bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hematology, serum chemistry values, and rectal temperatures of adult greater galagos (Galago garnettii and G. crassicaudatus)
Authors: Izard M. Kay , Heath Susan J. , Hayes Yumiko , Simons Elwyn L.
Published: August 2020

Hematological and serum chemistry values, as well as rectal temperatures, were obtained from greater galagos (Galago garnettii and G. crassicaudatus), in order to establish normative values. No species or sex differences were found for four hematological parameters and 15 serum chemistry parameters. Species differences were seen in phosphate, magnesium, cholesterol, alkaline phosphate, G‐glutamyl transferase, mean corpuscular volume and leucocyte, neutrophil, and lymphocyte number. Significant sex differences were observed in glucose, hemoglobin, and hematocrit values. Species and sex differences were seen in chloride and erythrocyte number.
Recovery of the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) and depression of colony formation in in vitro infected progenitor cell‐enriched rhesus bone marrow (BM)
Authors: Beltz Lisa , Narayan Opendra , Adams Robert J. , Noga Stephen J. , Donnenberg Albert D.
Published: August 2020

Rhesus progenitor‐enriched BM was exposed overnight to SIV and cultured in a limiting dilution assay where the potential for progenitor interaction with lymphocytes or macrophages was low. Virus was consistently isolated late in culture, detection being aided by coculture with CEM174 lymphoblasts. Although infected cells had reduced clonogenic activity, colonies were indistinguishable from those derived from uninfected BM with respect to proliferative potential, morphology, and longevity in culture. Primate immunodeficiency viruses, therefore, may infect immature BM populations, directly affecting hematopoietic activity.
Antibody‐dependent enhancement and neutralization pattern of sera from SIV‐infected or HIV‐2‐vaccinated rhesus monkeys
Authors: Le Grand Roger , Vogt Guillaume , Chapel Alain , Dormont Dominique
Published: August 2020

Neutralizing and enhancing activities in sera were detected by using an in vitro infection assay of HUT78 cells. Ten animals were vaccinated with HIV‐2ROD recombinant vaccinia viruses and respective purified proteins. Only sera from monkeys vaccinated with env elicited neutralizing antibodies. No antibody‐dependent enhancement (ADE) properties were detected in all the tested sera. Six other macaques were infected with SIV‐mac251. All of them had detectable ADE properties in their sera. No major neutralizing activity was detected.
Maternal–fetal transmission of SIV in macaques: Disseminated adenovirus infection in an offspring with congenital SIV infection
Authors: Ochs H.D. , Morton W.R. , Tsai C‐C. , Thouless M.E. , Zhu Q. , Kuller L.D. , Wu Y.P. , Benveniste R.E.
Published: August 2020

To develop a nonhuman primate model for maternal–fetal transmission of HIV infection, we have inoculated pregnant Macaca nemestrina with uncloned SIVMne. Three animals inoculated during the third trimester delivered healthy infants. One of the three infants, a male born 31 days after the mother was inoculated with SIV, became virus‐positive but failed to produce SIV‐specific antibody and died with overt simian immunodeficiency and disseminated adenovirus (SV20) infection at age six and one‐half months. SIV and adenovirus antigen could be demonstrated by immunohistochemical methods in multiple organ systems.
Serial pathogenesis study of SIV brain infection
Authors: Sharer Leroy R. , Michaels Jennifer , Murphey‐Corb Michael , Hu Fu‐Sen , Kuebler Dorothy J. , Martin Louis N. , Baskin Gary B.
Published: August 2020

A serial study of early SIV brain infection revealed initial involvement of leptomeninges, followed by perivascular infection of brain parenchyma. Severity of SIV encephalitis correlated with severity of systemic disease rather than with length of infection. Diffuse white matter disease was not observed, and there was little evidence of SIV infection of brain endothelial cells. SIV infection of leptomeninges is separate from infection of the brain, which appears to be due to transvascular spread of infected monocytes/macrophages.
Anesthetic management for instrumentation of the pregnant rhesus monkey
Authors: Sanders Elizabeth A. , Gleedm Rabin D. , Nathanielsz Peter W.
Published: August 2020

The anesthetic procedures used and the responses observed during maternal instrumentation on 38 pregnant rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) during the second half of gestation are reported. A laparotomy with maternal instrumentation was performed in all animals. Anesthesia was induced with ketamine and maintained with halothane. Two animals delivered within five days of anesthesia and surgery and were unable to undergo experimentation. The remaining 36 animals underwent successful experimentation. Dysrhythmias, hypotension, and hypothermia were identified as complications of anesthesia.
The use of a urinary estrone conjugates assay for detection of optimal mating time in the cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Behboodi Esmail , Katz David F. , Samuels Steven J. , Tell Lisa , Hendrickx Andrew G. , Lasley Bill L.
Published: August 2020

Forty‐four female cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) were examined to determine the optimum fertile period for mating. Daily urinary estrone conjugates (E1C) were measured, beginning on day 7 of the menstrual cycle, until a 1.5‐gold E1C rise above the baseline was detected. The females were bred the next morning. Pregnancies were verified in all animals at day 18 postbreeding, and/or on day 25 postbreeding. Serum progesterone levels were used to correlate the relationship between ovulation and the E1C peak. Forty‐four of the 57 cycles indicated a urinary E1C peak between days 10–15 of the menstrual cycle; this peak occurred on the day following the initial 1.5‐fold to twofold rise in 90% of the cycles. A single 2‐hr mating period the day before, the day of, or the day after the E1C peak resulted in conception in 17 of 44 (38.6%) animals.
Disseminated histoplasmosis in a SIV‐infected rhesus monkey
Authors: Baskin Gary B.
Published: August 2020

