Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
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Medicine by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis,Anapafseos 5 Agios Nikolaos,Crete 72100,Greece,tel :00302841026182 & 00306932607174
Δευτέρα 18 Ιανουαρίου 2016
Sustained viral response and treatment-induced cytopenia correlate with SLCs and KLF12 genotypes in interferon/ribavirin-treated Chinese chronic hepatitis C patients
Impact of diagnostic delay and other risk factors on eosinophilic esophagitis phenotype and esophageal diameter
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
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A germline predictive signature of response to platinum chemotherapy in esophageal cancer
Translational Research, The Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine
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Less pain 1 year after total extra-peritoneal repair compared with Lichtenstein using local anesthesia: Data from a randomized controlled clinical trial
Annals of Surgery
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Development of a database system and image viewer to assist in the correlation of histopathologic features and digital image analysis with clinical and molecular genetic information
Pathologists are required to integrate data from multiple sources when making a diagnosis. Furthermore, whole slide imaging (WSI) and next generation sequencing will escalate data size and complexity. Development of well-designed databases that can allow efficient navigation between multiple data types is necessary for both clinical and research purposes. We developed and evaluated an interactive, web-based database that integrates clinical, histologic, immunohistochemical and genetic information to aid in pathologic diagnosis and interpretation with nine lung adenocarcinoma cases. To minimize sectioning artifacts, representative blocks were serially sectioned using automated tissue sectioning (Kurabo Industries, Osaka Japan) and selected slides were stained by multiple techniques, (hematoxylin and eosin [H&E], immunohistochemistry [IHC] or fluorescence in situ hybridization [FISH]). Slides were digitized by WSI scanners. An interactive relational database was designed based on a list of proposed fields covering a variety of clinical, pathologic and molecular parameters. By focusing on the three main tasks of 1.) efficient management of textual information, 2.) effective viewing of all varieties of stained whole slide images (WSI), and 3.) assistance in evaluating WSI with computer-aided diagnosis, this database prototype shows great promise for multi-modality research and diagnosis.
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Software-assisted morphometric and phenotype analyses of human peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages induced by a microenvironment model of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Human macrophages play important roles in tumor promotion and are called tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). We previously demonstrated that human esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCCs) contain TAMs and that these TAMs tend to have tumor-supporting features. Here we exposed human macrophages to conditioned media of TE-series human ESCC cell lines (TECMs) to generate an ESCC extracellular stimuli-influenced TAM model. CD14+ peripheral blood monocytes (PBMos) from healthy donors were treated with M-CSF and with additional IL-4 or TECM exposure. Morphological changes of the cells and the induction of CD163/CD204 proteins were detected in the TECM-exposed model TAMs by immunofluorescence. A software-assisted immunofluorescent cell image analysis showed increased CD163/CD204 positivity in the model TAMs and a weak to moderate positive correlation between the cytoplasmic area and the sum fluorescent intensity of CD204. Morphological changes of the cells were significantly reflected by several cytomorphometric parameters. PBMos were elongated with M-CSF treatment, then enlarged with TECM exposure. The cytoplasmic aspect ratio was decreased by M-CSF treatment and slightly increased by TECM exposure. The nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio decreased during the whole process of cell differentiation. This system is useful for quantitative assessments of TAM-like morphological changes of macrophages and the induction of CD163/CD204 in a model ESCC microenvironment.
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A case of 37 year long Behçet disease resembling Takayasu arteritis: An autopsy report
A 19-year-old woman with a history of recurrent aphthous stomatitis and genital ulceration was diagnosed with Behçet disease. She was treated with steroids and immunosuppressive agents for more than 30 years, but multiple complications manifested including ileocecal ulcer, aortic valve regurgitation, renal failure, ischemic enterocolitis, and arteriosclerotic obliterans until her death at the age of 56 from pneumonia. An autopsy examination demonstrated an entirely calcified aorta and major aortic branches. The ascending aorta was dilatated 55 mm in diameter and branches were all stenosed. Microscopically, the aortic arch and its branches showed collagenous fibrosis of the outer media and adventitia, whereas coronary and abdominal aortic branches showed conventional atherosclerosis. Although the ante-mortem diagnosis was angio-Behçet disease, its pathophysiology along with her clinical history, morphology of the lead pipe-like aorta, predominant destruction of the outer arteries, and a human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotype of B39 were all suggestive of Takayasu arteritis. Thus, this case implies that HLA-B39 may be associated with the pathogenesis of arteritis like Takayasu arteritis, even if the primary disease is Behçet disease.
