bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subinhibitory Concentrations of Trimethoprim and Sulfamethoxazole Prevent Biofilm Formation by Acinetobacter baumannii through Inhibition of Csu Pilus Expression
Authors: Moon Ki Hwan , Weber Brent S. , Feldman Mario F.
Published: July 2017

Acinetobacter baumannii
is emerging as a multidrug-resistant nosocomial pathogen of increasing threat to human health worldwide. Pili are important bacterial virulence factors, playing a role in attachment to host cells and biofilm formation. The Csu pilus, which is assembled via the chaperone-usher secretion system, has been studied in
A. baumannii
ATCC 19606. Here we show that, in opposition to previous reports, the common laboratory strain ATCC 17978 produces Csu pili. We found that, although ATCC 17978 was resistant to sulfamethoxazole (Smx) and trimethoprim (Tmp), subinhibitory concentrations of these antibiotics abolished the expression of Csu and consequently produced a dramatic reduction in biofilm formation by ATCC 17978. Smx and Tmp acted synergistically to inhibit the enzymatic systems involved in the bacterial synthesis of tetrahydrofolate (THF), which is required for the synthesis of nucleotides. The effects of these antibiotics were partially relieved by exogenous THF addition, indicating that Smx and Tmp turn off Csu assembly by inducing folate stress. We propose that, for
Acinetobacter
, nanomolar concentrations of Smx and Tmp represent a “danger signal.” In response to this signal, Csu expression is repressed, allowing biofilm dispersal and escape from potentially inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics. The roles of antibiotics as signaling molecules are being increasingly acknowledged, with clear implications for both the treatment of bacterial diseases and the understanding of complex microbial interactions in the environment.
Activity of LCB01-0371, a Novel Oxazolidinone, against Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Kim Tae Sung , Choe Jin Ho , Kim Young Jae , Yang Chul-Su , Kwon Hyun-Jin , Jeong Jinsun , Kim Guehye , Park Da Eun , Jo Eun-Kyeong , Cho Young-Lag , Jang Jichan
Published: July 2017

Mycobacterium abscessus
is a highly pathogenic drug-resistant rapidly growing mycobacterium. In this study, we evaluated the
in vitro
, intracellular, and
in vivo
activities of LCB01-0371, a novel and safe oxazolidinone derivative, for the treatment of
M. abscessus
infection and compared its resistance to that of other oxazolidinone drugs. LCB01-0371 was effective against several
M. abscessus
strains
in vitro
and in a macrophage model of infection. In the murine model, a similar efficacy to linezolid was achieved, especially in the lungs. We induced laboratory-generated resistance to LCB01-0371; sequencing analysis revealed mutations in
rplC
of T424C and G419A and a nucleotide insertion at the 503 position. Furthermore, LCB01-0371 inhibited the growth of amikacin-, cefoxitin-, and clarithromycin-resistant strains. Collectively, our data indicate that LCB01-0371 might represent a promising new class of oxazolidinones with improved safety, which may replace linezolid for the treatment of
M. abscessus
.
The effect of guided self-determination on self-management in persons with type 1 diabetes mellitus and HbA1c≥64 mmol/mol: a group-based randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mohn Jannike , Graue Marit , Assmus Jõrg , Zoffmann Vibeke , Thordarson Hrafnkell , Peyrot Mark , Rokne Berit
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To determine whether the impact of guided self-determination (GSD) applied in group training (GSD-GT) in people with chronically elevated HbA1cand type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) was superior to ‘care as usual’ in improving HbA1cand psychological functioning.

Setting

An outpatient clinic at a university hospital in Western Norway.

Participants

A total of 178 adults (all Caucasian) aged 18–55 (mean age 36.7±10.7, 62% women) with type 1 DM for at least 1 year and HbA1c≥64 mmol/mol (8.0%) were randomly assigned to participate in either GSD-GT or a control group (CG). Exclusion criteria were severe comorbidity, major psychiatric disorder, cognitive deficiency/language barriers and pregnancy.

Intervention

Intervention group met seven times for 2 hours over 14 weeks to promote patient autonomy and intrinsic motivation using reflection sheets and advanced professional communication in accordance with the GSD methodology.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was HbA1cand secondary outcomes (all outcomes 9 months post intervention) were self-monitored blood glucose frequency, self-reported diabetes competence, autonomy support by healthcare providers (Health Care Climate Questionnaire), autonomous versus controlled diabetes motivation (Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire), diabetes distress (Problem Areas In Diabetes Scale (PAID) and Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS)), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale) and psychological well-being (World Health Organization five-item Well-Being Index scale).

Results

Among participants allocated to the GSD-GT (=90) 48 completed the study, whereas 83 completed in the CG (n=88). With 95% CIs GSD-GT did not have effect on HbA1c(B −0.18, CI (−0.48, 0.12), p=0.234). GSD-GT improved autonomy-motivated behaviour (B 0.51, CI (0.25, 0.77), p<0.001), diabetes distress (PAID, B −6.96, CI (−11.40, −2.52), p=0.002), total DDS (B −5.15, CI (−9.34, −0.96), p=0.016), DDS emotional burden (B −7.19, CI (−13.20, −1.19), p=0.019) and self-esteem (B 1.43, CI (0.34, 2.52), p=0.011).

Conclusions

Results from this behavioural intervention must be interpreted cautiously because of recruitment and attrition problems. Medical outcomes did not improve. Psychological outcomes improved, especially reduced diabetes distress.

