title stringlengths 0 1.13k | abstract stringlengths 1 15.7k | PMID int64 22 36.5M |
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Acute rib fracture diagnosis in an infant by US: a matter of child protection. | Rib fractures in infants and children are highly specific for inflicted injury in the absence of a major accidental injury or underlying bone disorder. We present a 9-week-old infant diagnosed with an acute rib fracture by US at the site where physicians palpated chest wall crepitus when no rib fractures had been visualized on the skeletal survey, including oblique views of the ribs. Based on the US diagnosis of the acute rib fracture the infant was taken into protective custody. Follow-up skeletal survey 2 weeks later revealed healing fractures of the left 6th and 7th posterolateral ribs and right 7th, 8th and 9th anterolateral ribs. We were unable to locate previous reports describing the diagnosis of rib fractures in infants by US. | 18,818,912 |
Identification of miRNAs associated with tumorigenesis of retinoblastoma by miRNA microarray analysis. | MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small (approximately 22 nucleotides) regulatory RNAs which play fundamental roles in many human diseases, including cancer. There is no report on the miRNA expression profile of retinoblastoma. This work was undertaken to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in human retinoblastoma tissues by microRNA microarray technique, and some miRNAs were verified using northern blot analysis and the in situ hybridization method. A cluster of microRNAs was identified as highly expressed in retinoblastoma, including hsa-miR-494, hsa-let-7e, hsa-miR-513-1, hsa-miR-513-2, hsa-miR-518c*, hsa-miR-129-1, hsa-miR-129-2, hsa-miR-198, hsa-miR-492, hsa-miR-498, hsa-miR-320, hsa-miR-503, and hsa-miR-373*. These miRNAs are the first to be reported for human retinoblastoma and may play significant roles in regulating tumor genesis. | 18,818,933 |
Local recurrence of disease after unplanned excisions of high-grade soft tissue sarcomas. | Unplanned excisions of soft tissue sarcomas occur with alarming frequency and result in high rates of residual disease, potentially affecting patient prognosis. To determine if unplanned excisions and residual disease status at tumor bed excision increased local recurrence rates and predicted disease-specific patient survival, we retrospectively reviewed 203 consecutive patients with high-grade soft tissue sarcomas treated operatively and followed for at least 2 years (mean, 4.8 years) or until patient death. Among the 64 patients (32%) who had undergone previous unplanned excisions, six had gross residual disease and 40 of the remaining 58 (69%) had microscopic residual disease in the tumor bed. We observed subsequent local recurrence in nine of the 139 patients (6%) after planned excision compared with 22 patients (34%) after unplanned excision. More patients with unplanned excisions who underwent limb salvage procedures required flap coverage and/or skin grafting with their definitive resection (30% versus 5%). In the unplanned excision cohort, residual disease status at tumor bed excision predicted increased rates of local recurrence and decreased disease-specific survival. Unplanned excisions of high-grade soft tissue sarcomas resulted in increased rates of local recurrence but not disease-specific survival. Residual disease at reexcision predicted the likelihood of local recurrence. Level II, prognostic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. | 18,818,981 |
Affect regulation, social context, and sexual intercourse in adolescents. | This study examined trajectories of positive and negative affect surrounding penile-vaginal sexual intercourse (sex) in adolescents and explored the influence of companionship on these trajectories. Using a handheld computer, sexually active adolescents (N = 67) reported momentary affect and sex events in response to several random signals each day for 1 week (1,777 reports, 266 sex events). Cubic spline regression analyses showed that positive affect began to increase before sex, peaked at the time sex was reported, and then returned to baseline. Negative affect did not differ from baseline before sex, but decreased following sex. Improvement in affect before and after sex varied according to companionship. Understanding the complex associations of affect, companionship, and sex has implications for interpreting and intervening on adolescent sexual behavior in social context. | 18,818,996 |
Contribution of position alpha4S336 on functional expression and up-regulation of alpha4beta2 neuronal nicotinic receptors. | Phosphorylation of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is believed to play a critical role in its nicotine-induced desensitization and up-regulation. We examined the contribution of a consensus PKC site in the alpha4 M3/M4 intracellular loop (alpha4S336) on the desensitization and up-regulation of alpha4beta2 nAChRs expressed in oocytes. Position alpha4S336 was replaced with either alanine to abolish potential phosphorylation at this site or with aspartic acid to mimic phosphorylation at this same site. Mutations alpha4S336A and alpha4S336D displayed a threefold increase in the ACh-induced response and an increase in ACh EC(50). Epibatidine binding revealed a three and sevenfold increase in surface expression for the alpha4S336A and alpha4S336D mutations, respectively, relative to wild-type, therefore, both mutations enhanced expression of the alpha4beta2 nAChR. Interestingly, the EC(50)'s and peak currents for nicotine activation remained unaffected in both mutants. Both mutations abolished the nicotine-induced up-regulation that is normally observed in the wild-type. The present data suggest that adding or removing a negative charge at this phosphorylation site cannot be explained by a simple straightforward on-and-off mechanism; rather a more complex mechanism(s) may govern the functional expression of the alpha4beta2 nAChR. Along the same line, our data support the idea that phosphorylation at multiple consensus sites in the alpha4 subunit could play a remarkable role on the regulation of the functional expression of the alpha4beta2 nAChR. | 18,818,999 |
Are preferences in emotional processing affected by distraction? Examining the age-related positivity effect in visual fixation within a dual-task paradigm. | Recent research has suggested that age-related positivity effects are eliminated under conditions of dual-task load (Knight et al., 2007, Emotion, 7, 705; Mather & Knight, 2005, Psychology and Aging, 20, 554), because the cognitive control resources necessary to enact such preferences are not available when individuals are distracted by competing information. We further examined how older adults' emotional information processing preferences are affected by distracting information by utilizing a within-subjects dual-task measure. Younger and older adults viewed a series of positive, negative, and neutral images both in conditions of full and divided attention. Fixation preferences to valenced images were assessed through eye tracking. Regardless of whether images were viewed in full or divided attention conditions, older adults demonstrated a preference in their fixation for positive and neutral in comparison to negative images. These results provide evidence that older adults' positive fixation preferences may not always necessitate full, cognitive control. | 18,819,026 |
Testosterone and bioavailable testosterone help to distinguish between mild Cushing's syndrome and polycystic ovarian syndrome. | Women with Cushing's syndrome (CS) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may present with similar symptoms. Subjects with mild CS lack clinical stigmata of classical CS and often have normal laboratory tests measuring hypercortisolism. Thus, distinguishing mild CS from PCOS may be difficult. We hypothesized that either total testosterone (TT) or bioavailable testosterone (BT) levels or the calculation of the free androgen index (FAI) would be low in patients with mild CS and elevated in patients with PCOS, and could help differentiate the two conditions. TT, BT, and FAI were measured in a group of 20 patients of reproductive age with mild CS and 20 PCOS patients matched for age and BMI. We used receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves to assess the sensitivity and specificity of these measurements for the diagnosis of CS. TT (p<0.0001), BT (p=0.02), and FAI (p=0.003) were significantly elevated in PCOS patients compared to mild CS patients. Sex hormone-binding globulin was similar in both groups. The optimal cut-point for TT was 1.39 nmol/L, yielding a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 70%. The cut-point for BT was 0.24 nmol/L, resulting in a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 80%. The cut-point for FAI was 5.7, with a sensitivity of 88% and a specificity of 60%. We conclude that TT levels may be useful to discriminate between mild CS and PCOS. In patients with signs and symptoms consistent with CS and PCOS, a TT level of <1.39 nmol/L warrants a workup for CS. | 18,819,057 |
Synthesis of fluoroneplanocin A. | Fluoroneplanocin A, designed as a potent mechanism-based irreversible inhibitor of S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (SAH), is synthesized from D-ribose via a key D-cyclopentenone intermediate. This intermediate is synthesized using a stereoselective Grignard reaction, a ring-closing metathesis (RCM) reaction, and oxidative rearrangement as key steps. | 18,819,082 |
Analysis of endocytic trafficking by single-cell fluorescence ratio imaging. | The post-endocytic sorting of internalized membrane proteins plays a critical role in numerous physiological processes, including receptor desensitization, degradation of non-native plasma membrane proteins, and cell surface retrieval of receptors from early endosomes upon ligand dissociation. Here, we describe a fluorescence ratiometric image analysis (FRIA) method used to determine the post-endocytic fate and transport kinetics of transmembrane proteins based on the pH measurement of internalized cargo-containing compartments in living cells. The method relies on the notion that the pH of a cargo-containing transport vesicle (vesicular pH, pH(v)) could be taken as an indicator of its identity, considering that endocytic organelles (e.g., sorting endosome, recycling endosome, late endosome/MVB, and lysosome) have characteristic pH(v). The pH-sensitive FITC-conjugated secondary antibody is attached to the cargo via a primary antibody, recognizing the cargo extracellular domain. The pH(v) is determined by single-cell FRIA. Internalized cargo colocalization with organellar markers, as well as pH(v) measurement of recycling endosome, lysosome, and the TGN are discussed to validate the technique and facilitate data interpretation. | 18,819,089 |
Use of digitoxin and digoxin as internal standards in HPLC analysis of triterpene saponin-containing extracts. | Saponins are widely distributed complex plant glycosides possessing a variety of structure-dependent bioactivities. Quantitation of individual saponins is difficult due to lack of available standards, mainly as a consequence of purification difficulties. Determination of total saponin content can be problematic, often relying on non-specific methods based on butanol solubility, haemolytic activity or formation of coloured derivatives. To develop a general quantitative method based on the use of the readily available cardenolides, digitoxin (1) and digoxin (2), as internal standards in an HPLC-PAD-based analysis. The cardenolides were run at a variety of concentrations to establish linearity and reproducibility of detector response and then evaluated as internal standards for quantitation of triterpene saponins in several plant-derived extracts by HPLC-PAD. Mixtures of saponins, largely freed from other extractables, were obtained by fractionation of total extracts on solid phase extraction columns (SPE) employing a water-methanol gradient and used for construction of calibration curves. Saponin identification and structural information was obtained via a single quadrupole mass detector using electrospray ionisation in negative ion mode (ESI(-)). Saponin contents in six samples from five species were determined and compared with literature results and a gravimetric method based on butanol-water partitioning. Results were generally consistent with literature reports and superior to gravimetric butanol-water partitioning. Digitoxin and digoxin are useful as internal standards in HPLC estimation of saponin content. Saponins from different species having similar structures and molecular weights afford similar calibration curves. | 18,819,105 |
Percutaneous rescue of left ventricular embolized amplatzer septal occluder device. | Transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure has proven to be safe and effective, and it is rapidly becoming the standard treatment for secundum-type ASDs. However, device embolization occurs in about 0.55% of cases, regardless of ASD and device size and/or physician's expertise. Percutaneous retrieval of the embolized device is possible in about 50% of cases, and several techniques have been described, including the use of large sheaths, gooseneck snares, or bioptomes. This is the first successful and reported case of retrieval of an embolized amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) from the left ventricle that was achieved by using a modified snare technique. This was done after an unsuccessful attempt at retrieval with a bioptome that led to a never previously reported complication. Of the 32 reported cases of ASO embolization, percutaneous retrieval was successful in 16 cases (50%) and none were obtained following left ventricular embolization. Even in experienced hands, the observed rate of embolization when using an ASO device is not negligible. Percutaneous retrieval is also possible from the left ventricle but in some cases nonstandardized devices and strategies may be required. | 18,819,121 |
Starch and albumin mixture as replacement fluid in therapeutic plasma exchange is safe and effective. | Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is an effective treatment in Myasthenia gravis (MG) and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and 5% human albumin is the replacement fluid of choice; however, it is expensive. More recently, it has been suggested that starch is a safe and cheaper choice to human albumin. To evaluate our 5-year experience using 3% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) and 5% human albumin mixture, as replacement fluid in TPE for these diseases. Retrospective study carried out from January 2001 through September 2006. We included those patients with MG and GBS undergoing TPE. We analyzed clinical outcome (CO) and adverse events (AE) and our results were compared with a previous study which included similar patients undergoing TPE using just 5% human albumin. Thirty-one procedures were carried out in 26 patients, a total of 147 TPE sessions. In the group of MG we had 57% complete responses (CR) and 86% overall response (OR) while in the group of GBS we had 40% CR and 60% OR. When we analyzed our CO with the previous study no statistical differences were found. Mean processed plasma volume (PPV) was 4.2 in MG and 5.5 in GBS. Twenty patients had AE, being hypotension and catheter dysfunction the most frequent ones, while tachycardia, hypertension and paresthesias were statistically more frequent in the HES/albumin group. TPE with a mixture of 3% HES and 5% human albumin is as effective and safe as 5% human albumin alone for patients with these diseases. | 18,819,155 |
