Types Of Cl Research Articles

Parental Age and Severity of Non-Syndromic Orofacial Clefts: Relationship with De Novo Mutations

Background: This study investigates the relationship between paternal and maternal age, and the severity of orofacial clefts and the presence of de novo mutations in children. Methods: This was a retrospective study of individuals who were diagnosed with non-syndromic cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) and their unaffected parents, from 2012 to 2019. We obtained data from the AfriCRAN project database for Nigerians with non-syndromic orofacial clefts. These individuals were recruited at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos. Results: There was no statistically significant association between type of CL ± P and parental age in young fathers (p = 0.93). When older fathers were considered, the percentage of complete (more severe) CL ± P cases increased, especially when they were married to older mothers, and this was statistically significant (p = 0.036). In older fathers, the risk of CL ± P in their offspring was increased (OR: 2.66, CI: 1.04-6.80), and there was also an increased risk of developing right-sided CL ± P (OR: 1.61, CI: 1.0-2.59). There was a reduced risk of isolated clefts of the soft palate in younger fathers (OR: 0.36, CI: 0.07–1.71), but the risk increased when considering complete types (more severe) of isolated clefts of the hard and soft palates (OR: 1.63, CI: 0.7–1.7). There was an increase in de novo mutation in children as the difference between paternal and maternal age increased. Conclusion: The study showed that a higher risk of CL ± P and de novo mutations in children is associated with increased parental age.

Geochemical characteristics, Li source and genesis mechanism of thermal mineral water in Sichuan Basin, SW China

Thermal mineral water (temperature >25 °C) is a valuable resource, especially when it contains a certain amount of Li. In this study, an attempt was made to elucidate the factors affecting spatial distribution of lithium (Li) resources and interpret the formation mechanisms of thermal mineral waters in the Sichuan Basin. The spatial distribution, reservoir temperatures, and hydrochemical characteristics of thermal mineral waters were systematically analyzed in the Sichuan Basin, preliminarily revealing Li sources through hydrochemical methods. Results are showed as follows: (1) The Li-bearing (Li ≥ 1 mg/L) thermal mineral waters are mainly distributed in the southwestern part of the Sichuan Basin. There are three sites of thermal mineral waters with Li content greater than 25 mg/L with the hydrochemical type of Cl–Na type: Pengji Well (37.7 mg/L), Foguanghu Well (99.5 mg/L) and Zhougongshan New Well (118.0 mg/L). Among them, the Foguanghu Geothermal Well and the Zhougongshan New Well have high Li content and low Mg/Li (10.7 and 2.5), indicating great potential for utilization. (2) The Li-bearing thermal mineral waters are mainly formed in the fissure and pore reservoirs of the Middle–Lower Triassic. They are mainly affected by the dissolution of halite minerals and the deeply buried ancient seawater of the Triassic. The Li-bearing thermal mineral waters possess high contents of total dissolve solids (TDS) (4.3–230.0 g/L), Cl (0.7–142.9 g/L), Na (0.5–76.7 g/L), K (0.1–52.0 g/L), B (4.1–739.6 mg/L), and Li (1.5–118.0 mg/L). Moreover, the temperature of the geothermal reservoir ranges from 40 to 150 °C. The geothermal reservoir temperatures calculated by K–Mg and Mg–Li geothermometers are positively correlated with the Li content. (3) The Li source of the thermal mineral waters of the Sichuan Basin are dominated by multiple factors: first, Li concentration by evaporation, concentration and deep-seated metamorphism of ancient Triassic seawater; second, water–rock interaction between deep thermal mineral waters and mung bean rock or Emeishan basalt; and third, active tectonic activity and deep faulting induced upward flow of Li in deep fluids. This research enhances understanding of the formation of thermal mineral waters in the Sichuan Basin, offering scientific basis for the exploitation of Li resource.

Epidemiological Analysis of the Swine Perfringens Disease in the Aragatsotn Region

Over the recent 20 years, for the first time, the disease of swine perfringens has been studied in the Aragatsotn region of RA and related epidemiological analysis has been conducted. To identify A, C, and D serological types of Cl. Perfringens and special diagnostic sera produced by the Kursk biofactory were used. It has been found that the main serological infection type of swine perfringens is C and sometimes A and D subtypes. In the pig breeding farms of the mentioned region about 6887 heads of swine (aging from 3 days to 1 year old) were registered. Per the research results, about 45 out of 72 communities were recognized as insecure/vulnerable. As to the above-stated animal number, it should be mentioned, that 1722 heads of swine fell down, whereas 5510 were considered bacteria carriers. Thus, as a result of epidemiological analysis, the morbidity (bacteria carrying rate), mortality, insecurity/vulnerability, and focality coefficients (indicators) have made 0.80 (80 %), 0.25 (25 %), 0.63 (63 %), and 122 animals, respectively.

