Characterization of a murine type IIB procollagen-specific antibody.

Abstract: Type II collagen is the major collagenous component of the cartilage extracellular matrix; formation of a covalently cross-linked type II collagen network provides cartilage with important tensile properties. The Col2a1 gene is encoded by 54 exons, of which exon 2 is subject to alternative splicing, resulting in different isoforms named IIA, IIB, IIC and IID. The two major procollagen protein isoforms are type IIA and type IIB procollagen. Type IIA procollagen mRNA contains exon 2 and is generated predominantly by chondroprogenitor cells and other non-cartilaginous tissues. Differentiated chondrocytes generate type IIB procollagen, devoid of exon 2. Although type IIA procollagen is produced in certain non-collagenous tissues during development, this developmentally-regulated alternative splicing switch to type IIB procollagen is restricted to cartilage cells. Though a much studied and characterized molecule, the importance of the various type II collagen protein isoforms in cartilage development and homeostasis is still not completely understood. Effective antibodies against specific epitopes of these isoforms can be useful tools to decipher function. However, most type II collagen antibodies to date recognize either all isoforms or the IIA procollagen isoform. To specifically identify the murine type IIB procollagen, we have generated a rabbit antibody (termed IIBN) directed to a peptide sequence that spans the murine exon 1-3 peptide junction. Characterization of the affinity-purified antibody by western blotting of collagens extracted from wild type murine cartilage or cartilage from Col2a1(+ex2) knock-in mice (which generates predominantly the type IIA procollagen isoform) demonstrated that the IIBN antibody is specific to the type IIB procollagen isoform. IIBN antibody was also able to detect the native type IIB procollagen in the hypertrophic chondrocytes of the wild type growth plate, but not in those of the Col2a1(+ex2) homozygous knock-in mice, by both immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical studies. Thus the IIBN antibody will permit an in-depth characterization of the distribution of IIB procollagen isoform in mouse skeletal tissues. In addition, this antibody will be an important reagent for characterizing mutant type II collagen phenotypes and for monitoring type II procollagen processing and trafficking.

Patra|Debabrata|D|
DeLassus|Elizabeth|E|
McAlinden|Audrey|A|
Sandell|Linda J|LJ|

Antibody
Type II collagen
Cartilage
Type IIB procollagen
Type IIA procollagen
Chondrocyte


Persistent lumbar radicular and low back pain; impact of genetic variability versus emotional distress.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Earlier studies documenting the effect of candidate genes on recovery have seldom taken into consideration the impact of emotional distress. Thus, we aimed to assess the modifying effect of emotional distress on genetic variability as a predictor for pain recovery in lumbar radicular (LRP) and low back pain (LBP).

RESULTS
The study population comprised 201 patients and mean age was 41.7 years. The significant association between MMP9 rs17576 (B = 0.71, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.24, p = 0.009) and pain recovery remained statistically significant after adjusting for pain intensity at baseline, age, gender, smoking, body mass index, pain localization and emotional distress (B = 0.68, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.18, p = 0.008). In contrast, the association between OPRM1 (B = - 0.85, 95% CI - 1.66 to - 0.05, p = 0.038) and pain recovery was abolished in the multivariate analysis (B = - 0.72, 95% CI - 1.46 to 0.02, p = 0.058). Hence, MMP9 rs17576 and emotional distress independently seem to predict persistent back pain. The predictive effect of OPRM1 rs179971 with regard to the same outcome is probably dependent on other factors including emotional processing. Trial registration The Regional Committee for Medical Research and Ethics reference number 2014/1754.

Bjorland|Siri|S|
Gjerstad|Johannes|J|
Schistad|Elina|E|
Swanson|David M|DM|
Røe|Cecilie|C|

D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease

Low back pain
Genetic variability
Emotional distress
Lumbar radicular pain


Bring-your-own-device in medical schools and healthcare facilities: A review of the literature.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Enabling personal mobile device use through a bring-your-own device (BYOD) policy can potentially save significant costs for medical schools and healthcare facilities, as they would not always have to acquire facility-owned devices. The BYOD policy is also perceived as a driver for balancing user needs for convenience with institutional needs for security. However, there seems to be a paucity in the literature on BYOD policy development, policy evaluation, and evaluation of mobile device implementation projects.

OBJECTIVE
This review explored the literature to identify BYOD policy components (issues, interventions, and guidelines) that could potentially inform BYOD policy development and implementation in medical schools and healthcare facilities.

METHODS
A literature search on PubMed, Web of Science, and Ebscohost (Academic Search Premier, ERIC, CINAHL, and MEDLINE) was conducted using the following search terms and their synonyms: healthcare facilities, mobile devices, BYOD, privacy and confidentiality, and health records. We developed a review matrix to capture the main aspects of each article and coded the matrix for emerging themes. The database and hand search yielded 1 594 articles, 14 of which were deemed as meeting the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS
Several themes emerging from the analysis include: device management, data security, medical applications, information technology, education and/or curriculum, policy, and guidelines. The guidelines theme seems to provide a direction for BYOD policy development and implementation while the policy theme seems to be the comprehensive solution that synergizes BYOD implementation.

CONCLUSION
Rather than an approach of 'chasing' issues with interventions, a more feasible approach towards achieving a safe mobile device use environment is through the development of comprehensive BYOD policies that would balance users' need for convenience with organizational security and patient privacy. The paucity in peer-reviewed literature calls for robust research that uses socio-technical approaches to development and evaluation of BYOD policies in medical schools and healthcare facilities.

Kadimo|Khutsafalo|K|
Kebaetse|Masego B|MB|
Ketshogileng|Dineo|D|
Seru|Lovie Edwin|LE|
Sebina|Kagiso B|KB|
Kovarik|Carrie|C|
Balotlegi|Kutlo|K|

D016494:Computer Security
D034201:Computers, Handheld
D003219:Confidentiality
D006268:Health Facilities
D006801:Humans
D010506:Periodicals as Topic
D012577:Schools, Medical

Healthcare facilities
mobile devices
Bring-your-own-device (BYOD)
Medical education
Mhealth
Mlearning


Endostatin Is an Independent Risk Factor of Graft Loss after Kidney Transplant.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Endostatin is a 20-kDa C-terminal fragment of collagen XVIII, known for its ability to inhibit the proliferation of capillary endothelial cells. Previous studies suggested that circulating endostatin independently predicts incident chronic kidney disease. However, the impact of endostatin on graft loss level in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) remains unknown.

METHODS
We conducted a prospective observational cohort study in 574 maintenance KTRs. Patients were followed for kidney graft loss and all-cause mortality during a median follow-up of 48 months. Serum-, and urine-samples and clinical data were collected at baseline. Serum Endostatin concentration was analyzed by an ELISA.

RESULTS
Among 574 patients, 37 patients had graft loss and 62 patients died. For graft loss, the optimal cut-off value based on receiver operating characteristics analysis (area under the curve 0.79, 95% CI 0.71-0.86, p < 0.001) of endostatin was 147.3 pmol/L. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed that higher serum endostatin concentrations positively correlated with graft loss (p < 0.001). Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that baseline endostatin concentrations were significantly associated with graft loss after adjusting for graft loss risk factors (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 8.34; 95% CI 2.19-31.72; p = 0.002). The adjusted HRs for classical graft loss risk factors such as baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate and urinary protein excretion were lower (1.91 and 5.44, respectively). In contrast to graft loss, baseline endostatin concentrations were not associated with all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSION
Increased serum endostatin at baseline is independently associated with the risk of graft loss in KTRs.

Chu|Chang|C|
Hasan|Ahmed A|AA|
Gaballa|Mohamed M S|MMS|
Zeng|Shufei|S|
Xiong|Yingquan|Y|
Elitok|Saban|S|
Krämer|Bernhard K|BK|
Hocher|Berthold|B|

Endostatin
Graft loss
Kidney transplant recipient
All-cause mortality


Automated preparation for identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing: evaluation of a research use only prototype, the BD Kiestra IdentifA/SusceptA system.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
The current BD Kiestra™ total laboratory automation (TLA) system automates specimen inoculation, incubation, and digital visualization of cultures prior to initiation of manual or semi-automated identification (ID) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). The current study aimed to compare the performance, in a clinical setting, of a fully automated research-use-only prototype, BD Kiestra™ IdentifA/SusceptA (automated system), to our current BD Kiestra™ TLA which utilizes manual or semi-automated IDs and ASTs (current system).

METHODS
Clinical samples yielding significant growth after processing by the BD Kiestra™ TLA were tested in parallel for ID and AST by both systems. IDs and ASTs were determined by Bruker matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and BD Phoenix, respectively, with data stored and managed in the BD EpiCenter™. The automated system used a common inoculum preparation for both tests, whereas the current system used separate inocula. Results were compared to assess agreement between the systems.

RESULTS
On initial testing, 89% of IDs (466/523) and 92.4% of IDs (484/523) for the automated and current ID systems, respectively, yielded acceptable MALDI-TOF log scores of ≥1.7. On repeat testing, the respective acceptable scores were 97.1% (508/523) and 98.1% (513/523). For initial ASTs, the automated and current systems yielded 97.5% categorical agreement for 7325 drug-organism tests. After omitting discrepant MICs that differed by only one dilution and categorical discrepancies that were not reproducible, 0.2% unresolved discrepancies remained thus (99.8% categorical agreement).

CONCLUSIONS
The automated prototype is suitable for development into technology that will provide clinical microbiology laboratories with significant advantages such as improved efficiency, standardization, reproducibility, reduced technical error and greater safety.

Snyder|James W|JW|
Thomson|Gina K|GK|
Heckman|Stacy|S|
Jamros|Kira|K|
AbdelGhani|Sameh|S|
Thomson|Kenneth S|KS|

IdentifA
SusceptA
MALDI-TOF
Automated prototype
Kiestra TLA


Lactic acid bacteria isolated from raw and fermented pork products: Identification and characterization of catalase-producing Pediococcus pentosaceus.

Abstract: Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from raw and fermented pork samples were screened for their inhibitory activity by an agar spot test in order to obtain a LAB strain with suitable property to be used as meat starter cultures. Among the 174 isolates, 73 were positive to inhibit at least one of the seven indicator bacteria, which were further characterized. The most suitable isolate was isolate P0805, identified as Pediococcus pentosaceus. This bacterium was catalase- and nitrate reductase-positive and amino acid decarboxylase-negative; moreover, it produced inhibitory substances against Salmonella Typhimurium with the activity of the partially purified inhibitory substances of 409,600 AU/mL. To further characterize the catalase-producing ability of P. pentosaceus P0805, the effect of hematin on its catalase activity in Sausage Model Broth (SMB) was evaluated, and it enhanced catalase production. The catalase activity was found in both SMB with and without hematin. It was concluded that catalase produced by this bacterium was heme-independent catalase.

