text
stringlengths 75
5.79k
| meta
dict |
|---|---|
Methylmalonic aciduria due to a new defect in adenosylcobalamin accumulation by cells.
A child with methylmalonic aciduria due to failure to accumulate adocbl in mitochondria has a phenotype similar to cblA disease. Deficient utilization of labeled propionate by his fibroblasts is corrected by their fusion with those from cblA patients, indicating that he belongs to a different complementation class and probably is deficient in a different gene product. The defect appears not to be due to reduced affinity of enzymes for adocbl, or for ATP, and the minimal thiol required for adocbl synthesis is not different from that of extracts of normal cells.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
A novel microvascular approach to treatment of the high undescended testicle.
A 9-year-old boy presented for evaluation of bilateral nonpalpable testes. Despite a negative human Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) simulation test, laparoscopy found high undescended testicles on both sides. The authors report the unusual microvascular approach utilized to accomplish testicular transfer into the scrotum and discuss the diagnostic difficulties experienced in this case.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
A new type of oxidative addition of an iodoarene to a Pd(II) complex.
Oxidative addition of N-(2-iodophenyl)formamide to Pd(dba)2 (dba = dibenzylideneacetone) in the presence of 4,4'-ditertbutyl-2,2'-bipyridine ((t)Bubpy) produces [Pd(C6H4NHCHO-2)I((t)Bubpy)] (1) which inserts 2-iodophenyl isocyanide to give [Pd{C(=NC6H4I-2)C6H4NHCHO-2}I((t)Bubpy)] (2). Dehydroiodination of 2 with Tl(acac) (acacH = acetylacetone) gives the stable Pd(IV) complex OC-6-35-[Pd{C,N,N-C(=NC6H4-2)C6H4NCHO-2}I((t)Bubpy)] (4) likely resulting from the spontaneous oxidative addition of the I-Ar moiety present in the unstable intermediate Pd(II) complex [Pd{C,N-C(=NC6H4I-2)C6H4NCHO-2}((t)Bubpy)] (3). The crystal structure of 4 shows various C-H···O hydrogen bonds resulting in chains of dimers stacked along the a axis.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Bone response to intermittent parathyroid hormone is altered in mice null for {beta}-Arrestin2.
Intermittent PTH administration increases bone turnover, resulting in net anabolic effects on bone. These effects are primarily mediated by intracellular cAMP signaling. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate PTH activity in bone remain incompletely understood. beta-Arrestin2, a G protein-coupled receptor regulatory protein, inhibits PTH-stimulated cAMP accumulation in vitro. Using beta-arrestin2(-/-) (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice, we investigated the response to PTH in primary osteoblasts (POB) and the effects of intermittent PTH administration on bone mass and microarchitecture in vivo. Compared with that in WT mice, PTH-stimulated intracellular cAMP was increased and sustained in KO POB. Intermittent exposure of POB to PTH significantly decreased the ratio of osteoprotegerin (OPG) receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) mRNA expression in KO POB, whereas it increased this ratio in WT POB. Total body bone mass and cortical and trabecular bone parameters were 5-10% lower in male KO mice compared with WT, and these differences were magnified upon in vivo administration of intermittent PTH (80 mug/kg.d) for 1 month. Thus, PTH significantly increased total body bone mineral content as well as vertebral trabecular bone volume and thickness in WT, but not KO mice. The anabolic response to PTH in cortical bone was also slightly more pronounced in WT than KO mice. Histomorphometry indicated that PTH prominently stimulated indexes of bone formation in both WT and KO mice, whereas it significantly increased indexes of bone resorption (i.e. osteoclast number and surface) in KO mice only. In conclusion, these results suggest that beta-arrestins may specify the activity of intermittent PTH on the skeleton by limiting PTH-induced osteoclastogenesis.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Hereditary urogenital adysplasia.
A family is reported in which three-generation transmission of renal agenesis-dysplasia occurred without any skeletal defects, but with uterine anomaly. The term, hereditary urogenital adysplasia is suggested and the mode of inheritance is discussed.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Cost effectiveness of desirudin compared with a low molecular weight heparin in the prevention of deep vein thrombosis after total hip replacement surgery.
This prospective pharmacoeconomic study analyses and discusses the cost effectiveness (expressed as cost per life-year gained) of desirudin in comparison with a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), enoxaparin, as prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in total hip replacement. The cost effectiveness was analysed on the basis of results from a clinical trial that compared the recombinant hirudin, desirudin, with the LMWH, enoxaparin. The trial results regarding the incidence of DVT are included together with epidemiological data in a decision tree, simulating long term cost effectiveness of patients undergoing elective hip replacement. The model includes Markov processes simulating patients up to the age of 85 years, including the costs of DVT-related long term complications. The average total thrombosis-related cost per patient under prophylactic therapy with enoxaparin is 7,022 Swedish kronor (SEK) compared with SEK7,497 when using desirudin (1998 values). The total costs with desirudin are 7% higher. Prophylaxis with desirudin in those patients undergoing elective hip replacement surgery adds, on average, 7 days of life per patient when compared with treatment using enoxaparin. This is equivalent to 1.91 additional years of life per 100 patients treated. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of prophylaxis with desirudin in patients undergoing elective hip replacement surgery is SEK24,864 per life-year gained in comparison with enoxaparin. The present study demonstrates that prophylactic therapy with desirudin is a cost-effective approach for the prevention of DVT in patients undergoing total hip replacement.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Tissue changes in the oral cavity of children with primary immunodeficiency states].
The examination of 89 children aged 3-14 with diverse forms of primary immunodeficiency (ID) demonstrated that the most intensive progress of caries, mucosal inflammation and the worst oral hygiene occurred in cellular ID, especially in children with chronic generalized skin and mucosal candidiasis. Antibody defects of immunity enhanced caries in dental hard tissues. Phagocytic defects were also associated with dental caries, disorders of oral mucosa, unsatisfactory oral hygiene. Chronic inflammation in children free of ID produced insignificant defects in oral cavity.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Mesoporous zeolite-chitosan composite for enhanced capture and catalytic activity in chemical fixation of CO2.
Carbon dioxide is one of the greenhouse gases whose increasing concentration in the atmosphere can cause severe problems to both human health and wildlife. A simple ecofriendly procedure was developed to prepare zeolite-chitosan (ZY-CS) composite using solvent exchange followed by calcination for adsorption and chemical fixation of CO2. The as synthesized ZY-CS composite along with zeolite and chitosan were characterized by attenuated total reflection infrared, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric, scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms studies. The ZY-CS composite showed enhanced CO2 adsorption capacity compared with pure zeolite and chitosan. The composites also exhibited significant catalytic activity in the chemical fixation of CO2 into cyclic carbonates. This work is foreshadowing the prospect of ZY-CS composite in enhanced capture and catalytic activity in chemical fixation of CO2 for environmental applications.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The effect of typical and atypical neuroleptics on binding of [3H]spiroperidol in calf caudate.
The effect of typical and atypical neuroleptics on the binding of [3H]spiroperidol to calf caudate membranes was studied. Saturable or specific binding was defined as the difference between binding in the absence and in the presence of 1 microM d-butaclamol. Scatchard analysis revealed nonhomogeneity of the saturable sites. Inhibition constants (Ki) and IC50 values for various typical and atypical neuroleptics and for two clinically inactive butyrophenones were determined. The Ki and IC50 values of typical neuroleptics paralleled their potencies in vivo. By contrast, the binding potencies of atypical neuroleptics did not correlate with their effects in vivo. For example, the clinically active drug clozapine has an IC50 value similar to the clinically inactive butyrophenone AHR-1900. U-25, 927, another clinically inactive butyrophenone that does not increase dopamine turnover is more potent in the binding assay than perlapine, a drug that increases dopamine turnover and elevates serum prolactin levels. The most striking discrepancy between binding and properties in vivo was found for the benzamide derivatives, sulpiride and metoclopramide. These clinically active agents, which increase dopamine turnover, have much higher Ki values than the clinically inactive butyrophenones. It is concluded that binding assays with [3H]spiroperidol in calf caudate cannot account for the antidopamine effects in vivo of atypical neuroleptics.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Method comparison for analyzing wound healing rates.
Wound healing scratch assay is a frequently used method to characterize cell migration, which is an important biological process in the course of development, tissue repair, and immune response for example. The measurement of wound healing rate, however, varies among different studies. Here we summarized these measurements into three types: (I) direct rate average; (II) regression rate average; and (III) average distance regression rate. Using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells as a model, we compared the three types of analyses on quantifying the wound closing rate, and discovered that type I & III measurements are more resistant to outliers, and type II analysis is more sensitive to outliers. We hope this study can help researchers to better use this simple yet effective assay.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Antimicrobial activity of conventional and plant-extract disinfectant solutions on microbial biofilms on a maxillofacial polymer surface.
Dentists often note problems with infection in patients with maxillofacial prostheses. Conventional disinfection protocols are not always effective and may alter the properties of the polymer used in the prosthesis. Thus, the search for improved disinfection methods is important. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial activity of conventional disinfectant solutions (water and neutral soap and 4% chlorhexidine) and plant extracts (Cymbopogon nardus and Hydrastis canadensis) on specimens of maxillofacial silicone contaminated with Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. Seventy-two silicone (MDX4-4210) specimens were fabricated (5×2 mm) and sterilized. Thirty-six were contaminated with C albicans (10(6) cells/mL) and 36 with S aureus (10(8) cells/mL) to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the cleaning protocols. After incubation (37°C/72 hours), the specimens were divided into 5 groups: not disinfected (positive control), soaking in saline solution for 10 minutes, soaking in 4% chlorhexidine for 10 minutes, soaking in C nardus for 10 minutes, soaking in H canadensis for 10 minutes, and washing by hand with water and neutral soap for 30 seconds. The viability of cells was evaluated by XTT (2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide) assay and by scanning electron microscope analysis. The results were analyzed by ANOVA and the Tukey HSD test (α=.05). All disinfection solutions provided a statistically significant reduction in biofilm viability compared with the control group for both microorganisms (P<.05). Washing with water and neutral soap was significantly more effective in reducing biofilm viability than immersion in the disinfection solutions, with persistence of viable microorganisms between 1.05% for C albicans and 0.62% for S aureus after this cleaning protocol. Photomicrographs revealed that 4% chlorhexidine altered the surface of the polymer. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it was concluded that the cleaning protocols with different disinfectant solutions produced a significant reduction in the viability of C albicans and S aureus biofilms on the silicone polymer. Washing with water and neutral soap was the most effective protocol against both microorganisms.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Establishment of a leukemic lymphocyte culture from human aqueous humor.
We have recently developed new techniques for culturing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) lymphocytes from human aqueous humor. We used leukemic lymphocytes collected from the aqueous humor of a patient with CLL and leukemic glaucoma. We grew these leukemic cells in combination with a feeder cell layer and other technical refinements. Microscopy and immunoassay indicate success in obtaining a homogenous population of B-type CLL cells through the 12th passage of the culture. No significant effect on cell growth was found with either of two mitogens (PWM and PHA), or between culture with and without autologous serum. Our new techniques for culturing leukemic cells derived from the aqueous humor provide a reliable resource for the study of chronic lymphocytic leukemia lymphocytes and leukemic glaucoma.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
P53 codon 72 polymorphism and lung cancer risk: evidence from 27,958 subjects.
The role of p53 codon 72 polymorphism in the development of lung cancer remains obscure due to inconsistent findings of individual case-control studies published to date. A meta-analysis was conducted to better estimate the association between the p53 codon 72 variant and lung cancer risk. All relevant publications from the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Wanfang databases were retrieved. Based on the inclusion criteria, 39 publications involving 44 independent case-control studies were finally included into this meta-analysis. Data were extracted and the pooled odds ratio (OR) with the corresponding 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) was calculated. The overall pooled ORs showed no significant relationship of the p53 codon 72 polymorphism with increased or decreased risk of lung cancer in all gene contrast models (OR Pro vs. Arg = 1.04, 95 % CI = 0.96-1.13, P OR < 0.001; OR Pro/Pro vs. Arg/Arg = 1.07, 95 % CI = 0.91-1.25, P OR < 0.001; OR Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg =1.04, 95 % CI = 0.94-1.15, P OR < 0.001; OR Pro/Pro + Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg = 1.04, 95 % CI = 0.94-1.16, P OR < 0.001; OR Pro/Pro vs. Arg/Arg + Arg/Pro = 1.07, 95 % CI = 0.93-1.23, P OR < 0.001). According to the ethnicity, no significant association was observed in subgroup analyses of the Asians, Caucasians, Africans and the mixed population. Similar finding was found in subgroup analyses of hospital-based and population-based studies. Concerning the histological types of lung cancer, the p53 codon 72 variant exerts risk effect on the lung carcinogenesis in patients with adenocarcinoma (OR Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg = 1.10, 95 % CI = 1.00-1.22, P OR = 0.048). Additionally, subgroup analysis by the smoking status demonstrated that the p53 codon 72 variant seemed to play a protective role in lung carcinogenesis among the non-smokers but not the smokers in the contrast model of Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg (OR Arg/Pro vs. Arg/Arg = 0.71, 95 % CI = 0.50-1.00, P OR = 0.049). The present meta-analysis suggests the p53 codon 72 polymorphism may weakly modify the risk for lung cancer among the adenocarcinoma patients and non-smokers. Nevertheless, this association needs further confirmation in future studies with high quality.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Antioxidant activity of Crataegus aronia aqueous extract used in traditional Arab medicine in Israel.
