bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life-cycle of Oxyspirura petrowi (Spirurida: Thelaziidae), an eyeworm of the northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus)
Authors: Kalyanasundaram Aravindan , Brym Matthew Z. , Blanchard Kendall R. , Henry Cassandra , Skinner Kalin , Henry Brett J. , Herzog Jessica , Hay Alyssa , Kendall Ronald J.
Published: November 2019

Background

Oxyspirura petrowi (Spirurida: Thelaziidae), a heteroxenous nematode of birds across the USA, may play a role in the decline of the northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) in the Rolling Plains Ecoregion of West Texas. Previous molecular studies suggest that crickets, grasshoppers and cockroaches serve as potential intermediate hosts of O. petrowi, although a complete study on the life-cycle of this nematode has not been conducted thus far. Consequently, this study aims to improve our understanding of the O. petrowi life-cycle by experimentally infecting house crickets (Acheta domesticus) with O. petrowi eggs, feeding infected crickets to bobwhite and assessing the life-cycle of this nematode in both the definitive and intermediate hosts.

Methods

Oxyspirura petrowi eggs were collected from gravid worms recovered from wild bobwhite and fed to house crickets. The development of O. petrowi within crickets was monitored by dissection of crickets at specified intervals. When infective larvae were found inside crickets, parasite-free pen-raised bobwhite were fed four infected crickets each. The maturation of O. petrowi in bobwhite was monitored through fecal floats and bobwhite necropsies at specified intervals.

Results

In this study, we were able to infect both crickets (n = 45) and bobwhite (n = 25) with O. petrowi at a rate of 96%. We successfully replicated and monitored the complete O. petrowi life-cycle in vivo, recovering embryonated O. petrowi eggs from the feces of bobwhite 51 days after consumption of infected crickets. All life-cycle stages of O. petrowi were confirmed in both the house cricket and the bobwhite using morphological and molecular techniques.

Conclusions

This study provides a better understanding of the infection mechanism and life-cycle of O. petrowi by tracking the developmental progress within both the intermediate and definitive host. To our knowledge, this study is the first to fully monitor the complete life-cycle of O. petrowi and may allow for better estimates into the potential for future epizootics of O. petrowi in bobwhite. Finally, this study provides a model for experimental infection that may be used in research examining the effects of O. petrowi infection in bobwhite.
From Africa to Europe: evidence of transmission of a tropical Plasmodium lineage in Spanish populations of house sparrows
Authors: Ferraguti Martina , Martínez-de la Puente Josué , García-Longoria Luz , Soriguer Ramón , Figuerola Jordi , Marzal Alfonso
Published: November 2019

Background

Avian malaria parasites are a highly diverse group that commonly infect birds and have deleterious effects on their hosts. Some parasite lineages are geographically widespread and infect many host species in many regions. Bird migration, natural dispersal, invasive species and human-mediated introductions into areas where competent insect vectors are present, are probably the main drivers of the current distribution of avian malaria parasites.

Methods

A total of 412 and 2588 wild house sparrows (Passer domesticus) were captured in 2012 and 2013 in two areas of the Iberian Peninsula (central and southern Spain, respectively). Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples; parasite lineages were sequenced and identified by comparing with GenBank and/or MalAvi databases.

Results

Thirteen Plasmodium lineages were identified in house sparrows corresponding to three major clades. Five individuals were infected by the African Plasmodium lineage PAGRI02, which has been proposed to actively circulate only in Africa.

Conclusions

Despite the low prevalence of PAGRI02 in sparrows in Spain, our results suggest that the area of transmission of this parasite is more widespread than previously thought and covers both Africa and Europe. Further studies of the global distribution of Plasmodium lineages infecting wild birds are required to identify the current transmission areas of these parasites. This is vital given the current scenario of global change that is providing new opportunities for avian malaria transmission into areas where parasites were previously absent.
Influence of hyperuricemia treatment on postoperative acute kidney injury among hyperuricemia patients: a single-center retrospective database analysis
Authors: Watanabe Shinichiro , Kawano Takashi , Horino Taro , Matsumoto Tatsuki , Nagata Keitaro , Hatakeyama Yutaka , Locatelli Fabricio M. , Yokoyama Masataka , Terada Yoshio , Okuhara Yoshiyasu
Published: November 2019

Objective

Hyperuricemia has been reported to be associated with the development of postoperative acute kidney injury (pAKI). However, it remains underdetermined whether hyperuricemia treatment could decrease the potential risk of pAKI. Here, we investigated this hypothesis among hyperuricemia patients with previously normal renal function by performing a retrospective database analysis.

Results

The study screened 18,169 patients, and were examined preoperative serum creatinine, uric acid, and postoperative serum creatinine. Eight hundred thirty-six patients were finally analyzed for the study, of whom 232 were in the treatment group and 604 were in the non-treatment control group. After adjustment for multi-covariates including baseline (pre-treatment) serum uric acid (SUA) levels, the incidence of pAKI in the treatment group (9.05%; 95% CI 6.04–12.1%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (14.2%; 95% CI 11.2–17.2%). On the other hand, further adjusting for preoperative SUA levels, there was no significant difference in the expected incidence of pAKI between the groups.
Molecular dynamics simulations of the interaction of wild type and mutant human CYP2J2 with polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Abelak K. K. , Bishop-Bailey D. , Nobeli I.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The data presented here is part of a study that was aimed at characterizing the molecular mechanisms of polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism by CYP2J2, the main cytochrome P450 enzyme active in the human cardiovasculature. This part comprises the molecular dynamics simulations of the binding of three eicosanoid substrates to wild type and mutant forms of the enzyme. These simulations were carried out with the aim of dissecting the importance of individual residues in the active site and the roles they might play in dictating the binding and catalytic specificity exhibited by CYP2J2.

