An electrophoretic characterization of the glucocorticoid response of the Fu5-5 rat hepatoma cell line.
In this study we have further characterized the response of liver-derived cells to glucocorticoid treatment using the rat hepatoma, Fu5-5. Using two-dimensional electrophoresis we have examined changes in the synthetic rates of cytosol proteins following glucocorticoid administration by using [35S]methionine. We have also demonstrated changes in the incorporation of 32P by several cytosol proteins after hormone treatment. One of these changes occurs within 1 h of hormone treatment. We were unable to detect any changes in the nuclear protein content of Fu5-5 cells after glucocorticoid treatment. We then compared the glucocorticoid-regulated changes in cytosol protein synthesis in Fu5-5 cells with those of the H35 rat hepatoma, monolayer cultures of rat hepatocytes and the response of rat liver in vivo. This examination revealed that although nearly all of the eighteen hormonally responsive proteins appeared to be present in all of the cells types, only three were responsive to glucocorticoid in more than one system. Moreover, the response patterns were often reversed in different cell types, the same protein being induced in one cell type and repressed in another.


Risk factors for boy's conduct problems in poor and lower-middle-class neighborhoods.
The joint trajectory analysis version of Nagin's (Group-based modeling of development. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2005) semiparametric, group-based approach for modeling trajectories was used to assess how boy's trajectories of conduct problems (CP) and neighborhood SES covaried from ages 5 to 12. Participants were recruited from Women, Infants, and Children clinics when they were 18 months old. Subsequent analyses examined whether boys from poor and more prosperous neighborhoods differed in the degree to which they were exposed to familial risk factors for CP during early childhood and the extent to which risk factors for CP were generalizable across communities. Findings revealed a small, but positive relationship, between boy's trajectories of CP and neighborhood SES. In addition, chronic CP boys from more prosperous communities were found to have more child/individual risk factors for CP than their counterparts from poorer communities. Implications for prevention and intervention are discussed.


Posttraumatic thoracic splenosis and chronic aortic pseudoaneurysm.
Thoracic splenosis is the autotransplantation of splenic tissue into the pleural cavity, usually following traumatic injury that simultaneously involves the spleen and diaphragm. Intrathoracic splenosis is an uncommonly reported phenomenon. We present a case of intrathoracic splenosis in a patient with a chronic aortic pseudoaneurysm, both detected, incidentally, three decades after the traumatic event. The diagnosis of thoracic splenosis can be confirmed noninvasively, using 99mTc sulfur colloid nuclear scintigraphy.


Identifying and modeling motion primitives for the hydromedusae Sarsia tubulosa and Aequorea victoria.
The movements of organisms can be thought of as aggregations of motion primitives: motion segments containing one or more significant actions. Here, we present a means to identify and characterize motion primitives from recorded movement data. We address these problems by assuming that the motion sequences can be characterized as a series of dynamical-system-based pattern generators. By adopting a nonparametric, Bayesian formalism for learning and simplifying these pattern generators, we arrive at a purely data-driven model to automatically identify breakpoints in the movement sequences. We apply this model to swimming sequences from two hydromedusa. The first hydromedusa is the prolate Sarsia tubulosa, for which we obtain five motion primitives that correspond to bell cavity pressurization, jet formation, jetting, cavity fluid refill, and coasting. The second hydromedusa is the oblate Aequorea victoria, for which we obtain five motion primitives that correspond to bell compression, vortex separation, cavity fluid refill, vortex formation, and coasting. Our experimental results indicate that the breakpoints between primitives are correlated with transitions in the bell geometry, vortex formation and shedding, and changes in derived dynamical quantities. These dynamics quantities include terms like pressure, power, drag, and thrust. Such findings suggest that dynamics information is inherently present in the observed motions.


Marathon of eponyms: 7 Gorlin-Goltz syndrome (Naevoid basal-cell carcinoma syndrome).
The use of eponyms has long been contentious, but many remain in common use, as discussed elsewhere (Editorial: Oral Diseases. 2009: 15; 185). The use of eponyms in diseases of the head and neck is found mainly in specialties dealing with medically compromised individuals (paediatric dentistry, special care dentistry, oral and maxillofacial medicine, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology and oral and maxillofacial surgery) and particularly by hospital-centred practitioners. This series has selected some of the more recognized relevant eponymous conditions and presents them alphabetically. The information is based largely on data available from MEDLINE and a number of internet websites as noted below: the authors would welcome any corrections. This document summarizes data about Gorlin-Goltz syndrome.


Contact variables for exposure to avian influenza H5N1 virus at the human-animal interface.
Although the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus continues to cause infections in both avian and human populations, the specific zoonotic risk factors remain poorly understood. This review summarizes available evidence regarding types of contact associated with transmission of H5N1 virus at the human-animal interface. A systematic search of the published literature revealed five analytical studies and 15 case reports describing avian influenza transmission from animals to humans for further review. Risk factors identified in analytical studies were compared, and World Health Organization-confirmed cases, identified in case reports, were classified according to type of contact reported using a standardized algorithm. Although cases were primarily associated with direct contact with sick/unexpectedly dead birds, some cases reported only indirect contact with birds or contaminated environments or contact with apparently healthy birds. Specific types of contacts or activities leading to exposure could not be determined from data available in the publications reviewed. These results support previous reports that direct contact with sick birds is not the only means of human exposure to avian influenza H5N1 virus. To target public health measures and disease awareness messaging for reducing the risk of zoonotic infection with avian influenza H5N1 virus, the specific types of contacts and activities leading to transmission need to be further understood. The role of environmental virus persistence, shedding of virus by asymptomatic poultry and disease pathophysiology in different avian species relative to human zoonotic risk, as well as specific modes of zoonotic transmission, should be determined.


The political economy of sexism in industrial health.
In the last several years, increasing numbers of American women have lost their industrial jobs or have been refused jobs because they are of child-bearing age. Industrial physicians and management in manufacturing plants using various chemicals have decided that the risk their women workers take of having deformed children as a result of workplace hazards is such that the women must be 'protected'. An alternative 'choice' given to many of these women is proof of sterilization in order to maintain or attain jobs. In choosing to approach the growing problem of workplace contamination in this fashion, management and industrial physicians ignore the effects of chemical toxins on male employees' reproductive systems, and obscure the larger problem of hazards to all employees' total body systems. This paper explores the political economy of the interactions between Society, the Medical System and Women in a Capitalist State, in order to uncover the flow of forces operating in this conflict. Using an historical perspective, a feminist analysis is made of the social order, and a model is presented which demonstrates the articulations between the domains mentioned above, particularly the historical control by the medical system as an agent of the state.


Associations among perinatal factors and age of achievement of full oral feeding in very preterm infants.
Progress to full oral feeding from a tube or parenteral feeding is a complex process for very preterm infants born before 32 weeks of gestation. The influence of infant characteristics and medical complications on feeding progression has not been studied thoroughly. The aim of this study was to constitute a regression model to estimate the postmenstrual age (PMA) of full oral feeding and the length of transition time from the initiation to completion of oral feeding. A chart review was conducted on very preterm infants born between 2005 and 2010 in one medical center in Taiwan. All enrolled infants were able to take all nutrition by mouth before discharge. A total of 117 infants fulfilling the criteria were included. The mean PMAs for the initiation and completion of oral feeding were 33.9 ± 1.7 and 35.1 ± 2.0 weeks, respectively. Infants required 7.5 ± 6.6 days from initiation to full oral feeding. The results of a stepwise regression revealed that the reciprocal of birth weight (beta coefficient = 3.81, p < 0.001), moderate-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (beta coefficient = 1.21, p < 0.001), necrotizing enterocolitis (beta coefficient = 0.84, p < 0.005), and patent ductus arteriosus (beta coefficient = 0.69, p < 0.01) were predictors for the PMA of full oral feeding. The regression model incorporating those factors explained 62.5% of the variation in the feeding outcome (p < 0.001). Gender, multiple gestations, mild bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and sepsis had no effect on the feeding outcome. None of the explored factors were significantly correlated with transition time. A regression model incorporating significant predictors to estimate the PMA of full oral feeding in very preterm infants was suggested. It could enhance communication between health professionals and parents about the feeding progress of infants born very prematurely.


[Regional differences of in vivo proton MR spectroscopy in developing human brain].
The purpose of this study was to clarify regional differences in proton MR spectroscopy (1H-MRS) in the developing human brain. Proton MR spectra were obtained from 24 infants aged 0 to 24 months old. Proton MR spectroscopy was performed on a 1.5 Tesla clinical MR unit using a 3D-chemical shift imaging sequence (3D-CSI). MR spectra obtained from voxels in frontal white matter and those in parietal white matter were compared. The NAA/Cho ratios of the frontal region were lower than those of the parietal region at birth but increased rapidly during the first six months of life. The rate of increase was reduced in the second year of life. In contrast, NAA/Cho ratios in paracentral areas were already high at birth but increased slowly through the first two years of life. Cho/Cr ratios of the frontal region were stable during the first year of life and started to decrease in the second year of life. In the parietal region, Cho/Cr ratios were decreased throughout infancy. Regional differences in 1H-MRS spectra were apparent during infancy, and these differences were suggested to reflect regional differences in the maturation of the developing human brain.


The centercept: an estimable and meaningful regression parameter.
Linear regression is a mathematical model that is employed broadly throughout all of social science research. The choice of parameterization for linear models has important substantive and statistical implications. This article examines the typical parameterization chosen, which includes a parameter for slope and a parameter for the y-intercept. The article demonstrates that the centercept has an interpretive advantage over the traditionally used y-intercept and that the centercept is typically estimated more accurately.


Pancreatic candidiasis. A case report.
A rare case of pancreatic candidiasis is described. The patient presented with weight loss, obstructive jaundice and a mass in the head of the pancreas. Intra-operative fine-needle aspiration cytology was consistent with a well-differentiated adenocarcinoma of the pancreas and a radical pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed. However, histological examination of the resected specimen revealed acute-on-chronic pancreatitis complicated by candidiasis with no evidence of malignant disease. The association between this variety of pancreatic candidiasis and pancreatic abscesses due to Candida albicans in acute pancreatitis is discussed.