Elimination of menstrual-related migraine beneficially impacts chronification and medication overuse. | This study seeks to determine whether menstrual-related migraine (MRM) has a discrete, attributable impact on migraine chronicity and medication overuse. Menstrual-related migraine can be a disabling headache on its own; but when seen in headache clinics, it is often enmeshed in the setting of chronic migraine (CM) and medication overuse headache (MOH). Whereas nonspecific migraine preventives bestow their benefit uniformly, hormonal preventives (HPs)--when they are successful--address a discrete hormonal mechanism. They confer no known benefit to migraines that are not hormonally triggered. This selective property of HPs could potentially isolate MRM and segregate its effect on the overall clinical picture. This is a retrospective review of 229 consecutive women seen in follow-up for hormonal prevention of MRM at an academic headache center. Patients kept standardized diaries from which separate menstrual-week (MW) and nonmenstrual week (nonMW) headache indices were calculated and compared. Resolution of MRM was defined by reduction of the MW headache index to a score not exceeding the nonMW headache indices. Consumption of all acute and preventive agents used in the preceding month was tallied. We performed post-treatment comparisons of medication usage and headache characteristics among subjects in whom MRM was resolved and those in whom it was not resolved. At baseline, CM was present in 92% of subjects, 72% of whom also met criteria for MOH. Resolution of MRM was achieved in 81% of subjects who were compliant with HP and was associated with reversion to episodic migraine (59% vs 18%, P < .001) and resolution of medication overuse (54% vs 20%, P < .001). Resolution of MRM was associated with significant decreases in per capita consumption of triptans, opioids, all acute agents, and migraine preventive medications. Resolution of MRM correlated not only with conversion of CM to an episodic pattern, but also with a significant reduction in medication usage. It offers preliminary evidence that hormonal regimens may have a beneficial role in prevention of MRM. | 18,819,179 |
Functional MRI in malformations of cortical development: activation of dysplastic tissue and functional reorganization. | Functional neuroimaging and electrophysiological studies suggest that dysplastic neural tissue in malformations of cortical development may participate in task performance, and that functional organization can be altered beyond visible lesion boundaries. The aim of this work was to investigate cortical function in a heterogeneous group of patients with malformations of cortical development. Twelve patients participated in the study, 2 for each of the following categories: subcortical, periventricular, and band heterotopia, unilateral and bilateral polymicrogyria, and focal cortical dysplasia. Functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed with finger tapping, somatosensory and visual stimulation, and language-related tasks. We found activations within the dysplastic tissue in subcortical heterotopia, band heterotopia, and polymicrogyria, but not in periventricular heterotopic nodules. In one of the patients with focal cortical dysplasia, language-related activation involved part of the lesion. Functional reorganization beyond visible lesion boundaries was seen, with different patterns, in 4 patients. In accordance with previous reports, our findings indicate that dysplastic neural tissue can be activated during task performance, and that in some patients, extensive functional reorganization occurs, highlighting the importance of functional magnetic resonance imaging in presurgical planning in those patients for whom epilepsy surgery is considered as an option. | 18,819,184 |
Leadership, civility, and the 'no jerks' rule. | Nursing organizations and hospitals are not immune from the ravages of incivility. Toxic behavior can range from the very serious bullying and sabotage of very destructive people to the annoying and hard to cope behavior of just plain jerks. When a practice does not have a clearly defined "No Jerk" rule and infrastructure to support healthy behavior, communication suffers and errors occur. Nurse leaders have the opportunity of changing the self-interest behavior of jerks in our communities of caring. | 18,819,229 |
Drug-induced nephrotoxicity. | Drugs are a common source of acute kidney injury. Compared with 30 years ago, the average patient today is older, has more comorbidities, and is exposed to more diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with the potential to harm kidney function. Drugs shown to cause nephrotoxicity exert their toxic effects by one or more common pathogenic mechanisms. Drug-induced nephrotoxicity tends to be more common among certain patients and in specific clinical situations. Therefore, successful prevention requires knowledge of pathogenic mechanisms of renal injury, patient-related risk factors, drug-related risk factors, and preemptive measures, coupled with vigilance and early intervention. Some patient-related risk factors for drug-induced nephrotoxicity are age older than 60 years, underlying renal insufficiency (e.g., glomerular filtration rate of less than 60 mL per minute per 1.73 m2), volume depletion, diabetes, heart failure, and sepsis. General preventive measures include using alternative non-nephrotoxic drugs whenever possible; correcting risk factors, if possible; assessing baseline renal function before initiation of therapy, followed by adjusting the dosage; monitoring renal function and vital signs during therapy; and avoiding nephrotoxic drug combinations. | 18,819,242 |
Different cardiovascular potential of adult- and fetal-type mesenchymal stem cells in a rat model of heart cryoinjury. | Efficacy of adult (bone marrow, BM) versus fetal (amniotic fluid, AF) mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to replenish damaged rat heart tissues with new cardiovascular cells has not yet been established. We investigated on the differentiation potential of these two rat MSC populations in vitro and in a model of acute necrotizing injury (ANI) induced by cryoinjury. Isolated BM-MSCs and AF-MSCs were characterized by flow cytometry and cytocentrifugation and their potential for osteogenic, adipogenic, and cardiovascular differentiation assayed in vitro using specific induction media. The left anterior ventricular wall of syngeneic Fisher 344 (n = 48) and athymic nude (rNu) rats (n = 6) was subjected to a limited, nontransmural epicardial ANI in the approximately one third of wall thickness without significant hemodynamic effects. The time window for in situ stem cell transplantation was established at day 7 postinjury. Fluorochrome (CMTMR)-labeled BM-MSCs (2 x 10(6)) or AF-MSCs (2 x 10(6)) were injected in syngeneic animals (n = 26) around the myocardial lesion via echocardiographic guidance. Reliability of CMTMR cell tracking in this context was ascertained by transplanting genetically labeled BM-MSCs or AF-MSCs, expressing the green fluorescent protein (GFP), in rNu rats with ANI. Comparison between the two methods of cell tracking 30 days after cell transplantation gave slightly different values (1420,58 +/- 129,65 cells/mm2 for CMTMR labeling and 1613.18 +/- 643.84 cells/mm2 for genetic labeling; p = NS). One day after transplantation about one half CMTMR-labeled AF-MSCs engrafted to the injured heart (778.61 +/- 156.28 cells/mm2) in comparison with BM-MSCs (1434.50 +/- 173.80 cells/mm2, p < 0.01). Conversely, 30 days after cell transplantation survived MSCs were similar: 1275.26 +/- 74.51/mm2 (AF-MSCs) versus 1420.58 +/- 129.65/mm2 for BM-MSCs (p = NS). Apparent survival gain of AF-MSCs between the two time periods was motivated by the cell proliferation rate calculated at day 30, which was lower for BM-MSCs (6.79 +/- 0.48) than AF-MSCs (10.83 +/- 3.50; p < 0.01), in the face of a similar apoptotic index (4.68 +/- 0.20 for BM-MSCs and 4.16 +/- 0.58 for AF-MSCs; p = NS). These cells were also studied for their expression of markers specific for endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and cardiomyocytes (CMs) using von Willebrand factor (vWf), smooth muscle (SM) alpha-actin, and cardiac troponin T, respectively. Grafted BM-MSCs or AF-MSCs were found as single cell/small cell clusters or incorporated in the wall of microvessels. A larger number of ECs (227.27 +/- 18.91 vs. 150.36 +/- 24.08 cells/mm2, p < 0.01) and CMs (417.91 +/- 100.95 vs. 237.43 +/- 79.99 cells/mm2, p < 0.01) originated from AF-MSCs than from BM-MSCs. Almost no SMCs were seen with AF-MSCs, in comparison to BM-MSCs (98.03 +/- 40.84 cells/mm2), in concordance with lacking of arterioles, which, instead, were well expressed with BM-MSCs (71.30 +/- 55.66 blood vessels/mm2). The number of structurally organized capillaries was slightly different with the two MSCs (122.49 +/- 17.37/mm2 for AF-MSCs vs. 148.69 +/- 54.41/mm2 for BM-MSCs; p = NS). Collectively, these results suggest that, in the presence of the same postinjury microenvironment, the two MSC populations from different sources are able to activate distinct differentiation programs that potentially can bring about a myocardial-capillary or myocardial-capillary-arteriole reconstitution. | 18,819,256 |
[Role of water channels in the regulation of the volume of principal cells of rat kidney collecting ducts in hypoosmotic medium]. | The effect of plasma membrane water permeability on the rate of changes in the volume of principal cells of collecting ducts of the outer substantia medullaris under conditions of hypoosmotic shock has been studied. Changes in cell volume were studied by the fluorescent method. It was shown that the hypotonic shock induced a rapid increase in the cell volume with the characteristic time that depended on plasma membrane water permeability. The decrease in volume occurred much more slowly, and the rate of volume decrease directly correlated with the rate of swelling. The inhibition of potassium transport by barium chloride decreased the rate of volume restoration, without affecting substantially the duration of the swelling phase. The inhibition of mercury-sensitive water channels by mercury caused a significant increase in the time of both cell swelling and volume restoration. It was concluded that the state of water channels largely determines the rate of the regulatory response of epithelial cells of collecting ducts to hypoosmotic shock and affects the exchange of cell osmolites. | 18,819,288 |
[Ultrasound-induced myocardial preconditioning: analysis of its effectiveness and mechanisms]. | It has been shown that exposure of the isolated rat heart perfused according to Langendorff to therapeutic ultrasound (210 kHz and 0.5-1.5 W/cm2 ) induces a cardioprotective response similar to ischemic preconditioning. This reduces the infarct size and improves the postischemic systolic and diastolic function. The ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker glybenclamide abolished the protection afforded by ultrasound; in contrast, the free radical scavenger N-2-MPG did not influence the ultrasound-induced cardioprotective response. | 18,819,289 |
Epidemiology of gout. | The incidence and prevalence of gout are rising, likely as a result of a changing pattern of risk factors. At-risk populations are growing, due to the fact that people are living longer. Longevity and current dietary and lifestyle choices have also contributed to increased rates of comorbidities associated with hyperuricemia and gout. The use of medications to treat such comorbidities also plays a role in some cases of gout. While dietary and lifestyle modification may be useful as adjunctive measures, such changes do not replace pharmacologic treatments for gout or associated comorbidities. | 18,819,329 |
[Plasma levels of cytokines in patients with active infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis]. | The levels of interferon-y (IFN-gamma), tumor necrosis factor-gamma (TNF-alpha), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) and their changes during chemotherapy and laser chemotherapy were studied in 97 patients with active infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis, by taking into account Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MBT) sensitivity to chemical agents. The studies have indicated that the levels of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, and IL-8 are increased and may be markers of an active process. Chemotherapy causes a reduction in increased cytokinemia. Complex laser chemotherapy affects the cytokine profile in active tuberculosis caused by not only drug-sensitive, but also drug-resistant MBT. | 18,819,336 |
[Fullerenes in the treatment of respiratory disorders]. | Diseases of respiratory organs constitute a serious socio-medical problem in this country due to high morbidity, mortality, and disability rates. The development of medical nanotechnlogies opens up new prospects for the improvement of treatment and prevention of these pathologies. Of special interest is application of C60fullerenes with a broad spectrum of therapeutic activities and synthesis of their hydrated forms for enteral and parenteral administration producing no acute or chronic toxic effects. | 18,819,341 |
[Chronic constipation: current view of the problem]. | The authors propose the definition of chronic constipations (CC) and present data on their incidence and classification along with a concise review of physiology and motor-evacuation function of the colon and defecation act. Pathogenesis and clinical symptoms of different forms of functional and organic CC are discussed. Instrumental and laboratory methods for the examination of patients with CC are described including special techniques for the diagnosis of abnormalities in the anorectal region. Special attention is given to modern approaches to individual therapy including correction of life style and dietary habits as well as the choice of adequate drug therapy. The proposed classification of purgative drugs takes into account indications for their use, contraindications, and adverse effects. Selected methods of physiotherapeutic and surgical treatment of CC are described. | 18,819,342 |
[Tissue factor molecules and some other indices of coagulation hemostasis in patients with rheumatic heart disease]. | This comparative study of interleukins, tissue factor activity, and certain parameters of coagulation hemostasis included patients with rheumatic heart disease. It revealed an increased production of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin-1b (IL-1 beta) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) in all groups of patients. The procoagulative activity was also enhanced and positively correlated with the IL-1 beta level. Tissue factor activity was directly proportional to the concentration of IL-1 beta and inversely proportional to that of interleukin-4 (IL-4). | 18,819,347 |
[Causes of pain in the knee joint]. | Pain in the knee joint is one of the commonest complaints for which people seek an advice of different medical specialists. The aim of this study was to elucidate the cause of pain in patients with the alleged diagnosis of "osteoarthrosis" and to develop the relevant diagnostic algorithm. The study included 214patients aged from 35 to 85 years with a pain level of at least 40 mm by the visual analog scale (VAS). Results of physical and X-ray examination provided indications for further studies that were performed by ultrasonographic (40.1%), arthroscopic (52.3%), and MRT(64.2%) techniques. One third of the patients were aged women with the body mass index > 40.1 and stage 3 osteoarthrosis (OA) in whom pain was attributable to primary osteoarthrosis. The remaining patients had pain of other origin. Ultrasound studies revealed rupture of the internal lateral ligament in 3, "pes anserinus" tendinitis in 5, and synovitis in 53 patients. MRT demonstrated traumatic and degenerative meniscal tear in 102 and rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in 7 patients. Grade 3-4 chondomalacia of the femoral condyle was diagnosed in 24 patients. There was excellent (98.6%) agreement between MRT diagnosis and arthroscopic data on lesioned intra-articular structures, articular cartilage, and subchondral bone. Arthroscopy revealed traumatic and degenerative meniscal tear in 85% patients, injured anterior cruciate ligament in 8%, signs of synovitis in 52.6%, chondromalacia of the femoral condyle in 57.6%, and isolated pathology of patellofemoral articulation in 33% of the patients. | 18,819,352 |
