Long non-coding RNA TCONS_00000200 as a non-invasive biomarker in patients with intracranial aneurysm.

Abstract: We performed long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) microarray assay to identify lncRNAs with differential expression between patients with intracranial aneurysm (IA) and healthy control individuals to evaluate their potential use as biomarkers of IA. Arraystar Human lncRNA Microarray v3.0 was performed to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs in plasma samples (4 ml). lncRNAs with the most pronounced differential expression were used to select gene markers, and results were validated by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Plasma levels of TCONS_00000200 (fold change: 2.28) and ENST00000511927 (fold change: 2.50) were significantly higher in IA patients than in healthy individuals (P<0.001), and plasma levels of ENST00000421997 (fold change: 0.45) and ENST00000538202 (fold change: 0.43) were significantly lower in IA patients than in healthy individuals (P<0.001). qRT-PCR confirmed the same trends of up- and down-regulation of these four lncRNAs. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for TCONS_00000200 showed that the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.963 (95% confidence interval, 0.919-1.000), optimal cut-off point was 0.0081, sensitivity was 90.0%, and specificity was 96.7%. These results indicate that the lncRNA TCONS_00000200 is differentially expressed in the plasma of IA patients and could serve as a biomarker of IA.

Wu|Chenghan|C| Song|Hailong|H| Wang|Yinzhou|Y| Gao|Lili|L| Cai|Yali|Y| Cheng|Qiong|Q| Chen|Yanru|Y| Zheng|Zheng|Z| Liao|Yuansheng|Y| Lin|Jushan|J| Xie|Buni|B| Cai|Weiwu|W| Li|Shiju|S| Liao|Lianming|L| Yan|Xiaohua|X|

biomarker
intracranial aneurysm
lncRNA
microarray
mRNA


Effect of biopolishing and UV absorber treatment on the UV protection properties of cotton knitted fabrics.

Abstract: Cotton knitted fabrics were manufactured with gauge number 20 G by circular knitting machine with conventional ring spun yarn and torque-free ring spun yarn. Torque-free ring spinning is a new spinning technology that produces yarns with low twist and balanced torque. This study examined whether the impact of biopolishing and UV absorber treatment on UV protection properties on cotton knitted fabric made of torque-free ring spun yarn is different. Biopolishing agent and UV absorber were used to treat the cotton knitted fabrics after scouring and bleaching. The UV protection properties were measured in terms of UV protection factor (UPF) and UV ray transmittance. Experimental results revealed that knitted fabric made from torque-free ring spun has better UPF than knitted fabric made from conventional ring spun yarn in untreated and biopolished states. However, knitted fabric made from conventional ring spun yarn has better UPF than knitted fabric made from torque-free ring spun after UV absorber treatment and combined UV absorber and biopolishing treatment.

D032561:Cotton Fiber
D020349:Surface Plasmon Resonance
D019415:Torque
D014466:Ultraviolet Rays

Biopolishing
UV absorber
Cotton knitted fabric
Torque-free ring spun yarn
UPF


Assessment of gender-related differences in vitamin D levels and cardiovascular risk factors in Saudi patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract: Diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) including stroke, coronary heart disease, and peripheral artery disease. It remains a leading cause of mortality throughout the world, affecting both women and men. This investigation was aimed to study gender based differences in cardiovascular risk factors of adult population with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to check the correlation between serum HbA1C, lipid profile and serum vitamin D levels, in T2DM patients of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This hospital-based cross-sectional study involving subjects was divided into two gender based groups; normal male (800), diabetic male (800) and normal female (800) and T2DM females (800). Blood samples were analyzed for fasting glucose (FBG), HbA1c, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (Tg), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and serum levels of 25(OH)-vitamin D in all groups. All the glycemic control parameters and lipid profile parameters were found to be significantly different in diabetic vs non-diabetic group (p < 0.001) in both genders. The results also show that vitamin D concentration decreased significantly (p < 0.001) in diabetic patients than the healthy individuals in both the genders. Vitamin-D and HbA1C were negatively correlated in both males and females in T2DM patients and significant at P < 0.05. Our study reveals that dyslipidemia remains one of the major risk factors of CVD in T2DM. In addition to dyslipidemia, decreased levels of vitamin-D associated with increased HbA1C alarms the early diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes.

Abudawood|Manal|M|
Tabassum|Hajera|H|
Ansar|Sabah|S|
Almosa|Khalid|K|
Sobki|Samia|S|
Ali|Mir Naiman|MN|
Aljohi|Ali|A|

Type 2 diabetes mellitus
HbA1c
Lipoproteins
Vitamin-D


Anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of alpacas (Vicugna pacos) in Australia.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) can cause significant economic losses in alpacas due to lowered production of fibre and meat. Although no anthelmintics are registered for use in alpacas, various classes of anthelmintics are frequently used to control parasitic gastroenteritis in alpacas in Australia and other countries. Very little is known about the current worm control practices as well as the efficacy of anthelmintics used against common GINs of alpacas. This study aimed to assess the existing worm control practices used by Australian alpaca farmers and to quantify the efficacy of commonly used anthelmintics against GINs of alpacas.

METHODS
An online questionnaire survey was conducted to assess current worm control practices on 97 Australian alpaca farms, with an emphasis on the use of anthelmintics. Of this group of 97 alpaca farms, 20 were selected to assess the efficacy of eight anthelmintics and/or their combinations (closantel, fenbendazole ivermectin, monepantel, moxidectin and a combination of levamisole, closantel, albendazole, abamectin) using the faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). A multiplexed-tandem PCR (MT-PCR) was used to identify the prevalent nematode genera/species.

RESULTS
The response rate for the questionnaire was 94% (91/97). Almost half of the respondents kept alpacas with sheep and cattle, and 26% of respondents allowed alpacas to co-graze with these ruminants. Although only 63% respondents perceived worms to be an important health concern for alpacas, the majority of respondents (89%) used anthelmintics to control GINs of alpacas. The commonly used anthelmintics were macrocyclic lactones, monepantel, benzimidazoles, levamisole, closantel and their combinations, and they were typically administered at the dose rate recommended for sheep. The FECRT results showed that a combination of levamisole, closantel, albendazole and abamectin was the most effective dewormer followed by single drugs, including monepantel, moxidectin, closantel, fenbendazole and ivermectin. Haemonchus spp. were the most commonly resistant nematodes followed by Trichostrongylus spp., Camelostrongylus mentulatus, Ostertagia ostertagi and Cooperia spp.

CONCLUSIONS
This is the first study aimed at assessing worm control practices and efficacy of commonly used anthelmintics in alpacas in Australia. Our findings document the extent of anthelmintics resistance on Australian alpaca farms and identify those anthelmintics that are still effective against GINs of alpacas.

Anthelmintic Resistance Nematodes Alpacas Australia


A punch in the gut - Intestinal inflammation links environmental factors to neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: Parkinson's disease (PD) is an etiologically heterogeneous disorder. Experimental, clinical and epidemiological data suggest that intestinal inflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of PD. This article reviews recent literature on gut microbiota and intestinal inflammation in PD. We propose that intestinal inflammation links environmental factors (e.g. an altered gut microbiota composition) to neurodegeneration in (genetically susceptible) PD patients. In addition, there is an epidemiological and genetic overlap between PD and inflammatory bowel disease. This overlap provides an opportunity to develop new treatment strategies for at least a subgroup of PD patients.

Becker|Anouck|A|
Faßbender|Klaus|K|
Oertel|Wolfgang H|WH|
Unger|Marcus M|MM|

Intestinal inflammation
Parkinson's disease
Inflammatory bowel disease
Calprotectin
Crohn's disease
NOD2
Short chain fatty acids


The effect of almonds on vitamin E status and cardiovascular risk factors in Korean adults: a randomized clinical trial.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
Almonds have shown to beneficially modify some cardiovascular risk factors in clinical trials conducted in diverse ethnic populations but this relationship has never been tested in Koreans. Thus, we tested the impact of almonds consumed as a snack within the context of a typical Korean diet on cardiovascular risk factors.

METHODS
We conducted a randomized, crossover trial in a free-living setting with a 2-week run-in period, two 4-week intervention phases, and a 2-week washout period between interventions. Eighty four overweight/obese participants (11 M/73 F; 52.4 ± 0.6 year; 25.4 ± 0.22 kg/m2) consumed either 56 g of almonds or isocaloric cookies daily for 4 weeks.

RESULTS
Mean % daily energy intake at baseline was 64.8, 21.3, and 14.9% from carbohydrate, fat, and protein, respectively. The addition of 56 g of almonds daily decreased carbohydrate energy to 55.0%, increased fat to 32.0%, and maintained protein at 14.7%. Consuming the almonds increased intake of MUFA by 192.3%, PUFA by 84.5%, vitamin E by 102.7%, and dietary fiber by 11.8% and decreased % energy from carbohydrate by 14.1%. Total caloric intake was increased by the almonds, but body weight, waist circumference, and body composition were not affected. Almonds in overweight and obese Korean adults decreased TC, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C by 5.5, 4.6, and 6.4%, respectively, compared to the cookie control (P ≤ 0.05). Almonds increased plasma α-tocopherol by 8.5% (P ≤ 0.05) from the baseline and tended to increase its value as compared to cookies (P = 0.055). Neither the almonds nor cookies altered plasma protein carbonyls, MDA or oxLDL. Of serum inflammatory markers, IL-10 was decreased by almond intake (P ≤ 0.05), and ICAM-1, IL-1β, and IL-6 tended to be lower with almonds, compared to the cookies.

CONCLUSIONS
Almonds at 56 g/day consumed as a snack favorably modified the Korean diet by increasing MUFA, PUFA, vitamin E, and dietary fiber intake and decreasing % energy intake from carbohydrate. Almonds also enhanced plasma α-tocopherol status and serum TC and LDL-C in overweight and obese Koreans. Thus, including almonds in typical Korean diets as a snack can help healthy overweight/obese individuals improve nutritional status and reduce their risk for CVD.

Jung|Hana|H|
Chen|C-Y Oliver|CO|
Blumberg|Jeffrey B|JB|
Kwak|Ho-Kyung|HK|

D000368:Aged
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases
D008078:Cholesterol, LDL
D018592:Cross-Over Studies
D005260:Female
D006801:Humans
D008297:Male
D008875:Middle Aged
D000068181:Prunus dulcis
D056910:Republic of Korea
D012307:Risk Factors
D014810:Vitamin E

Almonds
Cardiovascular risk factor
α-Tocopherol
Cholesterol
Human
Inflammation
Oxidative stress


An update on efflux and uptake transporters as determinants of statin response.

