title stringlengths 0 901 | abstract stringlengths 3 9.89k | PMID int64 22 25.3M | embedding listlengths 768 768 |
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Clinical, radiological and molecular diagnosis correlation in serum samples from patients with osteoarticular tuberculosis. | To assess the role of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in serum samples, in the diagnosis of osteoarticular tuberculosis (OTB) in a setting where only clinical and imaging diagnoses determine the treatment. A total of 44 consecutive serum specimens were collected from clinically suspected OTB patients, based on clinical and radiological [X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging/computed tomography] features. They were screened by in-house nested PCR. In addition, a few specimens were examined by Gram stain, acid-fast bacilli stain, histopathology and routine bacterial culture. A total of 39 specimens were collected from patients suffering from other bone diseases of nontuberculous origin and included as negative controls. Of the 44 clinically suspected OTB patients, in-house nested PCR was positive in 40 (91%) cases; PCR was negative in 38 (97%) negative controls. Sensitivity and specificity of our in-house nested PCR was 90.9% and 97.4%, respectively. The PCR report was available within 48 h. It was possible to standardize serum PCR technique and in positive cases, a good correlation was observed in terms of an adequate treatment response. Nested PCR in serum samples is a rapid, highly sensitive and specific modality for OTB detection. PCR should be performed in addition to clinical evaluation, imaging studies, acid-fast bacilli staining, culture and histopathology diagnosis, if possible. | 25,183,281 | [
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Skeptical notes on a physics of passage. | This paper investigates the mathematical representation of time in physics. In existing theories, time is represented by the real numbers, hence their formal properties represent properties of time: these are surveyed. The central question of the paper is whether the existing representation of time is adequate, or whether it can or should be supplemented: especially, do we need a physics incorporating some kind of "dynamical passage" of time? The paper argues that the existing mathematical framework is resistant to such changes, and might have to be rejected by anyone seeking a physics of passage. Then it rebuts two common arguments for incorporating passage into physics, especially the claim that it is an element of experience. Finally, the paper investigates whether, as has been claimed, causal set theory provides a physics of passage. | 25,183,288 | [
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Blood pressure variability in patients with atrial fibrillation. | The highly irregular ventricular rate during atrial fibrillation (AF) represents a unique and physiological experimental model to eliminate the influence of rhythmical components of RR variability on arterial pressure variability for investigating the origin of low frequency (LF) component in arterial pressure. Surface ECG, blood pressure and respiratory signals were recorded in thirty patients with persistent AF, at rest and during a passive orthostatic stimulus ("tilt test"). Short-term systolic (SAP) and diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) variability was estimated by autoregressive method. In 15 patients (group A), SAP significantly increased during tilt (from 98±16 to 114±18mmHg, p<0.001 rest vs. tilt), whereas in the remaining patients (group B) SAP remained almost unchanged (from 108±16 to 104±17mmHg, p=0.05, rest vs. tilt). No clinical differences were found between group A and B. When analyzing group A, a significant increase in the LF power in SAP and DAP variability was observed during tilt (SAP: 2.24±2.75 vs. 6.60±5.11mmHg(2), p<0.05, rest vs. tilt; DAP: 3.54±1.95 vs. 4.38±3.21mmHg(2), p<0.05, rest vs. tilt). No significant differences were found in group B. In AF patients, changes of arterial pressure variability during tilt were not uniform. Vascular regulatory mechanisms appeared to be still efficient only in the subgroup of patients who responded to a sympathetic stimulus with an increased SAP. In these subjects tilt increased the LF component in arterial pressure variability, thus mimicking the physiological response observed in subjects with sinus rhythm. | 25,183,309 | [
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Compartmentalization of single polymer chains by stepwise intramolecular cross-linking of sequence-controlled macromolecules. | We report the intramolecular double compaction of sequence-controlled linear macromolecules into "structured" random coils. These compartmentalized single-chain objects were prepared by performing successive cross-linking reactions in an orthogonal fashion. The foldable precursors were synthesized by sequence-controlled copolymerization of styrene with N-substituted maleimides (MIs), namely pentafluorophenyl 4-maleimidobenzoate (1) and TIPS-protected N-propargyl maleimide (2). These two functional MIs allow intramolecular cross-linking. The activated ester pentafluorophenyl moieties of 1 were reacted with ethylenediamine, whereas the deprotected alkyne functions of 2 were self-reacted by Eglinton coupling. The compaction of model copolymers containing only one cross-linkable zone (i.e., either 1 or 2) was first studied. (1)H NMR and SEC analysis indicated that these structures could be efficiently compacted into single-chain objects. Thus, more complex copolymers containing two individually addressable cross-linking zones were prepared and sequentially compacted. Detailed characterization of the folding process indicated that double-compaction occurred and that the formed single-chain particles contain distinct cross-linked subdomains. | 25,183,314 | [
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Development of a biological protocol for endotoxin detection using quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). | In this paper, a biological protocol for endotoxin detection has been developed and optimized by quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). The parameters involved in the formation of the self-assembled monolayer (SAM) have been analyzed, and a study of the pH of the ligand buffer has been performed in order to find the best condition for the ligand immobilization and, in consequence, for the endotoxin detection. The detection limit obtained with the characterized biological protocol corresponds to 1.90 μg/ml. The effectiveness of the optimized biological protocol has been analyzed by cyclic voltammetry analysis. | 25,183,316 | [
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Physico-chemical analysis and antimicrobial potential of Apis dorsata, Apis mellifera and Ziziphus jujube honey samples from Pakistan. | To evaluate physico-chemical properties and antimicrobial potential of indigenous honey samples against different reference strains including Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Enterobacter aerogenes ATCC 13048, Pseudomonas aeroginosa ATCC 9027, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Salmonella typhi ATCC 14028, Klebsiella pneumonia ATCC 13883, Aspergillus niger ATCC 16404, Rhizopus oligosporus PCSIR1, Candida albicans ATCC 14053 and Candida utilis ATCC 9950. By using standard methods samples were evaluated for their antimicrobial properties including additive effect of starch and non-peroxidase activity, antioxidative properties (phenol contents, flavonoid contents, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity). Prior to this evaluation, complete physico-chemical properties including pH, color, ash contents, protein contents, moisture contents, hydroxymethyl furfural contents, total sugar contents, reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar contents were analyzed. Relatively higher ash contents were found in the Siddar honey i.e. (0.590 0±0.033 6)% and small honey showed relatively higher protein contents i.e. (777.598±9.880) mg/kg. The moisture contents of tested honey samples ranged between 13.8%-16.6%, total sugar contents from 61.672%-72.420% and non-reducing sugar contents from 1.95%-3.93%. Presences of phenolic contents indicate higher antioxidant potential of these honey samples. All bacteria showed clear inhibition zones in response to tested honey samples whereas fungi and yeast showed inhibition at higher concentrations of these honey samples. For Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeroginosa and Aspergillus niger, overall the small honey showed the higher activity than other honey samples. Physico-chemical analysis of honey samples confirmed good quality of honey according to the standards set by European Union Commission and Codex Alimentarius Commission. Evaluation of these honey samples confirms antimicrobial potential of particular types of honeys indigenous to Pakistan. | 25,183,333 | [
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An efficient method in breaking of dormancy from Bunium persicum (Boiss) Fedtsch seeds: a valuable herb of Middle East and Central Asia. | To develop a protocol for breaking of seed dormancy and increasing the seed germination rate of Bunium persicum. The seeds were treated with 3.1, 6.3, 12.5, 25, 50 and 100 µmol/L of benzyl aminopurine, gibberellic acid (GA3), thidiazuron (TDZ) and forchlorfenuron. Then, seeds were transferred to two different temperature conditions including room temperature (25 °C) and chilling temperature (2-5 °C). The treatment of moist seeds with chilling temperature (2-5 °C) broke seed dormancy and showed maximum germination, which was 54.7% after 60 d treatment. Also, the treatment of dry seeds with chilling temperature broke seed dormancy with 9.3% germination rate after 120 d. Treatment of seeds with different level of plant growth regulators showed that under moist-room condition, there was evidence of higher and lower seed germination rate: GA3 (100 µmol/L) with 46.7% and TDZ (50 µmol/L) with 6.67% respectively. In addition, the results showed that under moist-chilling condition, TDZ (6.3 µmol/L) with 53.3% seed germination rate had higher influence on breaking seed dormancy. Treatment of seeds with combination of TDZ and GA3 under moist-chilling condition revealed higher rate of breaking of seed dormancy when 6.3 µmol/L TDZ was combined with 100 µmol/L GA3, showing 93.7% germination rate. The effect of plant growth regulators coupled with chilling temperature on breaking of seed dormancy could provide a large number of seedlings while the long juvenile time which is the next restricting factor of plantation still remained. Thus, the subsequent growth of seedlings to provide a large number of corms is necessary for successful plantation. | 25,183,334 | [
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Digestive fungal flora in asymptomatic subjects in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. | To identify Candida species in asymptomatic subjects in Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso) by the matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to February 2013 in Bobo-Dioulasso to collect fecal and urine specimens from voluntary donors. Fungal strains were isolated on Sabouraud dextrose agar and analyzed using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation-time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A total of 135 samples including stools (78.5%, 106/135) and urine (21.5%, 29/135) were analyzed. The results revealed that fecal specimens contained mainly Candida krusei (C. krusei) (42.5%) followed by Candida albicans (29.3%), Candida glabrata (18.0%) and Candida tropicalis (C. tropicalis) (4.7%). C. krusei (34.6%) was also found to be the most frequently identified in urine samples followed by Candida albicans (27.0%), C. tropicalis (15.4%) and Candida parapsilosis. However, uncommon species such as Candida nivariensis, Candida kefyr, Candida norvegensis, Candida parapsilosis, Candida lusitaniae and Candida robusta were also identified from fecal and urines samples. This study noted the emergence of species such as C. krusei, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsiolosis, C. tropicalis, Candida nivariensis, Candida norvegensis, and others. It is an imperative to take into account the existence of these species in the therapeutic management of patients in Bobo-Dioulasso. | 25,183,337 | [
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Prospective QSAR-based prediction models with pharmacophore studies of oxadiazole-substituted α-isopropoxy phenylpropanoic acids on with dual activators of PPARα and PPARγ | A series of oxadiazole-substituted α-isopropoxy phenylpropanoic acids with dual activators of PPARα and PPARγ derivatives were subjected to two dimensional and k-nearest neighbour Molecular field analysis. The statistically significant best 2D-QSAR (PPARα) model having good predictive ability with statistical values of r<sup2</sup = 0.8725, q<sup2</sup = 0.7957 and pred_r<sup2</sup = 0.8136, was developed by GA-PLS with the descriptors like SsClcount, SddsN (nitro) count and SsOHcount contribute significantly to the biological activity. The best 3D-QSAR studies (PPARα) were performed using the genetic algorithm selection k-nearest neighbor molecular field analysis approach; a leave-one-out cross-validated correlation coefficient q<sup2</sup=0.7188 and predicate activity pred_r<sup2</sup =0.7508 were obtained. The influences of steric and electrostatic field effects generated by the contribution plots are discussed. The best pharmacophore model includes three features viz. hydrogen bond donor, hydrogen bond acceptor, and aromatic features were developed. The information rendered by 2D, 3D QSAR models may lead to a better understanding of structural requirements of substituted α-isopropoxy phenylpropanoic derivatives and also aid in designing novel potent PPARα and PPARγ for antihyperglycemic molecules. | 25,183,350 | [
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PPDB - A tool for investigation of plants physiology based on gene ontology. | Representing the way forward, from functional genomics and its ontology to functional understanding and physiological model, in a computationally tractable fashion is one of the ongoing challenges faced by computational biology. To tackle the standpoint, we herein feature the applications of contemporary database management to the development of PPDB, a searching and browsing tool for the Plants Physiology Database that is based upon the mining of a large amount of gene ontology data currently available. The working principles and search options associated with the PPDB are publicly available and freely accessible on-line ( http://www.iitr.ernet.in/ajayshiv/ ) through a user friendly environment generated by means of Drupal-6.24. By knowing that genes are expressed in temporally and spatially characteristic patterns and that their functionally distinct products often reside in specific cellular compartments and may be part of one or more multi-component complexes, this sort of work is intended to be relevant for investigating the functional relationships of gene products at a system level and, thus, helps us approach to the full physiology. | 25,183,354 | [
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Switchable water-adhesive, superhydrophobic palladium-layered silicon nanowires potentiate the angiogenic efficacy of human stem cell spheroids. | A switchable water-adhesive, super-hydrophobic nanowire surface is developed for the formation of functional stem cell spheroids. The sizes of hADSC spheroids are readily controllable on the surface. Our surface increases cell-cell and cell-matrix interaction, which improves viability and paracrine secretion of the spheroids. Accordingly, the hADSC spheroids produced on the surface exhibit significantly enhanced angiogenic efficacy. | 25,183,387 | [
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Anatomical pediatric model for craniosynostosis surgical training. | Several surgical training simulators have been created to improve the learning curve of residents in neurosurgery and plastic surgery. Laboratory training is fundamental for acquiring familiarity with the techniques of surgery and the skill in handling instruments. The aim of this study is to present a novel simulator for training in the technique of craniosynostectomy, specifically for the scaphocephaly type. This realistic simulator was built with a synthetic thermo-retractile and thermo-sensible rubber which, when combined with different polymers, produces more than 30 different formulas. These formulas present textures, consistencies, and mechanical resistance similar to many human tissues. Fiberglass molds in the shape of the skull constitute the basic structure of the craniosynostectomy training module. It has been possible to perform computerized tomography images due to the radiopacity of this simulator and to compare the pre- and postoperative images. The authors present a training model to practice the biparietal remodeling used in scaphocephaly correction. All aspects of the procedure are simulated: the skin incision, the subcutaneous and subperiosteal dissection, the osteotomies, and finally, the skull remodeling with absorbable microplates. The presence of superior sagittal sinus can simulate emergency situations with bleeding. The authors conclude that this training model can represent a fairly useful method to accustom trainees to the required surgical techniques and simulates well the steps of standard surgery for scaphocephaly. This training provides an alternative to the use of human cadavers and animal models. Furthermore, it can represent the anatomical alteration precisely as well as intraoperative emergency situations. | 25,183,390 | [
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Soybean aphid intrabiotype variability based on colonization of specific soybean genotypes. | The soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), is one of the most destructive insect pests on soybeans in the United States. One method for managing this pest is through host plant resistance. Since its arrival in 2000, 4 aphid biotypes have been identified that are able to overcome soybean aphid resistance (Rag) genes. A soybean aphid isolate collected from Moline, Illinois readily colonized soybean plants with the soybean aphid resistance gene Rag2, unlike biotypes 1 and 2, but similar to soybean aphid biotype 3. Two no-choice experiments compared the virulence of the Moline isolate with biotype 3. In both experiments, differences in aphid population counts were not significant (P > 0.05) on soybean genotypes LD08-12957a (Rag2) and LD11-5413a (Rag2), but the aphid counts for the Moline isolate were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than the aphid counts for the biotype 3 isolate on the soybean genotypes Dowling (Rag1), LD05-16611 (Rag1), LD11-4576a (Rag1), and PI 567598B (rag1b and rag3). The Moline isolate was a variant of aphid biotype 3, which is the first report showing that soybean aphid isolates classified as the same biotype, based on virulence against specific Rag genes, can differ in aggressiveness or ability to colonize specific host genotypes. | 25,183,413 | [
