Search

This article presents a model of intercultural learning that may be used in the planning and implementation of citizenship education in foreign/second/world language teaching. The Cycle model of intercultural learning aims at the development of global citizenship and comprises four phases: noticing, comparing, reflecting and interaction. Among the central concepts are critical cultural awareness, perspective awareness, local and global contextualisation, and decentering. The article further shows how language learning and intercultural learning may be integrated by combining the Cycle model of intercultural learning with task-based language learning and language learning via chunks and keywords. The argument is illustrated by results from an action research project carried out in Denmark in the school year 2021/2022. Thematically, the project draws inspiration from The UN Global Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities, and addresses students of English, German, and French in grade 8 (15-year-olds). In this article, the focus is on one of the English classes, but the article concludes with reflections on the relevance of all languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to describe the aim, data collection and content from a survey completed among pregnant women during the first peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Denmark. Methods: The declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 challenged pregnant women's mental well-being due to a concern for their unborn child and their need for healthcare services through pregnancy and birth. To explore how the COVID-19 pandemic and the intensified measures such as the lockdown of Denmark impacted pregnant women's well-being and mental health, we conducted a questionnaire survey in the spring of 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its first peak, and the consequences for pregnant women and the unborn child were very uncertain. All women residing in Denmark and registered with an ongoing pregnancy on 24 April 2020 were invited to participate. The questionnaire included background information, variables on COVID-19 symptoms and validated batteries of questions on loneliness, anxiety, stress, quality of life, meditation and prayers. Additional questions were included to examine concerns related to pregnancy and childbirth during the pandemic. Cohort characteristics: Almost 18,000 women answered the questionnaire, which represents 60% of all invited women who experienced a national lockdown for the first time. Their median age was 30 years, and they were more likely to be multiparous. Conclusions: Data from the COVIDPregDK Study will enable us to gain valuable knowledge on how the pandemic, the intensified measures from the health authorities and the national lockdown affected pregnant women's mental health and their concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The strong association between atypical endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial carcinoma is well established, but data on the risk of atypical hyperplasia and carcinoma in Danish women with non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia are almost non-existent. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of atypical hyperplasia and endometrial carcinoma diagnosed within 3 months of initial diagnosis (defined as concurrent disease) and the risk of atypical hyperplasia and carcinoma more than 3 months after initial diagnosis (classified as progressive disease) in Danish women initially diagnosed with non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia. Design This cohort study recruited 102 women diagnosed with non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia at Randers Regional Hospital in Randers, Denmark, between 2000 and 2015. Methods The endometrium was evaluated by transvaginal ultrasound examination and office minihysteroscopy with biopsies in all non-hysterectomized women. Data regarding subsequent hysterectomy or endometrial sampling were obtained from medical records and the Danish Pathology Registry (Patobank). Results A total of 15 women were diagnosed with atypical hyperplasia or carcinoma during followup. Concurrent atypical hyperplasia or carcinoma was seen in 2.9% (3/102), and among women who remained at risk for more than 3 months after initial diagnosis of non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia (n = 94), progression to atypical hyperplasia or carcinoma was seen in 13% (median follow-up 5.2 years, range 3.6 months to 15.1 years). Sixty-six percent of the women with progressive disease were diagnosed with atypical hyperplasia or carcinoma more than 1 year after initial diagnosis, but only two were diagnosed later than 5 years (5.2 and 9 years). Conclusions The risk of being diagnosed with atypical endometrial hyperplasia or endometrial carcinoma more than 5 years after an initial diagnosis of non-atypical endometrial hyperplasia seems to be low in Danish women. Specialized follow-up