Trial registration number

Clinical Trials.gov NCT 01317459.
Predictors for future activity limitation in women with chronic low back pain consulting primary care: a 2-year prospective longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Nordeman Lena , Thorselius Lena , Gunnarsson Ronny , Mannerkorpi Kaisa
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To assess if body function, activity, participation, health-related quality of life and lifestyle behavioural factors can predict activity limitation in women with chronic low back pain (CLBP) in primary healthcare (PHC) 2 years later.

Design

A 2-year prospective longitudinal cohort study within PHC.

Settings

PHC in southwestern Sweden.

Participants

The cohort comprised 130 women with CLBP attending PHC at baseline 2004–2005 and were reassessed after 2 years.

Measures

The dependent outcome variable was self-reported activity limitation (Roland Morris disability questionnaire (RMDQ)) at 2-year follow-up. Independent predictors at baseline were age, body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep quantity and quality, leisure time physical activity, a questionnaire of clinical manifestation of stress (Stress and Crises Inventory (SCI-93)), pain localisation, pain intensity, fatigue, anxiety, depression, RMDQ, work status, private social support, health-related quality of life and measures of physical performance specified as 6 min walk test (6MWT) and hand grip strength. Relation between baseline predictors and variation in later self-reported activity limitation (RMDQ) was analysed using multivariate linear regression.

Results

Ninety-five per cent (n=123/130) were followed up after 2 years. The participants were middle-aged (mean 45 (SD 10) years), mostly educated >9 years (88%; 108/123), mainly living with another adult (76%; 93/122) and born in Sweden (90%; 111/123). Seventy-nine per cent (97/123) were categorised as having work ability at baseline. The final prognostic model including 6MWT, SCI-93 and RMDQ at baseline explained 54% of the variance in self-reported activity limitation (RMDQ) at the 2-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Lower physical performance, more severe clinical stress symptoms and more severe activity limitation predicted activity limitation after 2 years in women with CLBP within PHC. The results can give guidance for interventional trials aiming to improve physical capacity and decrease stress. The impact of the interaction between prognostic factors and interventions on activity limitation needs further investigation.
New sources of indehiscence for birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus, Fabaceae) produced by interspecific hybridization
Authors: O'Donoughue Louise S. , Grant W. F.
Published: July 2017

An interspecific hybridization program was undertaken involving the nonshattering Lotus species L. conimbricensis and L. ornithopodioides, and species belonging to the Lotus corniculatus group, L. alpinus, L. japonicus, and L. burttii. Out of 12 cross combinations, 8 were successful. Two of these, L. alpinus × L. conimbricensis and L. burttii × L. ornithopodioides, are new hybrids. Meiosis in pollen mother cells and pollen stainability of parental species and hybrids were compared. The data indicate that the two new hybrids would have potential, via amphidiploidy, in a breeding program to reduce shattering in L. corniculatus.Key words: Lotus corniculatus, Lotus species, dehiscence, indehiscence, embryo culture, interspecific hybridization.
Gene segregation in induced tetraploid rainbow trout: genetic evidence of preferential pairing of homologous chromosomes
Authors: Diter A. , Guyomard R. , Chourrout D.
Published: July 2017

Gene segregation at six protein loci was analysed in progeny from tetraploid males and females obtained by suppression of first mitosis. The triploid full-sib families from five tetraploid males and the diploid gynogenetic lines from four tetraploid females were examined. The proportions of heterozygous gametes (0.83 on the average) were significantly higher than expected from tetrasomic inheritance (0.667) at all the loci studied. This was explained by preferential pairing of homologous chromosomes. The proportions of heterozygous gametes were significantly different between loci, but the variations were not correlated with the gene–centromere distances. Our results showed that, at least for one locus, the homozygous gametes mainly resulted from pairing of homoeologous chromosomes rather than from pairing of homologous chromosomes, quadrivalent formation, and chromatin exchanges between homoeologous chromosomes.Key words: Salmo gairdneri richardson, induced tetraploidy, gene segregation, electrophoresis.
Hypertension Management in Brazil: Usual Practice in Primary Care—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Picon Rafael V. , Dias-da-Costa Juvenal S. , Fuchs Flavio D. , Olinto Maria Teresa A. , Choudhry Niteesh K. , Fuchs Sandra C.
Published: July 2017

Knowing the usual clinical practice is relevant for evaluations in health care and economic policies of management of hypertension. This study aimed to describe the usual management of hypertension in the Brazilian primary healthcare system through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The search of population-based studies conducted in Brazil was undertaken using PubMed, EMBASE, and Brazilian databases. Eligible studies were those conducted in adults with hypertension (blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140/90 mmHg or using BP lowering drugs). Three datasets’ data were analyzed: SESI study (in Brazilian workers); HIPERDIA (Brazilian Registration and Monitoring of Hypertensive and Diabetic Patients Program); and a population-based study. Meta-analysis has been performed using the fixed and random effect models. A total of 11 studies or data sets were included in the systematic review. Hypertensive individuals had, on average, 2.6 medical visits annually and 18.2% were on diuretics (n=811 hypertensive patients) and 16.2% on ACE inhibitors (n=1768 hypertensive patients). BP control rate ranged from 43.7 to 67.5%; 35.5% had measured total cholesterol and 36.5% determined fasting plasma glucose in the previous 12 months. Thiazide diuretics and ACE inhibitors were the most used BP lowering medications as single drugs, but the control rate of hypertension is insufficient.
Cyclic Growth and Global Stability of Economic Dynamics of Kaldor Type in Two Dimensions
Authors: Nindjin Aka Fulgence , N’Guessan Albin Tetchi , Okou Hypolithe , Tia Kessé Thiban
Published: July 2017

