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Mediterranean spring ecosystems are unique habitats at the interface between surface water and groundwater. These ecosystems support a remarkable array of biodiversity and provide important ecological functions and ecosystem services. Spring ecosystems are influenced by abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic factors such as the lithology of their draining aquifers, their climate, and the land use of their recharge area, all of which affect the water chemistry of the aquifer and the spring discharges. One of the most relevant characteristics of spring ecosystems is the temporal stability of environmental conditions, including physicochemical features of the spring water, across seasons and years. This stability allows a wide range of species to benefit from these ecosystems (particularly during dry periods), fostering an unusually high number of endemic species. However, global change poses important threats to these freshwater ecosystems. Changes in temperature, evapotranspiration, and precipitation patterns can alter the water balance and chemistry of spring water. Eutrophication due to agricultural practices and emergent pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and pesticides, is also a growing concern for the preservation of spring biodiversity. Here, we provide a synthesis of the main characteristics and functioning of Mediterranean spring ecosystems. We then describe their ecological value and biodiversity patterns and highlight the main risks these ecosystems face. Moreover, we identify existing knowledge gaps to guide future research in order to fully uncover the hidden biodiversity within these habitats and understand the main drivers that govern them. Finally, we provide a brief summary of recommended actions that should be taken to effectively manage and preserve Mediterranean spring ecosystems for future generations. Even though studies on Mediterranean spring ecosystems are still scarce, our review shows there are sufficient data to conclude that their future viability as functional ecosystems is under severe threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass extinctions occur frequently in natural history. While studies of animals that became extinct can be informative, it is the survivors that provide clues for mechanisms of adaptation when conditions are adverse. Here, we describe a survival pathway used by many species as a means for providing adequate fuel and water, while also providing protection from a decrease in oxygen availability. Fructose, whether supplied in the diet (primarily fruits and honey), or endogenously (via activation of the polyol pathway), preferentially shifts the organism towards the storing of fuel (fat, glycogen) that can be used to provide energy and water at a later date. Fructose causes sodium retention and raises blood pressure and likely helped survival in the setting of dehydration or salt deprivation. By shifting energy production from the mitochondria to glycolysis, fructose reduced oxygen demands to aid survival in situations where oxygen availability is low. The actions of fructose are driven in part by vasopressin and the generation of uric acid. Twice in history, mutations occurred during periods of mass extinction that enhanced the activity of fructose to generate fat, with the first being a mutation in vitamin C metabolism during the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction (65 million years ago) and the second being a mutation in uricase that occurred during the Middle Miocene disruption (12-14 million years ago). Today, the excessive intake of fructose due to the availability of refined sugar and high-fructose corn syrup is driving 'burden of life style' diseases, including obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Objective: The objective of this study was to examine patient–provider relationships among American Indians and Alaska Native (AI/AN) patients by examining associations between patient activation, perceived provider weight bias and working alliance. Patient activation is generally defined as having the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage one's health. Methods: Among a sample of 87 AI/AN adults presenting for general medical care at an urban clinic in the north‐west region of the USA, ordinary least squares regression analysis was completed to examine associations. Results: Better working alliance scores were associated with increased patient activation, while perceived provider weight bias was associated with reduced patient activation. In addition, those with class II obesity had decreased patient activation. Conclusion: These findings point to the importance of a positive patient–provider relationship in AI/ANs. Optimal patient engagement and subsequent health outcomes warrant additional consideration of patients' perceptions of provider weight bias within the context of health promotion and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternative sigma (σ) factors govern expression of bacterial genes in response to diverse environmental signals. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa σPvdS directs expression of genes for production of a siderophore, pyoverdine, as well as a toxin and a protease. σFpvI directs expression of a receptor for ferripyoverdine import. Expression of the genes encoding σPvdS and σFpvI is iron-regulated and an antisigma protein, FpvR20, post-translationally controls the activities of the sigma factors in response to the amount of ferripyoverdine present. Here we show that iron represses synthesis of σPvdS to a far greater extent than σFpvI. In contrast ferripyoverdine exerts similar effects on the activities of both sigma factors. Using a combination of in vivo and in vitro assays we show that σFpvI and σPvdS have comparable affinities for, and are equally inhibited by, FpvR20. Importantly, in the absence of ferripyoverdine the amount of FpvR20 per cell is lower than the amount of σFpvI and σPvdS, allowing basal expression of target genes that is required to activate the signalling pathway when ferripyoverdine is present. This complex interplay of transcriptional and post-translational regulation enables a co-ordinated response to ferripyoverdine but distinct responses to iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two main methods for controlling switching converters exist in the literature. The direct one is the voltage mode control, which suffers from some disadvantages such as slow response to load variations and an input voltage-dependent total loop gain. The current mode control can overcome these problems but at the expense of extra cost and more complex control design. V1 concept is a new promising control technique for designing voltage mode control of buck-type converters with an optimal response similar to current mode control. In this paper, the dynamics and the stability of buck converters under V1 control are studied. In particular, subharmonic oscillation limits in the parameter space are addressed. First, a closed-loop state-space model is derived and then used to formulate an analytical matrix-form expression for predicting the stability limit of the system. Using this expression, multi-parametric stability boundaries are obtained. It is shown that the equivalent series inductance of the output capacitor can narrow the stability region. It is also demonstrated that the integral action in the feedback loop of a V1-controlled buck converter has a negligible effect on the subharmonic oscillation boundary. The theoretical analysis is validated through numerical simulation of the circuit-level switched model of the system. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic hepatitis C ( CHC) can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC). A sustained virological response ( SVR) is associated with improved outcomes, however, its impact on different ethnic groups is unknown. Aim To evaluate ethnic differences in the natural history of CHC and the impact of SVR. Methods We conducted a cohort study of 8039 consecutive adult CHC patients seen at two medical centres in California between January 1997 and June 2016. Individual chart review confirmed CHC diagnosis. Results Asian and Hispanic but not African American patients had significantly higher cirrhosis and HCC incidence than Caucasians. On multivariate analysis, Hispanic ethnicity was independently associated with increased cirrhosis (adjusted HR 1.37, CI, confidence interval 1.10-1.71, P=.006) and HCC risk (adjusted HR 1.47, CI 1.13-1.92, P=.004) compared to Caucasian. Asian ethnicity had a significant association with cirrhosis (adjusted HR 1.28, CI 1.02-1.61, P=.034) and HCC risk (adjusted HR 1.29, CI 0.94-1.77, P=.025). In patients who achieved SVR, Hispanic ethnicity was no longer independently associated with cirrhosis (adjusted HR 1.76, CI 0.66-4.71, P=.26) or HCC (adjusted HR 1.05, CI 0.27-4.08, P=.94); nor was Asian ethnicity (adjusted HR 0.62, CI 0.21-1.82, P=.38 for cirrhosis; 2.01, CI 0.63-6.36, P=.24 for HCC). Similar findings were observed with overall survival among the ethnicities by SVR status. Conclusion Hispanic and Asian ethnicity was independently associated with increased cirrhosis and HCC risk. Achieving an SVR eliminates the ethnic disparity in liver disease progression and overall survival between Hispanic and Asian vs Caucasian CHC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hepatitis C virus genotype 1a ( HCV-1a), prior treatment, cirrhosis and post-transplant status are historically associated with poor treatment responses. The new oral direct-acting agents appear to be effective and safe in these patients. Aims To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of simeprevir and sofosbuvir in a diverse real-life cohort of patients, including difficult-to-treat patients. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study in 198 consecutive patients with hepatitis C genotype 1 (148 nontransplant, 50 post transplant), who were treated with simeprevir and sofosbuvir for 12 weeks between December 2013 and December 2014. Primary outcome was sustained virological response with undetectable HCV RNA 12 weeks after completion of therapy ( SVR12). Risk factors evaluated for lack of SVR12 included HCV 1a (vs. 1b), prior treatment (vs. none), and cirrhosis (vs. no cirrhosis). Results SVR12 rates were similar in non- and post-transplant settings, 82% and 88%, respectively. There were no significant differences in adverse events in patients regardless of cirrhosis or transplant status. On multivariate analysis also inclusive of gender and liver transplant status, negative predictors of SVR12 were having at least 2 or 3 risk factors ( OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.10-0.87, P = 0.027 or 0.29, 95% CI 0.09-0.85, P = 0.025, respectively). Conclusion Simeprevir and sofosbuvir combination is a safe and effective regimen for the treatment of non- and post-transplant patients with traditional risk factors for poor treatment response, unless more than 2 difficult-to-treat risk factors are present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors reflect on chronic kidney disease (CKD) in disadvantaged populations. Topics discussed include the incidence of CKD in developed countries, low birth weight and risk of CKD in the disadvantaged populations, and disparities in access to renal replacement therapy (RRT). The bidirectional relationship between poverty and CKD is also examined.