Data description

The data comprise: (a) a new homology model of CYP2J2, (b) a number of predicted low-energy complexes of CYP2J2 with arachidonic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, produced with molecular docking and (c) a series of molecular dynamics simulations of the wild type and four mutants interacting with arachidonic acid as well as simulations of the wild type interacting with the two other eicosanoid ligands. The simulations may be helpful in identifying the determinants of substrate specificity of this enzyme and in unraveling the role of individual mutations on its function. They may also help guide the generation of mutants with altered substrate preferences.
Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes: a new therapeutic approach to osteoarthritis?
Authors: Mianehsaz Elaheh , Mirzaei Hamid Reza , Mahjoubin-Tehran Maryam , Rezaee Alireza , Sahebnasagh Roxana , Pourhanifeh Mohammad Hossein , Mirzaei Hamed , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: November 2019

Degenerative disorders of joints, especially osteoarthritis (OA), result in persistent pain and disability and high costs to society. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms of OA have not yet been fully explained. OA is characterized by destruction of cartilage and loss of extracellular matrix (ECM). It is generally agreed that there is an association between pro-inflammatory cytokines and the development of OA. There is increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and “a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs” (ADAMTS). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been explored as a new treatment for OA during the last decade. It has been suggested that paracrine secretion of trophic factors, in which exosomes have a crucial role, contributes to the mechanism of MSC-based treatment of OA. The paracrine secretion of exosomes may play a role in the repair of joint tissue as well as MSC-based treatments for other disorders. Exosomes isolated from various stem cells may contribute to tissue regeneration in the heart, limbs, skin, and other tissues. Recent studies have indicated that exosomes (or similar particles) derived from MSCs may suppress OA development. Herein, for first time, we summarize the recent findings of studies on various exosomes derived from MSCs and their effectiveness in the treatment of OA. Moreover, we highlight the likely mechanisms of actions of exosomes in OA.
Research and therapy with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs): social, legal, and ethical considerations
Authors: Moradi Sharif , Mahdizadeh Hamid , Šarić Tomo , Kim Johnny , Harati Javad , Shahsavarani Hosein , Greber Boris , Moore Joseph B.
Published: November 2019

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can self-renew indefinitely in culture and differentiate into all specialized cell types including gametes. iPSCs do not exist naturally and are instead generated (“induced” or “reprogrammed”) in culture from somatic cells through ectopic co-expression of defined pluripotency factors. Since they can be generated from any healthy person or patient, iPSCs are considered as a valuable resource for regenerative medicine to replace diseased or damaged tissues. In addition, reprogramming technology has provided a powerful tool to study mechanisms of cell fate decisions and to model human diseases, thereby substantially potentiating the possibility to (i) discover new drugs in screening formats and (ii) treat life-threatening diseases through cell therapy-based strategies. However, various legal and ethical barriers arise when aiming to exploit the full potential of iPSCs to minimize abuse or unauthorized utilization. In this review, we discuss bioethical, legal, and societal concerns associated with research and therapy using iPSCs. Furthermore, we present key questions and suggestions for stem cell scientists, legal authorities, and social activists investigating and working in this field.
Potential for imaging the high-affinity state of the 5-HT1B receptor: a comparison of three PET radioligands with differing intrinsic activity
Authors: Lindberg Anton , Arakawa Ryosuke , Nogami Tsuyoshi , Nag Sangram , Schou Magnus , Elmore Charles S. , Farde Lars , Pike Victor W. , Halldin Christer
Published: November 2019

Background

Over the last decade, a few radioligands have been developed for PET imaging of brain 5-HT1B receptors. The 5-HT1B receptor is a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that exists in two different agonist affinity states. An agonist ligand is expected to be more sensitive towards competition from another agonist, such as endogenous 5-HT, than an antagonist ligand. It is of interest to know whether the intrinsic activity of a PET radioligand for the 5-HT1B receptor impacts on its ability to detect changes in endogenous synaptic 5-HT density. Three high-affinity 11C-labeled 5-HT1B PET radioligands with differing intrinsic activity were applied to PET measurements in cynomolgus monkey to evaluate their sensitivity to be displaced within the brain by endogenous 5-HT. For these experiments, fenfluramine was pre-administered at two different doses (1.0 and 5.0 mg/kg, i.v.) to induce synaptic 5-HT release.

Results

A dose-dependent response to fenfluramine was detected for all three radioligands. At the highest dose of fenfluramine (5.0 mg/kg, i.v.), reductions in specific binding in the occipital cortex increased with radioligand agonist efficacy, reaching 61% for [11C]3. The most antagonistic radioligand showed the lowest reduction in specific binding.