more than 5 years after diagnosis of nonatypical endometrial hyperplasia may not be warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian cancer (OC) survival rates are lower in Denmark than in countries with similar health care. Prolonged time to diagnosis could be a contributing factor. The Danish cancer patient pathway (CPP) for OC was introduced in 2009. It provides GPs with fast access to diagnostic work-up.Objective: To investigate cancer suspicion and pathway use among GPs and to explore the association between these factors and the diagnostic intervals (DIs).Methods: We conducted a national population-based cohort study using questionnaires and national registers.Results: Of the 313 women with participating GPs, 91% presented with symptoms within 1 year of diagnosis, 61% presented vague non-specific symptoms and 62% were diagnosed with late-stage disease. Cancer was suspected in 39%, and 36% were referred to a CPP. Comorbidity [prevalence ratio (PR): 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.29-0.98] and no cancer suspicion (PR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.20-0.60) were associated with no referral to a CPP. The median DI was 36 days. Long DIs were associated with no cancer suspicion (median DI: 59 versus 20 days) and no referral to a CPP (median DI: 42 versus 23 days).Conclusions: Nine in ten patients attended general practice with symptoms before diagnosis. Two-thirds initially presented with vague non-specific symptoms were less likely to be referred to a CPP and had longer DIs than women suspected of cancer. These findings underline the importance of supplementing the CPP with additional accelerated diagnostic routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine whether variation in transvaginal ultrasound examination rates in Danish general practice populations is associated with ovarian cancer outcomes, and to explore the impact of the introduction of a cancer patient pathway for ovarian cancer.Material and Methods: We performed a national register-based cohort study of gynecological cancer-free women aged 40 years or above, living in Denmark and listed with a specific general practitioner in 2004-2014. Practice populations were divided into quartiles according to the general practitioners' transvaginal ultrasound propensity in the preceding year. Associations between transvaginal ultrasound rates and ovarian cancer outcomes were analyzed using Poisson and logistic regression.Results: We included 2769 general practices with 1 739 422 listed women, of whom 5325 were diagnosed with ovarian cancer during the study period. Practices varied twofold in transvaginal ultrasound rates before and after the implementation of the cancer patient pathway. Before the cancer patient pathway was introduced, women listed with practices with the highest transvaginal ultrasound rates were diagnosed with earlier stages of ovarian cancer (odds ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.06 to 1.81) and had a higher proportion of borderline tumors (incidence rate ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.10 to 1.75) compared with women least exposed to transvaginal ultrasound. After the cancer patient pathway, no significant differences were identified between the groups.Conclusions: Before the cancer patient pathway, women exposed most to transvaginal ultrasound were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with early stage ovarian cancer compared with those least exposed to transvaginal ultrasound. After the cancer patient pathway was implemented, the difference disappeared. This suggests that increased awareness and access to transvaginal ultrasound is useful for diagnosing early-stage ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motor fatigue occurring during prolonged physical activity has both peripheral and central origins. It was previously demonstrated that the excitability of motoneurons was decreased when a spillover of serotonin could activate extrasynaptic 5-HT1A receptors at the axon initial segment (AIS) of motoneurons. Here we investigated the impact of massive synaptic release of serotonin on motor behavior in an integrated preparation of the adult turtle performing fictive scratching behaviors. We found that a prolonged electrical stimulation of the raphe spinal pathway induced a reversible inhibition of the motor behavior that lasted several tens of seconds. The effect disappeared when the spinal cord was perfused with an antagonist for 5-HT1A receptors. By demonstrating a direct impact of serotonin on motor behavior, we suggest a central role of this monoamine behind central fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a xenoestrogen that mimics the action of natural estrogen, estradiol-17β, and can disrupt the endocrine system. Present study was designed to investigate histopathological effects of BPA on some vital organs of major carp, Catla catla. Fish were exposed to various sub-lethal concentrations (1 to 4 ppm) of BPA in a semi-static system for 15 days. After the stipulated time, liver, kidneys and gills were dissected out and fixed immediately in 10 % buffered formalin. After embedding in paraffin wax, 5 micron thick sections were cut and stained with H & E and PAS stains. In liver, BPA caused central vein congestion, inflammation, edema, degeneration and necrosis of hepatocytes. Kidney anomalies included obliteration of bowmen's space, shrinkage and degeneration of tubules and glomerulus. Gills responded to BPA stress by hyperplasia of mucous cells, clubbing and degeneration of secondary-lamellae. The present study revealed that BPA causes degenerative changes in various vital organs of C. catla and severity of histological changes were dose-related. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Phthalates are reputed to cause toxicity on account of lipid peroxidation of cell membrane and generation of reactive oxygen species. The toxicity to spermatogenesis is manifested by decrease in Johnsen scoring, atrophy or disruption of the germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules. The present experiment was designed to investigate toxic effects on serum levels of testosterone and spermatogenesis caused by phthalates and their protection by vitamin E. Methods: Twenty four male albino rats were used, divided into three groups of eight animals each. Group A was given 0.4 ml of corn oil daily for 15 days. Group B was given 0.15 ml of Dioctyl phthalate (DOP) dissolved in 0.4 ml of corn oil daily for 15 days. Group C was given 0.15 ml Dioctyl phthalate and 10 mg of vitamin E, each dissolved in 0.4 ml of corn oil respectively, daily for 15 days. The mode of administration was oral gavage. Results: On histological examination the testes of animals of group B showed statistically significant decrease in Johnsen score (p-value < 0.001) with disruption of germinal epithelium and absence of mature sperms. These findings were associated with reduced levels of serum testosterone in this group. Coadministration of vitamin E and DOP to group C showed statistically improved Johnson score and testosterone levels as compared to group B. Conclusion: Phthalate induced testicular toxicity and effect on testosterone level were prevented by coadministration of vitamin E and DOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Adequate follow-up of women who have undergone conization for high-grade cervical lesions is crucial in cervical cancer screening programs. We evaluated the performance of testing for high-risk human papillomavirus ( HPV) types, cytology alone, and combined testing in predicting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse ( CIN2+) after conization. Design Prospective cohort study. Setting Denmark. Population 667 women attending for conization. Methods Cervical specimens were collected during 2002-2006 at first visit after conization for cytological examination and Hybrid Capture 2 detection of high-risk HPV. The women were passively followed until 2 years after first follow-up visit by linkage to the nationwide Pathology Data Bank. Results At first visit after conization (median time, 3.4 months), 20.4% were HPV-positive and 17.2% had atypical squamous intraepithelial lesions or more severe cytology ( ASCUS+). The 2-year incidence of CIN2+ after conization was 3.6%. Sensitivity for detection of CIN2+ after conization was 81.0% [95% confidence interval ( CI) 58.1-94.6] for positive cytology ( ASCUS+ threshold) and 95.2% (95% CI 76.2-99.9) for HPV testing and for combined testing. Specificity of ASCUS+ cytology (85.2%; 95% CI 82.0-88.0) was higher than that of HPV testing (82.4%; 95% CI 79.0-85.4) and markedly higher than that of combined testing (73.2%; 95% CI 69.3-76.8). The margin status had no significant added value. Conclusions Testing for high-risk HPV three to four months after conization is more sensitive than ASCUS+ cytology for identifying women at risk for relapse of CIN2+ within 2 years. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether HPV testing could be a stand-alone test in follow up after conization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride salts generate free oxygen radicals which cause lipid peroxidation resulting in cell membrane damage and toxicity. Morphologically toxicity to liver is manifested as ballooning degeneration of cells, necrosis and infiltration of mononuclear cells in hepatic lobules. Aims and Objectives: The present experimental study is designed to investigate the toxic changes in the liver of sodium fluoride treated mice and evaluate the protection provided by vitamin E. Four groups with 12 animals in each are used. Materials and Methods: Group A was given olive oil 6.67 ml/kg/day orally for 30 days. Group B was given sodium fluoride 10 mg/kg/day dissolved in distilled water + olive oil 6.67 ml/kg/day both orally for 30 days. Group C was given sodium fluoride 10 mg/kg/day dissolved in distilled water and vitamin E 15 mg/kg/day dissolved in olive oil both orally for 30 days. Group D was given vitamin E 15 