Analysis of herbicide and its applications through a sensitive electrochemical technique based on MWCNTs/ZnO/CPE fabricated sensor.

Abstract: The electrochemical performance of linuron (LNR) was studied by fabricating the carbon paste electrode (CPE) using multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) along with zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (MWCNTs/ZnO/CPE). The influence of electro-kinetic specifications involving steady heterogeneous rate, pH, sweep rate, temperature effect, transfer coefficient, accumulation time, activation energy, as well as the total number of protons and electrons participating in electro-oxidation of LNR has been established using voltammetric techniques like cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV). These techniques were applied to investigate LNR in real samples such as soil including water samples. Over the 0.02 μM-0.34 μM ranges, a linear relationship was confirmed along with the limit of detection and quantification (LOD and LOQ) of the LNR. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The MWCNTs/ZnO/CPE sensor was considered sensitive for LNR detection because the sensor exhibited enhanced catalytic qualities with peak current in the involvement of 0.2 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) of pH 6.0, attributed to the ultimate sensing performance of the sensor.

Prabhu|Keerthi|K|
Malode|Shweta J|SJ|
Shetti|Nagaraj P|NP|
Kulkarni|Raviraj M|RM|

Linuron
Carbon paste electrode
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Limit of detection
Soil and water analysis
Zinc oxide nanoparticles


Incidence and Risk Factors for Postoperative Urinary Retention in Total Hip Arthroplasty Performed Under Spinal Anesthesia.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The objective of this study is to determine the risk factors for postoperative urinary retention (POUR) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) under spinal anesthesia.

METHODS
Consecutive patients who underwent a primary THA without preoperative catheterization under spinal anesthesia were identified in a prospectively collected institutional patient database. All patients were monitored postoperatively for urinary retention on the basis of symptoms and the use of bladder ultrasound scans performed by a hospital technician. If necessary, straight catheterization was performed up to 2 times prior to indwelling catheter insertion.

RESULTS
One hundred eighty patients were included in the study. Six patients who required indwelling catheterization for intraoperative monitoring were excluded. Seventy-six patients experienced POUR and required straight catheterization. Fourteen patients ultimately required indwelling catheterization. One patient who was not catheterized developed a urinary tract infection versus none of the patients who were catheterized. POUR was significantly associated with intraoperative fluid volume and a history of urinary retention (P = .018 and .023, respectively). Intraoperative fluid volumes of 2025, 2325, 2875, and 3800 mL were associated with a specificity for POUR of 60%, 82.7%, 94.9%, and 98%, respectively. No significant associations were found among catheterization and gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, history of polyuria, history of incontinence, postoperative oral narcotics use, or surgical duration.

CONCLUSION
Patients with a history of prior urinary retention and those who receive high volumes of intraoperative fluid volume are at higher risk for POUR following THA performed under spinal anesthesia.

Lawrie|Charles M|CM|
Ong|Alvin C|AC|
Hernandez|Victor H|VH|
Rosas|Samuel|S|
Post|Zachary D|ZD|
Orozco|Fabio R|FR|

urinary retention
hip arthroplasty
spinal anesthesia
bladder management
postoperative complications
safety


Comparison the Effect of Ferutinin and 17β-Estradiol on Bone Mineralization of Developing Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Larvae.

Abstract: There is an urgent need to develop novel drugs for osteoporosis which occurs due to estrogen deficiency. Phytoestrogens derived from medicinal plants would be the best alternative to chemical drugs with harmful side effects. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of ferutinin compared to 17β-estradiol (E2) on bone mineralization of zebrafish larvae. Regarding the lack of publications, the histology analysis was performed after exposure to E2 to find effective treatment on bone mineralization of developing zebrafish larvae. Then, the larvae were exposed to four concentrations of ferutinin at three time points to assess the mortality, the expression of some related genes and histology of the ceratohyal and hyomandibular of treated larvae. The RT-PCR result of the treatment groups demonstrated the similar expression pattern in the larvae which were exposed to 1.25 μg/mL of ferutinin and 2 µM of E2 at 2 dpf, which confirmed the result of histology analysis. In addition, RT-qPCR of high concentration of ferutinin and E2 demonstrated that bmp2a/b and esr1 were downregulated and upregulated when the larvae were exposed to 5 μg/mL of ferutinin and 10 µM of E2, respectively.

ferutinin
17β-estradiol
zebrafish
histology
RT-PCR
LC50
chemical screening
osteogenesis
real-time PCR
skeletal tissue


Characterization of different functionalized lipidic nanocapsules as potential drug carriers.

Abstract: Lipid nanocapsules (LNC) based on a core-shell structure consisting of an oil-filled core with a surrounding polymer layer are known to be promising vehicles for the delivery of hydrophobic drugs in the new therapeutic strategies in anti-cancer treatments. The present work has been designed as basic research about different LNC systems. We have synthesized-and physico-chemically characterized-three different LNC systems in which the core was constituted by olive oil and the shell by different phospholipids (phosphatidyl-serine or lecithin) and other biocompatible molecules such as Pluronic(®) F68 or chitosan. It is notable that the olive-oil-phosphatidyl-serine LCN is a novel formulation presented in this work and was designed to generate an enriched carboxylic surface. This carboxylic layer is meant to link specific antibodies, which could facilitate the specific nanocapsule uptake by cancer cells. This is why nanoparticles with phosphatidyl-serine in their shell have also been used in this work to form immuno-nanocapsules containing a polyclonal IgG against a model antigen (C-reactive protein) covalently bounded by means of a simple and reproducible carbodiimide method. An immunological study was made to verify that these IgG-LNC complexes showed the expected specific immune response. Finally, a preliminary in vitro study was performed by culturing a breast-carcinoma cell line (MCF-7) with Nile-Red-loaded LNC. We found that these cancer cells take up the fluorescent Nile- Red molecule in a process dependent on the surface properties of the nanocarriers.

Sánchez-Moreno|Paola|P|
Ortega-Vinuesa|Juan Luis|JL|
Martín-Rodríguez|Antonio|A|
Boulaiz|Houría|H|
Marchal-Corrales|Juan Antonio|JA|
Peula-García|José Manuel|JM|

lipid nanocapsules
immuno-nanocapsules
nanocarriers
drug delivery


Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Gram-Negative Bacteria Causing Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in Kathmandu University Hospital.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Respiratory tract infection due to Gram-negative bacteria is a common cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study was carried out to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Gram-negative bacteria from patients with lower respiratory tract infection visiting Kathmandu University Hospital.

METHODS
A total of 3,403 respiratory samples including sputum and endotracheal aspirates were processed and antibiotic resistance pattern was determined following Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute guidelines. Patients' information was obtained after informed consent.

RESULTS
Growth of Gram-negative bacteria was 210 (6.17%). 83(39.52%) were Klebsiella pneumoniae followed by Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter species, Klebsiella oxytoca, Enterobacter species, Proteus mirabilis and Haemophilus influenzae. 151(71.90%) isolates were multidrug resistant. None of the strains were resistant to colistin. 51(24.29%) were resistant to carbapenem and out of these 3(1.43%) were metallo-? lactamase producers. 89(65.92%) of the patients having both pneumonia along with other respiratory illnesses were above 60 years of age indicating that old age might be a predisposing factor. (p value is less than 0.0001). 92(81.42%) of patients of age above 60 years had multidrug resistant isolates indicating that old age might be a predisposing factor for getting infection my multidrug resistant isolates. (p value equals 0.0012) Among 36 diabetic patients 33(91.67%) had multidrug resistant isolates. Whereas out of 174 non-diabetic patients only 118(67.82%) had multidrug resistant isolates (p value equals 0.0037).

CONCLUSIONS
Multidrug-resistant Gram negative bacteria were observed in respiratory samples. Effective treatment of lower respiratory tract infection need detailed microbiological diagnosis and drug susceptibility testing.

D024901:Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial


New Insights Into the Complex Mutational Landscape of Sézary Syndrome.

Abstract: Sézary syndrome (SS) is a genetically and clinically distinct entity among cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL). SS is characterized by more aggressive disease compared to the most common indolent type of CTCL, mycosis fungoides. However, there are limited available genomic data regarding SS. To characterize and expand current mappings of the genomic landscape of CTCL, whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed on peripheral blood samples from seven patients with SS. We detected 21,784 variants, of which 21,140 were novel and 644 were previously described. Filtering revealed 551 nonsynonymous variants among 525 mutated genes-25 recurrent mutations and 1 recurrent variant. Several recurrently mutated genes crucial to pathogenesis pathways, including Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR), PI3K-serine/threonine protein kinases (AKT), and fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR), were identified. Furthermore, genetic mutations spanned both known and novel genes, supporting the idea of a long-tail distribution of mutations in lymphoma. Acknowledging these genetic variants and their affected pathways may inspire future targeted therapies. WES of a limited number of SS patients revealed both novel findings and corroborated complexities of the "long-tail" distribution of previously reported mutations.

Mirza|Abu-Sayeef|AS|
Horna|Pedro|P|
Teer|Jamie K|JK|
Song|Jinming|J|
Akabari|Ratilal|R|
Hussaini|Mohammad|M|
Sokol|Lubomir|L|

Sézary syndrome
cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
genomics
whole exome sequencing
translational oncology


Amplitude based segmentation of ultrasound echoes for attenuation coefficient estimation.

Abstract: In vivo ultrasound attenuation coefficient measurements are of interest as they can provide insight into tissue pathology. They are also needed so that measurements of the tissue's frequency dependent ultrasound backscattering coefficient may be corrected for attenuation. In vivo measurements of the attenuation coefficient are challenging because it has to be estimated from the depth dependent decay of backscatter signals that display a large degree of magnitude variation. In this study we describe and evaluate an improved backscatter method to estimate ultrasound attenuation which is tolerant to the presence of some backscatter inhomogeneity. This employs an automated algorithm to segment and remove atypically strong echoes to lessen the potential bias these may introduce on the attenuation coefficient estimates. The benefit of the algorithm was evaluated by measuring the frequency dependent attenuation coefficient of a gelatine phantom containing randomly distributed cellulose scatterers as a homogeneous backscattering component and planar pieces of cooked leek to provide backscattering inhomogeneities. In the phantom the segmentation algorithm was found to improve the accuracy and precision of attenuation coefficient estimates by up to 80% and 90%, respectively. The effect of the algorithm was then measured invivo using 32 radiofrequency B-mode datasets from the breasts of two healthy female volunteers, producing a 5 to 25% reduction in mean attenuation coefficient estimates and a 30 to 50% reduction in standard deviation of attenuation coefficient across different positions within each breast. The results suggest that the segmentation algorithm may improve the accuracy and precision of attenuation coefficient estimates invivo.

