Ιατρικά Άρθρα

Πέμπτη 11 Ιανουαρίου 2018

Assessment the effect of dexmedetomidine on incidence of paradoxical hypertension after surgical repair of aortic coarctation in pediatric patients

Rabie Soliman, Dalia Saad

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):26-33

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of dexmedetomidine on the incidence of paradoxical hypertension in patients undergoing aortic coarctation repair. Design: Randomized observational study. Setting: University hospital and cardiac center. Patients: The study included 108 pediatric patients with isolated aortic coarctation. Methods: The patients were classified into two groups (each = 54): Group D: the patients received dexmedetomidine as a loading dose of 0.5 μg/kg over 10 min followed by infusion 0.3 μg/kg/h during surgery and continued for the first 48 postoperative hours. Group C: The patients received an equal amount of normal saline. The medication was prepared by the nursing staff and given to anesthetist blindly. The collected data included the heart rate, systolic and diastolic arterial blood pressure, incidence, onset, severity and treatment of paradoxical hypertension, fentanyl dose and end-tidal sevoflurane concentration, amount of blood loss and urine output. Main Results: The heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly with dexmedetomidine than Group C (P < 0.05). The incidence and severity of the paradoxical hypertension was lower with dexmedetomidine than Group C (P = 0.011, P = 0.017, respectively). The onset the paradoxical hypertension was earlier in Group C than dexmedetomidine (P = 0.026). The dose of fentanyl and sevoflurane concentration decreased significantly with dexmedetomidine (P = 0.034, P = 0.026, respectively). The blood loss decreased with dexmedetomidine (P = 0.020) and the urine output increased with dexmedetomidine (P = 0.024). The incidence of hypotension and bradycardia was more with dexmedetomidine (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine is safe in pediatric patients undergoing aortic coarctation repair. It minimized the incidence and severity of paradoxical hypertension. It decreased the required antihypertensive medications.

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Spontaneous coronary artery dissection in anabolic steroid misuse

AnnCardAnaesth_2018_21_1_103_223029_f1.j

Aghighe Heidari, Feridoun Sabzi, Reza Faraji

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):103-104

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A randomized controlled trial comparing the myocardial protective effects of isoflurane with propofol in patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass, assessed by changes in N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide

Balaji Kuppuswamy, Kirubakaran Davis, Raj Sahajanandan, Manickam Ponniah

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):34-40

Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the myocardial protective effects of isoflurane with propofol in patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the cardio protection been assessed by changes in N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT proBNP). Methodology and Design: This study is designed as a participant blinded, prospective randomized clinical trial. Setting: Christian Medical College Hospital, Vellore, India. Participants: Patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on CPB. Intervention: Anesthesia was maintained with 0.8–1.2 end tidal concentrations of isoflurane in the isoflurane group and in the propofol group, anesthesia was maintained with propofol infusion as described by Roberts et al. Measurements: Hemodynamic data were recorded at frequent intervals during the surgery and up to 24 h in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The other variables that were measured include duration of mechanical ventilation, dose and duration of inotropes in ICU, (inotrope score), duration of ICU stay, NT proBNP levels before induction and 24 h postoperatively, creatine kinase-MB levels in the immediate postoperative, first and second day. Results: Mean heart rate was significantly higher in propofol group during sternotomy, (P = 0.021). Propofol group had a significantly more number of patients requiring nitroglycerine in the prebypass period (P = 0.01). The increase in NT proBNP from preoperative to postoperative value was lesser in the isoflurane group compared to propofol even though the difference was not statistically significant. The requirement of phenylephrine to maintain mean arterial pressure within 20% of baseline, mechanical ventilation duration, inotrope use, duration of ICU stay and hospital stay were found to be similar in both groups. Conclusion: Propofol exhibit comparable myocardial protective effect like that of isoflurane in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Considering the unproven mortality benefit of isoflurane and the improved awareness of green OT concept, propofol may be the ideal alternative to volatile anesthetics, at least in patients with good left ventricular function.

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Atrioventricular septal defects

Sandeep Chauhan

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):1-3

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Long-term quality of life postacute kidney injury in cardiac surgery patients

Pankaj Kumar Mishra, Heyman Luckraz, Jayanta Nandi, Alan Nevill, Ramesh Giri, Andrew Panayiotou, Johann Nicholas

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):41-45

Background: Acute renal failure after cardiac surgery is known to be associated with significant short-term morbidity and mortality. There have as yet been no major reports on long-term quality of life (QOL). This study assessed the impact of acute kidney injury (AKI) and renal replacement therapy (RRT) on long-term survival and QOL after cardiac surgery. The need for long-term RRT is also assessed. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent cardiac surgery between 2005 and 2011 (n = 6087) and developed AKI (RIFLE criteria, n = 570) were included. They were propensity-matched 1:1 to patients without renal impairment (control). Data were prospectively collected, and health-related QOL questionnaire was sent to patients who were alive at least 1-year postoperatively at the time of the study. Results: There was no significant difference in the preoperative characteristics between the two groups (age, gender, left ventricular ejection fraction, procedure, urgency, logistic Euroscore), respectively. Median follow-up was 52 months. Survival data were available in all patients. Questionnaires were returned in 64% of eligible patients. Long-term survival was significantly lower, and QOL, in particular the physical aspect, was significantly worse for the AKI group as compared to non-AKI group (38.8 vs. 44.2, P = 0.002), especially so in patients who required RRT. In alive respondents, despite an 18% (66/359) incidence of ongoing renal follow-up, the need for late RRT was only in 1.1% (4/359). Conclusion: AKI and especially the need for RRT following cardiac surgery are associated with increased long-term mortality as well as worse quality of life in a propensity-matched control group.

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Commentary: Comments on thoracic outlet syndrome

Gauranga Majumdar, Surendra Kumar Agarwal

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):74-75

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Design and standardization of tools for assessing the perceived heart risk and heart health literacy in Iran

Habibolah Khazaei, Saeid Komasi, Ali Zakiei, Mohsen Rezaei, Peyman Hatamian, Mohammad Jashnpoor, Mozhgan Saeidi

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):46-52

Objectives: The aim is to achieve the standard tools for heart health, the present study aimed to design, develop, and standardize the two questionnaires of perceived heart risk scale (PHRS) and heart health literacy scale (HHLS). Methods: The present study was a methodological research conducted on the residents of Kermanshah Province, Iran, using the multi-stage cluster sampling. Further, considering the scientific methods in the psychometric field, the design of the research questionnaires was conducted. In addition, the viewpoints of experts in different domains were qualitatively and quantitatively included to assess the validity of the questionnaires. To assess the reliability of the questionnaires, a sample including 31 subjects was first selected and studied within a fortnight's interval. Then, the reliability and validity of the scales were assessed using factor analysis and Cronbach's alpha in a sample of 771 subjects. Results: After reviewing the viewpoints of experts, the items were adjusted and implemented in the first sample at two stages. The results were indicative of the stability and acceptability of the Cronbach's alpha. In addition, the validity and reliability of the questionnaires were confirmed in the second sample too. Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, it can be concluded that the two questionnaires of PHRS and HHLS had acceptable reliability and validity.

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Bleeding in the lung complicates a routine intracardiac repair: What went wrong!!!

Neeti Makhija, Rohan Magoon, Minati Choudhury, Sivasubramanian Ramakrishnan

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia 2018 21(1):78-81

Cyanotic congenital heart disease presents an increased tendency to bleed in view of subtle coagulation defects. Airway bleeding can be particularly difficult to manage while maintaining an adequate ventilation. An isolated lung bleed with the exclusion of possible traumatic, medical and surgical causes of bleeding, should alert the attending anesthesiologist to the possibility of the collateral-related bleeding. Preoperative coil embolization remains an important initial management step in a case of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) with major aortopulmonary collaterals. Nevertheless, the coiling of the collaterals in certain specific case scenarios is not feasible, rendering the management of a lung bleed, all the more challenging. We, hereby discuss a case of a 7-year-old girl with a massive endotracheal bleed at the time of weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass after corrective surgery for TOF. The subsequent approach and management are discussed. The optimal management of tetralogy with collaterals mandates an effective communication among the cardiologist, radiologist, anesthesiologist, and the surgeon.

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The effect of acceptance and commitment therapy on the mental health of women patients with type II diabetes

Marziyeh Kaboudi, Fateme Dehghan, Arash Ziapour

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1709-1713

Background: Diagnosis of diabetes will have a significant impact on patients' psychosocial functioning and patients should devote sufficient time and energy to self-manage the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment based on acceptance and commitment model on the mental health of women with diabetes type II. Methods: The present study is an experimental study with pretest-posttest control group design. The sample consisted of 26 women with diabetes from Kermanshah who were recruited using convenience (availability) sampling and were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. All patients completed the 28-item general health questionnaire before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis of covariance and applying SPSS version 23. Results: The results clearly showed that the posttest scores of mental health in the experimental group were significant compared to the control group (P

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Advocating for the implementation of recommended measures to improve infant and young child feeding

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1835-1836

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World Health Organization calls for the adoption of updated guidelines for the management of chlamydial, gonococcal, and syphilitic infections

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1403-1404

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Prevalence and pattern of parasitic infestations among nomadic Fulani children in a grazing reserve in Northwestern Nigeria

Halima Bello-Manga, Aisha Indo Mamman, H Idris Suleiman, Adebola Olayinka, Abubakar Umar Musa, Kana Abubakar Musa

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1799-1804

Background: Nomadic pastoralists lack access to basic sanitary and health-care facilities mainly because their mode of life makes them a hard to reach group. In the Nigerian context, there is dearth of knowledge about the interplay between their lifestyle and health indices.Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the association between the prevalence of parasitic infestation among nomadic Fulani children in Ladduga grazing reserve, Kaduna, Northwestern Nigeria. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and pattern of parasitic infestation among nomadic Fulani children in Ladduga grazing reserve, Kaduna, Northwestern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using questionnaires, physical examination, automated hemocytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based serum ferritin assay, and formol-ether concentration-based stool tests on 337 children (5–15 years) at Ladduga grazing reserve, Northwestern Nigeria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: The prevalence of parasitic infestation was 14.4% (49/337). The predominant parasites found were hookworm species, i.e., Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale (46.9%) and Schistosoma mansoni (26.6%) while Ascaris lumbricoides, Hymenolepis nana, and Enterobius vermicularis accounted for 26.6%. Anemia was found in 40.4% (137/340) of the children with a statistically significant difference between younger (5–9 years) and older children (10–15 years; P

