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Herein, the authors investigate the temperature‐dependent properties of delayed luminescence in an as‐grown nitrogen‐containing chemical vapor deposition synthetic diamond gemstone when excited above its bandgap. At room temperature, this gemstone exhibits delayed luminescence from nitrogen‐vacancy centers at 575 nm. However, at 77 K, the first recorded instance of a long‐lived delayed blue luminescence centered at ≈465 nm, accompanied by spectral peaks at 419, 455, and 499 nm is reported. By analyzing spectral and temporal data at different temperatures, it can be speculated on potential photophysical transitions. This discovery documents the initial observation of this delayed luminescence emission, contributing to the collective understanding of synthetic diamonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oxathiapiprolin is a novel fungicide and the first of the piperidinyl‐thiazole‐isoxazoline class to be discovered. This fungicide has been reported to have high activity against Plasmopara viticola, the grapevine downy mildew agent, and other plant‐pathogenic oomycetes. In this study, the baseline sensitivity of Italian P. viticola populations towards oxathiapiprolin was established on 29 samples collected in 10 different viticultural areas. Two insensitive strains were characterized for their mechanism of resistance. Results: Oxathiapiprolin exhibited substantial inhibitory activity against 27 of the 29 populations tested, with EC50 values ranging from a minimum of under 4 × 10−5 mg L−1 to over 4 × 10−1 mg L−1, with an average value of 3.2 × 10−2 mg L−1. Two stable suspected oxathiapiprolin‐resistant mutants were isolated from population exhibiting reduced sensitivity, and sequenced for the oxathiapiprolin target gene PvORP1. The comparison with wild‐type isolates revealed that the resistant isolates possessed a heterozygous mutation causing the amino acid substitution N837I, recently reported in the literature. Conclusion: The results obtained indicate a risk for Italian P. viticola populations to develop resistance to oxathiapiprolin in association with the N837I mutation at PvORP1. Anti‐resistance strategies should be carefully implemented and the sensitivity levels to this molecule should be monitored accurately in future to preserve its effectiveness. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Past research on social support and dental visits in older people has been limited by cross‐sectional design, limited social support dimensions and non‐representative samples. Methods: Data came from men with natural teeth completing Waves 3 and 4 of the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project in Sydney, Australia. The relationship between social support at Wave 3 (2011–2012) and at least one dental visit per year at Wave 4 (2014–2016) was examined by Poisson regression. Social support was measured by structural (marital status, living arrangements, family support and social interaction) and functional (social support satisfaction) domains. Results: About 673 men were analysed. Structural and functional social support were not associated with the pattern of usual dental visits 5 years later in univariable or multivariable analyses. The only consistent significant factor was income source, with older men who had other sources of income more likely to regularly visit the dentist than older men solely reliant on the pension for income (prevalence ratio: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.13–1.52). Conclusions: We found no differences in the pattern of usual dental visits between older men with different levels and types of social support. For older Australian men, income source seems to be the most important determinant of regular dental visits. © 2022 Australian Dental Association [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: SARS‐CoV‐2 has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism in critically ill patients. Since surgical patients are already at higher risk of venous thromboembolism than general populations, this study aimed to determine if patients with peri‐operative or prior SARS‐CoV‐2 were at further increased risk of venous thromboembolism. We conducted a planned sub‐study and analysis from an international, multicentre, prospective cohort study of elective and emergency patients undergoing surgery during October 2020. Patients from all surgical specialties were included. The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism (pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis) within 30 days of surgery. SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis was defined as peri‐operative (7 days before to 30 days after surgery); recent (1–6 weeks before surgery); previous (≥7 weeks before surgery); or none. Information on prophylaxis regimens or pre‐operative anti‐coagulation for baseline comorbidities was not available. Postoperative venous thromboembolism rate was 0.5% (666/123,591) in patients