Abstract: Statins are used in the treatment of dyslipidemia promoting primary and secondary prevention against detrimental cardiovascular events. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) and solute carrier (SLC) membrane transporters transport statins across the cell membrane. Differences in drug transporter tissue expression and activity contribute to variability in statin pharmacokinetics (PK) and response. Areas covered: The purpose of this review is to discuss factors impacting transporter expression and the effect this has on statin efficacy and safety. Previous studies have demonstrated that genetic polymorphisms, drug-drug interactions (DDI), nuclear receptors, and microRNAs affect statin PK and pharmacodynamics. Expert opinion: Genetic variants of ABCG2 and SLCO1B1 transporters affect statin PK and, as a result, the intended lipid-lowering response. However, the effect size is small, limiting its applicability in clinical practice. Furthermore, genetic variants do not totally explain the observed intervariability in statin response. Thus, it is likely that transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of drug transporters are also highly involved. Further studies are required to understand the contribution of each of these new factors in statin disposition and toxicity.

Rocha|Karina Cunha E|KCE|
Pereira|Beatriz Maria Veloso|BMV|
Rodrigues|Alice Cristina|AC|

D000070997:ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Member 2

D027381:Liver-Specific Organic Anion Transporter 1

ABC transporters
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors
SLC transporters
drug interactions
lipid-lowering drugs


Expression of LRRC8A is elevated in the cytoplasm of osteosarcoma tissues: An immunohistochemical study with tissue microarrays.

Abstract: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the expression profile of leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 8A (LRRC8A) in osteosarcoma and normal cortical bone, as well as its association with sex, age and tumor malignancy. Immunohistochemical staining of osteosarcoma tissue microarrays (TMAs) was performed to determine the protein expression of LRRC8A and compare them among different subgroups. The expression of LRRC8A in the nuclei and cytoplasm of U2OS tumor cells and MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells was determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Of all samples of the TMA for patients with osteosarcoma that were tested, 94% featured high cytoplasmic expression of LRRC8A, while in all normal bone tissue control groups, the gene was mainly expressed in the nucleus. In MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts, the expression of LRRC8A at the RNA level was mainly in the cytoplasm. The difference in expression of LRRC8A between microarrays and osteoblasts was statistically significant. In U2OS osteosarcoma cells, LRRC8A mRNA was concentrated in the nuclei and cytoplasm. In osteosarcoma, the expression level of LRRC8A was not significantly associated with sex or age. In conclusion, LRRC8A was highly expressed in the cytoplasm of osteosarcoma cells and the degree of expression may be associated with the degree of tumor malignancy.

Zhang|Ningfeng|N| Deng|Zhiqin|Z| Li|Wencui|W| Zou|Yan|Y| Xiong|Jianyi|J| Duan|Li|L| Wang|Daping|D|


Arterial grafts do not counteract target vessel occlusion.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
Grafted, non-occluded coronary arteries might contribute substantially to the myocardial blood supply and serve as a basis for vascular collateralization which preserves the myocardium in the event of graft occlusion. Early studies indicated that grafting with saphenous vein, but not internal mammary arteries, accelerates coronary atherosclerosis. This has not been extensively studied for the radial artery, which like the internal mammary artery (IMA) is largely resistant to atherosclerosis. A differential effect of various grafts might facilitate identification of disease-modifying principles. Our surgical cohort represented an opportunity to analyse new native coronary occlusions by comparison with preoperative angiograms.

METHODS
One hundred and two patients underwent angiography 1.3-3.9 years after coronary artery bypass surgery, primarily in order to compare the patency of radial artery, IMA and saphenous vein grafts.

RESULTS
Out of 290 stenotic, grafted vessels, 67 (23%) occluded during follow-up. Native occlusion occurred in 47% of the patients and correlated with serum-cholesterol. In a per target analysis, independent predictors of postoperative native occlusion were the right coronary artery territory, patent corresponding graft, the corresponding graft being an IMA and end-to-side anastomosis.

CONCLUSIONS
Target vessel occlusion is similar with radial artery and saphenous vein grafts and proceeds rapidly even in the current era of secondary prophylaxis against atherosclerosis. Competitive graft flow appears to promote occlusion. Contrary to previous studies, we do not find vein grafts to be inferior to IMA grafts with respect to preservation of native vessel patency.

Bartnes|Kristian|K|
Hermansen|Stig E|SE|
Dahl-Eriksen|Øystein|Ø|
Bahar|Ramez|R|
Busund|Rolf|R|
Sørlie|Dag G|DG|
Myrmel|Truls|T|

D000328:Adult
D000368:Aged
D016009:Chi-Square Distribution
D017023:Coronary Angiography
D001026:Coronary Artery Bypass
D003331:Coronary Vessels
D005260:Female
D006083:Graft Occlusion, Vascular
D006801:Humans
D008297:Male
D008323:Mammary Arteries
D008875:Middle Aged
D017534:Radial Artery
D012501:Saphenous Vein
D014654:Vascular Patency

Coronary arteries
Bypass surgery
Graft disease


Acute mesenteric ischemia with necrosis of entire small intestine.

Abstract: The case study describes a case of a patient with acute mesenteric ischemia with necrosis of entire small intestine. In following text there is an overview of the incidence of acute mesenteric ischemia, its most common etiology, diagnostic methods and treatment of this severe disease.

D000208:Acute Disease
D006801:Humans
D007421:Intestine, Small
D065666:Mesenteric Ischemia
D008641:Mesenteric Vascular Occlusion
D009336:Necrosis


Risk factors for recurrence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, a population-based cohort study.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) tend to recur from one pregnancy to the next. The aims of the study were to assess the recurrence risk according to type of HDP defined by gestational age at birth and to examine whether recurrence is associated with the following additional risk factors for HDP: maternal age, smoking, inter-delivery interval, diabetes, body mass index, and fetal growth restriction, and to assess temporal trends in these associations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
All women with two singleton births in the Medical Birth Registry of Norway 1967-2012 (n = 742 980) were included in this population-based cohort study. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for the risk of recurrent HDP according to type of HDP.

RESULTS
The highest odds ratio of recurrence was observed for the same type of HDP based on gestational age at delivery. After gestational hypertension and term preeclampsia, the risk for the same type to recur increased 10-fold, whereas after late and early preterm preeclampsia, the risk increased 27- and 97-fold, respectively. The recurrence of early preterm preeclampsia was less influenced by additional risk factors compared with term HDP. Recurrence of early preterm HDP was significantly lower from 1993 onwards.

CONCLUSIONS
Recurrent HDP tended to be of the same type as the previous HDP. Risk of recurrence associated with additional risk factors was observed particularly after term. The odds ratio of recurrence of early preterm HDP was significantly lower from 1993 onwards.

recurrence
hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
gestational hypertension
preeclampsia
High-risk pregnancy
population study
preterm birth


Pediatric bed fall computer simulation model: parametric sensitivity analysis.

Abstract: Falls from beds and other household furniture are common scenarios that may result in injury and may also be stated to conceal child abuse. Knowledge of the biomechanics associated with short-distance falls may aid clinicians in distinguishing between abusive and accidental injuries. In this study, a validated bed fall computer simulation model of an anthropomorphic test device representing a 12-month-old child was used to investigate the effect of altering fall environment parameters (fall height, impact surface stiffness, initial force used to initiate the fall) and child surrogate parameters (overall mass, head stiffness, neck stiffness, stiffness for other body segments) on fall dynamics and outcomes related to injury potential. The sensitivity of head and neck injury outcome measures to model parameters was determined. Parameters associated with the greatest sensitivity values (fall height, initiating force, and surrogate mass) altered fall dynamics and impact orientation. This suggests that fall dynamics and impact orientation play a key role in head and neck injury potential. With the exception of surrogate mass, injury outcome measures tended to be more sensitive to changes in environmental parameters (bed height, impact surface stiffness, initiating force) than surrogate parameters (head stiffness, neck stiffness, body segment stiffness).

D000058:Accidental Falls
D002648:Child
D003198:Computer Simulation
D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma
D006801:Humans
D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings
D019838:Neck Injuries
D013223:Statistics as Topic
D035501:Uncertainty

Computer simulation
Biomechanics
Injury assessment
Pediatric falls


Impact of earthquake exposure, family adversity and peer problems on anxiety-related emotional disorders in adolescent survivors three years after the Ya'an earthquake.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Traumatic experiences often give rise to an increased risk of anxiety problems in adolescents. This study investigated the anxiety prevalence in adolescent earthquake survivors and the effect of secondary stressors such as bullying, poverty, or being "left behind" by parents working in the cities.

METHODS
This cross-sectional study was conducted three years after the 2013 Ya'an (China) earthquake on 6,132 adolescents aged 9 to 18 years from 11 public schools in three severely earthquake affected counties. The participants completed self-report questionnaires that assessed anxiety, earthquake exposure, poverty level, left-behind duration and bullying.

RESULTS
Separation anxiety (38.7%) and panic symptoms (32.2%) were found to be the primary contributors to anxiety in this adolescent sample. The regression and structural equation modeling indicated that adolescents who had suffered from high earthquake exposure, peer bullying, being left-behind, or poverty were more likely to report problems in all anxiety subcategories, with females reporting more anxiety symptoms than males. The likelihood of all anxiety disorders except separation anxiety was found to increase with age.

CONCLUSIONS
This study highlighted the need for post-disaster interventions aimed at minimizing post-earthquake adversity such as peer bullying and specialized psychological services that target subgroups that might be more susceptible to anxiety-related emotional problems. The results could be used to identify possible markers for anxiety problems in children who had not experienced any major traumas.

Earthquake
Anxiety
Poverty
Peer bullying
Left-behind children


Evaluation of boldenone as a growth promoter in broilers: safety and meat quality aspects.

Abstract: The object of this study was to evaluate the safety and meat quality criteria in broilers following intramuscular injection of boldenone. Twenty-four broiler chicks, divided into two groups, were used in the present study. Boldenone was injected intramuscularly at a single-dose level of 5 mg/kg body weight into 12 broiler chicks at 2 weeks old; the other 12 chicks were injected with sesame oil and kept as controls. Blood samples were collected from the wing and metatarsal veins after 1, 2, and 3 weeks through the experimental course for hematological and clinic-chemical safety parameters. On the last day, chicks were humanely sacrificed and livers and kidneys were removed for histopathological examination. Breast muscles were also removed to assess meat-quality parameters. Boldenone significantly (p < 0.05) increased total erythrocytic count and hemoglobin and hematocrit values, while mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration indices decreased. Leukogram showed leukopenia, lymphopenia, and granulocytosis (p < 0.05) as compared to control. Hepatorenal biomarkers, including alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, urea, and creatinine were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the corresponding control values. Additionally, boldenone significantly (p < 0.05) increased metabolic markers, including total protein, globulins, cholesterol, triacylglycerols, and glucose, with parallel decreases in albumin and albumin/globulin ratio. Degenerative changes were recorded in liver and kidney tissues from chicks treated with boldenone. Muscle samples exhibited raised pH values and higher microbial counts as compared to the corresponding control. These data may discourage the use of boldenone as a growth promoter in broilers due to safety and meat quality reasons.