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Saving lives of mothers and newborns from infections around the time of childbirth by strengthening health sector response to the public health concern of antibiotic resistance

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1405-1406

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Identifying and investigating exercise activity on the factors of physical fitness and well-being of the staff at the Isfahan University of Technology

Jahangir Hamidi Tehrani, Mojtaba Babaei Khorzoghi

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1661-1667

Objective: The results of the conducted studies investigating the prevalence of machinery life and increase of cardiovascular diseases imply that motor poverty and especially low aerobic power and increase in blood fat are among primary risk factors in cardiovascular diseases. To prevent these discomforts, doing regular physical and exercise activities are recommended; hence, people's participation in physical activities and their awareness of physical status and well-being factors, especially blood fat and cardiovascular profile are of utmost importance. The general purpose of this study, besides awareness of the participants' physical well-being, is to investigate the effect of exercise activities on physical fitness and blood fat profile in the staff of Isfahan University of Technology. Methods: A semi-experimental method with clinical experiments was used in this research, and the effect of 8 weeks of 45–50-min sessions of exercise, twice a week, and on the staff's physical performance was investigated. An experimental and a control group were randomly selected from volunteer male staff. The research variables were measured from the participants, and the results were addressed through SPSS software and statistical formulas and considering research hypotheses regarding the degree of variable changes. Results: The results of this study showed that comparing the degree of changes of the variables of body weight, body mass index, 1600-meter race, sit-ups 94-meter race, Swedish swimming, and blood cholesterol was significantly changed at P < 0.05 level after training period compared to before-training, and there was no significant change at P < 0.05 level in other research variables. Moreover, it was observed that the degree of changes of the variables of 1600-meter race, sit-up, stretch board, Swedish swimming, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein, and the experimental group was significantly different at P < 0.05 level compared to the control group, and there was no significant difference at P < 0.05 level. Conclusion: It was observed from the results of this study that aerobic exercise trainings cause the increase of power, cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, and suitable changes in blood fat and the degree of the staff's flexibility. Therefore, attending program to increase the staff's physical activity level and physical fitness seems necessary. Furthermore, to control body fat, it is advised that men regularly measure their blood cholesterol after the age of 35, and LDL should be lower than 130 mg/dl but better to be lower than 100 mg/dl in the patients suffering from cardiovascular disease.

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World Health Organization raises concern over the urgent need to respond to the multiple outbreaks of infectious diseases reported in South Sudan amidst the ongoing conflict

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1407-1408

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An investigation of the impact of Kelussia odoratissima extract on mice with secondary hyperlipidemia

Kaveh Berenjian, Amir Kiani

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1752-1755

Introduction: For many years, human beings have applied plants as medicine and their healing impact has been proved for many years. Kelussia odoratissima is a biennial, edible, and fragrant plant with medicinal and food applications. This plant is dedicated to some pastures of Iran and this plant is not reported in other regions around the world. Flavonoids are the most important ingredient of this plant. Materials and Methods: In this study, to evaluate the effect of feeding mice with secondary hyperlipidemia with K. odoratissima, we used thirty mice with secondary hyperlipidemia of similar weight and divided them into three equal groups. For 3 weeks, the first and second groups were fed with the extract of K. odoratissima with doses of 600 mg/kg weight of mice and 1200 mg/kg weight of mice, respectively, and triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol, and weight of mice were evaluated. Results: The results showed that, at the end of the 1st week, there was no significant change in any of the groups, but at the end of the 2nd week, in the first group, there was a reduction of LDL; in the second group total cholesterol and triglyceride without any weight change were reduced and LDL factors, total cholesterol, and triglyceride had low weight change; and in the third group, there was an increase of LDL factors, total cholesterol, and triglyceride and an increase of weight. At the end of the 3rd week, in the first group, there was a reduction of LDL factors, total cholesterol, and triglyceride and a little weight reduction; in the second group there was a reduction of LDL factors, total cholesterol, and triglyceride and a considerable reduction of the weight; and in the third group, LDL factors and total cholesterol, triglycerides, and weight of mice were increased. Conclusion and Discussion: Hydroalcoholic extract of the plant reduced total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, and weight of mice using K. odoratissima. Except two groups that were administered K. odoratissima, the weight of the other animals was increased. The increase in the activity of lipoprotein lipase as the mediator of hydrolysis of triglyceride in chylomicron causes free fatty acids to generate energy or be stored as fat.

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Zika virus disease outbreak in Brazil: Existing challenges and role of young people in containing the infection

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1409-1410

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Drinking juice and tongue bee sting: A case

Won Sriwijitalai, Viroj Wiwanitkit

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1829-1830

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World Health Organization appeals for investment in the strengthening of the global health workforce to accomplish financial growth

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1411-1412

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Meeting the health care needs of the millions of the refugee population through the mobile clinics approach

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1401-1402

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Strengthening childbirth services in conflict-affected regions of South Sudan

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1413-1414

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Comparing turmeric extract plus animal butter synthetic poultice effect in two home-based and aseptic-based preparation methods in terms of microbial load

Zahra Tazakori, Mansoureh Karimollahi, Zahra Haghighi, Mansoureh Karimollahi

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1686-1690

Background and Objective: Based on increase in individuals' inclinations toward the use of natural and traditional products in curing some diseases in a systemic and localized manner, the survey of the pathogenic factors which are transferred through such products is of a great importance from the health perspectives. Furthermore, because the emergence of infections due to nonstandard method of preparing some of these natural drugs has not been accurately determined, a poultice mixture consisting of turmeric extract and animal butter was compared in two home-based and aseptic-based preparation methods in terms of microbial load and their effects on the process of pressure ulcer healing is investigated in this study. Materials and Methods: In this study, two poultice mixtures were initially prepared in a home-based method and the other under aseptic conditions, transferred to the laboratory where the specimens were cultured under sterile conditions, in microbe-culturing plates under microbiological hood with a dilution rate of 1–10. After the specified time duration elapsed, the plates containing the culture media were evaluated in terms of bacterial and fungal growth. To prepare a poultice based on standardized methods, turmeric was sufficiently bought from the medicinal herbs market and then put in ethanol 95% v/v. Animal butter underwent separation during a 24 h period in rotary evaporation device under reduced condensation pressure, and after its water was oozed out in 70°C, the concentrate was placed in the incubator. Turmeric extract and animal butter were mixed under bacteriology hood with sterilized wheat flour in autoclave. Finally, the poultice prepared aseptically was tested on seven human specimens and the results were evaluated using pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH). Results: Based on the experiments, the homemade poultice mixture was found contaminated with Gram-positive microbial factors, but when the poultice mixture was prepared seven times in the laboratory, no microbial load was found (above USP standard). The mean area of the ulcer was 13.41 before the study, but in the last evaluation, value decreased to 2.21. PUSH mean score from the 1st day until the 4th week reduced from 13.42 to 5.85. It was shown that the ulcer recovery trend decreased considerably. Furthermore, regarding the tissue surveys through observing the samples at the end of intervention, it was seen that the ulcer was free of necrosis and granulated tissues were visible on the ulcer. Conclusion: The aseptic specimen was found in an standard level in terms of microbial load and practically caused effective recovery of the pressure ulcer through increasing the circulation in blood veins, reducing the secretions and edema, and is not indicative of traces of any infection; thus the consumption of this poultice was recognized as safe in improving the pressure ulcers.

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Expanding the coverage of preventive chemotherapy for the prevention and control of neglected tropical diseases

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1415-1416

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Using of Cornell measuring tool (Cornell musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaires) for assessment of the musculoskeletal disorders prevalence among Ilam teaching hospitals nurses: Cross-sectional study in 2016

Maryam Omidi, Mohsen Jalilian, Meghdad Kazemi, Maedeh Kamalvandi, Maryam Jamshidzad, Nematullah Kurd

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1729-1734

Introduction: Nurses in compare of other health practitioners have a greater risk for musculoskeletal injuries due to high physical activity together with bending, twisting, prolonged standing, patient moving, and lifting heavy objects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate musculoskeletal disorders by Cornell measuring tool among Ilam teaching hospitals nurses. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional analysis in 2016. A total of 120 people of Ilam teaching hospitals nurses randomly interred the study. Participants completed the questionnaire set for assess demographic characteristics (employment, working hours, shift work, and work experience) and musculoskeletal disorders (Cornell musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaires). Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software and with the conduct of Pearson's correlation test and independent sample t test. Results: The results showed that 52 cases (3.43%) of participants were male and 68 (7.56%) were female. The highest discomfort incidence was reported to the lower back (70%) and neck (69.2%), respectively. Pearson's correlation test showed statistically significant relationship between the age, gender, and work experience with discomfort (P 0.05). Discussion: According to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the lower back and neck in the population studied, ergonomic interventions suggested. Conclusion: The use of appropriate educational programs, ergonomic intervention, and the use of health and safety equipment can reduce MSDs and increase productivity of nurses.

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Implementing mTobacco Cessation program in India to assist users in quitting tobacco: World Health Organization

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1417-1418

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A comparison of cognitive emotion regulation, lifestyle, and dimensions of adjustment in 3 groups of patients with multiple sclerosis, patients with cancer under chemotherapy and patients relieved from brain tumor

Khadijeh Jahan Miri, Siamak Samani

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1774-1778

The purpose of the present study WAS to compare cognitive emotion regulation, lifestyle, and dimensions of adjustment in 3 groups of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), patients with cancer under chemotherapy and patients relieved from brain tumor. The statistical sample included 72 patients that were all selected by convenience sampling method. They filled out the questionnaires of cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire, multidimensional adjustment scales, and lifestyle questionnaire. The results showed that in the score of positive and negative cognitive emotion regulation, the mean score of the MS group was significantly more than the cancer group. In lifestyle, the mean score of the brain tumor group was significantly more than the other two groups. In adjustment and personal, social, job, and family dimensions, the scores of the cancer group were significantly more than the other two groups.