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Impact of traffic related air pollution indicators on non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis mortality: a cohort analysis. | Mortality in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) is known to be influenced by a number of factors such as gender, age, smoking history and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, but the impact of traffic related air pollution indicators on NCFB mortality is unknown. We followed 183 patients aged 18 to 65 years with a HRCT proven diagnosis of NCFB and typical symptoms, who had visited the outpatient clinic at the University Hospital of Leuven, Belgium, between June 2006 and October 2012. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) for mortality in relation to proximity of the home to major roads and traffic load, adjusting for relevant covariables (age, gender, disease severity, chronic macrolide use, smoking history, socioeconomic status and Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization status). Fifteen out of the 183 included patients died during the observation period. Residential proximity to a major road was associated with the risk of dying with a HR 0.28 (CI 95% 0.10-0.77; p = 0.013) for a tenfold increase in distance to a major road. Mortality was also associated with distance-weighted traffic density within 100 meters (HR for each tenfold increase in traffic density 3.80; CI 95% 1.07-13.51; p = 0.04) and 200 meters from the patient's home address (HR for each tenfold increase in traffic density 4.14; CI 95% 1.13-15.22; p = 0.032). Traffic-related air pollution appears to increase the risk of dying in patients with NCFB. The study was approved by the local ethical committee of the UZ Leuven, Belgium (ML-5028), registered at ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT01906047). | 25,183,428 | [
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Concise reviews: A stem cell apostasy: a tale of four H words. | The field of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) biology has become increasingly dominated by the pursuit and study of highly purified populations of HSCs. Such HSCs are typically isolated based on their cell surface marker expression patterns and ultimately defined by their multipotency and capacity for self-generation. However, even with progressively more stringent stem cell separation techniques, the resultant HSC population remains heterogeneous with respect to both self-renewal and differentiation capacity. Critical studies on unseparated whole bone marrow have definitively shown that long-term engraftable HSCs are in active cell cycle and thus continually changing phenotype. Therefore, they cannot be purified by current approaches dependent on stable surface epitope expression because the surface markers are continually changing as well. These critical cycling cells are discarded with current stem cell purifications. Despite this, research defining such characteristics as self-renewal capacity, lineage-commitment, bone marrow niches, and proliferative state of HSCs continues to focus predominantly on this small subpopulation of purified marrow cells. This review discusses the research leading to the hierarchical model of hematopoiesis and questions the dogmas pertaining to HSC quiescence and purification. | 25,183,450 | [
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Sarcoidosis of the head and neck. | Sarcoidosis is a complex disorder that often times involves the head and neck. Despite the presence of strong clinical evidence, tissue diagnosis and imaging is needed for confirmation of the disease. Although typically managed medically, when found in the sinonasal tract or intracranially, it may necessitate the intervention of a rhinologist-skull base surgeon. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive review of head and neck sarcoidosis, as this fascinating disorder often poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. A brief discussion of surgical treatment for pituitary lesions is also provided. Articles from 1997 to 2013 were selected and reviewed by three researchers utilizing the most recent literature regarding sarcoidosis in the head and neck. PubMed searches were conducted using search terms such as "sarcoidosis", "neurosarcoid", and "extra-pulmonary sarcoid", among many others. A large collection of articles was generated and reviewed by the team of authors, and appropriate information was extracted to compose a thorough and expansive review of the subject. 10-15 % of patients with sarcoidosis have head and neck manifestations. Sinonasal and pituitary sarcoidosis presents a diagnostic challenge owing to its non-specific symptoms. Although systemic steroid therapy is often the first time treatment, endoscopic surgery is commonly used to treat advanced pituitary sarcoidosis refractory to medical management. As tissue diagnosis and imaging is key, a multi-disciplinary team approach is advantageous. Our study collates the available literature on head and neck sarcoidosis to provide a comprehensive review of the subject. This provides helpful information to guide all practitioners involved in the care of these challenging patients, namely pathologists, radiologists, otolaryngologists, and skull base surgeons, in the workup and management of head and neck sarcoidosis. | 25,183,456 | [
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Dye-sensitized solar cells with improved performance using cone-calix[4]arene based dyes. | Three cone-calix[4]arene-based sensitizers (Calix-1-Calix-3) with multiple donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) moieties are designed, synthesized, and applied in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Their photophysical and electrochemical properties are characterized by measuring UV/Vis absorption and emission spectra, cyclic voltammetry, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Calix-3 has excellent thermo- and photostability, as illustrated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and dye-aging tests, respectively. Importantly, a DSSC using the Calix-3 dye displays a conversion efficiency of 5.48 % in under standard AM 1.5 Global solar illumination conditions, much better than corresponding DSSCs that use the rod-shaped dye M-3 with a single D-π-A chain (3.56 %). The dyes offer advantages in terms of higher molar extinction coefficients, longer electron lifetimes, better stability, and stronger binding ability to TiO2 film. This is the first example of calixarene-based sensitizers for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells. | 25,183,482 | [
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In vitro antimalarial studies of novel artemisinin biotransformed products and its derivatives. | Biotransformation of antimalarial drug artemisinin by fungi Rhizopus stolonifer afforded three sesquiterpenoid derivatives. The transformed products were 1α-hydroxyartemisinin (3), 3.0%, a new compound, 10β-hydroxyartemisinin, 54.5% (4) and deoxyartemisinin (2) in 9% yield. The fungus expressed high-metabolism activity (66.5%). The chemical structures of the compounds were elucidated by 1D, 2D NMR spectrometry and mass spectral data. The major compound 10β-hydroxyartemisinin (4) was chemically converted to five new derivatives 5-9. All the compounds 3-9 were subjected for in vitro anti-malarial activity. 10β-Hydroxy-12β-arteether (8), IC50 at 18.29nM was found to be 10 times better active than its precursor 4 (184.56nM) and equipotent antimalarial with natural drug artemisinin whereas the α-derivative 9 is 3 times better than 4 under in vitro conditions. Therefore, the major biotransformation product 4 can be exploited for further modification into new clinically potent molecules. The results show the versatility of microbial-catalyzed biotransformations leading to the introduction of a hydroxyl group at tertiary position in artemisinin in derivative (3). | 25,183,484 | [
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Over-representation of correlation analysis (ORCA): a method for identifying associations between variable sets. | Often during the analysis of biological data, it is of importance to interpret the correlation structure that exists between variables. Such correlations may reveal patterns of co-regulation that are indicative of biochemical pathways or common mechanisms of response to a related set of treatments. However, analyses of correlations are usually conducted by either subjective interpretation of the univariate covariance matrix or by applying multivariate modeling techniques, which do not take prior biological knowledge into account. Over-representation analysis (ORA) is a simple method for objectively deciding whether a set of variables of known or suspected biological relevance, such as a gene set or pathway, is more prevalent in a set of variables of interest than we expect by chance. However, ORA is usually applied to a set of variables differentiating a single experimental variable and does not take into account correlations. Over-representation of correlation analysis (ORCA) is a novel combination of ORA and correlation analysis that provides a means to test whether more associations exist between two specific groups of variables than expected by chance. The method is exemplified by application to drug sensitivity and microRNA expression data from a panel of cancer cell lines (NCI60). ORCA highlighted a previously reported correlation between sensitivity to alkylating anticancer agents and topoisomerase inhibitors. We also used this approach to validate microRNA clusters predicted by mRNA correlations. These observations suggest that ORCA has the potential to reveal novel insights from these data, which are not readily apparent using classical ORA. The R code of the method is available at https://github.com/ORCABioinfo/ORCAcode. | 25,183,485 | [
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Finding the differences between the East and West in clinical clerkship: A Chinese exchange medical student's perspective. | As a sixth-year medical student and the first exchange medical student from Fudan University, China, I had the opportunity to take a three-month elective at University of California at Davis (UC Davis) School of Medicine from October 2013 to January 2014. I worked and studied at the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, the General Medicine Consults Service, and the Department of Emergency Medicine in those days. This precious experience enhanced my medical knowledge, broadened my view, and at the same time, deepened my understanding of clerkship as part of medical education. | 25,183,495 | [
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In vitro attenuation of thermal-induced protein denaturation by aerial parts of Artemisia scoparia. | The goal of this study was to explore the aerial parts of Artemisia scoparia (crude extract, total flavonoid contents, and aqueous fraction) for protein denaturation potential. The crude extract provoked marked attenuation of thermal-induced denatured protein in a concentration-dependent manner with maximum inhibition of 54.05 μg/mL at 500 μg/mL and IC50 of 449.66 μg/mL. When total flavonoid contents were studied, it illustrated most dominant activity concentration dependently with maximum amelioration of 62.16 μg/mL at 500 μg/mL and IC50 of 378.35 μg/mL. The aqueous fraction also exhibited significant activity with maximum of 56.75% inhibition at 500 μg/mL and IC50 of 445.10 μg/mL. It can be concluded on the basis of the results that the crude extract, flavonoid contents, and aqueous fraction of the plant possessed significant inhibition on thermal-induced denatured protein. | 25,183,498 | [
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Arabidopsis SEPALLATA proteins differ in cooperative DNA-binding during the formation of floral quartet-like complexes. | The SEPALLATA (SEP) genes of Arabidopsis thaliana encode MADS-domain transcription factors that specify the identity of all floral organs. The four Arabidopsis SEP genes function in a largely yet not completely redundant manner. Here, we analysed interactions of the SEP proteins with DNA. All of the proteins were capable of forming tetrameric quartet-like complexes on DNA fragments carrying two sequence elements termed CArG-boxes. Distances between the CArG-boxes for strong cooperative DNA-binding were in the range of 4-6 helical turns. However, SEP1 also bound strongly to CArG-box pairs separated by smaller or larger distances, whereas SEP2 preferred large and SEP4 preferred small inter-site distances for binding. Cooperative binding of SEP3 was comparatively weak for most of the inter-site distances tested. All SEP proteins constituted floral quartet-like complexes together with the floral homeotic proteins APETALA3 (AP3) and PISTILLATA (PI) on the target genes AP3 and SEP3. Our results suggest an important part of an explanation for why the different SEP proteins have largely, but not completely redundant functions in determining floral organ identity: they may bind to largely overlapping, but not identical sets of target genes that differ in the arrangement and spacing of the CArG-boxes in their cis-regulatory regions. | 25,183,521 | [
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A genome-wide scan for selection signatures in Nellore cattle. | Brazilian Nellore cattle (Bos indicus) have been selected for growth traits for over more than four decades. In recent years, reproductive and meat quality traits have become more important because of increasing consumption, exports and consumer demand. The identification of genome regions altered by artificial selection can potentially permit a better understanding of the biology of specific phenotypes that are useful for the development of tools designed to increase selection efficiency. Therefore, the aims of this study were to detect evidence of recent selection signatures in Nellore cattle using extended haplotype homozygosity methodology and BovineHD marker genotypes (>777,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms) as well as to identify corresponding genes underlying these signals. Thirty-one significant regions (P < 0.0001) of possible recent selection signatures were detected, and 19 of these overlapped quantitative trait loci related to reproductive traits, growth, feed efficiency, meat quality, fatty acid profiles and immunity. In addition, 545 genes were identified in regions harboring selection signatures. Within this group, 58 genes were associated with growth, muscle and adipose tissue metabolism, reproductive traits or the immune system. Using relative extended haplotype homozygosity to analyze high-density single nucleotide polymorphism marker data allowed for the identification of regions potentially under artificial selection pressure in the Nellore genome, which might be used to better understand autozygosity and the effects of selection on the Nellore genome. | 25,183,526 | [
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Seatbelt usage: is there an association with obesity? | Wearing a seatbelt can prevent motor vehicle crash deaths. While primary seatbelt laws are designed to encourage vehicle passengers to wear seatbelts by allowing law enforcement officers to issue tickets when passengers do not wear seatbelts, discomfort may discourage obese individuals from wearing a seatbelt. The objective of this study is to assess the association between state-level obesity and seatbelt usage rates in the US, and to examine the possible role played by seatbelt laws in these associations. The strength of the association between obesity rates, seatbelt usage, and primary seatbelt laws at the state level is investigated using data from 2006 to 2011. Linear regression analysis is employed. This model estimates that increasing the obesity rate by 1% in a state where a primary seatbelt law (by which law enforcement officers can issue a ticket when seatbelts are not worn) is in effect is associated with a 0.06% decrease in seatbelt usage. However the same percentage of increase in the obesity rate in a state where no primary seatbelt law is in effect is associated with a 0.55% decrease in seatbelt usage. The magnitude of the statistical association between state obesity rates and state-level seatbelt usage is related to the existence of a primary seatbelt law, such that obesity has less impact on seatbelt usage in states where primary seatbelt laws are in effect. | 25,183,564 | [
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Dilemmas in imaging for peri-acetabular osteotomy: the influence of patient position and imaging technique on the radiological features of hip dysplasia. | Peri-acetabular osteotomy is an established surgical treatment for symptomatic acetabular dysplasia in young adults. An anteroposterior radiograph of the pelvis is commonly used to assess the extent of dysplasia as well as to assess post-operative correction. Radiological prognostic factors include the lateral centre-edge angle, acetabular index, extrusion index and the acetabular version. Standing causes a change in the pelvis tilt which can alter certain radiological measurements relative to the supine position. This article discusses the radiological indices used to assess dysplasia and reviews the effects of patient positioning on these indices with a focus on assessment for a peri-acetabular osteotomy. Intra-operatively, fluoroscopy is commonly used and the implications of using fluoroscopy as a modality to assess the various radiological indices along with the effects of using an anteroposterior or posteroanterior fluoroscopic view are examined. Each of these techniques gives rise to a slightly different image of the pelvis as the final image is sensitive to the position of the pelvis and the projection of the x-ray beam. | 25,183,583 | [
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Effect of opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy on the three-dimensional kinematics of the knee. | Although it is clear that opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) changes alignment in the coronal plane, which is its objective, it is not clear how this procedure affects knee kinematics throughout the range of joint movement and in other planes. Our research question was: how does opening-wedge HTO change three-dimensional tibiofemoral and patellofemoral kinematics in loaded flexion in patients with varus deformity?Three-dimensional kinematics were assessed over 0° to 60° of loaded flexion using an MRI method before and after opening-wedge HTO in a cohort of 13 men (14 knees). Results obtained from an iterative statistical model found that at six and 12 months after operation, opening-wedge HTO caused increased anterior translation of the tibia (mean 2.6 mm, p < 0.001), decreased proximal translation of the patella (mean -2.2 mm, p < 0.001), decreased patellar spin (mean -1.4°, p < 0.05), increased patellar tilt (mean 2.2°, p < 0.05) and changed three other parameters. The mean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index improved significantly (p < 0.001) from 49.6 (standard deviation (sd) 16.4) pre-operatively to a mean of 28.2 (sd 16.6) at six months and a mean of 22.5 (sd 14.4) at 12 months. The three-dimensional kinematic changes found may be important in explaining inconsistency in clinical outcomes, and suggest that measures in addition to coronal plane alignment should be considered. | 25,183,593 | [
