bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Aerobic Exercise and Rosiglitazone Avoided the NAFLD and Liver Inflammation Exacerbated in PPAR‐α Knockout Mice
Authors: Batatinha Helena A.P. , Lima Edson A. , Teixeira Alexandre A.S. , Souza Camila O. , Biondo Luana A. , Silveira Loreana S. , Lira Fabio S. , Rosa Neto José C.
Published: May 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the main liver diseases today, and may progress to steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Some studies have shown the beneficial effects of aerobic exercise on reversing NAFLD. To verify whether chronic aerobic exercise improves the insulin resistance, liver inflammation, and steatohepatitis caused by a high fat diet (HF) and whether PPARα is involved in these actions. C57BL6 wild type (WT) and PPAR‐α knockout (KO) mice were fed with a standard diet (SD) or HF during 12 weeks; the HF mice were trained on a treadmill during the last 8 weeks. Serum glucose and insulin tolerances, serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, hepatic content of triacylglycerol, cytokines, gene expression, and protein expression were evaluated in all animals. Chronic exposure to HF diet increased triacylglycerol accumulation in the liver, leading to NAFLD, increased aminotransferase in the serum, increased peripheral insulin resistance, and higher adiposity index. Exercise reduced all these parameters in both animal genotypes. The liver lipid accumulation was not associated with inflammation; trained KO mice, however, presented a huge inflammatory response that was probably caused by a decrease in PPAR‐γ expression. We conclude that exercise improved the damage caused by a HF independently of PPARα, apparently by a peripheral fatty acid oxidation in the skeletal muscle. We also found that the absence of PPARα together with exercise leads to a decrease in PPAR‐γ and a huge inflammatory response. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1008–1019, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the vagal cardiac nerves, with special reference to the early evolution of the head–trunk interface
Authors: Higashiyama Hiroki , Hirasawa Tatsuya , Oisi Yasuhiro , Sugahara Fumiaki , Hyodo Susumu , Kanai Yoshiakira , Kuratani Shigeru
Published: May 2016

The vagus nerve, or the tenth cranial nerve, innervates the heart in addition to other visceral organs, including the posterior visceral arches. In amniotes, the anterior and posterior cardiac branches arise from the branchial and intestinal portions of the vagus nerve to innervate the arterial and venous poles of the heart, respectively. The evolution of this innervation pattern has yet to be elucidated, due mainly to the lack of morphological data on the vagus in basal vertebrates. To investigate this topic, we observed the vagus nerves of the lamprey (Lethenteron japonicum), elephant shark (Callorhinchus milii), and mouse (Mus musculus), focusing on the embryonic patterns of the vagal branches in the venous pole. In the lamprey, no vagus branch was found in the venous pole throughout development, whereas the arterial pole was innervated by a branch from the branchial portion. In contrast, the vagus innervated the arterial and venous poles in the mouse and elephant shark. Based on the morphological patterns of these branches, the venous vagal branches of the mouse and elephant shark appear to belong to the intestinal part of the vagus, implying that the cardiac nerve pattern is conserved among crown gnathostomes. Furthermore, we found a topographical shift of the structures adjacent to the venous pole (i.e., the hypoglossal nerve and pronephros) between the extant gnathostomes and lamprey. Phylogenetically, the lamprey morphology is likely to be the ancestral condition for vertebrates, suggesting that the evolution of the venous branch occurred early in the gnathostome lineage, in parallel with the remodeling of the head–trunk interfacial domain during the acquisition of the neck. J. Morphol. 277:1146–1158, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pulmonary function tests correlated with thoracic volumes in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Ledonio Charles Gerald T. , Rosenstein Benjamin E. , Johnston Charles E. , Regelmann Warren E. , Nuckley David J. , Polly David W.
Published: May 2016

Scoliosis deformity has been linked with deleterious changes in the thoracic cavity that affect pulmonary function. The causal relationship between spinal deformity and pulmonary function has yet to be fully defined. It has been hypothesized that deformity correction improves pulmonary function by restoring both respiratory muscle efficiency and increasing the space available to the lungs. This research aims to correlate pulmonary function and thoracic volume before and after scoliosis correction. Retrospective correlational analysis between thoracic volume modeling from plain x‐rays and pulmonary function tests was conducted. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients enrolled in a multicenter database were sorted by pre‐operative Total Lung Capacities (TLC) % predicted values from their Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT). Ten patients with the best and ten patients with the worst TLC values were included. Modeled thoracic volume and TLC values were compared before and 2 years after surgery. Scoliosis correction resulted in an increase in the thoracic volume for patients with the worst initial TLCs (11.7%) and those with the best initial TLCs (12.5%). The adolescents with the most severe pulmonary restriction prior to surgery strongly correlated with post‐operative change in total lung capacity and thoracic volume (r2 = 0.839; p < 0.001). The mean increase in thoracic volume in this group was 373.1 cm3 (11.7%) which correlated with a 21.2% improvement in TLC. Scoliosis correction in adolescents was found to increase thoracic volume and is strongly correlated with improved TLC in cases with severe restrictive pulmonary function, but no correlation was found in cases with normal pulmonary function. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:175–182, 2017.
Structure and mechanical function of the inter‐lamellar matrix of the annulus fibrosus in the disc
Authors: Tavakoli Javad , Elliott Dawn M. , Costi John J.
Published: May 2016

