Motor development and sensory processing: A comparative study between preterm and term infants.

Abstract:
Infants born preterm and/or with low birth weight may present a clinical condition of organic instability and usually face a long period of hospitalization in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units, being exposed to biopsychosocial risk factors to their development due to decreased spontaneous movement and excessive sensory stimuli. This study assumes that there are relationships between the integration of sensory information of preterm infants, motor development and their subsequent effects.

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the sensory processing and motor development in preterm infants aged 4-6 months and compare performance data with their peers born at term.

METHOD
This was a cross-sectional and comparative study consisting of a group of preterm infants (n=15) and a group of term infants (n=15), assessed using the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants (TSFI) and the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS).

RESULTS
The results showed no significant association between motor performance on the AIMS scale (total score) and sensory processing in the TSFI (total score). However, all infants who scored abnormal in the total TSFI score, subdomain 1, and subdomain 5 presented motor performance at or below the 5th percentile on the AIMS scale.

CONCLUSION
Since all infants who presented definite alteration in tolerating tactile deep pressure and poor postural control are at risk of delayed gross motor development, there may be peculiarities not detected by the tests used that seem to establish some relationship between sensory processing and motor development.

Cabral|Thais Invenção|TI|
Pereira da Silva|Louise Gracelli|LG|
Tudella|Eloisa|E|
Simões Martinez|Cláudia Maria|CM|

Development
Sensory processing
At-risk infant
Preterm birth


The iron-sulfur cluster assembly network component NARFL is a key element in the cellular defense against oxidative stress.

Abstract: Aim of this study was to explore cellular changes associated with increased resistance to atmospheric oxygen using high-resolution DNA and RNA profiling combined with functional studies. Two independently selected oxygen-resistant substrains of HeLa cells (capable of proliferating at >80% O2, i.e. hyperoxia) were compared with their parental cells (adapted to growth at 20% O2, but unable to grow at >80% O2). A striking consistent alteration found to be associated with the oxygen-resistant state appeared to be an amplified and overexpressed region on chromosome 16p13.3 harboring 21 genes. The driver gene of this amplification was identified by functional studies as NARFL, which encodes a component of the cytosolic iron-sulfur cluster assembly system. In line with this result we found the cytosolic c-aconitase activity as well as the nuclear protein RTEL1, both Fe-S dependent proteins, to be protected by NARFL overexpression under hyperoxia. In addition, we observed a protective effect of NARFL against hyperoxia-induced loss of sister-chromatid cohesion. NARFL thus appeared to be a key factor in the cellular defense against hyperoxia-induced oxidative stress in human cells. Our findings suggest that new insight into age-related degenerative processes may come from studies that specifically address the involvement of iron-sulfur proteins.

Corbin|Monique V|MV|
Rockx|Davy A P|DA|
Oostra|Anneke B|AB|
Joenje|Hans|H|
Dorsman|Josephine C|JC|

D054730:Protein Interaction Domains and Motifs

NARFL
Oxygen-resistance
Sister-chromatid cohesion
Iron-sulfur proteins
Oxygen-sensitivity


Sensorized Assessment of Dynamic Locomotor Imagery in People with Stroke and Healthy Subjects.

Abstract: Dynamic motor imagery (dMI) is a motor imagery task associated with movements partially mimicking those mentally represented. As well as conventional motor imagery, dMI has been typically assessed by mental chronometry tasks. In this paper, an instrumented approach was proposed for quantifying the correspondence between upper and lower limb oscillatory movements performed on the spot during the dMI of walking vs. during actual walking. Magneto-inertial measurement units were used to measure limb swinging in three different groups: young adults, older adults and stroke patients. Participants were tested in four experimental conditions: (i) simple limb swinging; (ii) limb swinging while imagining to walk (dMI-task); (iii) mental chronometry task, without any movement (pure MI); (iv) actual level walking at comfortable speed. Limb swinging was characterized in terms of the angular velocity, frequency of oscillations and sinusoidal waveform. The dMI was effective at reproducing upper limb oscillations more similar to those occurring during walking for all the three groups, but some exceptions occurred for lower limbs. This finding could be related to the sensory feedback, stretch reflexes and ground reaction forces occurring for lower limbs and not for upper limbs during walking. In conclusion, the instrumented approach through wearable motion devices adds significant information to the current dMI approach, further supporting their applications in neurorehabilitation for monitoring imagery training protocols in patients with stroke.

stroke
motor imagery
walking
neurorehabilitation
gait
inertial sensors
instrumented movement analysis


Virus-Infected Melon Plants Emit Volatiles that Induce Gene Deregulation in Neighboring Healthy Plants.

Abstract: It is well described that viral infections stimulate the emission of plant volatiles able to recruit viral vectors thereby promoting virus spread. In contrast, much less is known on the effects that emitted volatiles may have on the metabolism of healthy neighboring plants, which are potential targets for new infections through vector transmission. Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) (genus Potyvirus, family Potyviridae) is an aphid-transmitted virus endemic in cucurbit crops worldwide. We have compared gene expression profiles of WMV-infected melon plants with those of healthy or healthy-but-cohabited-with-infected plants. Pathogenesis-related (PR) and small heat shock protein encoding genes were deregulated in cohabited plants, and PR deregulation depended on the distance to the infected plant. The signaling was short distance in the experimental conditions used, and cohabiting had a moderate effect on the plant susceptibility to WMV. Static headspace experiments showed that benzaldehyde and γ-butyrolactone were significantly over-emitted by WMV-infected plants. Altogether, our data suggest that perception of a volatile signal encoded by WMV-infected tissues triggers a response to prepare healthy tissues or/and healthy neighboring plants for the incoming infections.

watermelon mosaic virus
potyvirus
static headspace
benzaldehyde
gamma-butyrolactone
volatile organic compounds


A case series of right atrial mass in neonates: a diagnostic dilemma.

Abstract: The diagnosis of a right atrial mass in a neonate should be treated as an emergency. There are three major differential diagnoses for a right atrial mass-thrombus, infectious vegetation, and myxoma. Embolization of the mass can result in life-threatening complications and hence timely diagnosis and treatment is vital. This case series describes the clinical course, management, and outcome of four neonates who presented with a right atrial mass.

right atrial mass
Fungal ball
intracardiac vegetation
right atrial thrombus


Biofabrication of Gingival Fibroblast Cell-Laden Collagen/Strontium-Doped Calcium Silicate 3D-Printed Bi-Layered Scaffold for Osteoporotic Periodontal Regeneration.

Abstract: Periodontal disease is a chronic disease that can lead to lose teeth and even tooth loss if left untreated. Osteoporosis and periodontal disease share similar characteristics and associated factors. Current regenerative techniques for periodontal diseases are ineffective in restoring complete function and structural integrity of periodontium due to unwanted migration of cells. In this study, we applied the concept of guided tissue regeneration (GTR) and 3D fabricated gingival fibroblast cell-laden collagen/strontium-doped calcium silicate (SrCS) bi-layer scaffold for periodontal regeneration. The results revealed that the bioactive SrCS had a hydroxyapatite formation on its surface after 14 days of immersion and that SrCS could release Sr and Si ions even after 6 months of immersion. In addition, in vitro results showed that the bi-layer scaffold enhanced secretion of FGF-2, BMP-2, and VEGF from human gingival fibroblasts and increased secretion of osteogenic-related proteins ALP, BSP, and OC from WJMSCs. In vivo studies using animal osteoporotic models showed that the 3D-printed cell-laden collagen/SrCS bi-layer scaffold was able to enhance osteoporotic bone regeneration, as seen from the increased Tb.Th and BV/TV ratio and the histological stains. In conclusion, it can be seen that the bi-layer scaffolds enhanced osteogenesis and further showed that guided periodontal regeneration could be achieved using collagen/SrCS scaffolds, thus making it a potential candidate for future clinical applications.

gingival fibroblast
collagen
osteoporotic
bioprinting
strontium


Reviewing the current evidence supporting early B-cells as the cellular origin of Merkel cell carcinoma.

Abstract: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly malignant skin cancer characterized by early metastases and poor survival. Although MCC is a rare malignancy, its incidence is rapidly increasing in the U.S. and Europe. The discovery of the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) has enormously impacted our understanding of its etiopathogenesis and biology. MCCs are characterized by trilinear differentiation, comprising the expression of neuroendocrine, epithelial and B-lymphoid lineage markers. To date, it is generally accepted that the initial assumption of MCC originating from Merkel cells (MCs) is unlikely. This is owed to their post-mitotic character, absence of MCPyV in MCs and discrepant protein expression pattern in comparison to MCC. Evidence from mouse models suggests that epidermal/dermal stem cells might be of cellular origin in MCC. The recently formulated hypothesis of MCC originating from early B-cells is based on morphology, the consistent expression of early B-cell lineage markers and the finding of clonal immunoglobulin chain rearrangement in MCC cells. In this review we elaborate on the cellular ancestry of MCC, the identification of which could pave the way for novel and more effective therapeutic regimens.

Sauer|C M|CM|
Haugg|A M|AM|
Chteinberg|E|E|
Rennspiess|D|D|
Winnepenninckx|V|V|
Speel|E-J|EJ|
Becker|J C|JC|
Kurz|A K|AK|
Zur Hausen|A|A|

Merkel cell
Merkel cell carcinoma
Stem cell
B-cell differentiation
Cell of origin
Cutaneous B-cell lymphoma
Lymphoma
Merkel cell polyoma virus
Oncogenesis
Pathogenesis


New approach to the risk variables for administration of fibrinogen in patients with postpartum hemorrhage by using cluster analysis.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To analyze all the variables in women who received fibrinogen for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) using hierarchical cluster analysis, to provide greater insight into the risk variables involved in these women.

METHODS
This retrospective study of women with at least 500 mL of bleeding at birth or during the postpartum period and treated with fibrinogen was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Atatürk University School of Medicine from January 2013 to January 2018. Data on the women were obtained from medical records and various risk variables were recorded and analyzed using hierarchical cluster analysis.

RESULTS
A total of 114 women with PPH were included in the study. Based on a dendrogram, three main clusters of similar quality variables were created: 1) gravida, parity, age, cervical/vaginal hematoma, laparotomy, hypogastric artery ligation, uterine artery embolization, uterine artery ligation, uterine atony, distance from outer center, lowest hemoglobin, preoperative platelets, endometritis, preoperative white blood cells; 2) lowest fibrinogen, highest fibrinogen, type of birth, placenta invasion anomaly, Bakri balloon tamponade, postpartum hysterectomy, preoperative activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), preoperative international normalized ratio (INR), placental abruption, in-utero ex fetus; 3) postoperative APTT, postoperative INR, maternal mortality, erythrocyte transfusion, plasma transfusion, hospital stay time, disseminated intravascular coagulation/HELLP syndrome, highest hemoglobin, blood group, postoperative platelets, platelet transfusion, pre-eclampsia/eclampsia, fibrinogen extract.