Nanasombat|Suree|S| Treebavonkusol|Patcharee|P| Kittisrisopit|Sunisa|S| Jaichalad|Thitirut|T| Phunpruch|Saranya|S| Kootmas|Achaporn|A| Nualsri|Imboon|I|

lactic acid bacteria
Pediococcus pentosaceus
meat starter culture
inhibitory substance
catalase


Impact of Covid-19 partial lockdown on PM2.5, SO2, NO2, O3, and trace elements in PM2.5 in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Abstract: Covid-19 lockdowns have improved the ambient air quality across the world via reduced air pollutant levels. This article aims to investigate the effect of the partial lockdown on the main ambient air pollutants and their elemental concentrations bound to PM2.5 in Hanoi. In addition to the PM2.5 samples collected at three urban sites in Hanoi, the daily PM2.5, NO2, O3, and SO2 levels were collected from the automatic ambient air quality monitoring station at Nguyen Van Cu street to analyze the pollution level before (March 10th-March 31st) and during the partial lockdown (April 1st-April 22nd) with "current" data obtained in 2020 and "historical" data obtained in 2014, 2016, and 2017. The results showed that NO2, PM2.5, O3, and SO2 concentrations obtained from the automatic ambient air quality monitoring station were reduced by 75.8, 55.9, 21.4, and 60.7%, respectively, compared with historical data. Besides, the concentration of PM2.5 at sampling sites declined by 41.8% during the partial lockdown. Furthermore, there was a drastic negative relationship between the boundary layer height (BLH) and the daily mean PM2.5 in Hanoi. The concentrations of Cd, Se, As, Sr, Ba, Cu, Mn, Pb, K, Zn, Ca, Al, and Mg during the partial lockdown were lower than those before the partial lockdown. The results of enrichment factor (EF) values and principal component analysis (PCA) concluded that trace elements in PM2.5 before the partial lockdown were more affected by industrial activities than those during the partial lockdown.

Hanoi
Air pollution
Metals
Partial quarantine
SARS-CoV-2


Antioxidant properties and inhibitory effect of ethanolic extract of Struchium sparganophora (Ewuro Odo) leaf on α--amylase and α--glucosidase activities.

Abstract: Recent studies have shown that vegetables consumption could lower the risk of diabetes mellitus. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the inhibitory effect of Struchium sparganophora (Ewuro Odo) leaf on key enzyme linked to type-2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) as well as assessing the effect of blanching (a commonly practiced food processing technique) of this leafy vegetable on these key enzymes. Fresh leaves of Struchium sparganophora were blanched in hot water for 10 minutes, and the 70% ethanolic extracts of the fresh and blanched vegetables were prepared and used for subsequent analysis. The antioxidant properties and interaction of the extracts on α - amylase and α - glucosidase activities was determined in vitro. The result revealed that Struchium sparganophora leaf scavenged DPPH free radical and also inhibited α -amylase and α - glucosidase activities in a dose dependent manner (0.05 -0.2 mg/ml). However, blanching of this leafy vegetables caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in the antioxidant properties as typified by the DPPH radical scavenging ability and reducing property but decrease their ability to inhibit α - amylase and α - glucosidase activities. This antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibition could be part of the mechanism by which green leafy vegetables exert their anti-diabetic properties. However, blanching of the vegetable could reduce their ability to inhibit both α - amylase and α - glucosidase activity, but enhance their antioxidant properties in vitro.

Oboh|Ganiyu|G|
Akinyemi|Ayodele Jacob|AJ|
Ademiluyi|Adedayo Oluwaseun|AO|

Vegetables
type-2 diabetes
α-amylase
α-glucosidase
blanching
inhibition


An analytical method to calculate equivalent fields to irregular symmetric and asymmetric photon fields.

Abstract: Equivalent field is frequently used for central axis depth-dose calculations of rectangular- and irregular-shaped photon beams. As most of the proposed models to calculate the equivalent square field are dosimetry based, a simple physical-based method to calculate the equivalent square field size was used as the basis of this study. The table of the sides of the equivalent square or rectangular fields was constructed and then compared with the well-known tables by BJR and Venselaar, et al. with the average relative error percentage of 2.5 ± 2.5% and 1.5 ± 1.5%, respectively. To evaluate the accuracy of this method, the percentage depth doses (PDDs) were measured for some special irregular symmetric and asymmetric treatment fields and their equivalent squares for Siemens Primus Plus linear accelerator for both energies, 6 and 18MV. The mean relative differences of PDDs measurement for these fields and their equivalent square was approximately 1% or less. As a result, this method can be employed to calculate equivalent field not only for rectangular fields but also for any irregular symmetric or asymmetric field.

Tahmasebi Birgani|Mohamad J|MJ|
Chegeni|Nahid|N|
Zabihzadeh|Mansoor|M|
Hamzian|Nima|N|

Equivalent field
Asymmetric field
Irregular field
Multileaf collimators


Cumulative influence of parity-related genomic changes in multiple sclerosis.

Abstract: Pregnancy reduces the frequency of relapses in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and parity also has a beneficial long term effect on disease outcome. We aimed to uncover the biological mechanisms underlying the beneficial long-term effects of parity in MS. Genome-wide gene expression revealed 574 genes associated with parity; 38.3% showed significant DNA methylation changes (enrichment p = 0.029). These genes overlapped with previous MS genes in humans and a rat MS model and were overrepresented within axon guidance (P = 1.6e-05), developmental biology (P = 0.0094) and cell-cell communication (P = 0.019) pathways. This gene regulation could provide a basis for a protective effect of parity on the long-term outcome of MS.

Mehta|Divya|D|
Wani|Shivangi|S|
Wallace|Leanne|L|
Henders|Anjali K|AK|
Wray|Naomi R|NR|
McCombe|Pamela A|PA|

Multiple sclerosis
Pregnancy
Gene expression
DNA methylation


Knee performance and self-efficacy trajectory curves after ACL reconstruction: A longitudinal study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
To examine knee flexion range-of-motion, quadriceps strength, and knee self-efficacy trajectory curves over 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), stratified by patients' Month-6 sports activity level.

DESIGN
Prospective longitudinal study.

SETTING
Hospital outpatient physiotherapy department.

PARTICIPANTS
595 individuals after unilateral ACLR (mean age, 27 years).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
At 2-, 3-, and 6-months post-surgery, knee flexion range-of-motion, quadriceps strength, and self-efficacy were quantified. Flexion range-of-motion was additionally measured at 2- and 4-weeks post-surgery. Sports activity levels were assessed using the Tegner Activity Score at 6-months post ACLR.

RESULTS
The various measures improved nonlinearly over time, with substantial improvements observed in the first 2-4 months post-surgery. In multivariable generalized least squares models, greater knee flexion range-of-motion, quadriceps strength, and self-efficacy over time were significantly associated with higher Month-6 Tegner levels (all P values < 0.01). Additionally, receiving a bone-patellar-tendon-bone graft or meniscal repair was associated with lower quadriceps strength trajectories (P-values<0.001) while female sex was associated with lower knee self-efficacy trajectories (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS
Greater knee flexion range-of-motion, quadriceps strength, and self-efficacy were associated with higher Month-6 Tegner levels. The derived trajectory curves may be useful for effective management decision making and adequate results interpretation during the rehabilitation process.

Pua|Yong-Hao|YH|
Low|Juanita|J|
Woon|Ee-Lin|EL|
Tay|Olivia Shi-Min|OS|
Cheong|Philip|P|
Thumboo|Julian|J|
Clark|Ross Allan|RA|
Chang|Paul|P|
Tan|Andrew|A|
Ho|Jia-Ying|JY|

D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

D059549:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

knee
ACL
Quadriceps
Psychosocial factors


Adherence to anticoagulant treatment with dabigatran in a real-world setting.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
In clinical trials, adherence to a prescribed regimen with dabigatran was enhanced by frequent follow-up visits and pill counts.

OBJECTIVES
To describe the experience of dabigatran treatment in clinical practice, focusing on adherence.

PATIENTS/METHODS
In a cross-sectional cohort study, we interviewed 103 patients treated for at least 3 months with dabigatran and followed by our anticoagulant clinic. We obtained information on the number of capsules of dabigatran dispensed by the pharmacy of each patient covering the entire treatment period and calculated the adherence. In addition, information on the frequency of missed capsules, bleeding, thromboembolic events and other adverse events, specifically dyspepsia, was captured from the interviews and medical records.

RESULTS
The mean age was 75.5 (± 8.5) years, 46% were females, and the mean CHADS2 score was 2.5. Dispensation data were obtained for 99 patients and adherence was 99.7% (median; interquartile range 94.6%-100%) with 11 patients showing < 80% adherence. During their interview, 31 patients (30%) acknowledged that they sometimes had missed taking the medication, ranging from 'twice in 6 years' to 'every day'. One additional patient with adherence < 80% was identified. Twenty-one patients (20%) reported bleeding complications, two of which were major; one patient had an ischemic stroke and 34 (33%) reported some degree of dyspepsia. There were no significant differences in the results between RE-LY study-experienced and study-naïve patients.

CONCLUSION
In our clinical practice adherence to the twice-daily dabigatran regimen was generally good, although 12% of the patients had an inadequate adherence. Routine feedback from the pharmacies could inform the physician to improve the anticoagulant management.

Schulman|S|S|
Shortt|B|B|
Robinson|M|M|
Eikelboom|J W|JW|

D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice

dabigatran
cohort study
bleeding
atrial fibrillation
patient adherence


The Impact of Sex of Child on Breastfeeding in the United States.

Abstract: Background Sex of child has been shown to impact breastfeeding duration in India, Australia, Scandinavia, Latin America, and, within the US, in a sample in Eastern Connecticut and in a separate sample of Indian and Chinese immigrants. Objectives The objective of this study is to examine differences in breastfeeding initiation and duration by sex of child across racial/ethnic groups in the US. Methods We used the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System 2009-2010 and logistic regression to examine whether sex of child impacts breastfeeding initiation and duration for at least 8 weeks by women's racial/ethnic group. Results Among the 66,107 women in our sample representing 12 different race/ethnic groups, Hispanic women (n = 9049) had lower odds of breastfeeding initiation (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.81, 95% CI 0.71-0.93) and breastfeeding duration (AOR = .87, 95% CI 0.80-0.96) if they have sons compared to Hispanic women who have daughters. Sex of child did not impact the odds of breastfeeding initiation or duration among any other race/ethnic group. Conclusion We have shown that, for Hispanics in the US, sex of child may have an impact on breastfeeding, a health behavior that has a variety of positive impacts on infants throughout their lives. Boys, relative to girls, were at a disadvantage in breastfeeding initiation and duration. Future work is necessary to unpack the mechanisms behind these findings. In particular, how sex of child impacts how mothers and fathers view the nutritional needs of their children and breastfeeding more broadly.

Shafer|Emily Fitzgibbons|EF|
Hawkins|Summer Sherburne|SS|

Sex of child
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding duration
Breastfeeding initiation
Gender


Rectus Sheath Haematoma Secondary to Enoxaparin Injection- A Rare Case Report.