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Streamlining efforts to fight against the global problem of malnutrition in the 2016-2025 decade of action on nutrition

Saurabh R Shrivastava, Prateek S Shrivastava, Jegadeesh Ramasamy

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1419-1420

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Atherosclerosis-induced leg ulcers in a young female unassociated with risk factors: A rare presentation of a systemic disease

Angoori Gnaneshwar Rao, Uday Deshmukh Reddy, Aparna Karanam, Amit Kolli, Kranthi Javadevapuram, Ruhi Hakkani, Saba Syeda Farheen

Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health 2017 10(6):1820-1823

The occurrence of arterial leg ulcers due to atherosclerosis is common among old individuals. However, the development of leg ulcers due to atherosclerosis in a young female unassociated with risk factors like hyperlipidemia is rare. Herein, we present a case of leg ulcers consequent to atherosclerosis in a young female having normal lipid profile and unassociated with other risk factors. Characteristic morphology and site of the ulcers along with supportive investigations such as color Doppler study and histopathology of ulcer corroborated in establishing the diagnosis.

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LncRNA GAS8-AS1 inhibits cell proliferation through ATG5-mediated autophagy in papillary thyroid cancer

Abstract

Purpose

The long non-coding RNA GAS8 antisense RNA 1 (lncRNA GAS8-AS1) is a tumor suppressor in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), but the mechanisms underlying how GAS8-AS1 regulates PTC biology remain unclear. Here, we evaluated the molecular function of GAS8-AS1 in regulating autophagy in PTC cell lines.

Methods

GAS8-AS1 was overexpressed and knocked down in PTC cell lines by transfecting with expression plasmids or short interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Cell proliferation was evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). qRT-PCR and western blot were used to determine changes in expression of autophagy-related genes. Autophagy was evaluated by immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Relative GAS8-AS1 expression was lower in the PTC cell lines, TPC1 and BCPAP, compared to a normal thyroid cell line. Overexpression of GAS8-AS1 inhibited proliferation, significantly increased the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I, and reduced p62 expression, whereas GAS8-AS1 knockdown demonstrated opposite effects. In GAS8-AS1 overexpressing cell lines, LC3 immunofluorescence staining demonstrated increased punctate aggregates of LC3 staining, and transmission electron microscopy revealed increased numbers of autophagosomes. Autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) was markedly upregulated by GAS8-AS1 overexpression and downregulated by GAS8-AS1 knockdown. Finally, silencing of ATG5 attenuated autophagy activation and rescued the inhibition of cell proliferation caused by GAS8-AS1.

Conclusions

In PTC cell lines, GAS8-AS1 inhibited proliferation, activated autophagy, and increased ATG5 expression. Downregulation of ATG5 reversed GAS8-AS1-mediated activation of autophagy leading to cell death, revealing a novel mechanism of the GAS8-AS1-ATG5 axis in PTC cell lines. This provided a new experimental basis to explore the effects of lncRNA on autophagy in the treatment of thyroid cancer.

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LncRNA GAS8-AS1 inhibits cell proliferation through ATG5-mediated autophagy in papillary thyroid cancer

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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Effect of vegetation type on treatment performance and bioelectric production of constructed wetland modules combined with microbial fuel cell (CW-MFC) treating synthetic wastewater

Abstract

An operation of microcosm-constructed wetland modules combined with microbial fuel cell device (CW-MFC) was assessed for wastewater treatment and bioelectric generation. One of the crucial aims of the present experiment is also to determine effect of vegetation on wastewater treatment process and bioelectric production in wetland matrix with microbial fuel cell. Accordingly, CW-MFC modules with vegetation had higher treatment efficiency compared to unplanted wetland module, and average COD, NH₄⁺, and TP removal efficiency in vegetated wetland modules were ranged from 85 to 88%, 95 to 97%, and 95 to 97%, respectively. However, the highest NO₃⁻ removal (63%) was achieved by unplanted control module during the experiment period. The maximum average output voltage, power density, and Coulombic efficiency were obtained in wetland module vegetated with Typha angustifolia for 1.01 ± 0.14 V, 7.47 ± 13.7 mWatt/m², and 8.28 ± 10.4%, respectively. The results suggest that the presence of Typha angustifolia vegetation in the CW-MFC matrix provides the benefits for treatment efficiency and bioelectric production; thus, it increases microbial activities which are responsible for biodegradation of organic compounds and catalyzed to electron flow from anode to cathode. Consequently, we suggest that engineers can use vegetated wetland matrix with Typha angustifolia in CW-MFC module in order to maximize treatment efficiency and bioelectric production.

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Towards a better control of the wastewater treatment process: excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy of dissolved organic matter as a predictive tool of soluble BOD 5 in influents of six Parisian wastewater treatment plants

Abstract

The online monitoring of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in raw sewage water is expected to better control wastewater treatment processes. Fluorescence spectroscopy offers one possibility for both the online and real-time monitoring of DOM, especially as regards the DOM biodegradability assessment. In this study, three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy combined with a parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) has been investigated as a predictive tool of the soluble biological oxygen demand in 5 days (BOD₅) for raw sewage water. Six PARAFAC components were highlighted in 69 raw sewage water samples: C2, C5, and C6 related to humic-like compounds, along with C1, C3, and C4 related to protein-like compounds. Since the PARAFAC methodology is not available for online monitoring, a peak-picking approach based on maximum excitation-emission (Ex-Em) localization of the PARAFAC components identified in this study has been used. A good predictive model of soluble BOD₅ using fluorescence spectroscopy parameters was obtained (r² = 0.846, adjusted r² = 0.839, p < 0.0001). This model is quite straightforward, easy to automate, and applicable to the operational field of wastewater treatment for online monitoring purposes.

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Using a high-organic matter biowall to treat a trichloroethylene plume at the Beaver Dam Road landfill

Abstract

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a highly effective industrial degreasing agent and known carcinogen. It was frequently buried improperly in landfills and has subsequently become one of the most common groundwater and soil contaminants in the USA. A common strategy to remediate TCE-contaminated sites and to prevent movement of the TCE plumes into waterways is to construct biowalls which consist of biomaterials and amendments to enhance biodegradation. This approach was chosen to contain a TCE plume emanating from a closed landfill in Maryland. However, predicting the effectiveness of biowalls is often site specific. Therefore, we conducted an extensive series of batch reactor studies at 12 °C as opposed to the typical room temperature to examine biowall fill-material combinations including the effects of zero-valent iron (ZVI) and glycerol amendments. No detectable TCE was observed after several months in the laboratory study when using the unamended 4:3 mulch-to-compost combination. In the constructed biowall, this mixture reduced the upstream TCE concentration by approximately 90% and generated ethylene downstream, an indication of successful reductive dechlorination. However, the more toxic degradation product vinyl chloride (VC) was also detected downstream at levels approximately ten times greater than the maximum contaminant level. This indicates that incomplete degradation also occurred. In the laboratory, ZVI reduced VC formation. A hazard quotient was calculated for the landfill site with and without the biowall. The addition of the biowall decreased the hazard quotient by 88%.

http://ift.tt/2DmXtcG

Iron-impregnated zeolite catalyst for efficient removal of micropollutants at very low concentration from Meurthe river

Abstract

In this paper, for the first time, faujasite Y zeolite impregnated with iron (III) was employed as a catalyst to remove a real cocktail of micropollutants inside real water samples from the Meurthe river by the means of the heterogeneous photo-Fenton process. The catalyst was prepared by the wet impregnation method using iron (III) nitrate nonahydrate as iron precursor. First, an optimization of the process parameters was conducted using phenol as model macro-pollutant. The hydrogen peroxide concentration, the light wavelength (UV and visible) and intensity, the iron loading immobilized, as well as the pH of the solution were investigated. Complete photo-Fenton degradation of the contaminant was achieved using faujasite containing 20 wt.% of iron, under UV light, and in the presence of 0.007 mol/L of H₂O₂ at pH 5.5. In a second step, the optimized process was used with real water samples from the Meurthe river. Twenty-one micropollutants (endocrine disruptors, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and perfluorinated compounds) including 17 pharmaceutical compounds were specifically targeted, detected, and quantified. All the initial concentrations remained in the range of nanogram per liter (0.8–88 ng/L). The majority of the micropollutants had a large affinity for the surface of the iron-impregnated faujasite. Our results emphasized the very good efficiency of the photo-Fenton process with a cocktail of a minimum of 21 micropollutants. Except for sulfamethoxazole and PFOA, the concentrations of all the other microcontaminants (bisphenol A, carbamazepine, carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide, clarithromycin, diclofenac, estrone, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, lidocaine, naproxen, PFOS, triclosan, etc.) became lower than the limit of quantification of the LC-MS/MS after 30 min or 6 h of photo-Fenton treatment depending on their initial concentrations. The photo-Fenton degradation of PFOA can be neglected. The photo-Fenton degradation of sulfamethoxazole obeys first-order kinetics in the presence of the cocktail of the other micropollutants.

http://ift.tt/2CPSpw7

Temporal variation in bacterial and methanogenic communities of three full-scale anaerobic digesters treating swine wastewater

Abstract

To investigate the effects of temporal variations of process parameters on microbial community structures in the two types of full-scale anaerobic digester treating swine wastewater, three full-scale anaerobic digesters were monitored. An anaerobic filter (AF)-type digester located in Gong-Ju (GJ) showed the highest COD removal among three digesters and maintained stable efficiency. A digester in Hong-Seong (HS) was of the same type as it GJ and showed improved efficiency over the sampling period. A continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR)-type digester in Soon-Cheon (SC) showed decreasing efficiency due to a high residual concentration of VFAs and NH₄⁺. These process efficiencies were closely correlated to the Simpson indices of the methanogenic communities. Genera Bacillus, Methanosaeta, and Methanospirillum that have filamentous morphology were dominant in both AF-type digesters, but genera Acholeplasma, Methanosarcina, and Methanoculleus that have spherical or coccoid morphology were dominantly abundant in the CSTR-type digester. Correlation between populations suggests a possible syntrophic relationship between genera Desulfobulbus and Methanosaeta in digesters GJ and HS.

