The impact of sex, age and training on biventricular cardiac adaptation in healthy adult and adolescent athletes: Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging study.

Abstract:
AIMS
Physiological cardiac adaptation in athletes is influenced by multiple factors. This study aimed to investigate the impact of sex, age, body size, sports type and training volume on cardiac adaptation in healthy athletes with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

METHODS
A total of 327 athletes (242 male) were studied (adults ≥18 years old; adolescents 14-18 years old). Left and right ventricular ejection fractions, end-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, stroke volumes and masses were measured. Left ventricular end-diastolic volume/left ventricular mass, right ventricular end-diastolic volume/right ventricular mass and derived right/left ventricular ratios were determined to study balanced ventricular adaptation. Athletes were categorised as skill, power, mixed and endurance athletes.

RESULTS
Male athletes had higher left and right ventricular volumes and masses in both adult (n = 215 (145 male); 24 ± 5 years old) and adolescent (n = 112 (97 male); 16 ± 1 years old) groups compared with women (all P < 0.05). In adults, male sex, age, body surface area, weekly training hours, mixed and endurance sports correlated with higher ventricular volumes and masses (all P < 0.05); and a combination of age, sex, training hours, endurance and mixed sports explained 30% of the variance of the left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (r = 0.30), right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (r = 0.34), right ventricular mass index (r = 0.30); and as much as 53% of the left ventricular mass index (r = 0.53) (all P < 0.0001). In adolescents, positive correlations were found between training hours and left ventricular hypertrophy (r = 0.39, P < 0.0001), and biventricular dilation (left ventricular end-diastolic volume r = 0.34, P = 0.0008; right ventricular end-diastolic volume r = 0.36, P = 0.0004). In adolescents, age and body surface area did not correlate with cardiac magnetic resonance parameters.

CONCLUSION
There are significant sex differences in the physiological adaptation of adult and adolescent athlete's heart; and male sex, higher training volume and endurance sports are major determinants of sports adaptation in adults.

Csecs|Ibolya|I|
Czimbalmos|Csilla|C|
Toth|Attila|A|
Dohy|Zsofia|Z|
Suhai|Imre F|IF|
Szabo|Liliana|L|
Kovacs|Attila|A|
Lakatos|Balint|B|
Sydo|Nora|N|
Kheirkhahan|Mobin|M|
Peritz|David|D|
Kiss|Orsolya|O|
Merkely|Bela|B|
Vago|Hajnalka|H|

D019028:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Cine

sex
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
athlete’s heart
cardiac hypertrophy
exercise
remodelling


Human mesenchymal stem cell based intracellular dormancy model of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Abstract: Understanding the biology of the tuberculosis pathogen during dormant asymptomatic infection, called latent tuberculosis is crucial to decipher a resilient therapeutic strategy for the disease. Recent discoveries exhibiting presence of pathogen's DNA and bacilli in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) of human and mouse despite completion of antitubercular therapy, indicates that these specific cells could be one of the niches for dormant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in humans. To determine if in vitro infection of human MSCs could recapitulate the in vivo characteristics of dormant M. tuberculosis, we examined survival, phenotype, and drug susceptibility of the pathogen in MSCs. When a very low multiplicity of infection (1:1) was used, M. tuberculosis could survive in human bone marrow derived MSCs for more than 22 days without any growth. At this low level of infection, the pathogen did not cause any noticeable host cell death. During the later phase of infection, MSC-residing M. tuberculosis exhibited increased expression of HspX (a 16-kDa alpha-crystallin homolog) with a concurrent increase in tolerance to the frontline antitubercular drugs Rifampin and isoniazid. These results present a human MSC-based intracelllular model of M. tuberculosis infection to dissect the mechanisms through which the pathogen acquires and maintains dormancy in the host.

Singh|Vipul K|VK|
Mishra|Abhishek|A|
Bark|Steven|S|
Mani|Arunmani|A|
Subbian|Selvakumar|S|
Hunter|Robert L|RL|
Jagannath|Chinnaswamy|C|
Khan|Arshad|A|

Mesenchymal stem cells
Dormancy
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Rifampin
Isoniazid
Drug tolerance
Intracellular infection


Allozyme differentiation of two populations of the genus Neoplecostomus Eigenmann & Eigenmann, 1888 (Teleostei, Loricariidae) from the upper Paraná River basin, Brazil.

Abstract: Allozyme electrophoresis was used to examine 12 enzymatic systems in two populations of the genus Neoplecostomus from the Paraná River basin. Samples of Neoplecostomus sp. 1 were collected in Paraitinguinha stream of the Tietê River basin, in the municipality of Salesópolis, São Paulo State, and those of Neoplecostomus sp. 2 from São Domingos stream of the Rio Grande River basin, in the municipality of Muzambinho, Minas Gerais State. The genetic variability of the two populations was estimated by Nei's expected heterozygosity and was considered lower than average for populations of freshwater fish. The proportion of polymorphic loci was low (only 5.26% for the locus Idh). The low frequency of heterozygosity for both populations revealed a high fixation of alleles for each locus. Homozygote excess was observed in both populations. The values of Nei's genetic identity and the presence of loci with different allele frequencies in both populations may imply that the two populations belong to different species. The genetic variability between populations was compared to other data for loricariids.

Reusing|Ana Flávia|AF|
Renesto|Erasmo|E|
Roxo|Fábio F|FF|
Zawadzki|Cláudio H|CH|

allozymes
genetic variability
Neoplecostominae
Neotropical fishes


New oral anticoagulants in thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome.

Abstract: A main goal in clinical management of patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is to prevent thrombotic recurrences and/or miscarriages. For many decades, the only available oral anticoagulant drugs have been vitamin K antagonists (VKA), which are still the cornerstone of long-term treatment of thromboembolism. However, the limits of VKA treatment are well known: narrow therapeutic window and high patient-to-patient variability of response. Moreover, in some patients with APS a higher international normalized ratio (INR) therapeutic target was suggested, and INR inaccuracy due to antiphospholipid antibodies was reported. Therefore, VKA management in APS patients is frequently cumbersome, requires close INR monitoring and may affect patient's quality of life. A new class of oral anticoagulant agents has been developed, the Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOA), which directly inhibit a single enzyme of the coagulation cascade. Compared with VKA, they have more stable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, little interaction with food or drugs with a predictable anticoagulation effect, they can thus be prescribed in a fixed dose, without requiring frequent laboratory monitoring. The efficacy and safety of DOA has been shown in large phase III clinical trials. Unfortunately, translating these good results to APS patients is not straightforward: currently, at least three randomized controlled clinical trials are ongoing.

Chighizola|C B|CB|
Moia|M|M|
Meroni|P L|PL|

anticoagulation
Antiphospholipid syndrome
thrombosis


The importance of liver functional reserve in the non-surgical treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Abstract: Any oncological treatment must aim at maximizing patient survival with the best quality of life and not merely at eliminating the tumor. Since the liver has a vital function, any radical treatment severely compromising liver function will result in a shortening of life expectancy, rather than a prolongation. Furthermore, even non-severe liver damage may imply the risk of impeding the opportunity to receive further effective therapies. This is particularly important in the case of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), since this tumor is associated with underlying cirrhosis in the majority of patients, and cirrhosis itself is not only a potentially lethal disease and independent prognostic factor in HCC, but it also makes liver function fragile. Accordingly, some information about liver dysfunction is included in most staging systems for HCC, in an attempt to suggest treatments that the functional liver reserve can adequately tolerate. Unfortunately, the prediction of functional liver damage in the case of antitumor treatments is very challenging and still suboptimal in any given specific patient. Moreover, while the assessment of the functional reserve has been sufficiently elucidated in the surgical setting to avoid postoperative liver failure, it has instead been less clarified for non-surgical therapies, despite the fact that this aspect appears to have become of particular relevance today, when several lines of effective non-surgical treatments, including systemic therapies, have become available. The present article will a) critically review the implications of the assessment of liver functional reserve in patients with HCC, b) illustrate the different available tools to assess the liver functional reserve and c) discuss the role of functional assessment in the setting of each type of non-surgical therapy for HCC.

D'Avola|Delia|D|
Granito|Alessandro|A|
de la Torre-Aláez|Manuel|M|
Piscaglia|Fabio|F|

Liver functional reserve
hepatocellular carcinoma
Systemic therapies
Loco-regional therapies
Radiotherapy


Evaluation of glutathione S-transferase genetic variants affecting type 2 diabetes susceptibility: a meta-analysis.

Abstract: Genetic polymorphisms of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk have been widely studied, however, the results were somewhat conflicting. To evaluate the association of GSTs (GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1) gene polymorphisms with T2DM, a meta-analysis was performed before October, 2012. ORs were pooled according to random-effects model. There were a total of 1354/1666 (n=9) cases/controls (studies) for GSTM1, 1271/1470 (n=8) for GSTT1, and 1205/1250 (n=7) for GSTM1. There were significant associations between GSTM1 polymorphism, GSTT1 polymorphism and T2DM in the contrast of present genotype vs. null genotype, with pooled OR=1.99 (95%CI=1.46-2.71) and OR=1.61 (95%CI=1.19-2.17), respectively. Yet no significant association of GSTP1 polymorphism and T2DM was showed. When stratified by ethnicity, the significant associations were also existed in Asians for GSTM1 and GSTT1, but not GSTP1. No publication bias but some extent of heterogeneity was observed. Finally, the accumulated evidence proved the obvious associations of GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms with an increased risk of T2DM.

Tang|Song-Tao|ST| Wang|Chang-Jiang|CJ| Tang|Hai-Qin|HQ| Zhang|Qiu|Q| Wang|Yuan|Y|

D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease

polymerase chain reaction with restriction fragment length polymorphism

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


Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) taxonomy: current challenges and future directions.

Abstract: Culicoides Latreille biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) cause a significant biting nuisance to humans, livestock and equines, and are the biological vectors of a range of internationally important pathogens of both veterinary and medical importance. Despite their economic significance, the delimitation and identification of species and evolutionary relationships between species within this genus remains at best problematic. To date no phylogenetic study has attempted to validate the subgeneric classification of the genus and the monophyly of many of the subgenera remains doubtful. Many informal species groupings are also known to exist but few are adequately described, further complicating accurate identification. Recent contributions to Culicoides taxonomy at the species level have revealed a high correlation between morphological and molecular analyses although molecular analyses are revealing the existence of cryptic species. This review considers the methods for studying the systematics of Culicoides using both morphological and genetic techniques, with a view to understanding the factors limiting our current understanding of Culicoides biology and hence arbovirus epidemiology. In addition, we examine the global status of Culicoides identification, highlighting areas that are poorly addressed, including the potential implementation of emerging technologies.

Harrup|L E|LE|
Bellis|G A|GA|
Balenghien|T|T|
Garros|C|C|

Culicoides
Taxonomy
Biting midge
Arbovirus
DNA barcode
Molecular entomology


Oxytocin improves proliferation and neural differentiation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells.