Abstract: Rectus sheath haematoma is a well-documented condition with an elusive diagnosis. It is an uncommon complication of anti-coagulation therapy, which can have a mortality of upto 25%. The patient discussed here is a 40-year-old female who was on Inj. Enoxaparin, who developed severe abdominal pain and hypovolemia after three days of treatment. Ultrasonography and CT scan showed a large rectus sheath haematoma on the right side, which was crossing the midline towards the left side. Inj. Enoxaparin was stopped and the patient was posted for surgery. In surgery, all clots were evacuated and inferior epigastric vessels were ligated. Patient recovered well following surgery. Here, this report presents forward a case of rectus sheath haematoma secondary to enoxaparin injection, its presentation and its surgical management.

Agarwal|Sidharth|S|
Lamani|Yamanur P|YP|
Goudar|Bhimanagouda V|BV|
Kalburgi|Eshwar B|EB|
Bhavi|Bheemappa K|BK|

Anticoagulation therapy
Mannitol
Muscle haematoma


Children's academic achievement and foster care.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
Poor school outcomes for children in out-of-home placement (OHP) raise concerns about the adequacy of child welfare and educational policy for this vulnerable population. We analyzed the relation between OHP and academic achievement, focusing on reading and math achievement in grades 3 through 8.

METHODS
Linked administrative data were used for our analytic sample comprising 529 597 child-year observations for 222 049 children who experienced OHP or were in a comparison group. Three models were estimated: a pooled ordinary least squares regression that considered placement status and test scores net of the full set of control variables; an identical model that added the previous year's test scores as an additional control; and a final model that included child-specific fixed effects.

RESULTS
Children in OHP settings had achievement test scores at least 0.6 SD below average. However, we found similar deficits across children with past, current, and future exposure to OHP and, in our preferred model, OHP (past, current, or future placement) had no statistically discernible relation with either reading or math achievement.

CONCLUSIONS
OHP by itself is not significantly related to school achievement; however, evidence reveals consistently low average math and reading achievement among children involved with Child Protective Services.

Berger|Lawrence M|LM|
Cancian|Maria|M|
Han|Eunhee|E|
Noyes|Jennifer|J|
Rios-Salas|Vanessa|V|

foster care
child welfare
child protective services
out-of-home care


The Effectiveness of Depth Data in Liveness Face Authentication Using 3D Sensor Cameras.

Abstract: Even though biometric technology increases the security of systems that use it, they are prone to spoof attacks where attempts of fraudulent biometrics are used. To overcome these risks, techniques on detecting liveness of the biometric measure are employed. For example, in systems that utilise face authentication as biometrics, a liveness is assured using an estimation of blood flow, or analysis of quality of the face image. Liveness assurance of the face using real depth technique is rarely used in biometric devices and in the literature, even with the availability of depth datasets. Therefore, this technique of employing 3D cameras for liveness of face authentication is underexplored for its vulnerabilities to spoofing attacks. This research reviews the literature on this aspect and then evaluates the liveness detection to suggest solutions that account for the weaknesses found in detecting spoofing attacks. We conduct a proof-of-concept study to assess the liveness detection of 3D cameras in three devices, where the results show that having more flexibility resulted in achieving a higher rate in detecting spoofing attacks. Nonetheless, it was found that selecting a wide depth range of the 3D camera is important for anti-spoofing security recognition systems such as surveillance cameras used in airports. Therefore, to utilise the depth information and implement techniques that detect faces regardless of the distance, a 3D camera with long maximum depth range (e.g., 20 m) and high resolution stereo cameras could be selected, which can have a positive impact on accuracy.

face authentication
biometric technology
liveness assurance
3D face authentication
anti-spoofing techniques


Rapid molecular assays for detection of tuberculosis.

Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that remains an important public health problem at the global level. It is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality, due to the emergence of antibiotic resistant Mycobacterium strains and HIV co-infection. Over the past decade, important progress has been made for better control of the disease. While microscopy and culture continue to be indispensible for laboratory diagnosis of tuberculosis, the range of several molecular diagnostic tests, including the nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS), have expanded tremendously. They are becoming more accessible not only for detection and identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical specimens, but now extend to diagnosing multi-drug resistant strains. Molecular diagnostic tests provide timely results useful for high-quality patient care, low contamination risk, and ease of performance and speed. This review focuses on the current diagnostic tests in use, including emerging technologies used for detection of tuberculosis in clinical specimens. The sensitivity and specificity of these tests have also been taken into consideration.

Diagnosis
Nucleic acid amplification tests
Whole-genome sequencing
Sensitivity
Specificity
Drug resistance
M. Tuberculosis


Pharyngeal contraction secondary to its collapse in dogs with brachycephalic airway syndrome.

Abstract: Brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS) is a common disease in certain "flat-faced" dog breeds. This syndrome includes stenotic nares, elongated and thickened soft palate, laryngeal collapse, and tracheal hypoplasia. Pharyngeal collapse is also commonly observed, but it is unclear if laryngopharynx motions are merely sequelae or actually contribute to BAS respiratory symptoms. Laryngopharynx motion was imaged using dynamic four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) during spontaneous respiration in four dogs with different BAS types. Dynamic 4D-CT showed laryngopharynx motion in the following order during inspiration: pharyngeal collapse, contraction, and laryngospasm. We concluded that dynamic 4D-CT is a highly-detailed diagnostic approach for detecting laryngopharynx motion. Pharyngeal contraction during inspiration appears to contribute toward the worsening of clinical respiratory signs of BAS.

Hara|Yohei|Y| Teshima|Kenji|K| Seki|Mamiko|M| Asano|Kazushi|K| Yamaya|Yoshiki|Y|

pharyngeal contraction
dog
brachycephalic airway syndrome
pharyngeal collapse
laryngospasm


Fabrication of a Hierarchical Ni(OH)2 @Ni3 S2 /Ni Foam Electrode from a Prussian Blue Analogue-Based Composite with Enhanced Electrochemical Capacitive and Electrocatalytic Properties.

Abstract: Developing high-efficiency, cost-effective, and durable electrodes is significant for electrochemical capacitors and electrocatalysis. Herein, a 3D bifunctional electrode consisting of nickel hydroxide nanosheets@nickel sulfide nanocubes arrays on Ni foam (Ni(OH)2 @Ni3 S2 /NF) obtained from a Prussian blue analogue-based precursor is reported. The 3D higher-order porous structure and synergistic effect of different compositions endow the electrode with large specific surface area, facile ion/electron transport path, and improved conductivity. As a result, the Ni(OH)2 @Ni3 S2 /NF electrode exhibits a high specific capacity of 211 mA h g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1 and 73 % capacity retention after 5000 cycles at 5 A g-1 . Moreover, the Ni(OH)2 @Ni3 S2 /NF electrode has superior electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction with low overpotentials of 140 and 210 mV at current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm-2 , respectively. The synthetic strategy for the unique higher-order porous structure can be extended to fabricate other composite materials for energy storage and conversion.

nickel
hydrogen evolution reaction
electrocatalysts
electrochemistry
nanostructures


Renoprotective Effect of Formononetin by Suppressing Smad3 Expression in Db/Db Mice.

Abstract:
Purpose
Glomerular sclerosis and renal interstitial fibrosis are the most important pathologies in the development of kidney damage under diabetic conditions. Smad3 plays antagonistic roles in high glucose-induced renal tubular fibrosis, which is an important treatment target for diabetic nephropathy (DN). Formononetin (FMN) has multiple effects on diabetic vascular complications including DN. However, whether it plays an anti-fibrosis role by regulating smad3 is unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the renoprotective effect of FMN by suppressing smad3 expression in db/db mice.

Methods
FMN was orally administered to db/db mice with a dose of 25 or 50 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks. At the end of the study, serum, urine, and kidney samples were collected for biochemical and pathological examinations. The expressions of proteins and mRNA associated with renal fibrosis were determined by biochemical, histological, immunofluorescence, and real-time PCR analysis.

Results
The results showed that FMN substantially improved the glucolipid metabolism, reduced the oxidative stress, and protected renal function in db/db mice. Meanwhile, protein and mRNA expression of smad3 and related regulatory factor of extracellular matrix deposition were significantly suppressed.

Conclusion
The present study suggested that FMN has a good renoprotective effect in DN, which plays an anti-fibrosis role in db/db mice by suppressing the expression of smad3.

Lv|Jiawei|J| Zhuang|Kai|K| Jiang|Xiyu|X| Huang|Heqing|H|0000-0002-6135-9901 Quan|Shijian|S|

formononetin
db/db mice
diabetic nephropathy
renal fibrosis
expression of smad3
antioxidants


Miniaturised percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Its role in the treatment of urolithiasis and our experience.

Abstract: Miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures have gained increased popularity in recent years. They aim to reduce percutaneous tract size in order to lower complication rates, while maintaining high stone-free rates. Recently, miniaturized PCNL techniques have further expanded, and can currently be classified into mini-PCNL, minimally invasive PCNL (MIP), Chinese mini-PCNL (MPCNL), ultra-mini-PCNL (UMP), micro-PCNL, mini-micro-PCNL, and super-mini-PCNL (SMP). However, despite its minimally-invasive nature, its potential superiority in terms of safety and efficacy when compared to conventional PCNL is still under debate. The aim of this review is to summarise different available modalities of miniaturized PCNL, details of instruments involved, and their corresponding safety and efficacy. In particular, this article highlights the role of the SMP and our experience with this novel technique in management of urolithiasis. Overall, miniaturized PCNL techniques appear to be safe and effective alternatives to conventional PCNL for both adult and pediatric patients. Well-designed, randomized studies are required to further investigate and identify specific roles of miniaturized PCNL techniques before considering them as standard rather than alternative procedures to conventional PCNL.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Irrigation-suction sheath
Mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Super-mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy


Objective Quantification of Image Quality and Optical Scatter Before and After Nd:YAG Capsulotomy Using a Double-Pass Technique.

Abstract:
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare the correlation between changes in vision and HD Analyzer dual-pass metrics versus changes in vision and conventional subjective slit lamp gradings in pseudophakic patients with posterior capsular opacity undergoing neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) capsulotomy.

Patients and Methods
High contrast (HC) and low contrast (LC) best spectacle-corrected distance visual acuity (BCVA) and HD Analyzer evaluation were prospectively performed on patients with mild-to-moderate posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and monofocal and accommodating intraocular lens implants. Differences between pre- and post-operative measurements were calculated, along with the correlation of HD Analyzer metrics and slit lamp grading to changes in visual acuity.

Results
Following Nd:YAG capsulotomy (n=29), there was statistically significant improvement in HC-BCVA and LC-BCVA, decrease in optical scatter, and corresponding improvement in Strehl ratio and HD Analyzer values at all contrast levels tested (p≤0.05). Pearson test showed a high correlation between the improvement in HC-BCVA (r coefficient = 0.78) and LC-BCVA (r coefficient = 0.71) to the improvement in Objective Scatter Index (OSI). There was a higher correlation of change in HC-BCVA to pre-op OSI  (r2=0.61) than to the subjective PCO grading score (r2 = 0.19). There was also a higher correlation of change in LC-BCVA to pre-op OSI (r2 = 0.49) than to subjective grading (r2 = 0.16).

