High-level heterologous gene expression in Ochrobactrum anthropi using an A-rich UP element.

DNA regions that flank a gene's promoter play an important role in determining transcription efficiency by interacting with the carboxy-terminal domain of RNA polymerase alpha-subunit. We placed an adenine-rich upstream element (UP) between -38 and -59 of the core trc promoter to enhance gene expression in Ochrobactrum anthropi up to 66-fold. The high level of expression achieved by the UP element and the N-terminus fusion of a 6xHis epitope tag facilitated detection and purification of heterologous proteins directly from O.

Mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children under 10 years of age with sickle cell disease.

Background: Cholelithiasis is very common in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and is responsible for recurrent attacks of abdominal pain. The ideal management, especially for children, remains controversial. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety and outcome of mini-laparoscopic cholecystectomy (MLC) in young children under age of 10 years with SCD.

Appraisal of the modified Alvarado Score for acute appendicits in adults.

Objective: Decision making in cases of acute appendicitis may be difficult specially for junior surgeons. Radiological investigations do not appear to be helpful. In some studies, the Modified Alvarado Scoring System (MASS) was helpful in minimizing unnecessary appendicectomies.

Saphenofemoral ligation as a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcer.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of isolated saphenofemoral junction ligation for the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcer in comparison to traditional stripping procedure.

Methods: Thirty six patients (28 men and 8 women) with mean age of 42.3 +/- 8.

Open mesh-plug technique in inguinal hernia repair--short-term results.

Objective: To evaluate the safety, technical problems, early complications and short-term results of the mesh-plug technique in primary and recurrent inguinal hernia repair.

Design: Prospective study.

Setting: Armed Forces Hospital, Southern Region, Khamis Mushayt, Saudi Arabia.