CONCLUSION
According to the cluster analysis, we should keep fibrinogen extract in the foreground especially in the treatment of hemorrhage in patients with variable conditions. As a result, we can determine whether fibrinogen extract, which has a high economic cost, should be kept at each center. We can also direct which patient will be referred in accordance with the referral steps.

Yilmaz|Emsal P T|EPT|
Celik|Yusuf|Y|
Topdagi|Yunus E|YE|
Guzel|Ali I|AI|
Al|Ragıp A|RA|

Fibrinogen
Postpartum hemorrhage
Cluster analysis
Uterine atony
Postpartum hysterectomy
Maternal mortality
Coagulopathy


Immunophenotypic features of dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma - insights from BRG1/INI1-deficient tumours.

Abstract:
AIMS
Dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma (DDEC) is defined by the presence of an undifferentiated carcinoma together with an endometrioid carcinoma. Inactivation of SMARCA4 (BRG1) and inactivation of SMARCB1 (INI1) were recently described as potential mechanisms underlying the histological dedifferentiation. The aim of this study was to characterize the immunophenotypic features of DDECs, particularly in cases with prototypical histological and molecular features (BRG1/INI1 deficiency).

METHODS AND RESULTS
We evaluated PAX8, oestrogen receptor (ER) and p53 immunostaining in the endometrioid and the undifferentiated components of 20 BRG1/INI1-deficient DDECs and 15 BRG1/INI1-intact DDECs, and compared the results with those of 23 grade 3 endometrioid carcinomas. The differentiated endometrioid component was positive for PAX8 and/or ER in 19 of 20 BRG1/INI1-deficient DDECs, whereas the corresponding undifferentiated component of all 20 tumours showed a complete absence of PAX8 and ER staining. All except one of the BRG1/INI1-deficient tumours showed a wild-type p53 staining pattern. PAX8 and ER expression in the undifferentiated component was absent in 67% and 80% of BRG1/INI1-intact DDECs, respectively, whereas 47% of the BRG1/INI1-intact DDECs showed a mutated p53 staining pattern. In comparison, absent PAX8 expression and absent ER expression were each observed in the more solid area of 48% and 48% of grade 3 endometrioid carcinomas.

CONCLUSIONS
The consistent absence of PAX8 and ER expression in molecularly defined (BRG1/INI1-deficient) DDECs suggests that the loss of PAX8 and ER expression is a fundamental feature of dedifferentiation. The frequent findings of a mutated p53 staining pattern in BRG1/INI1-intact DDECs indicate that BRG1/INI1-intact DDECs may be biologically different from BRG1/INI1-deficient tumours.

Hoang|Lien N|LN|
Lee|Yow-Shan|YS|
Karnezis|Anthony N|AN|
Tessier-Cloutier|Basile|B|
Almandani|Noorah|N|
Coatham|Mackenzie|M|
Gilks|C Blake|CB|
Soslow|Robert A|RA|
Stewart|Colin J R|CJ|
Köbel|Martin|M|
Lee|Cheng-Han|CH|

D000328:Adult
D000368:Aged
D000369:Aged, 80 and over
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor
D018269:Carcinoma, Endometrioid
D054337:Cell Dedifferentiation
D004265:DNA Helicases
D016889:Endometrial Neoplasms
D005260:Female
D006801:Humans
D007150:Immunohistochemistry
D016130:Immunophenotyping
D008875:Middle Aged
D009687:Nuclear Proteins
D000072636:PAX8 Transcription Factor
D011960:Receptors, Estrogen
D000071796:SMARCB1 Protein
D014157:Transcription Factors
D016159:Tumor Suppressor Protein p53


Atom-to-atom Mapping: A Benchmarking Study of Popular Mapping Algorithms and Consensus Strategies.

Abstract: In this paper, we compare the most popular Atom-to-Atom Mapping (AAM) tools: ChemAxon,[1] Indigo,[2] RDTool,[3] NameRXN (NextMove),[4] and RXNMapper[5] which implement different AAM algorithms. An open-source RDTool program was optimized, and its modified version ("new RDTool") was considered together with several consensus mapping strategies. The Condensed Graph of Reaction approach was used to calculate chemical distances and develop the "AAM fixer" algorithm for an automatized correction of erroneous mapping. The benchmarking calculations were performed on a Golden dataset containing 1851 manually mapped and curated reactions. The best performing RXNMapper program together with the AMM Fixer was applied to map the USPTO database. The Golden dataset, mapped USPTO and optimized RDTool are available in the GitHub repository https://github.com/Laboratoire-de-Chemoinformatique.

atom-to-atom mapping
chemical reactions
data cleaning


Potential role of two novel agonists of thyroid hormone receptor-β on liver regeneration.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
Although the hepatomitogenic activity of triiodothyronine (T3) is well established, the wide range of harmful effects exerted by this hormone precludes its use in liver regenerative therapy. Selective agonists of the beta isoform of thyroid hormone receptor (TRβ) do not exhibit T3-induced cardiotoxicity and show a good safety profile in patients with NASH. The aim of this study was to investigate whether two novel TRβ agonists, the prodrug TG68 and the active compound IS25 could stimulate hepatocyte proliferation without T3/TRα-dependent side effects.

METHODS
Rats were treated with three different doses (12.5, 25 and 50 μg/100 g body weight) for one week. Hepatocyte proliferation, liver injury and serum biochemical parameters were measured by immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS
Both drugs increased hepatocyte proliferation as assessed by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation (from 14% to 28% vs 5% of controls) and mitotic activity. Enhanced proliferation occurred in the absence of significant signs of liver injury as shown by lack of increased serum transaminase levels or of apoptosis. No cardiac or renal hypertrophy typically associated with treatment with T3 was observed. Importantly, no proliferation of pancreatic acinar cells, such as that seen after administration of T3 or the TRβ agonist GC1 was detected following either TG68 or IS25, demonstrating the hepato-specificity of these novel TRβ agonists.

CONCLUSIONS
The present study shows that TG68 and IS25 induce massive hepatocyte proliferation without overt toxicity. Hence, these agents may have a significant clinical application for regenerative therapies in liver transplantation or other surgical settings.

hepatocyte proliferation
TRβ selective agonists
regenerative medicine
thyromimetics


Fundamentals and commercial aspects of nanobiosensors in point-of-care clinical diagnostics.

Abstract: Among various problems faced by mankind, health-related concerns are prevailing since long which are commonly found in the form of infectious diseases and different metabolic disorders. The clinical cure and management of such abnormalities are greatly dependent on the availability of their diagnoses. The conventional diagnostics used for such purposes are extremely powerful; however, most of these are limited by time-consuming protocols and require higher volume of test sample, etc. A new evolving technology called "biosensor" in this context shows an enormous potential for an alternative diagnostic device, which constantly compliments the conventional diagnoses. In this review, we have summarized different kinds of biosensors and their fundamental understanding with various state-of-the-art examples. A critical examination of different types of biosensing mechanisms is also reported highlighting the advantages of electrochemical biosensors for its great potentials in next-generation commercially viable modules. In recent years, a number of nanomaterials are extensively used to enhance not only the performance of biosensing mechanism, but also obtain robust, cheap, and fabrication-friendly durable mechanism. Herein, we have summarized the importance of nanomaterials in biosensing mechanism, their syntheses as well as characterization techniques. Subsequently, we have discussed the probe fabrication processes along with various techniques for assessing its analytical performances and potentials for commercial viability.

Mahato|Kuldeep|K|
Maurya|Pawan Kumar|PK|
Chandra|Pranjal|P|

Commercialization
Biosensor
Nanomaterial
Healthcare
Point-of-care detection


Serum biomarkers of inflammation and muscle strength among women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
Muscle strength is an important determinant of physical function in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Serum biomarkers of inflammation, including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP), are associated with differences in muscle strength among individuals without rheumatologic disease. We examined whether serum levels of IL-6 and CRP are associated with upper and lower extremity muscle strength among adult women with SLE.

METHODS
One hundred thirty-six women with SLE participated in this cross-sectional study. High-sensitivity CRP was analyzed by nephelometry. IL-6 serum levels were analyzed by high sensitivity enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Upper and lower extremity muscle strength were assessed by grip strength and peak torque of knee extension and flexion, respectively. Regression analyses modeled associations of CRP and IL-6 with upper and lower extremity muscle strength controlling for age, SLE duration, physical activity, prednisone use, BMI, plaquenil use, and pain.

RESULTS
Higher serum levels of IL-6 and CRP were associated with significantly weaker upper and lower extremity muscle strength even when controlling for covariates.

CONCLUSIONS
Increased serum IL-6 and CRP are associated with clinically significant differences in upper and lower extremity muscle strength and may be useful in identifying those at risk for weakness and decreased physical function.

Andrews|James S|JS|
Trupin|Laura|L|
Hough|Catherine L|CL|
Daikh|David I|DI|
Yelin|Edward H|EH|
Katz|Patricia P|PP|

Inflammation
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Cytokines
Outcomes research


Obstetrical outcomes of ART pregnancies in patients with male factor infertility.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
Pregnancies conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are associated with an increased incidence of obstetrical and neonatal complications. With the growing rate of male factor infertility, which is unique by not involving the maternal milieu, we aimed to assess whether obstetrical outcomes differed between IVF/ICSI pregnancies due to male factor infertility and those not due to male factor infertility.

METHODS
A retrospective cohort study of women receiving IVF/ICSI treatments at a single hospital over a five-year period was involved in the study. Inclusion criteria were women with a viable pregnancy that delivered at the same hospital. Pregnancies were divided into male factor only related and non-male factor-related infertility. The groups were compared for several maternal and neonatal complications.

RESULTS
In total, 225 patients met the study criteria, with 94 and 131 pregnancies belonging to the male factor and non-male factor groups, respectively. Demographic and clinical characteristics were comparable, except for younger maternal age and higher incidence of twin pregnancies in the male factor group. A sub-analysis for singleton pregnancies revealed a less likelihood of cesarean delivery, preterm birth, and male gender offspring in the male factor group (p < 0.05). These differences were not observed in the sub-analysis for twin pregnancies. Other outcome measures were similar in both groups, both for singleton and twin pregnancies.

CONCLUSION
Singleton IVF pregnancies due to male factor infertility are associated with a reduced incidence of some adverse outcomes, likely due to lack of underlying maternal medical conditions or laboratory conditions related to ICSI. Our findings require validation by further studies on larger samples.

Male factor infertility
In vitro fertilization
Assisted reproductive technology
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
Neonatal outcome
Pregnancy outcomes


Compensatory activation in fronto-parietal cortices among HIV-infected persons during a monetary decision-making task.