Conclusion
The HD Analyzer provides objective measurements of forward light scatter (ie, light directed towards the retina) that can assist with both PCO grading and prediction of improvement of visual quality after YAG laser capsulotomy with higher accuracy than conventional slit lamp assessment based upon backscatter (ie, light traveling to the observer) in patients tested with monofocal and accommodating intraocular lens implants.

Zafar|Abu-Bakar|AB|
Chu|Richard C|RC|
Bishara|Miranda N|MN|
Qazi|Mujtaba A|MA|0000-0003-3205-898X
Mahmoud|Ashraf M|AM|
Pepose|Jay S|JS|0000-0002-1339-5123

YAG capsulotomy
HD Analyzer
posterior capsular opacity
objective scatter index


Potential and limitation of fluorescence-based membrane integrity monitoring (FMIM) for reverse osmosis membranes.

Abstract: In wastewater recycle for potable purposes, virus removal is the most critical issue from the public health stand point. Therefore, the regulatory agency sets minimum virus removal efficiencies that must be met by combining multiple treatment processes. In most potable reuse processes, reverse osmosis (RO) plays a critical role by removing salts, viruses, dissolved organic matters, etc. It has been reported that RO removes viruses at over 6 log efficiencies, but it receives no more than 2 log credits from regulatory agencies due to the lack of sensitive integrity monitoring technologies better than conductivity-based technologies. In recent years, fluorescence-based membrane integrity monitoring (FMIM) has drawn special attention because of its simplicity, capability of continuous monitoring, and the high resolution. Lab and field studies have shown FMIM can provide around 4 log resolution for commercially available RO membranes. In this study, potential and limitation of current FMIM technology are reviewed. Further, ideas to improve the resolution beyond 4 log are suggested.

Membrane integrity
Reverse osmosis
Wastewater recycle
Virus removal
Potable wastewater reuse


Machine Learning for Predicting Risk of Drug-Induced Autoimmune Diseases by Structural Alerts and Daily Dose.

Abstract: An effective approach for assessing a drug's potential to induce autoimmune diseases (ADs) is needed in drug development. Here, we aim to develop a workflow to examine the association between structural alerts and drugs-induced ADs to improve toxicological prescreening tools. Considering reactive metabolite (RM) formation as a well-documented mechanism for drug-induced ADs, we investigated whether the presence of certain RM-related structural alerts was predictive for the risk of drug-induced AD. We constructed a database containing 171 RM-related structural alerts, generated a dataset of 407 AD- and non-AD-associated drugs, and performed statistical analysis. The nitrogen-containing benzene substituent alerts were found to be significantly associated with the risk of drug-induced ADs (odds ratio = 2.95, p = 0.0036). Furthermore, we developed a machine-learning-based predictive model by using daily dose and nitrogen-containing benzene substituent alerts as the top inputs and achieved the predictive performance of area under curve (AUC) of 70%. Additionally, we confirmed the reactivity of the nitrogen-containing benzene substituent aniline and related metabolites using quantum chemistry analysis and explored the underlying mechanisms. These identified structural alerts could be helpful in identifying drug candidates that carry a potential risk of drug-induced ADs to improve their safety profiles.

Wu|Yue|Y| Zhu|Jieqiang|J| Fu|Peter|P| Tong|Weida|W| Hong|Huixiao|H|0000-0001-8087-3968 Chen|Minjun|M|

D019540:Area Under Curve
D001327:Autoimmune Diseases
D006801:Humans
D000069550:Machine Learning
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations

machine learning
drug-induced autoimmune diseases
structural alerts
quantum chemistry


Multi-omics data integration and network-based analysis drives a multiplex drug repurposing approach to a shortlist of candidate drugs against COVID-19.

Abstract: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is undeniably the most severe global health emergency since the 1918 Influenza outbreak. Depending on its evolutionary trajectory, the virus is expected to establish itself as an endemic infectious respiratory disease exhibiting seasonal flare-ups. Therefore, despite the unprecedented rally to reach a vaccine that can offer widespread immunization, it is equally important to reach effective prevention and treatment regimens for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Contributing to this effort, we have curated and analyzed multi-source and multi-omics publicly available data from patients, cell lines and databases in order to fuel a multiplex computational drug repurposing approach. We devised a network-based integration of multi-omic data to prioritize the most important genes related to COVID-19 and subsequently re-rank the identified candidate drugs. Our approach resulted in a highly informed integrated drug shortlist by combining structural diversity filtering along with experts' curation and drug-target mapping on the depicted molecular pathways. In addition to the recently proposed drugs that are already generating promising results such as dexamethasone and remdesivir, our list includes inhibitors of Src tyrosine kinase (bosutinib, dasatinib, cytarabine and saracatinib), which appear to be involved in multiple COVID-19 pathophysiological mechanisms. In addition, we highlight specific immunomodulators and anti-inflammatory drugs like dactolisib and methotrexate and inhibitors of histone deacetylase like hydroquinone and vorinostat with potential beneficial effects in their mechanisms of action. Overall, this multiplex drug repurposing approach, developed and utilized herein specifically for SARS-CoV-2, can offer a rapid mapping and drug prioritization against any pathogen-related disease.

Tomazou|Marios|M|
Bourdakou|Marilena M|MM|
Minadakis|George|G|
Zachariou|Margarita|M|
Oulas|Anastasis|A|
Karatzas|Evangelos|E|
Loizidou|Eleni M|EM|
Kakouri|Andrea C|AC|
Christodoulou|Christiana C|CC|
Savva|Kyriaki|K|
Zanti|Maria|M|
Onisiforou|Anna|A|
Afxenti|Sotiroula|S|
Richter|Jan|J|
Christodoulou|Christina G|CG|
Kyprianou|Theodoros|T|
Kolios|George|G|
Dietis|Nikolas|N|
Spyrou|George M|GM|

multiplex drug repurposing
COVID-19
multi-omics integrative analysis


More Negative FRN From Stopping Searches Too Late Than Too Early: An ERP Study.

Abstract: It is widely known that the feedback from a decision outcome may evoke emotions like regret, which results from a comparison between the gain the decision-maker has made and the gain he/she might make. Less is known about how search behavior is linked to feedback in a sequential search task such as searching for jobs, employees, prices, investments, disinvestments, or other items. What are the neural responses once subjects decide to stop searching and receive the feedback that they stopped too early or too late compared with the optimal stopping time? In an experimental setting of a search task, we found that the feedback-related negativity (FRN) induced by the feedback from stopping too late was more negative than stopping too early, suggesting that subjects might experience stronger regret when stopping too late. Subjects preferred to stop searching earlier if the last feedback was that they stopped too late, and vice versa, although they did not always benefit more from such adjustment. This might reflect general patterns of human learning behavior, which also manifests in many other decisions. Gender differences and risk attitudes were also considered in the study.

Gao|Mei|M| Yang|Xiaolan|X| Zhang|Linanzi|L| Ma|Qingguo|Q|

ERPs
feedback
regret
search behavior
gender
risk attitude


CAD/CAM produces dentures with improved fit.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
Resin polymerisation shrinkage reduces the congruence of the denture base with denture-bearing tissues and thereby decreases the retention of conventionally fabricated dentures. CAD/CAM denture manufacturing is a subtractive process, and polymerisation shrinkage is not an issue anymore. Therefore, CAD/CAM dentures are assumed to show a higher denture base congruence than conventionally fabricated dentures. It has been the aim of this study to test this hypothesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
CAD/CAM dentures provided by four different manufacturers (AvaDent, Merz Dental, Whole You, Wieland/Ivoclar) were generated from ten different master casts. Ten conventional dentures (pack and press, long-term heat polymerisation) made from the same master casts served as control group. The master casts and all denture bases were scanned and matched digitally. The absolute incongruences were measured using a 2-mm mesh.

RESULTS
Conventionally fabricated dentures showed a mean deviation of 0.105 mm, SD = 0.019 from the master cast. All CAD/CAM dentures showed lower mean incongruences. From all CAD/CAM dentures, AvaDent Digital Dentures showed the highest congruence with the master cast surface with a mean deviation of 0.058 mm, SD = 0.005. Wieland Digital Dentures showed a mean deviation of 0.068 mm, SD = 0.005, Whole You Nexteeth prostheses showed a mean deviation of 0.074 mm, SD = 0.011 and Baltic Denture System prostheses showed a mean deviation of 0.086 mm, SD = 0.012.

CONCLUSIONS
CAD/CAM produces dentures with better fit than conventional dentures.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
The present study explains the clinically observed enhanced retention and lower traumatic ulcer-frequency in CAD/CAM dentures.

D017076:Computer-Aided Design
D003764:Dental Materials
D003819:Denture Bases
D003779:Denture Design
D003781:Denture Retention
D066298:In Vitro Techniques
D013499:Surface Properties

CAD/CAM dentures
Denture base congruence
Complete dentures
Dental materials
Denture fit
PMMA resin


Aquatic Bird Bornavirus 1 in Wild Geese, Denmark.

Abstract: To investigate aquatic bird bornavirus 1 in Europe, we examined 333 brains from hunter-killed geese in Denmark in 2014. Seven samples were positive by reverse transcription PCR and were 98.2%-99.8% identical; they were also 97.4%-98.1% identical to reference strains of aquatic bird bornavirus 1 from geese in North America.

Thomsen|Anders F|AF|
Nielsen|Jesper B|JB|
Hjulsager|Charlotte K|CK|
Chriél|Mariann|M|
Smith|Dale A|DA|
Bertelsen|Mads F|MF|

aquatic bird bornavirus 1
geese
Denmark
Europe
ABBV-1
Bornaviridae
bornaviruses
viruses
zoonoses


Cardiac MRI right ventricle / left ventricle (RV/LV) volume ratio improves detection of RV enlargement.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
To determine the normal range of the ratio of right ventricular (RV) end-diastolic volume to left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic volume by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and examine whether combining this volume ratio with RVEDV indexed to body surface area (RVEDVi) increased the detection of RV dilation in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
MRI-derived ventricular function and volumes were measured in a control group (n = 152) and in patients with PAH (n = 46). Images were acquired with a 1.5T Siemens or a 1.5T Philips scanner using a steady-state free procession sequence. Proposed criteria for the detection of RV enlargement, including RVEDVi alone, RV/LV volume ratio alone, and combining both criteria, were evaluated in both groups.

RESULTS
The range (mean ± 2 standard deviations) for the volume ratio in the normal population was found to be 0.906-1.266; there was no difference between genders (P = 0.70). Combining this ratio with RVEDVi detected RV enlargement in 21.7% (P < 0.001) PAH patients (volume ratio ≥1.27) who were not identified by the RVEDVi alone (>104 mL/m(2) for females and >113 mL/m(2) for males).

CONCLUSION
Combining RV/LV volume ratio with indexed RVEDV increased detection of RV enlargement in a PAH population. This result may have potential impact in RV size assessment. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1379-1385.