Disseminated histoplasmosis due to Histoplasma capsulatum was diagnosed in a rhesus monkey inoculated with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). Immunohistochemical staining of tissues for viral core antigens revealed that those macrophages that expressed viral antigen contained few or no fungal organisms, while those that were filled with fungal organisms did not express viral antigen. This is a previously undocumented condition in a SIV‐infected macaque, and suggests that SIV infection of individual macrophages is not the cause of macrophage dysfunction in SIV infections.
Plasma‐free amino acid concentrations during ketamine anesthesia in the rhesus monkey: A short methodological study
Authors: Berglund Lars , Gebre‐Medhin Mehari , Lindberg Bo S.
Published: August 2020

The effect of ketamine anesthesia on the pattern of free amino acids in plasma was investigated in four healthy non‐pregnant rhesus monkeys. Blood samples were collected at intervals during a period of 150 min both with and without anesthesia. Repeated measures analysis of variance, with time and ketamine/control as trial factors, was used. In only four amino acids were any changes with time or with ketamine treatment observed, the rest remaining unchanged. Ketamine anesthesia seemed to reduce the concentrations of several amino acids, but the findings were not conclusive.
Siderophilic bodies associated with hemosiderosis and atypical mycobacterial infection in an island siamang (Hylobates syndactylus)
Authors: Munson Linda , Luibel Francis J. , Van Kruiningen Herbert J.
Published: August 2020

Laminated iron concretions were noted in the liver of an aged siamang (Hylobates syndactylus) that had granulomatous enteritis and hepatitis due to Mycobacterium avium intracellulare infection. Preexisting hepatic siderosis, iron sequestration in macrophages, and compromised macrophage function due to mycobacterial infection are proposed as the basis for the abundance and size of the concretions. Similar siderophilic bodies and concomitant siderosis occurred in other siamangs. The concretions are similar to Schumann bodies and Michaelis‐Gutmann bodies associated with granulomatous disease in other species.
Effects of an intrauterine copper device on serum copper, endometrial histology, and ovarian, hepatic, and renal functions in the Japanese monkey (Macaca fuscata fuscata)
Authors: Shimizu Keiko , Nishikawa Takashi , Nozaki Masumi , Oshima Kiyoshi
Published: August 2020

A copper intrauterine device (Cu‐IUD) was inserted transabdominally into the uterine cavity of eight Japanese monkeys (Macaca fuscata fuscata) for 4 to 6 months, and effects on various organ functions were examined. Results showed no significant effects on the menstrual cycle length, serum levels of LH, estradiol‐17β, progesterone or clinical biochemical data such as serum copper, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, lactic dehydrogenase, and blood urea nitrogen. Histology revealed edema and infiltration of eosinophilic leukocytes in the endometrium treated with a Cu‐IUD.
Altered lymphocyte phenotypes and proliferative responses in chimpanzees infected with hepatitis C virus
Authors: Holzer Timothy J. , Heynen Cynthia A. , Kennedy Mark M. , Peterson David A.
Published: August 2020

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNC) from three chimpanzees infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and from two uninfected animals were analyzed by monoclonal antibody phenotyping using flow cytometry. Significant differences in numbers of MNC's expressing cluster designation (CD) phenotypes CD4, CD14, CD19, and CD45RA were found. Additionally, significant differences in MNC proliferation in response to mitogens were also found. This altered proliferative capacity and cellular phenotype profile may be important markers in studying the pathogenesis of chronic HCV disease.
Postnatal change in lipid composition and nerve conduction of peripheral nerves of young rhesus monkeys
Authors: Rana S.V. , Mehta S. , Chopra J.S.
Published: August 2020

Body weight, motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities of fore and hind limbs, and lipid composition were measured sequentially in peripheral nerves of 15 rhesus monkeys. Initially measurements were made with monkeys six to eight months of age. There were significant increases in body weight, motor, and sensory nerve conduction and myelin marker lipids over a five months period, but no change was observed in free fatty acids, triglycerides, and esterified cholesterol. These results indicate that myelination continues at least for 11 to 13 months of postnatal age in rhesus monkeys.
Ontogeny of monooxygenase activities in the marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Schulz‐Schalge Thomas , Heger Wolfgang , Webb Jessie , Kastner Michael , Neubert Diether
Published: August 2020

The pre‐ and postnatal development of monooxygenases in the liver and adrenal gland of marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus) was investigated. Cytochrome P450 was detected in the fetal adrenal gland, but aldrin epoxidase, ethoxycoumarin O‐deethylase, and ethoxyresorufin O‐deethylase activities were below detection limits. Although fetal hepatic cytochrome P450 was not detected, low activities of aldrin epoxidase and ethoxycoumarin O‐deethylase, but no ethoxyresorufin O‐deethylase, could be detected in fetal liver. These enzymes attained adult marmosets activities when the offspring were approximately 2 months of age.
Pachyonychia congenita‐like disorder in cotton‐top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus oedipus)
Authors: Brack M. , Klensang H.
Published: August 2020

