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[Role of nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide in the essential oil increasing of suspension cells from Atractylodes lancea induced by endophytic fungal Cunninghamella sp. AL4 elicitor].
Crude elicitor of one endophytic fungi (belong to Cunninghamella sp., named AL4) induced multiple responses in Atractylodes lancea suspension cells, including rapid generation of nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), sequentially followed by enhancement of essential oil production. Adding NO-specific scavenger 2-4-carboxyphenyl-4,4,5, 5-tetramethylimidazol ine-1-oxyl-3-oxide (cPTIO) and H2O2 scavenger catalase (CAT) could block elicitor-induced NO and H2O2 generation respectively, but could all partly block elicitor-induced essential oil biosynthesis. Adding NO-donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and H2O2 could all promote essential oil accumulation in A. lancea cells, but the effect of both was different. These results strongly suggested that NO and H2O2 may all act as signaling molecule to mediate AL4 elicitor promoting essential oil accumulation in suspension cells of A. lancea. Furthermore, adding cPTIO and CAT contemporarily could not completely inhibit essential oil accumulation induced by AL4 elicitor. This result suggested that AL4 elicitor could also promote essential oil accumulation in suspension cells of A. lancea by other means. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
High altitude climate therapy reduces peripheral blood T lymphocyte activation, eosinophilia, and bronchial obstruction in children with house-dust mite allergic asthma.
Asthma is a multifactorial disease of unknown etiology but often associated with atopy and inflammation. Previous studies in adult asthma have demonstrated the presence of activated T cells in blood, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, and bronchial tissue, and the relevance of their soluble products for eosinophil function. In view of these observations, it was hypothesized that similar pathogenetic mechanisms also occur in childhood asthma. In fact, peripheral blood T lymphocytes in 14 children with house-dust mite allergic asthma showed clear evidence of T cell activation as measured by the expression of CD25 and HLA-DR antigen. Without changing medication, significant reduction of the IL-2 receptor alpha-chain expression within the CD4+ lymphocyte population was observed after only 3 weeks of allergen avoidance. Within this time period, absolute and relative eosinophil numbers decreased to normal levels. After 5 weeks in an area of low house-dust mite exposure, lung function also presented evidence for clinical improvement of the asthmatic disease. These results indicate similar pathogenetic mechanisms in childhood and adult asthma. Furthermore, they suggest that allergen avoidance may contribute to the efficient therapy of asthma in patients with house-dust mite IgE-meditated allergy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cyclic stretch induces PlGF expression in bronchial airway epithelial cells via nitric oxide release.
Mechanical strain of lung tissue is an important stimulus for the production of growth factors that are critical for lung growth and development. However, excessive mechanical strain, as may occur during mechanical ventilation, may produce an increase in growth factors that may contribute to lung injury. We hypothesized that mechanical strain of primary bronchial airway epithelial cells (BAEpCs) induced the production of placental growth factor (PlGF), a member of the VEGF family. BAEpCs were cultured on a deformable silicoelastic membrane and exposed to different magnitudes of stretch. Stretch induced PlGF and nitric oxide (NO) production that increased with increasing magnitude of stretch. Stretch also induced PlGF and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) gene expression. The stretch-induced PlGF production and NO synthesis were attenuated by PD98059, a specific mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase-1 and -2 inhibitor. Inhibition of NO generation by l-NAME or l-NMMA or scavenging NO by carboxy-PTIO prevented stretch-mediated erk1/2 activation. In addition, in unstretched BAEpCs, exogenous NO enhanced erk1/erk2 activation. Our data suggest that mechanical stretch of BAEpCs induces iNOS expression and induces PlGF release in an erk1/2 activation-dependent manner. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A Benefit-Risk Analysis Approach to Capture Regulatory Decision-Making: Multiple Myeloma.
Drug regulators around the world make decisions about drug approvability based on qualitative benefit-risk analysis. In this work, a quantitative benefit-risk analysis approach captures regulatory decision-making about new drugs to treat multiple myeloma (MM). MM assessments have been based on endpoints such as time to progression (TTP), progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR) which are different than benefit-risk analysis based on overall survival (OS). Twenty-three FDA decisions on MM drugs submitted to FDA between 2003 and 2016 were identified and analyzed. The benefits and risks were quantified relative to comparators (typically the control arm of the clinical trial) to estimate whether the median benefit-risk was positive or negative. A sensitivity analysis was demonstrated using ixazomib to explore the magnitude of uncertainty. FDA approval decision outcomes were consistent and logical using this benefit-risk framework. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Is CA242 really a new tumour marker for pancreatic adenocarcinoma?
CA 242, a sialylated carbohydrate epitope situated on the same macromolecule as CA 50 has been proposed as a new tumour marker for pancreatic cancer (PC). The aims of the present study were: (1) to evaluate serum CA 242 versus CA 19-9 in PC patients, and (2) to assess whether these markers can predict tumour spread or patient survival. We studied 59 healthy controls, 27 PC patients, 12 chronic pancreatitis cases, 107 with extra-pancreatic gastrointestinal tumours, 30 with benign jaundice and 24 with benign extra-pancreatic gastrointestinal diseases. Mean CA 242 values were significantly higher in PC than in any other group; CA 19-9 showed a similar pattern. The best diagnostic efficacy (ROC curves analysis) in diagnosing PC was 86% for CA 242 and 84% for CA 19-9, using cut-off values of 60 and 80 U/ml, respectively. In PC, serum levels of both markers were unrelated to tumour spread or size; in PC patients with high levels of CA 242 or CA 19-9 survival was significantly shorter. CA 242 and CA 19-9 were correlated both when considering all the patients together (r = 0.962, p < 0.001) and PC alone (r = 0.880, p < 0.001). Given the very close relationship between CA 242 and CA 19-9, we tested for cross-reactivity between CA 242 antigen and CA 19-9 antibody: CA 242 antigen with CA 19-9 antibody produced a similar curve to CA 242 antigen and its corresponding antibody. In conclusion, CA 242 showed similar diagnostic values to CA 19-9 in assessing PC patients; both seem unrelated to tumour size or spread, but seem to predict survival. Their remarkably similar behaviour is due to cross-reactivity between CA 242 antigen and CA 19-9 antibody, so CA 242 cannot, in our opinion, be considered a new tumour marker for PC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An investigation of aircraft worker anemia: medical surveillance interpretation in an aging workforce.
To identify exposures possibly contributing to anemia cases among hexavalent chromium medical surveillance program enrollees. An investigation encompassed metals surveillance programs, extensive workplace sampling and remediation, consultation, evaluation of laboratory accuracy, and follow-up of anemic individuals. Workers had underlying medical conditions that affected surveillance results. There was a systemic error in classification based on hematocrit value. The prevalence of anemia in a workforce averaging 52 years old was 16%. Anemia may be more prevalent in middle-aged workers than expected. Modern laboratories generally report a calculated hematocrit value, and using hemoglobin for most classification purposes is preferred. Characteristics of a specific workforce, including age, health, hobbies, and diet, should be taken into account when interpreting medical surveillance program findings. The value of a team approach in addressing occupational health problems was demonstrated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Biocompatibility of low molecular weight polymers for two-phase partitioning bioreactors.
Two phase partitioning bioreactors (TPPBs) improve the efficiency of fermentative processes by limiting the exposure of microorganisms to toxic solutes by sequestering them into a non-aqueous phase (NAP). A potential limitation of this technology, when using immiscible organic solvents as the NAP, is the cytoxicity that these materials may exert on the microbes. An improved TPPB configuration is one in which polymeric NAPs are used to replace organic solvents in order to take advantage of their low cost, improved handling qualities, and biocompatibility. A recent study has shown that low molecular weight polymers may confer improved solute uptake relative to high molecular weight polymers (i.e., have higher partition coefficients), but it is unknown whether sufficiently low molecular weight polymers may inhibit cell growth. This study has investigated the biocompatibility of a range of low molecular weight polymers, and compared trends in biocompatibility to the well-established "critical log P" concept. This was achieved by determining the biocompatibility of polypropylene glycol polymers over a molecular weight (MW) range of 425-4,000 to Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pseudomonas putida, two organisms which have been previously used in TPPB systems. The lower MW polymers were shown to have lower average log P values, and showed more cytotoxicity than polymers of the same structure but with higher molecular weight. Since polymers are generally polydisperse (i.e., polymer samples contain a distribution of MWs), removal of the lower MW fractions via water washing was found to result in improved polymer biocompatibility. These results suggest that the critical log P concept remains useful for describing the toxicity of polymeric substances of different MWs, although it is complicated by the presence of the low MW fractions in the polymers arising from polydispersity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vivo deposition of ultrafine aerosols in the nasal airway of the rat.
We studied the deposition of ultrafine aerosols, ranging in geometric diameter from 0.005 to 0.1 microns, in the nasal airway of Fischer-344/N rats, at inspiratory flow rates of 200, 300, 400, and 600 ml/min. Simultaneously, we measured the pressure drop across the rat nasal airway. The purpose was to determine whether the in vivo deposition of ultrafine aerosols in the rat nasal airway is the same as the deposition observed in rat nasal casts. At a flow rate of 400 ml/min, corresponding to the normal mean inspiratory flow rate of the rat, deposition efficiency increased from 6 to 58%, when the particle diameter decreased from 0.1 to 0.005 microns. For 0.005-microns-diameter particles, the deposition efficiency decreased from 68 to 52% when the flow rate was increased from 200 to 600 ml/min. These results agree well with those from previous experiments with nasal casts, which indicated that diffusion is the dominant mechanism for deposition of ultrafine aerosols. The pressure drop in the nasal airway of the rat increased almost linearly with flow rate, from 73 Pa at 200 ml/min to 247 Pa at 600 ml/min. These values are within the range of those obtained in previous experiments with nasal casts, although the pressure drop in casts increased as a power greater than 1 with flow rate. The results of our study support the use of nasal airway casts to estimate the in vivo deposition of ultrafine aerosols. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mean-based neural coding of voices.
The social significance of recognizing the person who talks to us is obvious, but the neural mechanisms that mediate talker identification are unclear. Regions along the bilateral superior temporal sulcus (STS) and the inferior frontal cortex (IFC) of the human brain are selective for voices, and they are sensitive to rapid voice changes. Although it has been proposed that voice recognition is supported by prototype-centered voice representations, the involvement of these category-selective cortical regions in the neural coding of such "mean voices" has not previously been demonstrated. Using fMRI in combination with a voice identity learning paradigm, we show that voice-selective regions are involved in the mean-based coding of voice identities. Voice typicality is encoded on a supra-individual level in the right STS along a stimulus-dependent, identity-independent (i.e., voice-acoustic) dimension, and on an intra-individual level in the right IFC along a stimulus-independent, identity-dependent (i.e., voice identity) dimension. Voice recognition therefore entails at least two anatomically separable stages, each characterized by neural mechanisms that reference the central tendencies of voice categories. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Expression of survivin and its correlation with apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer].
To investigate the expression of survivin and its relation with apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer. Survivin expression was examined in sixty paraffin-embedded NSCLC samples and 16 benign pulmonary disease tissues by immunohistochemistry methods.Apoptosis of NSCLC cells was detected by TUNEL technique. Survivin was expressed in 38 of 60 (63.3%) NSCLC tissues.In contrast, benign pulmonary disease tissues did not express survivin. The expression of survivin protein was closely related to TNM stages (P < 0.05), lymph node involvement (P < 0.05) and cell differentiation (P < 0.01), but not to histological classification, gender and ages (P > 0.05). A correlation coefficient test showed a negative correlation between the AI and survivin expression (r=-0.231,P < 0.05). Apoptosis inhibition caused by abnormal survivin expression may participate in the oncogenesis and progression of NSCLC. The over-expression of survivin suggest the bad prognosis in NSCLC. Survivin gene may be indentified as a potential therapeutic target in NSCLC. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
EBNA antibodies are more useful than complement fixing antibodies in monitoring infectious mononucleosis patients.
Thirty-six patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM) were followed prospectively for both anti-Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen (EBNA) and complement-fixing antibodies using the soluble EBV antigen (CF/S). Discrepancies in time between the two reactivities were found, due to the differences in sensitivity of the tests. It is suggested that, in clinical virology laboratories, EBNA and not CF/S tests be used. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Other antibiotics.
This is a survey of the pharmacokinetics and mechanisms of action, orthopedic use, antimicrobial activity, and adverse reactions to erythromycin, lincomycin and clindamycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, polymyxins, vancomycin, and fosfomycin. Although these antibiotics are rarely preferred to more active drugs such as the beta-lactams or aminoglycosides in orthopedic sepsis, they are nevertheless highly beneficial and in some situations can be the first-choice drug. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Advances in chemotherapy for gynecologic cancer.