A Comprehensive Study on the Hydrogeochemical and Isotope Characteristics and Genetic Mechanism of Geothermal Water in the Northern Jinan Region

Geothermal water (GW) resources are highly valued as clean, renewable energy sources. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of water chemistry and isotope data from 25 GW samples was conducted to gain insights into the hydrochemical characteristics and formation mechanisms of the GW in the northern Jinan region (NJR). Statistical analysis and hydrochemical methods were employed for relevant analysis. The findings reveal that the GW in the NJR exhibits high salinity, with an average total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of 9009.00 mg/L. The major ions identified are Na+ and Cl−, with mean concentrations of 2829.73 mg/L and 4425.77 mg/L, respectively, resulting in a hydrochemical type of Cl−Na. The analysis of δ2H and δ18O isotopes indicates that the GW originates from atmospheric precipitation that undergoes deep cycling and interaction with older groundwater. The composition of 3H suggests that the GW in the NJR is a mixture of waters, while radiocarbon dating (14C) suggests that the recharge of the GW may have occurred in the late Pleistocene era. The GW in the NJR is classified as partially equilibrated waters. The temperature range of geothermal reservoirs is 57.13 to 99.74 °C. The hydrochemical components primarily result from water–rock interactions, including silicate weathering, cation exchange, as well as carbonate weathering and the dissolution of halite and gypsum. Moreover, taking into account the hydrogeological conditions, hydrochemistry, and isotope analysis, a conceptual model of the geothermal reservoir in the NJR was developed. The research findings serve as a valuable reference and foundation for the development and utilization of geothermal resources in the Jinan region. These originate from the Taiyi mountains in the south or the Taihang mountains in the west, and experience deep circulation and long runoff times. This study provides a reference for the sustainable development and utilization of regional geothermal resources.

Clinical comparative analysis of bacterial keratitis according to contact lens use: a retrospective study in a tertiary referral center of South Korea.

To compare the clinical aspects and treatment outcomes of contact lens-related bacterial keratitis (CLBK) and non-CLBK patients. Altogether 217 patients of bacterial keratitis (CLBK; 62, non-CLBK; 155) hospitalized between January 2012 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed for epidemiology, microbiological profiles, predisposing factors, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes. Poor treatment outcomes (PTO) were defined as a final BCVA < 0.3 (Snellen), a decreased visual acuity after treatment, complications, or surgical intervention. Relative importance of the initial clinical features leading to PTO was assessed using the random forest model and two-proportion Z-test. The most common predisposing factors were sleeping with wearing CL (51.6%) in the CLBK group and trauma (55.5%) in the non-CLBK group. There were significant differences between the two groups in mean age (35.1:55.1years, p < 0.001), female sex (56.5:34.8%, p = 0.003), symptom duration (6.2:6.9days, p = 0.019), gram-negative organisms (83.3:48.3%, p = 0.008), epithelial healing time (8.5:14.1days, p = 0.004), final BCVA (0.15:0.46 logMAR, p = 0.015), and PTO (9.7:21.9%, p = 0.035). For the entire group, the initial BCVA < 0.1 (27.9%), symptom duration ≥ 5days (19.4%), age ≥ 60years (16.4%), and hypopyon (14.0%) were important initial clinical features leading to PTO in the random forest model. In CLBK group, the type of CL or CL-related history was not significantly related to PTO. CLBK patients had a higher proportion of females, younger age, gram-negative bacteria, and better treatment outcomes than those of non-CLBK patients. There were no significant risk factors leading to PTO in either the type of CL or CL-related history.