[New conceptions in complex management of spine trauma patients including reconstructive microsurgery and succeeding rehabilitation]. | This work is been based upon the experience of performing 100 reconstructive microsurgical operations with transplantation of combined vascular-neural autografts, in 24 cases--with introduction cellular material into zone of transplantation. The complex approach aimed to creating optimal conditions for the functional regeneration of the spinal cord (SC), including neurosurgical methods restoring anatomical integrity of the organ and also multicomponent and staging rehabilitation of patients has been developed. On the base of complex approach during a postoperative period there has been put synchronous multifactorial action, consisting of functional multichannel electrical pacing of muscles simultaneously participating in tumble. The patient concentrates all his attention on the trial to tumble with paralized extremities by himself. At that the series and the site of application of these electrical impulses forms the algorithm of this tumble. Synchronism of produced afferent and efferent impulses creates new possibilities in activating of regenerating processes in the damaged area of the spinal cord. As a result of treatment within the bounds of the developed program the authors get clinically and electrophysiologically proved certain improvement that they can not only predict but guarantee patients of this group. Presented here results of the complex treatment of patients with trauma of the spinal cord within the framework of research international program confidently testify advantages of the new approach to solving of this problem. For the first time in history of medicine there is created close cooperation and regular continuity between molecular biology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation. This scientific alliance permits in proper time to keep a close watch, quickly correct and improve every stage of treatment. The effect of implement of innovations is been summarized at the each next stage of proposed complex treatment and eventually significantly elevates an ultimate result of medical rehabilitation of invalids with trauma of the spinal cord. | 18,819,357 |
[Biomechanics of pelvic ring and its structural elements]. | Calculations and diagrams of the force distribution in pelvic bones' zone are presented. In persons without injuries and skeletal abnormalities all forces functioning on the pelvic ring are shown to be in balance. Proposed method of calculations enables to detect the treatment tactics (either conservative or operative management) in patients with pelvic bone fractures as well as in congenital abnormalities. | 18,819,360 |
[Effect of chlorine-sodium hydrocarbonate mineral water on the gastric secretory function in subjects with various daily motor activity patterns]. | Effect of Shadrinskaya ID mineral water on the gastric secretory function was evaluated in wrestlers and subjects unengaged in sports activities. Characteristics of the observed functional response of the digestive system provided a deeper insight into the mechanisms by which mineral water along with the controlled muscular load acts on the secretory performance of the stomach. Specific changes of the gastric secretory function at rest and in the veloergometer test were documented in subjects with different patterns of daily motor activity. The knowledge of mechanisms of muscular tension and optimal ways to use mineral water may help to prevent negative manifestations of emotional and physical stress in athletes. | 18,819,363 |
[Antagonistic activity of bacteria from Bacillus genus against dermatophyte fungi]. | Antagonistic properties of the strain Bacillus subtilis IB-54 with respect to dermatophyte fungi Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes var. gypseum, Microsporum canis was studied. The studied strains of bacilli effectively inhibited growth and development of dermatophytes when were cultivated on the media containing different carbon sources. Experiments on laboratory animals showed that B. subtilis IB-54 displayed no virulence, toxicity, and toxigenicity and can be considered as perspective object for development of antimycotic drugs. | 18,819,402 |
[Role of innate immunity receptors in development of acute myocardial infarction]. | To assess influence of toll-like receptors (TLR) ligands on the production of proinflammatory cytokine (TNFalpha) by peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained from 13 patients with AMI on 1st and 14th day and from 17 healthy donors were stimulated by peptidoglycan, poly(I:C), lypopolysacchide, zimozan, flagellin and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides, which are ligands of TLR1/2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR2/6, TLR5 and TLR9 respectively. Spontaneous and induced by ligands production of TNFalpha was evaluated in supernatants of PBMC. Increased spontaneous production of TNFalpha by PBMC in patients with AIM was revealed on 1st day of the disease. Ligands of TLR2/6 and TLR4 demonstrated marked stimulatory effect on the production of TNFalpha by PBMC in patients with AMI compared with group of healthy subjects. Increased production of TNFalpha by PBMC in patients with AMI indicates the activation of TLR2 and TLR4 on PBMC. Hyperactivation of TLRs during acute pathologic conditions results in excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines, specifically TNFalpha, and can induce damage of cells and tissues involved in acute pathologic process. | 18,819,410 |
[Expression of mRNA for corticoliberin and vasopressin in hypothalamus and amygdala on the background of administration of psychoactive drugs in rats]. | Wistar male rats were injected intraperitoneally for 4 days in elevated doses with: (1) physiological saline (control; 0.1 - 0.2 - 0.4 - 0.8 ml/rat), (2) amphetamine (0.5 - 1.0 - 2.0 - 4.0 mg/kg); (3) fentanyl (0.00625 - 0.0125 - 0.025 - 0.05 mg/kg), (4) 40% aqueous ethanol solution (0.5 - 1.0 - 2.0 - 4.0 g/kg), (5) ethaminal sodium (2.5 - 5 - 10 - 20 mg/kg), and (6) dexamethasone (0.5 - 1.0 - 2.0 - 4.0 mg/kg). The forced regime of drug administration led to gradual load of the organism and prevented drug tolerance development. This method is widely used for the formation of drug dependence (or its features) due to various narcotic agents. The maximum level of mRNA expression for corticoliberin was registered in amygdala after the administration of dexamethasone (0.46 units compared to beta-actin), and the minimum level was observed after treatment with sodium ethaminal (0.07) and fentanyl (0.037). In hypothalamus, sodium ethaminal produced elevated mRNA expression (0.8 units), followed by ethanol (0.37) and fentanyl (0.039). Amphetamine activated mRNA expression for corticoliberin neither in hypothalamus nor in amygdala for all of the drugs studied. The mRNA expression for vasopressin was also not registered for all drugs in hypothalamus and amygdala. Therefore, the reinforcing system of hypothalamus supports the typical reaction on the administration of narcotic agents, while the extended amygdala system includes both the proper reinforcement and the stress reactivity elements. | 18,819,432 |
[Infectivityand resistance to antibiotics of non-fermentative rods isolated from patients hospitalised in pediatric center of Lower Silesia in Wrocław in the years 2000-2006]. | The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of isolation and antimicrobial resistance testing of non-fermentative rods isolated from clinical specimens from patients hospitalized in Korczak Pediatric Center of Lower Silesia in Wrocław. The susceptibility of bacteria to selected antibiotics was determined. The commonest pathogens were Pseudomonas rods (81.8%) isolated from respiratory system and urine of patients hospitalized in unit intensive care. Variety of resistance patterns were detected in bacteria. ESBL were detected the most of S. maltophilia. Strains of Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter resistant to carbapenems were detected with a frequency of 5.5% and 35.9%. | 18,819,446 |
[Cerebrovascular and antiaggregative effects of GABA-docosahexaenoyldopamine conjugate]. | The effects of GABA - docosahexaenoyldopamine (DHED) conjugate on the cerebral haemodynamics and thrombocyte aggregation were evaluated and compared to these of docosahexaenoyldopamine alone. The GABA - DHED conjugate was shown to significantly enhance the cerebral circulation in rats with a model of global transient cerebral ischemia, as compared to the intact animals. Administered alone, DHED increased the blood supply of both intact and ischemic brains to an equal extent. The GABA-DHED conjugate demonstrated the antiaggregative activity, but the effect was less expressed than that of DHED alone. | 18,819,437 |
[Anticoagulant activity of arabinogalactane sulfate and cedar bark extract studied in vitro]. | We have studied in vitro the ability of the Siberian cedar crust (SCC) extract (Pinus sibirica Du Tour) and arabinogalactan sulphate (AGS) extracted from wood of Siberiam pine-tree (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) to increase the human blood plasma coagulation time and also to inhibit the amydolytic activity of thrombin (aIIa) and the coagulation factor Xa (aXa). A method has been developed by means of which SCC increases the aXa activity by a factor of 3.7 and the aIIà activity by a factor of 2.5. The AGS preparation increased the blood plasma coagulation time in the test for activated partial thromboplastin time. An effective concentration, at which the time of plasma coagulation was increased by a factor of 2 (in comparison to the control) was 2.94 +/- 0.33 mg/ml. AGS did not exhibit the ability to inhibit the Xa activity. | 18,819,438 |
[Progress in small-molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2 family proteins]. | Apoptosis is an essential factor in keeping homeostasis of the organism. Apoptosis is regulated by a series of cytokines. Bcl-2 family proteins are key regulators of apoptosis. The Bcl-2 family includes both anti- and pro-apoptotic proteins with opposing biological functions. Their interaction regulates the transmission of the apoptosis signal. High expression of anti-apoptotic members such as Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL are commonly found in human cancers. In recent years, following the disclosing of the crystal structures of Bcl-2 family proteins, researchers have paid attention to the development of the small molecule inhibitors of Bcl-2 family proteins. This article reviews the progress in this field from the view of drug design. | 18,819,468 |
[Optimizing expression and purification of recombinant Salvia miltiorrhiza copalyl diphosphate synthase protein in E. coli and preparation of rabbit antiserum against SmCPS]. | The expression plasmid pET32CPS harboring SmCPS gene was transformed into E. coli BL21 trxB (DE3) resulting in recombinant strain E. coli [pET32CPS]. The induction of E. coli [pET32CPS] in different temperatures, induction time, IPTG concentrations and A600 values of E. coli were performed. The optimal expression conditions of SmCPS were characterized according to the orthogonal analysis, and the ratio of the interest protein to total proteins reached to 35.6%. The recombinant SmCPS protein purified by Ni2+ affinity chromatography column was identified by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting, and then used for rabbit immunization. The titer of the rabbit antiserum against SmCPS was about 1:24 300 after the third immunization, and could specifically recognize the antigen of SmCPS protein by Western blotting analysis. The successful preparation of polyclonal antibody against SmCPS laid a foundation for further correlative study between expression of SmCPS and the production of tanshinones in protein level. | 18,819,484 |
[Progress in the research of stanniocalcin]. | Stanniocalcin (STC) is a glycoprotein hormone first identified in bony fish in which it regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis. Stanniocalcin is also identified in human and mammals and is named STC1 and STC2 by the sequence of finding. There are two forms of STC produced by the STC1 gene; a 50 kD polypeptide known as STC50 and a group of higher molecular weight variants that are collectively referred to as big STC. Both STC1 and STC2 are widely expressed in various tissues. STC is identified as a novel marker for human cancer and plays an important role in heart disease, transendothelial migration of inflammatory cells, embryo implantation and decidualization. | 18,819,490 |
[Progress in signal transduction pathways mediating effects of angiotensin II in endothelial cells]. | Angiotensin II (Ang II) not only mediates the effects of vasoconstriction and blood pressure regulation, but is also implicated in inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, hypertension and congestive heart failure. Ang 1I activates pathways of MAPK, NADPH and ROS, non-receptor tyrosine kinases and receptor tyrosine kinases via AT1 receptor to produce various effects involved in regulation of endothelial functions, endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation response. | 18,819,491 |
[Two unusual ulcers in one patient]. | A 39-year-old Antillean woman was referred by her family doctor to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon because of an unusual and painful ulcer in the buccal region of the first left mandibular molar. Earlier that day, she was diagnosed as HIV-positive. The ulcer was diagnosed as an atypical necrotising ulcerating periodontitis. Antibiotics were subscribed and after removal of the first left mandibular molar, the ulcer healed. After several weeks, the patient was referred by her internist because of another ulcer at the lateral border of the tongue. This ulcer was diagnosed as an eosinophilic ulcer and was healing slowly. Both ulcer types are seen rarely and are strongly related to immunodeficiency diseases. | 18,819,509 |
[The TRIP database. A valuable source of literature on oral health]. | Locating the desired evidenced-based literature via the internet is usually time-consuming and not particularly straight-forward. Websites offering evidence-based information should be accessible, efficient and user friendly. Many of these websites, however, only make their own content available, making it necessary to change websites in order to get a complete picture of the required information. The so-called website of ''Turning Research Into Practice'' is a positive exception. This website makes it possible to search the whole range of evidence-based publications on a certain subject with 1 search action, is straight-forward and practical to use, and the presentation is exceptionally good. | 18,819,510 |
Insulin availability from mucoadhesive tablets. | The widespread implementation of peptides as drugs encounters numerous obstacles, the main being invasive and inconvenient parenteral administration. Oral transmucosal administration is one of the possible alternatives, valuable for its noninvasiveness and easy accessibility. The aim of our study was to determine the implementation possibilities of mucoadhesive tablets prepared on a methylcellulose and sodium alginate basis with an addition of absorption-modifying hyaluronic acid, as carriers for peptides destined for oral transmucosal administration. Two series of 50 mg tablets containing 5mg of insulin were prepared for the study. The first series contained methylcellulose, hyaluronic acid and mannitol, while the second series' formulation included sodium alginate, hyaluronic acid and mannitol. Carried out study confirmed that insulin administration in the form of mucoadhesive tablets lowers blood glucose levels in rabbits. Better effects were reached in vivo in the case of MC-based tablets, for which stronger and longer glycemia lowering was achieved. | 18,819,517 |
Preparation, characterization and optimization of probucol self-emulsified drug delivery system to enhance solubility and dissolution. | The main purposes of this work were to prepare, characterize and optimize a self-emulsified drug delivery system of probucol (PBSEDDS) with enhanced dissolution and better chance for oral absorption. The methods included determination of the solubility of probucol in different oils, surfactants and co-surfactants using saturation solubility method and HPLC for drug analysis. The ingredients showing high drug solubility were used to prepare PBSEDDS after being tested for physical and chemical compatibility with the drug using DSC and FTIR. The prepared formulations were evaluated for droplet size, turbidity, spontaneity of emulsification and dissolution in water. Optimization was performed using a three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken experimental design. The results showed high drug solubility and compatibility with soybean oil (solvent), Labrafil M1944CS (surfactant) and Capmul MCM-C8 (cosurfactant). Oil to surfactant/co-surfactant ratio showed large influence on the characteristics of PBSEDDS. Several fold improvement of drug dissolution was observed compared to drug solution in soybean oil alone. Optimization study showed that observed and predicted values of cumulative percent drug dissolution after 60 min were in reasonable agreement. The experimental design applied helped in understanding the effects and the interaction effects between the independent factors. The prepared PBSEDDS may have the potential to enhance the therapeutic bioavailability of probucol. | 18,819,518 |