http://ift.tt/2DoIpv6

Chemical characterization and quantitativ e assessment of source-specific health risk of trace metals in PM 1.0 at a road site of Delhi, India

Abstract

This study presents the concentration of submicron aerosol (PM_1.0) collected during November, 2009 to March, 2010 at two road sites near the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi campus. In winter, PM_1.0 composed 83% of PM_2.5 indicating the dominance of combustion activity-generated particles. Principal component analysis (PCA) proved secondary aerosol formation as a dominant process in enhancing aerosol concentration at a receptor site along with biomass burning, vehicle exhaust, road dust, engine and tire tear wear, and secondary ammonia. The non-carcinogenic and excess cancer risk for adults and children were estimated for trace element data set available for road site and at elevated site from another parallel work. The decrease in average hazard quotient (HQ) for children and adults was estimated in following order: Mn > Cr > Ni > Pb > Zn > Cu both at road and elevated site. For children, the mean HQs were observed in safe level for Cu, Ni, Zn, and Pb; however, values exceeded safe limit for Cr and Mn at road site. The average highest hazard index values for children and adults were estimated as 22 and 10, respectively, for road site and 7 and 3 for elevated site. The road site average excess cancer risk (ECR) risk of Cr and Ni was close to tolerable limit (10⁻⁴) for adults and it was 13–16 times higher than the safe limit (10⁻⁶) for children. The ECR of Ni for adults and children was 102 and 14 times higher at road site compared to elevated site. Overall, the observed ECR values far exceed the acceptable level.

http://ift.tt/2CTjZIQ

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new carbazole derivatives as anti-cancer and anti-migratory agents

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2018
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Cornelis P. Vlaar, Linette Castillo-Pichardo, Julia I. Medina, Cathyria M. Marrero-Serra, Ericka Vélez, Zulma Ramos, Eliud Hernández
Based on the efficacy of EHop-016 as an inhibitor of migration and Rac1 activation, a new series of carbazole derivatives has been synthesized. Cytotoxic and anti-migratory effects of these compounds were evaluated in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Preliminary investigations of their anticancer activity demonstrated that several compounds have moderate antiproliferative effects on cancer cell lines with GI50 values in the range of 13-50 µM. Furthermore, compounds 3b and 11b inhibit migration activity of metastatic cell line MDA-MB-231 by 32% and 34%, respectively. Compound 11b was shown to inhibit activation of the Rho GTPase Rac1 by 55% at 250 nM in both MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-435 cell lines. Compared with the IC50 of Rac1 inhibition by lead compound EHop-016 of 1.1 µM, compound 11b demonstrates 4X improved in vitro efficacy.

Graphical abstract

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Surrogating and redirection of Pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7(4H)-one core, a novel class of potent and selective DPP-4 Inhibitors

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Xinxian Deng, Jian Shen, Hui Zhu, Jia Xiao, Ran Sun, Fangzhou Xie, Celine Lam, Juntao Wang, Yixue Qiao, Mojdeh S. Tavallaie, Yang Hu, Yi Du, Jianqi Li, Lei Fu, Faqin Jiang
The initial focus on characterizing novel pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7(4H)-one derivatives as DPP-4 inhibitors, led to a potent and selective inhibitor compound b2. This ligand exhibits potent in vitro DPP-4 inhibitory activity (IC50: 80 nM), whilst maintaining other key cellular parameters such as high selectivity, low cytotoxicity and good cell viability. Subsequent optimization of b2 based on docking analysis and structure-based drug design knowledge resulted in d1. Compound d1 has nearly 2-fold increase of inhibitory activity (IC50: 49 nM) and over 1000-fold selectivity against DPP-8 and DPP-9. Further in vivo IPGTT assays showed that compound b2 effectively reduce glucose excursion by 34% at the dose of 10 mg/kg in diabetic mice. Herein we report the optimization and design of a potent and highly selective series of pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7(4H)-one DPP-4 inhibitors.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miP55G

Synthesis, biological evaluation and docking study of a new series of di-substituted benzoxazole derivatives as selective COX-2 inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2018
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Avneet Kaur, Dharam P. Pathak, Vidushi Sharma, Sharad Wakode
A new series of substituted-N-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-benzoxazole derivatives 13a-13p was synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their COX (I and II) inhibitory activity, in vivo anti-inflammatory and ulcerogenic potential. Compounds 13d, 13h, 13k, 13l and 13n exhibited significant COX-2 inhibitory activity and selectivity towards COX-2 over COX-1. These selected compounds were screened for their in vivo anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced rat paw edema method. Among these compounds, 13d was the most promising analogs of the series with percent inhibition of 84.09 and IC50 value of 0.04µM and 1.02µM (COX-2 and COX-1) respectively. Furthermore, ulcerogenic study was performed and tested compounds (13d, 13h, 13k, 13l) demonstrated a significant gastric tolerance than ibuprofen. Molecular docking study was also performed with resolved crystal structure of COX-2 to understand the binding mechanisms of newly synthesized inhibitors in the active site of COX-2 enzyme and the results were found to be concordant with the biological evaluation studies of the compounds. These newly synthesized inhibitors also showed acceptable pharmacokinetic profile in the in silico ADME/T analyses.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2mm3X34

DNA damage in blood cells in relation to chemotherapy and nutritional status in colorectal cancer patients—A pilot study

Publication date: Available online 11 January 2018
Source:DNA Repair
Author(s): Ane Sørlie Kværner, Jun Minaguchi, Naouale El Yamani, Christine Henriksen, Hanna Ræder, Ingvild Paur, Hege Berg Henriksen, Gro Wiedswang, Sigbjørn Smeland, Rune Blomhoff, Andrew Richard Collins, Siv Kjølsrud Bøhn
DNA damage can be considered as a biomarker for toxicity and response to chemotherapy. It is not known whether the chemotherapy-induced genotoxicity is associated with malnutrition. In this pilot study, we assess genotoxicity by means of DNA damage in patients with lymph-node positive colorectal cancer (CRC) and explore associations with chemotherapy treatment and nutritional status. DNA damage was compared between patients receiving chemotherapy (n = 24) and those not receiving chemotherapy (n = 20). DNA damage was measured in frozen whole blood by the comet assay. Associations between DNA damage and various indicators of malnutrition were also explored, including Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and anthropometric measurements, using multiple linear regression models. Patients on chemotherapy have higher levels of DNA damage in blood cells than patients not receiving chemotherapy (median of 16.9 and 7.9% tail DNA respectively, p = 0.001). The moderately malnourished patients (PG-SGA category B), representing 41% of the patients, have higher levels of cellular DNA damage than patients with good nutritional status (mean difference of 7.5% tail DNA, p = 0.033). In conclusion, adjuvant chemotherapy and malnutrition are both associated with increased levels of DNA damage in blood cells of CRC patients. Carefully controlled longitudinal studies or randomized controlled trials should be performed to determine whether good nutritional status may protect against chemotherapy-induced genotoxicity and enhance compliance to therapy in CRC patients.

http://ift.tt/2DnnVCP

Clinical guidelines for dental cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) received regulatory approval in Japan in 2000 and has been widely used since being approved for coverage by the National Health Insurance system in 2012. This imaging technique allows dental practitioners to observe and diagnose lesions in the dental hard tissue in three dimensions (3D). When performing routine radiography, the examination must be justified, and optimal protection should be provided according to the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principles laid down by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Dental CBCT should be performed in such a way that the radiation exposure is minimized and the benefits to the patient are maximized. There is a growing demand for widespread access to cutting-edge health care through Japan's universal health insurance system. However, at the same time, people want our limited human, material, and financial resources to be used efficiently while providing safe health care at the least possible cost to society. Japan's aging population is expected to reach a peak in 2025, when most of the baby boomer generation will be aged 75 years or older. Comprehensive health care networks are needed to overcome these challenges. Against this background, we hope that this text will contribute to the nation's oral health by encouraging efficient use of dental CBCT.

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Comment on “The pros and cons of continuous glucose monitoring for patients with type 1 diabetes on multiple daily injections of insulin.”

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Establishment of a protocol to extend the lifespan of human hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma cells

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to generate immortalized human anterior pituitary adenoma cells. Reliable cell models for the study of human pituitary adenomas are as yet lacking and studies performed so far used repeated passaging of freshly excised adenomas, with the attendant limitations due to limited survival in culture, early senescence, and poor reproducibility.

Methods & Results

We devised a technique based upon repeated co-transfections of two retroviral vectors, one carrying the catalytic subunit of human telomerase, hTERT, the other SV40 large T antigen. This approach extended the lifespan of cells derived from a human growth hormone-secreting adenoma up to 18 months while retaining morphology of primary cells, growth hormone synthesis and growth hormone secretion.