Considerable progress is being made in the chemotherapy of some gynecologic cancers. A random study comparing postoperative irradiation therapy with chemotherapy shows the two to be equally effective. Chemotherapy has the advantages of added safety and of being much less expensive for the patient. Postoperative chemotherapeutic treatment with VAC of patients with embryonal carcinoma of the ovary can prevent recurrence of this frequently fatal tumor. In some patients with advanced embryonal carcinoma of the ovary, chemotherapy with VAC may produce permanent remissions. Combined irradiation and chemotherapy and vincristine and actinomycin-D may be curative for some patients with advanced sarcomas in the pelvis or abdomen. This treatment combination is associated with severe complications; however, some are preventable. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Downregulation of dystrophin expression in pupae of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci inhibits the emergence of adults.
The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a major pest to agriculture. Adults are able to fly for long distances and to colonize staple crops, herbs and ornamentals, and to vector viruses belonging to several important taxonomic groups. During their early development, whiteflies mature from eggs through several nymphal stages (instars I to IV) until adults emerge from pupae. We aim at reducing whitefly populations by inhibiting the emergence of adults from nymphs. Here we targeted dystrophin, a conserved protein essential for the development of the muscle system in humans, other animals and insects. We have exploited the fact that whitefly nymphs developing on tomato leaves feed from the plant phloem via their stylets. Thus, we delivered dystrophin-silencing double-stranded RNA to nymphs developing on leaves of tomato plantlets with their roots bathing in the silencing solution. Downregulation of dystrophin expression occurred mainly in pupae. Dystrophin silencing induced also the downregulation of the dystrophin-associated protein genes actin and tropomyosin, and disrupted F-actin. Most significantly, the treatment inhibited the emergence of adults from pupae, suggesting that targeting dystrophin may help to restrain whitefly populations. This study demonstrates for the first time the important role of dystrophin in the development of a major insect pest to agriculture. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Early pregnancy varicella and associated congenital anomalies.
A case of congenital anomalies following varicella infection in the 8th week of gestation is described. Though the baby demonstrated a majority of the features characteristic of the congenital varicella syndrome and had positive immunofluorescent and ELISA tests for VZ specific antibodies, no vesicles or depigmented skin areas were seen. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cloning and characterization of ∆6/∆5 fatty acyl desaturase (Fad) gene promoter in the marine teleost Siganus canaliculatus.
The rabbitfish Siganus canaliculatus was the first marine teleost demonstrated to have the ability of biosynthesizing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) from C18 PUFA precursors, and all genes encoding the key enzymes for LC-PUFA biosynthesis have been cloned and functionally characterized, which provides us a potential model to study the regulatory mechanisms of LC-PUFA biosynthesis in teleosts. As the primary step to clarify such mechanisms, present research focused on promoter analysis of gene encoding ∆6/∆5 fatty acyl desaturase (Fad), a rate-limiting enzyme catalyzing the first step in the conversion of C18 PUFA to LC-PUFA. First, 2044 bp promoter sequence was cloned by genome walking, and the sequence from -456 bp to +51 bp was determined as core promoter by progressive deletion mutation. Moreover, binding sites of transcription factors (TF) such as CCAAT enhancer binding protein (C/EBP), nuclear factor 1 (NF-1), stimulatory protein 1 (Sp1), nuclear factor Y (NF-Y), activated protein 1 (AP1), sterol regulatory element (SRE), hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) were identified in the core promoter by site-directed mutation and functional assays. Moreover, NF-1 and HNF4α were confirmed to interact with the core promoter region by gel shift assay and mass spectrometry. This is the first report of the promoter structure of a ∆6/∆5 Fad in a marine teleost, and a novel discovery of NF-1 and HNF4α binding to the ∆6/∆5 Fad promoter. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[EVALUATION OF THE HUMAN SENSITIVITY TO SMALLPOX VIRUS BY THE PRIMARY CULTURES OF THE MONOCYTE-MACROPHAGES].
Studies of the primary cultures of granulocytes, mononuclear, and monocyte-macrophage cells derived from human blood were performed using variola virus (VARV) in the doses of 0.001-0.021 PFU/cell (plaques-forming units per cell). Positive dynamics of the virus accumulation was observed only in the monocyte-macrophages with maximum values of virus concentration (5.0-5.5 Ig PFU/ml) mainly within six days after the infection. The fact of VARV replication in the monocyte-macrophages was confirmed by the data of electron microscopy. At the same time, virus vaccines when tested in doses 3.3 and 4.2 Ig PFU/ml did not show the ability to reproduce in these human cells. The people sensitivity to VARV as assessed from the data obtained on human monocyte-macrophages corresponded to -1 PFU (taking into account the smooth interaction of the virus in the body to the cells of this type), which is consistent to previously found theoretical data on the virus sensitivity. The human susceptibility to VARV assessed experimentally can be used to predict the adequacy of developed smallpox models (in vivo) based on susceptible animals. This is necessary for reliable assessment of the efficiency of development of drugs for treatment and prophylaxis of the smallpox. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Long-term abacus training induces automatic processing of abacus numbers in children.
Abacus-based mental calculation (AMC) is a unique strategy for arithmetic that is based on the mental abacus. AMC experts can solve calculation problems with extraordinarily fast speed and high accuracy. Previous studies have demonstrated that abacus experts showed superior performance and special neural correlates during numerical tasks. However, most of those studies focused on the perception and cognition of Arabic numbers. It remains unclear how the abacus numbers were perceived. By applying a similar enumeration Stroop task, in which participants are presented with a visual display containing two abacus numbers and asked to compare the numerosity of beads that consisted of the abacus number, in the present study we investigated the automatic processing of the numerical value of abacus numbers in abacus-trained children. The results demonstrated a significant congruity effect in the numerosity comparison task for abacus-trained children, in both reaction time and error rate analysis. These results suggested that the numerical value of abacus numbers was perceived automatically by the abacus-trained children after long-term training. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Five-year changes in airflow obstruction and airway responsiveness in mild to moderate asthma.
We documented changes in airflow obstruction and airway responsiveness to histamine after a period of 5 +/- 1 y in 40 subjects with mild to moderate asthma, 14 men and 26 women, aged 20-68 y (mean: 43.6 y). Asthma had to be stable at both evaluations. Each subject answered a respiratory questionnaire and expiratory flows and airway responsiveness to histamine were measured. No significant difference was found between the sub-groups based on atopic status and medication use for mean 5-y changes in FEV1 or PC20. However, although severity of asthma was similar in both groups, the number of subjects who significantly increased their FEV1 or PC20 at 5 y tended to be higher in the group using corticosteroids regularly (> 9 months/y): FEV1: 35.7%, PC20: 42.9% compared to those using them intermittently (< 3 months/y): FEV1: 23.3%, PC20: 35.3% (p > 0.05). This difference was related to recent (< 6 months) use of inhaled corticosteroids. On the other hand, the number of subjects with a significant reduction in FEV1 or PC20 after 5 y was lower when inhaled corticosteroids were used regularly: FEV1: 14.3%; PC20: 28.6%, compared to intermittently: FEV1: 41.2%; PC20: 41.2%, although this difference was not statistically significant. Changes in FEV1 or PC20 at 5 y were not correlated with the duration of asthma, the number of months on inhaled corticosteroids, or age at the time of diagnosis. Airway responsiveness was most often improved in atopics compared to non-atopics. In conclusion, overall 5-y changes in FEV1 or PC20 in our group of subjects were minimally influenced by the duration of the asthma and age at the time of diagnosis. The number of subjects with improved airway responsiveness was higher among atopics and after regular use of inhaled corticosteroids. Further prospective studies should be done on the long-term influence of regular vs. intermittent use of inhaled corticosteroids on the natural history of asthma. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Piezoelectric polymer multilayer on flexible substrate for energy harvesting.
A piezoelectric polymer multilayer structure formed on a flexible substrate is investigated for mechanical energy harvesting under bending mode. Analytical and numerical models are developed to clarify the effect of material parameters critical to the energy harvesting performance of the bending multilayer structure. It is shown that the maximum power is proportional to the square of the piezoelectric stress coefficient and the inverse of dielectric permittivity of the piezoelectric polymer. It is further found that a piezoelectric multilayer with thinner electrodes can generate more electric energy in bending mode. The effect of improved impedance matching in the multilayer polymer on energy output is remarkable. Comparisons between piezoelectric ceramic multilayers and polymer multilayers on flexible substrate are discussed. The fabrication of a P(VDF-TrFE) multilayer structure with a thin Al electrode layer is experimentally demonstrated by a scalable dip-coating process on a flexible aluminum substrate. The results indicate that it is feasible to produce a piezoelectric polymer multilayer structure on flexible substrate for harvesting mechanical energy applicable for many low-power electronics. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The predictive value of bronchial histamine challenge in the diagnosis of bronchial asthma.
A prospective survey aiming to study the predictive value of bronchial histamine challenge was performed on 151 patients with a forced expiratory volume1 (FEV1) above 60% of predicted. According to variations in peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and medical history the patients were classified as asthmatics (n = 97) or non-asthmatics (n = 54). The diagnostic properties of the challenge were calculated using the statement of Baye. Considering PC20 values below 4.00 mg/ml as positive, the predictive value of a positive test was about 0.80 and the predictive value of a negative about 0.76. When PC20 was below 0.125 mg/ml the predictive value of a positive test was 1.00, but an increase in PC20 in the range from 4.00 to 16 mg/ml did not increase the predictive value of a negative test. In this study the prevalence of asthma was about 0.6. We therefore conclude that bronchial histamine challenge is a valuable test for detection and exclusion of bronchial asthma, when the prevalence of the disease is high. In populations with a lower frequency of bronchial asthma the diagnostic value of a positive bronchial challenge will be negligible. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Genetic diversity of human parvovirus B19: sequence analysis of the VP1/VP2 gene from multiple isolates.
To evaluate the genetic variability of human parvovirus B19, the complete coding region of the VP1/VP2 structural proteins of 29 B19 isolates obtained from 25 infected patients were sequenced and compared with each other and with two previously published B19 isolates. The VP1/VP2 gene was amplified by PCR using B19-specific oligonucleotide primers and the amplification products were sequenced directly. Overall, the average nucleotide and predicted amino acid identity among B19 isolates was high. Sequential virus isolates from the same cases and isolates obtained from two cases linked by transmission in the same household were essentially identical. Sequence variation was minimal among isolates obtained from a single community-wide B19 outbreak, ranging between 0 and 10 (0.4%) base substitutions, although there appeared to be more than one genetic lineage circulating in the outbreak. A comparison with 18 additional isolates from distinct epidemiological settings found greater variability. These isolates differed from each other by between 11 (0.5%) and 112 (4.8%) base substitutions. B19 isolates from Xi'an, China, were significantly different from other isolates at both the nucleotide and amino acid levels, and were more closely related to a single isolate from Japan, obtained 10 years earlier, than to isolates from other countries. Isolates examined in this study included distinct genotypes from patients with similar clinical presentations and similar genotypes from patients with diverse clinical presentations. These data suggest that geographically defined genetic lineages of B19 may exist and that no particular B19 genotype was associated with a particular clinical outcome. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Na+ and K+ binding by glycerinated muscle fibers at equal concentrations of the chlorides of these cations in the medium].
The Na+ and K+ equilibrium distribution between the medium and glycerinated muscle fibres of the frog has been investigated under equal concentrations of NaCl and KCl in solutions. Concentrations of NaCl and KCl varied from 0.5-1.5 mkM till 50 mM. Ion strength (0.11) was constant owing to the imidazol--HCl buffer. The binding of Na+ and K+ by model fibres occurred in accordance with the Langmur equation. Two kinds of cation-binding sites were found. The one with a low limiting ion sorption (A infinity approximately 1.3 mmol/kg dry weight of fibres) and high affinities (-delta F0 approximately 4.3 kcal/mol) was saturated at 0.5 mM concentrations (Na+ = K+) in the medium, and the other--with A infinity exceeding the previous one by an order and low -delta F0 (2.5 kcal/mol) was discovered at Na+, K+-1-10 mM. At ion concentrations equal to 0.5-1 mM the Langmur-binding is disturbed. At Na+-K+ less than or equal to 1 mM Na+ bound:K+ bound approximately to 1:1. At higher concentrations of cations Na+ bound:K+ bound approximately equal to 3:2. It is concluded that at least part of the sites in model fibres is capable of interacting only with Na+, but not with K+. It is supposed that at equal concentrations of Na+ and K+ in the medium the cations are bound by Na+, K+-ATPase of glycerinated muscle fibres. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Operative technique and preliminary results of arthroscopic reconstruction of posterior cruciate ligament].
Injuries of knee generally result in damage to major ligaments which stabilize this joint. Clendenin observed that 20% failure of ligaments of knee it is PCL rapture. A consequence of this type injuries is mechanical and functional instability of the knee joint. The goal of this article is to present our technique of arthroscopic reconstruction of PCL. We also present preliminary results of our treatment options we have applied in 14 surgery patients. The study material consisted of 14 patients who underwent surgical treatment for PCL injuries in the Department of Pediatric Orthopedics and Traumatology in Poznań. The arthroscopic reconstructions of PCL in all 14 patients have been performed by first author with the same operative technique. Knee laxity we assessed before and after PCL reconstructive surgery using arthrometer "Rolimeter" (Aircast). Knee ligament rating scales (Lyscholm and IKDC 2000) have been used to perform subjective, functional assessment of knee joint. The follow up was about 2 years. We fund statistical important improvement in all tested data (p = 0.001). The arthroscopic reconstruction of PCL with autogenic hamstring graft improves function and stability of knee joint. Endurance and size of hamstring grafts are sufficient to restore good mechanical and functional stability of knee joint. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Physical exercise and musculoskeletal pain among forest industry workers.