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Vascularised or non-vascularised autologous fibular grafting for the reconstruction of a diaphyseal bone defect after resection of a musculoskeletal tumour. | Resection of a primary sarcoma of the diaphysis of a long bone creates a large defect. The biological options for reconstruction include the use of a vascularised and non-vascularised fibular autograft. The purpose of the present study was to compare these methods of reconstruction. Between 1985 and 2007, 53 patients (26 male and 27 female) underwent biological reconstruction of a diaphyseal defect after resection of a primary sarcoma. Their mean age was 20.7 years (3.6 to 62.4). Of these, 26 (49 %) had a vascularised and 27 (51 %) a non-vascularised fibular autograft. Either method could have been used for any patient in the study. The mean follow-up was 52 months (12 to 259). Oncological, surgical and functional outcome were evaluated. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed for graft survival with major complication as the end point. At final follow-up, eight patients had died of disease. Primary union was achieved in 40 patients (75%); 22 (42%) with a vascularised fibular autograft and 18 (34%) a non-vascularised (p = 0.167). A total of 32 patients (60%) required revision surgery. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a mean survival without complication of 36 months (0.06 to 107.3, sd 9) for the vascularised group and 88 months (0.33 to 163.9, sd 16) for the non-vascularised group (p = 0.035). Both groups seem to be reliable biological methods of reconstructing a diaphyseal bone defect. Vascularised autografts require more revisions mainly due to problems with wound healing in distal sites of tumour, such as the foot. | 25,183,600 | [
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Early and late fracture following extensive limb lengthening in patients with achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia. | Two types of fracture, early and late, have been reported following limb lengthening in patients with achondroplasia (ACH) and hypochondroplasia (HCH). We reviewed 25 patients with these conditions who underwent 72 segmental limb lengthening procedures involving the femur and/or tibia, between 2003 and 2011. Gender, age at surgery, lengthened segment, body mass index, the shape of the callus, the amount and percentage of lengthening and the healing index were evaluated to determine predictive factors for the occurrence of early (within three weeks after removal of the fixation pins) and late fracture (> three weeks after removal of the pins). The Mann‑Whitney U test and Pearson's chi-squared test for univariate analysis and stepwise regression model for multivariate analysis were used to identify the predictive factor for each fracture. Only one patient (two tibiae) was excluded from the analysis due to excessively slow formation of the regenerate, which required supplementary measures. A total of 24 patients with 70 limbs were included in the study. There were 11 early fractures in eight patients. The shape of the callus (lateral or central callus) was the only statistical variable related to the occurrence of early fracture in univariate and multivariate analyses. Late fracture was observed in six limbs and the mean time between removal of the fixation pins and fracture was 18.3 weeks (3.3 to 38.4). Lengthening of the tibia, larger healing index, and lateral or central callus were related to the occurrence of a late fracture in univariate analysis. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that the shape of the callus was the strongest predictor for late fracture (odds ratio: 19.3, 95% confidence interval: 2.91 to 128). Lateral or central callus had a significantly larger risk of fracture than fusiform, cylindrical, or concave callus. Radiological monitoring of the shape of the callus during distraction is important to prevent early and late fracture of lengthened limbs in patients with ACH or HCH. In patients with thin callus formation, some measures to stimulate bone formation should be considered as early as possible. | 25,183,602 | [
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An anatomical study of the entry point in the greater trochanter for intramedullary nailing. | Malpositioning of the trochanteric entry point during the introduction of an intramedullary nail may cause iatrogenic fracture or malreduction. Although the optimal point of insertion in the coronal plane has been well described, positioning in the sagittal plane is poorly defined. The paired femora from 374 cadavers were placed both in the anatomical position and in internal rotation to neutralise femoral anteversion. A marker was placed at the apparent apex of the greater trochanter, and the lateral and anterior offsets from the axis of the femoral shaft were measured on anteroposterior and lateral photographs. Greater trochanteric morphology and trochanteric overhang were graded. The mean anterior offset of the apex of the trochanter relative to the axis of the femoral shaft was 5.1 mm (sd 4.0) and 4.6 mm (sd 4.2) for the anatomical and neutralised positions, respectively. The mean lateral offset of the apex was 7.1 mm (sd 4.6) and 6.4 mm (sd 4.6), respectively. Placement of the entry position at the apex of the greater trochanter in the anteroposterior view does not reliably centre an intramedullary nail in the sagittal plane. Based on our findings, the site of insertion should be about 5 mm posterior to the apex of the trochanter to allow for its anterior offset. | 25,183,603 | [
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Using advanced mobile devices in nursing practice--the views of nurses and nursing students. | Advanced mobile devices allow registered nurses and nursing students to keep up-to-date with expanding health-related knowledge but are rarely used in nursing in Sweden. This study aims at describing registered nurses' and nursing students' views regarding the use of advanced mobile devices in nursing practice. A cross-sectional study was completed in 2012; a total of 398 participants replied to a questionnaire, and descriptive statistics were applied. Results showed that the majority of the participants regarded an advanced mobile device to be useful, giving access to necessary information and also being useful in making notes, planning their work and saving time. Furthermore, the advanced mobile device was regarded to improve patient safety and the quality of care and to increase confidence. In order to continuously improve the safety and quality of health care, advanced mobile devices adjusted for nursing practice should be further developed, implemented and evaluated in research. | 25,183,609 | [
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When the pathologist is giving the answer: an unusual case of pulmonary hypertension. | We report the case of a 75-years-old man who diagnosed with severe pulmonary hypertension, associated with interstitial lung disease characterized by a rapid and fatal outcome. Autopsy showed the presence of a signet-ring cell gastric carcinoma associated with pulmonary tumour embolism and pulmonary tumour thrombotic microangiopathy. Clinical features, diagnostics, therapy and prognosis are briefly discussed. | 25,183,617 | [
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Molecular analysis of the APC gene in Sicilian patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (F.A.P.). | Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant inherited syndrome, caused by germline mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) suppressor gene. Patients with colorectal polyps are more likely to develop a malignant condition with poor prognosis. Typical FAP is characterized by hundreds to thousands of colorectal adenomatous polyps and by several extra-colonic manifestations; an attenuated form of polyposis (AFAP), presenting less than 100 adenomas and later onset, has been reported. In this study we have examined five Sicilian families affected by FAP syndrome, in order to provide predictive genetic testing for the affected families, as well as to contribute to mutation catalog enrichment. We have detected different APC mutations in these five pedigrees, confirming the remarkable heterogeneity of the mutational spectrum in FAP. | 25,183,641 | [
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Clinically cN0 breast cancer in elderly: what surgery? | Breast carcinoma is the most common cancer in women worldwide. The incidence increases with age. Elderly patients have more advanced disease than younger ones, but they have a more favorable biologic tumor profile overall. The management of breast cancer in elderly is controversial. We report our experience with breast cancer in older than 65 years in the last 5 years, in order to assess how many axillary dissection may have been avoided, according to disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). We enrolled in our retrospective study all over 65 year old patients referred to the Breast Unit of our Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery at the University of Naples Federico II from January 2009 to December 2013. The end points were: evaluation of the rate of axillary treatment avoidable, DFS and OS. We recruited 133 over 65 year old patients. Axillary lymph node was not palpable in 109 patients. The rate of involved axillae in patients without palpable nodes treated was 11.8%. The mean follow up was 35.7 months. At the time of data collection 3 patients had developed IBTR. No one had axillary recurrence, independently from the chosen treatment. 2 patients died for causes different from breast cancer. DFS and OS are the same both in patients with treated and no treated axilla. Even if evidences about the treatment of breast cancer in elderly are still controversial, each patient deserves a multidisciplinary approach to discuss the best treatment option. | 25,183,642 | [
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Anxiety reduction in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization following massage and guided imagery. | This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of massage with or without guided imagery in reducing anxiety prior to cardiac catheterization. A total of 55 inpatients and outpatients received massage, guided imagery, or massage with guided imagery prior to cardiac catheterization. Self-reported anxiety levels and blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were evaluated in participants and a matched comparison group. Massage with and without guided imagery resulted in significant reductions in self-reported anxiety (p < 0.0001). Patients receiving intervention had lower diastolic BP and HR vs. the comparison group (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.05). Massage with or without guided imagery immediately reduced self-reported anxiety. This pilot study has certain limitations: a non-randomized, convenience sample and a matched control group that was created retrospectively. However, the study indicates a benefit to providing massage or massage with guided imagery prior to anxiety-inducing medical procedures such as cardiac catheterization. | 25,183,648 | [
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Characterization of the wzc gene from Pantoea sp. strain PPE7 and its influence on extracellular polysaccharide production and virulence on Pleurotus eryngii. | To characterize of the pathogenicity gene from the soft rot pathogen Pantoea sp. PPE7 in Pleurotus eryngii, we constructed over 10,000 kanamycin-resistant transposon mutants of Pantoea sp. strain PPE7 by transposon mutagenesis. One mutant, Pantoea sp. NPPE9535, did not cause a soft rot disease on Pleurotus eryngii was confirmed by the pathogenicity test. The transposon was inserted into the wzc gene and the disruption of the wzc gene resulted in the reduction of polysaccharide production and abolished the virulence of Pantoea sp. strain PPE7 in P. eryngii. Analysis of the hydropathic profile of this protein indicated that it is composed of two main domains: an N-terminal domain including two transmembrane α-helices and a C-terminal cytoplasmic domain consisting of a tyrosine-rich region. Comparative analysis indicated that the amino acid sequence of Wzc is similar to that of a number of proteins involved in the synthesis or export of polysaccharides in other bacterial species. Purified GST-Wzc was found to affect the phosphorylation of tyrosine residue in vivo. These results showed that the wzc gene might play an important role in the virulence of Pantoea sp. strain PPE7 in P. eryngii. | 25,183,654 | [
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Isolation and characterization of porcine circumvallate papillae cells. | Animal food intake is primarily controlled by appetite, which is affected by food quality, environment, and the management and status of animal health. Sensing of taste is mediated by taste receptor cells and is central to appetite. Taste receptor cells possess distinctive physiological characteristics that permit the recognition of various stimuli in foods. Thus, cultures of porcine circumvallate papillae cells provide a model for identification of the molecular and functional characteristics of taste receptor cells. In this study, we described the isolation and culture of porcine circumvallate papillae, using tissue explants and enzymatic digestion, and showed continuous viability and expression of pivotal taste marker proteins for more than 9 passages. In addition, cultured cells showed dramatic rises in intracellular calcium upon stimulation with several taste stimuli (sweet, umami, bitter, and fat). These cultures of porcine taste receptor cells provide a useful model for assessing taste preferences of pigs and may elucidate interactions between various taste stimuli. | 25,183,665 | [
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Hate and punishment. | According to legal expressivism, neither crime nor punishment consists merely in intentionally imposing some kind of harm on another. Crime and punishment also have an expressive aspect. They are what they are in part because they enact attitudes toward others--in the case of crime, some kind of disrespect, at least, and in the case of punishment, society's condemnation or reprobation. Punishment is justified, at least in part, because (and when) it uniquely expresses fitting condemnation or other retributive attitude. What makes retributive attitudes fitting is that they protect the victim's status as inviolable. Hate or bias crimes dramatize the expressive aspect of crime, as they are often designed to send a message to the victim's group and society at large. Treating the enactment of contempt and denigration toward a historically underprivileged group as an aggravating factor in sentencing may be an appropriate way to counter this message, as it reaffirms and indeed realizes the fundamental equality and inviolability of all members of a democratic community. | 25,183,683 | [
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Glasgow aneurysm scores in patients undergoing open surgical procedure for aortic aneurysm. | To assess the applicability of the Glasgow aneurysm score (GAS) in patients with aortic aneurysm undergoing an elective open surgical procedure in our hospital. A total of 105 patients undergoing elective open surgical procedure between January 2006 and June 2012 were evaluated retrospectively. Glasgow aneurysm score (GAS) was calculated as age+7 points for myocardial disease, +10 points for cerebrovascular disease, and +14 points for renal disease. The best cut-off value for GAS was determined using the ROC curve analysis. The hospital mortality rate was 3.8% (4 patients). GAS was significantly lower in patients who survived the operation (76.05 ± 14.71 vs. 92.0 ± 10.8 respectively, p = 0.031). The ICU stay was also significantly lower in patients who survived the operation (2.37 ± 5.23) compared to the nonsurvivors (25.67 ± 13.80, p = 0.001). No significant difference was observed regarding age, duration of hospital stay, and aortic diameter. The area under the ROC curve was 0.818 and for a 100% sensitivity rate, the cut-off value for GAS was 77.5 with a 58.4% specificity rate (p = 0.031). All patients with a GAS < 77.5 were alive after surgery. The GAS appears to be a reliable clinical predictor for in hospital mortality following elective repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm following open surgical procedure. | 25,183,698 | [
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Breastfeeding duration is associated with child diet at 6 years. | Breastfeeding has been associated with early infant food preferences, but less is known about how breastfeeding is associated with later child diet. The objective of this study was to assess whether any and exclusive breastfeeding duration are associated with child diet at 6 years. We linked data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II and Year 6 Follow-Up. We used approximately monthly questionnaires throughout infancy to calculate any and exclusive breastfeeding duration (n = 1355). We calculated median daily frequency of intake of water, milk, 100% juice, fruits, vegetables, sugar-sweetened beverages, sweets, and savory snacks at 6 years from a dietary screener and examined frequency of consumption of each food or beverage group by any and exclusive breastfeeding duration. We used separate multivariable logistic regression models to calculate odds of consuming more than the median daily frequency of intake of food or beverage items, adjusting for confounders. Intake of milk, sweets, and savory snacks at 6 years was not associated with any or exclusive breastfeeding duration in unadjusted analyses. Frequency of consumption of water, fruits, and vegetables was positively associated, and intake of sugar-sweetened beverages was inversely associated with any and exclusive breastfeeding duration in adjusted models; 100% juice consumption was inversely associated with exclusive breastfeeding duration only. Among many other health benefits, breastfeeding is associated with a number of healthier dietary behaviors at age 6. The association between breastfeeding and child diet may be an important factor to consider when examining associations between breastfeeding and child obesity and chronic diseases. | 25,183,756 | [