mg/kg/ day dissolved in olive oil orally for 30 days. Results: On histological examination, animals of group B showed altered structure of hepatic lobules with deranged radiating hepatocytes, many of which manifested ballooning degeneration and statistically significant increase in their size (p-value < 0.001), vacuolation, presence of necrotic foci and periportal inflammation. These deranged histological findings were correlated with elevated levels of liver enzymes in serum. Co-administration of vitamin E and sodium fluoride to animals of group C showed statistically significant prevention of signs of degeneration in hepatic lobules. Conclusion: Fluoride induced hepatotoxicity is effectively prevented by co-administration of Vitamin E treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different herbal extracts and drugs had been tried to combat the isoniazid induced hepatotoxicity; there is no study before using propolis for abating isoniazid induced liver toxicity. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess protective effect of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) in isoniazid induced hepatotoxicity in male albino mice. Methods: Forty five male albino mice were divided into five groups, i.e. group A served as control, groups B, C, D and E were experimental. Group B was treated with isoniazid 100 mg/kg for 30 days. Groups C, D and E were pretreated with EEP 150 mg/kg for 10, 20 and 30 days respectively, followed by treatment with isoniazid for another 30 days. Blood samples were obtained on 30th day in groups A and B and on 40th, 50th and 60th days respectively in groups C, D and E for assessing liver enzymes and total bilirubin. Serial sections of liver 4μm thick were stained with H & E, PAS and PASD for microscopic examination. Results: Group B showed an increase in serum ALT, AST, ALP and total bilirubin levels; the general architecture of liver was deranged; necrosis, apoptosis, pyknosis, vacuoles and periportal inflammation were also observed. A decrease in the level of liver enzymes was observed in mice of groups C, D and E. Preparations from groups C and D showed some evidence of recovery, whereas in group E significant recovery was observed. Conclusion: Pretreatment with EEP (150 mg/kg) showed time related hepatoprotection against INH induced hepatotoxicity in male albino mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To evaluate the accuracy of different preoperative modalities for staging of endometrial cancer to restrict extensive surgery to patients at high risk of metastatic disease. Setting Aarhus University Hospital. Population 156 women referred in 2006-2011 because of atypical endometrial hyperplasia (G0) or endometrial cancer. Methods Patients were offered preoperative transvaginal ultrasonography ( TVS), magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI), and hysteroscopic-directed biopsies from the uterine tumor and cervix. Final pathology of the removed uterus was the reference standard. Patients were divided into low risk (<50% myometrial invasion, and grades 0, 1, 2, and no cervical invasion) or high risk (all others). Main outcome measures Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive/negative predictive value. Results Patients were aged 32-88 years, with a mean body mass index of 29. At final pathology 81% had cancer and 19% G0 or no residual tumor; 54% were high risk. Hysteroscopy-directed biopsies had a higher accuracy (92%) than endometrial biopsy (58%) for differentiating G0 from cancer ( p < 0.001); grade 3 tumor identification had similar accuracy (93 vs. 92%). Deep myometrial invasion was estimated with higher accuracy by MRI (82%) than TVS (74%) ( p < 0.02). For cervical involvement, hysteroscopy-directed biopsies had higher accuracy (94%) than MRI (84%,) and TVS (80%) ( p < 0.02). Accuracy for identifying high-risk women was highest (83%) using a combination of MRI and hysteroscopic-directed biopsies, compared with TVS and endometrial biopsy (72%) ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Preoperative staging with MRI and hysteroscopy-directed biopsy can identify eight of 10 women with high risk of lymph node metastases and spare eight of 10 low-risk women extended surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The current study aims to observe the histological effects of paraquat on the adrenal Glands of the mice after single exposure to sub-lethal dose of the drug. Materials and Method: Forty male mice, fifteen control (group I) and twenty-five experimental (group II) were used. Each experimental animal (group II) was given a single dose of paraquat i.e 20 mg/kg dissolved in 0.2 ml normal saline as an intraperitoneal injection, while for the control group (I) each animal was given an equal amount of normal saline by the same route. The exposure duration for the study was comprised of ten days. On the tenth day all the animal (control and experimental) were slaughtered. Whole adrenals were removed, fixed in 10 % formal saline for 48 hours and