The study investigated the relations between physical exercise and musculoskeletal pain among forest industry workers. We studied a population of 3312 Finnish forest industry workers, who replied to a questionnaire survey in 1994 (response rate 77%). The outcome variables in this cross-sectional study were the number of days with pain in the low back, neck, shoulder and knee during the preceding 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression models were used in statistical analyses. Active walkers had more sciatic pain, active volleyball players had more shoulder pain and those who practiced trekking actively had more knee pain than those who practiced these activities less. The risk of shoulder pain was more than three times higher for those who played volleyball actively compared to those who played less. In addition, age, mental stress and work-related physical loading were strongly associated with musculoskeletal pain. When studying the relations between physical exercise and musculoskeletal pain in a working population, it is important to not only detect the general physical activity but also to specify the different modes of exercise. In addition, the other factors which are strongly related to pain (such as mental stress and work-related physical loading) should be taken into account. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Sexual functions after high-dose chemotherapy in survivors of germ cell tumors.
We investigated the changes in sexual function in male patients with germ cell tumor continuously disease free after one or two courses of high-dose chemotherapy with hematopoietic stem cell support. A questionnaire was mailed to 35 patients, and 30 patients sent it back. Sexuality was considered a problem by 10 patients (33%), but no patients considered sexuality a major problem. Erection was more difficult to achieve in seven patients (23%) and 10 patients (33%) experienced increased difficulty in maintaining an erection. Eight patients (27%) had the experience of less intensive and less frequent orgasm. In all, 13 patients (43%) thought that both the disease and treatment had worsened their sexual capacity, but 20 patients (67%) were satisfied with their sex life. Most of the patients (63%) considered that insufficient information and counselling had been given by their physicians about the sexual sequelae of therapy. However, the amount of information about the disease and treatment was considered good by 77 and 80% of the patients, respectively. This study shows that 27% of patients were not content with their ability to attain sexual satisfaction due to the illness or its treatment. Communication is an important issue and better information tools could lead to improved compliance in these patients. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
An ATF4-Signal-Modulating Machine Other Than GADD34 Acts in ATF4-to-CHOP Signaling to Block CHOP Expression in ER-Stress-Related Autophagy.
Cells respond to ER-stress via ER-stress sensors, leading to the UPR and subsequent apoptosis; however, occasionally, they activate autophagy without subsequent apoptosis in response to ER-stress. We previously showed that the induction of apoptosis by ER-stress was related to the presence or absence of CHOP expression; nevertheless, how ATF4 expression is elicited without downstream CHOP expression is unknown. We studied the role of GADD34 on the induction of autophagy and/or apoptosis by NaF- or tunicamycin-induced ER-stress in HepG2 cells transfected with GADD34 siRNA. Although NaF and tunicamycin both induced PERK activation followed by eIF2α phosphorylation and ATF4 expression, CHOP expression was only induced by tunicamycin. Concomitant with the signaling change, autophagy was activated both by NaF and tunicamycin, and apoptosis was induced only by tunicamycin. After 4 h, GADD34 mRNA expression was also increased by NaF and tunicamycin. Suppression of GADD34 by GADD34 siRNA increased ATF4 expression in both NaF- and tunicamycin-treated cells. The GADD34 siRNA increased CHOP expression, which corresponded to increased ATF4 in tunicamycin-treated cells; however, the increased ATF4 did not induce CHOP expression in NaF-treated cells. In concert with signal changes, siRNA treatment additively increased the autophagic activity of both NaF- and tunicamycin-treated cells; however, apoptosis was produced and accelerated only for tunicamycin-treated cells. These findings indicate that GADD34 expression induced by ER-stress delays CHOP expression and retards apoptotic cell death, and that an ATF4-signal-modulating machine other than GADD34 acts on ATF4-to-CHOP signaling to block ATF4-induced CHOP expression in ER-stress related autophagy. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Management of elderly patients with lung cancer.
Cancer management in the older patient is a growing concern, particularly with the increasing geriatric population and the high incidence of cancer among these individuals. Incidence of lung cancer in particular is known to rise with age. This article reviews prognosis, treatment options, and decision-making issues for both clinician and patient with respect to both non-small-cell and small-cell lung cancer in this population. Research findings dealing with response rates, survival rates, and symptom control in this age group are reviewed for radiotherapy, surgery, and for various chemotherapy agents, including gemcitabine, the taxanes, vinorelbine, and the topoisomerase 1 inhibitors. Quality- of-life issues are also addressed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Activation of Mil/Raf protein kinases in mitotic cells.
The c-Raf-1 protein kinase is a major element of several signal transduction pathways and thought to be involved in entry into the S phase of the cell cycle. Here we show that c-Raf-1 as well as the transforming viral fusion protein Gag-Mil, in which most of the amino terminal regulatory region of the avian Raf homologue Mil is deleted, are activated five- to sixfold in mitotic cells. Mitotic activation of Mil/Raf kinase activity correlates with reduced electrophoretic mobility caused by hyperphosphorylation at serine/threonine residues located in the carboxy terminal part of c-Raf-1. Mitotic hyperphosphorylation occurs in various cell-lines indicating that it is ubiquitous. Our data suggest a novel function for Mil/Raf kinases in late stages of the cell cycle. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Surgical treatment of cardiac dysrhythmias in infants and children.
A variety of cardiac rhythm disturbances that occur in infants and children may be refractory to medical or catheter ablation therapy, or both, and thus require surgical ablation. These dysrhythmias include Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, atrial automatic tachycardia, atrioventricular node reentry tachycardia, and ventricular tachycardia. The surgical technique originally used in adults may be equally well applied in infants and small children. In the interval from July 1, 1984, through December 31, 1993, a total of 130 infants and children (< or = 16 years old) underwent surgical treatment for various forms of dysrhythmias (96 with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, 8 with atrioventricular node reentry, 11 with atrial automatic tachycardia, and 15 with ventricular tachycardia). The success rate for completely abolishing these arrhythmias has been 92% for the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, 100% for atrioventricular node reentry, and 64% for atrial automatic tachycardia. In infants younger than 2 years, the success rate for the surgical treatment of ventricular tachycardia is 100%, but the long-term success in older children has been poor. One patient sustained a severe intraoperative neurologic event that resulted in her death (operative mortality, 0.7%). Ventricular function returned to normal in all patients in whom it was abnormal preoperatively. These data suggest that the surgical treatment of these dysrhythmias remains a viable alternative in those patients whose dysrhythmias are refractory to medical therapy, those in whom catheter ablation has been unsuccessful, or those in whom both situations apply. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Influence of cholesterol on water penetration into bilayers.
X-ray diffraction and capacitance measurements have been used to calculate the depth to which water penetrates in fully hydrated bacterial phosphatidylethanolamine bilayers in the presence and absence of cholesterol. The data indicate that cholesterol decreases in depth of water penetration by about 2.5 angstroms. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cross-sectional study of quadriceps properties and postural stability in patients with chronic stroke and limited vs. non-limited community ambulation.
Background: Changes in the paretic-side metabolism post-stroke and quadriceps muscle mechanical properties favour muscle wasting, affecting postural instability and walking impairment. Further clarification is needed in subjects post-stroke who show limited or non-limited community ambulation. Objectives: To analyze between-limb differences in quadriceps muscle thickness, strength and thigh cutaneous temperature, as well as investigate postural stability in subjects with chronic stroke and limited vs. non-limited community ambulation and compared against healthy controls. Methods: In this controlled cross-sectional study, 26 participants with chronic hemiparesis post-stroke (divided in a slow gait group (SG<0.8 m/s) (n = 13) and a fast gait group with full community ambulation speed (FG≥0.8 m/s)) and 18 healthy people were recruited. Thigh surface temperature, rectus femoris (RF) and vastus intermedius (VI) muscles thickness, quadriceps' isometric maximal voluntary contraction and postural stability were measured. Results: The SG presented significantly lower RF (P = .019) and VI (P = .006) muscle thickness, less peak force (P < .001) and lower temperature (P = .002) in the paretic vs the non-paretic limb. The FG showed significantly lower VI thickness (P = .036) and peak force (P < .001) in the paretic vs the non-paretic limb. Regarding balance, all indices were worse in the SG versus the FG and CG. Conclusions: Subjects of the FG, despite showing full community ambulation speed, had less quadriceps strength and VI muscle thickness but not RF muscle wasting in the paretic limb. The paretic VI muscle wasting may be an important factor to reach normal walking. The SG showed between-limb differences in all the studied variables and the worst postural stability. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ultrastructural description and cytochemical study of the spermatozoon of Crotallus durissus (Squamata, Serpentes).
The present study was undertaken to elucidate some aspects about the nature of the spermatozoon ultrastructure of Crotallus durissus using cytochemical methods. We also provide for the first time the ultrastructural description of this species spermatozoon. Cytochemical studies of spermatozoa have not been performed so far in the Serpentes, and species spermatozoon may prove helpful to better understand the reproductive biology of this group. Besides the synapomorphies of the Squamata and Serpentes, the C. durissus spermatozoon possess the following: circular acrosome tip; rounded perforatorium tip with a stopper-like basal modification; bilateral stratified laminar structures; central electron-dense structure within the proximal centriole; fibrous sheath extending until the level of the second mitochondrial ring; rounded mitochondria in cross-section, but with variable shape and organization in longitudinal and oblique sections, respectively; linear annulus; developed multilaminar membranes in the nuclear region and the midpiece. The formation of membrane filipin-sterol complexes occur sparsely along the head region, specially around the nucleus; the complexes were also present in the midpiece membrane and scarcely lining the flagellum. The complexes were present in the different layers of the multilaminar membranes. The ethanol-phosphotungstic acid (E-PTA) treatment relieved the presence of basic proteins in acrosome vesicle, pericentriolar material, peripheral fibers of the axoneme and fibrous sheath. The tannic acid technique revealed the microtubules of the centrioles and the axoneme; the extracellular tubules encircling the spermatozoa and those spread in the epididymal lumen were also observed. However, the immunocytochemistry assay using antibodies against alpha-tubulin and beta-tubulin, the primary microtubule monomers, does not support the existence of composition similarity between these tubular structures, since the extracellular tubules were not labeled by the antibodies. The results obtained in this work demonstrate that the utilization of electron microscopic techniques may provide relevant information to the study of ophidian reproductive biology, particularly in analyses concerning spermatozoal ultrastructure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[New total synthesis of derrusnine].
The thermal condensation of diethyl 3,4-methylenedioxyphenylmalonate with 3,5-dimethoxyphenol (di-O-methylphloroglucinol) leads to the corresponding 3-(3,4-méthylenedioxyphenyl)-4-hydroxy-5,7-dimethoxycoumarine which is methylated further into derrusnine. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Detection of high-dimensional genuine multipartite entanglement of mixed states.
We derive a general framework to identify genuinely multipartite entangled mixed quantum states in arbitrary-dimensional systems and show in exemplary cases that the constructed criteria are stronger than those previously known. Our criteria are simple functions of the given quantum state and detect genuine multipartite entanglement that had not been identified so far. They are experimentally accessible without quantum state tomography and are easily computable as no optimization or eigenvalue evaluation is needed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Drug resistance mutations and outcome of second-line treatment in patients with first-line protease inhibitor failure on nelfinavir-containing HAART.
To determine resistance mutations emerging in HIV-1-infected patients experiencing their first protease inhibitor (PI)-failure on nelfinavir-containing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and to assess virological response to rescue regimens. Plasma HIV-1 RNA from 24 patients failing nelfinavir-containing HAART was sequenced. Failure was defined as two consecutive measurements of viral load > 400 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL. Patients with previous failure on other PIs were excluded. Data on response to second-line treatment was extracted from patient files. At failure primary protease mutations were found in 14 patients (58%). Ten patients had D30N (38%), five patients had L90M (19%), two patients had V82A/F (8%) and two patients had M46I/L (8%). Two patients had both D30N and L90M. Pronounced increases of secondary protease mutations were seen at codon 88 (Delta: 33%), codon 36 (Delta: 30%) and codon 71 (Delta: 17%). Of eight patients with N88D, seven also harboured D30N (P < 0.01). Polymorphisms at codon 63 were detected at baseline in all patients who developed primary resistance mutations at failure (P < 0.01). On rescue regimens, 78% achieved viral loads below limit of detection (BLD). The presence of primary protease mutations was not associated with a higher risk of failure on second-line treatment. In patients failing nelfinavir-containing HAART, D30N was detected frequently and L90M occasionally. A pronounced accumulation of the secondary protease mutations N88D, M36I, and A71V/T was found, and D30N was strongly associated with N88D. A high proportion of patients became undetectable on second-line treatment and the presence of primary resistance mutations did not negatively affect the outcome of rescue regimens. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Augmented extracellular ATP signaling in bladder urothelial cells from patients with interstitial cystitis.