Elmajdoub|Abdelrazzag|A| Garbaj|Aboubaker|A| Abolghait|Said|S| El-Mahmoudy|Abubakr|A|

Boldenone
Broilers
Safety
Meat quality
Clinicochemical


Independent and combined effects of Satureja khuzistanica essential oils and acetic acid on prevalence and intensity of fatty liver syndrome in broiler chickens.

Abstract: Two hundred fifty two male Ross 308 broiler chicks were raised to examine the effects of Satureja khuzistanica essential oils (SkEO; 0, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 600 mg/bird/day) administrated via oral gavage and dietary supplementation of acetic acid (AA; 0 or 20 g/kg) in a 6 × 2 factorial fashion using a complete randomized block design with seven replicates of three birds each. In Day 34 of age, liver fat percentage decreased by increasing SkEO levels in a quadratic trend (p < .05). Oral gavag of 200 and 300 mg of SkEO decreased AST activity by 16.67% and 16.94%, respectively, compared with the control birds (p < .05). In Day 38 of age, liver percentage was greater by 0.37% in the birds received 400 mg SkEO than those given 500 mg (p < .05). Liver fat percentage decreased in the birds fed the acidified diet and received 300 and 500 mg SkEO as well as in the birds offered 200 and 400 mg of SkEO and fed non-acidified diet than those received acidified diet with no SkEO administration (p < .05). Prevalence of score zero for hepatocytic vacuolations and necrosis was 80.00% and 42.42% in the birds receiving 600 mg SkEO respectively. Median for relative frequency of scores for hepatocytic vacuolations and hepatocytic necrosis was lesser in the birds received SkEO by oral gavage compared with that of control birds (p < .05). In conclusion, administration of SkEO via oral gavage reduced liver fat in broiler chicken but no consistent dosage could be verified as the effective dosage for all ages concerned. The acidified diet per se showed no evident effect on liver fat at all ages considered. The SkEO × AA interaction exhibited promising but unreliable effects on liver colour score in market age (42 days).

Satureja khuzistanica
acetic acid
fatty liver
broiler chicken


Quantitative Method to Track Proteolytic Invasion in 3D Collagen.

Abstract: Since many tumors are associated with a pronounced collagen-rich stromal reaction, there is increasing interest in understanding mechanisms by which cancer cells invade through the collagen barrier. Here we describe a quantitative method to track cell invasion in 3D collagen I gels. We analyze invasion by quantifying proteolytic tracks generated by invading cancer cells through a 3D collagen microenvironment. We provide a detailed protocol for this quantitative assay, which can be used to characterize signaling pathways that regulate invasion in the 3D microenvironment.

Ebine|Kazumi|K|
Chow|Christina R|CR|
Munshi|Hidayatullah G|HG|

D021441:Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal
D018929:Cell Culture Techniques
D045744:Cell Line, Tumor
D002465:Cell Movement
D024042:Collagen Type I
D005109:Extracellular Matrix
D005782:Gels
D006801:Humans
D053511:Matrix Metalloproteinase 14
D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness
D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms
D059748:Proteolysis
D034741:RNA, Small Interfering

Invasion
Proteolytic tracks
3D collagen gels
MT1-MMP
Proteolysis


Pravastatin alleviates interleukin 1β-induced cartilage degradation by restoring impaired autophagy associated with MAPK pathway inhibition.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation driven by proinflammatory cytokines; meanwhile, statins display anti-inflammatory effects. Here we assessed the effects of pravastatin on inflammatory rat chondrocytes and explored the underlying mechanism.

METHODS
Rat articular chondrocytes were pretreated with pravastatin and subsequently stimulated with IL-1β. Then, the expression levels of OA- and autophagy-related effectors, at the mRNA and protein levels, were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Autophagic flux in chondrocytes in different treatment groups was monitored via GFP-mRFP-LC3 adenovirus transfection and confocal microscopy. Activation of MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB pathways in chondrocytes with or without pravastatin treatment during IL-1β stimulation was examined by Western blotting.

RESULTS
Our results showed that pravastatin downregulated the degradation related genes MMP3, MMP13 and ADAMTS5, as well as extracellular matrix degeneration induced by IL-1β. In addition, pravastatin upregulated the autophagy related genes atg7, atg12, Beclin1, and LC3 II in IL-1β stimulated chondrocytes. GFP-mRFP-LC3 adenovirus transfection also indicated that pravastatin restored impaired autophagy in OA chondrocytes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway may be responsible for autophagy regulation in the articular cartilage.

CONCLUSIONS
Taken together, these findings suggested that pravastatin restores impaired autophagic flux by inhibiting MAPK activation and protects the cartilage against inflammatory responses, suggesting a potential role for autophagic flux in pravastatin-mediated cartilage protection.

Mao|Zekai|Z| Wang|Pengcheng|P| Pan|Qiyong|Q| Huang|Xiaojian|X| Zhang|Rui|R| Shang|Xiaobin|X| Ma|Xiaohu|X| You|Hongbo|H|

Pravastatin
Cartilage degradation
Autophagy
MAPK
Osteoarthritis
Statins
Interleukin 1β


Repair of antegrade anastomosis between ileal segment and amputated ureter for recurrent rectal cancer.

Abstract: We describe a case of repair of the antegrade anastomosis between the "ileal segment" and amputated ureter for recurrent rectal cancer, in which some postoperative complications occurred but eventually resolved. If the length of the ureter is inadequate for end-to-end anastomosis, an ileal segment can be used as a conduit. This surgical technique is not difficult because an ileal conduit is typically created during total pelvic exenteration of rectal cancers. Therefore, anastomosing the ureter to an "ileal segment" is easy and feasible. Hence, we consider that knowledge of this technique would be beneficial for surgical oncologists who perform colorectal surgeries.

Antegrade anastomosis
Ileal segment
Recurrent rectal cancer


Association between physical activity and sleep-disordered breathing in male Japanese workers: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Whether physical activity reduces the risk of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) for non-obese people remains unclear. The present cross-sectional study examined the association between physical activity and SDB among non-obese male Japanese workers.

METHODS
All 200 workers in a company in Tokyo, Japan, who drove a motor vehicle as part of their job, were invited to be screened for SDB to prevent traffic accidents. Of these, 195 agreed to participate in this study. The number of apnea and hypopnea episodes occurring during one night was measured using a single-channel airflow monitor to obtain an individual respiratory disturbance index (RDI). SDB was defined as RDI ≥15 apneas/hypopneas/h. Non-obese males (body mass index <30 kg/m2) were included in the analysis. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for SDB by physical activity level tertile, as measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

RESULTS
The prevalence of SDB was 26.9%. The unadjusted analysis showed a significant inverse association between physical activity and SDB: crude ORs for the tertiles of physical activity were 1.00 (low), 1.58 (middle), and 0.27 (high) (95% CI 0.08-0.88; P for trend = 0.007). However, this association was attenuated after adjusting for covariates: Adjusted ORs were 1.00 (low), 1.65 (middle), and 0.41 (high) (95% CI 0.10-1.61; P for trend = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS
In a cross-sectional study among non-obese male workers in Japan, we found no significant association between physical activity and SDB.

Itoh|Hiroaki|H| Yokoyama|Kazuhito|K| Matsukawa|Takehisa|T| Kitamura|Fumihiko|F|

Physical activity
Epidemiology
Physical exercise
Sleep apnea


Analysis of two Mexican Pectobacterium brasiliense strains reveals an inverted relationship between c-di-GMP levels with exopolysaccharide production and swarming motility.

Abstract: Pectobacterium is a diverse genus of phytopathogenic species from soil and water that cause infection either to restricted or multiple plant hosts. Phylogenetic analysis and metabolic fingerprinting of large numbers of genomes have expanded classification of Pectobacterium members. Pectobacterium brasiliense sp. nov has been elevated to the species level having detached from P. carotovorum. Here we present two P. brasiliense strains BF20 and BF45 isolated in Mexico from Opuntia and tobacco, respectively, which cluster into two different groups in whole genome comparisons with other Pectobacterium. We found that BF20 and BF45 strains are phenotypically different as BF45 showed more severe and rapid symptoms in comparison to BF20 in the host models celery and broccoli. Both strains produced similar levels of the main autoinducers, but BF45 shows an additional low abundant autoinducer compared to strain BF20. The two strains had different levels of c-di-GMP, which regulates the transition from motile to sessile lifestyle. In contrast to BF45, BF20 had the highest levels of c-di-GMP, was more motile (swarming), non-flocculant and less proficient in biofilm formation and exopolysaccharide production. Genomic comparisons revealed that differences in c-di-GMP accumulation and perhaps the associated phenotypes might be due to unique c-di-GMP metabolic genes in these two strains. Our results improve our understanding of the associations between phenotype and genotype and how this has shaped the physiology of Pectobacterium strains.

Narváez-Barragán|Delia A|DA|
de Sandozequi|Andrés|A|
Rodríguez|Mabel|M|
Estrada|Karel|K|
Tovar-Herrera|Omar E|OE|
Martínez-Anaya|Claudia|C|

Pectobacterium C-Di-GMP Swarming Autoinducer Virulence


Irregular daily energy intake and diet quality in Iranian adults.

Abstract: The present cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association of daily irregularity in energy intake and diet quality among apparently healthy adults in Iran. The research was conducted on 850 adult men and women (age range: 20-59 years) who attended health care centres in Tehran. Dietary intake was assessed by three, 24-h dietary recalls. Diet quality was assessed using the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet score and Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015). An irregularity score of daily energy intake was calculated based on the deviation from the 3-d mean energy intake, with a higher score indicating more fluctuations in daily energy intake. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the association of irregularity score of daily energy intake with food group intakes and DASH diet score and HEI-2015, controlling for age, sex, BMI, physical activity, education level and occupation status. The range of irregularity score was 0·55-133·3 (22·4 (sd 19·0)). Higher irregularity score of daily energy intake was significantly associated with a lower consumption of fruit, vegetables, legumes, low-fat dairy products and poultry, higher consumption of soft drinks, processed meat and nuts, and lower overall DASH diet score and HEI-2015. Overall, our findings showed that more day-to-day variations in energy intake may be correlated with a lower diet quality. More research is needed to confirm the associations observed in the present study and to clarify potential mechanisms explaining these associations.

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet


Suppressive effects of levobupivacaine on endotoxin-induced microglial activation.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
We sought to elucidate the effects of levobupivacaine on modulating endotoxin-induced upregulation of inflammatory mediators and activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways in activated microglia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Confluent murine microglia (BV-2) were treated with endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, 50 ng/mL) or endotoxin plus levobupivacaine (5, 25, or 50 μM) and denoted as the LPS, LPS + L(5), LPS + L(25), and LPS + L(50) groups, respectively. Levobupivacaine was administered immediately after endotoxin. Control groups were run simultaneously.