without SARS‐CoV‐2; 2.2% (50/2317) in patients with peri‐operative SARS‐CoV‐2; 1.6% (15/953) in patients with recent SARS‐CoV‐2; and 1.0% (11/1148) in patients with previous SARS‐CoV‐2. After adjustment for confounding factors, patients with peri‐operative (adjusted odds ratio 1.5 (95%CI 1.1–2.0)) and recent SARS‐CoV‐2 (1.9 (95%CI 1.2–3.3)) remained at higher risk of venous thromboembolism, with a borderline finding in previous SARS‐CoV‐2 (1.7 (95%CI 0.9–3.0)). Overall, venous thromboembolism was independently associated with 30‐day mortality (5.4 (95%CI 4.3–6.7)). In patients with SARS‐CoV‐2, mortality without venous thromboembolism was 7.4% (319/4342) and with venous thromboembolism was 40.8% (31/76). Patients undergoing surgery with peri‐operative or recent SARS‐CoV‐2 appear to be at increased risk of postoperative venous thromboembolism compared with patients with no history of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Optimal venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and treatment are unknown in this cohort of patients, and these data should be interpreted accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aims of this study were to provide data on the safety of head and neck cancer surgery currently being undertaken during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Methods: This international, observational cohort study comprised 1137 consecutive patients with head and neck cancer undergoing primary surgery with curative intent in 26 countries. Factors associated with severe pulmonary complications in COVID‐19–positive patients and infections in the surgical team were determined by univariate analysis. Results: Among the 1137 patients, the commonest sites were the oral cavity (38%) and the thyroid (21%). For oropharynx and larynx tumors, nonsurgical therapy was favored in most cases. There was evidence of surgical de‐escalation of neck management and reconstruction. Overall 30‐day mortality was 1.2%. Twenty‐nine patients (3%) tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) within 30 days of surgery; 13 of these patients (44.8%) developed severe respiratory complications, and 3.51 (10.3%) died. There were significant correlations with an advanced tumor stage and admission to critical care. Members of the surgical team tested positive within 30 days of surgery in 40 cases (3%). There were significant associations with operations in which the patients also tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 within 30 days, with a high community incidence of SARS‐CoV‐2, with screened patients, with oral tumor sites, and with tracheostomy. Conclusions: Head and neck cancer surgery in the COVID‐19 era appears safe even when surgery is prolonged and complex. The overlap in COVID‐19 between patients and members of the surgical team raises the suspicion of failures in cross‐infection measures or the use of personal protective equipment. Lay Summary: Head and neck surgery is safe for patients during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic even when it is lengthy and complex.This is significant because concerns over patient safety raised in many guidelines appear not to be reflected by outcomes, even for those who have other serious illnesses or require complex reconstructions.Patients subjected to suboptimal or nonstandard treatments should be carefully followed up to optimize their cancer outcomes.The overlap between patients and surgeons testing positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is notable and emphasizes the need for fastidious cross‐infection controls and effective personal protective equipment. Among 1137 patients who underwent head and neck cancer surgery during the first peak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, the overall 30‐day mortality rate was 1.2%, and severe pulmonary complications of COVID‐19 were seen in 1.2%. There is evidence of therapeutic migration away from surgery to a radiotherapy‐based primary modality and of de‐escalation in those undergoing surgery, which may not be justified in view of this reassuring patient safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in surgical capacity for head and neck cancer in the UK between the first wave (March‐June 2020) and the current wave (Jan‐Feb 2021) of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Design: REDcap online‐based survey of hospital capacity. Setting: UK secondary and tertiary hospitals providing head and neck cancer surgery. Participants: One representative per hospital was asked to report the capacity for head and neck cancer surgery in that institution. Main outcome measures: The principal measures of interests were new patient referrals, capacity in outpatients, theatres and critical care; therapeutic compromises constituting delay to surgery, de‐escalated surgery and therapeutic migration to non‐surgical primary modality. Results: Data were returned from approximately 95% of UK hospitals with a head and neck cancer surgery specialist service. 