[Alloplasty of the shoulder joint - introduction to the problem.].
The authors present a review of contemporary views on the problem of alloplasty of the shoulder joint. In the historical introduction they mention the development of surgery of the shoulder joint with the gradual transition from resection or interposition arthroplasties to endoprostheses of varying design which according to the principle of internal constraint can be divided into three groups, i. e. not compressed, semi-constrained and fully-constrained implants. Development revealed that the best results with the least number of complications are achieved with non-constrained implants which predominate nowadays in the production of most firms. The authors describe separately indications for hemiarthroplasties (which implies always implantation of the humeral component) and total replacement of the shoulder joint. Both indication groups overlap to a considerable extent. The spectrum of indications was extended considerably, from the original oncological indications, in particular by degenerative diseases (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic diseases etc.) and with regard to the rising number and complexity of fractures of the proximal end of the humerus (or scapula) also by traumatological indications (comminuted dislocated and luxation fractures, poorly healed fractures and fractures of severely osteoporotic bones etc.). Contraindications include nervous lesions with paralysis of the deltoid muscle or the rotator muscles, previous infection, an irreparable defect of bone tissue and a mentally labile, not collaborating patient. During the rehabilitation period a three-stage programme elaborated by Hughes and Neer proved useful. The authors emphasize early positioning of the operated extremity in maximal elevation. In the subsequent part the authors analyze complications associated with surgery of endoprostheses of the shoulder joint. In general it may be stated that the number of complications increases with the degree of constraint of the implant and fully-constrained implants are practically no longer used because of the large number of complications. The most frequent complications are a restricted mobility of the shoulder joint, instability - luxation of the endoprosthesis, impingement syndrome, lack of incorporation of protuberances, pseudoarthroses, infections, loosening of the implants, fractures, nervous and vascular lesions, heterotopic ossifications and permanent postoperative pain. In the conclusion the authors emphasize that replacement of the shoulder joint is not a simple operation and should be carried out by surgeons with great experience with surgery of the shoulder in departments adequately equipped for surgery and rehabilitation. Key words: alloplasty, endoprosthesis, shoulder joint.


Selective inhibition of inward rectifier K+ channels (Kir2.1 or Kir2.2) abolishes protection by ischemic preconditioning in rabbit ventricular cardiomyocytes.
Volume regulatory Cl- channels are key regulators of ischemic preconditioning (IPC). Because Cl- efflux must be balanced by an efflux of cations to maintain cell membrane electroneutrality during volume regulation, we hypothesize that I(K1) channels may play a role in IPC. We subjected cultured cardiomyocytes to 60-minute simulated ischemia (SI) followed by 60-minute of simulated reperfusion (SR) and assessed percent cell death using trypan blue staining. Ischemic preconditioning (10-minute SI/10-minute SR) significantly (P<0.0001) reduced the percent cell death in nontransfected cardiomyocytes [IPC(CM) 18.0+/-2.1% versus control (C(CM)) 48.3+/-1.0%]. IPC protection was not altered by overexpression of the reporter gene (enhanced green fluorescent protein, EGFP). However, overexpression of dominant-negative Kir2.1 or Kir2.2 genes using adenoviruses (AdEGFPKir2.1DN or AdEGFPKir2.2DN) encoding the reporter gene EGFP prevented IPC protection [both IPC(CM)+AdEGFPKir2.1DN 45.8+/-2.3% (mean+/-SEM) and IPC(CM)+AdEGFPKir2.2DN 47.9+/-1.4% versus IPC(CM); P<0.0001] in cultured cardiomyocytes (n=8 hearts). Transfection of cardiomyocytes with AdEGFPKir2.1DN or AdEGFPKir2.2DN did not affect cell death in control (nonpreconditioned) cardiomyocytes (both C(CM)+ AdEGFPKir2.1DN 45.8+/-0.7% and C(CM)+AdEGFPKir2.2DN 46.2+/-1.3% versus C(CM); not statistically significant). Similar effects were observed in both cultured (n=5 hearts) and freshly isolated (n=4 hearts) ventricular cardiomyocytes after I(K1) blockade with 20 micromol/L BaCl2 plus 1 micromol/L nifedipine (to prevent Ba2+ uptake). Nifedipine alone neither protected against ischemic injury nor blocked IPC protection. Our findings establish that I(K1) channels play an important role in IPC protection.


Putting science to work for health care reform: how much research is available to support improvements to our hospitals?
To assess how much Australian research is available to inform reform of hospital services. Bibliographic analysis using a MEDLINE search to locate all research publications focused on the organisation and delivery of Australian hospital services for the period 1996 through 2007. Number of peer-reviewed articles published by year and categorised by: study design (descriptive, methodological, intervention); type of intervention; clinical focus; and funding source. 679 articles on the organisation and delivery of Australian hospital services were published in peer-reviewed journals from 1 January 1996 to 31 December 2007. Of these, 57% were empirical research reports and 43% were commentaries. There were, on average, 32 empirical research articles per annum. Of the empirical research articles, 70% were descriptive, 23% tested an intervention, and 7% were methodological. Research output increased over time with increases in commentary and descriptive research being the main contributors to this trend. The main funding bodies for this research were universities and government departments. A small but growing amount of local research is available to support reform of Australian hospital services. To boost the amount of relevant research evidence, we need to: build formal partnerships between researchers, policymakers, clinicians and health service managers; make targeted investment in health systems and services research; and increase the use of routinely collected data for research.


Neurofilament light chain in cerebrospinal fluid and prediction of disease activity in clinically isolated syndrome and relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
Improved biomarkers are needed to facilitate clinical decision-making and as surrogate endpoints in clinical trials in multiple sclerosis (MS). We assessed whether neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory markers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at initial sampling could predict disease activity during 2 years of follow-up in patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and relapsing-remitting MS. Using multiplex bead array and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, CXCL1, CXCL8, CXCL10, CXCL13, CCL20, CCL22, neurofilament light chain (NFL), neurofilament heavy chain, glial fibrillary acidic protein, chitinase-3-like-1, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and osteopontin were analysed in CSF from 41 patients with CIS or relapsing-remitting MS and 22 healthy controls. Disease activity (relapses, magnetic resonance imaging activity or disability worsening) in patients was recorded during 2 years of follow-up in this prospective longitudinal cohort study. In a logistic regression analysis model, NFL in CSF at baseline emerged as the best predictive marker, correctly classifying 93% of patients who showed evidence of disease activity during 2 years of follow-up and 67% of patients who did not, with an overall proportion of 85% (33 of 39 patients) correctly classified. Combining NFL with either neurofilament heavy chain or osteopontin resulted in 87% overall correctly classified patients, whereas combining NFL with a chemokine did not improve results. This study demonstrates the potential prognostic value of NFL in baseline CSF in CIS and relapsing-remitting MS and supports its use as a predictive biomarker of disease activity.


Structural elucidation of in vitro metabolites of bavachinin in rat liver microsomes by LC-ESI-MSn and chemical synthesis.
1. Bavachinin isolated from Psoralea corylifolia has various activities, such as antimicrobial, antiallergic, antitumor and so on. Our previous study showed that natural bavachinin exhibits peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ-agonist activity. 2. In vitro studies on bavachinin metabolism were conducted using rat liver microsomes incubated at 37 °C for 60 min. 3. Structures of eight metabolites of the incubation mixtures were cautiously characterized using electrospray tandem mass spectra and three synthetic compounds. The results indicated that eight metabolites of bavachinin were biotransformed mainly through oxidation. 4. The metabolic pathways of bavachinin were elucidated in vitro. These results contribute to the understanding of bavachinin's in vivo metabolism.


Aqueous vasopressin response test in clinically normal dogs undergoing water diuresis: technique and results.
Studies were undertaken to develop a standard procedure and to establish reference values for an aqueous vasopressin response test in dogs with normal renal function undergoing water diuresis. After IV administration of 5 mU of aqueous antidiuretic hormone (ADH)/0.45 kg of body weight of 13 water-loaded clinically normal dogs, the mean urine specific gravity increased from 1.002 +/- 0.001 to 1.021 +/- 0.0058; the mean urine osmolality increased form 99 +/- 52 mOsm/kg of water to 933 +/- 252 mOsm/kg. The PCV, total plasma protein concentrations, and serum osmolalities decreased in all dogs during water loading and ADH administration, but slowly returned toward base-line values after discontinuing the ADH infusion.


Canine visual acuity: retinal and cortical field potentials evoked by pattern stimulation.
The visual acuities (i.e., visual thresholds for pattern detection) of four dogs under neuromuscular block were measured using visually evoked cortical potentials (VECP) and/or pattern-evoked retinal potentials (PERR). Stimuli were phase-reversing square-wave gratings with a mean luminance of 86 cd/m2 and 70% contrast. The mean of the VECP thresholds of two dogs tested was 12.59 cycles per degree (cycles/deg). The mean of the PERR thresholds of four dogs tested was 11.61 cycles/deg. The difference between VECP and PERR thresholds was not statistically significant. VECP acuities appear to be determined at or before the last stage of retinal processing (PERR). Our estimates of canine acuity are 1.3-2 times those reported for cats and 0.2-0.4 times those reported for primates when tested under comparable luminance and contrast conditions.