The medicinal use of extracts prepared from plant parts of the genus Crataegus dates back to ancient times. Furthermore, it has been proposed that its antioxidant constituents account for its beneficial therapeutic effects. A decoction of leaves and unripe fruits from Crataegus aronia syn. azarolus (L) (Rosaceae), the indigenous Israeli hawthorn, is used to treat cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and sexual weakness in Arab traditional medicine. Because laboratory data on the bioactivity of extracts prepared from the indigenous Israeli hawthorn is lacking, we evaluated the antioxidant and cytotoxic potentials of an extract prepared from leaves and unripe fruits in a variety of cell and cell-free in vitro assays. The antioxidant assays measured: (a) its ability to inhibit (i) oxidation of beta-carotene, (ii) 2,2'-azobis(2-amidino-propan) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced plasma oxidation and (iii) iron-induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenates; (b) its ability to scavenge the superoxide (O2-) radical; (c) its effects on the enzyme xanthine oxidase (XO) activity; (d) its effect on the redox state of glutathione (GSH) in cultured Hep G2 cells. In addition, we also evaluated the effects of the extract on cell membrane integrity and mitochondrial respiration in cultured Hep G2 cells. Water-soluble extracts inhibited (1) oxidation of beta-carotene, (2) AAPH-induced plasma oxidation and (3) Fe(2+)-induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenates. In addition, the extract (4) is an efficient scavenger of the O2- (5) increases intracellular GSH levels and (6) is not cytotoxic. Accordingly, we propose that the therapeutic benefit of Crataegus aronia can be, at least in part, attributed to its effective inhibition of oxidative processes, efficient scavenging of O2- and possible increasing GSH biosynthesis.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Induction of anti-anti-idiotype antibodies against sulfated glycosaminoglycans reduces atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice.
The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is associated with the early retention of low-density lipoproteins that are trapped in the extracellular matrix of the arterial intima by interaction with glycosaminoglycan side chains of proteoglycans. Mutant mouse/human chimeric antibodies of the murine monoclonal antibody P3, which react with N-glycolyl-containing gangliosides and sulfated glycosaminoglycans, were tested for their potentially antiatherogenic properties through the induction of an idiotypic antibody network that may specifically interfere with the binding of low-density lipoproteins to proteoglycan side chains, low-density lipoprotein modification, and foam cell formation. Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet received 5 to 6 doses of chP3R99 or chP3S98 mutant antibodies, showing high and low reactivity, respectively, against their respective antigens. Both chimeric antibodies elicited an immunodominant anti-idiotypic response in the absence of adjuvant. A striking (40%-43%) reduction (P<0.01) in total lesion areas was observed in 18-week-old mice immunized with chP3R99, but not chP3S98, compared with PBS-treated mice. The antiatherosclerotic effect was associated with increased mice sera reactivity against heparin and sulfated glycosaminoglycans, including chondroitin and dermatan sulfate. In addition, purified IgG from chP3R99-immunized mice blocked the retention of apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins within the arterial wall of apolipoprotein E(-/-) mice. The present study supports use of active immunization and the mounting of an idiotypic antibody network response against glycosaminoglycans as a novel approach to target atherosclerosis.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Particle formation of budesonide from alcohol-modified subcritical water solutions.
Recently, subcritical water (SBCW: water that has been heated to a temperature between 100°C and 200°C at pressures of up to 70bar) has been used to dissolve several hydrophobic pharmaceutical compounds (Carr et al., 2010a). Furthermore, a number of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) have been rapidly precipitated from SBCW solutions (Carr et al., 2010b,c). It is possible to alter the precipitate morphology by altering the processing variables; including the SBCW-API solution injection temperature and adding impurities (such as pharmaceutical excipients, e.g. lactose) to the precipitation chamber. The work presented in this article demonstrates that the morphology of pharmaceutical particles can be tuned by adding organic solvents (ethanol and methanol) to the SBCW-API solutions. Particle morphology has also been tuned by adding different pharmaceutical excipients (polyethylene glycol 400 and lactose) to the precipitation chamber. Different morphologies of pharmaceutical particles were produced, ranging from nanospheres of 60nm diameter to 5μm plate particles. Budesonide was used as the model API in this study. Two experimental products were spray dried to form dry powder products. The aerodynamic particle size of the powder was established by running the powder through an Andersen Cascade Impactor. It has been shown that the drug particles produced from the SBCW micronization process, when coupled with a spray drying process, are suitable for delivery to the lungs.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
High plasma zinc levels following oral dosing in rats and the incorporation of 3H-thymidine into deoxyribonucleic acid in rat fetuses.
In fasted rats, a single oral dose of zinc, equivalent to the total daily zinc intake, caused plasma zinc levels to rise about five-fold 1.5 h after treatment. Higher values were obtained following higher dose levels. At maternal plasma zinc levels approximately 10-fold above normal, fetal viability was disturbed and incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA became impaired in fetal (20-d) rat brain and liver tissue.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Testing process errors and their harms and consequences reported from family medicine practices: a study of the American Academy of Family Physicians National Research Network.
Little is known about the types and outcomes of testing process errors that occur in primary care. To describe types, predictors and outcomes of testing errors reported by family physicians and office staff. Events were reported anonymously. Each office completed a survey describing their testing processes prior to event reporting. 243 clinicians and office staff of eight family medicine offices. Distribution of error types, associations with potential predictors; predictors of harm and consequences of the errors. Participants submitted 590 event reports with 966 testing process errors. Errors occurred in ordering tests (12.9%), implementing tests (17.9%), reporting results to clinicians (24.6%), clinicians responding to results (6.6%), notifying patient of results (6.8%), general administration (17.6%), communication (5.7%) and other categories (7.8%). Charting or filing errors accounted for 14.5% of errors. Significant associations (p<0.05) existed between error types and type of reporter (clinician or staff), number of labs used by the practice, absence of a results follow-up system and patients' race/ethnicity. Adverse consequences included time lost and financial consequences (22%), delays in care (24%), pain/suffering (11%) and adverse clinical consequence (2%). Patients were unharmed in 54% of events; 18% resulted in some harm, and harm status was unknown for 28%. Using multilevel logistic regression analyses, adverse consequences or harm were more common in events that were clinician-reported, involved patients aged 45-64 years and involved test implementation errors. Minority patients were more likely than white, non-Hispanic patients to suffer adverse consequences or harm. Errors occur throughout the testing process, most commonly involving test implementation and reporting results to clinicians. While significant physical harm was rare, adverse consequences for patients were common. The higher prevalence of harm and adverse consequences for minority patients is a troubling disparity needing further investigation.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Evaluating endothelial function of the common carotid artery: an in vivo human model.
Flow mediated dilation (FMD) of peripheral conduit arteries is a well-established tool to evaluate endothelial function. The aims of this study are to apply the FMD model to cerebral circulation by using acetazolamide (ACZ)-induced intracranial vasodilation as a stimulus to increase common carotid artery (CCA) diameter in response to a local increase of blood flow velocity (BFV). In 15 healthy subjects, CCA end-diastolic diameter and BFV, middle cerebral artery (MCA) BFV and mean arterial blood pressure (MBP) were measured at basal conditions, after an intravenous bolus of 1g ACZ, and after placebo (saline) sublingual administration at the 15th and 20th minute. In a separate session, the same parameters were evaluated after placebo (saline) infusion instead of ACZ and after 10 microg/m(2) bs and 300 microg of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN), administered sublingually, at the 15th and 20th minute, respectively. After ACZ bolus, there was a 35% maximal MCA mean BFV increment (14th minute), together with a 22% increase of mean CCA end-diastolic BFV and a CCA diameter increment of 3.9% at the 3rd minute (p=0.024). There were no MBP significant variations up to the 15th minute (p=0.35). After GTN administration, there was a significant increment in CCA diameter (p<0.00001). ACZ causes a detectable CCA dilation in healthy individuals concomitantly with an increase in BFV. Upon demonstration that this phenomenon is endothelium dependent, this experimental model might become a valuable tool to assess endothelial function in the carotid artery.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Relationships between the lipid content and the rheological properties of airway secretions in cystic fibrosis.
The lipid composition and rheological properties of expectorated airway secretions have been analyzed in 16 patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), separated into two groups according to whether their secretions were superinfected or not. The total lipid content was higher in the superinfected CF secretions. The content in cholesterol and GL1, GL3 and GL4 glycosphingolipid fractions were significantly higher in the superinfected in comparison to the non-superinfected group. The viscosity was two-fold higher in the CF superinfected group. A significant correlation (r = 0.72, p less than 0.01) was observed between the apparent viscosity and the total lipid content of CF secretions. Cholesterol, glycosphingolipids and sphingomyelin were the lipid components which were the most closely and positively correlated to the viscosity. On the opposite, phosphoglycerol was negatively correlated (r = -0.72, p less than 0.05) to the viscoelastic properties of CF airway secretions.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
DNA recombination and RNA cleavage activities of the Flp protein: roles of two histidine residues in the orientation and activation of the nucleophile for strand cleavage.
Using a combination of DNA and hybrid DNA-RNA substrates, we have analyzed the mechanism of phosphoryl transfer by the Flp site-specific recombinase in three different reactions: DNA strand breakage and joining, and two types of RNA cleavage activities. These reactions were then used to characterize Flp variants altered at His309 and His345, amino acid residues that are in close proximity to two key catalytic residues (Arg308 and Tyr343). These histidine residues are important for strand cutting by Tyr343, the active-site nucleophile of Flp, but neither residue contributes to the type II RNA cleavage activity or to the strand-joining reaction in a pre-cleaved substrate. Strand cleavage reactions using small, diffusible nucleophiles indicate that this histidine pair contributes to the correct positioning and activation of Tyr343 within the shared active site of Flp. The implications of these results are evaluated against the recently solved crystal structure of Flp in association with a Holliday junction.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Using detonation nanodiamond for the specific capture of glycoproteins.
We demonstrate here the functionalization of detonation nanodiamond (ND) with aminophenylboronic acid (APBA) for the purpose of targeting the selective capture of glycoproteins from unfractionated protein mixtures. The reacted ND, after blending with the matrix consisting of alpha-cyano-4-hydroxy-cinnamic acid, could be applied directly for matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) assay. A loading capacity of approximately 350 mg of glycoprotein/g of ND could be attained on ND that has been silanized with an alkyl linker chain prior to linking with the phenylboronic acid. The role of the alkyl spacer chain is to form an exclusion shell which suppresses nonspecific binding with nonglycated proteins and to reduce steric hindrance among the bound glycoproteins. In the absence of the alkyl spacer chain, nonselective binding of proteins was obtained. This work demonstrates the usefulness of functionalized ND as a high-efficiency extraction and analysis platform for proteomics research.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Influence of genital heat stress on semen quality in humans.
The concept that an elevation of testicular temperature results in impairment of spermatogenesis is widely accepted. Here, current knowledge concerning genital heat stress and its consequences in men is reviewed. Duration of sitting during work positively correlates with daytime scrotal temperatures and daytime scrotal temperature negatively correlates with semen quality. However, the assumed negative correlation between duration of sitting and semen quality could not be shown in the available studies. Fertility parameters of professional drivers with long periods of sitting in vehicles were impaired; however, for predominantly affected drivers of vans, trucks or industrial heavy machinery potential confounders have to be considered. Wearing tight fitting compared with loose-fitting underwear is associated with significantly higher scrotal temperatures. However, available observations suggesting a link between tight-fitting underwear or trousers and impaired semen quality are not convincing. Studies addressing professional exposure to high temperatures delivered conflicting results concerning fertility parameters. The postulated negative impact of sauna visits on semen quality is not sufficiently underlined by the available studies. Oligozoospermic men with a varicocele have significantly higher scrotal temperatures than normozoospermic men, and according to several studies varicocelectomy normalises scrotal temperatures. A further link has been reported between fever and deteriorated semen quality. Contraception via genital heat stress has been demonstrated using hot sitting baths or insulating suspensors. However, down-regulation of spermatogenesis is inconsistent and unsafe. On the other hand, scrotal and consecutively testicular cooling is able to improve semen quality.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Spectroscopic investigation of ligand interaction with hepatic phenylalanine hydroxylase: evidence for a conformational change associated with activation.
We have examined the interaction of phenylalanine hydroxylase with phenylalanine, tetrahydropterin cofactors, and an activating phospholipid, lysophosphatidylcholine. Incubation of native phenylalanine hydroxylase with phenylalanine or lysophosphatidylcholine results in an increase in the fluorescence emission of the enzyme at 360 nm, which closely parallels the increase in tetrahydrobiopterin-dependent activity observed under these conditions. The presence of tetrahydrobiopterin in the absence of phenylalanine results in quenching of the enzyme fluorescence emission; this quenching exhibits a sharp end point at about 1 mol of tetrahydrobiopterin bound/mol of enzyme subunit. The binding of tetrahydrobiopterin under these conditions is unexpectedly tight, with an estimated KD of 10-20 nM, while in the presence of lysophosphatidylcholine, the KD is increased to about 25 microM. Quenching experiments with sodium iodide indicate greater exposure of tryptophan residues in the phenylalanine-activated enzyme. The ultraviolet difference spectrum of phenylalanine hydroxylase in the presence of phenylalanine exhibits a peak at 238 nm, which correlates with the fluorescence increase and activation, as well as additional changes in the aromatic region, which do not correlate well with activation. Phenylalanine does not alter the far-ultraviolet circular dichroism spectrum of phenylalanine hydroxylase. In contrast, lysophosphatidylcholine appears to induce a dramatic change in enzyme secondary structure upon activation. These results suggest that activation of phenylalanine hydroxylase results in a conformation change and the exposure of buried tryptophan(s) and possibly a cysteine residue.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Case studies: a research strategy appropriate for palliative care?
Selecting an appropriate research strategy is key to ensuring that research questions are addressed in a way which has value and is congruent with the overall topic, questions and purpose of the research. This paper will argue that there are situations when a case study strategy is appropriate to use in palliative care research. These include: when complex situations need to be addressed; when context is central to the study; when multiple perspectives need to be recognized; when the design needs to be flexible; when the research needs to be congruent with clinical practice; when there is no strong theory to which to appeal; and when other methodologies could be difficult to conduct. Using case study strategies rigorously and appropriately can contribute to knowledge in a way which is sensitive to the complex, context-dependent and multiprofessional nature of palliative care.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Turbidimetric-kinetic assay of endotoxin in rumen fluid or serum of cattle fed rations containing various levels of rolled barley.