Conclusions

Our attempt represents the first demonstration of successful lifespan extension of human growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma cells via co-transfection of hTERT and SV40T and paves the way to future attempts to obtain stable cell lines.

http://ift.tt/2EzydyW

Comment on “The pros and cons of continuous glucose monitoring for patients with type 1 diabetes on multiple daily injections of insulin.”

http://ift.tt/2FrJpPD

Establishment of a protocol to extend the lifespan of human hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma cells

Abstract

Purpose

Methods & Results

Conclusions

http://ift.tt/2EzydyW

Protective effects of diketopiperazines from Moslae Herba against influenza A virus-induced pulmonary inflammation via inhibition of viral replication and platelets aggregation

Publication date: 6 April 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 215
Author(s): Huan-Huan Zhang, Wen-Ying Yu, Lan Li, Fang Wu, Qin Chen, Yang Yang, Chen-Huan Yu
Ethnopharmacological relevanceMoslae Herba (MH) is broadly used as an antiviral, antipyretic and anticoagulant drug which effectively treats respiratory diseases including cough, asthma, throat, cold and flu.Aim of this studyThe excessive inflammation of the lungs is the hallmark of severe influenza A virus (IAV) infection, while platelet aggregation and its subsequent microvascular thrombosis can exacerbate IAV-induced lung injury. Thus, inhibition of platelet aggregation can be a potential target for IAV treatment. Previous studies focus on the flavonoids from MH and their anti-inflammatory activities, but the anticoagulant compounds and potential molecular mechanism of MH remains unclear. This study was to isolate and characterize diketopiperazines (DKPs) from MH and to explore the underlying anticoagulant mechanism on IAV infection models.Materials and methodsEtOAc sub-extract separated from MH ethanolic extract was subjected to fractionation through column chromatography. The chemical structures of pure compounds were characterized by the spectral analysis. Antiviral activities of DKPs were assayed in IAV-infected Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells and mice. Anticoagulant effects of DKPs were investigated on adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP)-induced acute pulmonary embolism and IAV-induced lung injury in vivo, as well as the inhibition on platelet activating factor (PAF), arachidonic acid (AA) and ADP-induced platelet aggregation in vitro. The serum levels of thromboxane B2 (TXB2) and 6-keto-PGF1α were detected by ELISA. The expressions of key proteins in CD41-mediated PI3K/AKT pathways were determined by western blotting analysis.ResultsSix DKPs were, for the first time, isolated from MH and identified as cyclo(Tyr-Leu) (1), cyclo(Phe-Phe) (2), cyclo(Phe-Tyr) (3), cyclo(Ala-Ile) (4), cyclo(Ala-Leu) (5) and Bz-Phe-Phe-OMe (6). Among these DKPs, cyclo(Ala-Ile) and Bz-Phe-Phe-OMe possessed low cytotoxicities and significant inhibition against cytopathic effects induced by IAV (H1N1 and H3N2) replication in MDCK cells. Furthermore, cyclo(Ala-Ile) and Bz-Phe-Phe-OMe significantly alleviated IAV-induced platelet activation and lung inflammation in mice. They could reduce the expression of CD41 and the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT in PLTs of IAV-infected mice.ConclusionThese results suggested that cyclo(Ala-Ile) and Bz-Phe-Phe-OMe isolated from MH have antiviral and anticoagulant effects against IAV-induced PLT aggregation and lung inflammation via regulating CD41/PI3K/AKT pathway, and could be used as the potential agents for IAV treatment.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2CZIO9v

Curcuma comosa reduces visceral adipose tissue and improves dyslipidemia in ovariectomized rats

Publication date: 6 April 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 215
Author(s): Nareerat Sutjarit, Jetjamnong Sueajai, Nittaya Boonmuen, Nilubon Sornkaew, Apichart Suksamrarn, Patoomratana Tuchinda, Weiming Zhu, Jittima Weerachayaphorn, Pawinee Piyachaturawat
Ethnopharmacological relevanceCurcuma comosa Roxb. (C. comosa) or Wan chak motluk Zingiberaceae family, is widely used in Thai traditional medicine for treatment of gynecological problems as well as relief of postmenopausal symptoms. Since C. comosa contains phytoestrogen and causes lipid lowering effect by an unknown mechanism, we investigated its effect on adiposity and lipid metabolism in estrogen-deprived rats.Materials and methodsAdult female rats were ovariectomized (OVX) and received daily doses of either a phytoestrogen from C. comosa [(3R)–1,7-diphenyl-(4E,6E)–4,6-heptadien-3-ol; DPHD], C. comosa extract, or estrogen (17β-estradiol; E2) for 12 weeks. Adipose tissue mass, serum levels of lipids and adipokines were determined. In addition, genes and proteins involved in lipid synthesis and fatty acid oxidation in visceral adipose tissue were analyzed.ResultsOvariectomy for 12 weeks elevated level of serum lipids and increased visceral fat mass and adipocyte size. These alterations were accompanied with the up-regulation of lipogenic mRNA and protein expressions including LXR-α, SREBP1c and their downstream targets. OVX rats showed decrease in proteins involved in fatty acid oxidation including AMPK-α and PPAR-α in adipose tissue, as well as alteration of adipokines; leptin and adiponectin. Treatments with E2, DPHD or C. comosa extract in OVX rats prevented an increase in adiposity, down-regulated lipogenic genes and proteins with marked increases in the protein levels of AMPK-α and PPAR-α. These findings indicated that their lipid lowering effects were mediated via the suppression of lipid synthesis in concert with an increase in fatty acid oxidation.ConclusionsC. comosa exerts a lipid lowering effect in the estrogen deficient rats through the modulations of lipid synthesis and AMPK-α activity in adipose tissues, supporting the use of this plant for health promotion in the post-menopausal women.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

fx1

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Immunotherapy and Symptomatic Radiation Necrosis in Patients With Brain Metastases

This study investigates the association between immunotherapy and symptomatic radiation necrosis in patients with melanoma, non–small-cell lung cancer, or renal cell carcinoma and newly diagnosed brain metastases treated with stereotactic radiation therapy.

http://ift.tt/2qSOFIR

Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy for Breast Cancer Searching for More Effectively Curative Therapies

Pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant systemic therapy for localized breast cancer is associated with reduced risk of systemic recurrence. Compared with the traditional approach of empirically testing new agents in the adjuvant setting and waiting years for the results to be available, use of pCR as an intermediate pharmacodynamic biomarker offers the potential to accelerate testing of novel treatment approaches, and improve the probability of success in larger, more definitive trials with disease recurrence end points. Other advantages of aiming for higher pCR rates include the potential for less axillary surgery and higher breast conservation rates. The promise of this approach led the US Food and Drug Administration to accept pCR as an end point supporting accelerated regulatory approval of drugs in this setting. Randomized clinical trials have shown that systemic therapy has similar effects whether given before surgery as neoadjuvant therapy or after surgery as adjuvant therapy, providing additional support for this approach. Important caveats include the need for achieving large absolute improvements in pCR rates in order to translate into recurrence-free survival gains, and that full regulatory approval requires confirmation of improved event-free survival in the same trial showing improved pCR, or a separate confirmatory trial. This regulatory pathway has generated much interest in testing drugs in the neoadjuvant setting.

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Lung Immune Prognostic Index for Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer

This cohort study investigates whether the pretreatment derived neutrophils/(leukocytes minus neutrophils) ratio and lactate dehydrogenase level are associated with resistance to immunotherapy in patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer.

http://ift.tt/2qXdF1H

Efficacy and Toxic Effects of Cancer Immunotherapy Combinations

The recent success of immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of multiple different cancers has markedly increased interest in their investigation as combination regimens, often in conjunction with established systemic and local therapies. Although the combination of immuno-oncology (IO) agents with molecularly targeted agents or radiotherapy offers the potential for synergistic antitumor immune responses, a valid concern is the increased risk of immune-mediated toxic effects. Furthermore, a critical quandary of immunotherapy treatment is that the treatment of immune-related toxic effects centers around steroid use, which may curtail a budding immune response.

http://ift.tt/2AQclgI

Treating ERBB2/HER-2 –Negative Breast Cancer With Nab-paclitaxel

This randomized clinical trial determines whether nab-paclitaxel improves the outcomes of early and locally advanced ERBB2/HER2-negative breast cancer compared with paclitaxel when delivered in a neoadjuvant setting.

http://ift.tt/2D5qgp1

Association of Oral Microbiome with Risk for Incident Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer

This nested case-control study uses 2 large US cohorts to examine the association of the oral microbiome with subsequent risk of head and neck squamous cell cancer.

http://ift.tt/2APGAo1

EGFR–TKI-Associated Interstitial Pneumonitis in Nivolumab-Treated Patients With Non–Small cell Lung Cancer

This comparative study uses data from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database to investigate the association between treatment with nivolumab in combination with epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors and interstitial pneumonitis in patients with non–small cell lung cancer.

http://ift.tt/2D2ZT37

Comparative efficacy of Er,Cr:YSGG and Er:YAG lasers for etching of composite for orthodontic bracket bonding

Abstract

Several techniques have been proposed to obtain a durable bond, and the efficacy of these techniques is assessed by measuring parameters such as bond strength. Laser has provided a bond strength as high as that of acid etching in vitro and has simpler use with shorter clinical time compared to acid etching. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers for etching and bonding of composite to orthodontic brackets. No previous study has evaluated the effect of these particular types of laser. A total of 70 composite blocks were randomly divided into five groups (n = 14): group 1, etching with phosphoric acid for 20 s; group 2, Er:YAG laser irradiation with 2 W power for 10 s; group 3, Er:YAG laser with 3 W power for 10 s; group 4, Er,Cr:YSGG laser with 2 W power for 10 s; group 5, Er,Cr:YSGG laser with 3 W power for 10 s. Metal brackets were then bonded to composites, and after 5000 thermal cycles, they were subjected to shear bond strength test in a universal testing machine after 24 h of water storage. One sample of each group was evaluated under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to assess changes in composite surface after etching. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) was calculated under a stereomicroscope. Data were statistically analyzed. The mean and standard deviation of shear bond strength were 18.65 ± 3.36, 19.68 ± 5.34, 21.31 ± 4.03, 17.38 ± 6.94, and 16.45 ± 4.26 MPa in groups 1–5, respectively. The ARI scores showed that the bond failure mode in all groups was mainly mixed. The groups were not significantly different in terms of shear bond strength. Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers with the mentioned parameters yield optimal shear bond strength and can be used as an alternative to acid etching for bracket bond to composite.

http://ift.tt/2mq2PMX

MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Fertility, pregnancy and lactation in women with adrenal insufficiency

With the introduction of hormonal substitution therapy in the 1950s, adrenal insufficiency (AI) has been turned into a manageable disease in pregnant women. In fact, in the light of glucocorticoid replacement therapy and improved obstetric care, it is realistic to expect good maternal and fetal outcomes in patients with AI. However, there are still a number of challenges such as establishing the diagnosis of AI in pregnant women and optimizing the treatment of AI and related comorbidities prior to as well as during pregnancy. Clinical and biochemical diagnoses of a new-onset AI may be challenging because of overlapping symptoms of normal pregnancy as well as pregnancy-induced changes in cortisol values. Physiological changes occurring during pregnancy should be taken into account while adjusting the substitution therapy. The high proportion of reported adrenal crisis in pregnant women with AI highlights persistent problems in this particular clinical situation. Due to the rarity of the disease, there is no prospective data-guiding management of pregnancy in patients with known AI. The aim of this review is to summarize the maternal and fetal outcomes based on recently published case reports in patients with AI and to suggest a practical approach to diagnose and manage AI in pregnancy.

