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Mass chemotherapy for intestinal Taenia solium infection: effect on prevalence in humans and pigs.
Mass treatment of the human population with niclosamide was carried out in 2 villages in rural Guatemala where Taenia solium was endemic, to determine how this would affect the epidemiology of the parasite. Intestinal taeniasis was diagnosed by microscopy and coproantigen testing, and porcine cysticercosis by a specific Western blot. Before mass treatment, the prevalence of human taeniasis was 3.5%; 10 months after treatment it was 1%, a significant decrease (P < 10(-4)). All tapeworms that could be identified to the species level were T. solium. Similarly, the seroprevalence of antibodies to cysticercosis in pigs declined from 55% before treatment to 7% 10 months after treatment, once again a significant decrease (P < 10(-6)). These effects were seen in both villages. The possible use of mass chemotherapy as a tool in the control of T. solium is discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Antiproliferative xanthone derivatives from Calophyllum inophyllum and Calophyllum soulattri.
Structure-activity relationships of eleven xanthones were comparatively predicted for four cancer cell lines after the compounds were subjected to antiproliferative assay against B-lymphocyte cells (Raji), colon carcinoma cells (LS174T), human neuroblastoma cells (IMR-32) and skin carcinoma cells (SK-MEL-28). The eleven chemical constituents were obtained naturally from the stem bark of Calophyllum inophyllum and Calophyllum soulattri. Inophinnin (1) and inophinone (2) were isolated from Calophyllum inophyllum while soulattrin (3) and phylattrin (4) were found from Calophyllum soulattri. The other xanthones were from both Calophyllum sp. and they are pyranojacareubin (5), rheediaxanthone A (6), macluraxanthone (7), 4-hydroxyxanthone (8), caloxanthone C (9), brasixanthone B (10) and trapezifolixanthone (11). Compound 3 was found to be the most cytotoxic towards all the cancer cell lines with an IC50 value of 1.25μg/mL while the simplest xanthone, compound 8 was inactive. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analysis of heat-denatured DNA using native agarose gel electrophoresis.
The use of native or neutral gels to resolve denatured DNA affords a rapid and convenient analytical method for assessing the consequences of a number of procedures employed in molecular biology research. We demonstrate that this method can be used to analyze transition melting temperature (Tm) and strand breakage in heat-denatured duplex DNA. This shows that some commonly recommended denaturation procedures can result in significant degradation of DNA and that reannealing or aggregation can occur when samples are concentrated or ionic conditions altered. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reproducibility of serum haptoglobin profiles in mice with transplanted tumors.
To determine whether the elevation of serum haptoglobin (Hp) elicited by many tumors is associated with properties of the tumor, Hp levels were determined during successive passages of two transplantable fibrosarcomas and two leukemia lines in syngeneic mice. Characteristic and unique profiles were elicited by each of the four tumors and were reproducible in each of three successive transplant generations. The Hp profiles elicited by EL4 leukemia cells were similar in allogeneic and syngeneic mice, except that the Hp maxima were greater in the allogeneic mice. Preimmunization with EL4 cells or pretreatment with immune serum or spleen cells obliterated the Hp response normally elicited by EL4 cells in allogeneic mice. These results suggest that the Hp response elicited by a tumor is associated with transmissible characteristics of the tumor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Study of the DNA/ethidium bromide interactions on mica surface by atomic force microscope: influence of the surface friction.
The influence of mica surface on DNA/ethidium bromide interactions is investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). We describe the diffusion mechanism of a DNA molecule on a mica surface by using a simple analytical model. It appears that the DNA diffusion on a mica surface is limited by the surface friction due to the counterion correlations between the divalent counterions condensed on both mica and DNA surfaces. We also study the structural changes of linear DNA adsorbed on mica upon ethidium bromide binding by AFM. It turns out that linear DNA molecules adsorbed on a mica surface are unable to relieve the topological constraint upon ethidium bromide binding. In particular, strongly adsorbed molecules tend to be highly entangled, while loosely bound DNA molecules appear more extended with very few crossovers. Adsorbed DNA molecules cannot move freely on the surface because of the surface friction. Therefore, the topological constraint increases due to the ethidium bromide binding. Moreover, we show that ethidium bromide has a lower affinity for strongly bound molecules due to the topological constraint induced by the surface friction. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Advanced head and neck cancer: proportionally higher in southland than Otago.
To compare the proportion of advanced head and neck cancer presenting from Otago and Southland, and to discuss any differences observed. Retrospective review of 186 patients resident in Otago and Southland who presented with a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to the department of otolaryngology, Dunedin Hospital, between 1985-95. Otago patients had advanced disease in 43% of cases, compared to 66% in Southland patients (p = 0.004). Patients from rural Southland areas had advanced disease in 88% of cases. The incidence of cases was not significantly different between Otago and Southland. No difference was seen in local tumour size, however, Southland had a significantly higher rate of lymph node metastases (p = 0.0003). No difference was also seen in age, gender, duration of presenting symptoms, or delay in referral or diagnosis. Southland had a significantly higher proportion of advanced head and neck cancer than Otago. Significant differences in access to tertiary health care could not be found. The reasons for the differences observed were unclear. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Attentional interference at small spatial separations.
The spatial characteristics of attention were studied by measuring the accuracy with which two target letters could be identified from a circular display of 24 characters. Traditional notions of spatially-limited regions of attentional enhancement predict that performance should be best when the pair of targets fall within the boundaries of a single attentional 'window'. The results were opposite to this expectation: performance was poorest when the targets were close together and improved with increasing target separation. The effects were not due to lateral sensory masking or to sensory transients and were replicated with several different types of attentional cues. Two possible models are proposed to account for the observed effects of target separation. The first model assumes that attending to one location necessarily reduces processing in the local surround. The second model proposes that the poorer performance observed at small target separations results from imprecise targeting when attention is directed to a pair of nearby locations. Both models illustrate spatially-local limits on processing capacity that attention is unable to circumvent. Enhancement at one location is achieved primarily at the expense of the immediate surround. Such spatially-local tradeoffs in processing capacity could have the useful consequence of making the attended target stand out even more against the immediate background. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effectiveness of Manual Ventilation in Intubated Helicopter Emergency Services-Transported Trauma Patients.
Helicopter Emergency Medical Services agencies frequently transport intubated patients to definitive care. No evidence exists to determine the type of ventilation in this population. Practice varies amongst programs from bag-valve-mask to mechanical ventilation. Evaluate the effectiveness of bag-valve ventilation in intubated trauma patients. We hypothesized manual ventilation provides adequate support to maintain physiologic ETCO2. From June to December 2015, twenty patients were enrolled in this prospective, observational study. Included were endotracheally intubated trauma patients transported by this HEMS program. Excluded were interfacility transports, non-scene calls, and patients with supraglottic devices. ETCO2 was recorded every 30 seconds during the flight. As a descriptive pilot study, power was not considered. 20 patients provided over 500 cumulative minutes of manual ventilation data. The percentage of cumulative time spent with adequate oxygen saturations was 83.6%. The percentage of cumulative time spent with adequate ETCO2 was 48.7%, with 34.6% of time spent under and 16.7% above this range. Manual ventilation maintained a physiologic ETCO2 only 16.7% of the time. Significant variability existed, resulting in intermittent hypoxia and hyperventilation. Prior research linked such events to increased morbidity and mortality. Further studies are warranted to compare manual against mechanically ventilated patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Correlative responses for carcass and meat quality traits to selection for ovulation rate or prenatal survival in French Large White pigs.
Correlated effects of selection for components of litter size on carcass and meat quality traits were estimated using data from 3 lines of pigs derived from the same Large White base population. Two lines were selected for 6 generations on high ovulation rate at puberty (OR) or high prenatal survival corrected for ovulation rate in the first 2 parities (PS). The third line was an unselected control (CON). The 3 lines were kept for a 7th generation, but without any selection. Carcass and meat quality traits were recorded on the 5th to 7th generation of the experiment. Carcass traits included dressing percentage, carcass length (LGTH), average backfat thickness (ABT), estimated lean meat content, and 8 carcass joint weight traits. Meat quality traits included pH recorded 24 h after slaughter (pH24) of LM, gluteus superficialis (GS), biceps femoris (BF), and adductor femoris (AD) muscles, as well as reflectance and water-holding capacity (WHC) of GS and BF muscles. Heritabilities of carcass and meat quality traits and their genetic correlations with OR and PS were estimated using REML methodology applied to a multiple trait animal model. Correlated responses to selection were then estimated by computing differences between OR or PS and CON lines at generations 5 to 7 using least squares and mixed model methodology. Heritability (h(2)) estimates were 0.08 +/- 0.04, 0.58 +/- 0.10, 0.70 +/- 0.10, and 0.74 +/- 0.10 for dressing percentage, LGTH, ABT, and lean meat content, respectively, ranged from 0.28 to 0.72 for carcass joint traits, from 0.28 to 0.45 for pH24 and reflectance measurements, and from 0.03 to 0.11 for WHC measurements. Both OR and PS had weak genetic correlations with carcass (r(G) = -0.09 to 0.17) and most meat quality traits. Selection for OR did not affect any carcass composition or meat quality trait. Correlated responses to selection for PS were also limited, with the exception of a decrease in pH24 of GS and BF muscles (-0.12 to -0.14 after 6 generations; P < 0.05), in WHC of GS muscle (-18.9 s after 6 generations; P < 0.05) and a tendency toward an increase in loin weight (0.44 kg after 6 generations; P < 0.10) . | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The elevated serum urea:creatinine ratio in canine babesiosis in South Africa is not of renal origin.
Pigmented serum, usually due to free haemoglobin and/or bilirubin, is a common finding in dogs with babesiosis, resulting in interference with all biochemical tests that rely on photochemistry. This is particularly true of urea and creatinine determinations, complicating the diagnosis of acute renal failure, which is a serious complication of babesiosis. A disproportionately raised serum urea concentration of unknown origin occurs in severely anaemic canine babesiosis patients and gives rise to an increased serum urea:creatinine ratio. The assay for cystatin-C, an excellent measure of glomerular filtration rate, is unaffected by free serum haemoglobin, and due to its different intrinsic origins, is free of influence by the metabolic derangements and organ pathology, other than renal disease, encountered in canine babesiosis. Serum cystatin-C was used to compare the concentrations of serum urea and serum creatinine in dogs with the severely anaemic form of canine babesiosis as well as a canine babesiosis-free reference group. Mean serum urea and mean serum urea:creatinine ratio were significantly elevated in the babesia-infected group relative to the reference population in this study. Mean serum creatinine and mean serum cystatin-C were within the reference ranges. Therefore an elevated urea:creatinine ratio in canine babesiosis in the presence of a normal serum creatinine concentration is considered to be caused by an elevated serum urea concentration and is most likely of non-renal origin. Serum creatinine was therefore as specific a measure of renal function as serum cystatin-C in canine babesiosis in this study. The sensitivity of serum creatinine as a measure of renal function was not established by this study. Serum urea, however, proved to be of little use compared to serum cystatin-C and serum creatinine. Serum urea should therefore not be used to diagnose renal failure in canine babesiosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Extended Follow-up of Treated and Untreated Retinopathy in Incontinentia Pigmenti: Analysis of Peripheral Vascular Changes and Incidence of Retinal Detachment.
Extended follow-up of treated and untreated retinopathy in incontinentia pigmenti (IP) has not previously been documented, to our knowledge. To determine which eyes with IP are at risk for retinal detachment. Observational cohort study of patients with IP who were retrospectively identified at a tertiary care academic center between 1976 and 2013. Fifty eyes of 25 female participants meeting clinical criteria for IP were followed up for at least 6 months. The last year of follow-up was between 1987 and 2014. Progression of retinopathy or the development of retinal detachment was assessed with fluorescein angiography, clinical examination, or both. The median duration of follow-up was 9.3 years (range, 0.5-22.8 years). Over this period, 11 eyes (22%; 95% CI, 11%-33%) developed retinal detachment. The odds of retinal detachment were increased if there was retinal neovascularization (odds ratio, 11.61; 95% CI, 1.34-100.56; P = .03) or ischemic optic neuropathy (odds ratio, 5.27; 95% CI, 1.61-17.23; P = .006) on initial examination. A bimodal distribution of retinal detachments was observed, with most tractional detachments (7 eyes) occurring by age 2.5 years (median, 1.5 years; range, 14 days-7.0 years) and most rhegmatogenous detachments (4 eyes) occurring in adults (median age, 31.5 years; range, 14.0-47.0 years). Three eyes of young patients (≤2.5 years) developed tractional detachment, despite prophylactic ablation in 4 eyes; only one eye of older patients (≥14.0 years) developed retinal detachment following prophylactic ablation in 6 eyes. Persistent fetal vasculature appears to occur more commonly in IP (14%; 95% CI, 4%-25%) than in the general population. All eyes with retinopathy due to IP should be monitored throughout adulthood for the development of retinal complications. During infancy and early childhood, ophthalmoscopic examination should be performed frequently so that prompt treatment can be initiated if there is progressive disease. Because of the nonrandomized nature of this study, the indications for prophylactic ablation and its success rate remain uncertain. Patients with less than 6 months of follow-up were excluded from the analysis, which could have biased this study cohort toward patients with more severe or less severe disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular cloning, expression and characterization of cDNA encoding cis-prenyltransferases from Hevea brasiliensis. A key factor participating in natural rubber biosynthesis.