Effect and mechanism of nociceptin/orphanin FQ reversing multi-drug resistance in K562/ADM cell. | To investigate the effect and mechanism of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (OFQ) reversing multi-drug resistance of K562/ADM cells in vitro. MTT assay, Wright staining, flow cytometry, transmission electron microscope and gel electrophoresis were used to evaluate the effect and mechanism of OFQ in reversing multi-drug resistance of K562/ADM cells. OFQ could time-dependently reverse the ADM resistance of K562/ADM cell. After treatment with OFQ (1 x 10(-7) mol x L(-1)), K562/ADM cells were cultured for 24, 48 and 72 h. The reversal index (RI) was 1.33, 1.42 and 1.53, respectively. Furthermore, OFQ significantly increased the intracellular accumulation of ADM in K562/ADM cells and percentage apoptosis in K562/ADM cells. OFQ down-regulated the level of P-gp time-dependently, while the level of Fas and FasL were up-regulated. There were evidently significant differences compared with the control (P < 0.01). After treating K562/ADM cells with OFQ (1 x 10(-7) mol x L(-1)) and ADM (20 microg x ml(-1)) for 48 hours, the cells showed apoptotic nuclear fragmentation, which was characterized by the appearance of a DNA ladder pattern in genomic DNA gel electrophoresis. OFQ can reverse the ADM resistance of K562/ADM cells. The mechanism involves OFQ up-regulating the expression of Fas/FasL, down-regulating the level of P-gp, and decreasing the intracellular level of calcium in K562/ADM cells. | 18,819,522 |
Immunogenicity of lipid sustained release implants containing imiquimod, alpha-galactosylceramide, or Quil-A. | The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the immunogenicity of liposome-forming, sustained release lipid implants containing either an alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer) analogue, imiquimod or Quil-A (QA) as adjuvants. Ovalbumin (OVA) was used as a model antigen. Groups of C57Bl/6 mice were subcutaneously immunised with lipid implants containing one of the adjuvants, or inoculated with OVA in alum. The expansion of CD8+ and CD4+ transgenic T cells was analysed to assess the ability of these implants to stimulate cell-mediated immunity. In addition, the production of OVA-specific IgG antibodies was determined. QA-containing lipid implants were more efficient in the stimulation of CD8+ T cells and IgG antibodies than the two immunomodulators alpha-GalCer and imiquimod. These results suggest that, using this immunisationprotocol and dose of immunomodulators, QA was superior to imiquimod and alpha-GalCer. | 18,819,523 |
Chemotaxonomic studies on Aegilops L. (Poaceae) in Iran. | This study, using seed storage protein electrophoresis, evaluates the taxonomic status of the Aegilops L. species and the variation between the species. Therefore, with the seeds of seven species and 46 accessions of Aegilops, the prolamin was separated. On the base of the banding patterns, the cluster analysis among these species was studied. The results of this study show that most of the tetraploid species (2n = 4x = 28; x = 7) and the diploid species (2n = 2x = 14; x = 7) were grouped with each other. This document illustrates that a high gene flow exists among the diploid species. Further, high variability was observed among the accessions of Aegilops species. Morphologically; some of the species, which are very similar (Ae. umbellulata Zhuk., Ae. columnaris Zhuk.), have exactly been distinguished in this method. Chemo taxonomically, the status of these species was partially illustrated. Finally, Prolamin is an appropriate marker for identifying the taxonomic position of Aegilops species. | 18,819,527 |
Expression of biologically active measles virus hemagglutinin glycoprotein by a recombinant baculovirus. | In this study, one of the measles virus membrane proteins, named hemagglutinin (H) which has a key role in tropism, receptor binding, hemagglutinating activity and also induction of protective immunity against viral infection, was expressed by the baculovirus expression system using specific plasmid (pDONR221) to produce entry clone. Measles Virus (AIK-C strain) genome was extracted from infected Vero cells. H gene was amplified by specific primers during RT-PCR reaction and inserted into the specific plasmid (pDONR221) using BP recombination reaction. Recombinant baculovirus harboring H gene was consequently constructed by LR reaction. Insect cells (Sf9) were infected with recombinant baculovirus. In order to increase viral titer, recombinant baculoviruses were passaged four times in Sf9 cells. Synthesis of H protein was verified by SDS-PAGE, western-blot and indirect immunoflourescene using goat polyclonal antibody against Measles Virus. The results showed that H protein was partially glycosylated, but it appeared to be active in hemagglutination assay. | 18,819,529 |
The study of seed yield and seed yield components of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) under normal and drought stress conditions. | In this study yield and seed yield components of twenty lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) genotypes were compared in a split plot RCBD based design with 3 replications at the Zanjan University Research Farmland in 2004. The main plots were lentil planted under drought stress and non stress (irrigation) condition and subplots were twenty of genotype lentil. There were significant differences between traits in lentil genotypes. The seed yield per plant was sensitive to drought stress but 100 seed weight was more tolerance and stable trait in drought condition. As correlation analysis of traits in various stress condition, the harvest index, seed yield per plant, pods per plant and biological yield were correlated with grain yield. In addition harvest index, seed yield per plant, pods/plant and biological yield were the most important traits that have a relationship with grain yield. | 18,819,573 |
Chemical composition of raw fish consumed in Bahrain. | Nine species (Seriolina nigrofasciata, Siganus canaliculatus, Rhabdosargus haffara, Scomberomorus commerson, Liza alata, Epinephelus areolatus, Plectorhinchus sordidus, Lethrinus nebulosus and Penaeus semislcatus) of raw fish commonly consumed in Bahrain were analyzed for their proximate, mineral and heavy metal content. The protein content ranged from 17.9-21.8 g/100 g, fat content from 0.80-16.1 g/100 g and energy content from 87.1-216.7 kcal/100 g. The raw fish also had high levels of sodium (82-300 mg/100 g), potassium (210-400 mg/100 g), phosphorous (200-280 mg/100 g), magnesium (23-47 mg/100 g) and zinc (0.0-2.2 mg/100 g). Content of iron, calcium and copper were quite low. The species Penaeus semislcatus had low levels of both lead and mercury (<0.02 microg g(-1)). The maximum level of lead was 0.50 microg g(-1) and mercury was 0.20 microg g(-1). One species (Rhabdosargus haffara) of fish had cadmium levels of 0.03 microg g(-1), while the rest of the fish had less than 0.02 microg g(-1). Overall, fish available in the market of Bahrain are a good source of some essential minerals. Furthermore, the heavy metal content is below the maximum permitted limits and can be safely consumed by the general public. However, monitoring of heavy metals in fish consumed in Bahrain should be done periodically. | 18,819,593 |
Comparison of four induced molting methods based on subsequent performance and welfare of Single Comb White Leghorn hens. | A total of 400 Single Comb White Leghorn hens at 80 weeks of age were used in present study. Four treatment groups that were consisted of six replications with 10 hens per each replication were considered. In the first treatment, food and water were removed for the first 2, 4, 6 and 8 days. However, on days 3, 5, 7, 9 and on day 10 until day 28 hens were fed 45 g of food per hen (ON-OFF group). In the second and third groups, food was withdrawn for 10, 14 days, respectively and oyster shell and water were provided for ad libitum until day 28 (California and North Carolina treatments (CAL, NC groups)). The last group (full-food treatments (FF group)) was the hens that were non-food-deprived and were fed corn molt diet for 28 days ad libitum. In all treatment groups at day 29, hens were returned to a full food layer ration and received 16 h of light day(-1). Body weight, egg production, egg weight, relative eggshell weight, internal egg quality, egg specific gravity and mortality were determined. Differential leukocyte count and antibody response were also measured. The results demonstrated that induced molting increased egg production according to pre-molt egg production. There was not a significant difference in the rate of egg production during the peak period of post molt production for treatments. No significant differences were detected in differential leukocyte counts and antibody response against Sheep Red Blood Cell (SRBC) between treatments at pre molt and post molt of the experiment. This study indicated that diets with high corn level (FF groups) are effective and simplified nonfood removal procedure for welfare molting hens. | 18,819,600 |
Phenotypic diversity in Terminalia catappa from South Western Nigeria. | The diversity amongst Teminalia catappa population in two different locations in the Lagos area of South Western Nigeria was investigated. Forty trees were sampled for twenty eight quantitative and twelve qualitative characters. Variability was observed in qualitative characters such as leaf shape and ripe fruit colour. Quantitative characters analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis showed high intraspecific variability for most of the characters determined. Cluster analysis using the unweighted pair group method using arithmetic mean (UPGMA) method revealed four main clusters which were not based on location of collection but on morphological characters. The trees were grouped into the main clusters based mainly on plant architecture. The result from the trees studied showed that selections based on traits such as fruit size, fruit colour and leaf sizes can be undertaken for future improvement or development of this tree crop in Nigeria. | 18,819,608 |
Vitamin A status of pregnant women in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria. | The vitamin A status of 101 pregnant women attending clinic at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar, Nigeria was assessed based on 24 h dietary recall, serum retinol concentration, history of night blindness, physical appearance and clinical eye signs. The study revealed that the mean dietary vitamin A intake of the respondents (2645.31 +/- 188.91 microg RE) and their mean serum retinol concentration (31.18 +/- 2.94 microg dL(-1)) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the FAO/WHO recommended intake and cutoff level for VAD. No case of night blindness, physical signs and symptoms, or clinical eye signs attributable to VAD was observed. There was a significant (p < 0.01) correlation between the amount of 24 h vitamin A intake of the women and their serum retinol concentration (r = 0.31). Also, women who had above 50% of their vitamin A intake from provitamin A sources had a significantly (p < 0.05) lower serum retinol concentration (23.10 +/- 21.12 microg dL(-1)) than those who had above 50% intake from preformed sources (49.54 +/- 42.63 microg dL(-1)) and those with about equal intake from both sources (55.75 +/- 30.80 microg dL(-1)). There was a significant (p < 0.05) and steady decline in serum retinol concentration in the women from the first trimester (37.79 +/- 6.65 microg dL(-1)), through the second trimester (35.12 +/- 4.72 microg dL(-1)), to the third trimester (21.54 +/- 1.46 microg dL(-1)) of pregnancy. | 18,819,622 |
Foliar micromorphology of Felicia muricata Thunb., A South African medicinal plant. | The foliar micromorphology of Felicia muricata (Thunb.) Nees (Asteraceae) was observed with the JEOL (JSM-6390LV) Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Both the abaxial and adaxial surfaces were characterized by anisocytic stomata which were more prevalent on the abaxial surface than the adaxial surface. The leaves have only one type of multicellular non-glandular trichomes that are long and cylindrical, tapering to a sharp point and running parallel to the leaf surface in the direction of the apices. Crystal deposits were also observed on the surfaces of the leaves near the stomata. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy-SEM shows that Na, Al, Si, and K were the major constituents of the crystal analyzed. Since no glandular trichomes were present on the leaves of this herb, the bioactive components present in this plant may be produced in some other tissues in the leaf other than the trichomes. | 18,819,624 |
In vitro evaluation of Penicillium digitatum Sacc strains sensitivity to various fungicides from Jordan. | This investigation is the first report in Jordan, aimed for in vitro evaluation of six fungicides and their combinations, to control the post harvest green mold (Penicillium digitatum) of citrus fruits. Thirty one different concentrations (0.01-3000 microg mL(-1)) of each fungicide, in addition to 6 combined concentrations from each of 7 fungicide mixtures, were tested using Agar well diffusion method against four fungal strains. Regression analysis, one way ANOVA and Post Hoc Multiple comparisons were carried out to test the significance of these treatments. Results of regression analysis indicated significant correlation (p < 0.01) between fungicide concentration (microg mL(-1)) and inhibition zone (mm) of tested strains. All applied fungicides have resulted in complete inhibition of fungal growth in the four tested strains with MIC values ranging from 5 to 2700 microg mL(-1). Canvil and Ranvil of the DMI family were the most effective against tested strains (except strain dg6) where an MIC in the range of 5 to 150 microg mL(-1) was required. Benomyl has worked effectively with the least MIC values against the four tested strains. The obtained Benomyl's MIC values were: 20, 40, 300 and 40 microg ml(-1) against strains dg2, dg4, dg5 and dg6, respectively. One way analysis of variance indicated that the following fungicide mixtures: Benomyl/Canvil; Topsin/Vydan; Blin/Canvil; Topsin/Blin and Topsin/Canvil had significantly (p < 0.001) affected the sizes of inhibition zones, in strains dg2, dg2 and dg5, dg2 and dg4, dg2 and dg4, respectively. Scheffe multiple comparisons analysis showed that there were significant differences (p < 0.001) between the combined concentrations of 50:50 microg mL(-1) or 100:100 microg mL(-1) of Benomyl/Canvil mixture and the rest of tested concentrations where complete inhibition of growth was achieved at a combination of 100:500 microg mL(-1). The mixtures of Benomyl/Canvil and Blin/Canvil were the most effective against strains where, wither complete inhibition or the largest inhibition zones were obtained at the least (50:50 microg mL(-1)) combined concentrations. | 18,819,638 |
Acclimated biomass that degrades Sulfonated Naphthalene Formaldehyde Condensate. | A number of aerobic species were isolated from textile industry activated sludge wastewater. The bacterial consortium was acclimated during seven days before testing its capacity of Sulfonated Naphthalene-Formaldehyde Condensate (SNFC) recalcitrant compound degradation. SNFC's degradation was evaluated by using different techniques including: vapour pressure osmometry, spectroscopy UV-Visible and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). The degradation of SNFC by acclimated bacterial consortium was determined by monitoring the decrease of absorbance and of COD at wavelength 288 nm. We were able to deduce that biodegradation of SNFC involves two steps: cleavage of CH2 bridges and the degradation of the aromatic nuclei. The bacteria species community that was able to degrade SNFC consisted of aerobic Gram-negative rods belonging to the Pseudomonadaceae family. The strains were identified as Bukholderia cepacia, Brevundimonas vesicularis, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Ralostonia picketti, Shewanella putrefaciens, Sphingomonas paucimobilis and Agrobacterium radiobacter. | 18,819,646 |