A spontaneous genodermatosis in 13 cotton‐top tamarins is described as a retrospective study. The disease appeared as alopecia, pigmentary disturbances, and claw dystrophy similar but not identical to human Pachyonychia congenita. The disease in the tamarins seems to be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, becoming clinically apparent around adolescence. In certain families the neonatal mortality rate was also above average, reaching 100%.
Sterilization and its behavioral effects on free‐ranging female rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Wolfe Linda D. , Kollias George V. , Collins Bobby R. , Hammond Jocelyn A.
Published: August 2020

In order to control population growth rates, a decision was made to sterilize most of the free‐ranging, wild rhesus macaque females of Silver Springs, Florida. Between October 1987 and March 1988, the five females who had been sterilized and released in the fall of 1986 were matched with five intact females in a behavioral study. While there were differences between the behaviors of the sterilized and intact females, the differences can be attributed more to differences in age, rank, and other factors than to the sterilization. Clinical data collected and reported on the monkeys is unremarkable.
Evidence for an a‐herpesvirus indigenous to mountain gorillas
Authors: Eberle R.
Published: August 2020

Sera from wild mountain gorillas were screened for antibodies reactive with primate α‐herpesviruses. Four of seven individuals tested (58%) were positive. In all four sera the highest titers were to HSV‐2 followed by HSV‐1 and SA8. Immunoblot analysis confirmed a preferential reactivity with HSV‐2 antigen. Further analysis by competition ELISA indicated that these gorillas had experienced infection with a virus antigenically similar but not identical to HSV‐2. These results represent the first evidence for an a‐herpesvirus indigenous in a free ranging, nonhuman anthropoid species.
Shared antigenic epitopes of the major core proteins of human and simian immunodeficiency virus isolates
Authors: Higgins Joanne R. , Sutjipto Suganto , Marx Preston A. , Pedersen Niels C.
Published: August 2020

Antigenic epitopes on the major core (gag) protein of isolates of simian and human immunodeficiency virus (SIV and HIV) were compared using a panel of eleven mouse monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) that recognized nine distinct gag epitopes. Viral isolates used for comparison were HIV‐1IIIb, HIV‐2R0D, and SIV isolates from macaque (SIVmac), sooty mangabey (SIVsm‐UCD), African green monkey (SIVagra), and stump‐tailed macaque (SIVstm‐UCD). The relatedness of the various HIV and SIV isolates, as determined by Mabs to core protein epitopes, paralleled that ascertained by genetic sequencing.
Sonographic assessment of nongravid female macaques (Macaca mulatta and Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Tarantal Alice F.
Published: August 2020

Sonographic monitoring of the reproductive tract in the nongravid female macaque provides a means for assessing normal anatomy and pathologic change involving the uterus and adnexal structures. Animals with reduced reproductive potential can be identified and diagnoses frequently confirmed with the use of ultrasound‐guided aspiration/biopsy. The importance of these observations is twofold: (1) for the maintenance of a healthy reproductive colony, and (2) as a means of identifying animals for use as models for human health problems, such as endometriosis.
Survival of human monoclonal anti‐Rho (D) antibodies in the rhesus monkey
Authors: Blancher A. , Roubinet F. , Blanchard N. , Byrne P. , Broly H. , Ducos J. , Socha W.W. , Ruffie J.
Published: August 2020

In vivo half‐life of a 125I‐labeled human anti‐D monoclonal antibody (mAb) and that of l31I‐labeled Rho‐GAM was assessed in a rhesus monkey injected simultaneously with both reagents. The half‐life of the mAb was 7.9 days, compared to 17 days of Rho‐GAM. Survival of the second dose of mAb, given 34 days after the first injection, was identical to that of the first dose, thus showing that the human mAb did not elicit an immune response. The in vitro produced human mAbs appear to be an alternative, unlimited source of anti‐D antibodies for possible use in prevention of feto‐maternal Rh immunization.
Dynamics of the immune system response in cerebrospinal fluid and blood of SIVmac‐infected rhesus monkeys
Authors: Sopper Sieghart , Hemm Susanne , Meixensberger Jürgen , Coulibaly Cheik , Stahl‐Hennig Christiane , Hunsmann Gerhard , Fleckenstein Bernhard , Meulen Volker ter , Dörries Rüdiger
Published: August 2020

Paired sera and CSF samples were collected from SIVmac‐infected macaques. Animals infected with SIVmac251 maintained low gag and high env‐specific antibody levels in plasma. Increasing env‐specific antibody titers in CSF were associated in one animal with strong intrathecal synthesis. SIVmac239‐infected monkeys revealed high antibody titers of gag and env‐specificity, in one animal accompanied by weak intrathecal synthesis of virus‐specific antibodies. In all animals, the CD4/CD8 ratio in CSF decreased faster compared to blood.
Pathogenesis of SIVmac251 after atraumatic inoculation of the rectal mucosa in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Pauza C. David , Emau Peter , Salvato Maria S. , Trivedi Parul , MacKenzie Debra , Malkovsky Miroslav , Uno Hideo , Schultz Kevin T.
Published: August 2020

