bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular matrix scaffolds for treatment of large volume muscle injuries: A review
Authors: Sarrafian Tiffany L. , Bodine Sue C. , Murphy Brian , Grayson J. Kevin , Stover Susan M.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Large muscular or musculotendinous defects present a dilemma because of the inadequacies of current treatment strategies. Extracellular matrices (ECM) are potential clinically applicable regenerative biomaterials. This review summarizes information from the preclinical literature evaluating the use of ECM for muscle regeneration in animal models of volumetric muscle loss (VML).

Study Design

Literature review.

Sample population

Animal models of VML in which surgical repair was performed with an ECM product, with or without added cell populations.

Methods

PubMed, Google Scholar, CAB abstracts, and Scopus were searched for preclinical studies using ECM in animal models of VML. The search terms “extracellular matrix,” “VML,” “muscle regeneration,” “cell seeded,” and “scaffold” identified 40 articles that met inclusion criteria of an animal model of VML in which surgical repair was performed with an ECM product, with or without added cell populations. Key skeletal muscle repair mechanisms and experimental findings on scaffold type, VML location, and experimental animal species were summarized.

Conclusions

Satellite cells and basal lamina are key endogenous contributors to skeletal muscle regeneration. ECM as a dynamic tissue component may provide structural integrity, signaling molecules, and a 3‐dimensional topography conducive to muscle regeneration. Preclinical models of muscle repair most commonly used mice and rats (88%). Most experimental lesions were created in abdominal wall (33%), anterior tibialis (33%), latissimus dorsi (10%), or quadriceps (10%) muscles. Matrices varied markedly in source and preparation. Experimental outcomes of ECM and cell‐seeded ECM implantation for muscle regeneration in VML were highly variable and dependent on matrix tissue source, preparation method, and anatomic site of injury. Scar tissue formation likely contributes to load transfer. Nonappendicular lesions had better regenerative results compared with appendicular VML.

Clinical significance

The preponderance of current evidence supports the use of ECM for muscle defect repair only in specific instances, such as nonappendicular and/or partial‐thickness defects. Consequently, clinical use of ECM in veterinary patients requires careful consideration of the specific ECM product, lesion size and location, and loading circumstances.
Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) as an occupational hazard: 2. Use of personal protective equipment and infection control practices among raccoon rehabilitators
Authors: Sapp S. G. H. , Murray B. , Hoover E. R. , Green G. T. , Yabsley M. J.
Published: March 2018

Baylisascaris procyonis, the raccoon roundworm, is a zoonotic ascarid of importance to human and animal health. Wildlife rehabilitators who care for raccoons may be at an increased risk for exposure to the parasite, especially if proper precautions are not taken. In a wider effort to evaluate awareness regarding B. procyonis in the wildlife rehabilitation community, an online survey (38–39 questions) including questions about B. procyonis knowledge and attitudes was developed and administered to wildlife rehabilitators. To assess precautions taken among raccoon rehabilitators, participants who rehabilitated raccoons (n = 447) answered additional questions about use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection control practices (ICPs). Reported use of gloves was variable, but hand hygiene was generally consistent. Masks and gowns were seldom used. Part‐time or infrequent volunteers and rehabilitators located in the Central, Midwest and Southeast were significantly less likely to report consistent use of PPE. A total knowledge score from the survey was used to predict the likelihood of reporting the use of particular ICPs/PPE. Knowledge score had a highly significant but small effect on the likelihood of prophylactic use of anthelmintics, anthelmintics use for B. procyonis specifically, cleaning appropriately, and using species‐dedicated housing. Risk factor analysis was performed on data from a prior serologic survey to evaluate factors associated with exposure to B. procyonis and inconsistent handwashing after contact with live raccoons and their faeces; practising rehabilitation in B. procyonis hyperendemic regions and practising rehabilitation in the western region were significant risk factors for being seropositive. These data further demonstrate that correct PPE/ICPs are critical in mitigating the risk of B. procyonis exposure among raccoon rehabilitators and among other captive species.
DNA barcodes successfully delimit morphospecies in a superdiverse insect genus
Authors: Song Chao , Lin Xiao‐Long , Wang Qian , Wang Xin‐Hua
Published: March 2018

Polypedilum Kieffer (Diptera: Chironomidae), with 520 currently known species worldwide, can be extremely difficult to identify species level based on the morphology. We used 3,670 cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcodes to explore the efficiency of the COI barcodes to differentiate between species in a superdiverse aquatic insect genus. The Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD) presented 286 BIN clusters in Polypedilum, representing 163 morphospecies, of which 93 were contributed from our laboratory. Molecular operational taxonomic units (OTUs) ranged from 158 to 345, based on Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD), the Barcode Index Number (BIN), Bayesian Poisson tree processes (bPTP), generalized mixed Yule coalescent (GMYC), jMOTU, multi‐rate Poisson tree processes (mPTP), neighbor‐joining (NJ) tree and prethreshold clustering. In comparison, GMYC, bPTP, mPTP and BIN suggested more species than warranted by morphology, while ABGD, jMOTU, NJ, prethreshold clustering and ABGD yielded a conservative number of species when setting higher thresholds. Nine species complexes with deep intraspecific divergences indicated 18 potentially cryptic species, which require further taxonomic research including complete life histories and nuclear genetic data to be resolved. The discrimination of Polypedilum species by DNA barcodes proved to be successful in 94.4% of all studied morphological species.
The Effects of Two Different Stretching Programs on Balance Control and Motor Neuron Excitability
Authors: Kaya Fatih , Biçer Bilal , Yüktaşır Bekir , Willems Mark E. T. , Yıldız Nebil
Published: March 2018

