bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Klotho protein supplementation reduces blood pressure and renal hypertrophy in db/db mice, a model of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Takenaka Tsuneo , Kobori Hiroyuki , Miyazaki Takashi , Suzuki Hiromichi , Nishiyama Akira , Ishii Naohito , Yamashita Maho , Hayashi Matsuhiko
Published: September 2018

Aims

Klotho interacts with various membrane proteins, such as receptors for transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β and insulin‐like growth factor (IGF), to alter their function. Renal expression of klotho is diminished in diabetes. The present study examined whether exogenous klotho protein supplementation ameliorates kidney injury and renin–angiotensin system (RAS) in db/db mice.

Methods

We investigated the effects of klotho supplementation on diabetic kidney injury and RAS. Recombinant human klotho protein (10 μg/kg/d) was administered to db/db mice daily.

Results

Klotho protein supplementation reduced kidney weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), albuminuria, glomerular filtration rate, and 8‐epi‐prostaglandin F2α excretion without affecting body weight. Although klotho supplementation did not alter glycated albumin, it reduced renal angiotensin II levels associated with reduced renal expression of angiotensinogen. Klotho supplementation improved renal expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and endogenous renal expression of klotho. Klotho supplementation reduced the levels of hypoxia‐inducible factor, phosphorylated Akt, and phosphorylated mTOR and decreased the renal expression of TGF‐β, tumour necrosis factor (TNF), and fibronectin.

Conclusions

These data indicate that klotho supplementation reduces blood pressure and albuminuria along with ameliorating renal RAS activation in db/db mice. Furthermore, these results suggest that klotho inhibits IGF signalling, induces SOD expression to reduce oxidative stress, and suppresses Akt‐mTOR signalling to inhibit abnormal kidney growth. Collectively, the results suggest that klotho inhibits TGF‐β and TNF signalling, resulting in a decline in renal fibrosis.
Optimal maternal and neonatal outcomes and associated hospital characteristics
Authors: Campbell Katherine H. , Illuzzi Jessica L. , Lee Henry C. , Lin Haiqun , Lipkind Heather S. , Lundsberg Lisbet S. , Pettker Christian M. , Xu Xiao
Published: September 2018

Background

This study aims to examine hospital variation in both maternal and neonatal morbidities and identify institutional characteristics associated with hospital performance in a combined measure of maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

Using the California Linked Birth File containing data from birth certificate and hospital discharge records, we identified 1 322 713 term births delivered at 248 hospitals during 2010‐2012. For each hospital, a risk‐standardized rate of severe maternal morbidities and a risk‐standardized rate of severe newborn morbidities were calculated after adjusting for patient clinical risk factors. Hospitals were ranked based on combined information on their maternal and newborn morbidity rates.

Results

Risk‐standardized severe maternal and severe newborn morbidity rates varied substantially across hospitals (10th to 90th percentile range = 67.5‐148.2 and 141.8‐508.0 per 10 000 term births, respectively), although there was no significant association between the two (P = 0.15). Government hospitals (non‐Federal) were more likely than other hospitals to be in worse rank quartiles (P value for trend = 0.004), whereas larger volume was associated with better rank among hospitals in the first three quartiles (P = 0.004). The most prevalent morbidities that differed progressively across hospital rank quartiles were severe hemorrhage, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and heart failure during procedure/surgery for mothers, and severe infection, respiratory complication, and shock/resuscitation for neonates.

Conclusions

Hospitals with low maternal morbidity rates may not have low neonatal morbidity rates and vice versa, highlighting the importance of assessing joint maternal‐newborn outcomes in order to fully characterize a hospital's obstetrical performance. Hospitals with smaller volume and government ownership tend to have less desirable outcomes and warrant additional attention in future quality improvement efforts.
Tumour contact surface area as a predictor of postoperative complications and renal function in patients undergoing partial nephrectomy for renal tumours
Authors: Ficarra Vincenzo , Crestani Alessandro , Bertolo Riccardo , Antonelli Alessandro , Longo Nicola , Minervini Andrea , Novara Giacomo , Simeone Claudio , Carini Marco , Mirone Vincenzo , Porpiglia Francesco ,   Collaborators
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the ability of original tumour contact surface area (CSA) to predict postoperative complications and renal function impairment in a series of patients who underwent elective partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal masses.

Materials and Methods

We analysed the clinical records of 531 consecutive patients who underwent elective PN because of a suspicion of kidney cancer at five academic, high‐volume centres between January 2014 and December 2016. Each participating centre evaluated prospectively the radiological images to evaluate the CSA and to assign a PADUA score. Several expert surgeons performed the surgical procedures in each participating centre. Binary logistic regression was used to perform both univariable and multivariable analyses to identify predictors of postoperative complications. Linear regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of absolute change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; ACE).

Results

The median (interquartile range) CSA value was 14.2 (7.4–25.1) cm2. A total of 349 tumours (65.7%) had a CSA ≤ 20 cm2 and the remaining 182 (34.3%) had a CSA > 20 cm2. PNs were performed using an open approach in 237 (44.6%) cases, a pure laparoscopic approach in 152 cases (28.6%), and a robot‐assisted approach in the remaining 142 cases (26.7%). Multivariable analyses found that only age (odds ratio [OR] 1.037, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.018–1.057) and PADUA score (OR 1.289, 95%CI 1.132–1.469) were independent predictors of postoperative complications. Tumour CSA (OR 1.020, 95%CI 1.010–1.030) was found to be an independent predictor of postoperative complications only when PADUA score was removed from the model. Age (from −0.639 to −0.306; P < 0.001); body mass index (from 0.267 to 1.076; P = 0.001), age‐adjusted Charlson score (from −3.193 to −0.259; P = 0.02), preoperative eGFR value (from −0.939 to −0.862; P < 0.001) and tumour CSA (from −0.260 to −0.048; P = 0.005) were found to be independent predictors of ACE.