Population genetic analyses based on both mitochondrial cytochrome b and the internal transcribed spacer 2 of recombinant (r)DNA genes were implemented to examine hypotheses of population differentiation in the angular angel shark Squatina guggenheim, one of the four most-widespread endemic species inhabiting coastal ecosystems in the south-western Atlantic Ocean. A total of 82 individuals of S. guggenheim from 10 sampling sites throughout the Río de la Plata mouth, its maritime front, the outer shelf at the subtropical confluence and the coastal areas of the south-west Atlantic Ocean, were included. The analysis of molecular variance ( AMOVA) based on the second internal transcribed spacer ( its-2) region supports that the samples from the outer shelf represent an isolated group from other sites. Historical gene flow in a coalescent-based approach revealed significant immigration and emigration asymmetry between sampling sites. Based on the low level of genetic diversity, the existence of a long-term population decline or a past recent population expansion following a population bottleneck could be proposed in S. guggenheim. This demographic differentiation suggests a degree of vulnerability to overexploitation in this endemic and endangered south-west Atlantic Ocean shark, given its longevity and low reproductive potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Respiratory allergies rely on a defect of IL-10-secreting regulatory CD4+ T-cells ( IL-10- Tregs) leading to excessive Th2-biased immune responses to allergens. According to clinical data, the restoration of allergen-specific IL-10- Tregs is required to control respiratory allergies and cure patients. The discovery of mechanisms involved in the generation of IL-10- Tregs will thus help to provide effective treatments. We previously demonstrated that dendritic cells ( DCs) expressing high levels of the glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper protein ( GILZ) generate antigen-specific IL-10- Tregs. Objective We suspect a defective expression of GILZ in the DCs of respiratory allergic patients and speculate that increasing its expression might restore immune tolerance against allergens through the induction of IL-10- Tregs. Methods We assessed GILZ expression in blood DCs of patients and healthy nonallergic donors by qPCR. We compared the ability of patients' DCs to induce allergen-specific IL-10- Tregs before and after an in vivo up-regulation of GILZ expression by steroid administration, steroids being inducers of GILZ. Results We report lower levels of GILZ in DCs of respiratory allergic patients that return to normal levels after steroid administration. We show that patients' DCs with increased levels of GILZ generate allergen-specific IL-10- Tregs again. We further confirm unequivocally that GILZ is required in patients' DCs to activate these IL-10- Tregs. Conclusion This proof of concept study shows that the re-establishment of GILZ expression in patients' DCs to normal levels restores their capacity to activate allergen-specific IL-10- Tregs. We thus highlight the up-regulation of GILZ in DCs as a new interventional approach to restore the immune tolerance to allergens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT It is believed that glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) hyperphosphorylates tau protein in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). The Tau Restoration on PSP (TAUROS) study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of tideglusib, a GSK-3 inhibitor, as potential treatment for PSP. The study enrolled 146 PSP patients with mild-to-moderate disease who were randomized to receive once-daily 600 mg tideglusib, 800 mg tideglusib, or placebo (ratio, 2:2:1) administered orally over 52 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline to week 52 on the PSP rating scale. Secondary endpoints were safety and tolerability of tideglusib, changes in motor function (the Timed Up and Go Test), cognition (Dementia Rating Scale-2, Frontal Assessment Battery, verbal fluency), apathy (Starkstein scale), activities of daily living (Schwab and England scale; Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, part II), quality of life (EuroQol), and Global Clinical Assessment. Brain atrophy on magnetic resonance imaging and several biomarkers in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid also were examined. No significant differences were detected in the primary or secondary endpoints at week 52 between placebo and either dose of tideglusib. Tideglusib was safe, with the exception of some asymptomatic, transient, and reversible transaminase elevations (mainly alanine aminotransferase) in 9% of patients, and diarrhea in 13% of patients. Tideglusib was generally well tolerated but it did not show clinical efficacy in patients with mild-to-moderate PSP. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Prior studies have shown that precore mutations abolish and basal core promoter ( BCP) mutations down-regulate hepatitis B e antigen ( HBeAg) production. Thus, the presence of precore and BCP mutations in HBeAg-positive patients indicates an infection with a mixed viral population of wild-type and precore and/or BCP mutant hepatitis B virus ( HBV). To date, there has been limited study of the prevalence and clinical significance of precore and BCP mutations in patients with HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B. Aim To determine the prevalence, predictors and clinical characteristics of mixed wild-type and precore/ BCP HBV infection, through a cross-sectional study, in a US cohort of patients with chronic hepatitis B. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of 828 chronic hepatitis B patients with HBV genotype and mutation panel testing seen at three US gastroenterology and liver clinics from June 2005 to September 2009. Results A majority of our patients (92.3%) were either Vietnamese or Chinese American. In the HBeAg-positive cohort, 17% of patients had precore mutations only, 28% had BCP mutations only and 5% had both BCP and precore mutations. On multivariate analyses, HBV genotype C, increasing age, lower HBV DNA level and an ALT quotient >2 were independent predictors for the presence of precore and/or BCP mutations. Conclusions The current distinction and management recommendations for HBeAg-positive vs. HBeAg-negative patients with chronic hepatitis B should be reassessed. Additional biomarkers and treatment endpoints should be studied for their usefulness in predicting continued viral suppression after treatment discontinuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study analyzes the oxidative stress situation in the skeletal muscle of overweight/obese men suffering from non-insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes mellitus [T2DM, n=16, years=61±7, body mass index (BMI)=31±4 kg/m2] and BMI-matched non-diabetic male control subjects (CON, n=7, years=53±6, BMI=30±4 kg/m2). Furthermore, it investigates whether physical training can alter the skeletal muscle antioxidative capacity of T2DM patients at rest. Molecule content analyses (immunohistochemical stainings) of 8-iso-prostaglandin-F2α (8-Iso-PGF), superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD2), glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX1), peroxiredoxin isoforms (PRDX 1-6) and heat-shock-protein-70 (HSP70) were performed in biopsies taken from the vastus lateralis muscle. Under basal conditions, 8-Iso-PGF was significantly decreased in T2DM patients (−35.7%), whereas PRDX2 and PRDX6 were significantly increased relative to CON (+82.6%; +82.3%). Differences were neither observed in SOD2 nor in GPX1 or PRDX1, 3, 4, 5 density. Regular physical activity (moderate endurance or resistance training twice a week for 3 months) did not alter PRDX1, 2, 3, 4, 6 in the skeletal muscle of T2DM patients, but significantly increased SOD2 (+65.9%), GPX1 (+62.4%), PRDX5 (+37.5%), and HSP70 (+48.5%). Overweight/obese men with non-insulin-dependent T2DM exhibit up-regulated cytosolic peroxiredoxin contents relative to BMI-matched controls. Regular training further up-regulates cytosolic and mitochondrial antioxidative enzymes in T2DM patients and improves their cellular protection systems. This may contribute to a retardation of the disease's progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary. Commonly known risk factors for infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) include blood transfusion, injection drug use, intranasal cocaine use, and body tattoos. We hypothesized that Asian Americans infected with HCV may not identify with these established risk factors present in Caucasians and Hispanics, and our aim was to conduct a survey of risk factors in HCV-infected patients in these ethnic groups. In this prospective study, 494 patients infected with HCV completed a detailed risk assessment questionnaire at a liver centre in Northern California from 2001 to 2008. Among subjects participating in this study, 55% identified themselves as Caucasian, 20% as Hispanic, and 25% as Asian. Asian Americans were older, less likely to smoke or consume alcohol, and have a family history of cancer compared with Caucasians and Hispanics. The laboratory profiles were similar, and genotype 1 was the most common infection in all groups (74-75%). The great majority of Caucasians (94%) and Hispanics (86%) identified with commonly known risk factors, which was in contrast to 67% of Asians ( P < 0.0001). The most common risk factors in Asians were blood transfusions (50%) and acupuncture (50%). Furthermore, 74% of Caucasians and 66% of Hispanics identified more than one major risk factor, while only 20% of Asians reported having more than one risk factor ( P < 0.0001). Survey for established risk factors for acquisition of HCV may be more appropriate for risk