We examined the effects of training (4d/wk for 6 wks) with static stretching (SS) or contract-relax proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) on static balance time and motor neuron excitability. Static balance time, Hmax/Mmax ratios and H-reflex recovery curves (HRRC) were measured in 28 healthy subjects (SS: n=10, PNF: n=9, control: n=9) before and after training. SS improved static balance time with a trend observed for PNF. Post training, during 150-200-250 msec interstimulus intervals, we observed a reduction in facilitation, but during 500-700-900 msec interstimulus interval; there was an increase in H2/H1 ratio in the PNF group only. Both stretching techniques improved static balance. The Ia afferent inhibitions during the acute exercises were not found after the SS and PNF training programmes. It was concluded that training with contract-relax proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation may cause some augmentation in supraspinal and postsynaptic inhibition on the motoneuron pool.
Optimization of the HgI2 Crystal Preparation for Application as a Radiation Semiconductor Detector
Authors: Martins João F. Trencher , Santos Robinson A. dos , Ferraz Cauê De M. , Oliveira Rene R. , Fiederle Michael , Amadeu Rafael De A. , Santos Rodrigo S. dos , Silva Thiago L. B. da , Hamada Margarida M.
Published: March 2018

The effect of HgI2 crystal encapsulation using different polymer resins, with the intent of avoiding the oxidation of the crystal surface, was evaluated in this work. The crystal was purified and grown by the physical vapor transport (PVT) technique modified. Systematic measurements were carried out for evaluating the stoichiometry, structure orientation, surface morphology and impurity of the crystal grown. The purer region of the crystal grown was selected to be prepared as a radiation detector, applying water-based conductive ink contacts and copper wire on the crystal surfaces. After that, the crystal was encapsulated with a polymeric resin which insulates atmospheric gases, aiming to improve the stability of the HgI2 detector. Four resins were used for crystal encapslation and the performance of the detector depended on the composition of the resins used. Among the four resins studied to evaluate the influence of encapsulation on the performance of crystals, as a radiation detector, the best result of resistivity and energy spectrum was obtained for the resin #3 (50% - 100% of Methylacetate and 5% - 10% of n-butylacetate). The encapsulation of crystals with polymer resins, performed with the intent of avoiding the oxidation of the crystal surface, did not compromise the measurements and were fully capable of detecting the presence of gamma radiation. The stability of the encapsulated HgI2 crystal detector was of up to 78 hs, while the stability found for HgI2 detector no encapsulated was in order 3 ~4 hs.
Discontinued stimulation of cardiomyocytes provides protection against hypothermia–rewarming‐induced disruption of excitation–contraction coupling
Authors: Han Young Soo , Schaible Niccole , Tveita Torkjel , Sieck Gary
Published: March 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Will discontinued stimulation of isolated cardiomyocytes (asystole) during hypothermia mitigate hypothermia–rewarming‐induced cytosolic Ca2+ overload?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Mimicking asystole or hypothermic cardiac arrest by discontinued stimulation of cardiomyocytes during hypothermia resulted in normal contractile function after rewarming. This result suggests that asystole during severe hypothermia provides protection from hypothermia–rewarming‐induced contractile dysfunction in cardiomyocytes.

After exposure of spontaneously beating hearts or electrically stimulated isolated cardiomyocytes to hypothermia–rewarming (H/R), cardiac dysfunction or alteration in excitation–contraction coupling, respectively, is a consequence. In contrast, hypothermic cardiac arrest, as routinely applied during cardiac surgery, will not impose any hazard to cardiac function after rewarming. We hypothesize that by maintaining asystole during H/R, cardiomyocytes will avoid Ca2+ overload attributable to the transient stimulation‐evoked elevation of [Ca2+]i and thus, H/R‐induced elevation of phosphorylated cardiac troponin I and reduced Ca2+ sensitivity after rewarming. To test this hypothesis, the aim of the study was to determine whether discontinued electrical stimulation (to imitate hypothermic cardiac arrest) versus stimulation during 3 h of H/R prevents disruption of excitation–contraction coupling in our established cardiomyocyte H/R model. Cytosolic Ca2+ and the contractile response (sarcomere length shortening) were measured using an IonOptix system, and the dynamic assessment of Ca2+ sensitivity of contraction was conducted using a phase‐loop plot. Cardiomyocytes were divided into three groups. Group 1 (time‐matched control) was continuously stimulated at 0.5 Hz for 3 h at 35°C. Group 2 was continuously stimulated during H/R at 0.5 Hz, whereas in group 3 stimulation was discontinued during H/R and thus the cells remained quiescent until the resumption of stimulation after rewarming. The results demonstrate that discontinued stimulation of cardiomyocytes during H/R, imitating hypothermic cardiac arrest during cardiac surgery, provides protection against H/R‐induced disruption of excitation–contraction coupling. We suggest that protective effects are caused by preventing the protein kinase A‐induced elevation of phosphorylated cardiac troponin I, which is a key mechanism to reduce myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity of contraction.
Increased skeletal muscle mitochondrial free radical production in peripheral arterial disease despite preserved mitochondrial respiratory capacity
Authors: Hart Corey R. , Layec Gwenael , Trinity Joel D. , Kwon Oh Sung , Zhao Jia , Reese Van R. , Gifford Jayson R. , Richardson Russell S.
Published: March 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the degree to which skeletal muscle mitochondria‐derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is linked to impaired skeletal muscle function in patients with early‐stage peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and what is the impact on mitochondrial respiratory capacity?