The inter‐lamellar matrix (ILM) has an average thickness of less than 30 µm and lies between adjacent lamellae in the annulus fibrosus (AF). The microstructure and composition of the ILM have been studied in various anatomic regions of the disc; however, their contribution to AF mechanical properties and structural integrity is unknown. It was suggested that the ILM components, mainly elastic fibers and cross‐bridges, play a role in providing mechanical integrity of the AF. Therefore, the manner in which they respond to different loadings and stabilize adjacent lamellae structure will influence AF tear formation and subsequent herniation. This review paper summarizes the composition, microstructure, and potential role of the ILM in the progression of disc herniation, clarifies the micromechanical properties of the ILM, and proposes critical areas for future studies. There are a number of unknown characteristics of the ILM, such as its mechanical role, impact on AF integrity, and ultrastructure of elastic fibers at the ILM‐lamella boundary. Determining these characteristics will provide important information for tissue engineering, repair strategies, and the development of more‐physiological computational models to study the initiation and propagation of AF tears that lead to herniation and degeneration. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1307–1315, 2016.
Thinned stone fruits are a source of polyphenols and antioxidant compounds
Authors: Redondo Diego , Arias Esther , Oria Rosa , Venturini María E
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Thinned fruits are agricultural by‐products that contain large quantities of interesting compounds due to their early maturity stage. In this work, the phenolic profile and the antioxidant activity of six thinned stone fruits (apricot, cherry, flat peach, peach, plum and nectarine) have been investigated, focussing on proanthocyanidins.

RESULTS

Thinned nectarine had the highest content of total phenols [67.43 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) g−1 dry weight (DW)] and total flavonoids (56.97 mg CE g−1 DW) as well as the highest antioxidant activity measured by DPPH scavenging (133.30 mg [Trolox equivalents (TE) g−1 DW] and FRAP assay (30.42 mg TE g−1 DW). Proanthocyanidins were very abundant in these by‐products, and the main phenolic group quantified in cherry (10.54 mg g−1 DW), flat peach (33.47 mg g−1 DW) and nectarine (59.89 mg g−1 DW), while hydroxycinnamic acids predominate in apricot, peach and plum (6.67, 22.04 and 23.75 mg g−1 DW, respectively). The low, mean degree of polymerisation of proanthocyanidins suggests that their bioavailability could be very high.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that thinned stone fruit extracts might be used as antioxidants in foods or as a source of compounds with health‐related benefits that can be used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Isolation and identification of anti‐proliferative peptides from Spirulina platensis using three‐step hydrolysis
Authors: Wang Zhujun , Zhang Xuewu
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Spirulina platensis is an excellent source of proteins (>60%) that can be hydrolyzed into bioactive peptides.

RESULTS

In this study, whole proteins of Spirulina platensis were extracted and hydrolyzed using three gastrointestinal endopeptidases (pepsin, trypsin and chymotrypsin). Subsequently, gel filtration chromatography was employed to separate hydrolysates, and four fractions (Tr1–Tr4) were obtained. Among them, Tr2 showed the strongest anti‐proliferation activities on three cancer cells (MCF‐7, HepG‐2 and SGC‐7901), with IC50 values of <31.25, 36.42 and 48.25 µg mL−1, respectively. Furthermore, a new peptide, HVLSRAPR, was identified from fraction Tr1. This peptide exhibited strong inhibition on HT‐29 cancer cells with an IC50 value of 99.88 µg mL−1.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these peptides possessed anti‐proliferation activities on cancer cells and low cytotoxicity on normal cells, suggesting that they might serve as a natural anticancer agent for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Parkinsonian Rest Tremor Is Associated With Modulations of Subthalamic High‐Frequency Oscillations
Authors: Hirschmann Jan , Butz Markus , Hartmann Christian J. , Hoogenboom Nienke , Özkurt Tolga E. , Vesper Jan , Wojtecki Lars , Schnitzler Alfons
Published: May 2016

Background

High frequency oscillations (>200 Hz) have been observed in the basal ganglia of PD patients and were shown to be modulated by the administration of levodopa and voluntary movement.

Objective

The objective of this study was to test whether the power of high‐frequency oscillations in the STN is associated with spontaneous manifestation of parkinsonian rest tremor.

Methods

The electromyogram of both forearms and local field potentials from the STN were recorded in 11 PD patients (10 men, age 58 [9.4] years, disease duration 9.2 [6.3] years). Patients were recorded at rest and while performing repetitive hand movements before and after levodopa intake. High‐frequency oscillation power was compared across epochs containing rest tremor, tremor‐free rest, or voluntary movement and related to the tremor cycle.

Results

We observed prominent slow (200‐300 Hz) and fast (300‐400 Hz) high‐frequency oscillations. The ratio between slow and fast high‐frequency oscillation power increased when tremor became manifest. This increase was consistent across nuclei (94%) and occurred in medication ON and OFF. The ratio outperformed other potential markers of tremor, such as power at individual tremor frequency, beta power, or low gamma power. For voluntary movement, we did not observe a significant difference when compared with rest or rest tremor. Finally, rhythmic modulations of high‐frequency oscillation power occurred within the tremor cycle.