Intrarectal inoculation of rhesus monkeys with low doses of SIVmac led to a prolonged clinical and virological latency that was not observed for high intrarectal doses or for intravenous inoculation. Animals infected intrarectally with low virus doses remained negative for serum antibody responses to SIV for at least one year even though they readily transferred SIV to naive recipients via transfusion of whole blood.
Hypertrichosis in a gibbon (Hylobates muelleri)
Authors: Geissmann Thomas
Published: August 2020

A case of facial hypertrichosis in a museum specimen of a Bornean gibbon (Hylobates muelleri) is described. Apparently, hypertrichosis has not previously been reported to occur in nonhuman primates. Similar pathological conditions are known to occur in humans, but it is unknown whether any of the numerous forms of human hypertrichosis is equivalent to this case in gibbons.
Spermatogenesis and hormone levels in rhesus macaques inoculated with simian immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Nadler Ronald D. , Manocha Atul D. , McClure Harold M.
Published: August 2020

The presence of sperm in testicular tissue of rhesus macaques that died as a result of infection with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) was related to age and body weight. Depressed testosterone levels were not associated with elevated LH levels. The data suggest that azoospermia in the SIV‐infected macaques was due to cachexia and not a direct effect of virus on the testis, supporting a similar hypothesis regarding azoospermia in men infected with human immunodeficiency virus.
A semi‐natural habitat for housing small, nonhuman primates
Authors: Marriott Bernadette M. , Marriott Robert W. , Norris Jean , Lee Deborah
Published: August 2020

A semi‐natural habitat that was designed to house a social group of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus sciureus) at Goucher College, in Maryland is described. The design could be readily adapted for use with other small primate species.
Chimpanzees in AIDS research: A biomedical and bioethical perspective
Authors: van Akker R. , Balls M. , Eichberg J.W. , Goodall J. , Heeney J.L. , Osterhaus A.D.M.E. , Prince A.M. , Spruit I.
Published: August 2020

The present article represents a consensus view of the appropriate utilization of chimpanzees in AIDS research arrived at as a result of a meeting of a group of scientists involved in AIDS research with chimpanzees and bioethicists. The paper considers which types of studies are scientifically justifiable in this species, the conditions under which such studies should be carried out, and the conditions which should be encouraged for post‐experimental retirement of these animals.
Influence of codoping with Hf and La on grain‐boundary transport in alumina
Authors: Wu Qian , Yu Zhiyang , Wang Yan , Diercks David , Gorman Brian P. , Rickman Jeffrey M. , Harmer Martin P. , Chan Helen M.
Published: August 2020

The role of reactive elements (RE) is an important topic in understanding the oxidation behavior of high‐temperature alloys. In this work, the influence of codoping alumina with two different RE elements (500 ppm Hf + 500 ppm La) was studied. The kinetics of oxygen grain‐boundary (GB) transport were studied at 1400°C using metallic nickel particles as markers. The results were compared with data obtained on the corresponding singly doped compositions; alumina‐500 ppm La, and alumina‐500 ppm Hf. The results showed that singly doping with La did not have any benefit compared to undoped alumina, whereas singly doping with Hf resulted in a slowing of transport by a factor of ~7. The behavior of the codoped sample was very similar to that of the singly doped Hf composition. For all the studied compositions, atomic scale characterization using high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography (APT) revealed strong segregation of the dopant ions to the alumina grain boundaries. In the codoped sample, APT revealed evidence of oxygen excess and aluminum depletion at the GB core.
The effects of nurse‐driven self‐management programs on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Helvaci Aylin , Gok Metin Zehra
Published: August 2020

Aims

To analyse the effects of nurse‐driven self‐management (SM) programs on physical and psychosocial health variables in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Data Sources

An exhaustive scanning of PubMed, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, CINAHL, ScienceDirect and Medline databases between January 2010–December 2019 was conducted for this meta‐analysis.

Review Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to nurse‐driven SM programs in COPD population were included. The standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were determined for the main variables and heterogeneity was analysed using the I2 test. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) was used.

Results

Twelve studies were included. The results indicated that significant difference in physical health scores based on COPD Assessment Tool (CAT) and walking distance according to the 6‐min walk distance (6MWD) test in the intervention groups compared with the control groups. About psychosocial health findings, the quality of life increased and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores decreased following SM programs. All of the studies had good quality (varying from 5–8 points) according to The Modified Jadad Scale.

Conclusion

Nurse‐driven SM programs may contribute to prognosis in patients with COPD. Due to methodological weaknesses in the included trials, high‐quality RCTs are needed to better determine the effects of nurse‐driven SM programs in the management of COPD. Nurse‐driven SM programs may be employed as a useful strategy to improve health status and QOL and psychosocial health in the COPD population, as well.