What is the main finding and its importance?

This is the first study to document increased mitochondria‐derived reactive oxygen species production associated with elevated intramuscular oxidative stress, despite preserved mitochondrial respiratory function, in patients with PAD. Furthermore, systemic inflammation, mitochondria‐derived ROS production and skeletal muscle oxidative stress were strongly correlated to disease severity, as indicated by ankle‐brachial index, in patients with PAD.

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction, which is not fully explained by disease‐related arterial occlusion, has been implicated in the pathophysiology of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Therefore, this study comprehensively assessed mitochondrial respiratory function in biopsies from the gastrocnemius of 10 patients with PAD (Fontaine Stage II) and 12 healthy controls (HC). Intramuscular and systemic inflammation, mitochondria‐derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and oxidative stress were also assessed to better understand the mechanisms responsible for the proposed PAD‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Interestingly, mitochondrial respiratory capacity, assessed as complex I (CI) and complex II (CII)‐driven State 3 respiration, measured separately and in combination (State 3 CI+II), revealed no difference between the patients with PAD and the HC. However, mitochondria‐derived ROS production was significantly elevated in PAD (HC: 1.0 ± 0.9; PAD: 4.3 ± 1.0 AU (mg tissue)−1). Furthermore, patients with PAD exhibited significantly greater concentrations of the pro‐inflammatory markers tumour necrosis factor α in plasma (HC: 0.9 ± 0.4; PAD: 2.0 ± 0.3 pg ml−1) and interleukin 6 in both plasma (HC: 2.3 ± 0.4; PAD: 4.3 ± 0.5 pg ml−1) and muscle (∼75% greater). Intramuscular oxidative stress, assessed by protein carbonyls and 4‐hydroxynonenal, was significantly greater in PAD compared to HC. Ankle brachial index was significantly correlated with intramuscular inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondria‐derived ROS production. Thus, elevated intramuscular inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondria‐derived ROS production are likely to contribute to the pathophysiology of the skeletal muscle dysfunction associated with PAD, even in the presence of preserved mitochondrial respiratory function in this population.
Nerve growth factor‐dependent hyperexcitability of capsaicin‐sensitive bladder afferent neurones in mice with spinal cord injury
Authors: Shimizu Takahiro , Majima Tsuyoshi , Suzuki Takahisa , Shimizu Nobutaka , Wada Naoki , Kadekawa Katsumi , Takai Shun , Takaoka Eiichiro , Kwon Joonbeom , Kanai Anthony J. , de Groat William C. , Tyagi Pradeep , Saito Motoaki , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: March 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is reportedly a mediator inducing urinary bladder dysfunction. Is NGF directly involved in hyperexcitability of capsaicin‐sensitive C‐fibre bladder afferent pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI)?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Neutralization of NGF by anti‐NGF antibody treatment reversed the SCI‐induced increase in the number of action potentials and the reduction in spike thresholds and A‐type K+ current density in mouse capsaicin‐sensitive bladder afferent neurones. Thus, NGF plays an important and direct role in hyperexcitability of capsaicin‐sensitive C‐fibre bladder afferent neurones attributable to the reduction in A‐type K+ channel activity in SCI.