Conclusions

Three 5-HT1B PET radioligands were identified with differing intrinsic activity that could be used in imaging high- and low-affinity states of 5-HT1B receptors using PET. From this limited study, radioligand sensitivity to endogenous 5-HT appears to depend on agonist efficacy. More extensive studies are required to substantiate this suggestion.
Comparison of the intestinal microbiota composition and function in healthy and diseased Yunlong Grouper
Authors: Ma Chao , Chen Chunxiu , Jia Lei , He Xiaoxu , Zhang Bo
Published: November 2019

Maintaining stabilization of the intestinal microbiota is important in preventing bacterial diseases in cultured fish. At present, there have been no reports on the composition and functional analysis of intestinal microbiota in Yunlong Grouper (Epinephelus moara♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus♂). In this study we analyzed and compared the intestinal microbiota composition of healthy and diseased pond-reared fish to discern the functional profile of a healthy status. The richness and diversity of the intestinal microbiota did not differ significantly between diseased and healthy fish, yet the abundance of predominant phyla like the Proteobacteria were upregulated in the diseased Yunlong Grouper. At the genus level, a significant reduction of Cetobacterium was observed in the intestinal tracts of diseased fish, as Pseudomonas became the most dominant bacterium. To compare the intestinal microorganism abundances between the two health groups of fish, we first screened the gut bacteria and discerned 4 phyla and 12 genera to designate a healthy status in Yunlong Grouper. The environmental bacterial community influenced composition of the intestinal microbiota in Yunlong Grouper, and the intestinal microbiota of diseased fish was more susceptible to the influence of the culture water. In addition, the prediction of functional genes by phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states (PICRUSt) indicated that the intestinal microbiota of Yunlong Grouper is related mainly to the terms “metabolism, environmental information processing, genetic information processing, human diseases, and cellular processing; moreover, the functions of the intestinal microbiota differed between the different health states of this fish. The overall results indicate that the occurrence of disease can affect the composition and function of the intestinal microbiota in a cultured fish.
Estimated dead space fraction and the ventilatory ratio are associated with mortality in early ARDS
Authors:   MARS Consortium, Morales-Quinteros Luis , Schultz Marcus J. , Bringué Josep , Calfee Carolyn S. , Camprubí Marta , Cremer Olaf L. , Horn Janneke , van der Poll Tom , Sinha Pratik , Artigas Antonio , Bos Lieuwe D.
Published: November 2019

Background

Indirect indices for measuring impaired ventilation, such as the estimated dead space fraction and the ventilatory ratio, have been shown to be independently associated with an increased risk of mortality. This study aimed to compare various methods for dead space estimation and the ventilatory ratio in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and to determine their independent values for predicting death at day 30. The present study is a post hoc analysis of a prospective observational cohort study of ICUs of two tertiary care hospitals in the Netherlands.

Results

Individual patient data from 940 ARDS patients were analyzed. Estimated dead space fraction and the ventilatory ratio at days 1 and 2 were significantly higher among non-survivors (p < 0.01). Dead space fraction calculation using the estimate from physiological variables [VD/VT phys] and the ventilatory ratio at day 2 showed independent association with mortality at 30 days (odds ratio 1.28 [95% CI 1.02–1.61], p < 0.03 and 1.20 [95% CI, 1.01–1.40], p < 0.03, respectively); whereas, the Harris–Benedict [VD/VT HB] and Penn State [VD/VT PS] estimations were not associated with mortality. The predicted validity of the estimated dead space fraction and the ventilatory ratio improved the baseline model based on PEEP, PaO2/FiO2, driving pressure and compliance of the respiratory system at day 2 (AUROCC 0.72 vs. 0.69, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Estimated methods for dead space calculation and the ventilatory ratio during the early course of ARDS are associated with mortality at day 30 and add statistically significant but limited improvement in the predictive accuracy to indices of oxygenation and respiratory system mechanics at the second day of mechanical ventilation.
Dexmedetomidine enhances tolerance to bupivacaine cardiotoxicity in the isolated rat hearts: alpha 2 adrenoceptors were not involved
Authors: Xia Fangfang , Jin Zhousheng , Lin Tingting , Cai Xixi , Pan Linmin , Wang Shi , Cai Yaoyao , Chen Hongfei
Published: November 2019

Background

Dexmedetomidine was proved to mitigate bupivacaine-induced cardiotoxicity but mechanism of this ability is still unclear. This study was designed to investigate the direct effects of dexmedetomidine on cardiotoxicity induced by bupivacaine on Langendorff rat heart preparation and the role of alpha 2 adrenoceptors in this process was explored.

Methods

Hearts of rat were isolated, mounted on a Langendorff system. Five experimental groups were assessed after 10 min Krebs-Henseleit buffer (KHB) infusions as follow: (1) Group Con, only KHB was perfused; (2) Group Dex, KHB was perfused for 5 min, then dexmedetomidine (10 nmol/L) was added; (3) Group Bupi, KHB was perfused for 25 min, then bupivacaine (50 μmol/L) was added; (4) Group Bupi + Dex, KHB was perfused for 5 min, then the dexmedetomidine (10 nmol/L) was added for 20 min, at last a mixture of KHB + dexmedetomidine + bupivacaine were perfused; (5) Group Bupi + Dex + Yoh, a combination of KHB + yohimbine (alpha 2 adrenoceptor antagonists, 1 μmol/L) was perfusion for 5 min, then dexmedetomidine (10 nmol/L) was added for 20 min, at last a mixture of KHB + yohimbine + dexmedetomidine + bupivacaine was perfused. The experimental perfusion was maintained for 35 min in group Con and group Dex, and the experimental perfusion was sustained until asystole in the other three groups.