Conclusions

Tumour CSA is an independent predictor of postoperative renal function. Conversely, at multivariable analysis, PADUA score outperformed tumour CSA to predict postoperative complications after PN. The complexity of The Leslie et al. formula for calculating tumour CSA is a potential limitation with regard to its diffusion and application in clinical practice.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of quinazoline derivatives as dual HDAC1 and HDAC6 inhibitors for the treatment of cancer
Authors: Chen Jinying , Sang Zitai , Jiang Youjun , Yang Chao , He Linhong
Published: September 2018

Fifty‐eight quinazoline‐based compounds were designed and synthesized based on the structural optimizations from the lead compound 23bb in an attempt to search for more potent dual HDAC1 and HDAC6 inhibitors. Among them, 32c (HDAC1, IC50 = 31.10 ± 0.37 nM; HDAC6, IC50 = 16.15 ± 0.62 nM) and 32d (HDAC1, IC50 = 37.00 ± 0.24 nM; HDAC6, IC50 = 35.00 ± 0.71 nM) were not only identified as potent dual‐acting HDAC1 and HDAC6 inhibitors with over 10‐fold selectivity to the other HDACs, but also displayed activities in tubulin acetylation and histone H3 acetylation induction. Importantly, both of them displayed strong antiproliferative activities against various tumor cell lines in vitro with IC50 values less than 40 nM, especially for hematologic tumors cells (U266 and RPMI8226, IC50 < 1 nM), which were even better than 23bb and SAHA. Furthermore, 32c showed a significant tumor growth inhibition (antitumor rate = 63.98%, p < 0.05) in the resistant MCF‐7/ADR xenograft model without any obvious body weight changes and abnormal behaviors. Our findings validate that 32c is a potent dual inhibitor of HDAC1/6 that can be an efficacious treatment for breast cancer with Adriamycin resistance.
High risk of peri‐implant disease in periodontal Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome. A case series
Authors: Rinner Alexander , Zschocke Johannes , Schossig Anna , Gröbner Rebekka , Strobl Heinrich , Kapferer‐Seebacher Ines
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Periodontal Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (pEDS) has recently been delineated as a molecularly defined cause of early severe periodontitis. Here we report that implant treatment failed in three affected individuals from one family.

Materials and Methods

Longitudinal data before and after implant treatment were examined for three individuals with genetically confirmed pEDS in the course of a large‐scale pedigree analysis.

Results

Most detailed information was available for individual 1 in whom first periodontal bone loss was diagnosed at age 16 years. Rapid progression resulted in multiple tooth extractions at age 23 years and interforaminal placement of four implants. After primary implant success, peri‐implant bone loss accompanied by highly inflamed tissues and receding gums led to explantation five years later. In individual 2, severe periodontitis was diagnosed at age 15 years and resulted in extraction of all mandibular teeth at age 28 years. Four interforaminal implants were placed. Peri‐implant bone loss was diagnosed four years later, when up to three implant threads were exposed. Individual 3 showed complete tooth loss at age 29 years. He was restored with ten implants and removable prosthesis. Peri‐implant bone loss was diagnosed radiologically eight years later, when seven implant threads were exposed.

Conclusion

This is the first report on severe peri‐implant bone loss in pEDS. Retention of teeth as long as possible is the primary objective in pEDS as satisfying prosthetic solutions are missing. Further evaluation of dental management in individuals with pEDS is needed to develop concise treatment guidelines.
Recurrence and cancer‐specific death after adjuvant chemotherapy for Stage III colon cancer
Authors: Chapuis P. H. , Bokey E. , Chan C. , Keshava A. , Rickard M. J. F. X. , Stewart P. , Young C. J. , Dent O. F.
Published: September 2018

Aim

The recommended standard of care for patients after resection of Stage III colon cancer is adjuvant 5‐fluorouracil based chemotherapy – FOLFOX (fluorouracil, leucovorin with oxaliplatin) – or CAPOX (capecitabine, oxaliplatin). This may be modified in older patients or depending on comorbidity. This has been challenged recently as the apparent benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy may arise from improvements in surgery or preoperative imaging or pathology staging. This study compares recurrence and colon‐cancer‐specific death between patients who received postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy and those who did not.

Method

Prospectively recorded data from 363 consecutive patients who had a resection for Stage III colonic adenocarcinoma between 1995 and 2010 inclusive were analysed. Surviving patients were followed for at least 5 years. The suitability of patients for chemotherapy was discussed routinely at multidisciplinary team meetings. The incidence of recurrence and colon‐cancer‐specific death was evaluated by competing risk methods.

Results

After adjustment for the competing risk of non‐colorectal cancer death, there was no significant difference in recurrence between the 204 patients who received chemotherapy and the 159 who did not [hazard ratio (HR) 0.94, 95% CI 0.66–1.32, P = 0.700) and no significant difference in colon‐cancer‐specific death (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.50–1.04, P = 0.084; HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.57–1.36, P = 0.577 after adjustment for relevant covariates).