processed for routine histological studies. Results: Histological examination of the experimental group showed that the adrenal cortical sinusoids contained large number of erythrocytes, suggesting congestion of the organ; similar changes were observed in blood vessels of medulla. Conclusion: Findings of the current study demonstrate congestion in the sinusoids. It can be assumed that this congestion was due to the formation of peroxynitrite anion (ONOO-) which may have major role in the progression of the paraquat toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among women suffering from gynaecological malignancies in the Western world. Worldwide, approximately 200,000 women are diagnosed with the disease each year. This article deals with the health care seeking and symptom interpretation process among Danish women, who have a very high mortality rate. Methods: The health seeking and symptom interpretation process was analysed via combining study methods. The material consisted of registry data dealing with the use of public health care and hospital services of Danish women, newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer. These results were combined with findings from semi-structured qualitative research interviews on women's bodily experiences with symptom development. Results: A number of 663 Danish women with ovarian cancer attended 27 different kinds of primary health care providers in a total of 14,009 visits during 2007. The women also had 6,214 contacts with various hospitals, and obtained 562 different diagnoses. From the main theme "Women's experiences with the onset of symptoms" three sub-themes were identified: "Bodily sensations", "From bodily sensation to symptom", and "Health seeking and treatment start". In all cases the General Practitioner represented the first contact to public health care, acting as gate-keeper to specialist and hospital referral. The women were major users of public health care throughout the diagnostic process and subsequent treatment. All women held personal knowledge concerning the onset of their symptoms. The early symptoms of ovarian cancer might be uncharacteristic and non-disease-specific when interpreted as personal experiences, but they had similarities when analysed together. Conclusions: Diagnostic delay in ovarian cancer seems far from being exclusively a medical problem, as the delay proved to be influenced by organisational, cultural, and social factors, too. Initiatives facilitating the diagnostic process and research concerning the selection of individuals for further investigation are indicated. The way in which the women interpreted their symptoms was influenced by their personal experiences, their cultural, and their social background. This became crucial to the diagnostic process. These issues need to be explored through further research on women's experiences during the diagnostic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the organizational decision-making process used in the selection of evidence-based design (EBD) concepts, the criteria used to make these decisions, and the extent to which leadership style may have influenced the decision-making process. Five research questions were formulated to frame the direction of this study, including: (1) How did healthcare leaders learn of innovations in design? (2) How did healthcare leaders make decisions in the selection of healthcare design concepts? (3) What criteria did healthcare leaders use in the decisionmaking process? (4) How did healthcare leaders consider input from the staff in design decisions? and (5)10 what extent did the leadership style of administrators affect the outcomes of the decision-making process? Background: Current issues affecting healthcare in the community led the principal investigator's organization to undertake an ambitious facilities expansion project, As part of its planning process, the organization learned of EBD principles that seemingly had a positive impact on patient care and safety and staff working conditions. Although promising, a paucity of empirical research addressed the cost/benefit of incorporating many EBD concepts into one hospital setting, and there was no research that articulated the organizational decision-making process used by healthcare administrators when considering the use of EBD in expansion projects. Methods: A mixed-method, descriptive, qualitative, single-case study and quantitative design were used to address the five research questions. The Systems Research Organizing Model provided the theoretical framework. A variety of data collection methods was used, including interviews of key respondents, the review of documentary evidence, and the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire. Results: A participatory process was used throughout the design decision phases, involving staff at all levels of the organization. The Internet and architects facilitated learning about EBD. Financial considerations were a factor in decision making. The prevalence of the