RESULTS
The concentrations of inflammatory mediators, including macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (P = 0.023 and 0.016), tumor necrosis factor-α (P = 0.025 and 0.020), interleukin (IL)-1β (P = 0.018 and 0.014), IL-6 (P = 0.029 and 0.023), nitric oxide (P = 0.025 and 0.026), and prostaglandin E2 (P = 0.028 and 0.016) of the LPS + L(25) and LPS + L(50) groups were significantly lower than those of the LPS group. The concentrations of macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (P = 0.035), IL-1β (P = 0.024), nitric oxide (P = 0.031), and prostaglandin E2 (P = 0.036) but not tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 of the LPS + L(5) group were also significantly lower than those of the LPS group. These data revealed that effects of endotoxin on upregulating inflammatory mediators were inhibited by levobupivacaine. Moreover, effects of endotoxin on activating NF-κB, including inhibitor-κB degradation, NF-κB nuclear translocation, and NF-κB-DNA binding, were also inhibited by levobupivacaine. Similarly, effects of endotoxin on activating MAPKs, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 MAPK, were also significantly inhibited by levobupivacaine.

CONCLUSIONS
Levobupivacaine significantly inhibited endotoxin-induced upregulation of inflammatory mediators and activation of NF-κB and MAPKs signaling pathways in activated microglia.

Huang|Ya-Hsien|YH| Yen|Jiin-Cherng|JC| Lee|Jie-Jen|JJ| Liao|Jyh-Fei|JF| Liaw|Wen-Jinn|WJ| Huang|Chun-Jen|CJ|

D020929:Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinases

NF-κB MAPK Microglia LPS Chemokine Cytokine


Native joint septic arthritis due to Kingella kingae in an adult.

Abstract: A 65-year-old woman with chronic osteoarthritis of the knees presented with a one-week history of acutely worsening right knee pain and swelling. Arthrocentesis was performed and synovial fluid was indicative of septic arthritis with a negative Gram stain for bacteria. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was obtained, revealing a large anterior periarticular abscess with concomitant septic arthritis. Orthopedic surgeons performed urgent incision and drainage of the abscess and washout of the joint. Synovial fluid culture grew Kingella kingae and the patient was treated with four weeks of ceftriaxone with improvement in both clinical symptoms and laboratory values. Kingella kingae is a common cause of pediatric bone and joint infection but remains an exceedingly rare cause of native joint septic arthritis among immunocompetent adults. Kingella spp are largely susceptible to beta-lactam antimicrobials.

Chen|Benjamin|B| Kobayashi|Takaaki|T| Samra|Hasan|H| Sekar|Poorani|P|

Septic arthritis
Kingella kingae
Orthopedics
Infectious disease


Sequence-Controlled Synthesis of Advanced Clickable Synthetic Oligonucleotides.

Abstract: Through thiol-ene photopolymerization of presynthesized oligomers, advanced clickable nucleic acids (CNA-2G) are synthesized with sequence-controlled repeating units. As examples, poly(thymine-adenine) (polyTA) CNA-2G and poly(thymine-thymine-cytosine) CNA-2G are synthesized by polymerizing thiol-ene heterofunctional dimers with pendant thymine-adenine nucleobases and trimer with pendant thymine-thymine-cytosine nucleobases. Based on size exclusion chromatography (SEC) analysis, polyTA and polyTTC have number average molecular weights of 2000 and 1800, respectively, which contain 7-8 pendant nucleobases. Based on the different behavior of the CNA-2G monomers and CNA-2G oligomers with two or more pendant nucleobases in photopolymerization, an unusual thiol-ene chain-growth propagation mechanism is observed for the former and a common thiol-ene step-growth propagation mechanism for the latter. The uncommon thiol-ene chain-growth propagation is hypothesized to rely on a six-membered ring mediated intramolecular hydrogen atom transfer process.

sequence-control thiol-ene photopolymerization click-reaction nucleotides


A rare chronic constrictive pericarditis with localized adherent visceral pericardium and normal parietal pericardium: a case report.

Abstract: Classic constrictive pericarditis (CP) is characterized by fibrous scarring and adhesion of both the visceral pericardium and the parietal pericardium, which leads to restricted cardiac filling. However, diagnosing CP with normal thickness pericardium and without calcification is still a challenge. The predominant cause in the developed world is idiopathic or viral pericarditis followed by post-cardiac surgery and post-radiation. Tuberculosis still remains a common cause of CP in developing countries. In this report, we describe a rare case of idiopathic localized constrictive visceral pericardium with normal thickness of the parietal pericardium in a middle-aged man. The patient presented with unexplained right heart failure and echocardiography showed moderate bi-atrial enlargement which should be identified with the restrictive cardiomyopathy. After 10 months of conservative treatment, the progression of right heart failure was remaining. A pericardiectomy was performed and the patient recovered. This case serves as a reminder to consider CP in patients with unexplained right heart failure, so that timely investigation and treatment can be initiated.

Ni|Qingqiang|Q| Yun|Lin|L| Xu|Rui|R| Li|Guohua|G| Yao|Yucai|Y| Li|Jiamin|J|

constrictive pericarditis
heart failure
pericardiectomy


LncRNA SNHG15 modulates gastric cancer tumorigenesis by impairing miR-506-5p expression.

Abstract: The gastric cancer (GC) patients commonly have a poor prognosis due to its invasiveness and distant metastasis. Growing evidence proved that aberrant long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression contributes to tumor development and progression. LncRNA SNHG15 has been reported to be involved in many different kinds of cancer, while its role in GC remains unclear. In the present study, we found that SNHG15 was up-regulated in GC tissues and cell lines. Silencing SNHG15 suppressed proliferation migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis of AGS cells. More importantly, microRNA-506-5p (miR-506-5p) was predicted as a direct target of SNHG15 by binding its 3'-UTR and further verified using luciferase reporter assay. Meanwhile, the results of rescue experiments revealed that knockdown of miR-506-5p expression reversed the functional effects of SNHG15 silenced cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. In conclusion, our findings revealed that SNHG15 executed oncogenic properties in GC progression through targeting miR-506-5p, which might provide a novel target for the GC treatment.

Chen|Zhiping|Z| Zhong|Tianyu|T| Li|Tao|T| Zhong|Jinghua|J| Tang|Yang|Y| Liu|Zhanyu|Z| Ling|Baodian|B| Wang|Lanfeng|L|0000-0002-5678-4743

LncRNA SNHG15
Gastric cancer
Proliferation
Apoptosis
MicroRNA-506-5p


Disulfide Bonds Enable Accelerated Protein Evolution.

Abstract: The different proteins of any proteome evolve at enormously different rates. What factors contribute to this variability, and to what extent, is still a largely open question. We hypothesized that disulfide bonds, by increasing protein stability, should make proteins' structures relatively independent of their amino acid sequences, thus acting as buffers of deleterious mutations and enabling accelerated sequence evolution. In agreement with this hypothesis, we observed that membrane proteins with disulfide bonds evolved 88% faster than those without disulfide bonds, and that extracellular proteins with disulfide bonds evolved 49% faster than those without disulfide bonds. In addition, genes encoding proteins with disulfide bonds exhibit an increased likelihood of showing signatures of positive selection. Multivariate analyses indicate that the trend is independent of a number of potentially confounding factors. The effect, however, is not observed among the longest proteins, which can become stabilized by mechanisms other than disulfide bonds.

dN/dS
disulfide bridges
rates of evolution


The antibacterial activity of sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine against Enterococcus faecalis: A review on agar diffusion and direct contact methods.

Abstract: Complete debridement and disinfection of the root canal system are fundamental requirements for successful endodontic treatment. Despite the morphological challenges of the internal root anatomy, root canal irrigants play an important role in the optimization of the root canal preparation, which is essentially a chemo-mechanical procedure. Enterococcus faecalis is one of the most resistant microorganisms that dominants the microbial ecosystem of persistent periradicular lesions in retreatment cases. For that reason, many in vitro and in vivo studies evaluated and compared the antibacterial activity of sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine at varying concentrations using different experimental models against this microorganism. However, many controversies with regard to the ideal irrigant and concentration do in fact exist. Hence, this review aims to discuss the antibacterial activity of these two main root canal irrigants against Enterococcus faecalis using the agar diffusion and direct contact methods and the possible modulating factors responsible for inconsistent findings among different studies. In addition, the disinfection potential of both chemical agents on gutta percha and Resilon cones are also discussed. The source of this review was conducted through an electronic literature search using PubMed database from December 1997 until December 2011, which analyze the related laboratory investigations of both irrigants, published in major endodontic journals.

Luddin|Norhayati|N|
Ahmed|Hany Mohamed Aly|HM|

sodium hypochlorite
chlorhexidine
enterococcus faecalis
Agar diffusion
direct contact
irrigants


Ameliorative effect of allicin on vascular calcification via inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
Vascular calcification (VC) is an independent predictor for cardiovascular events and mortality. However, there are currently no effective methods to reverse or prevent it. The present study aimed to determine the ameliorative effect of allicin on VC.

METHODS
VC model of rats was induced by high-dose vitamin D3, which was valued by Alizarin Red staining, calcium contents, and alkaline phosphatase in the aorta. Systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and pulse wave velocity were measured to determine aortic stiffness. Protein levels were detected by Western blot.

RESULTS
Allicin treatment rescued aortic VC and stiffness. The increased protein levels of RUNX2 and BMP2, two markers of osteoblastic phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells, in the calcified aorta were attenuated by allicin, whereas the decreased levels of calponin and SM22α induced by calcification were improved. Allicin treatment significantly attenuated the increased protein levels of GRP78, GRP94, and CHOP, which are key markers of endoplasmic reticulum stress, in the calcified aorta. The activation of PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 cascades was also prevented by allicin.

CONCLUSIONS
Allicin could ameliorate aortic VC and stiffness. The ameliorative effect of allicin on VC might be mediated by inhibiting PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 cascades. Our results might provide a new proof for VC treatment.

Allicin
vascular calcification
endoplasmic reticulum stress
aorta
vascular smooth muscle cells


A tuber mustard AP2/ERF transcription factor gene, BjABR1, functioning in abscisic acid and abiotic stress responses, and evolutionary trajectory of the ABR1 homologous genes in Brassica species.