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The bidirectional relationships between online victimization and psychosocial problems in adolescents: a comparison with real-life victimization
Although peer victimization is of major concern and adolescents spend increasing amounts of time on the Internet, relatively little is known about the psychosocial antecedents and consequences of online victimization. The main aim of this study was to compare the psychosocial antecedents and consequences of online versus real-life victimization. More specifically, the bidirectional relationship between online and real-life victimization on the one hand and psychosocial problems (i.e., loneliness and social anxiety) on the other was examined. In addition, the moderating role of online aggression in the relationship between online victimization and subsequent psychosocial problems was studied. This prospective study, consisting of three annual measurements, was conducted among a sample of 831 adolescents (50.3 % girls) aged 11-15, of which most (80.2 %) had a Dutch ethnic background. The results indicate a unidirectional relationship whereby loneliness and social anxiety predict an increase in latter online victimization rather than the reverse. A bidirectional relationship was found for real-life victimization: loneliness (but not social anxiety) predicted an increase in latter real-life victimization, which in turn predicted an increase in subsequent social anxiety (but not loneliness). No moderating effects of online aggression were found. The findings of the present study suggest that negative online and in real life peer interactions have a differential meaning for, and impact on adolescents' well-being.
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Assessing internet addiction using the parsimonious internet addiction components model: a preliminary study
Internet usage has grown exponentially over the last decade. Research indicates that excessive Internet use can lead to symptoms associated with addiction. To date, assessment of potential Internet addiction has varied regarding populations studied and instruments used, making reliable prevalence estimations difficult. To overcome the present problems a preliminary study was conducted testing a parsimonious Internet addiction components model based on Griffiths' addiction components (Journal of Substance Use, 10, 191–197, 2005), including salience, mood modification, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, and relapse. Two validated measures of Internet addiction were used (Compulsive Internet Use Scale [CIUS], Meerkerk et al. in Cyberpsychology & Behavior, 12(1), 1–6, 2009, and Assessment for Internet and Computer Game Addiction Scale [AICA-S], Wölfling et al. 2010) in two independent samples (ns = 3,105 and 2,257). The fit of the model was analysed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Results indicate that the Internet addiction components model fits the data in both samples well. The two sample/two instrument approach provides converging evidence concerning the degree to which the components model can organize the self-reported behavioural components of Internet addiction. Recommendations for future research include a more detailed assessment of tolerance as addiction component.
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European children's sugar intake on weekdays versus weekends: the IDEFICS study
OBJECTIVES: To compare the intake of total sugars, foods and drinks rich in added sugar, and energy in children on weekdays (Monday Thursday), Fridays and weekends. METHODS: Dietary intake (g, kJ, energy %) was assessed using a computerized 24-h recall method in a sample of 2- to 9-year-old children from Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Spain and Sweden who were participating in the IDEFICS baseline study (2007-2008). Analyses were performed in 9497 children by selecting one 24-h recall per child (for comparison of weekdays vs weekends, and Fridays vs weekdays and weekends). Selected stratified analyses were performed by country and age group. RESULTS: Intake of total sugars exceeded 20 energy % in all countries but one. In the non-stratified analyses, the intakes of total sugars and foods and drinks rich in added sugar were found to be higher on weekends compared with weekdays (both P < 0.001), and intakes on Fridays were a mix between intakes on weekdays and weekends. Energy intake did not differ between weekdays and weekends. Results were somewhat heterogeneous, both across countries and age groups. CONCLUSIONS: High intake of sugar remains an important nutritional problem in children of many European countries. Interventions aiming to prevent this diet pattern may optimize their impact by targeting dietary habits on Fridays and weekends. Furthermore, when conducting dietary assessment in children, data from weekends and Fridays in combination with a selection of Mondays to Thursdays are needed to capture habitual sugar intake. Age and dietary cultures should also be considered in dietary intervention and assessment as effect modifications were seen for both age and country.
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Accuracy of instructor assessment of chest compression quality during simulated resuscitation
Research Articles
Erin E. Brennan, Robert C. McGraw, Steven C. Brooks
Canadian Journal of Emergency Medicine, FirstView Article(s), 7 pages
Abstract
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Suitability of hair type for dermatophytes perforation and differential diagnosis of T. mentagrophytes from T. verrucosum
Summary
Most of the dermatophyte species have the ability to perforate hair structure and consume its contents of keratin through secretion of keratinase enzyme. Two clinical isolated species of dermatophytes were diagnosed as Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. granulosum and Trichophyton verrucosum. To determine the perforation ability, the isolated fungi were incubated with the hair of four different animals (rabbit, rat, cow and cat) and human hairs with three different colours (black, albino and bleached yellow) for different periods. Variable perforating ability of T. mentagrophytes was shown in rat hair and all types of human hair after 15 days, while other mammalian hairs exhibited resistance to this fungal activity. On the other hand, T. verrucosum was revealed a slow perforating ability, which needed a long time (60 days) for most of tested hairs. Perforation of human black hair could be considered a diagnostic test for differentiation between T. mentagrophytes and T. verrucosum. In conclusion, the treated or untreated human hair was considered more suitable to use as a source of keratin for the growth of dermatophytes than animal hairs. The human black hair was a best type of hair to use in the perforating test for differentiation between T. mentagrophytes and T. verrucosum.