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Macrophage-derived apoESendai suppresses atherosclerosis while causing lipoprotein glomerulopathy in hyperlipidemic mice. | Lipoprotein glomerulopathy (LPG) is a renal disease often accompanied by dyslipidemia and increased serum apoE levels. apoESendai (Arg145Pro), a rare mutant based on the apoE3 sequence carrying an apoE2 charge, causes LPG in humans and transgenic mice, but its effects on the artery wall are unknown. Macrophage expression of apoESendai may also directly influence renal and arterial homeostasis. We investigated the effects of macrophage-expressed apoESendai in apoE(-/-) mice with or without LDL receptor (LDLR). Murine bone marrow transduced to express apoE2, apoE3, or apoESendai was transplanted into lethally irradiated mice. Macrophage apoESendai expression reduced aortic lesion size and inflammation by 32 and 28%, respectively, compared with apoE2 in apoE(-/-) recipients. No differences in lesion size or inflammation were found between apoESendai and apoE3 in apoE(-/-) recipients. Macrophage apoESendai expression also reduced aortic lesion size by 18% and inflammation by 29% compared with apoE2 in apoE(-/-)/LDLR(-/-) recipients. Glomerular lesions compatible with LPG with increased mesangial matrix, extracellular lipid accumulation, and focal mesangiolysis were only observed in apoE(-/-)/LDLR(-/-) mice expressing apoESendai. Thus, macrophage expression of apoESendai protects against atherosclerosis while causing lipoprotein glomerulopathy. This is the first demonstration of an apoprotein variant having opposing effects on vascular and renal homeostasis. | 25,183,802 | [
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Detecting RNA-RNA interactions using psoralen derivatives. | Psoralens are tricyclic compounds that intercalate into double-stranded DNA or RNA and, on irradiation with long-wavelength (365-nm) UV light, covalently link pyrimidines on adjacent strands. More rarely, psoralen cross-links can be observed at the ends of helices (i.e., double-stranded-single-stranded boundaries). Although psoralens can, in some instances, cross-link protein to RNA, their primary application is to detect RNA-RNA base-pairing interactions. The most useful psoralen derivative is 4'-aminomethyl trioxsalen (AMT), which is soluble in H2O. This protocol describes the use of AMT to detect RNA-RNA interactions in tissue culture cells or in extracts. Cross-linked RNAs are detectable by their reduced mobility in polyacrylamide gels. Cross-links can be reversed by exposure to short-wavelength (254 nm) UV light. | 25,183,819 | [
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Biocytin staining of glia and neurons in brain slices. | This protocol describes the use of biocytin to visualize and distinguish the morphology of glia and neurons in rat brain slices. Patch pipettes are used to load biocytin into different cell types. The slices are subsequently fixed, stained, and mounted in preparation for imaging. | 25,183,822 | [
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High-throughput mutate-map-rescue evaluates SHAPE-directed RNA structure and uncovers excited states. | The three-dimensional conformations of noncoding RNAs underpin their biochemical functions but have largely eluded experimental characterization. Here, we report that integrating a classic mutation/rescue strategy with high-throughput chemical mapping enables rapid RNA structure inference with unusually strong validation. We revisit a 16S rRNA domain for which SHAPE (selective 2'-hydroxyl acylation with primer extension) and limited mutational analysis suggested a conformational change between apo- and holo-ribosome conformations. Computational support estimates, data from alternative chemical probes, and mutate-and-map (M(2)) experiments highlight issues of prior methodology and instead give a near-crystallographic secondary structure. Systematic interrogation of single base pairs via a high-throughput mutation/rescue approach then permits incisive validation and refinement of the M(2)-based secondary structure. The data further uncover the functional conformation as an excited state (20 ± 10% population) accessible via a single-nucleotide register shift. These results correct an erroneous SHAPE inference of a ribosomal conformational change, expose critical limitations of conventional structure mapping methods, and illustrate practical steps for more incisively dissecting RNA dynamic structure landscapes. | 25,183,835 | [
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The genetic basis of aortic aneurysm. | Gene identification in human aortic aneurysm conditions is proceeding at a rapid pace and the integration of pathogenesis-based management strategies in clinical practice is an emerging reality. Human genetic alterations causing aneurysm involve diverse gene products including constituents of the extracellular matrix, cell surface receptors, intracellular signaling molecules, and elements of the contractile cytoskeleton. Animal modeling experiments and human genetic discoveries have extensively implicated the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) cytokine-signaling cascade in aneurysm progression, but mechanistic links between many gene products remain obscure. This chapter will integrate human genetic alterations associated with aortic aneurysm with current basic research findings in an attempt to form a reconciling if not unifying model for hereditary aortic aneurysm. | 25,183,854 | [
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Out of the niche: exploring unknown pathways. | In May 2014, approximately 200 stem cell scientists from all over world gathered near Copenhagen in Denmark to participate in 'The Stem Cell Niche', part of the Copenhagen Bioscience Conferences series. The meeting covered an array of different stem cell systems from pluripotent stem cells and germ cells to adult stem cells of the lung, liver, muscle, bone and many more. In addition to the stem cell niche, the meeting focused on a number of cutting edge topics such as cell fate transitions and lineage reprogramming, as well as stem cells in ageing and disease, including cancer. This Meeting review describes the exciting work that was presented and some of the themes that emerged from this excellent meeting. | 25,183,866 | [
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Dephosphorylation and inactivation of NPR2 guanylyl cyclase in granulosa cells contributes to the LH-induced decrease in cGMP that causes resumption of meiosis in rat oocytes. | In mammals, the meiotic cell cycle of oocytes starts during embryogenesis and then pauses. Much later, in preparation for fertilization, oocytes within preovulatory follicles resume meiosis in response to luteinizing hormone (LH). Before LH stimulation, the arrest is maintained by diffusion of cyclic (c)GMP into the oocyte from the surrounding granulosa cells, where it is produced by the guanylyl cyclase natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2). LH rapidly reduces the production of cGMP, but how this occurs is unknown. Here, using rat follicles, we show that within 10 min, LH signaling causes dephosphorylation and inactivation of NPR2 through a process that requires the activity of phosphoprotein phosphatase (PPP)-family members. The rapid dephosphorylation of NPR2 is accompanied by a rapid phosphorylation of the cGMP phosphodiesterase PDE5, an enzyme whose activity is increased upon phosphorylation. Later, levels of the NPR2 agonist C-type natriuretic peptide decrease in the follicle, and these sequential events contribute to the decrease in cGMP that causes meiosis to resume in the oocyte. | 25,183,874 | [
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A survey to detect Toxocara vitulorum and other gastrointestinal parasites in bison (Bison bison) herds from Manitoba and Saskatchewan. | An egg count survey using environmental fecal samples obtained in spring or early summer was conducted to estimate the apparent prevalence of Toxocara vitulorum in unweaned bison calves and of other intestinal parasites in adult bison on 98 farms in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Calf samples were pooled (maximum 5 samples per pool) by farm and positive pools were examined to determine individual T. vitulorum counts. Toxocara vitulorum eggs were found on 4 farms in Manitoba and none in Saskatchewan. Apparent herd-level prevalence estimates were 12% [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 3.4% to 28.2%] and 0% (95% CI: 0% to 5.7%) respectively. Samples from adult bison contained eggs/oocysts from trichostrongyle species, Eimeria sp., Monieza sp., Capillaria sp., Nematodirus sp. and Trichuris sp. in 100%, 95%, 72%, 13%, 13%, and 5% of herds, respectively. Strongyloides sp. were not found in any herd. Further studies are needed to assess parasite distribution patterns in bison and to evaluate the risk that T. vitulorum may pose to bison, cattle, and wildlife. | 25,183,895 | [
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Implant rehabilitation for atrophic maxilla: a review. | A severely atrophied maxilla presents serious limitations for conventional implant placement. This presents challenge to the surgeon for implant placement in harmony with the planned prosthesis. Survey of various literatures using internet sources, manual searches, and common textbooks on dental implants shows, that a thorough knowledge of conventional augmentation procedures such as bone augmentation techniques, guided bone regeneration, alveolar distraction, maxillary sinus elevation techniques with or without grafting and contemporary techniques of implant placement provide effective long-term solutions in the management of the atrophic maxilla. | 25,183,902 | [
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Replacement of missing anterior tooth using screw retained implant prosthesis in the esthetic zone: a case report with 3 years of follow up. | As more and more dental practitioners are focusing on implant-supported fixed restorations, some clinicians favor the use of cement retained restorations while others consider screw-retained prosthesis to be the best choice. As both types of prostheses have certain advantages and disadvantages, clinicians should be aware of the limitations of each type. Screw-retained implant restorations have an advantage of predictable retention, retrievability and lack of potentially retained sub-gingival cement. However, a few disadvantages exist such as precise placement of the implant for optimal and esthetic location of the screw access hole and obtaining passive fit. On the other hand, cement retained restorations eliminates unaesthetic screw access holes; have passive fit of castings; reduce stress to splinted implants because of minor misfit of the framework; reduced complexity of lab procedures; enhanced esthetics; reduced cost factors and non disrupted morphology of the occlusal table. This case report presents the replacement of missing left central incisor using screw-retained implant prosthesis due to palatal trajectory of the implant placement and inadequate abutment height for retention of cement retained prosthesis. | 25,183,915 | [
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Narrow ridge management with ridge splitting with piezotome for implant placement: report of 2 cases. | Narrow dentoalveolar ridges remain a serious challenge for the successful placement of endosseous implants. Several techniques for this procedure may be considered, such as guided bone regeneration, bone block grafting, and ridge splitting for bone expansion. The ridge split procedure provides a quicker method wherein an atrophic ridge can be predictably expanded and grafted with bone allograft or allograft, eliminating the need for second surgical site. Traditionally, osseous surgery has been performed by either manual or motor-driven instruments. Piezosurgery is a relatively new technique for osteotomy and osteoplasty that utilizes ultrasonic vibration which allows clean cutting with precise incisions. This case series describes reports of 2 such cases in which narrow mandibular ridge splitting was carried by mean of piezotome with immediate placement of implants in the osteotomy site. Five months later, the implants were uncovered followed by impression and restored with impant- supported porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. | 25,183,917 | [
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A customized finger brachytherapy carrier. | In recent years, radiation therapy has been used with increasing frequency in the management of neoplasms of the head and neck region. Brachytherapy is a method of radiation treatment in which sealed radioactive sources are used to deliver the dose a short distance by interstitial (direct insertion into tissue), intracavitary (placement within a cavity) or surface application (molds). Mold brachytherapy is radiation delivered via a custom-fabricated carriers, designed to provide a more constant and reproducible geometry for source positioning. Radiation carriers are customized to fit the patient in a comfortable, stable, and retentive manner to ensure maximal therapeutic radiations to the desired location and in addition sparing the normal surrounding tissues due to rapid fall-off radioactivity thus minimizing postreatment sequelae of irradiation. This clinical report describes a method of fabrication of a customized radiation carrier or mold for a patient suffering from squamous cell carcinoma of right ring finger, planned to undergo brachytherapy (surface mold therapy). This paper highlights the role and responsibility of the prosthodontist in fabricating the carrier and to maintain the predetermined position of the hollow tubes (catheters) within the mold to remain in the exact position as determined by the radiation oncologist for required results. | 25,183,922 | [
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Extensive homologous recombination in classical swine fever virus: A re-evaluation of homologous recombination events in the strain AF407339. | In this short report, the genome-wide homologous recombination events were re-evaluated for classical swine fever virus (CSFV) strain AF407339. We challenged a previous study which suggested only one recombination event in AF407339 based on 25 CSFV genomes. Through our re-analysis on the 25 genomes in the previous study and the 41 genomes used in the present study, we argued that there should be possibly at least two clear recombination events happening in AF407339 through genome-wide scanning. The reasons for identifying only one recombination event in the previous study might be due to the limited number of available CSFV genome sequences at that time and the limited usage of detection methods. In contrast, as identified by most detection methods using all available CSFV genome sequences, two major recombination events were found at the starting and ending zones of the genome AF407339, respectively. The first one has two parents AF333000 (minor) and AY554397 (major) with beginning and ending breakpoints located at 19 and 607 nt of the genome respectively. The second one has two parents AF531433 (minor) and GQ902941 (major) with beginning and ending breakpoints at 8397 and 11,078 nt of the genome respectively. Phylogenetic incongruence analysis using neighbor-joining algorithm with 1000 bootstrapping replicates further supported the existence of these two recombination events. In addition, we also identified additional 18 recombination events on the available CSFV strains. Some of them may be trivial and can be ignored. In conclusion, CSFV might have relatively high frequency of homologous recombination events. Genome-wide scanning of identifying recombination events should utilize multiple detection methods so as to reduce the risk of misidentification. | 25,183,941 | [
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Phytoremediation of dye contaminated soil by Leucaena leucocephala (subabul) seed and growth assessment of Vigna radiata in the remediated soil. | The present study was investigated for soil bioremediation through sababul plant biomass (Leucaena leucocephala). The soil contaminated with textile effluent was collected from Erode (chithode) area. Various physico-chemical characterizations like N, P, and K and electrical conductivity were assessed on both control and dye contaminated soils before and after remediation. Sababul (L. leucocephala) powder used as plant biomass for remediation was a tool for textile dye removal using basic synthetic dyes by column packing and eluting. The concentration of the dye eluted was compared with its original concentration of dye and were analyzed by using UV-vis spectrophotometer. Sababul plant biomass was analyzed for its physico-chemical properties and active compounds were detected by GC-MS, HPTLC and FTIR. Plant growth was assessed with green gram on the textile contaminated soil and sababul had the potential of adsorbing the dye as the contaminated soil and also check the growth of green gram. | 25,183,943 | [
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Apo-Ghrelin Receptor (apo-GHSR1a) Regulates Dopamine Signaling in the Brain. | The orexigenic peptide hormone ghrelin is synthesized in the stomach and its receptor growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR1a) is expressed mainly in the central nervous system (CNS). In this review, we confine our discussion to the physiological role of GHSR1a in the brain. Paradoxically, despite broad expression of GHSR1a in the CNS, other than trace amounts in the hypothalamus, ghrelin is undetectable in the brain. In our efforts to elucidate the function of the ligand-free ghrelin receptor (apo-GHSR1a), we identified subsets of neurons that co-express GHSR1a and dopamine receptors. In this review, we focus on interactions between apo-GHSR1a and dopamine-2 receptor (DRD2) and formation of GHSR1a:DRD2 heteromers in hypothalamic neurons that regulate appetite, and discuss implications for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). GHSR1a antagonists of distinct chemical structures, a quinazolinone and a triazole, respectively, enhance and inhibit dopamine signaling through GHSR1a:DRD2 heteromers by an allosteric mechanism. This finding illustrates a potential strategy for designing the next generation of drugs for treating eating disorders as well as psychiatric disorders caused by abnormal dopamine signaling. Treatment with a GHSR1a antagonist that enhances dopamine/DRD2 activity in GHSR1a:DRD2 expressing hypothalamic neurons has the potential to inhibit the uncontrollable hyperphagia associated with PWS. DRD2 antagonists are prescribed for treating schizophrenia, but these block dopamine signaling in all DRD2 expressing neurons and are associated with adverse side effects, including enhanced appetite and excessive weight gain. A GHSR1a antagonist of structural class that allosterically blocks dopamine/DRD2 action in GHSR1a:DRD2 expressing neurons would have no effect on neurons expressing DRD2 alone; therefore, the side effects of DRD2 antagonists would potentially be reduced thereby enhancing patient compliance. | 25,183,960 | [