Natural rubber from Hevea brasiliensis is a high molecular mass polymer of isoprene units with cis-configuration. The enzyme responsible for the cis-1,4-polymerization of isoprene units has been idengified as a particle-bound rubber transferase, but no gene encoding this enzyme has been cloned from rubber-producing plants. By using sequence information from the conserved regions of cis-prenyl chain elongating enzymes that were cloned recently, we have isolated and characterized cDNAs from H. brasiliensis for a functional factor participating in natural rubber biosynthesis. Sequence analysis revealed that all of the five highly conserved regions among cis-prenyl chain elongating enzymes were found in the protein sequences of the Hevea cis-prenyltransferase. Northern blot analysis indicated that the transcript(s) of the Hevea cis-prenyltransferase were expressed predominantly in the latex as compared with other Hevea tissues examined. In vitro rubber transferase assays using the recombinant gene product overexpressed in Escherichia coli revealed that the enzyme catalyzed the formation of long chain polyprenyl products with approximate sizes of 2 x 103-1 x 104 Da. Moreover, in the presence of washed bottom fraction particles from latex, the rubber transferase activity producing rubber product of high molecular size was increased. These results suggest that the Hevea cis-prenyltransferase might require certain activation factors in the washed bottom fraction particles for the production of high molecular mass rubber. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Structural and functional characterization of galactooligosaccharides in Nostoc commune: beta-D-galactofuranosyl-(1-->6)-[beta-D-galactofuranosyl-(1-->6)]2-beta-D-1,4-anhydrogalactitol and beta-(1-->6)-galactofuranosylated homologues.
A new class of galactooligosaccharides has been identified from the terrestrial cyanobacterium Nostoc commune by MS and NMR techniques. These consist of beta-D-galactofuranosyl-(1-->6)-[beta-D-galactofuranosyl-(1-->6)]n-beta-d-1,4-anhydrogalactitols with n ranging from 2 to 8, corresponding to compounds designated 1 through 7. In total these saccharides amounted to approximately 0.35% of the dry thallus of N. commune, while in several other cyanobacteria they were not detected. Possibly they play some role in protection from damage by heat and desiccation as suggested by experiments with heterologous systems. For example, phosphoglucomutase (EC 2.7.5.1) from rabbit muscle was protected against heat inactivation by these oligosaccharides, and alpha-amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) from porcine pancreas by the oligosaccharides 6 and 7. The homologues of lower molecular mass, however, enhanced heat sensitivity of alpha-amylase. The viability of Escherichia coli was completely abolished by desiccation, whereas in the presence of 4 survival rates were approximately 50% of controls not subjected to desiccation. The newly identified saccharides are compared with known galactofuranose-based oligo- and polysaccharides and possible biological functions of them are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Activation of kidney prorenin by kidney cathepsin B isozymes.
Kidney protein was converted to a form of active renin by kidney cathepsin B isozymes. The three isozymes showed similar catalytic behavior for prorenin. The optimal pH for the activation was in the range of 4.0-5.0 and the reaction was completely inhibited by leupeptin. The molecular weight and the isoelectric point of the activated prorenin were 40,000 and pH 4.9. As a minor product, an activated prorenin having an isoelectric point of 5.2 was also produced. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Low testosterone and high C-reactive protein concentrations predict low hematocrit in type 2 diabetes.
After the demonstration that one-third of male patients with type 2 diabetes have hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism, we have shown that patients with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism also have markedly elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations. We have now hypothesized that type 2 diabetic subjects with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism may have a lower hematocrit because testosterone stimulates, whereas chronic inflammation suppresses, erythropoiesis. Seventy patients with type 2 diabetes at a tertiary referral center were included in this study. The mean hematocrit in patients with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (n = 37), defined as calculated free testosterone (cFT) of <6.5 ng/dl, was 40.6 +/- 1.1%, whereas that in eugonadal patients (n = 33) was 43.3 +/- 0.7% (P = 0.011). The hematocrit was related to cFT concentration (r = 0.46; P < 0.0001); it was inversely related to plasma CRP concentration (r = 0.41; P < 0.0004). Patients with CRP <3 mg/l had a higher hematocrit (42.7 +/- 0.7%) than those with CRP >3 mg/l (39.9 +/- 1.1%; P < 0.05). The prevalence of normocytic normochromic anemia (hemoglobin <13 g/dl) was 23% in the entire group, whereas it was 37.8% in the men with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism and 3% in the eugonadal men (P < 0.01). Erythropoietin concentration was elevated or high normal in all 11 patients with anemia in whom it was tested. We conclude that hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism in male type 2 diabetic subjects is associated with a lower hematocrit and a frequent occurrence of mild normocytic normochromic anemia with normal or high erythropoietin concentrations. In these patients, hematocrit is also inversely related to CRP concentration. Thus, low testosterone and chronic inflammatory mechanisms may contribute to mild anemia. Such patients may also have a high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events in view of their markedly elevated CRP concentrations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Entering the spotlight: Chitosan oligosaccharides as novel activators of CaCCs/TMEM16A.
Calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs)/TMEM16A control diverse fundamental physiological functions, and abnormal function of TMEM16A will lead to various diseases including asthma, hypertension, gastrointestinal hypomotility and cancers. Therefore, TMEM16A as drug targets for related diseases has been increasingly concerned by researchers. In this work, COS were reported as novel natural activators of TMEM16A. It was demonstrated that COS can activate TMEM16A in a concentration dependent manner, with an EC50 of 74.5 μg/mL. Then, fluorescence experiments and inside-out patch clamp experiments were combined to confirm that COS can directly activate TMEM16A. Further, we compared the activation effects of COS monomers DP2 to DP6, with DP3 the best activator. Molecular simulation was performed to find that the binding sites between DP3 and TMEM16A are E143 and E146 in TMEM16A, and it was speculated that COS and TMEM16A may be combined by electrostatic interaction. Finally, we verified that guinea pig ileum contraction was promoted by COS and the monomers through activating TMEM16A. Collectively, COS are novel efficient natural activators of TMEM16A, with potential to be developed to treatment diseases caused by down-regulation of TMEM16A including gastrointestinal hypomotility. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Durability evaluation of a friction couple intended for implantological stabilization of complete dentures.
The paper presents the results of the study of the titanium implant-elastomeric membrane attachment, conducted from the point of view of potential utilization of the results in forecasting the durability of retention elements representing a new solution of dentures based on implants. The examination was carried out using a device designed by the author, which allowed the simulation of the process of inserting and removing dentures. Titanium counter specimens, simulating implants, were subjected to surface modification through their sandblasting with 350 um and 500 um abrasives, so as to diversify their roughness. The elastomeric membranes constituting a retention element of the attachment were made of a silicone material, Molloplast B. The influence of the number of cycles (one cycle meaning one insertion and removal of a denture) on the attachment's retention force was studied. In order to better reflect the natural conditions, the device was equipped with a chamber which made it possible to perform the examination in an artificial saliva environment. The study has shown that the application of the polymer material Molloplast B for constructing the new type retention elements of dentures based on implants ensures practically constant values of the attachment's retention force in the required 6-month utilization period. After the time of denture usage, being eight times longer than originally assumed, the loss of retention force does not exceed 43% in any of the attachments investigated and the retention force values still allow the attachments to operate, although their effectiveness is partly reduced. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Potentiated chemotherapeutic activity of 3,6-diamino-10-methyl-acridinium by combination with glycine or DL-alpha-alanine on the Ehrlich carcinoma.
Glycine or DL-alpha-alanine potentiated the chemotherapeutic action of 3,6-diaminoacridinium without increasing its toxicity when these amino acids were combined with it simultaneously. On the contrary, valine in combination with 3,6-diaminoacridinium diminished slightly the chemotherapeutic effect as compared to the monotherapy with 3,6-diaminoacridinium. The monotherapy with the applied amino acids in the same dosage showed no tumor inhibition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Electrophysiological parameters of the retina in idiopathic macular hole].
To investigate the nature and range of electrophysiological disturbances in idiopathic macular hole (IMH) and establish their relationship with structural parameters of the retina. The study included 249 patients (280 eyes) with IMH. All of them underwent ganzfeld and multifocal electroretinography (ERG), optical coherence tomography, and evaluation of retinal electrical sensitivity and analyzer lability. The results were then compared to those of non-IMH patients (196 paired eyes) and controls (25 people, 49 eyes). Multifocal ERG findings prove that IMH is always associated with significant changes in bioelectrical potential of the central retina. In 62% of cases its decreased density and extended latency were registered in not only the fovea, but also the para- and perifovea. In 8% of cases the changes involved everything within a 30-degree area of the central retina. In 30% of cases the maximum bioelectric potential was found to have shifted from the centre to para- and perifovea, its amplitude and density being supernormal for these regions (shift phenomenon). A weak correlation between electrophysiological parameters and retinal thickness around the hole has been also established. Of all methods used to assess retinal function in IMH, multifocal ERG is the most informative. In 100% of cases foveal biopotential is sharply reduced in density and disfigured. In 70% of cases these changes spread outside the fovea. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development and Validation of an Instrument to Measure Knowledge of Evidence-Based Practice and Searching Skills.
The aim of this study was to develop and validate three instruments which measure knowledge about searching for and critically appraising scientific articles (evidence-based practice-EBP). Twentythree questions were collected from previous studies and modified by an expert panel. These questions were then administered to 55 delegates before and after two international conferences in EBP; the responses were assessed for discriminative ability and internal consistency. Five questions were discarded and three instruments of six questions each were developed. Finally, the instruments were revalidated in a randomized controlled trial comparing two educational interventions at the University of Oslo, Norway by 166 of 175 eligible medical students. In the re-validation, the instruments showed satisfactory level of discriminate validity (p<0.05), but borderline levels of internal consistency (Cronbach's α 0.52-0.61). More research is needed to develop a suitable instrument which includes questions on searching for evidence. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Automated production of a N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor radioligand [18F]GE179 for clinical use.
N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are ligand and voltage-gated heteromeric ion channel receptors. Excessive activation of NMDA receptors is implicated in many neurological and psychiatric disorders, including ischemic stroke, neuropathic pain, epilepsy, drug addition, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia. [18F]GE179 is a promising PET probe for imaging functional NMDA receptor alterations (activated or 'open' channel) with a high binding affinity (Kd = 2.4 nM). Here, we report the production of the NMDA receptor radioligand [18F]GE179 in a current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) facility through a one-pot two-step strategy. [18F]GE179 was produced in approximately 110 min with a radiochemical yield of 12 ± 6% (n = 4, decay corrected), radiochemical purity >95%, molar activity of 146 ± 32 GBq/μmol (at the end of synthesis), an average mass of GE179 at 2.2 μg/batch, and total impurities less than 0.5 μg/batch (n = 4). The radiopharmaceutical dose meets all quality control (QC) criteria for human use, and is suitable for clinical PET studies of activated NMDA receptor ion channels. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Positioning for postoperative irradiation of patients nephrectomized for cancer--prone or supine position?].
Twelve nephrectomized patients were examined by computed tomography in prone and supine position. The distances necessary for irradiation planning were measured in order to estimate which position is more favorable for irradiation. The advantages of prone position in comparison to supine position seem uncertain and do not outweigh its disadvantages. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The influence of alcohol on the liver sinusoids endothelial cell fenestrae of rats].
To study the influence of alcohol on the liver sinusoids endothelial cell (LSEC) fenestrae of rats. Setting up the rat model of alcoholic liver disease by orogastric administration of alcohol, then kill the experimental and control groups of rats at the end of 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks after alcohol feeding, and also at the end of another 12 weeks after balance foods feeding succeeding with alcohol feeding for 12 weeks. Staining the liver tissue by means of HE method and observing the successive change of LSEC fenestrae by transmission electron microscope. The normal LSEC was flat with nucleus and organelle arranged regularly. The distal cytoplasm displayed as lamina with many fenestrae, not accompanied by basement membrane (BM) formation under the endothelial cell. At the end of 4 weeks of alcohol feeding, fenestrae decreased at the partial distal LSEC cytoplasm, but no BM developed. At the end of 8 weeks, fenestrae decreased significantly, even disappeared, with the BM developed incompletely under the endothelial cell. Concomitantly, fibroblast with active function developed. At the end of 12 weeks, the changes became more obvious; the complete BM could even be seen. However, this kind of changes was mostly limited in the single or adjoining sinusoids, as well as with little widespread formation of fibrosis. At the end of 12 weeks of stopping alcohol feeding, defenestrae and development of BM attenuated obviously. The defenestrae and BM of LSEC develop gradually with the chronic alcohol stimulation. Sinusoid capillarization and liver fibrosis even form when significant changes happen. The early change of the limited defenestrae and capillarization may be the basis of alcohol periportal fibrosis formation. This kind of liver fibrosis can be reversible after stopping alcohol feeding. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development of a protein microarray using sequence-specific DNA binding domain on DNA chip surface.
A protein microarray based on DNA microarray platform was developed to identify protein-protein interactions in vitro. The conventional DNA chip surface by 156-bp PCR product was prepared for a substrate of protein microarray. High-affinity sequence-specific DNA binding domain, GAL4 DNA binding domain, was introduced to the protein microarray as fusion partner of a target model protein, enhanced green fluorescent protein. The target protein was oriented immobilized directly on the DNA chip surface. Finally, monoclonal antibody of the target protein was used to identify the immobilized protein on the surface. This study shows that the conventional DNA chip can be used to make a protein microarray directly, and this novel protein microarray can be applicable as a tool for identifying protein-protein interactions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Association between side effects of oral anti-diabetic drugs and self-reported mental health and quality of life among patients with type 2 diabetes].