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A new system for evaluation of armrest use in robotic surgery and validation of a new ergonomic concept – armrest load
Abstract
Background
The da Vinci robot provides a sitting position and an armrest to decrease workload and increase dexterity. We investigated the surgeon's ergonomic behaviour by installing force sensors on the dV-Trainer® simulator's armrest to measure the 'armrest load' during the performance of simulated exercises.
Methods
Five experts and 48 novices performed two robotic simulation exercises on the dV-Trainer. We calculated the armrest load and evaluated their armrest-using habits. Overall score and workspace range were evaluated automatically by the simulator and compared with armrest load.
Results
Statistically significant differences exist for overall score, workspace range and armrest load between novices and experts.
Conclusion
The armrest load score is a direct, sensitive measure for the ergonomic evaluation of a simulator's armrest use. This experience-dependent ergonomic difference between experts and novices (p = 0.007) highlights the importance of ergonomic training for novice robot users. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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IMMUNOTHERAPEUTIC TREATMENT OF HIV-1: REVIEW OF SAFETY AND EFFICACY
2016-01-18T02-01-36Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
Stephen Mwaura Kariuki Stanslaus Kiilu Musyoki, Edson Kipyegon Kemoi.
Background: For over two decades, the treatment of HIV-1 patients has relied on antiretroviral (ART). These drugs have had a great deal of achievement in not only controlling the viral load but also partly reconstituting the immune system in HIV-1 infected persons. However, the misfortune is that ART is a lifelong treatment because it cannot achieve complete eradication of HIV-1 virus, yet with its side effects like many other drugs. Scientists have hence introduced immunotherapy in an effort toward complete eradication of HIV-1 in HIV/AIDS patients. Objective: The aim of this paper was to determine the effectiveness and safety of the various immunotherapy formats used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Method: We reviewed a number of peer-reviewed published articles to determine the effectiveness and safety of the different immunotherapy formats tested in randomized clinical trials and animal model experiments. Results: Majority of immunotherapy regimens used in combination with ART to treat HIV-1 positive human or animals were found to be effective in boosting the cell-mediated immune responses in HIV-1 infection but achieved insignificant results in controlling the viral load in these experiments. Most of the immunotherapy formats were also well tolerated recording minimal to no adverse effects on HIV-1 patients. Conclusion: Most immunotherapy agents are relatively effective and safe when used in combination with ART in modulating immune response to HIV-1. These immunotherapy agents do not significantly reduce the viral load and hence cannot eliminate HIV-1.
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ASSESMENT OF MEDICAL CERTIFICATE OF CAUSE OF DEATH (MCCD) IN VADODARA MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, GUJARAT, INDIA
2016-01-18T02-01-36Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
A.S. Ganasva, B.R. Bariya, K. Shringarpure, J.R. Damor.
Background: Death certificates are an important source of population-based mortality statistics . This information derived from death certificates has many important uses right from development of public health programs to allocation of health care resources. There is no adequate training received by the physicians for filling up of death certificates correctly. The resulting inaccuracies in completion of this information undermines the quality of the data derived from death certificates. Aim & Objective: To assess the completeness of Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) and the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of health personnel involved in registration system. Methods: A total of 1947 consecutive death certificates issued by community physicians were collected from 12 administrative wards of 4 zones of Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) during June 2012 to November 2013. Different variables like personal information of deceased, information regarding sequence of the death event (medical part) and medico-legal portion were assessed for its completeness. Simultaneously, knowledge, attitude and practices of Registration of birth and death (RBD) staff related to filling up of the MCCD forms was assessed in different wards of VMC. Results: Out of 1947 MCCD forms only 21 (1.1%) MCCD certificates in the study were completely filled, while 1877 (97%) were notably incomplete, 4 (0.2%) slightly incomplete and 45 (2.3%) grossly incomplete. On assessing KAP of RBD staff, none of them had been imparted the training related to registration system. Almost 87% of them were dissatisfied with the completeness of MCCD-form 4A filled up by private practitioners. Majority of them (68.8%) felt that they were overburdened due to paucity of staff. Conclusion: In conclusion, the combined effort of physicians and RBD staff is required to improve the quality of diagnostic information in death certificates. Thus, more accurate cause-of-death statistics derived from death certificates will lead to better health planning.