transformational leadership style among the organization's administrators exceeded the U.S. mean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus, were collected by fishing with drift gillnets on one spawning ground in Kuwait waters during 1998–2000. Fish size frequency, sex ratio, maturation cycle, spawning frequency, fecundity and egg weight were assessed. The length–weight relationship differed between sexes whereby females were significantly bigger than males. Spawning started in mid-May and continued until early October. During this time the water temperature ranged from 26.0 to 32.8°C, salinity was ≅ 39.0‰ and water depth ranged between 5 and 12 m. Large females spawned earlier than young spawners and the overall percentage of males during the spawning period was 70.3%. Spawning occurred after 13.00 h, with peak spawning between 15.00 and 18.00 hours during outgoing tide. Mean daily spawning frequency amounted to 63.2%. Spawning activity was found to be associated with the lunar cycle and spawnings were concentrated during the first and third quarters of the moon period, indicating a semilunar reproduction cycle. It was concluded that a female would spawn at least six times during the season. No change was observed in relative fecundity during the peak spawning season (June–August). Average relative batch fecundity was 176.3 eggs g−1 somatic weight (SW), corresponding to a relative total fecundity of 1058 eggs g−1 SW, which is 1.5 times higher than estimates obtained from counting the standing stock of oocytes. Bigger fish produced heavier eggs and the egg weight decreased as the spawning season progressed. Based on gonadal cycles, oocyte size frequency distribution and total fecundity, we concluded that silver pomfret is a multiple batch spawner with indeterminate fecundity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caseins are highly phosphorylated milk proteins assembled in large colloidal structures termed micelles. In the milk of ruminants, αs1 -casein has been shown to be extensively phosphorylated. In this report we have determined the phosphorylation pattern of human αs1 -casein by a combination of matrix-assisted laser desorption mass spectrometry and amino acid sequence analysis. Three phosphorylation variants were identified. A nonphosphorylated form, a variant phosphorylated at Ser18 and a variant phosphorylated at Ser18 and Ser26. Both phosphorylation sites are located in the amino acid recognition sequence of the mammary gland casein kinase. Notably, no phosphorylations were observed in the conserved region covering residues Ser70–Glu78, which is extensively phosphorylated in the ruminant αs1 -caseins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports isolation and characterization of a highly glycosylated protein from bovine milk fat globule membranes, known as PAS III. Partial amino-acid sequencing of the purified protein allowed construction of degenerate oligonucleotide primers, enabling isolation of a full-length cDNA encoding a protein of 330 amino-acid residues. N-terminal amino-acid sequencing of derived peptides and the purified protein confirmed 76% of the sequence and demonstrated presence of a cleavable signal peptide of 23 residues, leaving a mature protein of 307 amino acids. Database searches showed no homology to any other proteins. A survey of the human genome indicated the presence of a corresponding gene on chromosome band 11p14.3. Isolation and sequencing of the complete cDNA sequence of the human homologue proved the existence of the gene product (334 amino-acid residues). This novel mucin-like protein was named MUC15 by appointment of the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee. The deduced amino-acid sequences of human and bovine MUC15 demonstrated structural hallmarks characteristic for other membrane-bound mucins, such as a serine, threonine, and proline-rich extracellular region with several potential glycosylation sites, a putative transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic C-terminal. We have shown the presence of O-glycosylations, identified N-glycosylations at 11 of 15 potential sites in bovine MUC15, and a splice variant encoding a short secreted mucin. Finally, analysis of human and bovine cDNA panels and libraries showed MUC15 gene expression in adult human spleen, thymus, prostate, testis, ovary, small intestine, colon, peripheral blood leukocyte, bone marrow, lymph node, tonsil, breast, fetal liver, bovine lymph nodes and lungs of both species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The secondary structure and membrane-associated conformation of a synthetic peptide corresponding to the putative membrane-binding C-terminal 38 residues of the bovine milk component PP3 was determined using 1H NMR in methanol, CD in methanol and SDS micelles, and 15N solid-state NMR in planar phospholipid bilayers. The solution NMR and CD spectra reveal that the PP3 peptide in methanol and SDS predominantly adopts an α-helical conformation extending over its entire length with a potential bend around residue 19. 