Variation in testicular histology of the spiny tailed lizard Uromastyx aegyptius microlepis during hibernation and active periods. | The testicular histology of the lizard, Uromastyx aegyptius microlepis were varied considerably during hibernation and activity periods, reaching maximum values in summer. The onset of winter induces testicular regression, reduced testis size, testis diameter, diameter and epithelial height of the seminiferous tubules and epididymal epithelial height. Animals exhibit testicular recrudescence during late winter (February and March) and maximum testicular volume occurred during June. The period of maximal testicular volume was positively correlated with increasing ambient temperature. The summer season induces the testicular activity in contrast with the winter season in which the activity decreased and the testes were collapsed. Spermatocytogenesis is active in early spring and the major portion of the seminiferous epithelium comprises spermatids in various stages of maturation and their luminae were filled with spermatozoa. The size of the interstitial cells is direct correlated with changes occurring in epididymis and seminiferous epithelium. Most interstitial cell nuclei show clear regression when spermatocytogenesis were diminishes. | 18,819,651 |
The influence of different hormone concentration and combination on callus induction and regeneration of Rauwolfia serpentina L. Benth. | The influence of media composition on callus induction and subsequent regeneration of Rauwolfia serpentina L. Benth has been studied. High frequency (96.43%) callus induction was obtained when nodal segments from in vitro raised shoots were cultured on MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg L(-1) BA and 2.0 mg L(-1) NAA. The callus differentiated into adventitious shoots when it was subcultured on MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg L(-1) BA with 0.2 mg L(-1) NAA. Regenerated shoots were best rooted on half-strength MS medium with 1.0 mg L(-1) each of IBA and IAA. | 18,819,656 |
[Role of the French Research Institute for Overseas Development (Institut de Recherche pour le Developpement, IRD)]. | IRD is a French public scientific and technological institution, jointly overseen by the Ministries of Research and Overseas Cooperation. It has three main vocations: research, evaluation and training It meets these objectives by conducting scientific programs, centered around the relationship between humans and their environment in poor countries, in order to contribute to sustainable development. IRD has a budget of 218,9 millions euros. It employs 2 235 staff including 830 researchers, 1 021 engineers and technicians, and local personnel. Forty-two percent of IRD staff are employed overseas, many technicians originate from poor countries, and IRD research programs involve researchers from many countries. IRD is engaged in several European and international scientific programs, and plays a coordinating role for research institutions and universities working towards third-world development. | 18,819,682 |
[The Pasteur Institute is mobilized against emerging diseases]. | The Pasteur Institute, founded nearly 120 year ago, is again mobilizing to control emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases (chikungunhya, avia flu, etc.) and also to fight major "classical" infections like AIDS and malaria. | 18,819,683 |
[Alzheimer's disease: from brain lesions to new drugs]. | We review the main therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's disease. Current treatments include cholinesterase inhibitors and the glutamate-modulating drug memantin. Other neurotransmitters such as serotonin, histamine and noradrenaline may also be targeted. Although useful, however, these symptomatic treatments do not prevent neuronal degeneration and death. Epidemiological studies suggest that treatments given for other reasons, such as antiinflammatory agents (including NSAIDs), cholesterol-lowering drugs, hormone replacement therapy and antioxidants, may prevent or improve Alzheimer-type dementia, but this is not always borne out in controlled clinical trials. Prevention of hypertension significantly reduces the incidence of vascular dementia and of Alzheimer-type dementia, albeit through an unknown mechanism. Alzheimer's disease is characterized by two main lesions: amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles composed of aggregated A Beta peptides and hyperphosphorylated tau. Active and passive immunization against A beta has given promising results. Other exciting approaches include modulation of A beta processing by inhibiting BACE1 or gamma-secretase or upregulating alpha-secretase; A beta peptide catabolism; inhibition of beta fibrillization; and reducing tau phosphorylation or inhibiting tau aggregation. More remote possibilities include gene therapy and the use of growth factors to increase neurogenesis. | 18,819,689 |
[Forensic psychiatry]. | in France about 700 psychiatrists are licensed to determine criminal responsibility before the courts, in other words to assess whether a criminal was capable of knowing what he or she was doing or of controlling him or herself Criminals who are considered irresponsible are committed to psychiatric hospitals. Criminals who are considered to have diminished judgment or control may nonetheless be prosecuted and jailed Psychiatric experts may also be asked to predict aggressive behaviour, and to identify determinants of crime. Too often the answers are not fully grounded in science, and this is not made sufficiently clear. There are 26 psychiatric wards in French prisons, which only treat inmates who accept to be treated. When prisoners are prescribed compulsory treatment, they are discharged from prison and transferred to a psychiatric ward. This situation is more and more frequent but is not the most convenient: it delays treatment and does not facilitate long-term therapeutic relationships. Responsibility or pragmatism? About 20% of French prison inmates are psychotic, and these individuals are at risk of repetitive violent behaviour if left untreated. The main question is not one of criminal responsibility, but rather the most effective response to antisocial behaviour: is punishment or medical treatment the most effective way of preventing future crimes and protecting society? Ethical aspects: the situation could be improved by a number of measures. For example, training in forensic psychiatry should be obligatory before accreditation before a Court, and psychiatric diagnoses should be based systematically on the ICD10. Psychiatrists have a special duty to inform on advances and uncertainties in their field, in terms of diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. | 18,819,690 |
Micro-stamped surfaces for the patterned growth of neural stem cells. | We present a method for patterning neural stem cells based on pre-patterning polypeptides on a cell-repellent surface (poly(ethylene) oxide-like, PEO-like, plasma-deposited films). The method ensures cell attachment and stability for several weeks, as well as it allows cell migration and differentiation. Various patterns of approximately 1 nm thick cell adhesive poly-L-lysine (PLL) have been created on a cell-repellent PEO-like matrix by microcontact printing using different array configurations and printing conditions. The cell-repellent property of PEO-like film determined the confinement of the cells on the printed patterns. Optimization of the printing method showed that the most homogeneous patterns over large areas were obtained using PLL diluted in carbonate buffer (100mM) at pH 8.4. Neural stem cells cultured on the PLL patterns in low serum and in differentiating medium over 20 days exhibited a good confinement to the polypeptide domains. The number of cells attached increased linearly with the micro-stamped PLL area. The cells were able to extend random axon-like projections to the outside of the patterns and presented high amount of ramifications when cultured in differentiating medium. Migration and axon-like outgrowth have been successfully guided by means of an interconnected squares configuration. The surfaces are suitable for controlling the patterning of stem cells and provide a platform for the assessment of the way how different cell arrangements and culture conditions influence cell interactions and cell developmental processes. | 18,819,707 |
The quest for orthologs: finding the corresponding gene across genomes. | Orthology is a key evolutionary concept in many areas of genomic research. It provides a framework for subjects as diverse as the evolution of genomes, gene functions, cellular networks and functional genome annotation. Although orthologous proteins usually perform equivalent functions in different species, establishing true orthologous relationships requires a phylogenetic approach, which combines both trees and graphs (networks) using reliable species phylogeny and available genomic data from more than two species, and an insight into the processes of molecular evolution. Here, we evaluate the available bioinformatics tools and provide a set of guidelines to aid researchers in choosing the most appropriate tool for any situation. | 18,819,722 |
Juvenile pityriasis rubra pilaris: report of 28 cases in Taiwan. | Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a papulosquamous dermatosis uncommon in juveniles. Large-scale studies are limited, especially from Asian countries. We sought to analyze the clinical manifestations of juvenile PRP in Taiwanese patients and compare them with reported series in the literature. The diagnosis of juvenile PRP was made based on clinical-histopathologic correlation. The therapeutic response and disease course were followed up by re-examination of the patients or by telephone. A total of 47 patients were identified, with histopathologic confirmation of the clinical diagnosis of juvenile PRP in 28 cases. A preponderance of Griffiths' type IV PRP (85.7%) rather than type III PRP (14.3%) was found. Palmoplantar hyperkeratosis appeared to be a cardinal feature. In patients with type IV PRP, skin lesions in areas other than the elbows/knees and palms/soles were common. Treatment with systemic acitretin in 6 patients failed to effect a dose- or time-dependent improvement. In contrast with other studies, two thirds of our patients with type III and IV juvenile PRP had a protracted course lasting more than 3 years. This study was a retrospective review. Patient compliance with treatment was frequently poor. Type IV juvenile PRP predominated but our cases showed a wider distribution of skin lesions than is typically described. When children present with an acute onset of diffuse palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, a diagnosis of juvenile PRP should be considered. Because of the divergent clinical manifestations of juvenile PRP in different populations, there is a need to modify and re-evaluate classification systems based on regional differences. | 18,819,727 |
[Internal medicine physicians' perception of frequency and impact of corticosteroid-induced adverse events]. | Whereas internal medicine physicians frequently prescribe systemic corticosteroids, it is unknown if they assess adequately the frequency and the discomfort caused by corticosteroid-induced adverse events. Using an e-mail questionnaire sent to the 813 internal medicine physicians, members of the French National Society of Internal Medicine, we assessed their perception of the frequency and the discomfort induced by the adverse events of long-term (that is, over or at three months) corticosteroid therapy. At the same time, 121 corticosteroid-treated patients, consulting in a department of internal medicine completed an anonymous questionnaire about the frequency and the discomfort caused by the adverse events of their therapy. Three hundred and thirty-six out of 813 internal medicine physicians answered to the questionnaire (response rate: 41%) and 115 of the 121 questionnaires distributed to patients were exploitable. The physicians were predominantly male (71%) working mainly in tertiary centers (53%). The mean length of corticosteroids therapy for patients was 44+/-38 months and the mean daily dosage was 15+/-14mg. Lipodystrophy, trophic skin disorders, neuropsychiatric disorders and insomnia were frequent and reported by more than half of patients. The frequency of neuropsychiatric and skin disorders and of lipodystrophy estimated by practitioners was markedly lower than the frequency reported by patients. If morphological changes (weight-gain and lipodystrophy) were cited by practitioners as the most discomforting adverse event, in agreement with patients' opinion, physicians underestimated the discomfort caused by neuropsychiatric disorders and insomnia. Frequency and discomfort caused by corticosteroid-induced neuropsychiatric disorders are underestimated by internal medicine physicians. | 18,819,732 |
Fluorescence studies on the photophysical properties and encapsulation behavior of acetaminophen in different environments. | A systematic study on the spectroscopy and photophysical properties of widely used analgesic and anti-pyretic drug acetaminophen (NAPAP) was presented using steady state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The results in homogeneous solvents were compared with those in bio-mimicking environments of cyclodextrin and micellar cavities. Extensive theoretical calculations using time dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) were also done to substantiate the spectral assignment as well as to compare the structure and stability of possible hydrogen bonded conformations of NAPAP in aqueous medium. Facile proton dissociation occurs due to extensive charge redistribution in the excited state. The variation in fluorescence yield and the life time of excited state species in cyclodextrin cavities and micellar medium is due to shift in acid-base dissociation equilibrium in these environments. | 18,819,744 |
[Prolonged fever of unknown origin in Behçet's disease. Pay attention to vessels!]. | Behçet's disease is a systemic vasculitis characterized by the association of recurrent oral and genital ulcers to systemic involvements, particularly ocular, nervous and vascular manifestations. Contrary to other vasculitis, prolonged fever of unknown origin is rare in Behçet's disease. We report a case of a 26-year-old man presenting prolonged fever for two months. Physical examination showed oral, genital ulcers and pseudofolliculitis. The sedimentation rate was increased. Chest and abdominal computed tomography revealed thrombus in the inferior vena cava and portal vena. Outcome was favorable with glucocorticoid and anticoagulant therapy. Prolonged fever occurring during Behçet's disease should prompt a search for a vascular injury. | 18,819,765 |
Effect of weight change on asthma-related health outcomes in patients with severe or difficult-to-treat asthma. | To evaluate the effects of weight change on asthma control, asthma-related quality of life, number of steroid bursts, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms in a population of adult patients with severe or difficult-to-treat asthma who participated in The Epidemiology and Natural History of Asthma: Outcomes and Treatment Regimens (TENOR) study. We categorized 2396 TENOR patients > or = 18 years into three groups (> or = 5 lb loss, stable, > or = 5 lb gain), based on a +/-5 lb (2.27 kg) difference between baseline and 12-month follow-up weight. We used proportional odds and logistic regression models to evaluate the effect of weight change on Asthma Therapy Assessment Questionnaire (ATAQ) and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) scores, exacerbations, and steroid bursts at the 12-month follow-up. Asthma patients who gained > or = 5 lb (2.27 kg) during the 12-month interval between baseline and follow-up reported poorer asthma control (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.49; p=0.04), worse quality of life (least square means: -0.18; 95% CI: -0.30 to -0.06; p=0.003), and a greater number of steroid bursts (OR: 1.31; CI: 1.04-1.66; p=0.02) than patients who maintained their baseline weight or lost > or = 5 lb (2.27 kg). Increased weight is associated with worse asthma-related health outcomes. Strategies to prevent weight gain could help patients achieve better asthma control and improve asthma-related quality of life. | 18,819,787 |