Abstract: The AP2/ERF superfamily of transcription factors is one of the largest transcription factor families in plants and plays an important role in plant development processes and stress responses. In this study, BjABR1, an AP2/ERF superfamily gene, from tuber mustard (Brassica juncea var. tumida Tsen et Lee), sharing high amino acid sequence similarity with the AtABR1 (Arabidopsis thaliana AP2-like abscisic acid repressor 1) gene, were performed functional research, and the ABR1 homologous genes in Brassica species were identified and performed phylogenetic analysis. The promoter sequence of BjABR1 contained many phytohormone- and stress-related cis-elements; ABA (abscisic acid) and abiotic stresses can induce BjABR1 expression in tuber mustard; overexpression of BjABR1 in Arabidopsis can alleviate plant sensitivity to ABA and salt and osmotic stresses, and the alleviation may be due to changes in stress/ABA-induced gene expression. These results indicated that BjABR1 functions in ABA and abiotic stress responses. By BLAST searches against the genome database of five Brassica species (three diploids, B. rapa, B. nigra, and B. oleracea, and two allotetraploid, B. juncea and B. napus) using the protein sequence of AtABR1, 3, 3, 3, 6, and 5 ABR1 homologous genes in B. nigra, B. rapa, B. oleracea, B. juncea, and B. napus were identified, respectively, and they shared high sequence similarity. By sequence analysis, annotation mistakes of the protein-coding regions of two ABR1 homologous genes, GSBRNA2T00134741001 and BjuB007684, were found and corrected. Then, the evolution analysis of these ABR1 homologous genes showed that the ancestor of the three diploid species had three ABR1 homologous genes and each diploid inherited all the three genes from their ancestor; then, allotetraploid B. juncea inherited all the six genes from B. rapa and B. nigra with no gene lost, while allotetraploid B. napus inherited all the three genes from B. oleracea and two genes from B. rapa with one gene lost, indicating that ABR1 homologous genes possessed greater hereditary conservation in Brassica species. The ABR1 homologous genes between B. rapa and B. oleracea shared much higher sequence similarity compared to that of B. nigra in diploid species, indicating that ABR1 homologous genes in B. nigra had experienced more rapid evolution, and B. rapa and B. oleracea may share closer relationship compared to B. nigra. Moreover, the spatial and temporal expression analysis of six ABR1 homologous genes of tuber mustard showed that they possessed different expression models. These results imply that ABR1 homologous genes are important to Brassica plants, and they may possess similar function in ABA and abiotic stress responses but play a role in different tissues and growing stages of plant. This study will provide the foundation to the functional research of ABR1 homologous genes in the Brassica species and help to reveal and understand the evolution mechanisms of Brassica species.

Xiang|Liuxin|L| Liu|Chao|C| Luo|Jingzhi|J| He|Lin|L| Deng|Yushan|Y| Yuan|Jie|J| Wu|Chaofeng|C| Cai|Yingfan|Y|

Abiotic stress and abscisic acid responses


The effect of tibiotalar alignment on coronal plane mechanics following total ankle replacement.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Gait mechanics following total ankle replacement (TAR) have reported improved ankle motion following surgery. However, no studies have addressed the impact of preoperative radiographic tibiotalar alignment on post-TAR gait mechanics. We therefore investigated whether preoperative tibiotalar alignment (varus, valgus, or neutral) resulted in significantly different coronal plane mechanics or ground reaction forces post-TAR.

METHODS
We conducted a non-randomized study of 93 consecutive end-stage ankle arthritis patients. Standard weight-bearing radiographs were obtained preoperatively to categorize patients as having neutral (±4°), varus (≥5° of varus), or valgus (≥5° of valgus) coronal plane tibiotalar alignment. All patients underwent a standard walking assessment including three-dimensional lower extremity kinetics and kinematics preoperatively, 12 and 24 months postoperatively.

RESULTS
A significant group by time interaction was observed for the propulsive vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), coronal plane hip range of motion (ROM) and the peak hip abduction moment. The valgus group demonstrated an increase in the peak knee adduction angle and knee adduction angle at heel strike when compared to the other groups. Coronal plane ankle ROM, knee and hip angles at heel strike, and the peak hip angle exhibited significant increases across time. Peak ankle inversion moment, peak knee abduction moment and the weight acceptance vGRF also exhibited significant increases across time. Neutral ankle alignment was achieved for all patients by 2 years following TAR.

CONCLUSIONS
Restoration of neutral ankle alignment at the time of TAR in patients with preoperative varus or valgus tibiotalar alignment resulted in biomechanics similar to those of patients with neutral preoperative tibiotalar alignment by 24-month follow-up.

Grier|A Jordan|AJ|
Schmitt|Abigail C|AC|
Adams|Samuel B|SB|
Queen|Robin M|RM|

Tibiotalar alignment
Total ankle replacement
Outcomes
Walking mechanics


Molecular dynamics investigation on the poor sensitivity of A171T mutant NEDD8-activating enzyme (NAE) for MLN4924.

Abstract: MLN4924 is an adenosine sulfamate analog that generates the inhibitory NEDD8-MLN4924 covalent complex. A single nucleotide transition that changes alanine 171 to threonine (A171T) of the NAE subunit UBA3 reduces the enzyme's sensitivity for MLN4924. Our molecular dynamics simulation study revealed that A171T transition brought remarkable conformational changes in enzyme structure (open ATP binding pocket), which reduced the interaction between MLN4924 and ATP binding pocket while wild form completely covered the MLN4924. A total difference of -49.75 kJ/mol was noticed in interaction energy (electrostatic and van der Waals) during simulation between mutant and wild form with MLN4924. Superimposition of final 20 ns mutant structure with reference structure showed significant change in native binding position as compared to wild form. Results were found in coherence with the recently reported in vitro studies which states that A171T transition leads to change in ATP binding pocket structure.

NEDD8-activating enzyme
MLN4924
molecular dynamics simulation
A171T mutant NAE
essential dynamics


A Diarylethene-Based Photoswitch and its Photomodulation of the Fluorescence of Conjugated Polymers.

Abstract: Photochromic diarylethene derivatives, which can reversibly switch the fluorescence of adjacent fluorophores between the ON and OFF states under light irradiation, have been widely used to construct photoswitchable materials. Herein, eight dithienylethene (DTE) groups are integrated onto one polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) core, obtaining a novel super molecular photoswitch. After being doped into conjugated polymer nanoparticles, the POSS-DTE8 molecules show a higher contrast on/off photoswitching performance and a quicker responsive speed than free DTE molecules at same molar concentration of photochromic units. This enhanced photoswitching efficiency is attributed to the increased molecular interaction of the ring-open form and lowered energy of the ring-closed form of the DTE units on the POSS core, which is beneficial for the ring-closing reaction and subsequent energy transfer between photoswitch and fluorophores. In addition, POSS-DTE8 also exhibits good photomodulation behavior in the conjugated polymer film, giving it potential applications in optical devices.

photoswitch
fluorescence
diarylethenes
conjugated polymer nanoparticles
photoactivity


Ischemic Ulcer Pain Is Both Nociceptive and Neuropathic Pain Based on a Discriminant Function Analysis Using the McGill Pain Questionnaire.

Abstract: The McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) is composed of 78 words reflecting the mechanisms underlying chronic pain conditions. Ischemic ulcer pain is generally regarded as a nociceptive and inflammatory pain condition. However, it is sometimes refractory to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and opioid treatment. We categorized ischemic pain into nociceptive/inflammatory pain (NocP) or neuropathic pain (NeP), on the basis of patients' descriptions of their pain using the MPQ. We investigated pain characteristics of 365 patients with NeP and 124 with NocP using the 78 words of the MPQ. We thereby developed a discriminant function, which efficiently discriminates descriptions of NocP from those of NeP. We applied this function to 18 ischemic pain patients (before and after peripheral revascularization) and categorized their pain as either NocP or NeP. The discriminant probability of the function was 72.8% (P <.05), suggesting relatively accurate discrimination of NocP from NeP. Among the 78 words, only "annoying" was not utilized for the function. On the basis of this function, 9 of the 18 ischemic pain patients' complaints were classified as NeP. Ten patients received revascularization and after revascularization, 7 of 10 patients' complaints were still NeP. Our results suggest that ischemic ulcer pain should be regarded as a mixed pain condition composed of both NocP and NeP and that it might be treated with medications for NeP (e.g., pregabalin, duloxetine) in combination with NSAIDs and opioids.

Kogure|Takamichi|T| Sumitani|Masahiko|M| Abe|Hiroaki|H| Hozumi|Jun|J| Inoue|Reo|R| Mietani|Kazuhito|K| Kawahara|Kazuo|K| Yamada|Yoshitsugu|Y|

ischemic ulcer pain
neuropathic pain
McGill Pain Questionnaire
nociceptive/inflammatory pain
revascularization
mixed pain condition


Plasma bioavailability and changes in PBMC gene expression after treatment of ovariectomized rats with a commercial soy supplement.

Abstract: The health effects of soy supplementation in (post)menopausal women are still a controversial issue. The aim of the present study was to establish the effect of the soy isoflavones (SIF) present in a commercially available supplement on ovariectomized rats and to investigate whether these rats would provide an adequate model to predict effects of SIF in (post)menopausal women. Two dose levels (i.e. 2 and 20 mg/kg b.w.) were used to characterize plasma bioavailability, urinary and fecal concentrations of SIF and changes in gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Animals were dosed at 0 and 48 h and sacrificed 4 h after the last dose. A clear dose dependent increase of SIF concentrations in plasma, urine and feces was observed, together with a strong correlation in changes in gene expression between the two dose groups. All estrogen responsive genes and related biological pathways (BPs) that were affected by the SIF treatment were regulated in both dose groups in the same direction and indicate beneficial effects. However, in general no correlation was found between the changes in gene expression in rat PBMC with those in PBMC of (post)menopausal women exposed to a comparable dose of the same supplement. The outcome of this short-term study in rats indicates that the rat might not be a suitable model to predict effects of SIF in humans. Although the relative exposure period in this rat study is comparable with that of the human study, longer repetitive administration of rats to SIF may be required to draw a final conclusion on the suitability of the rat a model to predict effects of SIF in humans.

Islam|Mohammed A|MA|
Hooiveld|Guido J E J|GJEJ|
van den Berg|Johannes H J|JHJ|
Boekschoten|Mark V|MV|
van der Velpen|Vera|V|
Murk|Albertinka J|AJ|
Rietjens|Ivonne M C M|IMCM|
van Leeuwen|F X Rolaf|FXR|

HPLC, high performance liquid chromatography

KEGG, kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes

NCBI, National Center for Biotechnology Information

PBMC, peripheral blood mononuclear cells

P P P R M R M M M M M M M M M M M R R U M


Revision of the termite family Rhinotermitidae (Isoptera) in New Guinea.

Abstract: Recently, we completed a revision of the Termitidae from New Guinea and neighboring islands, recording a total of 45 species. Here, we revise a second family, the Rhinotermitidae, to progress towards a full picture of the termite diversity in New Guinea. Altogether, 6 genera and 15 species are recorded, among which two species, Coptotermes gambrinus and Parrhinotermes barbatus, are new to science. The genus Heterotermes is reported from New Guinea for the first time, with two species restricted to the southern part of the island. We also provide the first New Guinea records for six species of the genera Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes. We briefly describe soldiers and imagoes of each species and provide a key based on soldier characters. Finally, we discuss the taxonomic and biogeographical implication of our results. A replacement name, Schedolimulus minutides Bourguignon, is proposed for the termitophilous staphylinid Schedolimulus minutus Bourguignon, to solve a question of secondary homonymy.

termites
Indonesia
Papua New Guinea
new species


Modeling Electrostatic Force in Protein-Protein Recognition.