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DIAGNOSTIC ENZYMES IN PERIODONTAL DISEASE
2016-01-18T02-01-36Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
Deepti Gattani, Akhilesh Shewale, Sakshi Dubey, Snehal Deotale.
Periodontal disease is a Chronic inflammatory disease that affect the connective tissue attachment and supporting bone around the teeth. It is widely accepted that the initiation and the progression of periodontitis are dependent on the presence of virulent microorganisms and the host response of the individual to this pathologic infection. Host responses to the periodontal disease includes the production of different enzymes released by connective tissue, epithelial or inflammatory cells. The enzymes like acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate or alanine aminotransferase(AST, ALT) and gama glutamyl transferase (GGT)are associated with cell injury and cell death. Alterations in enzymatic activity reflects metabolic changes in the inflammatory state of the gingiva and periodontium. Hence it is important to have a knowledge about this enzymes to have an insight in the disease activity. Thus, the aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive details about various enzymes associated with periodontal disease activity .
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ISOLATION AND SPECIES IDENTIFICATION OF CANDIDA ISOLATED FROM PATIENTS OF VULVOVAGINAL CANDIDIASIS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
2016-01-18T02-01-36Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
Twinkle Gandhi, Manish G. Patel, Mannu Jain.
Introduction: An increase in the predisposing conditions in recent years has resulted in an increasing incidence of Candida infections.The accurate species identification of Candida is important for the treatment, as not all species respond to the same treatment and also because of the problem of anti-fungal resistance in certain species.Therefore, the species level identification of the Candida isolates, along with their anti-fungal susceptibility patterns can greatly influence the treatment options for the clinician. Objective: - To detect prevalence of Candida in patients with vaginal discharge. - To identify species of Candidaisolates. Methods: This study included 410 women with abnormal vaginal discharge. Two high vaginal swabs were collected and sent immediately to the laboratory. All vaginal samples were stained with grams stain & oval budding yeast cells were identified as Candida. Second swab was inoculated on Sabourauds Dextrose agar and Candida isolates(n=122)were identified at species level by battery of various tests like GTT,Corn meal agar, Carbohydrate fermentation, Carbohydrate assimilation and CHROM agar inoculation. Results: Out of 410 samples Candida were isolated in 122 samples. Amongst the 122 Candida isolates highest was C.albicans 66.39%,followed by C.glabrata 15.65%,C.tropicalis 9.85%, C.parapsilosis 4.91%, C.krusei 2.4% and least wasC.guilliermondii 0.8%.In pregnancy and OCP users maximum isolates were of C.albicans(78.04%& 55.55%,respectively) were as in diabetic patients C.glabrata (47.05%) was predominant isolate,while in HIV positive patients all isolates wereC.albicans (100%). Conclusions: In our study the prevalence of VVC is 29.75%.Commonest species found was C.albicans 66.39%.VVC is more common in females with associated risk factors like pregnancy, diabetes, HIV and OCP users.Commonest species in pregnancy, OCP users and HIV patients wasC.albicans whileC.glabratawas more common in diabetic patient.
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A STUDY OF MORPHOLOGY OF THE PROXIMAL PART OF VENTRAL BRANCHES OF ABDOMINAL AORTA IN CADAVERS
2016-01-18T02-01-36Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
Kruti Bharatkumar Tapiyawala, M. Natarajan.
Objective: Majority of studies in the past about ventral branches of abdominal aorta mainly focused on the branching pattern. The cadaveric data on the vertebral level of origin of the ventral branches of abdominal aorta is less. Hence the study aimed at the morphology of proximal part of ventral branches of abdominal aorta. Objectives: 1. To determine the vertebral level of origin of coeliac trunk 2. To determine the vertebral level of origin of superior mesenteric artery 3. To determine the vertebral level of origin of inferior mesenteric artery Materials and Methods: Fifty embalmed cadavers were dissected. The vertebral level of origin of ventral branches were determined and variations were noted. Results: 1. In 38% cases, the vertebral level of origin of coeliac trunk was found to be located at the level of intervertebral disc (IVD) T12-L1. 2. In 24% cases, the vertebral level of origin of superior mesenteric artery was found to be located at the level of intervertebral disc (IVD) T12-L1 and upper 1/3rd of L1. 3. In 22% cases, the vertebral level of origin of inferior mesenteric artery was found to be located at the level of intervertebral disc (IVD) L3-L4. Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study provides a comprehensive data about the abdominal aorta and the proximal part of its ventral branches which will help in interpretation of radiographs and during surgery of different types of abdominal pathology in Indian population. Awareness of these variations can prevent potential intra-operative and post- operative complications.