Application of parylene-coated quartz crystal microbalance for on-line real-time detection of microbial populations. | A novel technique of applying a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor to the on-line real-time detection of microbial populations is described. The pQCM sensor was fabricated by depositing di-para-xylene (parylene) over the entire surface of a QCM sensor through a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. An electrically insulated film of parylene on the QCM sensor enabled the operation of the sensor in the liquid environment, and the resonance frequency of the pQCM sensor set in the medium of a cultivation flask shifted in response to the microbial population. The effects of pH, conductivity, and viscosity of the medium on the frequency shift of the pQCM sensor were investigated. Ignorable responses (less than 1% at 10(3)cells) were obtained during an incubation cycle. The detection limit of the pQCM sensor was identified as 10(2) cells ml(-1) with a frequency shift of around 2 x 10(3)Hz. The cell numbers of Escherichia coli cultivated in both the YEM medium and whole milk were detected. A satisfactory correlation (r(2)=0.95) was obtained between the cell number and the response of the pQCM sensor. Experimental results suggest that the pQCM described here is applicable to the continuous long-term detection of microbial populations during a fermentation process. | 18,819,789 |
A novel electrochemical immunosensor based on ordered Au nano-prickle clusters. | In this paper, we report a kind of ordered 3D Au nano-prickle clusters by directly electrodeposited on glassy carbon electrode utilizing the spatial obstruction/direction of the polycarbonate membrane. The proposed 3D nanoclusters are applied to fabricate a sandwich-type electrochemical immunosensor with human IgG as a model analyte. The electrodeposited Au nanoclusters build direct electrical contact and immobilization interface for protein molecules, which do not need post-modification and positioning. Scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry and alternating current impedance spectroscopy were used to investigate the properties of the modified interface. The deposited Au nanoclusters are stable with good biocompatibility, large specific surface area and high electron exchange capability. Under the optimized experimental conditions, a wide linear range from 1.0 to 10000.0 ng/mL was reached with a detection limit of 0.5 ng/mL. The calibration curve fits a second-order polynomial equation very well (R(2)=0.9914). The developed immunosensor based on Au nano-prickle clusters possesses advantages such as simple fabrication, fast response, low detection limit, wide linear range, easy regeneration, excellent reproducibility and long stability. To our knowledge, the Au nanostructure of special ordered 3D nano-prickle clusters is new for electrochemical immunosensor. | 18,819,790 |
[Construction of a recombinant adenovirus expression vector for human renal tumor- associated antigen G250 gene with AdMax system]. | To construct a adevoviral vector harboring human renal tumor-associated antigen G250 gene for transfecting the dendritic cells (DCs) and treating renal tumors. The G250 genes were cloned into the shuttle plasmid pDC316 to construct pDC316-G250, which was cotransfected with the rescue plasmid pBHGlox(delta)E1,3Cre into 293 cells to obtain the recombinant adenovirus Ad/G250. The inserted gene and its expression were identified by RT-PCR and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) after recombinant adenovirus transfection of the DCs. The recombinant adenoviral vector was purified by CsCl banding and titrated by TCID50. The recombinant adenoviral vector of G250 gene was successfully constructed and high titer of the recombinant adenoviruse was obtained. G250 mRNA and protein expressions were identified in Ad/G250-transfected DCs. The titer of the virus stocks reached 5.6x10(9) IU/ml. | 18,819,881 |
[Anti-tumor and bystander effects of cationic liposome-mediated CD/5-FC suicide gene system combined with interferon-gamma in vivo]. | To study the antitumor and distant bystander effects of cationic liposome-mediated cytosine deaminase (CD)/5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) suicide gene system combined with interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in vivo. Murine hepatoma 22 (H22) cells transfected by CD gene were inoculated subcutaneous in Kunming mice in the left axillary region, and the H22 cells without CD gene transfection were inoculated in the right axillary region. The mice were randomly divided into 4 groups and treated with normal saline , 5-FC, IFN-gamma, and 5-FC+ IFN-gamma on a daily basis. The tumor inhibition and distant bystander effects were observed in the mice. Exposure of CD gene-transfected tumor to 5-Fc resulted in obvious tumor growth inhibition with an inhibition rate of 78.38%, which was significantly increased to 93.21% (P<0.01) with 5-Fc +IFN-gamma treatment. A notable distant bystander effect in the CD/5-FC suicide gene system was observed in vivo, with a tumor inhibition rate of was 54.42%; when combined with IFN-gamma, the inhibition rate increased significantly to 87.57% (P<0.05). When combined with IFN-gamma, CD/5-FC suicide system has stronger anti-tumor and distant bystander effects. CD/5-FC suicide gene system combined with IFN-gamma may provide a potential therapy for malignant tumors. | 18,819,882 |
[Relationship between apolipoprotein e4 allele and emergence agitation in patients undergoing general anesthesia]. | To investigate the relationship between apolipoprotein e4 allele and emergence agitation (EA) in patients undergoing general anesthesia. A nested cohort study was conducted in elderly patients (over 60 years old) scheduled for major abdominal surgery requiring general anesthesia. A structured interview was conducted in PACU to determine EA, defined using the Sedation-Agitation Scale (SAS). Blood samples were obtained for measurement of the apolipoprotein genotypes. Of the 196 patients studied, 22.4% developed EA. Thirty-eight patients (19.4%) had the apolipoprotein e4 allele. The presence of the e4 allele and low level of education were both associated with an increased risk of EA (36.9% vs15.8%, P=0.005; 30% vs 14.3%, P=0.01). After adjustment for covariates, the patients with the copy of e4 allele were shown to have a greater likeliness of an increased risk of EA (odds ratio: 4.32; 95% CI: 1.75-10.05) than those without the e4 allele. Apolipoprotein e4 carrier status is associated with an increased risk for EA. | 18,819,891 |
[Clinical value of the model for end-stage liver disease score in predicting the prognosis of liver transplantation in patients with end-stage liver disease]. | To assess the value of the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) in predicting the early-stage outcome of liver transplantation in patients with end-stage liver disease. The MELD scores of 87 liver transplantation recipients with end-stage liver disease were calculated, and their early-stage complications and mortality were analyzed. The incidence of severe complications was 20.7%; in these recipients, with the 28-day and 3-month survival rates of 89.7%; and 88.5%;, respectively. The mean MELD scores showed significant differences between the complication-free group and survival group (14.6 vs 12.9, P<0.05), and also between the complication group and death group (21.6 vs 29.4, P<0.05). Compared to patients with MELD no greater than 15, patients with MELD between 16 and 24 showed significantly increased complication rate but had comparable survival rate (P>0.05); but in patients with MELD no less than 25, the survival rate was significantly decreased with also increased complication rate. A higher MELD score before liver transplantation is associated with greater likeliness of early-stage complication rate and mortality. High MELD score (over 25) can be a useful index in predicting severe complications and death in patients undergoing liver transplantation. | 18,819,907 |
[Comparison study on diagnostic and prognostic value of N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide and atrium natriuretic peptide in chronic congestive heart failure]. | To investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide(NT-proBNP)and atrium natriuretic peptide(ANP)in chronic congestive heart failure. One hundred and eighteen coronary heart disease patients were enrolled in the study. Among them 78 patients were accompanied by heart failure and 40 with no heart failure. Plasma NT-proBNP was determined with Elecsys Chemiluminescence Immunoassay method, and plasma ANP was determined with radioimmunoassay method.The results were compared with those of 40 healthy individuals. All patients were followed up accordingly. Compared with patients with no heart failure and healthy individuals, the patients with heart failure had a higher plasma NT-proBNP and ANP contents(P<0.05). Cardiac function grade IV patients had a significantly higher plasma NT-proBNP than cardiac function grade II and III patients, and their plasma ANP level was significanthy higher than that of cardiac function grade III patients, but there was no significantly difference in ANP content between cardiac function grade IV and II.The diagnostic sensitivity of NT-proBNP and ANP was 91.25% and 73.46%, respectively. The diagnostic specificity of NT-proBNP and ANP was 90.25%, 80.33%, respectively. In the heart failure group, it was found that there was no significant difference in the plasma NT-proBNP and ANP between the deaths and surviving patients. The diagnostic value of NT-proBNP in chronic heart failure is higher than that of ANP. According to our follow- up result, the plasma NT-proBNP and ANP can not be relied up on to predict short -term cardiogenic death in heart failure. | 18,819,908 |
Sec61p is required for ERAD-L: genetic dissection of the translocation and ERAD-L functions of Sec61P using novel derivatives of CPY. | Misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are exported to the cytosol for degradation by the proteasome in a process known as ER-associated degradation (ERAD). CPY* is a well characterized ERAD substrate whose degradation is dependent upon the Hrd1 complex. However, although the functions of some of the components of this complex are known, the nature of the protein dislocation channel remains obscure. Sec61p has been suggested as an obvious candidate because of its role as a protein-conducting channel through which polypeptides are initially translocated into the ER. However, it has not yet been possible to functionally dissect any role for Sec61p in dislocation from its essential function in translocation. By changing the translocation properties of a series of novel ERAD substrates, we are able to separate these two events and find that functional Sec61p is essential for the ERAD-L pathway. | 18,819,915 |
A Key role for cyclic AMP-responsive element binding protein in hypoxia-mediated activation of the angiogenesis factor CCN1 (CYR61) in Tumor cells. | Hypoxia is a prominent feature of solid tumors known to contribute to malignant progression and therapeutic resistance. Cancer cells adapt to hypoxia using various pathways, allowing tumors to thrive in a low oxygen state. Induction of new blood vessel formation via the secretion of proangiogenic factors is one of the main adaptive responses engaged by tumor cells under hypoxic conditions. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) is a transcription factor that plays a pivotal role in mediating such responses. In addition, several other transcription factors have also been implicated in hypoxic gene regulation, either independently or in cooperation with HIF-1. In this work, we show that the expression of the angiogenesis-related, immediate early gene CCN1 (formerly known as CYR61), considered to be involved in tumor growth and invasiveness, is enhanced upon hypoxia stress primarily in a protein kinase A and cyclic AMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) and CRE-dependent manner in various cell lines. The hypoxia-mediated activation of the CCN1 promoter is independent of HIF-1 and HIF-2, as shown by small interfering RNA knockdown. We identify the cis element in the mouse CCN1 promoter responsible for CREB binding to be one of two partial CRE sites present in the promoter. Moreover, we report for the first time that CREB-mediated CCN1 transcription is enhanced in hypoxic regions of tumors in vivo. Identifying and characterizing the molecular mechanisms that govern the response of tumors to hypoxia may be instrumental to identify the tumors that will respond favorably to inhibition of angiogenesis and thus lead to the development of treatments that could complement hypoxia-inducing treatment modalities. | 18,819,928 |
Comparative anatomy and morphology of nectar-producing Melastomataceae. | Most neotropical Melastomataceae have bee-pollinated flowers with poricidal anthers. However, nectar rewards are known to be produced in about 80 species in eight genera from four different tribes. These nectar-producing species are pollinated by both vertebrates and invertebrates. The floral morphology and anatomy of 14 species was studied in six genera of nectar-producing Melastomataceae (Blakea, Brachyotum, Charianthus, Huilaea, Meriania and Miconia). Anatomical methods included scanning electron microscopy, and serial sections of paraffin-embedded flowers. All vertebrate-pollinated melastome flowers have petals that do not open completely at anthesis, thus forming a pseudo-tubular corolla, while closely related species that are bee pollinated have rotate or reflexed corollas. In most species, nectar secretion is related to stomatal or epidermal nectaries and not filament slits as previously reported. Moreover, the nectar is probably supplied by large vascular bundles near the release area. Blakea and Huilaea have nectary stomata located upon the dorsal anther connective appendages. Brachyotum also has nectary stomata on the anther connectives, but these are distributed lengthwise along most of the connective. Meriania may release nectar through the anther connective, but has additional nectary stomata on the inner walls of the hypanthium. Miconia has nectary stomata on the ovary apex. Charianthus nectaries were not found, but there is circumstantial evidence that nectar release occurs through the epidermis at the apex of the ovary and the lower portions of the inner wall of the hypanthium. Nectar release in Melastomataceae is apparently related to nectary stomata and not filament slits. The presence of nectary stomata on stamens and on ovary apices in different lineages suggests that the acquisition of nectaries is a derived condition. Nectary location also supports a derived condition, because location is strongly consistent within each genus, but differs between genera. | 18,819,949 |
Ancient Chinese literature reveals pathways of eggplant domestication. | Changes in key traits occurring during the processes of plant domestication have long been subjects of debate. Only in the case of genetic analysis or with extensive plant remains can specific sets of changes be documented. Historical details of the plant domestication processes are rare and other evidence of morphological change can be difficult to obtain, especially for those vegetables that lack a substantial body of archaeological data. Botanical records chronicled in the ancient literature of established ancient civilizations, such as that of China, are invaluable resources for the study and understanding of the process of plant domestication. Here, the considerable body of ancient Chinese literature is used to explore the domestication process that has occurred with the eggplant (Solanum melongena), an important vegetable in Old World. Information about eggplant domestication in the ancient Chinese literature was retrieved using a variety of methods. The information obtained was then sorted by taxon, examined and taxonomic identifications verified. It was found that the earliest record of the eggplant documented in ancient Chinese literature was in a work from 59 bc. As far as is known, this is the earliest reliable and accurately dated record of eggplant in cultivation. The analysis reveals that the process of domestication of the eggplant in China involved three principal aspects of fruit quality: size, shape and taste. These traits were actively and gradually selected; fruit size changed from small to large, taste changed from not palatable to what was termed at the time sweetish, and that over time, a wider variety of fruit shapes was cultivated. The results indicate that, in addition to data gleaned from archaeology and genetics, evidence as to changes in key traits occurring during the process of plant domestication and selective forces responsible for these changes can be traced through the ancient literature in some civilizations. | 18,819,950 |
