Simulated digestion of polystyrene foam enhances desorption of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and In vitro estrogenic activity in a size-dependent manner.

Abstract: Marine polychaetes and fish are known to ingest polystyrene microparticles in the environment. Laboratory microplastic feeding experiments have demonstrated that plastic may release endocrine-disrupting compounds such as diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), which can cause adverse effects in both vertebrates and invertebrates. In order to determine the influence of size and digestive conditions on the desorption of DEHP and other plasticizers to polychaetes and fish, we exposed polystyrene particles of various sizes under invertebrate and vertebrate digestive conditions (vertebrate mimic; pepsin, pH = 2.0, 24 °C, invertebrate mimic; Na taurocholate pH = 7, 18 °C). Estrogen receptor activation and concentrations of 12 plasticizers were measured in the extracts. DEHP, bisphenol S and 4-tert-octylphenol were the only compounds detected. Simulated vertebrate gut digestion did not significantly enhance the release of chemicals nor estrogenic activity. However, a 6.3 ± 2.0-fold increase in the concentration of DEHP was observed in extracts from invertebrate gut conditions (Mean ± SD; N = 24, p < 0.0001). Additionally, estimated particle surface area was positively correlated with estrogenic activity across all treatment types (r = 0.85, p < 0.0001). Overall, these data indicate an elevated bioaccessibility of DEHP may occur in invertebrates, and size-dependent desorption of uncharacterized estrogenic compounds from plastic suggest additional complexity when considering the risks of MP to aquatic organisms.

Coffin|Scott|S| Lee|Ilkeun|I| Gan|Jay|J| Schlenk|Daniel|D|

Microplastics
Estrogen receptor
Bioaccessibility
Eco-toxicology
In vitro bioassay


Characterization of polysaccharide from Pleurotus eryngii during simulated gastrointestinal digestion and fermentation.

Abstract: Pleurotus eryngii is a valuable new edible mushroom variety cultivated on a large scale in China. The polysaccharides found in this mushroom are strong bioactive. This study used simulated digestion and fermentation model to study the digestion and fermentation characteristics of Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharide (PEP) and its effect on gut microbiota. The results showed that the molecular weight of PEP remained unchanged after simulated digestion, and the overall structure of PEP was not destroyed, indicating that PEP was not decomposed during digestion. However, during fermentation, PEP was degraded and utilized by intestinal flora to produce a variety of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which reduced the pH value in fecal cultures. Meanwhile, PEP regulated the composition of intestinal flora, and the relative abundance of Firmicutes increased significantly. These suggests that PEP can be used as a functional food to promote intestinal health and prevent disease.

Ma|Gaoxing|G|
Xu|Qian|Q|
Du|Hengjun|H|
Muinde Kimatu|Benard|B|
Su|Anxiang|A|
Yang|Wenjian|W|
Hu|Qiuhui|Q|
Xiao|Hang|H|

Fermentation
Simulated digestion
Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharide
Gut microbiota


Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy Reduces Saliva Adipokine and Matrix Metalloproteinase Levels in Periodontitis.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Adipokines enhance the synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play a role in extracellular matrix degeneration. The aim of this study is to determine the levels of some adipokines, proinflammatory cytokines, and MMPs in the saliva of patients with periodontitis and healthy individuals and to evaluate the changes after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).

METHODS
Of 32 individuals included in the study, 17 had periodontitis and 15 had healthy gingiva. Saliva samples were obtained from all individuals. In patients with periodontitis, samples were recollected 3 and 6 months after NSPT. Visfatin, chemerin, progranulin, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, MMP-8, and MMP-13 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS
In patients with periodontitis, all of the parameters measured in the saliva were higher than those of healthy individuals. At 3 months, visfatin, progranulin, IL-8, and MMP-8 levels were significantly decreased compared with baseline values. The levels of other biochemical parameters, chemerin and IL-1β, were significantly decreased compared with baseline values at 6 months, and the levels became similar to those in healthy individuals. In the periodontitis group, positive correlations were found among visfatin and IL-8 (r = 0.909, P <0.01), MMP-8 (r = 0.702, P = 0.02), and MMP-13 (r = 0.781, P = 0.01); chemerin and IL-8 (r = 0.913, P <0.01), MMP-8 (r = 0.770, P <0.01), and MMP-13 (r = 0.788, P <0.01); and progranulin and IL-8 (r = 0.762, P <0.01), MMP-8 (r = 0.845, P <0.01), and MMP-13 (r = 0.813, P <0.01).

CONCLUSION
Adipokines may contribute to the breakdown of periodontal tissue in periodontitis by stimulating the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and MMPs.

Özcan|Erkan|E|
Işıl Saygun|N|N|
Serdar|Muhittin A|MA|
Umut Bengi|V|V|
Kantarcı|Alpdoğan|A|

saliva
Adipokines
matrix metalloproteinases
chronic periodontitis
periodontal debridement


Development of a thermosensitive statin loaded chitosan-based hydrogel promoting bone healing.

Abstract: Statins have been proposed as potential adjuvant to periodontal treatment due to their pleiotropic properties. A new thermosensitive chitosan hydrogel loaded with statins (atorvastatin and lovastatin) nanoemulsions was synthesized to allow a spatially controlled local administration of active compounds at lesion site. Spontaneous nano-emulsification method was used to synthesize statins loaded nanoemulsions. In vitro, atorvastatin and lovastatin loaded nanoemulsions were cytocompatible and were able to be uptake by oral epithelial cells. Treatment of Porphyromonas gingivalis infected oral epithelial cells and gingival fibroblasts with atorvastatin and lovastatin loaded nanoemulsions decreased significantly pro-inflammatory markers expression (TNF-α and IL-1β) and pro-osteoclastic RANKL. Nevertheless, such treatment induced the expression of Bone sialoprotein 2 (BSP2) in osteoblast emphasizing the pro-healing properties of atorvastatin and lovastatin nanoemulsions. In vivo, in a calvarial bone defect model (2 mm), treatment with the hydrogel loaded with atorvastatin and lovastatin nanoemulsions induced a significant increase of the neobone formation in comparison with systemic administration of statins. This study demonstrates the potential of this statins loaded hydrogel to improve bone regeneration and to decrease soft tissue inflammation. Its use in the specific context of periodontitis management could be considered in the future with a reduced risk of side effects.

Petit|Catherine|C| Batool|Fareeha|F| Stutz|Céline|C| Anton|Nicolas|N| Klymchenko|Andrey|A| Vandamme|Thierry|T| Benkirane-Jessel|Nadia|N| Huck|Olivier|O|

Hydrogel
Periodontitis
Atorvastatin
Lovastatin
Porphyromonas gingivalis
Scaffold


Kidney Sales and Market Regulation: A Reply to Semrau.

Abstract: Luke Semrau argues that the documented harms of existing organ markets do not undermine the case for establishing regulated systems of paid kidney donation. He offers two arguments in support of this conclusion. First, Semrau argues that the harms of kidney selling are straightforwardly amenable to regulatory solution. Second, Semrau argues that even in existing black markets, sellers would likely have experienced greater harm if the option of selling a kidney were not available. This commentary challenges both of Semrau's claims. I argue that there is no reason to believe that kidney sellers benefit from the current black market trade in organs, and highlight a number of potential issues regarding the effectiveness and feasibility of Semrau's proposed market regulations.

regulation
harm
burden of proof
kidney markets
organ transplantation


Effect of dietary protein level and rumen-protected amino acid supplementation on amino acid utilization for milk protein in lactating dairy cows.

Abstract: This study investigated the effect of metabolizable protein (MP) supply and rumen-protected (RP) Lys and Met supplementation on productivity, nutrient digestibility, urinary N losses, apparent total-tract digestibility of dietary AA, and the efficiency of AA utilization for milk protein synthesis in dairy cows. The experiment was conducted with 8 ruminally cannulated Holstein cows in a replicated 4×4 Latin square design trial with 21-d periods. Treatments were (1) MP-adequate diet (AMP; MP balance of -24 g/d); (2) MP-deficient diet (DMP; MP balance of -281 g/d); (3) DMP supplemented with 100 g of RPLys/cow per day (estimated digestible Lys supply=24 g/d; DMPL; MP balance of -305g/d); and (4) DMPL supplemented with 24 g of RPMet/cow per day (estimated digestible Met supply=15 g/d; DMPLM; MP balance of -256g/d). Diet had no effect on total-tract nutrient digestibility, milk production, and milk composition, but the DMP diets decreased urinary N excretion and the ammonia emitting potential of manure. Plasma Met concentration was increased by DMPLM compared with AMP. Supplementation with RPLys had no effect on plasma Lys. Concentration of most AA in milk protein was increased or tended to be increased by DMPLM compared with DMPL. Except for the AA supplemented as RPAA (i.e., Met and Lys), apparent total-tract digestibility of all dietary AA was generally greater for the DMP diets and ranged from 33% (Arg, AMP diet) to 67% (Thr, DMPL diet). Apparent recovery of dietary AA in milk protein followed the same trends, being greater for the DMP diets than AMP and generally lower for Lys and Met with the RPAA-supplemented diets versus AMP and DMP. The RPAA were apparently not used for milk protein synthesis in the conditions of this experiment. The AA recoveries in milk protein varied from around 17% (Ala) to 70% (Pro). Milk protein recoveries of essential AA (EAA) were around 54% for the DMP diet and 49% for AMP. The estimated efficiency of utilization of digestible EAA for milk protein synthesis was generally greater for the DMP diets compared with AMP. In this trial, blood plasma Lys and Met were labeled by abomasal pulse-dose of 15N-Lys and 13C-Met (respectively). Analysis of the 15N-Lys and 13C-Met decay curves in plasma indicated trends for a faster extraction of Lys and Met from plasma for the MP-deficient diets, compared with AMP. Overall, this study confirmed conclusions from previous analyses that the efficiency of utilization of dietary EAA will increase with decreasing MP-AA supply.

Lee|C|C|
Giallongo|F|F|
Hristov|A N|AN|
Lapierre|H|H|
Cassidy|T W|TW|
Heyler|K S|KS|
Varga|G A|GA|
Parys|C|C|

D000824:Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena

dietary protein
amino acid utilization
dairy cow
rumen-protected lysine
rumen-protected methionine


Association between Genetic Variation in the Oxytocin Receptor Gene and Emotional Withdrawal, but not between Oxytocin Pathway Genes and Diagnosis in Psychotic Disorders.

Abstract: Social dysfunction is common in patients with psychotic disorders. Oxytocin is a neuropeptide with a central role in social behavior. This study aims to explore the relationship between oxytocin pathway genes and symptoms related to social dysfunction in patients with psychotic disorders. We performed association analyses between four oxytocin pathway genes (OXT, OXTR, AVP, and CD38) and four areas of social behavior-related psychopathology as measured by Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. For this purpose, we used both a polygenic risk score (PGRS) and single OXTR candidate single nucleotide polymorphism previously reported in the literature (rs53576, rs237902, and rs2254298). A total of 734 subjects with DSM-IV psychotic spectrum disorders and 420 healthy controls were included. Oxytocin pathway PGRSs were calculated based on the independent Psychiatric Genomics Consortium study sample. There was a significant association between symptom of Emotional Withdrawal and the previously reported OXTR risk allele A in rs53576. No significant associations between oxytocin pathway gene variants and a diagnosis of psychotic disorder were found. Our findings indicate that while oxytocin pathway genes do not appear to contribute to the susceptibility to psychotic disorders, variations in the OXTR gene might play a role in the development of impaired social behavior.