Ultrasound
Attenuation
Backscatter
Radiofrequency
B-mode
Breast
Image segmentation


Tuned Hydrogen Bonding in Rare-Earth Metal-Organic Frameworks for Design of Optical and Electronic Properties: An Exemplar Study of Y-2,5-Dihydroxyterephthalic Acid.

Abstract: Organic linkers in metal-organic framework (MOF) materials exhibit differences in hydrogen bonding (H-bonding), which can alter the geometric, electronic, and optical properties of the MOF. Density functional theory (DFT) simulations were performed on a photoluminescent Y-2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid (DOBDC) MOF with H-bonding concentrations between 0 and 100%; the H-bonds were located on both bidentate- and monodentate-bound DOBDC linkers. At 0% H-bond concentration in the framework, the lattice parameters contracted, the density increased, and simulated X-ray diffraction patterns shifted. Comparison with published experimental data identified that Y-DOBDC MOF structures must have a degree of H-bond concentration. The concentration of H-bonds in the system shifted the calculated band gap energy from 2.25 eV at 100% to 3.00 eV at 0%. The band gap energies also indicate a distinction of H-bonds formed on bidentate-coordinated linkers compared to those on monodentate linkers. Additionally, when the calculated optical spectra are compared with experimental data, the ligand-to-ligand charge-transfer luminescence in Y-DOBDC MOFs is expected to result from an average of 20-40% H-bonding with at least 50% of the bidentate linkers containing H-bonding. Therefore, the type of H-bonding within the DOBDC linker determines the electronic structure and the optical absorption of the MOF framework structure. Tuning of the H-bonding in rare-earth MOFs provides an opportunity to control the specific optical and adsorption properties of the MOF framework on the basis of reactions between the linker and the environment.

hydrogen bonding
density functional theory
luminescence
metal−organic frameworks
optical adsorption


Parent-early adolescent relationship quality and problem behavior in Hungary, the Netherlands, India, and Iceland.

Abstract: Higher parent-child relationship quality has been associated with less internalizing and externalizing problem behavior. However, it remained less clear whether these associations are universal or depend on the country under investigation. Furthermore, fathers are still understudied, even though there is increasing evidence of their important role in early adolescent development. Our study compared the association of mother-child as well as father-child relationship quality with early adolescents' problem behavior in four culturally different countries, namely Hungary (N = 293; Mage  = 11.22; 53% boys), the Netherlands (N = 242; Mage  = 11.20; 48% boys), India (N = 230; Mage  = 10.68; 61% boys), and Iceland (N = 261; Mage  = 10.90; 53% boys). Early adolescents filled out questionnaires in their classroom, assessing warmth and conflict with fathers and mothers and internalizing and externalizing problem behavior. Stepwise multi-group path analysis demonstrated no cross-cultural differences in associations between quality of the parent-child relationship and problem behavior. We did not find any effects of maternal or paternal warmth. However, across samples conflict with mothers was associated with more internalizing and externalizing problem behavior, and conflict with fathers was associated with more externalizing problem behavior. Our findings highlight the need to target conflict with both fathers and mothers in interventions across different countries, especially when addressing externalizing problem behavior.

problem behavior
parent-child relationship
warmth
conflict
Cross-cultural research


Quality of life in men after total cystoprostatectomy: Perceptions of Tunisian patients.

Abstract:
Introduction
Total cystoprostatectomy (TCP) causes many changes in the postoperative quality of life leading to psychological, physical, social and sexual repercussions that are difficult to manage. This study aims to describe the postoperative quality of life of elderly Tunisian men who had a TCP as a result of a bladder cancer.

Methods
A descriptive quantitative study was conducted with 40 cystoprostatectomized men. Data collection tools were the Stoma-quality of life (QOL) questionnaire of Prieto, Thorsen, and Juul (2005) translated and validated to the Arabic language, and the Arabic version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF5) questionnaire validated by Shamloul, Ghanem and Abou-Zeid (2004).

Results
77.5% of participants had a very low quality-of-life score. All dimensions of quality of life-body image, physical, psychological, family and social life, and sexuality-were affected. In addition, all participants have suffered from severe sexual impotence after surgery.

Conclusion
Counselling pre and postoperatively needed to facilitate the postoperative transition and ensure a better quality of life related to the health of men with bladder cancer.

Ben Hassine|Asma|A|
Souli|Intissar|I|
Braiki|Raoua|R|
Chouigui|Rabeb|R|
Amira|Abbessi|A|
Laaroussi|Hatem|H|
Mejri|Boutheina|B|
Ladib|Mohamed|M|
Hidoussi|Adnen|A|

quality of life
total cystoprostatectomy
bladder cancer
nursing


Confidence regions for treatment effects in subgroups in biomarker stratified designs.

Abstract: Subgroup analysis has important applications in the analysis of controlled clinical trials. Sometimes the result of the overall group fails to demonstrate that the new treatment is better than the control therapy, but for a subgroup of patients, the treatment benefit may exist; or sometimes, the new treatment is better for the overall group but not for a subgroup. Hence we are interested in constructing a simultaneous confidence interval for the difference of the treatment effects in a subgroup and the overall group. Subgroups are usually formed on the basis of a predictive biomarker such as age, sex, or some genetic marker. While, for example, age can be detected precisely, it is often only possible to detect the biomarker status with a certain probability. Because patients detected with a positive or negative biomarker may not be truly biomarker positive or negative, responses in the subgroups depend on the treatment therapy as well as on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay used in detecting the biomarkers. In this work, we show how (approximate) simultaneous confidence intervals and confidence ellipsoid for the treatment effects in subgroups can be found for biomarker stratified clinical trials using a normal framework with normally distributed or binary data. We show that these intervals maintain the nominal confidence level via simulations.

Wan|Fang|F|0000-0001-5107-9757
Kunz|Cornelia U|CU|
Jaki|Thomas F|TF|

confidence region
treatment effects
subgroup
biomarker stratified design


Fmr1 protects cardiomyocytes against lipopolysaccharide-induced myocardial injury.

Abstract: The present study explored the mechanisms by which fragile X mental retardation 1 (fmr1) overexpression inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Factors including oxidative stress reaction, mitochondrial membrane potential variation and cell apoptosis were evaluated. The viability of H9c2 cells was evaluated with a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay after cells were treated with LPS at different concentrations (0, 1, 3, 6 and 9 µg/ml) for various durations (4, 12 and 24 h). Flow cytometry was used to determine variations in reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential and cell apoptosis. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis were performed to detect the levels of apoptosis-associated factors, and western blot analysis was used to determine the phosphorylation levels of phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K), Akt and forkhead box (Fox)O3a. The results indicated that LPS decreased the viability of H9c2 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Overexpression of fmr1 inhibited the LPS-induced decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential and the production of ROS as well as apoptosis in H9c2 cells. Fmr1 also inhibited LPS-induced reductions in antioxidant enzyme activities, including those of superoxide dismutase and reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio, and decreased LPS-associated increases in the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde. Apoptosis-associated factors were identified to be involved in the effects of Fmr1. Overexpression of Fmr1 attenuated LPS-associated increases in the apoptosis-activating factors B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein and caspase-3 and decreases in apoptosis inhibitors, including Bcl-2 and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein. Fmr1 overexpression also reduced LPS-induced increases in the phosphorylation levels of PI3K, Akt and FoxO3a. In conclusion, fmr1 overexpression alleviated oxidative stress and apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes injured by LPS via regulating oxidative stress and apoptosis-associated factors, as well as the PI3K/Akt pathway. This information may provide a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for heart diseases.

Bao|Jiasheng|J| Ye|Chen|C| Zheng|Zhelan|Z| Zhou|Zhengwen|Z|

cardiomyocyte
myocardial injury
fragile X mental retardation 1
lipopolysaccharide
oxidative stress
apoptosis


Comparative Effectiveness of Palliative Chemotherapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Real-World Evidence Analysis.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
In the absence of randomized controlled trials, real-world evidence may aid practitioners in optimizing the selection of therapy for patients with cancer. The study's aim was to determine real-word use, as well as compare effectiveness, of single-agent and combination chemotherapy as palliative treatment for female patients with metastatic breast cancer (mBC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Using administrative claims data from the Symphony Health's Integrated Oncology Dataverse, female patients with mBC treated with at least one chemotherapy-only treatment (COT) between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2017 were selected. The frequency of use of single-agent versus combination chemotherapy overall and by line of therapy (LOT) was calculated whereas effectiveness was measured using time to next treatment (TNT).

RESULTS
A total of 12,381 patients with mBC were identified, and 3,777 (31%) received at least one line of COT. Of the 5,586 observed LOTs among the 3,777 patients, 66.5% were single-agent and 33.5% combination chemotherapy. Combination chemotherapy was most frequently used in first-line (45%) and least frequently in fifth-line (16%). Across all LOTs, median TNT was significantly longer for single-agent versus combination chemotherapy (5.3 months vs. 4.1 months, p < .0001). Comparison of median TNT by LOT showed significance in third-line and greater but not in first-line or second-line. Among single agents, the median TNT for patients receiving capecitabine was longest in comparison to all other single agents.

CONCLUSIONS
The frequency of combination COT use, particularly in first-line, warrants further research given published guideline recommendations. The observed TNT difference favoring single-agent treatment in later lines supports guideline recommendations. Variance between single-agent preference and observed TNT was noteworthy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE
Although published data from evidence- and consensus-based guidelines recommend single-agent over combination chemotherapy, the extensive list of agents available for use and a gap in the comparative effectiveness research of these agents have resulted in significant variances in patterns of care. The aim of this study was to assess real-world treatment patterns and their effectiveness during palliative therapy of metastatic breast cancer. The objective was to understand when and how chemotherapy-only treatment is used in metastatic breast cancer and whether comparative effectiveness analysis supports the observed patterns of care.

Feinberg|Bruce|B| Kish|Jonathan|J| Dokubo|Igoni|I| Wojtynek|Jeff|J| Gajra|Ajeet|A| Lord|Kevin|K|

D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols

Breast cancer
Comparative effectiveness research
Disease progression
Treatment outcomes


Imaging of the postoperative knee.

Abstract: On sagittal images after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions, the femoral tunnel aperture should be at the junction of the line drawn along the posterior femoral cortex and the line drawn along the roof of the intercondylar notch (Bluemensaat line). The tibial tunnel aperture should be in the anterior portion of the second third, i.e. anterior aspect of the middle of the tibial epiphysis. An inaccurate placement of the femoral tunnel affects the graft isometry. A tibial tunnel too anteriorly placed results in intercondylar notch roof impingement. After meniscus surgery, first-line MRI is often sufficient to diagnose new tears; however, sometimes it is necessary to perform CT arthrography or MR arthrography. Surgical cartilage repair is evaluated based on articular congruity and on the appearance of the subchondral bone.