Evaluation of the Prevalence Rate of Newborns with Cleft Lip and Palate in the City of Zabol in 2018-2019

Background: Cleft Lip and Palate (CL±CP) are congenital malformations that occur in two forms CL±CP and CL only. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of CL±CP and associated risk factors in a group of newborns in Zabol in 2020.&#x0D; Methods: In the present descriptive-analytical study, we examined all newborns born at Amir Al-Momenin (AS) Hospital in Zabol between April 2018 and the end of March 2019. Eighty-eight births in which this complication occurred were studied.&#x0D; Results: The prevalence of CL±CP in the total study population was 0.22% or 2.22 newborns per 1000 live births. In the present study, 35.2% had left unilateral CL±CP (n = 31), 31.8% had CL (n = 28), 20.5% had bilateral CL±CP (n = 18), 10.2% (n = 9) had CL±CP unilateral at the right side, CL 1.1% (n = 1) and 1.1% had medial cleft. The most common disorders in boys were CL, CL and unilateral left lip. In girls, CL± unilateral CP were the most common complications. Babies with left unilateral cleft lip and palate had the highest rate of anomalies.&#x0D; Conclusion: The present study showed that the prevalence of CL±CP in newborns in Sistan region is higher than national level. The prevalence of unilateral CL±CP on the left side and cleft palate is one of the most common types of CL±CP. This anomaly occurred more frequently in males.

Geochemical Characteristics of Geothermal Fluids of a Deep Ancient Buried Hill in the Xiong’an New Area of China

The Xiong’an New Area is one of the areas with the richest geothermal resources in the east-central part of China. However, the genesis of the geothermal water in Jixianian carbonate reservoirs in this area is still unclear. This study conducted systematical geochemical and isotopic analyses of the geothermal water in the Jixianian carbonate reservoirs in the Rongcheng geothermal field and summed up the genetic mechanisms of geothermal fluids in deep geothermal reservoirs. The results are as follows: the geothermal water in the study area has a hydrochemical type of Cl·HCO3-Na and originates from meteoric water in the Taihang Mountains. The age of the geothermal water increases from 22 ka in the west to 45 ka in the east, and its transport rate is approximately 1.02 m/a. The Sr concentration and 87Sr/86Sr ratio of the geothermal fluids increase along their runoff direction and are related to the dissolution and filtration of minerals such as dolomite and gypsum and the decay of 87Rb in the Earth’s crust. The geothermal water is involved in deep circulation and occurs in a closed system. These results are consistent with those obtained using the PHREEQC inverse model. The reverse hydrogeochemical simulation results exhibited the precipitation of gypsum and halite, the dissolution of anorthite and quartz, and desulfurization. The geothermal reservoir temperatures were estimated to be 92–113 °C using a SiO2 geothermometer, and the thermal groundwater may have undergone deep circulation, with a prolonged retention time. Moreover, the groundwater occurs in a closed environment, strong water-rock interactions occur between the groundwater and related minerals, and the groundwater absorbs the heat from the deep heat source, thus forming geothermal water.

Hydrochemical evolution characteristics and genesis of groundwater under long-term infiltration (2007—2018) of reclaimed water in Chaobai River, Beijing

The reuse of reclaimed water (RW) for river ecological restoration in global water-shortage regions has inevitably brought some potential risks for groundwater. However, little is known about the effects of reclaimed water on the hydrochemical evolution of groundwater especially under long-term infiltration conditions. Herein, 11-years monitoring data (2007–2018) of reclaimed water and groundwater were adopted to analyze the characteristics and genesis of groundwater hydrochemical evolution under long-term infiltration of reclaimed water from Jian River to Chaobai River in Beijing. The results showed that the hydrochemical components in groundwater totally performed a significant increase in Na+, Cl–, and K+and decrease in Ca2+, Mg2+, and HCO3– concentration after long-term infiltration of reclaimed water. Meanwhile, a significant hydrochemical evolution difference between the groundwater of Jian River and Chaobai River was observed. In Jian River, the hydrochemical type in groundwater shifted gradually from HCO3–Ca·Mg to the type of HCO3·Cl–Na·Ca approaching reclaimed water. In contrast, the hydrochemical evolution in the Chaobai River shows an obvious opposite trend from HCO3–Ca·Mg to HCO3·Cl–Na·Mg and finally deviating reclaimed water type of Cl·HCO3·SO4–Na. PHREEQC simulation indicated that the differences in hydrochemical evolution were mediated synergically by sediment thickness and geochemical processes (e.g. mixing and sulfate reduction). In such mediators, thinner sediment and strong mixing in the Jian River were confirmed to be the genesis of groundwater hydrochemical evolution progressively approaching reclaimed water. Different from the Jian River, multiple regression analyses revealed that the genesis of groundwater hydrochemical evolution in the Chaobai River was divided into two stages according to the increase of sediment thickness. Reclaimed water quality and infiltration amount are the leading proposed cause in the initial stage (2007–2008) due to thinner sediment formation, contributing 53.5% and 29.8% within the 95% confidence interval, respectively. Subsequently, the rise in sediment thickness is proved to play a crucial role in groundwater hydrochemical evolution trend away from reclaimed water (2009–2018), with a contribution of 41.6% within the 95% confidence interval. It is mainly attributed to the reduced reclaimed water infiltration rate and favorable sulfate reduction conditions. These findings advance our understanding on groundwater hydrochemical evolution under long-term infiltration of reclaimed water and also guide future prediction of evolution trends.