Haram|Marit|M|
Tesli|Martin|M|
Bettella|Francesco|F|
Djurovic|Srdjan|S|
Andreassen|Ole Andreas|OA|
Melle|Ingrid|I|

oxytocin
psychotic disorders
polygenic risk score
single nucleotide polymorphisms
schizophrenia
vasopressin


Beyond the RNA-dependent function of LncRNA genes.

Abstract: While long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) genes have attracted a lot of attention in the last decade, the focus regarding their mechanisms of action has been primarily on the RNA product of these genes. Recent work on several lncRNAs genes demonstrates that not only is the produced RNA species important, but also that transcription of the lncRNA locus alone can have regulatory functions. Like the functions of lncRNA transcripts, the mechanisms that underlie these genome-based functions are varied. Here we highlight some of these examples and provide an outlook on how the functional mechanisms of a lncRNA gene can be determined.

lncRNA
3D genome
gene regulation
genetics
genomics


Remembering Preservation in Hippocampal Amnesia.

Abstract: The lesion-deficit model dominates neuropsychology. This is unsurprising given powerful demonstrations that focal brain lesions can affect specific aspects of cognition. Nowhere is this more evident than in patients with bilateral hippocampal damage. In the past 60 years, the amnesia and other impairments exhibited by these patients have helped to delineate the functions of the hippocampus and shape the field of memory. We do not question the value of this approach. However, less prominent are the cognitive processes that remain intact following hippocampal lesions. Here, we collate the piecemeal reports of preservation of function following focal bilateral hippocampal damage, highlighting a wealth of information often veiled by the field's focus on deficits. We consider how a systematic understanding of what is preserved as well as what is lost could add an important layer of precision to models of memory and the hippocampus.

neuropsychology
hippocampus
memory
deficits
navigation
scene construction


Anterior pseudoarthrectomy for symptomatic Bertolotti's syndrome.

Abstract: Painful L5/S1 pseudoarthrosis has been previously managed with posterior excision and/or lumbar fusion. To our knowledge, the anterior approach for L5/S1 pseudoarthrectomy in the treatment of Bertolotti's syndrome has not been described. We present two patients with severe symptomatic L5/S1 pseudoarthroses that were successfully excised via an anterior retroperitoneal approach with 2 year clinical and radiological follow-up. The literature regarding surgical treatments for Bertolotti's syndrome is reviewed. The technique for an anterior retroperitoneal approach is described. This approach has been safe and effective in providing long term symptomatic relief to our two patients. Further studies comparing the outcomes of anterior versus posterior pseudoarthrectomy will guide the management of this condition.

Malham|Gregory M|GM|
Limb|Rebecca J|RJ|
Claydon|Matthew H|MH|
Brazenor|Graeme A|GA|

Anterior
Bertolotti’s syndrome
Low back pain
Lumbosacral
Surgery


Evaluation of the suitability of chromatographic systems to predict human skin permeation of neutral compounds.

Abstract: Several chromatographic systems (three systems of high-performance liquid chromatography and two micellar electrokinetic chromatography systems) besides the reference octanol-water partition system are evaluated by a systematic procedure previously proposed in order to know their ability to model human skin permeation. The precision achieved when skin-water permeability coefficients are correlated against chromatographic retention factors is predicted within the framework of the solvation parameter model. It consists in estimating the contribution of error due to the biological and chromatographic data, as well as the error coming from the dissimilarity between the human skin permeation and the chromatographic systems. Both predictions and experimental tests show that all correlations are greatly affected by the considerable uncertainty of the skin permeability data and the error associated to the dissimilarity between the systems. Correlations with much better predictive abilities are achieved when the volume of the solute is used as additional variable, which illustrates the main roles of both lipophilicity and size of the solute to penetrate through the skin. In this way, the considered systems are able to give precise estimations of human skin permeability coefficients. In particular, the HPLC systems with common C18 columns provide the best performances in emulating the permeation of neutral compounds from aqueous solution through the human skin. As a result, a methodology based on easy, fast, and economical HPLC measurements in a common C18 column has been developed. After a validation based on training and test sets, the method has been applied with good results to the estimation of skin permeation of several hormones and pesticides.

Hidalgo-Rodríguez|Marta|M| Soriano-Meseguer|Sara|S| Fuguet|Elisabet|E| Ràfols|Clara|C| Rosés|Martí|M|


Structure of floral galls of Byrsonima sericea (Malpighiaceae) induced by Bruggmanniella byrsonimae (Cecidomyiidae, Diptera) and their effects on host plants.

Abstract: Galls are anomalies in plant development from parasitic origin, and affect cellular differentiation or growth of plants. This parasite-plant interaction occurs in many environments and typically in vegetative organs of plants. The existence of galls in reproductive organs and their effects on the host plant are seldom described in the literature. In this paper, we present a novel study of galls in plants of the neotropical region. Galls of Bruggmmaniella byrsonimae develop in the flower buds of Byrsonima sericea DC. (Malpighiaceae) and affect development of the reproductive organs and the reproductive effort of these plants. The sepals and petals show hypertrophy of parenchyma tissues after differentiation, and the stamens exhibit degeneration of the sporogenic tissue. The gynoecium is not entirely developed; ovary and ovules are often absent. Changes in vascular tissues are also frequent, which may indicate high demand for nutrient resources by the new tissues initiated by the larva. We compared the amount of inflorescences, galls and fruits to evaluate possible effects on host reproduction. The results suggest that the Cecidomyiidae galls in flower organs affect fruit set and the reproductive success of B. sericea.

Guimarães|A L A|AL|
Cruz|S M S|SM|
Vieira|A C M|AC|

Byrsonima sericea
Malpighiaceae
Cecidomyiidae
flower gall


Evaluation of the efficacy of tongue-lip adhesion in Pierre Robin sequence.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Tongue-lip adhesion may be used to relieve obstructive sleep apnoea in infants with Pierre Robin sequence (PRS), but only a few studies have objectively evaluated its efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of tongue-lip adhesion by polysomnography.

MATERIEL AND METHODS
A single-centre retrospective study was conducted in infants with PRS treated by tongue-lip adhesion from 2004 to 2015, in whom at least laryngotracheal endoscopy and polysomnography were performed. The variables collected were the syndromic diagnosis, demographic data, respiratory management before tongue-lip adhesion, symptoms, and additional airway interventions. Obstructive sleep apnoea was classified into 3 groups according to severity. Polysomnography was performed one month after tongue-lip adhesion. Statistical analysis was performed with Wilcoxon signed-rank test with a limit of statistical significance of P<0.005.

RESULTS
Thirty-seven subjects in whom tongue-lip adhesion was performed at a mean age of 45 days (8 to 210 days) were included. Thirty-one patients had isolated PRS and 6 patients had associated anomalies. All patients had confirmed severe obstructive sleep apnoea. All patients required respiratory support prior to surgery: 8 intubated patients, 15 patients with noninvasive ventilation and 14 patients with nasopharyngeal airways. Eight patients had bradycardia before tongue-lip adhesion. All parameters were improved on postoperative polysomnography: oxygen saturation, hypercapnia, apnoea-hypopnoea index, bradycardia (P<0.005). Only 8 patients had persistent severe obstructive sleep apnoea and required tracheostomy (n=5) or noninvasive ventilation (n=3). No significant correlation was observed between treatment success and any predictive variables.

CONCLUSION
Tongue-lip adhesion improved airway obstruction in all infants with PRS and resolved obstructive sleep apnoea in 29 patients. However, 8 patients required additional airway interventions.

Broucqsault|H|H| Lamblin|M-D|MD| Hosana|G|G| Fayoux|P|P|

Tongue-lip adhesion
Pierre Robin sequence
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Polysomnography


Electric Volume Resistivity for Biopolyimide Using 4,4'-Diamino-α-truxillic acid and 1,2,3,4-Cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride.

Abstract: Biopolyimides poly(ATA-CBDA), made from of 4,4'-diamino-α-truxillic acid dimethyl ester (ATA) and 1,2,3,4-cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride (CBDA), is synthesized and measured its electric volume resistivity at various experimental conditions. The effects of film size, thickness, drying time, and the electric field strength on electric resistivity are investigated and compared with polyimide (Kapton). The electric resistivity for all polyimide and biopolyimide are distributed in the range of 1015-1016 Ωcm, which shows that biopolyimide has high electrical insulation as well as polyimide. The electric resistivity strongly depends on film thickness, which suggests that electric resistivity is a function of electric field strength. The critical electric field for polyimide and biopolyimide films are determined to be 5.8 × 107 V/m and 3.2 × 107 V/m, respectively. Humidity was found to strongly affect the electric resistivity; ~1016 Ωcm at 34% RH and ~1013 Ωcm at 60% RH for both polyimide and biopolyimide films.

Kato|Shunsuke|S|
Amat Yusof|Fitri Adila|FA|
Harimoto|Toyohiro|T|
Takada|Kenji|K|
Kaneko|Tatsuo|T|0000-0001-9794-083X
Kawai|Mika|M|
Mitsumata|Tetsu|T|0000-0002-1355-6775

biopolyimide
electric resistivity
polyimide
biopolymer


Bridging the Gap Between Science and Clinical Efficacy: Physiology, Imaging, and Modeling of Aerosols in the Lung.

Abstract: Development of a new drug for the treatment of lung disease is a complex and time consuming process involving numerous disciplines of basic and applied sciences. During the 2015 Congress of the International Society for Aerosols in Medicine, a group of experts including aerosol scientists, physiologists, modelers, imagers, and clinicians participated in a workshop aiming at bridging the gap between basic research and clinical efficacy of inhaled drugs. This publication summarizes the current consensus on the topic. It begins with a short description of basic concepts of aerosol transport and a discussion on targeting strategies of inhaled aerosols to the lungs. It is followed by a description of both computational and biological lung models, and the use of imaging techniques to determine aerosol deposition distribution (ADD) in the lung. Finally, the importance of ADD to clinical efficacy is discussed. Several gaps were identified between basic science and clinical efficacy. One gap between scientific research aimed at predicting, controlling, and measuring ADD and the clinical use of inhaled aerosols is the considerable challenge of obtaining, in a single study, accurate information describing the optimal lung regions to be targeted, the effectiveness of targeting determined from ADD, and some measure of the drug's effectiveness. Other identified gaps were the language and methodology barriers that exist among disciplines, along with the significant regulatory hurdles that need to be overcome for novel drugs and/or therapies to reach the marketplace and benefit the patient. Despite these gaps, much progress has been made in recent years to improve clinical efficacy of inhaled drugs. Also, the recent efforts by many funding agencies and industry to support multidisciplinary networks including basic science researchers, R&D scientists, and clinicians will go a long way to further reduce the gap between science and clinical efficacy.