A new, automated turbidimetric-kinetic (ATK) assay was used to quantitate bacterial endotoxin in rumen fluid or in serum of Holstein steers. The ATK method used Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) reagent with added beta-glucan (LAL-ES) which improved specific sensitivity to endotoxin. Design of the feeding trial permitted comparison of endotoxin levels found during consumption of a basal ration with those higher levels detected at various times following the introduction of increasing percentages of rolled barley to that basal ration. Both serum and ruminal endotoxin levels were significantly higher in steers on the higher concentrate rations. Peak endotoxin levels were detected 20 days following the change to the highest concentrate ration which contained 60% barley. Endotoxin levels from both sources subsequently decreased. Ruminal endotoxin stabilized at about 10 times the level, and serum endotoxin stabilized at 2 to 4 times the level, of that previously found during feeding of the basal ration. Test protocol included sample dilution and heating in order to avoid the effects of endotoxin inhibitors. Recovery rates for added endotoxin to either serum or rumen fluid supernates ranged from 120 to 136%. Coefficient of variation for endotoxin concentration in serum was lower than 10%, and in rumen fluid only slightly higher. There was significant correlation between ruminal concentration as measured by the ATK method and an alternative chromogenic substrate assay procedure. Changes in endotoxin level in experimental steers were those predictable from experience with naturally occurring incidents of grain engorgement. The ATK assay appears to be an accurate and rather simple technique which will prove useful for experimental and clinical studies in the future.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Aphakic glaucoma after congenital cataract surgery.
To describe the largest series of patients who developed aphakic glaucoma after lensectomy for congenital cataracts. A retrospective review was performed of all patients seen by a pediatric glaucoma specialist between October 1, 1970, and November 30, 2002. Patients with intraocular pressures greater than 25 mm Hg after lensectomy were studied. Patients with either conditions independently associated with glaucoma or any signs of glaucoma before lensectomy were excluded. We studied 170 eyes of 117 patients. The mean +/- SD follow-up period was 8.6 +/- 7.6 years. The most common cataract types were complete (40.8%) and nuclear (22.5%). For the lensectomies, 103 eyes underwent modern vitrectomy techniques, and 10 underwent older techniques. Lensectomies were performed in 80.6% of eyes before age 1 year. Onset of glaucoma after lensectomy was by 1 year in 37.1% of eyes, by 6 years in 75.9%, and by 33 years in 100%. Of eyes that had gonioscopy, 93.9% had open angles. Glaucoma surgery was needed in 57.1% of eyes. The median final visual acuity was 20/400. Most cases of aphakic glaucoma are of the open-angle type. Various risk factors are suggested, and the prognosis is guarded. Lifelong follow-up is needed to screen for glaucoma.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Recognition of halides and Y-shaped oxoanions by carbonylchromium-based urea-like molecules: A theoretical analysis of hydrogen bonding modes.
One of the major challenges in anion recognition is to design hosts that can be used to distinguish between anions of different shapes. Urea-based molecules are widely used in anion recognition because the pair of -NH groups acts as an electron acceptor. Although these hosts can bind to both spherical anions (halides) and Y-shaped anions (oxoanions), experimental evidence to date does not provide a clear picture of what differences in the nature of the hydrogen bonding interactions could be used to distinguish between anions of different shapes. Here, we use several computational topology analyses to study the non-covalent interactions between Cr(CO)3-based organometallic urea-like hosts and halides and Y-shaped oxoanions. Our results suggest that the F(-) and AcO(-) anions are recognized experimentally due to a combination of strong interaction and large infrared (IR) shifts upon complexation, verifying the remarkable IR-reporting ability of the Cr(CO)3 moiety and its potential applications in anion recognition. The lone pairs of the oxygen atom in Y-shaped oxoanions directly interact with the -NH groups of the hosts, while all the shell electrons of the halides participate as a group in the interaction; however, the relative contributions of electrostatic and charge-transfer interactions are quite similar for the two types of anions. This insight into the nature of the anion-host interactions can be used to provide guidance for the design of hosts that differentiate between anions.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Efficacy of plasma exchange and methylprednisolone pulse therapy on influenza-associated encephalopathy.
Patients with a new type of influenza-associated encephalopathy with high mortality are increasing in Japan and the United States. We present three patients treated with methyprednisolone pulse treatment and plasma exchange to remove cytokines, and all three patients recovered without severe sequela. IL-6 decreased dramatically after the start of the plasma exchange and methyprednisolone. Therefore when influenza-associated encephalopathy is actually diagnosed, steroid pulse therapy should be started at an early stage, and when signs of DIC and/or MOF appear, plasma exchange is recommended to remove the cytokines and NOx.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The intriguing reactivity of functionalized beta-amino alcohols with glyoxal: application to a new expedient enantioselective synthesis of trans-6-alkylpipecolic acids.
New beta-amino alcohols possessing a vinylsilane moiety were reacted with glyoxal to produce lactones that were transformed in three steps in enantiopure pipecolic acid derivatives. The key step was a totally diastereoselective ene-iminium cyclization, whose mechanism can be viewed as a direct cyclization of the vinylsilane moiety onto the iminium ion. The reactivity of two beta-amino alcohols having an allylsilane terminator was also examined. Their difference of reactivity toward glyoxal can be ascribed to the intervention of a carbocation, which presents a behavior that differs according to the position of the trimethylsilyl group.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Incompetency to stand trial. Appropriateness and outcome.
Of 85 persons (38% of those found incompetent to stand trial in Los Angeles County in 1983), 92% were currently charged with felonies and 62% with crimes of violence. Eighty-seven percent had a history of serious physical violence against persons and 68% had prior felony arrests. This study indicated that in this jurisdiction, incompetency to stand trial is not being used to divert mentally ill persons, charged with minor offenses, into intermediate or long-term psychiatric hospitalization to circumvent obstacles such as restrictive commitment laws and rapid hospital discharge policies. The lack of adequate postrelease planning and follow-up for most of these chronically and severely mentally ill offenders was clear. Neither the criminal justice nor the mental health system is inclined to take responsibility for their care. Mandatory community treatment on release is recommended.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Mild and severe organic brain disorders in childhood].
An outline of the classification of minor brain dysfunction and severe brain syndrome is followed by a short historical sketch of the development of the concept of minor brain dysfunction and a description of the clinical and diagnostic relevance of this concept. After evaluation of specific therapeutic approaches, selected empirical studies are reported to elucidate the course of the disorder. The issue concerning the existence of a behavioral syndrome that characterizes severe brain disorders is discussed. The presentation of selected research findings on psychopathological and neuropsychological sequelae of severe brain traumas provides the argument for the final discussion. The necessity of qualifying a highly specific, narrowly defined psychopathological syndrome in childhood is emphasized.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Behavioral effects of chronic WIN 55,212-2 administration during adolescence and adulthood in mice.
Marijuana, a psychoactive drug that activates cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, is the most prevalently abused illicit drug among American adolescents and young adults. However, the long-term consequences of adolescent exposure to cannabinoids on the brain and behavior remain poorly understood. In both humans and nonhumans, adolescence is characterized by the maturation of the endocannabinoid neurotransmitter system in the prefrontal cortex and striatum-brain regions that underlie choice and decision making and are densely packed with CB1 receptors. In the current study, the effects of chronic WIN 55,212-2 (a CB1 agonist) exposure during adolescence on reversal learning and delay discounting were compared with those of adult-onset exposure using mice. Mice were administered 3.0 mg/kg/day WIN 55,212-2 or vehicle for 21 days beginning in adolescence (postnatal days 28-49) or adulthood (postnatal days 90-111). For the reversal-learning task, there was no difference in errors or omissions to criterion following a reversal in adolescent-exposed mice but adult-exposed mice showed a delay in beginning the reversal, suggesting that adolescents, but not adults, are resilient to this drug. Adult mice given WIN 55,212-2 in adolescence displayed greater impulsivity in the form of preference for smaller-sooner reinforcers over larger-delayed ones in the delay-discounting procedure, but this was seen to a lesser extent with adult-onset exposure. These data underscore the importance of variables related to the timing and duration of exposure as well as the specific and persistent behavioral endpoints affected by chronic cannabinoid administration. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Effect of in utero irradiation on the postnatal development, behavior, and brain structure of rats: dose fractionation with a 6-h interval.
Based on previous studies showing that exposure of the rat fetus to ionizing radiation produces dose-dependent (0.25-1.25 Gy) changes in postnatal development of behavior and decreases in the thickness of the cerebral cortex, we examined the extent to which dose fractionation would reduce expression of damage. Pregnant rats were exposed to single doses of 0.5 or 1.0 Gy, or to two doses of 0.5 Gy 6 h apart on day 15 of gestation. Offspring were subjected to four behavioral tests on postnatal days 7-28; the rats were then sacrificed and their brains removed and processed for histology. For all end points, the fractionated dose produced an effect that was intermediate between that of the 0.5- and 1.0-Gy doses and which, by interpolation, could be expressed as equivalent to a single dose between 0.5 and 1.0 Gy. The equivalent single dose was not significantly different from the 1.0-Gy dose for negative geotaxis (0.54 Gy), reflex suspension (0.80 Gy), and continuous corridor (0.85 Gy). For sine of the angle of the advance of hind feet (0.58 Gy), width of stride (0.69 Gy), length of stride (0.75 Gy), body weight (0.73 Gy), and cerebral cortex thickness (0.69 Gy), the fractionated dose produced effects significantly different (P < 0.05) from the 1.0-Gy dose. Overall, exposure of fetal rats to two doses of 0.5 Gy separated by 6 h produced effects equivalent to a single dose of 0.70 Gy, as measured by postnatal behavioral tests and morphological assessment of brain structure.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Alternating shifts: mental fatigue in nurses].
The goal of the present study was to detect signs and symptoms of mental fatigue in nurses working in the hospital with shift schedule. The signs and symptoms of mental fatigue were measured by a subjective indicator, composed of a check list and two objective indicators called critical frequency of light fusion (Flicker) and Reaction Time to auditive stimulus (RTs). During fifteen consecutive days, morning, afternoon and night shifts of 12 nurses working in three different units of a university hospital were analyzed. The great rotation in work schedule, when in just one week a nurse can work up to three different shifts, is hazardous to the health, social, familiar and professional life of those nurses, who were not satisfied with the work schedule adopted by the institution and showed signs and symptoms of mental fatigue. The incidence of symptoms was greater for the night than for the morning shift which was greater than the afternoon shift and they frequently showed irritabilig and sleep disturbances. Indications of mental fatigue were detected by Flicker verification in the following order: morning shift greater than night shift which was greater than afternoon shift. On the other hand, using RTs the following indices of fatigue were detected: greater in the evening shift than morning shift which was greater than the afternoon shift.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The far upstream chicken lysozyme enhancer at -6.1 kilobase, by interacting with NF-M, mediates lipopolysaccharide-induced expression of the chicken lysozyme gene in chicken myelomonocytic cells.
Macrophages respond to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with the activation of various genes, including the lysozyme gene. Here, we show that the level of lysozyme mRNA increases following treatment of chicken myelomonocytic HD11 cells with LPS. By transient and stable transfection of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene controlled by regulatory elements of the lysozyme gene, we identified a subfragment of the -6.1 kilobase (kb) lysozyme enhancer that mediates the LPS-induced lysozyme expression. This subfragment contains two elements (D and E), each of which matches the highly degenerate consensus sequence of binding sites for C/EBP-like transcription factors. Furthermore, we found protein complexes to interact with elements D and E whose binding activity to elements D and E is LPS-inducible in myelomonocytic HD11 cells. Immunomobility shift assays show that NF-M, a myeloid-specific C/EBP beta-related transcription factor is an essential component of these protein complexes. Mutations of the C/EBP binding sites within D and E cause a reduction of basal activity and abolish LPS responsiveness of the -6.1 kb lysozyme enhancer. These results show that the -6.1 kb lysozyme enhancer, in addition to its role in cell type-specific expression, can mediate, by interacting with NF-M, LPS-induced expression of the lysozyme gene in chicken myelomonocytic cells.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Lipid peroxidation and vitamin E in human coronary atherosclerotic lesions.
We aimed to assess the oxidant/antioxidant status within the ex vivo human coronary endarterectomy samples. To achieve this, we measured products of lipid oxidation (malondialdehyde, 7-ketocholesterol), lipids (cholesterol, cholesteryl esters) and vitamin E in endarterectomy samples. Content of malondialdehyde in the plaque ranged from 0.23 to 37.36 microg/g. Unesterified cholesterol content ranged from 0.30 to 1.94 mg/g. It was 9.04+/-4.32% of total cholesterol. Total cholesterol content ranged from 1.73 to 23.69 mg/g. Cholesteryl palmitate content ranged from 0.57 to 19.10 mg/g, which is 11.43-60.86% of the total esters (mean+/-SD 40.27+/-18.42%). Cholesteryl oleate content ranged from 0.24 to 5.76 mg/g, being 9.97-21.81% of total esters (mean+/-SD 14.35+/-4.51%). Cholesteryl linoleate content ranged from 1.05 to 8.21 mg/g, being 17.84-45.15% of total esters (mean+/-SD 30.78+/-11.69%). Cholesteryl arachidonate content ranged from 0.51 to 4.20 mg/g, which is 7.56-22.87% of total esters (mean+/-SD 14.60+/-5.60%). The cholesteryl linoleate/cholesteryl oleate ratio (CL/CO) ranged from 1.01 to 4.33. Content of 7-ketocholesterol in the plaque ranged from 0.0 to 577.5 ng/g of wet weight. The 7-ketocholesterol/total cholesterol ratio was 0.003+/-0.003% (range from 0.0% to 0.008%). The 7-ketocholesterol/unesterified cholesterol ratio was 0.024+/-0.023% (range from 0.0% to 0.066%). The plaque content of vitamin E ranged from 0.0 to 40.9 microg/g of wet weight. The present study, comprising measurements of lipids, products of lipid peroxidation and vitamin E in 12 human coronary endarterectomy samples, lends the evidence for ongoing lipid peroxidation within an atherosclerotic lesion.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
["Process of the research and development received Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2002"].