This article proposes nonlinear economic dynamics continuous in two dimensions of Kaldor type, the saving rate and the investment rate, which are functions of ecological origin verifying the nonwasting properties of the resources and economic assumption of Kaldor. The important results of this study contain the notions of bounded solutions, the existence of an attractive set, local and global stability of equilibrium, the system permanence, and the existence of a limit cycle.
The Prevalence and Risk Factors for Low Birth Weight among Term Newborns in Adwa General Hospital, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Gebregzabiherher Yisak , Haftu Abera , Weldemariam Solomon , Gebrehiwet Haftom
Published: July 2017

Background.World health organization estimates that 25 million LBW babies are born annually worldwide and 95% occur in developing countries.Objective. To assess the prevalence and associated factors of low birth weight among term neonates delivered in Adwa Hospital, Northern Ethiopia.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among neonates delivered in Adwa Hospital. All live births delivered from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2016, were included in this study. The study participants were selected through systematic sampling technique and the data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data was entered to Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. To identify independent predictors, bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regressions were employed. Adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were used to determine the strength of association.Results.The prevalence of term low birth weight was 10%. The risk factors were mothers aged less than 20 years, mothers whose pregnancy was desired, mothers with a history of abortion, and mothers with normal hemoglobin, iron with folic acid, and HIV status.Conclusion.The burden of LBW obtained in this study was in the same range as in some other countries.
Hypercalcemia in Lung Cancer due to Simultaneously Elevated PTHrP and Ectopic Calcitriol Production: First Case Report
Authors: Nemr Saed , Alluri Sunitha , Sundaramurthy Dhivya , Landry Daniel , Braden Gregory
Published: July 2017

Calcitriol-mediated hypercalcemia has been reported in malignant lymphomas and granulomatous diseases but not in lung carcinoma. We describe a patient with squamous cell lung carcinoma with hypercalcemia and elevated calcitriol levels. A 60-year-old Caucasian male patient with stage IIIB squamous cell lung cancer developed hypercalcemia at 14.8 mg/dL two years after receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy where labs showed a serum intact PTH: 7 pg/mL, PTHrP: 30 pmol/L, 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol): 76 pg/mL, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels: <4 ng/mL. Calcitriol levels were elevated despite undetectable 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. There are no reported lung cancer cases with elevated calcitriol as an etiology of hypercalcemia. We believe that the elevated calcitriol levels in this case were due to a PTHrP-independent mechanism, possibly from either ectopic production of calcitriol in tumor cells or from increased activity of 1-alpha hydroxylase in the same cells. The patient died before the effects of prednisone therapy could be assessed. Studies are needed to investigate the cellular source of calcitriol and its role in hypercalcemia in patients with lung cancer.
Physicochemical Changes of Cocoa Beans during Roasting Process
Authors: García-Alamilla Pedro , Lagunes-Gálvez Laura Mercedes , Barajas-Fernández Juan , García-Alamilla Ricardo
Published: July 2017

During cocoa beans roasting, there are physicochemical changes that develop the chocolate quality attributes. Roasting systems have a particular influence on the development of these characteristics, and the effects of operation variables for each system must be evaluated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of roasting time and temperature in a rotatory system on cocoa beans physicochemical parameters of quality as moisture, water activity, pH, total acidity, color (L⁎,a⁎,b⁎), total phenolic content (TPC), and DPPH radical capacity. Cocoa beans were roasted as a function with a central rotatable design with 22 + 5 central points and 4 axial points (-1.414, -1, 0, +1, and +1,414) and a response surface methodology was applied. Temperature and time levels were 110–170°C and 5–65 minutes, respectively. The effect of the variables was nonlinear and modeled with a second-order response polynomial. Roasting time and temperature presented a significative effect (p<0.05) on the response variables except for both TPC and DPPH radical capacity in aqueous extract.
The Correlation between Chemical Structures and Antioxidant, Prooxidant, and Antitrypanosomatid Properties of Flavonoids
Authors: Baldim João Luiz , Alcântara Bianca Gonçalves Vasconcelos de , Domingos Olívia da Silva , Soares Marisi Gomes , Caldas Ivo Santana , Novaes Rômulo Dias , Oliveira Tiago Branquinho , Lago João Henrique Ghilardi , Chagas-Paula Daniela Aparecida
Published: July 2017

Flavonoids have demonstrated in vivo and in vitro leishmanicidal, trypanocidal, antioxidant, and prooxidant properties. The chemotherapy of trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis lacks efficacy, presents high toxicity, and is related to the development of drug resistance. Thus, a series of 40 flavonoids were investigated with the purpose of correlating these properties via structure and activity analyses based on integrated networks and QSAR models. The classical groups for the antioxidant activity of flavonoids were combined in order to explain the influence of antioxidant and prooxidant activities on the antiparasitic properties. These analyses become useful for the development of efficient treatments for leishmaniasis and trypanosomiasis. Finally, the dual activity of flavonoids presenting both anti‐ and prooxidant activities revealed that the existence of a balance between these two features could be important to the development of adequate therapeutic strategies.
Prostatic-Like Syndrome in a Woman with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Sequential Kinase Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Velasco-Rodríguez Diego , Piris-Villaespesa Miguel , Soteras Carmen , Vallés Ana , García-Marco José Antonio , García-Vela José Antonio
Published: July 2017