Darquenne|Chantal|C|
Fleming|John S|JS|
Katz|Ira|I|
Martin|Andrew R|AR|
Schroeter|Jeffry|J|
Usmani|Omar S|OS|
Venegas|Jose|J|
Schmid|Otmar|O|

biological lung models
aerosol deposition distribution
PET
SPECT
in-silico lung modeling


Ectopic thyroid tissue masquerading as a lateral neck mass: a case report.

Abstract: The tissue bud that ultimately becomes the thyroid gland arises initially as a midline diverticulum in the floor of the pharynx. When the median thyroid analage does not descend in normal fashion, a lingual thyroid can result. It is thought that any thyroid tissue found in the lateral aspect of the neck, including around the vascular structures of the neck, may represent metastatic deposits from well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma. This is a case report of a 35 year old male presenting to the out-patient department with a swelling in the lateral aspect of the neck. The MRI report showed an enlarged level 2 lymph node in the lateral aspect of right side of the neck for which surgery was done and the specimen sent for HPE. Histopathological report gave a surprising report of thyroid tissue with normal follicular cells. But literature says that thyroid tissue lateral to the normal thyroid tissue is essentially metastatic papillary carcinoma. Only very few previous case reports showing the existence of ectopic thyroid in the lateral aspect of the neck have been documented (1,2,3). This case has been reported for its rarity.

Ravishankaran|Praveen|P| Mohan|G|G| Ravindran|G|G| Ramalingam|A|A| Srinivasan|S|S|

Ectopic thyroid
Lateral aberrant thyroid


Frequency and Characteristics of Occult Hepatitis B Infection Among Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients in Japan.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION AND AIM
Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (OBI) represents a state without detectable hepatitis B surface antigen, but positive for HBV DNA. The correlation between OBI and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) carcinogenesis is controversial. We studied the frequency and characteristics of OBI among HCC patients and metastatic liver cancer patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
DNA was obtained from tumor and non-tumor tissues from 75 HCC patients (15 chronic hepatitis B (CHB), 39 chronic hepatitis C (CHC), 21 cryptogenic) and 15 metastatic liver cancer patients who underwent liver resection. HBV DNA and covalentlyclosed circular (ccc) DNA were detected using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and four HBV DNA regions were detected by nested PCR. Clinicopathological factors were compared between patients with and without OBI.

RESULTS
HBV DNA was detected in 14 (93.3%) CHB, five (22.7%) cryptogenic and four (10.3%) CHC patients. cccDNA was detected in 12 (80.0%) CHB, three (14.3%) cryptogenic and two (5.1%) CHC patients. All CHB, eight (38.1%) cryptogenic and ten (25.6%) CHC patients tested positive with nested PCR. No metastatic liver cancer patients were positive for any HBV DNA regions. OBI patients had shorter prothrombin times (P = 0.0055), and lower inflammation activity score in non-tumor liver (P = 0.0274). There were no differences in anti-HBV antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS
OBI was detected in 38% of cryptogenic and 25.6% of CHC patients. There was no correlation between OBI and anti-HBV antibodies, but fewer patients with OBI had high inflammatory activity, suggesting that factors other than inflammation may be involved in HCC carcinogenesis in patients with OBI.

Muto|Jun|J| Sugiyama|Masaya|M| Shirabe|Ken|K| Mukaide|Motokazu|M| Kirikae-Muto|Ikue|I| Ikegami|Toru|T| Yoshizumi|Tomoharu|T| Yamashita|Yo-Ichi|YI| Maehara|Yoshihiko|Y| Mizokami|Masashi|M|

D060888:Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

Hepatocellular carcinoma
Inflammation
Occult hepatitis B virus infection


Nutrient Density and the Cost of Vegetables from Elementary School Lunches.

Abstract: Vegetables are the major source of the dietary fiber, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A and C that are crucial in the diets of children. This study assessed the nutrient content of vegetables offered through the National School Lunch Program and examined the relation between the overall nutrient density of vegetable subgroups and the costs of nutrients offered and wasted before and after the changes in school meal standards. Using data collected from 3 elementary schools before and after the changes in school meal standards, we found that vegetable plate waste increased from 52% to 58%. Plate waste for starchy vegetables, exclusive of potatoes, was relatively high compared with other subgroups; however, plate waste for white potatoes was the lowest among any type of vegetable. Energy density; cost per 100 g, per serving, and per 100 kcal; and percentage daily value were calculated and used to estimate nutrient density value and nutrient density per dollar. Cost per 100 kcal was highest for red/orange vegetables followed by dark green vegetables; however, nutrient density for red/orange vegetables was the highest in the group and provided the most nutrients per dollar compared with other subgroups. Given that many vegetables are less energy dense, measuring vegetable costs per 100 g and per serving by accounting for nutrient density perhaps is a better way of calculating the cost of vegetables in school meals.

Ishdorj|Ariun|A|
Capps|Oral|O|
Murano|Peter S|PS|

nutrient density
vegetable
National School Lunch Program
cost of nutrients
plate waste


Endothelin Receptor Blockade Blunts the Pressor Response to Acute Stress in Obese Men and Women.

Abstract:
Obesity is associated with dysregulation of the endothelin system. In obese individuals, an exaggerated pressor response to acute stress is accompanied by increased circulating endothelin-1. The impact of combined endothelin A/B receptor (ETA/B) antagonism on the stress-induced pressor response in overweight/obese individuals is unknown.

OBJECTIVE
To test the hypothesis that treatment with an ETA/B antagonist (bosentan) would reduce the stress-induced pressor response and arterial stiffness in overweight/obese compared to normal weight individuals.

METHODS
40 participants [Normal weight (NW): n=20, BMI: 21.7 ± 2.4 kg/m2 & Overweight/obese (OB): n=20, BMI: 33.8 ± 8.2 kg/m2] were randomized to placebo or 125 mg of bosentan twice a day (250 mg total) for 3 days. Hemodynamics were assessed before, during, and after a cold pressor test (CPT). Endothelin-1 was assessed at baseline and immediately after CPT. Following a washout period, the same protocol was repeated with the opposite treatment.

RESULTS
The change from baseline in mean arterial pressure (MAP) during CPT following bosentan was significantly lower (p=0.039) in the OB group, compared to the NW group (OB: 28±12 vs LN: 34±15 mm Hg).

CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that ETA/B antagonism favorably blunts the pressor response to acute stress in overweight/obese individuals.

Derella|Cassandra C|CC|
Blanks|Anson M|AM|
Wang|Xiaoling|X|
Tucker|Matthew A|MA|
Horsager|Chase|C|
Jeong|Jin Hee|JH|
Rodriguez-Miguelez|Paula|P|
Looney|Jacob|J|
Thomas|Jeffrey|J|
Pollock|David M|DM|
Harris|Ryan A|RA|

Obesity
Endothelin-1
Bosentan
Blood Pressure


Kinetic and equilibrium modelling of MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether) adsorption on ZSM-5 zeolite: Batch and column studies.

Abstract: The intensive use of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) as a gasoline additive has resulted in serious environmental problems due to its high solubility, volatility and recalcitrance. The feasibility of permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) with ZSM-5 type zeolite as a reactive medium was explored for MTBE contaminated groundwater remediation. Batch adsorption studies showed that the MTBE adsorption onto ZSM-5 follows the Langmuir model and obeys the pseudo-second-order model with an adsorption capacity of 53.55 mg g-1. The adsorption process reached equilibrium within 24 h, and MTBE was barely desorbed with initial MTBE concentration of 300 mg L-1. The mass transfer process is found to be primarily controlled by pore diffusion for MTBE concentrations from 100 to 600 mg L-1. pH has little effect on the maximum adsorption capacity in the pH range of 2-10, while the presence of nickel reduces the capacity with Ni concentrations of 2.5-25 mg L-1. In fixed-bed column tests, the Dose-Response model fits the breakthrough curve well, showing a saturation time of ∼320 min and a removal capacity of ∼18.71 mg g-1 under the conditions of this study. Therefore, ZSM-5 is an extremely effective adsorbent for MTBE removal and has a huge potential to be used as a reactive medium in PRBs.

Zhang|Yunhui|Y| Jin|Fei|F| Shen|Zhengtao|Z| Lynch|Rod|R| Al-Tabbaa|Abir|A|

MTBE
ZSM-5 zeolite
Batch adsorption
Fixed-bed column test
Mass transfer mechanism


Initial and crucial genetic events in intestinal-type gastric intramucosal neoplasia.

Abstract: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common and life-threatening malignancies. The course of disease and tumor aggressiveness vary among GCs, although how early fate is determined and by what factors remains elusive. To solve this question, we collected 43 gastric intramucosal neoplasias (GINs), comprising dysplasia/intraepithelial neoplasia (D/IEN; a premalignant lesion) and minute GC (miGC; ≤10 mm) of intestinal histotype and performed targeted deep DNA sequencing of 67 GC-related genes derived from large-scale data. Gastric D/IEN was classified into low or high grade (LG-D/IEN or HG-D/IEN). The most frequent mutations in D/IENs included APC (19/25; 76%), ARID2 (6/25; 24%) and MUC6 (5/25; 20%). All LG-D/IENs had APC mutation (12/12) and APC hotspot mutations affecting R1450 and E1554 were noted in both LG-D/IEN and HG-D/IEN. ARID2 mutation always co-occurred with APC mutation, whose tumor variant allele frequency (TVAF) was higher than that of ARID2 in D/IEN. APC and TP53 mutations were mutually exclusive in D/IEN (p = 0.031 [main cohort], p = 0.025 [expanding cohort]) and TP53-mutated D/IEN was exclusively HG-D/IEN (4/4). TP53 mutations were highly recurrent (11/14; 79%) in MLH1-positive miGCs and were detected even in two microscopic lesions measuring 1 and 3 mm, respectively. Furthermore, TVAF analyses suggested that TP53 mutation is the initial event in the TP53-mutated miGCs. In contrast, TP53 mutation was absent (0/4) in MLH1-negative small intramucosal carcinoma (8-24 mm). Advanced GC data suggested that early mutations (APC and TP53) may affect the potential of cancerous progression from D/IEN. This study revealed somatic mutational landscape and initial mutations of GINs, and we report for the first time that TP53 mutations precede other mutations in intestinal-type GC. Our results also indicate that molecular subtyping based on APC/TP53 mutations would be a high-priority approach for determining and predicting the malignant potential of GIN, including D/IEN. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Rokutan|Hirofumi|H|0000-0003-4172-4892 Abe|Hiroyuki|H| Nakamura|Hiromi|H| Ushiku|Tetsuo|T| Arakawa|Erika|E| Hosoda|Fumie|F| Yachida|Shinichi|S| Tsuji|Yosuke|Y| Fujishiro|Mitsuhiro|M| Koike|Kazuhiko|K| Totoki|Yasushi|Y| Fukayama|Masashi|M| Shibata|Tatsuhiro|T|

dysplasia/intraepithelial neoplasia
carcinogenesis
minute gastric carcinoma
mutation profiling


Bio-Inspired Multi-Mode Pain-Perceptual System (MMPPS) with Noxious Stimuli Warning, Damage Localization, and Enhanced Damage Protection.