Mr. K. Tanaka engaged in Shimadzu Corporation received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2002 for the development of soft laser desorption ionization method for mass spectrometric analyses of biological macromolecules. In this paper, the process of the research and development of desorption ionization method and the produced laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometer (LDI-TOFMS) are described.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
A perspective on homelessness, ethics, and medical care.
People who are homeless are known to have high rates of morbidity and mortality. Yet their attitudes, values, and desires regarding end-of-life care have not been studied. This article reports on the findings from interviews with groups of homeless individuals in the Twin Cities performed by University of Minnesota researchers. It explores the implications of homelessness on two commonly discussed ethical principles-autonomy and justice.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Gait assessment with solesound instrumented footwear in spinal muscular atrophy.
Gait impairment is common in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and is described using clinical assessments and instrumented walkways. Continuous over-ground walking has not been studied. Nine SMA participants completed the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and 10-meter walk/run wearing instrumented footwear (SoleSound). Data were simultaneously collected using a reference system (GAITRite). The root-mean-square error (RMSE) indicated criterion validity. The decrease in walking speed represented fatigue. Foot loading patterns were evaluated using force sensors. The RMSE for stride time, length, and velocity ranged from 1.3% to 1.7%. Fatigue was 11.6 ± 9.1%, which corresponded to an average deceleration of 0.37 ± 0.28 mm/s2 . Participants spent most of their stance without heel contact. Forefoot contact occurred early in the gait cycle. These results suggest that footwear-based devices are an alternative to specialized equipment for gait assessment. Better understanding of gait disturbances should inform ongoing treatment efforts and provide a more sensitive outcome measure. Muscle Nerve 56: 230-236, 2017.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Phonon interference effects in molecular junctions.
We study coherent phonon transport through organic, π-conjugated molecules. Using first principles calculations and Green's function methods, we find that the phonon transmission function in cross-conjugated molecules, like meta-connected benzene, exhibits destructive quantum interference features very analogous to those observed theoretically and experimentally for electron transport in similar molecules. The destructive interference features observed in four different cross-conjugated molecules significantly reduce the thermal conductance with respect to linear conjugated analogues. Such control of the thermal conductance by chemical modifications could be important for thermoelectric applications of molecular junctions.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Consumer-professional collaboration for evaluation in neighborhood mental health programs.
Neighborhood mental health programs are challenged with the scientific and fiscal necessity of evaluating their services. Since most such programs are joint endeavors of neighborhood residents (usually a consumer board) and nonneighborhood professionals, such evaluative efforts require the sanction and collaboration of both groups to be maximally effective. However, the authors point out that collaboration is often strained by lack of trust and conflicts of interest. Study design may fail to consider neighborhood values, with the result that the provision of services is impeded, consumers are frightened or coerced, the role of paraprofessionals is threatened, and the consumer board's responsibilities to the neighborhood are ignored. The authors discuss those four issues and suggest ways of resolving them.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
MRI-guided 3D optimization significantly improves DVH parameters of pulsed-dose-rate brachytherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer.
To compare dose-volume histogram parameters of standard Point A and magnetic resonance imaging-based three-dimensional optimized dose plans in 21 consecutive patients who underwent pulsed-dose-rate brachytherapy (PDR-BT) for locally advanced cervical cancer. All patients received external beam radiotherapy (elective target dose, 45 Gy in 25-30 fractions; tumor target dose, 50-60 Gy in 25-30 fractions). PDR-BT was applied with a tandem-ring applicator. Additional ring-guided titanium needles were used in 4 patients and a multichannel vaginal cylinder in 2 patients. Dose planning was done using 1.5 Tesla T(1)-weighted and T(2)-weighted paratransversal magnetic resonance imaging scans. T(1)-weighted visible oil-containing tubes were used for applicator reconstruction. The prescribed standard dose for PDR-BT was 10 Gy (1 Gy/pulse, 1 pulse/h) for two to three fractions to reach a physical dose of 80 Gy to Point A. The total dose (external beam radiotherapy plus brachytherapy) was normalized to an equivalent dose in 2-Gy fractions using alpha/beta = 10 Gy for tumor, alpha/beta = 3 Gy for normal tissue, and a repair half-time of 1.5 h. The goal of optimization was dose received by 90% of the target volume (D(90)) of > or =85 Gy(alpha/beta10) in the high-risk clinical target volume (cervix and remaining tumor at brachytherapy), but keeping the minimal dose to 2 cm(3) of the bladder and rectum/sigmoid at <90 and <75 Gy(alpha/beta3), respectively. Using three-dimensional optimization, all dose-volume histogram constraints were met in 16 of 21 patients compared with 3 of 21 patients with two-dimensional library plans (p < 0.001). Optimization increased the minimal target dose (D(100)) of the high-risk clinical target volume (p < 0.007) and decreased the minimal dose to 2 cm(3) for the sigmoid significantly (p = 0.03). For the high-risk clinical target volume, D(90) was 91 +/- 8 Gy(alpha/beta10) and D(100) was 76 +/- 5 Gy(alpha/beta10). The minimal dose to 2 cm(3) for the bladder, rectum, and sigmoid was 73 +/- 6, 67 +/- 6, and 69 +/- 6 Gy(alpha/beta3), respectively. The results of our study have shown that magnetic resonance imaging-guided optimization of PDR-BT for locally advanced cervical cancer significantly improved the dose-volume histogram parameters.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Ciliary neurotrophic factor, a gp130 cytokine, regulates preovulatory surges of luteinizing hormone and prolactin in the rat.
Ciliary neurotropic factor (CNTF) is a neuroregulatory cytokine belonging to the interleukin-6 type cytokine superfamily. Although a few studies have reported a facilitatory action of CNTF on the reproductive axis in rodents, information along this line is still very limited. In this study, we examined a possible role of CNTF in the generation of ovarian steroid-induced luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin (PRL) surges in the rat, a crucial physiological event in mammalian reproduction. Experiments were performed on both normally-fed and 3-day-fasted rats, ovariectomized and primed with estradiol and progesterone. Blood was collected every 30 min between 11:00 and 18:00 h, to measure LH and PRL. Drugs were given intracerebroventricularly at 11:00 h. Compared to control serum, undiluted as well as threefold dilutions of anti-CNTF serum caused partial but significant suppression of LH surges. Both concentrations of the antibody also delayed the onset of PRL surge to a comparable degree. Fasted rats did not exhibit significant surges of the hormones, while 0.3 and 1.0 nmol, but not 0.1 nmol, recombinant human CNTF led to a dose-dependent recovery of both LH and PRL surges. These results demonstrate for the first time a significant role of CNTF in the generation of preovulatory LH and PRL surges in the rat. CNTF may thus be another humoral signal linking nutrition and reproductive function.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Incidental Thyroid Carcinoma in Patients Treated Surgically for Presumably Benign Thyroid Disease.
Incidental Thyroid Carcinoma (ITC) is quite high as been reported in the world's Journal. This study reviews the frequency of the ITC in patients treated surgically for otherwise benign Thyroid disease in one of the Endocrine surgery unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. This study was developed by the investigating the outcome of one hundred and twenty seven patient who underwent partial or total thyroidectomy for benign thyroid pathology in a single Endocrine Surgery Unit of BSMMU from January 2011 to July 2015. This observational study was done to find out the actual incidence of thyroid malignancy among the patients admitted for surgical management with thyroid pathology. All patients underwent at least FNAC and Ultrasonography of the Neck before surgery. Patients with undetermined cytology and follicular nodules were excluded from the study. Overall 19(14.96%) incidental thyroid carcinoma was recorded. Among the ITC 11(8.66%) Papillary Carcinoma, 7(5.51%) Follicular Carcinoma & 1(0.79%) is poorly differentiated carcinoma. The Overall incidence of papillary carcinoma is higher among the incidental carcinoma of Thyroid. Increased incidence associated with follicular adenoma present as an isolated thyroid nodules or multifocal lesion and should be considered malignant potential and total thyroidectomy would be the right choice as surgical management of the both cases. In case of multinodular goiter, total thyroidectomy is currently practiced in majority of the centers and our observations reinforced the attitude further.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Kinetics of stiff-legged gait: induced acceleration analysis.
Treating spastic paretic stiff-legged gait, defined as reduced knee flexion in swing, holds a high priority in the rehabilitation of patients with upper motor neuron lesions. We propose a method to determine the relative contributions of hip, knee, and ankle impairments to this disability. We analyzed the gait of ten patients with stiff-legged gait (SLG) due to a single stroke and ten healthy, able-bodied controls. Using subject specific models, we analyzed the induced accelerations (IA's) at the knee. Knee IA's throughout the gait cycle were calculated and the sum of the IA's was compared to the knee joint angular acceleration estimated from kinematic data. The preswing and early swing IA's were the focus of our examination as these largely determine knee kinematics in swing. Knee angular accelerations estimated from IA's and kinematic data agreed for both controls and patients. Gait cycle IA analysis of individual patients identified highly variable causes of SLG including ankle and hip joint impairments. Induced acceleration analysis (IAA) suggested that multiple impairments, not just about the knee, but also about the hip and ankle, lead to this disability. Individual subjects are likely to have individual reasons for their stiff-legged gait. Defining the link between the patients specific impairments and their gait disability should be a goal of clinical gait analysis. IAA is a useful tool for this purpose with a strong potential for clinical application.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Programmed initiation of hemodialysis for systemic amyloidosis patients associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Reactive amyloidosis is a serious systemic disease in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Amyloid protein can be deposited in kidneys, heart or gastrointestinal tract leading to organ failure. Renal involvement is a well-known complication in amyloidosis as this may culminate in end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Hemodialysis (HD) is always considered the treatment of choice for such patients; however, the prognosis is usually poor due to a large number of sudden deaths immediately following HD therapy. To circumvent the problem of HD initiation while instituting HD safety, we devised a plan to start HD and compare patient's survival with our previous data. Sixty-three patients were treated with HD. They were categorized according to the initiation of first dialysis. All patients were divided into planned, unplanned and programmed initiation groups. First dialysis that had been initiated as not urgent was considered 'planned' (20 patients). First dialysis that had been performed urgently for life-threatening renal insufficiency was considered 'unplanned' (31 patients). First dialysis that had been initiated as not urgent and according to our dialysis program was considered 'programmed' (12 patients). Survival of these 63 patients from the initiation of HD at 38 days was 75%, at 321 days was 50% and at 1,784 days was 25%. Patients with unplanned initiation of HD showed a significant poor survival compared with those of both planned and programmed initiation. Additionally, patients with planned and programmed initiation of HD showed no significant difference for the patients' survival. Our study demonstrates that patients with amyloidosis have a higher mortality rate. Nevertheless, programmed initiation of HD will improve the prognosis of patients with ESRD. Such possibility needs to be considered in more detail in the future.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Blood-feeding of Culex mosquitoes in an urban environment.
The modified capillary tube precipitin test was used to identify blood meal sources of Culex quinquefasciatus emerging from sewage ditches in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana. Canines were the primary hosts, but Passeriformes and humans were also suitable blood meal sources. The percentage of Cx. quinquefasciatus feeding on these 3 hosts fluctuated with the habitat and the season.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Idiopathic scoliosis in families of children with congenital scoliosis.
Although most cases of congenital scoliosis are thought to be of sporadic etiology, it is not known whether other types of spinal deformity occur in families of individuals with this type of scoliosis. Children with congenital scoliosis were identified through a review of health records and radiographic report databases. Of 237 children with congenital scoliosis investigated, 49 (20.7%) reported a family history of spinal deformity. Detailed pedigrees were done, which showed a history of idiopathic scoliosis in 17.3% of the 237 families. This is a higher than expected rate of spinal deformity in families of children with congenital scoliosis, and the strong association of idiopathic scoliosis in families of children with congenital scoliosis has not been reported previously. Although this finding could be related to the chance occurrence of multiple genetic abnormalities or sporadic events in these families, it does raise the possibility that one genetic defect at least predisposes these families to having different types of spinal deformity develop.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
PPAR-gamma2 Pro12Ala polymorphism in the population of obese and non-obese men of the city of Wroclaw.
The aim of this study was to examine the association of Pro12Ala PPARgamma2 polymorphism with anthropometric and biochemical parameters defining the risk for the development of metabolic syndrome in a healthy population of men. The study group consisted of 176 healthy men, aged 25-65 years (average 54.16 years). Polymorphisms of the PPAR-g gene (Pro12Ala, Ala12Ala, Pro12Pro) were explored using the PCR-RFLP method. Plasma glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and TG were measured using commercially available kits. The genotypic distribution of the Pro12Ala polymorphism was as follows: Pro/Ala 69.8% (n = 123), Ala/Ala 28.4% (n = 50) and Pro/Pro 1.8% (n = 3). The Pro12Ala and Ala12Ala subjects did not differ in any of the measured variables. The non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m(2), n = 117) and obese subpopulations (BMI > 30 kg/m(2), n = 56) did not significantly differ in the distribution of the genotypes. In the nonobese subpopulation, the homozygous Ala12 carriers (n = 38, 32.4%) had higher systolic blood pressure, plasma triglycerides, insulin levels and HOMA-IR. We conclude that despite the high frequency of the Ala allele at the PPAR-gamma2 gene in our population of Polish men, the Ala12 allele does not appear to improve insulin sensitivity or have an influence on the occurrence of obesity. It remains to be explained by larger studies if this polymorphism carries any risk of the development of metabolic abnormalities in non-obese men.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Promoters influence the kinetics of transgene expression following adenovector gene delivery.
