Deoxypolypeptides bind and cleave RNA.

Abstract: We have prepared L- and D-deoxypolypeptides (DOPPs) by selective reduction of appropriately protected polyhistidines with borane, reducing the carbonyl groups to methylenes. The result is a chiral polyamine, not amide, with a mainly protonated backbone and chirally mounted imidazolylmethylene side chains that are mostly unprotonated at neutrality because of the nearby polycationic backbone. We found that, in contrast with the D-octahistidine DOPP, the L-octahistidine DOPP is able to cooperatively bind to a D-polyuridylic acid RNA; this is consistent with results of previous studies showing that, relative to D-histidine, L-histidine is able to more strongly bind to RNA. The L-DOPP was also a better catalyst for cleaving the RNA than the D-DOPP, consistent with evidence that the L-DOPP uses its imidazole groups for catalysis, in addition to the backbone cations, but the D-DOPP does not use the imidazoles. The L-DOPP bifunctional process probably forms a phosphorane intermediate. This is a mechanism we have proposed for models of ribonuclease cleavage and for the ribonuclease A enzyme itself, based on our studies of the cleavage and isomerization of UpU catalyzed by imidazole buffers as well as other relevant studies. This mechanism contrasts with earlier, generally accepted ribonuclease cleavage mechanisms where the proton donor coordinates with the oxygen of the leaving group as the 2-hydroxyl of ribose attacks the unprotonated phosphate.

Cheng|Liang|L|
Mahendran|Adaickapillai|A|
Gonzalez|Ruben L|RL|
Breslow|Ronald|R|

artificial enzymes
chiral discrimination
deoxygenated peptides
nucleic acids binding


Update on workforce diversity in vascular surgery.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Creating a diverse workforce is paramount to the success of the surgical field. A diverse workforce allows us to meet the health needs of an increasingly diverse population and to bring new ideas to spur technical innovation. The purpose of this study was to assess trends in workforce diversity within vascular surgery (VS) and general surgery (GS) as compared with orthopedic surgery (OS)-a specialty that instituted a formal diversity initiative over a decade ago.

METHODS
Data on the trainee pool for VS (fellowships and integrated residencies), GS, and OS were obtained from the U.S. Graduate Medical Education reports for 1999 through 2017. Medical student demographic data were obtained from the Association of American Medical Colleges U.S. medical school enrollment reports. The representation of surgical trainee populations (female, Hispanic, and black) was normalized by their representation in medical school. We also performed the χ2 test to compare proportions of residents over dichotomized time periods (1999-2005 and 2013-2017) as well as a more sensitive trend of proportions test.

RESULTS
The proportion of female trainees increased significantly between the time periods for the three surgical disciplines examined (P < .001). Hispanic trainees also represented an increasing proportion of all three disciplines (P ≤ .001). The proportion of black trainees did not significantly change in any discipline between the two periods. Relative to their proportion in medical school, Hispanic trainees were well represented in all surgical specialties studied (normalized ratio [NR], 0.95-1.52: 0.95 OS, 1.00 GS, 1.53 VS fellowship, and 1.23 VS residency). Compared with their representation in medical school, women were under-represented as surgical trainees (NR: 0.32 OS, 0.82 GS, 0.56 VS fellowship, and 0.78 VS residency) as were black trainees (NR: 0.63 OS, 0.90 GS, 0.99 VS fellowship, and 0.81 VS residency).

CONCLUSIONS
Although there were significant increases in the number of women and Hispanic trainees in these three surgical disciplines, only Hispanic trainees enter the surgical field at a rate higher than their proportion in medical school. The lack of an increase in black trainees across all specialties was particularly discouraging. Women and black trainees were under-represented in all specialties as compared with their representation in medical school. The data presented suggest potential problems with recruitment at multiple levels of the pipeline. Particular attention should be paid to increasing the pool of minority medical school graduates who are both interested in and competitive for surgical specialties.

Dorsey|Chelsea|C| Ross|Elsie|E| Appah-Sampong|Abena|A| Vela|Monica|M| Saunders|Milda|M|

D001741:African Americans
D054521:Cultural Competency
D018864:Cultural Diversity
D005260:Female
D000084803:Gender Equity
D013502:General Surgery
D006630:Hispanic or Latino
D006801:Humans
D007396:Internship and Residency
D008297:Male
D000072161:Orthopedic Surgeons
D010560:Personnel Selection
D010822:Physicians, Women
D063505:Racism
D063507:Sexism
D013337:Students, Medical
D066231:Surgeons
D013997:Time Factors
D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures

Workforce diversity
Under-represented in medicine
Vascular surgery recruitment
Women in surgery


Septate Junction Proteins Play Essential Roles in Morphogenesis Throughout Embryonic Development in Drosophila.

Abstract: The septate junction (SJ) is the occluding junction found in the ectodermal epithelia of invertebrate organisms, and is essential to maintain chemically distinct compartments in epithelial organs, to provide the blood-brain barrier in the nervous system, and to provide an important line of defense against invading pathogens. More than 20 genes have been identified to function in the establishment or maintenance of SJs in Drosophila melanogaster Numerous studies have demonstrated the cell biological function of these proteins in establishing the occluding junction, whereas very few studies have examined further developmental roles for them. Here we examined embryos with mutations in nine different core SJ genes and found that all nine result in defects in embryonic development as early as germ band retraction, with the most penetrant defect observed in head involution. SJ genes are also required for cell shape changes and cell rearrangements that drive the elongation of the salivary gland during midembryogenesis. Interestingly, these developmental events occur at a time prior to the formation of the occluding junction, when SJ proteins localize along the lateral membrane and have not yet coalesced into the region of the SJ. Together, these observations reveal an underappreciated role for a large group of SJ genes in essential developmental events during embryogenesis, and suggest that the function of these proteins in facilitating cell shape changes and rearrangements is independent of their role in the occluding junction.

septate junction
morphogenesis
head involution
salivary glands
dorsal closure


A one-stage method for external auditory canal reconstruction; the Wessex pre-auricular flap.

Abstract: This technique has been developed with the aim of expanding the well documented pre-auricular flap to help reconstruct pinna lesions that extend into the external auditory canal. This area can be a challenge to reconstruct effectively to minimise morbidity and there are limited published techniques. This flap is a reproducible, one-stage technique that is readily available to most ENT surgeons, avoiding stenosis and allowing for adequate reconstruction of the external auditory canal.

Reconstruction
Pre-auricular flap
Facial plastics


Tumor-specific cell-cycle decoy by Salmonella typhimurium A1-R combined with tumor-selective cell-cycle trap by methioninase overcome tumor intrinsic chemoresistance as visualized by FUCCI imaging.

Abstract: We previously reported real-time monitoring of cell cycle dynamics of cancer cells throughout a live tumor intravitally using a fluorescence ubiquitination cell cycle indicator (FUCCI). Approximately 90% of cancer cells in the center and 80% of total cells of an established tumor are in G0/G1 phase. Longitudinal real-time FUCCI imaging demonstrated that cytotoxic agents killed only proliferating cancer cells at the surface and, in contrast, and had little effect on the quiescent cancer cells. Resistant quiescent cancer cells restarted cycling after the cessation of chemotherapy. Thus cytotoxic chemotherapy which targets cells in S/G2/M, is mostly ineffective on solid tumors, but causes toxic side effects on tissues with high fractions of cycling cells, such as hair follicles, bone marrow and the intestinal lining. We have termed this phenomenon tumor intrinsic chemoresistance (TIC). We previously demonstrated that tumor-targeting Salmonella typhimurium A1-R (S. typhimurium A1-R) decoyed quiescent cancer cells in tumors to cycle from G0/G1 to S/G2/M demonstrated by FUCCI imaging. We have also previously shown that when cancer cells were treated with recombinant methioninase (rMETase), the cancer cells were selectively trapped in S/G2, shown by cell sorting as well as by FUCCI. In the present study, we show that sequential treatment of FUCCI-expressing stomach cancer MKN45 in vivo with S. typhimurium A1-R to decoy quiescent cancer cells to cycle, with subsequent rMETase to selectively trap the decoyed cancer cells in S/G2 phase, followed by cisplatinum (CDDP) or paclitaxel (PTX) chemotherapy to kill the decoyed and trapped cancer cells completely prevented or regressed tumor growth. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the praradigm of "decoy, trap and shoot" chemotherapy.

Yano|Shuya|S|
Takehara|Kiyoto|K|
Zhao|Ming|M|
Tan|Yuying|Y|
Han|Qinghong|Q|
Li|Shukuan|S|
Bouvet|Michael|M|
Fujiwara|Toshiyoshi|T|
Hoffman|Robert M|RM|

cell-cycle
decoy
Salmonella typhimurium A1-R
trap
methioninase
FUCCI
cancer
stomach cancer
cisplatinum
paclitaxel
nude mice


Perceived Self-Control is Related to Mental Distress in Patients Entering Substance Use Disorder Treatment.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Levels of mental distress are high in patients with substance use disorders (SUD) and investigation of correlates may broaden our understanding of this comorbidity.

OBJECTIVES
We investigated self-reported symptoms of mental distress among individuals entering either outpatient opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) or other inpatient SUD treatment and related factors, with a particular focus on perceived self-control.

METHODS
A cross-sectional study including substance users (n = 548; mean age 34 years; 27% women) entering treatment at 21 different treatment-centers across Norway, interviewed between December 2012 and April 2015. Symptoms of mental distress were assessed with Global Symptom Index (GSI) score. Adjusted relative risk ratios (RRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated through multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS
More than half of the participants in both treatment groups reported mental distress (GSI) above clinical cut-off. The use of alcohol and exposure to violence were associated with increased likelihood of high GSI for both patient groups. Also, lower perceived self-control was related to high GSI in both treatment groups.

CONCLUSION
Symptoms of mental distress were equally common among patients entering OMT and those entering other inpatient SUD treatment, even if the patients differed on a number of clinical characteristics. Use of alcohol and exposure to violence were associated with more mental distress in both groups. Perceived self-control also appeared to be important when explaining symptoms of mental distress among these SUD patients.

Abel|Kristine Fiksdal|KF|
Skjærvø|Ingeborg|I|0000-0002-4033-4908
Ravndal|Edle|E|
Clausen|Thomas|T|
Bramness|Jørgen G|JG|

self-control
opioid maintenance treatment
Co-occurring disorders
depressive symptoms
substance use treatment


Incidence of Endophthalmitis after Intravitreal Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor: Experience in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
To report the incidence of endophthalmitis, the clinical and microbiological aspects, after intravitreal (IVT) injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor.

METHODS
A chart review was performed of patients diagnosed with endophthalmitis after receiving IVT injections of bevacizumab (Avastin) and ranibizumab (Lucentis) presenting to King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (KKESH) from May 2006 to December 2012. Endophthalmitis was diagnosed clinically as an intraocular infection with vitreous involvement that required treatment with IVT antibiotics or had undergone pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove the suspected microorganism. Main outcome measures were the incidence of endophthalmitis and the clinical and microbiological features.