Acanthamoeba keratitis in contact lens wearers in a tertiary center of Tunisia, North Africa

PurposeTo analyze the epidemiological and clinical features of Acanathamoeba keratitis AK and to assess the risk factors of this corneal infection in contact lens CL wearers in a tertiary center of Tunisia, North Africa. MethodsWe carried out a retrospective study between January 2008 and December 2019 in the ophthtalmology department of a referral center, Sousse, Tunisia. A review of the chart of 248 patients using CL and diagnosed with presumed infectious keratitis was done.Socio demographic, risk behaviors and microbiological findings in case of AK were analyzed. The mean follow-up was 18 months (1 month–4 years). ResultsAK was diagnosed in 29 cases (11.7% of contact lens wearers with infectious keratitis). These 29 cases were analyzed. The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 33, 44 ± 26, 9 years. Almost of the patients (13; 44.82%) used soft monthly disposable contact lenses. Some risk behaviors related to contact lens wearing were found in our study like not washing and drying hands before CL wear, sleeping in CL, topping off, not respecting the adequate replacement frequency and showering or swimming in CL.After treatment, visual acuity improved only in 10 cases (34.48%), remained the same in 11 cases (37.93%) and worsened in 8 cases (27.58%). ConclusionClinicians must suspect AK in each CL wearer with suggestive clinical signs to allow earlier treatment and better prognosis. Public prevention messages that encourage CL wearers to respect the hygiene rules should be broadly applicable to each person using any type of CL, to minimize the risk of AK.

Emission characteristics of water-soluble ions in PM2.5 released by forest fuel combustion in Great Xing'an Mountains, Inner Mongolia, China.

Understanding the emission factors of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) released by forest fuel combustion is important for revealing the impacts of forest fire on atmosphere and ecosystem. Water-soluble ions are important components of fine particulate matter, with great significance to the formation of particulate matter. A self-designed biomass combustion system was used to simulate the combustion of three components (trunks, branches, barks) and their surface dead fuel (litter, semi-humus, humus) of five tree species (Quercus mongolica, Betula platyphylla, Larix gmelinii, Betula dahurica, Populus davidiana) and branches of three shrub species (Corylus heterophylla, Lespedeza bicolor, Rhododendron dauricum) in Great Xing'an Mountains in Inner Mongolia. The water-soluble ion emission factors (Na+, NH4+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, F-, Cl-, NO3-, NO2-, SO42-) in PM2.5 under two combustion conditions (smoldering and flaming) were measured by ISC1100 ion chromatograph. The results showed that for the water-soluble ion detected in PM2.5 from combustion of all types of materials, K+, Cl- and Na+ were the main components in smoldering, while K+, Cl- and SO42- were the main components in flaming. There was significant difference in the total amount of water-soluble ions in PM2.5 from the same type of material under different combustion conditions. During the smoldering period, the emission factor of water-soluble inorganic ions in PM2.5 of shrub branches was higher than that of flaming. The cation to anion ratio in PM2.5 was 1.26 for all trees, 1.12 for surface dead fuel of trees, and 2.0 for branch of shrub, indicating that the particulate matter was alkaline. Forest fires in Great Xing'an Mountains could not result in ecosystem acidification by releasing water-soluble ions.