Abstract: The neurohypophyseal hormone oxytocin plays a role in stimulation of neurogenesis in the adult brain. However, the exact role of oxytocin in neural development is still not well understood. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of oxytocin on neural differentiation of mouse adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs). For this purpose, ADSCs were cultured in a medium containing Knockout™ Serum Replacement (KoSR) and treated with different concentrations of oxytocin at the first or eighth day of differentiation. Two weeks after neural induction, ADSCs expressed several early and late neuron-specific genes and proteins. MTT assay and cell cycle analysis revealed a stimulatory effect of oxytocin on viability and proliferation of differentiating ADSCs. As detected by quantitative real-time PCR, treatment of the ADSCs with low concentrations of oxytocin induced neurogenesis. Oxytocin treatment also upregulated the expression of oxytocin receptor mRNA. These results demonstrated for the first time that oxytocin treatment can promote neural differentiation of the ADSCs in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. Oxytocin has a significant role in neurogenesis, and this may have implications in regeneration of adult neurons.

Jafarzadeh|Nazli|N|
Javeri|Arash|A|
Khaleghi|Maryam|M|
Taha|Masoumeh Fakhr|MF|

D018809:Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen

Oxytocin Proliferation Differentiation Neurogenesis ADSC


Effects of rice bran on performance, egg quality, oxidative status, yolk fatty acid composition, and fatty acid metabolism-related gene expression in laying ducks.

Abstract: The study was designed to evaluate the effects of different dietary levels of rice bran (RB) in laying duck diets on performance, egg quality, oxidation status, egg yolk fatty acid composition, and hepatic expression of fatty acid metabolism-related genes. Longyan females (1080) with similar BW at 19 wk of age were randomly assigned to 6 dietary treatments, each consisting of 6 replicates of 30 birds. The basal diet (I) was a typical corn-soybean ration while the experimental diets (II to VI) substituted RB for corn and wheat bran and a small reduction of soybean meal. The level of substitution in diets (II to VI) was 6%, 12%, 18%, 24%, and 30%, respectively. The experiment lasted for 12 wks. Average egg weight and daily egg mass decreased linearly as the level of RB inclusion increased (P<0.001) and feed conversion ratio linearly increased (P<0.001). The proportions of C14:0 and C18:0 and total saturated fatty acids (SFA) in egg yolk linearly decreased with increasing RB, and many of the key polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), like C18:2 n-6 and C18:3 n-3, linearly increased (P<0.001), but not those of C20:5 n-3 and C22:6 n-3. There were linear decreases (P<0.001) in hepatic abundance of FAS and SREBP1 transcripts, with a substantial reduction to about 30% those of ducks fed the control diet; there were no treatment effects on productive performance, eggshell thickness, strength, Haugh unit, antioxidation status, and egg yolk cholesterol or triglyceride content (P>0.05). In conclusion, the current study suggests that ducks from 19 to 31 wk could be fed diets with up to about 18% RB without effect on the number of eggs produced, egg quality, and oxidative status. Increasing amounts of RB linearly increased egg yolk concentrations of key fatty acids like C18:2 n-6 and C18:3 n-3 and decreased the hepatic abundance of FAS and SREBP-1 transcripts.

Ruan|D|D|
Lin|Y C|YC|
Chen|W|W|
Wang|S|S|
Xia|W G|WG|
Fouad|A M|AM|
Zheng|C T|CT|

D000824:Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena

rice bran
performance
egg quality
oxidative status
fatty acids


Associations between received social support and positive and negative affect: evidence for age differences from a daily-diary study.

Abstract: Recent evidence suggests negative associations between received social support and emotional well-being. So far, these studies mainly focused on younger adults. Quantity and quality of social support changes with age; therefore, this study investigated whether there are age differences regarding the association between received social support and positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA). Moreover, it was tested whether these age effects might be due to a differential effectiveness of different sources of support for younger and older individuals. Forty-two individuals (21 younger adults, aged 21-40 and 21 older adults, aged 61-73) completed 30-daily diaries on their received social support, PA/NA and the sources of support provision. Data were analyzed using multilevel modeling. Results indicated age-related differential effects: for younger individuals, received social support was negatively associated with indicators of emotional well-being, whereas these associations were positive for older respondents. Regarding NA, these effects held when testing lagged predictions and controlling for previous-day affect. No age differences emerged regarding the associations between different sources of support and indicators of affect. Conceptual implications of these age-differential findings are discussed.

Scholz|Urte|U| Kliegel|Matthias|M| Luszczynska|Aleksandra|A| Knoll|Nina|N|

Social support
Positive and negative affects
Age differences
Daily diaries


Mawrth Vallis, Mars: A Fascinating Place for Future In Situ Exploration.

Abstract: After the successful landing of the Mars Science Laboratory rover, both NASA and ESA initiated a selection process for potential landing sites for the Mars2020 and ExoMars missions, respectively. Two ellipses located in the Mawrth Vallis region were proposed and evaluated during a series of meetings (three for Mars2020 mission and five for ExoMars). We describe here the regional context of the two proposed ellipses as well as the framework of the objectives of these two missions. Key science targets of the ellipses and their astrobiological interests are reported. This work confirms that the proposed ellipses contain multiple past martian wet environments of a subaerial, subsurface, and/or subaqueous character, in which to probe the past climate of Mars; build a broad picture of possible past habitable environments; evaluate their exobiological potentials; and search for biosignatures in well-preserved rocks. A mission scenario covering several key investigations during the nominal mission of each rover is also presented, as well as descriptions of how the site fulfills the science requirements and expectations of in situ martian exploration. These serve as a basis for potential future exploration of the Mawrth Vallis region with new missions and describe opportunities for human exploration of Mars in terms of resources and science discoveries.

Poulet|François|F|
Gross|Christoph|C|
Horgan|Briony|B|
Loizeau|Damien|D|
Bishop|Janice L|JL|
Carter|John|J|
Orgel|Csilla|C|

Mars
Habitability
Prebiotic chemistry.
Preservation
Space exploration


Visual evoked potentials can be reliably recorded using noninvasive epidermal electrodes in the anesthetized rat.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) are a powerful tool to evaluate nervous conduction along the visual pathways, both in humans and in animal models. Traditionally, epidural screw electrodes are used to record VEPs in preclinical research. Here we tested the feasibility in the preclinical setting of the same noninvasive technique used for clinical VEP acquisition, by using epidermal cup electrodes with no surgical procedures.

METHODS
Monocular flash VEPs were recorded bilaterally under sevoflurane anesthesia once a week for 6 weeks in 14 dark Agouti rats, 7 with implanted epidural screws and 7 with epidermal 6 mm Ø Ag/AgCl cups.

RESULTS
VEP traces obtained with the two techniques were morphologically comparable. There were no significant differences in latency of the main visual component between screw-recorded VEPs (sVEPs) and cup-recorded VEPs (cVEPs). Amplitude values with epidermal cups were significantly lower than those with epidural screws. Both techniques provided latencies and amplitudes which were stable over time. Furthermore, with regard to latency both methods ensured highly repeatable measurements over time, with epidermal cups even providing slightly better results. On the other hand, considering amplitudes, cVEPs and sVEPs provided fairly acceptable repeatability.

CONCLUSIONS
Epidermal cup electrodes can provide comparable results to those obtained with the "gold standard" epidural screws, while representing a simpler and less invasive technique to test nervous conduction along the visual pathways in the preclinical setting.

Santangelo|Roberto|R| Castoldi|Valerio|V| D'Isa|Raffaele|R| Marenna|Silvia|S| Huang|Su-Chun|SC| Cursi|Marco|M| Comi|Giancarlo|G| Leocani|Letizia|L|

Visual evoked potentials
Epidural screw electrodes
Epidermal cup electrodes
Animal welfare
Noninvasive electrophysiology
Preclinical visual pathway assessment


Profiling neuron-autonomous lncRNA changes upon ischemia/reperfusion injury.

Abstract: Extensive changes of neuronal transcriptome occur post ischemic stroke and during the following reperfusion. Although numerous studies focused on transcriptome changes of mRNAs associated with ischemic stroke, little is known about whether and how long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which play critical roles in cellular homeostasis, are involved in this process. In this study, we performed high throughput screening to analyze expression changes of lncRNAs in primarily cultured hippocampal neurons under an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) condition at 0 h, 6 h, 12 h, and 18 h, respectively. Knock down of one validated lncRNAs (Tnxa-ps1) promoted neuronal survival by inhibiting apoptosis. Coding non-coding co-expression network analysis revealed that the expression of Tnxa-ps1 was highly correlated with changes of a particular group of genes, many of which are associated with neural protection. Finally, we showed that down-regulation of Tnxa-ps1 reversed the expression changes of four mRNAs post OGD/R, revealing a regulatory effect between Tnxa-ps1 and selected genes. Together, our data revealed possible participation of lncRNAs in the pathophysiology of OGD/R and thereby provided new insights into the studies of potential therapeutic targets for ischemic stroke.

Li|Haiying|H| Wu|Youjia|Y| Suo|Guihai|G| Shen|Feifei|F| Zhen|Yuqin|Y| Chen|Xia|X| Lv|Haitao|H|

lncRNA
Ischemia/reperfusion
Stroke
Oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion
Tnxa-ps1
Neuronal survival


Preparation of poly(L-lactic acid)-modified polypropylene mesh and its antiadhesion in experimental abdominal wall defect repair.

Abstract: A new type of polypropylene (PP) hernia mesh, modified with poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), was developed and used to repair rat abdominal wall defect. The PP mesh was first treated with oxygen plasma and then grafted with PLLA in phosphorus pentachloride (PCl5 ) solution in dichloride methane. The water contact angle changed during the procedure, and the coverage percentage of PLLA on the PP was about 80%. ATR-FTIR spectroscopy measurements showed the existence of carbonyl group absorption peak (1756.9 cm(-1) ), and atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscope morphological observation indicated that the surface of the PP mesh was covered with PLLA graft. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra was used to probe chemical group changes and confirmed that the PLLA was grafted onto the PP. A total of 36 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups, and they received either modified meshes (experimental groups) or PP meshes (control groups) to repair abdominal wall defects. All animals survived until the end of the experiment. Rats in each group were dissected after the operation (after 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month, respectively), and the adhesion effects were evaluated. Sections of the mesh parietal peritoneum overlap were examined histologically and graded for inflammation reaction. Compared with the control groups, the experimental groups showed a better ability to resist peritoneal cavity adhesions (P < 0.05), and there was no increase in inflammation formation (P > 0.05). This new type of PLLA-modified PP mesh displayed an additional property of antiadhesion in animal abdominal wall defect repair.

Zhang|Zhigang|Z| Zhang|Tianzhu|T| Li|Junsheng|J| Ji|Zhenling|Z| Zhou|Hemei|H| Zhou|Xuefeng|X| Gu|Ning|N|

D057927:Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions

D017550:Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared

polypropylene
mesh
antiadhesion
poly(l-lactic acid)
hernia repair


Humanized Mouse as a Tool to Predict Immunotoxicity of Human Biologics.

Abstract: Advancements in science enable researchers to constantly innovate and create novel biologics. However, the use of non-human animal models during the development of biologics impedes identification of precise in vivo interactions between the human immune system and treatments. Due to lack of this understanding, adverse effects are frequently observed in healthy volunteers and patients exposed to potential biologics during clinical trials. In this study, we evaluated and compared the effects of known immunotoxic biologics, Proleukin®/IL-2 and OKT3 in humanized mice (reconstituted with human fetal cells) to published clinical outcomes. We demonstrated that humanized mice were able to recapitulate in vivo pathological changes and human-specific immune responses, such as elevated cytokine levels and modulated lymphocytes and myeloid subsets. Given the high similarities of immunological side effects observed between humanized mice and clinical studies, this model could be used to assess immunotoxicity of biologics at a pre-clinical stage, without placing research participants and/or patients at risk.

Yong|Kylie Su Mei|KSM|
Her|Zhisheng|Z|
Tan|Sue Yee|SY|
Tan|Wilson Wei Sheng|WWS|
Liu|Min|M|
Lai|Fritz|F|
Heng|Shi Min|SM|
Fan|Yong|Y|
Chang|Kenneth Tou En|KTE|
Wang|Cheng-I|CI|
Chan|Jerry Kok Yen|JKY|
Chen|Jianzhu|J|
Chen|Qingfeng|Q|

immunotoxicity
humanized mice
biologic testing
cytokine storm
inflammation


Surveillance for Pasteurella multocida in Ring-Necked Pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) After an Outbreak of Avian Cholera and Apparently Successful Antibiotic Treatment.

Abstract: Avian cholera is a significant disease of domestic and wild birds caused by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida (PM). In poultry, a major source of PM infection is chronic carriers, domestic birds that have become infected and recovered or had subclinical infections. Although outbreaks of avian cholera in ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) have been reported, the potential for chronic carriers is unknown. To address this, we conducted surveillance for PM in a flock of captive ring-necked pheasants after an outbreak of avian cholera that responded positively to antibiotic treatment based on resolution of morbidity and mortality. At approximately 1 mo after antibiotic treatment, oropharyngeal swabs were collected from 300 pheasants (out of a total population of ~2300) in a single winter holding pen. All samples were tested for PM through routine aerobic bacterial culture, but none of the samples were positive. In addition, there were no additional outbreaks within this infected pen over the subsequent months. These data provide preliminary evidence to suggest that pheasants that respond to antibiotic therapy may be less likely to become chronic carriers of PM than other poultry species, such as chickens (Gallus domesticus). However, due to marked phenotypic and biologic differences between PM strains, additional studies are needed to further support or refute these findings and better understand avian cholera in this species.

Brown|Justin D|JD|
Dunn|Patricia|P|
Wallner-Pendleton|Eva|E|
Kariyawasam|Subhashinie|S|
Schriner|Timothy|T|
Hofacre|Charles|C|
Johnson|Joshua|J|
Boyd|Robert|R|

Pasteurella multocida
ring-necked pheasants
avian cholera
carrier


EF24 and RAD001 potentiates the anticancer effect of platinum-based agents in human malignant pleural mesothelioma (MSTO-211H) cells and protects nonmalignant mesothelial (MET-5A) cells.

Abstract: The most widespread neoplasm of the pleura is malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) with low prevalence rate. The mechanistic target of rapamycin signaling pathway, inhibited by RAD001, was shown to be deregulated in MPM development and considered a novel target for the MPM therapy. The EF24, a curcumin analog, also affects several signaling pathways and kills cancer cells as a single agent or in combination with classical drugs. We aimed to evaluate possible effects of RAD001, EF24, cisplatin, and oxaliplatin treatments on both malignant pleural mesothelioma (MSTO-211H) and nonmalignant mesothelial (Met-5A) cell lines. The effects of the agents on MSTO-211H and Met-5A cells were evaluated in terms of cell viability, cytotoxicity, DNA synthesis rate, quantitation of apoptotic DNA fragmentation, and cleaved caspase 3 levels. Moreover, quantitative messenger RNA (mRNA) analysis of apoptotic (CASP9) and antiapoptotic (BCL2L1 and BCL2) genes were also performed. We found that both EF24 and RAD001 alone treatments decreased only MSTO-211H cell viability, but cisplatin and oxaliplatin affected both cell lines. Pretreatment with EF24 or RAD001 followed by cisplatin increased the effects of cisplatin alone application. EF24 and RAD001 pretreatment decreased DNA fragmentation rate when compared with cisplatin alone treatment in Met-5A cells. Sequential treatments resulted in a significant increase of CASP9 mRNA expression in MSTO-211H cells but not in Met-5A cells. Our preliminary results suggest that pretreatment with EF24 or RAD001 may reduce cytotoxic effect of cisplatin on nonmalignant mesothelial cells and increase cell death response of MPM cells. Further analyses using animal models are needed to confirm these findings in vivo.

Onen|H I|HI|
Yilmaz|A|A|
Alp|E|E|
Celik|A|A|
Demiroz|S M|SM|
Konac|E|E|
Kurul|I C|IC|
Menevse|E S|ES|

EF24
Malignant pleural mesothelioma
cisplatin
oxaliplatin
everolimus


Intermediate results of phaco-endocycloplasty in an exclusive cohort of angle closure glaucoma: potential for change.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of phaco-endocycloplasty in an exclusive cohort of primary angle closure disease/glaucoma.

METHODS
The study was interventional and non-comparative, carried out at a tertiary level eye care Institute. All adult patients (> 18 years) with angle closure disease, who had controlled or uncontrolled intra-ocular pressure (IOP) and had visually significant cataract, requiring surgery, and had undergone phaco-endocycloplasty, performed for 180°-210° simultaneously with cataract surgery, were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Primary outcome measure includes IOP, and secondary outcome measures include best corrected logMAR visual acuity (BCVA), anti-glaucoma medication (AGM) and complications.

RESULTS
Thirty-two eyes of 28 patients were included. Median follow-up was 15 months (range 3-42 months, Q1 7.5, Q3 18, IQR 10.5). Median IOP pre-procedure (20.5 mmHg, range 11-46, Q1 16.75, Q3 31, IQR 14.25) decreased significantly post-procedure at last follow-up (IOP 16 mmHg, range 10-20, Q1 12, Q3 17.5, IQR 5.5) (p < 0.001). There was significant decrease in use of AGM (median 3 pre-procedure, range 1-5, Q1 2, Q3 3.25, IQR 1.25) at last follow-up (median 0) (p < 0.001) post-procedure. Median logMAR BCVA improved from 0.4 (Q1 0.3, Q3 0.625, IQR 0.325) to 0.05 (Q1 0, Q3 0.3, IQR 0.3) at last follow-up (p < 0.001). None of the patients had serious sight-threatening complications.

CONCLUSIONS
This study indicates that phaco-endocycloplasty can effectively control IOP, significantly reducing need for AGM, without compromising safety, in angle closure glaucoma. When combined surgery is indicated, this conjunctiva-sparing procedure may be employed in the management of coexisting cataract and glaucoma prior to bleb-forming surgery.

Phaco-endocycloplasty
Endocyclophotocoagulation
Endocycloplasty
Primary angle closure glaucoma


CYP1B1 deficiency ameliorates obesity and glucose intolerance induced by high fat diet in adult C57BL/6J mice.

Abstract: Cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) expression increases in multi-potential mesenchymal stromal cells C3H10T1/2 during adipogenesis, which parallel with PPARγ, a critical transcriptional factor in adipogenic process. To assess the role of CYP1B1 in fatty acid metabolism, adult C57BL/6J wild-type and CYP1B1 deficiency mice were fed with high fat diets (HFD) for 6 weeks. CYP1B1 deficiency attenuated HFD-induced obesity when compared with their wild type counterparts, and improve glucose tolerance. The reduction in body weight gain and white adipose tissue in CYP1B1 deficient mice exhibited coordinate decreases in fatty acid synthesis (PPARγ, CD36, FAS, SCD-1) and increases in fatty acid oxidation (UCP-2, CPT-1a) when compared with wild type ones. Lower hepatocyte TG contents were consistent with hepatic Oil-Red-O staining in the CYP1B1 deficiency mice. AMPK, a nutrient sensors for energy homeostasis, was activated in both fat pad and liver by CYP1B1 deficiency. However, in vitro system, knock down CYP1B1 in C3H10T1/2 cells does not abolish adipogenesis induced by adipogenic agents IDM (Insulin, Dexamethasone, Methylisobutylxanthine). Our in vivo and in vitro findings of CYP1B1 deficiency in fat metabolism suggest a complex regulation network between CYP1B1 and energy homeostasis.

Liu|Xiaocong|X| Huang|Tingting|T| Li|Lu|L| Tang|Yumeng|Y| Tian|Yatao|Y| Wang|Suqing|S| Fan|Cuifang|C|

CYP1B1
glucose intolerance
high fat diet (HFD)
fat metabolism
diet induced obesity (DIO)


Outcome prediction in patients with acute repetitive seizures: Application of the Status Epilepticus Severity Score.

Abstract: Acute repetitive seizures (ARS) pose a risk of hospital admission with status epilepticus and a mortality threat, which underscores the need for the early prediction of a clinical course. Unfortunately, little attention has been given to ARS in this context, even though we possess the appropriate predictive tools for the stages of status epilepticus. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of the Status Epilepticus Severity Score (STESS) in the population of patients with ARS. The study included a population of 200 patients. Almost half of the patients had achieved seizure cessations after diazepam administration, whereas 19.5% progressed to status epilepticus despite antiepileptic drug treatment. Mortality reached 10.5% of the total population. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for prediction of death by the STESS had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.901, with an optimal cutoff point for discrimination ≥2 (sensitivity 0.95, specificity 0.71, and Youden index 0.66). Hosmer-Lemeshow indicated good calibration of the STESS (chi-square goodness-of-fit test = 3.24; P = .919). The study shows excellent effectiveness of the STESS in the prognosis of the clinical course in patients with ARS. STESS may be a valuable tool for the proper planning of diagnostic and therapeutic activities in this population.

Szklener|Sebastian|S|
Godek|Magdalena|M|
Korchut|Agnieszka|A|
Balicka-Adamik|Luiza|L|
Rejdak|Robert|R|
Rossetti|Andrea O|AO|
Rejdak|Konrad|K|

acute repetitive seizures
Status Epilepticus Severity Score
cluster seizures


If I had stable housing I would be a bit more receptive to having a job. Factors influencing the effectiveness of Disability Employment Services reform.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Continual reforms of the Australian Disability Employment Services (DES) program aim to improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities, including people with a psychosocial disability who experience high levels of unemployment.

OBJECTIVE
To understand contextual factors in the lives of DES participants with a psychosocial disability that influence their engagement with and potential benefits from the DES program in the context of the 2018 reforms.

METHODS
Thematic analysis of 30 qualitative interviews with DES participants with a psychosocial disability was conducted as part of the Improving Disability Employment Study between November 2017 to October 2018.

RESULTS
Findings highlight diverse life challenges experienced by DES participants including disrupted education, inadequate access to mental and general health services, and financial and housing insecurity.

CONCLUSIONS
The life circumstances of DES participants with a psychosocial disability are often complex and undermine their engagement with employment services and access to labour markets. Despite considerable investment in ongoing reforms, these circumstances continue to undermine the effectiveness of the DES program.

employment services
Psychosocial disability
social inequities
work


Effective and site-specific phosphoramidation reaction for universally labeling nucleic acids.

Abstract: Here we report efficient and selective postsynthesis labeling strategies, based on an advanced phosphoramidation reaction, for nucleic acids of either synthetic or enzyme-catalyzed origin. The reactions provided phosphorimidazolide intermediates of DNA or RNA which, whether reacted in one pot (one-step) or purified (two-step), were directly or indirectly phosphoramidated with label molecules. The acquired fluorophore-labeled nucleic acids, prepared from the phosphoramidation reactions, demonstrated labeling efficacy by their F/N ratio values (number of fluorophores per molecule of nucleic acid) of 0.02-1.2 which are comparable or better than conventional postsynthesis fluorescent labeling methods for DNA and RNA. Yet, PCR and UV melting studies of the one-step phosphoramidation-prepared FITC-labeled DNA indicated that the reaction might facilitate nonspecific hybridization in nucleic acids. Intrinsic hybridization specificity of nucleic acids was, however, conserved in the two-step phosphoramidation reaction. The reaction of site-specific labeling nucleic acids at the 5'-end was supported by fluorescence quenching and UV melting studies of fluorophore-labeled DNA. The two-step phosphoramidation-based, effective, and site-specific labeling method has the potential to expedite critical research including visualization, quantification, structural determination, localization, and distribution of nucleic acids in vivo and in vitro.

Su|Yu-Chih|YC|
Chen|Hsing-Yin|HY|
Ko|Ni Chien|NC|
Hwang|Chi-Ching|CC|
Wu|Min Hui|MH|
Wang|Li-Fang|LF|
Wang|Yun-Ming|YM|
Chang|Sheng-Nan|SN|
Wang|Eng-Chi|EC|
Wang|Tzu-Pin|TP|

Phosphoramidation
Labeling
Nucleic acid
Postsynthesis
Site specific


Safety Evaluation of Alcoholic Extract of Boswellia ovalifoliolata Stem-bark in Rats.

Abstract: The safety profile of alcoholic extract of stem-bark of B. ovalifoliolata was investigated in male Wistar albino rats as per OECD guidelines 407. A total of 24 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of six rats each. Group 1 served as control and was given 0.3% carboxymethylcellulose, groups 2, 3 and 4 were given alcoholic extract of B. ovalifoliolata @ 100, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively in 0.3% carboxymethylcellulose orally for 28 days. The animals were observed daily for clinical signs, mortality, physiological and behavioral changes. Body weights were measured at weekly intervals and various hematological parameters like Hb, PCV, TEC, TLC and serum biochemical profile which included AST, ALT, creatine phosphokinase, creatinine, total protein and antioxidant parameters like TBARS and GSH in liver were estimated at the end of experimental period. There were no clinical signs of abnormality. The weekly body weights, organ weights and hematological parameters did not vary significantly amongst the groups. The mean activity of AST, ALT and CPK, and the concentration of serum creatinine, total protein, TBARS and GSH did not differ significantly among the groups. Histological abnormalities of toxicological significance were not detected in groups 2 and 3. However, mild histopathological alterations were observed in higher dose group 4. In conclusion, the present study revealed that the alcoholic extract of stem-bark of B. ovalifoliolata is safe at lower doses of 100 and 500 mg/kg. Hence, alcoholic extract of stem bark of B. ovalifoliolata is safe and no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) is found to be 500 mg/kg following repeated oral administration for 28 days in rats.

Devi|P R Sakuntala|PR|
Adilaxmamma|K|K|
Rao|G Srinivisa|GS|
Srilatha|Ch|Ch|
Raj|M Alpha|MA|

safety evaluation
B. ovalifoliolata
hematology
oxidative stress
serum biochemistry


Effect of Marriage and Spousal Criminality on Recidivism.

Abstract: The authors analyzed whether the effect of marriage on recidivism varied by spousal criminality. For this purpose, they used propensity score matching and full population data from Statistics Denmark on all unmarried and previously convicted men from birth cohorts 1965-1985 (N = 102,839). The results showed that marriage reduced recidivism compared to nonmarriage only when the spouse had no criminal record. Similarly, marriage to a nonconvicted spouse reduced recidivism significantly more than marriage to a convicted spouse. These findings not only underline how important marriage is for social integration but also stress the heterogeneous nature of the protective effects of marriage.

Andersen|Signe Hald|SH|
Andersen|Lars Højsgaard|LH|
Skov|Peer Ebbesen|PE|

marriage
crime
marital quality
quantitative methodology
sociology


Mental disorders in Australian 4- to 17- year olds: Parent-reported need for help.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To describe the extent to which parents report that 4- to 17-year-olds with symptoms meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition criteria for mental disorders need help, the types of help needed, the extent to which this need is being met and factors associated with a need for help.

METHOD
During 2013-2014, a national household survey of the mental health of Australia's young people (Young Minds Matter) was conducted, involving 6310 parents (and carers) of 4- to 17-year-olds. The survey identified 12-month mental disorders using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children - Version IV ( n = 870) and asked parents about the need for four types of help - information, medication, counselling and life skills.

RESULTS
Parents of 79% of 4- to 17-year-olds with mental disorders reported that their child needed help, and of these, only 35% had their needs fully met. The greatest need for help was for those with major depressive disorder (95%) and conduct disorder (93%). Among these, 39% of those with major depressive disorder but only 19% of those with conduct disorder had their needs fully met. Counselling was the type of help most commonly identified as being needed (68%). In multivariate models, need for counselling was higher when children had autism or an intellectual disability, in blended families, when parents were distressed, and in the most advantaged socioeconomic areas.

CONCLUSIONS
Many children and adolescents meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition criteria for mental disorders have a completely unmet need for help, especially those with conduct disorders. Even with mild disorders, lack of clinical assessment represents an important missed opportunity for early intervention and treatment.

Johnson|Sarah E|SE|
Lawrence|David|D|
Sawyer|Michael|M|
Zubrick|Stephen R|SR|

D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand

D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care

Mental disorders
need for help
children and adolescents
mental health services
service use


The Underlying Mechanism of 3-Hydroxyphthalic Anhydride-Modified Bovine Beta-Lactoglobulin to Block Human Papillomavirus Entry Into the Host Cell.

Abstract: We have previously demonstrated that 3-hydroxyphthalic anhydride (3HP)-modified bovine beta-lactoglobulin (3HP-β-LG) is highly effective in inhibiting entry of pseudovirus (PsV) of high- and low-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) into the target cell. Intravaginally applied 3HP-β-LG-containing vaginal gel could significantly inhibit HPV infection and reduce viral load in the cervical region. However, we still do not understand the underlying molecular mechanism by which 3HP-β-LG is able to inhibit HPV infection. Here, though, we showed that 3HP-β-LG did not inactivate HPV PsV, but rather blocked entry of HPV PsV into the target cell via its interaction with virus, not cell. It bound to the positively charged region in the HPV L1 protein, suggesting that 3HP-β-LG binds to HPV L1 protein through the interaction between the negatively charged region in 3HP-β-LG and the positively charged region in HPV L1 protein, thus competitively blocking the binding of HPV to the receptor on the basement membrane in vaginal mucosa. Although 3HP-modified chicken ovalbumin (3HP-OVA) also carries high net negative charges, it exhibited no anti-HPV activity, suggesting that the interaction between 3HP-modified protein and HPV L1 protein relies on both electrostatic and matchable conformation of the binding sites in both proteins. When topically applied, 3HP-β-LG did not enter the host cell or blood circulation. These findings suggest that 3HP-β-LG targets HPV L1 protein and blocks HPV entry into the host cell, thus being safe and effective for topical application in the treatment of HPV infection.

Hua|Chen|C| Zhu|Yun|Y| Wu|Congquan|C| Si|Lulu|L| Wang|Qian|Q| Sui|Long|L| Jiang|Shibo|S|

human papillomavirus
3HP-β-LG
L1 protein
mechanism of action
virus entry inhibition


Suppression of Eosinophil Integrins Prevents Remodeling of Airway Smooth Muscle in Asthma.

Abstract: Background: Airway smooth muscle (ASM) remodeling is an important component of the structural changes to airways seen in asthma. Eosinophils are the prominent inflammatory cells in asthma, and there is some evidence that they contribute to ASM remodeling via released mediators and direct contact through integrin-ligand interactions. Eosinophils express several types of outer membrane integrin, which are responsible for cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. In our previous study we demonstrated that asthmatic eosinophils show increased adhesion to ASM cells and it may be important factor contributing to ASM remodeling in asthma. According to these findings, in the present study we investigated the effects of suppression of eosinophil integrin on eosinophil-induced ASM remodeling in asthma. Materials and Methods: Individual combined cell cultures of immortalized human ASM cells and eosinophils from peripheral blood of 22 asthmatic patients and 17 healthy controls were prepared. Eosinophil adhesion was evaluated using eosinophil peroxidase activity assay. Genes expression levels in ASM cells and eosinophils were measured using quantitative real-time PCR. ASM cell proliferation was measured using alamarBlue® solution. Eosinophil integrins were blocked by incubating with Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser peptide. Results: Eosinophils from the asthma group showed increased outer membrane α4β1 and αMβ2 integrin expression, increased adhesion to ASM cells, and overexpression of TGF-β1 compared with eosinophils from the healthy control group. Blockade of eosinophil RGD-binding integrins by Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser peptide significantly reduced adhesion of eosinophils to ASM cells in both groups. Integrin-blocking decreased the effects of eosinophils on TGF-β1, WNT-5a, and extracellular matrix protein gene expression in ASM cells and ASM cell proliferation in both groups. These effects were more pronounced in the asthma group compared with the control group. Conclusion: Suppression of eosinophil-ASM interaction via RGD-binding integrins attenuates eosinophil-induced ASM remodeling in asthma. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02648074.

Januskevicius|Andrius|A|
Gosens|Reinoud|R|
Sakalauskas|Raimundas|R|
Vaitkiene|Simona|S|
Janulaityte|Ieva|I|
Halayko|Andrew J|AJ|
Hoppenot|Deimante|D|
Malakauskas|Kestutis|K|

eosinophils
integrins
airway smooth muscle
asthma
adhesion
TGF-β1


Evolution of equine influenza viruses (H3N8) during a Brazilian outbreak, 2015.

Abstract: Equine influenza is one of the major respiratory infectious diseases in horses. An equine influenza virus outbreak was identified in vaccinated and unvaccinated horses in a veterinary school hospital in São Paulo, SP, Brazil, in September 2015. The twelve equine influenza viruses isolated belonged to Florida Clade 1. The hemagglutinin and neuraminidase amino acid sequences were compared with the recent isolates from North and South America and the World Organisation for Animal Health recommended Florida Clade 1 vaccine strain. The hemagglutinin amino acid sequences had nine substitutions, compared with the vaccine strain. Two of them were in antigenic site A (A138S and G142R), one in antigenic site E (R62K) and another not in antigenic site (K304E). The four substitutions changed the hydrophobicity of hemagglutinin. Three distinct genetic variants were identified during the outbreak. Eleven variants were found in four quasispecies, which suggests the equine influenza virus evolved during the outbreak. The use of an out of date vaccine strain or updated vaccines without the production of protective antibody titers might be the major contributing factors on virus dissemination during this outbreak.

Favaro|Patricia Filippsen|PF|
Fernandes|Wilson Roberto|WR|
Reischak|Dilmara|D|
Brandão|Paulo Eduardo|PE|
Silva|Sheila Oliveira de Souza|SOS|
Richtzenhain|Leonardo José|LJ|

D019267:Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus

Equine influenza
H3N8
Hemagglutinin
Neuraminidase
Evolutionary analysis


Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes and Lipid Metabolism Signaling Pathways between Muscle and Fat Tissues in Broiler Chickens.

Abstract: In this study, signaling pathways and key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in lipid metabolism in muscle and fat tissues were investigated. Muscle and abdominal fat tissues were obtained from 35-day-old female broilers for RNA sequencing. DEGs between muscle and fat tissues were identified. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed. A total of 6130 DEGs were identified to be significantly enriched in 365 GO terms, most of which were involved in biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions in muscle and fat tissues. Three important lipid signaling pathways (pyruvate metabolism, the insulin signaling pathway, and the adipocytokine signaling pathway) were identified among the fat and muscle tissues of broilers. The key common DEGs in these pathways included phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 2 (PCK2), acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 alpha and beta (ACACA and ACACB), and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (AMPK) gene family. Hence, our findings revealed the pathways and key genes and gene families involved in the regulation of fat deposition in the muscle and fat tissues of broilers.

Zhang|Min|M| Zheng|Dan|D| Peng|Zhimei|Z| Zhu|Yuting|Y| Li|Rongrong|R| Wu|Qiong|Q| Li|Yan|Y| Li|Hongyi|H| Xu|Weihua|W| Zhang|Mao|M| Hung|Qichun|Q| Sun|Yanfa|Y|

differentially expressed gene
lipid metabolism
signaling pathway
muscle
fat
broiler


A review of selection-based tests of abiotic surrogates for species representation.

Abstract: Because conservation planners typically lack data on where species occur, environmental surrogates--including geophysical settings and climate types--have been used to prioritize sites within a planning area. We reviewed 622 evaluations of the effectiveness of abiotic surrogates in representing species in 19 study areas. Sites selected using abiotic surrogates represented more species than an equal number of randomly selected sites in 43% of tests (55% for plants) and on average improved on random selection of sites by about 8% (21% for plants). Environmental diversity (ED) (42% median improvement on random selection) and biotically informed clusters showed promising results and merit additional testing. We suggest 4 ways to improve performance of abiotic surrogates. First, analysts should consider a broad spectrum of candidate variables to define surrogates, including rarely used variables related to geographic separation, distance from coast, hydrology, and within-site abiotic diversity. Second, abiotic surrogates should be defined at fine thematic resolution. Third, sites (the landscape units prioritized within a planning area) should be small enough to ensure that surrogates reflect species' environments and to produce prioritizations that match the spatial resolution of conservation decisions. Fourth, if species inventories are available for some planning units, planners should define surrogates based on the abiotic variables that most influence species turnover in the planning area. Although species inventories increase the cost of using abiotic surrogates, a modest number of inventories could provide the data needed to select variables and evaluate surrogates. Additional tests of nonclimate abiotic surrogates are needed to evaluate the utility of conserving nature's stage as a strategy for conservation planning in the face of climate change.

Beier|Paul|P|
Sutcliffe|Patricia|P|
Hjort|Jan|J|
Faith|Daniel P|DP|
Pressey|Robert L|RL|
Albuquerque|Fabio|F|

D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources

conserving nature's stage
conservation planning
conservar el estado de la naturaleza
geodiversidad
geodiversity
incidental representation
planeación de la conservación
pruebas de sustitución
representación secundaria
surrogacy tests


Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein Q is a novel substrate of SH2 domain-containing phosphatase-2.

Abstract: SH2 domain-containing phosphatase-2 (SHP2) is a protein-tyrosine phosphatase implicated in activation of cell signalling such as the Ras/extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway. The substrates of SHP2 and their roles in cell activation are not fully understood. By using the substrate-trapping method with the phosphatase-dead SHP2 mutant, in which C459 was substituted by serine, and the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometric analysis, we found that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein Q (hnRNP Q), a protein implicated in RNA metabolisms, was a novel substrate of SHP2. Tyrosine-phosphorylated hnRNP Q was detected in HL-60, Jurkat and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, but not mature neutrophils, treated with pervanadate. Tyrosine-phosphorylated hnRNP Q was directly bound to SHP2 in vivo and in vitro, and dephosphorylated by SHP2 in vitro. These findings suggest that hnRNP Q is a novel substrate of SHP2 and the SHP2 activity may be also involved in RNA metabolisms via dephosphorylation of hnRNP Q.

Watanabe|Norifumi|N| Kato|Takayuki|T| Fujita|Hisakazu|H| Kitagawa|Seiichi|S|

D054592:Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase, Non-Receptor Type 11


Leukemic marker detection using a spectro-polarimetric surface plasmon resonance platform.

Abstract: In this paper, we present a proof of concept screening for monoclonal immunoglobulin as a leukemia tumor marker using a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) bio-sensing platform. This screening method is based on measurements of immunoglobulin levels in human serum and the determination of the relative concentrations of kappa and lambda light chains. The kappa/lambda ratio is used to determine the presence of monoclonal immunoglobulin. Tests have been performed using standard solutions of immunoglobulins and serum samples from patients with known leukemic diagnoses. This platform has a resolution of 5×10(-7) refractive index unit (RIU) per channel, which is up to 10 times better than other SPR imaging systems for multi-sensing applications. The results obtained with this technique are in agreement with those acquired using conventional methods for immunoglobulin detection, indicating that our polarimetric SPR platform should be suitable for a cheap and efficient tool for early leukemia biomarker screening and monitoring applications.

Maisonneuve|Mathieu|M|
Valsecchi|Chiara|C|
Wang|Chen|C|
Brolo|Alexandre G|AG|
Meunier|Michel|M|

Antibodies detection
Leukemia screening
SPR sensor
Spectro-polarimetric imaging


Antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy of a copper/calcium hydroxide-based endodontic paste against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans.

Abstract: Endodontic biofilm is a microbial community, enclosed in a polymeric matrix of polysaccharide origin where are found pathogens, like bacteria and opportunistic fungi responsible for various endodontic pathologies. As clinical importance is the fact, that biofilm is extremely resistant to common intracanal irrigants, antimicrobial drugs and host immune responses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of a Cu/CaOH2-based endodontic paste, against bacteria and fungi, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. We found that such compound significantly reduced microbial replication time and cell growth. Moreover, biofilm formation and persistence were also affected; treated biofilms showed both a reduced number of cells and levels of released pyoverdine. This study provides the first evidence on effectiveness of this endodontic compound against microbial biofilms. Given its wide range of action, its use in prevention and treatment of the main oral biofilm-associated infections will be discussed.

Meto|Aida|A| Colombari|Bruna|B| Sala|Arianna|A| Pericolini|Eva|E| Meto|Agron|A| Peppoloni|Samuele|S| Blasi|Elisabetta|E|

D000890:Anti-Infective Agents
D018441:Biofilms
D002118:Calcium
D002126:Calcium Hydroxide
D002176:Candida albicans
D003300:Copper
D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests
D011550:Pseudomonas aeruginosa
D013211:Staphylococcus aureus

Biofilm
Antibiofilm activity
Antimicrobial activity
Cupral


Tranilast Inhibits TGF-β1-induced Epithelial-mesenchymal Transition and Invasion/Metastasis via the Suppression of Smad4 in Human Lung Cancer Cell Lines.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND/AIM
Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is an important epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) activator that regulates the expression of E-cadherin and vimentin through Smad signalling. Tranilast is an anti-allergic drug that inhibits TGF-β1, and is used in the treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars. We investigated whether tranilast inhibits TGF-β1-induced EMT and invasiveness in human non-small cell lung cancer cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
We examined the effects of tranilast treatment on EMT markers, TGF-β1/Smad signalling, and cell invasiveness in A549 and PC14 cells. Tumours from a mouse orthotopic lung cancer model with or without tranilast treatment were also immunohistochemically evaluated.

RESULTS
Tranilast increased E-cadherin expression via Smad4 suppression and inhibited cell invasion in TGF-β1-stimulated cells. Tranilast treatment of the in vivo mouse model reduced the pleural dissemination of cancer cells and suppressed vimentin and Smad4 expression.

CONCLUSION
Tranilast inhibited TGF-β1-induced EMT and cellular invasion/metastasis by suppressing Smad4 expression in cancer cells.

Takahashi|Koji|K|
Menju|Toshi|T|
Nishikawa|Shigeto|S|
Miyata|Ryo|R|
Tanaka|Satona|S|
Yutaka|Yojiro|Y|
Yamada|Yoshito|Y|
Nakajima|Daisuke|D|
Hamaji|Masatsugu|M|
Ohsumi|Akihiro|A|
Chen-Yoshikawa|Toyofumi Fengshi|TF|
Sato|Toshihiko|T|
Sonobe|Makoto|M|
Date|Hiroshi|H|

D053773:Transforming Growth Factor beta1


Hydrogen bond strength and vibrational assignment of the enol form of 3-(ortho-methoxyphenylthio) and 3-(para-methoxyphenylthio)pentane-2,4-dione.

Abstract: The molecular structure of 3-(ortho-methoxyphenylthio) pentane-2,4-dione (o-MPTPD) and 3-(para-methoxyphenylthio) pentane-2,4-dione (p-MPTPD) has been investigated by means of Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The results were compared with 3-(phenylthio) pentane-2,4-dione (PTPD), 3-(methylthio) pentane-2,4-dione (MTPD), and their parent, pentane-2,4-dione (known as acetylacetone, AA). The full optimized geometry, the IR and Raman frequencies and their intensities has been calculated at the B3LYP/6-311++G(∗∗) level of theory. The calculated frequencies were compared with the experimental results. The IR and Raman spectra of o-MPTPD and p-MPTPD and their deuterated analogs are recorded in the 3200-200 cm(-1) range. The quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) was applied to calculate the topological parameters of electron density distributions and charge transfer energy associated with the intramolecular hydrogen bond (IHB). Natural bond orbital analysis (NBO) was performed for investigation of electron delocalization in these compounds. According to the theoretical and experimental data, the hydrogen bond strength in the 3-thio-pentane-2,4-dione derivatives is much stronger than that in AA. The results of theoretical calculations are in excellent agreement with the vibrational and NMR spectroscopy data.

Zahedi-Tabrizi|Mansoureh|M|
Gerivani|Bentolhoda|B|
Tayyari|Sayyed Faramarz|SF|

Intramolecular hydrogen bond
NBO
3-(Methoxyphenylthio)pentane-2,4-diones
AIM
DFT calculations
Vibrational spectra


Evidence that vitronectin is a potent migration-enhancing factor for cancer cells chaperoned by fibrinogen: a novel view of the metastasis of cancer cells to low-fibrinogen lymphatics and body cavities.

Abstract: Diluted (1%) plasma induces migration of malignant cell lines much more strongly than potent pro-metastatic factors. To characterize the factor(s) present in diluted plasma responsible for this phenomenon we performed i) heat inactivation, ii) dialysis, iii) proteinase K treatment, and iv) molecular size filtration studies. We found that this remarkable pro-migratory activity of diluted normal plasma is associated with a ~50-100-kD protein that interacts with GαI protein-coupled receptors and activates p42/44 MAPK and AKT signaling in target cells. Since this pro-migratory activity of 1% plasma decreases at higher plasma concentrations (> 20%), but is retained in serum, we hypothesized that fibrinogen may be involved as a chaperone of the protein(s). To identify the pro-migratory protein(s) present in diluted plasma and fibrinogen-depleted serum, we performed gel filtration and hydrophobic interaction chromatography followed by mass spectrometry analysis. We identified several putative protein candidates that were further tested in in vitro experiments. We found that this pro-migratory factor chaperoned by fibrinogen is vitronectin, which activates uPAR, and that this effect can be inhibited by fibrinogen. These results provide a novel mechanism for the metastasis of cancer cells to lymphatics and body cavities, in which the concentration of fibrinogen is low, and thus suggests that free vitronectin stimulates migration of tumor cells.

Schneider|Gabriela|G|
Bryndza|Ewa|E|
Poniewierska-Baran|Agata|A|
Serwin|Karol|K|
Suszynska|Malwina|M|
Sellers|Zachariah P|ZP|
Merchant|Michael L|ML|
Kaliappan|Alagammai|A|
Ratajczak|Janina|J|
Kucia|Magda|M|
Garbett|Nichola C|NC|
Ratajczak|Mariusz Z|MZ|

D055293:Receptors, Urokinase Plasminogen Activator

urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR)


New directions in building a scientific social network: Experiences in the Supercourse project and application to Central Asia.

Abstract:
Introduction
Networking leaders in the field of public health and medicine is very important for improving health locally and globally, especially in times of disaster.

Methods
Fishing can best be defined as using an internet search engine to find the name and email address of the person or organization that is being sought.

Results
With over 500 hours of work, the group compiled a list of nearly 2,000 email addresses of Ministers of Health, deans of the 1,800 medical schools and schools of public health, and heads of medical and public health societies.

Hennon|Meredith|M|
LaPorte|Ronald E|RE|
Shubnikov|Eugene|E|
Linkov|Faina|F|

social networking
public health
health societies


Evaluation of mutagenic and genotoxic activities of lobeline and its modulation on genomic instability induced by ethanol.

Abstract:
AIM
Lobeline is a natural alkaloid derived from Lobelia inflata that has been investigated as a clinical candidate for the treatment of alcoholism. In a pre-clinical trial, lobeline decreased the preference for and consumption of ethanol, due to the modulation of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. However, the interaction between lobeline and ethanol is poorly known and thus there are safety concerns. The present study was conducted to evaluate the mutagenic and genotoxic effects of lobeline and assess its modulation of ethanol-induced toxicological effects.

MAIN METHODS
CF-1 male mice were divided into five groups. Groups received an intraperitoneal injection of saline solution, lobeline (5 or 10mg/kg), ethanol (2.5 g/kg), or lobeline plus ethanol, once a day for three consecutive days. Genotoxicity was evaluated in peripheral blood using the alkaline comet assay. The mutagenicity was evaluated using both Salmonella/microsome assay in TA1535, TA97a, TA98, TA100, and TA102 Salmonella typhimurium strains and the micronucleus test in bone marrow. Possible liver and kidney injuries were evaluated using biochemical analysis.

KEY FINDINGS
Lobeline did not show genotoxic or mutagenic effects and did not increase the ethanol-induced genotoxic effects in blood. Lobeline also protected blood cells against oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide. Biochemical parameters were not altered, indicating no liver or kidney injuries or alterations in lipid and carbohydrate metabolisms.

SIGNIFICANCE
These findings suggest that lobeline does not induce gene or chromosomal mutations, and that this lack of genetic toxicity is maintained in the presence of ethanol, providing further evidence of the safety of this drug to treat alcohol dependence.

da Costa E Silva|Liana Dantas|LD|
Rodrigues|Laise Carla Lima Verde|LC|
Dos Santos|Viviane Ramos|VR|
da Costa Allgayer|Mariangela|M|
de Barros Falcão Ferraz|Alexandre|A|
Rolla|Helena Campos|HC|
Pereira|Patrícia|P|
Picada|Jaqueline Nascimento|JN|

(−)-Lobeline hydrochloride (PubChem CID: 45358761)

Cyclophosphamide monohydrate (PubChem CID: 22420)


Syntrophins entangled in cytoskeletal meshwork: Helping to hold it all together.

Abstract: Syntrophins are a family of 59 kDa peripheral membrane-associated adapter proteins, containing multiple protein-protein and protein-lipid interaction domains. The syntrophin family consists of five isoforms that exhibit specific tissue distribution, distinct sub-cellular localization and unique expression patterns implying their diverse functional roles. These syntrophin isoforms form multiple functional protein complexes and ensure proper localization of signalling proteins and their binding partners to specific membrane domains and provide appropriate spatiotemporal regulation of signalling pathways. Syntrophins consist of two PH domains, a PDZ domain and a conserved SU domain. The PH1 domain is split by the PDZ domain. The PH2 and the SU domain are involved in the interaction between syntrophin and the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex (DGC). Syntrophins recruit various signalling proteins to DGC and link extracellular matrix to internal signalling apparatus via DGC. The different domains of the syntrophin isoforms are responsible for modulation of cytoskeleton. Syntrophins associate with cytoskeletal proteins and lead to various cellular responses by modulating the cytoskeleton. Syntrophins are involved in many physiological processes which involve cytoskeletal reorganization like insulin secretion, blood pressure regulation, myogenesis, cell migration, formation and retraction of focal adhesions. Syntrophins have been implicated in various pathologies like Alzheimer's disease, muscular dystrophy, cancer. Their role in cytoskeletal organization and modulation makes them perfect candidates for further studies in various cancers and other ailments that involve cytoskeletal modulation. The role of syntrophins in cytoskeletal organization and modulation has not yet been comprehensively reviewed till now. This review focuses on syntrophins and highlights their role in cytoskeletal organization, modulation and dynamics via its involvement in different cell signalling networks.

syntrophin
cytoskeleton
cell migration
cancer
cell signalling
Actin


Qingchangligan formula alleviates acute liver injury by attenuating extracellular histone-associated inflammation.

Abstract: Qingchangligan formula (QCLGF) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has exhibited remarkable clinical efficacy for patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). However, the hepatoprotective mechanisms of QCLGF are not completely understood. Extracellular histones were recently identified as the novel inflammatory mediators involved in the pathogenesis of acute liver injury. This study aimed to investigate whether QCLGF provides hepatoprotection by targeting extracellular histones. We showed that QCLGF significantly improved the survival rate of the ConA-treated mice, ameliorated hepatotoxicity, and markedly decreased the levels of extracellular histones and the associated cytokines. We further demonstrated that QCLGF attenuated systemic inflammation by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. In addition, exogenous histones induced a significant HL-7702 cell damage, which could be prevented by administration of QCLGF. Lastly, we observed that extracellular histones and the associated cytokines were consistently lower in ACLF patients receiving conventional medical therapy plus QCLGF than in patients receiving only conventional medical therapy. Collectively, these results provide evidence that QCLGF has therapeutic potentials for treating ACLF, which may be due to its ability to interfere with extracellular histone-mediated cellular damage and systemic inflammation.

Ding|Lan|L| Zhang|Xiangying|X| Li|Li|L| Gou|Chunyan|C| Luo|Xiaolan|X| Yang|Yang|Y| Wen|Tao|T| Li|Xiuhui|X|

Qingchangligan formula (QCLGF)
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF)
Extracellular histones
Systemic inflammation


Alterations in functional connectivity of resting state networks during experimental endotoxemia - An exploratory study in healthy men.

Abstract: Systemic inflammation impairs mood and cognitive functions, and seems to be involved in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies revealed altered task-related blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) responses during experimental endotoxemia, but little is known about effects of systemic inflammation on resting-state activity of the brain. Thus, we conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled study in healthy men receiving an intravenous injection of either low-dose (0.4 ng/kg) lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (N=20) or placebo (N=25). Resting state activity was measured at baseline and 3.5h post-injection. Based on a two (condition) × two (group) design, we used multi-subject independent component analysis (ICA) to decompose and estimate functional connectivity within resting-state networks (RSNs). Seed-based analyses were applied to investigate the effect of LPS on the functional coupling for a priori-defined regions-of-interest (ROIs). ICA analyses identified 13 out of 35 components displaying common RSNs. Seed based analysis revealed greater functional connectivity between the left thalamus and the cerebellum after LPS compared to placebo administration, while the functional coupling between seeds within the amygdala, insula, and cingulate cortex and various brain regions including parieto-frontal networks was significantly reduced. Within the LPS group, endotoxin-induced increases in Interleukin (IL)-6 were significantly associated with resting-state connectivity between the left thalamus and left precuneus as well as the right posterior cingulate cortex. In summary, this exploratory study provides first evidence that systemic inflammation affects the coupling and regulation of multiple networks within the human brain at rest.