Abstract: The multi-mode pain-perceptual system (MMPPS) is essential for the human body to perceive noxious stimuli in all circumstances and make an appropriate reaction. Based on the central sensitization mechanism, the MMPPS can switch between different working modes and thus offers a smarter protection mechanism to human body. Accordingly, before injury MMPPS can offer warning of excessive pressure with normal pressure threshold. After injury, extra care on the periphery of damage will be activated by decreasing the pressure threshold. Furthermore, the MMPPS will gradually recover back to a normal state as damage heals. Although current devices can realize basic functions like damage localization and nociceptor signal imitating, the development of a human-like MMPPS is still a great challenge. Here, a bio-inspired MMPPS is developed for prosthetics protection, in which all working modes is realized and controlled by mimicking the central sensitization mechanism. Accordingly, the system warns one of a potential injury, identifies the damaged area, and subsequently offers extra care. The proposed system can open new avenues for designing next-generation prosthetics, especially make other smart sensing systems operate under complete protection against injuries.

Li|Fali|F|0000-0003-3924-4128 Gao|Shuang|S| Lu|Ying|Y| Asghar|Waqas|W| Cao|Jinwei|J| Hu|Chao|C| Yang|Huali|H| Wu|Yuanzhao|Y| Li|Shengbin|S| Shang|Jie|J| Liao|Meiyong|M| Liu|Yiwei|Y| Li|Run-Wei|RW|

noxious stimuli
damage protection
bio‐inspired
e‐skin
pain‐perceptual


Global Asthma Network Phase I study in Mexico: prevalence of asthma symptoms, risk factors and altitude associations-a cross-sectional study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Global Asthma Network (GAN) was established in 2012 as a development to the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood to improve asthma care globally.

OBJECTIVE
To survey asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis in primary and secondary school children and to investigate and evaluate its prevalence, severity, management and risk factors in Mexico.

METHODS
GAN Phase I is a cross-sectional, multicentre survey carried out in 15 centres corresponding to 14 Mexican cities throughout 2016-2019 using the validated Spanish language version of the GAN Phase I questionnaires. The questionnaires were completed by parents of 6-7-year-old primary school pupils (school children) and by 13-14-year-old adolescents.

RESULTS
A total of 35 780 school children and 41 399 adolescents participated. Wheezing ever prevalence was 26.2% (95% CI 25.8% to 26.7%) in school children and 23.9% (95% CI 23.4% to 24.3%) in adolescents. The corresponding frequencies for current wheeze were 10.2% (95% CI 9.9% to 10.5%) and 11.6% (95% CI 11.2% to 11.9%). In school children, the risk factors for current wheeze were rhinitis (OR 4.484; 95% CI 3.915% to 5.134%) and rash symptoms (OR 1.735; 95% CI 1.461% to 2.059%). For adolescents, rhinitis symptoms (OR 3.492; 95% CI 3.188% to 3.825%) and allergic rhinitis diagnosis (OR 2.144; 95% CI 1.787% to 2.572%) were the most significant. For both groups, there was a negative relation with centres' sea level altitude higher than 1500 m above mean sea level (p<0.005).

CONCLUSIONS
The most important risk factors for asthma symptoms in both age groups were the presence of rhinitis and rash symptoms or diagnosis. On the other hand, sea level altitude higher than 1500 metres was a protective factor.

asthma
asthma epidemiology
paediatric asthma


Physician-related factors affecting cardiac rehabilitation referral.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Despite the positive impact of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on quality of life and mortality, the majority of people who could benefit from this program fail to participate in it. The lack of referral from the physician is a common reason that patients give for not seeking CR. The objective of this study was to compare factors affecting CR referral by cardiologists.

METHODS
A cross-sectional survey of 122 cardiologists, including 89 general cardiac specialists and 33 fellows in cardiology from 11 major cardiology training centers in Iran, was done in 2010. They responded to the 14- item investigator-generated survey, examining the physician's attitudinal and knowledge factors affecting CR referral.

RESULTS
47.9% of the subjects reported having available CR centers but only 6.6% reported continuous medical education on the topic. 90.7% of the physicians reported that less than 15% of patients are referred to CR centers. The main factor affecting the low referral rate was limited general knowledge about CR programs (79.5%) such as program attributes and benefits, methods of reimbursement. Lack of insurance coverage, unavailability of CR centers in the community and low physicians' fee were other factors reported by the physicians.

CONCLUSION
Cardiologists' inadequate general knowledge of and attitude toward CR programs seem to be a potential threat for cardiac prevention and rehabilitation in some societies.

Moradi|Bahieh|B|
Maleki|Majid|M|
Esmaeilzadeh|Maryam|M|
Abkenar|Hooman Bakhshandeh|HB|

Physicians
Cardiovascular diseases
Referral and consultation
Rehabilitation centers


Novel electrochemical immune sensor based on Hep-PGA-PPy nanoparticles for detection of α-Fetoprotein in whole blood.

Abstract: A simple and accurate immune sensor for quantitative detection of α-Fetoprotein (AFP) was developed based on the immobilization of antigen on the surface of Hep-PGA-PPy nanoparticles modified glassy carbon electrodes (GCE). The obtained Hep-PGA-PPy nanoparticles were characterized by fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). And the blood compatibility of Hep-PGA-PPy nanoparticles was investigated by in vitro coagulation tests, hemolysis assay and whole blood adhesion tests. Combining the conductive property of polypyrrole (PPy) and the biocompatibility of heparin (Hep), the Hep-PGA-PPy nanoparticles could improve not only the anti-biofouling effect the electrode, but also improved the electrochemical properties of the immune sensor. Under optimal conditions, the proposed immune sensor could detect AFP in a linear range from 0.1 to 100 ng mL-1 with a detection limit of 0.099 ng mL-1 at the signal-to-noise ratio of 3, and it also possessed good reproducibility and storage stability. Furthermore, the detection of AFP in five human blood samples also showed satisfactory accuracy with low relative errors. Thus, the developed immune sensor which showed acceptable reproducibility, selectivity, stability and accuracy could be potentially used for the detection of whole blood samples directly.

Xu|Tingting|T| Chi|Bo|B| Gao|Jian|J| Chu|Meilin|M| Fan|Wenlu|W| Yi|Meihui|M| Xu|Hong|H| Mao|Chun|C|

D017550:Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared

Electrochemical immune sensor
Hep-PGA-PPy nanoparticles
α-Fetoprotein
Anti-biofouling
Label-free


The potential of kiwifruit puree as a clean label ingredient to stabilize high pressure pasteurized cloudy apple juice during storage.

Abstract: In the fruit juice industry, high pressure (HP) processing has become a commercial success. However, enzymatic browning, cloud loss, and flavor changes during storage remain challenges. The aim of this study is to combine kiwifruit puree and HP pasteurization (600 MPa/3 min) to stabilize cloudy apple juice during storage at 4 °C. A wide range of targeted and untargeted quality characteristics was evaluated using a multivariate approach. Due to high ascorbic acid content and high viscosity, kiwifruit puree allowed to prevent enzymatic browning and phase separation of an apple-kiwifruit mixed juice. Besides, no clear changes in organic acids, viscosity, and particle size distribution were detected in mixed juice during storage. Sucrose of apple and mixed juices decreased with glucose and fructose increasing during storage. The volatile changes of both juices behaved similar, mainly esters being degraded. Sensory evaluation demonstrated consumer preferred the aroma of mixed juice compared to apple juice.

Yi|Junjie|J|
Kebede|Biniam|B|
Kristiani|Kristiani|K|
Buvé|Carolien|C|
Van Loey|Ann|A|
Grauwet|Tara|T|
Hendrickx|Marc|M|

Dehydroascorbic acid (PubChem CID: 440667)


Diseases and Pests of Honey Bees (Apis Mellifera).

Abstract: Infectious and parasitic diseases plague honey bees similarly to that of other food animal species. A complete understanding of each is necessary for a honey bee veterinarian to establish a strong veterinarian-client-patient relationship and make sound treatment recommendations. Control and management of these diseases is paramount to success of the colony and apiary operation. The following is not meant to be an end-all of information on each of the common honey bee diseases but more so a review and photo-documentation of each. A deeper understanding can be established through various other sources previously published and referenced in this document.

Pasho|Deborah J M|DJM|
Applegate|Jeffrey R|JR|
Hopkins|Don I|DI|

Deformed wing virus
Foulbrood
Fungal
Nosema
Small hive beetle
Varroa
Wax moth


Real-time monitoring of trans-epithelial electrical resistance in cultured intestinal epithelial cells: the barrier protection of water-soluble dietary fiber.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
In this study we aimed to verify a real-time trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) monitoring system in a Caco-2 monolayer and to investigate the therapeutic effect of partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG), a dietary fiber, against interferon (IFN)-γ-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction using this monitoring system.

METHODS
We measured TEER using a real-time monitoring system and evaluated epithelial paracellular permeability using fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated dextran (4 kDa; FD4) in Caco-2 monolayers treated with IFN-γ for 48 h. The expression and distribution of tight junction (TJ)-associated proteins, ZO-1 and occludin, were analyzed by Western blot and immunocytochemistry, respectively. In some experiments PHGG was added prior to IFN-γ treatment in order to investigate its protective effect on barrier function.

RESULTS
IFN-γ treatment significantly decreased TEER and increased FD4 flux across Caco-2 monolayers, indicating a great influence of IFN-γ on the intestinal epithelial paracellular permeability. In contrast, the pretreatment of PHGG significantly reduced the IFN-γ-induced increment of FD4 flux without affecting TEER. Neither IFN-γ nor PHGG treatment affected the expressions of TJ-associated proteins, while immunocytochemistry showed that IFN-γ-induced redistribution of occludin was clearly restored by PHGG.

CONCLUSIONS
Real-time TEER monitoring enabled us to evaluate the dynamic changes of intestinal epithelial barrier function. PHGG may have a protective effect against IFN-γ-induced barrier dysfunction by attenuating the paracellular hyperpermeability; thus, its promotion as a functional food is anticipated.

Majima|Atsushi|A| Handa|Osamu|O| Naito|Yuji|Y| Suyama|Yosuke|Y| Onozawa|Yuriko|Y| Higashimura|Yasuki|Y| Mizushima|Katsura|K| Morita|Mayuko|M| Uehara|Yukiko|Y| Horie|Hideki|H| Iida|Takaya|T| Fukui|Akifumu|A| Dohi|Osamu|O| Okayama|Tetsuya|T| Yoshida|Naohisa|N| Kamada|Kazuhiro|K| Katada|Kazuhiro|K| Uchiyama|Kazuhiko|K| Ishikawa|Takeshi|T| Takagi|Tomohisa|T| Konishi|Hideyuki|H| Yasukawa|Zenta|Z| Tokunaga|Makoto|M| Okubo|Tsutomu|T| Itoh|Yoshito|Y|

trans-epithelial electrical resistance
partially hydrolyzed guar gum
paracellular permeability
occludin
intestinal barrier function


Tolerance for distorted faces: challenges to a configural processing account of familiar face recognition.