Results

Compared with group Bupi, dexmedetomidine significantly increased the time to first arrhythmia (P <  0.001) and time to asystole (P <  0.001) in group Bupi + Dex. In addition, dexmedetomidine also significantly increased the time to 25, 50 and 75% reductions in heart rate (P <  0.001) and the time to 25, 50 and 75% reductions in rate-pressure product (P <  0.001) in group Bupi + Dex. Dexmedetomidine increased the cardiac tissue bupivacaine content when asystole (Bupi + Dex vs. Bupi, 58.5 ± 6.3 vs. 46.8 ± 5.6 nmol/g,P = 0.003). The benefit of dexmedetomidine on bupivacaine-induced cardiotoxicity were not eliminated by yohimbine.

Conclusions

Dexmedetomidine could delay the occurrence of bupivacaine-induced arrhythmia and asystole in the isolated rat hearts, but the alpha 2 adrenoceptors were not involved in this process.
Cone beam CT for perioperative imaging in hearing preservation Cochlear implantation – a human cadaveric study
Authors: Nateghifard Kayvan , Low David , Awofala Lola , Srikanthan Dilakshan , Kuthubutheen Jafri , Daly Michael , Chan Harley , Irish Jonathan , Chen Joseph , Lin Vincent , Le Trung Ngoc
Published: November 2019

Background

Knowledge of the cochlear implant array's precise position is important because of the correlation between electrode position and speech understanding. Several groups have provided recent image processing evidence to determine scalar translocation, angular insertion depth, and cochlear duct length (CDL); all of which are being used for patient-specific programming. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is increasingly used in otology due to its superior resolution and low radiation dose. Our objectives are as followed: Validate CBCT by measuring cochlear metrics, including basal turn diameter (A-value) and lateral wall cochlear duct length at different angular intervals and comparing it against microcomputed CT (uCT). Explore the relationship between measured lateral wall cochlear duct length at different angular intervals and insertion depth among 3 different length electrodes using CBCT.

Methods

The study was performed using fixed human cadaveric temporal bones in a tertiary academic centre. Ten temporal bones were subjected to the standard facial recess approach for cochlear implantation and imaged by CBCT followed by uCT. Measurements were performed on a three-dimensional reconstructed model of the cochlea. Sequential insertion of 3 electrodes (Med-El Flex24, 28 and Soft) was then performed in 5 bones and reimaged by CBCT. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation.

Results

There was good agreement between CBCT and uCT for cochlear metrics, validating the precision of CBCT against the current gold standard uCT in imaging. The A-value recorded by both modalities showed a high degree of linear correlation and did not differ by more than 0.23 mm in absolute values. For the measurement of lateral wall CDL at various points along the cochlea, there was a good correlation between both modalities at 360 deg and 720 deg (r = 0.85, p < 0.01 and r = 0.79, p < 0.01). The Flex24 electrode displayed consistent insertion depth across different bones.

Conclusions

CBCT reliably performs cochlear metrics and measures electrode insertion depth. The low radiation dose, fast acquisition time, diminished metallic artifacts and portability of CBCT make it a valid option for imaging in cochlear implant surgery.
Inequality of healthy life expectancy for the Chinese elderly and its trend
Authors: Jiao Kaishan
Published: November 2019

In this study, we use long-term follow-up survey data to explore the inequality of the healthy life expectancy among the elderly and the trends of such expectancy among different birth cohorts and at different ages. The results show that older people with higher socioeconomic status do not have a significant advantage in healthy life expectancy. Its advantage in life expectancy is mainly due to the relatively low mortality rate under conditions of disability, i.e., the relatively long life expectancy with disability. This also shows that the elderly with higher socioeconomic status is at the stage of disability expansion. In addition, the study examines the age effect and cohort effect of health inequality and points out that health inequalities among different socioeconomic status groups are likely to increase in the future.
Effects of replacing fish oil with palm oil in diets of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) on muscle biochemical composition, enzyme activities, and mRNA expression of growth-related genes
Authors: Ayisi Christian Larbi , Zhao Jinliang , Yame Chen , Apraku Andrews , Debra Grace
Published: November 2019

Background

Due to the continuous demand for fish coupled with decline in capture fisheries, there is the need to increase aquaculture production to meet the demand. Aquaculture is faced with high cost of feeding since fish oil and fish meal are expensive. In view of this, there are calls to explore alternatives that are cheap and reliable.

Objectives

This study onOreochromis niloticuswas conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing fish oil (FO) with palm oil (PO) at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% on muscle fatty acid and proximate composition as well as growth-related enzyme activities and mRNA expression.