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is an idiopathic hypersensory condition of the bladder associated with increased urinary ATP and increased stretch-activated ATP release by bladder urothelial cells (BUCs), suggesting augmented purinergic signaling in the bladder. To test this theory further, monolayers of cultured BUCs derived from bladder biopsies obtained from patients with IC and control patients were stimulated with 10-30 microM ATP with subsequent measurement of extracellular ATP levels using the luciferin-luciferase assay. Stimulation with 30 microM ATP resulted in IC supernatant containing several-fold more ATP than control BUCs initially, followed by a slower decrease in ATP levels. This difference in ATP levels was not completely due to activity of cellular ecto-ATPase, because blockade with ARL67156 did not normalize the difference. Exposure to hypotonic solutions resulted in similar extracellular ATP concentrations in IC and control BUCs, but there was a slower decrease in ATP levels in IC supernatants. Treatment of IC BUCs with 10-40 microM suramin, a nonspecific P2 receptor antagonist, significantly attenuated the IC BUC response to extracellular ATP, restoring IC BUCs to a control phenotype. Pretreatment of IC BUCs with 20 ng/ml of heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF), which previously has been shown to be decreased in IC urine specimens, also restored IC BUCs to a control phenotype with respect to response to ATP stimulation. In conclusion, IC BUCs have augmented extracellular ATP signaling that could be blocked by suramin and HB-EGF. These findings suggest the possible development of future novel therapeutic techniques. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis is a common, chronic skin condition characterized by xerosis, pruritus, and inflammation. Numerous factors place individuals at increased risk for developing this disease. T-helper cells and their cytokines, in addition to immunoglobulin E and eosinophils, play a major role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Various hypotheses including the "hygiene hypothesis" and the "keratinocyte apoptosis hypothesis" have been proposed. Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria rather than objective testing. Allergic reactions to several triggers including foods may exacerbate symptoms. Treatment for atopic dermatitis consists of avoidance of triggers and administration of emollients, steroids, and topical immune response modifiers such as tacrolimus. Further research is necessary to better understand this disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Forecasting the spread of invasive rainbow smelt in the Laurentian Great Lakes region of North America.
Rainbow smelt (Osmerus mordax) have invaded many North American lakes, often resulting in the extirpation of native fish populations. Yet, their invasion is incipient and provides the rationale for identifying ecosystems likely to be invaded and where management and prevention efforts should be focused. To predict smelt presence and absence, we constructed a classification-tree model based on habitat data from 354 lakes in the native range for smelt in southern Maine. Maximum lake depth, lake area, and Secchi depth (surrogate measure of lake productivity) were the most important predictors. We then used our model to identify lakes vulnerable to invasion in three regions outside the smelt's native range: northern Maine (52 of 244 lakes in the non-native range), Ontario (4447 of 8110), and Wisconsin (553 of 5164). We further identified a subset of lakes with a strong potential for impact (potential-impact lakes) based on the presence of fish species that are affected by rainbow smelt. Ninety-four percent of vulnerable lakes in the non-native range in Maine are also potential-impact lakes, as are 94% and 58% of Ontario and Wisconsin's vulnerable lakes, respectively. Our modeling approach can be applied to other invaders and regions to identify invasion-prone ecosystems, thus aiding in the management of invasive species and the efficient allocation of invasive species mitigation and prevention resources. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The cost of care homes for people with dementia in England: a modelling approach.
To examine the cost of care for people with dementia in institutional care settings, to understand the major cost drivers and to highlight opportunities for service development. Data on 277 residents with dementia in 16 UK residential or nursing homes were collected. We estimated care and support costs and fitted models to the data. Sensitivity analyses were also conducted. Care home residents cost £792 weekly: 95% of the costs accounted for by direct fees. Hospital contacts contributed the largest proportion of the additional costs. Having an established diagnosis of dementia (b = 0.070; p < 0.05) was associated with higher costs. No association was found between cost and needs (b = -0.002; p = 0.818). The absence of an association between cost and needs emphasizes the importance of a more needs-based costing system which could result in clinical and economic advantages. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) and Pneumocystis jirovecii carriage in renal transplantation patients: a single-centre experience.
The Pneumocystis pneumonia is an increasing problem in transplanted patients: up to 25% suffer from Pneumocystis pneumonia, occurring during the first 6 months after transplantation. From 2001 to 2009, we investigated 21 patients with pneumonia after renal transplantation for the presence of Pneumocystis jirovecii. The laboratory diagnosis was established by Grocott and Giemsa staining methods and Pneumocystis-specific mitochondrial transcribed large subunit nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR was also used for the differentiation of Pneumocystis pneumonia from Pneumocystis carriage. Of 21 patients, 7 had a Pneumocystis pneumonia, 6 were Pneumocystis carriers and 8 patients were negative. Four out of seven Pneumocystis pneumonia patients and two out of six patients with Pneumocystis carriage had a delayed graft function. An acute cytomegalovirus infection after transplantation was not detectable in the patients with Pneumocystis pneumonia, but in three patients with Pneumocystis carriage. Pneumocystis pneumonia was present in 33.3% of transplanted patients with suspected pneumonia. An association between acute rejection or co-infections and Pneumocystis pneumonia or carriage in patients after renal transplantation cannot be excluded. In three out of seven Pneumocystis pneumonia patients, an overlapping of hospitalisation times and an onset of Pneumocystis pneumonia 6 months after transplantation was found. Thus, person-to-person transmission seems probable in these cases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Arthritis critically dependent on innate immune system players.
K/BxN T cell receptor transgenic mice are a model of inflammatory arthritis, similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Disease in these animals is focused specifically on the joints but stems from autoreactivity to a ubiquitously expressed antigen, glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI). T and B cells are both required for disease initiation, but anti-GPI immunoglobulins (Igs), alone, can induce arthritis in lymphocyte-deficient recipients. Here, we show that the arthritogenic Igs act through both Fc receptors (in particular, FcgammaRIII) and the complement network (C5a). Surprisingly, the alternative pathway of complement activation is critical, while classical pathway components are entirely dispensable. We suggest that autoimmune disease, even one that is organ specific, can occur when mobilization of an adaptive immune response results in runaway activation of the innate response. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Developing health-promoting practice with families: one pedagogical experience.
As the significance of social determinants of health has been revealed and the socio-environmental perspective of health promotion has become prominent, family nurses have attempted to move away from disease-treatment models of practice towards emancipatory, health promoting practice. This paper describes a multidisciplinary team's pedagogical experience of developing emancipatory family health promoting practices. The discussion includes a description of the significant educational processes that supported the development of health promoting family practice and an outline of the transformative changes the team members experienced as they evolved their health promoting practices. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The relationship of fasting insulin levels to vascular risk factors in a general practice in Northern Ireland.
To investigate the relationship between insulin and vascular risk factors in a healthy male population at high risk of ischaemic heart disease. Computer-generated random number selection of subjects. A suburban general practice population (total practice population 4500) in Northern Ireland. Four hundred male subjects, aged 35-65 years, were randomly selected with 273 responding. At interview, each subject completed a questionnaire, had blood pressure measured and a 12-lead ECG recorded. The next morning, fasting blood samples were taken and a timed overnight urine collection for the albumin excretion rate was returned. To exclude the confounding effects of other variables on insulin concentrations, a healthy nonobese, nondiabetic, normotensive group with no history of ischaemic heart disease, no family history of diabetes and not taking drugs was identified (n = 120). Within this group there was a significant correlation between insulin and triglyceride (r = 0.30; P < 0.05), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (r = 0.24; P < 0.05) and glucose (r = 0.30; P < 0.05). A group with higher insulin levels (n = 22) were compared to a group with lower insulin levels (n = 22). Serum triglyceride was higher (1.29 +/- 0.1 vs. 1.00 +/- 0.08 mmol L-1; P < 0.05), HDL cholesterol was lower (1.26 +/- 0.06 vs. 1.50 +/- 0.09 mmol L-1; P < 0.05) and plasma glucose higher (5.2 +/- 0.1 vs. 4.9 +/- 0.1 mmol L-1; P < 0.05) in the group with higher insulin levels. There is a relationship between insulin and triglyceride, HDL cholesterol and glucose but not blood pressure, cholesterol or low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in a healthy population at high risk of ischaemic heart disease. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The use of biodegradable plates and screws to stabilize facial fractures.
The purpose of this preliminary retrospective study was to review the demographics and outcome of patients with a variety of facial fractures that were stabilized with PL bone plates and screws. The records of 295 consecutive patients with facial fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation, performed by the author from 2001 through 2004, were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were selected to receive biodegradable fixation on the basis of mechanism of injury, the degree of bony displacement demonstrated on clinical and radiographic examination, patient age, and fracture pattern or location. Outcome measures such as infection, non-union, and mal-union were identified and subjectively assessed. Descriptive statistics were recorded and analyzed. Two hundred eighty-one patients met the criteria for inclusion in the study with follow-up of 3 weeks to 3 years. Fifty-nine (21%) patients were identified as having received biodegradable plates and screws. All patients eventually went on to satisfactory healing with favorable restoration of form and function. Complications occurred in 16 patients overall (6%). Of these, 2 patients were treated with resorbable plates and screws; 1 patient with a zygomatico-maxillary complex fracture developed a sterile abscess that presented 1 year postoperatively and responded to local measures. Another patient with a Le Fort I fracture developed an anterior open bite necessitating Le Fort I osteotomy for correction. Favorable healing can be observed through the use of biodegradable PL plates and screws to stabilize selected midface fractures in patients of all ages, as well as mandible fractures in early childhood. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Extracellular proteolytic activation of bacteriolytic peptidoglycan hydrolases of Staphylococcus simulans biovar staphylolyticus.
Staphylococcus simulans biovar staphylolyticus secreted two bacteriolytic peptidoglycan hydrolases as proproteins that were activated as they were processed by an extracellular sulphydryl protease. This processing resulted in the production of multiple molecular-mass forms of each enzyme. Cells from early exponential phase cultures were susceptible to lysis by the mature forms of each of the peptidoglycan hydrolases whereas stationary phase cells were resistant. Thus secretion of these bacteriolytic enzymes during early exponential growth as precursors that are activated later by the protease would provide time for the cells to become resistant. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Stapedoplasty in patients with small air-bone gap: why not?
Otosclerosis is a primary osteodystrophy which affects a localized area within the human temporal bone. Hearing loss is the most functional deficit caused by otosclerosis. However, tinnitus and vestibular disorders are frequently reported by otosclerotic patients, especially in those patients with inner ear involvement. The best therapy in achieving a significant improvement is surgery (stapedoplasty). In most patients if the operation is not carried out for pure middle ear type, the hearing impairment can progress to high-degree hearing loss. Recently, guidelines for the treatment of otosclerosis reported the 20 dbHL threshold as the minimum air-bone gap in performing stapedoplasty. We believe that stapedoplasty is an effective procedure for selected patients affected by otosclerosis with an air-bone gap which is smaller than 20 dbHL. An operation in the earlier phases of the disease can arrest the progression of otosclerosis, preserve inner ear structures and provide a complete auditory recovery, with increased satisfaction of the patient. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Further study of immuno-correcting properties of vitamins A and E in experimental chronic alcoholic intoxication].
The experiments conducted on guinea pigs have shown that chronic alcohol poisoning induced by daily oral intake of 1 ml of 25% ethanol solution during a month has brought to suppression of the T-system immunity. Vitamin A used during 3 days in a dose of 30,000 IU results in partial normalization of the immunological parameters, while vitamin E given during 3 days in a dose of 50 IU provides absolute normalization of the immune status. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
p53-independent activation of the hdm2-P2 promoter through multiple transcription factor response elements results in elevated hdm2 expression in estrogen receptor alpha-positive breast cancer cells.
The negative-regulatory feedback loop between p53 and hdm2 forms part of a finely balanced regulatory network of proteins that controls cell cycle progression and commitment to apoptosis. Expression of hdm2, and its mouse orthologue mdm2, is known to be induced by p53, but recent evidence has demonstrated mdm2 expression can also be regulated via p53-independent pathways. However the p53 independent mechanisms that control transcription of the human hdm2 gene have not been studied. Differential levels of hdm2 mRNA and protein expression have been reported in several types of human malignancy, including breast cancers in which hdm2 expression correlates with positive estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) status. Experimental models have demonstrated that hdm2 overexpression can promote breast cancer development. Here, we show that the elevated level of hdm2 protein in ERalpha(+ve) breast cancer cell lines such as MCF-7 and T47D is because of transcription from the p53-inducible P2 promoter of hdm2. The P2 promoter is inactive in ERalpha(-ve) cell lines such as SKBr3. Hdm2-P2 promoter activity in T47D cells is independent of p53, as well as of known regulators of the mouse mdm2-P2 promoter, including ERalpha and ras-raf-mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. We show that hdm2-P2 activity in T47D cells is dependent on the integrity of both an evolutionarily conserved composite binding site for AP1 and ETS family transcription factors (AP1-ETS) and a nonconserved upstream (nnGGGGC)(5) repeat sequence. Lack of hdm2-P2 activity in ERalpha(-ve) cells is shown to be a consequence of reduced transcriptional activation through the AP1-ETS element. Overexpression of ETS2 in SKBr3 cells reconstitutes AP1-ETS element-dependent hdm2-P2 promoter activity, resulting in increased levels of hdm2 protein in the cells. Our findings support the hypothesis that the elevated levels of hdm2 expression reported in cancers such as ERalpha(+ve) breast tumors play an important role in the development of these tumors. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Cryopreservation of persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) by vitrification of dormant shoot tips.