Conclusions

Subthalamic high‐frequency oscillation power is closely linked to the occurrence of parkinsonian rest tremor. The balance between slow and fast high‐frequency oscillation power combines information on motor and medication state. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Association between the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and multiple sclerosis disability progression
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Kingwell Elaine , De Jong Hilda JI , Zhu Feng , Zhao Yinshan , Carruthers Robert , Petkau John , Gustafson Paul , Oger Joel , Tremlett Helen
Published: May 2016

Background

Benefits of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in modifying the multiple sclerosis (MS) disease course have been suggested, but their ability to delay disability progression remains unknown. We examined the association between SSRI exposure and MS disability progression.

Methods

A nested case–control study was conducted using the British Columbia (Canada) Multiple Sclerosis clinical data linked to health administrative data. The primary outcome was a sustained score of 6 (requires a cane to walk) on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and the secondary outcome was the onset of secondary progressive MS (SPMS, an advanced stage of MS). The cases were those who reached a study outcome and were matched with up to four randomly selected controls by sex, age, EDSS and calendar year at study entry using incidence density sampling. The associations between disability worsening and SSRI exposure were assessed with conditional logistic regression models, adjusted for confounders.

Results

A total of 3920 patients were included in the main analyses, of which 272 reached sustained EDSS 6 and 187 reached SPMS. SSRI exposure was significantly different between patients who reached sustained EDSS 6 and controls [adjusted odds ratio (adjOR):1.44; 95% confidence interval (CI):1.03–2.01]. However, SSRI exposure was not significantly different between those who reached SPMS and their controls (adjOR:1.35; 95%CI:0.89–2.04).

Conclusion

We found no evidence to suggest that SSRI exposure was associated with a delay in MS disability accumulation or progression. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FcRn binding is not sufficient for achieving systemic therapeutic levels of immunoglobulin G after oral delivery of enteric‐coated capsules in cynomolgus macaques
Authors: Muzammil Salman , Mabus John R. , Cooper Philip R. , Brezski Randall J. , Bement Courtney B. , Perkinson Rob , Huebert Norman D. , Thompson Suzanne , Levine Dalia , Kliwinski Connie , Bradley Dino , Hornby Pamela J.
Published: May 2016

Although much speculation has surrounded intestinally expressed FcRn as a means for systemic uptake of orally administered immunoglobulin G (IgG), this has not been validated in translational models beyond neonates or in FcRn‐expressing cells in vitro. Recently, IgG1 intestinal infusion acutely in anesthetized cynomolgus resulted in detectable serum monoclonal antibody (mAb) levels. In this study, we show that IgG2 has greater protease resistance to intestinal enzymes in vitro and mice in vivo, due to protease resistance in the hinge region. An IgG2mAb engineered for FcRn binding, was optimally formulated, lyophilized, and loaded into enteric‐coated capsules for oral dosing in cynomolgus. Small intestinalpH7.5 was selected for enteric delivery based on gastrointestinalpHprofiling of cynomolgus by operator‐assisted IntelliCap System®. Milling of the lyophilized IgG2 M428L FcRn‐binding variant after formulation in 10 mmol/L histidine,pH5.7, 8.5% sucrose, 0.04%PS80 did not alter the physicochemical properties nor the molecular integrity compared to the batch released inPBS. Size 3 hard gel capsules (23.2 mg IgG2 M428L ~3 mg/kg) were coated with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate for rapid dissolution atpH7.5 in small intestine and FcRn binding of encapsulatedmAb confirmed. Initial capsule dosing by endoscopic delivery into the small intestine achieved 0.2 + 0.1 ng/mL (n = 5) peak at 24 h. Weekly oral capsule dosing for 6 weeks achieved levels of 0.4 + 0.2 ng/mL and, despite increasing the dose and frequency, remained below 1 ng/mL. In conclusion, lyophilized milledmAb retains FcRn binding and molecular integrity for small intestinal delivery. The low systemic exposure has demonstrated the limitations of intestinal FcRn in non‐human primates and the unfeasibility of employing this for therapeutic levels ofmAb. LocalmAb delivery with limited systemic exposure may be sufficient as a therapeutic for intestinal diseases.
Diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, is an antagonist of human TRPM3 isoforms
Authors: Suzuki Hiroka , Sasaki Eiji , Nakagawa Ayumi , Muraki Yukiko , Hatano Noriyuki , Muraki Katsuhiko
Published: May 2016

The effects of diclofenac (Dic), an acetic acid derivative‐type nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, were examined on the function of transient receptor potential (TRP) melastatin (TRPM) 3 (TRPM3) in human embryonic kidney 293 cell‐line (HEK293) cells with recombinant human TRPM3 isoforms (TRPM31325, TRPM3‐3, TRPM3‐9, and TRPM3‐S) and in a neuroblastoma cell line human neuroblastoma IMR‐32 cells (IMR‐32 cells) derived from human peripheral neurons. TRPM3 responses evoked by pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) were effectively inhibited by Dic in a concentration‐dependent manner in Ca2+ measurement and electrophysiological assays. The apparent IC50 for PregS‐induced Ca2+ response of TRPM31325, TRPM3‐3, and TRPM3‐9 was calculated to be 18.8, 42.5, and 7.1 μmol/L, respectively. The TRPM3‐dependent Ca2+ responses evoked by nifedipine, another TRPM3 agonist, were also significantly inhibited by Dic. In contrast, aceclofenac, an acetoxymethyl analog of Dic, had no effects on PregS‐induced TRPM3 responses. Constitutive channel activity of TRPM3‐S without TRPM3 agonists was substantially inhibited by Dic, ruling out the possibility of interaction of Dic against TRPM3 agonists to the channel binding sites. Moreover, Dic reversibly inhibited TRPM3 single‐channel activity recorded in excised outside‐out patches without affecting the channel conductance. In differentiated neuronal IMR‐32 cells with endogenous TRPM3, Dic inhibited PregS‐evoked Ca2+ responses with an apparent IC50 of 17.1 μmol/L. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that Dic inhibits human TRPM3 without interacting with the channel pore.
The Chemistry and Biological Activities of Mimosine: A Review
Authors: Nguyen Binh Cao Quan , Tawata Shinkichi
Published: May 2016

