The ribosome-associated complex antagonizes prion formation in yeast.

The number of known fungal proteins capable of switching between alternative stable conformations is steadily increasing, suggesting that a prion-like mechanism may be broadly utilized as a means to propagate altered cellular states. To gain insight into the mechanisms by which cells regulate prion formation and toxicity we examined the role of the yeast ribosome-associated complex (RAC) in modulating both the formation of the [PSI(+)] prion - an alternative conformer of Sup35 protein - and the toxicity of aggregation-prone polypeptides. The Hsp40 RAC chaperone Zuo1 anchors the RAC to ribosomes and stimulates the ATPase activity of the Hsp70 chaperone Ssb.

[The disc prosthesis: myths and facts].

The results of surgical treatment of degenerative low-back conditions by means of a fusion (spondylodesis) are in general less predictable than operative treatments for arthrosis of the (large) peripheral joints. Recently, new techniques of disc replacement have been developed as an alternative to traditional fusion operations. The most important theoretical advantage is the prevention of adjacent segment degeneration in the longer term.

Interface corrective force measurements in Boston brace treatment.

Brace application has been reported to be effective in treating idiopathic adolescent scoliosis. The exact working mechanism of a thoracolumbo spinal orthosis is a result of different mechanisms and is not completely understood. One of the supposed working mechanisms is a direct compressive force working through the brace upon the body and thereby correcting the scoliotic deformity, achieving optimal fit of the individual orthosis.

Dystrophic kyphoscoliosis in neurofibromatosis type I: a report of two cases and review of the literature.

We report two cases of dystrophic scoliosis in neurofibromatosis, each of particular interest. In the first, kyphosis was present with vertebral rotatory subluxation but no neurologic impairment, while the second patient showed manifest paraplegia due to rapidly progressive kyphoscoliosis. The importance of early surgical stabilisation, both front and back if possible, is stressed.

Subcutaneous low-molecular weight heparin or oral anticoagulants for the prevention of deep-vein thrombosis in elective hip and knee replacement? Fraxiparine Oral Anticoagulant Study Group.

Objective: To compare efficacy, safety, and feasibility of adjusted-dose oral anticoagulants (OAC) versus fixed-dose subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for the prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients who have undergone elective hip or knee replacement.

Design: Multicentre, single blind randomised trial. OAC (acenocoumarol, target International Normalised Ratio, 2.