Influence of carnitine acyltransferase inhibitors on the performance and metabolism of rat cardiac muscle.
The effects of carnitine palmitoyl transferase I inhibitors were studied in isolated perfused rat heart and in in vivo studies with normal and diabetic rats. In isolated perfused rat hearts of acutely diabetic and Zucker rats, clomoxir (sodium 2[5(4-chlorophenyl)pentyl]oxirane-2-carboxylate) inhibited the oxidation rate of endogenous fatty acids and increased the oxidation rate of glucose. Etomoxir, an analogue of clomoxir, was used in the in vivo studies with normal and chronic diabetic rats. Etomoxir (18 mg/kg) was given daily for 6 days by intraperitoneal injection. This carnitine palmitoyl transferase inhibitor significantly ameliorated the decreased heart performance in diabetic rats. The concentrations of glucose, glycerol, triacylglycerol, cholesterol, and phospholipids in serum were lower compared with untreated diabetic animals. On the other hand, the lipid and the carnitine content of heart and liver increased in the etomoxir-treated rats. Carnitine palmitoyl transferase inhibitors have clear antidiabetic effects, but before using as an oral antidiabetic drug, the long-term changes of the lipid and carnitine metabolism should be evaluated.


Malignant chest wall endometriosis: a case report and literature review.
Endometriosis usually affects women in their reproductive years. Most commonly, the pelvic organs are involved. Involvement of the chest wall after hysterectomy is rare. The incidence of malignant transformation is less than 1% for ovarian endometriosis, but is unknown for extraovarian endometriosis. A 47-year-old woman who had undergone hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for endometriosis presented four years after surgery with a well-differentiated endometrioid adenocarcinoma arising in the background of endometriosis in the right chest wall. The tumour was resected, and the patient received six courses of adjuvant chemotherapy. Women with endometriosis-associated cancer require individualized management options, depending upon the histopathology and stage of the cancer.


Evaluation of essential oils in beef cattle manure slurries and applications of select compounds to beef feedlot surfaces to control zoonotic pathogens.
To evaluate natural terpene compounds for antimicrobial activities and determine whether these compounds could be used to control microbial activities and pathogens in production animal facilities. Thymol, geraniol, glydox, linalool, pine oil, plinol and terpineol were tested in laboratory studies for ability to control the production of odorous volatile fatty acid compounds and reduce pathogen levels in manure slurry preparations. Thymol is a terpene phenolic compound and was most effective for reducing fermentation products and pathogen levels (P < 0.05), followed by the extracts linalool, pine oil and terpineol, which are terpene alcohols. Select compounds thymol, linalool and pine oil were further evaluated in two separate studies by applying the agents to feedlot surfaces in cattle pens. Feedlot surface material (FSM; manure and soil) was collected and analysed for fermentation products, levels of coliforms and total Escherichia coli, and the presence of E. coli O157:H7, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Listeria and L. monocytogenes. The reduction in fermentation products but not pathogens was dependent on the moisture present in the FSM. Treatment with 2000 ppm thymol reduced the prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 but not Listeria. In a separate study, treatment with 4000 ppm pine oil reduced E. coli O157:H7, Listeria and Campylobacter (P < 0.05). Linalool was tested at two levels (2000 and 4000 ppm) and did not affect pathogen levels at either concentration. Natural compounds bearing terpenes can control pathogenic bacteria in treated manures and when applied to the feedlot surface in production cattle systems. Pine oil is a cheaper alternative to thymol and may be a useful treatment for controlling pathogens. The control of bacterial pathogens in animal productions systems is an important step in preharvest food safety. Waste products, such as pine oil extract, from the pulp wood industry may have application for treating feedlot pens and manures to reduce the pathogen load.


Room temperature synthesis and optical properties of small diameter (5 nm) ZnO nanorod arrays.
We report a simple wet-chemical synthesis of ∼5 nm diameter ZnO nanorod arrays at room temperature (20 °C) and normal atmospheric pressure (1 atm) and their optical properties. They were single crystalline in nature, and grew in the [001] direction. These small diameter ZnO nanorod arrays can also be synthesized at 0 °C. Control experiments were also conducted. On the basis of the results, we propose a mechanism for the spontaneous growth of the small diameter ZnO structures. The optical properties of the 5 nm diameter ZnO nanorod arrays synthesized using this method were probed by UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. A clear blue-shift, relative to the absorption band from 50 nm diameter ZnO nanorod arrays, was attributed to the quantum confinement effects caused by the small nanocrystal size in the 5 nm diameter ZnO nanorods.


Ocular injury during fetal endoscopy surgery.
A premature infant born at 31 weeks' gestational age was evaluated for periocular laceration and retrobulbar hematoma secondary to injury during a percutaneous fetal procedure. He later developed optic nerve atrophy.


The arts in spiritual care.
To explore the role of the arts in spirituality and spiritual care and the importance of the arts and creativity in health care settings, particularly where individuals are confronting life-threatening illnesses. Professional and lay journals/magazines, and personal experience with oncology and hospice patients. The arts are now viewed as an integral component of holistic care for patients and families. By offering opportunities to engage in the arts and creative expression, persons with cancer can be enabled to mourn, grieve, celebrate life, be empowered to endure their situation, and find healing and meaning. Comprehensive supportive care for cancer patients requires the efforts of an interdisciplinary team. Artists can play a role as a part of this team. Oncology nurses must be knowledgeable of the role of the arts and creative expression in the provision of care to patients with cancer and how to incorporate the arts into the cancer care setting.


Subcellular distribution and kinetic properties of soluble and particulate-associated bovine adrenal glycerol kinase.
The subcellular distribution and substrate kinetics of soluble and particulate-associated bovine adrenal glycerol kinase have been investigated. Whole adrenal, adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla were examined for distribution of glycerol kinase between soluble and particulate fractions. No major differences in distribution were noted between these tissues; of the total homogenate activity, 0-20% sedimented with the nuclear fraction, 24-36% sedimented with the post-nuclear fraction and 64-69% remained soluble. Steady-state kinetic parameters of glycerol kinase activity were compared in the soluble and mitochondrial fractions. The Km for glycerol in the soluble fraction was 6.3 +/- 0.1 microM and in the mitochondrial fraction was 4.0 +/- 0.3 microM. The Km for ATP in soluble fraction was 12.8 +/- 1.5 and in the mitochondrial fraction was 5.3 +/- 1.6. Release of adrenal glycerol kinase from the mitochondrial fraction was investigated using inorganic phosphate, ATP and glycerol 3-phosphate. Of these compounds, only ATP and glycerol 3-phosphate were effective in releasing particulate-associated glycerol kinase. Inorganic phosphate had no effect upon release. Particulate-associated glycerol kinase activity of the mitochondrial fraction was stimulated by addition of succinate and ADP and was inhibited by addition of atractyloside. The data presented here indicate that bound glycerol kinase found within the mitochondrial fraction is kinetically distinct from soluble glycerol kinase and binding to mitochondria is responsive to substrate and product levels within the physiological range.


[Multidisplinary approach to chronic back pain: postrehabilitation resumption of work the same 3-4 years later as after 6 months].
To determine the results of a multidisciplinary programme for people with chronic back pain 3 to 4 years post-programme. Prospective cohort study. In 1996, 143 patients with chronic back pain had participated in an outpatients programme, of 4 weeks duration, at a Back AdviceCentre. A follow-up study took place 6 months post-programme. This involved 99 men and 44 women, who at the start of the programme had a mean age of 41.6 (SD: 8.5; range: 23-58) and had experienced back pain for a mean period of 46.3 months (SD: 36.3). In January/February 2000 the patients were contacted by telephone and completed questionnaires concerning their current work status, pain intensity, perceived disability and complaints. The same questionnaires had been completed at the start of the programme and 6 months post-programme. Differences across the three scores were tested in a multivariate test for repeated measurements. Data were obtained from 130 patients; 103 (79%) persons were completely returned to work. The response was 92% (n = 130). As a result of back pain, 14 patients (11%) could not work or worked reduced hours compared with the premorbid situation. (This percentage was 13% at 6 months post-programme.) A further 9 patients (7%) could not work or worked reduced hours due to other health complaints. The average level of pain, disability and complaints was still lower (p < 0.001) than the pre-programme situation. The percentage of people who permanently returned to work following the multidisciplinary approach to chronic back pain, remained stable over a period of 3 to 4 years. The results were comparable to those obtained at 6 months post-programme.


A patient-initiated system for preventive health care. A randomized trial in community-based primary care practices.
To test the effectiveness of a patient-initiated, touch-sensitive computer system (TSCS) for improving screening rates for cancers of the breast, cervix, colon and rectum, and oral cavity. One-year, randomized, controlled trial with primary care practice as the unit of analysis. Sixty primary care practices, randomly recruited from 329 nonteaching practices in a southeastern state. Random sample of the medical records of 50 male and female adult patients before intervention and 50 adult patients after intervention in each practice and a random sample of 507 TSCS users. Touch-sensitive computer system and a registered nurse who served as liaison to the study practices. The TSCS provided patient-specific preventive service recommendations and facilitated work flow to increase the completion of these interventions. Average change, adjusted for health maintenance examination (HME) and use of the TSCS, in the proportion of eligible patients undergoing screening mammography, clinical breast examination, digital rectal examination, fecal occult blood test, flexible sigmoidoscopy, Papanicolaou smear, and oral cavity examination. We observed a significant increase in the completion of screening mammography (6.6%; P < or = 0.5) and clinical breast examination (6.1%; P < or = .01) in women 50 years of age and older, particularly for those who had an HME during the study year. Patients who have HMEs are more likely to receive cancer screening; however, a computer-based system for preventive services can contribute to improvement in screening. Among those patients who did not have an HME, TSCS users had higher rates of breast cancer screening than nonusers.


Nursing simulation: a community experience.
The education sector faces major challenges in providing learning experiences so that newly qualified nurses feel adequately prepared to work in a community setting. With this in mind, higher education institutions need to develop more innovative ways to deliver the community-nurse experience to student nurses. This paper presents and explores how simulation provides an opportunity for educators to support and evaluate student performance in an environment that models a complete patient encounter in the community. Following the simulation, evaluative data were collated and the answers analysed to identify key recommendations.