Abstract: HIV infection can cause direct and indirect damage to the brain and is consistently associated with neurocognitive disorders, including impairments in decision-making capacities. The tendency to devalue rewards that are delayed (temporal discounting) is relevant to a range of health risk behaviors. Making choices about delayed rewards engages the executive control network of the brain, which has been found to be affected by HIV. In this case-control study of 18 HIV-positive and 17 HIV-negative adults, we examined the effects of HIV on brain activation during a temporal discounting task. Functional MRI (fMRI) data were collected while participants made choices between smaller, sooner rewards and larger, delayed rewards. Choices were individualized based on participants' unique discount functions, so each participant experienced hard (similarly valued), easy (disparately valued), and control choices. fMRI data were analyzed using a mixed-effects model to identify group-related differences associated with choice difficulty. While there was no difference between groups in behavioral performance, the HIV-positive group demonstrated significantly larger increases in activation within left parietal regions and bilateral prefrontal regions during easy trials and within the right prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate during hard trials. Increasing activation within the prefrontal regions was associated with lower nadir CD4 cell count and risk-taking propensity. These results support the hypothesis that HIV infection can alter brain functioning in regions that support decision making, providing further evidence for HIV-associated compensatory activation within fronto-parietal cortices. A history of immunosuppression may contribute to these brain changes. Hum Brain Mapp 37:2455-2467, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Meade|Christina S|CS|
Cordero|Daniella M|DM|
Hobkirk|Andrea L|AL|
Metra|Brandon M|BM|
Chen|Nan-Kuei|NK|
Huettel|Scott A|SA|

D000293:Adolescent
D000328:Adult
D001931:Brain Mapping
D018791:CD4 Lymphocyte Count
D016022:Case-Control Studies
D003657:Decision Making
D005625:Frontal Lobe
D015658:HIV Infections
D006801:Humans
D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging
D008875:Middle Aged
D009483:Neuropsychological Tests
D010296:Parietal Lobe
D012309:Risk-Taking
D055815:Young Adult

HIV
temporal discounting
decision making
executive function
functional magnetic resonance imaging


Inactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway underlies inhibitory role of microRNA-129-5p in epithelial-mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis of prostate cancer by targeting ZIC2.

Abstract:
Background
Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common disease that often occurs among older men and a frequent cause of malignancy associated death in this group. microRNA (miR)-129-5p has been identified as an essential regulator with a significant role in the prognosis of PC. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate roles of miR-129-5p in PCa.

Methods
Microarray analysis was conducted to identify PCa-related genes. The expression of miR-129-5p and ZIC2 in PCa tissues was investigated. To understand the role of miR-129-5p and ZIC2 in PCa, DU145 cells were transfected with mimic or inhibitor of miR-129-5p, or si-ZIC2 and the expression of Wnt, β-catenin, E-cadherin, vimentin, N-cadherin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and CD31, as well as the extent of β-catenin phosphorylation was determined. In addition, cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, apoptosis and tumorigenesis were detected.

Results
miR-129-5p was poorly expressed and ZIC2 was highly expressed in PCa tissues. Down-regulation of ZIC2 or overexpression of miR-129-5p reduced the expression of ZIC2, Wnt, β-catenin, N-cadherin, vimentin, and β-catenin phosphorylation but increased the expression of E-cadherin. Importantly, miR-129-5p overexpression significantly reduced cell migration, invasion, angiogenesis and tumorigenesis while increasing cell apoptosis.

Conclusions
The findings of the present study indicated that overexpression of miR-129-5p or silencing of ZIC2 could inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and angiogenesis in PCa through blockage of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Jiang|Zhenming|Z| Zhang|Yuxi|Y|0000-0003-1802-6754 Chen|Xi|X| Wu|Pingeng|P| Chen|Dong|D|

Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
microRNA-129-5p
Angiogenesis
Prostate cancer
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Zinc-finger protein of the cerebellum 2


Matrix metalloproteinase-9-dependent mechanisms of reduced contractility and increased stiffness in the aging heart.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) collectively degrade all extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Of the MMPs, MMP-9 has the strongest link to the development of cardiac dysfunction. Aging associates with increased MMP-9 expression in the left ventricle (LV) and reduced cardiac function. We investigated the effect of MMP-9 deletion on the cardiac ECM in aged animals.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN
We used male and female middle-aged (10- to16-month old) and old (20- to 24-month old) wild-type (WT) and MMP-9 null mice (n = 6/genotype/age). LVs were decellularized to remove highly abundant mitochondrial proteins that could mask identification of relative lower abundant components, analyzed by shotgun proteomics, and proteins of interest validated by immunoblot.

RESULTS
Elastin microfibril interface-located protein 1 (EMILIN-1) decreased with age in WT (p < 0.05), but not in MMP-9 null. EMILIN-1 promotes integrin-dependent cell adhesion and EMILIN-1 deficiency has been associated with vascular stiffening. Talin-2, a cytoskeletal protein, was elevated with age in WT (p < 0.05), and MMP-9 deficiency blunted this increase. Talin-2 is highly expressed in adult cardiac myocytes, transduces mechanical force to the ECM, and is activated by increases in substrate stiffness. Our results suggest that MMP-9 deletion may reduce age-related myocardial stiffness, which may explain improved cardiac function in MMP-9 null animals.

CONCLUSIONS
We identified age-related changes in the cardiac proteome that are MMP-9 dependent, suggesting MMP-9 as a possible therapeutic target for the aging patient.

Padmanabhan Iyer|Rugmani|R|
Chiao|Ying Ann|YA|
Flynn|Elizabeth R|ER|
Hakala|Kevin|K|
Cates|Courtney A|CA|
Weintraub|Susan T|ST|
de Castro Brás|Lisandra E|LE|

Aging
Matrix metalloproteinase
MMP-9
Left ventricle
Cardiac stiffness
EMILIN
Talin


SHG/TPEF-based image technology improves liver fibrosis assessment of minimally sized needle biopsies.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND AIMS
Sampling size variability of liver biopsy remains a major limitation in the assessment of liver fibrosis. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of a fully quantitative method (second harmonic generation/two-photon excitation fluorescence, SHG/TPEF based) in "short" liver biopsy samples.

METHODS
Liver biopsy samples from chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients were constructed into "virtual" biopsies with different lengths. The original and "virtual" samples were measured by SHG/TPEF-based technology to obtain qFibrosis score, respectively. Here, ΔqFibrosis was defined as difference of qFibrosis between original biopsy and "virtual" biopsy. Equivalence test was used to compare ΔqFibrosis with the clinically acceptable error (deviation of 0.50) in each group.

RESULTS
In real-world practice, qFibrosis score increased significantly with fibrosis progression in ≥ 1.5-cm-, 1.0-1.5-cm-, and 0.5-1.0-cm-long specimens (p < 0.05), compared with ≤ 0.5-cm-long specimens (p > 0.05). In virtual biopsy samples with specified length, the equivalence was confirmed in 0.5-1.0-cm- and 1.0-1.5-cm-long specimens (0.27 vs. 0.22, p < 0.001), whereas not in ≤ 0.5-cm-long specimens (0.53, p > 0.05). The number of cross-linked collagen fibers, the total and aggregated collagen proportionate area, and the collagen strings in number, length, width and perimeter showed excellent consistency with original biopsy samples in 0.5-1.0-cm- and 1.0-1.5-cm-long specimens (ICC > 0.90).

CONCLUSIONS
The use of SHG/TPEF-based image technology may give useful suggestive information in evaluation of CHB-related liver fibrosis for the short sample (biopsy length > 0.5 cm).

Liver fibrosis
Liver biopsy
Quantification
Sampling error


Non contiguous-finished genome sequence and description of Peptoniphilus senegalensis sp. nov.

Abstract: Peptoniphilus senegalensis strain JC140(T) sp. nov., is the type strain of P. senegalensis sp. nov., a new species within the genus Peptoniphilus. This strain, whose genome is described here, was isolated from the fecal flora of a healthy patient. P. senegalensis strain JC140(T) is an obligate Gram-positive anaerobic coccus. Here we describe the features of this organism, together with the complete genome sequence and annotation. The 1,840,641 bp long genome (1 chromosome but no plasmid) exhibits a G+C content of 32.2% and contains 1,744 protein-coding and 23 RNA genes, including 3 rRNA genes.

Mishra|Ajay Kumar|AK|
Lagier|Jean-Christophe|JC|
Nguyen|Thi-Tien|TT|
Raoult|Didier|D|
Fournier|Pierre-Edouard|PE|


Breaking bad: manipulation of the host response by Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Abstract: Recent metagenomic and mechanistic studies are consistent with a new model of periodontal pathogenesis. This model proposes that periodontal disease is initiated by a synergistic and dysbiotic microbial community rather than by a select few bacteria traditionally known as "periopathogens." Low-abundance bacteria with community-wide effects that are critical for the development of dysbiosis are now known as keystone pathogens, the best-documented example of which is Porphyromonas gingivalis. Here, we review established mechanisms by which P. gingivalis interferes with host immunity and enables the emergence of dysbiotic communities. We integrate the role of P. gingivalis with that of other bacteria acting upstream and downstream in pathogenesis. Accessory pathogens act upstream to facilitate P. gingivalis colonization and co-ordinate metabolic activities, whereas commensals-turned pathobionts act downstream and contribute to destructive inflammation. The recent concepts of keystone pathogens, along with polymicrobial synergy and dysbiosis, have profound implications for the development of therapeutic options for periodontal disease.

Periodontitis
Dysbiosis
P. gingivalis
Inflammation
Immune subversion


Neurosensory recovery after trauma to the orbital floor: a prospective trial with dexamethasone.

Abstract: Our aims were to document the occurrence of neurosensory disturbances of the infraorbital nerve six months after operation for an orbital blow-out fracture, and to find out whether dexamethasone facilitates neurosensory regeneration. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the study group was given a total of dexamethasone 30mg, whereas the control group were given neither glucocorticoid nor placebo. Each patient's infraorbital neurosensory state was recorded preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and six months later. A total of 18 patients were included, eight of whom had neurosensory disturbances six months after the initial trauma that was not affected by dexamethasone. Six of the seven patients who had a delay of seven days or more between trauma and operation had significantly prolonged disturbance at the 180-day clinical follow up compared with those in whom it was less than seven days (p=0.005). Other possible predictors made no significant difference. Although dexamethasone did not facilitate sensory recovery, its benefits in the management of pain and reduction of swelling may justify its use in the management of facial trauma in selected patients.

Haapanen|A|A|
Thorén|H|H|
Apajalahti|S|S|
Suominen|A L|AL|
Snäll|J|J|

dexamethasone
Neurosensory disturbance
facial trauma
orbital fracture


Patient-centered handovers between hospital and primary health care: an assessment of medical records.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Handovers between hospital and primary healthcare possess a risk for patient care. It has been suggested that the exchange of a comprehensive medical record containing both medical and patient-centered aspects of information can support high quality handovers.

OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to explore patient handovers between primary and secondary care by assessing the levels of patient-centeredness of medical records used for communication between care settings and by assessing continuity of patient care.

METHODS
Quantitative content analysis was used to analyze the 76 medical records of 22 Swedish patients with chronic diseases and/or polypharmacy.