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Developing and validating a patient monitoring flow sheet in intensive care units. | Intensive care unit is a center to provide comprehensive care for critically ill patients whose condition can be improved by receiving specialized care. The importance of accurate and rapid monitoring of patients at this precise moment is in recording patient data and its comparison with previous data. Monitoring the patient by either devices or direct examination of the nurses requires accurate documentation. Hence, accuracy of the documentation is essential to enhance the quality of care, despite the high volume of data in intensive care unit. This study was conducted by review of domestic and international texts through Delphi method. There were 20 participants in Delphi stage. Data were collected by the questionnaires sent in two stages. Experts' panel was used to complete and finalize the obtained structures. Data analysis was conducted by descriptive statistics in the form of frequency percentage. In a review of 15 domestic and international flow sheets as well as 30 reference texts and 80 articles, 99 primary flow sheet structures were detected, of which 58 had a consensus of >70%. With the goal of avoiding repetition and making the recordable data brief, and with respect to the nurses' initial assessment in better planning and administration of care, a flow sheet was designed as a nursing admission sheet to be completed at the moment of admission. Its content and template had consensus among the panel of experts, and the instruction for complement of the sheets was finally developed. After obtaining content validity and including the given indications, daily monitoring sheet and admission sheet were developed. | 25,183,974 | [
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Effect of family empowerment model on quality of life in children with chronic kidney diseases. | Quality of life is a concept, which in recent years is considered as a measure for health in chronic diseases such as kidney diseases. Complications of chronic diseases can affect the quality of life in children and their families over time. Therefore, empowerment programs are necessary to improve their quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the family empowerment model on the quality of life in children with chronic kidney diseases. This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 64 children with chronic kidney diseases and their families. The research tools included the questionnaire of demographic characteristics and the quality of life questionnaire 4(th) edition. After data collection in the first phase, the family empowerment model was implemented in the intervention group and the test was repeated after 1 month. For comparison of data between the two groups and within each group, independent t-test and paired t-test were used, respectively. Independent t-test showed that the mean score of quality of life was not significantly different in the two groups before intervention. However, after intervention, the differences were significant. Paired t-test showed a significant difference in the quality of life before and after intervention in the study group. The findings showed that family empowerment model was effective in increasing the quality of life of children with chronic kidney diseases. Thus, we suggest this model to be used in inpatient and outpatient children's health care. | 25,183,977 | [
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Reproductive cessation and post-reproductive lifespan in Asian elephants and pre-industrial humans. | Short post-reproductive lifespan is widespread across species, but prolonged post-reproductive life-stages of potential adaptive significance have been reported only in few mammals with extreme longevity. Long post-reproductive lifespan contradicts classical evolutionary predictions of simultaneous senescence in survival and reproduction, and raises the question of whether extreme longevity in mammals promotes such a life-history. Among terrestrial mammals, elephants share the features with great apes and humans, of having long lifespan and offspring with long dependency. However, little data exists on the frequency of post-reproductive lifespan in elephants. Here we use extensive demographic records on semi-captive Asian elephants (n = 1040) and genealogical data on pre-industrial women (n = 5336) to provide the first comparisons of age-specific reproduction, survival and post-reproductive lifespan in both of these long-lived species. We found that fertility decreased after age 50 in elephants, but the pattern differed from a total loss of fertility in menopausal women with many elephants continuing to reproduce at least until the age of 65 years. The probability of entering a non-reproductive state increased steadily in elephants from the earliest age of reproduction until age 65, with the longer living elephants continuing to reproduce until older ages, in contrast to humans whose termination probability increased rapidly after age 35 and reached 1 at 56 years, but did not depend on longevity. Post-reproductive lifespan reached 11-17 years in elephants and 26-27 years in humans living until old age (depending on method), but whereas half of human adult lifespan (of those reproductive females surviving to the age of 5% fecundity) was spent as post-reproductive, only one eighth was in elephants. Consequently, although some elephants have long post-reproductive lifespans, relatively few individuals reach such a phase and the decline in fertility generally parallels declines in survivorship in contrast to humans with a decoupling of senescence in somatic and reproductive functions. Our results show that the reproductive and survival patterns of Asian elephants differ from other long-lived animals exhibiting menopause, such as humans, and extreme longevity alone does not promote the evolution of menopause or post-reproductive lifespan, adding weight to the unusual kin-selected benefits suggested to favour such traits in humans and killer whales. | 25,183,990 | [
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Parameter-less approaches for interpreting dynamic cellular response. | Cellular response such as cell signaling is an integral part of information processing in biology. Upon receptor stimulation, numerous intracellular molecules are invoked to trigger the transcription of genes for specific biological purposes, such as growth, differentiation, apoptosis or immune response. How complex are such specialized and sophisticated machinery? Computational modeling is an important tool for investigating dynamic cellular behaviors. Here, I focus on certain types of key signaling pathways that can be interpreted well using simple physical rules based on Boolean logic and linear superposition of response terms. From the examples shown, it is conceivable that for small-scale network modeling, reaction topology, rather than parameter values, is crucial for understanding population-wide cellular behaviors. For large-scale response, non-parametric statistical approaches have proven valuable for revealing emergent properties. | 25,183,996 | [
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The dentist's operating posture - ergonomic aspects. | The practice of dentistry involves laborious high finesse dental preparations, precision and control in executions that require a particular attention, concentration and patience of the dentist and finally the dentist's physical and mental resistance. The optimal therapeutic approach and the success of practice involve special working conditions for the dentist and his team in an ergonomic environment. The meaning of the posture in ergonomics is the manner in which different parts of the body are located and thus the reports are established between them in order to allow a special task execution. This article discusses the posture adopted by dentists when they work, beginning with the balanced posture and going to different variants of posture. The ideal posture of a dentist gives him, on the one hand the optimal working conditions (access, visibility and control in the mouth) and on the other hand, physical and psychological comfort throughout the execution of the clinical acts. Although the theme of dentist posture is treated with great care and often presented in the undergraduate courses and the continuing education courses on ergonomics in dentistry, many dentists do not know the subject well enough nor the theoretical issues and therefore nor the practical applicability. The risk and perspective of the musculoskeletal disorders related to unbalanced postures should determine the dentists take postural corrective actions and compensation measures in order to limit the negative effects of working in a bad posture. | 25,184,007 | [
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Treatment of lateral knee pain using soft tissue mobilization in four female triathletes. | Prospective case series. These case reports present results of the treatment of lateral knee pain in four female amateur triathletes. The athletes were referred to the author's clinic with either a diagnosis of iliotibial band friction syndrome or patellofemoral pain syndrome, all four having symptoms for longer than seven months. Changes in training routines were identified as the possible cause of the overuse injuries that eventually developed into chronic conditions. Treatment involved soft tissue mobilization of the musculotendinous structures on the lateral aspect of the knee. At four weeks, three of the athletes improved 9 to 19 points on the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, 3 to 5 points on the Global Rating of Change Scale, and demonstrated improvement in hamstring and iliotibial band flexibility. At eight weeks the Global Rating of Change for these three athletes was a 7 ("a very great deal better") and they had returned to triathlon training with no complaints of lateral knee pain. One athlete did not respond to treatment and eventually underwent arthroscopic surgery for debridement of a lateral meniscus tear. After ruling out common causes for lateral knee pain such as lateral meniscus tear, lateral collateral ligament sprain, patellofemoral dysfunction, osteochondral injury, biceps femoris tendonitis, iliotibial band friction syndrome or osteoarthritis, soft tissue restriction should be considered a potential source of dysfunction. In some cases soft tissue restriction is overlooked; athletes go undiagnosed and are limited from sports participation. | 25,184,012 | [
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Impact of After Visit Summaries on Patient Return Rates at an Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Clinic. | <bObjective:</b To determine whether an after visit summary (AVS) provided to patients at the conclusion of their first acupuncture treatments affects the number of times patients return for follow-up treatments, a retrospective cohort study was performed. <bMaterials and Methods:</b Two random samples of 100 new patient records (<iN</i=200) at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine's (OCOM) outpatient clinics in Portland, OR, were reviewed over a 3-month period before and after the implementation of using the AVS. Patients who had been seen previously at any of the college clinics were excluded. The number of return visits recorded in the MediSoft™ database was hand counted for each patient. <bResults:</b The use of an AVS did not significantly change the mean number of return visits for acupuncture (2-sided <ip</i-value=0.91), but there was a trend toward more frequent returns by patients who received AVS, compared to those who did not (2-sided <ip</i-value=0.0827, relative risk [RR]: 1.51, confidence interval [CI] 0.95-2.41). <bConclusions:</b These data support the concept that the AVS has a positive influence on patient return rates. In this study, patients who received an AVS were 51% more likely to return for 5 visits than patients who did not receive an AVS. | 25,184,014 | [
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An evaluation of the 2012 measles mass vaccination campaign in Guinea. | To estimate the post-campaign level of measles vaccination coverage in Guinea. Interview of parents and observation of measles vaccination cards of children aged 9 to 59 months during the mass measles campaign. A nationwide cluster randomized sample under health District stratification. 64.2% (95%CI = 60.9% to 67.4%) of children were vaccinated and had their measles vaccination card. With respect to card and history 90.5% (95%CI = 88.3% to 92.3%) were vaccinated. The estimation was found to be between 72.7% and 81.9%. Coverage with card increased from 55.5% to 79.30% with the level of education of parents but that was not statistically significant, (X(2)(trend) =3.087 P= 0.07). However coverage with card significantly increased with profession from 55.1% for farmers followed by 59.2% for other manual workers to 73.8% for sellers, ending by 74.5% for settled technicians (X(2) (trend) =12.16 P= 0.0005). For unvaccinated children, lack of information accounted for the main reason (37.03%) followed by parents' occupation (23.45%), parents' sickness (8.6%), children's sickness (4.9%) and others including vaccinators absent in the post or parents' belief that it was a door to door campaign. The mass measles vaccination campaign achieved an approximate coverage of 75%. Although not enough for effective control of measles, it has covered an important gap left over by the routine immunization coverage 42%. Appropriate measures are needed to improve coverage in routine immunization and specific actions should be taken to target farmers and other manual workers' families but also uneducated groups for both routine immunization and mass campaigns. | 25,184,021 | [
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Recent advances in understanding schizophrenia. | Schizophrenia is a highly disabling disorder whose causes remain to be better understood, and treatments have to be improved. However, several recent advances have been made in diagnosis, etiopathology, and treatment. Whereas reliability of diagnosis has improved with operational criteria, including Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, (DSM) Fifth Edition, validity of the disease boundaries remains unclear because of substantive overlaps with other psychotic disorders. Recent emphasis on dimensional approaches and translational bio-behavioral research domain criteria may eventually help move toward a neuroscience-based definition of schizophrenia. The etiology of schizophrenia is now thought to be multifactorial, with multiple small-effect and fewer large-effect susceptibility genes interacting with several environmental factors. These factors may lead to developmentally mediated alterations in neuroplasticity, manifesting in a cascade of neurotransmitter and circuit dysfunctions and impaired connectivity with an onset around early adolescence. Such etiopathological understanding has motivated a renewed search for novel pharmacological as well as psychotherapeutic targets. Addressing the core features of the illness, such as cognitive deficits and negative symptoms, and developing hypothesis-driven early interventions and preventive strategies are high-priority goals for the field. Schizophrenia is a severe, chronic mental disorder and is among the most disabling disorders in all of medicine. It is estimated by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) that 2.4 million people over the age of 18 in the US suffer from schizophrenia. This illness typically begins in adolescence and derails the formative goals of school, family, and work, leading to considerable suffering and disability and reduced life expectancy by about 20 years. Treatment outcomes are variable, and some people are successfully treated and reintegrated (i.e. go back to work). Despite the effort of many experts in the field, however, schizophrenia remains a chronic relapsing and remitting disorder associated with significant impairments in social and vocational functioning and a shortened lifespan. Comprehensive treatment entails a multi-modal approach, including psychopharmacology, psychosocial interventions, and assistance with housing and financial sustenance. Research to date suggests a network of genetic, neural, behavioral, and environmental factors to be responsible for its development and course. This article aims to summarize and explain recent advancements in research on schizophrenia, to suggest how these recent discoveries may lead to a better understanding and possible further development of effective therapies, and to highlight the paradigm shifts that have taken place in our understanding of the diagnosis, etiopathology, and treatment. | 25,184,047 | [
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Corticospinal tract-sparing intensity-modulated radiotherapy treatment planning. | To establish intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) planning procedures that spare the corticospinal tract by integrating diffusion tensor tractography into the treatment planning software. Organs at risk are generally contoured according to the outline of the organ as demonstrated by CT or MRI. But a part of the organ with specific function is difficult to protect, because such functional part of the organ cannot be delineated on CT or conventional sequence of MRI. Diagnostic and treatment planning images of glioblastoma patients who had been treated by conventional 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy were used for re-planning of IMRT. Three-dimensional fiber maps of the corticospinal tracts were created from the diffusion tensors obtained from the patients before the surgery, and were blended with the anatomical MR images (i.e. gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images or T2-weighted images). DICOM-formatted blended images were transferred and fused to the planning CT images. Then, IMRT plans were attempted. The corticospinal tracts could be contoured as organs at risk (OARs), because the blended images contained both anatomical information and fiber-tract maps. Other OARs were contoured in a way similar to that of ordinary IMRT planning. Gross tumor volumes, clinical target volumes, planning target volumes, and other OARs were contoured on the treatment planning software, and IMRT plans were made. IMRT plans with diminished doses to the corticospinal tract were attained. This technique enabled us to spare specific neuron fibers as OARs which were formerly "invisible" and to reduce the probability of late morbidities. | 25,184,055 | [