Viala|P|P|
Marchand|P|P|
Lecouvet|F|F|
Cyteval|C|C|
Beregi|J P|JP|
Larbi|A|A|

D059549:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Postoperative Knee Ligament Meniscus MRI


What Can Qualitative Studies Offer in a World Where Evidence Drives Decisions?

Abstract: In an environment in which evidence-based practice is the espoused norm, nurses have understandably sought to frame the knowledge they deem relevant to practice decisions, including the findings of their qualitative studies, as a form of evidence. However, since cancer patients face a significant challenge interpreting various evidence claims, it is important to recognize that the results of our qualitative studies reflect a different form of knowledge from that which an evidence-based practice definition of evidence presumes. Thus, we need to rethink our relationship to what qualitative studies offer to the evidentiary dialog. An approach to qualitative inquiry that derives from a nursing disciplinary logic model is, therefore, presented as an alternative means by which to generate the kinds of knowledge nurses need to practice and to gain expertise in clinical wisdom. Drawing on cancer communications research as an example, a nursing angle of vision on how best to use qualitative approaches to interpret evidence and inform practice emerges.

qualitative
evidence-based practice
communication
Cancer care
interpretive description
oncology nursing


Transverse testicular ectopia.

Abstract: Described herein are six cases of transverse testicular ectopia. All patients who underwent orchidopexy at the one pediatric surgical unit between October 2001 and January 2008 were evaluated. The medical records of all patients diagnosed with transverse testicular ectopia were evaluated retrospectively. Five patients (84%) were admitted with a symptomatic right inguinal hernia and empty scrotum on the left side. Only one child (16%) had left-sided hernia and right non-palpable testis (age ranged from 1 month to 3 years). Four patients (66%) were diagnosed in the operating theatre and the last two (33%) on inguinal ultrasound preoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging was also performed in the last patient. Herniorrhaphy with fixation of the ectopic gonad to the opposite hemiscrotum through a transseptal incision was performed in all patients. Postoperative complications were not observed.

Yıldız|Abdullah|A| Yiğiter|Murat|M| Oral|Akgün|A| Bakan|Vedat|V|

transverse testicular ectopia
orchidopexy
undescended testicle


Pressure and Flow Rate Changes During Contrast Injections in Cerebral Angiography: Correlation to Reflux Length.

Abstract: Cerebral angiography involves the antegrade injection of contrast media through a catheter into the vasculature to visualize the region of interest under X-ray imaging. Depending on the injection and blood flow parameters, the bolus of contrast can propagate in the upstream direction and proximal to the catheter tip, at which point contrast is said to have refluxed. In this in vitro study, we investigate the relationship of fundamental hemodynamic variables to this phenomenon. Contrast injections were carried out under steady and pulsatile flow using various vessel diameters, catheter sizes, working fluid flow rates, and injection rates. The distance from the catheter tip to the proximal edge of the contrast bolus, called reflux length, was measured on the angiograms; the relation of this reflux length to different hemodynamic parameters was evaluated. Results show that contrast reflux occurs when the pressure distal to the catheter tip increases to be greater than the pressure proximal to the catheter tip. The ratio of this pressure difference to the baseline flow rate, called reflux resistance here, was linearly correlated to the normalized reflux length (reflux length/vessel diameter). Further, the ratio of blood flow to contrast fluid momentums, called the Craya-Curtet number, was correlated to the normalized reflux length via a sigmoid function. A sigmoid function was also found to be representative of the relationship between the ratio of the Reynolds numbers of blood flow to contrast and the normalized reflux length. As described by previous reports, catheter based contrast injections cause substantial increases in local flow and pressure. Contrast reflux should generally be avoided during standard antegrade angiography. Our study shows two specific correlations between contrast reflux length and baseline and intra-injection parameters that have not been published previously. Further studies need to be conducted to fully characterize the phenomena and to extract reliable indicators of clinical utility. Parameters relevant to cerebral angiography are studied here, but the essential principles are applicable to all angiographic procedures involving antegrade catheter injections.

Kovarovic|Brandon|B|
Woo|Henry H|HH|
Fiorella|David|D|
Lieber|Baruch B|BB|
Sadasivan|Chander|C|0000-0002-6305-9785

D001158:Arteries
D001783:Blood Flow Velocity
D001794:Blood Pressure
D002533:Cerebral Angiography
D003198:Computer Simulation
D003287:Contrast Media
D006801:Humans
D007269:Injections, Intra-Arterial
D008953:Models, Anatomic
D008955:Models, Cardiovascular
D011673:Pulsatile Flow
D013997:Time Factors
D062666:Vascular Access Devices

Reflux length
Reflux resistance
Craya–Curtet number
Efflux length
Logistic function
Pressure gradient


Olive Fruit Extracts Supplement Improve Antioxidant Capacity via Altering Colonic Microbiota Composition in Mice.

Abstract: Oxidative stress, one of the most common biological dysfunctions, is usually associated with pathological conditions and multiple diseases in humans and animals. Chinese olive fruit (Canarium album L.) extracts (OE) are natural plant extracts rich in polyphenols (such as hydroxytyrosol, HT) and with antioxidant, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-inflammatory potentials. This study was conducted to investigate the antioxidant capacity of OE supplementation and its related molecular mechanism in mice. Mice (25.46 ± 1.65 g) were treated with 100 mg/kg body weight (BW) OE or saline solution for 4 weeks, and then the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities of mice were examined. The results showed that OE supplement significantly increased the serum antioxidative enzyme activities of total antioxidant activity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase and decreased the serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level, indicating that OE treatment enhanced the antioxidant capacity in mice. qPCR results showed that the transcriptional expression of antioxidant SOD1, CAT, Gpx1, and Gpx2 were significantly down-regulated in the small intestine (jejunum and ileum) after OE administration. Meanwhile, OE treatment significantly decreased the T-AOC and increased the MDA level in the small intestine. Furthermore, OE administration dramatically reduced the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β), which confirmed its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities with OE administration. Using amplicon sequencing technology, 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that OE supplement significantly increased the colonic Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, which also had a negative correlation with the serum MDA level and positively correlated with serum GSH-Px activity through Pearson correlation analysis. Besides that, Alloprevotella was negatively correlated with serum T-AOC. Colidextribacter was positively correlated with serum MDA and negatively correlated with serum T-AOC, SOD, and GSH-Px levels. In summary, this study showed that treatment with 100 mg/kg BW polyphenol-rich OE could alter colonic microbiota community, which was strongly associated with improved antioxidant capacity in mice.

Wang|Mengyu|M| Zhang|Shunfen|S| Zhong|Ruqing|R| Wan|Fan|F| Chen|Liang|L| Liu|Lei|L| Yi|Bao|B| Zhang|Hongfu|H|

antioxidant capacity
oxidative stress
hydroxytyrosol
anti-inflammatory capacity
gut microbiota
olive extracts


Candidate genes involved in metastasis of colon cancer identified by integrated analysis.

Abstract: Colon cancer is one of the most malignant cancers worldwide. Nearly 20% of all colon cancer patients are diagnosed at stage IV (metastasis). However, further study of colon cancer is difficult due to a lack of understanding of its pathogenesis. In this study, we acquired high-throughput sequence data from TCGA datasets and performed integrated bioinformatic analysis including differential gene expression analysis, gene ontology and KEGG pathways analysis, protein-protein analysis, survival analysis, and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis in order to identify a panel of key candidate genes involved in the metastasis of colon cancer. We then constructed a prognostic signature based on the expression of REG1B, TGM6, NTF4, PNMA5, and HOXC13 which could provide significant prognostic value for colon cancer.

Zhou|Yiming|Y|0000-0002-1524-6287 Zang|Yiwen|Y| Yang|Yi|Y| Xiang|Jianbin|J| Chen|Zongyou|Z|

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

metastasis
colon cancer
TCGA
bioinformatic analysis


Big data-drive agent-based modeling of online polarized opinions.

Abstract: Under the mobile internet and big data era, more and more people are discussing and interacting online with each other. The forming process and evolutionary dynamics of public opinions online have been heavily investigated. Using agent-based modeling, we expand the Ising model to explore how individuals behave and the evolutionary mechanism of the life cycles. The big data platform of Douban.com is selected as the data source, and the online case "NeiYuanWaiFang" is applied as the real target, for our modeling and simulations to match. We run 10,000 simulations to find possible optimal solutions, and we run 10,000 times again to check the robustness and adaptability. The optimal solution simulations can reflect the whole life cycle process. In terms of different levels and indicators, the fitting or matching degrees achieve the highest levels. At the micro-level, the distributions of individual behaviors under real case and simulations are similar to each other, and they all follow normal distributions; at the middle-level, both discrete and continuous distributions of supportive and oppositive online comments are matched between real case and simulations; at the macro-level, the life cycle process (outbreak, rising, peak, and vanish) and durations can be well matched. Therefore, our model has properly seized the core mechanism of individual behaviors, and precisely simulated the evolutionary dynamics of online cases in reality.

Agent-based modeling
Life cycles
Douban.com
Expanded Ising model
Online collective actions


Reducing phosphorus (P) losses from drained agricultural fields with iron coated sand (- glauconite) filters.

Abstract: In north-west Europe, agricultural diffuse P losses are a major cause of eutrophication problems in surface waters. Given that the Water Framework Directive (WFD) demands fast water quality improvements and most of the actual P mitigation strategies tend to work on the long run, new short-term mitigation measures are urgently needed. We here report on the entire process of developing small scale field filters to remove P at the end of tile drains, starting from the screening of potential P sorbing materials (PSM): iron coated sand (ICS), acid pre-treated natural minerals (biotite, glauconite and olivine) and bauxite. Initial batch (ad)sorption experiments revealed following order in both, P sorption capacity and speed: ICS > bauxite > glauconite > olivine = biotite. Because of the presence of significant amounts of lead and/or nickel, we excluded bauxite and olivine from further experiments. Subsequent lab scale flow through systems were conducted with P filters containing mixtures of ICS and glauconite (100/0, 90/10, 80/20, 70/30 and 60/40%, respectively, on weight basis). We found a significant relationship between Ksat and the filter mixtures particle size distribution and bulk density, and a significant effect of the filter mixture composition on P removal efficiency and stability of Ksat. During the 10 week field trials, the pure ICS filters were capable of processing all drainage discharge rates (up to 6 m3 day-1) with a P removal efficiency of ≥74%. The 90/10 ICS/glauconite filters could process up to 4 m3 water day-1 with a P removal efficiency of 57%. As saturated ICS filters can easily be replaced and recycled for other applications, this is a promising sustainable technique to drastically cut back diffuse P losses and to tremendously improve surface water quality in the short term.