Conclusion

These findings question the routine use of chemotherapy after complete mesocolic excision for Stage III colon cancer. Recurrence and cancer‐specific death, assessed by competing risk methods, should be the standard outcomes for evaluating the effectiveness of adjuvant chemotherapy after potentially curative resection.
Nicotine and alcohol: the role of midbrain dopaminergic neurons in drug reinforcement
Authors: Morel Carole , Montgomery Sarah , Han Ming‐Hu
Published: September 2018

Nicotine and alcohol addiction are leading causes of preventable death worldwide and continue to constitute a huge socio‐economic burden. Both nicotine and alcohol perturb the brain's mesocorticolimbic system. Dopamine (DA) neurons projecting from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to multiple downstream structures, including the nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex, and amygdala, are highly involved in the maintenance of healthy brain function. VTA DA neurons play a crucial role in associative learning and reinforcement. Nicotine and alcohol usurp these functions, promoting reinforcement of drug taking behaviors. In this review, we will first describe how nicotine and alcohol individually affect VTA DA neurons by examining how drug exposure alters the heterogeneous VTA microcircuit and network‐wide projections. We will also examine how coadministration or previous exposure to nicotine or alcohol may augment the reinforcing effects of the other. Additionally, this review briefly summarizes the role of VTA DA neurons in nicotine, alcohol, and their synergistic effects in reinforcement and also addresses the remaining questions related to the circuit‐function specificity of the dopaminergic system in mediating nicotine/alcohol reinforcement and comorbidity.
Survivin overexpression via adeno‐associated virus vector Rh10 ameliorates ischemic damage after middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats
Authors: Sehara Yoshihide , Inaba Toshiki , Urabe Takao , Kurosaki Fumio , Urabe Masashi , Kaneko Naoki , Shimazaki Kuniko , Kawai Kensuke , Mizukami Hiroaki
Published: September 2018

Survivin, a member of the inhibitors of apoptosis protein gene family, inhibits the activity of caspase, leading to a halt of the apoptotic process. Our study focused on the neuroprotective effect of survivin after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) with intraparenchymal administration of an adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector. His‐tagged survivin was cloned and packaged into the AAV‐rh10 vector. Four‐week‐old Sprague–Dawley rats were injected with 4 × 109 vg of AAV‐GFP or AAV‐His‐survivin into the right striatum and were treated 3 weeks later with transient MCAO for 90 min. Twenty‐four hours after MCAO, functional and histological analyses of the rats were performed. The result showed that rats that had been treated with AAV‐green fluorescent protein (GFP) and those that had been treated with AAV‐His‐survivin did not show a significant difference in neurological scores 24 hr after MCAO, however, infarction volume was significantly reduced in the AAV‐His‐survivin group compared to that in the AAV‐GFP group. Although the neutrophil marker myeloperoxidase did not show a significant difference in the ischemic boundary zone, cells positive for active caspase‐3 and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling were significantly decreased in the AAV‐His‐survivin group. In conclusion, survivin overexpression in the ischemic boundary zone induced by using an AAV vector has the potential for amelioration of ischemic damage via an antiapoptotic mechanism.
It is a complex issue: emerging connections between epigenetic regulators in drug addiction
Authors: Anderson Ethan M. , Penrod Rachel D. , Barry Sarah M. , Hughes Brandon W. , Taniguchi Makoto , Cowan Christopher W.
Published: September 2018

Drug use leads to addiction in some individuals, but the underlying brain mechanisms that control the transition from casual drug use to an intractable substance use disorder (SUD) are not well understood. Gene x environment interactions such as the frequency of drug use and the type of substance used likely to promote maladaptive plastic changes in brain regions that are critical for controlling addiction‐related behavior. Epigenetics encompasses a broad spectrum of mechanisms important for regulating gene transcription that are not dependent on changes in DNA base pair sequences. This review focuses on the proteins and complexes contributing to epigenetic modifications in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) following drug experience. We discuss in detail the three major mechanisms: histone acetylation and deacetylation, histone methylation, and DNA methylation. We discuss how drug use alters the regulation of the associated proteins regulating these processes and highlight how experimental manipulations of these proteins in the NAc can alter drug‐related behaviors. Finally, we discuss the ways that histone modifications and DNA methylation coordinate actions by recruiting large epigenetic enzyme complexes to aid in transcriptional repression. Targeting these multiprotein epigenetic enzyme complexes – and the individual proteins that comprise them – might lead to effective therapeutics to reverse or treat SUDs in patients.
Circumferential root strains generated during lateral compaction with stainless steel vs. nickel‐titanium finger spreaders
Authors: Brosh Tamar , Metzger Zvi , Pilo Raphael
Published: September 2018

The circumferential strains created in the radicular dentin by nickel‐titanium (NiTi) and stainless steel (SS) finger spreaders (FSs) during a simulated clinical procedure of lateral compaction were compared after minimal (size 50) and extensive (size 100) canal preparations. Nineteen maxillary central incisors underwent minimal preparation, while 10 underwent an extra phase of extensive preparation. Four miniature strain gauges were bonded circumferentially in the apical third of the root (buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal). Lateral compaction was performed using either NiTi‐FSs or SS‐FSs. Force and strains were continuously recorded. The maximal strains (with and without normalization according to force) were recorded. The SS‐FSs generated higher maximal strains normalized according to force compared with the NiTi‐FSs. The maximal normalized strains were higher by 37%–43% for the mesial and distal aspects and by 6%–14% for the buccal and lingual aspects after the minimal preparation and by 24%–28% for the mesial and distal aspects and by 19%–20% for the buccal and lingual aspects after extensive preparation. The maximal normalized strains increased by 30%–70% from minimal to extensive preparations, with two teeth exhibiting vertical root fracture while compaction with SS‐FS. The NiTi‐FSs induce less strain in root dentin than the SS‐FSs and thus may contribute less to the risk of vertical root fracture.
Introgression of Chinese haplotypes contributed to the improvement of Danish Duroc pigs
Authors: Chen Minhui , Su Guosheng , Fu Jinluan , Wang Aiguo , Liu Jian‐Feng , Lund Mogens S. , Guldbrandtsen Bernt
Published: September 2018