The kinetics of gene expression from adenovirus-based delivery vectors will be an important variable influencing the efficacy and toxicity of these vectors. As different promoters have variable strengths and kinetic profiles, the optimal dose of a therapeutic transgene product over time may be achieved by varying the promoter. We analyzed several viral and cellular promoters in the context of adenovector gene delivery in the mouse. The kinetics of transgene expression was evaluated following intramuscular and intravenous delivery. Transgene expression from the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter was rapidly down-regulated in the tissues following intravenous administration of adenovectors. In contrast, transgene expression from the Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) promoter increased over time such that, at 3 weeks, expression was 10-fold higher than that from the CMV promoter-containing vector in all tissues. The kinetics of transgene expression from these vectors was similar when they were delivered via the intramuscular route in BALB/c, C57BL/6 and immunodeficient mice. Efficient repeat administration of an adenovirus vector, in the presence of neutralizing antibodies, was achieved in the skeletal muscle and transgene expression persisted with the same kinetics as in naïve animals. These results demonstrate that the in vivo kinetics of transgene expression by adenovectors is greatly influenced by the promoter. Adenovectors can be designed to deliver a transient bolus or a sustained level of protein expression in the target tissue depending on the requirements for particular indications. These results have implications for both therapeutic and vaccine indications.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Physicians' attitudes toward a new gynecological examination gown.
Gynecologists' attitudes toward an examination gown found in previous studies to reduce patients' distress during examination were investigated. Twenty-six gynecologists in four cities volunteered to use the new examination gown and complete a questionnaire evaluating the gown for adequacy of design and perceived patient comfort. Participants rated the gown positively overall. Favorability ratings were highly correlated with ratings of the structural adequacy of the gown for performing the breast, back, and pelvic exams. Favorability was also highly correlated with physicians' perceptions of the patients' comfort with the gown. The new gynecological examination gown is well accepted by gynecologists. It appears that gynecologists are open to changes in examination procedures that do not interfere with the exam and increase patient comfort. This new gown offers a strategy for decreasing patient distress during examination, which may reduce delay in seeking examinations.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
From virus structure to chromatin: X-ray diffraction to three-dimensional electron microscopy.
Early influences led me first to medical school with a view to microbiology, but I felt the lack of a deeper foundation and changed to chemistry, which in turn led me to physics and mathematics. I moved to the University of Cape Town to work on the X-ray crystallography of some small organic compounds. I developed a new method of using molecular structure factors to solve the crystal structure, which won me a research studentship to Trinity College Cambridge and the Cavendish Laboratory. There I worked on the austenite-pearlite transition in steel. This is governed by the dissipation of latent heat, and I ended up numerically solving partial differential equations. I used the idea of nucleation and growth during the phase change, which had its echo when I later tackled the assembly of Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) from its constituent RNA and protein subunits. I wanted to move on to X-ray structure analysis of large biological molecules and obtained a Nuffield Fellowship to work in J.D. Bernal's department at Birkbeck College, London. There, I met Rosalind Franklin, who had taken up the study of TMV. I was able to interpret some of Franklin's beautiful X-ray diffraction patterns of the virus particle. From then on, my fate was sealed. After Franklin's untimely death in 1958, I moved in 1962 to the newly built MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, which, under Max Perutz, housed the original MRC unit from the Cavendish Laboratory. I was thus privileged to join the Laboratory at an early stage in its expansion and consequently able to take advantage of, and to help build up, its then unique environment of intellectual and technological sophistication. There I have remained ever since.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The extracellular signal-regulated kinase: multiple substrates regulate diverse cellular functions.
The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade is a central pathway that transmits signals from many extracellular agents to regulate cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation and cell cycle progression. The signaling via the ERK cascade is mediated by sequential phosphorylation and activation of protein kinases in the different tiers of the cascade. Although the main core phosphorylation chain of the cascade includes Raf kinases, MEK1/2, ERK1/2 (ERKs) and RSKs, other alternatively spliced forms and distinct components exist in the different tiers, and participate in ERK signaling under specific conditions. These components enhance the complexity of the ERK cascade and thereby, enable the wide variety of functions that are regulated by it. Another factor that is important for the dissemination of ERKs' signals is the multiplicity of the cascade's substrates, which include transcription factors, protein kinases and phosphatases, cytoskeletal elements, regulators of apoptosis, and a variety of other signaling-related molecules. About 160 substrates have already been discovered for ERKs, and the list of these substrates, as well as the function and mechanism of activation of representative substrates, are described in the current review. Many of these substrates are localized in the nucleus, and seem to participate in the regulation of transcription upon stimulation. However, other substrates are found in the cytosol as well as in other cellular organelles, and those are responsible for processes such as translation, mitosis and apoptosis. Understanding of these processes may provide a full picture of the distinct, and even opposing cellular processes that are regulated by the ERK cascade.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Histological changes in refractory Helicobacter pylori infection and its relationship with increased levels of resistance to antibiotics and therapeutic regimens: one-year follow-up.
Eradication failure of Helicobacter pylori infection could play a causal role in progression of gastric disorders. In this study, infection with H. pylori was followed in gastric biopsies of symptomatic adult patients at two phases during 1-year period. Analyses were done to show association of therapeutic regimens with the refractory infection, changes in sequence types (STs) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, and progression of histopathological changes. Infection with H. pylori was confirmed in 32.3% (57/170) of the patients. Persistent infection with H. pylori was confirmed in 14 out of the 25 patients (56%) who participated at the second phase of the study. A difference between primary and secondary resistance rates to clarithromycin (49% vs 64.3%), metronidazole (76.36% vs 100%), and ciprofloxacin (45% vs 57.1%) was detected. Although the re-emerged strains in patients with refractory infection did not show alteration in STs, their MIC50 values showed twofold increases for clarithromycin and ciprofloxacin. While ciprofloxacin containing regimens were more successful, failure of metronidazole containing regimens was detected in 77% of the patients. Consequently, inappropriate medication has an impact on refractory H. pylori infection, which could cause to a rise in resistance levels to antibiotics and progression of pathological disorders.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Juvenile xanthogranuloma of the corneoscleral limbus].
An 18-year-old patient presented with a solitary limbal tumor on his left eye that had appeared and increased in size for 3 weeks. This mass did not display any extension into the anterior chamber on gonioscopy. Excisional biopsy by lamellar sclerokeratectomy was carried out and the lesion was sent for histologic examination. The pathologic diagnosis showed the characteristic picture of juvenile xanthogranuloma with numerous Touton giant cells. There was no recurrence after a 9-month follow-up. The diagnosis of isolated ocular juvenile xanthogranuloma may be difficult and histologic examination of ocular lesions is often necessary. When juvenile xanthogranuloma affects the uvea, treatment is medical. When it appears as a limbal mass, treatment is surgical. Juvenile xanthogranuloma should always be considered a differential diagnosis of a limbal mass, especially in children.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
A search for antiplasmodial metabolites among fungal endophytes of terrestrial and marine plants of southern India.
Eighty four different fungal endophytes isolated from sea grasses (5), marine algae (36) and leaves or barks of forest trees (43) were grown in vitro and the secondary metabolites secreted by them were harvested by immobilizing them on XAD beads. These metabolites were eluted with methanol and screened using SYBR Green I assay for their antiplasmodial activity against blood stage Plasmodium falciparum in human red blood cell culture. Our results revealed that fungal endophytes belonging to diverse genera elaborate antiplasmodial metabolites. A Fusarium sp. (580, IC50: 1.94 μg ml(-1)) endophytic in a marine alga and a Nigrospora sp. (151, IC50: 2.88 μg ml(-1)) endophytic in a tree species were subjected to antiplasmodial activity-guided reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography separation. Purification led to potentiation as reflected in IC50 values of 0.12 μg ml(-1) and 0.15 μg ml(-1) for two of the fractions obtained from 580. Our study adds further credence to the notion that fungal endophytes are a potential storehouse for a variety of novel secondary metabolites vested with different bioactivities including some that can stall the growth of the malaria parasite.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Expression of somatostatin, cortistatin, and somatostatin receptors in human monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells.
Increasing evidence suggests that neuropeptides play a role in the regulatory mechanisms between the neuroendocrine and immune systems. A differential expression of the five known somatostatin (SS) receptors (sst1-5) has been demonstrated in human immune cells and tissues. However, little is known concerning regulation and expression of sst1-5 and the peptide SS. Therefore, we investigated the expression and the time-dependent regulation of sst1-5, SS, and cortistatin (CST), a novel SS-like peptide, in human monocytes (MO), monocyte-derived macrophages (MP), and dendritic cells (DC) in the basal and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated state. MO, MP, and DC selectively expressed sst2 mRNA. SS mRNA was not detectable, whereas all samples expressed CST mRNA. Expression levels of sst2 and CST mRNA showed marked differences and were in the rank order of MP>>DC>>>MO. LPS stimulation did not induce expression of SS or sst1,3,4,5. However, sst2 mRNA expression was upregulated significantly by stimulation with LPS. CST mRNA was upregulated as well. During differentiation of MO in MP or DC, time-dependent, significantly increasing sst2 and CST mRNA levels were found. By confocal microscopy, the presence of sst2 receptors was demonstrated on MP, but not on DC. This study demonstrates for the first time a selective and inducible expression of the recently discovered CST, as well as sst2, in human monocyte-derived cells, suggesting a role for a CST-sst2 system rather than a SS-sst2 system in these immune cell types.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Regulation of ion transport in porcine distal colon: effects of putative neurotransmitters.
Porcine distal colon epithelium was mounted in Ussing chambers and bathed with porcine Ringer's solution. The effects of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, norepinephrine, and carbamylcholine on Na and Cl fluxes and transepithelial electrical parameters were determined after their serosal administration. Vasoactive intestinal peptide increased the Cl-dependent component of the short-circuit current with a half-maximal effect at 115 nmol/L. Transepithelial Na and Cl flux studies demonstrated that the increase in current was caused by stimulation of Cl secretion. Norepinephrine also stimulated Cl secretion and increased the serosal-to-mucosal Na flux, producing a half-maximal effect at 1.6 mumol/L. Selective blockade of alpha 1 adrenoceptors by 0.5 mumol/L prazosin produced an eightfold decrease in norepinephrine potency. Carbamylcholine produced a significant increase in Cl secretion and decreased absorption of both Na and Cl with a concentration of 10 mumol/L producing a half-maximal effect. The muscarinic cholinoceptor blocker atropine (0.1 mumol/L) produced a 22-fold decrease in carbamylcholine potency. The effects of all three transmitter substances were unaffected after pretreatment of tissues with the neuronal conduction-blocker tetrodotoxin or an inhibitor of arachidonic acid metabolism. These results indicate that (a) vasoactive intestinal polypeptide stimulates Cl secretion without affecting Na absorption; (b) norepinephrine acting through alpha 1 adrenoceptors stimulates net Cl secretion and activates a serosal-to-mucosal Na transport mechanism; and (c) carbamylcholine acting through muscarinic receptors stimulates Cl secretion and inhibits Na and Cl absorption.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Antimutagenic effects of spermine and guanosine in continuous cultures of Escherichia coli mutator strain mutH.
In E. coli strain RH531 containing mutator gene mutH-, whose mechanism of enhanced mutability depends upon DNA replication, spermine and guanosine reduce the rates of mutation to T5R and to increased fitness.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Mechanisms involved in metformin action in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.
The N, N' dimethyl-biguanide : Metformin is an antidiabetic drug that increases glucose utilization in insulin-sensitive tissues. As Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and diabetes share some altered parameters-such as abnormal glucose: insulin ratio, altered lipidic metabolism and insulin-resistance syndrome- the use of metformin has become increasingly accepted and widespread in the treatment of PCOS. Currently, metformin is used to induce ovulation and during early pregnancy in PCOS patients, however, a complete knowledge of the metformin action has not been achieved yet. This review describes beyond the classical reproductive action of metformin and explores other benefits of the drug. In addition, the present work discusses the molecular mechanisms involved further than the classical pathway that involves the AMP-activated protein kinase.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Moderating Effects of Forgiveness on Relationship Between Empathy and Health-Related Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Patients: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach.
Health-related quality of life (QOL) is a recommended clinical tool to assess hemodialysis patients and a primary end point to observe the effectiveness of overall disease management. Empathy is associated with positive outcomes such as pain relief and reduced anxiety and distress. Numerous studies have tested the relationships among empathy, forgiveness, and QOL; however, a mechanism of forgiveness has not been fully explored in hemodialysis patients. To test the relationship among empathy and health-related QOL and confirm the moderating effects of forgiveness on relationship between empathy and health-related QOL among hemodialysis patients. In a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from September to December 2017, 457 hemodialysis patients from five hospitals filled out the Heartland Forgiveness Scale, Interpersonal Reactivity Index-C, Kidney Disease Questionnaire, and general information. The data were analyzed using SPSS, and structural equation modeling was used to address the relationships among empathy, forgiveness, and health-related QOL. Empathy was significantly positively associated with health-related QOL. The proposed model had a good fit to the data. Forgiveness was found to play a partial mediating role between empathy and health-related QOL. The results imply that empathy significantly directly and indirectly influences health-related QOL. Empathy among hemodialysis patients should be monitored and effectively managed to improve positive effects on their health-related QOL. Nurses should consider implementing empathy interventions with an emphasis on building forgiveness strategies to help hemodialysis patients improve their health-related QOL.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Video gaming in school children: How much is enough?