Laparoscopic detection of aberrant left hepatic artery: a prospective study in 300 consecutive patients.
Laparoscopic gastric banding comprises the systematic section of the pars flaccida and condensa of the lesser omentum. Aberrant left hepatic arteries (ALHA) originating from the left gastric artery are located in the pars condensa of the lesser omentum. The aim of the present work was to study aberrant left hepatic artery rate in a prospective series of patients operated on for morbid obesity using laparoscopic gastric banding. Between October 2001 and December 2003, a monocentric prospective study of 300 consecutive patients operated on for morbid obesity was carried out. There were 245 women and 55 men with a mean age of 39+/-11 years. Preoperative weight was 123+/-18 kg, mean size was 166+/-9 cm and preoperative mean BMI was 44.5+/-5.6 kg m(-2) . Data were collected intraoperatively using a questionnaire submitted to the surgeon with patient and ALHA characteristics. The ALHA were detected in 102 patients (34%): one ALHA in 100 cases (98%) and two ALHA in two cases (2%). The ALHA diameter was estimated by comparison using laparoscopic instruments. The median ALHA diameter was 2 mm (0.5-13). A diameter >or=3 mm was observed in 47 patients (16%) and <or=1 mm in 23 patients (8%). The ALHA presence and/or size were not correlated with patient age, BMI or clinical characteristics. Using laparoscopic detection, ALHA rate (34%) was higher than in the main previously reported series. This higher ALHA rate was not related to the patient age, weight or BMI but seems to be due to the great sensitivity of this approach.


Computational dose predictions for combined treatment of hemofiltration with weekly hemodialysis.
Hemodialysis (HD) has sufficient efficacy as a conventional diffusive treatment for removing small molecules, whereas hemofiltration (HF), which is a convective treatment, has an improved the clearance of intermediate-sized molecules. This paper reports a combined treatment (CT) which combines the diffusive and convective efficacies of HF several times weekly with HD weekly. CT modalities with various schedules and prescriptions are described mathematically using a variable-volume two-compartment kinetics model, and the kinetic parameters were obtained from previous clinical reports and a hemodialysis-related database. The blood concentration profiles of the three waste molecules for 52 weeks were calculated in order to compare the capability of removing small and intermediate-sized molecules to those of other renal treatments. The results by a computer simulation show that CT can reduce the frequency of sessions and the volume of replacement fluid compared with daily convective treatment, and achieve the adequate treatment efficiency with both small and intermediate-sized molecules for chronic renal failure patients.


[A meta-analysis on the association between high-density lipoprotein particle subfractions and cardiovascular disease events].
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) has cardio-protective effects. However, results from clinical trials showed that improving HDL-C levels alone did not reduce the cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and different HDL particles (HDL-P) subfractions may relate to different CVD risk. In this meta-analysis, we reviewed prospective studies reported relationships of HDL-P subfractions with CVD risk. MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched up to July 1st, 2013. Prospective studies that reported an association of HDL-P subfractions with the incidence of CVD were included and studies did not assess the hazard ratio, relative risk, or odds ratio of HDL-P and studies did not adjust for any other risk factors were excluded. All studies were extracted by 1 researcher and verified by another researcher. Full data were extracted from the studies meanwhile the quality was evaluated. Heterogeneity was analyzed. Pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval were calculated. Six studies were enrolled in this meta-analysis. HDL-P can be grouped into three subfractions: large HDL-P, medium HDL-P and small HDL-P. Only higher large HDL-P concentration was associated with decreased risk for CVD and pooled RR was 0.65 (95%CI:0.55-0.76). Medium HDL-P and small HDL-P were not associated with the incidence of CVD events. Higher large HDL-P concentration is associated with lower CVD risk. Assessment of HDL-P subfractions may thus be of great clinical importance for evaluating the CVD risk.


Peripartum cardiomyopathy: a case report.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a relatively rare form of acute heart failure. Onset is from the last trimester of pregnancy to 5 months postpartum. Diagnosis is made by excluding other causes of acute heart failure, such as infections or toxins, and by determining that the patient does not have an underlying cardiac problem that has been unmasked by pregnancy. Diagnosis in the last trimester is complicated by the fact that the early symptoms of this disorder may mimic the symptoms of normal pregnancy. PPCM must be considered in any patient who presents with new onset peripheral edema, dyspnea on exertion, or paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea during late pregnancy or up to 5 months postpartum. Limited studies suggest that early and aggressive therapy is associated with a better outcome. Therapy is directed toward decreasing preload and improving cardiac function. Return of cardiac size to normal is associated with a better prognosis than continued cardiomegaly.


Cannabis use is a better indicator of poor mental health in women than in men: a cross-sectional study in young adults from the general population.
Cannabis use is a known risk factor for a range of mental health problems, but less is known on the association with general mental health. We aim to explore the relationship between cannabis use and general mental health. We did a cross-sectional online survey of 1,929 young adults aged 18-30 years. Participants reported socio-demographic data, substance use and the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90). Monthly cannabis use was associated with a higher total score on the SCL-90, both in a crude (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.57-2.38) and fully adjusted model (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.07-2.03). The association between cannabis and mental health was stronger in women and weekly users, and was independent of age at first use of cannabis. We conclude that moderate cannabis use is associated with general mental health problems in young adulthood. This relationship is independent of age at first use and of other risk factors, and is strongest in women.


Atypical presentations of older adults at the emergency department and associated factors.
The objectives were to determine the prevalence of atypical presentations among older adults at the Emergency Department (ED) of a tertiary care hospital and to identify factors associated with these presentations. A retrospective medical record audit was randomly reviewed in 633 patients who were aged ≥ 65 years who attended the ED of Srinagarind Medical School Hospital in 2013. Demographic data were collected and were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Regression analysis was used to analyze the variables associated with the outcomes. The prevalence of an atypical presentation was 28.6% (181/633 cases). The failure to develop fever with a disease known to cause fever was the most common atypical presentation of illness (34.42%). Independent factors associated with atypical presentations were complicated urinary tract infection (UTI) (odds ratios (OR) 4.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.0, 10.84, p=0.00) and a background of dementia (OR 3.48, 95% CI 1.38, 8.77, p=0.008). The prevalence of atypical presentations of older adults at the ED was about a third. The absence of fever with a disease known to cause fever was the most common atypical presentation. Complicated UTI and demented patients were the independent risk factors associated with the atypical presentations. Early awareness of non-specific presentations and applying comprehensive geriatric assessments among older patients at the ED is recommended.


Effects of isometric exercise on the carotid baroreflex in hypertensive subjects.
Previous studies indicate that arterial baroreceptor modulation of heart rate is drastically reduced during static or dynamic exercise. We have investigated whether this reduction also occurs with regard to blood pressure modulation by the baroreflex. The study was performed in 19 subjects with uncomplicated untreated essential hypertension in whom blood pressure was measured intraarterially, and R-R interval was obtained by an electrocardiogram. The carotid baroreceptors were stimulated by neck suction of 30 seconds' duration, and equal stimuli were applied at rest and during hand-grip exercise performed at 40% of the subjects' maximal strength. Baroreceptor stimulation at rest increased R-R interval and reduced blood pressure. During hand-grip, the R-R interval responses to the baroreceptor stimulus were diminished by 61%. In contrast, the blood pressure responses were not significantly altered. Similar results were obtained when two subgroups of subjects with a lesser or greater degree of hypertension were separately considered. Thus, the carotid baroreceptor influence on blood pressure is largely preserved during exercise in contrast to the carotid baroreceptor influence on the sinus node, which is markedly impaired.


Attachment style as a piedictor of sexual attitudes and behavior in late Adolescence.
Abstract This research applied attachment theory to the study of sexual attitudes and behaviors in a sample of late adolescents. Four hundred and seventy heterosexual undergraduate students completed questionnaires assessing attachment (discomfort with closeness; anxiety over relationships). relationship history, communication about sex. sexual self-efficacy and locus of control, and attitudes to condoms. Eight weeks later, participants reported on sexual behaviors occurring during the eight-week interval. and perceived risk of these activities. Both discomfort with closeness and anxiety over relationships were associated with external locus of control for sexual outcomes, and with use of drugs before sexual contact. Anxiety over relationships was linked to unsafe sex and to negative attitudes to condoms, but discomfort with closeness was associated with a more cautious approach to sexual risk-taking. Some results were qualified by gender differences. and by differences between the full sample and those who were sexually active. The findings arc discussed in terms of attachment style and its links with communication and affect regulation. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that attachment dimensions are reliably related to many aspects of sexual attitudes and behaviors among late adolescents. Insecure attachment was linked to increased drug use before sexual contact. Anxiety over relationships was also linked to less safe sexual practice, but discomfort with closeness was associated with a tendency for males to be cautious about sexual risk-taking. The results support the utility of the attachment perspective on adolescent sexuality, but also highlight the complex relations between attachment dimensions and sexual outcomes. Future research would benefit from more detailed investigations of the attitudes, emotions, and cognitions which may mediate the link between attachment style and sexual behavior. For example, those who are highly anxious about their relationships may engage in more risky sexual practices because they fear that non-compliance with partners' wishes will jeopardize their relationship; the tendency to engage in drug use before sexual cpntact may reflect their attempts to boost self-confidence or to manage negative mood states. Research into these issues has the potential to explain how attachment insecurity is played out in patterns of sexual activity.


Obstetric anal sphincter injuries and the role of the midwife.
Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) can have a very negative impact on women's health and quality of life. Literature exists concerning the role of the surgeon and physiotherapist after OASIS, but there is a dearth of literature pertaining to the role of the midwife in the management of women following an obstetric anal sphincter injury. This article examines the midwife's role and describes a new service instituted at Hadassah-Hebrew University medical centre, Jerusalem, utilised in the early postpartum period while the woman is still in hospital, entitled Special Services for Perineal Trauma.