Survey, laboratory and statistical methods for the BSAC Resistance Surveillance Programmes. | The British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (BSAC) Bacteraemia and Respiratory Resistance Surveillance Programmes are designed for long-term surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in key pathogens of bloodstream and community-acquired respiratory infection in the UK and Ireland. This paper describes their methods in detail. Sentinel laboratories across the UK and Ireland contributed up to a fixed quota of isolates of defined bacterial groups. Collecting laboratories were compared with national benchmarks for size of Hospital Trust and distribution of bacteraemia pathogens. A central laboratory for each programme confirmed the identification of isolates, measured MICs by the BSAC agar dilution method and undertook further testing by standard methods. The variability of the MIC method was assessed by repeated annual testing of a panel of control isolates. Classification as susceptible, intermediate or resistant was by BSAC and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing breakpoints. Statistical analysis was adjusted for inter-centre variation using random effects logistic regression. Thirty-two laboratories contributed 16 550 respiratory isolates from 1999-2000 to 2006-07; 30 laboratories contributed 15 812 bacteraemia isolates from 2001 to 2006. Although large and teaching hospitals were over-represented, the pattern of bacteraemia organisms seen in the collecting laboratories in England and Wales was similar to that in national data reported to the Health Protection Agency. Replicate MIC measurements showed that >/=90% agreed within +/-1, and >/=98% within +/-2, doubling dilutions. These surveillance programmes have provided reliable information on antimicrobial susceptibility in the UK and Ireland over six and eight seasons, respectively, so far. Detailed results showing non-susceptibility trends, and relationships with potential predictive factors, are presented in six linked papers in this Supplement. | 18,819,976 |
Non-susceptibility trends and serotype distributions among Streptococcus pneumoniae from community-acquired respiratory tract infections and from bacteraemias in the UK and Ireland, 1999 to 2007. | Pneumococcal disease is prevalent and is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality in the UK and Ireland. We describe the antimicrobial susceptibility and serotype distributions of Streptococcus pneumoniae causing bacteraemia and community-acquired pneumonia in these countries from 1999/2000 to 2006/7, predominantly prior to the introduction of the heptavalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) into the standard vaccination schedule in September 2006. The BSAC Respiratory and Bacteraemia Resistance Surveillance Programmes collected S. pneumoniae from sentinel laboratories distributed across the UK and Ireland. A central laboratory for each programme re-identified the isolates, determined their serotypes and measured MICs by the BSAC agar dilution method. The prevalence of antimicrobial non-susceptibility, although significant, was generally below the global average. There was no convincing evidence of increasing non-susceptibility over time in either study. The results showed clear differences in the serotype distribution between respiratory and blood isolates, but suggested that PCV7 would provide adequate coverage of invasive isolates in the UK and Ireland. A significant and rapid increase of the non-vaccine serotype 1 among blood isolates from 2001 to 2006 was worrying, given the spread of hypervirulent serotype 1 clones elsewhere in the world. Continued surveillance of both antimicrobial non-susceptibility and serotype distribution changes following the introduction of PCV7 into the routine immunization schedule in the UK and Ireland is imperative. The data presented here, largely obtained prior to the introduction of PCV7 in the UK, provide a valuable baseline against which to monitor changes in antimicrobial non-susceptibility and serotype distribution and hence to identify the expansion of any significant clones. | 18,819,983 |
Non-susceptibility trends among Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis from community-acquired respiratory tract infections in the UK and Ireland, 1999-2007. | To determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis causing community-acquired respiratory tract infections in the UK and Ireland from 1999/2000 to 2006/07. Sentinel laboratories across the UK and Ireland contributed up to a fixed quota of isolates of defined organisms per annum. A central laboratory confirmed the isolates' identities, measured MICs by the BSAC agar dilution method and undertook further testing by standard methods. The variability of the MIC method was assessed by repeated annual testing of control isolates. BSAC and EUCAST breakpoints were used. Statistical analysis adjusted for inter-centre variation by random effects logistic regression. A total of 7371 H. influenzae and 2529 M. catarrhalis isolates were investigated. Over 90% of the H. influenzae isolates were susceptible to most of the antimicrobials tested, the exceptions being ampicillin (84.6% susceptible), trimethoprim (84.0%), cefuroxime (82.9%), amoxicillin (77.2%) and cefaclor (11.7%). For M. catarrhalis, resistance was solely due to beta-lactamase (prevalence over 91%) reducing susceptibility to penicillins only. There was little evidence of decreased antimicrobial susceptibility between 1999 and 2007 in either pathogen, except for a reduction in susceptibility to trimethoprim in H. influenzae (90.3% to 82.6%, P < 0.00001). On the other hand, tetracycline susceptibility in H. influenzae increased over this period in the UK and Ireland (96.5 to 98.8%, P = 0.00008). Despite increased resistance in respiratory pathogens from other parts of the world, the susceptibility of H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis to all agents, except tetracycline and trimethoprim in the case of H. influenzae, has remained constant during this longitudinal study. | 18,819,984 |
Thymidine kinase 2 defects can cause multi-tissue mtDNA depletion syndrome. | Mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome (MDS) is a severe recessively inherited disease of childhood. It manifests most often in infancy, is rapidly progressive and leads to early death. MDS is caused by an increasing number of nuclear genes leading to multisystemic or tissue-specific decrease in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number. Thymidine kinase 2 (TK2) has been reported to cause a myopathic form of MDS. We report here the clinical, autopsy and molecular genetic findings of rapidly progressive fatal infantile mitochondrial syndrome. All of our seven patients had rapidly progressive myopathy/encephalomyopathy, leading to respiratory failure within the first 3 years of life, with high creatine kinase values and dystrophic changes in the muscle with cytochrome c oxidase-negative fibres. In addition, two patients also had terminal-phase seizures, one had epilepsia partialis continua and one had cortical laminar necrosis. We identified two different homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in the TK2 gene in all the patients: c.739 C s -> T and c.898 C -> T, leading to p.R172W and p.R225W changes at conserved protein sites. R172W mutation led to myopathy or encephalomyopathy with the onset during the first months of life, and was associated with severe mtDNA depletion in the muscle, brain and liver. Homozygosity for R225W mutation manifested during the second year of life as a myopathy, and showed muscle-specific mtDNA depletion. Both mutations originated from single ancient founders, with Finnish origin and enrichment for the new R172W mutation, and possibly Scandinavian ancestral origin for the R225W. We conclude that TK2 mutations may manifest as infantile-onset fatal myopathy with dystrophic features, but should be considered also in infantile progressive encephalomyopathy with wide-spread mtDNA depletion. | 18,819,985 |
Surgical correlation of preoperative MRI findings of trauma to tendons and ligaments of the foot and ankle. | The purpose of this study was to determine whether magnetic resonance imaging findings are accurate and can be confirmed surgically. Surgical correlation of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging findings of trauma to tendons and ligaments of the foot and ankle were retrospectively studied in 28 patients who had undergone surgical repair for tears of the Achilles tendon, posterior tibial tendon, peroneal tendons, collateral ligaments, and other pathology. This study corroborates that magnetic resonance imaging findings are confirmed surgically 83% of the time for tears of tendons and ligaments of the foot and ankle. Larger tendons (Achilles, posterior tibial tendon) have a 94% sensitivity and 6% specificity, respectively. Collateral ligament and high ankle sprains have a 73% sensitivity. There is a lower sensitivity of 57% for peroneus brevis and longus ruptures. This study revealed that peroneal trauma can be an isolated event and in some cases can occur with other traumatic pathology such as collateral ligament tears. | 18,820,039 |
Mini-open technique for the achilles tenotomy in correction of idiopathic clubfoot: a report of 25 cases. | Achilles tenotomy is performed for the residual equinus deformity in the Ponseti method of clubfoot treatment. In the present article, we describe a mini-open Achilles tenotomy technique to prevent complications that could occur during tenotomy. This technique was performed on 15 patients (25 feet) during a 3-year period in our clinic on patients whose equinus deformities could not have been corrected by manipulations. Clear improvement (mean angle, 30 degrees ) was observed in equinus in our patients, and we have not seen any complication in this method. We conclude that direct visualizing of the tendon with mini-open incision may reduce the risk of neurovascular injury, especially for surgeons who are not experienced. | 18,820,046 |
Cloning and characterization of alpha-methylacyl coenzyme A racemase from Gordonia polyisoprenivorans VH2. | The mcr gene of Gordonia polyisoprenivorans VH2 is not clustered with genes required for rubber degradation. Its disruption by insertion of a kanamycin resistance cassette impaired growth on methyl-branched isoprenoids but not on linear hydrocarbons. Intact mcr from this bacterium or from Nocardia farcinica IFM 10152 complemented the mutant. Reverse transcription analysis showed similar mcr(VH2) expression results during cultivation with poly(cis-1,4-isoprene) and propionate. Additional genes coding for a putative cytochrome P450 monooxygenase and a short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase involved in beta-oxidation and poly(cis-1,4-isoprene) degradation were also characterized. | 18,820,059 |
Relative importance of Ixodes ricinus and Ixodes trianguliceps as vectors for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia microti in field vole (Microtus agrestis) populations. | The importance of Ixodes ricinus in the transmission of tick-borne pathogens is well recognized in the United Kingdom and across Europe. However, the role of coexisting Ixodes species, such as the widely distributed species Ixodes trianguliceps, as alternative vectors for these pathogens has received little attention. This study aimed to assess the relative importance of I. ricinus and I. trianguliceps in the transmission of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Babesia microti among United Kingdom field voles (Microtus agrestis), which serve as reservoir hosts for both pathogens. While all instars of I. trianguliceps feed exclusively on small mammals, I. ricinus adults feed primarily on larger hosts such as deer. The abundance of both tick species and pathogen infection prevalence in field voles were monitored at sites surrounded with fencing that excluded deer and at sites where deer were free to roam. As expected, fencing significantly reduced the larval burden of I. ricinus on field voles and the abundance of questing nymphs, but the larval burden of I. trianguliceps was not significantly affected. The prevalence of A. phagocytophilum and B. microti infections was not significantly affected by the presence of fencing, suggesting that I. trianguliceps is their principal vector. The prevalence of nymphal and adult ticks on field voles was also unaffected, indicating that relatively few non-larval I. ricinus ticks feed upon field voles. This study provides compelling evidence for the importance of I. trianguliceps in maintaining these enzootic tick-borne infections, while highlighting the potential for such infections to escape into alternative hosts via I. ricinus. | 18,820,068 |
KMP-11, a basal body and flagellar protein, is required for cell division in Trypanosoma brucei. | Kinetoplastid membrane protein 11 (KMP-11) has been identified as a flagellar protein and is conserved among kinetoplastid parasites, but its potential function remains unknown. In a recent study, we identified KMP-11 as a microtubule-bound protein localizing to the flagellum as well as the basal body in both procyclic and bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei (Z. Li, J. H. Lee, F. Chu, A. L. Burlingame, A. Gunzl, and C. C. Wang, PLoS One 3:e2354, 2008). Silencing of KMP-11 by RNA interference inhibited basal body segregation and cytokinesis in both forms and resulted in multiple nuclei of various sizes, indicating a continuous, albeit somewhat defective, nuclear division while cell division was blocked. KMP-11 knockdown in the procyclic form led to severely compromised formation of the new flagellum attachment zone (FAZ) and detachment of the newly synthesized flagellum. However, a similar phenotype was not observed in the bloodstream form depleted of KMP-11. Thus, KMP-11 is a flagellar protein playing critical roles in regulating cytokinesis in both forms of the trypanosomes. Its distinct roles in regulating FAZ formation in the two forms may provide a clue to the different mechanisms of cytokinetic initiation in procyclic and bloodstream trypanosomes. | 18,820,079 |
Reading trajectories of children with language difficulties from preschool through fifth grade. | The current work examined which theory of reading development, the cumulative reading trajectory or the compensatory trajectory of development, most accurately represents the reading trajectories of children with language difficulties (LD) relative to their peers with typical language (TL) skills. Specifically, initial levels of reading skills, overall rate of growth, and patterns of growth were examined. Children were classified according to whether or not they exhibited LD at 54 months of age (LD n = 145; TL n = 653), using data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development's Early Child Care Research Network (see NICHD, 1993). A latent shape growth curve model was used to model reading skills at 4 time points from preschool through fifth grade. In comparison to children with TL, children with LD showed lower reading skills in preschool, but their overall reading growth was faster. All children developed the skills associated with reading more rapidly at earlier ages compared to later ages. Children with LD continued to exhibit reading skills that were substantially lower than those of children with TL during fifth grade. Results supported the compensatory trajectory of development. Speech-language pathologists are encouraged to adopt evidence-based practices in order to boost reading outcomes for children with LD beginning in preschool. | 18,820,089 |