Labrenz|Franziska|F| Wrede|Karsten|K| Forsting|Michael|M| Engler|Harald|H| Schedlowski|Manfred|M| Elsenbruch|Sigrid|S| Benson|Sven|S|

Functional connectivity
Resting state
Endotoxemia
Systemic inflammation
fMRI
LPS
Sickness behavior


Validating mental health assessment in Kenya using an innovative gold standard.

Abstract: With the growing burden of mental health disorders worldwide, alongside efforts to expand availability of evidence-based interventions, strategies are needed to ensure accurate identification of individuals suffering from mental disorders. Efforts to locally validate mental health assessments are of particular value, yet gold-standard clinical validation is costly, time-intensive, and reliant on available professionals. This study aimed to validate assessment items for mental distress in Kenya, using an innovative gold standard and a combination of culturally adapted and locally developed items. The mixed-method study drew on surveys and semi-structured interviews, conducted by lay interviewers, with 48 caregivers. Interviews were used to designate mental health "cases" or "non-cases" based on emotional health problems, identified through a collaborative clinical rating process with local input. Individual mental health survey items were evaluated for their ability to discriminate between cases and non-cases. Discriminant survey items included 23 items adapted from existing mental health assessment tools, as well as 6 new items developed for the specific cultural context. When items were combined into a scale, results showed good psychometric properties. The use of clinically rated semi-structured interviews provides a promising alternative gold standard that can help address the challenges of conducting diagnostic clinical validation in low-resource settings.

Watson|Leah K|LK|
Kaiser|Bonnie N|BN|
Giusto|Ali M|AM|
Ayuku|David|D|
Puffer|Eve S|ES|

Validation
Mental health
Kenya
Family functioning
Measure development


Multibiomarker in fish to evaluate a river used to water public supply.

Abstract: We aimed to evaluate the ecological integrity of a large river, which receives agricultural and urban effluents and is used to water public supply. The fish species Astyanax bifasciatus was used as bioindicator during winter and spring 2012, and summer 2013 at the Middle Iguaçu River basin in Paraná state, Brazil. Water chemical and physical measures and ecotoxicological tests were carried out as well biochemical and genetic biomarkers in sampled fish in each period. The studied area was divided in three sample points: SP1, located where the water is collected to public supply; SP2, located in an urbanized area, and SP3, located at an urbanized area with the discharge of the sewage treatment. Although water chemical and physical analyzes were range of the Brazilian law to hydric bodies, anticholinesterasic effects were found in winter, oxidative stress in summer and spring. The higher genotoxic effect was in winter to all sample points. The temporal variation in biomarkers and the detection of caffeine in the water call attention to the water quality in this river mainly to be used to public supply.

Bueno-Krawczyk|A C D|AC|
Guiloski|I C|IC|
Piancini|L D S|LD|
Azevedo|J C|JC|
Ramsdorf|W A|WA|
Ide|A H|AH|
Guimarães|A T B|AT|
Cestari|M M|MM|
Silva de Assis|H C|HC|

Ecotoxicology
Biomarker
Oxidative stress
Acetylcholinesterase
Biomonitoring


Management of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis with observation.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is becoming more commonly recognized and reported more often. Currently, many recommend corticosteroids in its management.

METHODS
A retrospective chart review was conducted from January 2002 to June 2013. Data were collected regarding sociodemographic information, clinical history, treatment, and outcomes.

RESULTS
Thirty-seven patients were found with IGM. Thirty-five patients were Hispanic born outside the United States. Early in the time period reviewed, 5 patients had masses excised and 5 patients were lost to follow-up. Twenty-seven cases of IGM resolved with observation. Corticosteroids were not used in the management. The average time to resolution was 7.4 months. Three patients (11%) had recurrent episodes after resolution.

CONCLUSIONS
IGM is a self-limited benign condition that will resolve spontaneously without treatment. Patience with the natural history of IGM is important, as the process often includes periods of exacerbation before resolution.

Bouton|Marcia E|ME|
Jayaram|Lakshmi|L|
O'Neill|Patrick J|PJ|
Hsu|Chiu-Hsieh|CH|
Komenaka|Ian K|IK|

D000328:Adult
D005260:Female
D058890:Granulomatous Mastitis
D006801:Humans
D008875:Middle Aged
D010353:Patient Education as Topic
D012189:Retrospective Studies
D057832:Watchful Waiting
D055815:Young Adult

Granulomatous mastitis
Observation
Disparities
Patient education
Steroids


Reconstructing nanofibers from natural polymers using surface functionalization approaches for applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery and biosensing devices.

Abstract: Previously, the nanofibers were predominantly fabricated from synthetic polymers due to their excellent mechanical properties. Understanding the different complex processes in fabrication and various process parameters involved have not only allowed the use of natural polymers for fabricating nanofibers but also broadened the scope of applications. To date, many of the natural polymeric composites have been fabricated by different functionalization techniques to increase their applicability. Nanofibers fabricated from natural polymers have been chemically functionalized by a variety of molecules like drugs, enzymes, metal ions etc. by techniques such as plasma treatment, wet chemical method, graft polymerization and co-electrospinning of surface-active molecules. Furthermore, the nanofibers derived from natural polymers have been surface-coated on the synthetic polymers to induce extracellular matrix mirroring properties like cell adhesion, migration, proliferation and differentiation. In this review, we have not only investigated the various novel and facile functionalization approaches but potential properties and applications are discussed as well. The various surface chemistry modifications of the natural polymeric nanofibers and their potential applications in drug delivery, enzymology, catalysis, filtration, biosensing and tissue engineering are discussed. In addition, a brief presentation of an overview of challenges and future scope with the aim of making them a clinical success has been presented.

Sofi|Hasham S|HS|
Ashraf|Roqia|R|
Khan|Abdul Hanan|AH|
Beigh|Mushtaq A|MA|
Majeed|Shafaquat|S|
Sheikh|Faheem A|FA|


Diversity of CD2 subfamily receptors in cyprinid fishes.

Abstract: CD2 family receptor (CD2f) is evolutionarily conserved and is widely expressed by various types of leukocytes. To elucidate the phylogenetic diversity of the CD2f, we characterized CD2f in teleosts using ginbuna crucian carp and zebrafish. The identified CD2f isoforms of the ginbuna carp (caauCD2f) exhibited high sequence similarity to the mammalian CD2 subsets CD48, CD244, and CD319, but it was difficult to classify them into their respective mammalian CD2f based on sequence similarity, the presence of an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motif (ITSM), and phylogenetic tree analysis. Although the four caauCD2f isoforms share an extracellular domain with quite high identity (83-94% identity at the nucleic acid level), they differ in the number of ITSM motifs in their cytoplasmic tail. RT-PCR and in situ hybridization analyses showed that the caauCD2f isoforms are expressed by different cell populations, suggesting that they, like mammalian CD2f, have diverse roles. Interestingly, immunoglobulin (Ig) domain-like sequences with high identity to caauCD2fs are clustered close together within 0.6 Mbp on zebrafish chromosomes 1 and 2 (at least 8 and 35 sequences, respectively), and many pairs of the Ig domains share more than 90% identity at the amino acid level. Therefore, the teleost CD2fs with considerably high identity have been probably generated from a common ancestral Ig-domain gene by a very recent gene duplication event. These findings suggest that the identified CD2f acquired functional diversification through successive duplications together with the acquisition of ITSM.

CD2 family
Teleost
ITSM
Gene duplication
Evolution
Phylogeny


Alterations in Brain Function After Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Migraine in Children and Adolescents.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
This basic mechanistic study examined the changes in brain activation and resting-state connectivity after 8 weeks of CBT in youth with migraine.

BACKGROUND
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a psychological intervention that is effective in reducing pain in migraine patients. However, the neural mechanisms underlying CBT in adolescents with migraine are not yet known.

METHODS
Eighteen adolescents with migraine (15 females, age 15.1 ± 2.1 years [mean ± SD]) completed 8 weekly CBT sessions. Before the first and after the final CBT session, participants underwent structural and resting-state blood-oxygen-level-dependent contrast MRI scans. Arterial spin labeling was also used to examine brain activation during the resting state. For connectivity analyses, the right and left amygdala were chosen as seed regions. Relationships of the time courses within these seeds with voxels across the whole brain were evaluated.

RESULTS
Headache frequency decreased from 15 ± 7.4 headaches per month before CBT to 10 ± 7.4 after CBT (P < .001). After CBT, greater brain activations in frontal regions involved in cognitive regulation of pain were found. In addition, after CBT increased connectivity between the amygdala and frontal regions was observed. Associations between brain activation and amygdalar connectivity with a reduction in headache frequency were also observed.

CONCLUSIONS
Alterations in brain function and amygdalar connectivity with areas involved in nociceptive processing, cognitive function, and emotional regulation may underlie the ability of CBT to aid in the prevention of headaches in migraine patients.

Nahman-Averbuch|Hadas|H|
Schneider|Victor J|VJ|
Chamberlin|Leigh Ann|LA|
Kroon Van Diest|Ashley M|AM|
Peugh|James L|JL|
Lee|Gregory R|GR|
Radhakrishnan|Rupa|R|
Hershey|Andrew D|AD|
King|Christopher D|CD|
Coghill|Robert C|RC|
Powers|Scott W|SW|

cognitive behavioral therapy
migraine
amygdala
functional magnetic resonance imaging


Applications of a deep learning method for anti-aliasing and super-resolution in MRI.

Abstract: Magnetic resonance (MR) images with both high resolutions and high signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) are desired in many clinical and research applications. However, acquiring such images takes a long time, which is both costly and susceptible to motion artifacts. Acquiring MR images with good in-plane resolution and poor through-plane resolution is a common strategy that saves imaging time, preserves SNR, and provides one viewpoint with good resolution in two directions. Unfortunately, this strategy also creates orthogonal viewpoints that have poor resolution in one direction and, for 2D MR acquisition protocols, also creates aliasing artifacts. A deep learning approach called SMORE that carries out both anti-aliasing and super-resolution on these types of acquisitions using no external atlas or exemplars has been previously reported but not extensively validated. This paper reviews the SMORE algorithm and then demonstrates its performance in four applications with the goal to demonstrate its potential for use in both research and clinical scenarios. It is first shown to improve the visualization of brain white matter lesions in FLAIR images acquired from multiple sclerosis patients. Then it is shown to improve the visualization of scarring in cardiac left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction. Third, its performance on multi-view images of the tongue is demonstrated and finally it is shown to improve performance in parcellation of the brain ventricular system. Both visual and selected quantitative metrics of resolution enhancement are demonstrated.