To examine the association between the side effects of oral anti-diabetic drugs (OAD) and self-reported mental health and quality of life among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). An observational, cross-sectional multicenter study with a retrospective medical chart review was conducted at 16 medical centers from around China. The T2DM patients were followed-up and treated with OAD alone prior to the index visit from January to September 2007. All subjects were ≥30 years old at the time of T2DM diagnosis and had received monotherapy or combination therapy of OAD for at least 6 months. Health-related quality of life was measured by the EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) and Hypoglycemia Fear Survey (HFS)-II. The symptoms of hypoglycemia were reported by 41.8% (n=203) of participants, and 19.2% (n=93) experienced weight gain. For those reporting hypoglycemia, the scores were higher for HFS-II [7.00 (2.00-19.00) vs 0.00 (0.00-7.00), P<0.01] and lower for EQ-5D (0.90±0.12 vs 0.93±0.13, P=0.003) than those without hypoglycemic symptoms. According to the multivariate linear regression analysis, the symptoms of hypoglycemia were positively correlated with HFS-II (β=5.78, P<0.01) and negatively with EQ-5D (β=-0.04, P<0.05) after adjusting for patient and disease characteristics. There is a high possibility of hypoglycemic risks among T2DM patients on OAD therapy. The self-reported hypoglycemia is associated with health-related quality of life and hypoglycemic fear. They may have an impact on the long-term prognosis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Carbon-Nanotube-Supported Bio-Inspired Nickel Catalyst and Its Integration in Hybrid Hydrogen/Air Fuel Cells.
A biomimetic nickel bis-diphosphine complex incorporating the amino acid arginine in the outer coordination sphere was immobilized on modified carbon nanotubes (CNTs) through electrostatic interactions. The functionalized redox nanomaterial exhibits reversible electrocatalytic activity for the H2 /2 H+ interconversion from pH 0 to 9, with catalytic preference for H2 oxidation at all pH values. The high activity of the complex over a wide pH range allows us to integrate this bio-inspired nanomaterial either in an enzymatic fuel cell together with a multicopper oxidase at the cathode, or in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) using Pt/C at the cathode. The Ni-based PEMFC reaches 14 mW cm-2 , only six-times-less as compared to full-Pt conventional PEMFC. The Pt-free enzyme-based fuel cell delivers ≈2 mW cm-2 , a new efficiency record for a hydrogen biofuel cell with base metal catalysts. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Semantic annotation of Web data applied to risk in food.
A preliminary step to risk in food assessment is the gathering of experimental data. In the framework of the Sym'Previus project (http://www.symprevius.org), a complete data integration system has been designed, grouping data provided by industrial partners and data extracted from papers published in the main scientific journals of the domain. Those data have been classified by means of a predefined vocabulary, called ontology. Our aim is to complement the database with data extracted from the Web. In the framework of the WebContent project (www.webcontent.fr), we have designed a semi-automatic acquisition tool, called @WEB, which retrieves scientific documents from the Web. During the @WEB process, data tables are extracted from the documents and then annotated with the ontology. We focus on the data tables as they contain, in general, a synthesis of data published in the documents. In this paper, we explain how the columns of the data tables are automatically annotated with data types of the ontology and how the relations represented by the table are recognised. We also give the results of our experimentation to assess the quality of such an annotation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[GUT MICROSYMBIOCENOSIS IN CHILDREN WITH REACTIVE ARTHRITIS].
To study the state of gut microsymbiocenosis in children with reactive arthritis (RA), with the assessment of biofilm formation (BFF) of microsymbionts and the ability to change cytokine levels (their anticyokine activity) in vitro. The investigation of gut microsymbiocenosis by means of bacteriological method was conducted in 34 children with RA and 25 relatively healthy 3 - 16 year- old children. Microorganisms were identified with the help of MALDI-TOF mass-spectrometry, anticytokine activity (ACA) of microsymbionts - according to Bukharin O.V et al. (2011), biofilm formation - according to O'Toole G.A., Kolter R. (1998). On the ground of species composition differences of gut microbiota discrimination model was created which allowed to separate the group of children with RA from healthy individuals. Microsymbiocenosis of patients with RA was characterized by increasing number of opportunistic microorganisms (OM) (enterobacteria, clostridia, bacteroides, and Candida), BFF and ACA level. The obtained data greatly contribute.to the deciphering of spondylo- arthritis and disclose the role of microbial factor under given pathology. Hypercolonisation of human gut with OM, having pronounced ability to BFF and regulating cytokine level, promotes strengthening of arthritogenic potential and serves as additional marker of arthritis development risk in children. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Congenital perineal lipoma presenting as ambiguous genitalia.
Congenital perineal lipoma is extremely rare and may lead to a misdiagnosis of ambiguous genitalia. We report on two girls referred to our service for ambiguous genitalia. Patient 1 (17 days old) and patient 2 (2 months old) had unremarkable gestational and perinatal histories. Both had normal female external genitalia and a 46,XX karyotype. Patient 1 had a polypoid, protruding 3.0 x 2.0 x 1.5-cm phallic-like mass arising at the inferior border of the left labium majora, and patient 2 had a similar mass of 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.0 cm at the same site and an imperforate anus. In both cases the mass was removed and found to be a lipoma. To our knowledge, perineal lipoma has been reported only in eleven girls, nine of them with associated anorectal malformation. Migration and fusion of the labioscrotal folds and formation of the urorectal septum are simultaneous developmental events occurring in the same region, which may explain the association of perineal lipoma and anorectal malformations. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Triple C-H bond activation of a nickel-bound methyl group: synthesis and X-ray structure of a carbide cluster (NiCp)6(μ6-C).
A new hexanuclear cyclopentadienylnickel carbide cluster (NiCp)(6)(μ(6)-C) (1) was obtained through the thermolysis of the alkene complex [NiCp(CH(3))(η(2)-CH(2)═CHC(4)H(9))] (4). The X-ray molecular structure of 1 (monoclinic; P2(1)/c; Ni-C(carbide) = 1.767(4)-2.109(4) Å) reveals a highly deformed octahedral arrangement of nickel atoms with two octahedron edges opened (Ni-Ni bonding distances = 2.410(1)-2.623(1) Å, Ni···Ni nonbonding distances = 3.107(2) and 3.108(2) Å). Cluster 1 is the first example of a homoleptic, cyclopentadienylnickel carbide cluster. Moreover, (13)C-labeling studies proved that the carbido ligand in cluster 1 originated from the Ni-bound methyl group. This transformation requires a triple C-H bond activation in the methyl group, which has not been observed so far for late transition metal compounds. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Determination of release limits: a general methodology.
Release limits of drug dosage forms are defined as the bounds on the potency at which an individual lot can be released for marketing which will ensure that it remains within registered limits throughout its shelf life. A statistically based method is described for calculating release limits for any type of dosage form and any parameter for which the rate of change with time is predictably uniform and linear. When the mean release assay result for a specific product lot is at or within the calculated release limit bounds, assurance is provided at the specified confidence level that the average assay results obtained at any subsequent time within the shelf life will remain within registered limits. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Significance of infundibular obstruction following balloon valvuloplasty for valvar pulmonic stenosis.
This study was designed to define the prevalence and significance of infundibular obstruction following balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty. Thirteen of 62 children had infundibular gradients prior to valvuloplasty; five of these disappeared following balloon valvuloplasty. Five other children without pre-valvuloplasty infundibular gradients but with angiographic infundibular narrowing developed new infundibular gradients following valvuloplasty. Propranolol was administered to six children because of severe infundibular constriction, with improvement. None required surgical intervention. At follow-up the infundibular gradients either diminished or disappeared. The infundibular gradients appear to be more frequent with increasing age and severity of pulmonary valvar obstruction. Children developing systemic or suprasystemic right ventricular pressures after balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty may be candidates for propranolol therapy. Regression of the infundibular stenosis at follow-up can be expected, as has been observed after surgical pulmonary valvotomy. Because the infundibular obstruction can be successfully managed, balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty remains the treatment of choice for isolated valvar pulmonary stenosis. Use of balloon valvuloplasty in children less than 5 years of age and/or prior to development of pulmonary gradients in excess of 80 mm Hg may reduce the chance for development of infundibular reaction. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular characterisation of ovarian cathepsin D in the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss.
In fish, cathepsin D, an aspartyl protease, is believed to mediate the processing of yolk proteins in the oocyte. Cathepsin D, therefore, is vital for the production of a viable egg. This study set out to isolate and sequence the cDNA encoding cathepsin D, and to determine the developmental expression of the message in the ovary and subsequently during embryogenesis in the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. The full-length trout cathepsin D cDNA is 1847 base pairs (bp) long, encoding a protein of 400 amino acids (aa). The sequence consists of a putative signal peptide of 18 aa, a prosequence extending 46 aa and a mature peptide of 336 aa. The deduced sequence of rainbow trout ovarian cathepsin D shows significant homology with cathepsin D in mammals (human; 81% aa similarity), in the chicken (80% aa similarity) and in Xenopus (74% aa similarity). Our data support the contention that the primary structure of cathepsin D is highly conserved across the vertebrate phyla, from mammals to fish. Unlike cathepsin Ds in other species, however, rainbow trout cathepsin D appears to have only one putative N-glycosylation site, rather than two. The mRNA for 'ovarian' cathepsin D was expressed in both ovarian and non-ovarian tissues (liver, muscle, spleen and testis). During the development of the ovary, the highest expression levels of cathepsin D mRNA were seen at around the onset of vitellogenesis, a time when the oocytes are starting to sequester large quantities of yolk proteins. Northern hybridisation did not detect cathepsin D mRNA in either unfertilised eggs, or in fertilised eggs until after gastrulation, indicating that there is little, if any, de novo synthesis of this message at these stages of development. However, the mRNA for cathepsin D was detectable at the eyed embryo stage, and the expression of the gene increased towards the end of embryonic development. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Localized interstitial granuloma annulare induced by subcutaneous injections for desensitization.
We describe a patient with interstitial granuloma annulare associated with subcutaneous injection therapy (SIT) for desensitization to a type I allergy. Asymptomatic, erythematous, violaceous annular patches were located at the injection sites on both her arms. Medical history revealed perennial rhinoconjonctivitis treated with SIT (Phostal Stallergen® cat 100% and D. pteronyssinus/D.farinae 50%:50%). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Increase in covalent binding of 5-hydroxydiclofenac to hepatic tissues in rats co-treated with lipopolysaccharide and diclofenac: involvement in the onset of diclofenac-induced idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity.
Diclofenac (DCF), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is well known to induce idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity. Although there remains much to be elucidated about its onset mechanism, it is widely accepted as a hypothesis that idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity arises from a specific immune response to a hapten formed by covalent binding of drugs or their reactive metabolites to hepatic tissues. In this study, we investigated the effects of covalent binding of DCF reactive metabolites to hepatic tissues using a rat model of liver injury induced by co-treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a non-hepatotoxic dose. In studies done in vitro using hepatic microsomes prepared from rats treated with LPS alone, 4'- and 5-hydroxylation activities on DCF metabolism and adducts of reactive metabolites to dansyl glutathione (dGSH) were markedly decreased associated with a decrease in total P450 content. However, in studies done in vivo, the LPS/DCF co-treatment significantly increased adducts of 5-hydroxydiclofenac (5-OH-DCF) to rat hepatic tissues and delayed the elimination of 5-OH-DCF from plasma. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of co-treatment on hepatic GSH level in rats. A decrease of hepatic GSH was observed with the LPS/DCF co-treatment but not with LPS or DCF alone. The results suggest that covalent binding of reactive metabolites via 5-OH-DCF to hepatic tissues may play an important role in the onset of DCF-induced idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity, especially under decreased GSH conditions. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Three Axial Perineal Evaluation (TAPE) score: a new scoring system for comprehensive evaluation of pelvic floor function.
Abnormalities of one pelvic floor compartment are usually associated with anomalies in the other compartments. Therapies which specifically address one clinical problem may potentially adversely affect other pelvic floor activities. A new comprehensive holistic scoring system defining global pelvic function is presented. A novel scoring system with a software program is presented expressing faecal, urinary and gynaecological functions as a geometric polygon based on symptom-specific questionnaires [the three axial pelvic evaluation (TAPE) score] where differences in overall geometric area vary from normal. After validation in healthy volunteers, its clinical performance was tested on patients with obstructed defaecation, genital prolapse and urinary/faecal incontinence treated by the stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedure, colpo-hysterectomy and sacral nerve modulation, respectively. The TAPE score was correlated with the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire 7 quality of life score. There was good inter-observer variation and internal consistency between two observers recording the TAPE score in normal volunteers. In the STARR patients, constipation improved but the TAPE score was unchanged because of deterioration in other pelvic floor functions leading to an unchanged overall postoperative recorded quality of life. Conversely, incontinent patients treated with sacral nerve stimulation improved their function showing concomitant improvements in TAPE scores and quality of life indices. Similar correlative improvements were noted in patients undergoing hysterectomy for genital prolapse. The TAPE score defines the impact of symptom-specific treatments on the pelvic floor and may provide an opportunity for comparison of clinical data between units and in clinical trials of specific medical and surgical pelvic floor management. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Efficacy of metolazone and furosemide in children with furosemide-resistant edema.
The effect of a combination of metolazone (0.2 to 0.4 mg/kg/d) and furosemide (2 to 4 mg/kg/d) in achieving a natriuresis and diuresis was measured in 14 children during 22 episodes of edema resistant to furosemide alone. Urinary volume increased from 24 +/- 14 mL/kg/d for patients receiving furosemide to 51 mL/kg/d with combined diuretic therapy (P less than .01), and sodium excretion increased from 34 +/- 5 mEq/d to 155 +/- 176 mEq/d (P less than .01). Two children with severe hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin level less than 1.5 g/dL) and normal renal function, and five children with chronic renal insufficiency (71%) did not respond to combined diuretic therapy. The combination of furosemide and metolazone offers a useful and effective oral therapy in most children with edema resistant to furosemide. Children with chronic renal insufficiency and furosemide-resistant edema did not respond to combination diuretic therapy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Diffusional/kinetic analysis of the neurotransmission process at the nerve-muscle junction.
