apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Image-based cytometer, RT-qPCR, Western blotting and transwell migration assays were performed. Quercetin treatment for 24-72 h inhibited PC3 and CD44+/CD133+ stem cell proliferation in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Knockdown of endogenous MK expression significantly suppressed proliferation of CD44+/CD133+ and CD44+ cells as well as their parent cells. Co-administration of MK siRNA and quercetin reduced the cell survival, induced apoptosis and caused G1 phase cell cycle arrest more effectively than the individual therapy. Knockdown of MK significantly enhanced the inhibitory effect of quercetin on CD44+/CD133+ migration and spheroid formation. In addition, the combined therapy inhibited the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT and ERK1/2, and reduced the protein expression of p38, ABCG2 and NF-κB. Quercetin alone exhibited significant cytotoxic effects on CD44+/CD133+. MK plays an important role in the proliferation of CD44+/CD133+ and CD44+ cells in particular, and quercetin and MK-silencing therapy may be an important strategy in targeting CSCs that play a role in relapse, migration and drug resistance. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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