Mimosine [β‐[N‐(3‐hydroxy‐4‐oxypyridyl)]‐α‐aminopropionic acid] is a non‐protein amino acid found in the members of Mimosoideae family. There are a considerable number of reports available on the chemistry, methods for estimation, biosynthesis, regulation, and degradation of this secondary metabolite. On the other hand, over the past years of active research, mimosine has been found to have various biological activities such as anti‐cancer, antiinflammation, anti‐fibrosis, anti‐influenza, anti‐virus, herbicidal and insecticidal activities, and others. Mimosine is a leading compound of interest for use in the development of RAC/CDC42‐activated kinase 1 (PAK1)‐specific inhibitors for the treatment of various diseases/disorders, because PAK1 is not essential for the growth of normal cells. Interestingly, the new roles of mimosine in malignant glioma treatment, regenerative dentistry, and phytoremediation are being emerged. These identified properties indicate an exciting future for this amino acid. The present review is focused on the chemistry and recognized biological activities of mimosine in an attempt to draw a link between these two characteristics. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ENSO‐related variation of equatorial MRG and Rossby waves and forcing from higher latitudes
Authors: Yang Gui‐Ying , Hoskins Brian J.
Published: May 2016

The contrasting behaviour of westward‐moving mixed Rossby–gravity (WMRG) and the first Rossby (R1) waves in El Niño (EN) and La Niña (LN) seasons is documented with a focus on the Northern Hemisphere winter. The eastward‐moving variance in the upper troposphere is dominated by WMRG and R1 structures that appear to be Doppler‐shifted by the flow and are referred to as WMRG‐E and R1‐E. In the east Pacific and Atlantic the years with stronger equatorial westerly winds, LN in the former and EN in the latter, have the stronger WMRG and WMRG‐E. In the east Pacific, R1 is also a maximum in LN. However, R1‐E exhibits an eastward shift between LN and EN.

The changes with El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phase provide a test bed for the understanding of these waves. In the east Pacific and Atlantic, the stronger WMRG‐E and WMRG with stronger westerlies are in accord with the dispersion relation with simple Doppler‐shifting by the zonal flow. The possible existence of free waves can also explain stronger R1 in EN in the Eastern Hemisphere. 1‐D free‐wave propagation theory based on wave activity conservation is also important for R1. However, this theory is unable to explain the amplitude maxima for other waves observed in the strong equatorial westerly regions in the Western Hemisphere, and certainly not their ENSO‐related variation. The forcing of equatorial waves by higher‐latitude wave activity and its variation with ENSO phase is therefore examined. Propagation of extratropical eastward‐moving Rossby wave activity through the westerly ducts into the equatorial region where it triggers WMRG‐E is favoured in the stronger westerlies, in LN in the east Pacific and EN in the Atlantic. It is also found that WMRG is forced by Southern Hemisphere westward‐moving wave trains arching into the equatorial region where they are reflected. The most significant mechanism for both R1 and R1‐E appears to be lateral forcing by subtropical wave trains.
Effect of extreme ocean precipitation on sea surface elevation and storm surges
Authors: Wong Benjamin , Toumi Ralf
Published: May 2016

Ocean models that neglect mass and momentum contributions from precipitation can have a systematic bias in sea surface height (SSH). Here, a new rainfall scheme is introduced into the Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS) to incorporate the effects of precipitation mass. When precipitation is added to the sea surface, it spreads out via surface gravity waves that increase in propagation speed with increasing water depth. Over several days, the SSH increase due to the precipitation mass added creates a geostrophic adjustment, generating anticyclonic geostrophic currents around the SSH increase. The transfer of momentum from precipitation to the sea surface, or rain stress, can also be important. In the case‐study of a real tropical cyclone, Monica, passing North Australia, the effect of incorporating precipitation mass is compared with other processes affecting the storm surge: surface wind, inverse barometer effect and rain stress. The maximum SSH response is 170.6 cm for the wind effect, 61.5 cm for the inverse barometer effect, 7.5 cm for the effect of rain stress and 6.4 cm for the effect of rain mass. Each process has been shown to have different spatial influences. The effect of rain mass has a strong remote influence compared to the inverse barometer effect and the effect of rain stress. This is particularly seen in semi‐enclosed bays.
Prehospital Blood Transfusions in Non‐Trauma Patients
Authors: Thiels Cornelius A. , Aho Johnathon M. , Fahy Aoidhnait S. , Parker Maile E. , Glasgow Amy E. , Berns Kathleen S. , Habermann Elizabeth B. , Zietlow Scott P. , Zielinski Martin D.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Despite advances in trauma care, hemorrhage continues to be the leading cause of preventable mortality in trauma. The evidence to support its use in non‐trauma patients is limited. We aim to report our experience with prehospital blood product transfusion. We hypothesize that it is safe, appropriately utilized, and that our protocol, which was designed for trauma patients, is adaptable to fit the needs of non‐trauma patients.