Shoot tips excised from dormant axillary buds of persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) were cryopreserved by vitrification. These excised shoot tips were dehydrated in a highly concentrated vitrification solution for 20 min at 25°C and then plunged directly into liquid nitrogen. After rapid warming in water at 40°C, the shoot tips were rinsed in a 1.2 M sucrose solution for 20 min and then plated on a solidified culture medium. Successfully vitrified shoot tips resumed growth within 10 days of plating and developed shoots within 3 weeks without intermediary callus formation. This simple protocol was successfully applied to the 16 cultivars found in the temperate zone. The average rate of shoot formation was 89%. Even the subtropical species of Diospyros demonstrated a very high recovery growth when the shoot tips had been previously osmoprotected with a mixture of 2 M glycerol plus 0.4 M sucrose for 20 min following sucrose preculture. Little or no contamination occurred in the cryopreserved shoot tips excised from sterilized winter axillary buds. Thus, this simple and reliable vitrification protocol using dormant shoot tips appears to be promising as a routine method for the long-term conservation of Diospyros germplasm of both temperate and subtropical origins. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Case of bilateral pulmonary dystrophy operated on at the Dakar General Hospital].
The authors report one case of large bullous dystrophia of both lungs. It was operated in two phases at the hospital Principal, Dakar, Senegal. They emphasize the technics of anesthesia by thoracic high epidural block, surgical technics. They also point out the clinical improvement, as results of respiratory functional exploration did prove it. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
A review of tinnitus symptoms beyond 'ringing in the ears': a call to action.
Tinnitus, often referred to as 'ringing in the ears', is highly prevalent. However, patients may also present with a number of other symptoms. To review the broad range of symptoms of tinnitus, to evaluate their impact on patient quality of life and to explore methods of diagnosis and assessment. An electronic literature search was performed in PubMed between September and December 2010. Accumulating evidence suggests that the symptoms of tinnitus are not confined to the characteristic 'ringing in the ears', but instead encompass wide-ranging symptoms that include emotional components such as sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression, irritation, and concentration difficulties. Patients with tinnitus experience a spectrum of distressing symptoms that impact their quality of life and there is a clear need for action. Clinicians need to recognize and diagnose tinnitus that occurs with other wide-ranging symptoms to ensure that these symptoms are identified and patients receive effective treatment. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Radical cystectomy for pT1 urothelial carcinoma of bladder not amenable to TURBT: Long-term results.
This study sought to identify factors associated with survival of pT1 urothelial carcinoma of bladder (UCB) after radical cystectomy (RC). This study consists of 114 pT1 UCB [primary 83, recurrent 31, none were amenable to transurethral resection (TUR)] treated by radical cystectomy. Survival analysis using Cox regression tests were performed to identify factors associated with survival of pT1 UCB after RC. Pelvic lymph node (LN) status, age and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) are associated with survival of pT1 UCB after RC; recurrent pT1 UCB of high grade origin (HGO) tends to have poorer CSS than primary pT1 UCB or recurrent pT1 UCB of low grade origin (LGO) (5-year and 10-year CSS rates was 75% and 73% for primary cases; 77% and 77% for recurrent pT1 UCB of LGO; and 56% and 37% for recurrent pT1 UCB of HGO, p = 0.078). LN status, age and LVI were significantly associated with survival of pT1 UCB after RC. Recurrent pT1 UCB of HGO should be managed with radical cystectomy in a timely fashion given that these cases tend to have poorer CSS than primary pT1 UCB after RC, even if they did not progress to muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Selective iNOS-inhibition does not influence apoptosis in ruptured canine cranial cruciate ligaments.
Abnormal patterns of cell death, including increased apoptosis, can influence homeostasis of ligaments and could be involved in the pathogenesis of cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture. Increased nitric oxide (NO) production has been implicated as a stimulus to increased apoptosis in articular cartilage. This study investigated apoptotic cell death in ruptured canine CCL (CCL group, n = 15), in ruptured CCL of dogs treated with oral L-N6-(1-iminoethyl)-lysine (L-NIL), a selective NO-synthetase(NOS)-inhibitor, (L-NIL group, n = 15) and compared the results with normal canine CCL (control group, n = 10). Orally administered L-NIL at a dosage of 25mg/m2 of body surface area was effective in inhibiting NO production in the articular cartilage of dogs in the L-NIL group, but it did not significantly influence the increased quantity of apoptotic cells found in ruptured CCL specimens. The results of this study suggest that apoptosis of ligamentocytes in the canine CCL is not primarily influenced by increased NO production within the stifle joint. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Determining responsibility for smoking in society: accountability continuum for Jordanian college students and its implication on FCTC implementation.
As one of the first countries to ratify the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, Jordan has signaled an interest in stronger anti-tobacco restrictions. This study examines whether Jordanian students believe smoking is an individual right or a social issue, and if they would support more stringent policies and enforcement. Undergraduate Jordanian students (n = 1211) from public and private universities completed the survey. Never smokers scored significantly higher on smoking being a social issue that required public policy response (p-value < .001); whereas smokers scored significantly higher with all individual right items. Ample opportunity exists for developing and enforcing stronger tobacco policies both on college campus and generally in the country. However, increasing tobacco taxes may need to be preceded by health communication campaigns that increase knowledge of the effectiveness of the tobacco tax in reducing use and resultant premature deaths. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analysis of cDNA microarray images.
Microarrays are part of a new class of biotechnologies that allow the monitoring of expression levels for thousands of genes simultaneously. Image analysis is an important aspect of microarray experiments, one that can have a potentially large impact on subsequent analyses, such as clustering or the identification of differentially expressed genes. This paper reviews a number of existing image analysis methods used on cDNA microarray data. In particular, it describes and discusses the different segmentation and background adjustment methods. It was found that in some cases background adjustment can substantially reduce the precision--that is, increase the variability of low-intensity spot values. In contrast, the choice of segmentation procedure seems to have a smaller impact. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Analytical approach for the determination of steroid profile of humans by gas chromatography isotope ratio mass spectrometry aimed at distinguishing between endogenous and exogenous steroids.
The contamination of commonly used supplements by unknown steroids as well as their metabolites (parent compounds) become a challenge for the analytical laboratories. Although the determination of steroids profile is not trivial because of the complex matrix and low concentration of single compound, one of the most difficult current problem is to distinguish, during analytical procedure, endogenous androgens such as testosterone, dehydrotestosterone or dehydroepiandrosterone from their synthetic equivalents. The aim of this work was to develop and validate an analytical procedure for determination of the steroid profile in human urine by gas chromatography-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS) toward distinguishing between endogenous and exogenous steroids. Beside the optimization of the experimental parameters for gas chromatography separation and mass spectrometry, attention was focused on urine sample preparation. Using an optimized sample preparation protocol it was possible to achieve better chromatographic resolutions and better sensitivity enabling the determination of 5 steroids, androsterone, etiocholanolone, testosterone, 5-androstandiol, 11-hydroxyandrdostane, pregnandiol, with the expanded uncertainty (k=2) below 1‰. This enable to evaluate the significant shift of the δ(13)C/(12)C [‰] values for each of examined steroids (excluding ERC). The analytical protocol described in this work was successfully used for the confirmation of positive founding urine by evaluation T/E ratio after GC/C/IRMS analysis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Investigation of peptoid chiral stationary phases varied in absolute configuration.
Based on chiral N-(1-phenylethyl) glycines, a series of peptoid chiral stationary phases (CSPs) terminated with achiral alkyl group (diisopropyl, t-butyl or n-butyl) and varied in absolute configuration of selector were investigated with nine axially chiral analytes. It is very interesting to observe that selectors with heterogeneous configuration form, such as S-R-R, S-R-S, S-S-R, generally performed better than S-S-S selectors. Moreover, longer S-R-S-R-S selector did not outperform the S-R-S one obviously, with several separations declined. In addition to the result that the elution order of most enantiomers depends on the asymmetric center adjacent to the terminus of selector, we presume that the moieties around this chiral center are the most important absorbing sites for chiral discrimination; the terminal group and other chiral blocks in selector may assist enantiorecognition by constructing appropriate conformation. Various terminal alkyl groups also resulted in a few differences in enantioselectivity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Contemporary Approaches to Patients with Heart Failure.
Incident heart failure and the burden of hospitalization may be demonstrating a decline. However, as the population ages, the prevalence of heart failure continues to increase. Mortality among heart failure patients is increasingly due to non-cardiovascular causes. Current evidence-based therapy for heart failure has improved heart failure related mortality. Current efforts should be directed toward optimizing evidence based medical and device therapy, reducing morbidity, and increasing quality of life with heart failure. Future clinical trials should focus on therapies for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, regenerative therapy for heart failure, and optimizing durable mechanical support for end-stage heart failure. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
New invariant of DNA sequence based on 3DD-curves and its application on phylogeny.
The Z_inv, a new invariant based on 3DD-curves of DNA sequence, which is simple for calculation and it approximates to the leading eigenvalues of the matrix associated with DNA sequence. The utility of our invariant is illustrated on the DNA sequence of 11 species. In this study, we use the Z_inv to analyze the phylogenetic relationships for the seven HA (H5N1) sequences of avian influenza virus. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Three-Dimensional Volume Imaging in Gynecology.
3D ultrasound imaging of the female pelvis is one of the most important recent advances in diagnostic imaging. Volume acquisitions can provide a large number of images of the pelvic organs simultaneously and in any plane or orientation desired. The coronal plane of the uterus is only visible when reconstructed from a volume and is key to imaging the uterus for indications such as uterine anomalies, IUD positioning, locations of fibroids and polyps, or early pregnancies. 3D ultrasonography has huge potential for evaluating infertile patients, performing difficult procedures under guidance, and studying patients with abnormal uterine bleeding, hydrosalpinges, and cancer. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
California regonal regstered nurse workforce report card.
Various reports and opinion papers have offered suggestions to alleviate the national and California RN shortages. The methodology of using the report card concept for comparing the number of RN jobs per 100,000 populations regionally with the national database further highlights the severe shortage of RN's in various regions in California. This report card method may potentially be used as a planning or forecasting tool, as well as a monitoring tool to initiate workforce development strategies and projects, and to evaluate their effectiveness over time. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Chromosomal distribution of disease genes in the human genome.
Genes are nonrandomly distributed in the human genome, both within and between chromosomes. Thus, genes of similar function and common evolutionary origin are often clustered, as are genes with similar expression profiles. We now report that the >2400 genes known to underlie human monogenic inherited disease are non-randomly distributed in the genome over and above the general nonrandomness evident in the distribution of human genes. Further, a subset of 315 inherited disease genes subject to gross deletion was found to exhibit a degree of clustering that was twice that manifested by disease genes in general. The clustering of human disease genes is likely to have important implications for understanding the genotype-phenotype relationship in contiguous gene syndromes as well as those conditions characterized by multigene deletions or complex chromosomal rearrangements. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Resolution of conflicting assignments for the bovine casein kinase II alpha (CSNK2A2) gene.
The casein kinase II alpha' gene (CSNK2A2), which physically maps to human chromosome 16 (HSA16), has previously been mapped to bovine chromosome 5 (BTA5). Based on these results, a new segment of homology between the human and bovine genomes was suggested. In this paper we demonstrate linkage between CSNK2A2 and several markers on BTA18. Our result is supported by the extensive conservation of synteny between HSA16q and BTA18. Bovine chromosome 18 markers used in this study included several microsatellites, as well as the MC1R gene previously mapped to HSA16q24.3. Sequencing of the PCR-fragment mapped to BTA5 reveals that a CSNK-like retroposon was responsible for the conflicting assignments. The present results further extend the observed conservation of synteny between HSA16q and BTA18. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Characterization of a Vero cell-adapted virulent strain of enterovirus 71 suitable for use as a vaccine candidate.
Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is a neurotrophic virus that causes seasonal morbidity and mortality in children throughout the world with increasing frequency in recent years. Because of the lack of an effective antiviral agent, primary prevention, including the development of effective vaccines, is a top priority in terms of control strategies. Poliovirus vaccine technology, both live attenuated and inactivated, killed virus vaccines, can be adopted for use with EV71 because of their relatedness. In this study, we have characterized a laboratory-adapted EV71 strain, YN3-4a, which exhibits different characteristics from those of its parent isolate, neu, in having a rapid growth rate in Vero cells, a larger plaque size, and a lower LD(50) in newborn mice. The YN3-4a can be produced at a high viral titer of up to 10(10) tissue culture infective dose (TCID(50)) when grown in Vero cells, an approved substrate for virus vaccine production. Mouse antiserum raised against YN3-4a can neutralize a broad range of strains of EV71 isolated at different times from a variety of geographic regions. On passage in Vero cells, YN3-4a remained genetically and phenotypically stable. Many of the above-described features, such as high viral yield, strong immunogenicity, broad-based antigenic coverage, and passage stability, are desirable features in a prototype virus for the development of an inactivated viral vaccine. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Effects of hypoxia on noradrenaline release and neuronal reuptake in isolated rabbit thoracic aortic strips.
To clarify the effects of hypoxia on stimulus-evoked noradrenaline release and on neuronal reuptake of the released noradrenaline, we examined the effects of hypoxia on contraction responses of rabbit thoracic aortic strips to transmural electrical stimulation and on the stimulation-evoked overflow of total [3H] and [3H]noradrenaline from the strips prelabelled with [3H]noradrenaline. This was done in the presence or absence of an inhibitor of neuronal uptake (cocaine). In a medium equilibrated with a gas mixture of 95% O2/5% CO2 (control), cocaine doubled the stimulation-evoked overflow of total [3H] and [3H]noradrenaline; there was a concomitant increase (130%) in contractions to electrical stimulation. At 0% O2 (95% N2/5% CO2, hypoxia), cocaine had no significant effects on either the stimulation-evoked overflow of total [3H] and [3H]noradrenaline or contractions. In the absence of the drug, hypoxia decreased the stimulation-evoked overflow of total [3H] and [3H]noradrenaline to 47% and 43%, respectively, of the control values, whereas these values were 31% and 28%, respectively, after exposure to cocaine. The inhibition by hypoxia of contraction responses to electrical stimulation was greater in the presence of cocaine than in its absence. These results show that hypoxia inhibits both noradrenaline release evoked by a given stimulus and neuronal uptake. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Use of the vascular pedicle of a previously transferred muscle as the recipient vessel for a subsequent vascularized bone flap.
In six complex lower extremity defects, we have been able to reconstruct combined bone and soft-tissue defects with primary free-muscle transfer, followed by secondary free vascularized bone transfer. Indications for this technique are long segmental bone defects of the tibia associated with large soft-tissue defects, which are not suitable for one-stage composite bone and soft tissue transfer. In the first stage of reconstruction, a well-vascularized muscle flap is used to obliterate the soft-tissue defect to prevent infection. At the second stage, a fibula osteocutaneous flap from the contralateral leg is used to complete the reconstruction. The vascular pedicle of the first muscle flap surrounded by fibrofatty cuff, serves as the recipient vessels free of scar at the time of the second vascularized bone transfer. This method provides great advantages in two-stage free-flap reconstruction of complicated cases in which localization of suitable recipient vessel is technically difficult. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Aeromonas hydrophila AH-3 AexT is an ADP-ribosylating toxin secreted through the type III secretion system.
We cloned and sequenced an ADP-ribosylating toxin (AexT) from a mesophilic Aeromonas hydrophila strain AH-3 with a type III secretion system (T3SS). This toxin only showed homology, in genes and proteins, with the first half of A. salmonicida AexT. The A. hydrophila AexT showed ADP-ribosyltransferase activity, translocation through the T3SS system, and this A. hydrophila T3SS system is inducible under calcium-depleted conditions. The A. hydrophila aexT mutant showed a slight reduction in their virulence assayed by several methods when compared to the wild-type strain, while an A. hydrophila T3SS mutant is highly reduced in virulence on the same assays. The A. hydrophila AexT is the first described and the smallest T3SS effector toxin found in mesophilic Aeromonas with a functional T3SS. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Parabrachial nuclear complex in the rat (nuclei parabrachiales and nucleus Koelliker-Fuse). Detailed cytoarchitectonic division and connections compared.
Cresyl violet- and thionin-stained sections of the rat brain stem were used to study the cytoarchitectonics of the parabrachial nuclear complex consisting of nuclei parabrachiales and ncl. Koelliker-Fuse. As suggested by comparisons of the cytoarchitectonic structure and connections, the parabrachial nuclei can be divided into the following independent subnuclei: dorsalis (D), dorsomedialis (DM), dorsolateralis (DL), interstitialis (I), lateralis (L), ventralis (Ve) and medialis (M). According to conventional nomenclature, D, DM, DL, I and L are parts of ncl. parabrachialis lateralis (or dorsalis), while M and Ve belong in the ncl. parabrachialis medialis (or ventralis). Cytoarchitectonically, the Koelliker-Fuse nucleus can be divided into the pars oralis and pars caudalis. The cytoarchitectonic division and the position of afferent cells for specific target structures are in very good agreement while permitting comparisons of experimental findings in different animals with differently formed subnuclei. In the Discussion section, the hitherto known connections of the parabrachial nuclei complex are cross-referred to the relevant subnuclei. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Orbital emphysema with exophthalmos following transconjunctival pars plana vitrectomy].
The case example presented shows that an orbital emphysema with exophthalmos can occur as a rare complication of a transconjunctival pars plana vitrectomy. Close monitoring of the patient symptoms, ocular motility, intraocular pressure and the fundus showed no evidence of compressive optic neuropathy or perfusion abnormalities through orbital vessels. The exophthalmos resolved spontaneously within a few days without any consequences. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Selection for eight-week body weight in two randombred chicken populations under altered water to feed ratios. 1. Selection responses.
A study was conducted to investigate the response to selection for 8-wk BW under selection environments that utilized different dietary salt levels to alter water to feed ratios. The Athens-Canadian (AC) and Athens Randombreds (ARB) served as base populations. A broiler diet consisting of 23% CP and 3,120 kcal of ME/kg was modified to contain .2, .4, and 1.6% dietary salt. Chicks from the AC and ARB populations were divided within full-sib families into three groups, with one group assigned to each of the three dietary salt selection environments. Individual phenotypic selection was conducted within the six lines for high 8-wk BW for six generations with unselected randombred controls included in each generation to measure environmental variation. No differences in 8-wk BW were observed among the three salt selection environments. Lines derived from the ARB population were initially approximately 75 g larger than those derived from the AC population. However, when BW were expressed as percentage deviation from the control in the sixth generation, selection response patterns were similar (AC lines, 28 to 32%; ARB lines, 32 to 36%). These data indicated that selection for 8-wk BW was as effective under high- and low-salt diets as under a normal-salt diet. Realized heritabilities, following correction for environmental variation, ranged from .38 to .46. Failure to correct for environmental variation resulted in large fluctuations in heritabilities across generations. These data provide strong support for inclusion of controls to accurately measure the heritability of BW in selection studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Too high for transplantation? Single-center analysis of the lung allocation score.
Recent studies using United Network for Organ Sharing data suggest that lung transplantation in patients with high lung allocation scores (LAS) may lead to organ and resource wastage. Therefore, to determine whether a LAS cutoff value should be considered, we evaluated the relation of LAS to waitlist and posttransplant mortality in our center to determine if it could identify patients for whom listing for transplantation may be futile. From May 1, 2005 to July 1, 2010, 537 adults were listed and 426 underwent primary lung transplantation at our institution. Endpoints were mortality before and after lung transplantation. The relationships of LAS at listing to waitlist mortality and of pretransplant LAS to posttransplant mortality were both analyzed by multiphase hazard function methodology. Higher LAS was strongly associated with waitlist mortality (p<0.0001), with the highest quartile (LAS ranging from 47 to 95) experiencing 75% mortality within a year of listing. Although early (p=0.05), but not late (p=0.4), posttransplant survival was associated with higher LAS at transplantation, once other clinical characteristics predictive of early mortality were accounted for, neither waitlist nor pretransplant LAS was independently related to posttransplant mortality (p=0.12). Higher LAS strongly predicts higher mortality on the lung transplantation waitlist, underscoring the value of LAS in prioritizing patients with the highest scores for transplantation. Early posttransplant mortality is modestly higher with higher pretransplant LAS, but the data of our center do not suggest a value above which transplantation should be denied as futile. This suggests that donor organs and resources are not being wasted. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Cancer of the thoracic esophagus. Therapeutic strategy].
Out of 100 patients with oesophageal carcinoma, 39 will have the tumour resected, 26 will survive the operation, and only 4 will be alive after 5 years. Although surgical resection is the best treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, new trends in pre-operative chemotherapy should provide better results. A therapeutic regimen based on data from the literature and on personal experience is suggested as neoadjuvant chemotherapy in operable and in nonsurgical tumours. Operability should be re-evaluated after 2 courses of chemotherapy according to response rate. Surgical possibilities and post-operative treatment depend on this response. Surgical procedures and the indications of surgery are described. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Ataxic hemiparesis: neurophysiological analysis by cerebellar transcranial magnetic stimulation.
The aim of this study was to investigate physiological mechanisms underlying ataxia in patients with ataxic hemiparesis. Subjects were three patients with ataxic hemiparesis, whose responsible lesion was located at the posterior limb of internal capsule (case 1), thalamus (case 2), or pre- and post-central gyri (case 3). Paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technique was used to evaluate connectivity between the cerebellum and contralateral motor cortex. The conditioning cerebellar stimulus was given over the cerebellum and the test stimulus over the primary motor cortex. We studied how the conditioning stimulus modulated motor evoked potentials (MEPs) to the cortical test stimulus. In non-ataxic limbs, the cerebellar stimulus normally suppressed cortical MEPs. In ataxic limbs, the cerebellar inhibition was not elicited in patients with a lesion at the posterior limb of internal capsule (case 1) or thalamus (case 2). In contrast, normal cerebellar inhibition was elicited in the ataxic limb in a patient with a lesion at sensori-motor cortex (case 3). Lesions at the internal capsule and thalamus involved the cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathways and reduced the cerebellar suppression effect. On the other hand, a lesion at the pre- and post-central gyri should affect cortico-pontine pathway but not involve the cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathways. This lack of cerebello-talamo-cortical pathway involvement may explain normal suppression in this patient. The cerebellar TMS method can differentiate cerebellar efferent ataxic hemiparesis from cerebellar afferent ataxic hemiparesis. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Reduction of soliton phase jitter by in-line phase conjugation.
The main impairment of differential-phase-shift-keyed communication systems is phase jitter. Noise-induced phase jitter, which is mediated by self-phase modulation, can be reduced significantly by a small number of in-line phase conjugators. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Development and validation of a sequential-injection method with chemiluminescence detection for the high throughput assay of the total antioxidant capacity of wines.
This work reports a sequential-injection analysis (SIA) method with chemiluminescence (CL) detection for the rapid assay of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in wines. The method exploited the Co(II)-catalysed CL reaction of luminol with hydrogen peroxide in alkaline medium. Zones of sample, hydrogen peroxide, catalyst (Co(II) solution) and alkaline luminol were sequentially aspirated into the holding coil of the SIA manifold. Then, the flow was reversed and the stacked zones were directed to the CL detector. As the zones overlapped, antioxidants in the samples scavenged a portion of hydrogen peroxide and the decrease in the CL intensity was monitored and related to the TAC. The chemical and geometric conditions were studied and the method was validated in terms of linearity, accuracy (trueness and precision), matrix effects, signal additivity and robustness. The reproducibility of the method (expressed as the between-days % relative standard deviation) was between 2.5 and 3.4% and the trueness (expressed as the % recovery in wines spiked with gallic acid) was in the range 96.7-97.3%. The sampling frequency was 60 samples h(-1). The proposed SIA-CL method was compared with the DPPH method and the Folin-Ciocalteau (FC) method for the analysis of 25 wine samples. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Investigations of interferon and oligo-2',5'-adenylate systems in endogenous uveitis].
The interferon (IFN) and oligo-2',5'-adenylate (2-5A) systems were investigated in endogenous uveitis. It was shown that oligo-2',5'-adenylate synthetase (2-5AS) activities of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were significantly increased in Behcet's disease (P less than 0.01), Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada's disease (VKH disease, P less than 0.01), and sarcoidosis (P less than 0.01) compared with those in controls. In order to investigate the effect of cyclosporin A (Cy A) on IFN systems in Behcet's disease, 2-5AS activities of PBL from 2 patients under Cy A therapy (10 mg/kg/day) were examined. The enzyme activities were high before treatment in both patients, but the activities were suppressed after treatment. The effect of Cy A on the production of IFN by PBL in vitro was also examined. IFN synthesis was markedly suppressed by Cy A in patients and controls. The effect of corticosteroids on IFN and 2-5A systems in VKH disease was studied. Two patients were given 200 mg of prednisolone with gradual tapering. Activities of 2-5AS of PBL from patients were high before treatment, and they were markedly suppressed after prednisolone treatment. The serum IFN, 2-5AS activities of PBL and the synthesis of IFN in vitro were examined in one patient who was given pulse methylprednisolone therapy. The serum IFN and 2-5AS activity of PBL were suppressed by this therapy. The production of IFN-alpha induced by herpes simplex virus and IFN-gamma induced by staphylococcal enterotoxin A and OK-432 were greatly suppressed. These results suggest that the IFN and 2-5A systems in endogenous uveitis play some significant role in the immunopathophysiology of these diseases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Changes of axial length measured by IOL master during 2 years in eyes of adults with pathologic myopia.