RESULTS
The levels of patient-centeredness documented in handover records were assessed as poor, especially in regards to informing patients and achieving a shared understanding/agreement about their treatment plans. The follow up of patients' medical and care needs were remotely related to the discharge information sent from the hospital to the primary care providers, or to the hospital provider's request for patient follow-up in primary healthcare.

CONCLUSION
The lack of patient-centered documentation either indicates poor patient-centeredness in the encounters or low priority given by the providers on documenting such information. Based on this small study, discharge information sent to primary healthcare cannot be considered as a means of securing continuity of patient care. Healthcare providers need to be aware that neither their discharge notes nor their referrals will guarantee continuity of patient care.

Flink|Maria|M|
Bergenbrant Glas|Susanne|S|
Airosa|Fanny|F|
Öhlén|Gunnar|G|
Barach|Paul|P|
Hansagi|Helen|H|
Brommels|Mats|M|
Olsson|Mariann|M|

D002908:Chronic Disease
D004282:Documentation
D057286:Electronic Health Records
D006760:Hospitalization
D006801:Humans
D062527:Meaningful Use
D063886:Patient Discharge Summaries
D062209:Patient Handoff
D018802:Patient-Centered Care
D011320:Primary Health Care
D013548:Sweden
D000069341:Transitional Care

Care transitions
Continuity of care
Medical record system
Patient-centered care


Interocular biometric parameters comparison measured with swept-source technology.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
In the event that any ocular parameter involved in the calculation of intraocular lens power could not be properly measured in one eye, it is important to know whether clinically relevant differences between both eyes can be expected. The aim of this work is to evaluate the symmetry of interocular biometric parameters.

METHODS
This was a prospective, cross-sectional study involving 4090 subjects. Patients underwent consecutive swept-source optical biometry performed with an IOLMaster 700 (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany). The biometric parameters that were evaluated were: axial length (AL), mean anterior curvature (Rm), anterior chamber depth (ACD), crystalline lens thickness (LT), central corneal thickness (CCT) and white-to-white (WTW). The Chang-Waring chord distance (CWC-D) and the Chang-Waring chord angle (CWC-A) were also evaluated.

RESULTS
There is an excellent correlation between both eyes for almost all the biometric parameters under study, with the exception of the CWC. Agreement for AL was better for eyes shorter than 24 mm. The linearity of the OD-vs-OS relationship can be correctly assumed for all parameters (Cusum test: p > 0.05 in all cases).

CONCLUSION
There are no clinically significant interocular differences for the biometric parameters under study, although for all of them, except the LT, statistically significant differences did arise. In the case of AL, moderate differences can be expected in eyes larger than 24 mm.

Swept-source
Biometry
IOLMaster 700
Interocular symmetry


Toxicity of engineered nanomaterials mediated by nano-bio-eco interactions.

Abstract: Engineered nanomaterials may adversely impact human health and environmental safety by nano-bio-eco interactions not fully understood. Their interaction with biotic and abiotic environments are varied and complicated, ranging from individual species to entire ecosystems. Their behavior, transport, fate, and toxicological profiles in these interactions, addressed in a pioneering study, are subsequently seldom reported. Biological, chemical, and physical dimension properties, the so-called multidimensional characterization, determine interactions. Intermediate species generated in the dynamic process of nanomaterial transformation increase the complexity of assessing nanotoxicity. We review recent progress in understanding these interactions, discuss the challenges of the study, and suggest future research directions.

He|Xiaojia|X|
Fu|Peter|P|
Aker|Winfred G|WG|
Hwang|Huey-Min|HM|

Engineered nanomaterials
nanotoxicity
nanotechnology
nano–bio–eco interactions


Miniature curved artificial compound eyes.

Abstract: In most animal species, vision is mediated by compound eyes, which offer lower resolution than vertebrate single-lens eyes, but significantly larger fields of view with negligible distortion and spherical aberration, as well as high temporal resolution in a tiny package. Compound eyes are ideally suited for fast panoramic motion perception. Engineering a miniature artificial compound eye is challenging because it requires accurate alignment of photoreceptive and optical components on a curved surface. Here, we describe a unique design method for biomimetic compound eyes featuring a panoramic, undistorted field of view in a very thin package. The design consists of three planar layers of separately produced arrays, namely, a microlens array, a neuromorphic photodetector array, and a flexible printed circuit board that are stacked, cut, and curved to produce a mechanically flexible imager. Following this method, we have prototyped and characterized an artificial compound eye bearing a hemispherical field of view with embedded and programmable low-power signal processing, high temporal resolution, and local adaptation to illumination. The prototyped artificial compound eye possesses several characteristics similar to the eye of the fruit fly Drosophila and other arthropod species. This design method opens up additional vistas for a broad range of applications in which wide field motion detection is at a premium, such as collision-free navigation of terrestrial and aerospace vehicles, and for the experimental testing of insect vision theories.

Floreano|Dario|D|
Pericet-Camara|Ramon|R|
Viollet|Stéphane|S|
Ruffier|Franck|F|
Brückner|Andreas|A|
Leitel|Robert|R|
Buss|Wolfgang|W|
Menouni|Mohsine|M|
Expert|Fabien|F|
Juston|Raphaël|R|
Dobrzynski|Michal Karol|MK|
L'Eplattenier|Geraud|G|
Recktenwald|Fabian|F|
Mallot|Hanspeter A|HA|
Franceschini|Nicolas|N|

Micro-opto-electromechanical systems
bioinspired robotics
optic flow sensor
wide-angle vision


Physiological Regulation at 9 Months of Age in Infants Prenatally Exposed to Cigarettes.

Abstract: The primary purpose of this study was to examine the association between prenatal cigarette exposure and physiological regulation at 9 months of age. Specifically, we explored the possibility that any association between prenatal cigarette exposure and infant physiological regulation was moderated by postnatal environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure or infant gender. We evaluated whether male infants with prenatal cigarette exposure or infants who were also exposed to ETS after birth had the highest levels of physiological dysregulation. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) was obtained from 206 (142 exposed and 64 nonexposed) infants during a baseline period and during procedures designed to elicit both positive and negative affect. There was a significant suppression of RSA during the negative affect task for nonexposed infants but not for exposed infants. Postnatal ETS exposure did not moderate this association; however, gender did moderate this association such that boys with prenatal cigarette exposure had a significant increase in RSA rather than the suppression seen among both nonexposed boys and girls. These results provide additional support for the idea that boys are particularly vulnerable to the effects of prenatal cigarette exposure.

Schuetze|Pamela|P|
Eiden|Rina D|RD|
Colder|Craig R|CR|
Gray|Teresa R|TR|
Huestis|Marilyn A|MA|

Physiological Regulation
Prenatal cigarette exposure
Gender
Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Exposure


Sustained release of engineered stromal cell-derived factor 1-α from injectable hydrogels effectively recruits endothelial progenitor cells and preserves ventricular function after myocardial infarction.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Exogenously delivered chemokines have enabled neovasculogenic myocardial repair in models of ischemic cardiomyopathy; however, these molecules have short half-lives in vivo. In this study, we hypothesized that the sustained delivery of a synthetic analog of stromal cell-derived factor 1-α (engineered stromal cell-derived factor analog [ESA]) induces continuous homing of endothelial progenitor cells and improves left ventricular function in a rat model of myocardial infarction.

METHODS AND RESULTS
Our previously designed ESA peptide was synthesized by the addition of a fluorophore tag for tracking. Hyaluronic acid was chemically modified with hydroxyethyl methacrylate to form hydrolytically degradable hydrogels through free-radical-initiated crosslinking. ESA was encapsulated in hyaluronic acid hydrogels during gel formation, and then ESA release, along with gel degradation, was monitored for more than 4 weeks in vitro. Chemotactic properties of the eluted ESA were assessed at multiple time points using rat endothelial progenitor cells in a transwell migration assay. Finally, adult male Wistar rats (n=33) underwent permanent ligation of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery, and 100 µL of saline, hydrogel alone, or hydrogel+25 µg ESA was injected into the borderzone. ESA fluorescence was monitored in animals for more than 4 weeks, after which vasculogenic, geometric, and functional parameters were assessed to determine the therapeutic benefit of each treatment group. ESA release was sustained for 4 weeks in vitro, remained active, and enhanced endothelial progenitor cell chemotaxis. In addition, ESA was detected in the rat heart >3 weeks when delivered within the hydrogels and significantly improved vascularity, ventricular geometry, ejection fraction, cardiac output, and contractility compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS
We have developed a hydrogel delivery system that sustains the release of a bioactive endothelial progenitor cell chemokine during a 4-week period that preserves ventricular function in a rat model of myocardial infarction.

MacArthur|John W|JW|
Purcell|Brendan P|BP|
Shudo|Yasuhiro|Y|
Cohen|Jeffrey E|JE|
Fairman|Alex|A|
Trubelja|Alen|A|
Patel|Jay|J|
Hsiao|Philip|P|
Yang|Elaine|E|
Lloyd|Kelsey|K|
Hiesinger|William|W|
Atluri|Pavan|P|
Burdick|Jason A|JA|
Woo|Y Joseph|YJ|

injectable hydrogels
endothelial progenitor cell
myocardial infarction
angiogenesis


Meta-analysis of the association between selenium and gastric cancer risk.

Abstract: To clarify the effects of selenium level on the risk of gastric cancer (GC) and GC mortality, a meta-analysis was performed. Related studies were identified from PubMed, EMBASE, Springer Link, Ovid, Chinese Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Chinese Biology Medicine (CBM). Pooled ORs and 95% CIs were used to assess the strengthof the associations. A total of 8 studies including 17834 subjects were involved in this meta-analysis. High selenium level was associated with GC risk in case-control study (OR = 0.62, 95% CI 0.44-0.89, P = 0.009; I2 = 52%) and cohort study (OR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.78-0.97, P = 0.01; I2 = 25%). In addition, high selenium level was associated with GC mortality risk (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.84-0.97, P = 0.006, I2 = 49%). In summary, this meta-analysis suggested that selenium might inversely associated with GC risk and GC mortality.

meta-analysis
association
selenium
gastric cancer
mortality


Comparison of Dysphagia Between Infratentorial and Supratentorial Stroke Patients.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To compare dysphagia between infratentorial stroke patients and supratentorial stroke patients.

METHODS
Subjects of this study were patients with post-stroke dysphagia (PSD) who were admitted to our medical institution between May 2014 and June 2017. We evaluated a total of 64 patients with PSD. A videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) was performed to determine dysphagia severity. We measured the following parameters: pharyngeal transit time (PTT), post-swallow pharyngeal remnant, Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS) scores, and Functional Dysphagia Scale (FDS). We analyzed patient's results from VFSS performed at admission. All VFSS images were recorded using a camcorder running at 30 frames per second. An AutoCAD 2D screen was used to measure post-swallow pharyngeal remnant.