RESULTS
Seven cases of endophthalmitis were identified, there was 1 (0.004%) case of endophthalmitis of 22674 IVT injections performed at KKESH. All cases were after IVT bevacizumab. Three (42.85%) cases were culture-positive and caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis. The initial management was vitreous tap and IVT injection of antibiotics followed by PPV in 6 (85.7%) cases. One (14.3%) case underwent evisceration. Visual acuity improved at last visit in only 2 (28.6%) cases. The rate of endophthalmitis was 0.0004% for bevacizumab.

CONCLUSIONS
The rate of endophthalmitis after IVT bevacizumab and ranibizumab was very low. We recommend following a standardized injection protocol, adherence to sterile techniques, and proper patient follow-up are determinant factors for low incidence rates. In addition, endophthalmitis after IVT bevacizumab and ranibizumab have poor visual outcomes despite prompt treatment.

Al-Rashaed|Saba|S|
Alsulaiman|Sulaiman M|SM|
Alrushood|Abdulaziz Adel|AA|
Almasaud|Jluwi|J|
Arevalo|J Fernando|JF|

D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A

Endophthalmitis
Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Saudi Arabia
Bevacizumab
Ranibizumab
Gulf States
Intravitreal Injection


Physical Development of Low Birth-Weight Children at Preschool Age, Born to Adolescent Mothers of Bishkek.

Abstract:
Objective
This paper presents the results of a risk factors-analysis and the analysis of physical development of pre-school children born with a low birth weight to teenage mothers.

Materials and Methods
The study has also identifed unfavorable factors affecting the birth of low weight children and the lag in physical development of preschool children born with low birth weight to adolescent mothers.

Results
According to our research, children born out of wedlock are mostly born with low birth weight (66.7%) and student mothers who had psychological and physical stress during pregnancy.

Conclusion
Adolescent mothers who lacked a sufficient and balanced diet, had a high risk of born child with IUGR of hypotrophic type of the 2nd degree.

adolescent mothers
pre-school children
Low birth-weight baby
body weight


A case series of flow-through free anterolateral thigh flap to augment the vascularity of ischaemic limbs with soft tissue defect.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
In a world of fast moving vehicles, heavy machinery and industries crush injury to limbs with vascular compromise and soft tissue defect is common. The traditional treatment is a 2 step one dealing with vascular repair and soft tissue cover separately, in the same operation. We report a series of single step vascular repair and soft tissue cover with flow through anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) flap for limb salvage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Ten patients with soft tissue defect and vascular injury were included in this study. A two team approach was used to minimise operative time, team one prepared the vessels and team 2 harvested the flap.

OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS
Of the ten patients operated (8 males), eight flaps were done for upper limb and two for lower limb salvage. Six anastomosis were done with ulnar vessels, two with radial and two with posterior tibial vessels. Nine extremities could be salvaged while one patient developed progressive thrombosis leading to amputation.

CONCLUSION
The ALT flow-through flap is a versatile single step procedure that can be used to salvage an ischemic limb with soft tissue loss avoiding the need for interpositional vein graft.

Aggarwal|Aditya|A|
Singh|Hardeep|H|
Mahendru|Sanjay|S|
Brajesh|Vimalendu|V|
Singh|Sukhdeep|S|
Krishnan|Srinivasan|S|
Khazanchi|Rakesh Kumar|RK|

vascular compromise
Salvage
Flow through flap


Failure mode and effective analysis ameliorate awareness of medical errors: a 4-year prospective observational study in critically ill children.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Errors in are estimated to occur with an incidence of 3.7-16.6% in hospitalized patients. The application of systems for detection of adverse events is becoming a widespread reality in healthcare. Incident reporting (IR) and failure mode and effective analysis (FMEA) are strategies widely used to detect errors, but no studies have combined them in the setting of a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

AIM
The aim of our study was to describe the trend of IR in a PICU and evaluate the effect of FMEA application on the number and severity of the errors detected.

METHODS
With this prospective observational study, we evaluated the frequency IR documented in standard IR forms completed from January 2009 to December 2012 in the PICU of Woman's and Child's Health Department of Padova. On the basis of their severity, errors were classified as: without outcome (55%), with minor outcome (16%), with moderate outcome (10%), and with major outcome (3%); 16% of reported incidents were 'near misses'. We compared the data before and after the introduction of FMEA.

RESULTS
Sixty-nine errors were registered, 59 (86%) concerning drug therapy (83% during prescription). Compared to 2009-2010, in 2011-2012, we noted an increase of reported errors (43 vs 26) with a reduction of their severity (21% vs 8% 'near misses' and 65% vs 38% errors with no outcome).

CONCLUSION
With the introduction of FMEA, we obtained an increased awareness in error reporting. Application of these systems will improve the quality of healthcare services.

Daverio|Marco|M| Fino|Giuliana|G| Luca|Brugnaro|B| Zaggia|Cristina|C| Pettenazzo|Andrea|A| Parpaiola|Antonella|A| Lago|Paola|P| Amigoni|Angela|A|

D000293:Adolescent
D002648:Child
D002675:Child, Preschool
D003422:Critical Care
D016638:Critical Illness
D004282:Documentation
D004358:Drug Therapy
D005568:Forms and Records Control
D006801:Humans
D007223:Infant
D007231:Infant, Newborn
D015278:Intensive Care Units, Pediatric
D019300:Medical Errors
D011446:Prospective Studies
D058996:Quality Improvement
D012308:Risk Management
D013647:Task Performance and Analysis
D017211:Treatment Failure
D016896:Treatment Outcome

medical errors
incident reporting
pediatric intensive care unit
critical care
healthcare quality


Examining the effects of HIV self-testing compared to standard HIV testing services: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a discreet and convenient way to reach people with HIV who do not know their status, including many who may not otherwise test. To inform World Health Organization (WHO) guidance, we assessed the effect of HIVST on uptake and frequency of testing, as well as identification of HIV-positive persons, linkage to care, social harm, and risk behaviour.

METHODS
We systematically searched for studies comparing HIVST to standard HIV testing until 1 June 2016. Meta-analyses of studies reporting comparable outcomes were conducted using a random-effects model for relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals. The quality of evidence was evaluated using GRADE.

RESULTS
After screening 638 citations, we identified five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing HIVST to standard HIV testing services among 4,145 total participants from four countries. All offered free oral-fluid rapid tests for HIVST and were among men. Meta-analysis of three RCTs showed HIVST doubled uptake of testing among men (RR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.51, 2.98). Meta-analysis of two RCTs among men who have sex with men showed frequency of testing nearly doubled (Rate ratio = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.17; 3.01), resulting in two more tests in a 12-15-month period (Mean difference = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.59, 2.66). Meta-analysis of two RCTs showed HIVST also doubled the likelihood of an HIV-positive diagnosis (RR = 2.02; 95% CI: 0.37, 10.76, 5.32). Across all RCTs, there was no indication of harm attributable to HIVST and potential increases in risk-taking behaviour appeared to be minimal.

CONCLUSIONS
HIVST is associated with increased uptake and frequency of testing in RCTs. Such increases, particularly among those at risk who may not otherwise test, will likely identify more HIV-positive individuals as compared to standard testing services alone. However, further research on how to support linkage to confirmatory testing, prevention, treatment and care services is needed. WHO now recommends HIVST as an additional HIV testing approach.

Johnson|Cheryl C|CC|
Kennedy|Caitlin|C|
Fonner|Virginia|V|
Siegfried|Nandi|N|
Figueroa|Carmen|C|
Dalal|Shona|S|
Sands|Anita|A|
Baggaley|Rachel|R|

D015658:HIV Infections
D006801:Humans
D008403:Mass Screening
D012698:Serologic Tests

HIV self-test
HIV test
HIV/AIDS
public health


Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: An Overlapping of Clinical, Endoscopic and Manometric Features.

Abstract: The cause of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is not well understood. Most patients with EoE have allergic disorders. Here, we describe a patient with gastroesophageal reflux and EoE with dysphagia, substernal discomfort and retrosternal pain. Based on symptomatology consistent with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), treatment started with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) but no effect was observed. Next, the patient underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and multiple biopsies were acquired from the lower and upper esophagus. Cortisone treatment was given and high-resolution manometry was performed before and after treatment. The results suggested that esophageal motility improved after cortisone therapy together with improvements in the clinical and histological pictures.

Karapiperis|Dimitrios|D| Malmstrom|Carina|C| Vrakas|Spyridon|S| Gil|Jonatan|J| Ignatova|Simone|S| Elmahdy|Sara|S| Franzen|Thomas|T|

eosinophilic esophagitis
gastroesophageal reflux disease
high-resolution manometry
esophageal motility
steroids


The role of IS in the covid-19 pandemic: A liquid-modern perspective.

Abstract: History shows that pandemics can catalyse enormous change, fundamentally transforming the way people make sense of the world. Technologies can also be catalysts of change. While digital technologies are playing a vital role in tackling the covid-19 pandemic, the pandemic also presents a significant opportunity for digital technologies. Some experts believe the pandemic may permanently normalise the comprehensive societal use of digital technologies. This article casts a critical eye over the potential implications of this opportunity in the context of information systems (IS) research and development. We introduce and outline selected principles of Zygmunt Bauman's theory of liquid modernity. We then apply the liquid-modern principles to illustrative examples drawn from the covid-19 literature by focussing on three areas of established information systems interest: control, big data and information privacy. We show that traditional conceptualisations of scientific and societal order and control need to be reassessed; that big data alone cannot order clear and safe paths out of the current crisis and that information privacy regulations are irrelevant when undermined or circumvented by public and private actors. We conclude by making four recommendations for IS pandemic researchers and five practical recommendations in the context of the pandemic.

Covid-19
Change
Information systems
Liquid modernity
Order


Long-term regular dental attendance and tooth retention among British adults: A cross-sectional analysis of national survey data.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To explore the association between long-term pattern of dental attendance and tooth retention among British adults.

METHODS
This study analysed data from 2970 dentate adults who participated in the Adult Dental Health Survey. Data were collected through home interviews and clinical examinations. Individuals were categorized into four trajectories according to their responses to three questions on dental attendance over their life span. The four trajectories were always, current, former and never regular attenders. Tooth retention was measured as the number of natural teeth retained and having a functional dentition (20 or more teeth). Associations were examined in regression models adjusted for demographic (sex, age and country of residence), socioeconomic (education, equivalized household income and social class) and clinical factors (untreated caries and periodontal disease).

RESULTS
Never and former regular attenders had fewer teeth retained (rate ratios with 95% confidence interval: 0.93 [0.89-0.97] and 0.97 [0.96-0.99], respectively) and lower odds of having functional dentition (odds ratios with 95% CI: 0.36 [0.22-0.60] and 0.53 [0.34-0.83], respectively) than always regular attenders after adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic and clinical characteristics. However, no differences in number of teeth retained or having a functional dentition were found between always and current regular attenders.

CONCLUSION
Long-term regular dental attendance was associated with greater tooth retention. Never and former regular attenders had fewer teeth retained than always regular attenders. No difference in tooth retention was found between always and current regular attenders.