Abstract: Face recognition is widely held to rely on 'configural processing', an analysis of spatial relations between facial features. We present three experiments in which viewers were shown distorted faces, and asked to resize these to their correct shape. Based on configural theories appealing to metric distances between features, we reason that this should be an easier task for familiar than unfamiliar faces (whose subtle arrangements of features are unknown). In fact, participants were inaccurate at this task, making between 8% and 13% errors across experiments. Importantly, we observed no advantage for familiar faces: in one experiment participants were more accurate with unfamiliars, and in two experiments there was no difference. These findings were not due to general task difficulty - participants were able to resize blocks of colour to target shapes (squares) more accurately. We also found an advantage of familiarity for resizing other stimuli (brand logos). If configural processing does underlie face recognition, these results place constraints on the definition of 'configural'. Alternatively, familiar face recognition might rely on more complex criteria - based on tolerance to within-person variation rather than highly specific measurement.

Configural processing
Face recognition
Aspect ratio
Holistic processing


Science- and risk-based strategy to qualify prefillable autoclavable syringes as primary packaging material.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
To develop a science and risk based strategy to qualify a prefillable autoclavable cyclic olefin polymer (COP) syringe as a container for multiple drug products in a hospital pharmacy setting METHODS: Different extraction studies were performed with different solution characteristics: phosphate buffer batches (Na2HPO4 / NaH2PO4 in NaCl 0.9%) at different pH values, NaCl 0.9% batches, isopropyl alcohol (IPA) 5% in water and batches with Water For Injections (WFI) at different pH values. The filled syringes were terminally sterilised. The syringes were stored at room temperature (20°C±5°C).Following different monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia several tests were performed on the different batches. Analyses were performed at t=0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24 and 36 months for the general tests. For the subvisible particles, sterility and closure integrity a bracketing scheme was applied during 36 months.

RESULTS
Low levels of extractables were measured for the different solutions. The test for subvisible particles, sterility and closure integrity all met predefined requirements. In the 5mL and 50mL syringes different concentrations of silicon were measured. Overall higher silicon concentrations were measured for the 50mL syringes.

CONCLUSIONS
The chosen strategy for the qualification program provided an adequate understanding about the extractables that could leak from the syringes. The cyclic olefin polymer syringes including stopper and tip cap were found to be suitable as primary packaging materials for the production of water based products.

Larmené-Beld|Karin|K|
Wijnsma|Rommert|R|
Kuiper|Albert|A|
van Berkel|Stefan|S|
Robben|Henri|H|
Taxis|Katja|K|
Frijlink|Henderik|H|

drug manufacturing / preparation / compounding


Light-Driven Enzymatic Decarboxylation of Fatty Acids.

Abstract: The photoenzymatic decarboxylation of fatty acids to alkanes is proposed as an alternative approach for the synthesis of biodiesel. By using a recently discovered photodecarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis NC64A (CvFAP) we demonstrate the irreversible preparation of alkanes from fatty acids and triglycerides. Several fatty acids and their triglycerides are converted by CvFAP in near-quantitative yield and exclusive selectivity upon illumination with blue light. Very promising turnover numbers of up to 8000 were achieved in this proof-of-concept study.

Huijbers|Mieke M E|MME|
Zhang|Wuyuan|W|
Tonin|Fabio|F|
Hollmann|Frank|F|0000-0003-4821-756X

decarboxylation
fatty acids
biocatalysis
biofuels
photocatalysis


Development of a New Mosquito Retention System for the BG-Malaria Trap To Reduce The Damage To Mosquitoes.

Abstract: The BG-Malaria trap was recently modified from the BioGents BG-Sentinel trap to collect Anopheles species, including Anopheles darlingi. However, the captured mosquitoes often lose their hind legs in the collector bag, making them difficult to identify. To develop a new collector system that is capable of maintaining the integrity of the mosquitoes collected in the BG-Malaria trap, we conducted a study in the municipalities of Belém (Pará State [PA]) and Porto Velho (Rondônia State [RO]), Brazil, using carbon dioxide-baited BG-Malaria traps with 4 different mosquito collector systems: standard, no bag, rigid short, and rigid long. Results indicated significant differences among the numbers of mosquitoes captured in the 4 different collectors (P < 0.05). Additionally, significantly fewer insects (P < 0.05) were damaged using the rigid short and rigid long collectors than by using the standard and no-bag collectors. We observed that the longer the insects remained in the collector, the higher the number of damaged insects; this effect was the greatest in the standard collector. The results of this study indicate that rigid long collectors were the best suited for use in the BG-Malaria trap.

Rodrigues|Moreno S|MS|
Silva|Ivoneide M|IM|
Leal|Leandro B|LB|
Dos Santos|Carlos A C|CA|
Eiras|Álvaro E|ÁE|


Self gelating isoracemosol A, new racemosaceramide A, and racemosol E from Barringtonia racemosa.

Abstract: Phytochemical investigation into the CHCl3 extract of the fruits of Barringtonia racemosa resulted in the isolation of two new metabolites along with isoracemosol A and betulinic acid as known metabolites. The new compounds were characterised as phytosphingosine-type ceramide [(2S,3S,4R)-2-[(2R)-2-hydroxyhexadecanoyl amino]-hexacos-8(E)-ene-1,3,4-triol, 1] and racemosol E [21β-acetoxy-22α-(2-methylbutyroxy)-olean-12-ene-3β,16α,28-triol, 2] on the basis of extensive spectroscopic data analysis and chemical modifications. In addition, the self-gelating property of isoracemosol A (3) was investigated for the first time, which leads to the unexpected agglomerated porous-like morphology.

Ponnapalli|Mangala Gowri|MG|
Dangeti|Nalini|N|
Sura|Madhu Babu|MB|
Kothapalli|Haribabu|H|
Akella|V S Sarma|VS|
Shaik|Jeelani Basha|JB|

D021241:Spectrometry, Mass, Electrospray Ionization

isoracemosol A
racemosaceramide A
racemosol E
Barringtonia racemosa
morphology and gelating property


Physical Exercise for Treatment of Mood Disorders: A Critical Review.

Abstract:
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW
The purpose of this review is to critically assess the evidence for exercise as an adjunct intervention for major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, chronic conditions characterized by frequent comorbid conditions as well as interepisodic symptoms with poor quality of life and impaired functioning. Individuals with these mood disorders are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death in part because of increased rates of obesity, inactivity, and diabetes mellitus compared to the general population. Exercise may not only mitigate the increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but could also potentially improve the long term outcomes of mood disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS
We conducted a literature review on the impact of exercise on mood disorders and associated comorbid conditions as well as possible biological mechanisms. We found that exercise impacts both the physical health parameters of mood disorders as well as mental health outcomes. Exercise also positively impacts conditions frequently comorbid with mood disorders (i.e. anxiety, pain, and insomnia). There are multiple candidate biomarkers for exercise, with brain-derived neurotrophic factor and oxidative stress as two main promising components of exercise's anti-depressant effect.

SUMMARY
Exercise appears to be a promising adjunct treatment for mood disorders. We conclude with recommendations for future research of exercise as an adjunct intervention for mood disorders.

Hearing|C M|CM|
Chang|W C|WC|
Szuhany|K L|KL|
Deckersbach|T|T|
Nierenberg|A A|AA|
Sylvia|L G|LG|

exercise
mood disorders
adjunctive intervention
depression
Bipolar disorder
cardiovascular disease


CPSF7 regulates liver cancer growth and metastasis by facilitating WWP2-FL and targeting the WWP2/PTEN/AKT signaling pathway.

Abstract: Alternative splicing within a gene can create different versions of an mRNA, called isoforms. CFIm, composed of a small subunit CFIm25 and two large subunits CFIm68 and CFIm59 (also known as CPSF7), has been proposed as an enhancer-dependent activator of mRNA 3' processing. In this study, we investigated the role of CPSF7 in hepatocellular carcinoma. Experimental evidence suggests that the expression level of CPSF7 is higher in liver cancer cells and tissues than in non-tumor hepatic cells and tissues. Furthermore, knockdown of CPSF7 effectively suppressed cell proliferation, migration and colony formation in liver cancer cells by inhibiting PTEN/AKT signaling. CPSF7 promoted WWP2-FL due to the presence of PTEN ubiquitination sites in this longer transcript. Taken together, we identified that CPSF7 regulates liver cancer growth by targeting WWP2-FL that in turn regulates AKT activation in a PTEN-dependent manner.

Fang|Shiji|S| Zhang|Dengke|D| Weng|Wei|W| Lv|Xiuling|X| Zheng|Liyun|L| Chen|Minjiang|M| Fan|Xiaoxi|X| Mao|Jianting|J| Mao|Chenchen|C| Ye|Yani|Y| Xu|Min|M| Ji|Jiansong|J|

D000067776:RNA Recognition Motif Proteins

D039221:mRNA Cleavage and Polyadenylation Factors


Imbalance in systemic inflammation and immune response following transarterial chemoembolization potentially increases metastatic risk in huge hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract: Inflammation plays a critical role in tumor metastasis. However, few inflammation-related biomarkers are currently available to predict the risk of metastasis for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Using huge tumors (diameter >10 cm) as a model, we evaluated the potential risk of pre- and post-treatment inflammatory responses in the development of metastasis of HCC patients undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). A logistic regression model was used to analyze the risk factors. One hundred and sixty-five patients with huge HCC were enrolled in the study. Metastases were identified in 25.5% (42/165) patients by imaging evaluation post-TACE. Neutrophils increased, whereas lymphocytes decreased significantly post-TACE. Univariate analysis showed that high post-treatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; p = 0.003), low post-treatment lymphocyte count (p = 0.047), and high baseline NLR (p = 0.100) were potential risk factors for metastasis. Further, multivariate analysis showed that high post-treatment NLR, but not pre-treatment NLR, was an independent risk factor for metastasis; this was confirmed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Post-treatment NLR, however, had no correlation to tumor response and overall survival of patients. In conclusion, post-treatment NLR but not pre-treatment NLR independently increases the risk of metastasis in huge HCC. Our findings suggest the potential contribution of treatment-related inflammation to metastasis in advanced HCC.

Xue|Tong-Chun|TC| Jia|Qing-An|QA| Ge|Ning-Ling|NL| Chen|Yi|Y| Zhang|Bo-Heng|BH| Ye|Sheng-Long|SL|

Inflammation
Immune
Chemoembolization
Hepatocellular carcinoma
Metastasis


Coping Styles Mediate the Association between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms and Alcohol Outcomes in College Students.

Abstract: College students report high rates of alcohol consumption and Criterion A traumatic events, which puts them at higher risk for dangerous alcohol-related negative consequences when compared to the general population. The self-medication theory suggests coping as the potential link between substance use and psychological distress, and it has been found that ineffective coping styles are related to increased PTSD symptom severity and harmful drinking behaviors. Purpose: This study evaluated the mediating role of coping styles (i.e. problem-solving and avoidance coping) on the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and alcohol outcomes (i.e. hazardous drinking and alcohol-related negative consequences [ARNC]). Methods: A national sample of 672 traditional age (i.e. 18-25 years old; M = 22.35, SD = 1.97) college students who reported alcohol consumption in the past month were recruited via Amazon's Mechanical Turk website. Participants were 55.1% male and 60.9% White and completed measures of PTSD symptoms, coping styles, hazardous drinking, and ARNC. Results: Problem-solving coping mediated the positive relationship between PTSD symptoms and hazardous drinking such that PTSD symptoms were negatively associated with problem-solving coping, which was negatively associated with hazardous drinking. Avoidance coping mediated the positive relationship between PTSD symptoms and ARNC through a positive association between PTSD symptoms and avoidance coping. Conclusions: These novel findings highlight the importance of adaptive coping styles as a protective factor for college students experiencing co-occurring PTSD symptoms and harmful alcohol use.