Methods

Oreochromis niloticuswere fed five experimental diets (33% crude protein and 10% crude lipid) for 8 weeks. Feed had variation in fish oil and palm oil contents. After the 8 weeks feeding trial, five fish were sampled from each tank (15 from each treatment) and euthanized using an excess dose of tricaine methane sulfonate (MS-222 at 200 mg/L). Fatty acid and enzyme activities were analyzed using standard protocols. Also, RT-qPCR was used to quantify the expression levels of selected growth-related genes.

Results

Fish fed 25% PO recorded the least muscle protein content and was significantly lower than the group fed 100% PO. Paired box protein 7 (Pax-7) enzyme activity was significantly higher in the group fed 50% PO compared to the groups fed 25% PO and 100% PO, while caplain-3 (Capn-3) was significantly lower in the group fed 0% PO compared to all other groups. There was a significant difference among treatments with respect to mRNA expression of Pax-7 and Capn-3. Group fed 25% PO had significantly lower mRNA expression of Pax-7, while the group fed 75% PO recorded significantly higher mRNA expression of Capn-3 compared to groups fed 0% PO, 25% PO, and 100% PO. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed that Igf-I and Igf-II mRNA expression have significant correlation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids content in muscle.

Conclusion

The results suggest muscle protein content could be modified if FO is replaced with PO. Also, mRNA expression of Pax-7 and Capn-3 is affected by replacing FO with PO.
In Situ Analysis Reveals That CFTR Is Expressed in Only a Small Minority of β-Cells in Normal Adult Human Pancreas
Authors: White Michael G , Maheshwari Rashmi R , Anderson Scott J , Berlinguer-Palmini Rolando , Jones Claire , Richardson Sarah J , Rotti Pavana G , Armour Sarah L , Ding Yuchun , Krasnogor Natalio , Engelhardt John F , Gray Mike A , Morgan Noel G , Shaw James A M
Published: November 2019

Context

Although diabetes affects 40% to 50% of adults with cystic fibrosis, remarkably little is known regarding the underlying mechanisms leading to impaired pancreatic β-cell insulin secretion. Efforts toward improving the functional β-cell deficit in cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) have been hampered by an incomplete understanding of whether β-cell function is intrinsically regulated by cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Definitively excluding meaningful CFTR expression in human β-cells in situ would contribute significantly to the understanding of CFRD pathogenesis.

Objective

To determine CFTR messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein expression within β-cells in situ in the unmanipulated human pancreas of donors without any known pancreatic pathology.

Design

In situ hybridization for CFTR mRNA expression in parallel with insulin immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence co-localization of CFTR with insulin and the ductal marker, Keratin-7 (KRT7), were undertaken in pancreatic tissue blocks from 10 normal adult, nonobese deceased organ donors over a wide age range (23–71 years) with quantitative image analysis.

Results

CFTR mRNA was detectable in a mean 0.45% (range 0.17%–0.83%) of insulin-positive cells. CFTR protein expression was co-localized with KRT7. One hundred percent of insulin-positive cells were immunonegative for CFTR.

Conclusions

For the first time, in situ CFTR mRNA expression in the unmanipulated pancreas has been shown to be present in only a very small minority (<1%) of normal adult β-cells. These data signal a need to move away from studying endocrine-intrinsic mechanisms and focus on elucidation of exocrine–endocrine interactions in human cystic fibrosis.
Serum Metabolome of Coffee Consumption and its Association With Bone Mineral Density: The Hong Kong Osteoporosis Study
Authors: Chau Yin-Pan , Au Philip C M , Li Gloria H Y , Sing Chor-Wing , Cheng Vincent K F , Tan Kathryn C B , Kung Annie W C , Cheung Ching-Lung
Published: November 2019

Background

Inconsistent associations between coffee consumption and bone mineral density (BMD) have been observed in epidemiological studies. Moreover, the relationship of bioactive components in coffee with BMD has not been studied. The aim of the current study is to identify coffee-associated metabolites and evaluate their association with BMD.

Methods

Two independent cohorts totaling 564 healthy community-dwelling adults from the Hong Kong Osteoporosis Study (HKOS) who visited in 2001–2010 (N = 329) and 2015–2016 (N = 235) were included. Coffee consumption was self-reported in an food frequency questionnaire. Untargeted metabolomic profiling on fasting serum samples was performed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry platforms. BMD at lumbar spine and femoral neck was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Multivariable linear regression and robust regression were used for the association analyses.

Results

12 serum metabolites were positively correlated with coffee consumption after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing (P < 4.87 × 10–5), with quinate, 3-hydroxypyridine sulfate, and trigonelline (N’-methylnicotinate) showing the strongest association. Among these metabolites, 11 known metabolites were previously identified to be associated with coffee intake and 6 of them were related to caffeine metabolism. Habitual coffee intake was positively and significantly associated with BMD at the lumbar spine and femoral neck. The metabolite 5-acetylamino-6-formylamino-3-methyluracil (AFMU) (β = 0.012, SE = 0.005; P = 0.013) was significantly associated with BMD at the lumbar spine, whereas 3-hydroxyhippurate (β = 0.007, SE = 0.003, P = 0.027) and trigonelline (β = 0.007, SE = 0.004; P = 0.043) were significantly associated with BMD at the femoral neck.