Nerve growth factor (NGF) has been implicated as an important mediator in the induction of C‐fibre bladder afferent hyperexcitability, which contributes to the emergence of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction after spinal cord injury (SCI). In this study, we determined whether NGF immunoneutralization using an anti‐NGF antibody (NGF‐Ab) normalizes the SCI‐induced changes in electrophysiological properties of capsaicin‐sensitive C‐fibre bladder afferent neurones in female C57BL/6 mice. The spinal cord was transected at the Th8/Th9 level. Two weeks later, continuous administration of NGF‐Ab (10 μg kg−1 h−1, s.c. for 2 weeks) was started. Bladder afferent neurones were labelled with Fast‐Blue (FB), a fluorescent retrograde tracer, injected into the bladder wall 3 weeks after SCI. Four weeks after SCI, freshly dissociated L6–S1 dorsal root ganglion neurones were prepared. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were then performed in FB‐labelled neurones. After recording action potentials or voltage‐gated K+ currents, the sensitivity of each neurone to capsaicin was evaluated. In capsaicin‐sensitive FB‐labelled neurones, SCI significantly reduced the spike threshold and increased the number of action potentials during membrane depolarization for 800 ms. These SCI‐induced changes were reversed by NGF‐Ab. Densities of slow‐decaying A‐type K+ (KA) and sustained delayed rectifier‐type K+ currents were significantly reduced by SCI. The NGF‐Ab treatment reversed the SCI‐induced reduction in the KA current density. These results indicate that NGF plays an important role in hyperexcitability of mouse capsaicin‐sensitive C‐fibre bladder afferent neurones attributable to a reduction in KA channel activity. Thus, NGF‐targeting therapies could be effective for treatment of afferent hyperexcitability and neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction after SCI.
The peripheral chemoreflex: indefatigable guardian of fetal physiological adaptation to labour
Authors: Lear Christopher A. , Wassink Guido , Westgate Jenny A. , Nijhuis Jan G. , Ugwumadu Austin , Galinsky Robert , Bennet Laura , Gunn Alistair J.
Published: March 2018

The fetus is consistently exposed to repeated periods of impaired oxygen (hypoxaemia) and nutrient supply in labour. This is balanced by the healthy fetus's remarkable anaerobic tolerance and impressive ability to mount protective adaptations to hypoxaemia. The most important mediator of fetal adaptations to brief repeated hypoxaemia is the peripheral chemoreflex, a rapid reflex response to acute falls in arterial oxygen tension. The overwhelming majority of fetuses are able to respond to repeated uterine contractions without developing hypotension or hypoxic–ischaemic injury. In contrast, fetuses who are either exposed to severe hypoxaemia, for example during uterine hyperstimulation, or enter labour with reduced anaerobic reserve (e.g. as shown by severe fetal growth restriction) are at increased risk of developing intermittent hypotension and cerebral hypoperfusion. It is remarkable to note that when fetuses develop hypotension during such repeated severe hypoxaemia, it is not mediated by impaired reflex adaptation, but by failure to maintain combined ventricular output, likely due to a combination of exhaustion of myocardial glycogen and evolving myocardial injury. The chemoreflex is suppressed by relatively long periods of severe hypoxaemia of 1.5–2 min, longer than the typical contraction. Even in this setting, the peripheral chemoreflex is consistently reactivated between contractions. These findings demonstrate that the peripheral chemoreflex is an indefatigable guardian of fetal adaptation to labour.

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History‐dependence of muscle slack length following contraction and stretch in the human vastus lateralis
Authors: Stubbs Peter W. , Walsh Lee D. , D'Souza Arkiev , Héroux Martin E. , Bolsterlee Bart , Gandevia Simon C. , Herbert Robert D.
Published: March 2018

Key points

In reduced muscle preparations, the slack length and passive stiffness of muscle fibres have been shown to be influenced by previous muscle contraction or stretch. In human muscles, such behaviours have been inferred from measures of muscle force, joint stiffness and reflex magnitudes and latencies.

Using ultrasound imaging, we directly observed that isometric contraction of the vastus lateralis muscle at short lengths reduces the slack lengths of the muscle–tendon unit and muscle fascicles. The effect is apparent 60 s after the contraction.

These observations imply that muscle contraction at short lengths causes the formation of bonds which reduce the effective length of structures that generate passive tension in muscles.

In reduced muscle preparations, stretch and muscle contraction change the properties of relaxed muscle fibres. In humans, effects of stretch and contraction on properties of relaxed muscles have been inferred from measurements of time taken to develop force, joint stiffness and reflex latencies. The current study used ultrasound imaging to directly observe the effects of stretch and contraction on muscle–tendon slack length and fascicle slack length of the human vastus lateralis muscle in vivo. The muscle was conditioned by (a) strong isometric contractions at long muscle–tendon lengths, (b) strong isometric contractions at short muscle–tendon lengths, (c) weak isometric contractions at long muscle–tendon lengths and (d) slow stretches. One minute after conditioning, ultrasound images were acquired from the relaxed muscle as it was slowly lengthened through its physiological range. The ultrasound image sequences were used to identify muscle–tendon slack angles and fascicle slack lengths. Contraction at short muscle–tendon lengths caused a mean 13.5 degree (95% CI 11.8–15.0 degree) shift in the muscle–tendon slack angle towards shorter muscle–tendon lengths, and a mean 5 mm (95% CI 2–8 mm) reduction in fascicle slack length, compared to the other conditions. A supplementary experiment showed the effect could be demonstrated if the muscle was conditioned by contraction at short lengths but not if the relaxed muscle was held at short lengths, confirming the role of muscle contraction. These observations imply that muscle contraction at short lengths causes the formation of bonds which reduce the effective length of structures that generate passive tension in muscles.
Uteroplacental insufficiency temporally exacerbates salt‐induced hypertension associated with a reduced natriuretic response in male rat offspring
Authors: Gallo Linda A. , Walton Sarah L. , Mazzuca Marc Q. , Tare Marianne , Parkington Helena C. , Wlodek Mary E. , Moritz Karen M.
Published: March 2018

Key points

Low weight at birth increases the risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood

A diet that is high in salt is known to elevate blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and kidney diseases

The present study demonstrates that growth restricted male rats have a heightened sensitivity to high dietary salt, in the context of raised systolic blood pressure, reduced urinary sodium excretion and stiffer mesenteric resistance vessels

Other salt‐induced effects, such as kidney hyperfiltration, albuminuria and glomerular damage, were not exacerbated by being born small

The present study demonstrates that male offspring born small have an increased cardiovascular susceptibility to high dietary salt, such that that minimizing salt intake is probably of particular benefit to this at‐risk population

Intrauterine growth restriction increases the risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood. Lifestyle factors, such as poor dietary choices, may elevate this risk. We determined whether being born small increases the sensitivity to a dietary salt challenge, in the context of hypertension, kidney disease and arterial stiffness. Bilateral uterine vessel ligation or sham surgery (offspring termed Restricted and Control, respectively) was performed on 18‐day pregnant Wistar Kyoto rats. Male offspring were allocated to receive a diet high in salt (8% sodium chloride) or remain on standard rat chow (0.52% sodium chloride) from 20 to 26 weeks of age for 6 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (tail‐cuff), renal function (24 h urine excretions) and vascular stiffness (pressure myography) were assessed. Restricted males were born 15% lighter than Controls and remained smaller throughout the study. Salt‐induced hypertension was exacerbated in Restricted offspring, reaching a peak systolic pressure of ∼175 mmHg earlier than normal weight counterparts. The natriuretic response to high dietary salt in Restricted animals was less than in Controls and may explain the early rise in arterial pressure. Growth restricted males allocated to a high salt diet also had increased passive arterial stiffness of mesenteric resistance arteries. Other aspects of renal function, including salt‐induced hyperfiltration, albuminuria and glomerular damage, were not exacerbated by uteroplacental insufficiency. The present study demonstrates that male offspring exposed to uteroplacental insufficiency and born small have an increased sensitivity to salt‐induced hypertension and arterial remodelling.
Maternal undernutrition in late gestation increases IGF2 signalling molecules and collagen deposition in the right ventricle of the fetal sheep heart
Authors: Darby Jack R. T. , McMillen I. Caroline , Morrison Janna L.
Published: March 2018

Key points

This study investigates the impact of decreased fetal plasma glucose concentrations on the developing heart in late gestation, by subjecting pregnant ewes to a 50% global nutrient restriction.

Late gestation undernutrition (LGUN) decreased fetal plasma glucose concentrations whilst maintaining a normoxemic blood gas status.

LGUN increased the mRNA expression of IGF2 and IGF2R. Fetal plasma glucose concentrations, but not fetal blood pressure, were significantly correlated with IGF2 expression and the activation of CAMKII in the fetal right ventricle.

LGUN increased interstitial collagen deposition and altered the protein abundance of phospho‐PLB and phospho‐troponin I, regulators of cardiac contractility and relaxation.

This study shows that a decrease in fetal plasma glucose concentrations may play a role in the development of detrimental changes in the right ventricle in early life, highlighting CAMKII as a potential target for the development of intervention strategies.

Exposure of the fetus to a range of environmental stressors, including maternal undernutrition, is associated with an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease in adult life. This study aimed to determine the effect of maternal nutrient restriction in late gestation on the molecular mechanisms that regulate cardiac growth and development of the fetal heart. Maternal undernutrition resulted in a decrease in fetal glucose concentrations across late gestation, whilst fetal arterial remained unchanged between the control and late gestation undernutrition (LGUN) groups. There was evidence of an up‐regulation of IGF2/IGF2R signalling through the CAMKII pathway in the fetal right ventricle in the LGUN group, suggesting an increase in hypertrophic signalling. LGUN also resulted in an increased mRNA expression of COL1A, TIMP1 and TIMP3 in the right ventricle of the fetal heart. In addition, there was an inverse relationship between fetal glucose concentrations and COL1A expression. The presence of interstitial fibrosis in the heart of the LGUN group was confirmed through the quantification of picrosirius red‐stained sections of the right ventricle. We have therefore shown that maternal undernutrition in late gestation may drive the onset of myocardial remodelling in the fetal right ventricle and thus has negative implications for right ventricle function and cardiac health in later life.
Predictability of formulae for intraocular lens power calculation according to the age of implantation in paediatric cataract
Authors: Lee Byung Joo , Lee Sang-Mok , Kim Jeong Hun , Yu Young Suk
Published: March 2018

Aims

To analyse the predictability of diverse intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulae in paediatric patients with congenital cataract.

Methods

The medical records of patients who underwent cataract surgery and posterior chamber IOL implantation (in-the-bag) for congenital cataract before 17 years of age were reviewed retrospectively. Target refractions calculated by Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraff (SRK)/II, SRK/T and Hoffer-Q formulae were compared with the actual refraction. Patients were subgroup according to the age at IOL implantation (age group 0–24 months, 25–60 months, 61–120 months, 121–203 months), and we compared mean prediction error (PE) and mean absolute error (AE) for each formula. Corrected AE was obtained by linear regression analysis.