RESULTS
In this study, PTT and FDS were similar (p>0.05) between infratentorial stroke patients and supratentorial stroke patients. However, there were significant differences in pharyngeal remnant and PAS scores between the two groups (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION
Both pharyngeal remnant and PAS score registered higher levels from VFSS test for infratentorial stroke patients than those for supratentorial stroke patients. This suggests greater chances of problems occurring with swallowing, the major functions of pons. Thus, clinicians should pay particular attention to active dysphagia evaluation and treatment in PSD of infratentorial stroke patients.

Kim|Yong Kyun|YK|
Cha|Jung Hyun|JH|
Lee|Kyun Yeon|KY|

Infratentorial
Supratentorial
Stroke
Deglutition disorders
Fluoroscopy


The horse as a natural model to study reproductive aging-induced aneuploidy and weakened centromeric cohesion in oocytes.

Abstract: Aneuploidy of meiotic origin is a major contributor to age-related subfertility and an increased risk of miscarriage in women. Although age-related aneuploidy has been studied in rodents, the mare may be a more appropriate animal model to study reproductive aging. Similar to women, aged mares show reduced fertility and an increased incidence of early pregnancy loss; however, it is not known whether aging predisposes to aneuploidy in equine oocytes. We evaluated the effect of advanced mare age on (1) gene expression for cohesin components, (2) incidence of aneuploidy and (3) chromosome centromere cohesion (measured as the distance between sister kinetochores) in oocytes matured in vitro. Oocytes from aged mares showed reduced gene expression for the centromere cohesion stabilizing protein, Shugoshin 1. Moreover, in vitro matured oocytes from aged mares showed a higher incidence of aneuploidy and premature sister chromatid separation, and weakened centromeric cohesion. We therefore propose the mare as a valid model for studying effects of aging on centromeric cohesion; cohesion loss predisposes to disintegration of bivalents and premature separation of sister chromatids during the first meiotic division, leading to embryonic aneuploidy; this probably contributes to the reduced fertility and increased incidence of pregnancy loss observed in aged mares.

Rizzo|Marilena|M|
du Preez|Nikola|N|
Ducheyne|Kaatje D|KD|
Deelen|Claudia|C|
Beitsma|Mabel M|MM|
Stout|Tom A E|TAE|
de Ruijter-Villani|Marta|M|

D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental

D059471:In Vitro Oocyte Maturation Techniques


Evaluation of effectiveness of pathology reports in active surveillance of tuberculosis.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Despite advancing technology, national TB surveillance systems are still inadequate in terms of patient detection around the world. It was aimed to investigate suspicious cases detected by active surveillance method in pathology laboratories and to evaluate the effectiveness of this method in terms of finding new TB cases.

METHODS
This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. It was administrated in Samsun, Turkey, between January 2012-December 2017. Within the scope of active surveillance, pathology laboratories were regularly visited and reported cases with granulomatous inflammation were assessed. The obtained patient list was compared with the records of the Electronic Tuberculosis Management System (ETMS). Patients who were not included in these records were invited to the dispensary and evaluated for TB. They were also referred to the relevant hospitals for diagnosis if necessary. Frequency values and descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS method.

RESULTS
It was found that 35.6% of 703 patients with the diagnosis of granulomatous inflammation were previously diagnosed, treated or currently undergoing treatment in the ETMS registry. As a result of the assessment of remaining 453 cases, 46 patients (10.1%) were newly diagnosed with TB. Newly diagnosed TB patients were reported, and their treatment started.

CONCLUSION
As a result, active surveillance method conducted in pathology laboratories are used to detect unknown or late reported TB cases and allows to start treatment without further delay.

Terzi|Özlem|Ö| Öztomurcuk|Derya|D| Gün|Seda|S| Kiliçaslan|Zeki|Z|

active surveillance
tuberculosis
granulomatous inflammation


Evaluation of Root and Root Canal Morphology of Mandibular First and Second Molars in a Greek Population: A CBCT Study.

Abstract:
Objective
Τo study the number of roots, canal configurations, and frequency of morphological variations in mandibular first and second molars in a Greek population.

Methods
This study examined 478 mandibular first molars and 524 mandibular second molars using a high-resolution cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The number of roots was recorded and the root canal configuration was categorized based on the classification by Vertucci. The presence and configuration of C-shaped root canals were recorded and they were classified according to the Fan classification. The symmetry between the right and the left side was also evaluated.

Results
Among the mandibular first molars, 0.2% teeth were single-rooted, 96.4% were two-rooted, and 3.3% were three-rooted. In the mandibular second molars, 12.2%, 82.8%, and 4.9% were single-rooted, two-rooted, and three-rooted, respectively. In two-rooted mandibular first and second molars, the most frequent root canal pattern observed was Vertucci's type II in the mesial root (69.8% and 64.1%, respectively) and Vertucci's type I in the distal root (81.7% and 97.7%, respectively). Three-rooted molars showed one oval-shaped mesial root and two distal roots (56.2% in first molars, 65.4% in second molars), where each distal root contained a single root canal (type I), and the mesial root presented either type II (53.3%), IV (26.6%), I (13.3%), or V (6.6%) canal configurations. C-shaped canals were only detected in mandibular second molars (5.3% of teeth, 10.8% of individuals), and bilateral occurrence was observed in 24.5% patients. The most frequent root canal pattern was Fan's C1 type at the orifice, followed by C3a and C3b in the coronal and middle third, which joined into a single canal (C4) apically.

Conclusion
The characteristics of the root and root canal anatomy of the mandibular first and second molars of Greek individuals were similar to those observed in Caucasians. However, the higher incidence of third roots in mandibular molars in Greek individuals compared to Caucasians requires absolute clinical awareness.

Kantilieraki|Eleni|E| Delantoni|Antigoni|A| Angelopoulos|Christos|C| Beltes|Panagiotis|P|

root canal morphology
greek population
Cone-beam computed tomography
mandibular molars
root morphology


Area Under the Curve of Finger Photoplethysmography as an Evaluation Measure for Sympathetic Activity During Lumbar Epidural Anaesthesia.

Abstract:
Objective
To detect changes in finger photoplethysmography after administration of epidural anaesthesia as a surrogate method for evaluating autonomic nervous system activity.

Methods
We included a total of 46 patients scheduled for elective surgical procedures under lumbar epidural anaesthesia. A Biopac SS4LA pulse plethysmograph transducer was used for photoplethysmography recording, and the device was placed on the first toe of the right leg. The first standard lead of the electrocardiogram was simultaneously measured with the finger photoplethysmography. First measurement was done before the administration of epidural anaesthesia, and second measurement was done 25 minutes post administration of epidural anaesthesia.

Results
The area under the curve of the finger photoplethysmography statistically significantly increased 25 minutes after administration of epidural anaesthesia compared with the first measurement (p=0.0001). The amplitude of the finger photoplethysmography as well as the pulse transit time also statistically significantly increased after administration of epidural anaesthesia.

Conclusion
The area under the curve reflects the changes in sympathetic activity after epidural anaesthesia below the block level. It can be used for the detection of the degree of sympathetic block and, respectively, for epidural block success. Future prospects include detection of sympathetic block cessation as an indicator for discharge from the awakening room and beginning of patient verticalisation.

Mihaljevic|Slobodan|S|0000 0003 4440 2899

Mihaljevic|Ljiljana|L|0000 0002 5790 9552

area under the curve
Finger photoplethysmography
epidural anaesthesia
sympathetic blockade


Improving the speed of volumetric density map generation via cubic spline interpolation.

Abstract: Visualizing data generated from molecular dynamics simulations can be difficult, particularly when there can be thousands to millions of trajectory frames. The creation of a 3D grid of atomic density (i.e. a volumetric map) is one way to easily view the long-time average behavior of a system. One way to generate volumetric maps is by approximating each atom with a Gaussian function centered on that atom and spread over neighboring grid cells. However the calculation of the Gaussian function requires evaluation of the exponential function, which is computationally costly. Here we report on speeding up the calculation of volumetric maps from molecular dynamics trajectory data by replacing the expensive exponential function evaluation with an approximation using interpolating cubic splines. We also discuss the errors involved in this approximation, and recommend settings for volumetric map creation based on this.

Molecular dynamics
Volumetric maps
Grid density
Trajectory analysis


Maternal Place of Birth, Socioeconomic Characteristics, and Child Health in US-Born Latinx Children in Boston.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Among US-born children of Latina US (USB) and Latina foreign-born mothers (FBM), to determine whether 1) household and child characteristics differ; 2) child health outcomes differ; 3) these differences diminish for children of FBM with longer duration of residence in the United States; and 4) these differences can be explained by food insecurity (FI) or by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation.

METHODS
Cross-sectional survey of 2145 Latina mothers of publicly insured US-born children 0 to 48 months old in a Boston emergency department (ED) 2004 to 2013. Predictors were FBM versus USBM and duration of residence in the United States. Outcomes were mothers' report of child health, history of hospitalization, developmental risk, and hospital admission on the day of ED visit. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders and effect modification.

RESULTS
FBM versus USBM households had more household (31% vs 26%) and child (19% vs 11%) FI and lower SNAP participation (44% vs 67%). Children of FBM versus USBM were more likely to be reported in fair/poor versus good/excellent health (adjusted odds ratios 1.9, 95% confidence interval [1.4, 2.6]), with highest odds for children of FBM with shortest duration of residence, and to be admitted to the hospital on the day of the ED visit (adjusted odds ratios 1.7, 95% confidence interval [1.3, 2.2]). SNAP and FI did not fully explain these outcomes.

CONCLUSION
When providing care and creating public policies, clinicians and policymakers should consider higher rates of food insecurity, lower SNAP participation, and risk for poor health outcomes in Latinx children of FBM.

Tang|Margot N|MN|
Ettinger de Cuba|Stephanie|S|
Coleman|Sharon M|SM|
Heeren|Timothy|T|
Sandel|Megan|M|
Chilton|Mariana|M|
Frank|Deborah A|DA|
Huh|Susanna Y|SY|

D000328:Adult
D001900:Boston
D016022:Case-Control Studies
D000067576:Child Health
D002675:Child, Preschool
D002658:Developmental Disabilities
D004293:Dominican Republic
D004544:El Salvador
D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital
D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants
D005260:Female
D063105:Food Assistance
D000084884:Food Insecurity
D006630:Hispanic or Latino
D006760:Hospitalization
D006801:Humans
D007223:Infant
D007231:Infant, Newborn
D007843:Latin America
D016015:Logistic Models
D008297:Male
D009035:Mothers
D011647:Puerto Rico
D012959:Socioeconomic Factors
D013997:Time Factors
D014481:United States
D055815:Young Adult


Gamification in rehabilitation of metacarpal fracture using cost-effective end-user device: A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract:
STUDY DESIGN
This is a two-group randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION
Finger stiffness after treatment for metacarpal fractures often occurs due to poor compliance to the conventional rehabilitation programs. Gamification has shown success in improving adherence to and effectiveness of various therapies.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether gamification, using cost-effective devices was comparable with conventional physiotherapy in improving hand functions and adherence to rehabilitation in metacarpal fractures.

