Family-clinician communication in the ICU and its relationship to psychological distress of family members: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Effective communication between family and clinicians has been identified as one of the most important factors in end-of-life care. Family members' perception of communication quality with clinicians may be associated with their psychological symptoms.

OBJECTIVES
To examine the association between family-clinician (physicians or nurses) communication quality and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress among family members of chronically critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs).

DESIGN
A cross-sectional study.

SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS
The participants were 71 adult family members of 71 patients who required prolonged mechanical ventilation in ten ICUs at three medical centres in Korea.

METHODS
Participants completed the Quality of Communication (QOC) questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). The data were analysed using correlation, bivariate regression, and multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS
The mean (SD) QOC score for physicians and nurses was 50.3 (15.2) and 42.9 (14.2), respectively. Forty-six participants (64.8%) were identified as being at risk for having anxiety symptoms; 22 (31%) had a mild risk and 24 (33.8%) had a moderate or severe risk. More family members (76.1%) were at risk for having depressive symptoms; 15 (21.1%) had a mild risk and 39 (54.9%) had a moderate or severe risk. For post-traumatic stress symptoms, 48 (67.6%) were at risk. While the QOC scores for nurses were negatively associated with participants' HADS-depression scores (β = -.01, p = .03), the QOC scores for physicians were not associated with the HADS or IES-R scores. This conclusion held after consideration of covariates.

CONCLUSIONS
The findings suggest that communication between family members and ICU nurses may be more influential than that with ICU physicians on psychological distress of family members in Korea. However, further research is warranted to confirm this relationship. Future interventions to reduce psychological distress in family members of chronically critically ill patients may need to target ICU nurses for improving communication skills.

Jo|Minjeong|M|
Song|Mi-Kyung|MK|
Knafl|George J|GJ|
Beeber|Linda|L|
Yoo|Yang-Sook|YS|
Van Riper|Marcia|M|

Communication
Family
End-of-life care
Intensive care unit
Psychological stress


Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 mutation with invasive eosinophilic disease.

Abstract: Hyper-IgE syndrome (HIES), or Jobs disease, is a rare immunologic disorder characterized by the triad of staphylococcal abscesses, pneumonia with pneumatocele formation, and elevated IgE. It has been shown to have multiple modes of inheritance, autosomal dominant being more common than autosomal recessive, with sporadic cases as well. A mutation in signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) gene has been linked to the development of the sporadic and dominant forms of HIES. Peripheral eosinophilia, typically greater than two standard deviations from the normal population, is often seen in association with HIES. Despite these elevated levels of blood eosinophils, there have been no reported cases of invasive eosinophilic disease, such as eosonophilic esophagitic. Here we report the first description, to our knowledge, of a patient with HIES with a STAT3 mutation involving exon 12, Thr389Ile, and invasive eosinophilic disease of the esophagus. STAT3 modulates the expression of several genes that control central cell processes such as growth and death in response to external soluble stimuli. A mutation in the STAT3 molecule may affect the eosinophil's response to IL-5 and thus reduce the chemotaxic ability of those cells to migrate into tissues. This may then explain the paucity of eosinophilic infiltrative disease in patients with STAT3 mutations. The level of eosinophilic involvement may be related to the site or type of mutation within the STAT3 molecule. As more data are collected, we may be able to assess whether certain mutations dictate different clinical outcomes, which could prove helpful in directing therapy.

Crosby|Kara|K| Swender|David|D| Chernin|Leah|L| Hafez-Khayyata|Said|S| Ochs|Hans|H| Tcheurekdjian|Haig|H| Hostoffer|Robert|R|

invasive hyper-IgE STAT3 Eosinophilia Thr389Ile esophagitis immunodeficiency


De novo design of functional oligonucleotides with acyclic scaffolds.

Abstract: In this account, we demonstrate a new methodology for the de novo design of functional oligonucleotides with the acyclic scaffolds threoninol and serinol. Four functional motifs-wedge, interstrand-wedge, dimer, and cluster-have been prepared from natural DNA or RNA and functional base surrogates prepared from d-threoninol. The following applications of these motifs are described: (1) photoregulation of formation and dissociation of a DNA duplex modified with azobenzene, (2) sequence-specific detection of DNA using a fluorescent probe, (3) formation of fluorophore assemblies that mimic quantum dots, (4) improved strand selectivity of siRNA modified with a base surrogate, and (5) in vivo tracing of the RNAi pathway. Finally, we introduce artificial nucleic acids (XNAs) prepared from d-threoninol and serinol functionalized with each of the four nucleobases, which have unique properties compared with other acyclic XNAs. Functional oligonucleotides designed from acyclic scaffolds will be powerful tools for both DNA nanotechnology and biotechnology.

oligonucleotides
fluorescent probes
nucleic acids
helical structures
photochemistry


The basicity of an active-site water molecule discriminates between tyrosinase and catechol oxidase activity.

Abstract: Tyrosinase (Ty) and catechol oxidase (CO) are members of type-3 copper enzymes. While Ty catalyzes both phenolase and catecholase reactions, CO catalyzes only the latter reaction. In the present study, Ty was found to catalyze the catecholase reaction, but hardly the phenolase reaction in the presence of the metallochaperon called "caddie protein (Cad)". The ability of the substrates to dissociate the motif shielding the active-site pocket seems to contribute critically to the substrate specificity of Ty. In addition, a mutation at the N191 residue, which forms a hydrogen bond with a water molecule near the active center, decreased the inherent ratio of phenolase versus catecholase activity. Unlike the wild-type complex, reaction intermediates were not observed when the catalytic reaction toward the Y98 residue of Cad was progressed in the crystalline state. The increased basicity of the water molecule may be necessary to inhibit the proton transfer from the conjugate acid to a hydroxide ion bridging the two copper ions. The deprotonation of the substrate hydroxyl by the bridging hydroxide seems to be significant for the efficient catalytic cycle of the phenolase reaction.

Matoba|Yasuyuki|Y| Oda|Kosuke|K| Muraki|Yoshimi|Y| Masuda|Taro|T|

D001426:Bacterial Proteins
D001665:Binding Sites
D002384:Catalysis
D020134:Catalytic Domain
D004156:Catechol Oxidase
D018360:Crystallography, X-Ray
D006860:Hydrogen Bonding
D056511:Metallochaperones
D008958:Models, Molecular
D014442:Monophenol Monooxygenase
D009154:Mutation
D011485:Protein Binding
D011487:Protein Conformation
D013302:Streptomyces
D013379:Substrate Specificity
D014867:Water

Tyrosinase
Catalytic mechanism
Crystal structure


Modulatory Effects of Prediction Accuracy on Electroencephalographic Brain Activity During Prediction.

Abstract: Prediction is essential for the efficiency of many cognitive processes; however, this process is not always perfect. Predictive coding theory suggests that the brain generates and updates a prediction to respond to an upcoming event. Although an electrophysiological index of prediction, the stimulus preceding negativity (SPN), has been reported, it remains unknown whether the SPN reflects the prediction accuracy, or whether it is associated with the prediction error, which corresponds to a mismatch between a prediction and an actual input. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate this question using electroencephalography (EEG). Participants were asked to predict the original pictures from pictures that had undergone different levels of pixelation. The SPN amplitude was affected by the level of pixelation and correlated with the subjective evaluation of the prediction accuracy. Furthermore, late positive components (LPC) were negatively correlated with SPN. These results suggest that the amplitude of SPN reflects the prediction accuracy; more accurate prediction increases the SPN and reduces the prediction error, resulting in reduced LPC amplitudes.

Ono|Kentaro|K| Hashimoto|Junya|J| Hiramoto|Ryosuke|R| Sasaoka|Takafumi|T| Yamawaki|Shigeto|S|

prediction
stimulus preceding negativity (SPN)
prediction error
electroencephalography (EEG)
late positive components (LPCs)


The effect of thoracic region self-mobilization on chest expansion and pulmonary function.

Abstract: [Purpose] The aim of this study was to determine the effects of thoracic region self-mobilization on chest expansion and pulmonary function in healthy adults. [Subjects] Nineteen healthy adults were randomly allocated to either an intervention group (n = 8) or a control group (n = 11). [Methods] Subjects in the intervention group performed self-mobilization of the thoracic region 3 times per week for 6 weeks (18 sessions). The outcome measures included chest expansion when breathing, pulmonary function, and predicted pulmonary function. [Results] There was a significant difference in chest expansion between the intervention group and the control group. However, there was no significant difference in pulmonary function between the intervention group and the control group. [Conclusion] Thoracic region self-mobilization may be beneficial for increasing chest expansion in healthy adults.

Chest expansion
Pulmonary function
Thoracic self-mobilization


Microbiota of the conjunctival sac of 120 healthy cats.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
To describe the bacterial and fungal microbiota of the conjunctiva and factors influencing these microbiota of healthy cats. To evaluate the antimicrobial resistance profile and discuss the use of appropriate antimicrobial drugs.

ANIMALS STUDIED
One hundred and twenty healthy cats PROCEDURES: Conjunctival samples with dry or premoistened swabs were obtained from both eyes and cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and fungi. In vitro bacterial, susceptibility testing was performed. The effects of age, sex, breed, season, living environment, and sample collection technique on the frequency and composition of microbial isolation were evaluated.

RESULTS
In 49 of 120 cats (40.8%) and 73 of 240 swabs (30.4%), microorganisms were isolated. Of the isolates, 71% (61/86) were Gram-positive bacteria, 26% (22/86) were Gram-negative bacteria, and 3% (3/86) were fungi. Staphylococcus felis (17/86; 19.8%) was the most commonly isolated species. Moraxella osloensis (5/86; 5.8%) was the most frequent Gram-negative species. The season had a statistically significant influence (P = 0.04) on the frequency of isolation. The use of premoistened swabs increased the rate of Gram-positive bacterial detection significantly (P = 0.03). The in vitro susceptibility testing showed high efficacy of chloramphenicol, gentamicin, pradofloxacin, and enrofloxacin.

CONCLUSIONS
The isolated microbiota aligns with previous studies performed in other countries, although the microbiota of cats in the present study showed wider bacterial diversity, and more Gram-negative species were isolated. Swab sampling should be performed with premoistened swabs. The topical antimicrobials gentamicin and chloramphenicol are suitable therapeutics for first-line treatment.

Büttner|Jessica Nina|JN|
Schneider|Marianne|M|
Csokai|Jaqueline|J|
Müller|Elisabeth|E|
Eule|Johanna Corinna|JC|

antimicrobial
eye
bacteria
fungi
feline
ocular surface


RTK25: A Comprehensive Molecular Profiling Strategy in Cholangiocarcinoma Using an Integrated Bioinformatics Approach.