Methods

Patients transfused with blood products, packed red blood cells (pRBCs) or plasma, in the prehospital environment between 2002 and 2014 were included. Trauma patients were compared to non‐trauma patients using descriptive statistics.

Results

A total of 857 patients (n = 549 trauma and n = 308 non‐trauma) were transfused with pRBCs (76 %, n = 654, mean 1.6 ± 1.1 units en route), plasma (53 %, n = 455, mean 1.7 ± 0.7 unit), or both (29 %, n = 252) during ground (12 %) or air (84 %) critical care transport. Mean age was 60.8 ± 21.6 years with 60.1 % (n = 515) males. Subsequently, in‐hospital blood transfusions were performed in 80 % of patients, operations in 44 %, and endoscopy in 31 %. Five percent (n = 41) of patients did not require any of these interventions. Thirty‐day mortality rate was 18 %, and one patient (<0.01 %) had a transfusion reaction. The majority of patients were non‐trauma (n = 549, 64 %). Of the non‐trauma patients, 219 (40 %) were surgical, 193 (35 %) gastrointestinal bleeds, and 137 (25 %) medical.

Conclusion

Both non‐trauma and trauma patients require blood products for life threatening hemorrhage and the majority required further interventions. Further research on the benefits of transfusion among non‐trauma patients is warranted.
Alimentation et croissance des jeunes enfants Peuls à Widou Thiengoly (Ferlo — Sénégal)
Authors: Sougou N. , Boëtsch G.
Published: May 2016

Cette étude est consacrée aux pratiques alimentaires, à la croissance et à la santé d'enfants vivant dans une zone sahélienne aride avec des conditions de vie semi-nomade et dans le contexte d'un processus de changement du mode de vie lié à l'implantation de la Grande muraille verte, projet de restructuration écologique. Pour cette étude, on s'est focalisé sur les pratiques de diversification alimentaire et leur impact sur les mesures anthropométriques de l'enfant. Étaient inclus dans l'étude des enfants âgés de 0 à 59 mois résidant dans la zone de Widou Thiengoly. Les mesures anthropométriques ainsi que l'âge de l'enfant ont été relevés chez 150 enfants, dont 149 enfants sont d'origine peule. Dans cette population enfantine, nous avons trouvé une relation entre l'état de nutrition et la pratique alimentaire de diversification. De manière générale, la pratique de la diversification alimentaire telle que préconisée par les politiques et normes au Sénégal diffère de celle observée à Widou. Ainsi, on note que l'aliment de diversification le plus utilisé est le lait de vache (67,5 % des enfants en reçoivent précocement) avec un âge moyen d'introduction de 6,81 mois. Par ailleurs, on note une introduction tardive et une sous-consommation des protéines animales (viande, poisson) et des fruits et légumes. Les populations ont des comportements alimentaires qui répondent à des codes culturels bien établis et ne suivent pas les recommandations normatives émises par les politiques de santé publique, sauf lorsque ces dernières intègrent les codes culturels locaux, ce qui est très rarement le cas. Ainsi, bien que la croissance des enfants de Widou se fasse sur une tendance linéaire, on note une prévalence élevée de malnutrition chez ces enfants de 25 %, taux qui est légèrement plus élevé que celui de la population sénégalaise du même âge. Les courbes de croissance des enfants de Widou se distribuent en deçà des courbes de croissance de l'OMS à l'exception de celles du périmètre crânien. Par ailleurs, on note que l'état de malnutrition de la mère n'impacte pas sur celui de l'enfant, ce qui n'est pas le cas des maladies digestives telles que la diarrhée, dont la survenue est fortement corrélée à celle de l'insuffisance pondérale (p < 0,01).
Addressing the role of medical students using community mobilization and social media in the Ebola response
Authors: Chapman Helena J. , Animasahun Victor J. , Tade Adesoji E. , Naveed Asad
Published: May 2016

Health professions education in the 21st century should incorporate both community mobilization and social media strategies. First, community mobilization facilitates change by educating community members with evidence-based, high-quality and up-to-date health information and empowering their active participation in target health initiatives. Second, advancements in technology and globalization foster the development of innovative communication technologies used as a key tool in the ‘roll out’ of community health initiatives during epidemics such as Ebola virus disease. In August 2014, medical students of Sierra Leone and Guinea used these dual health promotional strategies in the Kick Ebola Out campaign to educate community members about transmission of the Ebola virus and preventive measures, as well as to reduce perceptions related to stigma or fear of disease transmission. In this report, we describe how medical students, who are trained in basic and clinical sciences, evidence-based practices, and social determinants of health, can serve as human resources for health and facilitate dynamic communication strategies to educate and empower both medical students and community members for local or national health initiatives.
A Dialogue with King Agaja: William Snelgrave’s 1727 Ardra Diary and the Contours of Dahomian-European Commercial Exchange
Authors: Polhemus Neal D.
Published: May 2016