Micromagnetic Characterization of Operation-Induced Damage in Charpy Specimens of RPV Steels

The embrittlement of two types of nuclear pressure vessel steel, 15Kh2NMFA and A508 Cl.2, was studied using two different methods of magnetic nondestructive testing: micromagnetic multiparameter microstructure and stress analysis (3MA-X8) and magnetic adaptive testing (MAT). The microstructure and mechanical properties of reactor pressure vessel (RPV) materials are modified due to neutron irradiation; this material degradation can be characterized using magnetic methods. For the first time, the progressive change in material properties due to neutron irradiation was investigated on the same specimens, before and after neutron irradiation. A correlation was found between magnetic characteristics and neutron-irradiation-induced damage, regardless of the type of material or the applied measurement technique. The results of the individual micromagnetic measurements proved their suitability for characterizing the degradation of RPV steel caused by simulated operating conditions. A calibration/training procedure was applied on the merged outcome of both testing methods, producing excellent results in predicting transition temperature, yield strength, and mechanical hardness for both materials.

Roles of Ion and Water Channels in the Cell Death and Survival of Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Cancers.

Ion and water channels were recently shown to be involved in cancer cell functions, and various transporter types have been detected in upper gastrointestinal tract (UGI) cancers. Current information on the expression and roles of these channels and transporters in the death and survival of UGI cancer cells was reviewed herein, and the potential of their regulation for cancer management was investigated. Esophageal cancer (EC) and gastric cancer (GC) cells and tissues express many different types of ion channels, including voltage-gated K+, Cl–, and Ca2+, and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which regulate the progression of cancer. Aquaporin (AQP) 1, 3, and 5 are water channels that contribute to the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and GC. Intracellular pH regulators, including the anion exchanger (AE), sodium hydrogen exchanger (NHE), and vacuolar H+-ATPases (V-ATPase), also play roles in the functions of UGI cancer cells. We have previously conducted gene expression profiling and revealed that the regulatory mechanisms underlying apoptosis in ESCC cells involved various types of Cl– channels, Ca2+ channels, water channels, and pH regulators (Shimizu et al., 2014; Ariyoshi et al., 2017; Shiozaki et al., 2017, 2018a; Kobayashi et al., 2018; Yamazato et al., 2018; Konishi et al., 2019; Kudou et al., 2019; Katsurahara et al., 2020, 2021; Matsumoto et al., 2021; Mitsuda et al., 2021). We have also previously demonstrated the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of their expression in ESCC patients, and shown that their pharmacological blockage and gene silencing had an impact on carcinogenesis, indicating their potential as targets for the treatment of UGI cancers. A more detailed understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying cell death and survival of UGI cancers may result in the application of cellular physiological methods as novel therapeutic approaches.

Visualization of Bubble Behavior on Hydrophobic Coated CL in PEM Water Electrolysis Cell

Due to the need for a new energy infrastructure, water electrolysis technology is receiving increased attention (1), (2). One of the serious problems is management of generated oxygen bubbles which inhibit water supply to the CL. Therefore, bubble behavior was observed on three types of CL with hydrophilic and hydrophobic surface by using a high-speed camera. A single cell, shown in Fig. 1, was used for observing oxygen bubble behavior. Nafion-117 was used as PEM, and IrOx and Pt/C was used anode and cathode catalyst, respectively. Sinterd Ti with Pt plating was used for anode porous transport layer (PTL). Three types of PTFE coated CL were prepared: (a) no coating, (b) coated all and (c) coated half. High-speed camera (Redlake MASD, HS-1), magnifying glass (Hirox, cx-10c) and objective lens (Hirox, OL-35) were used. Electrochemical measurement system (Bio-Logic, SP-240) was used for applying voltage, and the voltage sweep was performed at a rate of 4 mV/s until the cell voltage turned from 0 V to 2.5 V. The current density at voltage of 2.5 V was about 4200 mA/cm2 for CL (a), 1200 mA/cm2 for CL (b) and 3700 mA/cm2 for CL (c). A big bubble covering entire PTL hole was visualized in Fig. 2 (b). In Fig. 2 (c), smaller bubbles appeared from left PTFE uncoated area were merged into a bigger bubble, which stayed on right PTFE coated area. The size of bubbles staying on the edge of PTL-holl in Fig. 2 (a) was smaller than those of (b, c). The results may suggest that the CL (b) deteriorated the cell performance because of the bubble covering entire reaction area. From this experiment, we could control stagnation of bubbles on CL by PTFE treatment. There may be some possibilities that controlling bubble stagnation make some differences on cell performance.Acknowledgements: This study was based on results obtained from a project (JPNP14021) commissioned by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).Reference:(1) G. Bender, et al, Int. J. Hydrogen Energy, 44 (2019), 9174-9187(2) S. Mitsushima et al, ECS Meeting s, MA2019-02 (2019), 1715. Figure 1