Abstract: Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a heterogeneous group of malignancies that primarily originate from the bile duct. Tumor heterogeneity is a prime characteristic of CCA and considering the scarcity of approved targeted therapy drugs, this makes precision oncology impractical in CCA. Stratifying patients based on their molecular signature and biomarker-guided therapy may offer a conducive solution. Receptors tyrosine kinases (RTK) are potential targets for novel therapeutic strategies in CCA as RTK signaling is dysregulated in CCA. This study aims to identify targetable RTK profile in CCA using a bioinformatic approach. We discovered that CCA samples could be grouped into molecular subtypes based on the gene expression profile of selected RTKs (RTK25). Using the RTK25 gene list, we discovered five distinct molecular subtypes of CCA in this cohort. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors that target each RTK profile and their subsequent molecular signatures were also discovered. These results suggest that certain RTKs correlate with each other, indicating that tailored dual inhibition of RTKs may be more favorable than monotherapy. The results from this study can direct future investigative attention towards validating this concept in in vivo and in vitro systems. Ultimately, this will facilitate biomarker-guided clinical trials for the successful approval of novel therapeutic options in CCA.

cholangiocarcinoma
targeted therapy
receptor tyrosine kinases
biomarkers
precision medicine


Validity of different biomonitoring parameters in human urine for the assessment of occupational exposure to naphthalene.

Abstract: Up to date, information on the validity of human biomonitoring (HBM) parameters of naphthalene exposure is poor. This study was performed to reveal the relation between occupational exposure to naphthalene and biological exposure markers. Therefore, ten lowly and highly exposed workers from the abrasives industry were selected to characterise a broad exposure range. Naphthalene in air was determined by personal air monitoring during one shift. For biological monitoring, pre- and post-shift urine samples collected on 2 days of a working week were analysed for 1,2-dihydroxynaphthalene (1,2-DHN), 1- and 2-naphthol, 1- and 2-naphthylmercapturic acid (NMA). The naphthalene concentration in air was in the range of 0.5 to 11.6 mg/m3. The biomarkers in urine showed post-shift concentration in the range of 114-51,809 µg/L for 1,2-DHN, 0.8-666 µg/L for 1-NMA, 2-2698 µg/L for 1-naphthol and 4-1135 µg/L for 2-naphthol, respectively. 2-NMA was not detected. The urinary levels increased significantly from pre- to post-shift for all analysed parameters and an accumulation over the working week was observed. Significant positive correlations were observed between 1,2-DHN, 1-NMA, 1- and 2-naphthol in post-shift urine samples and personal exposure to naphthalene in the air. 1-NMA and 1,2-DHN, 1- and 2-naphthol have been demonstrated as suitable biomarkers for naphthalene exposure monitoring. Of the determined biomarkers, 1,2-DHN is by far the metabolite with the highest concentration in the urine samples.

Klotz|Katrin|K|0000-0002-5609-5745 Weiß|Tobias|T| Zobel|Melanie|M| Bury|Daniel|D| Breuer|Dietmar|D| Werner|Silke|S| Sucker|Kirsten|K| Zschiesche|Wolfgang|W| Göen|Thomas|T|0000-0002-8226-9227 Brüning|Thomas|T| Drexler|Hans|H|

Biomonitoring
Urine
Naphthalene
Dihydroxynaphthalene
Mercapturic acid
Naphthol


Activation of the SUMO modification system is required for the accumulation of RAD51 at sites of DNA damage.

Abstract: Genetic information encoded in chromosomal DNA is challenged by intrinsic and exogenous sources of DNA damage. DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are extremely dangerous DNA lesions. RAD51 plays a central role in homologous DSB repair, by facilitating the recombination of damaged DNA with intact DNA in eukaryotes. RAD51 accumulates at sites containing DNA damage to form nuclear foci. However, the mechanism of RAD51 accumulation at sites of DNA damage is still unclear. Post-translational modifications of proteins, such as phosphorylation, acetylation and ubiquitylation play a role in the regulation of protein localization and dynamics. Recently, the covalent binding of small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) proteins to target proteins, termed SUMOylation, at sites containing DNA damage has been shown to play a role in the regulation of the DNA-damage response. Here, we show that the SUMOylation E2 ligase UBC9, and E3 ligases PIAS1 and PIAS4, are required for RAD51 accretion at sites containing DNA damage in human cells. Moreover, we identified a SUMO-interacting motif (SIM) in RAD51, which is necessary for accumulation of RAD51 at sites of DNA damage. These findings suggest that the SUMO-SIM system plays an important role in DNA repair, through the regulation of RAD51 dynamics.

Shima|Hiroki|H| Suzuki|Hidekazu|H| Sun|Jiying|J| Kono|Kazuteru|K| Shi|Lin|L| Kinomura|Aiko|A| Horikoshi|Yasunori|Y| Ikura|Tsuyoshi|T| Ikura|Masae|M| Kanaar|Roland|R| Igarashi|Kazuhiko|K| Saitoh|Hisato|H| Kurumizaka|Hitoshi|H| Tashiro|Satoshi|S|

D050828:Protein Inhibitors of Activated STAT

D025841:Small Ubiquitin-Related Modifier Proteins


Ictal Coprolalia: A Case Report and Review of Ictal Speech as a Localizing Feature in Epilepsy.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Recognizing ictal semiology is an essential component to localization of seizure onset, especially in intractable epilepsy where surgical therapies may be beneficial. Ictal speech can be a common component of seizure semiology, but the various forms of ictal speech may have different lateralizing and localizing value. Coprolalia is a very rare form of ictal speech.

METHODS
We present a 15 year old with medically intractable seizures characterized by agitation and coprolalia.

RESULTS
The patient underwent surgical evaluation including video EEG, MRI, and functional neuroimaging. These studies indicated onset within the dominant frontal lobe which was further localized using stereo-electroencephalography prior to focal cortical resection.

CONCLUSIONS
Ictal coprolalia is a rare presentation of ictal speech. We review the various forms of ictal speech and their value in localizing seizure onset.

coprolalia
ictal speech
ictal semiology
frontal lobe
temporal lobe


Phage Endolysin LysP108 Showed Promising Antibacterial Potential Against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Abstract: As a potential antibacterial agent, endolysin can directly lyse Gram-positive bacteria from the outside and does not lead to drug resistance. Considering that XN108 is the first reported methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain in mainland China with a vancomycin MIC that exceeds 8 µg mL-1, we conducted a systematic study on its phage-encoded endolysin LysP108. Standard plate counting method revealed that LysP108 could lyse S. aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with damaged outer membrane, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of live bacteria. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that S. aureus cells could be lysed directly from the outside by LysP108. Live/dead bacteria staining results indicated that LysP108 possessed strong bactericidal ability, with an anti-bacterial rate of approximately 90%. Crystal violet staining results implied that LysP108 could also inhibit and destroy bacterial biofilms. In vivo animal experiments suggested that the area of subcutaneous abscess of mice infected with MRSA was significantly reduced after the combined injection of LysP108 and vancomycin in comparison with monotherapy. The synergistic antibacterial effects of LysP108 and vancomycin were confirmed. Therefore, the present data strongly support the idea that endolysin LysP108 exhibits promising antibacterial potential to be used as a candidate for the treatment of infections caused by MRSA.

Lu|Yifei|Y| Wang|Yingran|Y| Wang|Jing|J| Zhao|Yan|Y| Zhong|Qiu|Q| Li|Gang|G| Fu|Zhifeng|Z| Lu|Shuguang|S|

drug-resistant bacteria infection treatment


Affected family member coping with a relative with alcohol and/or other drug misuse: A cross-sectional survey questionnaire.

Abstract: Families have a crucial role supporting a relative with alcohol and/or other drug misuse, but the role has adverse implications for family members' coping, which in turn, affects their ability and willingness to support the relative. The aim of this study was to assess the coping behaviours of affected family members of relatives with alcohol and/or other drug misuse and to assess if there was a relationship between the level of coping and family member type and support-giving experience. A cross-sectional survey design was used, and 90 respondents completed the questionnaire. Results suggest the following associations: that 'Other' family members made more frequent use of maladaptive coping strategies than intimate partners (P = 0.012); family members whose role had a negative effect on their physical health made more frequent use of maladaptive coping strategies than those whose role did not have this effect (P = 0.014); and family members whose role had a negative effect on their ability to socialise used maladaptive coping strategies more often than those whose role did not have this effect (P = 0.003). Engaged and tolerant-inactive maladaptive coping strategies had a significantly greater adverse influence on family members' physical health and/or socialising than withdrawal coping strategies. Affected family members should be supported to use adaptive coping strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects of their support-giving role and to sustain them in this crucial support-giving role. Family and friends, mental health nurses, and other clinicians in the alcohol and other drug field have an important role in supporting family members in this context.

family members
coping
mental health nurses
clinicians
substance misuse


Mechanical properties, physiological behavior, and function of aponeurosis and tendon.

Abstract: During human movement, the muscle and tendinous structures interact as a mechanical system in which forces are generated and transmitted to the bone and energy is stored and released to optimize function and economy of movement and/or to reduce risk of injury. The present review addresses certain aspects of how the anatomical design and mechanical and material properties of the force-transmitting tissues contribute to the function of the muscle-tendon unit and thus overall human function. The force-bearing tissues are examined from a structural macroscopic point of view down to the nanoscale level of the collagen fibril. In recent years, the understanding of in vivo mechanical function of the force-bearing tissues has increased, and it has become clear that these tissues adapt to loading and unloading and furthermore that force transmission mechanics is more complex than previously thought. Future investigations of the force-transmitting tissues in three dimensions will enable a greater understanding of the complex functional interplay between muscle and tendon, with relevance for performance, injury mechanisms, and rehabilitation strategies.

force-transmitting tissues
muscle-tendon unit


Patterns of Plasmodium homocircumflexum virulence in experimentally infected passerine birds.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Avian malaria parasites (genus Plasmodium) are cosmopolitan and some species cause severe pathologies or even mortality in birds, yet their virulence remains fragmentally investigated. Understanding mechanisms and patterns of virulence during avian Plasmodium infections is crucial as these pathogens can severely affect bird populations in the wild and cause mortality in captive individuals. The goal of this study was to investigate the pathologies caused by the recently discovered malaria parasite Plasmodium homocircumflexum (lineage pCOLL4) in four species of European passeriform birds.

METHODS
One cryopreserved P. homocircumflexum strain was multiplied and used for experimental infections. House sparrows (Passer domesticus), common chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs), common crossbills (Loxia curvirostra) and common starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) were exposed by subinoculation of infected blood. Experimental and control groups (8 individuals in each) were observed for over 1 month. Parasitaemia, haematocrit value and body mass were monitored. At the end of the experiment, samples of internal organs were collected and examined using histological and chromogenic in situ hybridization methods.

RESULTS
All exposed birds were susceptible, with similar average prepatent period and maximum parasitaemia, yet virulence was different in different bird species. Mortality due to malaria was reported in chaffinches, house sparrows and crossbills (7, 5 and 3 individuals died respectively), but not in starlings. Exoerythrocytic meronts (phanerozoites) were observed in the brain of all dead experimental birds. Blockage of blood vessels in the brain led to cerebral ischaemia, invariably causing brain damage, which is likely the main reason of mortality. Phanerozoites were observed in parenchymal organs, heart and muscles of all infected individuals, except starlings.

CONCLUSION
This study shows that P. homocircumflexum is generalist and the same lineage caused similar parasitaemia-related pathologies in different host species. Additionally, the mode of exo-erythrocytic development is different in different birds, resulting in different mortality rates. This should be taken into consideration in studies addressing pathology during avian malaria infections.