Despite extensive debate, the proposed benefits and risks of video gaming in young people remain to be empirically clarified, particularly as regards an optimal level of use. In 2,442 children aged 7 to 11 years, we investigated relationships between weekly video game use, selected cognitive abilities, and conduct-related problems. A large subgroup of these children (n = 260) was further examined with magnetic resonance imaging approximately 1 year later to assess the impact of video gaming on brain structure and function. Playing video games for 1 hour per week was associated with faster and more consistent psychomotor responses to visual stimulation. Remarkably, no further change in motor speed was identified in children playing >2 hours per week. By comparison, the weekly time spent gaming was steadily associated with conduct problems, peer conflicts, and reduced prosocial abilities. These negative implications were clearly visible only in children at the extreme of our game-playing distribution, with 9 hours or more of video gaming per week. At a neural level, changes associated with gaming were most evident in basal ganglia white matter and functional connectivity. Significantly better visuomotor skills can be seen in school children playing video games, even with relatively small amounts of use. Frequent weekly use, by contrast, was associated with conduct problems. Further studies are needed to determine whether moderate video gaming causes improved visuomotor skills and whether excessive video gaming causes conduct problems, or whether children who already have these characteristics simply play more video games. Ann Neurol 2016;80:424-433.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Fractionating controlled memory processes and recall of context in recognition memory: a case report.
Recollection has been described as both a recognition memory judgment requiring cognitive control and the ability to retrieve contextual information about a prior occurrence. At the core of this article is the question whether or not these two subcomponents of recollection are dissociable in amnesia. In three experiments, we explored the influence of exclusion task instructions on performance in a single case (CJ), with the view to understand the relative contributions of control and source memory to recognition memory decisions. First, contrasting findings were obtained between tasks requiring strategic control or source reports. Second, even though CJ displayed some residual source memory relative to the ability to strategically control this information, his source memory capacity was time-limited. Our findings resonate with the novel proposal that recollection draws heavily upon working memory resources, and provide an example of how amnesic patients might utilize residual working memory capacity to solve episodic memory tasks.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Testing conception of engagement of imidazoline receptors in imidazoline drugs effects on isolated rat heart atria.
Recently, attention has been payed to the role of imidazolines in physiology of the heart. However, no systematic comparative studies were reported regarding the activity of a representative set of specific ligands towards imidazoline receptors in the heart preparations. The aim of this project was to test effects of a set of ligands on the pharmacological function of putative imidazoline receptors in isolated rat heart atria. Known imidazoline drugs with a postulated high affinity to imidazoline I(1) receptor: AGN192403, rilmenidine, moxonidine and clonidine were used. The specific ligands of imidazoline I(2) receptor: 2-BFI, BU239 and putative natural ligand for imidazoline I(1), I(2) and I(3) receptors, agmatine, were tested also. The spontaneously beating right and left atria, driven electrically, were studied. Dose-response curves for amplitude and rate of the contractions of the atria were produced by administration of increasing doses of the agents. Phentolamine as alpha(1)/alpha(2) adrenergic receptors blocker and idazoxan as I(2)/I(1)/alpha(2) receptors blocker were added in order to inhibit ino- and chronotropic effects of the compounds studied. The -log EC(50) parameters were calculated. The positive inotropic effect on left atria were evoked with the rank order of potency: agmatine >> clonidine > BU239 > rilmenidine > or = moxonidine and these effects were generally diminished by idazoxan. Moxonidine produced a weak positive inotropic effect potentiated by idazoxan. Rilmenidine and moxonidine were assumed to act as partial agonists of imidazoline I(1) receptor. AGN192403 did not change the amplitude of beating of left atria. The positive chronotropic effects on spontaneously beating right heart atria were with in the following order of potency: BU239 > or = agmatine >>> clonidine > AGN192403. Idazoxan markedly antagonized chronotropic effect of both BU239 and agmatine. 2-BFI weakly diminished the rate of beating of atria; moxonidine and rilmenidine had no effect. In conclusion, imidazoline receptors of the I(1) subtype may be involved in inotropic reaction of the agents studied, but this effect depends mainly on the alpha(2)/alpha(1) adrenergic receptors. Engagement of I(2) imidazoline receptors, along with the alpha(2) adrenergic ones, in chronotropic activity of isolated right atria of rat has been demonstrated.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Synchronous pyomyositis and septic hip arthritis.
The authors report a rare concomitant pyogenic infection of the iliopsoas, iliacus and external obturator muscles and of the hip joint in a 68-year-old woman. Because the patient showed the classic symptomatic triad of limping, hip pain and fever, in addition to positive hip arthrocentesis, the diagnosis of septic hip arthritis was routine, but the simultaneous pyomyositis was almost overlooked. Unusual localised heat and swelling on the front of the proximal thigh prompted a CT scan that identified remarkable muscle abscesses in addition to the septic arthritis. Surgical debridement and antibiotics resolved the infection relatively rapidly without sequelae. We noted that reaching a definitive diagnosis of such a concomitant infection requires a suspicion of the presence of pyomyositis, which can be definitively determined using advanced imaging studies.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Determination of serum cholinesterase activity and dibucaine numbers by an amperometric choline sensor.
Serum cholinesterase activity and the dibucaine numbers have been determined by using a hydrogen peroxide electrode and the enzyme choline oxidase immobilized on a nylon net. The analysis procedure is extremely simple and very fast allowing 30 cholinesterase determinations per hour. Both cholinesterase activity and dibucaine number measurements could be performed in 5 min and by using serum samples of only 10 microliters. When used in sera the probe showed no interference from electroactive compounds present in blood, and also showed good stability and reproducibility. These features make this sensor appropriate for continuous extracorporeal circuit blood monitoring of succinylcholine during surgery.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The changes of red blood cell viscoelasticity and sports anemia in male 24-hr ultra-marathoners.
In endurance sports, stress, dehydration and release of chemical factors have been associated with red blood cell (RBC) alterations of structure and function, which may contribute to sports anemia, a well-observed phenomenon during long-distance running. Until now, the investigation of the changes of viscoelastic properties of RBC membrane, a decisive factor of RBC deformability to avoid hemolysis, is lacking, especially in an Oriental population. nineteen runners were prospectively recruited into our study. Hematological parameters were analyzed before and immediately after the 2015 Taipei 24H Ultra-Marathon Festival, Taiwan. Video particle tracking microrheology was used to determine viscoelastic properties of each RBC sample by calculating the dynamic elastic modulus G'(f) and the viscous modulus G″(f) at frequency f = 20 Hz. Haptoglobin, RBC count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean cell hemoglobin, plasma free hemoglobin and unsaturated iron-binding capacity values of the recruited runners showed a statistically significant drop in the post-race values. Blood concentration of reticulocyte and ferritin were significantly higher at post-race compared with pre-race. 15 out of the 19 runners had a concurrent change in the elastic and the viscous moduli of their RBCs. Changes in the elastic and the viscous moduli were correlated with changes in the RBC count, hemoglobin and hematocrit. Viscoelasticity properties, the elastic modulus G'(f) and the viscous modulus G″(f) of RBCs are associated with endurance exercise-induced anemia.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Determination of barbiturates by solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and ion trap gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) in conjunction with quadrupole ion trap GC-MS was applied to the determination of a series of barbiturates. A 65 microns Carbowax-divinylbenzene (DVB) SPME fiber was used to successfully extract a series of eight barbiturates from aqueous solution. Absorption kinetics and distribution coefficients for the 65 microns Carbowax-DVB SPME fiber were determined for the compounds. In addition the method was evaluated with respect to linearity, limit of detection, precision, desorption time, and the effect of salt. Limits of detection reached 1 ng/ml for the barbiturates. Linearity was established for the barbiturates over a concentration range of 10-1000 ng/ml, with coefficients of correlation 0.99. Overall, the precision of the method fell between 2.2%-6.5%, depending on the barbiturate. SPME was applied to the identification and quantitation of the barbiturates in a urine matrix. The method was validated by analyzing a reference standard pentobarbital-spiked urine sample. Both standard addition and internal standard with [2H5]-pentobarbital techniques were evaluated, with recoveries found to be 93% and 104%, respectively SPME was then used to rapidly screen a urine specimen tested positive for barbiturates, and butalbital was detected and quantified.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Significance of plasma osteopontin in diagnosis of hepatitis C virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma.
Alfa fetoprotein (AFP) is widely used as a surveillance test for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among patients with liver cirrhosis (LC). However, the clinical use of AFP has been shown to present some important limitations in sensitivity and specificity. Osteopontin (OPN) is a secreted matrix glycoprotein that is emerging as a significant protein in the biology of HCC. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of plasma OPN compared with that of AFP in the diagnosis of HCC among hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related LC. Plasma levels of OPN and AFP were measured in 69 Egyptian patients with HCV-related LC (35 with HCC and 34 without HCC) and 20 healthy controls. Both median AFP and OPN levels were significantly higher in the HCC group compared to LC and healthy control groups (p<0.001 in each) and in LC compared to the control group (p<0.001). In the HCC group, both OPN and AFP levels were significantly higher in patients with Child-Pugh class C and B compared to class A (p<0.05 in each). There was no correlation between OPN and AFP levels. The OPN level was significantly higher in patients with multiple focal lesions than in those with single lesions (p<0.05) and in patients with portal vein invasion compared to patients without portal vein invasion (p<0.05). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the area under the curve (AUC) for OPN and AFP was 0.824 and 0.730, respectively. OPN is a promising tumour marker which could be used as a screening test for the diagnosis of HCC in patients with LC and, hence, improves the prognosis and survival rate of these patients. The association of OPN with the multiplicity of focal lesions and portal vein invasion suggests an additional prognostic value.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Dose-related increase of HDL-cholesterol levels after N-acetylcysteine in man.
Changes in plasma lipid-lipoprotein levels were evaluated in 10 hyperlipidemic patients during treatment with progressive doses (from 1200 mg day-1 to 3600 mg day-1) of N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as those of lipoprotein (a) did not change to an appreciable extent, even with the highest dosage. However, the HDL-cholesterol levels showed a significant, dose-related rise, the mean absolute increase, with the highest NAC dose, being of approximately 10 mg dl-1 (16.2%). The rise of HDL-cholesterol was independent of changes in other lipid-lipoprotein parameters, suggesting a possible direct effect of NAC on the HDL system.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Discoloration of dental carious lesions (a review).
The discoloration of dental carious lesions is a marked feature which has received relatively little attention from dental researchers. In this short review, possible causes are considered: the formation of Maillard pigments, melanins, and lipofuscins, and the uptake of food dyes, metals, and bacterial pigments. It is concluded that the Maillard reaction between proteins and small aldehydes produced by bacteria probably accounts for the discoloration.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
GITR ligand-costimulation activates effector and regulatory functions of CD4+ T cells.
Engagement of glucocorticoid-induced TNFR-related protein (GITR) enables the costimulation of both CD25(-)CD4(+) effector (Teff) and CD25(+)CD4(+) regulatory (Treg) cells; however, the effects of GITR-costimulation on Treg function remain controversial. In this study, we examined the effects of GITR ligand (GITRL) binding on the respective functions of CD4(+) T cells. GITRL-P815 transfectants efficiently augmented anti-CD3-induced proliferation and cytokine production by Teff cells. Proliferation and IL-10 production in Treg were also enhanced by GITRL transfectants when exogenous IL-2 and stronger CD3 stimulation was provided. Concomitant GITRL-costimulation of Teff and Treg converted the anergic state of Treg into a proliferating state, maintaining and augmenting their function. Thus, GITRL-costimulation augments both effector and regulatory functions of CD4(+) T cells. Our results suggest that highly activated and increased ratios of Treg reverse the immune-enhancing effects of GITRL-costimulation in Teff, which may be problematic for therapeutic applications using strong GITR agonists.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Reoperations for recurrent atrial septal defect].
The authors discuss seven cases of recurrent atrial septal defect (ASD) without an inferior border which were treated by surgery. A typical clinical picture of the anomaly with arterial hypoxemia being the leading symptom was encountered in all cases. The main cause of the complications was overestimation of the indications for Lewis' operation, i.e. ASD suturation. A good clinical result was produced in all cases of a repeated intervention with ASD repair with a graft.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Chronic meningococcaemia: a case report.
Chronic meningococcaemia (CM), caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis is reported in a 27-year-old Indonesian man. The main symptoms were intermittent fever, skin rash and arthralgia. The pathogenesis, symptoms, differential diagnoses and treatment of CM are discussed.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Concentration of cephalosporins in tissues of the head and neck after parenteral infusion.
Cephalosporins are successfully used in the therapy of acute sinusitis, purulent parotitis, and lymphadenitis. Anti-infectious prophylaxis in major head and neck surgery may be performed with cephalosporins as first choice. For sufficient prophylaxis or therapy, an effective level of the antibiotic drug in the serum and tissue of the target organs is necessary. In a comparative investigation, we measured serum and tissue levels of three regions of the head and neck (parotid glands, paranasal sinuses, soft tissue of the neck) of the second-generation cephalosporins, cefuroxime and cefotiam, after a single parenteral infusion. Both antibiotics reach levels which are effective against bacteria typically causing spontaneous or postoperative infection of head and neck tissue. Effective levels of cefuroxime both at the investigated tissue sites and in serum are greater than those of cefotiam, and cefuroxime is eliminated from serum less rapidly. The pharmacologic data show that both drugs are suitable for therapy and perioperative prophylaxis of purulent head and neck infections, but various data indicate that there is an advantage in favor of cefuroxime.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Saliva and serum concentration of lamotrigine in patients with epilepsy.
The authors examined the interindividual correlation between saliva and serum concentrations of lamotrigine (LTG) and the relationship between LTG concentration in saliva and the free LTG concentration in serum in 40 patients with epilepsy, aged 16 to 73 years, receiving stable doses of LTG and comedication. Saliva was collected before and after stimulation of salivary flow. The free LTG fraction was determined by equilibrium dialysis and ultrafiltration. Drug analysis was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The correlation between LTG daily dose and serum concentration was weak but significant (r = 0.47). There was high correlation between LTG concentration in serum and unstimulated (r = 0.85) or stimulated (r = 0.94) saliva, and between total LTG concentration in serum and the free LTG fraction as determined by ultrafiltration (r = 0.95) and equilibrium dialysis (r = 0.93). Lamotrigine concentration in stimulated saliva was significantly correlated to the free LTG fraction. Protein binding of LTG calculated from concentration in stimulated saliva, as determined by ultrafiltration and equilibrium dialysis, was 51.8% +/- 13.03%, 68.05% +/- 7.59%, and 58.72% +/- 7.68% (mean +/- standard deviation) respectively. The differences between the three methods were significant. The authors conclude that saliva sampling may be a useful alternative to blood tests for monitoring LTG treatment.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Conventional and diffusion-weighted MRI findings of methotrexate related sub-acute neurotoxicity.