Altmayer|Stephan P L|SP|
Patel|Amit R|AR|
Addetia|Karima|K|
Gomberg-Maitland|Mardi|M|
Forfia|Paul R|PR|
Han|Yuchi|Y|

D019028:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Cine


Median raphe serotonin neurons promote anxiety-like behavior via inputs to the dorsal hippocampus.

Abstract: Anxiety disorders may be mediated in part by disruptions in serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) system function. Behavioral measures of approach-avoidance conflict suggest that serotonin neurons within the median raphe nucleus (MRN) promote an anxiogenic state, and some evidence indicates this may be mediated by serotonergic signaling within the dorsal hippocampus. Here, we test this hypothesis using an optogenetic approach to examine the contribution of MRN 5-HT neurons and 5-HT innervation of the dorsal hippocampus (dHC) to anxiety-like behaviours in female mice. Mice expressing the excitatory opsin ChR2 were generated by crossing the ePet-cre serotonergic cre-driver line with the conditional Ai32 ChR2 reporter line, resulting in selective expression of ChR2 in 5-HT neurons. Electrophysiological recordings confirmed that this approach enabled reliable optogenetic stimulation of MRN 5-HT neurons, and this stimulation produced downstream 5-HT release in the dHC as measured by in vivo microdialysis. Optogenetic stimulation of the MRN elicited behavioral responses indicative of an anxiogenic effect in three behavioural tests: novelty-suppressed feeding, marble burying and exploration on the elevated-plus maze. These effects were shown to be behaviourally-specific. Stimulation of 5-HT terminals in the dHC recapitulated the anxiety-like behaviour in the novelty-suppressed feeding and marble burying tests. These results show that activation of 5-HT efferents from the MRN rapidly induces expression of anxiety-like behaviour, in part via projections to the dHC. These findings reveal an important neural circuit implicated in the expression of anxiety in female mice.

Abela|Andrew R|AR|
Browne|Caleb J|CJ|
Sargin|Derya|D|
Prevot|Thomas D|TD|
Ji|Xiao Dong|XD|
Li|Zhaoxia|Z|
Lambe|Evelyn K|EK|
Fletcher|Paul J|PJ|

Serotonin
Dorsal hippocampus
Anxiety
Median raphe nucleus
Optogenetics


How useful are hemoglobin concentration and its variations to predict significant hemorrhage in the early phase of trauma? A multicentric cohort study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
The diagnostic value of hemoglobin (Hb) for detecting a significant hemorrhage (SH) in the early phase of trauma remains controversial. The present study aimed to assess the abilities of Hb measurements taken at different times throughout trauma management to identify patients with SH.

METHODS
All consecutive adult trauma patients directly admitted to six French level-1 trauma centers with at least one prehospital Hb measurement were analyzed. The abilities of the following variables to identify SH (≥ 4 units of red blood cells in the first 6 h and/or death related to uncontrolled bleeding within 24 h) were determined and compared to that of shock index (SI): Hb as measured with a point-of-care (POC) device by the prehospital team on scene (POC-Hbprehosp) and upon patient's admission to the hospital (POC-Hbhosp), the difference between POC-Hbhosp and POC-Hbprehosp (DeltaPOC-Hb) and Hb as measured by the hospital laboratory on admission (Hb-Labhosp).

RESULTS
A total of 6402 patients were included, 755 with SH and 5647 controls (CL). POC-Hbprehosp significantly predicted SH with an area under ROC curve (AUC) of 0.72 and best cutoff values of 12 g/dl for women and 13 g/dl for men. POC-Hbprehosp < 12 g/dl had 90% specificity to predict of SH. POC-Hbhosp and Hb-Labhosp (AUCs of 0.92 and 0.89, respectively) predicted SH better than SI (AUC = 0.77, p < 0.001); best cutoff values of POC-Hbhosp were 10 g/dl for women and 12 g/dl for men. DeltaPOC-Hb also predicted SH with an AUC of 0.77, a best cutoff value of - 2 g/dl irrespective of the gender. For a same prehospital fluid volume infused, DeltaPOC-Hb was significantly larger in patients with significant hemorrhage than in controls.

CONCLUSIONS
Challenging the classical idea that early Hb measurement is not meaningful in predicting SH, POC-Hbprehosp was able, albeit modestly, to predict significant hemorrhage. POC-Hbhosp had a greater ability to predict SH when compared to shock index. For a given prehospital fluid volume infused, the magnitude of the Hb drop was significantly higher in patients with significant hemorrhage than in controls.

Figueiredo|S|S| Taconet|C|C| Harrois|A|A| Hamada|S|S| Gauss|T|T| Raux|M|M| Duranteau|J|J| |||

Hemoglobin
Hemorrhage
Trauma
Point-of-care systems
Resuscitation


Development and validation of a Clinical Assessment Tool for Nursing Education (CAT-NE).

Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a valid assessment tool to guide clinical education and evaluate students' performance in clinical nursing education. The development of the Clinical Assessment Tool for Nursing Education (CAT-NE) was based on the theory of nursing as professional caring and the Bologna learning outcomes. Benson and Clark's four steps of instrument development and validation guided the development and assessment of the tool. A mixed-methods approach with individual structured cognitive interviewing and quantitative assessments was used to validate the tool. Supervisory teachers, a pedagogical consultant, clinical expert teachers, clinical teachers, and nursing students at the University of Akureyri in Iceland participated in the process. This assessment tool is valid to assess the clinical performance of nursing students; it consists of rubrics that list the criteria for the students' expected performance. According to the students and their clinical teachers, the assessment tool clarified learning objectives, enhanced the focus of the assessment process, and made evaluation more objective. Training clinical teachers on how to assess students' performances in clinical studies and use the tool enhanced the quality of clinical assessment in nursing education.

Nursing
Students
Teachers
Clinical competence
Educational measurement
Nursing theory


Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for proximal humeral fractures.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
To report the outcome after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) through the deltoid-splitting approach for proximal humeral fractures.

METHODS
10 men and 30 women aged 37 to 88 years underwent MIPO through the deltoid-splitting approach using the Proximal Humerus Internal Locking System or the Locking Proximal Humerus Plate for 2-part (n=18), 3-part (n=20), and 4-part (n=2) proximal humeral fractures. The rehabilitation protocol was standardised.

RESULTS
All 40 patients were followed up at 3 months, 34 (85%) at 6 months, 30 (75%) at one year, and 13 (33%) at 2 years. Two patients had malunion. No patient had avascular necrosis, infection, nerve palsy, or nonunion. The mean Constant score at one year and 2 years was 75 and 87.5, respectively. The Constant score at 6 months correlated to that at one year (r=0.926, p<0.0001) and at 2 years (r=0.874, p=0.0001). In younger patients, improvement in the range of motion was faster. The early plateau group (those with no further improvement after 6 months) and the late plateau group (those with no further improvement after one year) did not differ significantly in age, fracture grade, or hand dominance.

CONCLUSION
MIPO for fixation of proximal humeral fractures using a locking plate is safe and effective in enabling an early return of shoulder function.

Koljonen|Paul Aarne|PA|
Fang|Christian|C|
Lau|Tak Wing|TW|
Leung|Frankie|F|
Cheung|Nigel W K|NW|

D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures


The current application of nanotechnology in food and agriculture.

Abstract: The rapid development of nanotechnology has been facilitating the transformations of traditional food and agriculture sectors, particularly the invention of smart and active packaging, nanosensors, nanopesticides and nanofertilizers. Numerous novel nanomaterials have been developed for improving food quality and safety, crop growth, and monitoring environmental conditions. In this review the most recent trends in nanotechnology are discussed and the most challenging tasks and promising opportunities in the food and agriculture sectors from selected recent studies are addressed. The toxicological fundamentals and risk assessment of nanomaterials in these new food and agriculture products are also discussed. We highlighted the potential application of bio-synthesized and bio-inspired nanomaterial for sustainable development. However, fundamental questions with regard to high performance, low toxic nanomaterials need to be addressed to fuel active development and application of nanotechnology. Regulation and legislation are also paramount to regulating the manufacturing, processing, application, as well as disposal of nanomaterials. Efforts are still needed to strengthen public awareness and acceptance of the novel nano-enabled food and agriculture products. We conclude that nanotechnology offers a plethora of opportunities, by providing a novel and sustainable alternative in the food and agriculture sectors.

Nanotechnology
Food
Agriculture
Bio-inspired nanomaterial
Regulation
Bio-synthesized nanomaterial
Public acceptance


Site-specific analysis of the O-glycosylation of bovine fetuin by electron-transfer dissociation mass spectrometry.

Abstract:
UNLABELLED
Bovine fetuin often finds use as a test model for analytical methods, but the exact occupancy of its O-glycosylation sites has not yet been determined. An obstacle for a closer inspection of the five or six O-glycosylation sites is the close spacing of several sites on the same tryptic peptide. The advent of ion-trap instruments with electron-transfer dissociation (ETD) capability and - for the type of instrument - high resolution prompted us to probe this technology for the investigation of the intricate posttranslational modifications O-glycosylation and phosphorylation. Much information could be obtained by direct-infusion ETD analysis of the fully sialylated tryptic 61-residue peptide harboring 8 hydroxyl amino acids of which four were indeed found to be, if only partially, glycosylated. The middle-down approach allowed recognizing an order of action of O-GalNAc transferase(s). No such hierarchy could be observed for phosphorylation. ETD fragmentation on an ion trap thus allowed in-depth analysis of a large, multiply O-glycosylated peptide, however, only by data accumulation over several minutes by direct infusion of a prefractionated sample. O-glycosylation and phosphorylation sites re-defined and their occupancy including that of N-glycans were defined by this study.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE
O-glycosylation of natural or recombinant proteins poses a challenge because of the lack of unambiguous consensus sites, the agglomeration of several O-glycans in close proximity and the lack of efficient O-glycosidases. Even bovine fetuin, a frequently used test glycoprotein for glycosylation analysis, has hitherto not been fully characterized in terms of site occupancy. This gap shall hereby be closed by application of electron-transfer dissociation mass spectroscopy.

O-glycosylation
Fetuin
Electron-transfer dissociation
Phosphorylation
Glycoprotein


Assessment of mineral and bone biomarkers highlights a high frequency of hypercalciuria in asymptomatic healthy teenagers.

Abstract:
AIM
Assessment of mineral metabolism is complex in paediatrics.

METHODS
We assessed the evolution of the main mineral and bone biomarkers (total/bone alkaline phosphatase ALP/BAP, β-crosslaps, osteocalcin, sclerostin, C-terminal and intact FGF23) in 100 healthy teenagers (10-18 years, 50 boys).

RESULTS
At a mean age of 13.7 ± 2.2 years, phosphatemia, tubular phosphate reabsorption, ALP and BAP significantly decreased along puberty in both genders, whilst parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-vitamin D (25D), FGF23, plasma calcium and urinary calcium were not modified. In girls, osteocalcin, β-crosslaps and sclerostin significantly decreased at the end of puberty. Calciuria above the crystallisation threshold (>3.8 mmol/L) and urinary calcium/creatinine ratio >0.7 mmol/mmol were found in 39% and 6% of subjects, respectively. Multivariable analyses showed that renal function and PTH were significant predictors of calciuria and urinary calcium/creatinine, whilst 25D remained a predictor only of urinary calcium/creatinine ratio.