Impact

Current evidence shows that nurse‐driven SM programs could be safely integrated into the clinical practice for patients with COPD. Future studies are warranted that evaluating the effects of nurse‐driven SM programs on other frequently observed COPD symptoms such as dyspnoea, fatigue and sleep disturbance.
Weather effects on nestling survival of great tits vary according to the developmental stage
Authors: Marques‐Santos Fernando , Dingemanse Niels J.
Published: August 2020

Organisms change breeding investments as a function of the environment, thereby maximizing reproductive success. Climate change studies of avian life‐history have long focused on plasticity of laying dates and clutch sizes in response to weather conditions prior to clutch initiation. By contrast, effects of unpredictable weather events occurring after initial reproductive decisions are made have largely been ignored, despite becoming increasingly important with ongoing climate change. We studied the detrimental effects of fluctuations in temperature and precipitation during various nesting phases of great titsParus major, identifying the developmental age windows where weather fluctuations affected hatching, nestling mass and fledging success. We used a longitudinal (8‐year) dataset of great tits breeding in nest boxes in southern Germany and applied a recently introduced explorative approach that does not require a priori assumptions on the time windows (range of ages) over which weather may affect reproductive parameters. Lower temperatures and higher precipitation during the nestling phase negatively affected nestling mass and survival: nestlings between the ages 6 and 9 days were most susceptible to this form of variation in weather. Effects of weather did not differ between years, i.e. there was no evidence for ‘good' versus ‘bad' years. Future research should focus on the mechanisms underpinning effects of weather on nestling growth and survival in other populations and consider if age‐dependent weather consequences occur in a wide variety of taxa, as specific developmental stages may serve as weak spots in a scenario of increasing recurrence of weather extremes.
Physical activity is associated with lower arterial stiffness in normal‐weight postmenopausal women
Authors: Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Tsoltos Nikolaos , Armeni Eleni , Paschou Stavroula A. , Augoulea Areti , Kaparos Georgios , Rizos Demetrios , Karagouni Iliana , Delialis Dimitris , Ioannou Sophia , Apostolakis Michail , Makrakis Evangelos , Lambrinoudaki Irene
Published: August 2020

The impact of physical exercise, as preventative measure, to control the progression of cardiovascular disease in midlife remains under investigation. We aimed to investigate the effect of different levels of intensity of physical activity on metabolic and vascular profile in healthy postmenopausal women. A total of 625 healthy postmenopausal women (mean age 57.7 ± 7.6 years) were evaluated using the short IPAQ questionnaire for quantification of physical activity. The energy expenditure was estimated in metabolic equivalent of energy (MET) hours per week. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured as an index of arterial stiffness. Intima‐media thickness of both right and left common carotid artery, carotid bulb and internal carotid artery, and combined carotid IMT were also assessed by non‐invasive and well‐validated methods. Mean values of PWV decreased linearly with increasing intensity of physical activity (classes of physical activity: sedentary vs walking vs moderate vs vigorous activity: 9.07 ± 1.22 m/s vs 9.12 ± 1.72 m/s vs 8.47 ± 1.31m/s vs 7.94 ± 0.40 m/s, ANOVA P for linear trend .003). In non‐obese postmenopausal women, PWV values associated with: (a) the total number of METs (b‐coefficient = −0.261, P = .002) as well as with SBP; (b) or with the number of moderate METs (b‐coefficient = −0.192, P = .025) as well as with age and SBP. No significant associations were observed between the intensity of physical exercise and arterial stiffness in the overweight‐obese group. Physical activity is negatively associated with arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women with normal weight. This association was not observed in overweight or obese women.
Blood pressure, T cells, and mortality in people with HIV in Tanzania during the first 2 years of antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Reis Karl G. , Desderius Bernard , Kingery Justin , Kirabo Annet , Makubi Abel , Myalla Christina , Lee Myung Hee , Kapiga Saidi , Peck Robert N.
Published: August 2020

Cardiovascular disease is now a leading cause of mortality in people with HIV (PWH). High blood pressure is the major driver of cardiovascular disease. Despite this, little is known about blood pressure in PWH during the early years of antiretroviral therapy (ART). In this prospective cohort study in Tanzania, the authors conducted unobserved blood pressure measurements at enrollment, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months in 500 PWH initiating ART and 504 HIV‐uninfected adults. The authors excluded measurements taken on antihypertensive medications. Although PWH had a significantly lower blood pressure before ART initiation, they had a significantly greater increase in blood pressure during the first 2 years of ART compared to HIV‐uninfected controls. Blood pressure correlates in PWH differed from HIV‐uninfected controls. In PWH, lower baseline CD4+ T‐cell counts were associated with lower blood pressure, and greater increases in CD4+ T‐cell counts on ART were associated with greater increases in blood pressure, both on average and within individuals. In addition, PWH with a systolic blood pressure (SBP) <90 mm Hg at the time of ART initiation had ~30% mortality in the following 3 months due to occult infections. These patients require careful investigation for occult infections, and those with tuberculosis may benefit from corticosteroids.
Two‐drug fixed‐dose combinations of blood pressure‐lowering drugs as WHO essential medicines: An overview of efficacy, safety, and cost
Authors: Salam Abdul , Huffman Mark D. , Kanukula Raju , Hari Prasad Esam , Sharma Abhishek , Heller David J. , Vedanthan Rajesh , Agarwal Anubha , Rodgers Anthony , Jaffe Marc G. , R. Frieden Thomas , Kishore Sandeep P.
Published: August 2020