Transmission at the neuromuscular junction is known to comprise the following steps: vesicular release of Ach pulses; transport across the synaptic cleft; partial hydrolysis by Ach-ase; binding to Ach receptors; ion channel opening and closure, and, thereby, alteration of sodium and potassium conductances. Combining these elements, a unified model has been constructed that is effective in describing the relation between neurotransmitter arrival at receptor sites and channel openings, leading to simple relationships for sodium and potassium conduction at the neuromuscular junction. Application of the model to mepc and epp data has been successful. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Crystal structure of catechol O-methyltransferase.
Catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT, EC 2.1.1.6) is important in the central nervous system because it metabolizes catecholamine neurotransmitters such as dopamine. The enzyme catalyses the transfer of the methyl group from S-adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet) to one hydroxyl group of catechols. COMT also inactivates catechol-type compounds such as L-DOPA. With selective inhibitors of COMT in combination with L-DOPA, a new principle has been realized in the therapy of Parkinson's disease. Here we solve the atomic structure of COMT to 2.0 A resolution, which provides new insights into the mechanism of the methyl transfer reaction. The co-enzyme-binding domain is strikingly similar to that of an AdoMet-dependent DNA methylase, indicating that all AdoMet methylases may have a common structure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Intertwined nanocarbon and manganese oxide hybrid foam for high-energy supercapacitors.
Rapid charging and discharging supercapacitors are promising alternative energy storage systems for applications such as portable electronics and electric vehicles. Integration of pseudocapacitive metal oxides with single-structured materials has received a lot of attention recently due to their superior electrochemical performance. In order to realize high energy-density supercapacitors, a simple and scalable method is developed to fabricate a graphene/MWNT/MnO2 nanowire (GMM) hybrid nanostructured foam, via a two-step process. The 3D few-layer graphene/MWNT (GM) architecture is grown on foamed metal foils (nickel foam) via ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition. Hydrothermally synthesized α-MnO2 nanowires are conformally coated onto the GM foam by a simple bath deposition. The as-prepared hierarchical GMM foam yields a monographical graphene foam conformally covered with an intertwined, densely packed CNT/MnO2 nanowire nanocomposite network. Symmetrical electrochemical capacitors (ECs) based on GMM foam electrodes show an extended operational voltage window of 1.6 V in aqueous electrolyte. A superior energy density of 391.7 Wh kg(-1) is obtained for the supercapacitor based on the GMM foam, which is much higher than ECs based on GM foam only (39.72 Wh kg(-1) ). A high specific capacitance (1108.79 F g(-1) ) and power density (799.84 kW kg(-1) ) are also achieved. Moreover, the great capacitance retention (97.94%) after 13 000 charge-discharge cycles and high current handability demonstrate the high stability of the electrodes of the supercapacitor. These excellent performances enable the innovative 3D hierarchical GMM foam to serve as EC electrodes, resulting in energy-storage devices with high stability and power density in neutral aqueous electrolyte. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changing channels: Early adolescent media choices and shifting investments in family and friends.
The decline in TV viewing and increase in music listening associated with the onset of adolescence is examined in terms of the changing social ecology of adolescents' daily lives. Fifth to 9th graders provided self-reports on random moments in their experience over one week. These data suggest that less frequent TV watching by adolescents, as compared to preadolescents, is attributable to a decrease in TV watching done with the family, particularly on weekend mornings and evenings. Adolescents who do watch more TV are those who spend more time with the family overall. In contrast, adolescents who frequently listen to music are those who spend more time with friends. It is argued that the partial shift from television to music during adolescence represents a shift from a medium that reinforces parental values to one that reinforces peer values and speaks to adolescent developmental tasks. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Review Recent progress in identification and characterization of loci associated with sex-linked congenital cataract.
Congenital cataract is a common cause of blindness in children; however, its pathogenesis remains unclear. Genetic factors have been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of congenital cataract. The current genetic models of congenital cataract include autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and sex-linked inheritance. Sex-linked congenital cataract could be inherited through the X or Y chromosome. Congenital cataract is a symptom associated with several X-linked disorders, including Nance-Horan syndrome, Lowe syndrome, Conradi-Hünermann-Happle syndrome, oculo-facio-cardio-dental syndrome, and Alport syndrome. On the other hand, the mechanism and characteristics of Y-linked congenital cataract remains to be identified. Despite its rarity, sex-linked congenital cataract has been known to seriously affect the quality of life of patients. In this review, we present our current understanding of the genes and loci associated with sex-linked congenital cataract. This could help identify novel approaches for the prevention, early diagnosis, and comprehensive disease treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cells of the rat lateral habenula respond to high-threshold somatosensory inputs.
Extracellular electrical recordings of single units in the anaesthetized rat demonstrate that about two thirds of the neurons in the lateral habenula respond to peripheral noxious stimuli in a way similar to that of the cells in the centrum-medianum complex which can be activated (with several peaks of various latencies) or inhibited. The firing pattern of these lateral habenula cells is either excitatory (75%) or inhibitory (24%) and is related to the intensity of the stimulus; their receptive field is large and bilateral. Most of these cells also respond to other kinds of noxious but not to non-noxious stimuli. The present study strongly suggests that the lateral habenula is a central target at the upper brainstem level for nociceptive inputs. This original finding is consistent with our previous observation of naloxone reversible analgesia induced by stimulation of the habenula and suggests an involvement of this structure in the processing of noxious inputs. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cardiac stress test as a risk-stratification tool for posttransplant cardiac outcomes in diabetic kidney transplant recipients.
The utility of cardiac stress testing as a risk-stratification tool before kidney transplantation remains debatable owing to discordance with coronary angiography and outcome yields at different centers. We conducted a retrospective study of 273 diabetic kidney transplant recipients from 2006 to 2010. By protocol, all diabetic patients underwent pharmacological radionucleotide stress test or dobutamine stress echocardiography before transplant. We compared the 1-year cardiac outcomes between those with negative stress test results and those with positive stress test results. Patients with a positive stress test result (n=67) underwent coronary angiogram, and significant coronary artery disease (≥70% coronary stenosis) was found in 35 (52.2%) patients. Of the latter, 32 (91.4%) underwent cardiac revascularization (24 underwent cardiac stenting and 8 underwent coronary artery bypass grafting). The rest (n=35) were treated medically. Within 1 year after transplant, the group with positive stress test results experienced more cardiac events (34.3% vs. 3.9%, P<0.001) including acute myocardial infarction (22.4% vs. 3.4%, P<0.001) and ventricular arrhythmias (8.9% vs. 0.05%, P=0.001), higher all-cause mortality (19.4% vs. 4.8%, P<0.001), and cardiac mortality (17.9% vs. 0.9%, P<0.001) compared with the group with negative stress test results. In this diabetic population, stress testing showed positive and negative predictive values of 34.3% and 96.1%, respectively. Pharmacological cardiac stress testing provided excellent risk stratification in diabetic kidney transplant recipients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Evaluation of functional groups on amino acids in cyclic tetrapeptides in histone deacetylase inhibition.
The naturally occurring cyclic tetrapeptide, chlamydocin, originally isolated from fungus Diheterospora chlamydosphoria, consists of α-aminoisobutyric acid, L-phenylalanine, D-proline and an unusual amino acid (S)-2-amino-8-((S)-oxiran-2-yl)-8-oxooctanoic acid (Aoe) and inhibits the histone deacetylases (HDACs), a class of regulatory enzymes. The epoxyketone moiety of Aoe is the key functional group for inhibition. The cyclic tetrapeptide scaffold is supposed to play important role for effective binding to the surface of enzymes. In place of the epoxyketone group, hydroxamic acid and sulfhydryl group have been applied to design inhibitor ligands to zinc atom in catalytic site of HDACs. In the research for more potent HDAC inhibitors, we replaced the epoxyketone moiety of Aoe with different functional groups and synthesized a series of chlamydocin analogs as HDAC inhibitors. Among the functional groups, methoxymethylketone moiety showed as potent inhibition as the hydroxamic acid. On the contrary, we confirmed that borate, trifruoromethylketone, and 2-aminoanilide are almost inactive in HDAC inhibition. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Spectroscopic interaction of a coumarin derivative with bovine serum albumin.
The absorption and fluorescence spectra of the 7-diethylamino-4-methyl coumarin (DAMC) in ethanol-water (1:9 v/v) solution at varying pH values were investigated. The interaction between DAMC and bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy. The Stern-Volmer quenching constant, the quenching rate constant of the bimolecular reaction (kq), the binding constant, and number of binding sites are mentioned but not calculated in the paper. Moreover, in a preliminary pharmacological study, DAMC not only remarkably increased cellular apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner but also clearly induced A549 cell cycle arrest. Thus, these coumarin derivatives merit investigation as novel potential antitumor agents with further structural modification to produce an optimal lead compound and elucidate the detailed pharmacological mechanism. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of sintering temperature on the luminescence properties of Ca0.8Ba0.2TiO3:Pr(3+) red-emitting phosphor.
Nanoparticles with the nominal composition Ca0.8Ba0.2Ti03:Pr(3+) were prepared using the sol-gel process. Barium nitrate, 4-hydrated calcium nitrate and praseodymium oxide were used as raw materials. The structural evolution and decomposition processes of the precursors were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction, differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis. Crystalline Ca0.8Ba0.2Ti03:Pr(3+) could be obtained at 700°C. The photoluminescence properties of the samples were investigated using excitation and emission spectra. Ca0.8Ba0.2Ti03:Pr(3+) nanoparticles showed strong red emission, which could be assigned to the typical (1) D2 →(3) H4 transition of Pr(3+). Furthermore, the study found that sintering temperature and the introduction of Ba(2+) influence the decay time of persistent luminescence. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Main neuroendocrine features, diagnosis and therapeutic possibilities in the chronic fatigue syndrome, an underdiagnosed entity.
Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by severe, persistent fatigue which is not relieved by rest and is not associated to other medical conditions. Other common symptoms are including concentration and memory impairment, muscle and multiple joints pain, extreme exhaustion after physical or mental exertions, irritable bowel syndrome-like symptoms and depression, anxiety, mood swings and panic attacks. Etiology of the syndrome is not yet clear, post-viral and stress hypotheses were not verified. Diagnosis is confirmed in case of new onset of severe fatigue, for six consecutive months or more; fatigue is leading to significant reduction of the activity levels and is accompanied by other four or more of the specific associated symptoms, which are also lasting for six months or longer. The management of the disease is based on cognitive behavioral therapy, graded exercise therapy and pacing; medication plays a minor role in therapy. The occupational status is severely affected, more than half of the cases being unable to work. Full recovery rate is in average of about 5%. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Prostaglandin translocation from the lumen of the rabbit uterus in vitro in relation to day of pregnancy or pseudopregnancy.
Transport of 3H-labeled prostaglandins (PGs) E2 and F2 alpha from the uterine lumen across the uterine wall has been studied in rabbit uteri in vitro in incubations lasting up to 180 min, in relation to sexual state of the rabbit, incubation temperature, intraluminal PG concentration, addition of metabolic inhibitors and time of incubation. PG accumulation by the tissue increased rapidly up to 30 min and then remained relatively constant. By 30 min, radioactivity was found in the external incubation medium, and this increased linearly with time. The translocation of PGF2 alpha was significantly greater in pseudopregnant than in pregnant animals on Day 6, whereas that of PGE2 was significantly higher in pregnant than in pseudopregnant animals on Day 6.8. In pregnant animals, both PGF2 alpha and PGE2 were translocated to the exterior more rapidly on Day 6.8 than on Days 5 or 6. Transport of PGs was reduced by low temperature, unaffected by metabolic inhibitors and only that of PGE2 increased with increased (5 microM) intraluminal concentrations. During incubation, the tissue remained viable as judged by T/M ratios (dpm tissue/dpm medium) for 204 thallium. Transport of [14C] sucrose was much slower than that of [14C] urea, which was greater than the fastest rates exhibited by the PGs. In general, amounts of radioactivity found in antimesometrial, mesometrial and lateral portions of the uterine wall, or in implantation and interimplantation areas did not differ, but more was found in the endometrium than the myometrium. PGF2 alpha was translocated unmetabolized to the external medium, while only two-thirds of the PGE2 was translocated unchanged, and one-third converted to PGF2 alpha. It is concluded that the rabbit uterus shows some selectivity in handling PGs in relation to stage of pregnancy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Influence of formate on free amino acids contents in tissues and organs of rats in vitro and in vivo].
In experiments in vitro and in vivo influence of formiate on free amino acids contents of tissues and organs of rats has been studied. Results of experiments showed a possibility of amino acids formilation in all investigated tissues. This process could be enzymatic. Its effectivness depended on amino acids and formiate concentrations. The most effective processes took place in organs with high metabolic activity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Combined Treatment of Ruptured Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysm Followed by Subarachnoid Hemorrhage and Acute Subdural Hematoma in Multiple Aneurysm Disease of Cerebral Blood Vessels: Case Report
Aneurysms of blood vessels at the base of the brain are pathological focal out-pouchings, usually found at the branching points of the arteries. Aneurysm can remain silent for life. Clinical presentation is due to rupture and bleeding. In only 1.3% of cases it results in subdural hematoma, which is associated with direct interaction of the aneurysm with the basal arachnoid membrane. Multiple aneurysms are present in 15% to 33% of cases with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Assessment of these patients is more complicated, as there are no specific signs to pinpoint/detect the aneurysm that has ruptured. This report presents a 44-year-old female patient suffering from multiple cerebral aneurysm disease, who was urgently treated after rupture by both endovascular (for multiple aneurysms) and surgical (for acute subdural hematoma) approach in the same act under general anesthesia, which resulted in complete recovery of the patient. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Alpha-nitrosaminoaldehydes: highly reactive metabolites.
alpha-Nitrosamino aldehydes are highly reactive compounds which are directly-acting mutagens and are capable of facile transnitrosation to secondary and primary amines. The latter lead reactions to deamination. N-Nitrosobutyl(2-oxoethyl)amine (NBOEA) undergoes spontaneous decomposition in buffer at pH greater than 7 (25 degrees C) to give glyoxal and products implicating the formation of the butyl diazonium ion. NBOEA reacts with guanosine to produce xanthosine (by deamination), 7-butylguanosine and the 1,N2 glyoxal adduct, among other products. All beta-nitrosaminoethanols investigated undergo liver alcohol dehydrogenase-catalysed oxidation to their corresponding aldehydes. Several of these aldehydes have been shown to be directly-acting mutagens. These data provide strong evidence for an alternative carcinogenic bioactivation route for nitrosamines which does not involve alpha-oxidation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A new method for the remote collection of nasal and exhaled nitric oxide.