Factors Affecting Pregnancy Rate Per Embryo Transfer of In Vivo Produced Embryos in Recipient Holstein Heifers

The present study aimed to determine factors responsible for variation of pregnancy establishment after transfer of in vivo produced embryos into recipient Holstein heifers. Embryos were produced from 19 donor Holstein cows using two super-stimulation protocols, estradiol-based and GnRH-based. A total of 95 fresh transfers have been carried out into previously selected recipient heifers and the grade of transferred embryo was recorded. Pregnancy was diagnosed in recipients 30 days after transfer. Serum samples were obtained from recipients on day of transfer and their ovaries were scanned using ultrasonography to record the type of CL (compact vs cavitory). In addition, recipient data as age, body weight, body height, average daily gain as well as type of estrus (spontaneous vs induced) were retrieved from available automatic records. Pregnancy rate per embryo transfer (PR/ET) was compared among different recipient categories using chi square analysis. PR/ET did not vary between different age, body weight, body height or daily gain recipient categories (P>0.05). PR/ET was similar between recipient groups receiving embryos from GnRH-superovulated donors and those from estradiol-superovulated donors (P>0.05). Presence of cavitory CL in recipient did not affect the risk of pregnancy establishment after embryo transfer. Interestingly, PR/ET was higher (P<0.05) in recipients with induced estrus (72.73%), compared to 35.72% in those with spontaneous estrus. Similarly, PR/ET was higher in high progesterone recipients (79.50%) than that achieved by low progesterone recipients (55.40%). Further, first grade embryo achieved greater (P<0.05) PR/ET than that of second and third grade embryo (79.17 vs 48.94%, respectively). Conceivably, the type of recipient CL did not affect PR/ET, while heifers with higher blood progesterone at embryo transfer are better selected as embryo recipients.

Abstract 158: Satisfaction With Appearance In Patients With Cleft Lip And/or Palate: Patient-reported Outcomes Using The Cleft-q At The University Of Pittsburgh

Purpose: To date, surgical outcomes after cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) surgery have been largely determined by the assessment of surgeons or bystanders, underestimating what might matter to patients. The CLEFT-Q is a new, validated patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument that evaluates patient satisfaction and QOL in children and adolescents with CL/P through different life domains. Our aim was to evaluate the satisfaction of patients with CL/P with their own appearance, using the CLEFT-Q as a metric. Methods: Patients 8-29 years with a diagnosis of CL/P visiting our institution’s craniofacial center from 2015-2016 were included during the phase II stage of the CLEFT-Q multicenter validation. The CLEFT-Q questionnaire was administered during the visit, ensuring it was filled with no parental interference. Only the appearance domain was used, including questions on face, nose, nostrils, lips, cleft scar, teeth and jaws. Rasch-transformed scores were analyzed using one-way ANOVAS to detect significant main effects and interactions between groups (p<0.05, two-tailed) with Fisher posthoc tests. Results: 101 patients (female n=53; male n=48) were included, with diagnoses including the common range of CL/P deformities (CL, CP, CL+P, CL+A, and BL CL+P). The majority (55%) were aged 8-11; 37.6% between 12-17; and 6.9% aged 18 or older. Nose and nostril scores were the lowest of appearance satisfaction scores in patients whose deformity included CL. Patients with CP had a significantly higher nose and nostril scores compared to CL, CL+P, CL+A, and BL CL+P (p=0.003, 0.000, 0.029, and 0.039, respectively). Lip or cleft scar scores were not significantly different between any groups. While scores for nose appearance satisfaction did not vary significantly between age groups in males, scores trended lower with increasing age in females (p=0.012). The same was seen in nostril scores (p=0.038), and trended for significance in lip scores (0.054). Satisfaction was lower in the 12-17 years category. Females in the 18+ age group scored lower than males across all appearance items. Conclusion: PRO tools are essential to understand what patients value to better guide surgical decisions. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable in terms of satisfaction with their appearance, which could warrant closer follow up. Nasal aesthetics are a particularly concerning feature to patients with any type of CL. The lower satisfaction rates with increasing age in females should be addressed, and may warrant additional attention to cosmetic details when reaching adulthood.