Plasmodium
Birds
Avian malaria
Pathology
Phanerozoites


RIG-I-Like Receptor-Mediated Recognition of Viral Genomic RNA of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 and Viral Escape From the Host Innate Immune Responses.

Abstract: RIG-I-like receptors (RLR), RIG-I and MDA5, are cytoplasmic viral RNA sensors that recognize viral double-stranded RNAs and trigger signals to induce antiviral responses, including type I interferon production. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. However, the RLR role in innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2 has not been fully elucidated. Here, we studied the roles of RLR in cytokine expression responding to SARS-CoV-2 and found that not only MDA5 but also RIG-I are involved in innate immune responses in some types of human cells. Transfection of total RNAs extracted from SARS-CoV-2-infected cells into epithelial cells induced IFN-β, IP-10, and Ccl5 mRNA expression. The cytokine expression was reduced by knockout of either RIG-I or MDA5, suggesting that both proteins are required for appropriate innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2. Two viral genomic RNA regions strongly induced type I IFN expression, and a 200-base fragment of viral RNA preferentially induced type I IFN in a RIG-I-dependent manner. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2 infectious particles hardly induced cytokine expression, suggesting viral escape from the host response. Viral 9b protein inhibited RIG-I and MAVS interaction, and viral 7a protein destabilized the TBK1 protein, leading to attenuated IRF-3 phosphorylation required for type I IFN expression. Our data elucidated the mechanism underlying RLR-mediated response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and viral escape from the host innate immune response.

Kouwaki|Takahisa|T| Nishimura|Tasuku|T| Wang|Guanming|G| Oshiumi|Hiroyuki|H|

D045169:Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome

Innate immunity
RIG-I
MDA5
Type I interferon
SARS-CoV-2
coronavirus


Maternal low-protein diet during lactation combined with early overfeeding impair male offspring's long-term glucose homeostasis.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
The early-life nutritional environment affects long-term glucose homeostasis, we investigated the effects of maternal low-protein diet combined with postnatal early overfeeding on the male offspring's glucose homeostasis in adulthood.

METHODS
Only male rats were used, and their delivery was considered postnatal-day 0 (PN0). Wistar rats' dams were divided into control (NP) or low-protein diet (LP). LP dams remained on the diet until PN14, after which all animals were supplied with the control diet. At PN2, litters were adjusted to 9 (control-NL) or 3 (postnatal-overfeeding-PO) pups, resulting in four experimental groups: NP-NL, NP-PO, LP-NL, and LP-PO. Litters were weaned on PN21. At PN80, a batch of animals from all experimental groups underwent surgery for cannula implantation, followed by intravenous glucose tolerance test (ivGTT), but the insulinogenic index (ISI) was calculated. At PN81, animals were euthanized and tissues were collected.

RESULTS
LP-diet and early postnatal-overfeeding were effective in promoting the expected biometric outcomes at PN21 and PN81, but the LP-PO animals present a biometric profile similar to the control (NP-NL) group. Postnatal-overfeeding increased fasting glycemia in LP-PO animals (p < 0.01). In the ivGTT, postnatal-overfeeding elevated the glycemia (p < 0.0001), exacerbated in LP-PO animals (p < 0.0001). Insulinemia was reduced by both, maternal LP-diet and postnatal-overfeeding, with a higher degree of reduction in LP-PO animals (p < 0.0001). Maternal LP-diet and postnatal-overfeeding reduced the ISI (p < 0.0001). Factors interaction lead the LP-PO to a lower ISI compared to all other groups (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS
The combination of low-protein diet in breastfeeding dams with postnatal overfeeding disturbed the offspring's glucose metabolism in adulthood.

D039382:Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena

Glucose homeostasis
DOHaD
Early postnatal overfeeding
Maternal diet
Metabolic programming


Shigella takes the temperature.

Abstract: For bacteria, temperature is a fairly reliable cue for entry into a vertebrate host. Many pathogenic bacteria sense elevated temperatures (37°C) and turn on virulence and metabolic genes appropriate for survival and growth within the host. A recent study demonstrated that the expression of a heme uptake protein in Shigella dysenteriae and pathogenic Escherichia coli was dependent on an RNA thermometer.

D015964:Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial

Shigella
heme
RNA thermometer
Listeria
PrfA
ShuA
UPEC
iron


Reflection impulsivity in binge drinking: behavioural and volumetric correlates.

Abstract: The degree to which an individual accumulates evidence prior to making a decision, also known as reflection impulsivity, can be affected in psychiatric disorders. Here, we study decisional impulsivity in binge drinkers, a group at elevated risk for developing alcohol use disorders, comparing two tasks assessing reflection impulsivity and a delay discounting task, hypothesizing impairments in both subtypes of impulsivity. We also assess volumetric correlates of reflection impulsivity focusing on regions previously implicated in functional magnetic resonance imaging studies. Sixty binge drinkers and healthy volunteers were tested using two different information-gathering paradigms: the beads task and the Information Sampling Task (IST). The beads task was analysed using a behavioural approach and a Bayesian model of decision making. Delay discounting was assessed using the Monetary Choice Questionnaire. Regression analyses of primary outcomes were conducted with voxel-based morphometry analyses. Binge drinkers sought less evidence prior to decision in the beads task compared with healthy volunteers in both the behavioural and computational modelling analysis. There were no group differences in the IST or delay discounting task. Greater impulsivity as indexed by lower evidence accumulation in the beads task was associated with smaller dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and inferior parietal volumes. In contrast, greater impulsivity as indexed by lower evidence accumulation in the IST was associated with greater dorsal cingulate and precuneus volumes. Binge drinking is characterized by impaired reflection impulsivity suggesting a deficit in deciding on the basis of future outcomes that are more difficult to represent. These findings emphasize the role of possible therapeutic interventions targeting decision-making deficits.

Banca|Paula|P|
Lange|Iris|I|
Worbe|Yulia|Y|
Howell|Nicholas A|NA|
Irvine|Michael|M|
Harrison|Neil A|NA|
Moutoussis|Michael|M|
Voon|Valerie|V|

D063425:Binge Drinking
D016022:Case-Control Studies
D003198:Computer Simulation
D003657:Decision Making
D065786:Delay Discounting
D005260:Female
D006801:Humans
D007175:Impulsive Behavior
D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging
D008297:Male
D009483:Neuropsychological Tests
D009929:Organ Size
D010296:Parietal Lobe
D017397:Prefrontal Cortex
D055815:Young Adult

reflection impulsivity
Binge drinking
decision making
voxel-based morphometry


Collagen and Its Role in predicting the Biological Behavior of Odontogenic Lesions.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Odontogenic cysts and tumors have variable recurrence rates. Recurrence rate is mainly due to the activity of the epithelium. The epithelium of these lesions has been investigated extensively in regard to their role in proliferative and aggressive behavior of the lesions. However, the role of the connective tissue wall in their behavior has not been studied as extensively. Collagen is an essential part of the connective tissue as a whole and fibrous wall of cystic lesions especially. It is demonstrated by picrosirius red dye staining combined with polarization microscopy. This method permits the evaluation of the nature of the collagen fibers in addition to their thickness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A total of 56 histopathologically diagnosed cases comprising odontogenic follicle, dentigerous cyst, unicystic ameloblastoma, keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT), multicystic/solid ameloblastoma, and ameloblastic carcinoma were taken and stained using picrosirius red stain and evaluated using a polarizing microscope.

RESULTS
Collagen fibers in odontogenic follicles and dentiger-ous cysts showed predominant orange-red birefringence; fibers in unicystic ameloblastoma and KCOT showed both orange red and greenish-yellow birefringence; and fibers of multicystic/ solid ameloblastoma showed predominant greenish-yellow birefringence and ameloblastic carcinoma that showed almost complete greenish birefringence. As the biological behavior of the lesions in the spectrum studied progress toward aggressive nature, increase in immature collagen fibers is noticed.

CONCLUSION
This study suggests that the nature of collagen fibers plays a pivotal role in predicting the biological behavior of odontogenic lesions.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Aggressive nature of the odontogenic lesions is determined by both the epithelium and the connective tissue components (collagen). Studying the nature and type of collagen helps in predicting its biological behavior.

Kulkarni|Pavan G|PG|
Kumari|M Aruna|MA|
Jahagirdar|Abhishek|A|
Nandan|Srk|S|
Reddy D|Shyam Prasad|SP|
Keerthi|M|M|

Birefringence
Adult azo compounds
Odontogenic cysts Odontogenic tumors.


Altered mesocorticolimbic functional connectivity in psychotic disorder: an analysis of proxy genetic and environmental effects.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Altered dopaminergic neurotransmission in the mesocorticolimbic (MCL) system may mediate psychotic symptoms. In addition, pharmacological dopaminergic manipulation may coincide with altered functional connectivity (fc) 'in rest'. We set out to test whether MCL-fc is conditional on (familial risk for) psychotic disorder and/or interactions with environmental exposures.

METHOD
Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were obtained from 63 patients with psychotic disorder, 73 non-psychotic siblings of patients with psychotic disorder and 59 healthy controls. With the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) as seed region, fc within the MCL system was estimated. Regression analyses adjusting for a priori hypothesized confounders were used to assess group differences in MCL connectivity as well as gene (group) × environmental exposure interactions (G × E) (i.e., to cannabis, developmental trauma and urbanicity).

RESULTS
Compared with controls, patients and siblings had decreased fc between the right NAcc seed and the right orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) as well as the left middle cingulate cortex (MCC). Siblings showed decreased connectivity between the NAcc seed and lentiform nucleus compared with patients and controls. In addition, patients had decreased left NAcc connectivity compared with siblings in the left middle frontal gyrus. There was no evidence for a significant interaction between group and the three environmental exposures in the model of MCL-fc.

CONCLUSIONS
Reduced NAcc-OFC/MCC connectivity was seen in patients and siblings, suggesting that altered OFC connectivity and MCC connectivity are vulnerability markers for psychotic disorder. Differential exposure to environmental risk factors did not make an impact on the association between familial risk and MCL connectivity.

Peeters|S C T|SC|
Gronenschild|E H B M|EH|
van de Ven|V|V|
Habets|P|P|
Goebel|R|R|
van Os|J|J|
Marcelis|M|M|
|||

D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales

psychotic disorder
functional magnetic resonance imaging
siblings
Dopamine
gene–environment interaction


The biological functions of IL-17 in different clinical expressions of Helicobacter pylori-infection.