Results

Totally 481 eyes were included in the final analysis. Both SRK/II and SRK/T yielded the lowest mean AE in the age group 0–24 months and SRK/II yielded the lowest mean AE in the age group 25–60 months. For every formula, the mean PE was positive during the first five years of age, which converged to zero according to age as IOL implantation increases. The tendency for immediate postoperative overcorrection in younger patients (<6 years) could be improved by corrected formulae based on the linear regression equation.

Conclusions

Patients with congenital cataract who underwent IOL implantation within 5 years of age showed higher AE than the older ones did. Among the three formulae evaluated, SRK/II consistently provided the best predictive result in these patients. For patients aged >10 years, all three formulae showed favourable predictive abilities.
Evolution of epilepsy prevalence and incidence in a Tanzanian area endemic for onchocerciasis and the potential impact of community-directed treatment with ivermectin: a cross-sectional study and comparison over 28 years
Authors: Greter Helena , Mmbando Bruno , Makunde Williams , Mnacho Mohamed , Matuja William , Kakorozya Advocatus , Suykerbuyk Patrick , Colebunders Robert
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Worldwide, there are an estimated 50 million people affected by epilepsy. Its aetiology is manifold, and parasitic infections play an important role, specifically onchocerciasis. In onchocerciasis endemic areas, a distinctive form of epilepsy has been described as nodding syndrome, affecting children and causing nodding seizures, mental retardation and debilitating physical development. Onchocerciasis control programmes using community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) are implemented in endemic countries. This study is designed to contribute to a better understanding of the linkage between the onset of epilepsy, onchocerciasis and CDTI. Comparing the epidemiological data on epilepsy and onchocerciasis from pre-CDTI and 20 years after its introduction will allow identifying a potential impact of ivermectin on the onset of epilepsy.

Methods and analysis

The study will be conducted in the Mahenge highlands in Tanzania. Study site selection is based on an in-depth study on epilepsy in that area dating from 1989. CDTI was introduced in 1997. By a door-to-door approach, the population will be screened for epilepsy using a validated questionnaire. Suspected cases will be invited for a neurological examination for case verification. Onchocerciasis prevalence will be assessed by a rapid epidemiological assessment. As an indicator for ongoing transmission, children younger than 10 years of age will be tested for Ov16 antibodies. Ivermectin use will be assessed at household level. Epilepsy data will be analysed in comparison with the 1989 data to reveal pre-CDTI and post-CDTI prevalence and incidence.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol has received ethical approval from the ethics committees of the University of Antwerp, Belgium, and of the National Institut of Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals, and presented to the health authorities in Tanzania, at national, regional and village level.
Effect of personalised citizen assistance for social participation (APIC) on older adults’ health and social participation: study protocol for a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT)
Authors: Levasseur Mélanie , Dubois Marie-France , Filliatrault Johanne , Vasiliadis Helen-Maria , Lacasse-Bédard Joanie , Tourigny André , Levert Marie-Josée , Gabaude Catherine , Lefebvre Hélène , Berger Valérie , Eymard Chantal
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The challenges of global ageing and the growing burden of chronic diseases require innovative interventions acting on health determinants like social participation. Many older adults do not have equitable opportunities to achieve full social participation, and interventions might underempower their personal and environmental resources and only reach a minority. To optimise current practices, theAccompagnement-citoyen Personnalisé d’Intégration Communautaire(APIC), an intervention demonstrated as being feasible and having positive impacts, needs further evaluation.

Methods and analysis

A pragmatic multicentre, prospective, two-armed, randomised controlled trial will evaluate: (1) the short-term and long-term effects of the APIC on older adults’ health, social participation, life satisfaction and healthcare services utilisation and (2) its cost-effectiveness. A total of 376 participants restricted in at least one instrumental activity of daily living and living in three large cities in the province of Quebec, Canada, will be randomly assigned to the experimental or control group using a centralised computer-generated random number sequence procedure. The experimental group will receive weekly 3-hour personalised stimulation sessions given by a trained volunteer over the first 12 months. Sessions will encourage empowerment, gradual mobilisation of personal and environmental resources and community integration. The control group will receive the publicly funded universal healthcare services available to all Quebecers. Over 2 years (baseline and 12, 18 and 24 months later), self-administered questionnaires will assess physical and mental health (primary outcome; version 2 of the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey, converted to SF-6D utility scores for quality-adjusted life years), social participation (Social Participation Scale) and life satisfaction (Life Satisfaction Index-Z). Healthcare services utilisation will be recorded and costs of each intervention calculated.