assessment of Caucasians and Hispanics, but not for Asian Americans. These findings may guide the development of HCV screening in our increasingly diverse population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A better understanding of allergen-specific CD4+ T cell responses is needed to help improving immunological therapies. Objective To compare CD4+ T cell responses against seasonal (Bet v 1) and perennial (Der p 1, Der p 2) allergens. Methods Major histocompatibility complex class II peptide tetramers were engineered to monitor allergen-specific T cell responses. After in vitro expansion, tetramer+ cells were tested for surface markers using cytofluorometry. Cytokine gene expression and production were assessed using quantitative PCR and cytokine surface capture assays, respectively. Results Tetramer+ cells were detected in 19 patients allergic to house dust mites (HDM), seven allergic to birch pollen, 13 allergic to both and nine non-allergics with either an HLADRB1 *0101, *0301, *1501 or an HLA-DPB1*0401 background. High-avidity T cells are elicited against the immunodominant Bet v 1141-155 epitope, whereas broader low-avidity T cell responses are induced against Der p 116-30,110-124,171-185 and Der p 226-40,107-121 epitopes. Responses against Bet v 1 involve effector (CDL62 low, CCR7 low) or central (CD62L+, CCR7+) memory cells in allergic and non-allergic individuals, respectively, whereas central memory cells are mostly detected against mite allergens. In non-allergics, both mite and Bet v 1-specific T cells produce IFN-γ and IL-10. In contrast to Bet v 1-driven Th2 responses, mite allergens induce highly polymorphic responses in allergics, including Th1, Th2/Th17 or mixed Th1/Th2 profiles. Mite-specific T cell frequencies in the blood remain in the range of 1-6×10-4 CD4+ T cells throughout the year. Conclusion Different memory CD4+ T cell responses are elicited in the context of chronic vs. seasonal stimulation with the allergen(s). The heterogeneity in the patterns of CD4+ T cell responses observed in patients allergic to HDMs should be taken into account for specific immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 31, 1077–1084 Background Helicobacter pylori eradication rates with standard triple therapy have declined to unacceptable levels. Aim To compare clarithromycin and levofloxacin in triple and sequential first-line regimens. Methods A total of 460 patients were randomized into four 10-day therapeutic schemes (115 patients per group): (i) standard OCA, omeprazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin; (ii) triple OLA, omeprazole, levofloxacin and amoxicillin; (iii) sequential OACM, omeprazole plus amoxicillin for 5 days, followed by omeprazole plus clarithromycin plus metronidazole for 5 days; and (iv) modified sequential OALM, using levofloxacin instead of clarithromycin. Eradication was confirmed by 13C-urea breath test. Adverse effects and compliance were assessed by a questionnaire. Results Per protocol cure rates were: OCA (66%; 95% CI: 57–74%), OLA (82.6%; 75–89%), OACM (80.8%; 73–88%) and OALM (85.2%; 78–91%). Intention-to-treat cure rates were: OCA (64%; 55–73%), OLA (80.8%; 73–88%), OACM (76.5%; 69–85%) and OALM (82.5%; 75–89%). Eradication rates were lower with OCA than with all the other regimens ( P < 0.05). No differences in compliance or adverse effects were demonstrated among treatments. Conclusions Levofloxacin-based and sequential therapy are superior to standard triple scheme as first-line regimens in a setting with high clarithromycin resistance. However, all of these therapies still have a 20% failure rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Masitinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting stem cell factor receptor (c-kit) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor, which are expressed on several cell types including mast cells and bronchial structural cells, respectively. We hypothesized that c-kit and PDGF receptor inhibition may decrease bronchial inflammation and interfere with airway remodeling, which are crucial features of severe asthma. Objectives: The primary endpoint was the percent change from baseline in oral corticosteroids after 16 weeks of treatment. Change in asthma control (asthma control questionnaire), exacerbation rate, pulmonary function tests, rescue medication requirement and safety were secondary endpoints. Methods: A 16-week randomized, dose-ranging (3, 4.5, and 6 mg/kg/day), placebo-controlled study was undertaken in 44 patients with severe corticosteroid-dependent asthma who remained poorly controlled despite optimal asthma management. Results: At 16 weeks of treatment, a comparable reduction in oral corticosteroids was achieved with masitinib and placebo (median reduction of ­78% and ­57% in the masitinib and placebo arms, respectively). Despite this similar reduction, the Asthma Control Questionnaire score was significantly better in the masitinib arm as compared to placebo with a reduction by 0.99 unit at week 16 ( P < 0.001) vs 0.43 unit in the placebo arm. Masitinib therapy was associated with more transient skin rash and edema. Conclusions: Masitinib, a c-kit and PDGF-receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, may represent an innovative avenue of treatment in corticosteroid-dependent asthma. These preliminary results warrant further long-term clinical studies in severe asthma (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00842270). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was a follow up to the study on the gross anatomy of the male agouti ( Dasyprocta leporina) reproductive system. The seminal vesicles of the agouti are lobulated structures. The mean diameter of the large lumen is 883.6 ± 76.83 μm. The mucosa (24.1 ± 0.92 μm), which is lined by pseudo-stratified columnar epithelium is thrown into folds, which often branch. The lamina muscularis mucosa is thin and is made of loose connective tissue containing blood vessels. The mucosa of the leaf-like coagulating glands of the agouti is folded. The mean diameter of the lumen is 488.3 ± 41.96 μm. The mucosa contains tubuloalveolar glands, which have a mean length of 199.5 ± 28.83 μm. The thin epithelium, 15.0 ± 1.25-μm wide, consists mostly of pseudo-stratified columnar cells. The epithelium also has surface modifications in the form of apical blebs and cilia. The epithelium of the agouti’s lobulated prostate gland is also folded creating a large lumen with a mean diameter of 995.5 ± 55.70 μm. The mucosa contains tubular and tubuloalveolar glands, each having a mean length of 134.4 ± 13.59 μm. The epithelium (13.9 ± 1.16 μm) consists of pseudo-stratified columnar cells. The pea-shaped bulbourethral gland (BG) of the agouti consists of convoluted tubular, mucous secretory units, which are irregularly shaped each with a mean length of 177.9 ± 7.10 μm and a mean width of 63.5 ± 3.97 μm. The BG of the agouti are ventro-lateral to the rectum and dorsally positioned to the pubic symphysis, and connected to the urethra by short ducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mid-trimester scan showed a high-output aneurysmal dilation of the vein of Galen with hemodynamic and neurological repercussions. Tetracameral cardiomegaly, pulsatility index of umbilical artery with absence of diastole and periventricular leukomalacia were detected. After a normal course pregnancy and delivery of a healthy newborn, a follow-up ultrasound at week 28 showed moderate polyhydramnios and an intracranial vascular malformation. [Extracted from the article]

Morphological US at week 20 revealed left pelvis dilatation of 5.6mm, single umbilical artery and absent stomach bubble within a two-hour interval period. US at our centre at week 23 demonstrated pouch sign so final diagnosis of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula (EA with TEF) was made. First-trimester ultrasound (US) was normal and aneuploidy screening showed low risk. [Extracted from the article]

Abdominal cysts are usually incidental findings during a third-trimester ultrasound examination. After an eutocic delivery at week 40, postnatal abdominal ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of a splenic cyst. As a result of their uniqueness, the etiology of splenic cysts, optimal prenatal control, associated anomalies and bad prognosis ultrasound markers are still unknown. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a rare variant of severe asthma resulting from hypersensitivity to Aspergillus fumigatus (Asp f) present in the airways. Aims of the study: We analyzed the expression of a panel of six chemokine receptors (CCR3, CCR4, CCR8, CCR5, CXCR3 and CXCR4) on total blood CD4+ T cells and Asp f-specific-T cells in ABPA patients. We hypothesized that chemokine receptor pattern on T cells differs between ABPA patients, non-ABPA allergic asthmatics sensitized to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) or Phleum pratense (Phl p) and healthy controls. Methods: We used the fluorescent dye PKH26, a membrane bound marker, to identify accumulated proliferating (cell-sorted PKH26low) CD4+ T cells in response to allergens (Asp f, Der p, Phl p) or recall antigens (PPD and TT). Chemokine receptor expression was analyzed by flow cytometry on proliferating CD3+ CD4+ PKH26low cells. Results: Stimulation of CD4+ T cells with the relevant allergen resulted in different patterns of chemokine receptor expression in ABPA and non-ABPA allergic asthmatics. Upon Asp f exposure, proliferating CD4+ T cells from ABPA patients down-regulated the expression of CCR4 and CXCR3 while CCR4 and CXCR3 were up-regulated in allergen-specific T cells from non-ABPA allergic asthmatics. Considering each group of patients, the pattern of chemokine receptors expressed on proliferating allergen-specific CD4+ T cells was similar to that expressed by recall antigen-specific T cells. Conclusions: The down-regulation of CCR4 and CXCR3 after allergen exposure in Asp f-specific T cells seems to be a characteristic feature of ABPA patients and requires further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the findings of the amputation of carpal myxosarcoma and forelimb in a ferret. The study involves a three-year-old neutered male ferret presented as a referral to the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine's Veterinary Teaching Hospital with a history of growing mass on the left carpus. Information on the clinical trial and its findings regarding the amputation are further discussed.