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Synchronous reluctance motors performance based on different electrical steel grades
This paper investigates the influence of various electrical steel grades on the torque and efficiency of synchronous reluctance motors (SynRMs). Four different steel grades are studied for the same motor geometry. A finite-element method is combined with an experiment-based magnetic material model to study the effect of the four steel grades on the performance of the SynRM. On the one hand, there is a negligible effect on the torque ripple because this ripple depends mainly on the motor geometry. On the other hand, it was found that the material properties have an obvious effect on the SynRM efficiency and output power. Evidently, the low loss grades result in higher efficiency: 9% point higher for NO20 compared with M600-100A. One of the four considered grades is designed to have a higher flux density in the useful magnetic field range (a few hundreds to a few thousand amperes per meter). This grade has somewhat lower efficiency, but results in a higher saliency ratio and an 8% higher torque output compared with the worst grade. Some experimental validation results are shown.
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Effectiveness of the Virtual Reality System Toyra on Upper Limb Function in People with Tetraplegia: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a virtual reality program combined with conventional therapy in upper limb function in people with tetraplegia and to provide data about patients' satisfaction with the virtual reality system. Thirty-one people with subacute complete cervical tetraplegia participated in the study. Experimental group received 15 sessions with Toyra® virtual reality system for 5 weeks, 30 minutes/day, 3 days/week in addition to conventional therapy, while control group only received conventional therapy. All patients were assessed at baseline, after intervention, and at three-month follow-up with a battery of clinical, functional, and satisfaction scales. Control group showed significant improvements in the manual muscle test ( = 0,043, partial = 0,22) in the follow-up evaluation. Both groups demonstrated clinical, but nonsignificant, changes to their arm function in 4 of the 5 scales used. All patients showed a high level of satisfaction with the virtual reality system. This study showed that virtual reality added to conventional therapy produces similar results in upper limb function compared to only conventional therapy. Moreover, the gaming aspects incorporated in conventional rehabilitation appear to produce high motivation during execution of the assigned tasks. This trial is registered with EudraCT number 2015-002157-35.
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High Intensity Resistance Training Methods with and without Protein Supplementation to Fight Cardiometabolic Risk in Middle-Aged Males: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Time-effective protocols may potentially increase people's compliance with exercise. The purpose of this paper was to compare the relative effects of 16 weeks of high intensity (resistance) training (HIT) with and without protein supplementation (HIT&P) and HVHIT (high volume/high intensity training) versus a nontraining control group on cardiometabolic risk factors. One hundred and twenty untrained males 30–50 years old were randomly assigned to 3 subgroups: (a) a HIT group; (b) a HIT&P group, and (c) a waiting-control group (phase I) that crossed over to (d) high volume/high intensity training (HVHIT) during the second study phase. HIT was defined as "single set to failure protocol" while HVHIT consistently applied two sets. Protein supplementation provided an overall intake of 1.5 g/kg/body mass. Primary study endpoint was the metabolic syndrome -Score (MetS--Score). MetS--Score significantly improved in all exercise groups () with no significant difference between HIT, HIT&P, and HVHIT (). However, all the exercise groups differed significantly from the CG () which deteriorated significantly (). In conclusion, all exercise protocols were similarly effective in improving cardiometabolic risk factors. Thus, HIT may be the best choice for people with low time budgets looking to improve their cardiometabolic health.
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The Superficial Stromal Scar Formation Mechanism in Keratoconus: A Study Using Laser Scanning In Vivo Confocal Microscopy
To investigate the mechanism of superficial stromal scarring in advanced keratoconus using confocal microscopy, the keratocyte density, distribution, micromorphology of corneal stroma, and SNP in three groups were observed. Eight corneal buttons of advanced keratoconus were examined by immunohistochemistry. The keratocyte densities in the sub-Bowman's stroma, anterior stroma, and posterior stroma and the mean SNP density were significantly different among the three groups. In the mild-to-moderate keratoconus group, activated keratocyte nuclei and comparatively highly reflective ECM were seen in the sub-Bowman's stroma, while fibrotic structures with comparatively high reflection were visible in the anterior stroma in advanced keratoconus. The alternating dark and light bands in the anterior stroma of the mild-to-moderate keratoconus group showed great variability in width and direction. The wide bands were localized mostly in the posterior stroma that corresponded to the Vogt striae in keratoconus and involved the anterior stroma only in advanced keratoconus. Histopathologically, high immunogenicity of α-SMA, vimentin, and FAP was expressed in the region of superficial stromal scarring. In vivo confocal microscopy revealed microstructural changes in the keratoconic cone. The activation of superficial keratocytes and abnormal remodeling of ECM may both play a key role in the superficial stromal scar formation in advanced keratoconus.