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an incurable lymphoproliferative disorder with a heterogeneous genetic and clinical course. Two kinase inhibitors, ibrutinib and idelalisib, have demonstrated achievement of complete and durable remissions in relapse/refractory genetically unselected CLL patients. We present a case of relapsed CLL with extensive disease and hourglass deformity of urinary bladder as a result of the compression of two extraperitoneal paravesical soft tissue bulky masses, with excellent response to sequential kinase inhibitor therapy.
Infrared Dim and Small Targets Detection Method Based on Local Energy Center of Sequential Image
Authors: Fan Xiangsuo , Xu Zhiyong , Zhang Jianlin , Huang Yongmei , Peng Zhenming
Published: July 2017

In order to detect infrared (IR) dim and small targets in a strong clutter background, a method based on local energy center of sequential image is proposed. This paper began by using improved anisotropy for background prediction (IABP), followed by target enhancement by improved high‐order cumulates (HOC). Finally, on the basis of image preprocessing, the paper constructs a sequential image energy center detection algorithm that integrates the neighborhood, continuity, area, and energy and other motion characteristics of the target. Experiments showed that the improved anisotropic background predication could be loyal to the true background of the original image to the maximum extent, presenting a superior overall performance to other background prediction methods; the improved HOC significantly increased the signal‐noise ratio of images; when the signal‐noise ratio (SNR) is lower than 2.5 dB, the proposed method could effectively eliminate noise and detect targets.
Evaluation Method of Reservoir Producing Status Based on Cumulative Distribution Curve of Oil Displacement Efficiency
Authors: Guan Cuo , Shi Chengfang , Wu Dacheng , Hu Wenrui , Li Zhaoliang
Published: July 2017

This paper provides a method for evaluating the status of old oilfield development. This method mainly uses the abundant coring well data of the oilfield to obtain the cumulative distribution curve of the displacement efficiency after the displacement efficiency of the statistical wells in the study area in a similar period is ordered from small to large. Based on the cumulative distribution curve of displacement efficiency, combined with the reservoir ineffective circulation limit, the cumulative water absorption ratio of reservoirs and other data are used to study the reservoir producing degree, calculate the degree of oil recovery, evaluate the proportion of the remaining movable oil after water flooding, calculate the reservoir ineffective circulation thickness and ineffective circulation water volume, and so on.
Modelling of River-Groundwater Interactions under Rainfall Events Based on a Modified Tank Model
Authors: Nie Wen , Liang Yong-chang , Chen Lin , Shao Wei
Published: July 2017

A multitank model experiment is employed to simulate the river-groundwater interaction under rainfall events. These experiments involve coarse and fine materials and rainfall events of 45 and 65 mm/hr. We developed a modified tank model for estimation of the groundwater table and river levels in these experiments. Parameter training of our tank model includes two algorithms: (i) the nonincremental learning algorithm-based model can predict the pore water pressure (PWP) in a slope and river under a 65 mm/hr rainfall event (coarse material) with Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) = 0.427 and −0.909 and (ii) the incremental learning algorithm-based model can predict the PWP in a slope and river with NSE = 0.994 and 0.995. Then, the river-groundwater interaction was reproduced by a numerical case. The results of the deterministic method of the numerical case and optimized method of the modified tank model matched well.
Missed Testing Opportunities for HIV Screening and Early Diagnosis in an Urban Tertiary Care Center
Authors: DeRose Joseph , Zucker Jason , Cennimo David , Swaminathan Shobha
Published: July 2017

Newark, New Jersey, is disproportionally affected by HIV with one of the highest prevalence rates in the United States. Rutgers New Jersey Medical School is a major healthcare provider to Newark’s underserved population and has implemented a HIV testing program that can diagnose and link newly diagnosed individuals to care. We conducted a retrospective chart review of all new patients seen in the Infectious Disease Practice from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2014, to determine the proportion of patients with a missed testing opportunity (MTO) (patients with a new HIV diagnosis with an encounter at the institution in the 1 year prior to their first appointment). 117 newly diagnosed patients were identified. 36 (31%) had at least one MTO. A total of 34 (29%) of newly diagnosed patients had AIDS at presentation and 17% had CD4 counts of 50 cells/μL (p value 0.5). The two most common locations of a missed testing opportunity were the hospital ED (45%) and subspecialty clinics (37%). This study demonstrates that, even in a high prevalence institution with HIV counseling, testing, and referral service, HIV screening is lacking at multiple points of care and patients are missing opportunities for earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Positive Solutions for Singular Semipositone Fractional Differential Equation Subject to Multipoint Boundary Conditions
Authors: Pu Rui , Zhang Xingqiu , Cui Yujun , Li Peilong , Wang Weiwei
Published: July 2017

Existence result together with multiplicity result of positive solutions of higher-order fractional multipoint boundary value problems is given by considering the integrations of height functions on some special bounded sets. The nonlinearity may change its sign and may possess singularities on the time and the space variables at the same time.
Leiomyosarcoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising in Mature Cystic Teratoma of the Ovary
Authors: Pongsuvareeyakul Tip , Sukpan Kornkanok , Chaicharoen Somjet , Khunamornpong Surapan
Published: July 2017