Three-dimensional characterization of the wind-borne pheromone tracking behavior of male hawkmoths, Manduca sexta.
We studied the relationship between vertical and lateral movements during free flight odor plume tracking by male moths, Manduca sexta, in a wind tunnel with the "horizon" set at different altitudes. Three-dimensional recordings revealed that the plume tracking males generated roughly equivalent movements vertically and laterally regardless of horizon height. We hypothesized that the moths' tracks would be narrower in the vertical plane when they were presented with visual patterns on the tunnel's side walls. Instead, we discovered that their tracks tended to be wider in the horizontal plane. Anecdotal observations of other moth species describe plume tracking flight in three dimensions as "spiraling", suggesting a specific predictable relationship between vertical and lateral movements. However, we found that the relative phase, frequency, and amplitude of the vertical versus lateral movements vary on a maneuver-by-maneuver basis with no predictable temporal or spatial relationship. Our analyses suggest that a moth's trajectory in 3D can best be described as progressing upwind toward the source while cutting through the plume from all directions with loops of different radii. This is a more precise description than the terms "zigzagging" and "counter-turning" which were derived from 2D analyses of this behavior.


Effects of hydrogen peroxide on mucociliary transport in human airway epithelial cells.
The effects of environmental pollutants on airway clearance have not been well elucidated. This study examined mucociliary transport using different sized-fluorescent particles on polarized human airway epithelial cells which were maintained in an air-liquid interface (ALI) culture system. The effects of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) exposure on mucociliary transport were also investigated. The movement of fluorescent particles with diameters of 10-14 and 2.5-4.5 µm was observed by fluorescent microscopy as an index of the mucociliary transport. The mixture of the particles with two different sizes was propelled concentrically on the apical surface by the interaction of ciliary activity and mucus in the control condition, whereas H2O2 exposure for 24 h significantly inhibited the movement of the particles. The particle sizes did not affect their movement after the control or H2O2 exposure. These results suggest that particle tracking on polarized human airway epithelial cells is a useful experimental tool for the evaluation of the effect of environmental pollutants on mucociliary transport. In addition, reactive oxygen species may impair mucociliary transport, leading to the airway damage and exacerbation of respiratory diseases.


Novel nanoplex-mediated plant transformation approach.
Here, a rapid and easy transformation by electroporation technique for gene transfer in plants using cell penetrating amino nanocomplex (nanoplex) has been demonstrated in Nicotiana. Nanoplex was prepared using cell penetrating amino acids (CPAs) such as poly-L-lysine (PLL) and Argenine (Arg), in combination with the gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). PLLs-modified nanoplex with zeta potential of 34.2 ± 1.22 mV charge showed 63.3% efficiency for gene transformation in plant cells as compared to 60% when modified with Arg and the zeta potential was found to be 30.0 ± 0.83 mV; whereas, the transformation efficiency without nanoplex was found to be 6.6%. The findings indicate that the zeta potential of positively charged nanocomplex (AuNPs/CPAs/DNA/CPAs) increases the transformation efficiency because of their ability to protect the DNA from electroporation wave and endogenous enzyme damage. Transformation was confirmed by GUS assay and amplification of npt gene. This technique may open up new possibilities of gene transfer in plants, which will enable to produce large number of transgenic plants.


Simultaneous determination of 5-hydroxytryptamine, its amino acid precursors and acid metabolite in discrete brain regions by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection.
L-Tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 5-hydroxytryptamine, and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) from discrete regions of brain can be resolved by isocratic elution on a C-18 reversed-phase column and quantitated by native fluorescence measurement. This method is rapid and simple and can reproduceably detect 5-hydroxytryptamine, tryptophan and 5-HIAA with picogram sensitivity. The detection of 5-HTP in brain extracts from untreated animals is difficult because of the extremely low endogenous levels of 5-HTP. Quantitation of 5-HTP presents no problem in animals injected with 5-HTP or with an inhibitor of L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase. Brain tissue requires minimal treatment for assay and the hydroxyindoles are stable enough to allow automated processing.


The ultrastructure of the striated muscle of the tail of Cercaria chackai, nadakal et al., 1969.
The electron microscopic study of the tail of Cercaria chackai reveals that it contains four sets of striated muscle bundles located central to the nonstriated circular and longitudinal muscles. The striated muscle consists of longitudinally oriented lamellar myofibres. Each myofibre contains a single "U" shaped myofibril. The banding pattern is analogous to that of vertebrate striated muscle. The sarcolemma is a simple surface membrane. There are no transverse tubular extensions of sarcolemma. The sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) is very well developed with cisternae, tubules, and vesicles. SR cisternae form dyadic couplings with the sarcolemma. There is a set of flattened tubules of SR origin traversing the myofibril exactly at the Z region. These tubules are unique to the striated muscle of the cercarian tail and may have functional significance. A diagrammatic reconstruction of the myofibre is presented.


Extracellular Vesicles in Molecular Diagnostics: An Overview with a Focus on CNS Diseases.
All known cells continuously release nanoscale lipid membrane-enclosed packets. These packets, termed extracellular vesicles (EVs), bear the signature of their cells of origin. These vesicles can be detected in just about every type of biofluid tested, including blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. The majority comes from normal cells, but disease cells also release them. There is a great interest in collecting and analyzing EVs in biofluids as diagnostics for a wide spectrum of central nervous system diseases. Here, we will review the state of central nervous system EV research in terms of molecular diagnostics and biomarkers.


Apoptosis progression studied using parallel dielectrophoresis electrophysiological analysis and flow cytometry.
Apoptosis is characterised by many cellular events, but the standard Annexin-V assay identifies two; the transfer of the phospholipid phosphatidylserine (PS) from inner to outer leaflets of the plasma membrane, acting as an "eat me" signal to macrophages, and the permeabilisation of the plasma membrane. In this paper we compare the results from the Annexin-V assay with electrophysiology data obtained in parallel using dielectrophoresis, which highlights two changes in cell electrophysiology; a change in cytoplasmic conductivity which correlates with PS expression, and a membrane conductance spike that correlates with permeabilisation. Combining results from both methods shows a strong inverse relationship between conductivity and PS externalisation. One mechanism which may explain this correlation is related to intracellular Ca(2+), which is known to increase early in apoptosis. PS expression occurs when enzymes called scramblases swap external and internal phospholipids, and which are usually activated by Ca(2+), whilst the change in cytoplasmic conductivity may be due to K(+) efflux from intermediate conductance (IK) ion channels that are also activated by Ca(2+).


The effects of repeated intra-articular PRP injections on clinical outcomes of early osteoarthritis of the knee.
To assess the outcome of intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections into the knee in patients with early stages of osteoarthritis (OA) and to determine whether cyclical dosing would affect the end result. This is a prospective, randomized study in which 93 patients (119 knees) were followed up for a minimum of 2 years. Fifty knees were randomly selected prior to the first injection, to receive a second cycle at the completion of 1 year. A cycle consisted of three injections, each given at a monthly interval. The outcome was assessed using Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Tegner and Marx scoring systems, recorded prior to the first injection and then at 12, 18 and 24 months. There was a significant improvement in all scores over time compared to the pre-treatment value (p < 0.001). At 12 months, both groups showed similar and significant improvement. At 18 months, except for KOOS (Symptoms) and Tegner score, all other parameters showed a significant difference between the two groups in favour of the patients who had received the second cycle (p < 0.001). At 2 years, the scores declined in both groups but remained above the pre-treatment value with no significant difference between the groups despite the patients with two cycles showing higher mean values for all the scores. Intra-articular PRP injections into the knee for symptomatic early stages of OA are a valid treatment option. There is a significant reduction in pain and improvement in function after 12 months, which can be further improved at 18 months by annual repetition of the treatment. Although the beneficial effects are ill sustained at 2 years, the results are encouraging when compared to the pre-treatment function. II.


Quantitation of hemoglobin F. An interlaboratory study.
Samples of whole blood from four hematologically normal adults and from two individuals with increased fetal hemoglobin levels were shipped to laboratories participating in the 1976 and 1977 Center for Disease Control (CDC) hemoglobinopathy proficiency testing surveys. The data from these surveys were used to evaluate the interlaboratory variability of current methods used to quantitate hemoglobin F (Hb F). Results of Hb F quantitation obtained from more than 100 laboratories than voluntarily participated in the survey were compared with those obtained from 21 reference laboratories. Individual values for all samples varied greatly among laboratories and among methods. Results returned by most of the laboratories were outside two standard deviations of the reference laboratory mean and were not accurate enough to differentiate between a normal level and an increased, abnormal level.


Element strategy of oxygen evolution electrocatalysis based on in situ spectroelectrochemistry.
Oxygen evolution electrocatalysis has received extensive attention due to its significance in biology, chemistry, and technology. However, it is still unclear how the abundant 3d-elements can be used to drive the four-electron oxidation of water as efficiently as in Nature. In this Feature Article, we will propose a design strategy concerning the optimization of the charge accumulation process based on our ongoing spectroelectrochemical study on Mn, Fe, and Ir oxygen evolution catalysts. Spectroscopic identification of the reaction intermediates showed that the activity of MnO2 and Fe2O3 was dictated by the generation of Mn3+ and Fe4+, whereas in the case of IrOx, the activity did not correlate with the valence change of Ir. The efficiency of charge accumulation through valence change is closely linked with the spin configuration of the metal center, because charge disproportionation, which was found to inhibit charge accumulation in the high-spin 3d metals, requires an electron in the eg orbital. In addition to directly increasing the overpotential through the generation of an unstable intermediate, charge disproportionation inhibits charge accumulation by dissipating the total oxidative energy of the system. A favorable charge accumulation process may also be beneficial for electrode kinetics due to the enhanced coupling between reaction rates and electrochemical driving force. The model proposed in this study may help explain why low-spin 4d/5d rare metals are often more active than the abundant high-spin 3d materials for multi-electron transfer reactions in general, and provides new insight into how active 3d-metal catalysts can be synthesized by optimizing the energetics of both bond formation and charge accumulation.