15N solid-state NMR of two PP3 peptides 15N-labelled at the Gly7 and Ala32 positions, respectively, and dissolved in dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine/dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol phospholipid bilayers shows that the peptide is associated to the membrane surface with the amphipathic helix axis oriented parallel to the bilayer surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the attitudes of patients toward the detection of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Percentage of respondents who expressed fear; Percentage who expressed anxiety; Percentage who experienced diminished well-being; Percentage who regretted having disease diagnosed.

Solid-state magic-angle spinning 31P-NMR spectroscopy was used to characterize the structure and composition of native casein micelles. The features of the magic-angle spinning 31P-NMR spectra, including overlapping resonances from mobile/immobile phosphorylated serine residues and inorganic calcium phosphates, have been determined using different experimental techniques and assigned by comparison with spectra of the presumed constituents within the casein micelle. Comparison with 31P-NMR spectra of α1-, α2-, and β-caseins in dissolved and freeze-dried forms demonstrated that a major fraction of the phosphoserines in these proteins was in an immobilized state within the micelle. Likewise, from 31P-NMR spectra of the C-terminal part of k-casein, it was shown that this region of the micelle has a considerable conformational mobility. Finally, magic-angle spinning 31P-NMR spectra for a series of inorganic calcium phosphates and mineralized bone tissue revealed that the micellar inorganic calcium phosphates exhibit structural similarities to hydroxyapatite and hence resemble mineralized bone tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine κ-casein was analyzed by SDS/PAGE, MS and amino acid sequence analysis in order to determine its multimeric composition and disulfide-bonding pattern. SDS/PAGE revealed that κcasein in the native state can range in size from a monomer to a multimeric structure larger than a decamer. Three types of interchain disulfide linkage, Cysll-Cysll, Cysll-Cys88 and Cys88Cys88, were all assigned in multimers purified from [14C]carboxymethylated and untreated bulk milk, as well as a milk sample from a κ-casein-variant-B homozygote Co20. These results indicate that multimerization occurs in a random or at present unpredictable disulfide-bonding pattern regardless of the size of the multimer or the genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carboxymethylation of bovine skimmed milk with 14C-labelled iodoacetic acid followed by purification of the αs2-casein dimer showed that all four cysteine residues in the protein are engaged in disulfide linkages. Mass spectrometry and sequence analysis of cystine-containing tryptic peptides revealed the presence of two interchain disulfide bridges in the protein. Sequence analysis of disulfidehnked peptides resulting from an enzymatic cleavage between the bridges demonstrated that the individual chains in the dimers are either aligned in an antiparallel or a parallel orientation. The identity of some of the disulfide-linked peptides was further verified by performic acid oxidation followed by sequence analysis of the resulting peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted on Oreochromis spilurus (Günther) fry (9,0 mm) in sea water (38-40‰) to evaluate the effects of three doses (40, 70 and 100 ppm) of a synthetic oestrogen, 17a-ethynyloestradiol (17-EE) on the feminization. specific growth rate (SGR), food conversion efficiency (FCE), condition factor (CF) and survival rate. The fry were fed a hormone-impregnated diet for 42 days, followed by a hormone-free diet for another 77 days. At the end of the experiment (119 days), successful feminization was obtained in all groups treated with 17-EE. The dose of 100 ppm was the most potent one and induced 92.2% sex reversal. At the end of the hormone-treatment phase (42 days), all groups treated with 17-EE and the untreated controls showed no significant differences in growth. SGR. FCE, CF, and survival rate. After 119 days, a significant difference was detected only in the mean body weight and total length where the EE-100 group had the highest values. However, this was due to the low survival rate in this group (37.5%) and not to any possible anabolic effect of 17-EE, The findings of this study indicate that seawater sex reversal of 0, spilurus is possible and 100% sex reversal could be achieved by slightly increasing the dose and/or duration of the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Epidemiological evidence indicates that exposure to arsenic contaminated drinking water during pregnancy may lead to various congenital abnormalities. The fetal renal tissue is impaired in relation to the developmental stage of kidney and to the amount and duration of arsenic exposure. This study evaluated the role of vitamin C and E in preventing the sodium arsenate induced mutilation of developing renal tissue of albino mice. Materials and Methods: Albino female mice of BALB/c strain (24), were randomly divided into 4 groups after confirmation of pregnancy. The control group A1 received 0.1 ml/kg body weight distilled water; group A2 was given a single dose of sodium arsenate (35 mg/kg) body weight on 8th gestational day (GD) by intra-peritoneal (I/P) injection. The groups A3 and A4 were treated with sodium arsenate (35 mg/kg) body weight on 8th GD and vitamin C, (9mg/kg/day) and vitamin E (15 mg/kg/day) by I/P injections, from 8th GD for the rest of the pregnancy period. The fetal kidneys were extracted on 18th GD. Three coronal sections stained with PAS and Masson's trichrome from each kidney, were randomly chosen and examined for tubular injury and interstitial fibrosis. Results: The mean scoring for histological changes in fetal kidney tubules/10 fields among various stu - dy groups was statistically significant (p < 0.000). Group A2 showed severe tubular necrosis and interstitial fibrosis confirmed by Masson's trichrome staining. Group A3 (vit C) and A4 (vit E) depicted mild to moderate improvement in tubular necrosis and interstial fibrosis. Conclusions: This study supports the role of vitamin C and E in ameliorating the developing renal tissue from the oxidative stress induced by sodium arsenate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among women suffering from gynaecological malignancies in the Western world. Worldwide, approximately 200,000 women are diagnosed with the disease each year. This article deals with the health care seeking and symptom interpretation process among Danish women, who have a very high mortality rate.Methods: The health seeking and symptom interpretation process was analysed via combining study methods. The material consisted of registry data dealing with the use of public health care and hospital services of Danish women, newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer. These results were combined with findings from semi-structured qualitative research interviews on women's bodily experiences with symptom development.Results: A number of 663 Danish women with ovarian cancer attended 27 different kinds of primary health care providers in a total of 14,009 visits during 2007. The women also had 6,214 contacts with various hospitals, and obtained 562 different diagnoses.From the main theme "Women's experiences with the onset of symptoms" three sub-themes were identified: "Bodily sensations", "From bodily sensation to symptom", and "Health seeking and treatment start". In all cases the General Practitioner represented the first contact to public health care, acting as gate-keeper to specialist and hospital referral.The women were major users of public health care throughout the diagnostic process and subsequent treatment. All women held personal knowledge concerning the onset of their symptoms. The early symptoms of ovarian cancer might be uncharacteristic and non-disease-specific when interpreted as personal experiences, but they had similarities when analysed together.Conclusions: Diagnostic delay in ovarian cancer seems far from being exclusively a medical problem, as the delay proved to be influenced by organisational, cultural, and social factors, too. Initiatives facilitating the diagnostic process and research concerning the selection of individuals for further investigation are indicated. The way in which the women interpreted their symptoms was influenced by their personal experiences, their cultural, and their social background. This became crucial to the diagnostic process. These issues need to be explored through further research on women's experiences during the diagnostic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to determine the presence of any residue-positive meat and urine samples from live sheep in the State of Kuwaitmarket by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method and to examine the accuracy and precision of the method. A total of 350 samples, including 230 sheep urine, 30 beef meat and 90 chicken, were subjected, after extraction, to an ELISA for the determination oftheir contents of the androgenic hormone, trenbolone acetate. The results obtained showed that the trenbolone acetate levels in the urineranged from 0.1 to 0.9 ng/ml and in the muscle tissue from 0.02 to 0.05 ng/g all of which are below the maximum residue levels accepted (2.0 ng/g) by FAO/WHO. The mean recovery and CV, respectively, ranged from 36.7% and 5.8 (spiking level to 0.2 ng/g) to 49.6% and 10.4 (spiking level 1.5 ng/g). These results were confirmed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis (GC-MS). Based on the data obtained, it was concluded that ELISA can be used safely for screening purposes,however, any suspect sample must also be analysed by GC-MS to exclude any false positive identifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]