The rise of the Kingdom of Dahomey in the first quarter of the eighteenth century was a watershed event in the political history of precolonial West Africa. This article draws on a newly rediscovered copy of William Snelgrave’s diary who visited King Agaja of Dahomey in April 1727. The diary provides the fullest account to date of Agaja’s motives for invading Whydah in March 1727. In addition, the Diary provides the earliest evidence confirming the bona fides of Bulfinch Lambe’s 1731 mission to England to establish commercial relations with King George II.
Interplay between signaling network design and swarm dynamics
Authors: SEKUNDA ANDRÉ , KOMAREJI MOHAMMAD , BOUFFANAIS ROLAND
Published: May 2016

Distributed information transfer is of paramount importance to the effectiveness of dynamic collective behaviors, especially when a swarm is confronted with complex environmental circumstances. Recently, the signaling network of interaction underlying such effective information transfers has been revealed in the particular case of bird flocks governed by a topological interaction. Such biological systems are known to be evolutionary optimized, but are also constrained by the very nature of the signaling mechanisms—owing to intrinsic limitations in sensory modalities—enabling communication among individuals. Here, we propose that artificial swarm design can be tackled from the angle of signaling network design. To this aim, we use different network models to investigate the impact of some network structural properties on the effectiveness of a specific emergent swarming behavior, namely global consensus. Two new network models are introduced, which together with the well-known Watts–Strogatz model form the basis for an analysis of the relationship between clustering, shortest path and speed to consensus. A network-theoretic approach combined with spectral graph theory tools are used to propose some signaling network design principles. Eventually, one key design principle—a concomitant reduction in clustering and connecting path—is successfully tested on simulations of swarms of self-propelled particles.
Determination of the anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects of l-glutamine and l-alanine, or dipeptide, supplementation in rats submitted to resistance exercise
Authors: Raizel Raquel , Leite Jaqueline Santos Moreira , Hypólito Thaís Menezes , Coqueiro Audrey Yule , Newsholme Philip , Cruzat Vinicius Fernandes , Tirapegui Julio
Published: May 2016

We evaluated the effects of chronic oral supplementation with l-glutamine and l-alanine in their free form or as the dipeptide l-alanyl-l-glutamine (DIP) on muscle damage, inflammation and cytoprotection, in rats submitted to progressive resistance exercise (RE). Wistar rats (n 8/group) were submitted to 8-week RE, which consisted of climbing a ladder with progressive loads. In the final 21 d before euthanasia, supplements were delivered in a 4 % solution in drinking water. Glutamine, creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), TNF-α, specific IL (IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels were evaluated in plasma. The concentrations of glutamine, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10, as well as NF-κB activation, were determined in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) skeletal muscle. HSP70 level was assayed in EDL and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). RE reduced glutamine concentration in plasma and EDL (P<0·05 v. sedentary group). However, l-glutamine supplements (l-alanine plus l-glutamine (GLN+ALA) and DIP groups) restored glutamine levels in plasma (by 40 and 58 %, respectively) and muscle (by 93 and 105 %, respectively). GLN+ALA and DIP groups also exhibited increased level of HSP70 in EDL and PBMC, consistent with the reduction of NF-κB p65 activation and cytokines in EDL. Muscle protection was also indicated by attenuation in plasma levels of CK, LDH, TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as an increase in IL-6, IL-10 and MCP-1. Our study demonstrates that chronic oral l-glutamine treatment (given with l-alanine or as dipeptide) following progressive RE induces cyprotective effects mediated by HSP70-associated responses to muscle damage and inflammation.
The effect of host nutritional quality on multiple components ofTrichogramma brassicaefitness
Authors: Kishani Farahani H. , Ashouri A. , Zibaee A. , Abroon P. , Alford L.
Published: May 2016

For parasitoids, the host represents the sole source of nutrients for the developing immature. Subsequently, host quality is an important factor affecting immature development and the resulting fitness of the emerging parasitoid, with impacts on fecundity, longevity and offspring sex ratio. Host age is an integral component of host quality and a key factor in host selection by the female parasitoid. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of decreasing host quality (determined by increasing host age) on adult life history traits (size, wing loading, longevity, and fecundity) and nutritional reserves (protein, lipid and glycogen concentrations) of the parasitoidTrichogramma brassicae. Higher quality hosts resulted in the production of larger offspring with increased resource reserves and enhanced mobility. One-day-old eggs contained significantly more protein and triglyceride than 25- and 45–day-old eggs. Quality of host and fitness of reared wasps decreased due to host aging. Parasitoids reared on 1-day-old hosts were larger, with greater fecundity and longevity, a reduced wind loading index, and produced a higher proportion of female offspring when compared with those reared on 25- and 45-day-old hosts. In addition, wasps reared on 1-day-old hosts contained higher energy resources, as determined by triglyceride, glycogen and protein reserves, which are essential to successful offspring production. One-day-old hosts can therefore be considered as the best age for producing wasps with greater fitness, since they contain the highest amount of protein, glycogen, and triglyceride. This has implications for the mass rearing ofT. brassicaeand enhancing the efficacy of this biological control agent.
THE PROBLEM OF CAUSALITY IN INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS LAW
Authors: McGrogan David
Published: May 2016