D000293:Adolescent
D000328:Adult
D000368:Aged
D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies
D003729:Dental Care
D003752:Dental Health Services
D003753:Dental Health Surveys
D019229:Dentition, Permanent
D005260:Female
D006801:Humans
D008297:Male
D008875:Middle Aged
D012044:Regression Analysis
D012959:Socioeconomic Factors
D013997:Time Factors
D016388:Tooth Loss
D006113:United Kingdom
D055815:Young Adult

tooth
adults
dentition
dental health services/utilization


Synthesis of copper-containing bioactive glass nanoparticles using a modified Stöber method for biomedical applications.

Abstract: Copper (Cu)-containing bioactive glasses (BGs) are attracting attention for bone regeneration and wound healing since they have bone-bonding capability and potential osteogenesis and angiogenesis properties. In this study, highly dispersed and spherical Cu-containing bioactive glass nanoparticles (Cu-BGNs) were successfully synthesized via a modified Stöber method. The content of incorporated Cu in the particles could be tailored by adjusting the amount of the added Cu precursor, a procedure that had no significant effects on the morphological and structural characteristics of the nanoparticles. Cu-BGNs exhibited satisfactory apatite-forming ability, as a large quantity of apatite could form on Cu-BGNs pellets after immersion in simulated body fluid for just 3days. The incorporation of Cu exhibited positive effects on the apatite formation. In addition, both Si and Cu ions were released from the Cu-BGN in a sustained manner for at least 14days in cell culture medium, indicating the potential of the BGN as promising carriers for delivering therapeutic Cu ions. Moreover, Cu-BGNs showed no significant cytotoxicity towards human mesenchymal stem cells and fibroblast cells at concentrations of 100, 10 and 1μg/mL. Taken together, the results suggest that Cu-BGNs are promising nanoparticulate fillers to develop nanocomposites for biomedical applications especially in bone regeneration and wound healing.

Zheng|Kai|K|
Dai|Xinyi|X|
Lu|Miao|M|
Hüser|Norbert|N|
Taccardi|Nicola|N|
Boccaccini|Aldo R|AR|

D017550:Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared

Bioactive glass nanoparticles
Stöber method
Copper
Apatite formation
Ion release


Primary primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney.

Abstract: Renal primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) is a rare entity. It should be differentiated from other primary renal malignancies. The differentiation of the malignant small round cell tumors may be challenging; however, it is essential for better management of the patient. We report a 45-year-old male having complaints of pain in the abdomen, hematuria, and mass in the abdomen for 6 months. Abdominal and pelvic sonography finding showed cystic-solid, right renal mass suggestive of malignancy. On histopathology diagnosed as malignant small round blue cell tumor suggestive of primitive neuroectodermal tumor. On immunohistochemistry, CD99 positivity confirmed the diagnosis of primary PNET of the kidney. We are presenting this case for its rarity, clinical presentation, and pathological findings.

Jagtap|Sunil Vitthalrao|SV|
Kale|Pradnya Pandurang|PP|
Huddedar|Anil|A|
Hulwan|Atul Bhanudas|AB|
Jagtap|Swati S|SS|

Peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor


Early surgery improves peripheral motor axonal dysfunction in acute traumatic central cord syndrome: A prospective cohort study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the impact of early vs. delayed surgical decompression on peripheral motor axonal dysfunction following acute traumatic central cord syndrome (ATCCS).

METHODS
Both axonal excitability testing and motor unit number estimation (MUNE) were performed in 30 ATCCS patients (early- vs. delayed-surgical treatment: 12 vs. 18) before operation and 28 healthy subjects. Axonal excitability testing was repeated 3-5 days and 1-year after operation, and MUNE was re-evaluated 1-year after operation.

RESULTS
Preoperatively, an obvious modification in membrane potentials was observed in ATCCS patients that mostly coincided with depolarization-like features, and MUNE further revealed reduced motor units in tested muscles (P < 0.05). Unlike delayed-surgical cases, early-surgical cases showed recoveries of most measurements of axonal excitabilities soon after operation (P < 0.05). Postoperative one-year follow-up demonstrated that greater motor unit numbers in tested muscles were obtained in early-surgical cases than in delayed-surgical cases (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS
ATCCS has adverse downstream effects on peripheral nervous system, even in the early stage of ATCCS. Early surgical treatment can ameliorate both excitability abnormalities and motor unit loss in distal motor axons.

SIGNIFICANCE
Optimizing axonal excitability in the early phases of ATCCS may alleviate peripheral nerve injury secondary to lesions of upper motor neuron and improve clinical outcomes.

Zheng|Chaojun|C| Zhu|Dongqing|D| Zhu|Yu|Y| Lyu|Feizhou|F| Weber|Robert|R| Jin|Xiang|X| Jiang|Jianyuan|J|

Acute traumatic central cord syndrome
Motor unit number estimation
Surgical treatment
Nerve excitability
Spinal cord injury


Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species identity governs plant water content and soil aggregation improvements under wet-dry climate conditions.

Abstract: Our study aimed to uncover the functions of two species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in soil aggregation and plant water content regulation under wetting-drying climate conditions. The climatic characteristics of seasonal drought in karst areas were simulated. Two watering periods were established in a controlled greenhouse to compare the different effects of two genetically different AMF species (Funneliformis mosseae and Rhizophagus intraradices) on the water content of 90-day-old mulberry seedlings and on soil aggregates. Our results showed that inoculation with the Rhizophagus intraradices (R.i) strain was more effective at improving mulberry growth performance than Funneliformis mosseae (F.m) inoculation under semiarid conditions. The AMF remained highly infective and continuously increased the proportion of soil macroaggregates under soil drought stress. As a result, our study showed the potential of AMF to promote sustainable mulberry plantations and the rehabilitation of degraded soil in karst areas of southwestern China.

Wang|Yan|Y|
Xing|Dan|D|
Luo|Chao Bin|CB|
Zhang|Fang|F|
Zhang|Cheng Ming|CM|

Soil aggregation
Mulberry
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus
Wetting–drying


Patients with primary brain tumors.

Abstract: The purpose of this prospective phase II/III trial was to study the effect of therapy intensification when combining procarbazine, lomustine, and vincristine (PCV) chemotherapy with a standard course of radiation therapy (RT) on cognitive functioning for patients with World Health Organization grade 2 low-grade gliomas (LGGs). Initial results of the trial demonstrated a progression-free survival benefit with adjuvant PCV, but no overall survival benefit in the intention-to-treat analysis. Because patients with LGGs have favorable prognostic indicators, the five-year overall survival rates range from 60%-70%. The effect of cancer treatment on neurocognitive function is a topic of increasing interest to healthcare providers and patients. The negative effect is commonly called "chemobrain" and refers to diminished concentration and compromised short-term memory following treatment. Chemobrain has been studied in other populations of patients with cancer (e.g., breast cancer) with associated statistically significant chemotherapy-associated compromised cognitive function when chemotherapy was added to RT.

D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols

primary brain tumors
cognitive function
low-grade glioma
uncertainty


Multifrequency electromagnetic geophysical tools for evaluating the hydrologic conditions and performance of evapotranspiration barriers.

Abstract: Surface barriers are designed to isolate subsurface contaminants for 1000 years or longer, functionally limiting water infiltration and removing the driving force for contaminant transport to groundwater. Cost-effective monitoring is challenging because of the long design life for surface barriers, spatial limitations and finite lifetime of in situ sensors, and performance metrics related to drainage. Hence, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic induction (EMI) tools were evaluated for use in performance monitoring of surface barriers. GPR and EMI were used to non-invasively interrogate the Prototype Hanford Barrier (PHB), an evapotranspiration-capillary break barrier established in 1994 at the Hanford Site, in southeastern Washington State. Both geophysical methods were evaluated for providing indirect estimates of subsurface moisture content conditions that were compared to point scale measurements from borehole neutron logs. Surveys were performed during characteristically wet and dry periods to observe a range of hydrologic states of the barrier soil. Although EMI surveys were expected to show seasonal changes associated with changes in the bulk conductivity of the barrier soil layers, the effectiveness of the method was limited by the effects of metallic infrastructure embedded in the barrier. GPR estimates of volumetric water content were typically within 2-3% of the highest water contents from neutron probe measurements for both wet and dry periods, providing reasonable estimates of water content. Given that PHB monitoring data over the past 25 years has demonstrated its success in limiting deep drainage, GPR was found to be a cost-effective method for demonstrating continued barrier performance, with a greater capacity to quantify moisture content distributions over much larger areas relative to point measurements.

Mangel|Adam R|AR|
Linneman|D|D|
Sprinkle|P|P|
Jaysaval|P|P|
Thomle|J|J|
Strickland|C|C|

Geophysics
Hydrology
Monitoring
Non-invasive
Engineered barrier
Ground penetrating radar


RhoA/MLC signaling pathway is involved in Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol-impaired placental angiogenesis.

Abstract: Cannabis is a widely used illicit drug and its abuse during pregnancy has been related to adverse reproductive outcomes. In addition, placental angiogenesis is considered to be responsible for the transport of nutrients critical for placental development and fetal growth. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major component of cannabis, on placental angiogenesis, involving endothelial cell (EC) proliferation, migration and tube formation. Here, we observe dramatic alterations in placental vascular network of cannabis users correlated with an impaired HUVE cell proliferation, migration and tube formation after treated with THC. Mechanistically, the activity of RhoA/MLC is involved in the THC-impaired EC migration and angiogenesis. To further analyze the role of cannabis in mice placental and embryonic development, we inject pregnant mice with THC daily. This treatment results in an altered placental microvasculature, accompanied by the decreased expression of CD31 and activity of RhoA/MLC. Taken together, these findings identify THC plays a pivotal role in impairing placental angiogenesis potentially via RhoA/MLC signaling nexus.

Chang|Xinwen|X| Li|Hua|H| Li|Yuhong|Y| He|Qizhi|Q| Yao|Julei|J| Duan|Tao|T| Wang|Kai|K|

D061307:Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

RhoA/MLC
Placental angiogenesis
Cannabis
Δ⁹-Tetrahydrocannabinol
Endothelial dysfunction


A single-institution prospective evaluation of a neuro-oncology multidisciplinary team meeting.

Abstract: Multi-disciplinary team meetings (MDTs) are considered essential to quality cancer care. For some malignancies, MDTs have been associated with improved outcomes, but data regarding the neuro-oncology MDT is limited. We prospectively described the MDT at our institution and evaluated its impact on clinical management. Cases were discussed amongst the treating team and a pre-MDT plan and reason for discussion (RFD) was documented before the MDT. Patient specific clinical data was captured prospectively, with further pathological and radiological information captured during the MDT. Subsequently, the MDT consensus decision was recorded. High impact decisions (HID) were those in which the pre-MDT plan was substantially modified. A HID rate of >10% was considered clinically significant. Adherence to MDT recommendations was recorded. Seventy-nine cases were discussed at the MDT. Fifty-two cases (66%) were male. The median age was 53 (17-84). Thirty-three cases were new diagnoses and the remainder were relapsed/progressive disease. Thirty-nine cases were primary brain tumours, 25 were metastatic tumours and 15 were other. Twenty-eight (35%) had HID. No RFDs were statistically significantly associated with a HID (p = 0.265). Adherence data was collected for 95% (75) of cases. Treatment concordance with the MDT plan occurred in 90% (67) of cases. For cases of non-concordance, six out of eight (75%) were due to patient choice. Overall, a clinically significant proportion of treatment modifications are made at the neuro-oncology MDT. There were no case types which did not benefit from MDT discussion. MDT recommendations were largely adhered to, and in cases of non-concordance, were largely due to patient choice.