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Designing conservation strategies to preserve the genetic diversity of Astragalus edulis Bunge, an endangered species from western Mediterranean region
Astragalus edulis (Fabaceae) is an endangered annual species from the western Mediterranean region that colonized the SE Iberian Peninsula, NE and SW Morocco, and the easternmost Macaronesian islands (Lanzarote and Fuerteventura). Although in Spain some conservation measures have been adopted, it is still necessary to develop an appropriate management plan to preserve genetic diversity across the entire distribution area of the species. Our main objective was to use population genetics as well as ecological and phylogeographic data to select Relevant Genetic Units for Conservation (RGUCs) as the first step in designing conservation plans for A. edulis. We identified six RGUCs for in situ conservation, based on estimations of population genetic structure and probabilities of loss of rare alleles. Additionally, further population parameters, i.e. occupation area, population size, vulnerability, legal status of the population areas, and the historical haplotype distribution, were considered in order to establish which populations deserve conservation priority. Three populations from the Iberian Peninsula, two from Morocco, and one from the Canary Islands represent the total genetic diversity of the species and the rarest allelic variation. Ex situ conservation is recommended to complement the preservation of A. edulis, given that effective in situ population protection is not feasible in all cases. The consideration of complementary phylogeographic and ecological data is useful for management efforts to preserve the evolutionary potential of the species.
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Expression patterns of cysteine peptidase genes across the Tribolium castaneum life cycle provide clues to biological function
The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, is a major agricultural pest responsible for considerable loss of stored grain and cereal products worldwide. T. castaneum larvae have a highly compartmentalized gut, with cysteine peptidases mostly in the acidic anterior part of the midgut that are critical to the early stages of food digestion. In previous studies, we described 26 putative cysteine peptidase genes in T. castaneum (types B, L, O, F, and K) located mostly on chromosomes 3, 7, 8, and 10. In the present study, we hypothesized that specific cysteine peptidase genes could be associated with digestive functions for food processing based on comparison of gene expression profiles in different developmental stages, feeding and non-feeding. RNA-Seq was used to determine the relative expression of cysteine peptidase genes among four major developmental stages (egg, larvae, pupae, and adult) of T. castaneum. We also compared cysteine peptidase genes in T. castaneum to those in other model insects and coleopteran pests. By combining transcriptome expression, phylogenetic comparisons, response to dietary inhibitors, and other existing data, we identified key cysteine peptidases that T. castaneum larvae and adults use for food digestion, and thus new potential targets for biologically-based control products.
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The role of geography and host abundance in the distribution of parasitoids of an alien pest
Chalcid wasps (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) are probably the most effective and abundant parasitoids of the horse chestnut leaf miner (Cameraria ohridella), an alien pest in Europe that lacks specialized enemies. We studied how the species richness and abundance of chalcids are influenced by altitude, direction of an alien spread and host abundance of C. ohridella. We quantified the numbers and species richness of chalcid wasps and the numbers of C. ohridella that emerged from horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) leaf litter samples collected from 35 sites in the Czech Republic. Species richness of chalcids, which was considered an indicator of the possible adaptation of parasitoids to this alien host, was unrelated to C. ohridella abundance, direction of spread, or altitude. Chalcid abundance, which was considered an indicator of parasitism of the alien host, was strongly and positively related to C. ohridella abundance. Chalcid abundance was negatively related to direction of spread and positively related, although in a non-linear manner, to altitude. The relationship of chalcid abundance with direction of spread and altitude was weaker than that with C. ohridella abundance. The results provide evidence that biological control of the alien pest C. ohridella by natural enemies might develop in the future.
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Non-invasive cortisol measurements as indicators of physiological stress responses in guinea pigs
Non-invasive measurements of glucocorticoid (GC) concentrations, including cortisol and corticosterone, serve as reliable indicators of adrenocortical activities and physiological stress loads in a variety of species. As an alternative to invasive analyses based on plasma, GC concentrations in saliva still represent single-point-of-time measurements, suitable for studying short-term or acute stress responses, whereas fecal GC metabolites (FGMs) reflect overall stress loads and stress responses after a species-specific time frame in the long-term. In our study species, the domestic guinea pig, GC measurements are commonly used to indicate stress responses to different environmental conditions, but the biological relevance of non-invasive measurements is widely unknown. We therefore established an experimental protocol based on the animals' natural stress responses to different environmental conditions and compared GC levels in plasma, saliva, and fecal samples during non-stressful social isolations and stressful two-hour social confrontations with unfamiliar individuals. Plasma and saliva cortisol concentrations were significantly increased directly after the social confrontations, and plasma and saliva cortisol levels were strongly correlated. This demonstrates a high biological relevance of GC measurements in saliva. FGM levels measured 20 h afterwards, representing the reported mean gut passage time based on physiological validations, revealed that the overall stress load was not affected by the confrontations, but also no relations to plasma cortisol levels were detected. We therefore measured FGMs in two-hour intervals for 24 h after another social confrontation and detected significantly increased levels after four to twelve hours, reaching peak concentrations already after six hours. Our findings confirm that non-invasive GC measurements in guinea pigs are highly biologically relevant in indicating physiological stress responses compared to circulating levels in plasma in the short- and long-term. Our approach also underlines the importance of detailed investigations on how to use and interpret non-invasive measurements, including the determination of appropriate time points for sample collections.