Phosphorus
Eutrophication
Water framework directive
Water quality
Phosphorus sorbing materials
Tile drainage


The Role of Surgery in Metastatic Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors.

Abstract: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common sarcomas and mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. Macroscopically complete (R0/R1) resection is the standard treatment for localized resectable GIST with adjuvant imatinib therapy recommended for patients with intermediate or high-risk disease. In patients with advanced unresectable or metastatic GIST, imatinib has significantly improved outcomes. However, while most patients achieve partial response (PR) or stable disease (SD) on imatinib (with maximal response typically seen by 6 months on treatment), approximately half will develop secondary resistance by 2 years. Available data suggest that cytoreductive surgery may be considered in patients with metastatic GIST who respond to imatinib, particularly if a R0/R1 resection is achieved. The benefit of surgery in patients with focal tumor progression on imatinib is unclear, but may be considered. Patients with multifocal progression undergoing surgery generally have poor outcomes. Thus, surgery should be considered in patients with metastatic GIST whose disease responds to imatinib with a goal of performing R0/R1 resection. Optimal timing of surgery is unclear but should be considered between 6 months and 2 years after starting imatinib. Although surgery in patients with metastatic GIST treated with sunitinib is feasible, incomplete resections are common, complication rates are high, and survival benefit is unclear. Therefore, a careful multidisciplinary consultation is required to determine optimal treatment options on a case-by-case basis. Finally, patients with metastatic GIST should resume tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment postoperatively.

Keung|Emily Z|EZ|
Fairweather|Mark|M|
Raut|Chandrajit P|CP|

Surgery
Metastatic
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor
GIST
Imatinib
Cytoreduction
Sunitinib
Tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Debulking
Metastasectomy
Regorafenib


Manufacture of electrical and magnetic graded and anisotropic materials for novel manipulations of microwaves.

Abstract: Spatial transformations (ST) provide a design framework to generate a required spatial distribution of electrical and magnetic properties of materials to effect manipulations of electromagnetic waves. To obtain the electromagnetic properties required by these designs, the most common materials approach has involved periodic arrays of metal-containing subwavelength elements. While aspects of ST theory have been confirmed using these structures, they are often disadvantaged by narrowband operation, high losses and difficulties in implementation. An all-dielectric approach involves weaker interactions with applied fields, but may offer more flexibility for practical implementation. This paper investigates manufacturing approaches to produce composite materials that may be conveniently arranged spatially, according to ST-based designs. A key aim is to highlight the limitations and possibilities of various manufacturing approaches, to constrain designs to those that may be achievable. The article focuses on polymer-based nano- and microcomposites in which interactions with microwaves are achieved by loading the polymers with high-permittivity and high-permeability particles, and manufacturing approaches based on spray deposition, extrusion, casting and additive manufacture.

Grant|P S|PS|
Castles|F|F|
Lei|Q|Q|
Wang|Y|Y|
Janurudin|J M|JM|
Isakov|D|D|
Speller|S|S|
Dancer|C|C|
Grovenor|C R M|CR|

manufacture
spatial transforms
metamaterials
processing
transformation optics


Diagnosis of Celiac Disease and Environmental Enteropathy on Biopsy Images Using Color Balancing on Convolutional Neural Networks.

Abstract: Celiac Disease (CD) and Environmental Enteropathy (EE) are common causes of malnutrition and adversely impact normal childhood development. CD is an autoimmune disorder that is prevalent worldwide and is caused by an increased sensitivity to gluten. Gluten exposure destructs the small intestinal epithelial barrier, resulting in nutrient mal-absorption and childhood under-nutrition. EE also results in barrier dysfunction but is thought to be caused by an increased vulnerability to infections. EE has been implicated as the predominant cause of under-nutrition, oral vaccine failure, and impaired cognitive development in low-and-middle-income countries. Both conditions require a tissue biopsy for diagnosis, and a major challenge of interpreting clinical biopsy images to differentiate between these gastrointestinal diseases is striking histopathologic overlap between them. In the current study, we propose a convolutional neural network (CNN) to classify duodenal biopsy images from subjects with CD, EE, and healthy controls. We evaluated the performance of our proposed model using a large cohort containing 1000 biopsy images. Our evaluations show that the proposed model achieves an area under ROC of 0.99, 1.00, and 0.97 for CD, EE, and healthy controls, respectively. These results demonstrate the discriminative power of the proposed model in duodenal biopsies classification.

Kowsari|Kamran|K|
Sali|Rasoul|R|
Khan|Marium N|MN|
Adorno|William|W|
Ali|S Asad|SA|
Moore|Sean R|SR|
Amadi|Beatrice C|BC|
Kelly|Paul|P|
Syed|Sana|S|
Brown|Donald E|DE|

Celiac Disease
Environmental Enteropathy
Convolutional neural networks
Medical imaging


Decomposition of plant-sourced carbon compounds by heterotrophic betaproteobacteria isolated from a tropical Costa Rican bromeliad.

Abstract: Betaproteobacteria were the most common isolates from the water-filled tank of a Costa Rican bromeliad. Isolates included eight species from the orders Neisseriales and Burkholderiales, with close relatives recovered previously from tropical soils, wetlands, freshwater, or in association with plants. Compared to close relatives, the isolates displayed high temperature and comparatively low pH optima, reflecting the tropical, acidic nature of the bromeliad tank. Bromeliad-associated bacteria most closely related to Chromobacterium, Herbaspirillum, and Aquitalea were all isolated exclusively at pH 6, while Ralstonia, Cupriavidus, and three species of Burkholderia were isolated mostly at pH 4. Activity profiles for the isolates suggest pervasive capabilities for the breakdown of plant-sourced organics, including d-galacturonic acid, mannitol, d-xylose, and l-phenylalanine, also reflecting a niche dominated by decomposition of leaves from the overlying canopy, which become entrained in the tanks. Metabolic activity profiles were overlapping between the Burkholderiales, isolated at pH 4, and the Neisseriales, isolated at pH 6, suggesting that plant material decomposition, which is presumably the underlying process sustaining the tank community and possibly the plant itself, occurs in the tanks at both pH extremes. These results suggest that bromeliad-associated betaproteobacteria may play an important role in the cycling of carbon in this unusual aquatic habitat.

Klann|Jane|J|
McHenry|Alexandra|A|
Montelongo|Carin|C|
Goffredi|Shana K|SK|

decomposition
Betaproteobacteria
bromeliad
Costa Rica
rainforest


Camptothecin enhances 131I-rituximab-induced G1-arrest and apoptosis in Burkitt lymphoma cells.

Abstract:
Background
Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody against CD20. It is an established immunotherapeutic agent for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Even though rituximab has been used in clinics for decades, only 50% of the patients respond to rituximab therapy. To enhance the in vitro effect of rituximab, it was labeled with Iodine-131 (131I) and combined effect of 131I-rituximab and camptothecin (CPT) was studied on a tumor cell line expressing CD20.

Objective
The aim is to study the magnitude of cell killing and the underlying mechanism responsible for enhancing in vitro therapeutic efficacy.

Materials and

Methods
Rituximab was labeled with 131I by the iodogen method. Raji cells were pretreated with CPT (250 nM) for an hour followed by 131I-rituximab (0.37 and 3.7 MBq) and incubated for 24 h in a humidified atmosphere of CO2 incubator at 37°C. Subsequently, Raji cells were harvested and thoroughly washed to carry out studies of cellular toxicity, apoptosis, cell cycle, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.

Results
Maximal inhibition of cell proliferation and enhancement of apoptotic cell death was observed in the cells treated with the combination of CPT and 131I-rituximab, compared to controls of CPT-treated and 131I-rituximab-treated cells. Raji cells undergo G1 arrest after 131I-rituximab treatment, which leads to apoptosis and was confirmed by the downregulation of bclxl protein. Expression of p38 was decreased while an increase in phosphorylation of p38 was observed in the combination treatment of CPT and 131I-rituximab.

Conclusions
It was concluded from the findings that CPT enhanced 131I-rituximab-induced apoptosis, G1 cell cycle arrest and p38 MAPK phosphorylation in Raji cells.

Kumar|Chandan|C|
Sharma|Rohit|R|
Repaka|Krishna Mohan|KM|
Pareri|Aanchal Udaynath|AU|
Dash|Ashutosh|A|

camptothecin
G1-arrest
Apoptosis
rituximab
mitogen-activated protein kinase


Two new lignans from Saururus chinensis.

Abstract: Two new lignans, (Z)-14-bis(3',4'-dimethoxyphenyl)-2,3-dimethylbut-2-ene-1,4-dione (1), threo-2-methyl-3-oxo-1-(3',4',5'-trimethoxyphenyl)butyl-3″,4″-dimethoxybenzoate (2), together with 15 known derivatives (3-17) were isolated from Saururus chinensis. Their structures were determined on the basis of spectral data, including 1D and 2D NMR experiments and HREIMS spectra. The antitumour activity was screened by MTT assay, compounds 1, 2, 3, 5, 9-11 and 13-15 showed no cytotoxic activity against HL-60, SMMC-7721, A549, MCF-7 and SW480 cell lines.

Li|Cuibai|C| Li|Ningxin|N| Yue|Jiarui|J| Song|Qishi|Q| Fan|Qingfei|Q|

lignans
Saururus chinensis
antitumour activity
Saururaceae


Apoptosis is an obstacle to the differentiation of adipose-derived stromal cells into astrocytes.

Abstract: Previous studies have demonstrated that nerve cells differentiated from adipose-derived stromal cells after chemical induction have reduced viability; however, the underlying mechanisms remained unclear. In this study, we induced the differentiation of adult adipose-derived stromal cells into astrocytes using chemical induction. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and flow cytometry showed that, with increasing induction time, the apoptotic rate gradually increased, and the number of living cells gradually decreased. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that the number of glial fibrillary acidic protein-, caspase-3- and caspase-9-positive cells gradually increased with increasing induction time. Transmission electron microscopy revealed typical signs of apoptosis after differentiation. Taken together, our results indicate that caspase-dependent apoptosis is an obstacle to the differentiation of adipose-derived stromal cells into astrocytes. Inhibiting apoptosis may be an important strategy for increasing the efficiency of induction.

Yuan|Xiaodong|X| Sun|Qiaoyu|Q| Ou|Ya|Y| Wang|Shujuan|S| Zhang|Wenli|W| Deng|Hongliang|H| Wu|Xiaoying|X| Zhang|Lili|L|

astrocytes
cell differentiation
adult adipose-derived stromal cells
caspase-dependent apoptosis
caspase-3
caspase-9
cell apoptosis
nerve regeneration
neural regeneration


The role of muscle mass and body fat on disability among older adults: A cross-national analysis.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity with disability among older adults (≥65years old) in nine high-, middle- and low-income countries from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America.