Abstract: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is regarded as the major cause of various gastric diseases (gastritis, peptic ulcers and gastric cancer) and induces the production of several cytokines. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is recently recognized as an important player in the pathophysiology of infectious and immune-mediated gastrointestinal diseases. H. pylori infection increases IL-17 in the gastric mucosa of humans. IL-17 usually causes secretion of IL-8 through activation of ERK 1/2 MAP kinase pathway. The released IL-8 attracts neutrophils promoting inflammation. T regulatory cells (Tregs) suppress the inflammatory reaction driven by IL-17, there by favoring bacterial persistence in H. pylori-infection. The pathogenesis of H. pylori-induced inflammation is not well understood. Inflammation is promoted by both host factors and H. pylori factors, such as the proteins cytotoxin associated gene A (cagA) and vacuolating cytotoxin A (vacA). IL-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, TGF-β1, IL-17, IL-18, IL-21 and IL-22 have been reported to be involved in H. pylori-induced gastric mucosal inflammation, but the details and relation to different patterns of inflammation remain unclear. Numerous studies have demonstrated important functions of IL-17 in acute and chronic inflammatory processes. This paper reviews the role of IL-17 in gastritis, peptic ulcers and gastric cancer related to H. pylori.

Bagheri|Nader|N| Azadegan-Dehkordi|Fatemeh|F| Shirzad|Hedayatollah|H| Rafieian-Kopaei|Mahmoud|M| Rahimian|Ghorbanali|G| Razavi|Alireza|A|

Helicobacter pylori
Gastritis
Peptic ulcers
Gastric cancer
Interleukin-17


Effect of vegetarian diets on the presentation of metabolic syndrome or its components: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND & AIMS
Several studies have examined the effect of vegetarian diets (VD) on metabolic syndrome (MetS) or its components, but findings have been inconsistent. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies to assess the association between VD and MetS or its components (systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], fasting glucose triglycerides, waist circumference [WC], HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C)) in adults.

METHODS
The Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched. RCTs, cohort studies and cross-sectional studies evaluating the effects of VD on MetS or its components in adults, with omnivore diet as control group, were included. Random effects meta-analyses stratified by study design were employed to calculate pooled estimates.

RESULTS
A total of 71 studies (n = 103 008) met the inclusion criteria (6 RCTs, 2 cohorts, 63 cross-sectional). VD were not associated with MetS in comparison to omnivorous diet (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.50-1.85, p = 0.9) according to meta-analysis of five cross-sectional studies. Likewise, meta-analysis of RCTs and cohort studies indicated that consumption of VD were not associated with MetS components. Meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies demonstrated that VD were significantly associated with lower levels of SBP (mean difference [MD] -4.18 mmHg, 95%CI -5.57 to -2.80, p < 0.00001), DBP (MD -3.03 mmHg, 95% CI -4.93 to -1.13, p = 0.002), fasting glucose (MD -0.26 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.35to -0.17, p < 0.00001), WC (MD -1.63 cm, 95% CI -3.13 to -0.13, p = 0.03), and HDL-C (MD -0.05 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.07 to -0.03, p < 0.0001) in comparison to omnivorous diet. Heterogeneity of effects among cross-sectional studies was high. About, one-half of the included studies had high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS
VD in comparison with omnivorous diet is not associated with a lower risk of MetS based on results of meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies. The association between VD and lower levels of SBP, DBP, HDL-C, and fasting glucose is uncertain due to high heterogeneity across the cross-sectional studies. Larger and controlled studies are needed to evaluate the association between VD and MetS and its components.

Picasso|Maria C|MC|
Lo-Tayraco|Jessica A|JA|
Ramos-Villanueva|Juselly M|JM|
Pasupuleti|Vinay|V|
Hernandez|Adrian V|AV|

Vegetarian diets
Metabolic syndrome
Blood pressure
Glucose
Waist circumference
Blood lipids


Loss of ARID1A expression in colorectal carcinoma is strongly associated with mismatch repair deficiency.

Abstract: ARID1A is a tumor suppressor gene involved in chromatin remodelling. ARID1A mutations and loss of protein expression occur commonly in endometrioid and gynecological clear cell carcinoma where they are associated with mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency. We assessed ARID1A expression in a large cohort of colorectal carcinomas (CRCs). Immunohistochemistry for ARID1A was performed on whole sections from 100 CRCs and on 1876 CRCs in tissue microarray format. There was complete concordance between the staining on whole slides and tissue microarray sections. Loss of staining was found in 110 (5.9%) of 1876 CRCs and was strongly associated with older age, right sided location, large size, BRAF V600E mutation, MMR deficiency, high histological grade and medullary morphology, (all P < .01). There was a trend towards loss of expression being more common in females (P = .06). When subclassified by combined BRAF V600E mutation and MMR status, loss of ARID1A expression was found most commonly in CRCs with the BRAF V600E mutated, MMR- deficient phenotype (58 of 232 cases, 25%, P < .01). In univariate and multivariate analysis, loss of ARID1A expression was not associated with overall survival-hazard ratio 1.05 (0.68-1.64) and 0.60 (0.24-1.44), respectively. All carcinomas arising in patients with known Lynch syndrome (n = 12) were ARID1A positive. We conclude that loss of ARID1A expression occurs in a small but significant proportion of CRCs where it is strongly correlated with mismatch repair deficiency and other clinical and pathological features associated with somatic hypermethylation.

Chou|Angela|A|
Toon|Christopher W|CW|
Clarkson|Adele|A|
Sioson|Loretta|L|
Houang|Michelle|M|
Watson|Nicole|N|
DeSilva|Keshani|K|
Gill|Anthony J|AJ|


Understanding the Breast Cancer Experience of Survivors: a Qualitative Study of African American Women in Rural Eastern North Carolina.

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to gain an in-depth understanding of African American breast cancer survivors' experiences, barriers and facilitators in accessing breast cancer treatment, and challenges in adherence to follow-up care. We conducted seven focus groups with 32 African American women with breast cancer in three rural counties in eastern North Carolina during August-November 2013. Surveys were also utilized to gather basic demographic and breast health history information. Thematic analysis was performed using the immersion crystallization approach. Several common areas of life affected by breast cancer included faith and support networks, psychosocial well-being, and quality of care issues. Faith in God was an important coping mechanism essential to all women in the study and a critical facilitator in survivorship. Support networks consisted of family, church-family, friends, and co-workers. The concept of fear included the discovery of breast cancer and fear of death, negative side effects of treatment, and social stigma of having breast cancer. Factors that influenced provider-patient relationship were age of provider, perceived lack of empathy, and providers leaving during treatment. Participants also expressed their lack of knowledge regarding a number of the side effects they were experiencing during and after their treatment. Results of this study contribute to the assessment of potential coping mechanisms used by African American breast cancer survivors (i.e., spirituality, positive attitudes, and support networks) that can potentially be effective and have a positive impact on the adjustment of life for survivors.

Breast cancer
African American
Eastern North Carolina


Ergosterol peroxide exhibits antiviral and immunomodulatory abilities against porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) via suppression of NF-κB and p38/MAPK signaling pathways in vitro.

Abstract: Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is an emerging swine enteropathogenic coronavirus (CoV) that poses economic and public health burdens. Currently, there are no effective antiviral agents against PDCoV. Cryptoporus volvatus often serves as an antimicrobial agent in Traditional Chinese Medicines. This study aimed to evaluate the antiviral activities of ergosterol peroxide (EP) from C. volvatus against PDCoV infection. The inhibitory activity of EP against PDCoV was assessed by using virus titration and performing Quantitative Reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays in LLC-PK1 cells. The mechanism of EP against PDCoV was analyzed by flow cytometry, RT-qPCR and Western blotting. We found that EP treatment inhibited PDCoV infection in LLC-PK1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Subsequently, we demonstrated that EP blocked virus attachment and entry using RT-qPCR. Time-of-addition assays indicated that EP mainly exerted its inhibitory effect at the early and middle stages in the PDCoV replication cycle. EP also inactivated PDCoV infectivity directly as well as suppressed PDCoV-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, EP treatment decreased the phosphorylation of IκBα and p38 MAPK induced by PDCoV infection as well as the mRNA levels of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, TNF-α, IFN-α, IFN-β, Mx1 and PKR). These results imply that EP can inhibit PDCoV infection and regulate host immune responses by downregulating the activation of the NF-κB and p38/MAPK signaling pathways in vitro. EP can be used as a potential candidate for the development of a new anti-PDCoV therapy.

Duan|Cong|C| Ge|Xinna|X| Wang|Junchi|J| Wei|Zhanyong|Z| Feng|Wen-Hai|WH| Wang|Jiufeng|J|

Ergosterol peroxide
Porcine deltacoronavirus
p38/MAPK signaling pathway
Antiviral agents
NF-κB signaling pathway


Mortality analysis of COVID-19 infection in chronic kidney disease, haemodialysis and renal transplant patients compared with patients without kidney disease: a nationwide analysis from Turkey.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and immunosuppression, such as in renal transplantation (RT), stand as one of the established potential risk factors for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Case morbidity and mortality rates for any type of infection have always been much higher in CKD, haemodialysis (HD) and RT patients than in the general population. A large study comparing COVID-19 outcome in moderate to advanced CKD (Stages 3-5), HD and RT patients with a control group of patients is still lacking.

METHODS
We conducted a multicentre, retrospective, observational study, involving hospitalized adult patients with COVID-19 from 47 centres in Turkey. Patients with CKD Stages 3-5, chronic HD and RT were compared with patients who had COVID-19 but no kidney disease. Demographics, comorbidities, medications, laboratory tests, COVID-19 treatments and outcome [in-hospital mortality and combined in-hospital outcome mortality or admission to the intensive care unit (ICU)] were compared.

RESULTS
A total of 1210 patients were included [median age, 61 (quartile 1-quartile 3 48-71) years, female 551 (45.5%)] composed of four groups: control (n = 450), HD (n = 390), RT (n = 81) and CKD (n = 289). The ICU admission rate was 266/1210 (22.0%). A total of 172/1210 (14.2%) patients died. The ICU admission and in-hospital mortality rates in the CKD group [114/289 (39.4%); 95% confidence interval (CI) 33.9-45.2; and 82/289 (28.4%); 95% CI 23.9-34.5)] were significantly higher than the other groups: HD = 99/390 (25.4%; 95% CI 21.3-29.9; P < 0.001) and 63/390 (16.2%; 95% CI 13.0-20.4; P < 0.001); RT = 17/81 (21.0%; 95% CI 13.2-30.8; P = 0.002) and 9/81 (11.1%; 95% CI 5.7-19.5; P = 0.001); and control = 36/450 (8.0%; 95% CI 5.8-10.8; P < 0.001) and 18/450 (4%; 95% CI 2.5-6.2; P < 0.001). Adjusted mortality and adjusted combined outcomes in CKD group and HD groups were significantly higher than the control group [hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) CKD: 2.88 (1.52-5.44); P = 0.001; 2.44 (1.35-4.40); P = 0.003; HD: 2.32 (1.21-4.46); P = 0.011; 2.25 (1.23-4.12); P = 0.008), respectively], but these were not significantly different in the RT from in the control group [HR (95% CI) 1.89 (0.76-4.72); P = 0.169; 1.87 (0.81-4.28); P = 0.138, respectively].

CONCLUSIONS
Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with CKDs, including Stages 3-5 CKD, HD and RT, have significantly higher mortality than patients without kidney disease. Stages 3-5 CKD patients have an in-hospital mortality rate as much as HD patients, which may be in part because of similar age and comorbidity burden. We were unable to assess if RT patients were or were not at increased risk for in-hospital mortality because of the relatively small sample size of the RT patients in this study.