Background: Glucocorticoids (GCs) decrease tissue mast cell (MC) number and prevent their activation via their high-affinity IgE receptor. Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is one of the GC-induced genes, which inhibits the functions of the transcriptional activators AP-1 and NF- κB. GILZ appears to be a critical actor in the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of GCs in human T lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells. Aims of the study: We investigated whether GILZ was produced by human MCs and whether GILZ synthesis was stimulated by GCs. We also investigated whether GILZ production was modulated by (i) IL-10, because of its common immunosuppressive properties with GCs, (ii) histamine because of its pro-inflammatory properties and (iii) IL-4 and IL-5 because of their ability to favour MC survival and proliferation with SCF. Methods: The human MC lines HMC-1 5C6 and LAD-2, and cord blood-derived MCs (CB-MCs) were cultured alone or in the presence of GCs, IL-10, histamine, IL-4 or IL-5. The expression of GILZ was evaluated by using RT-PCR, Western blotting or immunocytochemistry. Results: We found that human MC lines and CB-MCs constitutively produce GILZ. We also show that GCs and IL-10 stimulate GILZ production by human MCs. Our present results indicate that histamine, IL-4 and IL-5 alone or in combination with SCF do not downregulate GILZ production by MCs. Conclusions: These results show that GCs and IL-10 stimulate GILZ production by human MCs. As GILZ mediates anti-inflammatory effects of GCs in immune cells, we speculate that GILZ could account for the deactivation of MCs by GCs and IL-10. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature available on the agouti ( Dasyprocta leporina) is very limited. The agouti is a Neotropical rodent found in Trinidad and Tobago, Central and South America. This study focuses on one of the many unexplored areas relating to the species, the male reproductive system. The results showed that the mean testicular length, diameter and weight was 3.67 ± 0.12 cm, 1.67 ± 0.04 cm and 5.03 ± 0.52 g respectively. The paired testes and epididymis were found in contact with the abdominal muscles within scrotal pouches, which are evaginations of the caudoventral abdominal wall. The caput epididymis is enclosed by a fat body. The ductus deferens has a mean length and diameter of 10.98 ± 0.40 cm and 0.14 ± 0.01 cm respectively. At the urethral end of the ductus deferens the diameter of each duct expends to form the ampulla. The mean diameter of each of the ampulla was 0.25 cm. The accessory sex organs of the male agouti ( D. leporina) include the vesicular glands, the coagulating glands, the prostate glands and the bulbourethral glands. The penis of the agouti is U-shaped with a mean length of 9.90 ± 0.43 cm. The glans penis contains an os penis, a pair of lateral penile cartilages and paired ventral keratinaceous styles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present two patients with subcutaneous nodular lesions of several years’ duration. These lesions were well defined and painless and were located next to bony surfaces or in the pulps of fingers and elbows. No other symptoms were observed except for frequent attacks of palindromic rheumatism with no evidence of arthritis or systemic manifestations suggestive of rheumatoid arthritis. Other studies performed were normal with negative results for rheumatoid factor and antinuclear antibodies. Radiographs of affected sites showed no signs of arthritis while the histopathologic study revealed some findings compatible with rheumatoid nodule. One of the patients also presented desquamate papular lesions at the level of elbows while histologically a process of transepidermal elimination of fibrinoid could be observed. Our patients fulfil all the diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid nodulosis as they present multiple rheumatoid nodules confirmed on biopsy, symptoms of palindromic rheumatism, no evidence of arthritis or radiological alterations and negative rheumatoid factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses difficult asthma. Diagnosis; Medical factors that can contribute to poor control of asthma; Patterns of difficulty in asthma; Treatment.