Freeman|Tatum E|TE|
Jordan|Hallie R|HR|
Madson|Michael B|MB|

Coping styles
alcohol outcomes
college students
post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms


Retail Food Environment Intervention Planning: Interviews With Owners and Managers of Small- and Medium-Sized Rural Food Stores.

Abstract: Retail food environments are an important setting for promoting healthier diets and reducing the global burden of diet-related disease. The purpose of this 2-year community-university partnership was to develop a health promotion intervention for stores in a rural and remote region of British Columbia, Canada. This article reports on the qualitative interviews that were conducted with retail operators as part of an intervention planning process. Seven in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with store owners and managers of small- and medium-sized stores in a rural and remote region. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify business operations and practices relevant to intervention planning and implementation. Relevant considerations for health promotion planners included the unique business models of rural stores; the prominence of regional travel and "outshopping" in rural and remote regions; challenges balancing between choice, value, and profitability; relationships with suppliers; and using local products to attract and retain customers. Involving retailers in settings-based approaches to improve population nutrition may help to mobilize existing practices and ensure that interventions are responsive to local context.

Hasdell|Rebecca|R|0000-0003-1162-5535
Poland|Blake|B|
Cole|Donald|D|
Sheppard|Flo|F|
Burton|Laurel|L|
Mah|Catherine L|CL|0000-0002-7294-2035

nutrition
chronic disease
community assessment
community intervention
environmental and systems change
health research
program planning and evaluation
qualitative research
rural health


Myeloid neoplasms associated with eosinophilia and rearrangement of PDGFRA, PDGFRB, and FGFR1: a review.

Abstract: Myeloid and lymphoid neoplasms with eosinophilia and abnormalities of platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA), platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRB), and fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 (FGFR1) are a group of hematologic neoplasms resulting from the formation of abnormal fusion genes that encode constitutively activated tyrosine kinases. These entities are now separated into their own major category in the 2008 World Health Organization classification of hematolymphoid tumors. Although eosinophilia is characteristic of these diseases, the clinical presentation of the three entities is variable. Conventional cytogenetics (karyotyping) will detect the majority of abnormalities involving PDGFRB and FGFR1, but florescence in situ hybridization (FISH)/molecular studies are required to detect factor interacting with PAP (FIP1L1)-PDGFRA as the characteristic 4q12 interstitial deletion is cryptic. Imatinib mesylate (imatinib) is the first-line therapy for patients with abnormalities of PDGFRA/B, whereas patients with FGFR1 fusions are resistant to this therapy and carry a poor prognosis. The discovery of novel gene rearrangements associated with eosinophilia will further guide our understanding of the molecular pathobiology of these diseases and aid in the development of small-molecule inhibitors that inhibit deregulated hematopoiesis.

D051496:Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1

D020796:Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha

D020797:Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor beta


Solitary Osteochondroma of Posterior Elements of the Spine: A Rare Case Report.

Abstract:
Introduction
Osteochondromas are the most common benign tumors of the bone accounting for 35% to 40% of all benign bone tumors. They present in two distinct clinical forms - solitary osteochondroma and multiple osteochondromas. Solitary osteochondroma accounts for 85% of all osteochondroma and is commonly seen in childhood and adolescence. They more frequently affect the appendicular skeleton and are rarely found in spine. Biopsy and imaging help in diagnosis and en bloc resection is the treatment of choice in symptomatic patients.

Case Report
We present a case of a 6-year-old girl who presented with swelling over back for 4 years. Radiological evaluation and biopsy were done and the patient was diagnosed with osteochondroma of the left lamina and spinous process of dorsal 12th vertebral body which was managed with extraperiosteal en bloc excision.

Conclusion
Osteochondroma of the lamina and spinous process of vertebrae is rare and can be effectively treated by extraperiosteal en bloc resection and has a good post-operative outcome.

Pawar|Eknath|E|
Gavhale|Sandeep|S|
Bansal|Sagar|S|
Dave|Harshit|H|
Yadav|Amit Kumar|AK|
Akshay|K S|KS|

Osteochondroma
posterior element
spine
en bloc resection


CRISPR-Cas9-mediated reactivation of the uricase pseudogene in human cells prevents acute hyperuricemia.

Abstract: The utility of CRISPR-Cas9 to repair or reverse diseased states that arise from recent genetic mutations in the human genome is now widely appreciated. The use of CRISPR to "design" the outcomes of biology is challenged by both specialized ethicists and the general public. Less of a focus, however, is the ability of CRISPR to provide metabolic supplements or prophylactic molecules that improve long-term human health by overwriting ancient evolutionary events. Here, we use CRISPR to genomically integrate a functional uricase gene that encodes an enzymatically active protein into the human genome. These uricase-producing cells are able to reduce or even eliminate high concentrations of exogenous uric acid despite the enzyme being localized to peroxisomes. Our evolutionary engineered cells represent the first instance of the primate ape lineage expressing a functional uricase encoded in the genome within the last 20 million years. We anticipate that human cells expressing uricase will help prevent hyperuricemia (including gout) as well as hypertension and will help protect against fatty liver disease in the future.

de Lima Balico|Lais|L|
Gaucher|Eric A|EA|

uricase
hyperuricemia
CRISPR-Cas9
uric acid
gout
ancestral sequence reconstruction
genome engineering


High-Energy-Density Metal-Oxygen Batteries: Lithium-Oxygen Batteries vs Sodium-Oxygen Batteries.

Abstract: The development of next-generation energy-storage devices with high power, high energy density, and safety is critical for the success of large-scale energy-storage systems (ESSs), such as electric vehicles. Rechargeable sodium-oxygen (Na-O2 ) batteries offer a new and promising opportunity for low-cost, high-energy-density, and relatively efficient electrochemical systems. Although the specific energy density of the Na-O2 battery is lower than that of the lithium-oxygen (Li-O2 ) battery, the abundance and low cost of sodium resources offer major advantages for its practical application in the near future. However, little has so far been reported regarding the cell chemistry, to explain the rate-limiting parameters and the corresponding low round-trip efficiency and cycle degradation. Consequently, an elucidation of the reaction mechanism is needed for both lithium-oxygen and sodium-oxygen cells. An in-depth understanding of the differences and similarities between Li-O2 and Na-O2 battery systems, in terms of thermodynamics and a structural viewpoint, will be meaningful to promote the development of advanced metal-oxygen batteries. State-of-the-art battery design principles for high-energy-density lithium-oxygen and sodium-oxygen batteries are thus reviewed in depth here. Major drawbacks, reaction mechanisms, and recent strategies to improve performance are also summarized.

Song|Kyeongse|K|
Agyeman|Daniel Adjei|DA|
Park|Mihui|M|
Yang|Junghoon|J|
Kang|Yong-Mook|YM|

lithium-oxygen batteries
sodium-oxygen batteries
cathodes
lithium peroxide
sodium superoxide


Identifying Mild Hepatic Encephalopathy Based on Multi-Layer Modular Algorithm and Machine Learning.

Abstract: Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neurocognitive dysfunction based on metabolic disorders caused by severe liver disease, which has a high one-year mortality. Mild hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) has a high risk of converting to overt HE, and thus the accurate identification of MHE from cirrhosis with no HE (noHE) is of great significance in reducing mortality. Previously, most studies focused on studying abnormality in the static brain networks of MHE to find biomarkers. In this study, we aimed to use multi-layer modular algorithm to study abnormality in dynamic graph properties of brain network in MHE patients and construct a machine learning model to identify individual MHE from noHE. Here, a time length of 500-second resting-state functional MRI data were collected from 41 healthy subjects, 32 noHE patients and 30 MHE patients. Multi-layer modular algorithm was performed on dynamic brain functional connectivity graph. The connection-stability score was used to characterize the loyalty in each brain network module. Nodal flexibility, cohesion and disjointness were calculated to describe how the node changes the network affiliation across time. Results show that significant differences between MHE and noHE were found merely in nodal disjointness in higher cognitive network modules (ventral attention, fronto-parietal, default mode networks) and these abnormalities were associated with the decline in patients' attention and visual memory function evaluated by Digit Symbol Test. Finally, feature extraction from node disjointness with the support vector machine classifier showed an accuracy of 88.71% in discrimination of MHE from noHE, which was verified by different window sizes, modular partition parameters and machine learning parameters. All these results show that abnormal nodal disjointness in higher cognitive networks during brain network evolution can be seemed as a biomarker for identification of MHE, which help us understand the disease mechanism of MHE at a fine scale.

Zhang|Gaoyan|G| Li|Yuexuan|Y| Zhang|Xiaodong|X| Huang|Lixiang|L| Cheng|Yue|Y| Shen|Wen|W|

mild hepatic encephalopathy
multi-layer modular algorithm
machine learning
dynamic graph properties
functional MRI
disjointness
brain network evolution
individual discrimination


Strongyloidiasis in a young French woman raises concern about possible ongoing autochthonous transmission in Spain.

Abstract: Strongyloidiasis is one of the most common geohelminth infections in tropical and subtropical areas. Accurate diagnosis remains challenging, leading to an overall underestimation of strongyloidiasis prevalence. The possibility of ongoing autochthonous transmission in some temperate areas and especially in southern Europe is still debated, and data supporting this hypothesis are scarce. The case of a young French woman, who had travelled frequently to Spain and had acquired Strongyloides stercoralis infection as revealed by gastrointestinal symptoms and hypereosinophilia, is reported here. Physicians should keep in mind the risk of being infected in some areas of southern Europe, even if low, in order to avoid the life-threatening manifestations of strongyloidiasis favoured by pathological or therapeutic immunosuppression.


Influence of polymeric carrier on the disposition and retention of 20(R)-ginsenoside-rg3-loaded swellable microparticles in the lung.

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of differently charged biocompatible polymers, including chitosan (CS), hyaluronic acid (HA), and hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), on the disposition and retention of 20(R)-ginsenoside-rg3 (Rg3)-loaded swellable microparticles in the lung. A high-pressure homogenization method combined with spray drying was used to prepare Rg3-loaded microparticles. In vitro aerodynamic performance of different microparticles was characterized by the Next Generation Impactor (NGI). Retention of the swellable microparticles in the rat lung was investigated using bronchoalveolar lavage fluid method. Influence of drug loading, polymer molecular weight, and polymer charge on the properties of the swellable microparticles was investigated. It was found that drug loading had no significant influence on experimental mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMADe) and fine particle fraction (FPF). Increasing polymer molecular weight caused no remarkable change in MMADe value, but the FPF value decreased with the increase of polymer molecular weight. At the same molecular weight level, polymer structure and charge had no statistical influence on the in vitro aerodynamic properties of the microparticles and lung disposition, but it influenced the swelling and bioadhesion behavior and therefore lung retention profile. Desirable phagocytosis escapement and inhibition of A549 cell proliferation were achieved for the developed swellable microparticles. In conclusion, the lung retention of swellable microparticles can be adjusted by selecting polymeric carriers with different structure and charge.