METHODS
Data were available for 53,289 people aged ≥18years who participated in the Collaborative Research on Ageing in Europe (COURAGE) survey conducted in Finland, Poland, and Spain, and the WHO Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) survey conducted in China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia, and South Africa, between 2007 and 2012. Skeletal muscle mass, skeletal muscle mass index, and percent body fat were calculated with specific population formulas. Sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity were defined by specific cut-offs used in previous studies. Disability was assessed with the WHODAS 2.0 score (range 0-100) with higher scores corresponding to higher levels of disability. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted with disability as the outcome.

RESULTS
The analytical sample consisted of 18,363 people (males; n=8116, females; n=10247) aged ≥65years with mean (SD) age 72.9 (11.1) years. In the fully-adjusted overall analysis, sarcopenic obesity was associated with greater levels of disability [b-coefficient 3.01 (95% CI 1.14-4.88)]. In terms of country-wise analyses, sarcopenia was associated with higher WHODAS 2.0 scores in China [b-coefficient 4.56 (95% CI: 3.25-5.87)], Poland [b-coefficient 6.66 (95% CI: 2.17-11.14)], Russia [b-coefficient 5.60 (95% CI: 2.03-9.16)], and South Africa [b-coefficient 7.75 (95% CI: 1.56-13.94)].

CONCLUSIONS
Prevention of muscle mass decline may contribute to reducing the global burden of disability.

Tyrovolas|Stefanos|S|
Koyanagi|Ai|A|
Olaya|Beatriz|B|
Ayuso-Mateos|Jose Luis|JL|
Miret|Marta|M|
Chatterji|Somnath|S|
Tobiasz-Adamczyk|Beata|B|
Koskinen|Seppo|S|
Leonardi|Matilde|M|
Haro|Josep Maria|JM|

Disability
Older adults
Sarcopenia
Sarcopenic obesity
WHODAS 2.0


Impact of natural control agents of the citrus leafminer Phyllocnistis citrella on lemon trees varies among seasons.

Abstract: Studies on insect natural enemies and their effects on host populations are of immense practical value in pest management. Predation and parasitism on a citrus pest, the leafminer Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton, were evaluated by sampling over 3 years in four locations within a world leading lemon producing area in Northwest Argentina. Both mortality factors showed seasonal trends consistent across locations, with predation exerting earlier and more sustained pressure than parasitism, which showed wider seasonal variations. The dominant parasitoids, native Cirrospilus neotropicus and introduced Ageniaspis citricola, showed different seasonal trends: C. neotropicus was dominant in spring whereas A. citricola superseded it in autumn and winter. Although parasitism rates were relatively low, the native C. neotropicus revealed favourable features as potential control agent, by showing density-dependence, parasitism rates comparable with those of the specific A. citricola during part of the cycle, and earlier synchronization with the host. The study provides highly relevant information for a sustainable management of this worldwide pest, for which biological control is considered the best long-term option.

Goane|L|L| Casmuz|A|A| Salas|H|H| Willink|E|E| Mangeaud|A|A| Valladares|G|G|

Predation
parasitism
Cirrospilus neotropicus
Ageniaspis citricola
density-dependent control


Genome-wide assessment of differential effector gene use in embryogenesis.

Abstract: Six different populations of cells were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting from disaggregated late blastula- and gastrula-stage sea urchin embryos according to the regulatory states expressed in these cells, as reported by recombineered bacterial artificial chromosomes producing fluorochromes. Transcriptomes recovered from these embryonic cell populations revealed striking, early differential expression of large cohorts of effector genes. The six cell populations were presumptive pigment cells, presumptive neurogenic cells, presumptive skeletogenic cells, cells from the stomodeal region of the oral ectoderm, ciliated band cells and cells from the endoderm/ectoderm boundary that will give rise both to hindgut and to border ectoderm. Transcriptome analysis revealed that each of these domains specifically expressed several hundred effector genes at significant levels. Annotation indicated the qualitative individuality of the functional nature of each cell population, even though they were isolated from embryos only 1-2 days old. In no case was more than a tiny fraction of the transcripts enriched in one population also enriched in any other of the six populations studied. As was particularly clear in the cases of the presumptive pigment, neurogenic and skeletogenic cells, all three of which represent precociously differentiating cell types of this embryo, most specifically expressed genes of given cell types are not significantly expressed at all in the other cell types. Thus, at the effector gene level, a dramatic, cell type-specific pattern of differential gene regulation is established well before any significant embryonic morphogenesis has occurred.

Barsi|Julius C|JC|
Tu|Qiang|Q|
Calestani|Cristina|C|
Davidson|Eric H|EH|

D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental

Sea urchin embryos
Effector gene expression
Embryonic gene regulation
FACS embryonic cell populations


Research Progress on Chinese Medicine Immunomodulatory Intervention for Chronic Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia: Targeting Cellular Immunity.

Abstract: Chronic primary immune thrombocytopenia (CITP) is the most common acquired autoimmune disease that seriously threaten the physical and mental health of patients. Compared with Western medicine treatment, the intervention and treatment of Chinese medicine (CM) has shown certain therapeutic advantages. This paper reviewed the new pathogenesis progress on T cell immune abnormality in CITP, and CM studies on interferes effects of cellular immune regulation of CITP in recent years. Qi deficiency failing to control blood and internal obstruction of blood stasis are the two common types of CM syndromes in CITP patients, the corresponding treatments include invigorating Pi (Spleen), supplementing qi, activating blood, as well as tonifying qi and activating yang, regulating Gan (Liver) to invigorate Pi. The authors also mentioned the problems in the research field of CM for CTIP treatment, and put forward new ideas for the research in the future.

Liu|Wen-Bin|WB| Li|Sai|S| Yu|Xiao-Ling|XL| Dai|Tie-Ying|TY| Gao|Rui-Lan|RL|

Chinese medicine
cellular immunity
chronic immune thrombocytopenia


Effect of the Diverse Standardized Patient Simulation (DSPS) Cultural Competence Education Strategy on Nursing Students' Transcultural Self-Efficacy Perceptions.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Standardized patient simulation can be an effective strategy to foster cultural competence education.

METHODOLOGY
Guided by the Cultural Competence and Confidence Model, this grant-funded, longitudinal, one-group, pretest and posttest study used the Transcultural Self-Efficacy Tool (TSET) to examine the effect of the Diverse Standardized Patient Simulation (DSPS) cultural competence education strategy on students' ( n = 53) transcultural self-efficacy. Developed by following recommended guidelines and standards, the DSPS had content validity review. It aimed to improve students' knowledge, skills, and attitudes with regard to providing culturally competent nursing care. The statistical methods included t-tests, McNemar's test, correlation analyses, and Mann-Whitney U-test.

RESULTS
The DSPS influenced statistically significant changes (increase) in students' transcultural self-efficacy perceptions ( p < .05). All students regardless of background benefited from formalized cultural competence education.

DISCUSSION
Evidence-based strategies such as the DSPS can offer a valuable guide for educators to foster cultural competence education.

cultural competence and confidence model


Validation of a method for the simultaneous quantification of chloroquine, desethylchloroquine and primaquine in plasma by HPLC-DAD.

Abstract: One of the most important aspects regarding the therapeutic efficacy of antimalarials is its quantification in biologic fluids. The detection and measurement of antimalarial drug levels is important for demonstrating (1) adequate absorption of the drug being given, (2) compliance in taking the full regimen required for treatment and (3) the level of drug in the blood at any time during the test period that parasites reappear. There is a lack of validated methods that simultaneously quantify different antimalarials administered at the same time, such as the use of chloroquine (CQ) and primaquine (PQ) in infections caused by Plasmodium vivax. In this study, a bioanalytical method was validated for the simultaneous quantification of primaquine (PQ), chloroquine (CQ) and desethylchloroquine (DSCQ) in human plasma using liquid-liquid extraction and high performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). The PQ was evaluated over a concentration range of 100-3000 nM and the CQ and DSCQ was evaluated over a concentration range of 20-2000 nM. The selectivity of the method was verified by checking for interference by commonly used antimalarials and plasma samples. The accuracy and precision of the method was assessed for drugs spiked into human plasma and recoveries of 83.7%, 92.3%, and 76.5% were obtained for CQ, DSCQ, and PQ, respectively. The applicability of this method was also demonstrated with blood samples from patients with vivax malaria that received combination CQ plus PQ treatment. The simultaneous detection and accurate measurement of CQ, DSCQ, and PQ levels in human plasma provides an important and economical method for validating and monitoring sensitivity/resistance of P. vivax to more common treatment regimen.

Zuluaga-Idárraga|Lina|L| Yepes-Jiménez|Natalia|N| López-Córdoba|Carlos|C| Blair-Trujillo|Silvia|S|

D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)


Emergence of knock-down resistance in the Anopheles gambiae complex in the Upper River Region, The Gambia, and its relationship with malaria infection in children.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Insecticide resistance threatens malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa. Knockdown resistance to pyrethroids and organochlorines in Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) is commonly caused by mutations in the gene encoding a voltage-gated sodium channel which is the target site for the insecticide. The study aimed to examine risk factors for knockdown resistance in An. gambiae s.l. and its relationship with malaria infection in children in rural Gambia. Point mutations at the Vgsc-1014 locus, were measured in An. gambiae s.l. during a 2-year trial. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted at the end of the transmission season to measure malaria infection in children aged 6 months-14 years.

RESULTS
Whilst few Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles coluzzii had Vgsc-1014 mutations, the proportion of An. gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.) mosquitoes homozygous for the Vgsc-1014F mutation increased from 64.8 to 90.9% during the study. The Vgsc-1014S or 1014F mutation was 80% higher in 2011 compared to 2010, and 27% higher in the villages with indoor residual spraying compared to those without. An increase in the proportion of An. gambiae s.l. mosquitoes with homozygous Vgsc-1014F mutations and an increase in the proportion of An. gambiae s.s. in a cluster were each associated with increased childhood malaria infection. Homozygous Vgsc-1014F mutations were, however, most common in An. gambiae s.s. and almost reached saturation during the study meaning that the two variables were colinear.

CONCLUSIONS
As a result of colinearity between homozygous Vgsc-1014F mutations and An. gambiae s.s., it was not possible to determine whether insecticide resistance or species composition increased the risk of childhood malaria infection.

Wilson|Anne L|AL|
Pinder|Margaret|M|
Bradley|John|J|
Donnelly|Martin J|MJ|
Hamid-Adiamoh|Majidah|M|
Jarju|Lamin B S|LBS|
Jawara|Musa|M|
Jeffries|David|D|
Kandeh|Ballah|B|
Rippon|Emily J|EJ|
Salami|Kolawole|K|
D'Alessandro|Umberto|U|
Lindsay|Steven W|SW|

Anopheles gambiae
Gambia
Malaria
Insecticide Resistance
Knockdown resistance
Target site resistance


Engaging the citizenship of the homeless-a qualitative study of specialist primary care providers.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Homeless patients have complex health needs. They also often describe difficulty accessing and maintaining access to clinical services. Although engagement with health care has been explored from the patient perspective, little is known about how health care professionals conceptualize, assess and promote engagement with health care among homeless persons.

AIM
To examine how health professionals working in services for homeless persons view their patients' engagement with health care and explore how these views influence their practice.

METHODS
Semi-structured phone interviews were conducted with health professionals who had experience working with homeless patients. Purposive sampling aimed to cover a range of location, practice type and duration of professional experience. Thematic analysis was undertaken on interview transcripts.

RESULTS
Thirteen interviews were conducted. Four themes were explored relating to engagement of homeless persons with health care: (i) systematic barriers to engagement; (ii) difficulties engaging with professionals; (iii) system approaches to facilitate engagement and (iv) relationship approaches to facilitate engagement. In addition, a fifth theme emerged relating to the interaction between practices and networks of homeless persons in which practices were perceived as a key resource for a citizenship of the homeless.

CONCLUSION
Primary care practices providing services for homeless people aim to promote engagement with health care by maximizing flexibility and fostering relationships between patients and the clinical team. In doing so they produce a paradox, whereby they function as a key hub within a citizenship of homeless persons while simultaneously aiming to help people move out of homelessness into a more settled state.

Mills|Emma D|ED|
Burton|Christopher D|CD|
Matheson|Catriona|C|

D005260:Female
D006282:Health Personnel
D006297:Health Services Accessibility
D006703:Homeless Persons
D006801:Humans
D007407:Interviews as Topic
D008297:Male
D010358:Patient Participation
D011320:Primary Health Care
D011369:Professional-Patient Relations
D036301:Qualitative Research
D006113:United Kingdom

Engagement
primary care
homeless
general practice
qualitative research
service access.


After Dr Google: peer-to-peer health care.

Abstract: Although the majority of US adults has Internet access and gathers health information online, the Internet does not replace clinicians. People rate health professionals as their top source for technical questions such as diagnosis and treatment, but nonprofessionals (eg, friends and family) are rated higher for emotional support and quick remedies. For their most recent health issue, 21% of adults say they turned to others who have the same health condition; evidence of people's interest in connecting with and learning from each other. People living with chronic diseases (and their caregivers) are especially likely to say they look online for peer advice. They are pioneering new ways of pursuing health by banding together and sharing knowledge; so-called peer-to-peer health care. Practical tips from fellow patients and caregivers can have far-reaching implications for clinical outcomes. As a parent of a chronically ill child observed: "We all work collaboratively, but I notice that my doctor doesn't. After I've talked with my community online, I go back to him and ask, 'What do your colleagues say about this issue?' And it's clear it didn't occur to him to ask them." Clinicians might do well to look into online patient communities and consider recommending them as resources for their patients. Clinicians might look at patient networks as a model for their own collaborative learning process as well. Linking the expertise of patients, families, and clinicians holds promise for further improving care and outcomes.

peer-to-peer health care
patient communities
online health information


Research Note: Tracing pathways of entry and persistence of facultative pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in a commercial broiler farm with substantial health problems.

Abstract: On a commercial broiler farm with substantial health problems, shown by a reported loss rate of approx. 10% and regular antibiotic use, samples were taken at different locations in 2 barns, with the aim of analyzing possible entry routes and persistence of pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria as well as revealing weak points in sanitation. Therefore, swab samples for biofilm and water samples from animal drinking water lines and the spray cooling system were taken twice immediately before restocking. In addition, swab samples from drain holes and air samples were collected. At restocking, hatchlings that died during transportation and chick paper were sampled. All samples were analyzed for the occurrence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, total coliform count, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, namely, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Citrobacter spp., Enterobacter spp., Acinetobacter baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE). No MRSA or VRE were detectable. In all samples from drinking water and sprinkler system pipes, P. aeruginosa was detectable; in most cases, antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa was also detected, with varying resistance profiles. Samples from the hatchlings and chick paper were contaminated with antibiotic-resistant Enterobacter spp., with resistance to piperacillin, fosfomycin, and the third-generation cephalosporins cefotaxime and ceftazidime. Therefore, the initial entry of antibiotic-resistant Enterobacteriaceae likely occurred via exposure at the hatchery, resulting in colonization of the chicks. Animals on the fattening farm were treated with colistin, amoxicillin, and lincomycin in the 3 production cycles before sampling. Owing to the frequent administration of several antibiotic classes during the fattening period via piped water in both barns, resistance of isolates from water pipes accumulated, showing additional resistance to chloramphenicol and frequently to ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. To prevent the development of secondary diseases caused by the facultative pathogen P. aeruginosa in chicks with a weak immune status, the hygiene management for drinking water lines and the spray cooling system was changed. These changes resulted in an improvement in water line sanitation, shown by the absence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and rare detection of P. aeruginosa.

Heinemann|Céline|C|
Leubner|Caroline D|CD|
Savin|Mykhailo|M|
Sib|Esther|E|
Schmithausen|Ricarda M|RM|
Steinhoff-Wagner|Julia|J|

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
water pipe
antibiotic resistance
poultry production
risk factor


Development and in vitro assessment of enzymatically-responsive poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels for the delivery of therapeutic peptides.

Abstract: Despite the recent expansion of peptide drugs, delivery remains a challenge due to poor localization and rapid clearance. Therefore, a hydrogel-based platform technology was developed to control and sustain peptide drug release via matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity. Specifically, hydrogels were composed of poly(ethylene glycol) and peptide drugs flanked by MMP substrates and terminal cysteine residues as crosslinkers. First, peptide drug bioactivity was investigated in expected released forms (e.g., with MMP substrate residues) in vitro prior to incorporation into hydrogels. Three peptides (Qk (from Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), SPARC113, and SPARC118 (from Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine)) retained bioactivity and were used as hydrogel crosslinkers in full MMP degradable forms. Upon treatment with MMP2, hydrogels containing Qk, SPARC113, and SPARC118 degraded in 6.7, 6, and 1 days, and released 5, 8, and, 19% of peptide, respectively. Further investigation revealed peptide drug size controlled hydrogel swelling and degradation rate, while hydrophobicity impacted peptide release. Additionally, Qk, SPARC113, and SPARC118 releasing hydrogels increased endothelial cell tube formation 3.1, 1.7, and 2.8-fold, respectively. While pro-angiogenic peptides were the focus of this study, the design parameters detailed allow for adaptation of hydrogels to control peptide release for a variety of therapeutic applications.

Van Hove|Amy H|AH|
Beltejar|Michael-John G|MJ|
Benoit|Danielle S W|DS|

D061307:Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Hydrogel
Peptide
Matrix metalloproteinase
Controlled drug release
Enzymatically degradable


Assessing the potential of enhanced primary clarification to manage fats, oils and grease (FOG) at wastewater treatment works.

Abstract: Daily, sewage treatment works (STWs) receive large volumes of fats, oils and greases (FOG), by-products of food preparation. To increase FOG removal at STW, conventional primary sedimentation tanks (PSTs) can be enhanced using chemical coagulant or through dissolved air flotation (DAF) techniques. This work aimed to assess the potential benefits of enhanced primary treatment for FOG removal through an energy and costs analysis. To achieve this, a five-year sampling programme was conducted monthly at 15 STWs measuring FOG concentrations in crude and settled sewage (i.e. after primary treatment). In addition, two DAF pilot systems were trialled for four months and their performance, in terms of FOG removal, was assessed and compared to that of a control primary clarifier. Across the 15 STWs, influent FOG concentrations were found at 57 ± 11 mg.L-1. Chemical coagulants dosed prior to PSTs increased FOG removal rates on average to 71% whilst traditional sedimentation only achieved 50% removal. Effluent FOG concentrations were found between 12-22 mg.L-1 and 19-36 mg.L-1 respectively. By contrast, DAF achieved FOG effluent concentrations on average at 10 ± 4 mg.L-1 corresponding to 74% removal from a relatively low influent concentration of 40 ± 30 mg.L-1. Thus, enhanced primary treatments have the potential to reduce organic load to secondary treatment and increase energy generation through anaerobic digestion. The overall net energy balance was estimated at 2269 MWh.year-1 for the DAF compared to 3445 MWh.year-1 for the chemically-enhanced PST making it a less financially attractive alternative. Yet, in the case where the works require upgrading to accommodate flow or load increases, DAF appeared as a sensible option over sedimentation offering significantly lower capital costs and footprint. In relation to FOG management, upgrading all STWs is not realistic and will require understanding where the benefits would be the highest.

Collin|Thomas Denis|TD|
Cunningham|Rachel|R|
Asghar|Mohammed Qasim|MQ|
Villa|Raffaella|R|
MacAdam|Jitka|J|
Jefferson|Bruce|B|

Sewage treatment works (STWs)
Primary sedimentation tanks (PSTs)
Dissolved air flotation (DAF)
Hexane extractable material (HEM)


Effects of hyperchloremia on renal recovery in critically ill children with acute kidney injury.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Serum chloride derangements are associated with poor clinical outcomes, including acute kidney injury (AKI) and mortality. We sought to determine the association between persistent hyperchloremia and renal recovery in critically ill children with AKI.

METHODS
We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients with day 2 AKI admitted to a large academic pediatric intensive care unit from January 2014 to December 2015. After applying exclusion criteria, 348 patients were categorized as (1) hyperchloremia on both day 2 and day 7 (PersistentCl), (2) hyperchloremia on day 2 with normochloremia on day 7 (RecoveredCl), (3) normochloremia on day 2 with hyperchloremia on day 7 (DelayedCl), and (4) no hyperchloremia on day 2 nor day 7 (NormalCl). Hyperchloremia was defined as ≥ 110 mEq/L. The primary outcome was renal recovery on day 7, defined as the absence of AKI criteria. Secondary outcomes included discharge renal recovery, mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, and hospital length of stay.

RESULTS
Day 7 renal recovery rates for PersistentCl, RecoveredCl, DelayedCl, and NormalCl were 37%, 66%, 71%, and 52% respectively. PersistentCl had lower odds of day 7 renal recovery (aOR = 0.29; 95% CI, 0.14 to 0.60; p = 0.0009), lower odds of discharge renal recovery (aOR = 0.22; 95% CI, 0.11 to 0.48; p = 0.0001), and higher odds of mortality (aOR = 3.50; 95% CI, 1.11 to 11.10; p = 0.03) when compared with RecoveredCl after adjusting for confounders.