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the world's leading cause of death. High blood pressure (BP) is the leading global risk factor for all‐cause preventable morbidity and mortality. Globally, only about 14% of patients achieve BP control to systolic BP <140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg. Most patients (>60%) require two or more drugs to achieve BP control, yet poor adherence to therapy is a major barrier to achieving this control. Fixed‐dose combinations (FDCs) of BP‐lowering drugs are one means to improve BP control through greater adherence and efficacy, with favorable safety and cost profiles. The authors present a review of the supporting data from a successful application to the World Health Organization (WHO) for the inclusion of FDCs of two BP‐lowering drugs on the 21st WHO Essential Medicines List. The authors discuss the efficacy and safety of FDCs of two BP‐lowering drugs for the management of hypertension in adults, relevant hypertension guideline recommendations, and the estimated cost of such therapies.
Maternal exposure to cold spells during pregnancy is associated with higher blood pressure and hypertension in offspring later in life
Authors: Li Nanfang , Cai Li , Heizhati Mulalibieke , Wang Lin , Li Mei , Zhang Delian , Abulikemu Suofeiya , Yao Xiaoguang , Hong Jing , Zou Bo , Zhao Jianxin
Published: August 2020

We aimed to investigate whether month of birth is associated with blood pressure (BP) and prevalent hypertension in adults from a region with frost‐free days of <150 days and average temperatures − 13°C in winter, Xinjiang, China. We analyzed data for 6158 subjects from several surveys. We divided participants into April to August (n = 2624) and September to March (n = 3534) groups, based on length of maternal exposure to cold months, and analyzed BP, prevalent hypertension, and related factors. Diastolic BP in total subjects and systolic and diastolic BP in male subjects born between April and August were significantly higher than in those born between September and March. In sensitivity analysis, untreated males born between April and August showed significantly higher systolic and diastolic BP than did their counterparts. Subjects born between April and August showed significantly higher prevalence of hypertension (31.3% vs 27.8%, P = .003), and isolated systolic (23.3% vs 20.8%, P = .018) and diastolic hypertension (24.5% vs 21.4%, P = .004), than those born between September and March, which is similar for men. Birth between April and August showed 1.68 (95% CI: 1.06‐2.67, P = .027)‐fold increased odds for the prevalence of hypertension, independent of gender, age, body mass index, waist circumference, cigarette consumption, alcohol intake, and family history, compared with their counterparts. In conclusion, maternal exposure to cold spells during pregnancy may be associated with the increased risk of hypertension in offspring later in life, particularly among males, suggesting the involvement of maternal cold exposure during pregnancy in offspring hypertension development.
Astaxanthin attenuates pulmonary fibrosis through lncITPF and mitochondria‐mediated signal pathways
Authors: Chen Hongbin , Wang Jing , Li Rongrong , Lv Changjun , Xu Pan , Wang Youlei , Song Xiaodong , Zhang Jinjin
Published: August 2020

Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic interstitial lung disease characterized by pulmonary epithelial injury, fibroblast activation, extracellular matrix deposition, and tissue structure destruction. However, an effective drug treatment remains unavailable. Therefore, studying the mechanism of pulmonary fibrogenesis and finding effective drugs have become important problems in the field of respiratory diseases. Pulmonary fibrosis is typically characterized by activated fibroblast proliferation and migration. Hence, abnormality in activated fibroblast proliferation and migration is a major concern for treating pulmonary fibrosis. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is an enigmatic subclass of ncRNA that regulates various fundamental biological processes and participates in disease occurrence and development. However, studies on lncRNA as the therapeutic target of drug action are rarely reported. Our group first identified differentially expressed lncRNAs and revealed that lncITPF is a highly upregulated lncRNA in lung fibrosis. In particular, lncITPF is detected in the blood of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Clinical analysis shows that lncITPF is positively correlated with the degree of fibrosis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve indicates that the specificity and sensitivity values are 95.0 and 64.3, respectively. The area under the ROC curve is 0.804, indicating that lncITPF can be a diagnostic biomarker for IPF. However, whether lncITPF is effective as a therapeutic target of drug action against pulmonary fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, lncITPF acting as the therapeutic target of astaxanthin was explored in depth. The findings elucidated that astaxanthin blocks the activated fibroblast proliferation and migration through lncITPF and mitochondria‐mediated signal pathways to alleviate pulmonary fibrogenesis.
Activation of ER stress signalling increases mortality after a major trauma
Authors: Abdullahi Abdikarim , Barayan Dalia , Vinaik Roohi , Diao Li , Yu Nancy , Jeschke Marc G.
Published: August 2020

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) adapts to stress by activating a signalling cascade known as the ER stress response. While ER stress signalling is a central component of the cellular defence against environmental insult, persistent activation is thought to contribute to the progression of various metabolic complications via loss of protein function and cell death. Despite its importance however, whether and how ER stress impacts morbidity and mortality in conditions of hypermetabolism remain unclear. In this study, we discovered that chronic ER stress response plays a role in mediating adverse outcomes that occur after major trauma. Using a murine model of thermal injury, we show that induction of ER stress with Tunicamycin not only increased mortality but also resulted in hepatic damage and hepatic steatosis. Importantly, post‐burn treatment with chaperone ER stress inhibitors attenuated hepatic ER stress and improved organ function following injury. Our study identifies ER stress as a potential hub of the signalling network affecting multiple aspects of metabolism after major trauma and as a novel potential molecular target to improve the clinical outcomes of severely burned patients.
BDNF promoted osteoblast migration and fracture healing by up‐regulating integrin β1 via TrkB‐mediated ERK1/2 and AKT signalling
Authors: Zhang Zitao , Hu Polu , Wang Zhen , Qiu Xusheng , Chen Yixin
Published: August 2020