Summary. The synthetic progestin, norethisterone (NET), has been reported as a contragestational postcoital agent in humans, rodents and rabbits. The effect and molecular mechanisms of NET and its A-ring reduced metabolites, 5α-NET and 3β5α-NET, on the acrosome reaction (AR) are unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of these compounds on an in vitro progesterone-induced AR in porcine spermatozoa. The spermatozoa were obtained from semen ejaculated by proven fertile adult pigs. Seminal plasma removed and incubated under capacitating conditions was performed in TALP-Hepes medium for 4 h. Progesterone (P4 ) and three different progestins: norethisterone (NET), 5α-norethisterone (5α-NET) and 3β5α-NET were then added at equimolar doses, and the spermatozoa were incubated for 15 min. Double-staining with PSA-FITC and Hoechst-33258 assessed the AR and sperm viability. Both P4 and NET induced the AR, while 5α-NET not only did not induce this process, but was able to block the effect of P4 on the spermatozoa. 3β5α-NET was not able to inhibit P4 action. These results suggest that NET and its A-ring reduced metabolites act in different ways on the progesterone-induced AR in porcine spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with food allergy (FA) have been recently shown to develop bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), despite the absence of any concomitant asthmatic manifestation. In order to explain this observation, we sought to examine the presence of a bronchial inflammation in induced sputum of nonasthmatic patients with FA. Methods: Twelve nonasthmatic patients with FA (urticaria, digestive symptoms, anaphylaxis) were included in the study. Results were compared to these obtained from eight asthmatic patients without food allergy and eight healthy controls. Diagnosis of FA was based on double-blind placebo-controlled challenge. Sputum cells and fluid-phase eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were measured in induced sputum. BHR was evaluated using methacholine inhalation. Results: Sputum from asthmatics, in comparison with the sputum of healthy subjects and patients with FA contained a higher proportion of eosinophils and higher levels of ECP (< 0.001). In marked contrast, patients with FA exhibited an increased proportion of neutrophils and IL-8 in comparison with asthmatics and controls (P < 0.05 for neutrophils and P < 0.001 for IL-8). There was a significant correlation between sputum neutrophils and IL-8 (r = 0.68, P < 0.001). MPO levels were not different between the groups. There was a trend toward higher levels of IL-8 and ECP in food allergic patients with BHR in comparison with patients with FA without BHR. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that a subclinical neutrophil airway inflammation is present in patients with food allergy free of clinical respiratory symptoms and that IL-8 may be an important mediator of this neutrophilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BSTRACT A pilot study was made of the effect of temperature (17 and 26°C) and purging, with nitrogen (5-20 L/hr applied continuously and intermittently) or air (20 L/hr for 7 hr/day), o n the development of fermentation and on the incidence of bloater damage in cucumbers. Temperature affected the rate of fermentation and both temperature and purging strongly affected the incidence of bloater damage. At 17°C purging was not necessary, and at 26°C 10 L/hr was sufficient, applied for 7 hr/day for 7 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]