CONCLUSION
Using the most recent assays, this study provides data for mineral/bone biomarkers across puberty and highlights the risk of hyper-calciuria in apparent asymptomatic healthy teenagers, not related to calcium intake but rather to 25D. Future studies are required to dissect the underlying mechanisms increasing calciuria and prevent nephrolithiasis as early as during childhood.

Bacchetta|Justine|J|0000-0002-0578-2529 Ginhoux|Tiphanie|T| Bernoux|Delphine|D| Dubourg|Laurence|L| Ranchin|Bruno|B| Roger|Christelle|C|

bone biomarkers healthy teenagers puberty calciuria


The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Thyroid Cancer.

Abstract: Thyroid cancer, the most common endocrine malignancy, has become the most commonly diagnosed malignant solid tumor. Moreover, some cases have poor prognosis, and the survival period is only 3-5 months. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of functional RNA molecules more than 200 nucleotides in length that lack the ability to encode protein but participate in all aspects of gene regulation. Functionally, many lncRNAs play essential roles in epigenetic regulation at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels via various molecular mechanisms. Recent studies have discovered important roles for lncRNAs during the complex process of carcinogenesis in thyroid cancer. In this review, we focus on lncRNAs dysregulated in thyroid cancer and summarize recently reported associations between lncRNAs and thyroid cancer in order to demonstrate the significant value of lncRNAs in diagnosis and treatment.

Peng|Xuejiao|X| Zhang|Kun|K| Ma|Li|L| Xu|Junfeng|J| Chang|Weiqin|W|

long non-coding RNAs
thyroid cancer
molecular mechanism
biomarker
tumorigenesis


Application of molecular tools in detecting zoonotic pathogens in organic fertilizers and liquid supplements.

Abstract: The use of organic fertilizers and liquid supplements for crop production is rapidly growing as an alternative system to conventional agriculture. However, very little is known about the public health issues related to pathogens. This study endeavors to identify the important zoonotic pathogens with the current molecular diagnostic tools, Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), against the conventional pathogen detection. These cost-effective molecular techniques have proven to be confirmatory tests of the target pathogens present in organic fertilizers and liquid supplements, which recommends an advancement for the comprehensive field surveillance-response approach in many developing countries with resource-limited settings quality assurance and safety implementation of organic biosolids for sustainable agricultural farming.

Paraguison-Alili|Rubigilda|R|
Lopez|Lani Lou Mar A|LLMA|
Domingo|Clarissa Yvonne J|CYJ|


Toll-like Receptor 2: A Novel Therapeutic Target for Ischemic White Matter Injury and Oligodendrocyte Death.

Abstract: Despite paramount clinical significance of white matter stroke, there is a paucity of researches on the pathomechanism of ischemic white matter damage and accompanying oligodendrocyte (OL) death. Therefore, a large gap exists between clinical needs and laboratory researches in this disease entity. Recent works have started to elucidate cellular and molecular basis of white matter injury under ischemic stress. In this paper, we briefly introduce white matter stroke from a clinical point of view and review pathophysiology of ischemic white matter injury characterized by OL death and demyelination. We present a series of evidence that Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), one of the membranous pattern recognition receptors, plays a cell-autonomous protective role in ischemic OL death and ensuing demyelination. Moreover, we also discuss our recent findings that its endogenous ligand, high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), is released from dying OLs and exerts autocrine trophic effects on OLs and myelin sheath under ischemic condition. We propose that modulation of TLR2 and its endogenous ligand HMGB1 can be a novel therapeutic target for ischemic white matter disease.

Toll-like receptor 2
White matter
Oligodendrocyte
High-mobility group box 1
Ischemia


Vector-borne diseases in waste pickers in Brasilia, Brazil.

Abstract: Solid waste management is a challenge in developing countries. The Structural dump in Brasilia, Brazil, was the largest Latin American open-air dump until its closure in 2018. Thus, this study sought to investigate the prevalence of self-reported dengue, Zika and Chikungunya arbovirus infections in waste pickers who worked at the dumpsite and assess its association with the sanitary conditions in their residences and workplaces. This research used a mixed methods study using a questionnaire for the quantitative method and semi-structured interviews for the qualitative portion. A cross-sectional, observational, epidemiological study along with a phenomenological study were carried out to characterize socio environmental, occupational and health-related aspects to vector-borne diseases in Structural dumpsite in Brazil. Of the 1,025 respondents, 301 (29.2%) reported to have gotten sick from dengue, Zika or chikungunya fevers. We found significant associations between place of residence of waste pickers (p = 0,003) and the work conditions, use of personal protective equipment (p < 0.001) and weekly workload (p = 0.04) and occurrence of vector-borne disease. Results were confirmed by qualitative data and geo-referencing, in relation to location of their homes and proximity to the dumpsite, as well as through the vulnerability due to their working conditions. This research confirms that waste pickers are highly susceptible to vector-borne diseases; this situation that needs to be immediately addressed by interdisciplinary and intersectoral approaches in waste management and public health. This information confirms vulnerability of waste pickers to diseases transmitted by Ae. aegypti mosquito as a result of sanitary conditions at their residence and workplace.

Cruvinel|Vanessa Resende Nogueira|VRN|
Zolnikov|Tara Rava|TR|
Takashi Obara|Marcos|M|
Oliveira|Valmir Teotonio Lopes de|VTL|
Vianna|Elisa Neves|EN|
Santos|Fabiana Sherine Ganem do|FSGD|
Oliveira|Kenia Cristina de|KC|
Scott|James A|JA|

Arbovirus infections, waterborne diseases


Diphtheria in an adult: how well prepared are we in tackling the disease? A case report.

Abstract: Diphtheria is a forgotten communicable disease and presumed to be under sufficient control so much so that life savings drugs required for its treatment has disappeared from most hospitals. Contrary to this belief, classical diphtheria continues to exist in many parts of India despite extensive immunizations campaigns raising the suspicion of resurgence. The absence of essential drugs in treatment of this condition has further worsened the situation. The expenditure involved in procuring these drugs is yet another constraint. We here by present one such case of adult diphtheria and discuss the problems associated with its diagnosis and treatment.

Raza|Syed Aqeel|SA|
Nagalotimath|Umesh|U|
Achar|Kavitha|K|


Development of mouse preimplantation embryos in space.

Abstract: The development of life beyond planet Earth is a long-standing quest of the human race, but whether normal mammalian embryonic development can occur in space is still unclear. Here, we show unequivocally that preimplantation mouse embryos can develop in space, but the rate of blastocyst formation and blastocyst quality are compromised. Additionally, the cells in the embryo contain severe DNA damage, while the genome of the blastocysts developed in space is globally hypomethylated with a unique set of differentially methylated regions. The developmental defects, DNA damage and epigenetic abnormalities can be largely mimicked by the treatment with ground-based low-dose radiation. However, the exposure to simulated microgravity alone does not cause major disruptions of embryonic development, indicating that radiation is the main cause for the developmental defects. This work advances the understanding of embryonic development in space and reveals long-term extreme low-dose radiation as a hazardous factor for mammalian reproduction.

Lei|Xiaohua|X| Cao|Yujing|Y| Ma|Baohua|B| Zhang|Yunfang|Y| Ning|Lina|L| Qian|Jingjing|J| Zhang|Liwen|L| Qu|Yongcun|Y| Zhang|Tao|T| Li|Dehong|D| Chen|Qi|Q| Shi|Junchao|J|0000-0002-1548-5069 Zhang|Xudong|X| Ma|Chiyuan|C| Zhang|Ying|Y|0000-0003-4082-5026 Duan|Enkui|E|

DNA damage
radiation
microgravity
DNA methylation
preimplantation development
space-flight


Diagnostic value of suPAR in differentiating noncardiac pleural effusions from cardiac pleural effusions.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a newly discovered inflammatory biomarker. suPAR has not been previously studied in differentiating noncardiac pleural effusion (PF) from cardiac PF. The aim of our study was to assess the diagnostic value of suPAR in PF.

METHODS
The concentration of PF-suPAR was measured by a commercialized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in a prospective cohort of 74 patients with PF, 18 patients with PF due to cardiac failure (CF) and 56 patients with noncardiac PF. The area under the curve quantified the overall diagnostic accuracy of the tests.

RESULTS
The median pleural fluid suPAR level was found as 23 (5.4-102.8) ng/mL. The median PF-suPAR level in CF was significantly lower than that of noncardiac effusions [11.8 (5.4-28.9) ng/mL vs 26.7 (8.2-102.8) ng/mL, respectively, P < 0.001]. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.878 (95% confidence interval: 0795-0.962, P < 0.001) for noncardiac pleural fluid suPAR. The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of PF-suPAR for noncardiac effusions at the cutoff level of ≥17.6 n/mL was 88%, 83% and 94%, respectively. The suPAR level in PF was found to correlate with all of the biochemical parameters of PF.

CONCLUSIONS
suPAR is a potential new marker for the discrimination between cardiac and noncardiac PF.

Ozsu|Savas|S| Oztuna|Funda|F| Mentese|Ahmet|A| Abul|Yasin|Y| Ozlu|Tevfik|T|

D055293:Receptors, Urokinase Plasminogen Activator

soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor


A gastroenteritis outbreak caused by noroviruses in Greece.

Abstract: In June 2006, an outbreak alert regarding cases of acute gastroenteritis in a region in North Eastern Greece (population 100,882 inhabitants), triggered investigations to guide control measures. The outbreak started the first days of June, and peaked in July. A descriptive epidemiological study, a virological characterization of the viral agent identified from cases as well as a phylogenetic analysis was performed. From June 5 to September 3, 2006 (weeks 23-44), 1,640 cases of gastroenteritis (45.2% male and 54.8% female, aged 3 months to 89 years) were reported. The overall attack rate for the period was 16.3 cases/1,000 inhabitants. About 57% of cases observed were under the age of 15 years. Analysis of faecal samples identified Norovirus GII strains. Fifteen different Norovirus GII strains were recorded, presenting a homology of 94.8% (86-97%) to GII strains obtained from GenBank. The long duration of the outbreak suggests an important role of person-to-person transmission, while the emergence of the outbreak was possibly due to contaminated potable water, although no viruses were detected in any tested water samples. This outbreak underscores the need for a national surveillance system for acute non-bacterial gastroenteritis outbreaks.

Vantarakis|Apostolos|A| Mellou|Kassiani|K| Spala|Georgia|G| Kokkinos|Petros|P| Alamanos|Yiannis|Y|

outbreak
Noroviruses
Greece
phylogenetic analysis
genogroup II (GGII)


Lipid-derived aldehyde degradation under thermal conditions.