The occurrence of malignant transformation in mature cystic teratoma of the ovary is rare, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common histologic type. Sarcomatous transformation has been rarely described in the literature. We present a case of leiomyosarcoma with a minor component of squamous cell carcinoma arising in mature cystic teratoma of ovary in a 65-year-old woman. The malignant tumor showed two distinct components of sarcomatous and invasive epithelial elements, which were confirmed by immunostaining. To our knowledge, only four cases of leiomyosarcoma in ovarian mature cystic teratoma have been reported and this is a unique case report of leiomyosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma arising in a mature cystic teratoma of ovary.
The Central Role of Biometals Maintains Oxidative Balance in the Context of Metabolic and Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Pokusa Michal , Kráľová Trančíková Alžbeta
Published: July 2017

Traditionally, oxidative stress as a biological aspect is defined as an imbalance between the free radical generation and antioxidant capacity of living systems. The intracellular imbalance of ions, disturbance in membrane dynamics, hypoxic conditions, and dysregulation of gene expression are all molecular pathogenic mechanisms closely associated with oxidative stress and underpin systemic changes in the body. These also include aspects such as chronic immune system activation, the impairment of cellular structure renewal, and alterations in the character of the endocrine secretion of diverse tissues. All of these mentioned features are crucial for the correct function of the various tissue types in the body. In the present review, we summarize current knowledge about the common roots of metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders induced by oxidative stress. We discuss these common roots with regard to the way that (1) the respective metal ions are involved in the maintenance of oxidative balance and (2) the metabolic and signaling disturbances of the most important biometals, such as Mg2+, Zn2+, Se2+, Fe2+, or Cu2+, can be considered as the central connection point between the pathogenesis of both types of disorders and oxidative stress.
Closed-Form Optimal Strategies of Continuous-Time Options with Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Yan Wei
Published: July 2017

A continuous-time portfolio selection with options based on risk aversion utility function in financial market is studied. The different price between sale and purchase of options is introduced in this paper. The optimal investment-consumption problem is formulated as a continuous-time mathematical model with stochastic differential equations. The prices processes follow jump-diffusion processes (Weiner process and Poisson process). Then the corresponding Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman (HJB) equation of the problem is represented and its solution is obtained in different conditions. The above results are applied to a special case under a Hyperbolic Absolute Risk Aversion (HARA) utility function. The optimal investment-consumption strategies about HARA utility function are also derived. Finally, an example and some discussions illustrating these results are also presented.
Corneal Backscatters as an Objective Index for Assessing Fuchs’ Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chu Hsueh-Yen , Hsiao Ching-Hsi , Chen Phil Yeong-Fong , Ma David Hui-Kang , Chang Chee-Jen , Tan Hsin-Yuan
Published: July 2017

Purpose. To provide an objective, quantitative approach for monitoring Fuchs’ endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), with Scheimpflug imaging. Design. This is a retrospective case-control pilot study. Methods. The study group consisted of 53 eyes in 27 patients diagnosed with FECD, with normal subjects paired as control. Main outcome measures were corneal thickness, morphological patterns on densitograms, and indices of corneal density including the average area density (mean AD) and the average ratio of Descemet’s membrane density versus area density (DM/AD) in Pentacam Scheimpflug images. Results. There were no significant differences in age and corneal thickness between FECD and normal groups. Morphologically, hanging-hammock patterns were noted on the densitograms of FECD patients, which were different from the high-back chair patterns in normal subjects. Quantitatively, mean AD and DM/AD were both elevated in FECD patients as compared with normal subjects (P=0.01 and 0.025, resp.). In addition, FECD patients with corneal edema had significantly higher mean AD (P=0.018) than those without corneal edema. Conclusions. This pilot study shows that Pentacam system provides an objective, quantitative way to approach FECD corneas. It can assist ophthalmologists in detecting the early change and in monitoring disease progression of FECD. Further studies are needed to consolidate the findings.
Effects of Redox Modulation on Cell Proliferation, Viability, and Migration in Cultured Rat and Human Tendon Progenitor Cells
Authors: Lee Yuk Wa , Fu Sai Chuen , Yeung Man Yi , Lau Chun Man Lawrence , Chan Kai Ming , Hung Leung Kim
Published: July 2017

Tendon healing is slow and usually results in inferior fibrotic tissue formation. Recently, application of tendon derived stem cells (TDSCs) improved tendon healing in animal studies. In a chicken model, local injection of antioxidants reduced tendon adhesion after tendon injury. An in vitro study demonstrated that supplementation of H2O2 reduced tenogenic marker expression in TDSCs. These findings suggested that the possibility of TDSCs is involved in tendon healing and the cellular activities of TDSCs might be affected by oxidative stress of the local environment. After tendon injury, oxidative stress is increased. Redox modulation might affect healing outcomes via affecting cellular activities in TDSCs. To study the effect of oxidative stress on TDSCs, the cellular activities of rat/human TDSCs were measured under different dosages of vitamin C or H2O2 in this study. Lower dose of vitamin C increased cell proliferation, viability and migration; H2O2 affected colony formation and suppressed cell migration, cell viability, apoptosis, and proliferation. Consistent with previous studies, oxidative stresses (H2O2) affect both recruitment and survival of TDSCs, while the antioxidant vitamin C may exert beneficial effects at low doses. In conclusion, redox modulation affected cellular activities of TDSCs and might be a potential strategy for tendon healing treatment.
Recognition of Lynch Syndrome Amongst Newly Diagnosed Colorectal Cancers at St. Paul’s Hospital
Authors: Pi Steven , Nap-Hill Estello , Telford Jennifer , Enns Robert
Published: July 2017