Video imaging analysis of the plasma membrane permeabilizing effects of Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal toxins in Sf9 cells.
The size and ionic selectivity of the pores formed by the insecticidal crystal protein Cry1C from Bacillus thuringiensis in the plasma membrane of Sf9 cells, an established cell line derived from the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, were analyzed with a video imaging technique. Changes in the permeability of the membrane were estimated from the rate of osmotic swelling of the cells. In the presence of Cry1C, which is toxic to Sf9 cells, the permeability of the cell membrane to KCl and glucose increased in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, Cry1Aa, Cry1Ab and Cry1Ac, toxins to which Sf9 cells are not susceptible, had no detectable effect. Pores formed by Cry1C allowed the diffusion of sucrose, but were impermeable to the trisaccharide raffinose. On the basis of the hydrodynamic radii of these substances, the diameter of the pores was estimated to be 1.0-1.2 nm. In the presence of salts, the rate of swelling of cells exposed to Cry1C was about equally influenced by the size of the anion as by that of the cation, indicating that the ionic selectivity of the pores is low.


See you in three months! The rationale for the three monthly periodontal recall interval: a risk based approach.
There is significant evidence to support the regular review of patients with chronic periodontitis. There is, however, comparatively little evidence to demonstrate how often such reviews should take place. This paper looks at the periodontal healing period, the risks of periodontal progression and current thinking about maintenance programmes. It thus attempts to establish some guidelines that practitioners may use when calculating recall intervals. The choice of individual, patient-focused recall intervals is essential to limit disease progression and maintain healthy periodontal tissues.


Predictive value of robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty.
Acetabular cup positioning, leg-length discrepancy, and global offset are important parameters associated with outcomes following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Deviation from an accepted range of values can lead to significant complications, including dislocation, leg-length discrepancy, impingement, accelerated bearing surface wear, and revisions. The purpose of this study was to assess whether robotic-assisted THA was reliable in predicting radiographic measurements of cup inclination and anteversion, leg-length change, and global offset change. All 61 robotic-assisted THAs that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were performed by a single surgeon through a mini-posterior approach. Data provided by the robot were collected prospectively, and radiographic data were collected retrospectively by 2 blinded independent reviewers. The cohort in this study consisted of 27 male and 34 female patients, with an average age of 60.5 years. A strong inter- and intraobserver correlation was found for the radiographic measurements of cup inclination, cup anteversion, leg-length discrepancy, and global offset (r>0.8 with P<.001 for all). Ninety-six point seven percent of robotic-measured inclination angles and 98.4% of robotic-measured anteversion angles were within 10° of radiographic measurements. One hundred percent of robotic-measured leg-length change and 91.8% of robotic-measured global offset change were within 10 mm of radiographic measurements. Robotic-assisted THA showed good predictive value for cup inclination and anteversion angles and measurements of leg-length change and global offset change done postoperatively on plain radiographs. Further refinement of the robotic system would make it more accurate in predicting the postoperative parameters mentioned.


Converging advances in science, policy and public awareness: A time of great opportunity and change in addiction treatment.
Scientific advances, increased public awareness about addiction as a disease, and significant changes in public policy have led to transformational changes in this field. Preclinical and clinical studies highlighted in this issue have supported the emerging concept of substance use disorders as a novel major concern within the healthcare community. In this Commentary, we discuss the potential impact of recent legislation (Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act) when fully implemented to end the real and perceived segregation of addiction and substance abuse disorders from mainstream healthcare and insurance reimbursement. These legislative changes, along with the diligence of public interest and scientific advances, have the potential to move prevention and treatment of substance use disorders to mainstream healthcare, and to educate professionals appropriately on the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.


DNA Methylation: A Frontier in Tooth Organogenesis and Developmental Dental Defects.
Tooth development relies on interactions between epithelial and mesenchymal tissues, which are controlled by sophisticated networks of conserved signaling. The signaling networks regulating odontogenesis have been well characterized, but the epigenetic mechanisms underlying remain to be elucidated. In this review, we describe current researches regarding the control of various genes expression by DNA methylation during odontogenesis, summarize genomic mapping of DNA methylation in various stages of tooth formation and diverse dental tissues by high-throughput approaches, and highlight the roles of DNA methylation in odontogenesis. Researches on mammals have revealed that the genomic methylation, which occurs on cytosine residues, regulates certain genes transcription. Consequently, DNA methylation plays a crucial role in spatiotemporal organization of signaling pathways, and is essential for organogenesis. Recently, mounting evidence proves that methylation of genomes contributes to the spatiotemporal gene dynamics during odontogenesis. With emerging new technologies of mapping cytosine modifications in global genome, investigators are seeking an overall view of DNA methylome dynamics that characterize genetic information to manifest across incredibly varied tooth development stages, dental tissues, and developmental dental defects.


Native American medicinal plants. Anemonin from the horse stimulant Clematis hirsutissima.
Anemonin, the dilactone of cyclobutane-1,2-diol-1,2-diacrylic acid derived from the cyclodimerization of protoanemonin, a known blistering agent, was isolated from Clematis hirsutissima, a plant used by the Nez Perce and Teton Sioux nations as a horse stimulant.


Cathepsin C modulates myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune-mediated inflammation, which attacks the myelin sheath. MS pursues a relapsing and remitting course with varying intervals between symptoms. The main clinical pathological features include inflammation, myelin sheath destruction and plaque formation in the central nervous system (CNS). We previously reported that cystatin F (CysF) expression is induced in demyelinating lesions that are accompanied by active remyelination (referred to as shadow plaques) but is down-regulated in chronic demyelinated lesions (plaques) in the spinal cord of MS patients and in several murine models of demyelinating disease. CysF is a cathepsin protease inhibitor whose major target is cathepsin C (CatC), which is co-expressed in demyelinating regions in Plp4e/- mice, a model of chronic demyelination. Here, we report the time course of CatC and CysF expression and describe the symptoms in a mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model using CatC knockdown (KD) and CatC over-expression (OE) mice. In myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-EAE, CatC positive cells were found to infiltrate the CNS at an early stage prior to any clinical signs, in comparison to WT mice. CysF expression was not observed at this early stage, but appeared later within shadow plaques. CatC expression was found in chronic demyelinated lesions but was not associated with CysF expression, and CatCKD EAE mouse showed delayed demyelination. Whereas, CatCOE in microglia significantly increased severity of demyelination in the MOG-EAE model. Thus, these results demonstrate that CatC plays a major role in MOG-EAE.


Studies on the interaction mechanism of aminopyrene derivatives with human tumor-related DNA.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons derivatives (PAHs) have been confirmed to be carcinogenic, teratogenic and mutagenic, and have the potential to cause human malignant diseases. In this work, interactions of two selected amino-PAHs (aminopyrene derivatives) and human tumor-related DNA were evaluated using spectroscopic and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) methods. Spectroscopic results demonstrated that there were remarkable interactions between PAHs and the targeted DNA with the order of the binding ability as 1-AP>1-PBA. The binding constants of 1-AP with the targeted DNA were at the level of about 10(6) L/mol, while that of 1-PBA only to about 10(3) L/mol. 1-AP with a short side-chain acted mainly as an intercalator, and its interactions with DNA were strengthened with electrostatic forces. As for 1-PBA with a flexible long side-chain, the intercalation mode was dominated with an auxiliary role of Van der Wals forces and hydrogen bonds. Besides, the binding abilities of amino-PAHs to p53 DNA seemed stronger than that for C-myc DNA. PAGE results showed that the binding of amino-PAHs could further change the conformation of DNA sequences from the duplex to the antiparallel G-quadruplex.


Reconstituted micelle formation using reduced, carboxymethylated bovine kappa-casein and human beta-casein.
In milk, kappa-casein, a mixture of disulfide-bonded polymers, stabilizes and regulates the size of the unique colloidal complex of protein, Ca2+ and inorganic phosphate (Pi) termed the casein (CN) micelle. However, reduced, carboxymethylated bovine kappa-CN (RCM-kappa) forms fibrils at 37 degrees C and its micelle-forming ability is in question. Here, the doubly- and quadruply-phosphorylated human beta-CN forms and 1:1 (wt:wt) mixtures were combined with RCM-kappa at different beta/kappa weight ratios. Turbidity (OD(400 nm)) and a lack of precipitation up to 37 degrees C were used as an index of micelle formation. Studies were with 0, 5 and 10 mM Ca2+ and 4 and 8 mM Pi. The RCM-kappa does form concentration-dependent micelles. Also, beta-CN phosphorylation level influences micelle formation. Complexes were low-temperature reversible and RCM-kappa fibrils were seen. There appears to be equilibrium between fibrillar and soluble forms since the solution still stabilized after fibril removal. The RCM-kappa stabilized better than native bovine kappa-CN.


Intraoperative estimation of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer by imprint cytology.
Frozen section biopsy has been widely used for intraoperative diagnosis and evaluation of sentinel lymph nodes, so a decision can be made regarding whether to perform axillary clearance during primary surgery. This study aims to discuss the reliability of a simpler and faster method - touch imprint cytology - in the interpretation of metastasis from breast cancer. A retrospective review of 41 sentinel lymph node biopsies from patients with breast cancer were examined by intraoperative imprint cytology using rapid Diff-Quick staining. Paraffin-embedded permanent sections were examined using hematoxylin and eosin stained sections from the sentinel lymph nodes in collaboration with the employment of an anti-cytokeratin antibody. Sixteen of all sentinel nodes harbored metastases in the paraffin sections, of which all 16 were identified by imprint cytology (sensitivity 93%). Touch imprint cytology is a fast and reliable alternative for intraoperative evaluation of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer patients.


A randomised trial of endobronchial ultrasound guided sampling in peripheral lung lesions.
The aim of the study was to evaluate endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) for peripheral lung lesions and to find the most cost effective combination of sampling techniques. 264 patients with lesions suspicious of malignancy were recruited in Bergen and Aalesund, Norway from 2005 to 2008. The study was a prospective randomised cohort study. EBUS was performed with a 1.7 mm rotating probe. X-ray fluoroscopy was used in both arms. The different sampling techniques were evaluated in a cost-effectiveness analysis. The detection rate for cancer was 36% in the EBUS group, 44% in the non-EBUS group (ns). Lesions below 3 cm and lesions assumed difficult to reach had significant lower detection rates in the EBUS group. Lesions visualised by EBUS had a higher detection rate for cancer than lesions not visualised by EBUS (62% vs. 19%, p<0.01). The cost of one additional positive sample was 1211 euro when brushing was added to biopsy. It was not cost effective to add washing or TBNA. EBUS did not increase the detection rate for cancer in peripheral lung lesions when bronchoscopy was performed by bronchoscopists at all levels of expertise. Biopsy and brushing was the most cost effective combination of sampling techniques.