Abstract: Electrostatic interactions are important for understanding molecular interactions, since they are long-range interactions and can guide binding partners to their correct binding positions. To investigate the role of electrostatic forces in molecular recognition, we calculated electrostatic forces between binding partners separated at various distances. The investigation was done on a large set of 275 protein complexes using recently developed DelPhiForce tool and in parallel, evaluating the total electrostatic force via electrostatic association energy. To accomplish the goal, we developed a method to find an appropriate direction to move one chain of protein complex away from its bound position and then calculate the corresponding electrostatic force as a function of separation distance. It is demonstrated that at large distances between the partners, the electrostatic force (magnitude and direction) is consistent among the protocols used and the main factors contributing to it are the net charge of the partners and their interfaces. However, at short distances, where partners form specific pair-wise interactions or de-solvation penalty becomes significant, the outcome depends on the precise balance of these factors. Based on the electrostatic force profile (force as a function of distance), we group the cases into four distinctive categories, among which the most intriguing is the case termed "soft landing." In this case, the electrostatic force at large distances is favorable assisting the partners to come together, while at short distance it opposes binding, and thus slows down the approach of the partners toward their physical binding.

Shashikala|H B Mihiri|HBM|
Chakravorty|Arghya|A|
Alexov|Emil|E|

electrostatic force
electrostatics
binding
molecular recognition
polar solvation energy


Genetic disorders of GH action pathway.

Abstract: While insensitivity to GH (GHI) is characterized by low IGF-I levels, normal or elevated GH levels, and lack of IGF-I response to GH treatment, IGF-I resistance is characterized by elevated IGF-I levels with normal/high GH levels. Several genetic defects are responsible for impairment of GH and IGF-I actions resulting in short stature that could affect intrauterine growth or be present in the postnatal period. The genetic defects affecting GH and/or IGF-I action can be divided into five different groups: GH insensitivity by defects affecting the GH receptor (GHR), the intracellular GH signaling pathway (STAT5B, STAT3, IKBKB, IL2RG, PIK3R1), the synthesis of insulin-like growth factors (IGF1, IGF2), the transport/bioavailability of IGFs (IGFALS, PAPPA2), and defects affecting IGF-I sensitivity (IGF1R). Complete GH insensitivity (GHI) was first reported by Zvi Laron and his colleagues in patients with classical appearance of GH deficiency, but presenting elevated levels of GH. The association of GH insensitivity with several clinical sings of immune-dysfunction and autoimmune dysregulation are characteristic of molecular defects in the intracellular GH signaling pathway (STAT5B, STAT3, IKBKB, IL2RG, PIK3R1). Gene mutations in the IGF1 and IGF2 genes have been described in patients presenting intrauterine growth retardation and postnatal short stature. Molecular defects have also been reported in the IGFALS gene, that encodes the acid-labile subunit (ALS), responsible to stabilize circulating IGF-I in ternary complexes, and more recently in the PAPPA2 gen that encodes the pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A2, a protease that specifically cleaves IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-5 regulating the accessibility of IGFs to their target tissues. Mutations in the IGF1R gene resulted in IGF-I insensitivity in patients with impaired intrauterine and postnatal growth. These studies have revealed novel molecular mechanisms of GH insensitivity/primary IGF-I deficiency beyond the GH receptor gene. In addition, they have also underlined the importance of several players of the GH-IGF axis in the complex system that promotes human growth.

D005819:Genetic Markers
D006130:Growth Disorders
D019382:Human Growth Hormone
D006801:Humans
D015398:Signal Transduction


Refractory urticaria and the importance of diagnosing Schnitzler's syndrome.

Abstract: A 52-year-old man presented with chronic urticaria that was refractory to standard chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) treatment. Over time, he developed systemic symptoms including fatigue, weight loss, arthralgia and bone pain. His laboratory investigations also became significant for microcytic anaemia, neutrophilia and elevated C reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and IgE levels, in addition to an IgM monoclonal protein. He achieved only partial remission with typical medications for CSU including omalizumab, cyclosporine and cetirizine. After 6 years, his worsening symptoms and abnormal investigations led to a rare diagnosis of Schnitzler's syndrome and a trial of the interleukin 1 receptor antagonist, anakinra, which caused a rapid and complete resolution of his symptoms.

Nham|Tina|T|
Saleh|Carol|C|
Chu|Derek|D|
Vakaljan|Stephanie L|SL|
Ohayon|Jason A|JA|
Siegal|Deborah M|DM|

D053590:Interleukin 1 Receptor Antagonist Protein


Genomic variation between PRSV resistant transgenic SunUp and its progenitor cultivar Sunset.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The safety of genetically transformed plants remains a subject of scrutiny. Genomic variants in PRSV resistant transgenic papaya will provide evidence to rationally address such concerns.

RESULTS
In this study, a total of more than 74 million Illumina reads for progenitor 'Sunset' were mapped onto transgenic papaya 'SunUp' reference genome. 310,364 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 34,071 small Inserts/deletions (InDels) were detected between 'Sunset' and 'SunUp'. Those variations have an uneven distribution across nine chromosomes in papaya. Only 0.27% of mutations were predicted to be high-impact mutations. ATP-related categories were highly enriched among these high-impact genes. The SNP mutation rate was about 8.4 × 10- 4 per site, comparable with the rate induced by spontaneous mutation over numerous generations. The transition-to-transversion ratio was 1.439 and the predominant mutations were C/G to T/A transitions. A total of 3430 nuclear plastid DNA (NUPT) and 2764 nuclear mitochondrial DNA (NUMT) junction sites have been found in 'SunUp', which is proportionally higher than the predicted total NUPT and NUMT junction sites in 'Sunset' (3346 and 2745, respectively). Among all nuclear organelle DNA (norgDNA) junction sites, 96% of junction sites were shared by 'SunUp' and 'Sunset'. The average identity between 'SunUp' specific norgDNA and corresponding organelle genomes was higher than that of norgDNA shared by 'SunUp' and 'Sunset'. Six 'SunUp' organelle-like borders of transgenic insertions were nearly identical to corresponding sequences in organelle genomes (98.18 ~ 100%). None of the paired-end spans of mapped 'Sunset' reads were elongated by any 'SunUp' transformation plasmid derived inserts. Significant amounts of DNA were transferred from organelles to the nuclear genome during bombardment, including the six flanking sequences of the three transgenic insertions.

CONCLUSIONS
Comparative whole-genome analyses between 'SunUp' and 'Sunset' provide a reliable estimate of genome-wide variations and evidence of organelle-to-nucleus transfer of DNA associated with biolistic transformation.

D019470:Biolistics
D029441:Carica
D060467:Disease Resistance
D017343:Genes, Plant
D023281:Genomics
D016254:Mutagenesis, Insertional
D010935:Plant Diseases
D030821:Plants, Genetically Modified
D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
D017800:Potyvirus
D017384:Sequence Deletion
D014170:Transformation, Genetic
D000073336:Whole Genome Sequencing

Genomic variation
Nuclear plastid DNA (NUPT)
Carica papaya L.
Nuclear mitochondria DNA (NUMT)
Whole-genome resequencing


Estrogen Versus FSH Effects on Bone Metabolism: Evidence From Interventional Human Studies.

Abstract: Provocative mouse studies and observational human data have generated considerable enthusiasm for modulating follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) action in humans to prevent bone loss and, in addition, to treat obesity. This perspective summarizes the strengths and potential weaknesses of the mouse studies examining the skeletal phenotype of FSHβ or FSH receptor null mice, as well as more recent studies using FSH neutralizing antibodies. Although human observational studies do demonstrate correlation of serum FSH levels with postmenopausal bone loss, these studies cannot distinguish whether serum FSH is simply a better biomarker than estradiol or causally related to the bone loss. Establishing causality requires direct interventional studies either suppressing or infusing FSH in humans and to date, such studies have uniformly failed to demonstrate an effect of FSH on bone turnover independent of changes in sex steroid levels. In addition, suppression of FSH is unable to prevent increases in body fat following the induction of sex steroid deficiency, at least in men. Thus, although the preclinical mouse and human observational data are intriguing, there is currently no direct evidence from interventional studies that FSH regulates bone or fat metabolism in vivo in humans.

bone
follicle-stimulating hormone
sex steroids
fat


Multifaceted assessment of the APP/PS1 mouse model for Alzheimer's disease: Applying MRS, DTI, and ASL.

Abstract: Transgenic animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) can mimic pathological and behavioral changes occurring in AD patients, and are usually viewed as the first choice for testing novel therapeutics. Validated biomarkers, particularly non-invasive ones, are urgently needed for AD diagnosis or evaluation of treatment results. However, there are few studies that systematically characterize pathological changes in AD animal models. Here, we investigated the brain of 8-month-old amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1 (APP/PS1) transgenic and wild-type (WT) mice, employing 7.0-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and arterial spin labeling (ASL) were obtained through micro-MRI scanning. After MRI examination in both transgenic (n = 12) and WT (n = 12) mice, immunohistochemical staining and ultrastructural analysis were subsequently performed. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was significantly decreased in the left hippocampus, left thalamus, and right cortex of AD mice (P < 0.05). Moreover, MRS showed significantly changed NAA/Cr, Glu/Cr, and mI/Cr ratios in the hippocampus of transgenic mice. While only NAA/Cr and mI/Cr ratios varied significantly in the cortex of transgenic mice. Regarding DTI imaging, however, the values of FA, MD, DA and DR were not significantly different between transgenic and WT mice. Finally, it is worth noting that pathological damage of metabolism, CBF, and white matter was more distinct between transgenic and WT mice by pathological examination. Altogether, our results suggest that intravital imaging evaluation of 8-month-old APP/PS1 transgenic mice by MRS and ASL is an alternative tool for AD research.

Shen|Zhiwei|Z| Lei|Jianfeng|J| Li|Xueyuan|X| Wang|Zhanjing|Z| Bao|Xinjie|X| Wang|Renzhi|R|

D004578:Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy

MRS
DTI
ASL
MRI
APP/PS1 transgenic mice
Alzheimer’s disease


Screening for in vitro metabolites of kakkalide and irisolidone in human and rat intestinal bacteria by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

Abstract: Kakkalide and irisolidone, the main isoflavones of Flos Puerariae, exhibit a wide spectrum of bioactivities. Intestinal bacteria biotransformation plays an important role in the metabolic pathways of flavones, and is directly related to the bioactivities of the prodrugs after oral administration. To the best of our knowledge, the metabolic pathways of kakkalide and irisolidone in vitro have not been comprehensively studied yet. This paper describes the strategy using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q-TOF MS) for the rapid analysis of the metabolic profiles of kakkalide and irisolidone after incubated with human and rat intestinal bacteria. Bacteria incubated samples were prepared and analyzed after incubated under anaerobic conditions for 48 h. A total of 17 metabolites, including parent compounds, were detected in human and rat intestinal bacteria incubated samples. The results obtained indicate that hydrolysis, dehydroxylation, demethoxylation, demethylation, hydroxylation, decarbonylation, and reduction were the detected metabolic pathways of kakkalide and irisolidone in vitro. The conversion rate of irisolidone in human and rat bacteria was 8.57% and 6.51%, respectively. Biochanin A was the relatively main metabolite of irisolidone, and the content of biochanin A in human and rat bacteria was 3.68% and 4.25%, respectively. The conversion rate of kakkalide in human and rat bacteria was 99.92% and 98.58%, respectively. Irisolidone was the main metabolite of kakkalide, and the content of irisolidone in human and rat bacteria was 89.58% and 89.38%, respectively. This work not only provides the evidence of kakkalide and irisolidone metabolites in vivo, but also demonstrates a simple, fast, sensitive, and inexpensive method for identification of metabolites of other compounds transformed by intestinal bacteria.