Background. Lynch Syndrome (LS) is the most common cause of inherited colorectal cancer (CRC). In British Columbia, most centres still use clinical criteria (Amsterdam II, Revised Bethesda, or the BC Cancer Agency’s criteria) to determine who should undergo further first-line testing in the form of microsatellite instability or immunohistochemistry staining. Given the limitations with this strategy, LS is thought to be underrecognized. Objective. To investigate whether LS is truly underrecognized when compared to the reported prevalence. Methods. A retrospective chart review of all CRC cases diagnosed at St. Paul’s Hospital from 2010 to 2013 was conducted. Results. 246 patients met inclusion criteria. 76% (83/109) with a family history of malignancy were unable to recall the specific malignancy or age of diagnosis. 18% (43/235) were only asked about a history of gastrointestinal related malignancy and 26% (65/246) met at least one of the three criteria but only 21% (13/63) received further investigation. Only 1.6% (4/246) had LS compared to the reported prevalence of 2–5% of all CRC cases. Conclusion. This data supports our hypothesis that LS is underrecognized. Issues at the patient, physician, and systems level need to be evaluated to determine where the limitations preventing appropriate testing are occurring.
Individual Characteristics and Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Notthoff Nanna , Reisch Peter , Gerstorf Denis
Published: July 2017

Background: People aged 50 years and older are regularly identified as the most sedentary group in the population. However, even within this group, there are considerable interindividual variations in physical activity (PA) levels. They have been the subject of many studies. Based on single studies, no clear picture as to which characteristics are important has emerged. Objective: The goal of our contribution was to identify which individual characteristics are consistently linked to high PA levels in older adults. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the literature considering demographic characteristics (gender, education, marital status, employment), health (subjective, health problems), and psychological factors (motivation, self-efficacy, locus of control). A systematic search of abstracts in the database Web of Science and a thorough screening process according to a priori specified criteria yielded 63 studies for inclusion in this review. Results: Two psychological factors - motivation and self-efficacy - and the perception of one's health seem to be consistently linked to higher PA levels in older adults. Selected demographic variables - gender and education - may be important for some types of PA. Conclusion: Our review suggests that differentiation of PA by domains is important for identifying and understanding which individual characteristics are associated with PA levels and how. Pinpointing what reliably distinguishes older adults who are active from those who are not is essential for designing effective interventions to promote PA in later life.
The Role of Leisure Activities in Mediating the Relationship between Physical Health and Well-Being: Differential Patterns in Old and Very Old Age
Authors: Ihle Andreas , Gouveia Élvio R. , Gouveia Bruna R. , van der Linden Bernadette W.A. , Sauter Julia , Gabriel Rainer , Oris Michel , Fagot Delphine , Kliegel Matthias
Published: July 2017

Background: Recently, Paggi et al. [Gerontology 2016;62:450-458] for the very first time showed in a cross-sectional sample of 259 adults aged 18-81 years that the relation of physical health to psychological well-being was mediated via frequency of leisure activity participation. Objective: To extend this framework, we followed theories on successful aging and vulnerability to propose to add a differential perspective predicting that certain individuals may be more vulnerable than others and therefore may show differences in the mediation pattern. Specifically, we examined whether mediation patterns were differential in certain populations, such as in old-old (compared to young-old) adults and in individuals who carried out a low (compared to those with a high) number of activities. Methods: We analyzed data from 3,080 individuals on physical health (number of chronic diseases, subjective health status, and subjective evaluation of change in health over the last 10 years), frequency of participation in 18 leisure activities, and physical and psychological well-being using moderated mediation models with a path model approach that allowed the simultaneous estimation of all model paths, including their significance. Results: We found that the relation of physical health to physical and psychological well-being was mediated via frequency of activity participation. For physical (but not for psychological) well-being, this mediation was more pronounced in old-old (compared to young-old) adults and in individuals who carried out a low (compared to those with a high) number of activities. These moderated mediations were attributable to differential relations of physical health to frequency of activity participation and to differential relations of frequency of activity participation to physical well-being between the investigated moderator levels. Conclusion: Present data suggest that participation in leisure activities may play a key role in mediating the relationship between physical health and well-being, particularly in very old age. Findings are discussed with respect to theories of successful aging and differences between physical and psychological well-being.
Genetics of Magnesium Disorders
Authors: Li Heng , Sun Shiren , Chen Jianghua , Xu Goushuang , Wang Hanmin , Qian Qi
Published: July 2017