METHODS
A 2-group randomized controlled trial involving 19 patients was conducted. Participants were randomized to a control (conventional physiotherapy, n = 10) or interventional group (gamification, n = 9). The grips strength and composite finger range of motion were measured at the baseline and each follow-up together with Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation scores and compliance.

RESULTS
There were no significant differences on improvements of grip strength (means difference 24.38 vs 20.44, P = .289) and composite finger range of motion (means difference 50.50 vs 51.11, P = .886). However, the gamification group showed better results in Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation (mean 0.44 vs 8.45, P = .038) and compliance (P < .05). No adverse events were reported.

DISCUSSION
Our results suggest that gamification using a cost-effective device demonstrated similar effectiveness as conventional physiotherapy in post-metacarpal fracture rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS
Gamification using a mobile device is an inexpensive and safe alternative to conventional physiotherapy for hand rehabilitation after metacarpal fractures. It effectively serves as a guide for future development of cost-effective technology-enhanced therapy.

Then|Jun Wei|JW|
Shivdas|Sachin|S|
Tunku Ahmad Yahaya|Tunku Sara|TS|
Ab Razak|Nor Izzati|NI|
Choo|Pee Terh|PT|

D000328:Adult
D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis
D005081:Exercise Therapy
D005260:Female
D050723:Fractures, Bone
D006230:Hand Injuries
D006801:Humans
D008297:Male
D050279:Metacarpal Bones
D010349:Patient Compliance
D016059:Range of Motion, Articular
D018910:Video Games
D055815:Young Adult

Gamification
Rehabilitation
Metacarpal fracture
Mobile device
Cost effective


Effectiveness of focused ultrasound for high risk human papillomavirus infection-related cervical lesions.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of focused ultrasound (FU) and interferon drug therapy for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 1 (CIN1) and chronic cervicitis associated with high risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection, as well as analyze the influencing factors.

METHODS
A retrospective cohort study was performed from January 2017 to December 2019. A total of 592 patients were enrolled, of which 300 patients were treated with FU and 292 patients were treated with interferon drugs. Kaplan-Meier curves and a COX regression model were used to compare the curative effects of the two therapeutic methods using HR-HPV clearance as the main outcome. The relationship between age, HR-HPV infection type, pathological type, preoperative HR-HPV status and HR-HPV clearance were also analyzed.

RESULTS
The median time for HR-HPV clearance was 6.00 months (95% CI: 5.24-6.76) in the FU group and 26.00 months (95% CI: 22.32-29.68) in the medication group. A significant difference was observed between the two groups (χ2 =198.902, p = 0.000). The HR-HPV clearance rate was 4.927 (95% CI 3.840-6.321; p = 0.000) times higher in the patients treated with FU than those treated with interferon drugs. In the FU group, no significant difference was observed in HR-HPV clearance rate between CIN1 and chronic cervicitis (χ2=0.660, p = 0.416), which was also insignificant between HR-HPV persistent and non-persistent infections (χ2=0.751, p = 0.386).

CONCLUSION
FU therapy can eliminate HR-HPV infections in a short period of time. Moreover, the treatment efficacy of FU was significantly superior to that of interferon drugs.

Wang|Wenping|W| Liu|Yujuan|Y| Pu|Yang|Y| Li|Chengzhi|C| Zhou|Honggui|H| Wang|Zhibiao|Z|

efficacy
FU
interferon
CIN1
chronic cervicitis
HR-HPV


Detection of 40 bp tandem repeat motif and associated insertions and deletions (INDEL) in the mitochondrial DNA control region of Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor).

Abstract: Sambar (Rusa unicolor) is the largest oriental deer and has a wide distribution across South and Southeast Asia. Despite its wide distribution range, little information on the genetics of this species is available to date. We examined the genetic variability of Sambar populations using a partial fragment of the mtDNA control region and reconstructed the phylogeographic association of Sambar populations across India. We detected 56 haplotypes with an overall haplotype diversity, Hd = 0.939 ± 0.012 and nucleotide diversity, Pi = 0.029 ± 0.002 in Sambar populations across India. The Sambar populations of Northeast India exhibits 30 localized mtDNA control region haplotypes with no haplotype sharing with other populations of India. We identified a 40 bp tandem repeat motif in the mtDNA control region with variable copy numbers ranging between three to six duplications. The Sambar populations across India exhibited phylogeographic differentiation based on the observed insertion and deletion patterns in the mtDNA control region. The 40 bp tandem repeat motif was associated with patterns of insertions and deletions among different populations of Sambar in India. The findings of this study provide baseline information on the mtDNA genetic variability of Sambar populations across India, which is crucial for future population genetic studies.

Repeat motif
Insertion
Mitochondrial DNA
Control region
Sambar


A combined, totally magnetic technique with a magnetic marker for non-palpable tumour localization and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer surgery.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Surgery for non-palpable breast cancer may often be a challenging procedure. Recently, a magnetic seed (Magseed®) used for tumour localization has been developed. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIO) for sentinel lymph node (SN) detection is a novel tracer that may be injected up to four weeks preoperatively. This study is the first combining the magnetic seed and SPIO.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
Patients planned for breast conserving surgery and SN-biopsy (SNB) were recruited from two units in Sweden. Patients underwent lesion localization with Magseed® and SPIO injection (Magtrace™) by the breast radiologist in the preoperative period. Feasibility of successful lesion localization and excision together with a successful SNB detection was evaluated. Seed migration, number of SNs, specimen volume and calculated resection ratio (CRR) were reported.A survey of the physicians' experience was conducted.

RESULTS
Localization was performed at a median of three days before surgery (range 0-25). All 32 patients underwent microscopically radical resection with a CRR of 1.49. No seed migration was noticed. SNB was successful in all patients. A median of two SNs was retrieved. Radiologists and surgeons reported the procedure easy to learn and outperformed guidewire localization in terms of localization and excision time. They thought the technique facilitated planning localization and surgery.

CONCLUSIONS
The combined magnetic technique provided accuracy in tumour localization and SN detection without excess tissue excision and with promising results for flexibility in delivery of care. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Hersi|Abdi-Fatah|AF| Eriksson|Staffan|S| Ramos|Joakim|J| Abdsaleh|Shahin|S| Wärnberg|Fredrik|F| Karakatsanis|Andreas|A|


Functionalized TiO2 Nanotube-Based Electrochemical Biosensor for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract: The COronaVIrus Disease (COVID-19) is a newly emerging viral disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Rapid increase in the number of COVID-19 cases worldwide led the WHO to declare a pandemic within a few months after the first case of infection. Due to the lack of a prophylactic measure to control the virus infection and spread, early diagnosis and quarantining of infected as well as the asymptomatic individuals are necessary for the containment of this pandemic. However, the current methods for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis are expensive and time consuming, although some promising and inexpensive technologies are becoming available for emergency use. In this work, we report the synthesis of a cheap, yet highly sensitive, cobalt-functionalized TiO2 nanotubes (Co-TNTs)-based electrochemical sensor for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 through sensing the spike (receptor binding domain (RBD)) present on the surface of the virus. A simple, low-cost, and one-step electrochemical anodization route was used for synthesizing TNTs, followed by an incipient wetting method for cobalt functionalization of the TNTs platform, which was connected to a potentiostat for data collection. This sensor specifically detected the S-RBD protein of SARS-CoV-2 even at very low concentration (range of 14 to 1400 nM (nano molar)). Additionally, our sensor showed a linear response in the detection of viral protein over the concentration range. Thus, our Co-TNT sensor is highly effective in detecting SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD protein in approximately 30 s, which can be explored for developing a point of care diagnostics for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 in nasal secretions and saliva samples.

Vadlamani|Bhaskar S|BS|
Uppal|Timsy|T|
Verma|Subhash C|SC|0000-0002-0492-6578
Misra|Mano|M|


Detection of Bovine Coronavirus in Healthy and Diarrheic Dairy Calves.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
BCoV is identified in both healthy and diarrheic calves, complicating its assessment as a primary pathogen.

OBJECTIVES
To investigate the detection rates of bovine coronavirus (BCoV) in feces of healthy and diarrheic calves and to describe the usefulness of a pancoronavirus reverse transcriptase (RT) PCR (PanCoV-RT-PCR) assay to identify BCoV in samples of diarrheic calves.

ANIMALS
Two hundred and eighty-six calves <21 days. Calves with liquid or semiliquid feces, temperature >39.5°C, and inappetence were considered as cases, and those that had pasty or firm feces and normal physical examination were designated as controls.

METHODS
Prospective case-control study. A specific BCoV-RT-PCR assay was used to detect BCoV in fecal samples. Association between BCoV and health status was evaluated by exact and random effect logistic regression. Fecal (n = 28) and nasal (n = 8) samples from diarrheic calves were tested for the presence of BCoV by both the PanCoV-RT-PCR and a specific BCoV-RT-PCR assays. A Kappa coefficient test was used to assess the level of agreement of both assays.

RESULTS
BCoV was detected in 55% (157/286) of calves; 46% (66/143), and 64% (91/143) of healthy and diarrheic calves, respectively. Diarrheic calves had higher odds of BCoV presence than healthy calves (OR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.26 to 3.83, P = 0.004). A good agreement between PanCoV-RT-PCR and BCoV-RT-PCR to detect BCoV was identified (κ = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.392 to 0.967; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE
BCoV was more likely to be detected in diarrheic than healthy calves. The PanCoV-RT-PCR assay can be a useful tool to detect CoV samples from diarrheic calves.

D020133:Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction

Pancoronavirus
Emerging
Epidemiology
Infectious diseases
Prevalence
Re-emerging


Role of Insulin in Neurotrauma and Neurodegeneration: A Review.

Abstract: Insulin is a hormone typically associated with pancreatic release and blood sugar regulation. The brain was long thought to be "insulin-independent," but research has shown that insulin receptors (IR) are expressed on neurons, microglia and astrocytes, among other cells. The effects of insulin on cells within the central nervous system are varied, and can include both metabolic and non-metabolic functions. Emerging data suggests that insulin can improve neuronal survival or recovery after trauma or during neurodegenerative diseases. Further, data suggests a strong anti-inflammatory component of insulin, which may also play a role in both neurotrauma and neurodegeneration. As a result, administration of exogenous insulin, either via systemic or intranasal routes, is an increasing area of focus in research in neurotrauma and neurodegenerative disorders. This review will explore the literature to date on the role of insulin in neurotrauma and neurodegeneration, with a focus on traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD).

Shaughness|Michael|M|
Acs|Deanna|D|
Brabazon|Fiona|F|
Hockenbury|Nicole|N|
Byrnes|Kimberly R|KR|

insulin
neurons
microglia
traumatic brain injury
spinal cord injury
Alzheimer’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
inflammation


A Pimarane Diterpene and Cytotoxic Angucyclines from a Marine-Derived Micromonospora sp. in Vietnam's East Sea.