CONCLUSIONS
Persistent hyperchloremia is independently associated with impaired renal recovery as well as higher mortality. Prospective studies are indicated to determine if serum chloride represents a modifiable risk factor for poor outcomes. Graphical abstract.

Hyperchloremia
Renal recovery
Acute kidney injury
Mortality
Pediatric
Acute kidney disease


Antifungal Effects of Volatiles Produced by Bacillus subtilis Against Alternaria solani in Potato.

Abstract: Antifungal activities of plant-beneficial Bacillus have been widely studied in recent years. Numerous studies have studied the antifungal mechanisms of soluble non-volatile bioactive compounds such as lipopeptides and proteins produced by Bacillus against soil-borne diseases. However, the antagonistic mechanisms of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from Bacillus against airborne phytopathogens are still largely unknown, and the function of Alternaria solani pathogenic genes has not been well identified. Here, we first isolated a Bacillus strain with strong antifungal activity and finally identified it as B. subtilis ZD01. Then, the antagonistic mechanisms of VOCs produced by strain ZD01, against A. solani, an airborne fungal pathogen that can cause early blight diseases of potato, were studied. We showed that VOCs produced by strain ZD01 can reduce the colony size and mycelial penetration and can cause serious morphological changes of A. solani. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation showed that VOCs released by ZD01 could cause more flaccid and gapped hyphae of A. solani. Also, we found that VOCs produced by ZD01 can inhibit the conidia germination and reduce the lesion areas and number of A. solani in vivo significantly. Meanwhile, based on gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis, 29 volatile compounds produced by strain ZD01 were identified. Out of 29 identified VOCs, 9 VOCs showed complete growth inhibition activities against A. solani. Moreover, we identified two virulence-associated genes (slt2 and sod) in A. solani. slt2 is a key gene that regulates the mycelial growth, penetration, sporulation, and virulence in vivo in A. solani. In addition, sod plays a significant role in the SOD synthetic pathway in A. solani. Results from qRT-PCR showed that the transcriptional expression of these two genes was down-regulated after being treated by VOCs produced by ZD01. These results are useful for a better understanding of the biocontrol mechanism of Bacillus and offer a potential method for potato early blight disease control.

Zhang|Dai|D| Yu|Shuiqing|S| Yang|Yiqing|Y| Zhang|Jinglin|J| Zhao|Dongmei|D| Pan|Yang|Y| Fan|Shasha|S| Yang|Zhihui|Z| Zhu|Jiehua|J|

Bacillus subtilis
Alternaria solani
antifungal activity
volatile organic compounds
airborne phytopathogens


Genetics, Clinical Features, and Long-Term Outcome of Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The clinical outcomes of noncompaction cardiomyopathy (NCCM) range from asymptomatic to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Genetics play an important role in NCCM.

OBJECTIVES
This study investigated the correlations among genetics, clinical features, and outcomes in adults and children diagnosed with NCCM.

METHODS
A retrospective multicenter study from 4 cardiogenetic centers in the Netherlands classified 327 unrelated NCCM patients into 3 categories: 1) genetic, with a mutation in 32% (81 adults; 23 children) of patients; 2) probably genetic, familial cardiomyopathy without a mutation in 16% (45 adults; 8 children) of patients; or 3) sporadic, no family history, without mutation in 52% (149 adults; 21 children) of patients. Clinical features and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) during follow-up were compared across the children and adults.

RESULTS
MYH7, MYBPC3, and TTN mutations were the most common mutations (71%) found in genetic NCCM. The risk of having reduced left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction was higher for genetic patients compared with the probably genetic and sporadic cases (p = 0.024), with the highest risk in patients with multiple mutations and TTN mutations. Mutations were more frequent in children (p = 0.04) and were associated with MACE (p = 0.025). Adults were more likely to have sporadic NCCM. High risk for cardiac events in children and adults was related to LV systolic dysfunction in mutation carriers, but not in sporadic cases. Patients with MYH7 mutations had low risk for MACE (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS
NCCM is a heterogeneous condition, and genetic stratification has a role in clinical care. Distinguishing genetic from nongenetic NCCM complements prediction of outcome and may lead to management and follow-up tailored to genetic status.

van Waning|Jaap I|JI|
Caliskan|Kadir|K|
Hoedemaekers|Yvonne M|YM|
van Spaendonck-Zwarts|Karin Y|KY|
Baas|Annette F|AF|
Boekholdt|S Matthijs|SM|
van Melle|Joost P|JP|
Teske|Arco J|AJ|
Asselbergs|Folkert W|FW|
Backx|Ad P C M|APCM|
du Marchie Sarvaas|Gideon J|GJ|
Dalinghaus|Michiel|M|
Breur|Johannes M P J|JMPJ|
Linschoten|Marijke P M|MPM|
Verlooij|Laura A|LA|
Kardys|Isabella|I|
Dooijes|Dennis|D|
Lekanne Deprez|Ronald H|RH|
IJpma|Arne S|AS|
van den Berg|Maarten P|MP|
Hofstra|Robert M W|RMW|
van Slegtenhorst|Marjon A|MA|
Jongbloed|Jan D H|JDH|
Majoor-Krakauer|Danielle|D|

D056830:Isolated Noncompaction of the Ventricular Myocardium

genetics
outcome
noncompaction cardiomyopathy
LVNC
prognosis


Omega-3 fatty acids prevent LPS-induced passive avoidance learning and memory and CaMKII-α gene expression impairments in hippocampus of rat.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Neuroinflammation is considered to be a major factor in several neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, the polyunsaturated fatty acid omega-3 has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and might play an effective role in improving memory impairment due to inflammation. In order to test this, we stimulated neuroinflammation in an animal model and induced memory dysfunction as measured by reduced retention of passive avoidance learning (PAL) and altered expression of CaMKII-α, a gene known to be crucial for memory formation. We then investigated whether treatment with dietary omega-3 prevents inflammation-induced memory dysfunction in this model.

METHODS
Male wistar rats (200-220 g) were fed either a control diet or a diet containing omega-3 (400mg/kg, po) for 1 month prior. Rats then received injection of either saline or LPS (500 μg/kg, ip) and were subjected to the PAL acquisition task. The retention test was performed 24h later, and animals were sacrificed immediately. Hippocampi were dissected and stored at -80°C. Finally, TNF-α levels and CaMKII-α gene expression were measured by ELISA and qRT-PCR, respectively.

RESULTS
We found that LPS treatment significantly impaired PAL and memory, increased TNF-α levels and impaired CaMKII-α gene expression. In control and LPS-injected animals, pre-treatment with omega-3 improved performance on the PAL task and increased CAMKII-α gene expression.

CONCLUSION
Taken together, these data suggest that dietary omega-3 may improve cognitive function and provide a potential therapy for memory impairment due to neuroinflammation.

Dehkordi|Neda Gholamian|NG|
Noorbakhshnia|Maryam|M|
Ghaedi|Kamran|K|
Esmaeili|Abolghasem|A|
Dabaghi|Mohammad|M|

D054732:Calcium-Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Type 2

Omega-3
Passive avoidance learning
Memory
CaMKII-α
Hippocampus
LPS


Retrospective and new records of ticks (Acari: Argasidae, Ixodidae) from the state of Maranhão, an Amazon-Cerrado transition area of Brazil.

Abstract: The Brazilian state of Maranhão is located in a transition area of the Amazon and Cerrado biomes, where there is a rich fauna of vertebrates. This study aimed to update the list of the ticks occurring in Maranhão, through a compilation of literature records and examination of three tick collections, plus the addition of unpublished collections of ticks from road-killed animals during recent years. Our results indicate that the tick fauna of Maranhão includes 26 species: seven in the family Argasidae (Antricola guglielmonei, Argas miniatus, Ornithodoros cavernicolous, Ornithodoros hasei, Ornithodoros mimon, Ornithodoros rietcorreai and Ornithodoros rudis); and 19 in the family Ixodidae (Amblyomma auricularium-provisional, Amblyomma cajennense sensu stricto, Amblyomma calcaratum, Amblyomma dissimile, Amblyomma geayi, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma naponense, Amblyomma nodosum, Amblyomma oblongoguttatum, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma parvum, Amblyomma rotundatum, Amblyomma sculptum, Amblyomma triste, Dermacentor nitens, Ixodes luciae, Haemaphysalis juxtakochi, Rhipicephalus microplus, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato). Eleven of the above species are reported for the first time in Maranhão. We consider previous reports of Ornithodoros talaje and Amblyomma pseudoconcolor in Maranhão as misidentification with O. hasei and A. auricularium, respectively. Until 1958, only 11 tick species were reported in Maranhão, with no additional reports until 2009. During 2010-2019, 15 additional species were reported. We also highlight the importance of ticks for public and veterinary health in Maranhão.

de Carvalho Mesquita|Eric Takashi Kamakura|ETK|

Tick fauna
Ornithodoros
Amblyomma
Ixodes
Haemaphysalis
Hosts


Studying Effects and Process in Psychotherapy for Personality Disorders.

Abstract: This presentation gives an overview of the methods used for research on the process and outcome of psychotherapy. Possibilities as well as difficulties will be discussed, such as the conflict between internal and external validity and standardized versus individualized procedures as some of the issues deserving particular attention for research on psychotherapy for personality disorder patients. It is argued that good psychotherapy research is also good psychotherapy research for personality disorders, with heterogeneity, ego-syntony, and ambivalent motivation needing special attention. Adaptations of and alternatives for randomized clinical trials will be discussed.

Psychotherapy for personality disorders
Psychotherapy research
Heterogeneity
Ego-syntony
Ambivalent motivation


Motivational processes from expectancy-value theory are associated with variability in the error positivity in young children.

Abstract: Motivational beliefs and values influence how children approach challenging activities. The current study explored motivational processes from an expectancy-value theory framework by studying children's mistakes and their responses to them by focusing on two event-related potential (ERP) components: the error-related negativity (ERN) and the error positivity (Pe). Motivation was assessed using a child-friendly challenge puzzle task and a brief interview measure prior to ERP testing. Data from 50 4- to 6-year-old children revealed that greater perceived competence beliefs were related to a larger Pe, whereas stronger intrinsic task value beliefs were associated with a smaller Pe. Motivation was unrelated to the ERN. Individual differences in early motivational processes may reflect electrophysiological activity related to conscious error awareness.

Kim|Matthew H|MH|
Marulis|Loren M|LM|
Grammer|Jennie K|JK|
Morrison|Frederick J|FJ|
Gehring|William J|WJ|

Motivation
Error positivity
Children
Value
Error-related negativity
Expectancy


Ultrafast gelation of multifunctional hydrogel/composite based on self-catalytic Fe3+/Tannic acid-cellulose nanofibers.