Ameratunga|Malaka|M|
Miller|Dorothea|D|
Ng|Wayne|W|
Wada|Mori|M|
Gonzalvo|Augusto|A|
Cher|Lawrence|L|
Gan|Hui K|HK|

Neuro-oncology
Multidisciplinary team meeting
Tumour board


Rational design, synthesis and 2D-QSAR study of novel vasorelaxant active benzofuran-pyridine hybrids.

Abstract: Reaction of 3-aryl-1-(benzofuran-2-yl)-2-propen-1-ones 3a-c with malononitrile in the presence of sufficient amount of sodium alkoxide in the corresponding alcohol proceeds in a regioselective manner to afford 2-alkoxy-4-aryl-6-(benzofuran-2-yl)-3-pyridinecarbonitriles 4-37, which also obtained by treating ylidenemalononitriles 6a-q with 2-acetylbenzofuran 1 in the presence of sufficient amount of sodium alkoxide in the corresponding alcohol. The new chemical entities showed significant vasodilation properties using isolated thoracic aortic rings of rats pre-contracted with norepinephrine hydrochloride standard technique. Compounds 11, 16, 21, 24 and 30 exhibited remarkable activity compared with amiodarone hydrochloride the reference standard used in the present study. CODESSA-Pro software was employing to obtain a statistically significant QSAR model describing the bioactivity of the newly synthesized analogs (N=31, n=5, R(2)=0.846, R(2)cvOO=0.765, R(2)cvMO=0.778, F=27.540. s(2)=0.002).

Srour|Aladdin M|AM|
Abd El-Karim|Somaia S|SS|
Saleh|Dalia O|DO|
El-Eraky|Wafaa I|WI|
Nofal|Zeinab M|ZM|

Vasodilator Amiodarone QSAR Benzofuran Pyridinecarbonitrile


Long-term tumor control after endoscopic endonasal resection of craniopharyngiomas: comparison of gross-total resection versus subtotal resection with radiation therapy.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Surgical management of craniopharyngiomas (CPAs) is challenging. Controversy exists regarding the optimal goals of surgery. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of patients who underwent gross-total resection with the outcomes of those who underwent subtotal resection of their CPA via an endoscopic endonasal approach.

METHODS
From a prospectively maintained database of all endoscopic endonasal approaches performed at Weill Cornell Medicine, only patients with CPAs with > 3 years of follow-up after surgery were included. The primary endpoint was radiographic progression. Data were collected on baseline demographics, imaging, endocrine function, visual function, and extent of resection.

RESULTS
A total of 44 patients with a mean follow-up of 5.7 ± 2.6 years were included. Of these patients, 14 (31.8%) had prior surgery. GTR was achieved in 77.3% (34/44) of all patients and 89.5% (34/38) of patients in whom it was the goal of surgery. Preoperative tumor volume < 10 cm3 was highly predictive of GTR (p < 0.001). Radiation therapy was administered within the first 3 months after surgery in 1 (2.9%) of 34 patients with GTR and 7 (70%) of 10 patients with STR (p < 0.001). The 5-year recurrence-free/progression-free survival rate was 75.0% after GTR and 25.0% after STR (45% in subgroup with STR plus radiotherapy; p < 0.001). The time to recurrence after GTR was 30.2 months versus 13 months after STR (5.8 months in subgroup with STR plus radiotherapy; p < 0.001). Patients with GTR had a lower rate of visual deterioration and higher rate of return to work or school compared with those with STR (p = 0.02). Patients with GTR compared to STR had a lower rate of CSF leakage (0.0% vs 30%, p = 0.001) but a higher rate of diabetes insipidus (85.3% vs 50%, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS
GTR, which is possible to achieve in smaller tumors, resulted in improved tumor control, better visual outcome, and better functional recovery but a higher rate of diabetes insipidus compared with STR, even when the latter was supplemented with postoperative radiation therapy. GTR should be the goal of craniopharyngioma surgery, when achievable with minimal morbidity.

Godil|Saniya S|SS|
Tosi|Umberto|U|
Gerges|Mina|M|
Garton|Andrew L A|ALA|
Dobri|Georgiana A|GA|
Kacker|Ashutosh|A|
Tabaee|Abtin|A|
Anand|Vijay K|VK|
Schwartz|Theodore H|TH|

endoscopic
endonasal
craniopharyngioma
long-term outcome
pituitary surgery
transsphenoidal


Hypoglycemia Risk Related to Double Dose Is Markedly Reduced with Basal Insulin Peglispro Versus Insulin Glargine in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Randomized Trial: IMAGINE 8.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Basal insulin peglispro (BIL) has a peripheral-to-hepatic distribution of action that resembles endogenous insulin and a prolonged duration of action with a flat pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profile at steady state, characteristics that tend to reduce hypoglycemia risk compared to insulin glargine (GL). The primary objective was to demonstrate that clinically significant hypoglycemia (blood glucose ≤54 mg/dL [3.0 mmol/L] or symptoms of severe hypoglycemia) occurred less frequently within 84 h after a double dose (DD) of BIL than a DD of GL.

METHODS
This was a randomized, double-blind, two-period crossover study in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) previously treated with insulin (N = 68). For the first 3 weeks of each of the two crossover periods, patients received an individualized dose of BIL or GL once nightly (stable dose for 2 weeks/period). Then, during a 7-day inpatient stay with frequent blood glucose monitoring and standardized meals, one DD of study insulin was given. Glucose was infused if blood glucose was ≤54 mg/dL (3.0 mmol/L) or for symptoms of severe hypoglycemia.

RESULTS
Within 84 h after the DD, a significantly smaller proportion of patients experienced clinically significant hypoglycemia with BIL compared to GL (BIL, 6.6%; GL, 35.5%; odds ratio for BIL/GL 0.13 [95% confidence interval 0.04-0.39]; P < 0.001). Adverse event profiles were similar for the two insulins. Serum alanine aminotransferase and triglyceride levels were significantly higher with BIL versus GL.

CONCLUSIONS
BIL has a markedly lower risk of hypoglycemia than GL when replicating a double-dose error in patients with T2D.

Harris|Cynthia|C| Forst|Thomas|T| Heise|Tim|T| Plum-Mörschel|Leona|L| Watkins|Elaine|E| Zhang|Qianyi|Q| Fan|Ludi|L| Garhyan|Parag|P| Porksen|Niels|N|

Hypoglycemia
Type 2 diabetes
Basal insulin peglispro (BIL)
Fasting blood glucose
Insulin therapy.


Long solid retention time (SRT) has minor role in promoting methane production in a 65°C single-stage anaerobic sludge digester.

Abstract: In this study, a thermophilic (65°C) single-stage wasted activated sludge (WAS) digester was established and the effects of solid retention time (SRT) on the reactor performance were investigated. The result showed that the optimum SRT was 6days with methane yield of 186.16mL/g VS. It was found that SRT had little effect on the hydrolysis and volatile solids (VS) destruction, and the high temperature employed seemed sufficient to achieve maximum hydrolysis and VS destruction performance. Longer SRT, however, promoted the release of recalcitrant compounds and impaired acidification, leading to the low methane yield. The microbial community analysis revealed that the dominant pathway for methane production was through syntrophic activity of acetate oxidizing bacteria and hydrogenotrophic methanogens while acetoclastic methanogens were absent in the system.

Chen|Yun|Y|
Xiao|Keke|K|
Jiang|Xie|X|
Shen|Nan|N|
Zeng|Raymond J|RJ|
Zhou|Yan|Y|

Solid retention time
Methane production
Single-stage digestion
Thermophilic temperature (65°C)


Solitary Angiokeratoma Presenting as Cutaneous Horn over the Prepuce: A Rare Appearance.

Abstract: We present a case of a 47-year-old man with 4 months history of conical growth on the prepuce with a progressive increase in size. The patient had been treated for seminoma a decade ago. Histopathology of the growth showed features of angiokeratoma. It is unusual for angiokeratoma to masquerade as a cutaneous horn.

Agarwala|Manoj Kumar|MK|
Mukhopadhyay|Sramana|S|
Sekhar|M Raja|MR|
Menon|Aswathy|A|
Peter|Cv Dincy|CD|

Angiokeratoma
cutaneous horn
prepuce
India
genitalia


Pregnancy outcomes associated with an abnormal 50-g glucose screen during pregnancy: a systematic review and Meta-analysis.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To assess the association between an abnormal 1-h 50-g glucose challenge test (GCT) followed by a normal 3-h 100-g glucose tolerance test (GTT) on fetal macrosomia and other adverse outcomes.

DATA SOURCES
MEDLINE, Cochrane, clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to March 2019.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION
Any studies reporting adverse perinatal and/or maternal outcomes in women with an abnormal 50-g 1-h glucose challenge test (GCT) followed by a normal 3-h, 100-g glucose tolerance test (GTT) were included. Studies were critically appraised by three independent reviewers. Outcomes included fetal macrosomia, cesarean delivery, preeclampsia, birth weight, neonatal hypoglycemia, shoulder dystocia, NICU admission, respiratory morbidity, and low Apgar score. A random-effects model was employed to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) for each outcome with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) and 95% predictive intervals (PI).

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS
We identified 30 studies comprising 18,067 patients with a normal 3-h GTT after an abnormal 1-h GCT (study group) and 117,091 patients with a normal 1-h, 50-g GCT (comparison group). Patients in the study group had an increased risk of macrosomia (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.48-1.91, 27 studies, 132,027 patients), cesarean delivery (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.30-1.48, 24 studies, 128,495 women), preeclampsia (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.15-1.91, 17 studies, 110,930 patients), hypoglycemia (OR 1.43, CI 1.07-1.91) and shoulder dystocia (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.09-2.12, 9 studies, 41,229 patients). Neonatal birth weight was significantly higher in the study group. The incidence of NICU admission, low Apgar score, and respiratory morbidity was similar in the two groups. Controlling for body mass index and 1-h glucose screen cut off did not alter these results.

CONCLUSION
Even in the absence of gestational diabetes, patients who fail the GCT test are at mildly increased risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity including macrosomia, cesarean delivery, preeclampsia, and shoulder dystocia.

Roeckner|Jared T|JT|0000-0002-0770-7477
Bennett|Stevie|S|
Mitta|Melanie|M|
Sanchez-Ramos|Luis|L|
Kaunitz|Andrew M|AM|

meta-analysis
macrosomia
gestational diabetes
Glucose intolerance


HIV and symptoms of depression are independently associated with impaired glucocorticoid signaling.

