2-cyanopyridine derivatives enable N-terminal cysteine bioconjugation and peptide bond cleavage of glutathione under aqueous and mild conditions.

Inspired by the chemical reactivity of apalutamide, we have developed an efficient method for N-terminal cysteine bioconjugation with 2-cyanopyridine derivatives. Systematic investigations of various 2-cyanopyridines revealed that 2-cyanopyridines with electron-withdrawing groups react efficiently with cysteine under aqueous and mild conditions. Moreover, the highly reactive 2-cyanopyridines enable the peptide bond cleavage of glutathione.

Effects of Insole with Toe-Grip Bar on Barefoot Balance and Walking Function in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The maintenance and improvement of balance and walking function in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) is essential. Toe dysfunction in patients with PD is related to balance and walking. Recently, insoles have been developed to improve toe function, but their effects on the physical functions of patients with PD remain unclear.

[Infection control in a teaching hospital without a tuberculosis ward].

Approximately 30 cases of tuberculosis are diagnosed in our hospital each year. Because three of our nurses contracted tuberculosis in 1998, we implemented the following control measures for tuberculosis : (1) immediate examination, diagnosis, and treatment in suspected cases; (2) screening of all health-care workers with a two-step tuberculin skin test (TST); (3) examination of all persons exposed to tuberculosis-infected persons; and (4) greater awareness of tuberculosis. We offered prophylactic medications to all exposed persons with a TST reaction greater than 20 mm.

[A case of sarcoidosis presenting with high fever and acute respiratory failure].

A 55-year-old man was admitted with complaints of remittent fever (39 degrees C) and dyspnea on exertion which began ten days previously. His family and past histories were non-contributory for diagnosis except his occupation as a stone mason for 26 years. The chest X-ray film taken on admission showed diffuse small nodular shadows associated with small amounts of pleural effusion and bilateral hilar adenopathy.