Abstract: Multifunctional hydrogels with transparency, ultraviolet (UV)-blocking, stretchable, self-healing, adhesive, antioxidant and antibacterial properties are promising materials for biomedical and relevant applications. However, preparation of these hydrogels at ambient environment without stimuli is still a challenge. Here, a series of hydrogels possessing ultrashort gelation time (~30 s) at room or cold temperature were fabricated based on self-catalytic Fe3+/Tannic acid-cellulose nanofiber (Fe3+/TA-CNF). Fe3+/TA-CNF formed stable redox pairs to activate ammonium persulfate (initiator), generating abundant free radicals to trigger the ultrafast polymerization of acrylic acid (AA). To improve the antibacterial ability of hydrogel, a bilayer hydrogel composite (NF@HG) composed of tetracycline hydrochloride (TH)-loaded electrospun nanofibers and hydrogel layer was fabricated via a mild casting method. The NF@HG exhibited enhanced antibacterial ability and the sustained release of TH can provide long-term antibacterial activity. Besides, cell viability results demonstrated that NF@HG was non-cytotoxic. Taken together, this strategy based on self-catalytic Fe3+/TA-CNF system may inspire new aspects on fast and economical preparation of multifunctional hydrogels or composites, which have attractive industrial applications for biomedical materials.

Chen|Yajun|Y| Wang|Di|D| Mensaha|Alfred|A| Wang|Qingqing|Q| Cai|Yibing|Y| Wei|Qufu|Q|

Ultrafast gelation
Multifunctional hydrogel
Self-catalytic
Bilayer hydrogel composite


Purification of cell culture-derived influenza A virus via continuous anion exchange chromatography on monoliths.

Abstract: The continuously increasing demand for potent and safe vaccines and the intensifying economic pressure on health care systems underlines the need for further optimization of vaccine manufacturing. Here, we focus on downstream processing of human influenza vaccines, investigating the purification of serum-free cell culture-derived influenza virus (A/PR/8/34 H1N1) using continuous chromatography. Therefore, quaternary amine anion exchange monoliths (CIM® QA) were characterized for their capacity to capture virus particles from animal cells cultivated in different media and their ability to separate virions from contaminating host cell proteins and DNA. The continuous chromatography was implemented as simulated moving bed chromatography (SMB) in a three zone open loop configuration with a detached high salt zone for regeneration. SMBs exploiting 10% and 50% of the monoliths' dynamic binding capacity, respectively, allowed the depletion of >98% of the DNA and >52% of the total protein. Based on the hemagglutination assay (HA assay), the virus yield was higher at 10% capacity use (89% vs. 45%). Both SMB separations resulted in a ratio of total protein to hemagglutinin antigen (based on single radial diffusion assay, SRID assay) below the required levels for manufacturing of human vaccines (less than 100µg of protein per virus strain per dose). The level of contaminating DNA was five-times lower for the 10% loading, but still exceeded the required limit for human vaccines. A subsequent Benzonase® treatment step, however, reduced the DNA contamination below 10ng per dose. Coupled to continuous cultivations for virus propagation, the establishment of integrated processes for fully continuous production of vaccines seems to be feasible.

Fischer|Laura M|LM|
Wolff|Michael W|MW|
Reichl|Udo|U|

D018929:Cell Culture Techniques
D002852:Chromatography, Ion Exchange
D009980:Influenza A virus
D014776:Virus Cultivation

Continuous chromatography (simulated moving bed)


Recurrent bridgehead effects accelerate global alien ant spread.

Abstract: Biological invasions are a major threat to biological diversity, agriculture, and human health. To predict and prevent new invasions, it is crucial to develop a better understanding of the drivers of the invasion process. The analysis of 4,533 border interception events revealed that at least 51 different alien ant species were intercepted at US ports over a period of 70 years (1914-1984), and 45 alien species were intercepted entering New Zealand over a period of 68 years (1955-2013). Most of the interceptions did not originate from species' native ranges but instead came from invaded areas. In the United States, 75.7% of the interceptions came from a country where the intercepted ant species had been previously introduced. In New Zealand, this value was even higher, at 87.8%. There was an overrepresentation of interceptions from nearby locations (Latin America for species intercepted in the United States and Oceania for species intercepted in New Zealand). The probability of a species' successful establishment in both the United States and New Zealand was positively related to the number of interceptions of the species in these countries. Moreover, species that have spread to more continents are also more likely to be intercepted and to make secondary introductions. This creates a positive feedback loop between the introduction and establishment stages of the invasion process, in which initial establishments promote secondary introductions. Overall, these results reveal that secondary introductions act as a critical driver of increasing global rates of invasions.

globalization
biological invasions
secondary introductions
invasive ants
propagule pressure


Left ventricular function by echocardiogram in children with sickle cell anaemia in Mumbai, Western India.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Cardiovascular events and complications are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in patients with sickle cell disease. Cardiac abnormalities occur frequently and at an early stage in sickle cell anaemia patients, despite being more evident in adulthood. Sickle cell anaemia patients are increasingly able to reach adulthood owing to improved healthcare, and may, therefore, suffer the consequences of chronic cardiac injury. Thus, the study of cardiac abnormalities is essential in children

OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to determine the echocardiographic changes in left ventricular function in children suffering from sickle cell disease in Mumbai, Western India.

METHODS
The study comprised of 48 cases of sickle cell anaemia and 30 non-anaemic controls with normal haemoglobin and electrophoresis pattern. M-mode, two-dimensional, and Doppler echocardiographic measurements of patients and controls were performed according to the criteria of the American Echocardiography Society.

RESULTS
On Doppler study, the A wave height was increased and the E/A ratio was decreased, whereas the deceleration and isovolumetric relaxation times were prolonged, which is typically seen in slowed or impaired myocardial relaxation (p<0.001). Although chamber dilatations were present, echocardiographic parameters showed no statistically significant correlation with severity of anaemia and age among the sickle cell patients.

CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that the increased left ventricular stiffness, compared with controls, might be due to fibrosis related to ischaemia caused by SS disease in addition to wall hypertrophy.

Tidake|Abhay|A| Gangurde|Pranil|P| Taksande|Anup|A| Mahajan|Ajay|A| Nathani|Pratap|P|

Sickle cell anaemia
isovolumetric relaxation time
deceleration time


The neuropsychology of adult obsessive-compulsive disorder: a meta-analysis.

Abstract: A vast and heterogeneous body of literature on the neuropsychology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has accumulated in recent decades, yielding inconsistent results. In an attempt to quantitatively summarize the literature, we conducted a meta-analysis of 115 studies (including 3452 patients), comparing adult OCD patients with healthy controls on tests of 10 neuropsychological domains. Across studies, medium mean effect sizes were found for all executive function subdomains, processing speed, and sustained attention. Small effect sizes were found for visuospatial abilities and working memory. A large effect size was found for non-verbal memory whereas a small effect size was found for verbal memory, where only the former was found to be associated with impairments in executive functions. Moderators of effect sizes were also investigated. Results are discussed in terms of their clinical significance as well as their implications for current neurobiological models of OCD and methodological caveats.

Abramovitch|Amitai|A|
Abramowitz|Jonathan S|JS|
Mittelman|Andrew|A|

Neuropsychological
OCD
Executive functions
Memory
Meta-analyses
Obsessive–compulsive disorder


Clinical, Laboratory and Ultrasonographic Interrelations in Giant Cell Arteritis.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
The diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) is based on the presence of clinical and laboratory features. Color-duplex sonography (CDS) may supplant the limited sensitivity of temporal artery biopsy. The aim of our work was to characterize clinical and laboratory findings in patients with positive CDS for GCA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Retrospective study of all consecutive patients of our center fulfilling American College of Rheumatology criteria for GCA who performed CDS study between 2009-2019. Data on clinical and laboratory features were compared in two groups: with and without halo sign.

RESULTS
Ninety-one patients were included. Temporal halo sign was identified in 46% of patients. Halo sign was more often present in older patients (77 ± 8 vs 73 ± 8 years, p = 0.022), associated with systemic features (58% vs 42%, p = 0.011), higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (84 ± 26 vs 74 ± 34 mm/hour, p = 0.020), and lower hemoglobin values (10.9 ± 1.5 vs 12.1 ± 1.6 g/dL, p < 0.001). The number of patients under corticosteroids before CDS was higher in the group without halo (62% vs 33%, p = 0.005). Ischemic stroke occurred in 17 patients (19%), 76% in the vertebrobasilar territory, and stroke was associated with vertebral halo sign (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS
Halo sign was present in half of our patients. Previous corticosteroids treatment decreased positive CDS findings. Systemic symptoms and laboratory findings are more notorious in halo sign subgroup of patients. Stroke cases in GCA patients disproportionally affected the posterior circulation. Ultrasonography provides information about a more pronounced systemic involvement and a higher risk of major complications.

Soares|Carolina|C| Costa|Andreia|A| Santos|Rosa|R| Abreu|Pedro|P| Castro|Pedro|P| Azevedo|Elsa|E|

Giant cell arteritis
Color-duplex sonography
Halo sign
Stroke
Systemic symptoms


Nanopore Sequencing Enables Comprehensive Transposable Element Epigenomic Profiling.

Abstract: Transposable elements (TEs) drive genome evolution and are a notable source of pathogenesis, including cancer. While CpG methylation regulates TE activity, the locus-specific methylation landscape of mobile human TEs has to date proven largely inaccessible. Here, we apply new computational tools and long-read nanopore sequencing to directly infer CpG methylation of novel and extant TE insertions in hippocampus, heart, and liver, as well as paired tumor and non-tumor liver. As opposed to an indiscriminate stochastic process, we find pronounced demethylation of young long interspersed element 1 (LINE-1) retrotransposons in cancer, often distinct to the adjacent genome and other TEs. SINE-VNTR-Alu (SVA) retrotransposons, including their internal tandem repeat-associated CpG island, are near-universally methylated. We encounter allele-specific TE methylation and demethylation of aberrantly expressed young LINE-1s in normal tissues. Finally, we recover the complete sequences of tumor-specific LINE-1 insertions and their retrotransposition hallmarks, demonstrating how long-read sequencing can simultaneously survey the epigenome and detect somatic TE mobilization.

Ewing|Adam D|AD|
Smits|Nathan|N|
Sanchez-Luque|Francisco J|FJ|
Faivre|Jamila|J|
Brennan|Paul M|PM|
Richardson|Sandra R|SR|
Cheetham|Seth W|SW|
Faulkner|Geoffrey J|GJ|

D020084:Long Interspersed Nucleotide Elements

nanopore methylation LINE-1 retrotransposon SVA Alu