Resource use and associated care effectiveness results for people with diabetes in managed care organizations. | To examine how resource use varies with care quality for managed care populations with diabetes. Data from 31 commercial health plans (23 health maintenance organizations and 8 preferred provider organizations) were analyzed. Resource use was calculated using medical and pharmacy claims and enrollment data for members with diabetes. A standardized pricing methodology was applied for resource use associated with inpatient, pharmacy, evaluation and management, and procedural services. Quality of care results were calculated for 4 process quality indicators of the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) comprehensive diabetes care measure set. Resource use varied more between organizations than quality of care results. Pharmacy resource use was significantly associated with higher quality; inpatient, procedure and surgery, and ambulatory care visit resource use were not significantly associated. Quality and resource use for managed care populations with diabetes may vary considerably and be largely independent factors in health care delivery. Health plans may be able to favorably impact both factors. | 18,820,141 |
The cytolytic enzymes granyzme A, granzyme B, and perforin: expression patterns, cell distribution, and their relationship to cell maturity and bright CD57 expression. | Cytolytic enzymes (CEs) are critical mediators of anti-viral and -tumor immunity; however, as a number of molecules belong to this enzyme family, our understanding of CEs remains limited. Specifically, it remains unclear what combinations of granzymes and perforin (Perf) are expressed by various immune cells and how CE content relates to cellular differentiation. Using polychromatic flow cytometry, we simultaneously measured expression of the most common human CEs [granzyme A (gA), granzyme B (gB), and Perf] alongside markers of alphabeta and gammadelta T cell maturation (CD45RO, CCR7, CD27, CD57). Additionally, we measured CE content in NK cell subsets (defined by their expression of CD16 and CD56). We found that among a wide variety of immune cells, CE content was linked to cellular maturity. Moreover, common expression patterns were shared across cell types, such that gB+ cells always contained gA, and Perf+ cells were primarily gA+ gB+. Most importantly, CD57 expression correlated strongly with simultaneous expression of gA, gB, and Perf. Thus, the use of CD57 provides a means to easily isolate viable cells with high cytolytic potential, without the need for lethal fixation/permeabilization techniques. | 18,820,174 |
A common RET variant is associated with reduced newborn kidney size and function. | Congenital nephron number varies five-fold among normal humans, and individuals at the lower end of this range may have an increased lifetime risk for essential hypertension or renal insufficiency; however, the mechanisms that determine nephron number are unknown. This study tested the hypothesis that common hypomorphic variants of the RET gene, which encodes a tyrosine kinase receptor critical for renal branching morphogenesis, might account for subtle renal hypoplasia in some normal newborns. A common single-nucleotide polymorphism (rs1800860 G/A) was identified within an exonic splicing enhancer in exon 7. The adenosine variant at mRNA position 1476 reduced affinity for spliceosome proteins, enhanced the likelihood of aberrant mRNA splicing, and diminished the level of functional transcript in human cells. In vivo, normal white newborns with an rs1800860(1476A) allele had kidney volumes 10% smaller and cord blood cystatin C levels 9% higher than those with the rs1800860(1476G) allele. These findings suggest that the RET(1476A) allele, in combination with other common polymorphic developmental genes, may account for subtle renal hypoplasia in a significant proportion of the white population. Whether this gene variant affects clinical outcomes requires further study. | 18,820,179 |
Pyomyositis mimicking leptospirosis: two cases in a Brazilian tertiary care hospital in a non-tropical area. | Pyomyositis is a subacute, deep suppurative bacterial infection of skeletal muscle not arising from contiguous infection. It is presumably haematogenous in origin, and characterized by muscle pain and swelling. We report on two patients who presented with pyomyositis in a tertiary care hospital in temperate region located in southern Brazil with a clinical presentation, which was initially suggestive of leptospirosis. This report discusses the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of pyomyositis. Physicians living in non-tropical areas should note that pyomyositis might occur in those areas, and its initial clinical presentation may be similar to leptospirosis. | 18,820,206 |
Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis: a new case from Venezuela. | Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is not often seen. To date, less than 300 cases have been communicated to the medical literature since the disease was first discovered in 1965. Six of these reports originated in Venezuela. The authors describe a new spontaneous case of PAM in a 33-year-old previously healthy Western-Venezuelan man. | 18,820,207 |
Conformation and free energy analyses of the complex of calcium-bound calmodulin and the Fas death domain. | Previous studies have demonstrated a calcium-dependent interaction of calmodulin (CaM) and Fas that is regulated during Fas-induced apoptosis in several cell lines, including cholangiocarcinoma, Jurkat cells, and osteoclasts. The binding of CaM and Fas has been identified on residues 231-254 of Fas; the V254N point mutation decreases the CaM/Fas binding, and the C-terminal deletion mutation increases the CaM/Fas binding. Recent studies have shown that CaM is recruited into the Fas-mediated death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) in a calcium-dependent manner. However, the molecular mechanisms whereby Fas mutations and CaM/Fas binding might regulate Fas-mediated DISC formation are unknown. In this study we investigated the binding thermodynamics and conformation of the CaM/Fas complexes with combined explicit solvent molecular-dynamics simulations and implicit solvent binding free-energy calculations. The binding free-energy analysis demonstrated that the Fas V254N point mutation reduced its binding affinity with CaM. In contrast, the Fas mutant with the deletion of the 15 amino acid at the C-terminus increased its binding to CaM. These observations are consistent with previous findings from biochemical studies. Conformational analyses further showed that the Fas V254N mutation resulted in an unstable conformation, whereas the C-terminal deletion mutation stabilized the Fas conformation, and both mutations resulted in changes of the degree of correlation between the motions of the residues in Fas. Analysis of the CaM/Fas complex revealed that CaM/Fas binding stabilized the conformation of both CaM and Fas and changed the degree of correlated motion of the residues of CaM and Fas. The results presented here provide structural evidence for the roles of Fas mutations and CaM/Fas binding in Fas-induced DISC formation. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of CaM/Fas binding in Fas-mediated DISC formation should provide important insights into the function of Fas mutations and CaM in regulating Fas-mediated apoptosis. | 18,820,240 |
Novel noncoding antisense RNA transcribed from human anti-NOS2A locus is differentially regulated during neuronal differentiation of embryonic stem cells. | Here, we report on the discovery of a locus in the human genome, which evolved by gene duplication followed by an internal DNA inversion. This locus exhibits high sequence similarity to the gene for the inducible isoform of NOS protein (NOS2A) and is transcribed into a noncoding RNA containing a region of significant antisense homology with the NOS2A mRNA. We show that this antisense transcript (anti-NOS2A RNA) is expressed in different types of brain tumors, including meningiomas and glioblastomas. More importantly, we demonstrate that the expression profiles of the anti-NOS2A RNA and the NOS2A mRNA exhibit concurrent reciprocal changes in undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and in hESCs induced to differentiate into neurogenic precursors such as neurospheres. As NOS2A has a role in neurogenesis, our results suggest that the anti-NOS2A RNA is involved in the regulation of neuronal differentiation of hESCs through the modulation of NOS2A gene expression. | 18,820,242 |
Pre-incisional epidural magnesium provides pre-emptive and preventive analgesia in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy. | This prospective, randomized, double-blind study was designed to evaluate the preemptive and preventive analgesic efficacy of adding magnesium to a multimodal regimen of patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy. Ninety patients were randomly assigned to one of the three groups. Pre-magnesium patients received bolus of magnesium 50 mg epidurally before induction of anaesthesia followed by infusion of 10 mg h(-1) until end of surgery. Post-magnesium patients received epidural saline during the same time periods plus bolus epidural magnesium 50 mg at the end of surgery. Patients in the control group received epidural saline during all three periods. Patients in the magnesium groups received PCEA with fentanyl 1 microg ml(-1), bupivacaine 0.08%, and magnesium 1 mg ml(-1) after operation. Patients in the control group received PCEA with fentanyl 1 microg ml(-1) and bupivacaine 0.08%. Data were recorded for three postoperative days. There were significantly lower pain scores on rest or movement in the pre-magnesium group compared with the post-magnesium and control groups (P<0.05). The daily analgesic consumption in the pre-magnesium group was significantly less than the other two groups (P<0.05) and the dose consumed in the post-magnesium group was significantly smaller than the control group (P<0.05). The groups were similar with respect to haemodynamic and respiratory variables, sedation, pruritus, nausea, and vomiting. Continuous epidural magnesium started before anaesthesia provided preemptive, preventive analgesia, and an analgesic-sparing effect that improved postoperative analgesia without increasing the incidence of side-effects. | 18,820,247 |
TSG-6 transfers proteins between glycosaminoglycans via a Ser28-mediated covalent catalytic mechanism. | Studies of the interaction between Bikunin proteins, tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 protein (TSG-6), and glycosaminoglycans have revealed a unique catalytic activity where TSG-6/heavy chain 2 transfer heavy chain subunits between glycosaminoglycan chains. The activity is mediated by TSG-6/heavy chain 2 and involves a transient SDS stable interaction between TSG-6 and the heavy chain to be transferred. The focus of this study was to characterize the molecular structure of this cross-link to gain further insight into the catalytic mechanism. The result showed that the C-terminal Asp residue of the heavy chains forms an ester bond to Ser(28) beta-carbon of TSG-6 suggesting that this residue plays a role during catalysis. | 18,820,257 |
Rosuvastatin protects against podocyte apoptosis in vitro. | Clinical studies suggest that statins reduce proteinuria and slow the decline in kidney function in chronic kidney disease. Given a rich literature identifying podocyte apoptosis as an early step in the pathophysiological progression to proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis, we hypothesized that rosuvastatin protects podocytes from undergoing apoptosis. Regarding a potential mechanism, our lab has shown that the cell cycle protein, p21, has a prosurvial role in podocytes and there is literature showing statins upregulate p21 in other renal cells. Therefore, we queried whether rosuvastatin is prosurvival in podocytes through a p21-dependent pathway. Two independent apoptotic triggers, puromycin aminonucleoside (PA) and adriamycin (ADR), were used to induce apoptosis in p21 +/+ and p21 -/- conditionally immortalized mouse podocytes with or without pre-exposure to rosuvastatin. Apoptosis was measured by two methods: Hoechst 33342 staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). To establish a role for p21, p21 levels were measured by western blotting following rosuvastatin exposure and p21 was stably transduced into p21 -/- mouse podocytes. Rosuvastatin protects against ADR- and PA-induced apoptosis in podocytes. Further, exposure to rosuvastatin increases p21 levels in podocytes in vitro. ADR induces apoptosis in p21 -/- mouse podocytes, but rosuvastatin's protective effect is not seen in the absence of p21. Reconstituting p21 in p21 -/- podocytes restores rosuvastatin's prosurvival effect. Rosuvastatin is prosurvival in injured podocytes. Rosuvastatin exerts its protective effect through a p21-dependent antiapoptotic pathway. These findings suggest that statins decrease proteinuria by protecting against podocyte apoptosis and subsequent podocyte depopulation. | 18,820,279 |
Efficacy and safety of sevelamer hydrochloride and calcium acetate in patients on peritoneal dialysis. | Inadequate phosphorus control is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with CKD stage 5. Although phosphate binders are often used in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD), no large randomized controlled studies evaluating their use solely in this population have previously been reported. In this multicentre, open-label study, adult patients on PD with serum phosphorus >5.5 mg/dl were randomized (2:1) to 12 weeks of treatment with sevelamer hydrochloride or calcium acetate. Doses were titrated to achieve serum phosphorus of 3.0-5.5 mg/dl. Changes in serum phosphorus, calcium, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), lipids and plasma biomarkers were assessed. A total of 253 patients were screened, 143 of whom were randomized (sevelamer hydrochloride, n = 97; calcium acetate, n = 46). Treatment groups were well balanced with regard to baseline demographics. Serum phosphorus levels were significantly reduced after 12 weeks with both sevelamer hydrochloride and calcium acetate (P < 0.001). Serum PTH was also reduced in both groups while serum calcium increased in the calcium acetate group (P = 0.001) but not in the sevelamer hydrochloride group. Sevelamer hydrochloride was also associated with decreases in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and uric acid and an increase in bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (all P < 0.001 versus baseline). Both treatments were well tolerated and safety profiles were consistent with previous reports in haemodialysis patients. Hypercalcaemia was experienced by more calcium acetate-treated patients (18 versus 2%; P = 0.001). In summary, sevelamer hydrochloride provides a reduction in serum phosphorus compared to that obtained with calcium-based binders in PD patients. The effects of sevelamer hydrochloride appear similar in both PD and haemodialysis populations. | 18,820,280 |
Human SWI/SNF directs sequence-specific chromatin changes on promoter polynucleosomes. | Studies in humans and other species have revealed that a surprisingly large fraction of nucleosomes adopt specific positions on promoters, and that these positions appear to be determined by nucleosome positioning DNA sequences (NPSs). Recent studies by our lab, using minicircles containing only one nucleosome, indicated that the human SWI/SNF complex (hSWI/SNF) prefers to relocate nucleosomes away from NPSs. We now make use of novel mapping techniques to examine the hSWI/SNF sequence preference for nucleosome movement in the context of polynucleosomal chromatin, where adjacent nucleosomes can limit movement and where hSWI/SNF forms altered dinucleosomal structures. Using two NPS templates (5S rDNA and 601) and two hSWI/SNF target promoter templates (c-myc and UGT1A1), we observed hSWI/SNF-driven depletion of normal mononucleosomes from almost all positions that were strongly favored by assembly. In some cases, these mononucleosomes were moved to hSWI/SNF-preferred sequences. In the majority of other cases, one repositioned mononucleosome appeared to combine with an unmoved mononucleosome forming a specifically localized altered or normal dinucleosome. These effects result in dramatic, template-specific changes in nucleosomal distribution. Taken together, these studies indicate hSWI/SNF is likely to activate or repress transcription of its target genes by generating promoter sequence-specific changes in chromatin configuration. | 18,820,294 |
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