Conclusions

12 metabolites were significantly associated with coffee intake, including 6 caffeine metabolites. Three of them (AFMU, 3-hydroxyhippurate, and trigonelline) were further associated with BMD. These metabolites could be potential biomarkers of coffee consumption and affect bone health.
Adverse Outcomes and Economic Burden of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Late Diagnosis in the Newborn Screening Absence
Authors: Miranda Mirela Costa De , Haddad Luciana Bertocco de Paiva , Madureira Guiomar , Mendonca Berenice Bilharinho de , Bachega Tania A S S
Published: November 2019

Objective

To establish short- and long-term adverse outcome frequencies related to a late diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in the absence of newborn screening (NBS) and to determine respective treatment costs, which have never been reported.

Design

A retrospective analysis of a CAH cohort diagnosed without NBS.

Methods

We evaluated medical record data concerning 195 patients (141 females) diagnosed with CAH through clinical suspicion and confirmed using hormonal and CYP21A2 analysis, who were followed from 1980 to 2016 at Sao Paulo University. We measured mortality, dehydration, mental impairment frequencies, and hospitalization length outcomes in the salt-wasting form; the frequency of genetic females raised as males in both forms, frequency of depot GnRh analog (GnRha) and GH therapies in the simple virilizing form, and related outcome costs were calculated.

Results

Mortality rates and associated costs, varying from 10% to 26% and from $2,239,744.76 to $10,271,591.25, respectively, were calculated using the Brazilian yearly live-births rate, estimated productive life years, and gross domestic product. In the salt-wasting form, 76% of patients were hospitalized, 8.6% were mentally impaired, and 3% of females were raised as males (total cost, $86,230/salt-wasting patient). GnRha and growth hormone were used for 28% and 14% of simple virilizing patients, respectively, and 18% of females were raised as males (preventable cost, $4232.74/simple virilizing patient).

Conclusions

A late CAH diagnosis leads to high mortality and morbidity rates, notably increasing public health costs, and may result in physical and psychological damage that is not easily measurable.
Internal Colony as Political Perspective
Authors: Adamson Morgan
Published: November 2019

In the midst of struggles against racial oppression in the United States that intensified in and around 1968, activists developed the theory of the internal colony to contend that US imperialism was essential to understanding racial oppression in the heart of empire. The theory of the internal colony foregrounded alliances with struggles for national liberation abroad, articulated through an internationalist and Third Worldist position. This essay is a critical evaluation of the theory of the internal colony as a political perspective, its use and circulation within militant movements against racial oppression during the long 1960s, and its cultural and theoretical resonances today. Through the work of Robert L. Allen, the essay argues that the internal colony was a crucial lens through which to read both the rise of law and order and neoliberal political formations. Furthermore, drawing on the critiques of imperialism and finance, first developed by Lenin, that inspired movements for Third World emancipation through dependency theory from Latin American scholars and the theory of neocolonialism developed by Kwame Nkrumah in the 1960s, the author argues for a reevaluation of the theory of the internal colony in the context of contemporary financialization in the United States and elsewhere as a way to reinvigorate theories of geographical dislocation that remap solidarities in struggles against the financial dispossession today.
Exhausted Montage
Authors: Hamblin Sarah
Published: November 2019

This essay argues that the conditions of contemporary finance capitalism have exhausted the revolutionary potential of political modernist aesthetics. The global ’68 conjuncture generated many of the fundamental concepts that continue to underscore how contemporary radical film practice is understood. As such, montage continues to occupy a central place in today’s radical aesthetic imagination, its model of active spectatorship still accepted as a vital expression of an autogestive oppositional politics. However, the economic and political landscape has changed significantly over the last fifty years such that the radical potential of political modernist aesthetics needs to be reevaluated. To this end, this essay examines how the shift from industrial to finance capitalism transforms montage and its concomitant investment in spectatorial autonomy into a conservative affirmation of the neoliberal subject. Now resembling the pattern hunters of speculative finance, the active spectator of political modernist cinema is today compromised by the new conditions of volatility, instability, hyperindividualism, and privatization that demand the same cognitive labor. In exploring how neoliberal ideology has absorbed and reframed the driving logics of 1968, this essay argues that montage’s radical political potential has been exhausted by the conditions of contemporary finance capitalism and instead calls for alternative modes of aesthetic engagement better equipped to at once express and oppose these new conditions of exploitation.
Multiscale dynamics of tight junction remodeling
Authors: Varadarajan Saranyaraajan , Stephenson Rachel E. , Miller Ann L.
Published: November 2019

Epithelial cells form tissues that generate biological barriers in the body. Tight junctions (TJs) are responsible for maintaining a selectively permeable seal between epithelial cells, but little is known about how TJs dynamically remodel in response to physiological forces that challenge epithelial barrier function, such as cell shape changes (e.g. during cell division) or tissue stretching (e.g. during developmental morphogenesis). In this Review, we first introduce a framework to think about TJ remodeling across multiple scales: from molecular dynamics, to strand dynamics, to cell- and tissue-scale dynamics. We then relate knowledge gained from global perturbations of TJs to emerging information about local TJ remodeling events, where transient localized Rho activation and actomyosin-mediated contraction promote TJ remodeling to repair local leaks in barrier function. We conclude by identifying emerging areas in the field and propose ideas for future studies that address unanswered questions about the mechanisms that drive TJ remodeling.
Adenine·cytosine substitutions are an alternative pathway of compensatory mutation in angiosperm ITS2
Authors: Zhang Xinwan , Cao Yong , Zhang Wei , Simmons Mark P.
Published: November 2019