To examine the change of the axial length measured by IOL Master in adults with high myopia during a 2-year period. Open-label, consecutive, prospective longitudinal case series. One hundred and eighty-five eyes of 185 consecutive patients with bilateral high myopia (myopia ≤ -6 diopters (D) or axial length ≥ 26.5 mm) were studied. The mean age of the patients was 48.4 ± 12.2 years, with a range of 22 to 84 years. The axial length, the anterior chamber depth, and the radius of curvature of the cornea were measured by IOL Master at the initial examination and at 2 years after the first visit. The significance of the changes in the axial length after the 2-year periods was determined. Multiple regression analyses were performed to identify the factors which were significantly associated with the increase of the axial length. The mean axial length increased significantly from 29.35 ± 1.80 mm to 29.48 ± 1.85 mm in 2 years, a mean increase of 0.13 mm with a range of -0.12 to 1.10 mm. The difference in the increase of the axial length between the patients with and without a posterior staphyloma was not significant. Among the possible explanatory factors, age, axial length, anterior chamber depth, the radius of curvature of the cornea, and intraocular pressure at the initial examination, the increase in the axial length was significantly and positively correlated with the axial length at the initial examination. The measurement by IOL Master in a large population of highly myopic patients clearly showed that the axial length continued to increase in a span of 2 years even in the 4th decade of life. The eyes with longer axial length showed a greater increase of axial length, suggesting the possibility that the more myopic eyes become more myopic with increasing age. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Improved visualisation of real-time recordings during third generation cryoballoon ablation: a comparison between the novel short-tip and the second generation device.
The third-generation Cryoballoon Advance Short-tip (CB-ST) has been designed with a 40 % shortened tip length compared with the former second generation CB advance device (CB-A). Ideally, a shorter tip should permit an improved visualisation of real-time recordings in the pulmonary vein (PV) due to a more proximal positioning of the inner lumen mapping catheter. We sought to compare the incidence of visualisation of real-time recordings in patients having undergone ablation with the CB-ST with patients having received CB-A ablation. All patients having undergone CB ablation using CB-ST technology and the last 500 consecutive patients having undergone CB-A ablation were analysed. Exclusion criteria were the presence of an intracavitary thrombus, uncontrolled heart failure, moderate or severe valvular disease, and contraindications to general anaesthesia. A total of 600 consecutive patients (58.1 ± 12.9 years, 64 % males) were evaluated (100 CB-ST and 500 CB-A ablations). Real-time recordings were significantly more prevalent in the CB-ST population compared with CB-A group (85.7 vs 67.2 %, p < 0.0001). Real-time recordings could be more frequently visualised in the CB-ST group in all types of veins (LSPV 89 vs 73.4 %, p = 0.0005; LIPV 84 vs 65.6 %, p = 0.0002; RSPV 87 vs 67.4 %, p < 0.0001; RIPV 83 vs 62.4 %, p < 0.0001). The rate of visualisation of real-time recordings is significantly higher during third-generation CB-ST ablation if compared to the second-generation CB-A device. Real-time recordings can be visualised in approximately 85.7 % of veins with this novel cryoballoon. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Simultaneous lesions of the rotator cuff and the brachial plexus].
A simultaneous lesion of the rotator cuff can be associated with a lesion of the brachial plexus and should be considered when treating the lesion of the brachial plexus. The author assesses the value of isolated rotator cuff repair. 22 patients presented a rotator cuff tear associated with axillary nerve palsy. All of these lesions were traumatic in origin and in 20 cases were secondary to anterior shoulder dislocation. The clinical presentation was that of a "floating shoulder" with a reduction of the scapulo-humeral angle when attempting to elevate the arm. This differed from a pseudo-paralytic shoulder due to massive rotator cuff tear in which the scapulo-humeral angle remains open and from isolated paralysis of the deltoid in which active elevation of the arm is possible due to the intact rotator cuff. All of the patients had surgical repair of the rotator tear without any procedures on the deltoid. The delay from accident to surgery was on the average 65 days (range: 7 days to 9.5 months). 22 cases were followed for an average of 25 months (range: 12 to 45 months). 20 of the 22 cases recovered an active elevation of the arm of 120 degrees despite persistent deltoid paralysis in four cases. Our results show that the rotator cuff, especially the supraspinatus constitutes the main "motor" for shoulder elevation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
In vitro effects of Crotalus durissus terrificus and Bothrops jararaca venoms on Giardia duodenalis trophozoites.
Considering the snake venoms' pharmacological properties and chemotherapeutic potential as well as the need for new alternatives for Giardia infection treatment, the present study was carried out aiming to evaluate the in vitro effects of crude Crotalus durissus terrificus and Bothrops jararaca venoms on the growth and adherence of Giardia duodenalis trophozoites. Trophozoites (10(6)) were exposed to serial twofold dilutions of C. durissus terrificus and B. jararaca venoms that ranged from 3.125 to 200 microg/ml and from 5 to 320 microg/ml, respectively. The two venoms inhibited the growth of trophozoites, and the level of inhibition varied according to the assayed concentrations and incubation times. The highest reduction of parasite growth was observed with increasing concentrations of the venoms. No effect on parasite adherence was observed. Light microscope observations revealed changes of the pear-shape aspect of the cell and reduction of flagellar beating frequency in the great part of the trophozoites. This is the first attempt to evaluate the in vitro effects of snake venoms on Giardia trophozoites. The findings stress the need for more investigations and prompt us to perform further studies to identify active principles with antigiardial effect. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The human blastocyst: morphology and human chorionic gonadotrophin secretion in vitro.
Micromanipulation of human oocytes and embryos has provided new opportunities for both the treatment of infertility and the preimplantation diagnosis of genetic disease. It is important to determine whether manipulated embryos develop normally in vitro, as an indication of their suitability for transfer. However, at present there is little information on the development of non-manipulated embryos in vitro for comparison. We have therefore monitored morphological changes and human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) secretion in 36 non-manipulated human embryos, including 26 blastocysts and 10 cavitating morulae, daily from day 3 to day 14 of culture. Hatching was observed in 10 (38.5%) blastocysts and five of these adhered to the culture dish and appeared viable until day 14. The secretion of HCG was first detected on day 8, peaked at day 10 (51.11 +/- 8.7 mIU/ml) and then declined but was still detectable in four blastocysts on day 14. There was no overall difference in HCG secretion by hatched blastocysts and those which remained within the zona. However, those hatched blastocysts which showed adherence had significantly increased (P less than 0.05) HCG secretion. For individual blastocysts, the pattern of HCG secretion correlated well with the assessment of morphology. These data provide the basis for comparative studies of morphological changes and HCG secretion in manipulated embryos. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Meteorological factors and ambient bacterial levels in a subtropical urban environment.
We conducted a study to investigate the characteristics and determinants of ambient bacteria in Taipei, Taiwan from August 2004 to March 2005. We monitored ambient culturable bacteria in Shin-Jhuang City, an urban area in the Taipei metropolitan areas, using duplicate Burkard Portable Air Samplers with R2A agar. The average concentration of total bacteria was 1,986 colony-forming units per cubic meter of air (CFU/m(3)) (median = 780 CFU/m(3)) over the study period, with the highest level in autumn. Most bacterial taxa had similar seasonal variation, with higher concentrations in autumn and winter. During the study period, Gram negative rods and cocci were predominant. Multivariate analyses indicated that wind speed and wind direction significantly influenced ambient bacterial distribution. Temperature and relative humidity were also important environmental factors positively associated with ambient bacterial concentrations. We observed statistically significant relationships between ambient bacteria and air pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO(2)), ozone, particulate matter (aerodynamic diameter ≤10 μm (PM(10))), methane and total hydrocarbons. The concentrations of methane and total hydrocarbons during the previous day were positively associated with total bacteria and Gram negative rods, respectively. Ozone level on the previous day had a negative relationship with Gram negative cocci. SO(2) level with a 3-day lag was positively correlated with concentrations of both total bacteria and Gram negative cocci. In the future, more longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the relationships and possible mechanisms between ambient bacteria and meteorological factors, as well as to evaluate the ecological and health impacts of ambient bacteria. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Limits of reproducibility of cross-sectional echocardiographic measurements of left ventricular muscle mass.
The total intrinsic variability of echocardiographically determined left ventricular muscle mass was evaluated in this study. Cross-sectional left ventricular echocardiograms were made in 13 normal volunteers (8 men, 5 women), ages 31 to 41 years (mean 36) with an interval period of about eleven months. We used the parasternal long axis view, the short axis view at the papillary muscle level and the four-chamber view from the apex. M-mode recordings were made from the parasternal long-axis view. Left ventricular muscle mass from M-mode recordings was calculated using a simple cube formula and from cross-sectional echo cardiography with an area-length formula. The reproducibility of the left ventricular muscle mass for the methods was respectively 10 +/- 6% and 5 +/- 3% (mean +/- SD). From both methods cross-sectional echo is the method of choice for determining left ventricular muscle mass in man in sequential studies. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Tacit and encoded knowledge in the use of standardised outcome measures in multidisciplinary team decision making: a case study of in-patient neurorehabilitation.
This paper explores how multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) balance encoded knowledge, in the form of standardised outcome measurement, with tacit knowledge, in the form of intuitive judgement, clinical experience and expertise, in the process of clinical decision making. The paper is based on findings from a qualitative case study of a multidisciplinary in-patient neurorehabilitation team in one UK NHS trust who routinely collected standardised outcome measures. Data were collected using non-participant observation of 16 MDT meetings and semi-structured interviews with 11 practitioners representing different professional groups. Our analysis suggests that clinicians drew on tacit knowledge to supplement, adjust or dismiss 'the scores' in making judgements about a patients' likely progress in rehabilitation, their change (or lack of) during therapy and their need for support on discharge. In many cases, the scores accorded with clinicians' tacit knowledge of the patient, and were used to reinforce this opinion, rather than determine it. In other cases, the scores, in particular the Barthel Index, provided a partial picture of the patient and in these circumstances, clinicians employed tacit knowledge to fill in the gaps. In some cases, the scores and tacit knowledge diverged and clinicians preferred to rely on their clinical experience and intuition and adjusted or downplayed the accuracy of the scores. We conclude that there are limits to the advantages of quantifying and standardising assessments of health within routine clinical practice and that standardised outcome measures can support, rather than determine clinical judgement. Tacit knowledge is essential to produce and interpret this form of encoded knowledge and to balance its significance against other information about the patient in making decisions about patient care. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Associated Extracranial Vertebral Artery Aneurysm Complicated by Vertebral Arteriovenous Fistula After Rupture: Case Report and Literature Review.
Extracranial vertebral artery aneurysm related to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is rare. Aneurysmal rupture typically induces such symptoms as cervical hematoma, hemothorax, and hypotension. Here we report a case of ruptured extracranial vertebral artery aneurysm in a patient with NF1 who, rather than cervical hematoma, hemothorax, or hypotension, developed a vertebral arteriovenous fistula (AVF) after aneurysm rupture. A 35-year-old woman with a family history of NF1 presented with sudden-onset right neck and shoulder pain. Computed tomography angiography showed a right extracranial vertebral artery aneurysm. She had neither a cervical hematoma nor hypotension; however, angiography showed an AVF secondary to aneurysmal rupture. The patient was treated with endovascular coil embolization to prevent re-rupture. Postoperatively, her right neck and shoulder pain improved, and she was discharged without further neurologic deficits. This patient's clinical course suggests that if there is minimal bleeding from an NF1-associated ruptured extracranial vertebral artery aneurysm, then typical symptoms, such as cervical hematoma, hemothorax, and hypotension, may be absent. Thus, ruptured extracranial vertebral artery aneurysm should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with NF1 with sudden-onset radiculopathy, even in the absence of typical symptoms. The detection of a vertebral AVF provides a useful clue to the diagnosis of aneurysm rupture in such cases. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Hornet silk proteins in the cocoons produced by different Vespa species inhabiting Japan.
We compared the components of hornet silk - a fibrous protein occurring in the cocoons produced by hornet larvae - among 6 species of the genus Vespa inhabiting Japan: V. simillima, V. dybowskii, V. crabro, V. mandarinia, V. ducalis, and V. analis. From the sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis, and 5'-RACE, it was found that the major component proteins composing hornet silk could be divided into 6 groups. Among these 6 proteins, 5 proteins were common to the hornet silks of all 6 Vespa species. The SDS-PAGE major band corresponding to the remaining protein was observed only in the hornet silks of V. mandarinia and V. ducalis. This correspondence between V. mandarinia and V. ducalis can probably be explained in terms of the phylogenetic relationships of the Vespa species. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Mitochondrial DNA variation of an isolated population of the Adriatic brook lamprey Lampetra zanandreai (Agnatha: Petromyzontidae): phylogeographic and phylogenetic inferences.