50% of UK head and neck cancer patients requiring surgery have significantly compromised treatments during the second wave: 28% delayed, 10% have received radiotherapy‐based treatment instead of surgery, and 12% have received de‐escalated surgery. Surgical capacity has been more severely constrained in the second wave (58% of pre‐pandemic level) compared with the first wave (62%) despite the time to prepare. Conclusions: Some hospitals are overwhelmed by COVID‐19 and unable to offer essential cancer surgery, but all have neighbouring hospitals in their region retaining good (or even normal) capacity. It is noteworthy that very few patients have been appropriately redirected away from the hospitals most constrained by their burden of COVID‐19. The paucity of an effective central or regional strategic response to this evident mismatch between demand and surgical capacity is to the detriment of our head and neck cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Remediation of wastewater using microalgae is an alternative way of reducing environmental impacts associated with wastewater treatment while simultaneously generating biomass that can be converted into biofuels. In this study, the phycoremediation of a secondary urban effluent by native microalgae was investigated using a photobioreactor designed to receive carbon dioxide (CO2). The experiments were carried out with and without CO2 addition, and the physicochemical parameters of the effluent were monitored. The biomass yield was determined as the dry weight, and both the lipid and fatty acid profiles were obtained by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry detection. RESULTS: With respect to biomass production, lipid content and phycoremediation of the secondary urban effluent, the best results were observed in the experiments using CO2. In these experiments, reductions of biological oxygen demand (54.34%), total phosphorus (92.4%), ammoniacal nitrogen (97.1%) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (92.8%) were observed. The CO2 addition also enhanced microalgae growth, as the maximum cell density (MCD) was 54.26% higher after a shorter period of time compared to the MCD obtained without CO2 addition. The biomass yields were 0.5324 ± 0.007 g L−1 and 0.821 ± 0.014 g L−1 without and with CO2 addition, respectively. The lipid yields per unit of biomass for the CO2 supplemented cultures were not statistically different from cultures that were not supplemented with CO2, and the same was observed for fatty acid composition. CONCLUSION: The use of the mixed‐type photobioreactor has been shown to be a potential alternative method for biomass production and wastewater phycoremediation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Despite anti‐resistance strategies being recommended to reduce selection pressure on insensitive strains, no information is available on fungal population dynamics following their application in real field conditions. In this study, the effects on Plasmopara viticola populations of two identical spray programs, differing only in including or not the carboxylic acid amide (CAA) mandipropamid in mixture and in alternation with an anti‐resistance partner, were compared in terms of downy mildew control efficacy and mandipropamid sensitivity in two commercial vineyards for four seasons. RESULTS: Both programs effectively and similarly protected grapevine from downy mildew, despite different starting sensitivity levels of the P. viticola populations. In the vineyard where resistant strains were initially present, the frequency of mutations associated with resistance (G1105S/V) fluctuated within seasons in both programs and a shift towards sensitivity occurred after 3 years of the mandipropamid‐free program. Where sensitivity was initially present, no changes occurred in the mandipropamid‐free program and resistant strains were selected in the mandipropamid program in high disease pressure conditions. CONCLUSION: The anti‐resistance strategy including mandipropamid in mixture showed a good field performance, but did not completely prevent an increase in the frequency of insensitive strains. This supports the need for appropriate planning to determine which mixtures should be used in the field. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry Fungicide resistance management is crucial in plant disease protection. The effectiveness of anti‐resistance strategies under real field conditions is evaluated considering the complex interaction among fungicide, pathogen, host and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND During the last few years, a growing number of antimicrobial peptides have been isolated from plants and particularly from seeds. Recent results from our laboratory have shown the purification of a new trypsin inhibitor, named CaTI, from chilli pepper ( Capsicum annuum L.) seeds. This study aims to evaluate the antifungal activity and mechanism of action of CaTI on phytopathogenic fungi and detect the presence of protease