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Radiation-induced breast cancer in women with Hodgkin's disease. | The aim of this study is to analyze the main clinical and pathologic characteristics of radiation-induced breast carcinomas (BC) following treatment for Hodgkin's disease (HD) and to identify the risk factors for their induction. To create a mathematical model for the prediction of expected age at which a BC might develop based on the age at treatment for HD. Thirty-nine cases of women with BC that developed after treatment for HD in puberty or adolescence were analyzed retrospectively. The median age at initiation of treatment for HD was 12.9 years (9-21). The median age at diagnosis of the second malignancy - breast carcinoma was 32.4 years (22.9-39). THE DISTRIBUTION OF PATIENTS ACCORDING TO THE CLINICAL T STAGE OF BREAST CANCER WAS AS FOLLOWS: 11 patients with T1 stage BC (28%), 22 with T2 stage (56%) and 6 with stage T3 (16%). Prevalent were tumors localized in the lateral breast quadrants. The observed 5 year survival was 95%. The risk of solid tumors, especially breast cancer, is high among women with HD disease who were treated with radiotherapy in their childhood. In this article, we propose a specific mathematical age formula which could be used as predictive equation when the age of the treatment for HD is in the range between 9 and 21 years. Systematic screening for breast cancer in these patients would be significantly important for their health and could improve their survival. | 25,184,056 | [
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Case presentation - A five-year survival of the patient with glioblastoma brain tumor. | This paper presents an atypical case of a patient with brain tumor of the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) type who achieved a 5-year survival. Some general information is provided including epidemiology, diagnostic and treatment procedures (surgery and radio-chemo-therapy), and prognosis of survival related to GBM. The course of the disease, including its main symptoms, individual reasons for the delay of adjuvant treatment, after the primary surgical treatment, 37-month period of the decease free survival, as well as comprehensive management after the tumor recurrence are also presented. Histopathology confirming the clinical diagnosis is discussed in a separate chapter. | 25,184,061 | [
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Paradoxical cerebral fat embolism in revision hip surgery. | The incidence of clinical fat embolism syndrome (FES) is low (<1%) whilst fat embolism (FE) of marrow fat appears to occur more often (Mellor and Soni (2001)). Paradoxical brain FE may occur in patients undergoing hip orthopedic surgery who have an undocumented patent foramen ovale (PFO). We report a case of an eighty-year-old male patient, who underwent a scheduled revision hip surgery suffering a paradoxical cerebral FE. | 25,184,065 | [
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A rare presentation of retiform hemangioendothelioma in the external auditory canal. | Retiform hemangioendothelioma is a rare intermediate or borderline neoplasm of the blood vessels that mostly occurs in extremities. Here we report a unique case of retiform hemangioendothelioma presented in the external auditory canal. 58-year-old male patient presented with the complaint of right ear swelling for 4 years. On examination, a spherical swelling in the right ear was found occluding the view of external auditory canal. The tumor was removed surgically. Intraoperatively, the mass was found attached to the outer part of the right external auditory canal near the root of helix. Histopathology of the resected tumor showed typical features of retiform hemangioendothelioma. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that tumor was positive for endothelial cell marker CD34 and occasionally positive for cell proliferative marker Ki-67. | 25,184,066 | [
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Bladder endometriosis and endocervicosis: presentation of 2 cases with endoscopic management and review of literature. | Urinary tract endometriosis and endocervicosis are an uncommon pathologic finding, with a common embryological origin. We present 2 cases of female patients with bladder mass. The first one was a finding of a nodular formation in the bladder during study of a nonviable foetus and the second was an incidental finding of a neoformation in the fundus of the bladder during the realization of an ultrasound. In both cases, we performed a surgical management with transurethral resection. Histopathological examination revealed a bladder endometrioma in the first case and endocervicosis with associated endometriosis in the second. | 25,184,072 | [
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Clinical profile, maternal and fetal outcomes of acute hepatitis e in pregnancy. | Pregnant women are at increased risk of complications in hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection, with the risk increasing as the pregnancy progresses, often leading to fulminant hepatic failure and adverse fetal outcome. The primary objective of the following study is to evaluate the maternal and fetal complications of this infection and secondary aim is to compare the clinical features of hepatitis E in pregnant women to those in non-pregnant women. This was a hospital based case-controls study, carried out from July 2008 to June 2010. Over a period of 2 years, cases were serologically confirmed pregnant women with hepatitis E, selected by screening in antenatal clinic. Controls were serologically confirmed non-pregnant women with hepatitis E, selected by screening in Medicine Outpatient Department. We studied 96 women with HEV infection, of which 52 were pregnant and 44 were non-pregnant. Clinical and laboratory profile of patients in both groups were studied. Patients were treated as per protocol and the outcome was studied in both groups. Pregnant women were followed-up for fetal and maternal outcome. We used t-test and z-test to compare normally distributed data and non-normally distributed data, respectively. Chi-square test was used to compare discrete values between groups. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) age in pregnant patients was 24.1 (3.3) years while 32.6 (10.5) years in non-pregnant patients. 71.1% (37/52) of the patients were primigravida and 28.8% (15/52) patients were multigravida, by natural occurrence. Mean (SD) gestational age when infection occurred was 27.5 (7.2) weeks. Among pregnant women, 63.4% (33/52) were in 3(rd) trimester. Jaundice 1-5 days before presentation was seen in 51.9% (27/52) pregnant and 44.2% (23/44) non-pregnant women. Myalgia/arthralgia, fever, nausea/vomiting, right upper quadrant pain, jaundice, dark urine, light-colored stools, pruritus, diarrhea, altered sensorium and hematemesis/melena were presenting features. In pregnant group, 46.1% (24/52) patients developed encephalopathy while in non-pregnant group 34% (15/44) developed this complication. Among pregnant cases, 67.3% (35/52) survived and 32% (17/52) cases died. In non-pregnant group, nearly 90% (40/44) patients survived and only 9% (4/44) patients died. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). Adverse fetal outcome was seen in 71.1% (37/52) pregnant women with acute hepatitis E, including pre-term delivery in 23% (12/52), stillbirth in 23% (12/52), abortion in 3.8% (2/52) and intra-uterine fetal death in 21.1% (11/52) patients. There is significantly higher occurrence of hepatitis E infection in pregnant women than in non-pregnant women, which increases with gestation, with associated fulminant hepatic failure, maternal mortality and worse fetal outcome. | 25,184,080 | [
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True umbilical cord knot leading to fetal demise. | The incidence of true knot of the umbilical cord is not only very low but it is often undiagnosed antenatally when present despite the availability of prenatal ultrasonography. When the true knot remains tight, it may impede the circulation of the fetus and may result to fetal death in utero especially in labor. We report a very uncommon case of true knot of the umbilical cord that ultimately led to a fetal demise. A 39-year-old booked G7 P5(+1) with four living children, who booked for antenatal care at a gestational age (GA) of 17 weeks. The fundal height was compatible with the GA throughout pregnancy. An ultrasound done at a GA of 36 weeks showed normal findings. She had onset of labor at a GA of 40 weeks and 5 days following cervical ripening with two courses of 50 μg misoprostol inserted at the posterior fornix 6 h apart. The fetal heart tones were monitored using Doppler sonicaid. They remained normal throughout labor that lasted 13 h. She subsequently had spontaneous vertex delivery with poor Apgar score. The baby died immediately after birth. The umbilical cord was more than double the normal length and a true knot of the umbilical cord was diagnosed after delivery of the baby. We have reported a case of true umbilical cord knot in Nnewi, South-East Nigeria. Although this entity can be diagnosed antenatally, current experience is limited to incidental observation and consequent fetal demise. | 25,184,085 | [
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Resection of an oculomotor nerve cavernous angioma. | Cavernous angiomas (CAs) of cranial nerves are rare, and their occurrence on the third cranial nerve is particularly rare. Surgical management of such CAs involving the third nerve is controversial. We describe a case of a symptomatic CA of the oculomotor nerve and review the literature in order to ascertain the relevance of surgical intervention. A 71-year-old male patient presented with a 2-month history of progressive oculomotor nerve paralysis. CA of the oculomotor nerve was suspected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The patient underwent complete resection of the CA through a subtemporal approach, preserving the integrity of the nerve. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of CA. Despite optimal resection, the patient did not improve postoperatively. CAs of cranial nerves can cause rapid or progressive neurological deterioration. Whereas delayed treatment often leads to irreversible deficits, early nerve-sparing surgical excision of the CAs may potentially restore function. | 25,184,101 | [
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Unusual cause of non-discogenic sciatica: Foraminal lumbar root schwannoma. | Schwannomas are tumors of peripheral nerves that develop from the nerve sheath. Foraminal schwannomas are rare and account for 1-5% of all spinal schwannomas. The lumbosacral root schwannoma is a rare cause of sciatica and may raise confusion in diagnosis with late discovery of the tumor. We report the case of a patient 30 years of age with chronic left sciatica in whom lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a tumor involving the S1 nerve root. The excision of the tumor was simple. Histological examination revealed a benign schwannoma. The evolution was favorable postoperative with no neurological deficit, which confirms the good prognosis of this tumor. Nerve root schwannomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sciatica, especially when signs and symptoms of sciatica cannot be simply explained by prolapsed disc syndrome, which can often delay the diagnosis. Through this case presentation, the authors try to discuss the clinical and radiological features of this condition. | 25,184,102 | [
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Perception of fattening foods in Italian children and adolescents. | The present study aimed to analyze, in Italian children and adolescents, the beliefs about which foods are fattening, the appreciation of fattening foods, and the perception of some socio-cultural attributes of them. 244 children (F: 125, M: 119, aged 8-11) and 305 adolescents (F: 153; M: 152, aged 11-14) from Bologna, Northern Italy, were asked to indicate five fattening foods. For each of the indicated foods, a yes-no answer was required to the question: "is this food special for you?", and to six questions concerning socio-cultural attributes of the food, which were modelled using a latent variable with two classes named "traditional" and "modern". Pearson's chi square tests revealed, both in boys and girls, significant associations between the age class and the foods indicated as fattening: lean meat, condiments, non-sweet fruit and vegetables were more often indicated as fattening by children than by adolescents. Overall, boys showed higher appreciation and perception of fashionability of fattening foods. Girls appreciated less bread and pasta, and indicated more often than boys these foods as fattening. The different food perception of between age classes and sexes can be respectively explained by a better dietary awareness of adolescents, and by girls worrying about their look more than boys. | 25,184,104 | [
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Methodology of determining student's cognitive styles and its application for teaching physics. | A psychological foundation of differentiation of learning on the basis of students' individual characteristics (cognitive styles) with orientation to physics education in high school is discussed. The computer testing technique for preliminary determination of students' cognitive styles is proposed. It is based on the assumed connection between test parameters and parameters of degree of manifestation of cognitive style. The combined method of refining students' cognitive styles, based on the observations of their learning activity, is proposed. Personality traits, characterizing particular cognitive styles, are determined. | 25,184,112 | [
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Endoscopic ultrasound comes of age: Mature, established, creative and here to stay! | Research in endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is alive and kicking! This paper will present recent interesting developments in EUS based on research presented at the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) held in Chicago in 2014. Endosonographers are looking at various techniques to improve yield of fine needle aspiration and core biopsies, assess circulating tumor cells, apply EUS for personalized medicine and develop devices to ensure the adequacy of sampling. EUS may open new vistas in understanding of neurogastroenterology and gastrointestinal motility disorders as discussed in this paper. EUS guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections, bile duct and gallbladder is feasible, and many randomized trials are being done to compare different techniques. EUS guided delivery of fiducials, drugs, coils or chemo loaded beads in possible. EUS has come off age, has matured and is here to stay! The DDW in 2014 in Chicago was a very active year for EUS. There were numerous papers on different aspects of EUS, some perfecting and improving old techniques, others dealing with randomized trials and many with novel concepts. In this paper, I will highlight some of the papers that were presented. It is not possible to discuss all the abstracts in detail. I have, therefore, chosen selected papers in different aspects of EUS to give the readers a flavor of the kind of research that was presented at DDW. | 25,184,120 | [
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Rectal cancer staging: Correlation between the evaluation with radial echoendoscope and rigid linear probe. | The National Cancer Institute estimated 40,340 new cases of rectal cancer in the United States in 2013. The correct staging of rectal cancer is fundamental for appropriate treatment of this disease. Transrectal ultrasound is considered one of the best methods for locoregional staging of rectal tumors, both radial echoendoscope and rigid linear probes are used to perform these procedures. The objective of this study is to evaluate the correlation between radial echoendoscopy and rigid linear endosonography for staging rectal cancer. A prospective analysis of 48 patients who underwent both, radial echoendoscopy and rigid linear endosonography, between April 2009 and May 2011, was done. Patients were staged according to the degree of tumor invasion (T) and lymph node involvement (N), as classified by the American Joint Committee on Cancer. Anatomopathological staging of surgical specimen was the gold standard for discordant evaluations. The analysis of concordance was made using Kappa index. The general Kappa index for T staging was 0.827, with general P < 0.001 (confidence interval [CI]: 95% 0.627-1). The general Kappa index for N staging was 0.423, with general P < 0.001 (CI: 95% 0.214-0.632). The agreement between methods for T staging was almost perfect, with a worse outcome for T2, but still with substantial agreement. The findings may indicate equivalence in the diagnostic value of both flexible and rigid devices. For lymph node staging, there was moderate agreement between the methods. | 25,184,122 | [
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Regenerative medicine in rotator cuff injuries. | Rotator cuff injuries are a common source of shoulder pathology and result in an important decrease in quality of patient life. Given the frequency of these injuries, as well as the relatively poor result of surgical intervention, it is not surprising that new and innovative strategies like tissue engineering have become more appealing. Tissue-engineering strategies involve the use of cells and/or bioactive factors to promote tendon regeneration via natural processes. The ability of numerous growth factors to affect tendon healing has been extensively analyzed in vitro and in animal models, showing promising results. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a whole blood fraction which contains several growth factors. Controlled clinical studies using different autologous PRP formulations have provided controversial results. However, favourable structural healing rates have been observed for surgical repair of small and medium rotator cuff tears. Cell-based approaches have also been suggested to enhance tendon healing. Bone marrow is a well known source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Recently, ex vivo human studies have isolated and cultured distinct populations of MSCs from rotator cuff tendons, long head of the biceps tendon, subacromial bursa, and glenohumeral synovia. Stem cells therapies represent a novel frontier in the management of rotator cuff disease that required further basic and clinical research. | 25,184,132 | [