Bi-component Staphylococcal Leukotoxins Induce Chloride Ions Fluxes in Human Neutrophils: Opening of Ca&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;2+&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;-activated Cl&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Channels

The bi-component leukotoxins; γ-hemolysin and Panton and Valentin Leukocidin (PVL) from Staphylococcus aureus induce two independent cellular events 1) the formation of trans-membrane pores not permeable to chloride (Cl-) ions and 2) the activation of at least, two modes of chloride fluxes (efflux/influx), including pre-existing Ca2+-activated Cl- channels (CaCC) in human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). This was investigated by using spectrofluorometry techniques and the chloride-sensitive quencher fluorescent indicator, MQAE (N-(6-methoxyquinolyl) acetoacethyl ester). The ethidium bromide was used as an indicator for the trans-membrane pores formation by staphylococcal leukotoxins. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, HlgA/HlgB, HlgC/HlgB and LukS-PV/LukF-PV leukotoxins from S. aureus induced a massive efflux of chloride (Cl-) ions. Interestingly, in the presence of extracellular Ca2+, the HlgA/HlgB γ-hemolysin provoked a biphasic response of Cl- movements (efflux/influx). Conversely to HlgA/HlgB and LukS-PV/LukF-PV, HlgC/HlgB leukotoxins did not induce any Cl- movement under this condition (e.g. in the presence of extracellular Ca2+). The potent Cl- channel inhibitor, DIDS, did inhibit significantly the Cl- fluxes caused by all pairs of staphylococcal leukotoxins tested in both conditions. In the present study, we found that the inhibitory effect of flufenamic acid, known as a Cl- channel inhibitor, was restricted only to the Ca2+-dependent Cl- influx triggered only by HlgA/HlgB and LukS-PV/LukF-PV leukotoxins. These findings might suggest that, Cl- fluxes in human neutrophils did involve at least, two different types of Cl- pathways, depending on the absence or presence of extracellular Ca2+. Both Cl- channels blockers, DIDS and flufenamic acid did not alter the pores formation by staphylococcal leukotoxins. Furthermore, under conditions when the membrane pores formation was blocked by divalent ions (Ca2+ and/or Zn2+), Cl- ions movements were still observed. Taken together, our results strongly provide an evidence that: i) trans-membrane pores formed by staphylococcal leukotoxins: HlgA/HlgB, HlgC/HlgB (γ-hemolysin) and LukS-PV/LukF-PV (PVL) do not drive Cl- ions fluxes ii) at least, two different types of Cl- ions pathways are activated, depending on the absence or presence of extracellular Ca2+, including Ca2+-activated Cl- channels (CaCC) and, iii) Ca2+-activated Cl- channels are mediated only by HlgA/HlgB and LukS-PV/LukF-PV leukotoxins.

Properties of single-channel and whole cell Cl- currents in guinea pig detrusor smooth muscle cells.

Multiple types of Cl- channels regulate smooth muscle excitability and contractility in vascular, gastrointestinal, and airway smooth muscle cells. However, little is known about Cl- channels in detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) cells. Here, we used inside-out single channel and whole cell patch-clamp recordings for detailed biophysical and pharmacological characterizations of Cl- channels in freshly isolated guinea pig DSM cells. The recorded single Cl- channels displayed unique gating with multiple subconductive states, a fully opened single-channel conductance of 164 pS, and a reversal potential of -41.5 mV, which is close to the ECl of -65 mV, confirming preferential permeability to Cl-. The Cl- channel demonstrated strong voltage dependence of activation (half-maximum of mean open probability, V0.5, ~-20 mV) and robust prolonged openings at depolarizing voltages. The channel displayed similar gating when exposed intracellularly to solutions containing Ca2+-free or 1 mM Ca2+. In whole cell patch-clamp recordings, macroscopic current demonstrated outward rectification, inhibitions by 4,4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonic acid (DIDS) and niflumic acid, and insensitivity to chlorotoxin. The outward current was reversibly reduced by 94% replacement of extracellular Cl- with I-, Br-, or methanesulfonate (MsO-), resulting in anionic permeability sequence: Cl->Br->I->MsO-. While intracellular Ca2+ levels (0, 300 nM, and 1 mM) did not affect the amplitude of Cl- current and outward rectification, high Ca2+ slowed voltage-step current activation at depolarizing voltages. In conclusion, our data reveal for the first time the presence of a Ca2+-independent DIDS and niflumic acid-sensitive, voltage-dependent Cl- channel in the plasma membrane of DSM cells. This channel may be a key regulator of DSM excitability.