Abstract: Nucleophilic degradation produced by reactive carbonyls plays a major role in food quality and safety. Nevertheless, these reactions are complex because reactive carbonyls are usually involved in various competitive reactions. This study describes the thermal degradation of 2-alkenals (2-pentenal and 2-octenal) and 2,4-alkadienals (2,4-heptadienal and 2,4-decadienal) in an attempt to both clarify the stability of aldehydes and determine new compounds that might also play a role in nucleophile/aldehyde reactions. The obtained results showed that alkenals and alkadienals decomposed rapidly in the presence of buffer and air to produce formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and the aldehydes corresponding to the breakage of the carboncarbon double bonds: propanal, hexanal, 2-pentenal, 2-octenal, glyoxal, and fumaraldehyde. The activation energy of double bond breakage was relatively low (∼ 25 kJ/mol) and the yield of alkanals (10-18%) was higher than that of 2-alkenals (∼ 1%). All these results indicate that these reactions should be considered in order to fully understand the range of nucleophile/aldehyde adducts produced.

Zamora|Rosario|R|
Navarro|José L|JL|
Aguilar|Isabel|I|
Hidalgo|Francisco J|FJ|

Aldehyde degradation
2-Alkenals
2,4-Alkadienals
Alkanals
Food flavours
Lipid oxidation


Is a two-step impression mandatory for complete denture fabrication on the severely resorbed mandible? A randomized trial on mastication, patient satisfaction and adjustments.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
To compare one- vs two-step impression procedures for the provision of conventional complete dentures (CCDs) for edentulous individuals with severe mandibular resorption, in terms of (1) masticatory performance and ability; (2) satisfaction with mandibular CCDs; and (3) post-delivery adjustments.

METHODS
Fifty-two patients requiring maxillary + mandibular CCDs were randomly divided into two parallel arms according to the impression method of the mandibular ridge: (SI) single impression with stock trays (irreversible hydrocolloid); (TI) two-step impression in custom trays, with border molding (impression compound) followed by the impression itself (polyether). Mastication performance was evaluated by a colorimetric test, whereas patients answered questions on masticatory ability and satisfaction with mandibular CCDs (100-mm visual analogue scale). The number of post-delivery sessions for adjustments were also quantified. Outcomes were assessed at 3 and 6 months after delivery.

RESULTS
The masticatory performance was similar for both groups, regardless of time (3 months, P = 0.62; 6 months, P = 0.61). No significant difference was found for patient-reported (P > 0.05), i.e. masticatory ability (general ease of chewing and quality of grinding food; ability to chew specific foods), general satisfaction with the mandibular CCD (general satisfaction, comfort, aesthetics, ability to speak and to perform correct cleaning, retention and stability). Both methods resulted in a similar number of post-delivery adjustment sessions [SI: 3.8 (1.7); TI: 3.2 (1.4); P = 0.09].

CONCLUSIONS
Compared to a traditional approach, CCDs obtained from a single impression achieve similar masticatory performance/ability and patient satisfaction, even in patients with severely reabsorbed mandibular ridge. Both methods demand the same amount of post-delivery adjustment.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
A simplified impression technique which eliminates the secondary impression can provide CCDs of good clinical quality, which influences the OHRQoL, and satisfaction in the same extent they would by a two-step procedure, even for patients with severely reabsorbed mandibular ridges (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02339194).

Albuquerque|Ivo S|IS|
Freitas-Pontes|Karina M|KM|
de Souza|Raphael F|RF|
Negreiros|Wagner A|WA|
Ramos|Marcelo B|MB|
Peixoto|Raniel F|RF|
Regis|Rômulo R|RR|

complete denture
mastication
patient satisfaction
dental impression technique
edentulous jaw


The Distance between the Pylorus and Left Vagus Nerve during Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Abstract: The sleeve gastrectomy (SG) can be performed with or without antral preservation (distance from the pylorus <50 mm). The objective of this study was to evaluate the distance between the pylorus and the end of the left vagus nerve in order to determine whether it could be used as a constant anatomical landmark to start gastric transection. This was a prospective, nonrandomized study of 120 patients undergoing SG from January to October 2018. The distance measurement between pylorus and vagus nerve was performed at the beginning of the SG. The primary endpoint was the distance between the beginning of the pylorus and the end of the second branch of the vagus nerve on the upper edge of the antrum. The secondary endpoints was the correlation factors between the preoperative data and the position of the end of the vagus nerve. A total of 120 patients, with a mean body mass index of 42.2 kg/m2 , underwent primary SG. The mean distance between pylorus and the end of the vagus nerve was 50.4 mm (35-64) on the upper part of the antrum. When considering the inferior part of the antrum, the minimum distance was 50 mm. No correlations were found between preoperative data and distance measurements. The vagus nerve can be considered as a constant and reliable anatomical landmark for performing SG with antral preservation. However, no correlation was found between the preoperative data and the location of the end of the vagus nerve. Clin. Anat. 33:562-566, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

vagus nerve
sleeve gastrectomy
antral preservation
antrum
anatomy


Polysaccharides Reduce Absorption and Mutagenicity of 3-Amino-1,4-Dimethyl-5H-Pyrido[4,3-b]Indole In Vitro and In Vivo.

Abstract:
3-Amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-P-1) is a group 2B carcinogen characterized by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and great efforts have been taken to reduce Trp-P-1 mutagenicity to humans. In this study, the effect of a reduction of Trp-P-1 on intestinal absorption as a promising strategy was investigated. The data showed that when 20 mM Trp-P-1 cotransported with 10 mM of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), xanthan gum, or carrageenan, the absorption rate of Trp-P-1 was reduced by 31.5%, 49.5%, or 72.9% in MDCK-MDR1 cell monolayer, respectively; and 64.6%, 83.4%, or 64.1% in rat intestinal tissues, correspondingly. These 3 polysaccharides also reduced pharmacokinetic parameters, that is, Cmax , AUC0-t , and AUC0-∞ , after Trp-P-1 was given to rats intragastrically. However, gum arabic did not exhibit similar effects on Trp-P-1 absorption in vitro or in vivo. The Ames test showed that these 3 polysaccharides reduced Trp-P-1 mutagenicity to Salmonella typhimurium TA98, but gum arabic did not. Isothermal titration calorimetry assay indicated that Trp-P-1 interacted with these 3 polysaccharides. Thermodynamic study showed that the actual value of △H <0, but its absolute value greater than the corresponding value of T∆S, suggest a specific interaction between Trp-P-1 and these 3 polysaccharides, probably through the hydrogen bond and/or ion interaction. Reduction of Trp-P-1 intestinal absorption using food additives could be one of the strategies to suppress Trp-P-1-induced carcinogenesis in human.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION
1.This study provides insightful information for the food industry how gum arabic, xanthan gum, kappa carrageenan, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose affect the absorption of Trp-P-1. 2.This study also provides novel information regarding a better formulation for meat products to reduce Trp-P-1 absorption.


Elevated ozone and nitrogen deposition affect nitrogen pools of subalpine grassland.

Abstract: In a free-air fumigation experiment with subalpine grassland, we studied long-term effects of elevated ozone (O3) and nitrogen (N) deposition on ecosystem N pools and on the fate of anthropogenic N. At three times during the seventh year of exposure, N pools and recovery of a stable isotope tracer ((15)N) were determined in above- and belowground plant parts, and in the soil. Plants were much better competitors for (15)N than soil microorganisms. Plant N pools increased by 30-40% after N addition, while soil pools remained unaffected, suggesting that most of the extra N was taken up and stored in plant biomass, thus preventing the ecosystem from acquiring characteristics of eutrophication. Elevated O3 caused an increase of N in microbial biomass and in stabilized soil N, probably resulting from increased litter input and lower litter quality. Different from individual effects, the interaction between the pollutants remained partly unexplained.

Bassin|Seraina|S| Käch|David|D| Valsangiacomo|Alain|A| Mayer|Jochen|J| Oberholzer|Hans-Rudolf|HR| Volk|Matthias|M| Fuhrer|Jürg|J|

Ozone
Nitrogen
Grassland
Stable isotopes
Soil


Nurses' perspectives on how operational leaders influence function-focused care for hospitalised older people.

Abstract:
AIMS
To explore nurses' perspectives on how leaders influence function-focused care, defined as care that preserves and restores older people's functional abilities.

BACKGROUND
Hospitalised older people are at risk of functional decline. Although leaders have the potential to influence function-focused care, few studies have explored nurses' perspectives on how leaders influence function-focused care.

METHODS
Thirteen focus groups were held with 57 acute care nurses. Semi-structured questions prompted discussion on nurses' perspectives, needs and strategies to meet their needs. Data were thematically analysed.

RESULTS
Three themes were identified: (1) the emphasis in hospitals is on moving older people quickly through the system, not supporting their functioning; (2) leaders are generally seen as too disconnected from practice to design system efficiency initiatives that support older people's functioning and nurses' provisioning of function-focused care; and (3) leadership strategies to better support nurses in providing function-focused care to older people in the context of system efficiency.

CONCLUSIONS
Leaders should connect with practice to devise age-sensitive efficiency initiatives that support function-focused care. Nurses need support from leaders in four areas to provide function-focused care to older people in the current hospital context.

IMPLICATIONS
The findings provide direction on how leaders can facilitate function-focused care in the current health-care environment emphasising system efficiency.

operational leaders
function-focused care
older people
acute care
health-care system efficiency


A Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of the Parasitoid Wasp, Cotesia glomerata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae).

Abstract: Hymenopterans make up about 20% of all animal species, but most are poorly known and lack high-quality genomic resources. One group of important, yet understudied hymenopterans are parasitoid wasps in the family Braconidae. Among this understudied group is the genus Cotesia, a clade of ~1,000 species routinely used in studies of physiology, ecology, biological control, and genetics. However, our ability to understand these organisms has been hindered by a lack of genomic resources. We helped bridge this gap by generating a high-quality genome assembly for the parasitoid wasp, Cotesia glomerata (Braconidae; Microgastrinae). We generated this assembly using multiple sequencing technologies, including Oxford Nanopore, whole-genome shotgun sequencing, and 3D chromatin contact information (HiC). Our assembly is one of the most contiguous, complete, and publicly available hymenopteran genomes, represented by 3,355 scaffolds with a scaffold N50 of ~28 Mb and a BUSCO score of ~99%. Given the genome sizes found in closely related species, our genome assembly was ~50% larger than expected, which was apparently induced by runaway amplification of 3 types of repetitive elements: simple repeats, long terminal repeats, and long interspersed nuclear elements. This assembly is another step forward for genomics across this hyperdiverse, yet understudied order of insects. The assembled genomic data and metadata files are publicly available via Figshare (https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.13010549).

Pinto|Brendan J|BJ|0000-0002-4243-5788
Weis|Jerome J|JJ|
Gamble|Tony|T|0000-0002-0204-8003
Ode|Paul J|PJ|0000-0001-7153-1077
Paul|Ryan|R|
Zaspel|Jennifer M|JM|

genomics
Hymenoptera
Braconidae
entomology
transposable elements


Oxytocin reduces cocaine seeking and reverses chronic cocaine-induced changes in glutamate receptor function.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Oxytocin, a neurohypophyseal neuropeptide, is a potential mediator and regulator of drug addiction. However, the cellular mechanisms of oxytocin in drug seeking remain unknown.