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been reported to participate in fracture healing, whereas the mechanism is still unclear. Since osteoblast migration is important for fracture healing, investigating effects of BDNF on osteoblasts migration may help to reveal its mechanism. Here, MC3T3‐E1 cells were used in vitro while closed femur fracture mice were applied in vivo. Cells migration was assessed with Transwell assay. The protein expression was analysed by immunoblotting. X‐ray and Micro‐CT were performed at different time after fracture. Our results showed that BDNF promoted MC3T3‐E1 cells migration, integrin β1 expression and ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation. K252a, a specific inhibitor for TrkB, suppressed BDNF‐induced migration, integrin β1 expression and activation of ERK1/2 and AKT. PD98059 (an ERK1/2 inhibitor) and LY294002 (an AKT inhibitor) both inhibited BDNF‐induced migration and integrin β1 expression while integrin β1 blocking antibody only suppressed cell migration. X‐ray and Micro‐CT analyses showed that the adenoviral carried integrin β1 shRNA group had slower fracture healing at 7 and 21 days, but not 35 days compared to the control group. Thus, we proposed that BDNF stimulated MC3T3‐E1 cells migration by up‐regulating integrin β1 via TrkB mediated ERK1/2 and AKT signalling, and this may help to enhance the fracture healing.
Commentary: Substance use and the brain: it is not straightforward to differentiate cause from consequence – a commentary on Kim‐Spoon et al. (2020)
Authors: Wilson Sylia
Published: August 2020

That substance abuse is associated with differences in brain structure and function, and related neurocognitive impairment is undisputed. Causally informative study designs, such as the prospective, longitudinal study leveraged by Kim‐Spoon et al. (2020), as well as twin and family studies, are necessary for answering vexing but critical questions about substance use and the developing brain. Investigations that seek to differentiate cause from consequence and identify the factors that initiate the cycle of addiction have the potential to transform our understanding of the development of substance use and abuse, prompt revisions to current models of addiction, guide the most strategic preventive‐intervention efforts, and ultimately improve the lives of millions of affected individuals and their families.
Influence of different phosphoric acids before application of universal adhesive on the dental enamel
Authors: Bernales Sender Francesco Ricardo , Castañeda Vía José Alberto , Tay Lidia Yileng
Published: August 2020

Background

There are different etching gels available, which have different composition, different pH, and different viscosity, and there is little information in the literature comparing all these products.

Objective

To evaluate the mean microshear bond strength and morphological characteristics of tooth enamel by evaluating different phosphoric acids combined with a universal adhesive system.

Materials and Methods

Eighty‐four enamel samples were used, which were divided according to the acid conditioning: G1: Scotchbond Etchant (3M Oral Care), G2: Ultra‐Etch (Ultradent), G3: Eco‐Etch (IvoclarVivadent), G4: ETCH‐37 with BAC (Bisco), G5: Etching gel (Densell), G6: Condac 37 (FGM), and G7: Scotchbond Universal Adhesive (3M Oral Care) in self‐etch mode. For the adhesive procedure, Scotchbond Universal Adhesive was the one used as indicated the manufacturer's instructions, 0.9‐mm‐diameter resin cylinders were placed. The microshear bond strength test was performed after being stored for 24 hours in water. The morphological characteristics of tooth enamel were analyzed using the Raman confocal microscope alpha300RA. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and Tukey post‐test were used to analyze the differences between the groups.

Results

The mean microshear bond strength values obtained for groups 1, 4, 5 were significantly greater than groups 2, 3, 6 and 7 (p < .05). All groups presented demineralization after the application of the etching acid, and few signs of demineralization were evident in group 7.

Conclusions

Acid‐etching with ETCH‐37 with BAC, Etching gel, and Scotchbond Etchant improved the adhesive strength in the enamel using an universal adhesive, and acid‐etching with Condac 37, Ultra‐Etch, and Eco‐Etch provides similar adhesive strength values to self‐etch mode of universal adhesive.

Clinical Significance

All acid etchants should be considered as different. The test confirms that enamel etching prior to the application of a universal adhesive system depends on the selected acid etchand product.
Association Between Episodic Memory and Genetic Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease in South Asians from the Longitudinal Aging Study in India–Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI‐DAD)
Authors: Smith Jennifer A. , Zhao Wei , Yu Miao , Rumfelt Kalee E. , Moorjani Priya , Ganna Andrea , Dey Aparajit B. , Lee Jinkook , Kardia Sharon L.R.
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Genetic factors play an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cognitive aging. However, it is unclear whether risk loci identified in European ancestry (EA) populations have similar effects in other groups, such as South Asians.

DESIGN

We investigated the allelic distribution and cognitive associations of 56 known AD risk single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified from three EA genome‐wide association studies (EA‐GWASs) in a South Asian population. Single SNP and genetic risk score (GRS) associations with measures of episodic memory were assessed.

SETTING

The Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI‐DAD).

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 906 LASI‐DAD participants from diverse states in India.

MEASUREMENTS

Participants were genotyped using the Illumina Global Screening Array and imputed with 1000G Phase 3v5. Cognitive measures included total learning and delayed word recall.