META-ANALISIS COOPERATIVE LEARNING TERHADAP KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS PADA PEMBELAJARAN IPA/ FISIKA SISWA

This meta-analysis aims to summarize the results of research on the effect of cooperative learning to improve students' critical thinking skills so that it can be seen: the average effect size (ES), the type of CL which has the largest and consistent effect size (ES) critical students. The research method used is descriptive with the form of survey research. The number of research results summarized is 19 journal articles. The results of the data analysis resulted in an ES of 0.71. (contributing 26, 32%). The type of cooperative learning that produces the greatest and most consistent influence is the Basic Learning Type Problem (ES = 1.08, contributing 17.97%). At the level of education CL the contribution is large at the high school level, namely (ES = 0.79, contributing 35.33%).

Anoctamin 6 Contributes to Cl− Secretion in Accessory Cholera Enterotoxin (Ace)-stimulated Diarrhea: AN ESSENTIAL ROLE FOR PHOSPHATIDYLINOSITOL 4,5-BISPHOSPHATE (PIP2) SIGNALING IN CHOLERA

Accessory cholera enterotoxin (Ace) of Vibrio cholerae has been shown to contribute to diarrhea. However, the signaling mechanism and specific type of Cl- channel activated by Ace are still unknown. We have shown here that the recombinant Ace protein induced ICl of apical plasma membrane, which was inhibited by classical CaCC blockers. Surprisingly, an Ace-elicited rise of current was neither affected by ANO1 (TMEM16A)-specific inhibitor T16A(inh)-AO1(TAO1) nor by the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) blocker, CFTR inh-172. Ace stimulated whole-cell current in Caco-2 cells. However, the apical ICl was attenuated by knockdown of ANO6 (TMEM16F). This impaired phenotype was restored by re-expression of ANO6 in Caco-2 cells. Whole-cell patch clamp recordings of ANO currents in HEK293 cells transiently expressing mouse ANO1-mCherry or ANO6-GFP confirmed that Ace induced Cl- secretion. Application of Ace produced ANO6 but not the ANO1 currents. Ace was not able to induce a [Ca2+]i rise in Caco-2 cells, but cellular abundance of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) increased. Identification of the PIP2-binding motif at the N-terminal sequence among human and mouse ANO6 variants along with binding of PIP2 directly to ANO6 in HEK293 cells indicate likely PIP2 regulation of ANO6. The biophysical and pharmacological properties of Ace stimulated Cl- current along with intestinal fluid accumulation, and binding of PIP2 to the proximal KR motif of channel proteins, whose mutagenesis correlates with altered binding of PIP2, is comparable with ANO6 stimulation. We conclude that ANO6 is predominantly expressed in intestinal epithelia, where it contributes secretory diarrhea by Ace stimulation in a calcium-independent mechanism of RhoA-ROCK-PIP2 signaling.

Spatiotemporal Variability of Contaminants in Lake Water and Their Risks to Human Health: A Case Study of the Shahu Lake Tourist Area, Northwest China

Shahu Lake is a well-known tourist lake in Ningxia, northwest China. This study analyzed the general hydrochemical characteristics of the lake water to determine the spatiotemporal variability of contaminants and to assess the potential health risk associated with the surface water. Lake water was monitored at three stations each month throughout 2013. Samples were analyzed for pH, total dissolved solids, temperature, EC, major ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, SO4 2−, Cl−, HCO3 −, and CO3 2−), ammonia nitrogen (NH4-N), fluoride (F−), phenol, and heavy metals (As, Hg, and Cr6+). The results suggest that Na+ is the dominant cation in the lake water, and Cl− and SO4 2− are the dominant anions, resulting in a primary water type of Cl·SO4–Na. Contaminant levels (NH4-N, F−, As, Hg, Cr6+, and phenol) vary through time and space (spatiotemporal variations). As and F− are high in the summer season; Cr6+ and Hg do not significantly change over the year; and the NH4-N and phenol concentrations also remain relatively stable. Concentrations of all these substances are within the acceptable limits for recreational water use (1.5, 1.5, 0.1, 0.001, 0.05, and 0.01 mg/L for NH4-N, F−, As, Hg, Cr6+, and phenol, respectively). An assessment model recommended by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of the P.R. China was used in the study to conduct the health risk assessment. While workers do experience higher non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks than tourists, the risks are low and negligible. As and Cr6+ contribute the most to total carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks.