"When It's a Girl, They Have a Chance to Have Sex With Them. When It's a Boy…They Have Been Known to Rape Them": Perceptions of United Nations Peacekeeper-Perpetrated Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Against Women/Girls Versus Men/Boys in Haiti.

Abstract: Peacekeeping missions have been marred by reports of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) against local community members. However, there is limited research on how SEA against women/girls versus men/boys is perceived in peacekeeping host societies. In 2017 we collected micro-narratives in Haiti and then conducted a thematic analysis to understand how peacekeeper-perpetrated SEA was perceived by local community members comparing SEA against women/girls versus SEA against men/boys. Both male and female participants used language which suggested the normalization, in Haitian society, of both transactional sex with and rape of women/girls by UN personnel. In contrast, peacekeeper-perpetrated SEA against men/boys was viewed as unacceptable and was associated with homosexuality and related stigmatization. Overall, our results suggest that in Haiti, inequitable gender norms, the commodification of female sexuality, and homophobia result in SEA against males being recognized as a wrong that elicits outrage, while SEA against women/girls has been normalized. It is important to address the normalization of SEA against women/girls to prevent future violence and to recognize that SEA is also perpetrated against men/boys. Survivor-centered programs, sensitive to the needs of both male and female survivors, are required.

Bartels|Susan A|SA|
King|Carla|C|
Lee|Sabine|S|

united nations
sexual exploitation and abuse
haiti
peacekeeping
gender
MINUSTAH


AI Data-Driven Personalisation and Disability Inclusion.

Abstract: This study aims to help people working in the field of AI understand some of the unique issues regarding disabled people and examines the relationship between the terms "Personalisation" and "Classification" with regard to disability inclusion. Classification using big data struggles to cope with the individual uniqueness of disabled people, and whereas developers tend to design for the majority so ignoring outliers, designing for edge cases would be a more inclusive approach. Other issues that are discussed in the study include personalising mobile technology accessibility settings with interoperable profiles to allow ubiquitous accessibility; the ethics of using genetic data-driven personalisation to ensure babies are not born with disabilities; the importance of including disabled people in decisions to help understand AI implications; the relationship between localisation and personalisation as assistive technologies need localising in terms of language as well as culture; the ways in which AI could be used to create personalised symbols for people who find it difficult to communicate in speech or writing; and whether blind or visually impaired person will be permitted to "drive" an autonomous car. This study concludes by suggesting that the relationship between the terms "Personalisation" and "Classification" with regards to AI and disability inclusion is a very unique one because of the heterogeneity in contrast to the other protected characteristics and so needs unique solutions.

personalisation
disability
localisation
artificial intelligence
classification‐


Starch-Mg/Al layered double hydroxide composites as an efficient solid phase extraction sorbent for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as environmental pollutants.

Abstract: Using a co-precipitation method, starch-Mg/Al layered double hydroxide (S-Mg/Al LDH) composites were synthesized. Their physicochemical properties were assessed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermo-gravimetric analysis. The quantification of six non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was conducted using real samples (e.g., hospital waste water, river water, sewage treatment plant water, and tablet formulations) by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. For the development of this method, the system was optimized in terms of several key variables (e.g., pH, flow rate, and eluent type/volume). The developed method for NSAIDs exhibited good resolution, sensitivity, reproducibility, and specificity even in complex matrices with limits of detection between 4 and 20 pg/mL. Hence, S-Mg/Al LDH composites were proven to be efficient and fast solid phase extraction (SPE) sorbents for NSAIDs. In addition, each LDH-SPE cartridge showed good reusability without a noticeable change in performance (e.g., up to 30 cycles) and target recoveries between 99.5 - 82.9 %. This work should open up new opportunities for a sesnsitive and sustainable quantitative method for the determination of NSAIDs in complex samples.

Mohiuddin|Irshad|I|
Grover|Aman|A|
Aulakh|Jatinder Singh|JS|
Malik|Ashok Kumar|AK|
Lee|Sang Soo|SS|
Brown|Richard J C|RJC|
Kim|Ki-Hyun|KH|

Layered double hydroxide
NSAIDs
Morphology
Starch
Thermal stability


Seroprevalence of human brucellosis in and around Jammu, India, using different serological tests.

Abstract:
AIM
Brucellosis is a disease of zoonotic importance as it affects both human as well as animal's health, and therefore, directly affects animal productivity and human efficiency. Therefore, a study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence of brucellosis in humans in Jammu and surrounding areas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A total of 121 sera samples from humans occupied with professional related to animals were collected and tested for anti-Brucella antibodies by Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT), modified RBPT (mRBPT), standard tube agglutination test (STAT), and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (I-ELISA). Sampling was done keeping in view with the occupation, sex, and age.

RESULTS
The overall seroprevalence of brucellosis recorded was 4.96%. The test-wise seroprevalence was 9.91% by RBPT, 9.91% by mRBPT, 9.09% by STAT, and 16.52% by I-ELISA. The prevalence of brucellosis was higher in >35-50 years age group compared to >20-35 years and >50-65 years. Sex-wise seroprevalence was higher in males than females. Taking I-ELISA as standard, the relative sensitivities of mRBPT, RBPT, and I-ELISA were in the order of mRBPT=RBPT>STAT. All the tests revealed high specificity values; however, among different serological tests, I-ELISA detected a maximum number of positive sera samples.

CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of brucellosis was found to be approximately 5%. The adult (>35-50 years) age male group was most vulnerable. The routine diagnosis of brucellosis involved the conventional serological tests, viz., RBPT and STAT, but each was associated with drawbacks which could give either false-positive or false-negative interpretation. Therefore, it is always recommended to use a battery of tests in the diagnosis of brucellosis.

Sharma|H K|HK|
Kotwal|S K|SK|
Singh|D K|DK|
Malik|M A|MA|
Kumar|Arvind|A|
Rajagunalan|||
Singh|M|M|


Herbicidal activity of isobenzofuranones and in silico identification of their enzyme target.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Given the weed resistance to various herbicides with different mechanisms of action, the search for new compounds that are more effective and exhibit low levels of impact to other species in nature has been imperative in the field of the agriculture. For this purpose, 16 phthalides, and furan-2(5H)-one were synthetized and evaluated for their effectiveness as herbicides in seeds of Sorghum bicolor (sorghum), Cucumis sativus (cucumber), and Allium cepa (onion). Furthermore, a preliminary in silico study was carried out to identify the enzyme target of the most active compounds.

RESULTS
In the assays with S. bicolor, the mixture rac-(3aR,4R,5S,6S,7S,7aS)-5,6-dibromohexahydro-4,7-methanoisobenzofuran-1(3H)-one + rac-(3aR,4R,5R,6R,7S,7aS)-5,6-dibromohexahydro-4,7-methanoisobenzofuran-1(3H)-one (15a + 15b) showed comparable inhibitory activity to (S)-metolachlor, which was used as control herbicide at concentrations ranging from 50 μm to 1000 μm. The developments of the seeds evaluated were altered by all 17 compounds, either stimulating or inhibiting. The best results were presented by compounds 15a, and 15b, either in their pure form or as a mixture.

CONCLUSION
The results presented by 15a, and 15b were superior to the activity of the commercial herbicide (S)-metolachlor in the assays with C. sativus, and A. cepa. The in silico study provides strong evidence that the most active compounds bind to strigolactones esterases D14 through the same binding site of (5R)-5-hydroxy-3-methylfuran-2(5H)-one (H3M), which is one of the strigolactones (SLs) cleavage products. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

herbicide phthalides sorghum cucumber onion


Corrigendum: Egg Consumption and Stroke Risk: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies.

Abstract: [This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.00153.].

Tang|Hui|H| Cao|Yi|Y| Yang|Xiang|X| Zhang|Yuekang|Y|

egg consumption
stroke risk
systematic review
dose-response
meta-analysis


Workflow Lexicons in Healthcare: Validation of the SWIM Lexicon.

Abstract: For clinical departments seeking to successfully navigate the challenges of modern health reform, obtaining access to operational and clinical data to establish and sustain goals for improving quality is essential. More broadly, health delivery organizations are also seeking to understand performance across multiple facilities and often across multiple electronic medical record (EMR) systems. Interpreting operational data across multiple vendor systems can be challenging, as various manufacturers may describe different departmental workflow steps in different ways and sometimes even within a single vendor's installed customer base. In 2012, The Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) recognized the need for better quality and performance data standards and formed SIIM's Workflow Initiative for Medicine (SWIM), an initiative designed to consistently describe workflow steps in radiology departments as well as defining operational quality metrics. The SWIM lexicon was published as a working model to describe operational workflow steps and quality measures. We measured the prevalence of the SWIM lexicon workflow steps in both academic and community radiology environments using real-world patient observations and correlated that information with automatically captured workflow steps from our clinical information systems. Our goal was to measure frequency of occurrence of workflow steps identified by the SWIM lexicon in a real-world clinical setting, as well as to correlate how accurately departmental information systems captured patient flow through our health facility.

Meenan|Chris|C|
Erickson|Bradley|B|
Knight|Nancy|N|
Fossett|Jewel|J|
Olsen|Elizabeth|E|
Mohod|Prerna|P|
Chen|Joseph|J|
Langer|Steve G|SG|

Computer systems
Controlled vocabulary
Data mining


Coprescription of Isotretinoin and Tetracyclines for Acne is Rare: An Analysis of the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey.

Abstract: Introduction: Systemic therapy for acne can include tetracyclines or, for severe cases, isotretinoin. Concurrent use of tetracyclines and isotretinoin is known to increase the risk of development of pseudotumor cerebri (PTC). Objectives: Given their association with PTC when used concomitantly, this study sought to quantify the estimated frequency of the coprescription of isotretinoin and tetracyclines and to assess for trends in the use of isotretinoin and tetracycline for acne as it relates to age, sex, race, insurance, and provider specialty. Methods: Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey were analyzed over the years 2003 to 2013 regarding acne visits with isotretinoin and/or tetracycline prescriptions. Complex-samples logistic regression was used to estimate the effect of demographic variables on prescribing behavior. Results: Isotretinoin and tetracyclines were coprescribed in 0.35 percent of visits for acne. Dermatologists prescribed isotretinoin more frequently than nondermatologists. Patients younger than 36 years of age and men were more likely to receive treatment with isotretinoin or a tetracycline. No differences in prescribing patterns were found based on race or survey year. Conclusions: Concomitant exposure to tetracyclines and isotretinoin is exceedingly rare. The increased PTC risk associated with their concomitant use is well-known among dermatologists.

Reserva|Jeave|J| Adams|William|W| Perlman|David|D| Vasicek|Brooke|B| Joyce|Cara|C| Tung|Rebecca|R| Swan|James|J|


Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Aedes Albopictus and Culex Pipiens along an Urban-Natural Gradient in the Ventotene Island, Italy.

Abstract: The distribution of mosquitos and their corresponding hosts is critical in public health to determine the risk of transmission for vector-borne diseases. In this pilot study conducted in the small Mediterranean island of Ventotene, a known stopover site for migratory birds, the spatio-temporal distribution of two major mosquito vectors is analyzed from the natural to urban environment. The results show that Aedes albopictus aggregates mostly near areas with a human presence and the urban landscape, while Culex pipiens is more spatio-temporally spread, as it can also be found in wilder and less anthropized areas where the availability of human hosts is limited. Culex pipiens is also active earlier in the year. From a microgeographical perspective, our results confirm the anthropophilic spatial distribution of Ae. Albopictus, while suggesting that the circulation of bird zoonosis, such as West Nile, could be favored by the Cx. pipiens distribution. The results highlight the different ecology of the vectors and the interplay with their hosts, even at a small scale. The current evidence may help in forecasting the risk of pathogen transmission and surveillance planning.

Manica|Mattia|M|0000-0003-3709-1199 Riello|Sara|S| Scagnolari|Carolina|C| Caputo|Beniamino|B|

Aedes albopictus
Culex pipiens
Ventotene island
public health
spatial distribution
pathogen transmission
natural to urban gradient
urban ecology
zoonoses


Surgical site infection following cesarean deliveries: trends and risk factors.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To identify trends and risk factors for early surgical site infection (SSI) following cesarean delivery (CD).

METHODS
A population-based study comparing characteristics of women who have and have not developed post cesarean SSI was conducted. Deliveries occurred between the years 1988 and 2013 in a tertiary medical center. A multivariable logistic regression model, with backwards elimination, was used to control for confounders.

RESULTS
Of the 41 375 cesarean deliveries performed during the study period, 1521 (3.7%) were complicated with SSI. SSI rates significantly deceased over the years, from 7.4% in 1988 to 1.5% in 2012. Using a multivariable regression model, the following independent risk factors for SSI were identified: obesity (OR 2.0; 95% CI, 1.6-2.5); previous CD (OR 1.8; 95% CI, 1.6-2.0); hypertensive disorders (OR 1.4; 95% CI, 1.2-1.6); premature rupture of membranes (OR 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1-1.6); gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM, OR 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1-1.4); and recurrent pregnancy losses (OR 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1-1.5).

CONCLUSION
Independent risk factors for post-cesarean SSI include obesity, GDM, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes, and recurrent pregnancy losses. Information regarding higher rates of SSI and preventative measures should be provided to these high-risk women prior to surgery.

surgical site infection
risk factors
Cesarean scar
cesarean section
wound infection


Cistanche polysaccharides enhance echinacoside absorption in vivo and affect the gut microbiota.

Abstract: The polysaccharides and phenylethanoid glycosides from Cistanche deserticola have been demonstrated with various health benefits, however the interactive effect between these two kinds of compounds in vivo are not in detail known. The objective of this study was to investigate the synergistic actions of cistanche polysaccharides with phenylethanoid glycoside and the effects of polysaccharides on gut microbiota. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with different kinds of cistanche polysaccharides for 20 days, on the last day, all rats were administered the echinacoside at 100 mg/kg. The results were compared mainly on the difference of pharmacokinetic parameters, gut microbiota composition, and short chain fatty acids contents. The results indicated that all the cistanche polysaccharides, including crude polysaccharide, high molecular weight polysaccharide and low molecular weight polysaccharide, could regulate the gut microbiota diversity, increase beneficial bacteria and particularly enhance the growth of Prevotella spp. as well as improve the production of short chain fatty acids and the absorption of echinacoside. By exploring the synergistic actions of polysaccharides with small molecules, these findings suggest that cistanche polysaccharides, particularly low molecular weight polysaccharides, could be used as a gut microbiota manipulator for health promotion.

Fu|Zhifei|Z| Han|Lifeng|L| Zhang|Peng|P| Mao|Haoping|H| Zhang|Han|H| Wang|Yuefei|Y| Gao|Xiumei|X| Liu|Erwei|E|

Echinacoside
Gut microbiota
Cistanche deserticola polysaccharide


Children and parents perspectives on children's dental treatment under general anesthesia: a narratology from Saskatoon, Canada.

Abstract:
AIM
This study aimed to explore the emotional and psychological effects of dental treatment under general anesthesia (DTGA) on children and parents in Saskatoon city, Saskatchewan, Canada.

DESIGN
Semi-structured interviews, video diaries, drawings, and a questionnaire were used to collect data. The study used a narrative perspective and thematic analysis to analyze data.

RESULTS
The findings from children and their parents (N = 25) indicated DTGA is disconcerting from both views. Parental guilt and the desire of both parents and children to not have to go through the experience again fueled at least short-term compliance with brushing, flossing, and changes in dietary habits.

CONCLUSION
The children participants provided valuable information to augment that gathered from parents. As the study revealed that the DTGA is psychologically and emotionally troubling for both children and their caregivers, it is imperative to explore ways to ease the GA experience. Specific recommendations were provided for optimizing dental and health services for those children and their families.

Child
Dental general anesthesia
Qualitative


The development and testing of Thai facial soft tissue thickness data in three-dimensional computerized forensic facial reconstruction.

Abstract: Forensic facial reconstruction is a useful tool to assist the public in recognizing human remains, leading to positive forensic investigation outcomes. To reproduce a virtual face, facial soft tissue thickness is one of the major guidelines to reach the accuracy and reliability for three-dimensional computerized facial reconstruction, a method that is making a significant contribution to improving forensic investigation and identification. This study aimed to develop a facial soft tissue thickness dataset for a Thai population, and test its reliability in the context of facial reconstruction. Three-dimensional facial reconstruction was conducted on four skulls (2 males and 2 females, with ages ranging between 51 to 60 years). Two main tools of three-dimensional computer animation and modeling software-Blender and Autodesk Maya-were used to rebuild the three-dimensional virtual face. The three-dimensional coordinate (x, y, z) cutaneous landmarks on the mesh templates were aligned homologous to the facial soft tissue thickness markers on the three-dimensional skull model. The final three-dimensional virtual face was compared to the target frontal photograph using face pool comparison. Four three-dimensional virtual faces were matched at low to moderate levels, ranging from 30% to 70% accuracy. These results demonstrate that the facial soft tissue thickness database of a Thai population applied in this study could be useful for three-dimensional computerized facial reconstruction purposes.

Thai
facial reconstruction
Forensic science
computer-assisted
three-dimensional imaging


Genotypic characterization of rotavirus in children under 5 years circulating in Côte D'Ivoire from 2010 to 2013.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Rotavirus infection is the most common cause of severe gastroenteritis in children under five years of age in both developed and developing countries. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends the surveillance of rotavirus strains prior to vaccine introduction in all applicable countries. The objective of this study was to describe the epidemiological characteristics as well as to determine the circulating genotypes of rotaviruses in Côte d'Ivoire prior to vaccine introduction.

METHODS
The study included children under five years of age who met the inclusion criteria after informed consent had been sort from their parents or guardians. Rotavirus VP6 antigens were detected for each stool sample using Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA). Genotyping of positive EIA samples was performed by reverse-transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) assays.

RESULTS
A total of 684 children were recruited. Children aged between 6 and 11 months were the most represented with 34%. Rotavirus VP6 antigens were found in 27.1% (186/684) of samples tested. Commonly detected G genotypes included G12 (46.6% (82/176) and G1 (13.1% (23/176) whilst P[8] (49.8% (91/183) was the most predominant P genotype. Rotavirus G12P[8] was the most predominant strain circulating in Côte d'Ivoire within the period of study and constituted 26.6% of all strains detected.

CONCLUSION
The monitoring of circulating strains will help guide decision-makers in the choice of vaccine. Genotypic variability of circulating rotavirus strains over the years implies there is a need for continuous rotavirus strain surveillance even after vaccine introduction.

Boni-Cisse|Catherine|C|
Meite|Sindou|S|
Mlan|Alice Britoh|AB|
Zaba|Flore|F|
N'Guessan|Rebecca|R|
Lepri|Nicaise Aka|NA|
Lartey|Bélinda|B|

Genotype
Rotavirus
Surveillance
Côte d’Ivoire


Wireless Channel Propagation Characteristics and Modeling Research in Rice Field Sensor Networks.

Abstract: Wireless channel propagation characteristics and models are important to ensure the communication quality of wireless sensor networks in agriculture. Wireless channel attenuation experiments were carried out at different node antenna heights (0.8 m, 1.2 m, 1.6 m, and 2.0 m) in the tillering, jointing, and grain filling stages of rice fields. We studied the path loss variation trends at different transmission distances and analyzed the differences between estimated values and measured values of path loss in a free space model and a two-ray model. Regression analysis of measured path loss values was used to establish a one-slope log-distance model and propose a modified two-slope log-distance model. The attenuation speed in wireless channel propagation in rice fields intensified with rice developmental stage and the transmission range had monotone increases with changes in antenna height. The relative error (RE) of estimation in the free space model and the two-ray model under four heights ranged from 6.48⁻15.49% and 2.09⁻13.51%, respectively, and these two models were inadequate for estimating wireless channel path loss in rice fields. The ranges of estimated RE for the one-slope and modified two-slope log-distance models during the three rice developmental stages were 2.40⁻2.25% and 1.89⁻1.31%, respectively. The one-slope and modified two-slope log-distance model had better applicability for modeling of wireless channels in rice fields. The estimated RE values for the modified two-slope log-distance model were all less than 2%, which improved the performance of the one-slope log-distance model. This validates that the modified two-slope log-distance model had better applicability in a rice field environment than the other models. These data provide a basis for modeling of sensor network channels and construction of wireless sensor networks in rice fields. Our results will aid in the design of effective rice field WSNs and increase the transmission quality in rice field sensor networks.

Gao|Zhenran|Z|0000-0001-6302-3638 Li|Weijing|W| Zhu|Yan|Y|0000-0002-1884-2404 Tian|Yongchao|Y| Pang|Fangrong|F| Cao|Weixing|W| Ni|Jun|J|

propagation characteristics
rice fields
path loss
two-slope logarithmic model


Comprehensive assessment of the association between XPC rs2228000 and cancer susceptibility based on 26835 cancer cases and 37069 controls.

Abstract: Objectives In the present study, we examined available articles from online databases to comprehensively investigate the effect of the XPC (xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C) rs2228000 polymorphism on the risk of different types of clinical cancer. Methods We conducted a group of overall and subgroup pooling analyses after retrieving the data from four databases (updated till September 2019). The P-value of association, OR (odds ratios), and 95% CI (confidence interval) were calculated. Results We selected a total of 71 eligible studies with 26835 cancer cases and 37069 controls from the 1186 retrieved articles. There is an enhanced susceptibility for bladder cancer cases under T vs. C [P=0.004; OR (95% CI) = 1.25 (1.07, 1.45)], TT vs. CC [P=0.001; 1.68 (1.25, 2.26)], CT+TT vs. CC [P=0.016; 1.26 (1.04, 1.53)], and TT vs. CC+ CT [P=0.001; 1.49 (1.18, 1.90)] compared with negative controls. Additionally, there is an increased risk of breast cancer under T vs. C, TT vs. CC and TT vs. CC+ CT (P<0.05, OR > 1). Nevertheless, there is a decreased risk of gastric cancer cases in China under T vs. C [P=0.020; 0.92 (0.85, 0.99)], CT vs. CC [P=0.001, 0.83 (0.73, 0.93)], and CT+TT vs. CC [P=0.003, 0.84 (0.76, 0.94)]. Conclusions The TT genotype of XPC rs2228000 may be linked to an increased risk of bladder and breast cancer, whereas the CT genotype is likely to be associated with reduced susceptibility to gastric cancer in the Chinese population.

Dai|Yingqi|Y| Song|Zhonghua|Z| Zhang|Jinqing|J| Gao|Wei|W|

D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease


Ten-year risk assessment for type 2 diabetes mellitus using the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score in family medicine.

Abstract: Aim To assess ten-year risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) using the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) in respondents over 18, in Primary Health Centre in Banja Luka. Methods A prospective study was conducted using data from a population with undiagnosed T2DM in Primary Health Centre in Banja Luka. Eligible respondents were those aged 18 to 70 years. Sociodemographic, behavioural and anthropometric variables were those related to the risk models evaluated by FINDRISC. Results Data were collected from 520 individuals, 58.8% female and 41.2% male (p=0.005). A very high risk of developing T2DM in the next ten years was found in 5.6% females and 3.7% males. A high risk was found in 12.4% females and 15.9% males, 34.2% respondents ≥ 65 years, 28.8% with body mass index >30 kg/m2 , 26.6% who were not practicing physical activity (p=0.000), 24.0% who took antihypertensive drugs, 42.3% who were diagnosed with impaired glycaemia, 30.4% and 22.9% respondents whose parents and distant relatives, respectively, had T2DM. A moderate risk occurred in 31.4% females with waist circumference >88 cm. Half (50%) males with waist circumference >102 cm and 33.2% respondents who were not eating fruits and vegetables every day had a slightly increased risk of developing T2DM (p<0.05). Conclusion The FINDRISC may be used as a tool which would help general practitioners in everyday work, to detect patients with T2DM risk factors and to encourage them to change life style towards healthy habits.

prospective study
Diabetes Registry
life style changes
primary health centre Banja Luka


LRIG3 represses cell motility by inhibiting slug via inactivating ERK signaling in human colorectal cancer.

Abstract: Metastasis is responsible for 90% of colorectal cancer (CRC)-related deaths. In the present study, we identified a novel key regulator of CRC metastasis, leucine-rich repeats and immunoglobulin-like domains protein 3 (LRIG3), which was significantly decreased in CRC tissues and cell lines. Downregulation of LRIG3 was attributed to copy number loss and promoter hypermethylation. Low LRIG3 expression was positively correlated with metastatic clinical features and shorter survival time. Functional experiments showed that knockout of LRIG3 markedly enhanced CRC cell migration and invasion ability, whereas reintroduction of LRIG3 exerted the opposite effects. Regarding the mechanism, LRIG3 could facilitate the binding of DUSP6 to ERK1/2, resulting in the dephosphorylation of ERK1/2 and subsequently downregulation of slug, an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition trigger, thereby constraining CRC cell motility. Importantly, LRIG3 expression was strongly negatively correlated with slug or p-ERK1/2 expression in CRC tissues. Collectively, our data suggest that LRIG3 is a novel suppressor of CRC metastasis, reactivation of LRIG3 may be a promising therapeutic approach for metastatic CRC patients.

Zeng|Kaixuan|K| Chen|Xiaoxiang|X| Xu|Mu|M| Liu|Xiangxiang|X| Li|Chenmeng|C| Xu|Xueni|X| Pan|Bei|B| Qin|Jian|J| He|Bangshun|B| Pan|Yuqin|Y| Huiling|Sun|S| Xu|Tao|T| Wang|Shukui|S|0000-0001-6972-2587

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

D019950:Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1

D048052:Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3

D000071250:Snail Family Transcription Factors

LRIG3
ERK signaling
colorectal cancer
metastasis
EMT


CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 genotypes in Pacific peoples.

Abstract: The study of pharmacogenetic variants in populations which reside in Oceania has been focused mainly on CYP2C19 and CYP2D6. Statements about the high prevalence of CYP2C19 no function genotype in 'Pacific Islanders' can be found in the literature. This review article summarizes the published information about these pharmacogenes in this geographical region and highlights the differences observed between Melanesian and Polynesian populations. It is not appropriate to combine the prevalence data of pharmacogenetic variants, particularly CYP2C19, across this region. Indeed, apocryphal assumptions about CYP2C19 no function alleles and possible effect on the therapeutic activity of clopidogrel are unhelpful and reiterate the importance of assessing the individual patient rather than relying on inappropriate ethnicity-based assumptions for drug dosing decisions.

D044468:Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander


Trends and Risk Factors for Antimicrobial-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Melbourne, Australia, 2007 to 2018.

Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a major public health problem. Traditionally, AMR surveillance programs for N. gonorrhoeae have focused mainly on laboratory data to describe the prevalence and trends of resistance. However, integrating individual-level risk factors (e.g., sexual orientation or international travel) with laboratory data provides important insights into factors promoting the spread of resistant N. gonorrhoeae Here, over a 12-year period, we assessed the trends and risk factors for resistant N. gonorrhoeae in individuals attending a large publicly funded sexual health center in Melbourne, Australia. A total of 7,588 N. gonorrhoeae isolates were cultured from 5,593 individuals between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2018. The proportion of isolates with penicillin resistance decreased from 49.5% in 2007 to 18.3% in 2018 (p trend < 0.001) and from 63.5% in 2007 to 21.1% in 2018 for ciprofloxacin resistance (p trend < 0.001). In contrast, the proportion of isolates displaying decreased susceptibility to ceftriaxone increased from 0.5% in 2007 to 2.9% in 2018 (p trend < 0.001), with a significant increase in low-level azithromycin resistance, from 2.5% in 2012 to 8.2% in 2018 (p trend < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified risk factors for multidrug-resistant (MDR) N. gonorrhoeae, namely, female sex and country of birth, with MDR isolates more common in individuals born in northeast Asia, further highlighting the importance of this region and international travel as factors in the cross-border transmission of MDR N. gonorrhoeae Future surveillance work should incorporate additional epidemiological and genomic data to provide a comprehensive overview of the emergence and spread of resistant N. gonorrhoeae.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae
epidemiology
antibiotic resistance
multidrug resistance
sexually transmitted diseases


Medication-related issues associated with the documentation and administration of long-acting injectable antipsychotics.

Abstract: Background There are significant research gaps into understanding the extent of medication errors within mental health and variation in the uptake of standardised medication safety practices. Long-acting injectable antipsychotic (LAIA) preparations are a common treatment modality for the administration of antipsychotic medicines. Aim of the review To examine the literature on medication-related errors and practice issues associated with the documentation and administration of LAIAs. Method Electronic databases were searched for articles exploring medication errors in mental health, charting and administration of LAIAs, standardised medication charts, documentation of LAIAs and strategies or interventions to improve medication safety with LAIAs. Results Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Medication errors in mental health were mostly related to the clerical or procedural aspects of prescribing. Standardised charts have been shown to reduce prescribing and administration errors. Divergent practices across mental health services were reported and this lack of standardisation in ordering and administering LAIAs contributes to errors. Discrepancies between guidelines and current practice with the administration of LAIAs were also identified. Evidence demonstrates that clinical pharmacy services reduces medication errors, and increased pharmacist involvement in LAIA care coordination improves communication and documentation with LAIAs. Further investigation focusing on standardisation of charting, administration and documentation of LAIAs is required. Conclusion Limited studies were identified that assess the charting, administration and documentation of LAIAs. Future research is required to review current local practices with LAIAs and identify substandard areas so that specific clinical interventions can be implemented and evaluated.

D014150:Antipsychotic Agents
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations
D004282:Documentation
D006801:Humans
D007273:Injections, Intramuscular
D008508:Medication Errors

Documentation
Administration
Long-acting injectable antipsychotics
Medication errors
Medication chart


The Factorial Validity of the Norwegian Version of the Multicomponent Training Distress Scale (MTDS-N).

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Athlete self-report measures (ASRM) are methods of athlete monitoring, which have gained considerable popularity in recent years. The Multicomponent Training Distress Scale (MTDS), consisting of 22 items, is a promising self-report measure to assess training distress among athletes. The present study aimed to investigate the factorial validity of the Norwegian version of MTDS (MTDS-N) among student-athletes (n = 632) attending the optional program subject "Top-Level Sports" in upper secondary schools in Norway.

METHODS
A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the six-factor model proposed by Main and Grove (2009). McDonald's omega (ω) along with confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate scale reliability. After examining the fit of the CFA model in the total sample, covariates were included to investigate group differences in latent variables of MTDS-N, resulting in the multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) model. Further, direct paths between the covariates and the factor indicators were included in an extended MIMIC model to investigate whether responses to items differed between groups, resulting in differential item functioning (DIF).

RESULTS
When modification indices (MIs) were taken into consideration, the alternative CFA model revealed that MTDS-N is an acceptable psychometric tool with a good fit index. The factors in MTDS-N all constituted high scale reliability with McDonald's ω ranging from 0.725-0.862. The results indicated statistically significant group differences in factor scores for gender, type of sport, hours of training per week, school program, and school level. Further, results showed that DIF occurred in 13 of the MTDS-N items. The student-athletes' reports of training distress were moderate.

CONCLUSION
The MTDS-N may be suitable for use in a Norwegian population to assess student-athletes' training distress in a reliable manner. The indications of group effects suggest that caution should be used if one is interested in making group comparisons when the MTDS-N is used among student-athletes in Norway until further research is conducted.

athlete monitoring
student-athletes
confirmatory factor analysis
multiple indicators multiple causes
differential item functioning


Increased numbers of CD23(+) CD21(hi) Bin-like B cells in human reactive and rheumatoid arthritis lymph nodes.

Abstract: A unique population of CD23(+) CD21(high) B cells in inflamed nodes (Bin) has been shown to accumulate in lymph nodes (LNs) draining inflamed joints of TNF-transgenic (TNF-tg) mice. Bin cells contribute to arthritis flare in mice by distorting node architecture and hampering lymphatic flow, but their existence in human inflamed LNs has not yet been described. Here, we report the characterization of resident B-cell populations in fresh popliteal lymph nodes (PLNs) from patients with severe lower limb diseases (non-RA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, and from banked, cryopreserved reactive and normal human LN single cell suspension samples. Bin-like B cells were shown to be significantly increased in reactive LNs, and strikingly elevated (>30% of total) in RA samples. Histopathology and immunofluorescence analyses were consistent with B follicular hyperplasia and histological alterations in RA vs. non-RA PLNs. This is the first description of Bin-like B cells in human inflamed LNs. Consistent with published mouse data, this population appears to be associated with inflammatory arthritis and distortion of LN architecture. Further analyses are necessary to assess the role of CD23(+) CD21(hi) Bin-like B cells in RA pathogenesis and arthritic flare.

Kuzin|Igor I|II|
Kates|Stephen L|SL|
Ju|Yawen|Y|
Zhang|Longze|L|
Rahimi|Homaira|H|
Wojciechowski|Wojciech|W|
Bernstein|Steven H|SH|
Burack|Richard|R|
Schwarz|Edward M|EM|
Bottaro|Andrea|A|

B cells
Rheumatoid arthritis
Lymph nodes
Inflammation
TNF


Explanations for medically unexplained symptoms: a qualitative study on GPs in daily practice consultations.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
General practice is the centre of care for patients with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Providing explanations for MUS, i.e. making sense of symptoms, is considered to be an important part of care for MUS patients. However, little is known how general practitioners (GPs) do this in daily practice.

OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to explore how GPs explain MUS to their patients during daily general practice consultations.

METHODS
A thematic content analysis was performed of how GPs explained MUS to their patients based on 39 general practice consultations involving patients with MUS.

RESULTS
GP provided explanations in nearly all consultations with MUS patients. Seven categories of explanation components emerged from the data: defining symptoms, stating causality, mentioning contributing factors, describing mechanisms, excluding explanations, discussing the severity of symptoms and normalizing symptoms. No pattern of how GPs constructed explanations with the various categories was observed. In general, explanations were communicated as a possibility and in a patient-specific way; however, they were not very detailed.

CONCLUSION
Although explanations for MUS are provided in most MUS consultations, there seems room for improving the explanations given in these consultations. Further studies on the effectiveness of explanations and on the interaction between patients and GP in constructing these explanations are required in order to make MUS explanations more suitable in daily primary care practice.

Terpstra|Tom|T|
Gol|Janna M|JM|
Lucassen|Peter L B J|PLBJ|
Houwen|Juul|J|
van Dulmen|Sandra|S|
Berger|Marjolein Y|MY|
Rosmalen|Judith G M|JGM|
Olde Hartman|Tim C|TC|

explanations
medically unexplained symptoms
general practice
Doctor–patient interaction
observational study
qualitative research


Selection shapes turnover and magnitude of sex-biased expression in Drosophila gonads.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Sex-biased gene expression is thought to drive the phenotypic differences in males and females in metazoans. Drosophila has served as a primary model for studying male-female differences in gene expression, and its effects on protein sequence divergence. However, the forces shaping evolution of sex-biased expression remain largely unresolved, including the roles of selection and pleiotropy. Research on sex organs in Drosophila, employing original approaches and multiple-species contrasts, provides a means to gain insights into factors shaping the turnover and magnitude (fold-bias) of sex-biased expression.

RESULTS
Here, using recent RNA-seq data, we studied sex-biased gonadal expression in 10,740 protein coding sequences in four species of Drosophila, D. melanogaster, D. simulans, D. yakuba and D. ananassae (5 to 44 My divergence). Using an approach wherein we identified genes with lineage-specific transitions (LSTs) in sex-biased status (amongst testis-biased, ovary-biased and unbiased; thus, six transition types) standardized to the number of genes with the ancestral state (S-LSTs), and those with clade-wide expression bias status, we reveal several key findings. First, the six categorical types of S-LSTs in sex-bias showed disparate rates of turnover, consistent with differential selection pressures. Second, the turnover in sex-biased status was largely unrelated to cross-tissue expression breadth, suggesting pleiotropy does not restrict evolution of sex-biased expression. Third, the fold-sex-biased expression, for both testis-biased and ovary-biased genes, evolved directionally over time toward higher values, a crucial finding that could be interpreted as a selective advantage of greater sex-bias, and sexual antagonism. Fourth, in terms of protein divergence, genes with LSTs to testis-biased expression exhibited weak signals of elevated rates of evolution (than ovary-biased) in as little as 5 My, which strengthened over time. Moreover, genes with clade-wide testis-specific expression (44 My), a status not observed for any ovary-biased genes, exhibited striking acceleration of protein divergence, which was linked to low pleiotropy.

CONCLUSIONS
By studying LSTs and clade-wide sex-biased gonadal expression in a multi-species clade of Drosophila, we describe evidence that interspecies turnover and magnitude of sex-biased expression have been influenced by selection. Further, whilst pleiotropy was not connected to turnover in sex-biased gonadal expression, it likely explains protein sequence divergence.

D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental

Selection
Turnover
Sex-biased expression
Drosophila
Pleiotropy
Protein divergence
Expression evolution
Fold bias
Ovaries
Testes


NHC in Imidazolium Acetate Ionic Liquids: Actual or Potential Presence?

Abstract: Ionic liquids (ILs) are considered in the majority of cases green solvents, due to their virtually null vapor pressure and to the easiness in recycling them. In particular, imidazolium ILs are widely used in many fields of Chemistry, as solvents or precursors of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs). The latter are easily obtained by deprotonation of the C2-H, usually using strong bases or cathodic reduction. Nevertheless, it is known that weaker bases (e.g., triethylamine) are able to promote C2-H/D exchange. From this perspective, the possibility of deprotonating C2-H group of an imidazolium cation by means of a basic counter-ion was seriously considered and led to the synthesis of imidazolium ILs spontaneously containing NHCs. The most famous of this class of ILs are N,N'-disubstituted imidazolium acetates. Due to the particular reactivity of this kind of ILs, they were appointed as "organocatalytic ionic liquids" or "proto-carbenes." Many papers report the use of these imidazolium acetates in organocatalytic reactions (i. e., catalyzed by NHC) or in stoichiometric NHC reactions (e.g., with elemental sulfur to yield the corresponding imidazole-2-thiones). Nevertheless, the actual presence of NHC in N,N'-disubstituted imidazolium acetate is still controversial. Moreover, theoretical studies seem to rule out the presence of NHC in such a polar environment as an IL. Aim of this Mini Review is to give the reader an up-to-date overview on the actual or potential presence of NHC in such an "organocatalytic ionic liquid," both from the experimental and theoretical point of view, without the intent to be exhaustive on N,N'-disubstituted imidazolium acetate applications.

Chiarotto|Isabella|I| Mattiello|Leonardo|L| Pandolfi|Fabiana|F| Rocco|Daniele|D| Feroci|Marta|M|

NHC
imidazolium acetate
ionic liquids
N-heterocyclic carbene
organocatalytic ionic liquid
C2-H deprotonation
basic anion


Ghosts of the past: how drought legacy effects shape forest functioning and carbon cycling.

Abstract: Multi-year lags in tree drought recovery, termed 'drought legacy effects', are important for understanding the impacts of drought on forest ecosystems, including carbon (C) cycle feedbacks to climate change. Despite the ubiquity of lags in drought recovery, large uncertainties remain regarding the mechanistic basis of legacy effects and their importance for the C cycle. In this review, we identify the approaches used to study legacy effects, from tree rings to whole forests. We then discuss key knowledge gaps pertaining to the causes of legacy effects, and how the various mechanisms that may contribute these lags in drought recovery could have contrasting implications for the C cycle. Furthermore, we conduct a novel data synthesis and find that legacy effects differ drastically in both size and length across the US depending on if they are identified in tree rings versus gross primary productivity. Finally, we highlight promising approaches for future research to improve our capacity to model legacy effects and predict their impact on forest health. We emphasise that a holistic view of legacy effects - from tissues to whole forests - will advance our understanding of legacy effects and stimulate efforts to investigate drought recovery via experimental, observational and modelling approaches.

drought recovery
gross primary productivity
Carbon allocation
growth lags


Between demarcation and discretion: The medical-administrative boundary as a locus of safety in high-volume organisational routines.

Abstract: Patient safety is an increasing concern for health systems internationally. The majority of administrative work in UK general practice takes place in the context of organisational routines such as repeat prescribing and test results handling, where high workloads and increased clinician dependency on administrative staff have been identified as an emerging safety issue. Despite this trend, most research to date has focused on the redistribution of the clinical workload between doctors, nurses and allied health professionals within individual care settings. Drawing on Strauss's negotiated order perspective, we examine ethnographically the achievement of safety across the medical-administrative boundary in key high-volume routines in UK general practice. We focus on two main issues. First, GPs engaged in strategies of demarcation by defining receptionist work as routine, unspecialised and dependent upon GP clinical knowledge and oversight as the safety net to deal with complexity and risk. Receptionists consented to this 'social closure' when describing their role, thus reinforcing the underlying inter-occupational relationship of medical domination. Second, in everyday practice, GPs and receptionists engaged in informal boundary-blurring to safely accommodate the complexity of everyday high-volume routine work. This comprised additional informal discretionary spaces for receptionist decision-making and action that went beyond the routine safety work formally assigned to them. New restratified intra-occupational hierarchies were also being created between receptionists based on the complexity of the safety work that they were authorised to do at practice level, with specialised roles constituting a new form of administrative 'professional project'. The article advances negotiated order theory by providing an in-depth examination of the ways in which medical-administrative boundary-making and boundary-blurring constitute distinct modes of safety in high-volume routines. It also provides the basis for further research and safety improvement to maximise team-level understandings of the pivotal role of medical-administrative negotiations in achieving safety and mitigating risk.

D000884:Anthropology, Cultural
D058006:General Practice
D058005:General Practitioners
D006801:Humans
D007400:Interprofessional Relations
D008496:Medical Receptionists
D017008:Negotiating
D061214:Patient Safety
D024382:Professional Role
D017751:Safety Management
D006113:United Kingdom
D016526:Workload

Medical-administrative boundary
Organisational routines
Patient safety
UK
General practice
Negotiated order perspective
Ethnography
Professional boundaries


Clastic cells are absent around the root surface in pulp-exposed periapical periodontitis lesions in mice.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Clastic cells, originating from the monocyte-macrophage lineage, resorb mineralized tissues. In periapical periodontitis, alveolar bone around the tooth apex becomes resorbed; however, the roots of the teeth are often left intact by yet unknown mechanisms. Here, we examined the status of clastic cells in a periapical periodontitis model in mice.

METHODS
Periapical periodontitis was induced by performing pulp exposure on the maxillary first molar. The contralateral maxillary first molar was used as a control. The maxillae were harvested, fixed, and subjected to μCT scanning and three-dimensional volumetric analysis. TRAP staining was performed, and osteoclasts were quantified. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for RANKL, OPG, and F4/80, a marker for macrophages.

RESULTS
At the apex of the tooth, pulp exposure resulted in periapical radiolucency with mineralized tissues at the surrounding bone surfaces but not on the root surfaces. Histologically, clastic cells were present on the bone surfaces but absent around the root surfaces. Expression of F4/80 and RANKL was not found at close proximity to the root surfaces, but OPG was globally expressed.

CONCLUSION
The absence of clastic cells around the root surface of pulp-exposed teeth, in part, is associated with the lack of macrophages and RANKL expression.

clastic cells
periapical periodontitis
osteoclasts
bone resorption
odontoclasts


Co-localization of a CD1d-binding glycolipid with an adenovirus-based malaria vaccine for a potent adjuvant effect.

Abstract: A CD1d-binding, invariant (i) natural killer T (NKT)-cell stimulatory glycolipid, α-Galactosylceramide (αGalCer), has been shown to act as an adjuvant. We previously identified a fluorinated phenyl ring-modified αGalCer analog, 7DW8-5, displaying a higher binding affinity for CD1d molecule and more potent adjuvant activity than αGalCer. In the present study, 7DW8-5 co-administered intramuscularly (i.m.) with a recombinant adenovirus expressing a Plasmodium yoelii circumsporozoite protein (PyCSP), AdPyCS, has led to a co-localization of 7DW8-5 and a PyCSP in draining lymph nodes (dLNs), particularly in dendritic cells (DCs). This occurrence initiates a cascade of events, such as the recruitment of DCs to dLNs and their activation and maturation, and the enhancement of the ability of DCs to prime CD8+ T cells induced by AdPyCS and ultimately leading to a potent adjuvant effect and protection against malaria.

Li|Xiangming|X|
Huang|Jing|J|
Kawamura|Akira|A|
Funakoshi|Ryota|R|
Porcelli|Steven A|SA|
Tsuji|Moriya|M|

D000256:Adenoviridae
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic
D000818:Animals
D055610:Antigens, CD1d
D000953:Antigens, Protozoan
D018414:CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes
D003713:Dendritic Cells
D005699:Galactosylceramides
D000071497:Immunogenicity, Vaccine
D007273:Injections, Intramuscular
D007371:Interferon-gamma
D007694:Killer Cells, Natural
D008213:Lymphocyte Activation
D008288:Malaria
D017780:Malaria Vaccines
D051379:Mice
D055611:Natural Killer T-Cells
D010967:Plasmodium yoelii
D014614:Vaccines, Synthetic

Co-localization
Malaria vaccine
CD1d
Adenovirus
Lymph node
Dendritic cells
CD8+ T cells
Protection
Glycolipid adjuvant
Intramuscular injection


Effectiveness and Accuracy of Tests for Preterm Delivery in Symptomatic Women: A Systematic Review.

Abstract: This study systematically reviewed evidence on the effectiveness and accuracy of predictive tests for preterm delivery among symptomatic women. The study included English-language systematic reviews (SRs) on any predictive test for preterm delivery among symptomatic women and primary studies for placental alpha-microglobulin-1. PubMed, Wiley Cochrane Library, the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination Database, the National Guidelines Clearinghouse, and the TRIP database were searched for SRs, PubMed and PubMed Central via the Wiley Cochrane Library were searched for primary studies. One reviewer performed study selection, with input from a second reviewer when needed. One reviewer appraised study quality and extracted: study characteristics (i.e., country, funding source, study design [primary studies] or synthesis method [SRs], study appraisal method [SRs]), population characteristics, index test(s) and cut-off points used, comparator(s) or reference standard(s), and outcomes. A second reviewed a random 10% sample. The authors synthesized the findings narratively. Of 451 unique records, the review included 22 (17 SRs, five primary studies). For effectiveness, there was evidence for use of transvaginal sonographic cervical length assessment (15-25 mm cut point) in reducing incidence of preterm delivery at <37 weeks (relative risk 0.64; 95% CI 0.44-0.94, one SR of three trials; n = 287) but lack of support for cervicovaginal fetal fibronectin. In terms of accuracy, one high-quality study within a best-evidence SR showed that cervical length measurement was useful to predict delivery within 48 hours (LR+ 6.43, 95% CI 5.17-8.00; LR- 0.03, 95% CI 0.00-0.42; n = 510) and 7 days (LR+ 8.61, 95% CI 6.65-11.14; LR- 0.03, 95% CI 0.00-0.18; n = 510). Accuracy of placental alpha-microglobulin-1 testing was not supported for most end points. In conclusion, some evidence supports the effectiveness of cervical length as a predictor of preterm delivery in symptomatic women. Evidence for most tests is limited in quality and quantity.

Gates|Michelle|M|
Pillay|Jennifer|J|
Featherstone|Robin|R|
Hartling|Lisa|L|
Wilson|R Douglas|RD|

preterm delivery
Systematic review
predictive tests
pregnancy
test accuracy
test effectiveness


Changes in HPV Knowledge Among College Women from 2008 to 2015.

Abstract: The human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause anogenital cancers and genital warts; however, it can be prevented through the HPV vaccine, which has been available since 2006. While this vaccine is targeted toward 11-to-12-year-olds, 18-to-26-year-old young adult women are eligible for "catch-up" vaccination. Knowledge of HPV may impact HPV vaccine uptake among this population. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in HPV knowledge and HPV vaccine information sources among young adult college women over a 7-year period. Two independent samples (N = 223 for 2008; N = 323 for 2015) completed a 23-item knowledge scale and survey regarding HPV. Adjusted logistic regression models compared the odds of correctly answering each knowledge item between each time period. The study found that HPV knowledge increased significantly over time (p < 0.01). The participants in 2015 were more likely than the 2008 participants to accurately report that a condom can decrease the chance of HPV transmission; there is a vaccine for women that prevents certain types of HPV; HPV can cause genital warts; HPV can be passed to a newborn at birth; and even if you do not see a wart, you can transmit HPV. Recent participants were also more likely to correctly report only women can get HPV as false. While improvements in HPV knowledge were found over time, misperceptions regarding outcomes associated with HPV persist. In order to promote HPV vaccination among this population, health literacy skills, in addition to knowledge, should be improved.

Thompson|Erika L|EL|
Vamos|Cheryl A|CA|
Griner|Stacey B|SB|
Daley|Ellen M|EM|

D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice

D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care

Knowledge
HPV vaccination
Young adult women


P14ARF inhibits regional inflammation and vascularization in intervertebral disc degeneration by upregulating TIMP3.

Abstract: In this study, we identified P14 alternate reading frame (P14ARF) as a novel regulator of inflammation and vascularization in intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD). We collected IVD tissues from IVDD patients and normal individuals for analysis of P14ARF expression. We also induced experimental IVDD by needle puncture injuries in the caudal intervertebral disks of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and achieved recombinant adenovirus-mediated P14ARF overexpression in experimental IVDD rats. Regulation relationships between P14ARF and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-3 (TIMP3) were confirmed in P14ARF-overexpressed and TIMP3-depleted nucleus pulposus (NP) cells. Tube formation in vitro was evaluated in coculture systems of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and rat degenerated NP cells (DNPCs). Inflammatory response was assessed from levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and neovascularization from expression of endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The P14ARF and TIMP3 were downregulated in degenerated IVD tissue derived from patients and experimental IVDD rats. Overexpressed P14ARF suppressed inflammatory cytokine levels and vascularization. There was decreased in vitro tube formation in response to P14ARF overexpression and TIMP3 elevation. Finally, attenuated inflammatory responses and suppression of VEGF were achieved by P14ARF-mediated promotion of TIMP3 in rat DNPCs. Taken together, the present study reveals that P14ARF/TIMP3 modulation of inflammatory response and vascularization in the context of IVDD highlights a potential target for future therapeutic strategies.

He|Mingwei|M| Pang|Jinlei|J| Sun|Haiyan|H| Zheng|Guanrong|G| Lin|Yan|Y| Ge|Weipeng|W|

D019717:Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-3

intervertebral disc regional inflammation


Development and validation of an immunoassay for quantification of NCAM-1 in human plasma.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (NCAM-1), a multifunctional member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, is expressed on the surface of neurons, glia, skeletal muscle, and natural killer cells. NCAM-1 has been implicated as having a role in cell-cell adhesion, involved in development of the nervous system, and for cells involved in the expansion of T cells and dendritic cells which play an important role in immune surveillance. Sensitive and specific methods to quantify non-surface bound NCAM-1 are not available.

METHOD
A sandwich ligand binding assay was developed for quantification of NCAM-1 in plasma and validated using an electro-chemiluminescent (ECL) technology.

RESULTS
The data presented here demonstrated that the validated method met all prespecified criteria for precision, linearity, and accuracy in the range of 62.5 ng/mL to 4000.0 ng/mL, the range believed to be most relevant for plasma. The bioanalytical validation of the assay established the inter-assay coefficient of variation <8 % for calibration points, <2 % for high quality control (HQC), <8 % for medium quality control (MQC) and <19 % for low quality control (LQC) samples. Purified NCAM-1 spike-recovery experiment in plasma was used to determine assay accuracy; nominal concentrations (%) of NCAM-1 ranged from 91 % to 112 % for high and low spike level, respectively. Assay performance was subsequently evaluated for parallelism, selectivity, interference, and stability.

CONCLUSION
NCAM-1 assay has been developed and validated in human plasma and met all assay validation parameters pre-determined during development. Clinical testing of human plasma samples indicated that NCAM-1 does not seem to be influenced by age and was slightly influenced by gender. NCAM-1 assay has potential to be used as a biomarker assay once the assay is subjected to appropriate clinical assessment and diagnostic thresholds are established.

Guven|Arcan|A|
Gray|Kayleigh|K|
Peng|Kuan-Wei|KW|
Klotz|Allison|A|
Kellogg|Mark D|MD|
Narain|Niven R|NR|
Kiebish|Michael A|MA|

Immunoassay
NCAM-1
Ligand binding assay
Assay validation
Biomarker
Assay development


mGluR2 positive allosteric modulators: an updated patent review (2013-2018).

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Positive allosteric modulation of mGlu2 has attracted much interest as an alternative approach to classical orthosteric receptor activation. Two mGlu2 PAMS have advanced into the clinic. The results obtained in schizophrenia and MDD phase 2 clinical trials have tempered the high expectations put on selective mGlu2 receptor activation for treating these conditions; nevertheless, the search for novel therapeutic indications and novel chemotypes continues to be an active field of research.

AREAS COVERED
2013-2018 patent literature on mGlu2 receptor PAMs.

EXPERT OPINION
After a decade of intensive research, the mGlu2 PAM field has seen a deceleration in the last five years. Negative phase 2 schizophrenia clinical trials with JNJ-40411813 and AZD8529 seem to have tempered the high expectations of the scientific community on the utility of mGlu2 PAMs for the treatment of schizophrenia. Nevertheless, novel therapeutic indications continue to be explored and AZD8529 is currently in a phase 2 study for smoking cessation. The advances in medicinal chemistry and in pharmacology, with novel indications such as epilepsy, have set the stage in the field of mGlu2 receptor PAMs. Ongoing preclinical and clinical studies will contribute to define their optimal therapeutic indication and potential to become novel therapeutic agents.

Trabanco|Andrés A|AA|
Bartolomé|José Manuel|JM|
Cid|José María|JM|

positive allosteric modulator
mGlu2
PAM
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 2


Mentoring Team Projects for the Doctor of Nursing Practice: Considerations for Nurse Anesthesia Faculty.

Abstract: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs have specified that Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice students complete a doctorate project as part of the education toward becoming Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. As nurse anesthesia programs (NAPs) transition to DNP entry into practice, management of DNP projects has been identified as a major challenge facing nursing faculty. Also, adequate mentorship has been identified as a crucial part of doctorate education. Despite the absence of literature on team mentorship in nursing, many NAPs are opting for DNP team projects and group mentoring. In team DNP projects, the mentors foster professionalism, establish the ground rules for communication, resolve conflict, and provide expert knowledge. Eﬀective implementation of projects can enhance relational learning and teamwork, which are essential for a successful career in healthcare. Additionally, mentoring teams can simultaneously improve the professional growth of junior faculty, reduce the faculty workload, and improve the quality of DNP projects. This article brings attention to best practices for mentoring DNP team projects and also provides an exemplar of successful implementation of DNP team projects in a NAP.

Aroke|Edwin N|EN|
Wilbanks|Bryan A|BA|
Hicks|Todd|T|
Thurston|Kesha L|KL|
McMullan|Susan P|SP|

nurse anesthesia education
mentorship
doctorate education
teamwork
Anesthesiology


Upfront chemotherapy and short-course radiotherapy with delayed surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The optimal treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases remains controversial. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and oncologic outcomes of upfront chemotherapy and short-course radiotherapy with delayed surgery in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases.

METHODS
Forty-four patients who underwent upfront chemotherapy and short-course radiotherapy with delayed surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer (cT3/4, <2.0 mm from the mesorectal fascia) with synchronous liver metastases between January 2010 and June 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. Primary and metastatic liver lesions were resected with curative intent. Upfront chemotherapy and short-course radiotherapy were administered. Thereafter, restaging, surgery only, or additional chemotherapy followed by surgery was performed.

RESULTS
At the time of initial diagnosis, 20 patients had <3 liver metastases; 24 patients had ≥3 liver metastases. Twenty-three patients had hemi-liver metastases; 21 patients had bilobar liver metastases. R0 resection of rectal lesions was achieved in 43 patients. Synchronous R0 resection of liver metastases was achieved in 41 patients. Postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo Grade ≥ III) were noted in 5 patients. Grade 3/4 adverse events were observed in 26 patients. All adverse events were managed effectively with medication and supportive care. The 3-year overall survival and progression-free survival rates were 65.3% and 26.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSION
Upfront chemotherapy and short-course radiotherapy with delayed surgery appear to be safe and effective in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer and synchronous liver metastases without substantially increasing treatment induced morbidity.

Bae|Hyeon Woo|HW|
Kim|Ho Seung|HS|
Yang|Seung Yoon|SY|
Kim|Han Sang|HS|
Shin|Sang Joon|SJ|
Chang|Jee Suk|JS|
Koom|Woong Sub|WS|
Kim|Nam Kyu|NK|

Upfront chemotherapy
Locally advanced rectal cancer
Short course radiotherapy
Synchronous liver metastasis


Effect of the new maternity insurance scheme on medical expenditures for caesarean delivery in Wuxi, China: a retrospective pre/post-reform case study.

Abstract: Aiming to control rising medical expenditures and help improve China's healthcare systems, this study examined whether a cap-based medical insurance scheme with shared financial interest between the insurance and healthcare providers is effective in containing hospitals' C-section medical expenditures. We used 6547 caesarean delivery case records from a teaching tertiary-level general public hospital located in Wuxi, China (2004-2013), and used the Chow test to investigate the possibility of significant variation in mean medical expenditures for caesarean deliveries pre- and post-reform. We also used paired sample t-tests and linear regression models to compare the mean medical expenditures between insured and uninsured women undergoing caesarean delivery during the post-reform period. After the scheme's implementation, medical expenditures for caesarean deliveries declined and the medical expenditures of women covered by the scheme were significantly lower than those of uninsured patients. These findings indicated the scheme's effectiveness in minimizing caesarean delivery expenditures. The cap-based medical insurance scheme with shared financial interest between insurance and healthcare providers would likely steer healthcare providers' behaviors in a more cost-effective direction.

Chen|Chun|C| Cheng|Zhihong|Z| Jiang|Ping|P| Sun|Mei|M| Zhang|Qi|Q| Lv|Jun|J|

maternity insurance scheme
medical expenditure
caesarean delivery
China
financial incentive


Overexpression of mitochondrial oxodicarboxylate carrier (ODC1) preserves oxidative phosphorylation in a yeast model of Barth syndrome.

Abstract: Cardiolipin (CL) is a diglycerol phospholipid mostly found in mitochondria where it optimizes numerous processes, including oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). To function properly, CL needs to be unsaturated, which requires the acyltransferase tafazzin. Loss-of-function mutations in this protein are responsible for Barth syndrome (BTHS), presumably because of a diminished OXPHOS capacity. Here, we show that overexpressing Odc1p, a conserved oxodicarboxylic acid carrier located in the mitochondrial inner membrane, fully restores oxidative phosphorylation in a yeast model (taz1Δ) of BTHS. The rescuing activity involves the recovery of normal expression of key components that sustain oxidative phosphorylation, including cytochrome c and electron transport chain complexes IV and III, which are strongly downregulated in taz1Δ yeast. Interestingly, overexpression of Odc1p was also shown previously to rescue yeast models of mitochondrial diseases caused by defects in the assembly of ATP synthase and by mutations in the MPV17 protein that result in hepatocerebral mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome. These findings define the transport of oxodicarboxylic acids across the inner membrane as a potential therapeutic target for a large spectrum of mitochondrial diseases, including BTHS.

Oxidative phosphorylation
Barth syndrome
Tafazzin
Cardiolipin remodeling
Human mitochondrial disease
Oxodicarboxylic acid transport


Pigmented basal cell carcinoma: increased melanin or increased melanocytes?

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Studies on the precise cause of increased melanization in pigmented basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are limited. We aimed to determine whether the cause of melanization is from increased number of melanocytes or increased melanin pigment, and if there is a difference in the number of melanocytes on different sun-exposed locations.

METHODS
A retrospective review of 45 skin biopsies from January 2011 to February 2011 was performed; 30 were diagnosed as pigmented BCC and 15 as non-pigmented BCC. Immunohistochemistry for MART-1 (melanoma-associated antigen recognized by T-cell 1)/Melan-A (clone M2-7610 + M2-9E3; Leica Microsystems Inc. Buffalo Grove, IL, USA) from Biocare Medical (Concord, CA, USA) was performed on all biopsies. Associations between histopathologic features, number of melanocytes, location, and specific diagnoses were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS
The mean melanocyte count per high powered field in pigmented BCCs from sun-exposed skin was 101.9 and from intermittently sun-exposed skin was 122.5, as compared to the controls (nodular non-pigmented BCC) of 27.4 (p = 0.002) and 34.9 (p = 0.002), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS
Pigmented BCCs have a higher mean melanocyte count as compared to non-pigmented BCCs irrespective of location. Therefore, the pigment is not only due to increased melanin, but also due to increased melanocytes.

Brankov|Nikoleta|N|
Prodanovic|Edward M|EM|
Hurley|M Yadira|MY|

pigmented basal cell carcinoma
melanin
melanocytes
MART-1/Melan-A
collision tumor


Precise Editing at DNA Replication Forks Enables Multiplex Genome Engineering in Eukaryotes.

Abstract: We describe a multiplex genome engineering technology in Saccharomyces cerevisiae based on annealing synthetic oligonucleotides at the lagging strand of DNA replication. The mechanism is independent of Rad51-directed homologous recombination and avoids the creation of double-strand DNA breaks, enabling precise chromosome modifications at single base-pair resolution with an efficiency of >40%, without unintended mutagenic changes at the targeted genetic loci. We observed the simultaneous incorporation of up to 12 oligonucleotides with as many as 60 targeted mutations in one transformation. Iterative transformations of a complex pool of oligonucleotides rapidly produced large combinatorial genomic diversity >105. This method was used to diversify a heterologous β-carotene biosynthetic pathway that produced genetic variants with precise mutations in promoters, genes, and terminators, leading to altered carotenoid levels. Our approach of engineering the conserved processes of DNA replication, repair, and recombination could be automated and establishes a general strategy for multiplex combinatorial genome engineering in eukaryotes.

Barbieri|Edward M|EM|
Muir|Paul|P|
Akhuetie-Oni|Benjamin O|BO|
Yellman|Christopher M|CM|
Isaacs|Farren J|FJ|

D004261:DNA Replication
D004926:Escherichia coli
D000072669:Gene Editing
D005818:Genetic Engineering
D009841:Oligonucleotides
D012441:Saccharomyces cerevisiae

DNA replication
multiplex genome engineering
homologous recombination
Rad51
genome editing
metabolic engineering
natural products
ssDNA oligodeoxynucleotides


Structural Investigation of Poly(ethylene furanoate) Polymorphs.

Abstract: α and β crystalline phases of poly(ethylene furanoate) (PEF) were determined using X-ray powder diffraction by structure resolution in direct space and Rietveld refinement. Moreover, the α' structure of a PEF sample was refined from data previously reported for PEF fiber. Triclinic α-PEF a = 5.729 Å, b = 7.89 Å, c = 9.62 Å, α = 98.1°, β = 65.1°, γ = 101.3°; monoclinic α'-PEF a = 5.912 Å, b = 6.91 Å, c = 19.73 Å, α = 90°, β = 90°, γ = 104.41°; and monoclinic β-PEF a = 5.953 Å, b = 6.60 Å, c = 10.52 Å, α = 90°, β = 107.0°, γ = 90° were determined as the best fitting of X-ray diffraction (XRD) powder patterns. Final atomic coordinates are reported for all polymorphs. In all cases PEF chains adopted an almost planar configuration.

poly(ethylene furanoate)
polymorphism
PEF
2,5-furan dicarboxylate
crystal structure


Weight gain after adenotonsillectomy: a case control study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To study the association between adenotonsillectomy (T&A) and weight gain in children.

STUDY DESIGN
Retrospective case-control series.

SETTING
Tertiary academic children's medical center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS
A total of 154 children who underwent T&A at a tertiary care children's hospital between December 2010 and March 2011 were included. They were compared with 182 children with similar demographics who were seen in primary care clinics at the same institution (control group). Height and weight were compared at 6-month intervals over a 24-month period. Patients were divided into normal weight, overweight, and obese. A multilevel mixed-effects regression model was used for analysis. Significance was set at P ≤ .05.

RESULTS
Children who underwent T&A gained more weight than controls at every interval. At 24 months, they gained an additional 2.6 kg (confidence interval [CI], 0.9-3.9) but were an additional 1.8 cm (CI, 0.1-3.5) taller. There was no difference in weight gain at 6 months for obese children. At 12, 18, and 24 months, the obese group outgained the control group. At 24 months, the obese T&A group had gained an average of 14.3 kg, while the control had gained 10.1 kg, for a difference of 4.2 kg (CI, 1.3-6.1) with no difference in height changes. There were no differences in weight or height changes for the normal-weight and overweight groups at the conclusion of the study.

CONCLUSIONS
T&A leads to a significant increase in weight in obese but not normal-weight or overweight children. Efforts should be made to provide weight reduction counseling prior to T&A in obese children.

Lewis|Travis L|TL|
Johnson|Romaine F|RF|
Choi|Jonathan|J|
Mitchell|Ron B|RB|

weight gain
adenotonsillectomy
children
obesity
tonsillectomy
weight change


Association between CLEC4E gene polymorphism of mincle and pulmonary tuberculosis infection in a northern Chinese population.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Pulmonary tuberculosis caused by an intracellular pathogen, Mycobacterium tuberculosis continues to exist as a hazardous disease to human life globally. Genetic polymorphisms regulate resistance and susceptibility to tuberculosis. The C-type lectin receptor of family 4 member E (CLEC4E) confers protection against tuberculosis in laboratory animals but its function in influencing exposure or resistance to pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in humans remains obscure.

AIM
We conducted this research to analyze the effects or concomitance of CLEC4E gene variations with susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis in a northern Chinese population.

METHOD
In this study, 202 participants with pulmonary tuberculosis and 214 controls without PTB were enrolled. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for CLEC4E on chromosome 12 were selected with a minor allele frequency of >0.05. All the SNPs were genotyped using high resolution melting analysis-PCR.

RESULTS
We estimated and compared two SNPs, rs10841845 and rs10841847. From our study findings, CLEC4E rs10841845 conferred protection against the development of pulmonary TB with a P value of <0.05 and odds ratio of <1 for all models of genetic inheritance. CLEC4E rs10841847 genotypes in co-dominant, Recessive, Dominant models and alleles had a significant statistical difference between patients and controls associated with resistance against the development of PTB (P<0.05 and OR<1).

CONCLUSION
Our findings suggest that variations at rs10841845 and rs10841847 of CLEC4E genes are associated with increased individual protection against PTB.

Kabuye|Deo|D| Chu|Yang|Y| Lao|Wenting|W| Jin|Guojiang|G| Kang|Hui|H|

D044466:Asians
D016022:Case-Control Studies
D002881:Chromosomes, Human, Pair 12
D060467:Disease Resistance
D005260:Female
D005787:Gene Frequency
D006801:Humans
D037181:Lectins, C-Type
D008297:Male
D016017:Odds Ratio
D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
D011971:Receptors, Immunologic
D014397:Tuberculosis, Pulmonary

Human
C-type lectin
Chromosome 12
Allele frequency
Genotype
Confidence interval


Spatial modeling applied to environmental monitoring: identifying sources of potentially toxic metals in aquatic system.

Abstract: Aquatic contamination by potentially toxic metals is a problem that has been aggravated, especially due to the quantity and the diversity of sources. Locating these sources is not always an easy task, especially because of the wide variety of possibilities. In this context, the application of geostatistical methods may represent an excellent tool to find out sources of metal contaminants in aquatic systems. Thus, the objective of this work was to elaborate an approach to identify sources of potentially toxic metals (Zn, Ba, Pb, Cr, Mn and Fe), by relating their spatial-temporal variations with the local land use patterns, along a longitudinal profile of the Pirapora River, located in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. For this purpose, water samples were collected at different points, taking into consideration each specific land use pattern and quantifying the metals contents by microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry. In this work, thirteen land use patterns have been identified: mining, forestry, abandoned pasture, water, urban area, human occupation, floodplain, bare soil, temporary crop, roads, forest, streets and pasture. The results revealed temporal variations for the metals Ba, Cr, Fe, and Pb and spatial for Zn and Mn, making possible to correlate the presence of these two latter metals with mining and forestry, the most proeminent activities in the region. Overall, this work proposes a model which brings together geoprocessing and analytical methods, in order to correlate spatial-temporal variations of potentially toxic metals with specific land use patterns of a determined region, aiming the environmental monitoring.

Marzola|Elisabete Leide|EL|
Rosa|Luana Maria Tavares|LMT|
Toppa|Rogério Hartung|RH|
Martines|Marcos Roberto|MR|
Pitombo|Leonardo Machado|LM|
Cavagis|Alexandre Donizeti Martins|ADM|
do Carmo|Janaina Braga|JB|
Botero|Wander Gustavo|WG|
de Oliveira|Luciana Camargo|LC|

Potentially toxic metals
Geoprocessing
Environmental analytical chemistry
Metals polluting sources


Synthesis and activity of tumor-homing peptide iRGD and histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid conjugate.

Abstract: In this Letter, we present a concise strategy to prepare a conjugate of the tumor homing peptide iRGD and histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid, VPA-GFLG-iRGD. The conjugate VPA-GFLG-iRGD and a mixture of VPA and GFLG-iRGD have shown similar cytotoxicity against DU-145 prostate cancer cells. However, the treatment of DU-145 cells with conjugate VPA-GFLG-iRGD resulted in a decreased percentage of cells in the G2 phase, whereas the exposure of a mixture of VPA and GFLG-iRGD led to an increased percentage of cells in the G2 phase. We also found that GFLG-iRGD possessed cytotoxicity at the tested concentrations.

Histone deacetylase inhibitor
Valproic acid
Cell cycle arrest
Cell penetrating peptide


Per a 10 protease activity modulates CD40 expression on dendritic cell surface by nuclear factor-kappaB pathway.

Abstract: Serine protease activity of Per a 10 from Periplaneta americana modulates dendritic cell (DC) functions by a mechanism(s) that remains unclear. In the present study, Per a 10 protease activity on CD40 expression and downstream signalling was evaluated in DCs. Monocyte-derived DCs from cockroach-allergic patients were treated with proteolytically active/heat-inactivated Per a 10. Stimulation with active Per a 10 demonstrated low CD40 expression on DCs surface (P < 0·05), while enhanced soluble CD40 level in the culture supernatant (P < 0·05) compared to the heat-inactivated Per a 10, suggesting cleavage of CD40. Per a 10 activity reduced the interleukin (IL)-12 and interferon (IFN)-γ secretion by DCs (P < 0·05) compared to heat-inactivated Per a 10, indicating that low CD40 expression is associated with low levels of IL-12 secretion. Active Per a 10 stimulation caused low nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation in DCs compared to heat-inactivated Per a 10. Inhibition of the NF-κB pathway suppressed the CD40 expression and IL-12 secretion by DCs, further indicating that NF-κB is required for CD40 up-regulation. CD40 expression activated the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6), thereby suggesting its involvement in NF-κB activation. Protease activity of Per a 10 induced p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation that showed no significant effect on CD40 expression by DCs. However, inhibiting p38 MAPK or NF-κB suppressed the secretion of IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-6 and TNF-α by DCs. Such DCs further reduced the secretion of IL-4, IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α by CD4(+) T cells. In conclusion, protease activity of Per a 10 reduces CD40 expression on DCs. CD40 down-regulation leads to low NF-κB levels, thereby modulating DC-mediated immune responses.

Goel|C|C|
Kalra|N|N|
Dwarakanath|B S|BS|
Gaur|S N|SN|
Arora|N|N|

D048029:TNF Receptor-Associated Factor 6

Per a 10
CD40
dendritic cell
proteolytic activity
allergen


"I'm Getting Older Too": Challenges and Benefits Experienced by Very Old Parents and Their Children.

Abstract: Very old parents and their "old" children are a growing group in industrialized countries worldwide. However, virtually nothing is known about the nature and implications of this relationship constellation. To fill this gap, this study explored the challenges and rewards of the very old parent-child relationship. In-depth interviews were conducted with 114 parent-child dyads (parent age ≥90; child age ≥65). While both challenges and rewards were present, the balance of challenges and rewards was notably less favorable for children with more challenges experienced overall. Challenges reported by children were often characterized by references to children's own advanced age and health problems, and the prolonged caregiving involvement due to their parents' longevity. Health care professionals, policymakers, and families should be made aware of this increasingly common phenomenon, and specific services and policies will be needed to adequately support very old adults and their families.

longevity
intergenerational ties
parent–child relationships
very late life


Quantification of metabolite concentrations in benign and malignant prostate tissues using 3D proton MR spectroscopic imaging.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
To estimate concentrations of choline (Cho), spermine (Spm), and citrate (Cit) in prostate tissue using 3D proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) with water as an internal concentration reference as well as to assess the relationships between the measured metabolites and also between the metabolites and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Forty-six prostate cancer patients were scanned at 3T. Spectra were acquired with the point-resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) localization technique. Single-voxel spectra of four healthy volunteers were used to estimate T1 relaxation time of Spm. Spm, Cho concentrations, and ADC values of benign prostate tissues were correlated with Cit content.

RESULTS
The T1 value, 708 ± 132 msec, was estimated for Spm. Mean concentrations in the benign peripheral zone (PZ) were Cho, 4.5 ± 1 mM, Spm, 13.0 ± 4.4 mM, Cit, 64.4 ± 16.1 mM. Corresponding values in the benign central gland (CG) were Cho, 3.6 ± 1 mM, Spm, 13.3 ± 4.5 mM, Cit, 34.3 ± 12.9 mM. Concentrations of Cit and Spm were positively correlated in the benign PZ zone (r = 0.730) and CG (r = 0.664). Positive correlation was found between Cit and Cho in the benign CG (r = 0.705). Whereas Cit and ADC were positively correlated in the benign PZ (r = 0.673), only low correlation was found in CG (r = 0.265).

CONCLUSION
We have shown that it is possible to perform water-referenced quantitative 3D MRSI of the prostate at the cost of a relatively short prolongation of the acquisition time. The individual metabolite concentrations provide additional information compared to the previously used metabolite-to-citrate ratios.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:1232-1240.

Weis|Jan|J|
von Below|Catrin|C|
Tolf|Anna|A|
Ortiz-Nieto|Francisco|F|
Wassberg|Cecilia|C|
Häggman|Michael|M|
Ladjevardi|Sam|S|
Ahlström|Håkan|H|

D066244:Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

quantification
prostate
spectroscopic imaging
choline
spermine
citrate


Hydroxyethyl methacrylate grafted carboxy methyl tamarind (CMT-g-HEMA) polysaccharide based matrix as a suitable scaffold for skin tissue engineering.

Abstract: Patho-physiologies related to skin are diverse in nature such as burns, skin ulcers, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis etc. which impose severe bio-medical problems and thus enforce requirement of new and healthy skin prepared through tissues engineering methodologies. However, fully functional and biodegradable matrix for attachment, growth, proliferation and differentiation of the relevant cells is not available. In the present study, we introduce a set of hydrogels synthesized by incorporation of a synthetic monomer (Hydroxyethlmethacryate) with a semi-synthetic polymer backbone (carboxy methyl tamarind, CMT) in different mole ratios. We termed these materials as CMT:HEMA based hydrogels and these were characterized by different physico-chemical techniques, namely by X-Ray Diffraction, SEM and Dynamic Light Scattering. Biocompatibility studies with HaCaT, NIH-3T3 and mouse dermal fibroblasts confirm that this material is biocompatible. MTT assay further confirmed that this material does not have any cytotoxic effects. Assays for mitochondrial functionality such as ATP assay and mitochondrial reactive oxygen (ROS) generation also suggest that this material is safe and does not have any cytotoxicity. Hemolytic assay with red blood cells and acute skin irritation test on SD Rats confirmed that this material is suitable for ex-vivo application in future. We suggest that this hydrogel is suitable for in-vivo applications and may have clinical and commercial importance against skin disorders.

Choudhury|Priyanka|P| Kumar|Satish|S| Singh|Abhishek|A| Kumar|Ashutosh|A| Kaur|Navneet|N| Sanyasi|Sridhar|S| Chawla|Saurabh|S| Goswami|Chandan|C| Goswami|Luna|L|

Polysaccharide
Skin tissue engineering
Hydrogels
Bio-medical application


Preferential gene retention increases the robustness of cold regulation in Brassicaceae and other plants after polyploidization.

Abstract: Cold stress profoundly affects plant growth and development and is a key factor affecting the geographic distribution and evolution of plants. Plants have evolved adaptive mechanisms to cope with cold stress. Here, through the genomic analysis of Arabidopsis, three Brassica species and 17 other representative species, we found that both cold-related genes (CRGs) and their collinearity were preferentially retained after polyploidization followed by genome instability, while genome-wide gene sets exhibited a variety of other expansion mechanisms. The cold-related regulatory network was increased in Brassicaceae genomes, which were recursively affected by polyploidization. By combining our findings regarding the selective retention of CRGs from this ecological genomics study with the available knowledge of cold-induced chromosome doubling, we hypothesize that cold stress may have contributed to the success of polyploid plants through both increasing polyploidization and selectively maintaining CRGs during evolution. This hypothesis requires further biological and ecological exploration to obtain solid supporting evidence, which will potentially contribute to understanding the generation of polyploids and to the field of ecological genomics.

Abiotic
Evolutionary biology
Gene regulation
Plant evolution


Insulin resistance as a risk factor for gallbladder stone formation in Korean postmenopausal women.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND/AIMS
The objective of this study was to determine whether insulin resistance is associated with gallbladder stone formation in Korean women based on menopausal status.

METHODS
The study included 4,125 consecutive Korean subjects (30-79 years of age). Subjects who had a medical history of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, other cardiovascular disorders, or hormone replacement therapy were excluded. The women were subdivided into two groups according to their menopausal status.

RESULTS
Analysis of premenopausal women showed no significant differences in the homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index between the two groups in terms of gallstone disease. The associations between the occurrence of gallbladder stones and age, obesity, abdominal obesity, hyperinsulinemia, and high HOMA-IR index were statistically significant in the analysis with postmenopausal women. In a multiple logistic regression analysis, low high density lipoprotein-cholesterol was an independent predictor of gallbladder stone formation in premenopausal women. However, the multiple logistic regression analysis also showed that age and HOMA-IR were significantly associated with gallbladder stone formation in postmenopausal women. In an additional analysis stratified by obesity, insulin resistance was a significant risk factor for gallbladder stone formation only in the abdominally obese premenopausal group.

CONCLUSIONS
Insulin resistance may be associated with gallbladder stone formation in Korean postmenopausal women with abdominal obesity.

Kim|Sang Soo|SS|
Lee|Jeong Gyu|JG|
Kim|Dong Wok|DW|
Kim|Bo Hyun|BH|
Jeon|Yun Kyung|YK|
Kim|Mi Ra|MR|
Huh|Jeong Eun|JE|
Mok|Ji Young|JY|
Kim|Seong-Jang|SJ|
Kim|Yong Ki|YK|
Kim|In Joo|IJ|

Insulin resistance
Postmenopause
Gallstones
Metabolic syndrome


Genetic polymorphism of the Nrf2 promoter region is associated with vitiligo risk in Han Chinese populations.

Abstract: The nuclear factor erythroid-derived two-like 2-antioxidant response element (Nrf2-ARE) pathway and its downstream antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1 or HO-1) play essential roles in H2 O2 -induced oxidative damage in human melanocytes. However, the link between Nrf2 promoter polymorphisms and susceptibility to oxidative stress-related diseases such as vitiligo is unknown. This study evaluated the association of the Nrf2 and HO-1 genes polymorphisms with vitiligo susceptibility. In this case-control study of 1136 Han Chinese vitiligo patients and 1200 controls, Nrf2 (rs35652124 and rs6721961) and HO-1 (rs2071746) genes were genotyped by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Overall, a significantly decreased risk of vitiligo was found to be associated with Nrf2 rs35652124 CC and combined (CT+CC) genotypes [odds ratio (OR) 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50-0.83 and OR, 0.84, 95% CI 0.71-0.99, respectively], as well as among subgroups: female, onset age ≤20 and never smoker. We subsequently found that Nrf2 rs35652124 C allele had higher transcriptional activity in the luciferase reporter assay compared with Nrf2 rs35652124 T allele. Furthermore, we investigated serum HO-1 activity was associated with the rs35652124 CT+CC genotype and lower in patients than in controls (P = 0.024). Logistic regression analysis showed a dose-response relationship between lower vitiligo risk and increased HO-1 activity in rs35652124 CT+CC genotype carriers (Ptrend < 0.05). These findings indicate that the C allele of rs35652124 located in the promoter region of Nrf2 gene is associated with protective effect on vitiligo in a Han Chinese population.

Song|Pu|P| Li|Kai|K| Liu|Ling|L| Wang|Xiaowen|X| Jian|Zhe|Z| Zhang|Weigang|W| Wang|Gang|G| Li|Chunying|C| Gao|Tianwen|T|

D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease


Does a cycling program combined with education and followed by coaching promote physical activity in subacute stroke patients? A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
To investigate the effects of a three month active cycling program followed by coaching on physical activity in subacute stroke patients.

METHODS
Patients (n = 59; mean age =65.4 ± 10.3) aged ≤80 years with first stroke and able to cycle at 50 revolutions/minute enrolled 3-10 weeks post stroke. Patients were randomly allocated to three month active cycling group (n = 33) or to a control group (n = 26), 3 x 30 minutes training/week. Afterwards, the active cycling group was randomized into a coaching (n = 15) versus non-coaching group (n = 16) for nine months. Physical activity was measured by objective and self-reported measures, which were taken before/after the active cycling program and during six and 12 months, except the Baecke-questionnaire, which was used at baseline and 12 months.

RESULTS
A significant difference was found in Baecke/sport (95% confidence interval: 0.06, 2.24; p = 0.039) between the active cycling group and the control group, in patients with severe motor function deficits at baseline. Patients in the control group performed significant less sports at 12 months (mean Baecke/sportbaseline =3.07 ± 1.21, mean Baecke/sport12months = 1.43 ± 0.98; p = 0.01). Furthermore, all groups showed significant changes over time in all measures at three months (except: Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities, diary/Mets*minutes-moderate) and 12 month and additionally in a subgroup with severe motor function deficits (except diary Mets*minutes-sedentary).

CONCLUSION
When active cycling combined with education is used in subacute patients with severe motor function deficits, more sport participation might be observed after one year. No other significant group differences were found over time. In all groups, however, patients showed significant improvement over time in physical activity measures. Future work is needed to explore the most effective coaching approach after an aerobic training program. Implications for Rehabilitation The active cycling program combined with education is applicable in subacute stroke patients as it required little stand-by assistance due to chip cards, the intensity was gradually built and the involvement of caregivers in the educational sessions. This training approach also revealed applicable in severely impaired stroke patients and might facilitate sport participation on the long-term. This randomized controlled study aims to quantify physical activity after stroke by using a combination of objective and self-report measures, which revealed detailed information about different aspects of physical activity levels. There is a need for coaching approaches that facilitate aerobic exercise after ending a supervised program. A coaching approach needs to guide patients in adopting aerobic exercise as a part of a lifestyle change and needs to be less time consuming.

Vanroy|Christel|C| Vanlandewijck|Yves|Y| Cras|Patrick|P| Truijen|Steven|S| Vissers|Dirk|D| Swinnen|Anke|A| Bosmans|Matthieu|M| Wouters|Kristien|K| Feys|Hilde|H|

coaching
physical activity
rehabilitation
exercise
Cerebrovascular disorders
mentoring


Legalization of Sunday alcohol sales and alcohol consumption in the United States.

Abstract:
AIMS
To investigate the relationship between legalization of Sunday alcohol sales and alcohol consumption in the United States.

DESIGN
State-level per capita consumption of beer, wine and spirits was analyzed using difference-in-differences econometric methods.

SETTING
United States.

PARTICIPANTS
Five treatment states that repealed their laws restricting Sunday alcohol sales during 1990-2007 and 12 control states that retained their Sunday alcohol laws during the same period.

MEASUREMENTS
Outcome measures are state-level per capita consumption of overall alcohol, beer, wine and spirits.

FINDINGS
Among the states that legalized Sunday sales of alcoholic beverages, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Mexico experienced significant increases in overall alcohol consumption (P < 0.05). However, the effect of the legalization of Sunday alcohol sales in Massachusetts and Rhode Island on per capita alcohol consumption was insignificant (P = 0.964 and P = 0.367).

CONCLUSIONS
Three out of five states in the United States that repealed their laws restricting Sunday sale of alcoholic beverages during 1990-2007 experienced significant increases in per capita alcohol consumption. This finding implies that increased alcohol availability leads to an increase in alcohol consumption.

Sunday alcohol sales
Alcohol consumption
United States
difference‐in‐differences
health policy
panel data