Rapid detection of common CARD15 variants in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Three mutations (R702W, G908R, and 1007fs) within the CARD15 gene have been identified as independent risk factors for the development of Crohn's disease (CD). Virtually all studies investigating the occurrence of these mutations in patients with CD have used separate PCR-based methods to screen patient DNA, here we describe a novel multiplex amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) assay that allows the simultaneous detection of R702W, G908R, and 1007fs, and a fourth CARD15 variant, P268S, at a fraction of the cost of the pre-existing genotyping assays. Allele-specific primer sets were designed for each CARD15 variant, optimized separately for annealing temperature and MgCl2 and then multiplexed. The mutant- and wild-type-specific primers were split across two tubes so that each multiplex reaction was internally controlled for amplification failure. An additional primer pair specific to beta2-microglobulin was included as an independent control for DNA quality. The specificity of each primer set was tested using positive controls that had been validated by sequencing, and the robustness of the final ARMS assay was assessed by genotyping 111 Caucasian patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The specificity of each primer set was confirmed using a sequence validated positive control for each of the four CARD15 variants. Of the 111 DNA samples screened with our ARMS assay, a clear CARD15 genotype was obtained for 109 patients. Given the potential predictive value of R702W, G980R, and 1007fs, a robust genotyping method for these variants would be of considerable value both in diagnostic and research settings. Our ARMS assay only takes 3-4 hours to perform once DNA has been extracted and requires only 1U of Taq DNA polymerase, making it a rapid, reliable, and cost-effective alternative to current CARD15 genotyping methods.


Enhanced magnetic moments of alkali metal coated Sc clusters: new magnetic superatoms.
It is shown that the magnetic moments of Sc atoms can be significantly enhanced by combining them with alkali atoms. We present results of first principles electronic structure calculations of ScNa(n) (1 < or = n < or = 12) clusters that indicate that a ScNa(12) cluster consisting of a Sc atom surrounded by 12 Na atoms forming a compact icosahedral structure has a spin magnetic moment of 3 micro(B) that is three times that of an isolated Sc atom. This unusual behavior is analyzed in terms of the filling of the supershells 1S, 1P,... controlled by the nature and size of the alkali atoms and the more localized Sc 3d orbitals that hybridize weakly with Na sp orbitals. It is shown that even larger magnetic moments could be attained by controlling the relative position of 1S, 1P, and 3d states. Indeed, our studies indicate large magnetic moment five times that of an isolated Sc atom in the ScK(12) and ScCs(12) clusters, in which the 3d orbitals of Sc adopt a half-filled configuration, while the clusters are stabilized by filled 1S(2), 1P(6), and 2S(2) shells, the features making them as new magnetic superatoms.


Inner ear effects of exogenous hyaluronan in the middle ear of the rat.
1.9% hyaluronan (HA) (mol. wt. 3 x 10(6] was applied repeatedly into the middle ear of rats through a myringotomy. The function and structure of the cochlea was analysed by auditory brainstem recordings (ABR) at 2-31.5 kHz and by light microscopy. The myringotomy significantly impaired the ABR thresholds at frequencies below 8 kHz. Five days after the last application of HA, the ABR thresholds showed minor improvements at 6-8 kHz but were impaired at 12 and 20 kHz, as compared with control levels. One month after the last administration of HA, ABR thresholds were significantly improved as compared with the initial level at 2-6 kHz but normal at all other frequencies. After 3 months, all ABR thresholds had returned to the pre-treatment (normal) level. Five days after the last application of HA, the latencies for almost all frequencies were significantly prolonged for waves II and IV at the ABR threshold. After 3 months all latencies had returned to their pre-treatment (normal) values. Highly concentrated hyaluronan (1.9%) is free from ototoxicity but does have transient functional effects on the inner ear.


[Rupture of the round window membrane (author's transl)].
Labyrinthine fistula of the round window should be considered in the differential diagnosis of vertigo and sudden hearing loss occurring in patients, who are not only divers, during physical stress or exertion. Surgical exploration and closure of the fistulae are the only means of diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Since these fistulae may heal spontaneously in most instances early surgery is recommended after a short interval of conservative therapy. Five patients, of whom 4 underwent surgery and one was seen for an expert opinion are presented.


Methodologic issues in randomized trials of liaison psychiatry in primary care.
Most anxiety, depressive, and substance abuse disorders are treated exclusively in the primary care health system. However, recognition and treatment of these disorders in primary care is deficient. Psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions have been developed and proven effective in randomized trials in specialty care. However, the results of successful trials of mental health interventions in specialty settings may not generalize to primary care settings because of epidemiologic differences in patients, differences in skills of providers, as well as differences in the very structure of care. The importance of the development of innovative randomized trials to improve recognition and treatment of mental illness in primary care is emphasized, as well as the methodologic problems inherent in carrying out these trials.


Simplified split-bone technique for removal of impacted mandibular third molars.
A modification of the lingual split-bone technique is presented, based on an osteomucoperiosteal flap. The technique described is simple, and it requires less time and causes less tissue trauma than other accepted techniques. The bone exposure and bone loss are minimal. The complication rate is extremely low.


Targeting Villages for Rural Development Using Satellite Image Analysis.
Satellite imagery is a form of big data that can be harnessed for many social good applications, especially those focusing on rural areas. In this article, we describe the common problem of selecting sites for and planning rural development activities as informed by remote sensing and satellite image analysis. Effective planning in poor rural areas benefits from information that is not available and is difficult to obtain at any appreciable scale by any means other than algorithms for estimation and inference from remotely sensed images. We discuss two cases in depth: the targeting of unconditional cash transfers to extremely poor villages in sub-Saharan Africa and the siting and planning of solar-powered microgrids in remote villages in India. From these cases, we draw out some common lessons broadly applicable to informed rural development.


Inhibition of glucocorticoid receptors ameliorates hypobaric hypoxia induced memory impairment in rat.
Chronic exposure to hypobaric hypoxia (HH) causes neurodegeneration and loss of memory. The underlying mechanisms of HH induced memory impairment have been attributed to prolonged elevated corticosterone level in hippocampus leading to augmented glutamate excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, alteration of neurotransmitter level or their receptors and calcium mediated signaling. Whether this corticosterone mediated neurodegenerative effect occurs through overstimulation of glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) or is independent of the GRs, is not known. Four groups of rats were taken and GR blocker mifepristone was administered intraperitoneally during exposure to HH from 3rd to 7th days. Our results showed a duration dependent transcriptional upregulation of GRs and MRs following exposure to HH. Prolonged exposure to HH for 7 days augmented the translocation of GRs from cytosol to nucleus. Inhibition of GRs during hypoxic exposure improved the hippocampal ATP level and modulated the apoptotic markers like p53, Bcl(2) and Bax. Decreased expression of L-type calcium channel and NR1 subunit of NMDA receptors were also observed following administration of mifepristone during hypoxic exposure. Morphological studies following mifepristone administration during hypoxic exposure showed decreased number of pyknotic cells in hippocampus and decrease in apoptotic and necrotic cells in the CA3 region of hippocampus. The study indicates that elevated corticosterone level during hypoxic exposure causes neurodegeneration and acts through its binding to GRs indicating that inhibition of GRs may provide therapeutic effect in ameliorating HH induced memory impairment.


A multi-center, multinational age- and gender-adjusted normative dataset for immunofluorescent intraepidermal nerve fiber density at the distal leg.
Quantification of intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENFs) in skin biopsies is now the tool of choice to diagnose small fiber neuropathies. An adequate normative dataset, necessary to assess normality cutoffs, is available for brightfield microscopy but not for immunofluorescence. Intraepidermal nerve fiber density data in distal leg skin samples processed with immunofluorescence were collected from 528 healthy individuals from four experienced laboratories worldwide. In all laboratories skin samples were collected, processed and analyzed according to standard procedures. Quantile regression analysis was employed to tailor the fit of the 5° percentile as the normal cutoff value and to test and measure the effect of age, gender, body mass index, race, biopsy site (lateral distal lower leg or medial posterior mid-calf) and participating laboratory as possible influential variables. Age, gender and biopsy site showed an independent linear correlation with IENF density. For each decade the 5° quantile IENF cutoff showed a 0.54 fibers/mm decrease, whilst females exhibited a 1.0 fiber/mm cutoff greater than males. Compared to the lateral distal lower leg, biopsies from the calf showed a 3.4 fibers/mm lower 5° percentile cutoff, documenting a variation linked by site. An age- and gender-adjusted normative dataset for IENF density at the lateral distal lower leg obtained with indirect immunofluorescence is presented for the first time by sharing data from four experienced laboratories worldwide. This dataset can be used as reference for laboratories processing skin biopsies with this technique.


Carrying a 112 bp-segment in Helicobacter pylori dupA may associate with increased risk of duodenal ulcer.
The discovery of Helicobacter pylori in 1983 challenged researchers around the world to identify this pathogen's major virulence factors. The main rationale for this kind of research was to identify a biomarker associated with specific diseases following H. pylori colonization. Among different investigated virulence factors, duodenal ulcer promoting gene A (dupA) has been found to be associated with duodenal ulcer (DU), but its effect was different in various geographical regions. To determine the prevalence of dupA, we applied both classic primer pairs and our newly developed primers producing a highly conserved segment in PCR method. In our survey, 143 (47%) H. pylori isolates were obtained from 304H. pylori-colonized individuals [age range of 19-92; 113 (37%) males with the mean age of 50 and 191 (63%) females with the mean age of 49]. The presence of the dupA gene was investigated by using the different specific primers. The prevalence of the 112 bp segment isolated from H. pylori strains recovered from DU, GU and atrophy groups were significantly higher (81%, p value = .002, 64%, p = .065, 68% and p = .047 38%, respectively) than our control group, where the prevalence of the 112 bp segment was only 38%. Interestingly, a significant relationship was observed between the occurrence of DU and the presence of the 112 bp segment [p = .002; OR: 6.98; (95% CI: 1.94-25.00)]. Taken as a whole, we believe the 112 bp region of H. pylori dupA may serve as the first detected biomarker for the early detection of DU in patients admitted to hospitals.