Ozturk|Savas|S|
Turgutalp|Kenan|K|
Arici|Mustafa|M|
Odabas|Ali Riza|AR|
Altiparmak|Mehmet Riza|MR|
Aydin|Zeki|Z|
Cebeci|Egemen|E|
Basturk|Taner|T|
Soypacaci|Zeki|Z|
Sahin|Garip|G|
Elif Ozler|Tuba|T|
Kara|Ekrem|E|
Dheir|Hamad|H|
Eren|Necmi|N|
Suleymanlar|Gultekin|G|
Islam|Mahmud|M|
Ogutmen|Melike Betul|MB|
Sengul|Erkan|E|
Ayar|Yavuz|Y|
Dolarslan|Murside Esra|ME|
Bakirdogen|Serkan|S|
Safak|Seda|S|
Gungor|Ozkan|O|
Sahin|Idris|I|
Mentese|Ilay Berke|IB|
Merhametsiz|Ozgur|O|
Oguz|Ebru Gok|EG|
Genek|Dilek Gibyeli|DG|
Alpay|Nadir|N|
Aktas|Nimet|N|
Duranay|Murat|M|
Alagoz|Selma|S|
Colak|Hulya|H|
Adibelli|Zelal|Z|
Pembegul|Irem|I|
Hur|Ender|E|
Azak|Alper|A|
Taymez|Dilek Guven|DG|
Tatar|Erhan|E|
Kazancioglu|Rumeyza|R|
Oruc|Aysegul|A|
Yuksel|Enver|E|
Onan|Engin|E|
Turkmen|Kultigin|K|
Hasbal|Nuri Baris|NB|
Gurel|Ali|A|
Yelken|Berna|B|
Sahutoglu|Tuncay|T|
Gok|Mahmut|M|
Seyahi|Nurhan|N|
Sevinc|Mustafa|M|
Ozkurt|Sultan|S|
Sipahi|Savas|S|
Bek|Sibel Gokcay|SG|
Bora|Feyza|F|
Demirelli|Bulent|B|
Oto|Ozgur Akin|OA|
Altunoren|Orcun|O|
Tuglular|Serhan Zubeyde|SZ|
Demir|Mehmet Emin|ME|
Ayli|Mehmet Deniz|MD|
Huddam|Bulent|B|
Tanrisev|Mehmet|M|
Bozaci|Ilter|I|
Gursu|Meltem|M|
Bakar|Betul|B|
Tokgoz|Bulent|B|
Tonbul|Halil Zeki|HZ|
Yildiz|Alaattin|A|
Sezer|Siren|S|
Ates|Kenan|K|

mortality
COVID-19
kidney disease
haemodialysis
renal transplantation


Acute Pancreatitis Masquerading as Inferior Wall Myocardial Infarction: A Review.

Abstract: A rare presentation of acute pancreatitis is with electrocardiographic (ECG) changes that mimic myocardial ischemia. We present a report of a patient that presented with hemodynamic instability and new ECG changes of ST segment elevations in contiguous leads II, III, and aVF mimicking an inferior wall myocardial infarction. Emergent coronary angiography showed no significant coronary obstruction, but it was followed by a left-sided hemiplegia with radiographic evidence of diffuse embolic stroke. The patient was later found to have an underlying diagnosis of pancreatitis. Additional history that later became available indicated a history of severe acute pancreatitis treated elsewhere a few months prior to the current admission. We present the first comprehensive review of the literature comprising 36 total cases with pancreatitis masquerading as acute myocardial infarction, with inferior wall STEMI pattern being the most frequent. We present this case to highlight the diagnostic dilemma posed by this masquerade of a high acuity myocardial infarction and to highlight alternative diagnoses to be considered in such clinical circumstances.

Yu|Elliot S|ES|
Lange|Joel J|JJ|
Broor|Apoorv|A|
Kutty|Kesavan|K|

Pancreatitis
Myocardial infarction
Coronary angiography
Stroke
Cardiac catheterization
Cerebral vascular accident
ST elevation


Reasons for academic honesty and dishonesty with solutions: a study of pharmacy and medical students in New Zealand.

Abstract: This paper presents students' views about honest and dishonest actions within the pharmacy and medical learning environments. Students also offered their views on solutions to ameliorating dishonest action. Three research questions were posed in this paper: (1) what reasons would students articulate in reference to engaging in dishonest behaviours? (2) What reasons would students articulate in reference to maintaining high levels of integrity? (3) What strategies would students suggest to decrease engagement in dishonest behaviours and/or promote honest behaviours? The design of the study incorporated an initial descriptive analysis to interpret students' responses to an 18-item questionnaire about justifications for dishonest action. This was followed by a qualitative analysis of students' commentaries in reference to why students would engage in either honest or dishonest action. Finally a qualitative analysis was conducted on students' views regarding solutions to dishonest action. The quantitative results showed that students were more likely to use time management and seriousness justifications for dishonest actions. The qualitative findings found that students' actions (honest or dishonest) were guided by family and friends, the need to do well, issues of morality and institutional guidelines. Students suggested that dishonest action could be ameliorated by external agencies and polarised views between punitive and rewards-based mechanisms were offered. These results suggest that these students engaged in dishonest action for various reasons and solutions addressing dishonest action need to consider diverse mechanisms that likely extend beyond the educational institution.

Henning|Marcus A|MA|
Ram|Sanya|S|
Malpas|Phillipa|P|
Sisley|Richard|R|
Thompson|Andrea|A|
Hawken|Susan J|SJ|

Education
Education for Health Care Professionals
Education/Programs
Ethics


Within-Provider Variability in Motivational Interviewing Integrity for Three Years after MI Training: Does Time Heal?

Abstract: This study examined variability in Motivational Interviewing (MI) integrity among 15 providers for three years following training. Data come from an effectiveness trial in which providers were trained to deliver brief single-session MI interventions. Each session was audio-recorded and coded for MI integrity using the Motivational Interviewing Treatment Integrity (MITI) 3.1.1 rating system. Within-provider variation in MI integrity was large, especially for behavior count scores (e.g., open questions, complex reflections) and only slightly smaller for global session scores of MI Spirit and Empathy. Within-provider variability was in most cases larger than between-provider variability and there was no evidence that providers improved appreciably over time. These findings raise concerns about the quality of MI being delivered in large-scale implementation efforts and have implications for the monitoring and training of higher quality MI.

Dunn|Chris|C|
Darnell|Doyanne|D|
Atkins|David C|DC|
Hallgren|Kevin A|KA|
Imel|Zac E|ZE|
Bumgardner|Kristin|K|
Owens|Mandy|M|
Roy-Byrne|Peter|P|

Variability
Motivational Interviewing
Integrity
Implementation
Adherence
Fidelity


Modeling Circadian Phototransduction: Quantitative Predictions of Psychophysical Data.

Abstract: A revised computational model of circadian phototransduction is presented. The first step was to characterize the spectral sensitivity of the retinal circuit using suppression of the synthesis of melatonin by the pineal gland at night as the outcome measure. From the spectral sensitivity, circadian light was defined. Circadian light, thereby rectifies any spectral power distribution into a single, instantaneous photometric quantity. The second step was to characterize the circuit's response characteristic to different amounts of circadian light from threshold to saturation. By doing so a more complete instantaneous photometric quantity representing the circadian stimulus was defined in terms of both the spectral sensitivity and the response magnitude characteristic of the circadian phototransduction circuit. To validate the model of the circadian phototransduction circuit, it was necessary to augment the model to account for different durations of the circadian stimulus and distribution of the circadian stimulus across the retina. Two simple modifications to the model accounted for the duration and distribution of continuous light exposure during the early biological night. A companion paper (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2020.615305/full) provides a neurophysiological foundation for the model parameters.

Rea|Mark S|MS|
Nagare|Rohan|R|
Figueiro|Mariana G|MG|

phototransduction
circadian light
circadian stimulus
light at night
melatonin suppression
non-image forming effects of light


Sterile 'Judas' carp--Surgical sterilisation does not impair growth, endocrine and behavioural responses of male carp.

Abstract: Use of 'Judas' fish to betray the locations of conspecifics is a powerful tool in management of invasive pest fish but poses a risk of contributing to recruitment. Our aim therefore was to generate surgically sterilised male common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and test whether they readily assimilate into wild populations, retain sexual behaviour and successfully betray the locations of feral carp. Male common carp were surgically sterilised (n=44) adopting a two-point nip technique, using either a haemoclip, suture or electro cautery to tie each of the testicular ducts about 2.5 cm cranial to urogenital sinus-retaining all of the glandular testis tissue. Observed survival (95%) and success (>70%) rates were relatively high. Plasma steroids (11-keto testosterone and 17β-estradiol) were quantified by immunoassay. A subset of sterile and control male fish (n=7 each) were implanted with radio-transmitters and released into Lake Sorell (50 km(2)) and their ability to betray the location of feral carp was assessed by radio tracking and targeted fishing. There was a statistically significant difference in 11-keto testosterone and 17β-estradiol levels over time (P<0.05), but not between the sterile and control groups within each sampling time (P>0.05), implying that surgery did not compromise the animals physiologically. The sterile Judas fish integrated well into the population-behaving similarly to control Judas males and assisted in the capture of feral carp. The study marks a significant breakthrough in the management of this pest fish with potential adoption to the management of other pest fish globally.

Patil|Jawahar G|JG|
Purser|G J|GJ|
Nicholson|A M|AM|

Pest fish
11-Keto testosterone
E2
Kernel density


Impact of Gut Microbiome on Hypertensive Patients With Low-Salt Intake: Shika Study Results.

Abstract: Salt intake is one of the most important environmental factors impacting hypertension onset. Meanwhile, the potential roles of the gut microbiome (GM) in altering the health status of hosts have drawn considerable attention. Here, we aimed to perform an observational study to investigate the impact of intestinal bacterial flora in hypertensive patients with low-salt or high-salt intake. A total of 239 participants were enrolled, and their gut microbiomes, clinical and demographic details, as well as physiological parameters pertaining to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and inflammatory cytokine profiles, were examined. The participants were classified into four groups based on the presence of different enterotype bacteria, as determined via cluster analysis, and salt intake: low salt/GM enterotype 1, low salt/GM enterotype 2, high salt/GM enterotype 1, and high salt/GM enterotype 2. Results show that the prevalence of hypertension was significantly lower in the low-salt/GM enterotype 2 group (27%) compared to the low salt/GM enterotype 1 group (47%; p = 0.04). Alternatively, no significant differences were observed in hypertension prevalence between the two high-salt intake groups (GM enterotype 1 = 50%, GM enterotype 2 = 47%; p = 0.83). Furthermore, The low-salt/GM enterotype 2 was higher in the relative abundances of Blautia, Bifidobacterium, Escherichia-Shigella, Lachnoclostridium, and Clostridium sensu stricto than the low-salt/GM enterotype 1. differed significantly between the GM enterotypes. These results suggested that consumption of a low-salt diet was ineffective in regulating hypertension in individuals with a specific gut bacteria composition. Our findings support the restoration of GM homeostasis as a new strategy for controlling blood pressure and preventing the development of hypertension.