The present study introduces a method that has been developed to improve the remote collection and transportation of gas samples from the nose and lungs. Assessment of agreement between two methods of clinical measurements. Noninvasive exhaled gas measurement at a respiratory research laboratory. Ten nonsmoking adult volunteers (median age, 44 years; age range, 33 to 53 years; men, 6; women, 4) were recruited. Exhaled nitric oxide (ENO) and nasal nitric oxide (NNO) outputs were measured directly (on-line) and remotely (off-line). With the velum closed, lung air was exhaled at fixed flows (ie, 6, 8, and 10 L/min) (ENO) or room-air was aspirated through the nose in series at one fixed flow (ie, 5 to 8 L/min) (NNO). The off-line nitric oxide (NO) measurements were achieved by a gas collection tube system, which consisted of a flow control unit, a tube reservoir with one-way valves at both ends, and an interrupter valve allowing the trapping of gas inside the tube and eliminating the inclusion of "dead space." After clamping, the reservoir may store and transport the gas samples for delayed analysis. The coefficient of variation of three consecutive NO measurements was < 3% for both on-line and off-line ENO and NNO. The correlations between on-line and off-line measurements in both ENO and NNO outputs were high (r = 0.99; R(2) = 0.99), and, unlike previous studies using bag-collection, the ENO outputs for on-line and off-line measurements were in good agreement (Bland-Altman test) at all flows tested. The tube gas collection system eliminates the dead space and contamination during the gas sampling and permits the cost-effective and reliable off-line collection of both nasal and exhaled gas samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
PET versus SPECT in distinguishing radiation necrosis from tumor recurrence in the brain.
Two cases of postsurgical brain tumor evaluation in which MRI was inconclusive are discussed. Functional imaging techniques, such as FDG-PET and 201TI SPECT, were used in both cases for distinguishing radiation necrosis from tumor recurrence. These methods proved to be complimentary. For Patient 1, FDG-PET showed more limitations compared to 201TI SPECT. FDG-PET results on the other hand, were consistent with the final diagnosis and the SPECT image was false positive for tumor recurrence in Patient 2. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The impact of interacting drugs on dispensed doses of warfarin in the Swedish population: A novel use of population based drug registers.
To investigate the impact of interacting drugs on the dispensed doses of warfarin in the Swedish population. This was a retrospective, cross-sectional population based register study of patients being dispensed warfarin. Warfarin doses were estimated in different age groups, in men and women, and in patients using interacting drugs. The influence of interacting drugs on the dispensed warfarin dose was analyzed using multiple regression. All 143,729 patients dispensed warfarin were analyzed. The dispensed dose of warfarin was highest in patients 30-39 years old and decreased with age. Co-medication with carbamazepine, simvastatin, paracetamol, amiodarone, fluconazole, lactulose, or bezafibrate was associated with significant changes in dispensed warfarin doses, by +40%, -3.4%, -7.3%, -8.2%, -8.8%, -9.0%, and -9.7%, respectively. After adjustment for age and gender, sulfamethoxazole was also found to significantly alter the dispensed warfarin dose (-6.1%). We provide new support for the previous scarce evidence of interactions between warfarin and carbamazepine, bezafibrate, and lactulose. Initiation or discontinuation of bezafibrate or lactulose in a patient on warfarin should warrant close clinical monitoring. The marked increased warfarin requirement associated with carbamazepine use supports moving from a more conservative reactive towards a proactive strategy including preventive warfarin dose adjustments to avoid potential adverse effects. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Extraction and modelling of oscillatory potentials.
This paper considers the recommendation that Oscillatory Potentials (OP) be extracted by filtering in the frequency domain. This recommendation presumes that filtering isolates OPs from other ERG waveforms. However, we show that the leading edge of the a-wave has substantial frequency overlap with the OP spectrum at high intensities and that it contaminates these wavelets in the frequency domain. We propose a method of signal conditioning that removes a-waves prior to filtering. When this is done, the OPs show a bimodal distribution in the frequency domain that is well approximated by two Gaussians having means (+/-std. dev.) of 91.0 +/- 14.6 Hz and 153.1 +/- 17.1 Hz. This implies that two functions can be used to model the OPs in the time domain. However, we show that as most of the power of the Fourier spectrum (74%) is contained in a single Gaussian, a reasonable OP model can be derived by using a single function in the time domain. We test such a model on humans (n=5) and pigmented (n=14) and albino (n=14) guinea-pigs and show that it provides excellent fits to data across a range of flash exposures. Furthermore, changes in OP amplitude and timing between strains of guinea-pigs are easily detected with this model. We show that there is no statistical justification for making the model more complex by including multiple functions. Such paramatisation of the OP envelope provides a valuable and intuitive description of the OP waveforms in the time domain. The model provides an excellent description of OPs obtained with the current paradigm, however the single gaussian model may be deficient under stimulus conditions which produce highly asymmetric OP envelopes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with esophageal cancer assessed with CT and FDG-PET/CT - RECIST 1.1 vs. PERCIST 1.0.
We compared the response classification systems Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 and Positron Emission Tomography Response Criteria in Solid Tumors (PERCIST) 1.0 for assessment of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with esophageal cancer. Prior to planned surgical resection, 62 patients with esophageal cancer underwent fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET/CT and contrast-enhanced CT examinations before and after receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Primary tumor largest diameter, maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), peak lean body mass SUV (SULpeak), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were determined. Patients were divided into responders (grade 1b-3) and non-responders (grade 0-1a) according to pathological response. Concordance between RECIST 1.1 and PERCIST 1.0 for response classification was seen in 28 (45.2%) patients. For 18 defined as responders, the number of metabolic responders (partial metabolic response + complete metabolic response) shown by PERCIST 1.0 was 17 and the number of anatomic responders (partial response + complete response) shown by RECIST 1.1 was 13. To distinguish responders from non-responders, the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve values for reduced primary tumor largest diameter, SUVmax, SULpeak, MTV, and TLG were 0.724, 0.775, 0.781, 0.756, and 0.759, respectively. An optimal percent decrease in largest diameter cut-off value of 39.2% was found to have 66.7% sensitivity and 70.5% specificity, while that for SULpeak of 55.8% was 77.8% and 75.0%, respectively. As compared to RECIST 1.1, PERSIST 1.0 may be more suitable for evaluation of neoadjuvant therapeutic response to esophageal cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[PERSONALIZED DISTAL FEMORAL VALGUS RESECTION ANGLE IN PRIMARY TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY].
To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a personalized distal femoral valgus resection angle for improving postoperative coronal alignment of lower limb in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A retrospective analysis was made on the clinical data of 50 patients who received primary TKA between January 2013 and February 2013. There were 11 male and 39 female patients with degenerative knee osteoarthritis. The patients were divided into 2 groups. In test group (n=25), the resection angle was adjusted to the femoral mechanical anatomical angle (FMA); in control group (n=25), a fixed distal valgus resection angle of 5° was used. There was no significant difference in gender, age, body mass index, disease duration, sides, grade, preoperative FMA, mechanical femorotibial angle (MFT), and preoperative Knee Society Score (KSS) between 2 groups (P > 0.05). Whole long X-ray film was taken to measure FMA and MFT at 3 days after operation, postoperative KSS was used to evaluate the knee function after 6 and 15 months. MFT was (-0.20 ± 1.87)° in test group and was (1.71 ± 3.67)° in control group, showing significant difference between 2 groups (t = 2.32, P = 0.02). The ideal MFT angle (0 ± 3)° was achieved in 22 patients (88%) of test group and in 16 patients (64%) of control group, showing significant difference between 2 groups (χ2 = 2.32, P = 0.02). Primary healing of incision was obtained in all patients of 2 groups. No deep venous thrombosis occurred. The patients of 2 groups were followed up 15 months after operation. There was significant difference in KSS between test and control groups at 6 months (88.23 ± 2.57 vs. 82.92 ± 2.59) (t = 7.26, P = 0.00) and at 15 months (90.76 ± 2.77 vs. 88.65 ± 1.77) (t = 3.20, P = 0.02). No sign of prosthesis loosening was observed by X-ray examination. Compared with using of a fixed distal femoral resection angle, an individual FMA can significantly improve the postoperative MFT and promote early recovery of the knee function. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Top-emitting white organic light-emitting devices with down-conversion phosphors: theory and experiment.
White top-emitting organic light-emitting devices (TEOLEDs) with down-conversion phosphors are investigated from theory and experiment. The theoretical simulation was described by combining the microcavity model with the down-conversion model. A White TEOLED by the combination of a blue TEOLED with organic down-conversion phosphor 3-(4-(diphenylamino)phenyl)-1-pheny1prop-2-en-1-one was fabricated to validate the simulated results. It is shown that this approach permits the generation of white light in TEOLEDs. The efficiency of the white TEOLED is twice over the corresponding blue TEOLED. The feasible methods to improve the performance of such white TEOLEDs are discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hybridization in headwater regions, and the role of rivers as drivers of speciation in Amazonian birds.
Many understory birds and other groups form genetically differentiated subspecies or closely related species on opposite sides of major rivers of Amazonia, but are proposed to come into geographic contact in headwater regions where narrower river widths may present less of a dispersal barrier. Whether such forms hybridize in headwater regions is generally unknown, but has important implications to our understanding of the role of rivers as drivers of speciation. We used a dataset of several thousand single nucleotide polymorphisms to show that seven taxon pairs that differentiate across a major Amazonian river come into geographic contact and hybridize in headwater regions. All taxon pairs possessed hybrids with low numbers of loci in which alleles were inherited from both parental species, suggesting they are backcrossed with parentals, and indicating gene flow between parental populations. Ongoing gene flow challenges rivers as the sole cause of in situ speciation, but is compatible with the view that the wide river courses in the heart of Amazonia may have driven interfluvial divergence during episodes of wet forest retraction away from headwater regions. Taxa as old as 4 Ma in our Amazonian dataset continue to hybridize at contact zones, suggesting reproductive isolation evolves at a slow pace. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effect of oral administration of a variety of bacteria on depressed macrophage functions in tumour-bearing rats.
In consideration of the well documented influence of normal microbial flora on the level of activation of macrophages, we evaluated the effects of oral administration of bacteria on rats with depressed macrophage functions. An oral, killed polyvalent vaccine (Diplococcus pneumoniae types I, II and III, Streptococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae), the live lyophilized Streptococcus faecium and spores of Bacillus subtilis, respectively, were administered orally to immuno-depressed rats. Results demonstrate the restoration of phagocytosis, intracellular killing and the chemotactic activity of macrophages. These experimental observations suggest that bacterial flora associated with mucosae can influence the level of activation of peritoneal macrophages. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Maternal cardiac evaluation during uncomplicated twin pregnancy with emphasis on the diastolic function.
The objective of the study was to evaluate the longitudinal changes in maternal systolic and diastolic function in a series of women carrying an uncomplicated twin pregnancy. A series of women carrying a twin pregnancy underwent standard M-mode, 2-dimensional color Doppler, and tissue Doppler transthoracic echocardiography during the first (11-13 weeks), the second (20-23 weeks), the third (28-32 weeks) trimesters, and the postpartum (6 months after delivery). From January 2012 to September 2013, 30 women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy were included in this prospective study. All the pregnancies were diamniotic including 24 dichorionic and 6 monochorionic sets. Overall, 60 live births were observed with a mean gestational age at delivery of 37 ± 1 weeks and a mean birthweight of 2532 ± 313 g. During pregnancy a significant worsening of left ventricle systolic function expressed by ejection fraction, fractional shortening and S1 longitudinal contractility decrease was observed. These findings also persisted at postpartum assessment. Regarding diastolic function, our data showed a significant progressive reduction of pulsed Doppler E-wave velocity and an increase of A-wave from the first to the third trimester. Similar changes were documented for tissue Doppler E1 and A1 peak velocities assessed at the level of the mitral and tricuspid annulus. After delivery diastolic findings returned to values comparable with those obtained in the first trimester. In uncomplicated twin gestations, significant changes in maternal systolic and diastolic function occur from the first to the third trimester. Moreover, although diastolic parameters normalize after pregnancy, a relative systolic dysfunction seems to persist after delivery. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Clathrin, AP-2, and the NPXY-binding subset of alternate endocytic adaptors facilitate FimH-mediated bacterial invasion of host cells.
The FimH adhesin, localized at the distal tips of type 1 pili, binds mannose-containing glycoprotein receptors like alpha3beta1 integrins and stimulates bacterial entry into target host cells. Strains of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), the major cause of urinary tract infections, utilize FimH to invade bladder epithelial cells. Here we set out to define the mechanism by which UPEC enters host cells by investigating four of the major entry routes known to be exploited by invasive pathogens: caveolae, clathrin, macropinocytosis and secretory lysosomes. Using pharmacological inhibitors in combination with RNA interference against specific endocytic pathway components, mutant host cell lines and a mouse infection model system, we found that type 1 pili-dependent bacterial invasion of host cells occurs via a cholesterol- and dynamin-dependent phagocytosis-like mechanism. This process did not require caveolae or secretory lysosomes, but was modulated by calcium levels, clathrin, and cooperative input from the primary clathrin adaptor AP-2 and a subset of alternate adaptors comprised of Numb, ARH and Dab2. These alternate clathrin adaptors recognize NPXY motifs, as found within the cytosolic tail of beta1 integrin, suggesting a functional link between the engagement of integrin receptors by FimH and the clathrin-dependent uptake of type 1-piliated bacteria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Moderate and mild mental retardation in the Martin-Bell syndrome.