http://ift.tt/2qTnxJR

Blood Lead Levels and Longitudinal Language Outcomes in Children from 4-12 years

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Communication Disorders
Author(s): Barbara A. Lewis, Sonia Minnes, Meeyoung O. Min, Elizabeth J. Short, Miaoping Wu, Adelaide Lang, Paul Weishampel, Lynn T. Singer
ObjectivesIn this study, the authors aimed to examine the association of a range of blood lead levels on language skills assessed at 4, 6, 10 and 12 years of age using a prospective longitudinal design controlling for potential confounding variables including maternal vocabulary, caregiver's psychological distress and symptomatology, child's race and prenatal drug exposure.MethodsThe participants (N = 278) were a subsample of a large longitudinal study that examined the association of prenatal drug exposure on children who were followed prospectively from birth and assessed for receptive and expressive language skills at 4, 6, 10 and 12 years of age. Blood lead levels were determined at 4-years of age by atomic absorption spectrometry. A mixed model approach with restricted maximum likelihood procedures was used to assess the association of lead on language outcomes.ResultsLongitudinal mixed model analyses suggested a negative effect of lead exposure on both receptive and expressive language, with the adverse outcomes of lead exposure appearing to become more prominent at 10 and 12 years. Higher caregiver vocabulary was positively associated with child's language scores whereas caregiver psychological distress appeared to negatively affect language scores. Prenatal drug exposure was not related to the effects of lead on language skills.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that elevated blood lead levels occurring early in life may be associated with poorer language skills at older ages. A language rich environment may minimize the negative influence of early lead exposure on language skills, with psychological distress seemingly exacerbating the negative outcome.

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Integrative neuro-humoral regulation of oxytocin neuron activity in pregnancy and lactation

Abstract

Oxytocin is required for normal birth and lactation. Oxytocin is synthesised by hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei neurons and is released into the circulation from the posterior pituitary gland. Under basal conditions, circulating oxytocin levels are relatively constant but during birth and lactation, pulsatile oxytocin release triggers rhythmic contraction of the uterus during birth and milk ejection during suckling. Oxytocin levels are principally determined by the pattern of action potential firing that is, in turn, determined by the interplay between the intrinsic properties of the oxytocin neurons, regulation of their excitability by surrounding glia as well as by synaptic drive from their afferent inputs. During birth and suckling, oxytocin neurons fire high-frequency bursts of action potentials that are coordinated across the population of neurons and these bursts underpin the pulsatile secretion of oxytocin required for normal birth and lactation. Neuroglial regulation of oxytocin neurons changes during pregnancy to favour burst firing. However, these changes still require afferent input activity to drive activity. While it has long been known that noradrenergic inputs to oxytocin neurons are activated during birth and lactation, the involvement of other afferent inputs is less clear. Here, we provide a brief overview of the current understanding of the mechanisms that regulate oxytocin neuron activity during pregnancy and lactation, and focus on recent evidence from our laboratory identifying an input that increases kisspeptin production to excite oxytocin neurons in late pregnancy.

http://ift.tt/2Djj9q3

Protective Effect of Neuropeptide Apelin-13 on 6-Hydroxydopamine-Induced Neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y Dopaminergic Cells: Involvement of Its Antioxidant and Antiapoptotic Properties

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.

http://ift.tt/2mtZPir

Effects of pressure support ventilation on ventilator-induced lung injury in mild acute respiratory distress syndrome depend on level of positive end-expiratory pressure

BACKGROUND Harmful effects of spontaneous breathing have been shown in experimental severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, in the clinical setting, spontaneous respiration has been indicated only in mild ARDS. To date, no study has compared the effects of spontaneous assisted breathing with those of fully controlled mechanical ventilation at different levels of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on lung injury in ARDS. OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of assisted pressure support ventilation (PSV) with pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) on lung function, histology and biological markers at two different PEEP levels in mild ARDS in rats. DESIGN Prospective, randomised, controlled experimental study. SETTING Basic science laboratory. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-five Wistar rats (weight ± SD, 310 ± 19) g received Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intratracheally. After 24 h, the animals were anaesthetised and randomly allocated to either PCV (n=14) or PSV (n=14) groups. Each group was further assigned to PEEP = 2 cmH2O or PEEP = 5 cmH2O. Tidal volume was kept constant (≈6 ml kg−1). Additional nonventilated animals (n=7) were used as a control for postmortem analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Ventilatory and mechanical parameters, arterial blood gases, diffuse alveolar damage score, epithelial integrity measured by E-cadherin tissue expression, and biological markers associated with inflammation (IL-6 and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant, CINC-1) and type II epithelial cell damage (surfactant protein-B) were evaluated. RESULTS In both PCV and PSV, peak transpulmonary pressure was lower, whereas E-cadherin tissue expression, which is related to epithelial integrity, was higher at PEEP = 5 cmH2O than at PEEP = 2 cmH2O. In PSV, PEEP = 5 cmH2O compared with PEEP = 2 cmH2O was associated with significantly reduced diffuse alveolar damage score [median (interquartile range), 11 (8.5 to 13.5) vs. 23 (19 to 26), P = 0.005] and expressions of IL-6 and CINC-1 (P = 0.02 for both), whereas surfactant protein-B mRNA expression increased (P = 0.03). These changes suggested less type II epithelial cell damage at a PEEP of 5 cmH2O. Peak transpulmonary pressure correlated positively with IL-6 [Spearman's rho (ρ) = 0.62, P = 0.0007] and CINC-1 expressions (ρ = 0.50, P = 0.01) and negatively with E-cadherin expression (ρ = −0.67, P = 0.0002). CONCLUSION During PSV, PEEP of 5 cmH2O, but not a PEEP of 2 cmH2O, reduced lung damage and inflammatory markers while maintaining epithelial cell integrity. Correspondence to Pedro L. Silva, PhD, Laboratory of Pulmonary Investigation, Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Bloco G-014, Ilha do Fundão, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Tel: +55 21 3938 6530; fax: +55 21 2280 8193; e-mail: pedro.leme@gmail.com Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal's Website (http://ift.tt/2ylyqmW). © 2018 European Society of Anaesthesiology

http://ift.tt/2CS5h4Y

Somatic cell count–based selection reduces susceptibility to energy shortage during early lactation in a sheep model

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): J. Bouvier-Muller, C. Allain, F. Enjalbert, Y. Farizon, D. Portes, G. Foucras, R. Rupp
During the transition from late gestation to early lactation ruminants experience a negative energy balance (NEB), which is considered to increase susceptibility to mammary infections. Our previous study in 2 divergent lines of sheep selected for high and low somatic cell score (SCS) suggested an association between the response to NEB and genetic susceptibility to mastitis. Forty-eight early-lactation primiparous dairy ewes from the 2 SCS genetic lines were allocated to 2 homogeneous subgroups—an NEB group, which was energy restricted and received 60% of the energy requirements for 15 d, and a control-fed group—to obtain 4 balanced groups of 12 ewes: high-SCS positive energy balance, low-SCS positive energy balance, high-SCS NEB, and low-SCS NEB. High-SCS ewes showed greater weight loss and increased plasmatic concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate and nonesterified fatty acids than low-SCS ewes when confronted with an induced NEB. The aim of this study was to further characterize this interaction by combining transcriptomic and phenotypic data with a generalized partial least squares discriminant analysis using mixOmics package framework. A preliminary analysis using 3 blocks of phenotypes (fatty acids, weight and production, blood metabolites) revealed a high correlation between fat-to-protein ratio, β-hydroxybutyrate, and nonesterified fatty acids concentrations with milk long-chain fatty acid yields. These phenotypes allowed good discrimination of the energy-restricted high-SCS ewes and confirmed a high level of adipose tissue mobilization in this group. A second analysis, which included RNA-seq data, revealed high correlations between the long-chain fatty acid yields in milk and PDK4, CPT1A, SLC25A20, KLF10, and KLF11 expression, highlighting the relationship between mobilization of body reserves and enhanced fatty acids utilization for energy production in blood cells. Finally, analysis of milk composition measured in 1,025 ewes from the 2 genetic lines over 10 yr confirmed significant higher fat-to-protein ratio in high-SCS ewes in early lactation. Altogether, our results strongly confirmed a genetic link between susceptibility to mastitis and metabolic adaptation to energy shortage. Improving genetic resistance to mastitis using SCS should be accompanied by a favorable effect on the response to metabolic stress, especially in highly stressful early lactation. Moreover, this study suggests that the fat-to-protein ratio could be used as a low-cost tool for monitoring energy balance and ketosis during this critical phase of lactation.

http://ift.tt/2FtKhmD

Genome-wide association study for milk infrared wavenumbers

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): Qiuyu Wang, Henk Bovenhuis
Individual wavenumbers of the infrared (IR) spectra of bovine milk have been shown to be moderately to highly heritable. The objective of this study was to identify genomic regions associated with individual milk IR wavenumbers. This is expected to provide information about the genetic background of milk composition and give insight in the relation between IR wavenumbers and milk components. For this purpose, a genome-wide association study was performed for a selected set of 50 individual IR wavenumbers measured on 1,748 Dutch Holstein cows. Significant associations were detected for 28 of the 50 wavenumbers. In total, 24 genomic regions distributed over 16 bovine chromosomes were identified. Major genomic regions associated with milk IR wavenumbers were identified on chromosomes 1, 5, 6, 14, 19, and 20. Most of these regions also showed significant associations with fat, protein, or lactose percentage. However, we also identified some new regions that were not associated with any one of these routinely collected milk composition traits. On chromosome 1, we identified 2 new genomic regions and hypothesized that they are related to variation in milk phosphorus content and orotic acid, respectively. On chromosome 20, we identified a new genomic region that seems to be related to citric acid. Identification of genomic regions associated with milk phosphorus content, orotic acid, and citric acid suggest that the milk IR spectra contain direct information on these milk components. Consequently milk IR analyses probably can be used to predict these milk components, which have low concentrations in milk; this can lead to novel applications of milk IR spectroscopy for dairy cattle breeding and herd management.