Abstract: A screening of our actinomycete fraction library against the NCI-60 SKOV3 human tumor cell line led to the isolation of isopimara-2-one-3-ol-8,15-diene (1), lagumycin B (2), dehydrorabelomycin (3), phenanthroviridone (4), and WS-5995 A (5). These secondary metabolites were produced by a Micromonospora sp. isolated from sediment collected off the Cát Bà peninsula in the East Sea of Vietnam. Compound 1 is a novel Δ(8,9)-pimarane diterpene, representing one of approximately 20 actinomycete-produced diterpenes reported to date, while compound 2 is an angucycline antibiotic that has yet to receive formal characterization. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated by combined NMR and MS analysis and the absolute configuration of 1 was assigned by analysis of NOESY NMR and CD spectroscopic data. Compounds 2-5 exhibited varying degrees of cytotoxicity against a panel of cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines. Overall, this study highlights our collaborative efforts to discover novel biologically active molecules from the large, underexplored, and biodiversity-rich waters of Vietnam's East Sea.

Mullowney|Michael W|MW|
Ó hAinmhire|Eoghainín|E|
Tanouye|Urszula|U|
Burdette|Joanna E|JE|
Pham|Van Cuong|VC|
Murphy|Brian T|BT|

diterpene
Micromonospora
Vietnam
actinomycete
marine
ovarian cancer


Establishment of national diagnostic reference levels (NDRL) for computed tomographic (CT) procedures in Sri Lanka: first nation-wide dose survey.

Abstract: The main purpose of this study was to establish the national diagnostic reference levels (NDRLs) for common CT procedures for the first time in Sri Lanka. Patient morphometric, exposure parameters, and dose data such as volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) were collected from 5666 patients who underwent 22 procedure types. The extreme dose values were filteblue before analysis to ensure that the data comes from standard size patients. The median of the dose distribution was calculated for each institution, and the third quartile value of the median distribution was consideblue as the NDRL. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 4592 patients data from 17 procedure types were consideblue for NDRL establishment covering 41\% of the country's total CT machines. The proposed NDRLs based on CTDIvol and DLP for non-contrast (NC) head:82.2 mGy/1556 mGy.cm, contrast-enhanced (CE) head: 82.2 mGy/1546 mGy.cm, chest-NC:7.4 mGy/350 mGy.cm, chest-CE:8.3 mGy/464 mGy.cm, abdomen NC:10.5 mGy/721 mGy.cm, abdomen arterial (A) phase:13.4 mGy/398 mGy.cm, abdomen venous (V) phase:10.8 mGy/460 mGy.cm, abdomen delay (D) phase:12.6 mGy/487 mGy.cm, sinus NC:30.2 mGy/452 mGy.cm, lumbar spine--NC:24.1 mGy/1123 mGy.cm, neck-NC:27.5 mGy/670 mGy.cm, high resolutions CT (HRCT) of chest:10.3 mGy/341 mGy.cm, kidney, ureter and bladder (KUB) NC:19.4 mGy/929 mGy.cm, chest to pelvis (CAP) NC:10.8 mGy/801 mGy.cm, CAP-A:10.4 mGy/384 mGy.cm, CAP-V:10.5 mGy/534 mGy.cm and CAP-D:16.8 mGy/652 mGy.cm. Although the proposed NDRLs are comparable with other countries, the observed broad dose distributions between the CT machines within the country indicate that dose optimisation strategies for Sri Lanka should be implemented for most of the CT facilities.

Computed Tomography
Dose Reference Level (DRL)
Eﬀective dose


Comparison of registered and published intervention fidelity assessment in cluster randomised trials of public health interventions in low- and middle-income countries: systematic review.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Cluster randomised trials (CRTs) are a key instrument to evaluate public health interventions. Fidelity assessment examines study processes to gauge whether an intervention was delivered as initially planned. Evaluation of implementation fidelity (IF) is required to establish whether the measured effects of a trial are due to the intervention itself and may be particularly important for CRTs of complex interventions conducted in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, current CRT reporting guidelines offer no guidance on IF assessment. The objective of this review was to study current practices concerning the assessment of IF in CRTs of public health interventions in LMICs.

METHODS
CRTs of public health interventions in LMICs that planned or reported IF assessment in either the trial protocol or the main trial report were included. The MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL and EMBASE databases were queried from January 2012 to May 2016. To ensure availability of a study protocol, CRTs reporting a registration number in the abstract were included. Relevant data were extracted from each study protocol and trial report by two researchers using a predefined screening sheet. Risk of bias for individual studies was assessed.

RESULTS
We identified 90 CRTs of public health interventions in LMICs with a study protocol in a publicly available trial registry published from January 2012 to May 2016. Among these 90 studies, 25 (28%) did not plan or report assessing IF; the remaining 65 studies (72%) addressed at least one IF dimension. IF assessment was planned in 40% (36/90) of trial protocols and reported in 71.1% (64/90) of trial reports. The proportion of overall agreement between the trial protocol and trial report concerning occurrence of IF assessment was 66.7% (60/90). Most studies had low to moderate risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS
IF assessment is not currently a systematic practice in CRTs of public health interventions carried out in LMICs. In the absence of IF assessment, it may be difficult to determine if CRT results are due to the intervention design, to its implementation, or to unknown or external factors that may influence results. CRT reporting guidelines should promote IF assessment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION
Protocol published and available at: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-016-0351-0.

D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

Cluster randomised trials
Public health interventions
Systematic review
Developing countries
Intervention fidelity
Process evaluation


A pilot trial on lithium disilicate partial crowns using a novel prosthodontic functional index for teeth (FIT).

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Lithium disilicate is now a well accepted material for indirect restorations. The aim of this trial was to evaluate two lithium disilicate systems using a novel prosthodontic Functional Index for Teeth (FIT).

METHODS
Partial adhesive crowns on natural abutment posterior teeth were made on sixty patients. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 IPS e.max press (Ivoclar-Vivadent, Schaan, Liecthestein), and Group 2 Initial LiSi press (GC Co., Tokyo, Japan). The restorations were followed-up for 3 years, and the FIT evaluation was performed at last recall. The FIT is composed of seven variables (Interproximal, Occlusion, Design, Mucosa, Bone, Biology and Margins), each of them are evaluated using a 0-1-2 scoring scheme, and is investigated by an oral radiograph and occlusal and buccal pictures. More in details, three variables have the three scores made on the presence or not of major, minor or no discrepancy (for 'Interproximal', 'Occlusion' and 'Design'), presence or not of keratinized and attached gingiva ('Mucosa'), presence of bone loss > 1.5 mm, < 1.5 mm or not detectable ('Bone'), presence or not of Bleeding on Probing and or Plaque Index ('Biology'), presence of detectable gap and marginal stain or not ('Margins'). The Mann-Whitney 'U' test was used and the level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Also, "success" of the crowns (restoration in place without any biological or technical complication) and "survival" (restoration still in place with biological or technical complication) were evaluated.

RESULTS
Regarding FIT scores, all partial crowns showed a stable level of the alveolar crest without detectable signs of bone loss in the radiographic analysis. All other evaluated parameters showed a high score, between 1.73 and 2. No statistically significant difference emerged between the two groups in any of the assessed variables (p > 0.05). All FIT scores were compatible with the outcome of clinical success and no one restoration was replaced or repaired and the success rate was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS
The results showed that it is possible to evaluate the clinical performance of partial crowns using FIT. The FIT proved to be an effective tool to monitor the performance of the restorations and their compatibility with periodontal tissues at the recall. The FIT can be really helpful for a standardized evaluation of the quality of the therapy in prosthodontic dentistry. The two lithium disilicate materials showed similar results after 3 years of clinical service.

TRIAL REGISTRATION
The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Committee of University of Siena (clinicaltrial.gov # NCT01835821), 'retrospectively registered'.

Cagidiaco|Edoardo Ferrari|EF|
Grandini|Simone|S|
Goracci|Cecilia|C|
Joda|Tim|T|

Lithium disilicate
Partial crowns
Randomized controlled trial


The effect of intravenous high-dose glucocorticoids and orbital decompression surgery on sight-threatening thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy.

Abstract:
AIM
To report the effects of intravenous high-dose glucocorticoids (ivGC) and orbital decompression (OD) surgery for treatment of sight-threatening thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO).

METHODS
A retrospective review of medical records from patients with sight-threatening TAO [definite or highly suspected dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON)] treated with ivGC (60 cases) and OD (25 cases) was conducted at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center between January 2001 and January 2009. Patients were initially treated with ivGC (ivGC group). If no significant improvement in visual function was obtained, they then received OD surgery (OD group). The pre- versus post-treatment efficacies of either ivGC or OD in these patients were assessed using several indices, including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, ocular alignment, ocular motility, and exophthalmos.

RESULTS
Nighty-one eyes had definite DON while 79 were considered to have highly suspected DON. In the ivGC group, 51 individuals (85.0%) eventually demonstrated normal vision, while 10 patients (16.7%) demonstrated a reduction in deviation (P<0.01), and 35 cases (58.3%) showed slight improvements in ocular motility (P<0.01). In OD group, visual acuity improved in 24 cases (96.0%, P<0.01) and all patients showed varying reductions of exophthalmos (mean: 4.35±1.13 mm, P<0.01). Eight cases (32.0%) experienced an 8-15 PD reduction of deviation and ocular motility improved in 12 cases (48.0%), while 3 patients (12.0%) developed new-onset strabismus with diplopia post-surgically (P<0.01). Patients were followed up at an average of 1.55±1.07y.

CONCLUSION
Both ivGC and OD show good therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of sight-threatening TAO. The presence of extremely poor eyesight (≥0.5logMAR) was corrected in some patients with ivGC alone, thus sparing these patients from subsequent OD surgery. In patients who were refractory to steroids, subsequent OD surgery often provided satisfactory outcomes, however, new-onset strabismus with diplopia was observed in 12.0% of these cases.

glucocorticoids
orbital decompression
thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy
dysthyroid optic neuropathy
orbital surgery


Study of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency: 5 Years Retrospective Egyptian Study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide that causes a spectrum of diseases including neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, acute and chronic hemolysis after exposure to oxidative stress.

AIM OF THE WORK
This five years retrospective study was carried out to study the demographic, clinical and laboratory data of 1000 patients with G6PD deficiency anemia registered in Hematology Unit, Pediatric Department, Tanta University Hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS
Data were collected from patient's files, from November 2011 to November 2016, using the pre-designed questionnaires to obtain the complete history, clinical presentation and laboratory investigations including the complete blood count, red blood cells morphology, liver and renal functions and quantitative assay of G6PD enzyme activity by spectrophotometric method.