Two mitochondrial genes were examined to compare an isolated population of the Adriatic brook lamprey Lampetra zanandreai in central Italy with other populations in the species range (Po plain) and with parasitic and freshwater lampreys. A single haplotype, identical to one in a Venetian sample, was found in 10 individuals from the isolated population. The reduced variability is consistent with a history of dispersal after the Pleistocene expansion of the Po basin. The results support the hypothesis of an origin of L. zanandreai and L. fluviatilis-L. planeri from a common anadromous ancestor. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Symptoms in heavy snorers with and without obstructive sleep apnea.
Five hundred and eighty persons who were heavy snorers filled in a questionnaire regarding symptoms on a 5-grade scale. Of these, 178 had a complete polysomnography investigation while 402 patients underwent oxymetric screening during the night only. On the basis of these investigations. 217 were classified as suffering from the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and 363 as snorers without OSAS. The symptom scores differed between the two groups, but the range was wide and some persons with OSAS claimed only minor daytime sleepiness, somnolence, etc., while a high proportion of persons without OSAS frequently suffered from such symptoms. Thus, it was not possible to discriminate between patients with and without OSAS on the basis of their symptoms only. Furthermore, there are many persons who are "only" heavy snorers but who have symptoms that affect their career and social life and who so far have only received scant interest from the medical profession. Excessive daytime sleepiness and somnolence thus do not seem to be secondary to hypoxemia at night but rather to poor quality of sleep, which may be the case in association with heavy snoring even without appreciable deterioration of oxygen saturation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Protein kinase C and platelet reactivity in spontaneously hypertensive rats.
Since protein kinase C (PKC) plays an important role in the control of platelet biological responses, we investigated whether it can be involved in the enhanced platelet reactivity to thrombin which is observed in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) in comparison to that observed in controls (WKY). PKC activity was determined by measuring the phosphorylation of P47 protein (the endogenous substrate of PKC in the platelet). Mean effective concentration (EC50) values for phorbol ester and synthetic diacylglycerol (direct activators of PKC) were similar in SHR and WKY, thus revealing similar intrinsic activity of PKC in both rat strains. EC50 values for thrombin were approximately 30% lower in SHR v WKY. Enhanced PKC activity in SHR is likely the result of an increased diacylglycerol formation and release of Ca2+ from intracellular pools, consequent to an increased thrombin-induced phospholipase C activity. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Scleral fixation underneath an intact conjunctiva.
To describe a technique for the fixation of intraocular lenses or capsular tension rings through the ciliary sulcus or pars plana. This alternative technique allows burial of the knot and the free suture ends within the sclera, without using a scleral flap or pocket or even a conjunctival opening. No suture exposure has occurred with the use of the suture burial technique in approximately 25 eyes in 4 years. Additional benefits include less patient discomfort and an improved anatomic and cosmetic outcome starting from the first postoperative day. This technique causes minimal tissue damage and scarring with almost no postoperative discomfort. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
The functions of HGF/SF and its receptor, the c-Met tyrosine kinase, in mammalian development.
Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) can induce epithelial-mesenchymal conversion of epithelial cells in culture, with the dissociated cells becoming highly motile. The signal given by HGF/SF is mediated by its specific receptor, the c-Met tyrosine kinase. Targeted mutations in the mouse have demonstrated that HGF/SF and c-Met take over functions in development of the placenta, liver and skeletal muscle. During development of skeletal muscle, the receptor and its ligand control migration of myogenic precursor cells in the embryo. These myogenic precursors undergo an epithelial-mesenchymal conversion and detach from the dermomyotome of the somite. They then migrate to different sites in the embryo where they terminally differentiate to form skeletal muscle. Mutations in the HGF/SF or c-met genes abolish emigration of myogenic precursor cells. As a consequence, skeletal muscle groups that derive from migrating cells do not form. Ectopic application of HGF/SF in the chick embryo induces epithelial-mesenchymal conversion and emigration of dermomyotomal cells. Moreover, the expression patterns of HGF/SF and c-Met in the mouse embryo are in accordance with a function of HGF/SF in the induction of epithelial-mesenchymal conversion and the generation of migrating myogenic precursor cells in vivo. The pattern suggests additional roles during the migratory process, which will be discussed. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Flowering as metamorphosis: two sequential signals regulate floral initiation in Lolium temulentum.
We investigated floral initiation in the long-day monocot Lolium temulentum, strain Ceres, by culturing apices explanted from photoperiodically induced plants at various times after one inductive long day onto medium with, and without, gibberellin. Apices cultured on the first day after the inductive long day usually required gibberellin in the medium to initiate floral morphogenesis while apices explanted on the second day after induction did not require gibberellin. Apices explanted on the first day after induction onto medium without gibberellin grew vegetatively for many days but a several-day exposure to culture medium with gibberellin at any time caused most apices to initiate floral morphogenesis. The gibberellin synthesis inhibitor, ancymidol, when applied to plants before apex excision and when present in the culture medium reduced floral initiation by more than 50% in the absence of added gibberellin in the medium, but it was ineffective in the presence of gibberellin. These results indicated that floral initiation in photoperiodically induced plants resulted from two signals acting at the apex. The first signal induced the apex into a florally determined state and then the second signal, gibberellin, elicited expression of the florally determined state. Leaf removal and culture of apices from plants previously treated with gibberellin provided evidence that the leaf-applied gibberellin did not itself act on the apex to cause floral determination or initiation. Rather, the exogenous gibberellin appeared to stimulate the production of a signal in the leaves that then led to floral initiation. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Purification of human NK cell developmental intermediates from lymph nodes and tonsils.
Accumulating data indicate that human natural killer (NK) cells undergo terminal maturation in secondary lymphoid tissues (SLTs) including lymph nodes (LNs) and tonsils. In addition, recent studies have revealed that maturing NK cells progress through at least five functionally discrete stages of development within SLTs. These discoveries provide unique possibilities for researchers to investigate the natural processes governing human NK cell development, as they exist in vivo, through analysis of NK cell maturational intermediates found in situ. Herein we describe a detailed, yet simple, four-step protocol for the viable enrichment and purification of human NK cell developmental intermediates from LNs and tonsils. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Induction of monocytic differentiation of HL-60 cells by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D analogs.
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3, the hormonal form of vitamin D, induces differentiation of HL-60 human promyelocytes into monocyte-like cells in vitro. We assessed the relative activity of 30 analogs of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 in inducing development of monocytic markers in HL-60 cells. The three differentiation markers assayed were nonspecific acid esterase activity, nitro blue tetrazolium reducing activity, and phagocytic capacity. Of the known metabolites of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 is the most active; 50% of the cells exhibit the mature phenotype following a 4-day treatment with 10(-8) M 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Removal of either the C-1 or C-25-hydroxyl group reduces activity by 2 orders of magnitude, while epimerization of the 1 alpha- to 1 beta-hydroxyl group virtually abolishes activity. Elongation of the steroidal side chain of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 by addition of one carbon at C-24 or C-26 improves the potency by an order of magnitude. Truncation of the steroidal side chain leads to a 10-fold reduction in activity for each carbon removed. Elimination of the C-26 and C-27 methyl groups reduces activity 100-fold. Analogs with short aliphatic side chains as 1 alpha-hydroxyhomo- and bishomopregnacholecalciferol have surprisingly high activity, being only 20-fold less potent than the natural hormone. The activity of most analogs in the HL-60 system parallels their known relative affinities for the well characterized 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor in chick intestine, providing further evidence that this function of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 is receptor mediated. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Nutritional and safety assessment of foods and feeds nutritionally improved through biotechnology--case studies by the International Food Biotechnology Committee of ILSI.
During the last two decades, the public and private sectors have made substantial research progress internationally toward improving the nutritional value of a wide range of food and feed crops. Nevertheless, significant numbers of people still suffer from the effects of undernutrition. As newly developed crops with nutritionally improved traits come closer to being available to producers and consumers, scientifically sound and efficient processes are needed to assess the safety and nutritional quality of these crops. In 2004, a Task Force of international scientific experts, convened by the International Food Biotechnology Committee (IFBiC) of ILSI, published recommendations for the safety and nutritional assessment of foods and feeds nutritionally improved through modern biotechnology (J. Food Science, 2004, 69:CRH62-CRH68). The comparative safety assessment process is a basic principle in this publication and is the starting point, not the conclusion, of the analysis. Significant differences in composition are expected to be observed in the case of nutritionally enhanced crops and must be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The Golden Rice 2 case study will be presented as an example of a food crop nutritionally enhanced through the application of modern biotechnology (i.e., recombinant DNA techniques) to illustrate how the 2004 recommendations provide a robust paradigm for the safety assessment of "real world" examples of improved nutrition crops. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
[Role of tumor necrosis factor -alpha in the pathogenesis of pregnancy-induced hypertension].
To investigate the role of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) in the pathogenesis of pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) by damaging endothelial cells. 41 patients with PIH and 17 healthy pregnant women were studied. The concentration of TNFalpha in maternal plasma was measured by sensitive radioimmunoassay. The morphology of endothelial cells of placental blood vessels was observed. Endothelial cells were incubated in the presence of TNFalpha (400 U/ml) and sera (30% vol/vol) from PIH women and normal pregnant women to observe their growth and shape. Maternal plasma TNFalpha level in PIH was 2.29 microgram/L +/- 0.51 microgram/L, higher than that in normal pregnancy (the latter was 1.73 microgram/L +/- 0.25 microgram/L, t = 5.60, P < 0.01). The endothelial cells of placental blood vessels in PIH revealed morphologic damages. Both sera of PIH women and TNFalpha were cytotoxic to endothelial cells in culture, including inhibition of the proliferation and morphologic changes of the cells. Damage of the endothelial cells of placental blood vessels is associated with the abnormal increase in the maternal blood TNFalpha. Sera of PIH women can damage the endothelial cells in culture and this effect is also associated with TNFalpha. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Forage composition and intake by steers grazing vegetative regrowth in low endophyte tall fescue pasture.
A grazing trial was conducted with six half-sib yearling Angus steers (average initial weight 281 kg) to quantitate nutrient composition and voluntary intake of vegetative regrowth forage in low-endophyte (Acremonium coenophialum Morgan-Jones and Gams) Kentucky-31 tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pasture. A new .6-ha section in each of two 3.0-ha pastures (three steers/pasture) was clipped to a 5-cm height on five consecutive days to establish a series of plots that could be grazed continuously during 5-d test periods at uniform stages of vegetative regrowth; each period represented a specific regrowth stage (7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 d). Steers were conditioned by training them to graze to satiety while tethered with an adjustable-length rope to a 1-m galvanized steel post. Grazing time was limited to two sessions daily beginning at 0800 and 1400, and satiety was achieved after no more than 2.5 h of continuous grazing in each session. Forage DM availability was controlled by adjusting tether length and was set each day at 4% of steer BW. Fecal DM output was measured by chromic oxide dilution. A quadratic (P less than .05) effect of regrowth stage was observed for forage contents of NDF and ADF due to abrupt increases in both fractions at wk 5; values for ADL were unaffected by stage of forage regrowth. Forage contents of CP and ash showed a cubic (P less than .05) response to advancing stage of regrowth, with highest (23.6 and 11.0%, respectively) and lowest (14.7 and 9.1%, respectively) values for both fractions occurring at wk 1 and 5, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Yeast-derived recombinant human insulin-like growth factor I: production, purification, and structural characterization.
Recombinant human insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is efficiently expressed and secreted from Saccharomyces cerevisiae using a yeast alpha-factor leader to direct secretion. However, approximately 10-20% of the IGF-I was in a monomeric form, the remaining materials being disulfide-linked aggregates. When the purified material was subjected to reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (rp-HPLC), it gave two doublet peaks, I and II. Upon reduction, doublet peaks I and II converged to one doublet peak. This suggests that peaks I and II result from different disulfide structures, and the doublet feature of each peak results from other causes. Different disulfide structures between peaks I and II were also suggested from the near UV circular dichroism of these proteins. Only the peak II was biologically active, indicating that peak II has the correct disulfide structure. Concanavalin A affinity chromatography of the purified peak II doublet showed binding of the subpeak with an earlier rp-HPLC retention time, indicating that it was glycosylated. Sequence analysis of tryptic peptides suggested that Thr29 was the site of glycosylation. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to convert Thr29 to Asn29. This substitution reduced, but did not eliminate IGF-I glycosylation, suggesting additional glycosylation sites. The site of carbohydrate addition was consistent with the model that O-glycosylations occur on hydroxyl amino acids near proline residues in beta-turns. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
Neisseria cinerea bacteremia in a patient receiving eculizumab: a case report.
Neisseria cinerea is a commensal species capable of colonizing the upper respiratory tract of humans. Bacteremia associated with this organism is very uncommon, with only seven previous cases described. We report a case of Neisseria cinerea bacteremia in a patient maintained on indefinite eculizumab therapy. It is the eighth reported case of Neisseria cinerea bacteremia and represents the first case in a patient receiving eculizumab. | {
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
} |
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