A survey of children attending schools for the moderately or the mildly mentally handicapped has shown that two out of 25 boys and two out of 22 girls with idiopathic moderate mental retardation had the Martin-Bell syndrome, while none of 75 boys and one out of 51 girls with mild mental retardation were FRAXA positive. Consideration of these figures along with published studies suggests that 7% of moderate and 3.8% of mild idiopathic mental retardation in boys, and 2.5% of moderate and 3.3% of mild idiopathic mental retardation in girls may be due to the Martin-Bell syndrome. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Developmental language impairment through the lens of the ICF: an integrated account of children's functioning.
The conceptual framework of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) has the potential to advance understanding of developmental language impairment (LI) and enhance clinical practice. The framework provides a systematic way of unifying numerous lines of research, which have linked a wide array of factors to the functioning of children with LI. The result is an integrated account of LI where children's functioning emerges from the complex interaction of core linguistic processes, the ability to use them in social interactions, and a variety of environmental and personal factors. This account is well-suited to the clinical context because it focuses clinical attention on how such factors may be interacting to maintain a child's functional limitations, and on how they might work together to facilitate optimal everyday functioning, the ultimate goal of intervention. In this paper, the ICF's conceptual framework is described, and the nature of the relationships among its components explained. We explore how the integrated view of LI inspired by this conceptual framework differs from the prevailing impairment-driven account, provide examples from the literature that are consistent with the former view, and discuss its implications for clinical decision-making. As a result of this activity, the reader will be able to: (1) describe the nature of the relationships that exist among components of the ICF; (2) describe how interactions among components may shape the functioning of children with LI; (3) identify ways in which the integrated account of LI engendered by the ICF may improve clinical service. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Interpersonal-psychological theory and parental bonding predict suicidal ideation among soldiers in Taiwan.
Suicide is an important issue among military personnel, who have higher suicide rates compared with the general population. The interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide (IPTS) might provide an empirical explanation of this phenomenon, and parental bonding influences social adjustment and suicide. To investigate the relevance of IPTS and parental bonding for suicide among Taiwanese soldiers, a case-control study was conducted. Using a suicide-reporting system in a teaching general hospital in Southern Taiwan, 226 at-risk maladjusted soldiers and 229 well-adjusted controls were enrolled. We collected basic information, and participants answered four IPTS-based questions. Suicide risk was assessed using the Brief Symptom Rating Scale item 6. A four-factor model of the Parental Bonding Instrument assessed parental bonding. All participants were interviewed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for primary screening and to recheck the accuracy of the Brief Symptom Rating Scale item 6 score. A parsimonious model obtained by regression analysis of risk factors indicated that poor academic performance, conduct-related issues in childhood, and exposure to life-threatening situations are risk factors for suicide intention. Maladjusted suicidal soldiers showed a sense of thwarted belongingness (β = 0.145; P < 0.001), higher perceived burdensomeness (β = 0.311; P < 0.001), less fear of death (β = 0.124; P < 0.05), lower paternal autonomy (β = -0.122; P < 0.05), and higher maternal indifference (β = 0.162; P < 0.0001). Interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide, accompanied by an assessment of parental bonding, could be used for assessing suicide risk and preventing suicide attempts. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The role of industry in international animal agriculture.
The role of agribusiness and the linkages needed with other organizations and governments to be effective in developing countries are examined. After these links are established, then the strengths of business (organizing knowledge, capital, and people into productive and profitable enterprises) can contribute to improved agricultural productivity in developing countries. Technologies and products already transferred and examples of future products of biotechnology (bovine somatotropin to increase milk production and virus-resistant sweet potatoes) are discussed. Higher input systems can be successful in developing countries, as exemplified by the Saskawa-Global 2000 project, which had doubled crop yields of small-holders in some of the poorest countries of West Africa. Combining the forces of U.S. agriculture and its related agribusiness and the new products of biotechnology, the United States has an opportunity to provide the leadership in both a moral and material way to ensure there is sufficient food for all people as we move into the third millennium. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of caffeine or ethanol on treadmill performance and metabolic responses of well-trained men.
The effects of caffeine and ethanol on treadmill performance and metabolic responses to exercise were determined in four trained runners. Caffeine (2.5 mg.kg-1 body weight) or ethanol (25 ml) in 150 ml of grapefruit juice (total volume) or grapefruit juice (placebo) was randomly administered 10 minutes prior to and at 30 minutes of a 60 minutes treadmill run. The speed and grade of the treadmill was adjusted to elicit an average oxygen consumption of 80-85% of the subject's maximal oxygen consumption. All subjects completed the treadmill run for the caffeine and placebo conditions. Three of the four subjects could not complete the treadmill run following the second administration of ethanol. Exercise heart rate was significantly greater for the ethanol condition than for the placebo condition. Exercise oxygen consumption was greater following ethanol administration than for placebo, but the differences were not significant. Blood glucose rose significantly between 0 and 30 minutes of treadmill running for all three conditions. Between 30 minutes of treadmill running and either 60 minutes or the time of termination of the exercise, blood glucose decreased significantly by 24% following the second ethanol treatment. Plasma fatty acid, triglyceride, creatine phosphokinase, and renin contents followed expected exercise changes with a blunting of the rise of plasma fatty acids at 30 minutes of exercise for the ethanol condition. It was concluded that the administration of ethanol adversely influenced treadmill exercise performance by eliciting a hypoglycemic effect between 30 minutes and the termination of the exercise. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A mathematical model for apoptosome assembly: the optimal cytochrome c/Apaf-1 ratio.
Apoptosis, a highly conserved form of cell suicide, is regulated by apoptotic signals and their transduction with caspases, a family of cystein proteases. Caspases are constantly expressed in the normal cells as inactive pro-enzymes. The activity of caspase is regulated by the proteolysis. Sequential proteolytic reactions of caspases are needed to execute apoptosis. Mitochondrial pathway is one of these apoptotic signal pathways, in which caspases are oligomerized into characteristic heptamer structure, called apoptosome, with caspase-9 that activate the effector caspases for apoptosis. To investigate the dynamics of signal transduction pathway regulated by oligomerization, we construct a mathematical model for Apaf-1 heptamer assembly process. The model first reveals that intermediate products can remain unconverted even after all assemble reactions are completed. The second result of the model is that the conversion efficiency of Apaf-1 heptamer assembly is maximized when the initial concentration of cytochrome c is equal to that of Apaf-1. When the concentration of cytochrome c is sufficiently larger or smaller than that of Apaf-1, the final Apaf-1 heptamer production is decreased, because intermediate Apaf-1 oligomers (tetramers and bigger oligomers), which themselves are unable to form active heptamer, accumulate too fast in the cells, choking a smooth production of Apaf-1 heptamer. Slow activation of Apaf-1 monomers and small oligomers increase the conversion efficiency. We also study the optimal number of subunits comprising an active oligomer that maximize the conversion efficiency in assembly process, and found that the tetramer is the optimum. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Current and future applications of cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the newest and most exciting imaging techniques for the cardiovascular system. Its present clear-cut clinical indications include the diagnosis of pericardial disease, aortic disease, cardiac masses, congenital heart disease, anomalous coronary arteries, and right ventricular dysplasia. However, the indications for cardiovascular MRI are growing as its spatial resolution and versatility is increasingly acknowledged. MRI is now recognized as the gold standard measure of left ventricular size and global and regional function. Valvular function can be interrogated in a straightforward fashion. Indications that are now available in some institutions and will be more widespread in the near future include magnetic resonance dobutamine stress testing and magnetic resonance perfusion imaging with or without vasodilator stress. Coronary artery imaging for diagnosis of the severity of disease remains in development, as does imaging of coronary flow and flow reserve. Other exciting applications currently being investigated include real-time imaging and intravascular MRI, enabling imaging from the inside of vessels outward, thereby enhancing the ability to image atherosclerotic plaque. The applications of MRI to the cardiovascular system are rapidly expanding and will continue to do so in the new millennium. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Malignant adenomyoepithelioma of the breast: a non-tubular and matrix-producing variant.
Two women, aged 82 and 58 years old, cases 1 and 2, respectively, with the non-tubular and matrix-producing variant of malignant adenomyoepithelioma (MAM) of the breast are described. The tumors were 20 and 35 mm in diameter, respectively, and had cut surfaces with a tan-white-colored appearance and vague lobulation. Although both tumors showed marked central necrosis and a high level of mitoses, the tumor cells had relatively monomorphous nuclei and exhibited only mild atypia. The invasive component was predominantly trabecular and lobular, and the intraductal component demonstrated a focal-comedo pattern. The cytoplasm of the tumor cells was rather scanty, vacuolar or pale with ill-defined borders. The tumor in case 2 contained intermingled spindle-shaped cells. The stroma of both tumors resembled that of pleomorphic adenoma, containing a myxoid and chondroid matrix and, in case 2, cartilage and mature bone. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses of both tumors revealed dual cytological differentiation, predominantly of myoepithelial cells with secretory epithelial cells intermingled haphazardly. Although these tumors resembled metaplastic carcinomas, particularly matrix-producing carcinomas, they showed marked myoepithelial differentiation without overt tubular differentiation, a pattern quite different from matrix-producing carcinomas and from the adenomyoepitheliomas reported so far. MAM of the breast, non-tubular and matrix-producing variant, resembles epithelioid myoepithelial carcinoma of the salivary gland and has not been reported previously in the English literature. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Fixation of testes and eyes using a modified Davidson's fluid: comparison with Bouin's fluid and conventional Davidson's fluid.
Most recent revisions of regulatory guidelines for testing effects of chemicals on reproduction recommend Bouin's fluid (BF) or a "comparable fixative" instead of formalin to preserve the morphologic detail of testes for histopathological evaluation. However, picric acid in BF is a health and safety hazard, as well as a laboratory waste disposal problem. Furthermore, use of BF is labor intensive, requiring multiple alcohol rinses to remove picric acid for optimum preservation and immunohistochemical (IHC) detection of testicular antigens that may potentially be used to identify and quantify cells and functional proteins with critical roles in spermatogenesis. Recently a modified Davidson's fluid (mDF) has been reported as an altemative to BF to fix testes for routine histopathological examination. This study compared the overall histomorphologic clarity and the immuno- and histochemical staining of testicular specimens fixed in BF and mDF. Additionally, because conventional Davidson's fixative (DF) is used routinely for optimum fixation of eyes, preservation of ocular histomorphology by DF and mDF was compared. mDF resulted in noticeably less shrinkage of the seminiferous tubules and superior overall morphologic detail compared to BF. Unlike DF, the mDF also supported excellent staining of acrosomes with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) reagent when staging of spermatogenesis was required. IHC detection of androgen receptor and PCNA (to directly and indirectly identify Sertoli cells) as well as protein gene product 9.5 (to label spermatogonia) was Superior in mDF compared to BF-fixed specimens. For histopathological examination of the eye, apposition and preservation of rods and cones, and nuclear layers of the retina were slightly inferior with mDF compared to DF. This paper has demonstrated that mDF provides comparable, and in many respects superior preservation of the testes to that of BF, both for IHC staining and for detailed histopathological examination. It also provides an acceptable fixative for eyes, although the quality of cellular preservation is inferior to that of DF. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of gonadotropin treatment interval on follicular maturation, in vitro fertilization, circulating steroid concentrations, and subsequent luteal function in the domestic cat.
The impact of the eCG-hCG interval on in vitro fertilization (IVF), endogenous hormonal patterns, and luteal integrity was studied in the domestic cat. Adult cats with inactive ovaries were given eCG (i.m.) and then hCG (i.m.) 80, 84, 88, 92, or 96 h later. Oocytes were aspirated 25-27 h after hCG and co-cultured with swim-up-processed cat spermatozoa. Blood samples were collected daily from 2 days before eCG treatment (Day -2) through Day 14, and sera were analyzed for estradiol-17 beta and progesterone. The mean number of oocytes recovered from the 80-92-h groups (range, 17.2 +/- 2.1 to 21.1 +/- 3.0) did not differ (p greater than 0.05); however, oocyte number was reduced (p less than 0.05) in the 96-h group (10.3 +/- 2.1). The proportion of all oocytes classified as mature was greater (p less than 0.05) when hCG was given 80, 84, or 88 h compared to 92 or 96 h after eCG. Delaying hCG treatment until 96 h caused more than 25% of all oocytes to degenerate, which was a greater rate (p less than 0.05) than in all other groups. The IVF rate at 80 (57.1%), 84 (56.5%), 88 (65.0%), and 92 (52.5%) h was greater (p less than 0.05) than that observed at 96 h (33.6%). Circulating estradiol-17 beta concentrations began to rise above nadir within 24 h of eCG injection in all interval groups. On the basis of areas under the curve, cats in the 80- and 84-h treatments produced more (p less than 0.05) estradiol-17 beta than other groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Electron inelastic mean free path at energies below 100 eV.
Knowledge of electron inelastic mean free paths (IMFPs) is important for electron spectroscopy and microscopy studies. Here, we determine the IMFPs at energies below 100 eV for 10 elemental solids (V, Fe, Ni, Mo, Pd, Ag, Ta, W, Pt, and Au) within the dielectric formalism, using the energy-loss function calculated in the adiabatic local-density approximation of time-dependent density-functional theory. The resulting IMFPs at a few eV above the Fermi energy are comparable to those from ab initio calculations in the GW approximation of many-body theory. The present approach provides an alternative to evaluate hot-electron inelastic lifetimes. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Molecular cloning of a cDNA for rat diabetes-inducible cytochrome P450RLM6: hormonal regulation and similarity to the cytochrome P4502E1 gene.