inhibitors in other species of this genus. RESULTS Our results show that CaTI can inhibit the growth of the phytopathogenic fungi Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and C. lindemuthianum. CaTI can also permeabilize the membrane of all tested fungi. When testing the inhibitor on its ability to induce reactive oxygen species, an induction of reactive oxygen species ( ROS) and nitric oxide ( NO) particularly in Fusarium species was observed. Using CaTI coupled to fluorescein isothiocyanate ( FITC), it was possible to determine the presence of the inhibitor inside the hyphae of the Fusarium oxysporum fungus. The search for protease inhibitors in other Capsicum species revealed their presence in all tested species. CONCLUSION This paper shows the antifungal activity of protease inhibitors such as CaTI against phytopathogenic fungi. Antimicrobial peptides, among which the trypsin protease inhibitor family stands out, are present in different species of the genus Capsicum and are part of the chemical arsenal that plants use to defend themselves against pathogens. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare bladder sensitivity between patients with pelvic pain and patients who were pain free, undergoing noninvasive, controlled bladder distension via diuresis. We also sought to measure potential mechanisms underlying bladder sensitivity.Design: Prospective observational study.Setting: Community teaching hospital.Population: Reproductive-age women with non-bladder chronic pelvic pain (CPP, n = 23), painful bladder syndrome (PBS, n = 23), and pelvic pain-free controls (n = 42) METHODS: Participants were compared on cystometric capacity, pelvic floor pressure-pain thresholds (PPTs), pelvic muscle function, O'Leary-Sant bladder questionnaire, and psychosocial instruments using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Multivariate regression was used to identify factors underlying bladder pain phenotypes.Main Outcome Measures: Pelvic floor pain thresholds; self-reported bladder distension pain.Results: Participants with PBS exhibited higher bladder distension pain than those with CPP, with both groups reporting higher pain levels than controls (P < 0.05). No significant associations were found between bladder distension pain and pelvic muscle structure or pain sensitivity measures; however, bladder distension pain positively correlates with both vaginal PPTs adjacent to the bladder (r = 0.46) and pain with transvaginal bladder palpation (r = 0.56). Pain at maximal distension was less influenced by somatic sensitivity than bladder symptoms (r = 0.35 versus r = 0.59; P < 0.05). Multivariate regression identified three independent components of bladder symptoms in PBS: bladder distension pain, bladder sensation, and somatic symptoms.Conclusions: Diuresis-induced bladder pain differentiates CPP from PBS. Experimental bladder pain is not predicted by pelvic floor sensitivity. Compared with patient-reported outcomes it appears less influenced by psychological factors. Further study is needed to determine whether screening for experimental bladder pain sensitivity could predict future risk of PBS.Tweetable Abstract: Controlled, water ingestion-provoked bladder pain can objectively identify visceral pain sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine if higher-volume, fixed-dose administration of vasopressin further reduces blood loss at the time of minimally invasive myomectomy.Design: Randomised multicentre clinical trial.Setting: Tertiary-care academic centres in the USA.Population: Women undergoing conventional laparoscopic or robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy.Methods: All participants received the same 10-unit (U) dose of vasopressin, but were randomly assigned to one of two groups: (i) received 200 ml of diluted vasopressin solution (20 U in 400 ml normal saline), and (ii) received 30 ml of concentrated vasopressin solution (20 U in 60 ml normal saline).Main Outcome Measures: The primary study outcome was estimated blood loss; the study was powered to detect a 100-ml difference.Results: A total of 152 women were randomised; 76 patients in each group. Baseline demographics were similar between groups. The primary outcome of intraoperative blood loss was not significantly different, as measured by three parameters: surgeon estimate (mean estimated blood loss 178 ± 265 ml and 198 ± 232 ml, dilute and concentrated groups respectively, P = 0.65), suction canister-calculated blood loss, or change in haematocrit levels. There were no vasopressin-related adverse events.Conclusion: Both dilute and concentrated vasopressin solutions that use the same drug dosing demonstrate comparable safety and tolerability when administered for minimally invasive myomectomy; however, higher volume administration of vasopressin does not reduce blood loss.Tweetable Abstract: This randomised trial failed to show benefit of high-volume dilute vasopression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate whether