Compensatory mutations are crucial for functional RNA because they maintain RNA configuration and thus function. Compensatory mutation has traditionally been considered to be a two-step substitution through the GU-base-pair intermediate. We tested for an alternative AC-mediated compensatory mutation (ACCM). We investigated ACCMs by using a comprehensive sampling of ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) from 3934 angiosperm species in 80 genera and 55 families. We predicted ITS2 consensus secondary structures by using LocARNA for structure-based alignment and partitioning paired and unpaired regions. We examined and compared the substitution rates and frequencies among base pairs by using RNA-specific models. Base-pair states of ACCMs were mapped onto the inferred phylogenetic trees to infer their evolution. All types of compensatory mutations involving the AC intermediate were observed, but the most frequent substitutions were with AU or GC pairs, which are part of the AU–AC–GC pathway. Compared with the GU intermediate, AC had a lower frequency and higher mutability. Within the AU–AC–GC pathway, the AU–AC substitution rate was much slower than the AC–GC substitution rate. No consistently higher overall rate was identified for either pathway among all 80 sampled lineages, though compensatory mutations through the AC intermediate averaged about half that through the GU intermediate. These results demonstrate an alternative compensatory mutation between AU and GC that helps address the controversial inference of inferred simultaneous double substitutions.
Allopurinol reverses mercaptopurine-induced hypoglycemia in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Zhang Melissa , Bostrom Bruce
Published: November 2019

Fasting hypoglycemia is a known complication of mercaptopurine (6MP) maintenance therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is associated with high levels of the methylated metabolite 6-methyl-mercaptopurine (6MMP). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include morning tremulousness, nausea and vomiting. We have previously shown that switching 6MP dosing from evening to morning resolved hypoglycemia by reducing 6MMP; however, the reduction of 6MMP was only transient, potentially resulting in return of hypoglycemia. In children and adults with Crohn’s disease, co-prescribing allopurinol with 6MP blocks the activity of thiopurine methytransferase (TPMT), reducing 6MMP and improving its tolerance. As a consequence of inhibiting TPMT, 6MP is shunted toward the production of 6-thioguanine nucleotide (6TGN), which will result in pancytopenia if the dose of 6MP is not reduced. We demonstrate that allopurinol with a reduced dose of 6MP in two patients with ALL and 6MMP-associated hypoglycemia resulted in a complete and sustained suppression of 6MMP and rapid reversal of hypoglycemia and its symptoms.
Automation of Multichannel Rail Inspection Signal Analysis: Problems and Suggestions
Authors: Марков Анатолий , Markov Anatoliy , Максимова Екатерина , Maksimova Ekaterina
Published: November 2019

The article analyzed the system of "manual" analysis of the rail NDT results operating on the network of JSC "Russian Railways." The most of decrypter’s work time is spent on routine work not related to search for signals from defects. Difficulties were noted in creating programs for automatic decryption of defectograms. Invention proposes solutions to increase efficiency and reliability of defectogram decoding.
TO DETERMINATION OF THE CRACKING MOMENT FOR BENDING REINFORCED CONCRETE ELEMENTS WITH ACCOUNT OF PLASTIC DEFORMATIONS OF CONCRETE IN THE TENSION AREA
Authors: Радайкин О.В. , Radaykin Oleg
Published: November 2019

At the standard calculation of the cracking moment for bending reinforced concrete elements the plasticity coefficient γ is normally used, which according to SP 63.13330.2012 is 35% less than in the old SNiP 2.03.01-84*. The question arises, what is the reason for such a noticeable difference and which of the methods gives more reliable results? This article seeks to answer this question. For this purpose the physical meaning of the coefficient γ was considered in detail, with the usage of a nonlinear deformation model of a normal section. A calculation formula for γ depending on an element’s reinforcement degree was obtained, which is valid for conventional concrete of B15-B35 class. A comparison of the calculated cracking moment according to the proposed method with experiments by the other authors was carried out. A good agreement of results was observed.
CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF IN-PIPE ROBOTS
Authors: Ворочаева Людмила , Vorochaeva Lyudmila , Савин Сергей , Savin Sergey
Published: November 2019