Zhang|Guozhe|G| Gong|Tianxing|T| Kano|Yoshihiro|Y| Yuan|Dan|D|

D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid

calculated 1-octanol/water partition coefficient

P P P P P P P P P P U U U U U U U U M U U P P U U


β-Catenin signaling positively regulates glutamate uptake and metabolism in astrocytes.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Neurological disorders have been linked to abnormal excitatory neurotransmission. Perturbations in glutamate cycling can have profound impacts on normal activity, lead to excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation, and induce and/or exacerbate impairments in these diseases. Astrocytes play a key role in excitatory signaling as they both clear glutamate from the synaptic cleft and house enzymes responsible for glutamate conversion to glutamine. However, mechanisms responsible for the regulation of glutamate cycling, including the main astrocytic glutamate transporter excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2 or GLT-1 in rodents) and glutamine synthetase (GS) which catalyzes the ATP-dependent reaction of glutamate and ammonia into glutamine, remain largely undefined.

METHODS
Gain and loss of function for β-catenin in human progenitor-derived astrocyte (PDAs) was used to assess EAAT2 and GS levels by PCR, western blot, luciferase reporter assays, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Further, morpholinos were stereotaxically injected into C57BL/6 mice and western blots measured the protein levels of β-catenin, GLT-1, and GS.

RESULTS
β-Catenin, a transcriptional co-activator and the central mediator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, positively regulates EAAT2 and GS at the transcriptional level in PDAs by partnering with T cell factor 1 (TCF-1) and TCF-3, respectively. This pathway is conserved in vivo as the knockdown of β-catenin in the prefrontal cortex results in reduced GLT-1 and GS expression.

CONCLUSIONS
These studies confirm that β-catenin regulates key proteins responsible for excitatory glutamate neurotransmission in vitro and in vivo and reveal the therapeutic potential of β-catenin modulation in treating diseases with abnormal glutamatergic neurotransmission and excitotoxicity.

Lutgen|Victoria|V|
Narasipura|Srinivas D|SD|
Sharma|Amit|A|
Min|Stephanie|S|
Al-Harthi|Lena|L|

D027342:Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter 2

Excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2)


First-Principles Study on the Effect of Strain on Single-Layer Molybdenum Disulfide.

Abstract: By adopting the first-principles plane wave pseudopotential method based on density functional theory, the electronic structure properties of single-layer MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) crystals under biaxial strain are studied. The calculation results in this paper show that when a small strain is applied to a single-layer MoS2, its band structure changes from a direct band gap to an indirect band gap. As the strain increases, the energy band still maintains the characteristics of the indirect band gap, and the band gap shows a linear downward trend. Through further analysis of the density of states, sub-orbital density of states, thermodynamic parameters and Raman spectroscopy, it revealed the variation of single-layer MoS2 with strain. This provides a theoretical basis for realizing the strain regulation of MoS2.

energy band
compressive strain
molybdenum disulfide (MoS2)
tensile strain


The roles of excision repair cross-complementation group1 in objective response after cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy and survival in head and neck cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: Our aim of the study was to investigate the precise relationship of repair cross-complementation group 1 (ERCC1) expression and the survival as well as objective response rate to cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) and a meta-analysis was conducted to analysis ERCC1's prognostic roles in head and neck cancer. A search based on published articles in PubMed, Embase and CKNI database (up to Oct 15, 2014) to find eligible studies meeting eligibility criteria and then a meta-analysis was conducted to assess the outcomes in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) patients with different ERCC1 expression. The principle outcomes were hazard ratio (HR) for survival analysis and relative risks (RR) for objective response. Fixed or random model was used for calculation according to the heterogeneity. The results showed that 9 studies involving 568 patients met the inclusion criteria. Low/negative expression of ERCC1 was associated with longer overall survival (OS) and profession-free survival (PFS) after receiving cisplatin-based CCRT therapy (HR 0.38; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21-0.63; P<0.001 and HR 0.37; 95%CI 0.21-0.63; P<0.001). And there was no significant difference discovered in objective response rate between low/negative and high/positive ERCC1 expression (RR 1.19; 95%CI 1.00-1.43; P=0.06). Evidence of modest heterogeneity was found between ERCC1 expression and OS (I(2)=48.8%, P<0.05) and subgroup analysis was performed based on ethnicity, variable methods and primary tumor location. The conclusion is that ERCC1 might be the one of adverse prognostic factors affecting the survival time and objective response to cisplatin-based chemoradiotherap due to its drug-resistance characteristics.


Should hot biopsy forceps be abandoned for polypectomy of diminutive colorectal polyps?

Abstract: Standardized approach to polypectomy of diminutive colorectal polyps (DCPs) is lacking since cold biopsy forceps have been associated with high levels of recurrence, hot biopsy forceps are considered inadequate and risky and cold snaring is currently under investigation for its efficacy and safety. This has led to confusion and a gap in clinical practice. This article discusses the usefulness and contemporary practical applicability of hot biopsy forceps and provides well-intentioned criticism of the new European guidelines for the treatment of DCPs. Diminutive colorectal polyps are a source of frustration for the endoscopist since their small size is accompanied by a considerable risk of premalignant neoplasia and a small but non-negligible risk of advanced neoplasia and even cancer. Since the proportion of diminutive colorectal polyps is substantial and exceeds that of larger polyps, their effective removal poses a considerable workload and a therapeutic challenge. During the last decade, the introduction of cold snaring to routine endoscopy practice has attempted to overcome the use of prior techniques, such as hot biopsy forceps. It is important to recognize that with the exception of endoscopic methods that are obviously unsafe and inadequate to serve their purpose, all other interventional endoscopic methods are operator-dependent in the sense that specific expertise and training are obligatory for the success of any therapeutic intervention. Since relevant publications on hot biopsy forceps are still in favor of its careful use, as it has not yet demonstrated inferiority compared with newer techniques, it would be prudent for any medical practitioner to evaluate the available tools and judge any new proposed technique based on the evidence before it is adopted.

Panteris|Vasileios|V|
Vezakis|Antonios|A|
Triantafillidis|J K|JK|

D001706:Biopsy
D003111:Colonic Polyps
D003113:Colonoscopy
D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms
D000069916:Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
D006801:Humans
D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
D013525:Surgical Instruments

Polypectomy
Endoscopy
Colon neoplasia
Diminutive polyps
Hot forceps


Rectal aberrant crypt foci (ACF) as a predictor of benign and malignant neoplastic lesions in the large intestine.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The importance of ACF is not fully explained, however, their number may be a good predictor of synchronous and metachronic adenoma or other polyps whose removal reduces the risk of CRC. Due to the epidemiological and genetic association of ACF with pre-cancer lesions, they may be a potential CRC biomarker. The aim of our study was to show that the number and type of rectal ACF may be a good predictive factor for the presence of polyps located proximally from the splenic flexure and that the type and number of ACF can correlate with the number and specific types of polyps in the large intestine.

METHODS
The study included 131 patients who underwent colonoscopy combined with rectal mucosa staining with 0.25% methylene blue. The number of rectal ACF was determined and bioptats were sampled for histopathological examination to assess the type of ACF. Endoscopic ACF assessment criteria given by L. Roncucci were used. The obtained material was subjected to statistical analysis using probability distribution, U-test, t-student test, and chi 2 as well as the Statistica 7.1 software package.

RESULTS
The study population was divided into three subgroups according to the number of ACF observed, i.e. ACF < 5, 5-10 and > 10. ACF < 5 were found in 35 patients (29.41%), 5-10 ACF in 70 (58.82%) and ACF > 10 in 14 individuals (11.76%). The study revealed the presence of normal ACF (p = 0.49), hyperplastic ACF (p = 0.34), dysplastic ACF (p = 0.11), and mixed ACF (p = 0.06). A single type of ACF was most commonly observed (n = 88, p = 0.74). In the researched group a larger number of ACF is concurrent with adenomas and hyperplastic polyps. The number of ACF clearly correlates with the dysplasia advancement in the adenoma and the number of polyps found.

CONCLUSIONS
Rectal ACF are a useful marker for the presence of cancerous lesions in the proximal and distal sections of the large intestine.

Benign and malignant neoplastic lesions
Large intestine
Rectal ACF


Saponin fraction isolated from Conyza blinii H.Lév. demonstrates strong anti-cancer activity that is due to its NF-κB inhibition.

Abstract: CBS (Conyza blinii saponin) is the total triterpenoidal saponins of Conyza blinii H.Lév which is a type of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). We have discovered that CBS has a profound cytostatic activity against a range of solid tumour cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. We also confirm that the cytostatic activity of CBS originates from its apoptosis induction effect. Additionally, we use immunoblot to find out that the apoptosis induction effect of CBS is attributable to the activation of mitochondrial pathway. Mechanistic study demonstrates that CBS is an effective NF-κB inhibitor. It inhibits p65 nuclear translocation and NF-κB downstream gene expression, including XIAP, survivin, Bcl-xL, COX-2, cyclin D1, MMP-2, MMP-9 in HeLa cells. Tumour xenografted animal models verify the anti-cancer efficacy in vivo. Tumour growth is significantly repressed in two CBS-treated groups compared with the controls (P < 0.001). CBS treatment (i.g.) leads to a 48.5% and 57.0% reduction in terms of tumour weight for the 10 and 20 mg/kg dosed groups respectively. Also no apparent observable adverse effects can be seen. These results suggest that CBS obliterate tumour, at least in part due to its NF-κB inhibition, which creates potential for CBS to be developed as a practical cancer treatment.

Ma|Long|L| Liu|Haiyan|H| Qin|Ping|P| Hu|Chenxi|C| Man|Shuli|S| Li|Yuyin|Y| Liu|Zhen|Z| Liu|Zhenxing|Z| Diao|Aipo|A|

D023041:Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays

Saponin
Conyza blinii H.Lév.
Anti-Cancer activity
NF-κB inhibition
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
Apoptosis


Clinical outcomes following bifurcation double-stenting with bioresorbable scaffolds.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
To investigate outcomes following bifurcation double-stenting utilizing a bioresorbable scaffold (BRS) in the main branch (MB) and either a BRS or metallic drug-eluting stent (DES) in the side branch (SB).