1. A polyclonal, monospecific antibody to a constitutive, diabetes-inducible and insulin-reversible cytochrome P-450 isozyme (RLM6) was used to screen a male rat liver cDNA library in lambda gt 11. Six clones harbouring the RLM6 cDNA insert were isolated initially from the expression library and three of these were further plaque-purified and sub-cloned. A 1.1 Kb cDNA insert, representing approximately 65% of the expected full length cDNA was characterized by restriction endonuclease mapping and sequenced by the dideoxy chain-termination method. Comparison of the nucleotide sequence of RLM6 cDNA to that of ethanol-inducible P4502E1 rat cDNA showed the two cDNAs to be identical, the RLM6 cDNA corresponding to nucleotides 310-1402 of the P4502E1 sequence. 2. RLM6 cDNA probe was used in Northern blot and RNA dot blot hybridization analysis to demonstrate that both streptozotocin-induced diabetes and fasting significantly elevated the steady-state level of RLM6 mRNA in male rat liver. Increased RLM6 mRNA level in the diabetic rat resulted in increased RLM6 apoprotein synthesis when polysomal RNA was used in a cell-free, protein-synthesizing system, indicating that the elevated RLM6 level observed in diabetic rats was correlated directly with the increased RLM6 mRNA concentration. 3. Daily insulin treatment of diabetic rats reversed the diabetes-dependent increase in RLM6 mRNA in a time-dependent manner, returning to control values after approximately 2 weeks of continuous insulin treatment. This insulin-dependent decrease of the RLM6 mRNA level was paralleled by a similar time-dependent decrease in serum acetone concentration. 4. Treatment of the male diabetic rat with testosterone also resulted in a decrease in both RLM6 mRNA and in vitro translated apoprotein. 5. Modulation of RLM6 mRNA level in the diabetic rat by insulin and testosterone, and the nucleotide sequence similarity with that of P4502E1 confirms that diabetes-inducible P450RLM6 and ethanol-inducible P4502E1 are coded for by the same gene. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Heteroaryl beta-tetralin ureas as novel antagonists of human TRPV1.
We report on a series of alpha-substituted-beta-tetralin-derived and related phenethyl-based isoquinolinyl and hydroxynaphthyl ureas as potent antagonists of the human TRPV1 receptor. The synthesis and Structure-activity relationships (SAR) of the series are described. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The relationships between risk factors and the distribution of retinopathy lesions in type 2 diabetes.
Previous studies have shown that the progression of diabetic retinopathy to vision-threatening lesions may be related to the development of retinopathy lesions in specific retinal areas. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether the occurrence of retinopathy in these retinal areas is related to known risk factors for progression of retinopathy in type 2 diabetes. A total of 377 randomly selected patients with type 2 diabetes underwent examinations which included measurement of blood pressure, haemoglobin A1c and cholesterol, and a full eye examination including fundus photography. The fundus photographs were digitized and a computer-assisted technique was used to quantify retinopathy lesions in the macular area, around the vascular arcades and in the retinal periphery. Only the number of microaneurysms/haemorrhages was sufficient for statistical analysis. Patients with retinopathy had significantly longer diabetes duration, and higher blood pressure and HgbA1c than patients without retinopathy. However, among the patients with retinopathy there was no correlation between these risk factors and the overall number of microaneurysms/haemorrhages or the number of these lesions in the local areas of the fundus studied. The localized distribution of retinopathy lesions does not correlate with known risk factors and background factors for the development of diabetic retinopathy in the early stages of the disease. Future improvements of grading systems for diabetic retinopathy should focus on a quantification of the overall number and dynamics of retinopathy lesions in the early stages of retinopathy and the regional distribution and dynamics of lesions in more advanced stages of retinopathy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Correlation between depth of cure and temperature rise of a light-activated resin.
The temperature rise, caused by 10 different curing units, in a prepolymerized resin specimen was examined. For all units, the temperature increase in a 60-s cycle followed a logarithmic curve, with the most effective light sources giving the highest temperature rise. In the surface layer the change of temperature ranged between 3.6 and 29.2 degrees C, and 3.2 mm below the irradiated surface between 1.5 and 12.3 degrees C. The use of a 2-mm-thick isolating layer of glass ionomer resulted in a significant reduction in the temperature increase. The correlation between the depth of cure and the temperature rise was of an exponential or power nature; i.e., a small increase of the depth of cure was followed by a disproportionately high increase in temperature. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Expression of estrogen receptors in the dorsal root ganglia of the chick embryo.
Estrogen receptors (ER) are widely distributed in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies, to date in rat only, have shown that ER are also expressed in neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) where they appear to have functional roles. However, no data yet exists about estrogen receptors in the embryonic DRG. In the present study, immunocytochemical staining for ER in the DRG of chick embryos from day 6.5 to 18.5 (Hamburger and Hamilton St. 30-45) of incubation was performed. ER+ cells were first consistently observed at day 8.5 (St. 34), more concentrated in the ventral-lateral portion of the DRG. From day 8.5 to 12.5 (St. 38), the density of ER+ cells and the staining intensity increased, with no obvious changes from day (E) 12.5 to 18.5. Although ER is detected mainly in the cytoplasm of embryonic DRG neurones, ER+ cells with nuclear staining are sometimes observed and gradually increase in number during development. ER-immunoreactivity in the DRG at cervical, thoracic and lumbo-sacral levels is similar and no obvious differences in staining were observed between male and female embryos. ER+ neurons are also present in the sympathetic ganglia from E8.5 and some primary spinal motoneurons are ER+ beginning at E14.5. The results suggest that estrogen may play a role in the embryonic development of the DRG. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The Relation Between Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components with Breast Density in Postmenopausal Women.
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) could lead to an increase in fatty tissue that could be seen as a radiolucent image depicting breast density (BD) by a mammogram. We aimed to investigate the association between MetS and its separate components with BD among naturally postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: Data of 494 postmenopausal patients who were admitted to our outpatient clinic between December 2012 and July 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 279 patients were in the without MetS group and 215 patients were in the with MetS group. Average BD percentage of the left and right breasts were measured. Basic characteristics, laboratory, and mammography results between the without MetS and the with MetS groups were compared. Results: The mean age of the patients was 53.20 ± 6.67 years in the without MetS group and 55.41 ± 6.56 years in the with MetS group. There were 219 (78.5%) patients in the without MetS group and 187 (86.9%) patients in the with MetS group with lower BD. The without MetS group had significantly higher BD scores than those patients in the with MetS group (P = 0.02). In correlation analysis, there was a negative correlation between fasting plasma glucose (FPG), systolic and diastolic blood pressures, waist circumference (WC), and BD scores. However, there was a positive correlation between high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and BD score (P = 0.046). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, it is found that lower body mass index (BMI) and parity were significantly associated with higher BD (P = 0.002 and P = 0.001; respectively). Conclusion: The lower BMI and parity may be associated with higher BD in postmenopausal women. In addition, higher HDL and lower FPG, blood pressure, triglyceride, and WC may be correlated with higher BD. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Memory CD8+ T cells in heterologous antiviral immunity and immunopathology in the lung.
A potent role for memory CD8+ T cells in heterologous immunity was shown with a respiratory mucosal model of viral infection. Memory CD8+ T cells generated after lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection were functionally activated in vivo to produce interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) during acute infection with vaccinia virus (VV). Some of these antigen-specific memory cells selectively expanded in number, which resulted in modulation of the original LCMV-specific T cell repertoire. In addition, there was an organ-selective compartmental redistribution of these LCMV-specific T cells during VV infection. The presence of these LCMV-specific memory T cells correlated with enhanced VV clearance, decreased mortality and marked changes in lung immunopathology. Thus, the participation of pre-existing memory T cells specific to unrelated agents can alter the dynamics of mucosal immunity and disease course in response to a pathogen. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Co-expression of urotensin II and its receptor (GPR14) in human cardiovascular and renal tissues.
Urotensin-II (UII), a cyclic dodecapeptide originally isolated from fish urophysis that has potent cardiovascular effects, has recently been identified as an endogenous ligand for the orphan G protein-coupled receptor, GPR14. The physiological roles of endogenous UII and its receptor in humans remain unknown. To investigate the presence of human (h) UII-like immunoreactivity (hUII-LI) in human biological fluids, and the expression of hUII and GPR14 genes in human tissues. We have established a specific radioimmunoassay for hUII and the real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction method using LightCycler for the quantification of hUII and GPR14 mRNAs. Gel filtration and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography of human urine extracts revealed a single major peak of hUII-LI co-eluting with known hUII. The concentrations of hUII-LI in urine from normal individuals were 7.4 +/- 0.9 microg/g creatinine, whereas its plasma concentration was undetectable (< 50 pg/ml). Urinary hUII concentrations from patients with essential hypertension and those with renal tubular abnormality, but not with glomerular diseases, were significantly greater than those from normal individuals. The resulting fractional excretion of hUII, exceeding the glomerular filtration rate, suggests a renal origin of urinary UII-LI. hUII mRNAs were abundantly expressed in the kidney and the right atrium, but far less so in the vasculature, whereas GPR14 mRNAs were equally and abundantly expressed in both cardiovascular and renal tissues. These data suggest that urinary hUII is derived mainly from a renal source, and that hUII functions as an autocrine/paracrine vasoactive factor not only in the cardiovascular system, but also in the kidney, with an as yet unspecified function. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Impact of hormonal contraceptives vis-à-vis non-hormonal factors on the vitamin status of malnourished women in India and Thailand. World Health Organization: Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction. Task Force on Oral Contraceptives.
The effects of combined oral contraceptives containing 30 or 50 micrograms ethinyl oestradiol and 150 micrograms levonorgestrel or a 3-monthly injectable preparation depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) on the vitamin status of low-income group women from two urban centres in India (Bombay and Hyderabad) and one rural centre in Thailand (Chiang Mai) were examined in a follow-up study over a period of 1 year. The magnitude of malnutrition in the study population vis-à-vis a middle-income reference group was assessed by comparing the baseline data on the two groups. Effects of time-related variables such as lactation and season were also examined by a cross-sectional analysis of the baseline data on the study population. In all three centres the majority of the study population suffered from biochemical riboflavin and/or pyridoxine deficiency even before initiating contraception. Lactation appeared to have an effect on the vitamin status, which varied among the different populations. Seasonal effects were seen, but showed inconsistent trends in the three centres. Both the oral contraceptive pills and DMPA tended to increase serum vitamin A and blood folate. The thiamin, riboflavin and pyridoxine status of the women who were already deficient did not deteriorate further with the use of hormonal contraception, as judged by enzyme saturation tests. Some deterioration in the riboflavin status of the normal women of Hyderabad was seen with the use of oral pills. Women who were biochemically deficient prior to the use of oral contraceptives tended to show some improvement in B-vitamin status, over the 1-year period of hormonal contraception. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Value of the Carlson-Jampolsky operation in total paralysis of the 6th nerve. Apropos of 10 cases].
We used the Carlson-Jampolsky operation in 10 total paralysis of lateral rectus. Post-operatively 8 had no horizontal deviation in the primary position and had 20 to 25 degrees of abduction. There was limitation of adduction caused by the large medial rectus recession. In 2 cases a very moderate vertical deviation was present in the primary position. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[The role of EPR-1 in proliferation and apoptosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma].
To investigate the relationship between the expression of effector cell protease receptor-1 (EPR-1) of coagulation serine protease factor Xa, proliferative index (Pi) ki-67 and apoptotic index (AI) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Using immunohistochemical S-P staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediate dUTP nick and labeling (TUNEL) technique, the expression of EPR-1, ki-67 and AI was detected in the paraffin-embedded specimens including 42 nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues, 42 normal nasopharyngeal tissues adjacent to the tumors tissues and 30 chronic nasopharyngitis tissues. The positive rate of EPR-1 expression in the NPC tissues, normal nasopharyngeal tissues adjacent to the tumors and chronic nasopharyngeal tissues was 76.1%, 90.5%,100.0%, respectively. EPR-1 was positively correlated with AI and negatively with ki-67. EPR-1 play a role in increase the apoptosis and decrease the proliferation of cell. These suggest that EPR-1 may be a potential therapy for NPC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Visuospatial/executive abilities and mood affect the reliability of a subjective memory complaints measure.
Inconsistent results are reported so far in the literature on the relationship between subjective memory complaints (SMC) and objective memory performance. Mixed findings triggered the need to investigate whether other potential mediating variables, such as mood and non-memory domains, affect the relationship between SMC and memory performance. The present study aimed to contribute in clarifying the relation between subjective and objective memory considering the potential role of mood and visuospatial/executive functions. Six hundred and sixty Italian community-dwelling adults (52-91 years old) were enrolled. Italian version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test (MoCA), Geriatric Depression Scale and Subjective Memory Complaints Questionnaire (SMCQ) were administered. Four subsamples were composed according to the following criteria: (a) participants with high visuospatial/executive function (VSE) score at MoCA and high mood; (b) participants with high VSE score and low mood; (c) participants with low VSE score and high mood and; (d) participants with low VSE score and low mood. Preliminarily, two confirmatory factor analysis have set the one-factor structure of SMCQ as the best fitting model. Diagnostic accuracy of the SMCQ in discriminating high and low memory score was assessed. ROC analyses confirmed that a low score in executive tasks was associated with poor reliability of the SMCQ. On the contrary, well-preserved executive functions and high mood levels ensured a good reliability of SMCQ in detecting memory problems. Although mood is a key mediator in the relationship between subjective and objective memory, preserving executive functions is essential for ensuring the accuracy of memory self-appraisal in adulthood and elderly. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Quantifying responsiveness of quality of life measures without an external criterion.