Swellable microparticle
Chitosan
Hyaluronic acid
Hydroxypropyl cellulose
20(R)-ginsenoside-rg3
A549 cells
Lung disposition and retention


An Adaptive Multi-Dimensional Vehicle Driving State Observer Based on Modified Sage-Husa UKF Algorithm.

Abstract: An accurate vehicle driving state observer is a necessary condition for a safe automotive electronic control system. Vehicle driving state observer is challenged by unknown measurement noise and transient disturbances caused by complex working conditions and sensor failure. For the classical adaptive unscented Kalman filter (AUKF) algorithm, transient disturbances will cause the failure of state estimation and affect the subsequent process. This paper proposes an AUKF based on a modified Sage-Husa filter and divergence calculation technique for multi-dimensional vehicle driving state observation. Based on the seven-degrees-of-freedom vehicle model and the Dugoff tire model, the proposed algorithm corrects the measurement noise by using modified Sage-Husa maximum posteriori. To reduce the influence of transient disturbance on the subsequent process, covariance matrix is updated after divergence is detected. The effectiveness of the algorithm is tested on the double lane change and Sine Wave road conditions. The robustness of the algorithm is tested under severe transient disturbance. The results demonstrate that the modified Sage-Husa UKF algorithm can accurately detect transient disturbance and effectively reduce the resulted accumulated error. Compared to classical AUKF, our algorithm significantly improves the accuracy and robustness of vehicle driving state estimation. The research in this paper provides a reference for multi-dimensional data processing under changeable vehicle driving states.

unscented Kalman filter
vehicle driving state estimation
Sage–Husa filter
adaptive filter
robust estimation
vehicle system


Self-Criticism as a Mechanism Linking Childhood Maltreatment and Maternal Efficacy Beliefs in Low-Income Mothers With and Without Depression.

Abstract: The primary aim of the current study was to examine self-criticism as a potential mechanism mediating the relation between mothers' own childhood maltreatment history and changes in subsequent maternal efficacy beliefs in a diverse sample of low-income mothers with and without major depressive disorder. Longitudinal data were drawn from a larger randomized clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of interpersonal psychotherapy for depression among low-income mothers and their 12-month-old infant. Results indicated that higher levels of maltreatment in childhood led mothers to hold more self-critical judgments in adulthood. Additionally, mothers who had experienced more extensive childhood maltreatment histories perceived themselves as less efficacious in their role as mother. Structural equation modeling indicated that self-criticism mediated the relationship between childhood maltreatment and mothers' decreased perceived competency in her maternal role from when her child was an infant to the more demanding toddler years. Finally, this relationship held over and above the influence of mothers' depressive diagnostic status. Directions for future research and the clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Michl|Louisa C|LC|
Handley|Elizabeth D|ED|
Rogosch|Fred|F|
Cicchetti|Dante|D|
Toth|Sheree L|SL|

self-criticism
childhood maltreatment
maternal efficacy
depression
parenting


Prognostic Relevance of HJURP Expression in Patients with Surgically Resected Colorectal Cancer.

Abstract: HJURP is a key factor for CENP-A deposition and maintenance in centromeres. The role of mis-regulation of histone chaperones in cancer initiation and progression has been studied. However, its role in colorectal cancer is still unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the expression of HJURP in 162 colorectal cancer tissue. To investigate the function of HJURP in the colorectal cancer cell, we suppressed HJURP expression by siRNA and confirmed proliferation, migration, invasion, and anchorage independent of colony forming ability. The association between HJURP expression levels and clinicopathological factors was evaluated in 162 CRC tissues using immunohistochemistry. The overall survival rate in patients of HJURP high expression was higher than those in HJURP low expression in CRC. Suppressing HJURP expression decreased cellular proliferation, invasion, and migration in four CRC cell lines: HT29, HCT116, SW480, SW620 in vitro study. Our findings revealed that the knockdown of HJURP suppressed the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenicity in CRC cells. Due to its strong association with CRC, HJURP could be a potential prognostic biomarker and a novel target for drug discovery.

Kang|Dong Hyun|DH|
Woo|Jongsoo|J|
Kim|Hyeongjoo|H|0000-0002-6317-1726
Kim|Soo Youn|SY|
Ji|Sanghee|S|
Jaygal|Gunn|G|
Ahn|Tae Sung|TS|
Kim|Han Jo|HJ|
Kwak|Hyoung Jong|HJ|
Kim|Chang-Jin|CJ|
Baek|Moo-Jun|MJ|
Jeong|Dongjun|D|0000-0001-8180-5668

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

HJURP
prognostic biomarker
Colorectal cancer (CRC)


Differences in prevalence of refractive errors in young Asian males in Singapore between 1996-1997 and 2009-2010.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
To determine the differences in prevalence rates of refractive errors in young Singaporean males over a 13-year period between 1996-1997 and 2009-2010 METHODS: Non-cycloplegic autorefraction data were obtained in a survey of 15,085 young male subjects (mean age 19.5 ± 1.4 years, range 16-25 years) in 1996-1997 using a Nikon NRK-8000 autorefractor. A second survey of 28,908 male subjects (mean age 19.8 ± 1.2 years, range 17-29 years) was conducted in 2009-2010 using a Huvitz MRK-3100 autorefractor.

RESULTS
The overall prevalence of myopia (spherical equivalent, SEq, worse than -0.5 diopters, D) was similar in 2009-2010 (81.6%) and 1996-1997 (79.2%; odds ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.31-1.46; p < 0.001). The prevalence of high myopia (SEq worse than -6.0D) increased from 13.1% in 1996-1997 to 14.7% in 2009-2010 (p < 0.001). The prevalence of refractive astigmatism increased significantly from 41.4% in 1996-1997 to 50.9% in 2009-2010 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS
Our results show that the prevalence of myopia and high myopia remained high and the prevalence of astigmatism increased in young male adults in Singapore over a 13-year period after controlling for age, education and ethnicity.

Koh|Victor|V|
Yang|Adeline|A|
Saw|Seang Mei|SM|
Chan|Yiong Huak|YH|
Lin|Sheng Tong|ST|
Tan|Mellisa Mei Hui|MM|
Tey|Frederick|F|
Nah|Gerard|G|
Ikram|M Kamran|MK|

refractive error
Singapore
myopia
Astigmatism
epidemiology


Discovery and Characterization of Halogenated Xanthene Inhibitors of DUSP5 as Potential Photodynamic Therapeutics.

Abstract: Dual specific phosphatases (DUSPs) are an important class of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) regulators, and are drug targets for treating vascular diseases. Previously we had shown that DUSP5 plays a role in embryonic vertebrate vascular patterning. Herein, we screened a library of FDA-approved drugs and related compounds, using a para-nitrophenylphosphate substrate (pNPP)-based assay. This assay identified merbromin (also known as mercurochrome) as targeting DUSP5; and, we subsequently identified xanthene-ring based merbromin analogs eosin Y, erythrosin B, and rose bengal, all of which inhibit DUSP5 in vitro. Inhibition was time-dependent for merbromin, eosin Y, 2',7'-dibromofluorescein, and 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein, with enzyme inhibition increasing over time. Reaction progress curve data fit best to a slow-binding model of irreversible enzyme inactivation. Potency of the time-dependent compounds, except for 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein, was diminished when dithiothreitol (DTT) was present, suggesting thiol reactivity. Two additional merbromin analogs, erythrosin B and rose bengal also inhibit DUSP5, but have the therapeutic advantage of being less sensitive to DTT and exhibiting little time dependence for inhibition. Inhibition potency is correlated with the xanthene dye's LUMO energy, which affects ability to form light-activated radical anions, a likely active inhibitor form. Consistent with this hypothesis, rose bengal inhibition is light-dependent and demonstrates the expected red shifted spectrum upon binding to DUSP5, with a K of 690 nM. These studies provide a mechanistic foundation for further development of xanthene dyes for treating vascular diseases that respond to DUSP5 inhibition, with the following relative potencies: rose bengal > merbromin > erythrosin B > eosin Y.

Bongard|Robert D|RD|
Lepley|Michael|M|
Gastonguay|Adam|A|
Syrlybaeva|Raulia R|RR|
Talipov|Marat R|MR|
Lipinsky|Rachel A Jones|RAJ|
Leigh|Noah R|NR|
Brahmbhatt|Jaladhi|J|
Kutty|Raman|R|
Rathore|Rajendra|R|
Ramchandran|Ramani|R|
Sem|Daniel S|DS|

DUSP5
merbromin
eosin Y
rose bengal
xanthene dyes
enzyme kinetics
pERK


A comparative pharmacogenomic analysis of three classic TCM prescriptions for coronary heart disease based on molecular network modeling.

Abstract: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has evolved over several thousands of years, which has been shown to be efficacious in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. Three classical TCM prescriptions, namely Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction, Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction, and Gualou Xiebai Banxia Decoction, have been extensively used in the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD). Based on molecular network modeling, we performed a comparative pharmacogenomic analysis to systematically determine the drug-targeting spectrum of the three prescriptions at molecular level. Wide-area target molecules of CHD were covered, which was a common feature of the three decoctions, demonstrating their therapeutic functions. Meanwhile, collective signaling involved metabolic/pro-metabolic pathways, driving and transferring pathways, neuropsychiatric pathways, and exocrine or endocrine pathways. These organized pharmacological disturbance was mainly focused on almost all stages of CHD intervention, such as anti-atherosclerosis, lipid metabolism, inflammation, vascular wall function, foam cells formation, platelets aggregation, thrombosis, arrhythmia, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. In addition, heterogeneity analysis of the global pharmacological molecular spectrum revealed that signaling crosstalk, cascade convergence, and key targets were tendentious among the three decoctions. After all, it is unadvisable to rank the findings on targeting advantages of the three decoctions. Comparative pharmacological evidence may provide an appropriate decoction scheme for individualized intervention of CHD.

Zhang|Ying-Ying|YY| Zhao|Zi-de|ZD| Kong|Peng-Yun|PY| Gao|Lin|L| Yu|Ya-Nan|YN| Liu|Jun|J| Wang|Peng-Qian|PQ| Li|Bing|B| Zhang|Xiao-Xu|XX| Yang|Li-Qiang|LQ| Wang|Zhong|Z|

D003327:Coronary Disease
D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal
D006801:Humans
D008516:Medicine, Chinese Traditional
D008958:Models, Molecular
D000071185:Pharmacogenomic Testing

classical TCM prescriptions
coronary heart disease
molecular network modeling
Xuefu Zhuyu Decoction
Zhishi Xiebai Guizhi Decoction
Gualou Xiebai Banxia Decoction
network pharmacology


COPD exacerbations associated with the modified Medical Research Council scale and COPD assessment test among Humana Medicare members.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines recommend assessment of COPD severity, which includes symptomatology using the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) or COPD assessment test (CAT) score in addition to the degree of airflow obstruction and exacerbation history. While there is great interest in incorporating symptomatology, little is known about how patient reported symptoms are associated with future exacerbations and exacerbation-related costs.