We describe longitudinal diffusion-weighted MRI findings of sub-acute leukoencephalopathy following methotrexate therapy in a 24-year-old man diagnosed with pre-B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), presenting with right-sided paralysis and aphasia after second consolidation with intrathecal triple-drug therapy given intrathecally. This case demonstrates the value of DWI in evaluation and diagnosis of sub-acute toxic leukoencephalopathy in patients being treated with methotrexate. The longitudinal follow up DWI findings suggest reversible metabolic derangement rather than ischemia as the cause of these findings.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Cyclodextrin-derived host molecules as reversal agents for the neuromuscular blocker rocuronium bromide: synthesis and structure-activity relationships.
A series of mono- and per-6-substituted cyclodextrin derivatives were synthesized as synthetic receptors (or host molecules) of rocuronium bromide, the most widely used neuromuscular blocker in anaesthesia. By forming host-guest complexes with rocuronium, these cyclodextrin derivatives reverse the muscle relaxation induced by rocuronium in vitro and in vivo and therefore can be used as reversal agents of the neuromuscular blocker to assist rapid recovery of patients after surgery. Because this supramolecular mechanism of action does not involve direct interaction with the cholinergic system, the reversal by these compounds, e.g., compound 14 (Org 25969), is not accompanied by cardiovascular side effects usually attendant with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as neostigmine. The structure-activity relationships are consistent with this supramolecular mechanism of action and are discussed herein. These include the effects of binding cavity size and hydrophobic and electrostatic interaction on the reversal activities of these compounds.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Toilet Grab-Bar Preference and Center of Pressure Deviation During Toilet Transfers in Healthy Seniors, Seniors With Hip Replacements, and Seniors Having Suffered a Stroke.
Multiple toilet grab-bar configurations are required by people with a diverse spectrum of disability. The study purpose was to determine toilet grab-bar preference of healthy seniors, seniors with a hip replacement, and seniors post-stroke, and to determine the effect of each configuration on centre of pressure (COP) displacement during toilet transfers. 14 healthy seniors, 7 ambulatory seniors with a hip replacement, and 8 ambulatory seniors post-stroke participated in the study. Toilet transfers were performed with no bars (NB), commode (C), two vertical bars (2VB), one vertical bar (1VB), a horizontal bar (H), two swing-away bars (S) and a diagonal bar (D). COP was measured using pressure sensitive floor mats. Participants rated the safety, ease of use, helpfulness, comfort and preference for instalment. 2VB was most preferred and had the smallest COP deviation. Least preferred was H and NB. C caused largest COP displacement but had favourable ratings. The preference and safety of the 2VB should be considered in the design of accessible toilets and in accessibility construction guidelines. However these results need to be verified in non-ambulatory populations. C is frequently prescribed, but generates large COP deviation, suggesting it may present an increased risk of falls.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Hemodynamic correlates of visuomotor motor adaptation by functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy.
The development of rehabilitation engineering technologies such as the design of smart prosthetics necessitates a deep understanding of brain mechanisms engaged in ecological situations when human interact with new tools and/or environments. Thus, we aimed to investigate potential hemodynamic signatures reflecting the level of cognitive-motor performance and/or the internal or mental states of individuals when learning a novel tool with unknown properties. These markers were derived from functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIR) signals. Our results indicate an increased level of oxy-hemoglobin in prefrontal sensors associated with enhanced kinematics during early compared with late learning. This is consistent with previous neuroimaging studies that revealed a higher contribution of prefrontal areas during early compare to late adaptation learning. These non-invasive functional hemodynamic markers may play a role in bioengineering applications such as smart neuroprosthesis and brain monitoring where adaptive behavior is important.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Immunological studies in a case of congenital nephrotic syndrome with focal extracapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis (author's transl)].
An immunological study in a case of nephrotic syndrome in early infancy with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis with focal crescents revealed deficiencies in humoral and cellular immunity. Serum Ig-G antibody levels such as pertussis-agglutinins, tetanus and diophtheria-antitoxing were decreased. A loss of tetanus antibodies in the urine could be observed. The production of tetanus-antibodies after immunogenic stimulation with tetanus-antigen was not diminished. The loss of Ig-A in the urine might have been compensated by a higher synthesis rate, which could also be the cause of the increased serum levels of Ig-M, since a loss of Ig-M in urine was not observed. The diminished serum levels of Ig-G antibodies were considered not only to be the result of loss, but possibly also of higher catabolism, and an insufficient compensation by a higher rate of synthesis. The percentage of T-cells in peripheral blood was found to be low. Stimulation of lymphocytes with PHA was at first normal, but in the last investigations diminished. Special experiments lead to the assumption, that this partial defect of cellular immunity might be the result of lacking or diminution of nutritive plasmafactors.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The incidence of inflammatory bowel disease in Denmark 1980-2013: a nationwide cohort study.
Globally, the incidence rates of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are increasing; however, data from high-incidence areas are conflicting. Previous studies in Denmark have assessed incidence rates of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) using short observation periods. To investigate trends in IBD incidence in Denmark over a thirty-year period using nationwide data. Patients diagnosed with CD or UC in Denmark between 1980 and 2013 were identified in the Danish National Patient Registry (NPR) and included in a nationwide cohort. Incidence rates estimated using different numbers of National Patient Registry records (≥1, 2, 3 or 4) required for case definition were compared. From 1980 to 2013 the incidence of CD increased from 5.2 (95% CI: 5.0-5.4) per 100 000 to 9.1 (95% CI: 8.7-9.5) per 100 000 and the incidence of UC increased from 10.7 (95% CI: 10.4-11.0) per 100 000 to 18.6 (95% CI: 18.0-19.2) per 100 000. The increased incidence in CD and UC was independent of gender. The annual increase in incidence rate was greatest in patients aged <15 years for CD and those older than 15 years for UC. For both CD and UC the incidence rates for females were significantly higher than for males. The number of registry records chosen to define IBD cases greatly influenced incidence estimates. The incidence of IBD in Denmark continues to increase and is among the highest in the world. Using at ≥2 records of IBD diagnosis in the Danish National Patient Registry will result in more valid incidence estimates.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
[Hepatitis A in Oslo].
During the last six years we have registered 237 persons with acute hepatitis A in Oslo, 96 of them with non-Scandinavian names. The number with non-Scandinavian names is increasing. Almost all the hepatitis A patients with non-Scandinavian names are children, and two of three had been infected in Pakistan. Adult immigrants from countries where hepatitis A is endemic do not need any prophylaxis against hepatitis A. 29,800 travellers were given human normal immunoglobulin at our department during the last five years and none of them acquired hepatitis A. To prevent import of hepatitis A it is of particular importance to give human normal immunoglobulin or hepatitis A vaccine to all children of immigrants before they visit their parents' country.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
The effects of fat loss after bariatric surgery on inflammation, serum hepcidin, and iron absorption: a prospective 6-mo iron stable isotope study.
Iron deficiency is common in obese subjects. This may be due to an increase in serum hepcidin and a decrease in iron absorption from adiposity-related inflammation. We evaluated whether weight and fat loss in obese subjects would decrease inflammation and serum hepcidin and thereby improve iron absorption. We performed a 6-mo prospective study in obese [body mass index (in kg/m2) ≥35 and <45] adults who had recently undergone laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. At 2 and 8 mo postsurgery, subjects consumed a test drink with 6 mg 57Fe as ferrous sulfate and were intravenously infused with 100 μg 58Fe as iron citrate. We then compared erythrocyte incorporation of iron isotopic labels, changes in body composition, iron status, hepcidin, and inflammation at each time point. Forty-three subjects were studied at baseline, and 38 completed the protocol (32 women and 6 men). After 6 mo, total body fat, interleukin IL-6, and hepcidin were significantly lower (all P < 0.005). In iron-deficient subjects (n = 17), geometric mean (95% CI) iron absorption increased by 28% [from 9.7% (6.5%, 14.6%) to 12.4% (7.7%, 20.1%); P = 0.03], whereas in iron-sufficient subjects (n = 21), absorption did not change [5.9% (4.0%, 8.6%) and 5.6% (3.9%, 8.2%); P = 0.81]. Adiposity-related inflammation is associated with a reduction in the normal upregulation of iron absorption in iron-deficient obese subjects, and this adverse effect may be ameliorated by fat loss. This protocol was approved by the ethics committees of Wageningen University, ETH Zurich, the University of Monterrey, and the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks, and registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01347905.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Protein microarray spots are modulated by patterning method, surface chemistry and processing conditions.
The uniformity of the protein patterns, their shape, and the contrast between the fluorescence signal of the pattern and the background, critically modulate the quantitative accuracy of the microarray-derived data. While significant research focused of the identification of the factors that impact the protein microarray patterns, these studies usually have focused on the optimization of one set of these factors, e.g., how the spot uniformity is affected by different additives, or by different surfaces. However, the complex interaction between proteins, carrier fluids, surfaces, and patterning methodologies used would suggest a systematic and more comprehensive study that considers all these parameters, as well as their inter-relationship. The present work compared the patterning of two fluorescently-tagged proteins, i.e., IgG, BSA, on surfaces with different hydrophobicity and chemistry, and printed by inkjet, pin, and microcontact printing (µCP). The quantification of the spot size regularity, its morphology, the signal intensity and its distribution within spots were used to assess the quality of a specific printing method, on a specific surface, with a specific solute of the printed protein. It was found that the optimal uniformity for both droplet-based methods depend on surface chemistry, with glass slides modified with 3-Glycidoxypropyl-dimethoxymethyl silane (GPS) and 3-(Aminopropyl)-triethoxy silane (APTES) exhibiting the greatest uniformity, while uniformity of the µCP patterns was relatively independent of the surface chemistry. For the inkjet and pin printing, the largest fluorescence signal and contrast with the background was found on APTES modified glass slides, whereas for the µCP the fluorescence signal increased with increasing hydrophilicity.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Aesthetic lateral canthoplasty.
To report our technique and experience in using a minimally invasive approach for aesthetic lateral canthoplasty. Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing lateral canthoplasty through a minimally invasive, upper eyelid crease incision approach at Jules Stein Eye Institute by one surgeon (R.A.G.) between 2005 and 2008. Concomitant surgical procedures were recorded. Preoperative and postoperative photographs at the longest follow-up visit were analyzed and graded for functional and cosmetic outcomes. A total of 600 patients (1,050 eyelids) underwent successful lateral canthoplasty through a small incision in the upper eyelid crease to correct lower eyelid malposition (laxity, ectropion, entropion, retraction) and/or lateral canthal dystopia, encompassing 806 reconstructive and 244 cosmetic lateral canthoplasties. There were 260 males and 340 females, with mean age of 55 years old (range, 4-92 years old). Minimum follow-up time was 3 months (mean, 6 months; maximum, 6 years). Complications were rare and minor, including transient postoperative chemosis. Eighteen patients underwent reoperation in the following 2 years for recurrent lower eyelid malposition and/or lateral canthal deformity. Lateral canthoplasty through a minimally invasive upper eyelid crease incision and resuspension technique can effectively address lower eyelid laxity and/or dystopia, resulting in an aesthetic lateral canthus.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Automatic regularization parameter selection by generalized cross-validation for total variational Poisson noise removal.
In this paper, we propose an alternating minimization algorithm with an automatic selection of the regularization parameter for image reconstruction of photon-counted images. By using the generalized cross-validation technique, the regularization parameter can be updated in the iterations of the alternating minimization algorithm. Experimental results show that our proposed algorithm outperforms the two existing methods, the maximum likelihood expectation maximization estimator with total variation regularization and the primal dual method, where the parameters must be set in advance.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
AgfC and AgfE facilitate extracellular thin aggregative fimbriae synthesis in Salmonella enteritidis.
Salmonella thin aggregative fimbriae (Tafi; curli) are important in pathogenesis and biofilm formation; however, less is known of their structure and morphogenesis. In the Salmonella agfBAC Tafi operon, the transcription and role of agfC have been elusive. In this study, agfBAC transcripts were detected using a sensitive reverse transcriptase technique. Native AgfC was not detected using polyclonal antibodies generated against purified hexahistidine-tagged AgfC; however, in trans expression revealed that AgfC was localized to the periplasm as a mature form. An isogenic DeltaagfC mutant displayed an abundance of 20 nm fibres, in addition to native Tafi (5-7 nm), and had an increase in cell surface hydrophobicity. Purified 20 nm fibres were depolymerized under exceptionally stringent conditions to release what proved to be AgfA subunits. This revealed that the 20 nm fibres represented a different form of Tafi. The role of AgfC in Tafi assembly was investigated further using an antibody-capture assay of isogenic Deltaagf mutants. A soluble antibody-accessible form of AgfA was captured in wild-type (wt), DeltaagfB and DeltaagfF strains, in support of the extracellular nucleation-precipitation pathway of Tafi assembly, but not in DeltaagfC or DeltaagfE mutants. This indicates that AgfC and AgfE are important for AgfA extracellular assembly, facilitating the synthesis of Tafi.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Phacofragmentation without perfluorocarbon liquid for dislocated crystalline lenses or lens fragments after phacoemulsification.