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CT perfusion in the characterisation of renal lesions: an added value to multiphasic CT. | To prospectively evaluate if computed tomography perfusion (CTp) could be a useful tool in addition to multiphasic CT in renal lesion characterisation. Fifty-eight patients that were scheduled for surgical resection of a renal mass with a suspicion of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were enrolled. Forty-one out of 58 patients underwent total or partial nephrectomy after CTp examination, and a pathological analysis was obtained for a total of 49 renal lesions. Perfusion parameters and attenuation values at multiphasic CT for both lesion and normal cortex were analysed. All the results were compared with the histological data obtained following surgery. PS and MTT values were significantly lower in malignant lesions than in the normal cortex (P < 0.001 and P = 0.011, resp.); PS, MTT, and BF values were also statistically different between oncocytomas and malignant lesions. According to ROC analysis, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity to predict RCC were 95.92%, 100%, and 66.7%, respectively, for CTp whereas they were 89.80%, 93.35%, and 50%, respectively, for multiphasic CT. A significant difference between renal cortex and tumour CTp parameter values may suggest a malignant renal lesion. CTp could represent an added value to multiphasic CT in differentiating renal cells carcinoma from oncocytoma. | 25,184,133 | [
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DWI-based neural fingerprinting technology: a preliminary study on stroke analysis. | Stroke is a common neural disorder in neurology clinics. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become an important tool to assess the neural physiological changes under stroke, such as diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Quantitative analysis of MRI images would help medical doctors to localize the stroke area in the diagnosis in terms of structural information and physiological characterization. However, current quantitative approaches can only provide localization of the disorder rather than measure physiological variation of subtypes of ischemic stroke. In the current study, we hypothesize that each kind of neural disorder would have its unique physiological characteristics, which could be reflected by DWI images on different gradients. Based on this hypothesis, a DWI-based neural fingerprinting technology was proposed to classify subtypes of ischemic stroke. The neural fingerprint was constructed by the signal intensity of the region of interest (ROI) on the DWI images under different gradients. The fingerprint derived from the manually drawn ROI could classify the subtypes with accuracy 100%. However, the classification accuracy was worse when using semiautomatic and automatic method in ROI segmentation. The preliminary results showed promising potential of DWI-based neural fingerprinting technology in stroke subtype classification. Further studies will be carried out for enhancing the fingerprinting accuracy and its application in other clinical practices. | 25,184,145 | [
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Numerical analysis of an H1-Galerkin mixed finite element method for time fractional telegraph equation. | We discuss and analyze an H(1)-Galerkin mixed finite element (H(1)-GMFE) method to look for the numerical solution of time fractional telegraph equation. We introduce an auxiliary variable to reduce the original equation into lower-order coupled equations and then formulate an H(1)-GMFE scheme with two important variables. We discretize the Caputo time fractional derivatives using the finite difference methods and approximate the spatial direction by applying the H(1)-GMFE method. Based on the discussion on the theoretical error analysis in L(2)-norm for the scalar unknown and its gradient in one dimensional case, we obtain the optimal order of convergence in space-time direction. Further, we also derive the optimal error results for the scalar unknown in H(1)-norm. Moreover, we derive and analyze the stability of H(1)-GMFE scheme and give the results of a priori error estimates in two- or three-dimensional cases. In order to verify our theoretical analysis, we give some results of numerical calculation by using the Matlab procedure. | 25,184,148 | [
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The antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of sirtinol, a sirtuin inhibitor on human lung cancer cells by modulating Akt/β-catenin-Foxo3a axis. | Sirtuins, NAD(+)-dependent deacetylases, could target both histones and nonhistone proteins in mammalian cells. Sirt1 is the major sirtuin and has been shown to involve various cellular processes, including antiapoptosis, cellular senescence. Sirt1 was reported to be overexpressed in many cancers, including lung cancer. Sirtinol, a specific inhibitor of Sirt1, has been shown to induce apoptosis of cancer cells by elevating endogenous level of reactive oxygen species. In the study, we investigated the effect of sirtinol on the proliferation and apoptosis of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) H1299 cells. The results of proliferation assay and colony formation assay showed the antigrowth effect of sirtinol. The annexin-V staining further confirmed the apoptosis induction by sirtinol treatment. Interestingly, the levels of phosphorylated Akt and β-catenin were significantly downregulated with treating the apoptotic inducing doses. On the contrary, sirtinol treatment causes the significantly increased level of FoxO3a, a proapoptotic transcription factor targeted by Sirt1. These above results suggested that sirtinol may inhibit cell proliferation of H1299 cells by regulating the axis of Akt-β-catenin-FoxO3a. Overall, this study demonstrates that sirtinol attenuates the proliferation and induces apoptosis of NSCLC cells, indicating the potential treatment against NSCLC cells by inhibiting Sirt1 in future applications. | 25,184,156 | [
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Salivary: flow and proteins of the innate and adaptive immunity in the limited and diffused systemic sclerosis. | However, there are some informations on the salivary glands involvement in systemic sclerosis, and there is a lack of any data about salivary glands function depending on systemic sclerosis subsets. The unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow, the activity of peroxidase, the total amount of lactoferrin, lysozyme and sIgA were determined in two subgroups of systemic sclerosis and healthy controls. In the unstimulated saliva of both patients groups, the salivary flow, the output of total protein and peroxidase activity were significantly lower; the total: sIgA and lactoferrin were significantly higher as compared with the control. In the stimulated saliva of the patients with limited form, the total lysozyme and peroxidase activity were significantly higher than in the control. In the stimulated saliva of the patients with diffused form, the salivary flow was significantly lower and the total sIgA and peroxidase activity were significantly higher than in the control. Systemic sclerosis regardless of its subset affects salivary defense system of human unstimulated and stimulated saliva. Patients with the limited form experience the same impairment of the submandibular glands function as compared with patients with the diffused form. Only patients with the diffused form are deficient in respect of stimulated saliva secretion; the parotid glands of the patients with the limited form have a good secretory capacity in comparison with the healthy control. | 25,184,163 | [
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Calcium channel blockers and risk of breast cancer: a meta-analysis of 17 observational studies. | Studies on the association between the use of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and breast cancer risk have reported inconsistent results. We quantitatively assessed this association by conducting a meta-analysis based on the evidence from observational studies. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published up to and including December 31, 2013. We calculated pooled risk ratios (RRs) for cancer risk. A total of 17 studies (9 cohort studies, 8 case-control studies) were selected for further study. These studies included 149,607 female subjects, of which 53,812 were CCBs users, who were followed for 2-16 years. The risks of breast cancer among patients receiving CCBs were significantly different for the pooled RRs (95% confidence interval) of cohort studies 1.08 (0.95, 1.20) and case-control studies 0.98 (0.86, 1.09). Differences were also noted for cancer risk, for CCBs use of <5 years 0.96 (0.78, 1.15), and for >5 years 1.01 (0.74, 1.28), as well as for ever used 1.08 (0.95, 1.20), and for current use 1.13 (0.83, 1.42). The RR for studies longer than 10 years was 1.71 (1.01, 2.42), and for studies evaluating nifedipine was 1.10 (0.87, 1.33) and diltiazem was 0.75 (0.40, 1.10). The long-term use of CCBs appears to have a significant relationship with breast cancer. Well-designed clinical trials are needed to optimize the doses and types of these drugs needed to minimize their carcinogenic potential. | 25,184,210 | [
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Population dynamics of aphids on cereals: digging in the time-series data to reveal population regulation caused by temperature. | Aphid populations show periodic fluctuations and many causes are attributed to their dynamic. We investigated the regulation by temperature of the aphid populations composed of Metopolophium dirhodum, Sitobion avenae, and Rhopalosiphum padi on winter wheat using a 24 years long time series data. We computed the sum of daily temperatures above 5 °C, the threshold temperature for aphid development, and the sum of daily temperatures within the [0(threshold for wheat development),5] °C interval. Applying Generalised Additive Model framework we tested influences of temperature history expressed via degree days before the start of the aphid immigration on the length of their occurrence. We aimed to estimate the magnitude and direction of this influence, and how far to the past before the start of the aphid season the temperature effect goes and then identify processes responsible for the effect. We fitted four models that differed in the way of correcting for abundance in the previous year and in specification of temperature effects. Abundance in the previous year did not affect the length of period of aphid population growth on wheat. The temperature effect on the period length increased up to 123 days before the start of the current season, i.e. when wheat completed vernalization. Increased sum of daily temperatures above 5 °C and the sum of daily temperatures within the [0,5] °C interval both shortened the length of period of aphid population growth. Stronger effect of the latter suggests that wheat can escape from aphid attacks if during winter temperatures range from 0 to 5 °C. The temperature influence was not homogeneous in time. The strongest effect of past temperature was about 50 to 80 and 90 to 110 days before the beginning of the current aphid season indicating important role of termination of aphid egg dormancy and egg hatching. | 25,184,219 | [
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The phylogeographical pattern and conservation of the Chinese cobra (Naja atra) across its range based on mitochondrial control region sequences. | The vulnerable Chinese cobra (Naja atra) ranges from southeastern China south of the Yangtze River to northern Vietnam and Laos. Large mountain ranges and water bodies may influence the pattern of genetic diversity of this species. We sequenced the mitochondrial DNA control region (1029 bp) using 285 individuals collected from 23 localities across the species' range and obtained 18 sequences unique to Taiwan from GenBank for phylogenetic and population analysis. Two distinct clades were identified, one including haplotypes from the two westernmost localities (Hekou and Miyi) and the other including haplotypes from all sampling sites except Miyi. A strong population structure was found (Φst = 0.76, P<0.0001) with high haplotype diversity (h = 1.00) and low nucleotide diversity (π = 0.0049). The Luoxiao and Nanling Mountains act as historical geographical barriers limiting gene exchange. In the haplotype network there were two "star" clusters. Haplotypes from populations east of the Luoxiao Mountains were represented within one cluster and haplotypes from populations west of the mountain range within the other, with haplotypes from populations south of the Nanling Mountains in between. Lineage sorting between mainland and island populations is incomplete. It remains unknown as to how much adaptive differentiation there is between population groups or within each group. We caution against long-distance transfers within any group, especially when environmental differences are apparent. | 25,184,236 | [
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Antidiabetic property of Symplocos cochinchinensis is mediated by inhibition of alpha glucosidase and enhanced insulin sensitivity. | The study is designed to find out the biochemical basis of antidiabetic property of Symplocos cochinchinensis (SC), the main ingredient of 'Nisakathakadi' an Ayurvedic decoction for diabetes. Since diabetes is a multifactorial disease, ethanolic extract of the bark (SCE) and its fractions (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and 90% ethanol) were evaluated by in vitro methods against multiple targets relevant to diabetes such as the alpha glucosidase inhibition, glucose uptake, adipogenic potential, oxidative stress, pancreatic beta cell proliferation, inhibition of protein glycation, protein tyrosine phosphatase-1B (PTP-1B) and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV). Among the extracts, SCE exhibited comparatively better activity like alpha glucosidase inhibition (IC50 value-82.07 ± 2.10 µg/mL), insulin dependent glucose uptake (3 fold increase) in L6 myotubes, pancreatic beta cell regeneration in RIN-m5F (3.5 fold increase) and reduced triglyceride accumulation (22% decrease) in 3T3L1 cells, protection from hyperglycemia induced generation of reactive oxygen species in HepG2 cells (59.57% decrease) with moderate antiglycation and PTP-1B inhibition. Chemical characterization by HPLC revealed the superiority of SCE over other extracts due to presence and quantity of bioactives (beta-sitosterol, phloretin 2'glucoside, oleanolic acid) in addition to minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium, zinc and manganese. So SCE has been subjected to oral sucrose tolerance test to evaluate its antihyperglycemic property in mild diabetic and diabetic animal models. SCE showed significant antihyperglycemic activity in in vivo diabetic models. We conclude that SC mediates the antidiabetic activity mainly via alpha glucosidase inhibition, improved insulin sensitivity, with moderate antiglycation and antioxidant activity. | 25,184,241 | [
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Comparison of the Bruker MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry system and conventional phenotypic methods for identification of Gram-positive rods. | In recent years, MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry (MS) method has emerged as a promising and a reliable tool for bacteria identification. In this study we compared Bruker MALDI-TOF MS and conventional phenotypic methods to identify a collection of 333 Gram-positive clinical isolates comprising 22 genera and 60 species. 16S rRNA sequencing was the reference molecular technique, and rpoB gene sequecing was used as a secondary gene target when 16Sr RNA did not allow species identification of Corynebacterium spp. We also investigate if score cut-offs values of ≥ 1,5 and ≥ 1,7 were accurate for genus and species-level identification using the Bruker system. Identification at species level was obtained for 92,49% of Gram-positive rods by MALDI-TOF MS compared to 85,89% by phenotypic method. Our data validates the score ≥ 1,5 for genus level and ≥ 1,7 for species-level identification in a large and diverse collection of Gram-positive rods. The present study has proved the accuracy of MALDI-TOF MS as an identification method in Gram-positive rods compared to currently used methods in routine laboratories. | 25,184,254 | [
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Concentration of lymph node aspirate improves the sensitivity of acid fast smear microscopy for the diagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis in Jimma, southwest Ethiopia. | Tuberculous lymphadenitis (TBLN) is the most common form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The cytomorphological features of lymph node smears have reduced specificity for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. The diagnosis of TBLN with direct smear microscopy lacks sensitivity due to the limited number of bacilli in lymph node aspirate. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether the concentration of lymph node aspirate improves the sensitivity of acid fast smear microscopy for the diagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis. A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted on 200 patients clinically suspected for tuberculous lymphadenitis in Jimma, Ethiopia. Lymph node aspirate was collected. The first two drops were used for cytomorphological study and direct acid fast staining. The remaining aspirate was treated with N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NALC) and concentrated by centrifugation at 3000 g for 15 minutes. The sediment was used for acid fast staining and culture. Differentiation of M. tuberculosis complex (MTBC) from non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) was done by para-nitrobenzoic acid susceptibility test. Complete data were available for 187 study subjects. 68% (127/187) were positive for M. tuberculosis on culture. Four isolates, 2.1% (4/187), were identified as NTM. The detection rate of direct smear microscopy was 25.1% and that of the concentration method 49.7%. Cytomorphologically, 79.7% of cases were classified as TBLN. The sensitivity of direct smear microscopy was 34.6%, for concentrated smear microscopy 66.1%, and for cytomorphology 89.8%. Two AFB positive cases on concentration method were non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM). The concentration method yielded a positive result from seven cases diagnosed as suppurative abscess by cytology. Both for the direct and concentration methods the highest rate of AFB positivity was observed in smears showing caseous necrosis alone. Smear positivity rate decreased with the appearance of epithelioid cell aggregates. The concentration of lymph node aspirates for acid fast smear microscopy had significantly higher sensitivity than direct microscopy. | 25,184,279 | [