Zhao|Can|C|
Shao|Muhan|M|
Carass|Aaron|A|
Li|Hao|H|
Dewey|Blake E|BE|
Ellingsen|Lotta M|LM|
Woo|Jonghye|J|
Guttman|Michael A|MA|
Blitz|Ari M|AM|
Stone|Maureen|M|
Calabresi|Peter A|PA|
Halperin|Henry|H|
Prince|Jerry L|JL|

Deep learning
Super-resolution
MRI
Aliasing
SMORE
Reconstruction
Segmentation


Temperature requirements for seed germination of Pereskia aculeata and Pereskia grandifolia.

Abstract: Pereskia aculeata and Pereskia grandifolia have been studied widely due to their high nutritional and therapeutic values. However, little is known about the biological requirements of their seeds for the various germination factors. Thus, this experiment aimed to evaluate the thermal effects on the germination of these species at the temperatures of 24°C, 27°C, 30°C, 33°C and 36°C. After verification of the existence of differences in the performance of germination, a non-linear regression was carried out, relating the germination to temperature and identifying its point of maximum efficiency. We found that the lowest synchronization indexes of germination were observed close to 30°C. The best germination response of the P. aculeata and P. grandifolia was observed at 30°C and 33°C, respectively, with greater germination strength and fewer days to attain 63.21% of germinations. The results obtained from the germination of P. aculeata and P. grandifolia can be described by the Weindull distribution model with three parameters, as proposed by Carneiro and Guedes (1992).

Souza|Lucéia F|LF|
Gasparetto|Bruno F|BF|
Lopes|Rodrigo R|RR|
Barros|Ingrid B I|IB|

Germination
Pereskia aculeata
Pereskia grandifolia
Cactaceae


Involvement of Residents Does Not Increase Postoperative Complications After Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures: An Analysis of 3251 Cases.

Abstract: Ankle fractures are common injuries frequently treated by foot and ankle surgeons. Therefore, it has become a core competency for orthopedic residency training. Surgical educators must balance the task of training residents with optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to determine the effect of resident involvement on the 30-day postoperative complication rates after open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures. A second objective of the present study was to determine the independent risk factors for complications after this procedure. We identified patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who had undergone open reduction internal fixation for ankle fractures from 2005 to 2012. Propensity score matching was used to help account for a potential selection bias. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses to identify the independent risk factors associated with short-term postoperative complications. A total of 3251 open reduction internal fixation procedures for ankle fractures were identified, of which 959 (29.4%) had resident involvement. Univariate (2.82% versus 4.54%; p = .024) and multivariate (odds ratio 0.71; p = .75) analyses demonstrated that resident involvement did not increase short-term complication rates. The independent risk factors for complications after open reduction internal fixation of ankle fractures included insulin-dependent diabetes, increasing age, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score, and longer operative times.

Louie|Philip K|PK|
Schairer|William W|WW|
Haughom|Bryan D|BD|
Bell|Joshua A|JA|
Campbell|Kevin J|KJ|
Levine|Brett R|BR|

D000328:Adult
D000367:Age Factors
D000704:Analysis of Variance
D064386:Ankle Fractures
D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
D005260:Female
D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal
D006801:Humans
D007396:Internship and Residency
D016015:Logistic Models
D008297:Male
D008875:Middle Aged
D000070799:Open Fracture Reduction
D061646:Operative Time
D019637:Orthopedic Procedures
D011183:Postoperative Complications
D057216:Propensity Score
D012307:Risk Factors

complication
ankle
residency training
morbidity
mortality


Iron-nickel bimetallic metal-organic frameworks as bifunctional Fenton-like catalysts for enhanced adsorption and degradation of organic contaminants under visible light: Kinetics and mechanistic studies.

Abstract: Iron-nickel bimetallic organic frameworks (FeNiX-BDC, H2BDC: terephthalic acid) were developed as bifunctional materials for adsorption and photo-Fenton degradation of organic dyes with different charge properties. Significantly enhanced adsorption capacity of FeNi1/15-BDC towards methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) was achieved, 5.3 and 2.6 times higher than that of pristine Fe-BDC, which was attributed to enlarged specific surface area and pore volume and the decreased surface charges induced by Ni doping. The adsorption kinetics demonstrated that chemisorption was dominant and intra-particle diffusion was the rate-controlling step. Two-stage degradation including slow induction stage and rapid oxidation stage fitted with pseudo-zero-order kinetics well. The increased rate constants (2.472 vs. 1.188 min-1 for MB; 0.616 vs. 0.421 min-1 for MO) in the induction stage as well as the superior removal capability by asynchronism relative to synchronism jointly corroborating the improved adsorption performance was favor for subsequent degradation. Notably, this heterogeneous system not only exhibited obvious advantages like wider pH working range (3-9), better stability and reusability of catalysts, but also achieved the dual objectives of in-situ decontamination and adsorbent regeneration. The coupling of adsorption and degradation along with synergism between photocatalysis and Fenton-like process are responsible for the reinforced removal of organic contaminants.

Wu|Qiangshun|Q|
Siddique|Muhammad Saboor|MS|
Yu|Wenzheng|W|

Adsorption regeneration
Cationic and anionic dyes
In situ decontamination
Nickel doping
Synergistic effect


Nursing education's response to the 1995 Institute of Medicine Report: Nursing, Health, and the Environment.

Abstract:
PROBLEM
Although environmental health has been central to nursing practice since the work of Florence Nightingale, the inclusion of environmental health concepts into nursing education has, for the most part, been confined to public health and occupational health nursing. The 1995 Institute of Medicine report, Nursing, Health, and the Environment, clearly stated that environmental health was an important aspect of nursing practice, but nurses were not adequately educated to address such in their practice.

METHODS
This article highlights the initiatives by nurse educators, faculty development programs, federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private foundations to educate and engage nurses in environmental health since 1995, with a focus on the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments. The historical summary was developed using professional literature, documents, personal interviews, and survey data.

FINDINGS
Nurses responded to the mandates of the 1995 Institute of Medicine report, Nursing, Health, and the Environment, in formal educational programs, through continuing education for nurses, workshops, symposia, and regional faculty development trainings. Since the formation of the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, collaborative efforts led to the development of competencies, nursing outreach to organizations such as the American Nursing Association, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to advance practice standards, academic curriculum, and the development of an electronic textbook.

CONCLUSION
The environmental health nursing agenda moved forward since the publication of the 1995 IOM report; however, the development of the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments accelerated the educational accomplishments through organizational collaboration.

Leffers|Jeanne|J|
McDermott-Levy|Ruth|R|
Smith|Claudia M|CM|
Sattler|Barbara|B|

D015969:National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, U.S., Health and Medicine Division


Outcomes of endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy with CO2 laser surgery: A retrospective study of 47 patients.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy (ECPM) using CO2 laser surgery presents a less invasive treatment technique when compared to transcervical cricopharyngeal myotomy.

METHODS
Forty-seven patients who underwent ECPM from 2002 until 2013 were included in this study. Patient characteristics, and preoperative and postoperative outcome and complications were scored by retrospective chart review and by using the Deglutition Handicap Index (DHI).

RESULTS
Overall, 40 of 47 patients (85%) experienced relief of symptoms postoperatively. Ten patients (25%) developed recurrent symptoms of dysphagia requiring re-laser surgery. All 40 patients were satisfied at the postoperative visit after an average of 1.3 interventions. DHI scores were better in patients with idiopathic dysfunction and neurologic disease, compared to dysfunction because of prior treatment of head and neck cancer. One patient developed mediastinitis that was successfully treated with antibiotics. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSION
ECPM is an effective treatment for cricopharyngeal dysfunction with a low rate of surgical morbidity and complications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1022-1027, 2016.

Hoesseini|Arta|A|
Honings|Jimmie|J|
Taus-Mohamedradja|Rabia|R|
van den Hoogen|Frank J A|FJ|
Marres|Henri A M|HA|
van den Broek|Guido B|GB|
Kalf|Hanneke|H|
Takes|Robert P|RP|

D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures

outcome
endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy
complications
cricopharyngeal dysfunction
indication


Novel findings in immunopathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis and their role in a model of precision medicine.

Abstract: Our understanding of the pathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is continuously evolving. The traditional description of CRS in terms of two phenotypes based on the presence or absence of nasal polyps belies the underlying intricate immunopathophysiological processes responsible for this condition. CRS is being increasingly recognized as a disease spectrum encompassing a range of inflammatory states in the sinonasal cavity, with non-type 2 inflammatory disease on one end, type 2 inflammatory, eosinophil-heavy disease on the other and an overlap of both in different proportions in between. Abundance in research on the immune mechanisms of CRS has revealed various new endotypes that hold promise as biomarkers for the development of targeted therapies in severe, uncontrolled CRS. The introduction of precision medicine to manage this chronic, complex condition is a step forward in providing individualized care for all patients with CRS. In this review, the latest research on the pathophysiology of CRS with a focus on potential novel biomarkers and treatment options over the last 2 years are summarized and integrated into a suggested model of precision medicine in CRS.

Xu|Xinni|X|
Ong|Yew Kwang|YK|
Wang|De Yun|Y|0000-0002-0909-2963

immunopathophysiology
chronic rhinosinusitis
precision medicine
endotypes
biomarkers


Care needs of dying patients and their family caregivers in hospice and palliative care in mainland China: a meta-synthesis of qualitative and quantitative studies.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the care needs of dying patients and their family caregivers in hospice and palliative care in mainland China.

METHODS
A search for English and Chinese quantitative and qualitative studies was performed using the following English databases: PubMed (Medline), CINAHL and PsycINFO, as well as Chinese databases: SinoMed and CNKI. The records were independently screened by two reviewers and critiqued using Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools. All quantitative data were transformed into qualitative data, which were converted into textual descriptions. Due to the diversity of included studies, a three-step analysis was performed: narrative summary, thematic analysis and presentation of integrated results in a narrative form. The qualitative findings were pooled using the meta-aggregation approach.

RESULTS
The literature search identified 2964 papers after removing duplicates, from which 18 were included (9 quantitative and 9 qualitative studies). All studies were conducted in mainland China. Quantitative studies involved cross-sectional surveys, and qualitative studies involved interviews for data collection. Two synthesised results of patients' needs were identified, including needs to be comfortable and experience a good death. Another two synthesised results of family caregivers' needs included needs to care for and improve the quality of life of patients, and to care for themselves well.

CONCLUSION
This study identified that patients and family caregivers have an increasing demand for professional care at the end of life. Professionals, especially nurses, should enact a patients' demand-centred practice to overcome the challenges of organisation, education, emotion and communication to provide high-quality end-of-life care.

Zhu|Shuqin|S| Zhu|Hanfei|H|0000-0001-5134-2287 Zhang|Xintong|X| Liu|Kouying|K| Chen|Zumei|Z| Yang|Xiaowen|X| Sun|Changxian|C| Xie|Weiping|W| Xu|Qin|Q| Li|Weiying|W| Pang|Dong|D| Cui|Yan|Y|0000-0002-0249-9883 Wang|Hong|H|

palliative care
adult palliative care
quality in health care