The distribution of Asian ancestry in the genome of Danish Duroc pigs was investigated using whole‐genome sequencing data from European wild boars, Danish Duroc, Chinese Meishan and Bamaxiang pigs. Asian haplotypes deriving from Meishan and Bamaxiang occur widely across the genome. Signatures of selection on Asian haplotypes are common in the genome, but few of these haplotypes have been fixed. By defining 50‐kb windows with more than 50% Chinese ancestry, which did not exhibit extreme genetic differentiation between Meishan and Bamaxiang as candidate regions, the enrichment of quantitative trait loci in candidate regions supports that Asian haplotypes under selection play an important role in contributing genetic variation underlying production, reproduction, meat and carcass, and exterior traits. Gene annotation of regions with the highest proportion of Chinese ancestry revealed genes of biological interest, such as NR6A1. Further haplotype clustering analysis suggested that a haplotype of Chinese origin around the NR6A1 gene was introduced to Europe and then underwent a selective sweep in European pigs. Besides, functional genes in candidate regions, such as AHR and PGRMC2, associated with fertility, and SAL1, associated with meat quality, were identified. Our results demonstrate the contribution of Asian haplotypes to the genomes of European pigs. Findings herein facilitate further genomic studies such as genomewide association study and genomic prediction by providing ancestry information of variants.
Early Plasmodium‐induced inflammation does not accelerate aging in mice
Authors: Lippens Cédric , Guivier Emmanuel , Reece Sarah E. , O’Donnell Aidan J. , Cornet Stéphane , Faivre Bruno , Sorci Gabriele
Published: September 2018

Aging is associated with a decline of performance leading to reduced reproductive output and survival. While the antagonistic pleiotropy theory of aging has attracted considerable attention, the molecular/physiological functions underlying the early‐life benefits/late‐life costs paradigm remain elusive. We tested the hypothesis that while early activation of the inflammatory response confers benefits in terms of protection against infection, it also incurs costs in terms of reduced reproductive output at old age and shortened longevity. We infected mice with the malaria parasite Plasmodium yoelii and increased the inflammatory response using an anti‐IL‐10 receptor antibody treatment. We quantified the benefits and costs of the inflammatory response during the acute phase of the infection and at old age. In agreement with the antagonistic pleiotropy hypothesis, the inflammatory response provided an early‐life benefit, since infected mice that were treated with anti‐IL‐10 receptor antibodies had reduced parasite density and anemia. However, at old age, mice in all treatment groups had similar levels of C‐reactive protein, reproductive output, survival rate, and lifespan. Overall, our results do not support the hypothesis that the benefits of a robust response to malaria infection in early life incur longer term fitness costs.
Hypotonic stress response of human keratinocytes involves LRRC8A as component of volume‐regulated anion channels
Authors: Trothe Janina , Ritzmann Dirk , Lang Victoria , Scholz Paul , Pul Ümit , Kaufmann Roland , Buerger Claudia , Ertongur‐Fauth Torsten
Published: September 2018

The barrier function of the human epidermis is constantly challenged by environmental osmotic fluctuations. Hypotonic stress triggers cell swelling, which is counteracted by a compensatory mechanism called regulatory volume decrease (RVD) involving volume‐regulated anion channels (VRACs). Recently, it was discovered that VRACs are composed of LRRC8 heteromers and that LRRC8A functions as the essential VRAC subunit in various mammalian cell types; however, the molecular identity of VRACs in the human epidermis remains to be determined. Here, we investigated the expression ofLRRC8Aand its role in hypotonic stress response of human keratinocytes. Immunohistological staining showed that LRRC8A is preferentially localized in basal and suprabasal epidermal layers. RNA sequencing revealed thatLRRC8Ais the most abundant subunit within theLRRC8gene family in HaCaT cells as well as in primary normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). To determine the contribution of LRRC8A to hypotonic stress response, we generated HaCaT‐ and NHEK‐LRRC8Aknockout cells by using CRISPR‐Cas9. I−influx assays using halide‐sensitive YFP showed that LRRC8A is crucially important for mediating VRAC activity in HaCaTs and NHEKs. Moreover, cell volume measurements using calcein‐AM dye further revealed that LRRC8A also substantially contributes to RVD. In summary, our study provides new insights into hypotonic stress response and suggests an important role of LRRC8A as VRAC component in human keratinocytes.
Spleen tyrosine kinase SYK(L) interacts with YY1 and coordinately suppresses SNAI2 transcription in lung cancer cells
Authors: Gao Dan , Wang Lingling , Zhang Hua , Yan Xiaojie , Yang Jie , Zhou Ruimin , Chang Xinzhong , Sun Yanan , Tian Shanshan , Yao Zhi , Zhang Kai , Liu Zhe , Ma Zhenyi
Published: September 2018

Spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase with dual properties of an oncoprotein and an oncosuppressor in distinctive cell types. In solid cancers, two isoforms SYK(L) and SYK(S) of SYK were recently identified due to its alternative mRNA splicing. However, the cellular activity and the biological significance of the long isoform of SYK, SYK(L), is still not well defined in human lung cancers. Here, we describe an interaction between SYK(L) and the ubiquitously expressed transcription regulator Yin Yang 1 (YY1) in the nucleus, which suppresses the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) by inactivating SNAI2 (coding transcription factor SLUG) transcription. ChIP indicated that endogenous SYK(L) interacts directly with a YY1 binding cis‐regulatory element in the SNAI2 promoter. Importantly, knockdown of YY1 activates SYK(L)‐dependent EMT suppression in human lung cancer H1155 cells. We also found that the protein level of SYK(L) is markedly upregulated in various types of human lung cancers, and its nuclear localization is strongly correlated with clinical benefits of lung adenocarcinomas. Collectively, our data reveal a SYK(L)‐dependent transcriptional regulation of EMT through SLUG as a potential biomarker for lung cancer aggressiveness.
A computationally efficient cohesive zone model for fatigue
Authors: Salih Sarmed , Davey Keith , Zou Zhenmin
Published: September 2018

A cohesive zone model has been developed for the simulation of both high and low cycle fatigue crack growth. The developed model provides an alternative approach that reflects the computational efficiency of the well‐established envelop‐load damage model yet can deliver the accuracy of the equally well‐established loading‐unloading hysteresis damage model.

A feature included in the new cohesive zone model is a damage mechanism that accumulates as a result of cyclic plastic separation and material deterioration to capture a finite fatigue life. The accumulation of damage is reflected in the loading‐unloading hysteresis curve, but additionally, the model incorporates a fast‐track feature. This is achieved by “freezing in” a particular damage state for one loading cycle over a predefined number of cycles.

The new model is used to simulate mode I fatigue crack growth in austenitic stainless steel 304 at significant reduction in the computational cost.
Exploring the environmental, personal and behavioural factors as determinants for university students’ food behaviour
Authors: Marquis Marie , Talbot Annie , Sabourin Amélie , Riopel Chantal
Published: September 2018

The research objective was to explore the environmental, personal and behavioural factors as determinants of university students’ food behaviour in Québec, Canada. A web‐based questionnaire including factors likely to influence eating behaviours was developed. The questionnaire described 16 profiles, each associated with a food choice determinant. The students’ living arrangements and sociodemographic profile were also obtained. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests and factor analysis were conducted. A total of 857 students participated in the study. Significant gender differences were noted as well as differences according to living arrangements (e.g., residence hall, apartment with a roommate, with parents or alone in an apartment). Significant relationships were also found between food insecurity and citizenship. Based on the factor analysis and the underlying constructs, four profiles describing different eaters were identified: the planet‐nutrition‐kitchen lover, the utilitarian lonely eater, the body‐driven eater and the mindless eater. The results suggest topics to take into account when developing nutrition interventions or nutrition‐based health prevention programmes. These topics include cooking skills, time constraints, commensality, food variety, pleasure, body concern, mindless eating and stress. Moreover, a marginal but worrisome food determinant is also discussed, namely food insecurity. The results suggest some components to strengthen or incorporate into future nutrition interventions, such as body satisfaction, body image and satiety. Strategies to decrease emotional eating and promote mindful eating are worthwhile considerations when developing a health promotion university programme. The heterogeneity of the living arrangements and how they relate to food behaviours are also of great importance. Lastly, it is crucial to provide food assistance programmes and services to students with financial limitations.
Influence of drying conditions on colour, betacyanin content and antioxidant capacities in dried red‐fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus)
Authors: Mahayothee Busarakorn , Komonsing Nilobon , Khuwijitjaru Pramote , Nagle Marcus , Müller Joachim
Published: September 2018

In this study, drying of red‐fleshed dragon fruit at different temperatures (40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 °C) and air velocities (1.0 and 1.5 m s−1) was conducted under the specific humidity of 25 g H2O kg−1 dry air. The results showed that drying at higher temperatures resulted in shorter drying times. However, temperature and air velocity did not significantly affect the total betacyanin contents and antioxidant capacities in dried products. Seven betacyanins identified by LC‐MS were betanin, isobetanin, phyllocactin, isophyllocactin, betanidin 5 –O‐(6′O‐3‐hydroxybutyryl)‐β‐glucoside, isobetanidin 5 –O‐(6′O‐3‐hydroxybutyryl)‐β‐glucoside and decarboxylated phyllocactin. In addition, the temperature increased the isomerisation of betacyanins. The most preferable condition for preserving the colour and betacyanin contents of red‐fleshed dragon fruit was the drying at a temperature of 80 °C and air velocity of 1.5 m s−1 since it could shorten the drying time and give a bright red colour to the dried product as well as it had no significant impact on the betacyanins.
The state of the science in paediatric pain management practices in low‐middle income countries: An integrative review
Authors: Matula Samuel T. , Polomano Rosemary C. , Irving Sharon Y.
Published: September 2018

Aim

Examine the state of the science for pain management in children living in low‐middle income countries (LMIC).

Background

Significant challenges exist in pain management for children living in LMIC.

Methods

An integrative review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines for quality of reporting. Literature searches were completed using Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases for publications between January 2006 and August 2016 using MeSH and primary search terms pain and LMIC. Full text publications were evaluated using GRADE criterion and methodology specific evaluation tools.