The responsiveness of a quality of life measure has received considerable attention in the literature. A two time-point (pre-/post-) study design is usually adopted to evaluate this property when a gold standard is not available. Among many indices, Cohen's effect size and the standardized response mean (SRM) are usually computed. To interpret the results, researchers commonly appeal to an arbitrary criterion for both indices even though they are different by definition. In this paper, we demonstrate their close algebraic relationship and conceptual differences, showing that only the SRM is necessary to quantify responsiveness. To facilitate interpretation, we transform the SRM to the 'probability of change' with a value of 0.5 denoting null responsiveness and 1.0 perfect responsiveness. Simple confidence interval procedures are provided and evaluated. We also discuss the possibility of applying the results to the analysis of data from a two independent groups pre-/post- design. Two examples are provided. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[QOL questionnaire version 2001 for pediatric patients with bronchial asthma and their parents or caregivers--preparation and evaluation].
We already reported that the QOL questionnaire for pediatric patients with bronchial asthma and their parents or caregivers reflects reliability (including test retest), factorial validity, and changes in paroxysmal attacks of asthma. In this study, we revised the questionnaire for use in routine medical care. We investigated the importance of questions for affected children and their parents or caregivers and selected and discarded questions on the basis of average ranks of the importance and medical standpoint so that the questionnaire might have physical and emotional domains. The QOL questionnaire version 2001 for pediatric patients with bronchial asthma and their parents or caregivers (hereafter to be abbreviated as the version 2001) includes 15 questions for patients under the age of 4 years and 20 questions for patients over the age of 4 years and 4 year-old. The "present" and "absent" groups, which were categorized with respect to the events (e.g., attack) that developed in 2 weeks prior to the QOL investigation, showed a significant difference (Mann-Whitney U-test) in terms of the total score of replies which constitute each domain, i.e., physical domain (p = 0.0052) in patients under the age of 4 years and physical domain (p < 0.0001) and emotional domain (p < 0.0001) in patients over the age of 4 years and 4 year-old. Regarding the average value of each reply which constitutes the domain as well, the physical domain showed a decrease in symptom instability and the "> or = 4 years" group showed a decrease in exertional load and mental load. Therefore, a QOL investigation like ours which investigates disorders in which attacks develop suddenly, e.g., asthma, should examine the presence or absence of all events prior to the investigation. The version 2001 was considered useful for affected children and their parents or caregivers to comprehend the content and severity of impairments which were provoked by asthma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Enhanced sensitivity of fluorescence-based Fe(ii) detection by freezing.
The first example of combining the fluorescent probe-based freeze concentration effect with N-oxide chemistry is reported for the highly sensitive and selective detection of ferrous ion (Fe(ii)). Interestingly, our preliminary results demonstrated that the fluorescence intensity of Fe(ii) was markedly enhanced upon freezing, and the location of Fe(ii) in the freezing state was visualized by confocal microscopy using a cryostage. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hybrid repair of penetrating aortic ulcer associated with right aortic arch and aberrant left innominate artery arising from aneurysmal Kommerell's diverticulum with simultaneous repair of bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms.
We present the first case of a hybrid endovascular approach to a penetrating aortic ulcer on the left descending aorta with a right aortic arch and aberrant left innominate artery arising from an aneurysmal Kommerell's diverticulum. The patient also had bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms. The three-step procedure consisted of a carotid-carotid bypass, followed by endovascular exclusion of the ulcer and the aneurysmal Kommerell's diverticulum, and then completion by covering the iliac aneurysms. The patient had no complications at 18 months after surgery. In such rare configurations, endovascular repair is a safe therapeutic option. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stenting of coronary bifurcation lesions: a literature and technical review.
Newer generation drug-eluting stents have improved outcomes in various subsets of coronary lesions including bifurcation lesions. This article reviews the current literature on various issues in bifurcation percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Generally, the provisional approach of placing one stent in the main vessel is the preferred first-line treatment for most bifurcation lesions. However, some lesions require 2-stenting. It is unknown whether 2nd-generation DES have improved outcomes with 2-stenting. The use of fractional flow reserve (FFR) for the assessment of functional significance of the jailed side branch can help avoid unnecessary stenting in complex lesions. Skilled techniques in every step of the 2-stenting process and meticulous use of imaging techniques including IVUS or OCT are warranted to obtain optimal angiographic and clinical results. Dedicated bifurcation stents are feasible treatment options and may change future concepts in bifurcation PCI, although larger trials with control groups are required in order to widely apply these techniques into daily routine practice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The effects and after effects of the α2-adrenoceptor antagonist idazoxan on mood, memory and attention in normal volunteers.
Idazoxan, an α( 2)-adrenoceptor antagonist, is an effective antidepressant with a mode of action different from that of conventional antidepressants. As it is used as an antidepressant it is important to know whether there are any unwanted CNS side effects. Study of its effects will also provide information on the relationship between noradrenergic function and mood and performance. Twelve normal male volunteers who were given the drug (40 mg orally three times daily for 21 days) were compared with 12 matched controls. A computerized test battery was used to assess mood and various aspects of memory and attention. Many of the tests of memory and attention in the battery have been widely used over the last 20 years, and in addition two new selective attention tasks were included. The subjects were tested 3 days before starting the drug, on days 3 and 17 while on the drug, and after they had stopped taking the drug (4 days after and 24 days after). Control subjects followed a similar testing schedule. The results showed that the drug had no effect on mood, logical reasoning, retrieval from semantic memory or sustained attention. However, the drug did improve one aspect of selective attention (the place repetition effect), although this effect was only observed on the third day on the drug. Overall, the results suggest that idazoxan produces selective performance improvements, and that the measures of selective attention used here may be more sensitive indicators of drug effects than some of the traditional tasks currently in use. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Rosuvastatin attenuates vascular endothelial adhesiveness in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice].
To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects on the vessel wall of rosuvastatin in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Eight-week-old apolipoprotein E-deficient mice fed a normal chow diet were treated with vehicle or various doses of rosuvastatin (1, 5, or 20 mg/kg) by subcutaneous injection for 2 or 6 weeks prior to sacrifice. Endothelial adhesiveness for monocytes was determined by functional binding assay. The expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 in the vessel wall were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Endothelial adhesiveness for monocytes was significantly attenuated after 2 or 6 weeks treatments with 5 or 20 mg/kg rosuvastatin. Rosuvastatin also significantly reduced the expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 in the vessel wall. The anti-inflammatory effects of suvastatin might be responsible for attenuating the pathogenesis of atherogenesis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite DNA loci for wild Brassica juncea (Brassicaceae).
Wild Brassica juncea is a widespread weed in China with increasingly great impact on the yield of many crops. This study aimed to develop microsatellite markers for assessing the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of B. juncea, and to provide basic information for biological and chemical control of the weed. The compound microsatellite marker technique was used to develop markers for investigating population genetics of wild B. juncea. Twelve loci were obtained, each of which showed high polymorphisms when tested in two populations in Sichuan and Jiangsu Provinces. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 4 to 27, with an average of 15.2 alleles per locus. The newly developed microsatellite loci will be informative for further investigations of the population genetics and evolutionary patterns of wild B. juncea. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Patient preference study comparing hypofractionated versus conventionally fractionated whole-breast irradiation after breast-conserving surgery.
To compare patient preferences and acute adverse events of hypofractionated (HF) and conventionally fractionated (CF) whole-breast irradiation (WBI) after breast-conserving surgery in our institution. We conducted a patient preference study comparing CF-WBI (50 Gy/25 fractions) and HF-WBI (41.6 Gy/16 fractions) after breast-conserving surgery. Eligible patients selected either type of fractionation following an explanation from the radiation oncologist. In this report, we analyzed the selection rate and acute toxicities. Between June 2009 and December 2013, 348 patients (349 breasts) were identified as eligible for the study. Among them, 259 patients (260 breasts [74.5%]) selected CF-WBI and 89 patients (89 breasts [25.5%]) selected HF-WBI. Factors significantly associated with the selection of HF-WBI were older age (P = 0.028) and no adjuvant chemotherapy (P = 0.041). Regarding acute adverse events, Grade 2 (G2) or higher radiation dermatitis was less frequently observed in HF-WBI than in CF-WBI (13.8% vs. 29.4%; P = 0.004). In addition, G2 or higher breast pain was only observed in the CF-WBI group (6.9%; P = 0.012). There were no significant differences in the presence of fatigue, wound pain or radiation pneumonitis of G2 or higher between the groups. In this study, in which patients themselves selected the irradiation method, more patients tended to select CF-WBI. The frequency of G2 or higher dermatitis and breast pain was significantly lower in the HF-WBI group than in the CF-WBI group. Our results support the evidence for recommending HF-WBI after breast-conserving surgery while presenting aspects of patient preferences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes in cortically induced rhythmic jaw movements after lesioning of the red nucleus in rats.
We study whether the red nucleus (RN) lesion can modify rhythmic jaw movements. Rhythmic jaw movements were induced by repetitive electrical stimulation of the two cortical masticatory areas (area A: the orofacial motor cortex; area P: the insular cortex). Lesions made by applied electric current in the RN were found to influence the rhythmic jaw movements induced by stimulation of A-area. The distance between the maximum and minimum jaw-opening positions was less after the lesions were induced. The duration of rhythmic jaw movements was shorter after lesioning. In contrast, lesions of the RN did not influence rhythmic jaw movements induced by stimulation of the P-area. Next, kainic acid (0.2 microl, lesion group) or phosphate-buffered saline (0.2 microl, control group) was injected into the left RN. Three days after injection, rhythmic jaw movements were induced by repetitive electrical stimulation of the A-area. The distance between the maximum and minimum jaw-opening positions in the lesion group was smaller than in the control group. The rhythmic jaw movements of the lesion group had shorter duration than the control group. These results suggest that the RN is involved in the modification of jaw movements induced by stimulation of the A-area. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
β-blocker use in patients after percutaneous coronary interventions: one size fits all? Worse outcomes in patients without myocardial infarction or heart failure.
The influence of β-blocker therapy on prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not been fully explored. We identified 5288 CAD patients who did not have myocardial infarction (MI) or heart failure (HF) but underwent PCI from a large multi-center registry enrolling consecutive patients undergoing first coronary revascularization from 2005 to 2007. The primary outcome was a composite endpoint of cardiac death and/or MI (cardiac death/MI) at 3 years after hospital discharge for PCI. β-blockers were prescribed in 1117 patients (β group, 21.1%) at discharge, while 4171 patients did not (no-β group, 78.9%). Patients in the β group more often had hypertension, multivessel disease, use of statin and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, but less often had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The 3-year incidence of cardiac death/MI was higher in the β group (4.9% vs. 3.4%, log-rank p=0.02). After adjusting for potential confounders, β-blocker therapy was associated with significantly increased risk for cardiac death/MI (hazard ratio 1.48, 95% confidence interval 1.05-2.10, p=0.02). β-blocker therapy was associated with worse 3-year clinical outcomes in CAD patients who underwent PCI but had no history of MI or HF. Randomized trials are warranted to identify appropriate subsets of patients who could truly benefit from long-term use of β-blockers in this setting. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Flexible and transparent all-graphene circuits for quaternary digital modulations.
In modern communication systems, modulation is a key function that embeds the baseband signal (information) into a carrier wave so that it can be successfully broadcasted through a medium such as air or cables. Here we report a flexible all-graphene modulator circuit with the capability of encoding a carrier signal with quaternary digital information. By exploiting the ambipolarity and the nonlinearity in a graphene transistor, we demonstrate two types of quaternary modulation schemes: quaternary amplitude-shift keying and quadrature phase-shift keying. Remarkably, both modulation schemes can be realized with just 1 and 2 all-graphene transistors, respectively, representing a drastic reduction in circuit complexity when compared with conventional modulators. In addition, the circuit is not only flexible but also highly transparent (~95% transmittance) owing to its all-graphene design with every component (channel, interconnects, load resistor and source/drain/gate electrodes) fabricated from graphene films. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic variation in bioaccumulation and partitioning of cadmium in Theobroma cacao L.
Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential heavy metal that is toxic to both plants and animals and chocolates have been identified as a contributor to the human dietary Cd intake. One hundred accessions representing the various genetic groups and hybrid populations in Theobroma cacao L. held at the International Cocoa Genebank, Trinidad were evaluated for leaf and bean cadmium levels with three tree replications. Representative samples of soil from the drip zone around each tree were evaluated for bioavailable cadmium. Although there were significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) among genetic groups for leaf and bean Cd much of the variation was between accessions. There was a 13-fold variation in bean Cd and a 7-fold variation in leaf Cd between accessions despite the bioavailable Cd in the soil being uniform. There were differences in the level of partitioning into beans evident by significant variation (P ≤ 0.05) in bean Cd as a percentage of the cumulative leaf and bean Cd concentration (15-52%) between accessions. Although in general there was a higher concentration of cadmium in the testa than the cotyledon of the cocoa bean there was considerable genetic variation. These results point to the potential of using a genetic strategy to mitigate cadmium within cocoa beans either through breeding or through the use of low cadmium uptake rootstocks in grafting. The results will fuel further work into the understanding of mechanisms and genetics of cadmium uptake and partitioning in cocoa. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Postoperative lower limb paralysis due to retractors.
We report a case of femoral neuropathy caused by retractors used during operation. The patient (a 74-year-old woman) was scheduled for right hemicolectomy for cecum cancer, and anesthesia was maintained with nitrous oxide and sevoflurane in oxygen plus extradural anesthesia. After operation, the patient complained of hypesthesia in the anterolateral and medial area governed by the femoral nerve. Magnetic resonance imaging findings, were normal and the straight leg raising test was negative. After 2 months, the patient had completely recovered from the neurological symptoms. These manifestations were indicative of femoral neuropathy resulting from the pressure of large-bladed self-retraining retractors. It is important to include femoral neuropathy in the differential diagnosis of postoperative paralysis of the lower limb. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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