http://ift.tt/2EwLHM6

Symposium review: The influences of heat stress on bovine mammary gland function

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): S. Tao, R.M. Orellana, X. Weng, T.N. Marins, G.E. Dahl, J.K. Bernard
Heat stress reduces cow milk yield and results in a significant economic loss for the dairy industry. During lactation, heat stress lowers milk production by 25 to 40% with half of the decrease in milk synthesis resulting from the reduced feed intake. In vitro studies indicate that primary bovine mammary epithelial cells display greater rates of programmed cell death when exposed to high ambient temperatures, which may lead to a decrease in the total number of mammary epithelial cells in the mammary gland, partially explaining the lower milk production of lactating cows under heat stress. The function of mammary cells is also altered by heat stress. In response to heat stress, mammary cells display higher gene expression of heat shock proteins, indicating a need for cytoprotection from protein aggregation and degradation. Further, heat stress results in increased gene expression without altering protein expression of mammary epithelial cell junction proteins, and does not substantially influence the integrity of mammary epithelium. These data suggest that the mammary gland strives to maintain cell-to-cell junction integrity by synthesizing more proteins to compensate for protein losses induced by heat stress. During the dry period, heat stress negatively affects mammary gland development by reducing mammary cell proliferation before parturition, resulting in a dramatic decrease in milk production in the subsequent lactation. In addition to mammary growth, the mammary gland of the heat-stressed dry cow has reduced protein expression of autophagic proteins in the early dry period, suggesting heat stress influences mammary involution. Emerging evidence also indicates that heifers born to cows that experience late-gestation heat stress have lower milk yield during their first lactation, implying that the maternal environment may alter mammary gland development of the offspring. It is not clear if this is due to a direct epigenetic modification of prenatal mammary gland development by maternal heat stress. More research is needed to elucidate the effect of heat stress on mammary gland development and function.

http://ift.tt/2Ezzjel

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor delta regulates lipid droplet formation and transport in goat mammary epithelial cells

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): H.B. Shi, C.H. Zhang, Z.A. Xu, G.G. Lou, J.X. Liu, J. Luo, J.J. Loor
Even though recent evidence in goat mammary epithelial cells (GMEC) suggest a role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARD) in regulating lipid homeostasis, its role is not fully understood. Our hypothesis was that PPARD regulates lipid transport processes in GMEC and, thus, plays a crucial role in regulating fat formation. The PPARD was overexpressed using an adenovirus system (Ad-PPARD) with recombinant green fluorescent protein (Ad-GFP) as the control. Results revealed that overexpression of PPARD markedly upregulated the mRNA abundance of PPARD. Compared with the control (Ad-GFP+dimethyl sulfoxide), overexpression of PPARD alone had no effect on mRNA expression of CD36, SCD1, FABP4, ACSL1, and ADRP. The cultures overexpressing PPARD with the PPARD ligand GW0742 (GW) upregulated the expression of CD36, FABP3, FABP4, ACSL1, and ADRP. Overexpression of PPARD in GMEC plus GW increased the concentration of 16:1 and 18:1-trans and was associated with upregulation of SCD1. Compared with the control (Ad-GFP+dimethyl sulfoxide), the decrease of triacylglycerol concentration coupled with upregulation of genes related to lipid droplet secretion (e.g., ADRP and ACSL1) induced by PPARD overexpression suggests a role in lipid droplet (LD) secretion. Luciferase assay revealed that GW increased the ADRP promoter activity in a dose-dependent manner. Knockdown of PPARD impaired the increase of ADRP promoter activity induced by GW, whereas GW enhanced the activity of ADRP promoter in GMEC overexpressing PPARD. Data with the ADRP 5′-flanking truncated luciferase reporter suggest a core region (−1,444 to −990 bp) response element for the induction of GW. This core region contains a known PPARG response element (PPRE) at −1,003 to −990 bp. When the PPRE was mutated, the overexpression of PPARD had no effect on ADRP promoter activity. Collectively, these results reveal a novel role for PPARD in lipid homeostasis via promoting fatty acid transport and LD formation through a mechanism of direct binding to the promoter of key genes. Hence, PPARD activity may contribute to fatty acid transport and LD formation during lactation.

http://ift.tt/2Fq6RNd

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) fed to dairy cows does not modify the cheese-making properties of milk but affects the color, texture, and flavor of ripened cheese

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): Giulia Rossi, Stefano Schiavon, Giovanna Lomolino, Claudio Cipolat-Gotet, Alberto Simonetto, Giovanni Bittante, Franco Tagliapietra
Garlic and garlic components have recently been proposed as ruminal activity modulators to reduce the enteric methane emissions of ruminants, but little is known of their influence on milk coagulation properties, nutrient recovery, cheese yield, and sensorial and rheological characteristics of milk and cheese. The present study assessed the effects of garlic and diallyl sulfide supplements on dry matter intake (DMI), productive performance, milk coagulation properties, cheese yield, milk and cheese sensory profiles, and rheological characteristics. Four dairy cows were fed a total mixed ration either alone (control) or supplemented with 100 or 400 g/d of garlic cloves or 2 g/d of diallyl sulfide in 4 consecutive experimental periods in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. The diallyl sulfide dose was established to provide approximately the same amount of allyl thiosulfinate compounds as 100 g of fresh garlic cloves. The total mixed ration was composed of 0.29 corn silage, 0.23 corn-barley mixture, 0.17 sunflower-soybean mixture, 0.12 alfalfa hay, 0.12 grass hay, 0.04 sugar beet pulp, and 0.02 other additives, and contained 0.253 starch, 0.130 crude protein, and 0.375 neutral detergent fiber, on a dry matter basis. Each experimental period consisted of 7 d of transition and 14 d of treatment. On d 18 and 21 of each period, milk samples (10 L) were collected from each cow for chemical analysis and cheese-making. The organoleptic properties of the milk and 63-d-ripened cheeses were assessed by a panel of 7 trained sensory evaluators. The experimental treatments had no effects on DMI, milk yield, feed efficiency (milk yield/DMI), milk coagulation properties, nutrient recovery, or cheese yield. Garlic-like aroma, taste, and flavor of milk and cheese were significantly influenced by the treatments, particularly the highest dose of garlic cloves, and we found close exponential relationships between milk and cheese for garlic-like aroma (R² = 0.87) and garlic-like flavor (R² = 0.79). Diallyl sulfide and 400 g/d of garlic cloves resulted in lower pH, shear force, and shear work of ripened cheeses compared with the other treatments. Garlic cloves and diallyl sulfide had opposite effects on cheese color indices. We conclude that adding 400 g/d of garlic to the feed of lactating dairy cows highly influences the sensory and rheological characteristics of cheese.

http://ift.tt/2EzDhDQ

Inhibition of Shigella sonnei-induced epithelial barrier disruption by surface-layer associated proteins of lactobacilli from Chinese fermented food

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): Yingchun Zhang, Xiaolu Shi, Siqi Hao, Qianhui Lu, Lanwei Zhang, Xue Han, Weihong Lu
Surface-layer associated proteins (SLAP) of Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei M5-L and Lactobacillus casei Q8-L were examined to identify the functional basis for their protection within intestinal epithelial cells. The results showed that SLAP of M5-L and Q8-L remained active in a trypsin solution and retained a 45-kDa protein band, similar to that observed in controls. In contrast, under conditions of simulated gastric juice, the SLAP were partially degraded. Inhibitory effects of SLAP on adherence of Shigella sonnei to HT-29 cells were assessed with use of exclusion, competition, and replacement assays. In response to M5-L at 50 μg/mL SLAP, an inhibition ratio of 33% was obtained, while for Q8-L at 400 μg/mL SLAP, the inhibition ratio was 48%. Hoechst 33258 test results showed that cells infected with S. sonnei and co-incubated with SLAP of M5-L and Q8-L were only partially apoptotic, with apoptosis rates of 37.67 and 43.67%, respectively. These levels of apoptosis were substantially lower than that observed with cells infected with S. sonnei alone. In addition, the SLAP of Q8-L and M5-L reduced downstream caspase-1 activity and further modified apoptotic cell damage. Finally, SLAP of M5-L and Q8-L were also able to prevent S. sonnei-induced membrane damage by inhibiting delocalization of zonula occludens (ZO)-1 and reducing the amount of occludin produced by S. sonnei.

http://ift.tt/2Fs6Jws

Genetic background of methane emission by Dutch Holstein Friesian cows measured with infrared sensors in automatic milking systems

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): S. van Engelen, H. Bovenhuis, P.P.J. van der Tol, M.H.P.W. Visker
International environmental agreements have led to the need to reduce methane emission by dairy cows. Reduction could be achieved through selective breeding. The aim of this study was to quantify the genetic variation of methane emission by Dutch Holstein Friesian cows measured using infrared sensors installed in automatic milking systems (AMS). Measurements of CH4 and CO2 on 1508 Dutch Holstein Friesian cows located on 11 commercial dairy farms were available. Phenotypes per AMS visit were the mean of CH4, mean of CO2, mean of CH4 divided by mean of CO2, and their log10-transformations. The repeatabilities of the log10-transformated methane phenotypes were 0.27 for CH4, 0.31 for CO2, and 0.14 for the ratio. The log10-transformated heritabilities of these phenotypes were 0.11 for CH4, 0.12 for CO2, and 0.03 for the ratio. These results indicate that measurements taken using infrared sensors in AMS are repeatable and heritable and, thus, could be used for selection for lower CH4 emission. Furthermore, it is important to account for farm, AMS, day of measurement, time of day, and lactation stage when estimating genetic parameters for methane phenotypes. Selection based on log10-transformated CH4 instead of the ratio would be expected to give a greater reduction of CH4 emission by dairy cows.

http://ift.tt/2ExEyuO

Influence of partially demineralized milk proteins on rheological properties and microstructure of acid gels