Ethics and dissemination

The Research Ethics Committee of theCIUSSS Estrie – CHUShas approved the study (MP-31-2018-2424). An informed consent form will be read and signed by all study participants. Findings will be published and presented at conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03161860; Pre-results.
Quantifying survival of age-2 Chilko Lake sockeye salmon during the first 50 days of migration
Authors: Rechisky Erin L. , Porter Aswea D. , Clark Timothy D. , Furey Nathan B. , Gale Marika Kirstin , Hinch Scott G. , Welch David W.
Published: March 2018

We used acoustic telemetry to investigate survival of age-2 sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) as they emigrated from Chilko Lake, British Columbia, Canada, to northeastern Vancouver Island (NEVI) from 2010 to 2014. We built on our previously reported results by including an additional year of data and by converting survival estimates into rates (distance and time) to compare across disproportionate habitats. We also refined our survival estimates by including individual covariates in our survival models and by re-investigating the detection efficiency of the final detection site. There was a tag burden effect in 2012 and a body size effect in 2013. Excluding 2010, survival during the 35- to 47-day migration to NEVI (range of annual mean travel time; 1044 km) ranged between 8% and 14%. Weekly survival rate (S·week−1) during downstream migration to the Fraser River estuary, through the central Strait of Georgia (CSOG), and NEVI was 25%–46%, 75%–90%, and 34%–64%, respectively. In addition to marked losses in freshwater tributaries, sockeye also experienced high losses north of the CSOG consistent with earlier results for Cultus Lake sockeye.
Comparing catch rate, conventional tagging, and acoustic telemetry data for understanding the migration patterns of coastal fishes
Authors: Potts Warren Mason , Winkler Alexander Claus , Parkinson Matthew Cameron , Santos Carmen Van Dunem , Sauer Warwick Hans Hugo , Childs Amber-Robyn
Published: March 2018

While acoustic telemetry (AT) has become the dominant technique for understanding patterns of fish migration, catch rate (CR) and conventional tagging (CT) techniques still play a major role, particularly in developing countries. Understanding the potential biases of each technique is important for fish migration research. We compared these techniques for understanding the migration patterns of two coastal fishery species (Argyrosomus coronus and Lichia amia) in southern Angola. Seasonal fluctuations in the catchability of A. coronus led to incorrect conclusions about migration patterns using CR and CT and we recognised “cryptic residency” during the austral summer. This was attributed to a fine-scale offshore movement that was detected using AT. The AT data provided evidence for partial migration in L. amia, and while supported by the CR and CT data, these did not provide direct evidence for this intraspecific behavioural diversity. Range test results indicated that the optimal placement of nearshore AT receivers is essential, especially when migratory routes proceed along noisy, nearshore pathways. These limitations should be addressed during the design phase of fish migration experiments.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals inflammatory and metabolic pathways that are regulated by renal perfusion pressure in the outer medulla of Dahl-S rats
Authors: Evans Louise C. , Dayton Alex , Yang Chun , Liu Pengyuan , Kurth Theresa , Ahn Kwang Woo , Komas Steve , Stingo Francesco C. , Laud Purushottam W. , Vannucci Marina , Liang Mingyu , Cowley Allen W.
Published: March 2018

Studies exploring the development of hypertension have traditionally been unable to distinguish which of the observed changes are underlying causes from those that are a consequence of elevated blood pressure. In this study, a custom-designed servo-control system was utilized to precisely control renal perfusion pressure to the left kidney continuously during the development of hypertension in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. In this way, we maintained the left kidney at control blood pressure while the right kidney was exposed to hypertensive pressures. As each kidney was exposed to the same circulating factors, differences between them represent changes induced by pressure alone. RNA sequencing analysis identified 1,613 differently expressed genes affected by renal perfusion pressure. Three pathway analysis methods were applied, one a novel approach incorporating arterial pressure as an input variable allowing a more direct connection between the expression of genes and pressure. The statistical analysis proposed several novel pathways by which pressure affects renal physiology. We confirmed the effects of pressure on p-Jnk regulation, in which the hypertensive medullas show increased p-Jnk/Jnk ratios relative to the left (0.79 ± 0.11 vs. 0.53 ± 0.10, P < 0.01, n = 8). We also confirmed pathway predictions of mitochondrial function, in which the respiratory control ratio of hypertensive vs. control mitochondria are significantly reduced (7.9 ± 1.2 vs. 10.4 ± 1.8, P < 0.01, n = 6) and metabolomic profile, in which 14 metabolites differed significantly between hypertensive and control medullas ( P < 0.05, n = 5). These findings demonstrate that subtle differences in the transcriptome can be used to predict functional changes of the kidney as a consequence of pressure elevation.
Identification of human skeletal muscle miRNA related to strength by high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Mitchell Cameron J. , D'Souza Randall F. , Schierding William , Zeng Nina , Ramzan Farha , O'Sullivan Justin M. , Poppitt Sally D. , Cameron-Smith David
Published: March 2018