BACKGROUNDS
Data on outcomes of bifurcation lesions treated with BRSs, especially with double-stenting, are currently lacking.

METHODS
Data were examined from 42 de novo bifurcation lesions (41 patients) treated with double-stenting utilizing Absorb BRS in MB and BRS/DES in SB. Clinical outcomes including cardiac death, follow-up myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization (TLR), and definite scaffold/stent thrombosis (ST) were investigated.

RESULTS
The majority of target lesions were left anterior descending artery (LAD) bifurcations, and intravascular imaging was used in the majority of cases (92.9%). In SBs, BRSs were utilized in 19 lesions (19 patients) and DESs in 23 lesions (22 patients). Angiographic success was achieved in all lesions. The median follow-up was 594 days (interquartile range 214 - 838 days). The overall TLR-rates were 9.7% at 1 year and 14.0% at 2 years (MB-TLR: 6.9% at 1 year and 11.1% at 2 years; SB TLR: 9.7% at 1 year and 14.0% at 2 years). No definite ST was observed during follow-up. TLR rates in both the MB and SB tended to be higher in the SB-BRS group when compared to the SB-DES group.

CONCLUSION
Mid-term clinical outcomes following double-stenting using BRS were acceptable. Bifurcation lesions treated with DES in SB tended to have lower TLR rates in both the MB and SB when compared to implanting BRS in both branches. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

bioresorbable scaffold
coronary artery disease
percutaneous coronary intervention


Modelling and Experimental Verification of Step Response Overshoot Removal in Electrothermally-Actuated MEMS Mirrors.

Abstract: Micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) mirrors are widely used for optical modulation, attenuation, steering, switching and tracking. In most cases, MEMS mirrors are packaged in air, resulting in overshoot and ringing upon actuation. In this paper, an electrothermal bimorph MEMS mirror that does not generate overshoot in step response, even operating in air, is reported. This is achieved by properly designing the thermal response time and the mechanical resonance without using any open-loop or closed-loop control. Electrothermal and thermomechanical lumped-element models are established. According to the analysis, when setting the product of the thermal response time and the fundamental resonance frequency to be greater than Q/2π, the mechanical overshoot and oscillation caused by a step signal can be eliminated effectively. This method is verified experimentally with fabricated electrothermal bimorph MEMS mirrors.

Li|Mengyuan|M| Chen|Qiao|Q| Liu|Yabing|Y| Ding|Yingtao|Y| Xie|Huikai|H|0000-0002-8393-0021

micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) mirror


Sexual Dysfunction in a Patient Taking Ledipasvir/Sofosbuvir for the Treatment of Hepatitis C: A Case Report.

Abstract: Sexual dysfunction is a bothersome side effect of several medications, though it has not yet been reported with the use of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir for the treatment of hepatitis C. However, sexual dysfunction is a potentially unrecognized side effect of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir that could result in nonadherence and treatment failure. We report a case of a 42-year-old man with a sudden onset of sexual dysfunction with the initiation of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir for the treatment of hepatitis C. The patient had no prior history or risk factors for the development of sexual dysfunction. His symptoms resolved upon discontinuation of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir after a successful 12-week course. Clinicians should be aware that sexual dysfunction is a possible side effect of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir and educate patients appropriately. Adherence should be emphasized as the risks of untreated hepatitis C virus far outweigh transient sexual dysfunction.

Lenz|Destin U|DU|
Crutcher|Effie L|EL|
Greene|Elisa M|EM|

D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

sexual dysfunction
ledipasvir/sofosbuvir
hepatitis C virus
Harvoni®


Degradation of organic pollutants by ultraviolet/ozone in high salinity condition: Non-radical pathway dominated by singlet oxygen.

Abstract: In this work, the combined ultraviolet ozone process (UV/O3) was applied for organic contaminant (Reactive Blue K-GL, RB) degradation in high salinity. The degradation rates of RB in both O3 and UV/O3 systems were enhanced by NaCl (the k increased from 0.080 to 0.116 to 0.132 and 0.267 min-1 respectively), while mineralization rate varied at different salt conditions. In addition, UV irradiation promoted the degradation efficiency of RB with the presence of salt. Singlet oxygen (1O2) was the primary active species in the UV/O3 system. The quenching experiments and signal intensity of 1O2 corresponded well to the mineralization of RB. Under conditions of high salinity and high pH, O3 has high mass transfer coefficient (kLa, 3.303 min-1) and self-decomposition (kd, 0.600 min-1), which further promoted the formation of 1O2 for mineralization of RB. Furthermore, UV/O3 system was efficient in real textile wastewater treatment (CODCr removal rate 91.7% and decolorization rate 98.7%).

Wang|Jie|J| Liu|Haibao|H| Ma|Defang|D| Wang|Yan|Y| Yao|Guangping|G| Yue|Qinyan|Q| Gao|Baoyu|B| Wang|Shue|S| Xu|Xing|X|

Ozone
UV irradiation
Non-radical oxidation
Ozone mass transfer
Saline wastewater


MiR-376b-3p Is Associated With Long-term Response to Sunitinib in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND/AIM
Sunitinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor routinely used as first-line therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Emerging evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) could be suitable biomarkers with predictive potential in mRCC. The aim of this study was to identify miRNA-based predictive biomarkers of therapy response to avoid unnecessary therapy to non-responding patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS
High-throughput miRNA microarray profiling was performed on a cohort of 47 patients treated with sunitinib. Validation of candidate miRNAs was carried out on an independent cohort of 132 mRCC patients using qRT-PCR.

RESULTS
Out of 158 miRNAs (65 down-regulated, 93 up-regulated), six miRNAs were chosen for independent validation and miR-376b-3p was confirmed to be differentially expressed in tumors of patients with primary resistance versus long-term response (p<0.0002).

CONCLUSION
A predictive miRNA associated with progression-free survival in metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients treated with sunitinib was identified.

Kovacova|Julia|J| Juracek|Jaroslav|J| Poprach|Alexandr|A| Kopecky|Jindrich|J| Fiala|Ondrej|O| Svoboda|Marek|M| Fabian|Pavel|P| Radova|Lenka|L| Brabec|Petr|P| Buchler|Tomas|T| Slaby|Ondrej|O|

sunitinib
Renal cell carcinoma
microRNA
prediction


Comparison of performances of five capillary blood collection tubes.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
The research demonstrated the way to compare performances of five capillary blood collection tubes for capillary blood collections among patients with pediatrics utilizing the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) document EP9-A2.

METHODS
A questionnaire survey was distributed to evaluate the accessibility and reliability of capillary blood collection tubes from different sources. Visual examination, microscopic examination of blood smears, and instrumental analysis were performed to evaluate the blood sample quality in different tubes. The background test, comparison test, and reliability test were used to analyze the engineering quality and the performance of additives in the tubes, and to determine the reliability of the tubes in routine blood tests.

RESULTS
The tubes of brand A were found to be easy to access, with a shorter blood collection time and greater acceptability by users, and the quality of blood samples in those tubes was superior, with no coagulation and less blood cell disruption.

CONCLUSION
Commercially available capillary blood collection tubes were superior to 'in-house' tubes. In clinical practice, 'in-house' capillary blood collection tubes are not recommended. The guideline of 'method comparison and bias estimation using patient samples' from CLSI could also be used in comparing the performances of capillary blood collections.

Peng|Z|Z| Mao|J|J| Li|W|W| Jiang|G|G| Zhou|J|J| Wang|S|S|

D001800:Blood Specimen Collection
D019538:Health Care Surveys
D006801:Humans
D015203:Reproducibility of Results
D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires

Capillary blood
blood collection tubes
performance comparison


Knowledge of Chronic Kidney Disease Among the Population of Saudi Arabia Evaluated Using a Validated Questionnaire: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract:
Introduction
Public knowledge and awareness regarding chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important factor influencing the successful implementation of CKD prevention and screening programs. To the best of our knowledge, there are no studies conducted among the Saudi population to explore the public knowledge of CKD using a validated questionnaire. Hence, we explored the knowledge of CKD among the population of the Kingdom of Saudi using a validated questionnaire to determine the level of knowledge regarding CKD as well as the predictors of CKD knowledge.

Materials and Methods
This was a cross-sectional online survey study conducted between 12 January 2020 and 11 February 2021. A structured study questionnaire in the GoogleTM platform, with socio-demographic variables and questions assessing CKD knowledge, was used to collect data. A snowball sampling technique was used to recruit participants.

Results
A total of 983 people accessed the survey and 951 provided a complete response. Respondents belonging to the age group 41-55 years, having masters or PhD level education, having monthly income >15,000 SR, married, doing >150 minutes/week physical activity had significantly higher kidney disease knowledge. There were significant differences in the mean kidney disease knowledge total score between participants with and without: a history of kidney disease (5.63, df = 895, p<0.001), diabetes mellitus (2.34, df = 949, p = 0.019), hypertension (3.25, df = 949, p = 0.001), and family history of kidney failure (4.60, df = 949, p<0.001).

Conclusion
The study revealed a lack of awareness among the Saudi population regarding knowledge about CKD. However, a significantly higher level of knowledge prevailed among respondents from higher educational and higher economic backgrounds. Those with risk factors for CKD also held a greater knowledge about the disease.

knowledge
validated questionnaire
CKD
Saudi population


Personal Branding: A Primer for Radiology Trainees and Radiologists.

Abstract: A radiologist's personal brand is a composite of many parts in one's professional life. In an age where work quality and digital footprints are tracked and measured more than ever before, it behooves radiologists to develop and curate their own individual brands in effective ways. Personal branding consists of the decisions we make, both consciously and unconsciously, which affect our reputation and the likelihood of seeking our services in the future for both patients and referring providers. As hospital systems are increasingly adjusting their systems to cater to better patient experiences, it is imperative that radiologists similarly adjust our practice patterns to accommodate the needs of the new paradigm of value-based care. It is no longer sufficient to only practice excellent clinical radiology; one's service experience to clinical providers, report quality, and digital presence must all be robust and compelling. Defining your brand and promoting your vision and quality standards have become as important to radiologists' future as keeping up with advancements in radiologic technology. One must select the proper platforms and types of interactions in which to engage from available social media options. Developing a consistent brand and presence in the work setting, on social media accounts, and in professional organizations at the local, national, and international levels is the ultimate goal. At present, very little, if any, formal training is provided on personal branding skills such as these in current residency curricula, and it is critical for radiologists to fill their gaps in knowledge through additional means.

Kalia|Vivek|V|
Patel|Amy K|AK|
Moriarity|Andrew K|AK|
Canon|Cheri L|CL|

Branding
value-based care
social media
leadership