Nagase|Satoshi|S| Karashima|Shigehiro|S| Tsujiguchi|Hiromasa|H| Tsuboi|Hirohito|H| Miyagi|Sakae|S| Kometani|Mitsuhiro|M| Aono|Daisuke|D| Higashitani|Takuya|T| Demura|Masashi|M| Sakakibara|Hiroyuki|H| Yoshida|Akihiro|A| Hara|Akinori|A| Nakamura|Hiroyuki|H| Takeda|Yoshiyu|Y| Nambo|Hidetaka|H| Yoneda|Takashi|T| Okamoto|Shigefumi|S|

gut microbiome
hypertension
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
blood pressure
salt-intake


In Vivo Gold Complex Catalysis within Live Mice.

Abstract: Metal complex catalysis within biological systems is largely limited to cell and bacterial systems. In this work, a glycoalbumin-AuIII complex was designed and developed that enables organ-specific, localized propargyl ester amidation with nearby proteins within live mice. The targeted reactivity can be imaged through the use of Cy7.5- and TAMRA-linked propargyl ester based fluorescent probes. This targeting system could enable the exploitation of other metal catalysis strategies for biomedical and clinical applications.

Tsubokura|Kazuki|K|
Vong|Kenward K H|KK|
Pradipta|Ambara R|AR|
Ogura|Akihiro|A|
Urano|Sayaka|S|
Tahara|Tsuyoshi|T|
Nozaki|Satoshi|S|
Onoe|Hirotaka|H|
Nakao|Yoichi|Y|
Sibgatullina|Regina|R|
Kurbangalieva|Almira|A|
Watanabe|Yasuyoshi|Y|
Tanaka|Katsunori|K|

D017127:Glycation End Products, Advanced

amide bond formation
fluorescent labeling
glycoalbumin
gold catalysis


Effects of fumaric acid on rumen fermentation, milk composition and metabolic parameters in lactating cows.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of fumaric acid (FA) on ruminal fermentation and its effects on the acid-base balance of seven ruminally and duodenally fistulated multiparous German Holstein cows. The experiment was conducted in a change-over design with three periods in which the animals were randomly arranged in one of three treatments: Control (C; without FA), 300 or 600 g FA per day. The diets consisted of 7.4 kg DM grass silage, 4.2 kg concentrate mixture and 0, 300 or 600 g FA or wheat starch as isocaloric compensation per day and cow. FA supplementation decreased the rumen pH, acetic acid and butyric acid and increased propionic acid in rumen fluid. The results of the single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis (SSCP) did not show an influence of FA on the microbial population in the rumen. The beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration in blood and the pH of the urine decreased, while the blood gases were unaffected by supplementation of the acid. The microbial protein per MJ ME decreased in the duodenum with FA supplementation. The milk fat concentration decreased after addition of FA. We conclude that in this study feeding of up to 600 g FA per day did not result in an acidosis. It seems that up to 600 g FA per day did not have a significant influence on the acid-base balance of dairy cows.

Remling|N|N| Riede|S|S| Lebzien|P|P| Meyer|U|U| Höltershinken|M|M| Kersten|S|S| Breves|G|G| Flachowsky|G|G| Dänicke|S|S|

D000824:Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena

fumaric acid
rumen fermentation
lactating cows
grass silage
digestibility acid-base balance


Trends and topics in eye disease research in PubMed from 2010 to 2014.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study is to provide a report on scientific production during the period 2010-2014 in order to identify the major topics as well as the predominant actors (journals, countries, continents) involved in the field of eye disease.

METHODS
A PubMed search was carried out to extract articles related to eye diseases during the period 2010-2014. Data were downloaded and processed through developed PHP scripts for further analysis.

RESULTS
A total of 62,123 articles were retrieved. A total of 3,368 different journals were found, and 19 journals were identified as "core journals" according to Braford's law. English was by far the predominant language. A total of 853,182 MeSH terms were found, representing an average of 13.73 (SD = 4.98) MeSH terms per article. Among these 853,182 MeSH terms, 14,689 different MeSH terms were identified. Vision Disorders, Glaucoma, Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular Degeneration, and Cataract were the most frequent five MeSH terms related to eye diseases. The analysis of the total number of publications showed that Europe and Asia were the most productive continents, and the USA and China the most productive countries. Interestingly, using the mean Five-Year Impact Factor, the two most productive continents were North America and Oceania. After adjustment for population, the overall ranking positions changed in favor of smaller countries (i.e. Iceland, Switzerland, Denmark, and New Zealand), while after adjustment for Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the overall ranking positions changed in favor of some developing countries (Malawi, Guatemala, Singapore).

CONCLUSIONS
Due to the large number of articles included and the numerous parameters analyzed, this study provides a wide view of scientific productivity related to eye diseases during the period 2010-2014 and allows us to better understand this field.

Boudry|Christophe|C|0000-0002-8730-8731 Denion|Eric|E| Mortemousque|Bruno|B| Mouriaux|Fréderic|F|

Eye diseases
Journals
Bibliometrics
Ophthalmology
Science publishing
Socioeconomics


Genetic diversity and evolutionary analyses of potyviruses infecting narcissus in Iran.

Abstract:
Potyviruses are among the most important pathogens of dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous ornamentals and crop plants. In this study, leaf samples were collected from symptomatic narcissus plants and weeds in Fars and Tehran provinces of Iran. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using broad-spectrum potyvirus antibodies gave a positive reaction with 38 out of 61 narcissus samples tested (62.3%); the results were confirmed by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction using universal NIb primers, and for thirty samples, by sequencing and phylogenetic studies. The results suggested the infection of almost all positive samples with narcissus yellow stripe virus (NYSV); only one sample seemed to be infected with narcissus late season yellows virus (NLSYV). The 3'-end of the genome of the NLSYV isolate and six NYSV isolates, encompassing the complete coat protein gene, was amplified and sequenced using species-specific and universal potyvirus primers. Sequence analysis indicated the presence of NLSYV and NYSV, not previously identified from Western Asia. No evidence of recombination was found in Iranian isolates. Based on phylogenetic analyses, isolates of NLSYV and NYSV clustered into five and three phylogroups, respectively, where all the Iranian isolates fell into distinct subpopulations in groups NLSYV-I and NYSV-II. Multiple sequence alignments showed some phylogroup-specific amino acid substitutions for both viruses. Phylogroup IV and II populations had higher nucleotide diversities as compared with other populations of NLSYV and NYSV, respectively. Our findings revealed the presence of negative selection in the populations of both viruses. Almost no statistically significant gene flow was found between populations of these viruses.

Supplementary information
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42161-021-00985-0.

Evolutionary analyses
Iran
Potyvirus
Narcissus viruses
West Asia


Relationship between LRRK2 R1628P polymorphism and Parkinson's disease in Asian populations.

Abstract: Although the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) R1628P polymorphism has been associated with the risk of Parkinson's disease (PD) in Taiwan, China, and Singapore, there are conflicting findings regarding this relationship. Thus, the aim of the present meta-analysis was to evaluate the associations between the LRRK2 R1628P polymorphism (rs33949390) and PD in Asian populations. A search for eligible studies was performed in PubMed, Embase, SinoMed, and the China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, and pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were used to evaluate the strength of the association between the R1628P polymorphism and PD. This meta-analysis assessed 19 studies from 14 papers that involved a total of 9,927 PD patients and 8,602 controls and found that the R1628P polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of PD in Asian populations. Moreover, stratification analyses indicated that the R1628P polymorphism was significantly associated with an increased risk of PD among Chinese as well as non-Chinese Asian populations and an increased risk of PD in Chinese patients from China, Taiwan, and Singapore. In a stratified analysis conducted according to age, significant associations were found for both late-onset PD and early-onset PD. The present data indicate that the R1628P polymorphism of the LRRK2 gene contributes to PD susceptibility in Asian, especially Chinese, populations.

D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease

D000071158:Leucine-Rich Repeat Serine-Threonine Protein Kinase-2

LRRK2
R1628P
polymorphism
meta-analysis
Gerotarget
Parkinson’s disease


Ultrasound destruction of air microemboli as a novel approach to brain protection in cardiac surgery.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Evaluation of a novel approach to eliminate air microemboli from extracorporeal circulation via ultrasonic destruction.

DESIGN
In vitro proof-of-concept study.

SETTING
Research laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS
None.

INTERVENTIONS
None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS
An extracorporeal circulation device was filled with human blood circulating at 3 L/min. Air bubbles were injected into the system. For bubble destruction, the blood in the tubing system was repeatedly insonated for 3 minutes using a therapeutic 60-kHz device, with variation of intensity and duty cycle settings, ranging from 0.2 W/cm² to 1.0 W/cm² and from duty cycle 60% to continuous wave (CW). Number and diameter of air microemboli were counted upstream and downstream of the ultrasound device by a 2-channel microemboli Doppler detector. For safety assessment, circulating blood was insonated continuously for 2 hours at 0.8 W/cm² CW and compared with circulation without insonation; and standard blood parameters were analyzed. Without treatment, 1,313 to 1,580 emboli were detected upstream, diameter ranging between 10 and 130 μm. Ultrasound treatment eliminated up to 87% of all detected bubbles in cw application (p<0.01) and showed comparable effects at intensities from 0.4 W/cm² to 1.0 W/cm² cw. Bubbles sized>15 μm almost were eliminated completely (p<0.001). Pulsed wave application rendered inferior results (p>0.05). No relevant changes of blood parameters were observed compared with control circulation.

CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasound destruction of air emboli is a very efficient method to reduce number and size of emboli. Within the limits of safety assessment, the authors could not detect relevant side effects on standard blood parameters.

Nedelmann|Max|M| Schleicher|Nadine|N| Doenges|Simone|S| Reuter|Peter|P| Kaps|Manfred|M| Urbanek|Simon|S| Schwarz|Niko|N| Madlener|Katharina|K| Schoenburg|Markus|M| Urbanek|Petr|P| Gerriets|Tibo|T|

D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures
D004618:Embolism, Air
D005112:Extracorporeal Circulation
D006801:Humans
D020766:Intracranial Embolism
D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional

ultrasound
microemboli
brain
air emboli
CNS protection
cardiopulmonary bypass
complications
embolism
stroke


Utility of Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Surgical Management of Infective Endocarditis.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently obtained in patients with infective endocarditis, yet its utility in predicting outcomes for valve replacement surgery in patients is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine how brain MRI findings impact clinical management and outcomes.

METHODS
Demographic and clinical data from electronic medical records at Mayo Clinic were retrospectively reviewed for patients hospitalized with definite or possible infective endocarditis according to the modified Duke criteria between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2014. There were 364 patients included in the study.