METHODS
The mMRC and CAT were mailed to a randomly selected sample of 4,000 Medicare members aged >40 years, diagnosed with COPD (≥2 encounters with International Classification of Dis eases-9th Edition Clinical Modification: 491.xx, 492.xx, 496.xx, ≥30 days apart). The exacerbations and exacerbation-related costs were collected from claims data during 365-day post-survey after exclusion of members lost to follow-up or with cancer, organ transplant, or pregnancy. A logistic regression model estimated the predictive value of exacerbation history and symptomatology on exacerbations during follow-up, and a generalized linear model with log link and gamma distribution estimated the predictive value of exacerbation history and symptomatology on exacerbation-related costs.

RESULTS
Among a total of 1,159 members who returned the survey, a 66% (765) completion rate was observed. Mean (standard deviation) age among survey completers was 72.0 (8.3), 53.7% female and 91.2% white. Odds ratios for having post-index exacerbations were 3.06, 4.55, and 16.28 times for members with 1, 2, and ≥3 pre-index exacerbations, respectively, relative to members with 0 pre-index exacerbations (P<0.001 for all). The odds ratio for high vs low symptoms using CAT was 2.51 (P<0.001). Similarly, exacerbation-related costs were 73% higher with each incremental pre-index exacerbation, and over four fold higher for high-vs low-symptom patients using CAT (each P<0.001). The symptoms using mMRC were not statistically significant in either model (P>0.10).

CONCLUSION
The patient-reported symptoms contribute important information related to future COPD exacerbations and exacerbation-related costs beyond that explained by exacerbation history.

Pasquale|Margaret K|MK|
Xu|Yihua|Y|
Baker|Christine L|CL|
Zou|Kelly H|KH|
Teeter|John G|JG|
Renda|Andrew M|AM|
Davis|Cralen C|CC|
Lee|Theodore C|TC|
Bobula|Joel|J|

D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive


Label-Based Alignment Multi-Source Domain Adaptation for Cross-Subject EEG Fatigue Mental State Evaluation.

Abstract: Accurate detection of driving fatigue is helpful in significantly reducing the rate of road traffic accidents. Electroencephalogram (EEG) based methods are proven to be efficient to evaluate mental fatigue. Due to its high non-linearity, as well as significant individual differences, how to perform EEG fatigue mental state evaluation across different subjects still keeps challenging. In this study, we propose a Label-based Alignment Multi-Source Domain Adaptation (LA-MSDA) for cross-subject EEG fatigue mental state evaluation. Specifically, LA-MSDA considers the local feature distributions of relevant labels between different domains, which efficiently eliminates the negative impact of significant individual differences by aligning label-based feature distributions. In addition, the strategy of global optimization is introduced to address the classifier confusion decision boundary issues and improve the generalization ability of LA-MSDA. Experimental results show LA-MSDA can achieve remarkable results on EEG-based fatigue mental state evaluation across subjects, which is expected to have wide application prospects in practical brain-computer interaction (BCI), such as online monitoring of driver fatigue, or assisting in the development of on-board safety systems.

Zhao|Yue|Y|
Dai|Guojun|G|
Borghini|Gianluca|G|
Zhang|Jiaming|J|
Li|Xiufeng|X|
Zhang|Zhenyan|Z|
Aricò|Pietro|P|
Di Flumeri|Gianluca|G|
Babiloni|Fabio|F|
Zeng|Hong|H|

label-based alignment
multi-source domain adaptation
cross-subject
fatigue mental state
electroencephalogram
individual differences


X-ray Study of Structural Formation and Thermomechanical Properties of Silver-Containing Polymer Nanocomposites.

Abstract: The structural organization and thermomechanical properties of nanocomposites prepared from interpolyelectrolyte-metal complex (IMC) involving anionic polyelectrolyte, pectin and AgNO3, and cationic polyelectrolyte, poly(4-vinylpyridine), have been investigated using the methods of wide- and small-angle X-ray scattering and thermomechanical analysis. It is established that chemical reduction of Ag+ ions in the IMC by sodium borohydride results in formation of the nanocomposite based on the "pectin-poly(4-vinylpyridine)" interpolyelectrolyte complex (IPEC) and Ag0 nanoparticles as well. At the same time, the level of nanocomposites' structural heterogeneity is substantially enhancing, while effective size of the heterogeneity regions decreases. The nanocomposites IPEC-Ag0 prepared are shown much bigger T g value and enhanced ability for deformation than those for IMC.

Structure
Thermomechanical properties
Nanocomposite
Interpolyelectrolyte complexes
Interpolyelectrolyte–metal complexes


Bilateral choroidal osteoma associated with langerhans cell histiocytosis, a coincidence?

Abstract:
Purpose
To describe a case of bilateral choroidal osteoma (CO) in a patient with a history of langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH).

Methods
A 24-year-old man complaining of gradually decreasing visual acuity in both eyes is presented. He had a history of lymphadenopathy, respiratory symptoms, and pathology-proven diagnosis of LCH.

Results
Ophthalmic clinical and imaging studies revealed bilateral CO.

Conclusion
In this patient, we suggest a possible relationship between LCH and CO.

Azadi|Pejvak|P|
Khodabande|Alireza|A|
Riazi Esfahani|Mohammd|M|
Ghassemi|Fariba|F|
Aliabadi|Negar|N|

Bilateral
Choroidal osteoma
Langerhans cell histiocytosis


Application of Microfluidics in Experimental Ecology: The Importance of Being Spatial.

Abstract: Microfluidics is an emerging technology that is used more and more in biology experiments. Its capabilities of creating precisely controlled conditions in cellular dimensions make it ideal to explore cell-cell and cell-environment interactions. Thus, a wide spectrum of problems in microbial ecology can be studied using engineered microbial habitats. Moreover, artificial microfluidic ecosystems can serve as model systems to test ecology theories and principles that apply on a higher level in the hierarchy of biological organization. In this mini review we aim to demonstrate the versatility of microfluidics and the diversity of its applications that help the advance of microbiology, and in more general, experimental ecology.

Nagy|Krisztina|K|
Ábrahám|Ágnes|Á|
Keymer|Juan E|JE|
Galajda|Péter|P|

microfluidics
microbial ecology
communities
microbial interactions
spatial ecology


Clinical evaluation of GEM 21S(®) and a collagen membrane with a coronally advanced flap as a root coverage procedure in the treatment of gingival recession defects: A comparative study.

Abstract:
AIM
Clinical evaluation of efficacy of rhPDGF-BB plus beta tricalcium phosphate (GEM 21S(®)) along with a collagen membrane in root coverage using a coronally advanced flap.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
This human case series evaluated the clinical outcome of rhPDGF-BB with beta-tricalcium phosphate (GEM 21S®) and a collagen membrane in the treatment of recession defects using a coronally advanced flap. Patients were followed postoperatively, and healing was evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months, with recession depth as the primary outcome measure.

RESULTS
This pioneer case series revealed a favorable tissue response to GEM 21S® and collagen membrane from both clinical and esthetic point of view in regenerative periodontal surgery.

coronally advanced flap
gingival recession
Beta-tricalcium phosphate
platelet-derived growth factor


Chemically modified DNA aptamers bind interleukin-6 with high affinity and inhibit signaling by blocking its interaction with interleukin-6 receptor.

Abstract: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates immune and inflammatory responses, and its overproduction is a hallmark of inflammatory diseases. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling with the anti-IL-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab has provided some clinical benefit to patients; however, direct cytokine inhibition may be a more effective option. We used the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) process to discover slow off-rate modified aptamers (SOMAmers) with hydrophobic base modifications that inhibit IL-6 signaling in vitro. Two classes of IL-6 SOMAmers were isolated from modified DNA libraries containing 40 random positions and either 5-(N-benzylcarboxamide)-2'-deoxyuridine (Bn-dU) or 5-[N-(1-naphthylmethyl)carboxamide]-2'-deoxyuridine (Nap-dU) replacing dT. These modifications facilitate the high affinity binding interaction with IL-6 and provide resistance against degradation by serum endonucleases. Post-SELEX optimization of one Bn-dU and one Nap-dU SOMAmer led to improvements in IL-6 binding (10-fold) and inhibition activity (greater than 20-fold), resulting in lead SOMAmers with sub-nanomolar affinity (Kd = 0.2 nm) and potency (IC50 = 0.2 nm). Although similar in inhibition properties, the two SOMAmers have unique sequences and different ortholog specificities. Furthermore, these SOMAmers were stable in human serum in vitro for more than 48 h. Both SOMAmers prevented IL-6 signaling by blocking the interaction of IL-6 with its receptor and inhibited the proliferation of tumor cells in vitro as effectively as tocilizumab. This new class of IL-6 inhibitor may be an effective therapeutic alternative for patients suffering from inflammatory diseases.

Gupta|Shashi|S|
Hirota|Masao|M|
Waugh|Sheela M|SM|
Murakami|Ikuo|I|
Suzuki|Tomoki|T|
Muraguchi|Masahiro|M|
Shibamori|Masafumi|M|
Ishikawa|Yuichi|Y|
Jarvis|Thale C|TC|
Carter|Jeffrey D|JD|
Zhang|Chi|C|
Gawande|Bharat|B|
Vrkljan|Michael|M|
Janjic|Nebojsa|N|
Schneider|Daniel J|DJ|

Aptamers
SELEX
SOMAmer
Cell Signaling
Drug Discovery
Interleukin
Molecular Evolution
Nuclease Stability
Nucleic Acid Chemistry
Protein-DNA Interaction


Organosilane-functionalization of nanostructured indium tin oxide films.

Abstract: Fabrication and organosilane-functionalization and characterization of nanostructured ITO electrodes are reported. Nanostructured ITO electrodes were obtained by electron beam evaporation, and a subsequent annealing treatment was selectively performed to modify their crystalline state. An increase in geometrical surface area in comparison with thin-film electrodes area was observed by atomic force microscopy, implying higher electroactive surface area for nanostructured ITO electrodes and thus higher detection levels. To investigate the increase in detectability, chemical organosilane-functionalization of nanostructured ITO electrodes was performed. The formation of 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GOPTS) layers was detected by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As an indirect method to confirm the presence of organosilane molecules on the ITO substrates, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were also carried out. Cyclic voltammograms of functionalized ITO electrodes presented lower reduction-oxidation peak currents compared with non-functionalized ITO electrodes. These results demonstrate the presence of the epoxysilane coating on the ITO surface. EIS showed that organosilane-functionalized electrodes present higher polarization resistance, acting as an electronic barrier for the electron transfer between the conductive solution and the ITO electrode. The results of these electrochemical measurements, together with the significant difference in the X-ray spectra between bare ITO and organosilane-functionalized ITO substrates, may point to a new exploitable oxide-based nanostructured material for biosensing applications. As a first step towards sensing, rapid functionalization of such substrates and their application to electrochemical analysis is tested in this work. Interestingly, oxide-based materials are highly integrable with the silicon chip technology, which would permit the easy adaptation of such sensors into lab-on-a-chip configurations, providing benefits such as reduced size and weight to facilitate on-chip integration, and leading to low-cost mass production of microanalysis systems.

Pruna|R|R|0000-0003-3440-8891 Palacio|F|F| Martínez|M|M| Blázquez|O|O| Hernández|S|S| Garrido|B|B| López|M|M|

indium tin oxide
atomic force microscopy
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
cyclic voltammetry
electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
electrochemistry