Background: Magnesium (Mg2+), the second most abundant cation in the cell, is woven into a multitude of cellular functions. Dysmagnesemia is associated with multiple diseases and, when severe, can be life-threatening. Summary: This review discusses Mg2+ homeostasis and function with specific focus on renal Mg2+ handling. Intrarenal channels and transporters related to Mg2+ absorption are discussed. Unraveling the rare genetic diseases with manifestations of dysmagnesemia has greatly increased our understanding of the complex and intricate regulatory network in the kidney, specifically, functions of tight junction proteins including claudin-14, -16, -19, and -10; apical ion channels including: TRPM6, Kv1.1, and ROMK; small regulatory proteins including AC3 and ANK3; and basolateral proteins including EGF receptor, γ-subunit (FXYD2) of Na-K-ATPase, Kir4.1, CaSR, CNNM2, and SLC41A. Although our understanding of Mg2+ handling of the kidney has expanded considerably in the last two decades, many questions remain. Future studies are needed to elucidate a multitude of unknown aspects of Mg2+ handling in the kidney. Key Message: Understanding rare and genetic diseases of Mg2+ dysregulation has expanded our knowledge and furthers the development of strategies for preventing and managing dysmagnesemia.
The SARC-F Questionnaire: Diagnostic Overlap with Established Sarcopenia Definitions in Older German Men with Sarcopenia
Authors: Kemmler Wolfgang , Sieber Cornel , Freiberger Ellen , von Stengel Simon
Published: July 2017

Background: The high relevance of sarcopenia for the aging societies of most developed nations is emphasized by its recent inclusion in the ICD-10-CM (M62.84). However, diagnosing sarcopenia is a daunting task. Apart from varying definitions, the proper assessment of recognized sarcopenia criteria is time and cost consuming. A short and inexpensive screening tool may thus be welcome for clinicians and others working in the area of gerontology. Recently, a simple questionnaire was provided (SARC-F) that may adequately realize this aim. Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare established sarcopenia definitions (European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People [EWGSOP], Foundation National Institute of Health [FNIH], International Working Group on Sarcopenia [IWGS]) with the SARC-F. Our hypothesis was that the diagnostic overlap between the SARC-F and sarcopenia as determined by these recognized definitions was too low to reliably diagnose sarcopenia. Methods: Seventy-four community-dwelling German men aged 70 years and older with established sarcopenia according to EWGSOP and/or FNIH and/or IWGS were screened with the SARC-F questionnaire. Results: Applying the definitions of EWGSOP, IWGS, and FNIH, 66.2, 43.2, and 50% of the cohort were classified sarcopenic, respectively. The SARC-F identified 33.5% of the cohort as sarcopenic. The predictive power of the SARC-F increased when men were classified as sarcopenic according to 2 (57.1%) or all (78.8%) sarcopenia definitions. The diagnostic overlap with the 3 sarcopenia definitions varied between 38.8% (SARC-F-FNIH) and 54.1% (SARC-F-IWGS). In comparison, the overlap of diagnosed sarcopenia ranged from 27.0% (FNIH-IWGS) to 49.0% (IWGS-EWGSOP) among the definitions themselves. Only 12.2% of the men met all 3 sarcopenia definitions. Conclusion: The diagnostic overlap with respect to sensitivity of the SARC-F and present sarcopenia definitions was at least as high as the range of the diagnostic overlap of these approaches themselves. Thus, although the sensitivity of the SARC-F may be debatable, for want of a better option it seems reasonable to consider the SARC-F as a first simple step within a hierarchical screening procedure. Independently of this procedure, a universally accepted mandatory sarcopenia definition along with comprehensive criteria and fixed cutoff points should be provided promptly.
Acute Infarct Extracellular Volume Mapping to Quantify Myocardial Area at Risk and Chronic Infarct Size on Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Garg Pankaj , Broadbent David A. , Swoboda Peter P. , Foley James R.J. , Fent Graham J. , Musa Tarique A. , Ripley David P. , Erhayiem Bara , Dobson Laura E. , McDiarmid Adam K. , Haaf Philip , Kidambi Ananth , van der Geest Rob J. , Greenwood John P. , Plein Sven
Published: July 2017

Background—

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging overestimates acute infarct size. The main aim of this study was to investigate whether acute extracellular volume (ECV) maps can reliably quantify myocardial area at risk (AAR) and final infarct size (IS).

Methods and Results—

Fifty patients underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging acutely (24–72 hours) and at convalescence (3 months). The cardiovascular magnetic resonance protocol included cines, T2-weighted imaging, native T1 maps, 15-minute post-contrast T1 maps, and LGE. Optimal AAR and IS ECV thresholds were derived in a validation group of 10 cases (160 segments). Eight hundred segments (16 per patient) were analyzed to quantify AAR/IS by ECV maps (ECV thresholds for AAR is 33% and IS is 46%), T2-weighted imaging, T1 maps, and acute LGE. Follow-up LGE imaging was used as the reference standard for final IS and viability assessment. The AAR derived from ECV maps (threshold of >33) demonstrated good agreement with T2-weighted imaging–derived AAR (bias, 0.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], −1.6 to 1.3) and AAR derived from native T1 maps (bias=1; 95% CI, −0.37 to 2.4). ECV demonstrated the best linear correlation to final IS at a threshold of >46% (
R
=0.96; 95% CI, 0.92–0.98;
P
<0.0001). ECV maps demonstrated better agreement with final IS than acute IS on LGE (ECV maps: bias, 1.9; 95% CI, 0.4–3.4 versus LGE imaging: bias, 10; 95% CI, 7.7–12.4). On multiple variable regression analysis, the number of nonviable segments was independently associated with IS by ECV maps (β=0.86;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

ECV maps can reliably quantify AAR and final IS in reperfused acute myocardial infarction. Acute ECV maps were superior to acute LGE in terms of agreement with final IS. IS quantified by ECV maps are independently associated with viability at follow-up.
Transient Notch Activation Induces Long-Term Gene Expression Changes Leading to Sick Sinus Syndrome in Mice
Authors: Qiao Yun , Lipovsky Catherine , Hicks Stephanie , Bhatnagar Somya , Li Gang , Khandekar Aditi , Guzy Robert , Woo Kel Vin , Nichols Colin G. , Efimov Igor R. , Rentschler Stacey
Published: July 2017

Rationale:

Notch signaling programs cardiac conduction during development, and in the adult ventricle, injury-induced Notch reactivation initiates global transcriptional and epigenetic changes.