The field of human rights monitoring has become preoccupied with statistical methods for measuring performance, such as benchmarks and indicators. This is reflected within human rights scholarship, which has become increasingly ‘empirical’ in its approach. However, the relevant actors developing statistical approaches typically treat causality somewhat blithely, and this causes critical problems for such projects. This article suggests that resources—whether temporal or fiscal—may be better allocated towards improving methods for identifying violations rather than developing complicated, but ultimately ineffective, statistical methods for monitoring human rights performance.
Whey permeate fermented with kefir grains shows antifungal effect against Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Gamba Raúl Ricardo , De Antoni Graciela , Peláez Angela León
Published: May 2016

The objective of the work reported here was to study the antifungal capability of cell-free supernatants obtained from whey permeates after fermentation by the kefir grains CIDCA AGK1 against Fusarium graminearum growth and zearalenone (ZEA) production. The assays were performed in order to study the conidial germination inhibition -in liquid media- and the effect on fungal growth rate and the Latency phase -in solid media. We observed that fermented supernatants of pH 3·5 produced the highest percentages of inhibition of conidial germination. The dilution and, particularly, alkalinisation of them led to the gradual loss of antifungal activity. In the fungal inhibition assays on plates we found that only the highest proportion of supernatant within solid medium had significant antifungal activity, which was determined as fungicidal. There was no ZEA biosynthesis in the medium with the highest proportion of supernatant, whereas at lower concentrations, the mycotoxin production was strain-dependent. From the results obtained we concluded that kefir supernatants had antifungal activity on the F. graminearum strains investigated and inhibited mycotoxin production as well, but in a strain-dependent fashion. The present work constitutes the first report of the effect of the products obtained from the kefir-grain fermentation of whey permeates – a readily available by-product of the dairy industry – on F. graminearum germination, growth, and toxin production.
N-acetyl -β-D-glucosaminidase activity in cow milk as an indicator of mastitis
Authors: Hovinen Mari , Simojoki Heli , Pösö Reeta , Suolaniemi Jenni , Kalmus Piret , Suojala Leena , Pyörälä Satu
Published: May 2016

Activity of lysosomal N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAGase) in milk has been used as an indicator of bovine mastitis. We studied NAGase activity of 808 milk samples from healthy quarters and quarters of cows with spontaneous subclinical and clinical mastitis. Associations between milk NAGase activity and milk somatic cell count (SCC), mastitis causing pathogen, quarter, parity, days in milk (DIM) and season were studied. In addition, the performance of NAGase activity in detecting clinical and subclinical mastitis and distinguishing infections caused by minor and major bacteria was investigated. Our results indicate that NAGase activity can be used to detect both subclinical and clinical mastitis with a high level of accuracy (0·85 and 0·99). Incomplete correlation between NAGase activity and SCC suggests that a substantial proportion of NAGase activity comes from damaged epithelial cells of the udder in addition to somatic cells. We therefore recommend determination of NAGase activity from quarter foremilk after at least six hours from the last milking using the method described. Samples should be frozen before analysis. NAGase activity should be interpreted according to DIM, at least during the first month of lactation. Based on the results of the present study, a reference value for normal milk NAGase activity of 0·1–1·04 pmoles 4-MU/min/μl for cows with ≥30 DIM (196 samples) could be proposed. We consider milk NAGase activity to be an accurate indicator of subclinical and clinical mastitis.
Polymastiidae (Demospongiae: Hadromerida) with ornamented exotyles: a review of morphological affinities and description of a new genus and three new species
Authors: Plotkin Alexander , Morrow Christine , Gerasimova Elena , Rapp Hans Tore
Published: May 2016

All polymastiid sponges displaying ornamented exotyles are reviewed and their morphological affinities are reconsidered. The study embraces all known species ofProteleia,Sphaerotylus,TrachyteleiaandTylexocladusas well as several species ofPolymastia. A new genus,Koltunia, is established for the Antarctic speciesProteleia burtonibased on the unique shape of distal ornamentations of its giant exotyles and on the absence of a spicule palisade in its cortex, a rare feature among the polymastiids. Three new species ofSphaerotylusare described –S. renoufifrom the British Isles,S. strobilisfrom South Africa andS. tjalfeifrom West Greenland. Transfer of one New Zealand species fromPolymastiatoProteleiaand of one Chilean species fromPolymastiatoSphaerotylusis proposed. The present study provides a background for future integrative phylogenetic analyses based on comprehensive molecular and morphological datasets which should reveal the natural relationships between the polymastiid taxa.
A new species and new records ofMagelona(Annelida: Magelonidae) from Chabahar Bay, Gulf of Oman, South-eastern Iran
Authors: Shakouri Arash , Mortimer Kate , Dehani Esmaeil
Published: May 2016

The infauna of Chabahar Bay (Iranian Coast of the Gulf of Oman) was investigated using shallow water (less than 10 m) grab-samples between June 2013 and March 2014. The magelonid fauna of these samples was studied and prioritized, with four species being present:M. fauchaldisp. nov.,M. symmetrica, M.cf.cinctaandM. crenulifrons. The new species differs from all known magelonid species within the Persian Gulf region in possessing polydentate abdominal hooks. A fifth species, currently undescribed, was also found. The validity ofM. pulchellaoriginally described from Kuwait is discussed in light of its closeness toM. crenulifrons. The main distinguishing feature between the two species is the presence or absence of crenulation of the anterior prostomial margin, a character shown to be variable inM. crenulifrons. Although differences between the type specimens of both species suggestsM. pulchellato be a valid species, examination of further material and DNA analysis is needed.
Possible mechanism of host manipulation resulting from a diel behaviour pattern of eye-dwelling parasites?
Authors: STUMBO ANTHONY D. , POULIN ROBERT
Published: May 2016