Abstract: Chronic inflammation caused by HIV infection may lead to deficient glucocorticoid (GC) signaling predisposing people living with HIV to depression and other psychiatric disorders linked to GC resistance. We hypothesized that comorbid HIV and depressive symptoms in women would synergistically associate with deficits in GC signaling. This cross-sectional study used samples obtained from the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS). The Centers for Epidemiological Studies (CES-D) was used to define depression in four groups of women from the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS): 1) HIV-negative, non-depressed (n = 37); 2) HIV-negative, depressed (n = 34); 3) HIV-positive, non-depressed (n = 38); and 4) HIV-positive, depressed (n = 38). To assess changes in GC signaling from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), we examined baseline and dexamethasone (Dex)-stimulated changes in the expression of the GC receptor (GR, gene: Nr3c1) and its negative regulator Fkbp5 via quantitative RT-PCR. GR sensitivity was evaluated in vitro by assessing the Dex inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated IL-6 and TNF-α levels. Depressive symptoms and HIV serostatus were independently associated with elevated baseline expression of Fkbp5 and Nr3c1. Depressive symptoms, but not HIV status, was independently associated with reduced LPS-induced release of IL-6. Counter to predictions, there was no interactive association of depressive symptoms and HIV on any outcome. Comorbid depressive symptoms with HIV infection were associated with a gene expression and cytokine profile similar to that of healthy control women, a finding that may indicate further disruptions in disease adaptation.

Bekhbat|Mandakh|M|
Mehta|C Christina|CC|
Kelly|Sean D|SD|
Vester|Aimee|A|
Ofotokun|Ighovwerha|I|
Felger|Jennifer|J|
Wingood|Gina|G|
Anastos|Kathryn|K|
Gustafson|Deborah R|DR|
Kassaye|Seble|S|
Milam|Joel|J|
Aouizerat|Bradley|B|
Weber|Kathleen|K|
Golub|Elizabeth T|ET|
Moore|Michelle Floris|MF|
Diclemente|Ralph|R|
Fischl|Margaret|M|
Kempf|Mirjam-Colette|MC|
Maki|Pauline|P|
Neigh|Gretchen N|GN|

D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales

HIV Depression Glucocorticoid Inflammation Women FKBP5


Comparative study of molecular recognition of folic acid subunits with cyclodextrins.

Abstract: The complexation of pteroic acid and pterine, subunits of folic acid, with native cyclodextrins (α‒, β‒, and γ‒CDs) was studied in solution (UV-vis), and in the solid state (thermal analysis, IR and Raman). UV-vis titrations at pH = 7.4 provided data regarding stoichiometry of the formed complexes as well as their associations constants. Stability of the complexes increases in the series: γ‒CD < β‒CD << α‒CD for pterine, and γ‒CD < α‒CD << β‒CD for pteroic acid. The mode of complexation was further exploited by molecular modeling studies (docking studies, PM6) showing additionally changes in conformation of pteroic acid upon complexation. Comparison of the association constants of the complexes of pterine and pteroic acid with native cyclodextrins with data obtained for analogous complexes with folic acid shows that all folic acid complexes are less stable than those formed from its subunits.

Ceborska|Magdalena|M|
Kędra-Królik|Karolina|K|
Kowalska|Aneta Aniela|AA|
Koźbiał|Małgorzata|M|

Molecular recognition
Folic acid
Cyclodextrin
Pteroic acid
Pterine


First evidence for thermal tolerance benefits of the bacterial symbiont Cardinium in an invasive whitefly, Bemisia tabaci.

Abstract:
BACKGROUD
Cardinium symbiont is a maternally inherited bacterial endosymbiont and widely spreads in arthropods including Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). However, the potential role of Cardinium played in the biology of their hosts is largely unknown. In two genetic lines (i.e. LS and SG lines) of B. tabaci MED, collected from different locations in China, we tested the effects of Cardinium on the performance of the host whitefly under a constant high temperature (31 °C) using the age-stage two-sex life table method, and explored the genes influenced by Cardinium-infection by RNA-sequencing.

RESULTS
We found that Cardinium did provide protection of B. tabaci against heat stress under 31 °C. However, there was a significant connection between Cardinium-infection and whitefly genetic backgrounds. Performance revealed that Cardinium infection can increase the longevity of both female and male adults and oviposition periods in both lines, but it also conferred benefits of fecundity and pre-adult period to LS line. Additionally, the population parameters such as intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ) and mean generation time (T) demonstrated that Cardinium infection conferred fitness benefits to LS line but not to SG line. Transcriptome analysis indicated that several genes related to homeostasis and metamorphosis such as ubiquitin-related genes were highly expressed in Cardinium-infected B. tabaci.

CONCLUSION
The research provided the first evidence that Cardinium can increase the thermal tolerance of whitefly, which may be associated with host genetic background.

thermal tolerance
Cardinium
Bemisia tabaci
life table


Etlingera pavieana extract attenuates TNF-α induced vascular adhesion molecule expression in human endothelial cells through NF-κB and Akt/JNK pathways.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine whether ethanol extracts of Etlingera pavieana rhizomes (EPE) can inhibit the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in TNF-α-stimulated human vascular endothelial cells. EPE significantly reduced ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression in a concentration-dependent manner. EPE also suppressed phospho-IκB level and nuclear translocation of NF-κB. EPE significantly inhibited phosphorylation of JNK and c-Jun, a major component of AP-1, but had no effects on ERK and p38 MAPK pathways. Akt phosphorylation was increased in the presence of EPE, and wortmannin and SP600125 reversed the inhibitory effects of EPE on ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression. Furthermore, the active EPE constituents 4-methoxycinnamyl p-coumarate and trans-4-methoxycinnamaldehyde attenuated TNF-α-induced expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Taken together, our data indicate that EPE protects against vascular inflammation in endothelial cells, in part via NF-κB and Akt/JNK signalings. In future studies, E. pavieana may be developed as a therapeutic agent or dietary supplement for treating and preventing inflammatory diseases.

D048031:JNK Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases

D019010:Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1

D048051:p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases

Etlingera pavieana
Endothelial cell
Inflammation
Cell adhesion molecules


Randomised healthcare policy evaluation of organised primary human papillomavirus screening of women aged 56-60.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this research is to implement and reliably evaluate primary human papillomavirus (HPV) screening in an established and routinely running organised, large-scale population-based screening programme.

PARTICIPANTS
Resident women in the Stockholm/Gotland region of Sweden, aged 56-60 years were randomised to either (1) screening with cervical cytology, with HPV test in triage of low-grade cytological abnormalities (old policy) or (2) screening with HPV testing, with cytology in triage of HPV positives (new policy).

OUTCOME
The primary evaluation was the detection rate of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+).

RESULTS
During January 2012-May 2014, the organised screening programme sent 42 752 blinded invitations with a prebooked appointment time to the women in the target age group. 7325 women attended in the HPV policy arm and 7438 women attended in the cytology arm. In the new policy, the population HPV prevalence was 5.5%, using an accredited HPV test (Cobas 4800). HPV16 prevalence was 1.0% (73/7325) and HPV18 prevalence was 0.3% (22/7325). In the HPV policy arm, 78/405 (19%) HPV-positive women were also cytology positive. There were 19 cases of CIN2+ in histopathology, all among women who were both HPV positive and cytology positive. The positive predictive value for CIN2+ in this group was 33.3% (19/57). In the cytology policy, 153 women were cytology positive and there were 18 cases of CIN2+ in histopathology. Both the total number of cervical biopsies and the number of cervical biopsies with benign histopathology were much lower in thepositive predictive value policy (49 benign, 87 total vs 105 benign, 132 total).

CONCLUSION
Primary HPV screening had a similar detection rate for CIN2+ as cytology-based screening, already before follow-up of HPV-positive, cytology-negative women with new HPV test and referral of women with persistence.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER
NCT01511328.

Lamin|Helena|H|
Eklund|Carina|C|
Elfström|Klara Miriam|KM|
Carlsten-Thor|Agneta|A|
Hortlund|Maria|M|
Elfgren|Kristina|K|
Törnberg|Sven|S|
Dillner|Joakim|J|

organised screening programme
HPV primary screening
cervical cancer


Dynamic Alterations in Spontaneous Neural Activity in Multiple Brain Networks in Subacute Stroke Patients: A Resting-State fMRI Study.

Abstract: Objective: To examine whether subacute stroke patients would exhibit abnormal dynamic characteristics of brain activity relative to healthy controls (HC) and to investigate whether the altered dynamic regional indexes were associated with clinical behavior in stroke patients. Methods: The dynamic amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (dALFF) and dynamic regional homogeneity (dReHo) in 42 subacute stroke patients and 55 healthy controls were compared. Correlation analyses between dALFF and dReHo in regions showing significant intergroup differences and clinical scores (i.e., the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Fugl-Meyer assessment and lesion volume size) were conducted in stroke patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the potential value of altered dynamic regional indexes to identify stroke patients. Results: Significantly dALFF in the bilateral cerebellum posterior lobe (CPL), ipsilesional superior parietal lobe, ipsilesional inferior temporal gyrus (ITG), the midline supplementary motor area (SMA), ipsilesional putamen and lentiform nucleus were detected in stroke patients compared to HC. Relative to the HC group, the stroke patients showed significant differences in dReHo in the contralesional rectal gyrus, contralesional ITG, contralesional pons, ipsilesional middle frontal gyrus (MFG). Significant correlations between dALFF variability in midline SMA and Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) scores or between dReHo variability in the ipsilesional MFG and FMA scores were detected in stroke patients. Furthermore, the ROC curve revealed that dynamic ALFF at SMA and ReHo at ipsilesional MFG might have the potential to distinguish stroke patients. Conclusion: The pattern of intrinsic brain activity variability is altered in stroke patients compared with HC, and dynamic ALFF/ReHo might be potential tools to assess stroke patients' motor function.

Chen|Jing|J| Sun|Dalong|D| Shi|Yonghui|Y| Jin|Wei|W| Wang|Yanbin|Y| Xi|Qian|Q| Ren|Chuancheng|C|

stroke
resting-state fMRI
amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations
regional homogeneity
dynamic intrinsic brain activity


Acute Muscular Responses to Practical Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction Exercise Versus Traditional Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction and High-/Low-Load Exercise.

Abstract:
CONTEXT
Blood flow restriction (BFR) increases muscle size and strength when combined with low loads, but various methods are used to produce this stimulus. It is unclear how using elastic knee wraps can impact acute muscular responses compared with using nylon cuffs, where the pressure can be standardized.

OBJECTIVE
Investigate how elastic knee wraps compare with nylon cuffs and high-load (HL)/low-load (LL) resistance exercise.

DESIGN
A randomized cross-over experimental design using 6 conditions combined with unilateral knee extension.

SETTING
Human Performance Laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS
A total of 9 healthy participants (males = 7 and females = 2) and had an average age of 22 (4) years.