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Low rate of germline AIP mutations in patients with apparently sporadic pituitary adenomas before the age of 40: a single-centre adult cohort. | To study the prevalence of germline mutations of the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein (AIP) gene in a large cohort of patients seen in the Oxford Centre for Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolism (OCDEM), UK, with apparently sporadic pituitary adenomas, who were either diagnosed or had relevant clinical manifestations by the age of 40 years. We prospectively investigated all patients who were seen at Oxford University Hospital, OCDEM, and a tertiary referral centre, between 2012 and 2013, and presented with pituitary tumours under the age of 40 years and with no family history: a total of 127 patients were enrolled in the study. Leukocyte-origin genomic DNA underwent sequence analysis of exons 1-6 and the flanking intronic regions of the AIP gene (NM_003977.2), with dosage analysis by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification. AIP variants were detected in 3% of the 127 patients, comprising four of 48 patients with acromegaly (8%), 0 of 43 with prolactinomas, 0 of the 20 patients with non-functioning adenomas, 0 of 15 with corticotroph adenomas and 0 of one with a thyrotroph adenomas. Definite pathogenetic mutations were seen in 2/4 variants, comprising 4.2% of patients with acromegaly. This prospective cohort study suggests a relatively low prevalence of AIP gene mutations in young patients with apparently sporadic pituitary adenomas presenting to a tertiary pituitary UK centre. Those with somatotroph macroadenomas have a higher rate of AIP mutation. These findings should inform discussion of genetic testing guidelines. | 25,184,284 | [
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Hippocampal and cortical primary cilia are required for aversive memory in mice. | It has been known for decades that neurons throughout the brain possess solitary, immotile, microtubule based appendages called primary cilia. Only recently have studies tried to address the functions of these cilia and our current understanding remains poor. To determine if neuronal cilia have a role in behavior we specifically disrupted ciliogenesis in the cortex and hippocampus of mice through conditional deletion of the Intraflagellar Transport 88 (Ift88) gene. The effects on learning and memory were analyzed using both Morris Water Maze and fear conditioning paradigms. In comparison to wild type controls, cilia mutants displayed deficits in aversive learning and memory and novel object recognition. Furthermore, hippocampal neurons from mutants displayed an altered paired-pulse response, suggesting that loss of IFT88 can alter synaptic properties. A variety of other behavioral tests showed no significant differences between conditional cilia mutants and controls. This type of conditional allele approach could be used to distinguish which behavioral features of ciliopathies arise due to defects in neural development and which result from altered cell physiology. Ultimately, this could lead to an improved understanding of the basis for the cognitive deficits associated with human cilia disorders such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome, and possibly more common ailments including depression and schizophrenia. | 25,184,295 | [
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Recent developments in drug therapy for aplastic anemia. | This article reviews recent developments in immunosuppressive therapy (IST) for aplastic anemia (AA) patients who are not candidates for stem cell transplant (SCT); including, front-line, salvage, and novel treatment options with a focus on response rates (RRs) and overall survival (OS). A PubMed literature search was performed from 1977 to June 2014 using the search terms aplastic anemia, horse antithymocyte globulin (hATG), rabbit ATG (rATG), thymoglobulin, and cyclosporine (CSA). Additional references were identified from a review of literature citations. All English-language studies investigating IST for treatment of AA in non-SCT candidates were evaluated. Studies indicate addition of CSA and corticosteroids to hATG for treatment of AA improves RRs, decreases relapse rates, and improves 5-year OS. hATG improved RRs, relapse rates, and OS compared to rATG in the front-line setting. Studies support the use of rATG when front-line IST with hATG fails or when hATG is unavailable. Front-line daclizumab can be considered for nonsevere AA (NAA); however, data is limited. Alemtuzumab or eltrombopag are options for relapsed AA in select patients. hATG with methylprednisolone and CSA is recommended for front-line treatment of AA, whereas rATG is reserved for salvage therapy. Front-line use of daclizumab has been studied in NAA patients, but additional prospective trials are needed before this is adopted into clinical practice. Alemtuzumab and eltrombopag have been studied for treatment of AA; recruiting is ongoing in clinical trials to assess the appropriate dosing strategy and place in therapy. | 25,184,310 | [
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The oxidative stress product carboxyethylpyrrole potentiates TLR2/TLR1 inflammatory signaling in macrophages. | Oxidative stress is key in the pathogenesis of several diseases including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), atherosclerosis, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. It has previously been established that a lipid peroxidation product, carboxyethylpyrrole (CEP), accumulates in the retinas of AMD patients. Retinal infiltrating macrophages also accumulate in the retinas of both AMD patients and in a murine model of AMD. We therefore investigated the ability of CEP-adducts to activate innate immune signaling in murine bone-marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs). We found that CEP specifically synergizes with low-dose TLR2-agonists (but not agonists for other TLRs) to induce production of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, CEP selectively augments TLR2/TLR1-signaling instead of TLR2/TLR6-signaling. These studies uncover a novel synergistic inflammatory relationship between an endogenously produced oxidation molecule and a pathogen-derived product, which may have implications in the AMD disease process and other oxidative stress-driven pathologies. | 25,184,331 | [
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Heat hyperalgesia and mechanical hypersensitivity induced by calcitonin gene-related peptide in a mouse model of neurofibromatosis. | This study examined whether mice with a deficiency of neurofibromin, a Ras GTPase activating protein, exhibit a nociceptive phenotype and probed a possible contribution by calcitonin gene-related peptide. In the absence of inflammation, Nf1+/- mice (B6.129S6 Nf1<tm1Fcr>/J) and wild type littermates responded comparably to heat or mechanical stimuli, except for a subtle enhanced mechanical sensitivity in female Nf1+/- mice. Nociceptive phenotype was also examined after inflammation induced by capsaicin and formalin, which release endogenous calcitonin gene-related peptide. Intraplantar injection of capsaicin evoked comparable heat hyperalgesia and mechanical hypersensitivity in Nf1+/- and wild type mice of both genders. Formalin injection caused a similar duration of licking in male Nf1+/- and wild type mice. Female Nf1+/- mice licked less than wild type mice, but displayed other nociceptive behaviors. In contrast, intraplantar injection of CGRP caused greater heat hyperalgesia in Nf1+/- mice of both genders compared to wild type mice. Male Nf1+/- mice also exhibited greater mechanical hypersensitivity; however, female Nf1+/- mice exhibited less mechanical hypersensitivity than their wild type littermates. Transcripts for calcitonin gene-related peptide were similar in the dorsal root ganglia of both genotypes and genders. Transcripts for receptor activity-modifying protein-1, which is rate-limiting for the calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor, in the spinal cord were comparable for both genotypes and genders. The increased responsiveness to intraplantar calcitonin gene-related peptide suggests that the peripheral actions of calcitonin gene-related peptide are enhanced as a result of the neurofibromin deficit. The analgesic efficacy of calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonists may therefore merit investigation in neurofibromatosis patients. | 25,184,332 | [
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Molecular evidence of increased resistance to anti-folate drugs in Plasmodium falciparum in North-East India: a signal for potential failure of artemisinin plus sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine combination therapy. | North-east India, being a corridor to South-east Asia, is believed to play an important role in transmitting drug resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria to India and South Asia. North-east India was the first place in India to record the emergence of drug resistance to chloroquine as well as sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine. Presently chloroquine resistance is widespread all over the North-east India and resistance to other anti-malarials is increasing. In this study both in vivo therapeutic efficacy and molecular assays were used to screen the spectrum of drug resistance to chloroquine and sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine in the circulating P. falciparum strains. A total of 220 P. falciparum positives subjects were enrolled in the study for therapeutic assessment of chloroquine and sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine and assessment of point mutations conferring resistances to these drugs were carried out by genotyping the isolates following standard methods. Overall clinical failures in sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine and chloroquine were found 12.6 and 69.5% respectively, while overall treatment failures recorded were 13.7 and 81.5% in the two arms. Nearly all (99.0%) the isolates had mutant pfcrt genotype (76 T), while 68% had mutant pfmdr-1 genotype (86 Y). Mutation in dhps 437 codon was the most prevalent one while dhfr codon 108 showed 100% mutation. A total of 23 unique haplotypes at the dhps locus and 7 at dhfr locus were found while dhps-dhfr combined loci revealed 49 unique haplotypes. Prevalence of double, triple and quadruple mutations were common while 1 haplotype was found with all five mutated codons (F/AGEGS/T) at dhps locus. Detection of quadruple mutants (51 I/59 R/108 N/164 L) in the present study, earlier recorded from Car Nicobar Island, India only, indicates the presence of high levels of resistance to sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine in north-east India. Associations between resistant haplotypes and the clinical outcomes and emerging resistance in sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine in relation to the efficacy of the currently used artemisinin combination therapy are discussed. | 25,184,337 | [
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Molecular characterization of organosulfates in organic aerosols from Shanghai and Los Angeles urban areas by nanospray-desorption electrospray ionization high-resolution mass spectrometry. | Fine aerosol particles in the urban areas of Shanghai and Los Angeles were collected on days that were characterized by their stagnant air and high organic aerosol concentrations. They were analyzed by nanospray-desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry with high mass resolution (m/Δm = 100,000). Solvent mixtures of acetonitrile and water and acetonitrile and toluene were used to extract and ionize polar and nonpolar compounds, respectively. A diverse mixture of oxygenated hydrocarbons, organosulfates, organonitrates, and organics with reduced nitrogen were detected in the Los Angeles sample. A majority of the organics in the Shanghai sample were detected as organosulfates. The dominant organosulfates that were detected at two locations have distinctly different molecular characteristics. Specifically, the organosulfates in the Los Angeles sample were dominated by biogenic products, while the organosulfates of a yet unknown origin found in the Shanghai sample had distinctive characteristics of long aliphatic carbon chains and low degrees of oxidation and unsaturation. The use of the acetonitrile and toluene solvent facilitated the observation of this type of organosulfates, which suggests that they could have been missed in previous studies that relied on sample extraction using common polar solvents. The high molecular weight and low degree of unsaturation and oxidization of the uncommon organosulfates suggest that they may act as surfactants and plausibly affect the surface tension and hygroscopicity of atmospheric particles. We propose that direct esterification of carbonyl or hydroxyl compounds by sulfates or sulfuric acid in the liquid phase could be the formation pathway of these special organosulfates. Long-chain alkanes from vehicle emissions might be their precursors. | 25,184,338 | [
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Loss of PTEN expression and AKT activation in HER2-positive breast carcinomas. | To examine the expression of AKT and PTEN in a series of HER2-positive primary invasive breast tumors using immunohistochemistry, and to associate these expression profiles with classic pathologic features such as tumor grade, hormone receptor expression, lymphatic vascular invasion, and proliferation. A total of 104 HER2-positive breast carcinoma specimens were prepared in tissue microarrays blocks for immunohistochemical detection of PTEN and phosphorylated AKT (pAKT). Original histologic sections were reviewed to assess pathological features, including HER2 status and Ki-67 index values. The associations between categorical and numeric variables were identified using Pearson's chi-square test and the Mann-Whitney, respectively. Co-expression of pAKT and PTEN was presented in 59 (56.7%) cases. Reduced levels of PTEN expression were detected in 20 (19.2%) cases, and these 20 tumors had a lower Ki-67 index value. In contrast, tumors positive for pAKT expression [71 (68.3%)] were associated with a higher Ki-67 index value. A role for AKT in the proliferation of HER2-positive breast cancers was confirmed. However, immunohistochemical detection of PTEN expression did not correlate with an inhibition of cellular proliferation or control of AKT phosphorylation, suggesting other pathways in these mechanisms of control. | 25,184,346 | [
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0.1239877,
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0.1169369,
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0.1348753,
0.1897863,
0.0722170... |
[Comparison between the serum concentration of alpha-tocopherol in puerperal women assisted in public and private maternities in Northeastern Brazil]. | To compare the concentration of serum alpha-tocopherol during the postpartum period in women admitted to public and private hospitals in Natal (RN), Brazil. The study included 209 women in the postpartum period, 96 of them from private hospitals and 113 from public hospitals, studied between 24 and 48 hours postpartum. Inclusion criteria were: mothers aged 12 years or more, without diseases associated with pregnancy, who had given birth to a singleton with no malformations. Clinically decompensated women with multiple fetuses were excluded. A 5 mL blood sample was obtained from each participant under fasting conditions, before the first meal of the day. The concentration of alpha-tocopherol in serum (µg/dL) was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The statistical difference between means was tested by the Student's t-test. The mean concentration of alpha-tocopherol was 1.115.7 µg/dL in puerperae from the public network and 1.355.7 ± 397.6 µg/dL in puerperae from the private network , with a significant difference between groups (p=0.000687). Vitamin E concentration was determined individually and an alpha-tocopherol level <11.6 µmol/L or <499.6 µg/dL was considered to indicate deficiency. Vitamin E deficiency was detected in 5.3% of puerperae from the public network (n=6), whereas no deficiency was detected among women from the private network. However, low concentrations of alpha-tocopherol (11.6 to 16.2 µmol/L or 499.6 to 697.7 µg/dL) was detected in both groups, i.e., in 9.7% of the women from the public network (n=11) and in 4.2% for the women from the private network (n=4). These results highlight that women assisted in the public sector were more vulnerable to developing low concentrations of alpha-tocopherol than women assisted in the private sector. | 25,184,351 | [
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0... |
Effects of sapropterin on endothelium-dependent vasodilation in patients with CADASIL: a randomized controlled trial. | Cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), a rare autosomal dominant disorder caused by NOTCH3 mutations, is characterized by vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells abnormalities, altered vasoreactivity, and recurrent lacunar infarcts. Vasomotor function may represent a key factor for disease progression. Tetrahydrobiopterin, essential cofactor for nitric oxide synthesis in endothelial cells, ameliorates endothelial function. We assessed whether supplementation with sapropterin, a synthetic tetrahydrobiopterin analog, improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in CADASIL patients. In a 24-month, multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, CADASIL patients aged 30 to 65 years were randomly assigned to receive placebo or sapropterin 200 to 400 mg BID. The primary end point was change in the reactive hyperemia index by peripheral arterial tonometry at 24 months. We also assessed the safety and tolerability of sapropterin. Analysis was done by intention-to-treat. The intention-to-treat population included 61 patients. We found no significant difference between sapropterin (n=32) and placebo (n=29) in the primary end point (mean difference in reactive hyperemia index by peripheral arterial tonometry changes 0.19 [95% confidence interval, -0.18, 0.56]). Reactive hyperemia index by peripheral arterial tonometry increased after 24 months in 37% of patients on sapropterin and in 28% on placebo; however, after adjustment for age, sex, and clinical characteristics, improvement was not associated with treatment arm. The proportion of patients with adverse events was similar on sapropterin and on placebo (50% versus 48.3%); serious adverse events occurred in 6.3% versus 13.8%, respectively. Sapropterin was safe and well-tolerated at the average dose of 5 mg/kg/day, but did not affect endothelium-dependent vasodilation in CADASIL patients. https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu. Unique identifier: 2007-004370-55. | 25,184,356 | [
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... |
An approach to prepare polyethylenimine functionalized silica-based spheres with small size for siRNA delivery. | A novel approach has been developed to prepare polyethylenimine functionalized hybrid silica spheres with a diameter of ∼10 nm, which show excellent delivery efficiency of siRNA into osteosarcoma cancer cells and human colon cancer cells with a significant cell inhibition comparable to commercial agents. | 25,184,370 | [
-0.3121389,
0.2192204,
0.1334255,
0.04970381,
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0.1236695,
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0.1443131,
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-0.255107,
0.08317012,
0.3428085,
0.06622319,
0.1262988,
... |
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