RESULTS
Cardiac valve replacement surgery was performed in 195 of 364 (53.6%) patients, and 95 (48.7%) of the surgical patients underwent preoperative MRI, which was associated with preoperative neurologic symptoms in 56 of 95 (58.9%) patients (odds ratio = 12.92; 95% confidence interval, 5.98-27.93; P <.001). Postoperative neurologic complications occurred in 24 of 195 (12.3%) patients, including new ischemic stroke in 4 of 195 (2.1%) and new intracerebral hemorrhage in 3 of 195 (1.5%). No patients with microhemorrhages developed postoperative hemorrhage. No significant differences existed in rates of postoperative complications between patients with and those without preoperative MRI. There were no substantial associations between preoperative MRI findings and postoperative neurologic complications, functional outcomes as described by the modified Rankin Scale score, or 6-month mortality.

CONCLUSIONS
In patients undergoing valve replacement surgery, preoperative MRI findings were not associated with differences in postoperative outcomes, irrespective of finding or timing of valve replacement surgery.

Chakraborty|Tia|T|
Scharf|Eugene|E|
Rabinstein|Alejandro A|AA|
DeSimone|Daniel|D|
El Rafei|Abdelghani|A|
Brinjikji|Waleed|W|
Baddour|Larry M|LM|
Wijdicks|Eelco|E|
Wilson|Walter|W|
Steckelberg|James M|JM|
Fugate|Jennifer E|JE|

Endocarditis MRI surgery stroke hemorrhage


Progress toward laboratory containment of poliovirus after polio eradication.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The first steps (phase 1) toward laboratory containment of poliovirus after eradication are a national survey of biomedical facilities and a global inventory of such facilities retaining wild poliovirus (WPV) infectious and potentially infectious materials.

METHODS
We reviewed published reports on national laboratory surveys and inventories of WPV materials from each of the 3 polio-free World Health Organization (WHO) regions (the European Region, completed in 2006; the Western Pacific Region, completed in 2008; and the Region of the Americas, completed in 2010), as well as reports on progress in polio-free countries of the remaining 3 regions (the African Region, the Eastern Mediterranean Region, and the WHO South-East Asia Region).

RESULTS
Containment phase 1 activities are complete in 154 of 194 WHO Member States (79%), including all countries and areas of the polio-free regions and most polio-free countries in the remaining 3 regions. A reported 227 209 biomedical facilities were surveyed, with 532 facilities in 45 countries identified as retaining WPV-associated infectious or potentially infectious materials.

CONCLUSIONS
Completion of containment phase 1 global activities is achievable within the time frame set by the Polio Eradication and Endgame Strategic Plan 2013-2018.

Wolff|Christopher|C|
Roesel|Sigrun|S|
Lipskaya|Galina|G|
Landaverde|Mauricio|M|
Humayun|Asghar|A|
Withana|Nalini|N|
Ramamurty|Nalini|N|
Tomori|Oyewale|O|
Okiror|Samuel Oumo|SO|
Salla|Mbaye|M|
Dowdle|Walter|W|

laboratory containment
poliovirus
polio eradication
OPV cessation
polio endgame


Fabrication of biochars obtained from valorization of biowaste and evaluation of its physicochemical properties.

Abstract: This study investigated the yields and the physicochemical properties of biochar from three different feedstocks viz., i) bioenergy byproducts (deoiled cakes of Jatropha carcus and Pongamia glabra), ii) lignocellulose biomass (Jatropha carcus seed cover), and iii) a noxious weed (Parthenium hysterophorus), obtained through slow pyrolysis at a heating rate of 40°Cmin-1 with a nitrogen flow 100mlmin-1 at a temperature range of 350-650°C. For successful utilization of biochar for C-sequestration, its ability to resist abiotic or biotic degradation was deduced from recalcitrance index R50 by using TG analysis. It was observed that the biochar produced at higher temperature had higher water holding capacity (WHC) and pH, suggesting its suitability as an amendment in soil with low water retention capacity; thus biochar may be designed to selectively improve soil chemical and physical properties by altering feedstocks and pyrolysis conditions. Biochar produced at 650°C had highest yield in the range of 28.52-39.9 wt.%.

Narzari|Rumi|R| Bordoloi|Neonjyoti|N| Sarma|Banashree|B| Gogoi|Lina|L| Gogoi|Nirmali|N| Borkotoki|Bikram|B| Kataki|Rupam|R|

Biochar
Pyrolysis
Recalcitrance
Water holding capacity
C-sequestration potential


The fingerprints of dioxin-like bromocarbazoles and chlorocarbazoles in selected forest soils in Germany.

Abstract: The occurrence of bromocarbazoles and chlorocarbazoles was studied in 86 forest soil samples from different regions in Germany. Carbazole, 3-chlorocarbazole, 3-bromocarbazole and 3,6-dibromocarbazole were qualitatively detected in the humic layer of 59 soil samples with bromocarbazoles reported here for the first time in soil. Furthermore, the halogenated carbazoles, PCDD/Fs and PCBs were detected in the humic and mineral soil horizons (0-5 cm and 5-10 cm) of a subset of 11 soil samples subjected to quantitative analysis. Concentrations ranged from 0.6 to 267.6 ng/g (carbazole); 0.2-7.2 ng/g (3-bromocarbazole); 0.0-9.1 ng/g (3-chlorocarbazole); 0.2-19.8 ng/g (3,6-dibromocarbazole); 0.4-67.6 ng/g (3,6-dichlorocarbazole); 0.0-0.7 ng/g (PCDDs); 0.0-0.3 ng/g (PCDFs) and 0.0-33.7 ng/g (PCBs). Concentrations decreased with depth and correlated positively to total organic carbon (TOC). When it was based on TOC%, an increase in concentration with depth was observed in most soil samples. With respect to dioxin-like toxicity, 3-bromocarbazole, 3-chlorocarbazole, 3,6-dibromocarbazole and 3,6-dichlorocarbazoles caused induction of CYP1A1-dependent EROD activity in HII4E rat hepatoma cell line. Their relative effect potency after 72 h exposure ranged from 0.00005 to 0.00013 and was directly related to the degree of halogenation with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin as reference. Furthermore, their contribution to overall soil dioxin-like toxicity was not significant in comparison to PCDD/Fs and PCBs though the sum toxic equivalency was limited to three halogenated carbazole congeners. Bromocarbazoles and chlorocarbazoles are emerging dioxin-like toxic environmental contaminants with potential for wide distribution occurring simultaneously with PCDD/Fs and PCBs.

Mumbo|John|J|
Pandelova|Marchela|M|
Mertes|Florian|F|
Henkelmann|Bernhard|B|
Bussian|Bernd M|BM|
Schramm|Karl-Werner|KW|

Bromocarbazole and chlorocarbazole
Forest soil
Occurrence
Dioxin-like toxicity
Relative effect potency
Toxic equivalent


How We Perceive Others Resembling Us.

Abstract: Eye contact is essential for social cognition, acting as an important tool for social communication. While differences in face scanning patterns concerning familiarity have been thoroughly investigated, the impact of facial similarity on gaze behavior has not been examined yet. We addressed this topic by recording subjects' eye-directed gazing while looking at faces that were individually created systematically varying in terms of similarity to the self-face and familiarity. Subjects' self-faces were morphed into three other faces including a close friend of the same sex. Afterwards, they rated similarity to their self-face of those morphed face stimuli in a separate rating task. Our results show a general preference for the eyes' area as well as differences regarding fixation patterns depending on similarity to the self-face. The lower the similarity to the self-face, the more fixations on the eyes' area. Subjects' ratings followed a linear line, indicating well-pronounced face perception. Nevertheless, other faces were rated faster than the self-face independent of familiarity, while morphed faces got the slowest ratings. Our results mirror the importance of similarity to the self-face as a factor shaping the way we look at the eyes of others explaining variance apart from familiarity.

familiarity
similarity
self-face
morphing
face perception
eye-tracking


Hydrophobicity of diverse bacterial populations in activated sludge and biofilm revealed by microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons assay and high-throughput sequencing.

Abstract: Cell hydrophobicity is one of the key physicochemical properties of bacteria in activated sludge (AS) and biofilms can influence the efficient operation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). In the present study the cell hydrophobicity of diverse bacterial populations in AS and biofilms from the Shatin and Stanley WWTPs of Hong Kong was characterized by combining the microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons (MATH) assay with the Illumina high-throughput sequencing. The results indicated that, at the phylum level, a majority of bacteria in AS and biofilms showed medium hydrophobicity. Most of the top 20 bacterial genera in the AS samples were hydrophilic. However, the top 20 genera in biofilms showed higher hydrophobicity than in the top 20 genera in AS samples, suggesting more hydrophobic bacteria existed in biofilms than in AS. Meanwhile, the hydrophobicity of two specific bacterial groups, including foaming and biosurfactant-producing bacteria, were also evaluated. The results demonstrated that, by combining the MATH assay with the Illumina sequencing approach, bacterial hydrophobicity could be evaluated with high efficiency and coverage in complex systems with high microbial diversity, e.g. AS and biofilms in WWTPs.

Chao|Yuanqing|Y|
Guo|Feng|F|
Fang|Herbert H P|HH|
Zhang|Tong|T|

D057927:Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions

Activated sludge
Biofilm
MATH assay
Illumina sequencing
Bacterial hydrophobicity


Serum procalcitonin as an early diagnostic marker of severe postoperative complications after elective pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE
To evaluate the clinical utility of serum procalcitonin (PCT) as a diagnostic marker for the severe postoperative complications associated with pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS
A total of 387 patients were enrolled and the PCT and C-reactive protein (CRP) values were compared between the non-severe complications group (Clavien-Dindo classification Grade IIIb and lower) and severe complications (Grade IVa and higher).

RESULTS
Severe complications occurred in 16 patients. In the severe complications group, CRP levels peaked on postoperative day (POD) 3, whereas PCT levels peaked on POD 1. The PCT levels on PODs 1-5 were significantly higher in the severe complications group. Regarding the diagnostic performance, the PCT value on POD 2 higher than 2.1 ng/mL revealed the highest performance, with 66.7% sensitivity and 78.6% specificity. Based on the postoperative kinetics and multivariate analysis, PCT and CRP both act independently of each other and the combination assay improved the diagnostic power (area under the curve 0.781; sensitivity 60.0%; specificity 85.6%). Preoperative biliary drainage was found to affect the perioperative PCT values and subgroup analysis stratified by the drainage procedure improved diagnostic sensitivity (~85%).

CONCLUSIONS
Procalcitonin in the early postoperative period can serve as an earlier detector for the development of severe complications after PD.

procalcitonin
postoperative complication
pancreaticoduodenectomy
C-reactive protein
Clavien-Dindo classification


Stereotactic Dorsolateral Irradiation of Spinal Nerve Roots: A Novel Technique for the Treatment of Spasticity and Pain.