To evaluate the clinical outcome of vitrectomy with phacofragmentation without perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) in the management of dislocation of the crystalline lens, caused by trauma, hereditary disorders, or hypermature cataracts, and lens fragments due to phacoemulsification. A prospective study was conducted to evaluate 30 eyes of 29 patients who had undergone standard pars plana vitrectomy with phacofragmentation without PFCL in the vitreous cavity, for the removal of dislocated crystalline lenses or lens fragments, from January 1998 to July 2000. All cases were followed for more than six months. Final best corrected visual acuity of 0.5 or better increased from 0% preoperatively to 36.7% postoperatively, and 0.2 or better rose to 76.7%. The mean IOP was significant reduced, from 26.35 mmHg to 12.75 mmHg. No intraoperative complications occurred. Although two eyes (6.7%) developed retinal detachment, one (3.3%) had cystoid macular edema (CME) and one (3.3%) had a transient intraocular pressure increase (to 25 mmHg) postoperatively, all others had a favorable outcome. Standard pars plana vitrectomy with phacofragmentation without PFCL in the vitreous cavity is a safe, simple, and effective method for removing a dislocated crystalline lens or lens fragments, with good visual outcome.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme pattern in human amniotic fluid is dependent on the level of total activity. Implications in cystic fibrosis diagnosis.
Alkaline phosphatase activities have been examined in 500 consecutive human amniotic fluids obtained at diagnostic paracentesis between 14 and 38 wk of gestation. They were found to have a non-Gaussian, positively skewed distribution, independent of the protein concentrations. Residual activities after heat treatment or in presence of phenylalanine and levamisole allow evaluation of the placental, hepatic and intestinal isoenzyme components. It is shown that the contribution of the intestinal isoenzyme to the total activity is a linear function of the latter. This fact should be taken into account in the enzymatic diagnosis of cystic fibrosis as it is apparent that the part contributed by the intestinal isoenzyme is predictably smaller when the level of total activity is low.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Characterization and amino-terminal sequence of apolipoprotein AI from plasma high density lipoproteins in the preruminant calf, Bos spp.
The major apolipoprotein of calf plasma high-density lipoproteins, apo-AI, has been isolated and characterized. Apolipoprotein AI (apo-AI) was separated from the protein moiety of high-density lipoproteins (d 1.090-1.180 g/ml) by preparative electrophoresis in SDS-polyacrylamide gels followed by electrophoretic elution. Purified calf apo-AI had an Mr of approx. 27,000-28,000 in SDS-polyacrylamide gels, resembling human apo-AI. The amino acid composition of calf apo-AI displayed an overall similarity to that of its human and other mammalian counterparts (baboon, dog, badger, rabbit, rat and mouse), but differed in having higher proportions of glutamic acid, alanine and isoleucine. Amino-terminal amino acid sequence analysis up to the 47th residue showed close homology between calf apo-AI and those of the mammals with which it was compared. However, residues 2, 7, 20 and 22 in calf AI (i.e. aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid and isoleucine, respectively) were substituted by glutamic acid, proline or glutamine, aspartic acid, and valine or leucine respectively, in the other mammals.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Extremely low warfarin dose in patients with genotypes of CYP2C9*3/*3 and VKORC1-1639A/A.
Patients with the genotypes of both CYP2C9*3/*3 and VKORC1-1639 A/A are expected to require the lowest dose of warfarin, and to have a greatly increased risk of bleeding. The experience for the dosing of warfarin in such extremely rare cases has been seldom reported. Demographic and clinical data from two cases with stable low dose of warfarin in China were studied by resequencing the corresponding gene segments in their whole blood DNA. The potential clinical value of the pharmacogenetic algorithm for them was evaluated by calculating the stable dose of warfarin in pharmacogenetic algorithm developed by International Warfarin Pharmacogenetics Consortium. Both cases (68-year-old female and 50-year-old male) were diagnosed as chronic nonvalvular atrial fibrillation needing warfarin treatment, with target international normalized ratio (INR) 2 to 3. Case 1 had stable warfarin dose of 0.625 mg/d and case 2 1.25 mg/d. They needed more than 1 month to stabilize their anticoagulation. Exceeding INR values were recorded for them when the dose of warfarin was no more than 2 mg/d. Hemorrhagic complication appeared in case 1 when the dose was titrated from 2.5 to 1.25 mg/d. No concomitant medicine to increase or decrease the INR value was recorded for them. Genotyping CYP2C9 and VKORC1 showed both patients were the carriers of the homozygous alleles -CYP2C9*3/*3 and VKORC1-1639 A/A. Their stable doses of warfarin calculated by the pharmacogenetic dose algorithm (0.672 mg/d for case 1 and 1.16 mg/d for case 2) were comparable with their actual stable therapeutic doses. Two Chinese with the rare genotypes of both CYP2C9*3/*3 and VKORC1-1639 A/A were found to require the extremely low dose of warfarin. The pharmacogenetic algorithm incorporating the variances of VKORC1 and CYP2C9 genotypes, as well as the non-genetic factors could predict their stable dose of warfarin with high accuracy.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Tissue engineering approaches for osteoarthritis.
With the ageing of the population and the major advances in targeted drug treatments, there is in medicine a shift in attention from survival towards quality of life. Therefore new challenges are emerging in modern health care. Preventive and personalized medicine have been identified as key steps in this context. New targeted biologicals for musculoskeletal diseases such as chronic arthritis have entered daily clinical practice, thereby not only controlling symptoms and signs, inflammation and destruction, but also maintaining function of the joints. The last aspect is essential for the independence of the individual and critical for the quality of life. Since the lifespan of prosthetic devices will always remain limited, new treatment approaches to repair skeletal structures need to be devised for the young and middle aged individuals with skeletal and joint damage caused by either congenital, traumatic, or inflammatory conditions. It is believed that regenerative medicine and more specifically tissue engineering may fill this void to some extent. Indeed, recent cellular therapeutics and combination products, now resorting under a new regulatory class of Advanced Medicinal Therapeutic Products, provide indications that progress is being made with clinically relevant outcomes in well-defined patient populations. For osteoarthritis, a joint disease leading to joint decompensation, novel tissue engineering therapies are being explored and, although most of the developments are still in early phase clinical studies, there are sufficient positive signals to pursue these novel therapeutic approaches in clinics. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Osteoarthritis".
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Enhanced body growth in uremic rats treated with IGF-I and growth hormone in combination.
The efficacy of seven days treatment with IGF-I (1.7 mg/kg/day), growth hormone (GH) (2 mg/kg/day), IGF-I+GH (1.7 mg/kg/day + 2 mg/kg/day) or vehicle, in promoting growth was investigated in female Sprague-Dawley rats with 5/6 nephrectomies (N = 8 per group). Treatment commenced after chronic renal failure had been present for seven weeks. Significant increases in body weight gain were found in all groups versus control, with IGF-I+GH causing the greatest response, and increased body weight gains correlating with increased nitrogen retention. GH treatment alone significantly stimulated food intake. IGF-I+GH resulted in close to additive increases in food conversion efficiency (18.8%, 21.5% and 39.6% increases with IGF-I, GH and IGF-I+GH, respectively, over control levels) and longitudinal bone growth (39%, 37% and 67% increases with IGF-I, GH and IGF-I+GH, respectively, vs. control). Serum insulin and cholesterol levels significantly decreased with IGF-I and IGF-I+GH treatment. Creatinine clearance did not change, suggesting there were no effects of treatment on kidney function. Although IGF-I at the doses used did not result in a greater anabolic response than GH, IGF-I+GH caused significantly enhanced growth while reducing serum insulin and cholesterol levels.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Atelectasis caused by macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in an adult patient.
A 27-year-old, previously healthy woman was admitted to our hospital for mild pneumonia. After 2 days ceftriaxone sodium administration, her chest radiograph revealed a rightward mediastinal shift caused by atelectasis of the upper portion of the right lung. Bronchoscopic examination showed swelling in the right upper lobe bronchus and obstruction in the B1 segmental bronchus caused by complete edematous swelling. Histopathology showed acute cellular bronchitis with edema of the bronchial wall containing lymphocytes, plasma cells, and macrophages. Mycoplasma pneumoniae was detected by culture and a polymerase chain reaction test using sputum collected during bronchoscopy, and treatment was changed to minocycline. After 7 days antibiotic therapy, her condition improved and no relapse was observed. Identification of point mutations in domain V of the 23S rRNA for macrolide-resistant M. pneumoniae was performed, and an A-to-G transition at position 2063 in domain V of the 23S rRNA gene was identified. Atelectasis caused by M. pneumoniae is thought to be a common associated finding in pediatric patients, but it is rare in adults. In addition, our patient showed extremely unusual findings with obstruction caused by complete edematous swelling.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Reducing a Shoulder Dislocation Without Sweating. The Davos Technique and its Results. Evaluation of a Nontraumatic, Safe, and Simple Technique for Reducing Anterior Shoulder Dislocations.
Anterior shoulder dislocation is a well-known injury for people working in emergency departments (EDs). Throughout the years, the focus has been shifted onto more gentle reduction techniques with less risk of iatrogenic injury, fracture displacement, and less pain for the patient. We present the results of one such technique, the Davos reduction maneuver, also known as the Boss-Holzach-Matter technique, as well as its advantages, disadvantages, and a few practical tips. We evaluated, retrospectively, 100 patients presenting with an anteroinferior shoulder dislocation, who were treated in the ED of the university hospital of Geneva, Switzerland, in a time period of 18 months. In every case, the Davos technique was used for shoulder reduction. The detailed technique is described. Successful reduction was achieved in 86 patients. There were no neurological complications. Greater tuberosity fracture malreduction was noted in one case. Eighteen patients received no analgesia. Our results were comparable or superior to other reduction techniques. We concluded that the Davos technique is an easy, nontraumatic, very well-tolerated, and most of all, safe way to reduce a shoulder. It is complication free and easy to apply, giving reproducible and comparable or superior results to other reduction techniques. At the same time, it is well tolerated by a compliant patient, which makes it an ideal first-time reduction technique for anterior shoulder dislocations.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Effects of amiodarone therapy on thyroid iodine content as measured by x-ray fluorescence.
Thyroid iodine content (TIC) was measured by x-ray fluorescence in 68 patients who had received amiodarone treatment for varying intervals (1 g/week for 1-120 months). Thirty-six patients were euthyroid; the mean TIC of the patients (n = 15), who had been treated for less than 12 months was 30 +/- 19 (+/- SD) mg, twice the normal mean value (14.6 +/- 5.0 mg), and it was 39 +/- 17 mg in those (n = 16) who had been treated for 12-60 months and 29 +/- 6 mg in those (n = 5) who had been treated longer (greater than 60 months). Nineteen patients were hyperthyroid and had elevated TIC values. Of them, 6 patients had a goiter; their TIC (50 +/- 19 mg) was not significantly different from that of the hyperthyroid patients with no goiter (55 +/- 29 mg), but they became hyperthyroid more rapidly. Thirteen patients were hypothyroid; none had TIC values above the normal range, and it was below 2.5 mg in 5 patients. A sequential study was undertaken in 11 euthyroid patients who had no detectable antithyroid antibodies. TIC did not increase during treatment in 2 patients; both developed hypothyroidism, which was transient in 1 despite continuation of amiodarone treatment. The TIC initially increased during amiodarone treatment in the other 9 patients, leveling off at the end of the first year. The TIC rose well above the upper limit of the normal range in 4 patients, of whom 2 became hyperthyroid during the second year of treatment. TIC remained within the normal range in the other 5 patients, of whom 3 became hypothyroid after 12-24 months of treatment (1 subclinical, 2 overt). Although the TIC was significantly higher in the patients with hyperthyroidism than in the patients who remained euthyroid, the TIC test cannot be used to predict the occurrence of hyperthyroidism. The latter must be diagnosed on the basis of clinical symptoms and a frank elevation of serum thyroid hormone levels. Conversely, patients whose TIC values do not increase during treatment or remain within the normal range should be considered at risk for hypothyroidism.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Na/Ca exchange and cardiac ventricular arrhythmias.
Ventricular arrhythmias are a major cause of death in cardiovascular disease. Ca2+ removal from the cell by the electrogenic Na/Ca exchanger is essential for the Ca2+ flux balance during excitation-contraction coupling but also contributes to the electrical events. "Classic" views on the exchanger in arrhythmias include its well-recognized role as depolarizing current underlying delayed afterdepolarizations (DADs) during spontaneous Ca2+ release and the alterations in expression in certain forms of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. "Novel" views relate to more subtle roles for the exchanger in arrhythmias. Na/Ca exchange function in disease could be modulated indirectly, through phosphorylation or anchoring proteins. Ongoing studies relate Na/Ca exchange to variability in action potential duration (APD) and early afterdepolarizations (EADs) in a dog model of cardiac hypertrophy and arrhythmias. Further research on drugs that target Na/Ca exchange will have to carefully examine the effects on Ca2+ balance.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Bioaugmented sulfate reduction using enriched anaerobic microflora in the presence of zero valent iron.
Biological sulfate reduction was evaluated in batch and continuous reactors that were inoculated with enriched microflora cultivated from sulfate laden medium. Heterotrophic sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) principally reduced the sulphate when the chemical oxygen demand was sufficient. The heterotrophic SRB in the enriched microflora could not efficiently reduce sulphate at T<33 °C and/or pH<6.0. However, when 200 mg L(-1) of zero valent iron (ZVI) was added to the reactor, the sulphate reduction rate was increased by 15% while the inhibition of the SRB activity occurred at T<25 °C or pH<4.5, broader than those noted for non-ZVI systems. In batch tests, the autotrophic SRB reduced 95% of 1500 mg L(-1) sulphate in <50h at 15 °C when the substrate was amended with 8 gL(-1) ZVI. In continuous up-flow anaerobic multiple bed reactor tests conducted to evaluate the remediation of sulphate in acid mine runoff, ZVI enhanced the activity of SRB, resulting in a 61% reduction of 20.8 gL(-1) sulphate when the reactor was operated at 25 °C and pH 2.6 with a hydraulic remain time of 96 h.
|
{
"pile_set_name": "PubMed Abstracts"
}
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.