Prognostic value of pretreatment circulating neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes in oropharyngeal cancer stratified by human papillomavirus status.
The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of the pretreatment circulating neutrophil count (CNC), circulating monocyte count (CMC), and circulating lymphocyte count (CLC) in human papillomavirus (HPV)-related (HPV+) and HPV-unrelated (HPV-) oropharyngeal cancer (OPC). All p16-confirmed HPV+ and HPV- OPC cases treated with chemoradiotherapy from 2000 to 2010 were included. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared for high and low CNCs, CMCs, and CLCs (dichotomized by median values). A multivariate analysis (MVA) confirmed their prognostic value in HPV+ and HPV- tumors, respectively. Five hundred ten HPV+ OPC cases and 192 HPV- OPC cases were included. The HPV+ cohort had lower CNC and CMC values but a CLC similar to that of the HPV- patients (P < .01). The median follow-up was 4.8 years. In the HPV+ cohort, a high CNC or CMC correlated with reduced OS and RFS in comparison with a low CNC or CMC (P < .01 for all), but no difference was evident in OS (P = .30) or RFS (P = .10) with the CLC. MVA confirmed that a higher CNC or CMC independently predicted lower OS (hazard ratio [HR] for CNC, 1.14, P < .01; HR for CMC, 2.95, P < .01) and lower RFS (HR for CNC, 1.11, P < .01; HR for CMC, 3.39, P < .01), whereas a higher CLC was associated with higher RFS (HR, 0.66, P = .03) and marginally higher OS (HR, 0.80, P = .08). In the HPV- cohort, CNC, CMC, and CLC were not predictive of OS (P = .16, P = .86, and P = .14) or RFS (P = .61, P = .59, and P = .62). This relatively large cohort study demonstrates that a high CNC and a high CMC independently predict inferior OS and RFS, whereas a high CLC predicts better RFS and marginally better OS in HPV+ OPC patients. This association was not apparent in HPV- patients.


Apical rotation by speckle tracking echocardiography: a simplified bedside index of left ventricular twist.
The study objective was to determine whether left ventricular (LV) apical rotation by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) may serve as a clinically feasible index of LV twist. LV twist has been proposed as a sensitive marker of LV function, but clinical implementation has not been feasible because of the complexity and limitations of present methodologies. The relationship between apical rotation and LV twist was investigated in anesthetized dogs (n = 9) and a clinical study that included healthy controls (n = 18) and patients (n = 27) with previous myocardial infarction. Rotation by STE was compared with twist measured by magnetic resonance imaging and sonomicrometry in humans and dogs, respectively. In dogs, apical rotation by STE correlated well with LV twist over a wide range of loading conditions and inotropic states, and during myocardial ischemia (R = 0.94, P < .01). Similarly, in humans there was a strong correlation between apical rotation and twist (R = 0.88, P < .01) but only a weak correlation between basal rotation and twist (R = 0.53, P < .01). Apical rotation accounted for 72% +/- 14% and 73% +/- 15% of the twisting deformation by magnetic resonance imaging in controls and patients, respectively. In dogs, apical rotation and twist decreased during myocardial ischemia (P < .05). In patients, LV twist and apical rotation were reduced (P < .05) only when LV ejection fraction was less than 50%. Apical rotation represents the dominant contribution to LV twist, and apical rotation by STE reflects LV twist over a wide range of hemodynamic conditions. These findings suggest that apical rotation by STE may serve as a simple and feasible clinical index of LV twist.


Fecal RNA detection of cytokeratin 19 and ribosomal protein L19 for colorectal cancer.
We attempted to specifically quantify transcripts of faecal cytokeratin 19 (CK19) and ribosomal protein L19 (RPL19) RNA expression of colorectal cancer and clarify their correlation with clinicopathological parameters and survival in combination. Solid fecal samples were collected and preserved before any treatment. Levels of faecal CK19 and RPL19 mRNA were measured using quantitative real-time PCR. An expression level higher than median value was defined as positive. Between April 2001 and June 2007, 92 patients were recruited. The levels of both markers increased in a trend as stage. Young patients (< 67 years) were correlated with higher rate of CK19+ (p = 0.001), so were higher stages but with borderline significance (p = 0.051). CK19+ and RPL19+ were highly correlated mutually (p = 0.001). Neither CK19+ (p = 0.12) nor RPL19+ (p = 0.14) alone was a prognostic factor of disease-free interval. However, CK19+/RPL19+ was shown to be with worse prognosis (p = 0.037), but not an independent factor in multivariate analysis with stage. Both markers were significantly higher in the patients of metastatic disease. The use of two markers will recognize the high risk group better than the single marker usage, though not reaching independent status yet. Multi-target strategy assay is suggested for fecal RNA examination.


Auditory processing measures: correlation with neuropsychological measures of attention, memory, and behavior.
It has been suggested that measures of auditory processing (AP) are sensitive measures of attention resulting in the high comorbidity of auditory processing disorder (APD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Others have found that selected AP measures share significant variance with memory tasks. The current study investigated the relation between AP measures and various neuropsychological measures presumed to measure attention and memory in 36 children with a mean age of 7.78 years (SD=1.61) referred to an outpatient facility. Results indicate that AP measures significantly correlated with each other as well as with some measures of attention, memory, and behavior ratings. Results suggest that although AP measures include elements of both attention and memory, these measures also appear to assess processes not tapped by other measures of attention and memory. The correlation of AP measures with parent-and teacher-rated withdrawal, parent-rated somatization, conduct, and depression, as well as teacher-rated attention, anxiety, learning problems, social skills, and leadership suggest that auditory processing problems may manifest in myriad behaviors across settings. Implications for practice and future research are presented.


Demonstrating Improved Multiple Transport-Mean-Free-Path Imaging Capabilities of Light Sheet Microscopy in the Quantification of Fluorescence Dynamics.
Optical microscopy constitutes, one of the most fundamental paradigms for the understanding of complex biological mechanisms in the whole-organism and live-tissue context. Novel imaging techniques such as light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) and optical projection tomography (OPT) combined with phase-retrieval algorithms (PRT) can produce highly resolved 3D images in multiple transport-mean-free-path scales. Our study aims to exemplify the microscopic capabilities of LSFM when imaging protein dynamics in Caenorhabditis elegans and the distribution of necrotic cells in cancer cell spheroids. To this end, we apply LSFM to quantify the spatio-temporal localization of the GFP-tagged aging and stress response factor DAF-16/FOXO in transgenic C. elegans. Our analysis reveals a linear nuclear localization of DAF-16::GFP across tissues in response to heat stress, using a system that outperforms confocal scanning fluorescent microscopy in imaging speed, 3D resolution and reduced photo-toxicity. Furthermore, we present how PRT can improve the depth-to-resolution-ratio when applied to image the far-red fluorescent dye DRAQ7 which stains dead cells in a T47D cancer cell spheroid recorded with a customized OPT/LSFM system. Our studies demonstrate that LSFM combined with our novel approaches enables higher resolution and more accurate 3D quantification than previously applied technologies, proving its advance as new gold standard for fluorescence microscopy.


Differences in quality of life between pediatric sickle cell patients who used hydroxyurea and those who did not.
The purpose of this paper is to examine the differences in quality of life (QoL) between two groups of pediatric sickle cell patients: those who used hydroxyurea and those who chose not to use the medication to treat sickle cell disease. The study was a quantitative, non-randomized, cross-sectional, comparative study. In total, 100 children ages seven to 17 participated in the study. Parents of the patients completed a demographic questionnaire while the participants completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (Peds QoL) and Sickle Cell Disease Quality of Life Inventory (SCD QoL). The Ped QoL regression analysis revealed that hydroxyurea use and parental marital status accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in Ped QoL. The SCD QoL regression analysis also revealed that hydroxyurea and age accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in SCD QoL. Finally, the regression analysis revealed that SCD, parental marital status, parental income, sex, age, race and number of siblings did not account for a significant proportion of the variance in SCD crises per year. This paper proved a need to study the differences in QoL between those pediatric patients who used hydroxyurea and those who did not use the medication.


Robustness and management adaptability in tropical rangelands: a viability-based assessment under the non-equilibrium paradigm.
Rangelands provide the main forage resource for livestock in many parts of the world, but maintaining long-term productivity and providing sufficient income for the rancher remains a challenge. One key issue is to maintain the rangeland in conditions where the rancher has the greatest possibility to adapt his/her management choices to a highly fluctuating and uncertain environment. In this study, we address management robustness and adaptability, which increase the resilience of a rangeland. After reviewing how the concept of resilience evolved in parallel to modelling views on rangelands, we present a dynamic model of rangelands to which we applied the mathematical framework of viability theory to quantify the management adaptability of the system in a stochastic environment. This quantification is based on an index that combines the robustness of the system to rainfall variability and the ability of the rancher to adjust his/her management through time. We evaluated the adaptability for four possible scenarios combining two rainfall regimes (high or low) with two herding strategies (grazers only or mixed herd). Results show that pure grazing is viable only for high-rainfall regimes, and that the use of mixed-feeder herds increases the adaptability of the management. The management is the most adaptive with mixed herds and in rangelands composed of an intermediate density of trees and grasses. In such situations, grass provides high quantities of biomass and woody plants ensure robustness to droughts. Beyond the implications for management, our results illustrate the relevance of viability theory for addressing the issue of robustness and adaptability in non-equilibrium environments.