Results

Of 1510 publications identified, 31 met the criteria for inclusion. Data were categorized into three broad themes: (1) magnitude of the pain problem with subthemes describing the burden of and resources for paediatric pain management; (2) perceptions, experience, and practices for managing pain in children residing in LMIC with subthemes addressing health care providers, parent/caregiver and children, respectively; and (3) pain management practices with pain assessment and treatment strategies as subthemes.

Conclusion

Current data on paediatric pain management in LMIC are limited with respect to describing the burden of pain, children's pain perceptions and experiences, and pain management practices. Rigorous investigations are needed to expand knowledge and address the pervasive problem of pain for children in LMIC.
Cognitive‐behavioural therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Chenyang , Hou Zhenhua , Liu Yanhui , Ji Yunan , Xie Lingli
Published: September 2018

Aims

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of cognitive‐behavioural therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.

Methods

Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Pubmed, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched up to June 2017, as well as grey literature and databases hand searches. Quality assessment, heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias were performed. Stata12.0 software was used for pooled estimates.

Results

Seven eligible reports were included in the final analysis. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire score was higher in the cognitive‐behavioural therapy group than in the control group at the final follow‐up in inflammatory bowel disease patients (P = 0.008). There was no statistically significant difference in the Crohn's Disease Activity Index (P = 0.751), Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index score (P = 0.747), State Anxiety score (P = 0.988), Trait Anxiety score (P = 0.681), and Perceived Stress Questionnaire score (P = 0.936) at the final point of follow‐up. A funnel plot showed no publication bias (P = 0.98).

Conclusion

Cognitive‐behavioural therapy appeared to support higher quality of life in inflammatory bowel disease patients compared with a control group at the final follow‐up point but had no effect on disease activity, anxiety, or perceived stress in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Cognitive‐behavioural therapy can be an acceptable adjunctive therapy for inflammatory bowel disease patients, but the effect of cognitive‐behavioural therapy is limited.
Occurrence and characterization of carbapenem‐resistant Gram‐negative bacilli: A collaborative study of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria between Indonesia and Japan
Authors: Kuntaman Kuntaman , Shigemura Katsumi , Osawa Kayo , Kitagawa Koichi , Sato Koharu , Yamada Naoki , Nishimoto Kento , Yamamichi Fukashi , Rahardjo Dadik , Hadi Usman , Mertaniasih Ni Made , Kinoshita Shohiro , Fujisawa Masato , Shirakawa Toshiro
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To explore the occurrence and characterization of carbapenemase‐producing pathogens among carbapenem‐resistant Gram‐negative bacilli isolated from hospitalized patients with urinary tract infection in Indonesia.

Methods

This was a study promoted by the Japanese–Indonesian collaborative research program in the Japan Initiative for Global Research Network on Infectious Diseases. Bacterial pathogens were prospectively isolated from urine specimens of hospitalized urinary tract infection patients at Dr. Soetomo Hospital (Surabaya, Indonesia). All Gram‐negative bacteria resistant to third‐generation cephalosporin or carbapenem were included in this study. Carbapenemase genes were investigated for phenotype and genotype.

Results

In total, 1082 Gram‐negative bacilli were isolated, of which 116 strains were resistant to imipenem or meropenem (carbapenem‐resistant Gram‐negative bacilli), and 22 strains were carbapenemase‐producing Gram‐negative bacilli. Carbapenemase‐producing Gram‐negative bacilli consisted of Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 4), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 4), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 5), Providencia rettgeri (n = 4) and five others. The carbapenemase‐producing Gram‐negative bacilli included NDM‐1 (n = 18, 81.8%, in Enterobacteriaceae and Acinetobacter spp.) and IMP‐7 (n = 4, 18.2%, all in P. aeruginosa). Among carbapenem‐resistant Gram‐negative bacilli, all four P. aeruginosa were sensitive to colistin, and all six Acinetobacter spp. were sensitive to minocycline, colistin and tigecycline. Of those patients harboring carbapenemase‐producing Gram‐negative bacilli, 12 (54.5%) were seriously ill at the time of admission, with longer hospital stays and three deaths (13.6% mortality rate).

Conclusions

Urinary tract infection‐causing carbapenem‐resistant Gram‐negative bacilli are widely disseminated in Indonesia. The NDM‐1 phenotype seems to be dominant, and it can be treated with colistin and tigecycline in most cases. Most patients harboring carbapenemase‐producing Gram‐negative bacilli are seriously ill, have a bad prognosis, with a longer hospital stay and a significant mortality rate.
Acute kidney injury and intermediate‐term renal function after clampless partial nephrectomy
Authors: Kawamura Naoko , Yokoyama Minato , Tanaka Hajime , Nakayama Takayuki , Yasuda Yosuke , Kijima Toshiki , Yoshida Soichiro , Ishioka Junichiro , Matsuoka Yoh , Saito Kazutaka , Kihara Kazunori , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the incidence and predictors of acute kidney injury after clampless partial nephrectomy, and its impact on intermediate‐term renal function.

Methods

The incidence and severity of acute kidney injury were assessed for 262 patients undergoing clampless partial nephrectomy between 2010 and 2015. The association between perioperative covariates and acute kidney injury was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. An annual change in estimated glomerular filtration rate from 1 year after surgery was calculated according to the presence or absence of acute kidney injury. An impact of acute kidney injury on postoperative renal impairment, defined as a ≥25% estimated glomerular filtration rate decrease, was evaluated.