RESULTS

Although only a few SNPs were significantly associated with memory scores (P < .05), effect estimates from the EA‐GWAS and the LASI‐DAD showed moderate correlation (0.35–0.88) in the expected direction. GRSs were also associated with memory scores, although percentage variation explained was small (0.1%–0.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Discrepancies in allele frequencies and cognitive association results suggest that genetic factors found predominantly through EA‐GWASs may play a limited role in South Asians. However, the extent of differences in the genetic architecture of AD and cognition in EA and South Asians remains uncertain. There is also a critical need to perform a more comprehensive assessment of the mutational spectrum of South Asia to identify novel genetic variants associated with AD and cognition in this population. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:S45‐S53, 2020.
Measurement and Structure of Cognition in the Longitudinal Aging Study in India–Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia
Authors: Gross Alden L. , Khobragade Pranali Y. , Meijer Erik , Saxton Judith A.
Published: August 2020

OBJECTIVES

To test whether a relatively complex model of human cognitive abilities based on Cattell‐Horn‐Carroll (CHC) theory, developed mainly in English‐speaking samples, adequately describes correlations among tests in the Longitudinal Aging Study in India–Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI‐DAD), and to develop accurate measures of cognition for older individuals in India.

DESIGN

LASI‐DAD participants were recruited from participants aged 60 years and older from 14 states in the core LASI survey, with a stratified sampling design.

SETTING

Participants were interviewed at home or in a participating hospital, according to their preferences.

PARTICIPANTS

Community‐residing older adults aged 60 years and older (N = 3,224).

MEASUREMENTS

A variety of cognitive tests were administered during two pretests and chosen for their appropriateness for measuring cognition in older adults in India and suitability for calibration with the core LASI survey and the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol.

RESULTS

We evaluated the factor structure of the test battery and its conformity with a classical CHC factor model that incorporated measurement models for general cognition, five broad domains (orientation, executive functioning, language/fluency, memory, and visuospatial), and five narrow domains (reasoning, attention/speed, immediate memory, delayed memory, and recognition memory) of cognitive performance. Model fit was adequate (root mean square error of approximation = 0.051; comparative fit index = 0.916; standardized root mean squared residual = 0.060).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated configural factorial invariance of a cognitive battery in the Indian LASI‐DAD using CHC theory. Broad domain factors may be used in future research to rank individuals with respect to cognitive performance and classify cognitive impairment. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:S11‐S19, 2020.
After the Randomized Trial: Implementation of Community‐Based Continence Promotion in the Real World
Authors: Schmuhl Nicholas B. , Brow Katie A. , Wise Meg E. , Myers Shannon , Mahoney Jane E. , Brown Heidi W.
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Most women aged 65 and older have incontinence, associated with high healthcare costs, institutionalization, and negative quality of life, but few seek care. Mind over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder (MOM) is a small‐group self‐management workshop, led by a trained facilitator in a community setting, proven to improve incontinence in older women.

DESIGN

We used mixed methods to gather information on the real‐world adoption, maintenance, and implementation of MOM by community agencies following a randomized controlled trial (RCT) that tested intervention effects on incontinence.

SETTING

Community agencies serving older adults in six Wisconsin communities.

PARTICIPANTS

Community agency administrators and facilitators trained to offer MOM for the RCT.

MEASUREMENTS

Investigators tracked rates of adoption (offering MOM in the 12 months following the RCT) and maintenance (offering MOM more than once in the next 18 months) in six communities. Individual interviews and focus groups (N = 17) generated qualitative data about barriers and facilitators related to adoption and maintenance. Trained observers assessed implementation fidelity (alignment with program protocol) at 42 MOM sessions.

RESULTS

A total of 67% of communities (four of six) adopted MOM, and 50% (three of six) maintained MOM. No implementation fidelity lapses occurred. Facilitators of adoption and maintenance included MOM's well‐organized protocol and lean time commitment, sharing of implementation efforts between partner organizations, staff specifically assigned to health promotion activities, and high community interest in continence promotion. Other than stigma associated with incontinence, barriers were similar to those seen with other community‐based programs for older adults: limited funding/staffing, competing organizational priorities, challenges identifying/training facilitators, and difficulty engaging community partners/participants.

CONCLUSION

Using design for dissemination and community engagement, assessment of implementation outcomes is feasible in conjunction with a clinical RCT. Partner‐centered implementation packages can address barriers to adoption and maintenance.
The mediating effect of resilience on the relationship between Type D personality and self‐care behavior in patients with heart failure
Authors: Heo Ji Min , Kim Chul‐Gyu
Published: August 2020

Aim

There have been few studies done looking at the relationship between resilience, Type D personality, and self‐care behavior in patients with heart failure. The purpose of this study was to identify the mediating effect of resilience on the relationship between Type D personality and self‐care behavior in patients with heart failure.

Methods

The subjects consisted of a sample of 90 heart failure patients aged ≥20 years who visited the cardiology outpatient clinic in the Chungbuk area of South Korea.

Results

Among 90 patients, 49 subjects (54.0%) were classified as Type D personality, who exhibited statistically significant differences in resilience and self‐care behavior (p < .001). A statistically significant correlation was also observed between self‐care behavior score and resilience score (p < .01). The resilience had full mediation effects on the relationship between Type D personality and self‐care behavior. In other words, the higher their resilience, the better their self‐care behavior.

Conclusions

The study showed that resilience and Type D personality have important effects on self‐care behavior.