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The Iflaviruses Sacbrood virus and Deformed wing virus evoke different transcriptional responses in the honeybee which may facilitate their horizontal or vertical transmission
Sacbrood virus (SBV) and Deformed wing virus (DWV) are evolutionarily related positive-strand RNA viruses, members of the Iflavirus group. They both infect the honeybee Apis mellifera but have strikingly different levels of virulence when transmitted orally. Honeybee larvae orally infected with SBV usually accumulate high levels of the virus, which halts larval development and causes insect death. In contrast, oral DWV infection at the larval stage usually causes asymptomatic infection with low levels of the virus, although high doses of ingested DWV could lead to DWV replicating to high levels. We investigated effects of DWV and SBV infection on the transcriptome of honeybee larvae and pupae using global RNA-Seq and real-time PCR analysis. This showed that high levels of SBV replication resulted in down-regulation of the genes involved in cuticle and muscle development, together with changes in expression of putative immune-related genes. In particular, honeybee larvae with high levels of SBV replication, with and without high levels of DWV replication, showed concerted up-regulated expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and down-regulated expression of the prophenoloxidase activating enzyme (PPAE) together with up-regulation of the expression of a putative serpin, which could lead to the suppression of the melanisation pathway. The effects of high SBV levels on expression of these immune genes were unlikely to be a consequence of SBV-induced developmental changes, because similar effects were observed in honeybee pupae infected by injection. In the orally infected larvae with high levels of DWV replication alone we observed no changes of AMPs or of gene expression in the melanisation pathway. In the injected pupae, high levels of DWV alone did not alter expression of the tested melanisation pathway genes, but resulted in up-regulation of the AMPs, which could be attributed to the effect of DWV on the regulation of AMP expression in response to wounding. We propose that the difference in expression of the honeybee immune genes induced by SBV and DWV may be an evolutionary adaptation to the different predominant transmission routes used by these viruses.
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The association between maternal psychological stress and inflammatory cytokines in allergic young children
Background. Previous studies have shown that psychological stress is linked to asthma prevalence. Parental psychological stress may potentially influence inflammatory responses in their allergic children. The purpose of this study is to clarify the association between maternal psychological status and inflammatory response of allergic young children.Methods. The study subjects were 152 young allergic children (median age: 13 months) who had not shown any allergic symptoms in the past one month. mRNA expression levels of the inflammatory response genes IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-22 were quantified by qRT-PCR. Maternal psychological status was assessed by standardized questionnaires: the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) for depression and the Japanese Perceived Stress Scale (JPSS) for perceived stress.Results. A significant positive association was observed between maternal CES-D scores and IL-6 mRNA expression in the children with asthma. The JPSS scores were also positively associated with IL-8mRNAexpression in asthmatic children and IL-6 mRNA expression in children with allergic rhinitis. Similar trends were observed among children positive for house dust mite-specific IgE, but these associations were not significant.Conclusion. This study supports the hypothesis that maternal psychological stress affects the inflammatory response in their allergic children.
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Cranial ontogenetic variation in early saurischians and the role of heterochrony in the diversification of predatory dinosaurs
Non-avian saurischian skulls underwent at least 165 million years of evolution and shapes varied from elongated skulls, such as in the theropod Coelophysis, to short and box-shaped skulls, such as in the sauropod Camarasaurus. A number of factors have long been considered to drive skull shape, including phylogeny, dietary preferences and functional constraints. However, heterochrony is increasingly being recognized as an important factor in dinosaur evolution. In order to quantitatively analyse the impact of heterochrony on saurischian skull shape, we analysed five ontogenetic trajectories using two-dimensional geometric morphometrics in a phylogenetic framework. This allowed for the comparative investigation of main ontogenetic shape changes and the evaluation of how heterochrony affected skull shape through both ontogenetic and phylogenetic trajectories. Using principal component analyses and multivariate regressions, it was possible to quantify different ontogenetic trajectories and evaluate them for evidence of heterochronic events allowing testing of previous hypotheses on cranial heterochrony in saurischians. We found that the skull shape of the hypothetical ancestor of Saurischia likely led to basal Sauropodomorpha through paedomorphosis, and to basal Theropoda mainly through peramorphosis. Paedomorphosis then led from Orionides to Avetheropoda, indicating that the paedomorphic trend found by previous authors in advanced coelurosaurs may extend back into the early evolution of Avetheropoda. Not only are changes in saurischian skull shape complex due to the large number of factors that affected it, but heterochrony itself is complex, with a number of possible reversals throughout non-avian saurischian evolution. In general, the sampling of complete ontogenetic trajectories including early juveniles is considerably lower than the sampling of single adult or subadult individuals, which is a major impediment to the study of heterochrony on non-avian dinosaurs. Thus, the current work represents an exploratory analysis. To better understand the cranial ontogeny and the impact of heterochrony on skull evolution in saurischians, the data set that we present here must be expanded and complemented with further sampling from future fossil discoveries, especially of juvenile individuals.