In-pipe robots are developed for solving a diverse set of tasks, all of which have to do with monitoring and repairs of pipelines. These tasks include generation of maps of pipelines, detecting defects, anomalies and matter deposits on the inner surface of the pipe, studying the inner surface of the pipe in order to determine if it needs to be repaired and if it is possible to repair it, gathering information on the properties of the inner surface of the pipe and studying the change of these properties. These tasks have practical significance and their automation with robots is economically beneficial. Considering the variety of the existing in-pipe robot designs, it is important to have a way to categorize them and have a clear understanding which tasks are suitable for particular in-pipe robots. To this end, the detailed classifications of in-pipe robots can be used. This paper presents a survey of classifications of in-pipe robots. The previously proposed criteria for such classifications are discussed. The ambiguity of the commonly used classifications is highlighted. The paper presents a more detailed classification, based on eight criteria: 1) types of pipe surfaces that a robot can interact with, 2) controllability of a robot (distinguishing fully passive and active robots), 3) type of contact interaction with the inner surface of the pipe, 4) controllability of normal reactions and 5) controllability of friction forces in contact points or surfaces, 6) contact element types, 7) motor type, 8) transmission type. Combination of these criteria allows highlighting particular features of the existing in-pipe robot designs, simplifying the analysis of problem range that the robot can solve.
How Pair Programming Influences Team Performance: The Role of Backup Behavior, Shared Mental Models, and Task Novelty
Authors: Kude Thomas , Mithas Sunil , Schmidt Christoph T. , Heinzl Armin
Published: November 2019

Many organizations and software firms these days use pair programming to meet the challenges posed by digital transformations and to meet customer needs. They use pair programming to become more agile and responsive to their competitive environment. Although some studies suggest that pair programming can potentially increase the quality of developed software code and the satisfaction and confidence of developers, very little is known as to how pair programming affects team performance. Therefore, we conducted an empirical study at one of the largest enterprise software firms that serves a large number of Fortune 500 companies, and we collected data from the software developers, Scrum masters, and product owners of 62 software development teams. Our findings show that pair programming affects team performance positively by changing cognitive structures and behavioral patterns in software teams. Pair programming helps team members develop shared mental models and, as a consequence, increases backup behavior among team members. Backup behavior is particularly valuable for teams facing high task novelty. Our findings have critical implications for organizations and senior managers as they lead their digital transformation efforts where they often rely on autonomous teams for providing digital innovation. We show that pair programming can be a key ingredient for high-performance teams. Establishing the practice of pair programming promises to be particularly valuable for those teams that lack shared mental models and teams whose members fail to provide each other backup.
Emerging vistas of Remote Sensing Tools in Pollination Studies
Authors: Krishnasamy Venkateswaran , Sundaraguru Ramakrishnan , Amala U.
Published: November 2019

With the growth of information and technology across the globe, remote sensing applications find a place in the ecological studies of pollinators. The utilization of remote sensing tools in understanding the ecosystem services rendered by the bee pollinators is reviewed here. We discussed how radar and radio telemetry techniques helps to track individual bees, their foraging behaviour and density in relation to altered phenology of flowering crops in a landscape. Role of satellite imagery tools in studying characterizing a landscape affected by anthropogenic factors was discussed.  Monitoring invasive bee species that cause a threat to native bee fauna was explored. We explained the utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles to map the floral resource that influence the density and incidence of pollinators. Remote sensing tools used to measure sequence of pollination events was discussed.
Evaluation of Inter and Intraspecific Differences in the Venom Chemical Compositions of Polybia paulista Wasps and Ectatomma brunneum Ants Using FTIR-PAS
Authors: Mendonça Angelica , Bernardi Rafaella Caroline , Firmino Ellen Liciane Barbosa , Andrade Luis Humberto da Cunha , Lima Sandro Marcio , Fernandes Wedson Desidério , Antonialli Junior William Fernando
Published: November 2019

Wasps can synthesize chemical compounds called venom whose function is to overcome prey and assist in defense of the colonies. Geographic Parameters such as sex, age, the season of the year, and diet determined the composition of the venom location, genetics, environment. However, studies on the compositional variability of venom are still limited due to the difficulty in obtaining samples and the complexity of these substances. This work describes the use of the Fourier Transform Infrared Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (FTIR-PAS) to investigate inter- and intraspecific variability in the venom chemical composition (VCC) of the social wasp Polybia paulista (Von Ihering 1896) and the ant Ectatomma brunneum (Smith 1858). The results reveal significant differences in VCC among the ant and wasp, even for samples obtained from the same environment. The genetic component, therefore, seemed to be the predominant factor determining the compounds present. The findings also showed that exogenous factors, such as diet, could also be responsible for intraspecific differences, especially in wasps. The FTIR-PAS technique proved to be a reliable way of assessing intra- and interspecific differences in social Hymenoptera VCC.
A Checklist of Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Pakistan
Authors: Rasheed Muhammad Tariq , Bodlah Imran , Gull e Fareen Ammara , Wachkoo Aijaz Ahmad , Huang Xiaolei , Akbar Shahid Ali
Published: November 2019

The present paper provides an updated checklist of the ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of Pakistan. These include seven of the 21 known extant subfamilies with 101 valid ant species in 33 genera. Five species are reported for the first time from Pakistan: Cardiocondyla wroughtonii Forel, 1890; Crematogaster biroi Mayr, 1897; Ooceraea biroi (Forel, 1907); Pseudoneoponera rufipes Jerdon, 1851 and Strumigenys godeffroyi Mayr, 1866. Images to scientifically validate new faunal records from Pakistan and facilitate prompt identification are provided. Among the newly recorded species, three species viz., C. wroughtonii; O. biroi and S. godeffroyi are considered as tramp species having the cosmopolitan distribution. Notes about type localities, depositories and distribution in Pakistan are provided to each species record. The list provides a synthesis of the regional taxonomical work carried out until now and will serve as a baseline survey for future studies.