Objective:

To determine whether Notch reactivation may stably alter atrial ion channel gene expression and arrhythmia inducibility.

Methods and Results:

To model an injury response and determine the effects of Notch signaling on atrial electrophysiology, we transiently activate Notch signaling within adult myocardium using a doxycycline-inducible genetic system (inducible Notch intracellular domain [iNICD]). Significant heart rate slowing and frequent sinus pauses are observed in iNICD mice when compared with controls. iNICD mice have structurally normal atria and preserved sinus node architecture, but expression of key transcriptional regulators of sinus node and atrial conduction, including
Nkx2-5
(NK2 homeobox 5),
Tbx3
, and
Tbx5
are dysregulated. To determine whether the induced electrical changes are stable, we transiently activated Notch followed by a prolonged washout period and observed that, in addition to decreased heart rate, atrial conduction velocity is persistently slower than control. Consistent with conduction slowing, genes encoding molecular determinants of atrial conduction velocity, including
Scn5a
(Nav1.5) and
Gja5
(connexin 40), are persistently downregulated long after a transient Notch pulse. Consistent with the reduction in
Scn5a
transcript, Notch induces global changes in the atrial action potential, including a reduced
dV
m
/dt
max
. In addition, programmed electrical stimulation near the murine pulmonary vein demonstrates increased susceptibility to atrial arrhythmias in mice where Notch has been transiently activated. Taken together, these results suggest that transient Notch activation persistently alters ion channel gene expression and atrial electrophysiology and predisposes to an arrhythmogenic substrate.

Conclusions:

Our data provide evidence that Notch signaling regulates transcription factor and ion channel gene expression within adult atrial myocardium. Notch reactivation induces electrical changes, resulting in sinus bradycardia, sinus pauses, and a susceptibility to atrial arrhythmias, which contribute to a phenotype resembling sick sinus syndrome.
A new species of Chlorociboria (Helotiales, Ascomycota) on herbaceous stems from China
Authors: ZHENG HUAN-DI , ZHUANG WEN-YING
Published: July 2017

A new species, namely Chlorociboria herbicola, is discovered on herbaceous stems in central China. Morphologically, the new fungus is distinctive by the combination of light blue-green apothecia, rectangular cells in ectal excipulum, and elongate-ellipsoidal ascospores with rounded ends. Phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer and large subunit of nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences confirm its ascription in Chlorociboria and distinction from the known species of the genus.
Gymnothorax pseudotile sp. nov. (Muraenidae: Muraeninae) from Bay of Bengal India
Authors: MOHAPATRA ANIL , SMITH DAVID G. , RAY DIPANJAN , MISHRA SUBHRENDU SEKHAR , MOHANTY SWARUP RANJAN
Published: July 2017

Gymnothorax pseudotile sp. nov., is described based on nine specimens (337–503 TL) collected from the northern Bay of Bengal. The species has intermaxillary teeth in three longitudinal rows, consisting of a median row of three depressible fang-like teeth and a single row of 6 teeth on each side; dorsal-fin origin above the posterior half of the gill opening; both dorsal and anal fin low with pale margin; predorsal vertebrae 12–13, preanal vertebrae 56–59, total vertebrae 126–129 (MVF: 13-58-128). The closely-related Gymnothorax tile, for which a brief description is included, can be differentiated from the new species by having teeth moderately stout, intermaxillary teeth in 5 rows; dorsal-fin origin over or slightly before the gill opening; dorsal and anal fins high with a pale margin, and predorsal vertebrae 9–11.
Rumen Ciliate Fauna of Domestic Sheep (Ovis aries) in İzmir, Turkey and Scanning Electron Microscopic Observations
Authors: GÜRELLİ GÖZDE
Published: July 2017

Species composition and distribution of ciliates were investigated in the rumen contents of 15 domestic sheep (Ovis aries) living in İzmir, Turkey. Twenty-three species and 11 morphotypes belonging to nine genera were identified. The density of ciliates was 118.3 ± 63.5 × 104 cells ml−1, and the mean number of ciliate species per host was 13.5 ± 5.3. Entodinium simulans was the most abundant species, with a prevalence of 100%. Two morphotypes of Diplodinium flabellum were identified, such as D. flabellum m. aspinatum and D. flabellum m. monospinatum, and E. simulans m. dubardi was found for the first time in domestic sheep in Turkey. The scanning electron microscopic observations of Entodinium longinucleatum, E. bursa, E. rectangulatum m. rectangulatum, E. semahatae, E. exiguum, E. minimum, E. simulans m. caudatum, E. dilobum, Diplodinium flabellum m. aspinatum, D. dentatum, Isotricha prostoma, Metadinium affine, Enoploplastrom triloricatum, Dasytricha ruminantium, Ophryoscolex caudatus m. tricoronatus, Epidinium ecaudatum m. parvicaudatum, and Polyplastron multivesiculatum were studied.