Results

Overall, 21 (8.0%) patients experienced grade 1 acute kidney injury after clampless partial nephrectomy, and grade ≥2 acute kidney injury was not observed. High tumor complexity was the only independent predictor of acute kidney injury. Estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with acute kidney injury improved within 1 year, and annual estimated glomerular filtration rate changes were similar among patients with or without acute kidney injury. Ultimately, 13 (5.0%) patients showed postoperative renal impairment during the median follow‐up period of 37 months. Advanced age and diabetes mellitus were independent risk factors for renal impairment, but acute kidney injury was not.

Conclusions

The incidence and severity of acute kidney injury after clampless partial nephrectomy are low. Low‐grade acute kidney injury after clampless partial nephrectomy does not seem to affect intermediate‐term renal function.
Interactions between rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblast migration and endothelial cells
Authors: Zimmermann‐Geller Birgit , Köppert Sina , Kesel Nina , Hasseli Rebecca , Ullrich Sebastian , Lefèvre Stephanie , Frommer Klaus , Gehrke Thorsten , Schönburg Markus , Rehart Stephan , Schumacher Udo , Müller‐Ladner Ulf , Neumann Elena
Published: September 2018

Leukocytes travel within the circulation and enter connective tissues by interactions with endothelium of postcapillary venules mediated by cell adhesion molecules, summarized as the leukocyte adhesion cascade. In the severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mouse model, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial fibroblasts (SF) migrated to distant cartilage through the vasculature. Therefore, RASF adhesion toward endothelial cells (EC) and E‐ and P‐selectins were analyzed. Cell‐to‐cell binding assays between SF and EC were performed. Interactions of SF with tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)‐activated EC or selectins were analyzed in flow adhesion assays. Immunohistochemistry for E‐selectin ligand CD15s was performed. CD15s induction in RASF by human serum or media was evaluated. Wild‐type and E‐/‐/P‐/‐Selectin‐SCID mice were used for inverse‐wrap surgery. After laser‐mediated microdissection, real‐time PCR for E‐/P‐selectin/vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 was performed. Adhesion between SF/EC under static conditions was highest in Roswell Park Memorial Institute‐cultured RASF to TNFαα‐activated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (2.25‐fold) and RASF adhesion was higher toward venous than arterial EC (Dulbecco's modified eagle medium P = 0.0419, RPMI P = 0.0119). In flow chamber assays, RASF adhesion to E‐selectin was higher than to P‐selectin (e.g. 0.9 dyn cm−2 P = 0.0001). Osteoarthritis synovial fibroblasts showed lower rolling/adhesion properties (e.g. 0.5 dyn cm−2, P = 0.0010). RASF adhesion to TNFαα‐activated EC was increased (e.g. 0.9 dyn cm−2, P = 0.0061). CD15s induction in RASF was strongest in RA serum. Vimentin/CD15s double‐positive cells were detectable. In E‐/P‐selectin‐deficient mice, contralateral invasion was reduced (P = 0.023). E‐ and P‐selectin, and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 expression in EC of implants was confirmed. Our data indicate that the milieu within vessels induces CD15s which enables RASF to interact with E‐selectin/EC under flow. Therefore, RASF may migrate to distant sites and leave the vasculature similarly to leukocytes.
Hydrochlorothiazide vs chlorthalidone, indapamide, and potassium‐sparing/hydrochlorothiazide diuretics for reducing left ventricular hypertrophy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Roush George C. , Abdelfattah Ramy , Song Steven , Ernst Michael E. , Sica Domenic A. , Kostis John B.
Published: September 2018

Left ventricular hypertrophy develops in 36%‐41% of hypertensive patients and independently predicts cardiovascular events and total mortality. Moreover, drug‐induced reduction in left ventricular mass (LVM) correlates with improved prognosis. The optimal thiazide‐type diuretic for reducing LVM is unknown. Evidence regarding potency, cardiovascular events, sodium, and potassium suggested the hypothesis that “CHIP” diuretics (CHlorthalidone, Indapamide, and Potassium‐sparing diuretic/hydrochlorothiazide [PSD/HCTZ]) would reduce LVM more than HCTZ. Systematic searches of five databases were conducted. Among the 38 randomized trials, a 1% reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) predicted a 1% reduction in LVM, P = 0.00001. CHIP‐HCTZ differences in reducing LVM differed across trials (ie, heterogeneity), making interpretation uncertain. However, among the 28 double‐blind trials, heterogeneity was undetectable, and HCTZ reduced LVM (percent reduction [95% CI]) by −7.3 (−10.4, −4.2), P < 0.0001. CHIP diuretics surpassed HCTZ in reducing LVM: chlorthalidone −8.2 (−14.7, −1.6), P = 0.015; indapamide −7.5 (−12.7, −2.3), P = 0.005; and all CHIP diuretics combined −7.7 (−12.2, −3.1), P < 0.001. The comparison of PSD/HCTZ with HCTZ had low statistical power but favored PSD/HCTZ: −6.0 (−14.1, +2.1), P = 0.149. Thus, compared to HCTZ, CHIP diuretics had twice the effect on LVM. CHIP diuretics did not surpass HCTZ in reducing systolic or diastolic blood pressure: −0.3 (−5.0, +4.3) and −1.6 (−5.6, +2.4), respectively. The strength of evidence that CHIP diuretics surpass HCTZ for reducing LVM was high (GRADE criteria). In conclusion, these novel results have demonstrated that CHIP diuretics reduce LVM 2‐fold more than HCTZ among hypertensive patients. Although generally related to LVM, blood pressure fails to explain the superiority of CHIP diuretics for reducing LVM.
12(S)‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid impairs vascular endothelial permeability by altering adherens junction phosphorylation levels and affecting the binding and dissociation of its components in high glucose‐induced vascular injury
Authors: Wang Xiaofang , Gao Lu , Xiao Lili , Yang Lulu , Li Wenshu , Liu Gangqiong , Chen Linlin , Zhang Jinying
Published: September 2018