Parasitic infection often results in alterations to the host's phenotype, and may modify selection pressures for host populations. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying these changes is essential to understand the evolution of host–parasite interactions. A variety of mechanisms may result in changes in the host's behavioural phenotype, ranging from simple by-products of infection to chemicals directly released by the parasite to alter behaviour. Another possibility may involve parasites freely moving to certain sites within tissues, at specific times of the day to induce behavioural changes in the host. We tested the hypothesis that parasites shift to certain sites within the host by quantifying the location and activity of the trematodeTylodelphyssp., whose mobile metacercarial stages remain unencysted in the eyes of the second intermediate fish host, the common bully (Gobiomorphus cotidianus). This parasite's definitive host is a piscivorous bird feeding exclusively during daytime. Ocular obstruction and metacercarial activity were assessed within the sedated host's eye at three time points 24 h−1period, using video captured via an ophthalmoscope. Although observed metacercarial activity did not change between time periods, ocular obstruction was significantly reduced at night. Increased visual obstruction specifically during the foraging time of the parasite's definitive host strongly suggests that the parasite's activity pattern is adaptive.
Electrostatic control over temperature-dependent tunnelling across a single-molecule junction
Authors: Garrigues Alvar R. , Wang Lejia , del Barco Enrique , Nijhuis Christian A.
Published: May 2016

Understanding how the mechanism of charge transport through molecular tunnel junctions depends on temperature is crucial to control electronic function in molecular electronic devices. With just a few systems investigated as a function of bias and temperature so far, thermal effects in molecular tunnel junctions remain poorly understood. Here we report a detailed charge transport study of an individual redox-active ferrocene-based molecule over a wide range of temperatures and applied potentials. The results show the temperature dependence of the current to vary strongly as a function of the gate voltage. Specifically, the current across the molecule exponentially increases in the Coulomb blockade regime and decreases at the charge degeneracy points, while remaining temperature-independent at resonance. Our observations can be well accounted for by a formal single-level tunnelling model where the temperature dependence relies on the thermal broadening of the Fermi distributions of the electrons in the leads.
CXXC finger protein 1 is critical for T-cell intrathymic development through regulating H3K4 trimethylation
Authors: Cao Wenqiang , Guo Jing , Wen Xiaofeng , Miao Li , Lin Feng , Xu Guanxin , Ma Ruoyu , Yin Shengxia , Hui Zhaoyuan , Chen Tingting , Guo Shixin , Chen Wei , Huang Yingying , Liu Yizhi , Wang Jianli , Wei Lai , Wang Lie
Published: May 2016

T-cell development in the thymus is largely controlled by an epigenetic program, involving in both DNA methylation and histone modifications. Previous studies have identified Cxxc1 as a regulator of both cytosine methylation and histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3). However, it is unknown whether Cxxc1 plays a role in thymocyte development. Here we show that T-cell development in the thymus is severely impaired in Cxxc1-deficient mice. Furthermore, we identify genome-wide Cxxc1-binding sites and H3K4me3 modification sites in wild-type and Cxxc1-deficient thymocytes. Our results demonstrate that Cxxc1 directly controls the expression of key genes important for thymocyte survival such as RORγt and for T-cell receptor signalling including Zap70 and CD8, through maintaining the appropriate H3K4me3 on their promoters. Importantly, we show that RORγt, a direct target of Cxxc1, can rescue the survival defects in Cxxc1-deficient thymocytes. Our data strongly support a critical role of Cxxc1 in thymocyte development.
In vivo epidermal migration requires focal adhesion targeting of ACF7
Authors: Yue Jiping , Zhang Yao , Liang Wenguang G. , Gou Xuewen , Lee Philbert , Liu Han , Lyu Wanqing , Tang Wei-Jen , Chen Shao-Yu , Yang Feng , Liang Hong , Wu Xiaoyang
Published: May 2016

Turnover of focal adhesions allows cell retraction, which is essential for cell migration. The mammalian spectraplakin protein, ACF7 (Actin-Crosslinking Factor 7), promotes focal adhesion dynamics by targeting of microtubule plus ends towards focal adhesions. However, it remains unclear how the activity of ACF7 is regulated spatiotemporally to achieve focal adhesion-specific guidance of microtubule. To explore the potential mechanisms, we resolve the crystal structure of ACF7’s NT (amino-terminal) domain, which mediates F-actin interactions. Structural analysis leads to identification of a key tyrosine residue at the calponin homology (CH) domain of ACF7, whose phosphorylation by Src/FAK (focal adhesion kinase) complex is essential for F-actin binding of ACF7. Using skin epidermis as a model system, we further demonstrate that the phosphorylation of ACF7 plays an indispensable role in focal adhesion dynamics and epidermal migration in vitro and in vivo. Together, our findings provide critical insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying coordinated cytoskeletal dynamics during cell movement.