RESULTS
Males were more commonly affected than females (932 males versus 68 females). The highest prevalence of hemolytic crisis in G6PD deficiency patients was found within the age group of 1-3 years (920 patients; 92%) with mean age of the first presentation of 22.8±15.54 months. Patients presented mainly with pallor (1000 patients; 100%), dark red urine (896 patients; 89.6%) and jaundice (878 patients; 87.8%) after 24-72 hours of exposure to the precipitating factors (mean: 36±17.73 hours). Diets were the most common precipitating factor of hemolysis in patients with G6PD deficiency (834 patients; 83.4% of studied cases) especially fava beans (326 patients; 32.6%) and falafel (194 patients; 19.4%) which were the most common precipitating food products causing hemolysis followed by chick pea (108 patients; 10.8%), broad bean (76 patients; 7.6%), green pea (44 patients; 4.4%), pea nuts (38 patients; 3.8%), lentil (28 patients; 2.8%), and lastly black eyed peas (20 patients; 2 %). Infections were the 2nd most common cause of hemolysis (124 patients; 12.4%) including pneumonia (34 patients; 3.4%), tonsillitis (32 patients; 3.2%), typhoid fever (28 patients; 2.8%), hepatitis A (18 patients; 1.8%) and urinary tract infection (12 patients; 1.2%). Drugs were the least common cause of hemolysis (42 patients; 4.2%) including diclofenac sodium (24 patients; 2.4%), ibuprofen (8 patients; 0.8%), acetylsalicylic acid (4 patients; 0.4%), co-trimoxazole (4 patients; 0.4%) and nitrofurantion (2 patients; 0.2%). There was normocytic normochromic anemia with reticulocytosis and Heinz bodies in pre-transfusion complete blood picture in all studied cases. G6PD assay show marked decrease in enzyme level at time of presentation in all cases with the commonest G6PD enzyme level of 3-4 U/gm Hb (592 patients; 59.2%).

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
G6PD deficiency anemia presented mainly with pallor, dark red urine and jaundice after exposure to certain diets, drugs and diseases and therefore patients with G6PD deficiency should avoid exposure to these precipitating factors of hemolysis. We can also recommend large neonatal screening programs to detect cases of G6PD deficiency before the occurrence of acute hemolysis and molecular studies to detect G6PD enzyme variant in Egypt.

Hagag|Adel A|AA|
Badraia|Ibrahim M|IM|
Elfarargy|Mohamed S|MS|
Abd Elmageed|Mohamed M|MM|
Abo-Ali|Ehab A|EA|

G6PD deficiency anemia
hemolytic crisis
heinz bodies
enzymopathy
red blood cell enzymes
retrospective study.


Remediation of chromium-contaminated soil by electrokinetics and electrokinetics coupled with CaAl-LDH permeable reaction barrier.

Abstract: The remediation of Cr(VI)-contaminated soil was investigated by electrokinetic (EK) and permeable-reactive-barrier assisted electrokinetic (EK-PRB). The medium of PRB was hydrocalumite (CaAl-LDH). The results showed that removal efficiency of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in EK-PRB and EK system was 96.49 and 85.50%, respectively. Simultaneously, the removal efficiency of total chromium (TCr) was 69.34 and 40.97% after 120-h treatment. The XRD, FTIR, and XPS analyses indicated that the reactive barrier media of CaAl-LDH successfully captured the chromium. Besides, the migration rate of chromium in EK-PRB was relatively faster than EK, since the media of PRB captured chromium in-time and reduced the influence of chromium accumulation on the migration of chromium. Moreover, the trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) was generated in EK/EK-PRB, and the chromium was stabilized in soil with the chemical speciations of oxidizable and residual fractions. Therefore, the treatment of EK-PRB and EK both increased the removal of chromium and decreased its environmental risks.

Xu|Yunfeng|Y| Xia|Wei|W| Hou|Hetian|H| Zhang|Jia|J| Qian|Guangren|G|

D052918:Environmental Restoration and Remediation

Chromium-contaminated soil
Electrokinetics
CaAl-LDH
Permeable-reactive-barrier
Soil water


Congenital Pouch Colon: Further Histopathological Perspectives.

Abstract:
Congenital pouch colon is an uncommon anomaly worldwide and is usually associated with anorectal malformations. Imperforate anus with a large air fluid level on the abdominal x ray suggests the diagnosis. Most cases are diagnosed in neonates and an early management limit complications. Few studies have documented the histopathological features of congenital pouch colon.

We present two cases with varied associated anomalies (Case 1 with rectovesical fistula, Case 2 with Mayer Rokitansky Kuster Hauser syndrome) and their histopathological features. Immunohistochemistry for calretinin showed paucity of ganglion cells and intrinsic fibers with occasional punctate positivity. The c-Kit immunostain documented fewer interstitial cells of Cajal. Cystitis glandularis with intestinal metaplasia (Case 1) and an additional muscle layer (Case 2) are described.

These novel histopathological features characterize the entity further and may be related to genesis of the pouch and its clinical manifestations.

Singh|Neha|N|
Mohanty|Suravi|S|
Kalegowda|Inchara Yeliur|IY|
Rout|Pritilata|P|

Congenital pouch colon
cystitis glandularis
additional muscle layer


Ontogeny of leukocyte profiles in a wild altricial passerine.

Abstract: Ecophysiological studies have highlighted the relevance of the avian immune system in individual fitness prospects in the wild. However, studies on the ontogeny of avian immunity are scarce. We analyse age-related changes in the cellular constitutive immunity throughout nestling development, as well as its relationship with sex and brood size. We found that cellular constitutive immunity could be affected by age, sex, brood size, or daily rhythm. Early-stage nestlings relied more on cells of the innate immunity rather than on cells linked to the adaptive immune system. Cellular immunity may not be fully mature in fledglings, as reflected by differences in phagocytic cell counts with regard to adults. Beyond the age-dependent effects, agranulocyte cell counts were affected by sibling competition while granulocyte cell counts showed a daily rhythm. We also show that the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio was negatively related to body weight when nestlings become more independent. Our study contributes knowledge to the fields of developmental immunology and ecological immunology based on essential components of the cellular immune system.

Nestling development
Daily rhythm
Age-specific pattern
Cell-mediated immunity
Leukocyte count
Sturnus unicolor


A comparative analysis of readmission rates after outpatient cosmetic surgery.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Despite the increasing scrutiny of surgical procedures, outpatient cosmetic surgery has an established record of safety and efficacy. A key measure in assessing surgical outcomes is the examination of readmission rates. However, there is a paucity of data on unplanned readmission following cosmetic surgery procedures.

OBJECTIVES
The authors studied readmission rates for outpatient cosmetic surgery and compared the data with readmission rates for other surgical procedures.

METHODS
The 2011 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) data set was queried for all outpatient procedures. Readmission rates were calculated for the 5 surgical specialties with the greatest number of outpatient procedures and for the overall outpatient cosmetic surgery population. Subgroup analysis was performed on the 5 most common cosmetic surgery procedures. Multivariate regression models were used to determine predictors of readmission for cosmetic surgery patients.

RESULTS
The 2879 isolated outpatient cosmetic surgery cases had an associated 0.90% unplanned readmission rate. The 5 specialties with the highest number of outpatient surgical procedures were general, orthopedic, gynecologic, urologic, and otolaryngologic surgery; their unplanned readmission rates ranged from 1.21% to 3.73%. The 5 most common outpatient cosmetic surgery procedures and their associated readmission rates were as follows: reduction mammaplasty, 1.30%; mastopexy, 0.31%; liposuction, 1.13%; abdominoplasty, 1.78%; and breast augmentation, 1.20%. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that operating time (in hours) was an independent predictor of readmission (odds ratio, 1.40; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.81; P=.010).

CONCLUSIONS
Rates of unplanned readmission with outpatient cosmetic surgery are low and compare favorably to those of other outpatient surgeries.

Mioton|Lauren M|LM|
Alghoul|Mohammed S|MS|
Kim|John Y S|JY|

D000556:Ambulatory Surgical Procedures
D015992:Body Mass Index
D003357:Cosmetic Techniques
D016208:Databases, Factual
D004417:Dyspnea
D005260:Female
D006801:Humans
D008297:Male
D008875:Middle Aged
D015999:Multivariate Analysis
D009765:Obesity
D061646:Operative Time
D010359:Patient Readmission
D011183:Postoperative Complications
D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative
D014481:United States


Small non-coding RNAs-based bone regulation and targeting therapeutic strategies.

Abstract: Small non-coding RNAs, which are 20-25 nucleotide ribonucleic acids, have emerged as an important transformation in the biological evolution over almost three decades. microRNAs (miRNAs) and short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are two significant categories of the small RNAs that exert important effects on bone endocrinology and skeletology. Therefore, clarifying the expression and function of these important molecules in bone endocrine physiology and pathology is of great significance for improving their potential therapeutic value for metabolism-associated bone diseases. In the present review, we highlight the recent advances made in understanding the function and molecular mechanism of these small non-coding RNAs in bone metabolism, especially their potentially therapeutic values in bone-related diseases.

D051701:Activating Transcription Factor 4

D050659:Core Binding Factor Alpha 1 Subunit

Targeting therapeutics
miRNA
siRNA
Bone metabolism


Adrenomedullin surges are linked to acute episodes of the systemic capillary leak syndrome (Clarkson disease).

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome (SCLS) is an extremely rare and life-threatening vascular disorder of unknown etiology. SCLS is characterized by abrupt and transient episodes of hypotensive shock and edema due to plasma leakage into peripheral tissues. The disorder has garnered attention recently because its initial presentation resembles more common vascular disorders including systemic anaphylaxis, sepsis, and acute infections with the Ebola/Marburg family of filoviruses. Although approximately 70-85% of patients with SCLS have a concurrent monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), any contribution of the paraprotein to acute flares is unknown.

PROCEDURE
To identify circulating factors that might trigger acute SCLS crises, we profiled transcriptomes of paired peripheral blood mononuclear cell fractions obtained from patients during acute attacks and convalescent intervals by microarray.

RESULTS
This study uncovered 61 genes that were significantly up- or downregulated more than 2.5-fold in acute samples relative to respective baselines. One of the most upregulated genes was ADM, which encodes the vasoactive peptide adrenomedullin. A stable ADM protein surrogate (pro-ADM) was markedly elevated in SCLS acute sera compared to remission samples or sera from healthy controls. Monocytes and endothelial cells (ECs) from SCLS subjects expressed significantly more ADM in response to proinflammatory stimuli compared to healthy control cells. Application of ADM to ECs elicited protective effects on vascular barrier function, suggesting a feedback protective mechanism in SCLS.

CONCLUSIONS
Since ADM has established hypotensive effects, differentiating between these dual actions of ADM is crucial for therapeutic applications aimed at more common diseases associated with increased ADM levels.

Xie|Zhihui|Z|
Chen|Wei-Sheng|WS|
Yin|Yuzhi|Y|
Chan|Eunice C|EC|
Terai|Kaoru|K|
Long|Lauren M|LM|
Myers|Timothy G|TG|
Dudek|Arkadiusz Z|AZ|
Druey|Kirk M|KM|

adrenomedullin
angiogenesis
endothelium
vascular leak