INTERVENTION
LL (30% of 1-repetition maximum [1-RM]), HL (70% 1-RM), BFR at 40% of arterial occlusion pressure (BFR-LOW), BFR at 80% of arterial occlusion pressure (BFR-HIGH), elastic knee wraps stretched by 2 in (PRACTICAL-LOW), and elastic knee wraps stretched to a new length equivalent to 85% of thigh circumference (PRACTICAL-HIGH). BFR and practical conditions used 30% 1-RM.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Muscle thickness, maximum voluntary isometric contraction, and electromyography amplitude. Bayesian statistics evaluated differences in changes between conditions using the Bayes factor (BF10), and median and 95% credible intervals were reported from the posterior distribution.

RESULTS
Total repetitions completed were greater for BFR-LOW versus PRACTICAL-HIGH (BF10 = 3.2, 48.6 vs 44 repetitions) and greater for PRACTICAL-LOW versus BFR-HIGH (BF10 = 717, 51.8 vs 36.3 repetitions). Greater decreases in changes in maximum voluntary isometric contraction were found in PRACTICAL-HIGH versus HL (BF10 = 1035, ∼103 N) and LL (BF10 = 45, ∼66 N). No differences in changes in muscle thickness were found between LL versus PRACTICAL-LOW/PRACTICAL-HIGH conditions (BF10 = 0.32). Greater changes in electromyography amplitude were also found for BFR-LOW versus PRACTICAL-HIGH condition (BF10 = 6.13, ∼12%), but no differences were noted between the other BFR conditions.

CONCLUSIONS
Overall, elastic knee wraps produce a more fatiguing stimulus than LL or HL conditions and might be used as an alternative to pneumatic cuffs that are traditionally used for BFR exercise.

Thiebaud|Robert S|RS|
Abe|Takashi|T|
Loenneke|Jeremy P|JP|
Garcia|Tyler|T|
Shirazi|Yohan|Y|
McArthur|Ross|R|

elastic knee wraps
muscle thickness
vascular occlusion


High spatial and temporal resolution synthetic aperture phase microscopy.

Abstract: A new optical microscopy technique, termed high spatial and temporal resolution synthetic aperture phase microscopy (HISTR-SAPM), is proposed to improve the lateral resolution of wide-field coherent imaging. Under plane wave illumination, the resolution is increased by twofold to around 260 nm, while achieving millisecond-level temporal resolution. In HISTR-SAPM, digital micromirror devices are used to actively change the sample illumination beam angle at high speed with high stability. An off-axis interferometer is used to measure the sample scattered complex fields, which are then processed to reconstruct high-resolution phase images. Using HISTR-SAPM, we are able to map the height profiles of subwavelength photonic structures and resolve the period structures that have 198 nm linewidth and 132 nm gap (i.e., a full pitch of 330 nm). As the reconstruction averages out laser speckle noise while maintaining high temporal resolution, HISTR-SAPM further enables imaging and quantification of nanoscale dynamics of live cells, such as red blood cell membrane fluctuations and subcellular structure dynamics within nucleated cells. We envision that HISTR-SAPM will broadly benefit research in material science and biology.

Zheng|Cheng|C|
Jin|Di|D|
He|Yanping|Y|
Lin|Hongtao|H|
Hu|Juejun|J|
Yaqoob|Zahid|Z|
So|Peter T C|PTC|
Zhou|Renjie|R|0000-0002-4761-6641

cell dynamics observation
label-free imaging
material inspection
quantitative phase microscopy


Prior breastfeeding experience and infant feeding at discharge among women with pregestational diabetes mellitus.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To compare multiparous women with pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) with and without prior breastfeeding (BF) experience and to ascertain their infants' feeding type during hospitalization and at discharge.

METHODS
A retrospective cohort study of 304 women with PGDM who delivered at ≥34 weeks gestational age (GA). Prior BF experience and infant feeding preference was declared prenatally. At discharge, BF was defined as exclusive or partial.

RESULTS
BF experience and no experience groups were similar in diabetes type 1 and 2, race and number of pregnancies. Women with no experience had more spontaneous abortions (35 vs 27%), fewer term deliveries (51 vs 61%) and living children (median 1 vs 2). In the current pregnancy, mode of delivery: vaginal (36 & 37%), cesarean (64 & 63%), birthweight (3592 & 3515 g), GA (38 & 37 w), NICU admission (14 & 11%) and hypoglycemia (44 & 43%) were similar. Women with experience intended to BF (79 vs 46%), their infants' first feeding was BF (64 vs 36%) and had lactation consults (96 vs 63%) more often than those without experience. At discharge, women with BF experience were different in rate of exclusive BF (33 vs 11%), partial BF (48 vs 25%) and formula feeding (19 vs 64%).

CONCLUSION
Prior BF experience leads to better BF initiation rates while the absence of BF experience adds a risk for BF initiation failure. A detailed BF history could provide insight into obstacles that lead to unsuccessful BF experiences and may help define appropriate preventive or corrective strategies.

Cordero|L|L|
Stenger|M R|MR|
Blaney|S D|SD|
Finneran|M M|MM|
Nankervis|C A|CA|

prior breastfeeding experience
Pregestational diabetes mellitus
breastfeeding at discharge


Predicting the likelihood of live birth for elective oocyte cryopreservation: a counseling tool for physicians and patients.

Abstract:
Study question
Can a counseling tool be developed for women desiring elective oocyte cryopreservation to predict the likelihood of live birth based on age and number of oocytes frozen?

Summary answer
Using data from ICSI cycles of a population of women with uncompromised ovarian reserve, an evidence-based counseling tool was created to guide women and their physicians regarding the number of oocytes needed to freeze for future family-building goals.

What is known already
Elective oocyte cryopreservation is increasing in popularity as more women delay family building. By undertaking elective oocyte freezing at a younger age, women hope to optimize their likelihood of successful live birth(s) using their thawed oocytes at a future date. Questions often arise in clinical practice regarding the number of cryopreserved oocytes sufficient to achieve live birth(s) and whether or not additional stimulation cycles are likely to result in a meaningful increase in the likelihood of live birth. As relatively few women who have electively cryopreserved oocytes have returned to use them, available data for counseling patients wishing to undergo fertility preservation are limited.

Study design, size, duration
A model was developed to determine the proportion of mature oocytes that fertilize and then form blastocysts as a function of age, using women with presumably normal ovarian reserve based on standard testing who underwent ICSI cycles in our program from January, 2011 through March, 2015 (n = 520). These included couples diagnosed exclusively with male-factor and/or tubal-factor infertility, as well as cycles utilizing egg donation. Age-specific probabilities of euploidy were estimated from 14 500 PGS embryo results from an external testing laboratory. Assuming survival of thawed oocytes at 95% for women <36 y and for egg donors, and 85% for women ≥36 y, and 60% live birth rate per transferred euploid blastocyst, probabilities of having at least one, two or three live birth(s) were calculated.

Participants/materials, setting, method
First fresh male-factor and/or tubal-factor only autologous ICSI cycles (n = 466) were analyzed using Poisson regression to calculate the probability that a mature oocyte will become a blastocyst based on age. Egg donation cycles (n = 54) were analyzed and incorporated into the model separately. The proportion of blastocysts expected to be euploid was determined using PGS results of embryos analyzed via array comparative genomic hybridization. A counseling tool was developed to predict the likelihood of live birth, based on individual patient age and number of mature oocytes.

Main results and the role of chance
This study provides an evidence-based model to predict the probability of a woman having at least one, two or three live birth(s) based on her age at egg retrieval and the number of mature oocytes frozen. The model is derived from a surrogate population of ICSI patients with uncompromised ovarian reserve. A user-friendly counseling tool was designed using the model to help guide physicians and patients.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION
The data used to develop the prediction model are, of necessity, retrospective and not based on patients who have returned to use their cryopreserved oocytes. The assumptions used to create the model, albeit reasonable and data-driven, vary by study and will likely vary by center. Centers are therefore encouraged to consider their own blastocyst formation and thaw survival rates when counseling patients.

Limitations, reasons for caution
Our model will provide a counseling resource that may help inform women desiring elective fertility preservation regarding their likelihood of live birth(s), how many cycles to undergo, and when additional cycles would bring diminishing returns.

Study funding/competing interests
None.

Trial registration number
Not applicable.

Goldman|R H|RH|
Racowsky|C|C|
Farland|L V|LV|
Munné|S|S|
Ribustello|L|L|
Fox|J H|JH|

oocyte cryopreservation
family building
fertility preservation
prediction model
blastocyst formation
blastocyst euploidy
egg thaw
elective egg freezing


Evaluation of work-as-done in information management of multidisciplinary incident management teams via Interaction Episode Analysis.

Abstract: Multidisciplinary incident management teams (IMTs) are required to operate in resilient ways as emergency situations unfold unexpectedly. Although resilience in emergency management has been widely studied in many emergency contexts, the development of a new method to investigate actual resilient performance of the IMTs under realistic settings has been limited. To address such gap, this paper first introduces Interaction Episode Analysis (IEA), a novel approach to capture and describe emergent team performance. As an exploratory observation study, we apply the IEA to an information management aspect of the IMTs in two emergency exercises carried out in a high-fidelity environment. As a result, the IEA provides comparable sets of episodes as instances of work-as-done, rendering opportunities to further analyze essential elements of interactions between team members as well as information management activities. Moreover, the IEA enables comparisons between the observations and identification of challenges faced by the team in managing incident information and adaptive behaviors used to address the challenges. By gathering more evidences as well as addressing limitations identified in this study, the IEA is expected to serve as a method that facilitates the analysis of work-as-done of complex team work and the reconciliation between work-as-done and work-as-imagined to promote resilience in emergency management.

Son|Changwon|C|
Sasangohar|Farzan|F|
Neville|Timothy J|TJ|
Peres|S Camille|SC|
Moon|Jukrin|J|

Work-as-done
Episode analysis
Emergency response
Resilience engineering


Revascularization in complex multivessel coronary artery disease after FREEDOM. Is there an indication for PCI and drug-eluting stents?

Abstract: Diabetes mellitus is a highly prevalent metabolic disorder frequently associated with the development of coronary atherosclerosis. Myocardial revascularization assumes a central role in the treatment of diabetic patients with coronary artery disease. Although coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is in principle the revascularization modality of choice in diabetic patients with complex, multivessel disease, percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) using new-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) remain a valuable treatment option for properly selected diabetic patients. Defining the appropriate revascularization strategy is often a challenging task that requires tailored approaches, accounting for individual patient surgical risk, anatomical configurations, and the technical feasibility of each procedure in addition to careful judgment of the possible benefits and risks inherent to PCI and CABG. Evidence is building that advances in DES technology may mitigate at least in part some of the adverse vascular effects of diabetes; whether this may translate to PCI outcomes comparable with those achieved by CABG is under investigation in randomized trials currently underway. This review article summarizes the indications for myocardial revascularization across the spectrum of clinical presentations and critically discusses current evidence and future perspectives regarding the value of each revascularization mode (CABG vs. PCI) in patients with diabetes.

Coronary artery disease
Diabetes mellitus
Myocardial revascularization
Coronary artery bypass grafting
Percutaneous coronary interventions


Prevention of Acute Kidney Injury.