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Microbial nitrate reduction induced autonomous self-healing in concrete
Concrete is the most widely used construction material in structures such as tunnels, bridges, car parks etc. Since concrete is a relatively weak material under tensile stresses, to achieve a durable structure concrete is usually combined with the steel reinforcement bars. However, in service, due to the physical and chemical factors, micro-cracks occur on concrete which enable aggressive substances to reach steel rebars causing corrosion. Therefore, regular monitoring and repair of the concrete cracks are necessary. In order to minimize the external maintenance services and related expenses, researchers focused on mechanisms triggering self-healing of these cracks. Microbial induced CaCO3 precipitation (MICP) can be mentioned among the investigated mechanisms. Basically, in MICP, the CO2 produced by the bacteria precipitates in the form of CaCO3 inside the concrete cracks and fills them up. This study presents the use of NO3- respiring bacteria to develop microbial self-healing concrete. In the context of the study, individual cultures (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Diaphorobacter nitroreducens) were tested for their CaCO3 precipitation yields and their performance inside the mortar. Different protective carriers were used to incorporate these bacteria in mortar. Additionally, a self-protected culture in granular form was tested. As a result, cracks up to 500 µm crack width could be sealed. Water permeability of the cracked mortar specimens decreased 85 % following microbial healing of the cracks.
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The macula servitutis of Roman freedmen: “Neque enim aboletur turpitudo, quae postea intermissa est”?
The disabilities and restrictions in the public life of Roman freedmen are traditionally explained as a consequence of the servile stigma these individuals carried. "Macula servitutis" (stain of slavery) has become the widespread catchphrase to capture this state. This contribution's main aim is to show that the social condition of freedmen cannot be reduced to such a common denominator, despite the significant influence this framework has had in many classical studies. The inconsistencies and shortcomings of the macula-model will be addressed, drawing on evidence from literature, epigraphy and legal texts. The expression itself (and similar ones) will be situated in its historical and legal context and compared to similar "stains" on a person's honour in order to gauge their respective pervasiveness. The concluding remarks present an alternative to the macula-model and are meant to spur further debate in other spheres and aspects of the freedman's live.
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The architectonic of the deduction of the categories in fichte's foundations of the entire science of knowledge
The present paper examines the systematic structure of Fichte's deduction of the categories in his Foundations of the entire Science of Knowledge (1794/95). In the last part of the article the conventional reading of Fichte's deduction of the categories is critically analysed.
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Early modern consumption history: current challenges and future perspectives
Stimulated by wide-ranging theories on its cultural and economic significance, the history of early modern consumption in the Low Countries has received a remarkable amount of attention in historiography during the last three decades. During this period the growing body of empirical evidence, as well as shifting theoretical frameworks, have gradually altered our understanding of early modern patterns of consumption, their causes and consequences. The current article presents a review of the main tendencies in the field of early modern consumption history, and the challenges to this historiographical field these have presented. Based on these challenges, the article suggests new avenues for future research.
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Long-term outcomes of dental implants placed in elderly patients: a retrospective clinical and radiographic analysis
Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the clinical and the radiographic outcomes of dental implants placed in elderly people older than 65 years.
Materials and methods
In total, 902 implants in 346 patients (age: 65–89 years) were followed up for 2–17 years following the implant surgery. The survival rate of these implants was recorded and analyzed. Changes in marginal bone levels were also analyzed in serial radiographs, and Cox regression analysis for implant loss was performed.
Results
The survival rates were 95.39% and 99.98% in the implant- and patient-based analyses, respectively (involving a total of 29 implant failures), and the marginal bone loss at the implants was 0.17 ± 0.71 mm (mean ± SD). The number of failures was greatest in patients aged 65–69 years. The Cox regression with shared frailty analysis showed that implant loss was significantly greater in those aged 65–69 years than in those aged 70–74 years (P < 0.05), and it varied between specific implant systems.
Conclusions
Within the limitations of this retrospective study, it was concluded that implant therapy can be successfully provided to elderly patients and that age alone does not seem to affect the implant survival rate.
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