The loss of muscle size, strength, and quality with aging is a major determinant of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. The regulatory pathways that impact the muscle phenotype include the translational regulation maintained by microRNAs (miRNA). Yet the miRNAs that are expressed in human skeletal muscle and relationship to muscle size, strength, and quality are unknown. Using next-generation sequencing, we selected the 50 most abundantly expressed miRNAs and then analyzed them in vastus lateralis muscle, obtained by biopsy from middle-aged males ( n = 48; 50.0 ± 4.3 yr). Isokinetic strength testing and midthigh computed tomography was undertaken for muscle phenotype analysis. Muscle attenuation was measured by computerized tomography and is inversely proportional to myofiber lipid content. miR-486-5p accounted for 21% of total miR sequence reads, with miR-10b-5p, miR-133a-3p, and miR-22-3p accounting for a further 15, 12, and 10%, respectively. Isokinetic knee extension strength and muscle cross-sectional area were positively correlated with miR-100-5p, miR-99b-5p, and miR-191-5p expression. Muscle attenuation was negatively correlated to let-7f-5p, miR-30d-5p, and miR-125b-5p expression. In silico analysis implicates miRNAs related to strength and muscle size in the regulation of mammalian target of rapamycin, while miRNAs related to muscle attenuation may have potential roles regulating the transforming growth factor-β/SMAD3 pathway.
Thyroid Cartilage Window Approach to Extract a Foreign Body after Migration into the Paraglottic Space
Authors: Alkhudher Sheikha , AlObaid Faisal , Shafi Shabreez
Published: March 2018

We report a case of fish bone impaction in the paraglottic space, which caused palsy of the left vocal cord. The patient was a 45-year-old man. He presented with throat pain and hoarseness of voice for approximately one week. The diagnosis was made after careful history taking and confirmed by the use of computed tomography scan as the fish bone was not visible endoscopically under local and general anaesthesia. The patient underwent thyroid cartilage window approach, and the fish bone was retrieved. His symptoms have improved significantly, and he did not require tracheostomy. Other cases reported the removal of foreign bodies by other techniques such as laryngofissure and posterolateral approach. Our case is different in that we used a modification of thyroplasty type 1 technique as it has less reported complications than other approaches that were published in literature.
Soft Palate Pleomorphic Adenoma of a Minor Salivary Gland: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Forde C. T. , Millard R. , Ali S.
Published: March 2018

Approximately 10% of pleomorphic adenomas occur in the minor salivary glands with the palate being the most common site. Pleomorphic adenomas account for the majority of palatal tumours; however, minor salivary gland tumours have a higher risk of malignancy compared to tumours of the major salivary glands, so appropriate diagnostic evaluation should be prompt. We present a case of a 52-year-old man with a longstanding history of a soft palate pleomorphic adenoma which required excision under general anaesthetic via a mandibular swing approach. As well as the surgical approach to access this tumour; this case is unique as it is the largest soft palate pleomorphic adenoma reported in the literature. We discuss the appropriate preoperative investigations and airway considerations for this patient, as well as the factors to consider when planning operative management of palatal tumours.
Do European hedgehogs select substrates when they defecate?
Authors: de Miguel Francisco Javier , Ruiz-Montero Sara , San Andrés Héctor , Arregui Lucía
Published: March 2018

Like most mammals, European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) are nocturnal animals, with a notable sense of smell. This fact suggests that faeces could play a communicative role in this species, and therefore hedgehogs could choose the location of their faeces in order to increase their detectability. To verify this assumption, the spatial distribution of faeces of European hedgehog in a suburban forest (Valdelatas, Madrid) was analysed. The study lasted eight months, during which we sampled three transects fortnightly. The data obtained show that faeces were placed on clear substrates which were visually highlighted (territorial mark amplification). Besides, hedgehogs placed the faeces in the lateral regions of the trails, not far from their margins. These results seem to indicate that European hedgehogs select the places where to defecate, apparently seeking a trade-off between detectability and safety for its marking behaviour, and they put on the table the possibility that this species uses their faeces as communicative marks.
Effects of exogenous amino acid applications on the plant-parasitic nematode Heterodera schachtii
Authors: Blümel Roman Christopher , Fischer Daniel F. , Grundler Florian M.W.
Published: March 2018

Amino acid (AA) applications have been reported to affect plant-parasitic nematodes. Here, we analysed the effects of methionine (Met), lysine (Lys), threonine (Thr), isoleucine (Ile), homoserine (Hom) and tryptophan (Trp) on the sedentary plant-parasitic nematode, Heterodera schachtii, under in vitro conditions. No AA showed direct effects on the activity of infective second-stage juveniles (J2) of H. schachtii. Soaking J2 in Lys for 24 h increased the number of developing females and reduced the number of males. Thr treatments reduced the total number of nematodes developing in the host plant. The strongest effects were observed when AA were added to the nutrient medium in a monoxenic Arabidopsis thaliana culture. Ile, Met or Thr clearly reduced the number of female nematodes developing in the host plant. These AA are direct metabolic derivatives of Hom. Direct effects on pre-infective J2 can be differentiated from effects that may involve the host plant.
The Impetus for Reform in Erasmus of Rotterdam’s New Testament
Authors: Pabel Hilmar M.
Published: March 2018

Scholars have assumed but not proven that Erasmus was a Church reformer. They have located his impetus for Church reform in his editions of the New Testament. A consideration of the orientation of reform aids in analysing Erasmus’ Annotations on the New Testament. A programmatic return to ancient sources facilitated a philological reform of the text of the New Testament. Furthermore, Erasmus’ recourse to Scripture exposed contemporary aberrations from appropriate Christian conduct. In the case of divorce for the sake of remarriage, Erasmus looked forwards for change more than backwards. Exposing faults and suggesting a change to Church laws on marriage did not constitute the structural reorganization that qualified Erasmus as a Church reformer.