Aims/Introduction

Diabetes is an important risk factor for atherosclerotic disease. The initiating factor of atherosclerosis is local endothelial cell injury. The arachidonic acid metabolite, 12(S)‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12[S]‐HETE), might be involved in this process. In recent years, some studies have discussed the effect of 12(S)‐HETE on vascular endothelial cell function. In the present study, we investigated the effect of 12(S)‐HETE on vascular endothelial cell function in high‐glucose conditions and the mechanisms involved.

Materials and Methods

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were cultured in conventional M199 medium and high‐glucose M199 medium. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were stimulated with 12(S)‐HETE and cinnamyl‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐α‐cyanocinnamate (a 12/15‐lipoxygenases inhibitor). A type 1 diabetes mellitus model was established in C57BL/6 or 12/15‐lipoxygenases knockout mice with streptozotocin. Aortic tissue was harvested for subsequent testing. The transmembrane transport of dextran and human acute monocytic leukaemia cell line (THP‐1) cells was measured. The adherens junction protein, IkBα, nuclear factor kappa Bp65 (P65), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion protein 1 expression and phosphorylation, and the binding/dissociation of endothelial cell components were observed.

Results

Transendothelial migration of dextran and THP‐1 cells was significantly increased by stimulation of human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayers with high glucose and 12(S)‐HETE (P < 0.05). High glucose and 12(S)‐HETE altered the vascular endothelial cadherin and β‐catenin phosphorylation level, and promoted the dissociation of β‐catenin and vascular endothelial cadherin. Expression levels of P‐Ikbα, P‐P65, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion protein 1 were elevated in high glucose and 12(S)‐HETE treated cells and diabetic mice compared with controls (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The lipoxygenases metabolite, 12(S)‐HETE, can impair vascular endothelial permeability by altering adherens junction phosphorylation levels, and affecting the binding and dissociation of its components in high‐glucose conditions.
DNABarcoding as useful tool to identify crop pest flea beetles of Turkey
Authors: Coral Şahin Didem , Magoga Giulia , Özdikmen Hüseyin , Montagna Matteo
Published: September 2018

Flea beetles (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini), with ~8,000 species worldwide, include pest species causing substantial economic damage to crops. The generaPhyllotretaandChaetocnemainclude both pest and non‐pest species. An accurate and fast taxonomic identification approach is required for discriminating among taxa for non‐expert taxonomists; moreover, the utility of this approach spans from biodiversity conservation to the monitoring of pest species.DNAbarcoding represents a reliable and easy identification tool based on the use of shortDNAsequences. In this study, 45 newCOIsequences of 13Phyllotretaand fiveChaetocnemaspecies, representing ~30% and ~20% of the Turkish species belonging to these genera, were provided. These sequences increased by ~18% and ~25% the number of species of these genera whose sequences are available inBOLD. In order to testDNAbarcoding efficiency inPhyllotretaandChaetocnemaspecies identification, we created a data set consisting of sequences belonging to species present in the Middle East and available inBOLDplus the sequences developed in this study (36 species). The efficiency of species identification, estimated using best close match analysis (with the ad hoc calculated optimal distance threshold of 1.5%), was 99%. The overall intraspecific and interspecific mean nucleotide divergences were 1.4% and 20%, respectively. Interestingly,COIsequences ofPhyllotreta nigripesclustered into two well‐separated groups with a high value of the between‐group nucleotide distance (11.4%), which suggests the presence of cryptic species. In addition, information was provided on the crops exploited by the collected organisms and the observed damage.
The potential of novel African isolates of Phthorimaea operculella granulovirus for the control of Tuta absoluta
Authors: Ben Tiba Saoussen , Larem Andreas , Laarif Asma , Fritsch Eva , Undorf‐Spahn Karin , Abuelgasim Mohamed Samira , Ekesi Sunday , Wennmann Jörg T. , Kroschel Jürgen , Fattouch Sami , Jehle Johannes A.
Published: September 2018

Phthorimaea operculella granulovirus (PhopGV) is infectious for larvae of different Gelechiidae insect species, including Tuta absoluta and Phthorimaea operculella. As these are major economic pests in North and sub‐Saharan Africa as well as in the Mediterranean area, the development of locally suitable biocontrol agents is essential. We have studied five isolates of PhopGV from Tunisia (Tns16, Tu1.11 and Tu2.11), Kenya (Ken13) and Yemen (Ym14) for their biological activity and the sequence polymorphism of their granulin and ecdysteroid UDP‐glucosyltransferase (egt) genes and allocated the isolates to two different egt types. Infection experiments with neonate larvae of T. absoluta and P. operculella demonstrated their pathogenicity to both host species. The isolate PhopGV Tu1.11 was the most virulent one for T. absoluta but had a relatively low infectivity to two P. operculella populations originating from Italy and Tunisia.