METHODS
In the present study, we used a self-administration/reinstatement model to study the effects of oxytocin on cocaine seeking and its potential interaction with glutamate function at the receptor level.

RESULTS
Systemic oxytocin dose-dependently reduced cocaine self-administration during various schedules of reinforcement, including fixed ratio 1, fixed ratio 5, and progressive ratio. Oxytocin also attenuated reinstatement to cocaine seeking induced by cocaine prime or conditioned cues. Western-blot analysis indicated that oxytocin increased phosphorylation of the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid-type glutamate receptor GluA1 subunit at the Ser 845 site with or without accompanying increases in phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, in several brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, amygdala, and dorsal hippocampus. Immunoprecipitation of oxytocin receptor and GluA1 subunit receptors further demonstrated a physical interaction between these 2 receptors, although the interaction was not influenced by chronic cocaine or oxytocin treatment. Oxytocin also attenuated sucrose seeking in a GluA1- or extracellular-signal-regulated kinase-independent manner.

CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest that oxytocin mediates cocaine seeking through interacting with glutamate receptor systems via second messenger cascades in mesocorticolimbic regions.

Zhou|Luyi|L|
Sun|Wei-Lun|WL|
Young|Amy B|AB|
Lee|Kunhee|K|
McGinty|Jacqueline F|JF|
See|Ronald E|RE|

D048049:Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases

oxytocin
cocaine
glutamate receptor
reinstatement
self-administration.


Bacterial Community Structure Dynamics in Meloidogyne incognita-Infected Roots and Its Role in Worm-Microbiome Interactions.

Abstract: Plant parasitic nematodes such as Meloidogyne incognita have a complex life cycle, occurring sequentially in various niches of the root and rhizosphere. They are known to form a range of interactions with bacteria and other microorganisms that can affect their densities and virulence. High-throughput sequencing can reveal these interactions in high temporal and geographic resolutions, although thus far we have only scratched the surface. In this study, we have carried out a longitudinal sampling scheme, repeatedly collecting rhizosphere soil, roots, galls, and second-stage juveniles from 20 plants to provide a high-resolution view of bacterial succession in these niches, using 16S rRNA metabarcoding. Our findings indicate that a structured community develops in the root, in which gall communities diverge from root segments lacking a gall, and that this structure is maintained throughout the crop season. We describe the successional process leading toward this structure, which is driven by interactions with the nematode and later by an increase in bacteria often found in hypoxic and anaerobic environments. We present evidence that this structure may play a role in the nematode's chemotaxis toward uninfected root segments. Finally, we describe the J2 epibiotic microenvironment as ecologically deterministic, in part, due to the active bacterial attraction of second-stage juveniles.IMPORTANCE The study of high-resolution successional processes within tightly linked microniches is rare. Using the power and relatively low cost of metabarcoding, we describe the bacterial succession and community structure in roots infected with root-knot nematodes and in the nematodes themselves. We reveal separate successional processes in galls and adjacent non-gall root sections, which are driven by the nematode's life cycle and the progression of the crop season. With their relatively low genetic diversity, large geographic range, spatially complex life cycle, and the simplified agricultural ecosystems they occupy, root-knot nematodes can serve as a model organism for terrestrial holobiont ecology. This perspective can improve our understanding of the temporal and spatial aspects of biological control efficacy.

Meloidogyne incognita
bacterial succession
microbiome
plant-microbe interactions
root knot nematode


WIRION™ embolic protection system for carotid artery stenting and lower extremity endovascular intervention.

Abstract: Aim: To summarize all available literature regarding the Wirion™ embolic protection system (EPS) and present examples from our center. Materials & methods: A review of literture was performed about the utilization of Wirion EPS. Results: One study was identified investigating the outcomes of Wirion during carotid artery stenting. The study demonstrated 98.3% procedural success with stroke occurring in only 2.5%. Two single arm studies were identified investigating the efficacy of the Wirion filter during lower extremity endovascular interventions. The reported device success ranged from 95.1 to 97.3%. Conclusion: While carotid artery stenting should always be performed with adjunctive EPS in order to decrease the risk of cerebrovascular accidents, the routine use of EPS in femorpopliteal interventions remains an active area of investigation.

carotid artery stenting
WIRION embolic protection system
distal embolic protection
endovascular therapy
peripheral vascular disease


Berberine activates caspase-9/cytochrome c-mediated apoptosis to suppress triple-negative breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract: Berberine (BBR) is an isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from Cotridis rhizoma and exhibits multiple biological roles including anti-microbe, anti-inflammation and anti-tumor activities. In this study, two triple-negative breast cancer cell (TNBC) lines, MDA-MB-231 and BT549, were used to investigate the effect of BBR on growth of TNBC in vitro and in vivo. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to evaluate the viability of cells treated with BBR. After 48h treatments, a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of BBR to BT549 and MDA-MB-231 cells are at 16.575±1.219μg/ml and 18.525±6.139μg/ml respectively. BBR reduced colony formation of BT549 and MDA-MB-231 cells. The wound-healing assay showed BBR decreased breast cancer cell migrations (P<0.01). AnnexinV-PI staining assay confirmed BBR induced cellular apoptosis. The expressions of caspase-3, caspase-9, Bcl-2 and Bax were detected by western blot, which showed BBR activated caspase-3, 9 and Bax, but down-regulated Bcl-2 expression. BBR promoted the release of cytochrome c through the immunofluorescent analysis (P<0.01). We also found BBR increased the level of cellular γH2AX and increased the expression of Ligase4, which suggests BBR induces the double-strand breaks (DSB). These results thus demonstrated that BBR induced DSB, subsequently increased the release of cytochrome c and eventually triggered the caspase9-dependent apoptosis. In addition, we used a MDA-MB-231 mouse-xenograftmodel to evaluate the effect of BBR on tumor growth. BBR suppressed tumor growth and increased caspase-9 levels in xenograft tumors through immunohistochemistry analysis (P<0.01). Taken together, these results demonstrate that BBR activates caspase-9/cytochrome c-mediated apoptosis to inhibit the growth of TNBC breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.

Zhao|Yuwan|Y| Jing|Zuolei|Z| Lv|Jian|J| Zhang|Zhiwei|Z| Lin|Jintao|J| Cao|Xuejiao|X| Zhao|Zinan|Z| Liu|Pixu|P| Mao|Weifeng|W|

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

Berberine
Caspase-9
Apoptosis
Triple-negative breast cancer


The concordance of treatment decision guided by OncotypeDX and the PREDICT tool in real-world early-stage breast cancer.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Decision-making regarding adjuvant chemotherapy for early-stage breast cancer can be guided by genomic assays such as OncotypeDX. The concordance of expected clinical decisions guided by OncotypeDX and prognostication online tools such as PREDICT is unknown.

METHODS
We performed a retrospective single-center cohort study comprising all women with estrogen receptor (ER) positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative, node negative disease, whose tumors were sent for OncotypeDX analysis. Expected decision on adjuvant chemotherapy was evaluated using OncotypeDX and using PREDICT. The concordance between these two tools was calculated. The impact on concordance of prespecified features was assessed, including age, tumor size, intensity of ER and progesterone receptor (PR), grade, Ki67 and perineural and lymphovascular invasion.

RESULTS
A total of 445 women were included. Overall concordance was 75% (K = 0.284). The concordance was significantly higher for grade 1 disease compared to grade 2-3 (93% vs 72%, P < .001), tumor ≤ 1 cm compared to >1 cm (85% vs 72%, P = .009), PR positive compared to PR negative (78% vs 58%, P < .001) and ki67 < 10% compared to ≥10% (92% vs 63%, P < .001). The intensity of ER and the presence of perineural or lymphovascular invasion had no significant impact on concordance.

CONCLUSIONS
Compared to PREDICT, using OncotypeDx in node negative, ER positive disease is expected to change the clinical decision in a quarter of patients. The concordance between OncotypeDx and PREDICT is influenced by pathological features. In patients with very low risk, treatment decisions may be made based solely on clinical risk assessment.

D000328:Adult
D000367:Age Factors
D000368:Aged
D000369:Aged, 80 and over
D001943:Breast Neoplasms
D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
D000066491:Clinical Decision-Making
D015331:Cohort Studies
D005260:Female
D020869:Gene Expression Profiling
D005820:Genetic Testing
D023281:Genomics
D006801:Humans
D008875:Middle Aged
D060787:Neoplasm Grading
D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness
D011379:Prognosis
D018719:Receptor, ErbB-2
D011960:Receptors, Estrogen
D011980:Receptors, Progesterone
D012189:Retrospective Studies
D047368:Tumor Burden

predict tool
breast cancer
adjuvant
genomic assays
oncotype


Bisphenol a induces steatosis in HepaRG cells using a model of perinatal exposure.

Abstract: Human exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) could favor obesity and related metabolic disorders such as hepatic steatosis. Investigations in rodents have shown that these deleterious effects are observed not only when BPA is administered during the adult life but also with different protocols of perinatal exposure. Whether perinatal BPA exposure could pose a risk in human is currently unknown, and thus appropriate in vitro models could be important to tackle this major issue. Accordingly, we determined whether long-term BPA treatment could induce steatosis in human HepaRG cells by using a protocol mimicking perinatal exposure. To this end, the kinetics of expression of seven proteins differentially expressed during liver development was determined during a 4-week period of cell culture required for proliferation and differentiation. By analogy with data reported in rodents and humans, our results indicated that the period of cell culture around day 15 and day 18 after seeding could be considered as the "natal" period. Consequently, HepaRG cells were treated for 3 weeks with BPA (from 0.2 to 2000 nM), with a treatment starting during the proliferating period. BPA was able to induce steatosis with a nonmonotonic dose response profile, with significant effects on neutral lipids and triglycerides observed for the 2 nM concentration. However, the expression of many enzymes involved in lipid and carbohydrate homeostasis was unchanged in exposed HepaRG cells. The expression of other potential BPA targets and enzymes involved in BPA biotransformation was also determined, giving answers as well as new questions regarding the mechanisms of action of BPA. Hence, HepaRG cells provide a valuable model that can prove useful for the toxicological assessment of endocrine disruptors on hepatic metabolisms, in particular in the developing liver. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1024-1036, 2017.

Bucher|Simon|S|
Jalili|Pégah|P|
Le Guillou|Dounia|D|
Begriche|Karima|K|
Rondel|Karine|K|
Martinais|Sophie|S|
Zalko|Daniel|D|
Corlu|Anne|A|
Robin|Marie-Anne|MA|
Fromenty|Bernard|B|

D018507:Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental

D015971:Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic

bisphenol A
steatosis
HepaRG cells
perinatal exposure
lipids
UDP-glucuronosyltransferase
cytochrome P450
pregnane X receptor
xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes
β-glucuronidase