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): G.H. Meletharayil, H.A. Patel, L.E. Metzger, C. Marella, T. Huppertz
Innovative clean label processes employed in the manufacture of acid gels are targeted to modify the structure of proteins that contribute to rheological properties. In the present study, CO2-treated milk protein concentrate powder with 80% protein in dry matter (TMPC80) was mixed with nonfat dry milk (NDM) in different ratios for the manufacture of acid gels. Dispersions of NDM and TMPC80 that provided 100, 90, 70, and 40% of protein from NDM were reconstituted to 4.0% (wt/wt) protein and 12.0% (wt/wt) total solids. Dispersions were adjusted to pH 6.5, followed by heat treatment at 90°C for 10 min. Glucono-δ-lactone was added and samples were incubated at 30°C, reaching pH 4.5 ± 0.05 after 4 h of incubation. Glucono-δ-lactone levels were adjusted to compensate for the lower buffering capacity of samples with higher proportions of TMPC80, which is attributable to the depletion of buffering minerals from both the serum and micellar phase during preparation of TMPC80. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-PAGE analysis indicated a higher amount of caseins in the supernatant of unheated suspensions with increasing proportions of CO2-treated TMPC80, attributable to the partial disruption of casein micelles in TMPC80. Heat treatment reduced the level of whey proteins in the supernatant due to the heat-induced association of whey proteins with casein micelles, the extent of which was larger in samples containing more micellar casein (i.e., samples with a lower proportion of TMPC80). Particle size analysis showed only small differences between nonheated and heated dispersions. Gelation pH increased from ~5.1 to ~5.3, and the storage modulus of the gels at pH 4.5 increased from ~300 to ~420 Pa when the proportion of protein contributed by TMPC80 increased from 0 to 60%. Water-holding capacity also increased and gel porosity decreased with increasing proportion of protein contributed by TMPC80. The observed gel properties were in line with microstructural observations by confocal microscopy, wherein sample gels containing increasing levels of TMPC80 exhibited smaller, well-connected aggregates with uniform, homogeneous pore sizes. We concluded that TMPC80 can be used to partially replace NDM as a protein source to improve rheological and water-holding properties in acid gels. The resultant gels also exhibited decreased buffering, which can improve the productive capacity of yogurt manufacturing plants. Overall, the process can be leveraged to reduce the amount of hydrocolloids added to improve yogurt consistency and water-holding capacity, thus providing a path to meet consumer expectations of clean label products.

http://ift.tt/2Fstvoi

Symposium review: Novel strategies to genetically improve mastitis resistance in dairy cattle

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): P. Martin, H.W. Barkema, L.F. Brito, S.G. Narayana, F. Miglior
Mastitis is a disease of major economic importance to the dairy cattle sector because of the high incidence of clinical mastitis and prevalence of subclinical mastitis and, consequently, the costs associated with treatment, production losses, and reduced animal welfare. Disease-recording systems compiling data from a large number of farms are still not widely implemented around the world; thus, selection for mastitis resistance is often based on genetically correlated indicator traits such as somatic cell count (SCC), udder depth, and fore udder attachment. However, in the past years, several countries have initiated collection systems of clinical mastitis, based on producers recording data in most cases. The large data sets generated have enabled researchers to assess incidence of this disease and to investigate the genetic background of clinical mastitis itself, as well as its relationships with other traits of interest to the dairy industry. The genetic correlations between clinical mastitis and its previous proxies were estimated more accurately and confirmed the strong relationship of clinical mastitis with SCC and udder depth. New traits deriving from SCC were also studied, with the most relevant findings being associated with mean somatic cell score (SCS) in early lactation, standard deviation of SCS, and excessive test-day SCC pattern. Genetic correlations between clinical mastitis and other economically important traits indicated that selection for mastitis resistance would also improve resistance against other diseases and enhance both fertility and longevity. However, milk yield remains negatively correlated with clinical mastitis, emphasizing the importance of including health traits in the breeding objectives to achieve genetic progress for all important traits. These studies enabled the establishment of new genetic and genomic evaluation models, which are more efficient for selection to mastitis resistance. Further studies that are potential keys for future improvement of mastitis resistance are deep investigation of the bacteriology of mastitis, identification of novel indicator traits and tools for selection, and development of a larger female reference population to improve reliability of genomic evaluations. These cutting-edge studies will result in a better understanding of the genetic background of mastitis resistance and enable a more accurate phenotyping and genetic selection to improve mastitis resistance, and consequently, animal welfare and industry profitability.

http://ift.tt/2ExvJRS

Genetic correlations between methane production and fertility, health, and body type traits in Danish Holstein cows

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): L. Zetouni, M. Kargo, E. Norberg, J. Lassen
Our aim was to investigate the genetic correlations between CH4 production and body conformation, fertility, and health traits in dairy cows. Data were collected from 10 commercial Holstein herds in Denmark, including 5,758 cows with records for body conformation traits, 7,390 for fertility traits, 7,439 for health traits, and 1,397 with individual CH4 measurements. Methane production was measured during milking in automatic milking systems, using a sniffer approach. Correlations between CH4 and several different traits were estimated. These traits were interval between calving and first insemination, interval between first and last insemination, number of inseminations, udder diseases, other diseases, height, body depth, chest width, dairy character, top line, and body condition score. Bivariate linear models were used to estimate the genetic parameters within and between CH4 and the other traits. In general, the genetic correlations between CH4 and the traits investigated were low. The heritability of CH4 was 0.25, and ranged from 0.02 to 0.07 for fertility and health traits, and from 0.17 to 0.74 for body conformation traits. Further research with a larger data set should be performed to more accurately establish how CH4 relates to fertility, health, and body conformation traits in dairy cattle. This will be useful in the design of future breeding goals that consider the production of CH4.

http://ift.tt/2FqTnRm

High-grain diets supplemented with phytogenic compounds or autolyzed yeast modulate ruminal bacterial community and fermentation in dry cows

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): V. Neubauer, R. Petri, E. Humer, I. Kröger, E. Mann, N. Reisinger, M. Wagner, Q. Zebeli
The feeding of concentrate-rich diets may lead to microbial imbalances and dysfermentation in the rumen. The main objective of this study was to determine the effects of supplementing phytogenic compounds (PHY) or autolyzed yeast (AY) on rumen fermentation and microbial abundance in cows intermittently fed concentrate-rich diets. The experiment was carried out as an incomplete 3 × 4 Latin square design, with 8 nonlactating rumen-fistulated Holstein-Friesian cows. The cows were randomly assigned to a concentrate diet that was either not supplemented (CON), or supplemented with PHY or AY. Each of the 4 consecutive experimental periods was composed of a 1-wk roughage-only diet (RD), 6-d gradual concentrate increase, followed by 1 wk of 65% concentrate (dry matter basis; Conc I), and 1 wk of RD and a final 2-wk 65% concentrate (dry matter basis; Conc II) phase. Digesta samples were collected from the rumen mat for bacterial 16S rRNA gene Illumina MiSeq (Illumina, Balgach, Switzerland) sequencing, and samples of particle-associated rumen liquid were obtained for measuring short-chain fatty acids, lactate, ammonia, and pH during RD (d 6), Conc I (d 19), and Conc II (d 39). The concentrate feeding caused a decrease of overall bacterial diversity indices, especially during Conc I. The genera Ruminococcus, Butyrivibrio, and Coprococcus were decreased, whereas Prevotella, Megasphaera, Lachnospira, and Bacteroides were increased in abundance. Supplementation of both feed additives increased the abundance of gram-positive and decreased that of gram-negative bacteria. Supplementation of AY enhanced cellulolytic bacteria such as Ruminococcus spp., whereas PHY decreased starch and sugar fermenters including Bacteroides spp., Shuttleworthia spp., and Syntrophococcus spp. Moreover, PHY supplementation increased butyrate percentage in the rumen in both concentrate phases. In conclusion, intermittent high-concentrate feeding altered the digesta-associated rumen bacterial community and rumen fermentation with more significant alterations found in Conc I than in Conc II. The data also showed that both feed additives had the most significant modulatory effects on the bacterial community, and their subsequent fermentation, during periods of low pH.

http://ift.tt/2EzzbLT

Vocalization as an indicator of estrus climax in Holstein heifers during natural estrus and superovulation

Publication date: Available online 10 January 2018
Source:Journal of Dairy Science
Author(s): Volker Röttgen, Frank Becker, Armin Tuchscherer, Christine Wrenzycki, Sandra Düpjan, Peter C. Schön, Birger Puppe
The reliable detection of estrus is an important scientific and practical challenge in dairy cattle farming. Female vocalization may indicate reproductive status, and preliminary evidence suggests that this information can be used to detect estrus in dairy cattle. The aim of this study was to associate the changes in the vocalization rate of dairy heifers with behavioral estrus indicators as well as test the influence of the type of estrus (natural estrus vs. superovulation-induced estrus). We analyzed 6 predefined estrus-related behavior patterns (standing to be mounted, head-side mounting, active mounting, chin resting, being mounted while not standing, and active sniffing in the anogenital region) and vocalization rates in the peri-estrus period (day of estrus ± 1 d) of 12 German Holstein heifers using audio-visual recordings. Each heifer was observed under natural estrus and a consecutive superovulation induced by FSH and cloprostenol. Estrus was determined by behavioral patterns and confirmed by clinical examination (vaginoscopy and ultrasound imaging of the ovaries) as well as by the concentration of peripheral progesterone. Estrus behavior and vocalization rates were analyzed in 3-h intervals (an average of 19 intervals for each heifer), and an estrus score was calculated based on the 6 behaviors. The interval with the highest estrus score (I0) was considered the estrus climax. We demonstrated similar time courses for the estrus score and vocalization rate independent of estrus type. However, in natural estrus, the maximum vocalization rate (±SE) occurred in the interval before estrus climax (I−1; 42.58 ± 21.89) and was significantly higher than that in any other interval except estrus climax (I0; 27.58 ± 9.76). During natural estrus, the vocalization rate was significantly higher within the interval before estrus climax (I−1; 42.58 ± 21.89 vs. 11.58 ± 5.51) than under superovulation. The results underscore the potential use of vocalization rate as a suitable indicator of estrus climax in automated estrus detection devices. Further studies and technical development are required to record and process individual vocalization rates.

http://ift.tt/2Fq6MZV

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Πέμπτη 11 Ιανουαρίου 2018

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