Abstract: Selective dorsal rhizotomy is an established surgical treatment to improve the neurological and functional status of children with spastic cerebral palsy and adults with spasticity and pain caused by a variety of brain and spinal injuries. This procedure requires a dorsolumbar laminectomy to expose the appropriate dorsal rootlets, which are sectioned according to the presence of sustained electromiographic discharges. Image-guided robotic radiosurgery targeting the intracisternal sensory root of the trigeminal nerve has been described as a safe and effective non-invasive treatment for trigeminal neuralgia, a paroxystic pain disorder which often responds poorly to medical therapy. Image-guided radiosurgery requires no frame placement and can treat brain or spinal targets with submillimetric precision. This technique can be used to treat cervical or lumbar dorsal roots. A 44-year-old patient with von Hippel-Lindau disease developed severe spastic tetraparesis following multiple brain and spinal procedures. Spasticity and related pain mostly affected the right leg, with sustained electromiographic discharges originating from the right L4 nerve root. Response to medical therapy with baclofen and cannabinoids was poor. Due to geographical and logistical issues, the patient declined the placement of an intrathecal baclofen pump. Considering the poor general condition of the patient and his decision to avoid invasive procedures, a novel treatment option was offered to provide relief from spasticity and pain: stereotactic image-guided irradiation delivered to the sensory root. The patient underwent a right intraforaminal dorsolateral L4 root stereotactic irradiation with a delivered dose of 45 Gy prescribed to the 82% isodose. The treatment was well tolerated, without side effects. Resolution of spasticity and related pain in the right leg was found six months after the procedure. A marked reduction of spasticity and pain was also evident in the contralateral leg. These improvements have been stable over the last 18 months. So far, two additional patients underwent stereotactic dorsolateral spinal root irradiation (one delivered to a cervical, the other to a lumbar), with similar positive outcomes. These preliminary results suggest that spinal root stereotactic image-guided irradiation, a novel treatment option in the neurosurgical armamentarium, is a safe and effective procedure and deserves further investigation.

nerve root
spasticity
pain
selective dorsal rhizotomy
image-guided
robotic
frameless
radiation
spine
stereotactic radiosurgery


Use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND & AIMS
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are used to treat various psychiatric disorders. However, there are concerns that SSRIs increase the risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB).

METHODS
We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled observational studies to determine whether SSRI use affects the risk for UGIB. Our analysis included all observational studies that compared UGIB development among patients receiving SSRIs vs no treatment. We calculated pooled odds ratios using random- and fixed-effects models.

RESULTS
A total of 22 studies (6 cohort and 16 case-control studies) involving more than 1,073,000 individuals were included in our meta-analysis. In comparing SSRI users with patients who had not taken SSRIs, the odds for developing UGIB were 1.55-fold higher (odds ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.35-1.78). In subgroup analyses, the association was greatest for patients who received concurrent therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet drugs; we found no significant increase in the risk of developing UGIB among patients receiving concurrent acid-suppressing drugs.

CONCLUSIONS
SSRI use was associated with an almost 2-fold increase in the risk of developing UGIB, especially among patients at high risk for GI bleeding (concurrent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet drugs). This risk might be reduced significantly by concomitant use of acid-suppressing drugs.

Jiang|Hai-Yin|HY| Chen|Hua-Zhong|HZ| Hu|Xin-Jun|XJ| Yu|Zheng-He|ZH| Yang|Wei|W| Deng|Min|M| Zhang|Yong-Hua|YH| Ruan|Bing|B|

D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
D006801:Humans
D001523:Mental Disorders
D018570:Risk Assessment
D017367:Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors


Caffeine Affects Time to Exhaustion and Substrate Oxidation during Cycling at Maximal Lactate Steady State.

Abstract: This study analyzed the effects of caffeine intake on whole-body substrate metabolism and exercise tolerance during cycling by using a more individualized intensity for merging the subjects into homogeneous metabolic responses (the workload associated with the maximal lactate steady state-MLSS). MLSS was firstly determined in eight active males (25 ± 4 years, 176 ± 7 cm, 77 ± 11 kg) using from two to four constant-load tests of 30 min. On two following occasions, participants performed a test until exhaustion at the MLSS workload 1 h after taking either 6 mg/kg of body mass of caffeine or placebo (dextrose), in a randomized, double-blinded manner. Respiratory exchange ratio was calculated from gas exchange measurements. There was an improvement of 22.7% in time to exhaustion at MLSS workload following caffeine ingestion (95% confidence limits of ±10.3%, p = 0.002), which was accompanied by decrease in respiratory exchange ratio (p = 0.001). These results reinforce findings indicating that sparing of the endogenous carbohydrate stores could be one of the several physiological effects of caffeine during submaximal performance around 1 h.

Cruz|Rogério Santos de Oliveira|RS|
de Aguiar|Rafael Alves|RA|
Turnes|Tiago|T|
Guglielmo|Luiz Guilherme Antonacci|LG|
Beneke|Ralph|R|
Caputo|Fabrizio|F|

D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants

submaximal performance
endurance
fat metabolism
muscle glycogen


Factors affecting success of an integrated community-based telehealth system.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The rise of chronic and degenerative diseases in developed countries has become one critical epidemiologic issue. Telehealth can provide one viable way to enhance health care, public health, and health education delivery and support.

OBJECTIVE
The study aims to empirically examine and evaluate the success factors of community-based telehealth system adoption.

METHODS
The valid 336 respondents are the residents of a rural community in Taiwan. The structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess the proposed model applied to telehealth.

RESULTS
The findings showed the research model had good explanatory power and fitness. Also, the findings indicated that system quality exerted the strongest overall effect on intention to use. Furthermore, service quality exerted the strongest overall effect on user satisfaction. The findings also illustrated that the joint effects of three intrinsic qualities (system quality, information quality, and service quality) on use were mediated by user satisfaction and intention to use.

CONCLUSION
The study implies that community-based telehealth service providers should improve three intrinsic qualities to enhance user satisfaction and intention to use, which in turn can lead to increase the usage of the telehealth equipment. The integrated community-based telehealth system may become an innovative and suitable way to deliver better care to the residents of communities.

Hsieh|Hui-Lung|HL| Tsai|Chung-Hung|CH| Chih|Wen-Hai|WH| Lin|Huei-Hsieh|HH|

integrated community-based telehealth
Information success model


Novel Variants in GDF9 Gene Affect Promoter Activity and Litter Size in Mongolia Sheep.

Abstract: Litter size is an economically important trait in sheep breeding. The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to ascertain if any of the 19 known variants in the BMPRIB, BMP15, and GDF9 genes are present and associated with the litter size of Mongolia sheep; (2) to identify novel variants in GDF9 and perform association analysis; and (3) to validate the effects of these GDF9 promoter variants on the activity of the gene. The results of the 19 known variants showed that the FecB affected the litter size of Mongolia sheep (p < 0.001). The association analysis results of novel variants showed that the g.46544883A>G (GenBank accession: NC_040256, the same below) in the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR), the c.1040T>C (Phe347Ser) in the exon 2, and the g.46547859C>T SNP in the promotor of GDF9 were significantly associated with litter size of Mongolia ewes (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, and p < 0.001, respectively). In addition, the GDF9 promoter activity analysis showed that the C allele at the -332 position (g.46547859C>T) could decrease luciferase activity compared with the T allele (p < 0.01). Our findings may facilitate effective marker-assisted selection to increase litter size in Mongolia sheep populations, as well as bring new insights into GDF9 expression.

Tong|Bin|B| Wang|Jiapeng|J| Cheng|Zixuan|Z| Liu|Jiasen|J| Wu|Yiran|Y| Li|Yunhua|Y| Bai|Chunling|C| Zhao|Suwen|S| Yu|Haiquan|H| Li|Guangpeng|G|

GDF9
promoter activity
litter size
Mongolia sheep
FecBB
molecular markers


Early life stress, air pollution, inflammation, and disease: An integrative review and immunologic model of social-environmental adversity and lifespan health.

Abstract: Socially disadvantaged individuals are at greater risk for simultaneously being exposed to adverse social and environmental conditions. Although the mechanisms underlying joint effects remain unclear, one hypothesis is that toxic social and environmental exposures have synergistic effects on inflammatory processes that underlie the development of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and certain types of cancer. In the present review, we examine how exposure to two risk factors that commonly occur with social disadvantage-early life stress and air pollution-affect health. Specifically, we identify neuroimmunologic pathways that could link early life stress, inflammation, air pollution, and poor health, and use this information to propose an integrated, multi-level model that describes how these factors may interact and cause health disparity across individuals based on social disadvantage. This model highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research considering multiple exposures across domains and the potential for synergistic, cross-domain effects on health, and may help identify factors that could potentially be targeted to reduce disease risk and improve lifespan health.

Olvera Alvarez|Hector A|HA|
Kubzansky|Laura D|LD|
Campen|Matthew J|MJ|
Slavich|George M|GM|

Inflammation
Cytokine
Early adversity
Inflammatory reactivity
Pro-inflammatory phenotype
Stress responsivity


Identification of an Adduct Impurity of an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient and a Leachable in an Ophthalmic Drug Product Using LC-QTOF.

Abstract: Impurity investigations are important in pharmaceutical development to ensure drug purity and safety for the patient. The impurities typically found in drug products are degradants or reaction products of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) or leachable compounds from the container closure system. However, secondary reactions may also occur between API degradants, excipient impurities, residual solvents, and leachables to form adduct impurities. We hereby report an adduct-forming interaction of API (moxifloxacin) with a leachable compound (ethylene glycol monoformate) in moxifloxacin ophthalmic solution. The leachable compound originated from a low-density polyethylene bottle used in the packaging of drug products. The adduct impurity was tentatively identified as 1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-7-(1-(2-(formyloxy)ethyl) octahydro-6H-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyridin-6-yl)-8-methoxy-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylic acid (C24H28FN3O6, MW = 473.19621) using accurate mass LC-QTOF analysis. The mass accuracy error between the theoretical mass and the experimental mass of an impurity was found to be 0.2 ppm. An MS/MS analysis was utilized to provide mass spectrometry fragments to support verification of the proposed structure.

Gollapalli|Ramarao|R| Singh|Gagandeep|G| Blinder|Alejandro|A| Brittin|Jeremiah|J| Sengupta|Arijit|A| Mondal|Bikash|B| Patel|Milan|M| Pati|Biswajit|B| Lee|James|J| Ghode|Amit|A| Kote|Mahesh|M|

D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid

adduct
active pharmaceutical ingredient
leachables
LC-QTOF
low-density polyethylene
extractables


Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in a School Population in the Principality of Asturias (Spain): Relationship with Physical Activity and Body Weight.

Abstract: The Mediterranean diet (MD), despite its multiple benefits, presents low levels of adherence among children. Moreover, childhood is a key stage in the acquisition of healthy habits. The aim of this study was to describe adherence to MD in school-age children from Asturias, Spain, and to evaluate the association with weight status and several lifestyle behaviors. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 309 children aged between 8 and 13 years old. The level of adherence to MD was evaluated through the KIDMED questionnaire. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between adherence to MD and weight status, frequency of out-of-school exercise, frequency of school canteen attendance, and sleep habits. We found that 54.4% of children had optimal adherence to MD and 29.9% of the sample was overweight or obese. Frequency of exercise practice was positively associated with optimal adherence to MD (95% CI: 1.02, 1.33). A positive association was found between some KIDMED items and frequency of out-of-school exercise practice and attendance at the school canteen. This study shows the need for an improvement in the adherence to MD in youth considering the concomitant occurrence of other related healthy behaviors.

Mediterranean diet
Principality of Asturias
children
lifestyle
KIDMED
obesity
dietary habits