Abstract: Cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI) is a common complication after cardiac surgery and associated with a worse outcome. The pathogenesis of CSA-AKI is complex and multifactorial. Therapeutic options for severe CSA-AKI are limited to renal replacement therapy constituting a supportive measure. Therefore, risk identification, prevention, and early diagnosis are of utmost importance to improve patient outcomes. This review aims to provide an overview of the diagnosis, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and risk factors of CSA-AKI and delineates the strategies for AKI prevention available to improve patient outcomes after cardiac surgery.

Küllmar|Mira|M|
Zarbock|Alexander|A|
Engelman|Daniel T|DT|
Chatterjee|Subhasis|S|
Wagner|Nana-Maria|NM|

D058186:Acute Kidney Injury
D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures
D006801:Humans
D011183:Postoperative Complications
D017582:Renal Replacement Therapy
D012307:Risk Factors

Cardiac surgery
Acute kidney injury (AKI)
KDIGO bundles
Prevention of acute kidney injury (AKI)
Renal biomarkers


Hormonal changes over the spawning cycle in the female three-spined stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus.

Abstract: Female three-spined sticklebacks are batch spawners laying eggs in a nest built by the male. We sampled female sticklebacks at different time points, when they were ready to spawn and 6, 24, 48 and 72h post-spawning (hps) with a male. Following spawning, almost all females (15 out of 19) had ovulated eggs again at Day 3 post-spawning (72hps). At sampling, plasma, brain and pituitaries were collected, and the ovary and liver were weighed. Testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) were measured by radioimmunoassay. Moreover, the mRNA levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (fsh-β) and luteinizing hormone (lh-β) in the pituitary, and of the gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRHs: gnrh2, gnrh3) and kisspeptin (kiss2) and its G protein-coupled receptor (gpr54) in the brain were measured by real-time qPCR. Ovarian weights peaked in "ready to spawn" females, dropped after spawning, before again progressively increasing from 6 to 72hps. Plasma T levels showed peaks at 24 and 48hps and decreased at 72hps, while E2 levels increased already at 6hps and remained at high levels up to 48hps. There was a strong positive correlation between T and E2 levels over the spawning cycle. Pituitary lh-β mRNA levels showed a peak at 48hps, while fsh-β did not change. The neuropeptides and gpr54 did not show any changes. The changes in T and E2 over the stickleback spawning cycle were largely consistent with those found in other multiple-spawning fishes whereas the marked correlation between T and E2 does not support T having other major roles over the cycle than being a precursor for E2.

Roufidou|Chrysoula|C|
Schmitz|Monika|M|
Mayer|Ian|I|
Sebire|Marion|M|
Katsiadaki|Ioanna|I|
Shao|Yi Ta|YT|
Borg|Bertil|B|

Spawning cycle
Stickleback
GnRH
Gonadotropins
Sex steroids
Teleost


The Immunomodulary Effects of Systematic Exercise in Older Adults and People with Parkinson's Disease.

Abstract: We sought to investigate whether regular balance training of moderate intensity (BT) has an effect on changes in selected cytokines, neurotrophic factors, CD200 and fractalkine in healthy older adults and participants with Parkinson's disease (PD). Sixty-two subjects were divided into groups depending on experimental intervention: (1) group of people with PD participating in BT (PDBT), (2) group of healthy older people participating in BT (HBT), (3,4) control groups including healthy individuals (HNT) and people with PD (PDNT). Blood samples were collected twice: before and after 12 weeks of balance exercise (PDBT, HBT), or 12 weeks apart (PDNT, HNT). The study revealed significant increase of interleukin10 (PDBT, p = 0.026; HBT, p = 0.011), β-nerve growth factor (HBT, p = 0.002; PDBT, p = 0.016), transforming growth factor-β1 (PDBT, p = 0.018; HBT, p < 0.004), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (PDBT, p = 0.011; HBT, p < 0.001) and fractalkine (PDBT, p = 0.045; HBT, p < 0.003) concentration only in training groups. In PDBT, we have found a significant decrease of tumor necrosis factor alpha. No training effect on concentration of interleukin6, insulin-like growth factor 1 and CD200 was observed in both training and control groups. Regular training can modulate level of inflammatory markers and induce neuroprotective mechanism to reduce the inflammatory response.

Szymura|Jadwiga|J| Kubica|Jadwiga|J| Wiecek|Magdalena|M| Pera|Joanna|J|

older people
regular training
inflammation
neurological disorders


Thermodynamics of the adsorption of monoclonal antibodies in phenylboronate chromatography: Affinity versus multimodal interactions.

Abstract: The aim of this work was to investigate the complex phenomena underlying the adsorption of an anti-human IL-8 (anti-IL8) monoclonal antibody (mAb) to m-aminophenylboronate (m-APBA) by Flow Microcalorimetry (FMC) and to understand the role of non-specific interactions in the adsorption process. FMC was exploited as a dynamic on-line method to measure instantaneous heat energy transfers in order to understand the surface phenomena underlying mAb's adsorption towards the synthetic ligand m-APBA under different pH (7.5, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5 and 10.0) and salt concentrations (0 and 150 mM NaCl). Results showed that the adsorption of anti-IL8 mAb to m-APBA is enthalpically driven (ΔHads<0), as expected for the predominant reversible esterification reaction between boronates and cis-diols-containing molecules. For all the pH conditions studied, thermograms presented a first exothermic peak, characteristic of the reversible esterification reaction between mAb (pI≥9.3) and m-APBA (pKa = 8.8), except at pH 9.0 in the presence of 150 mM NaCl, for which the thermogram presented a first endothermic peak. The heat of adsorption (ΔHads) obtained at conditions where cis-diol interactions were predominant was approximately -243 ± 38 kJ/mol against -82 ± 14 kJ/mol (p-value < 0.05) obtained at pH 9.0 with 150 mM NaCl. The observed shift in the thermogram profile at pH 9.0, 150 mM NaCl, and the consequent decrease of 60-70% in ΔHads were indicative of the promotion of electrostatic interactions between the protein and the ligand. Overall, and whereas the binding of the PBA ligand to mAb molecules has been described for decades as being affinity-based, our study demonstrates the multimodal behaviour of this interaction and contributes towards the understanding of the adsorption thermodynamics.

Rosa|Sara A S L|SASL|
da Silva|C L|CL|
Aires-Barros|M Raquel|MR|
Dias-Cabral|A C|AC|
Azevedo|Ana M|AM|

Monoclonal antibodies
Phenylboronate chromatography
Flow microcalorimetry
Downstream processing
Immunoglobulin G – IgG
Protein adsorption


Repeated olanzapine treatment mitigates PTSD like symptoms in rats with changes in cell signaling factors.

Abstract: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is an anxiety disorder with prolonged distortion of rational behavior. In this study, we report the preclinical potential of olanzapine (OLZ) in the treatment of PTSD. Since the atypical antipsychotics have modulating effects on cell protective and destructive factors, we tested the effects of OLZ in PTSD regarding these cell modulating factors. Rats, when subjected to stress-restress (SRS) model of PTSD, showed a derangement in cell protective factors like the decline in BDNF, ERK, and CREB. While the adversarial factors like caspase-3 were enhanced. Four weeks treatment with OLZ at doses of 1 and 10 mg/kg significantly mitigated the SRS-induced derangement related to PTSD. OLZ at doses of 1 and 10 mg/kg enhanced BDNF, ERK and CREB levels which were reduced by SRS in PTSD animals. Further, at the fore mentioned doses it also inhibited the elevation of caspase-3 a downstream apoptotic factor. Besides, OLZ also showed mitigation in behavioral alterations related to anxiety and memory brought about by PTSD. These effects of OLZ were comparable to that of paroxetine a clinically approved drug for PTSD in terms of biochemical and behavioral assessments indicating its anti-PTSD potential.

D017362:Cyclic AMP Response Element-Binding Protein

D048049:Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases

Olanzapine
PTSD
BDNF
ERK
CREB
Caspase -3


Differences in crestal bone-to-implant contact following an under-drilling compared to an over-drilling protocol. A study in the rabbit tibia.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
The objective of this study is to compare bone-to-implant contact (BIC) between implants inserted at high torque due to under-drilling of the crestal bone to those inserted at low torque due to over-drilling of the crestal bone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Forty implants with diameters of 3.75 mm (group A) or 3.55 mm (group B) were inserted in the proximal tibiae of NZW rabbits in two separate surgeries on day 0 or 21. Osteotomy of the crestal bone was finalized with a 3.65-mm drill. In group A, implants were inserted at torque ≥35 Ncm (under-drilling) and in group B with torque <10 Ncm (over-drilling). Implants and their surrounding bone were retrieved on day 42, thus creating 3- and 6-week observation periods, processed for non-decalcified histology and stained with toluidine blue. Crestal BIC (c-BIC) and total BIC (t-BIC) were measured. Wilcoxon test was used to evaluate differences between groups.

RESULTS
Three weeks post-surgery, the mean c-BIC in group A was 16.3 ± 3.3 vs 31.5 ± 3.4 % in group B (P < 0.05). At 6 weeks, a similar trend was observed (group A: 28.7 ± 3.6 %; group B: 38.4 ± 4.9 %) (P > 0.05). No differences in t-BIC were noted at 3 weeks and at 6 weeks between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS
Insertion of implants with an over-drilling protocol of the crestal aspect of the osteotomy resulted in increased short-term crestal bone-to-implant contact.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Insertion of implants with a high torque following an under-drilling protocol, commonly used for immediate loading, may reduce crestal bone-to-implant contact at early healing stages.

Cohen|Omer|O| Ormianer|Zeev|Z| Tal|Haim|H| Rothamel|Daniel|D| Weinreb|Miron|M| Moses|Ofer|O|

D057893:Immediate Dental Implant Loading

Under-drilling Over-drilling BIC Implants Insertion Torque


Health-related quality of life among radiology technicians in Turkish hospitals: a cross sectional study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Health related quality of life (HRQoL), despite its potential bi-directional interaction with occupational risks, has not been extensively addressed among radiology technicians.

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate HRQoL among radiology technicians in relation to sociodemographic and occupational factors.

METHODS
A total of 115 radiology technicians who were employed in three big hospitals located in Istanbul province were included on a voluntary basis in this cross sectional questionnaire-based study conducted between June 2019 and August 2019. The questionnaire form elicited items on socio-demographic characteristics, occupational characteristics and the 36-item Short-form Health Survey (SF-36), respectively.

RESULTS
Overall, 94.8% of technicians confirmed previous training on radiation protection and safety, while 92.2% noted distrust in their knowledge on radiation protection and patient dosage. In addition, 47.8% of technicians noted seldom use of radiation protection measures and 55.7% noted distrust in reliability of radiation exposure measurements. The multiple regression analysis revealed that older age, female gender, working at a university hospital and seldom use of protection significantly predicted poor HRQoL (p = 0.042 to 0.001), while working in interventional radiology and having trust in radiation exposure measurements predicted better HRQoL (p = 0.006 to 0.001) in terms of certain domains.

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, our findings revealed lack of trust in current self-knowledge on radiation protection and safety by majority of radiology technicians and seldom use of radiation protection measures by half of them, despite previously trained on radiation protection and safety. Certain occupational factors and factors related to radiation protection and safety were also amongst the significant determinants of poor HRQoL.

D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice

Quality of life
Radiology technicians
Cross sectional studies
SF-36
Radiation protection
Knowledge
Radiation safety
Turkey


Long-term toxicological effects of persistent luminescence nanoparticles after intravenous injection in mice.

Abstract: The ZnGa1.995Cr0.005O4 persistent luminescence nanoparticles offer the promise of revolutionary tools for biological imaging with applications such as cell tracking or tumor detection. They can be re-excited through living tissues by visible photons, allowing observations without any time constraints and avoiding the undesirable auto-fluorescence signals observed when fluorescent probes are used. Despite all these advantages, their uses demand extensive toxicological evaluation and control. With this purpose, mice were injected with a single intravenous administration of hydroxylated or PEGylated persistent luminescence nanoparticles at different concentrations and then a set of standard tests were carried out 1day, 1 month and 6 months after the administration. High concentrations of hydroxylated nanoparticles generate structural alterations at histology level, endoplasmic reticulum damage and oxidative stress in liver, as well as rising in white blood cells counts. A mechanism involving the endoplasmic reticulum damage could be the responsible of the observed injuries in case of ZGO-OH. On the contrary, no toxicological effects related to PEGylated nanoprobes treatment were noted during our in vivo experiments, denoting the protective effect of PEG-functionalization and thereby, their potential as biocompatible in vivo diagnostic probes.

Ramírez-García|Gonzalo|G|
Gutiérrez-Granados|Silvia|S|
Gallegos-Corona|Marco A|MA|
Palma-Tirado|Lourdes|L|
d'Orlyé|Fanny|F|
Varenne|Anne|A|
Mignet|Nathalie|N|
Richard|Cyrille|C|
Martínez-Alfaro|Minerva|M|

Persistent luminescence nanoparticles
nanoprobes
PEG functionalization
chronic toxicology
optical imaging


The Role of Chemokine Receptor CXCR3 and Its Ligands in Renal Cell Carcinoma.

Abstract: The major invasive subtype of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The essential components of cancer development are chronic inflammation and neoangiogenesis. It has been suggested that the chemokine ligand 9, -10, -11 (CXCL9-11) and chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3) chemokines receptor expressed on monocytes, T and NK cells may be involved in the inhibition of angiogenesis. However, to date, little is known about the potential clinical significance of these chemokines and their receptor in renal cell carcinoma. Therefore, in this review, we described the role of CXCR3 and its ligands in pathogenesis of RCC. We performed an extensive search of the current literature in our investigation, using the MEDLINE/PubMed database. The changes of chemokines and their specific receptor in renal cell carcinoma were observed. Published studies revealed an increased expression of CXCR3 and elevated concentration of its ligands in RCC. The association between treatment of RCC and CXCL9-11/CXCR3 concentration and expression was also observed. Moreover, CXCR3 and its ligands levels were related to patient's prognosis, risk of metastasis and tumor growth. This review describes the potential role of CXCR3 and its ligands in pathogenesis of RCC, as well as their potential immune-therapeutic significance. However, future studies should aim to confirm the clinical and prognostic role of CXCL9-11/CXCR3 in renal cell carcinoma.

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

chemokines
CXCR3
renal cell carcinoma
metastasis


Deoxynivalenol: Mechanisms of action and its effects on various terrestrial and aquatic species.

Abstract: Deoxynivalenol, a type B trichothecene mycotoxin produced by Fusarium species of fungi, is a ubiquitious contaminant of cereal grains worldwide. Chronic, low dose consumption of feeds contaminated with DON is associated with a wide range of symptoms in terrestrial and aquatic species including decreased feed intake and feed refusal, reduced weight gain, and altered nutritional efficiency. Acute, high dose exposure to DON may be associated with more severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, intestinal inflammation and gastrointestinal hemorrhage. The toxicity of DON is partly related to its ability to disrupt eukaryotic protein synthesis via binding to the peptidyl transferase site of the ribosome. Moreover, DON exerts its effects at the cellular level by activating mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) through a process known as the ribotoxic stress response (RSR). The outcome of DON-associated MAPK activation is dose and duration dependent; acute low dose exposure results in immunostimulation characterized by the upregulation of cytokines, chemokines and other proinflammatory-related proteins, whereas longer term exposure to higher doses generally results in apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and immunosuppression. The order of decreasing sensitivity to DON is considered to be: swine > rats > mice > poultry ≈ ruminants. However, studies conducted within the past 10 years have demonstrated that some species of fish, such as rainbow trout, are highly sensitive to DON. The aims of this review are to explore the effects of DON on terrestrial and aquatic species as well as its mechanisms of action, metabolism, and interaction with other Fusarium mycotoxins. Notably, a considerable emphasis is placed on reviewing the effects of DON on different species of fish.

Hooft|Jamie M|JM|
Bureau|Dominique P|DP|

Mycotoxins
Fusarium
Contamination
Exposure
Deoxynivalenol (DON)


CBCT influences endodontic therapeutic decision-making in immature traumatized teeth with suspected pulp necrosis: a before-after study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the impact of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in endodontic therapeutic decision-making of immature traumatized teeth with suspected pulp necrosis.

METHODS
Over two years, consecutive patients with a dental trauma in their front teeth (apex >0.5 mm) and with suspected pulp necrosis based on clinical and radiographic findings were referred to a specialist clinic in Sweden. Fifteen patients aged 6-13 (18 teeth) were included and clinically examined by an endodontist. Intraoral radiographs and CBCT examinations were obtained. Five practitioners, three endodontists and two residents in endodontics, used these examinations to determine the most appropriate treatment for the 18 cases (all central incisors) on two occasions scheduled 19 weeks apart. On the first occasion, the practitioners had access to clinical information and the intraoral radiographs ('before' CBCT); on the second occasion, the practitioners had also access to a radiologist report and the CBCT images ('after' CBCT). Their treatment plans - no treatment, watchful waiting, endodontic orthograde treatment, or extraction - were made anonymously and independently. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS
'After' CBCT, practitioners changed treatment plans in 30% of the 90 assessments, 74% of which were more aggressive (p = 0.028). In 49% of the assessments, practitioners who chose the watchful and waiting treatment plan 'before' CBCT changed to a more aggressive therapy such as endodontic orthograde treatment and extraction 'after' CBCT (p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION
This study provides evidence that CBCT influences endodontic therapeutic decision-making regarding immature traumatised teeth with suspected pulp necrosis, chiefly when expectant management (i.e., watchful and waiting) was selected before access to CBCT.

Mota de Almeida|Fernando José|FJ|0000-0003-3388-9451

D054894:Spiral Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Cone-beam computed tomography
Clinical Decision-Making
Dental Pulp Necrosis
Tooth Apex
Tooth Injuries


Fibroblast growth factor-2 expression in the preimplantation equine conceptus and endometrium of pregnant and cyclic mares.

Abstract: Uterine-derived growth factors and cytokines play essential roles in regulating preimplantation conceptus development. In several species, fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) promotes embryogenesis, trophoblast cell migration, and adhesion. This study investigated mRNA expression for FGF2, its receptors (FGFR1-4), the activating factor FGF binding protein (FGF-BP) in equine endometrium and trophectoderm during early pregnancy and the estrous cycle, and localized FGF2 protein in both endometrium and conceptus tissues. FGF2, FGFRs1-4, and FGFBP mRNAs were expressed in endometrium throughout the estrous cycle and early pregnancy, and in days 14 to 28 conceptus membranes. FGF2 transcription was higher during estrus than on days 7 or 14 of diestrus, suggesting estrogen dependency. Endometrial expression of FGF2 mRNA and protein increased as pregnancy progressed from days 21 and day 28; FGF2 protein was localized predominantly in the luminal and glandular epithelium. FGF2 mRNA was detectable in trophectoderm from as early as day 14, and transcription and translation increased in day 21 and 28 allantochorion. FGF2 protein was localized mainly in the trophectoderm up to day 21 but was present in both trophectoderm and endoderm of day 28 allantochorion. FGFR1 mRNA was down-regulated in the endometrium at day 7 of diestrus but increased again by day 14. Gene expression for all of the FGFR2 splice variants, including FGFR2IIIc, was up-regulated during estrus. During early pregnancy, endometrial FGFR1 expression decreased, whereas FGFR2IIIc expression did not change. Conceptus mRNA expression for all FGFRs increased as pregnancy progressed. FGFBP expression remained unchanged in endometrium, but increased in the conceptus between days 14 and 28, suggesting a role in regulating FGF2 activity in the developing conceptus. We conclude that during weeks 3 and 4 of pregnancy, the equine endometrial epithelium produces FGF2, which may play a role in trophoblast development and adhesion.

de Ruijter-Villani|Marta|M|
van Boxtel|Paula R M|PR|
Stout|Tom A E|TA|

D051496:Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1

D051497:Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 2

D051498:Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 3

D051499:Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 4

Preimplantation Conceptus Endometrium Mare FGF2 Pregnancy


Transcriptome and metabolome reveal distinct carbon allocation patterns during internode sugar accumulation in different sorghum genotypes.

Abstract: Sweet sorghum accumulates large amounts of soluble sugar in its stem. However, a system-based understanding of this carbohydrate allocation process is lacking. Here, we compared the dynamic transcriptome and metabolome between the conversion line R9188 and its two parents, sweet sorghum RIO and grain sorghum BTx406 that have contrasting sugar-accumulating phenotypes. We identified two features of sucrose metabolism, stable concentrations of sugar phosphates in RIO and opposite trend of trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P) between RIO vs R9188/BTx406. Integration of transcriptome and metabolome revealed R9188 is partially active in starch metabolism together with medium sucrose level, whereas sweet sorghum had the highest sucrose concentration and remained highly active in sucrose, starch, and cell wall metabolism post-anthesis. Similar expression pattern of genes involved in sucrose degradation decreased the pool of sugar phosphates for precursors of starch and cell wall synthesis in R9188 and BTx406. Differential T6P signal between RIO vs R9188/BTx406 is associated with introgression of T6P regulators from BTx406 into R9188, including C-group bZIP and trehalose 6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP). The inverted T6P signalling in R9188 appears to down-regulate sucrose and starch metabolism partly through transcriptome reprogramming, whereas introgressed metabolic genes could be related to reduced cell wall metabolism. Our results show that coordinated primary metabolic pathways lead to high sucrose demand and accumulation in sweet sorghum, providing us with targets for genetic improvements of carbohydrate allocation in bioenergy crops.

Li|Yin|Y|
Wang|Wenqin|W|
Feng|Yaping|Y|
Tu|Min|M|
Wittich|Peter E|PE|
Bate|Nicholas J|NJ|
Messing|Joachim|J|0000-0001-8260-2643

metabolomics
internode
sugar accumulation
sorghum
introgression
RNA-seq
gene expression
trehalose-6-phosphate signalling