in symptomatic women, the combination of quantitative fetal fibronectin (fFN) testing and cervical length (CL) improves the prediction of preterm delivery (PTD) within 7 days compared with qualitative fFN and CL.Design: Post hoc analysis of frozen fFN samples of a nationwide cohort study.Setting: Ten perinatal centres in the Netherlands.Population: Symptomatic women between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation.Methods: The risk of PTD <7 days was estimated in predefined CL and fFN strata. We used logistic regression to develop a model including quantitative fFN and CL, and one including qualitative fFN (threshold 50 ng/ml) and CL. We compared the models' capacity to identify women at low risk (<5%) for delivery within 7 days using a reclassification table.Main Outcome Measures: Spontaneous delivery within 7 days after study entry.Results: We studied 350 women, of whom 69 (20%) delivered within 7 days. The risk of PTD in <7 days ranged from 2% in the lowest fFN group (<10 ng/ml) to 71% in the highest group (>500 ng/ml). Multivariable logistic regression showed an increasing risk of PTD in <7 days with rising fFN concentration [10-49 ng/ml: odds ratio (OR) 1.3, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.23-7.0; 50-199 ng/ml: OR 3.2, 95% CI 0.79-13; 200-499 ng/ml: OR 9.0, 95% CI 2.3-35; >500 ng/ml: OR 39, 95% CI 9.4-164] and shortening of the CL (OR 0.86 per mm, 95% CI 0.82-0.90). Use of quantitative fFN instead of qualitative fFN resulted in reclassification of 18 (5%) women from high to low risk, of whom one (6%) woman delivered within 7 days.Conclusion: In symptomatic women, quantitative fFN testing does not improve the prediction of PTD within 7 days compared with qualitative fFN testing in combination with CL measurement in terms of reclassification from high to low (<5%) risk, but it adds value across the risk range.Tweetable Abstract: Quantitative fFN testing adds value to qualitative fFN testing with CL measurement in the prediction of PTD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the efficacy and safety of the long-acting altrenogest injection ( NV Readyserve® injection) for horses. Design A single-dose pharmacokinetic ( PK) study was conducted. The in vivo efficacy study was a blinded, repeated measures design evaluating behaviour scores. The safety study was a non-blinded, controlled, parallel-group, randomised-block design as per the VICH protocol. Methods In the PK study, serial blood samples were obtained for analysis of plasma altrenogest for 150 h following the injection and a non-compartmental PK analysis was performed. For the efficacy study, 12 mares in oestrus were treated; they were monitored daily for 10 days for signs of oestrus during teasing and given a behaviour score that was compared with pretreatment scores. A standard safety study was conducted at 1-, 3- and 5-fold the recommended dosage for 84 days. Physical, haematological and biochemical examinations were performed. Results Mean plasma altrenogest concentrations were greater than ≈0.5 ng/ mL for 148 h following administration. Oestrous behaviour was suppressed in all mares within 24 h of administration. Two mares returned to oestrus by day 6 and the rest on days 7-10. In the safety study there were no significant differences in the physical and haematological examinations, but minor biochemical changes in muscle enzymes. There was a low incidence of injection site reactions following the 3- and 5-fold dose, predominantly for pectoral injections. Conclusion These studies support the efficacy and safety of a single dose of Readyserve® injection for the suppression of the signs of oestrus in mares for 5-7 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 31-year-old pregnant woman in Brazil who developed a maculopapular rash and was referred for assessment of fetal anatomy regarding ZIKV epidemic. Topics discussed include association of microcephaly with Zika virus outbreak, need for prenatal ultrasound for monitoring growth of fetus and diagnosis of abnormalities, and need for virological diagnosis of infants with microcephaly related to Zika virus.

Background and Purpose: Asthma is characterized by chronic lung inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. Despite recent advances in understanding of its pathophysiology, asthma remains a major public health problem, and new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. In this context, we sought to ascertain whether treatment with the TK inhibitor dasatinib might repair inflammatory and remodelling processes, thus improving lung function, in a murine model of asthma.Experimental Approach: Animals were sensitized and subsequently challenged, with ovalbumin (OVA) or saline. Twenty-four hours after the last challenge, animals were treated with dasatinib, dexamethasone, or saline, every 12 h for 7 consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, the animals were killed, and data were collected. Lung structure and remodelling were evaluated by morphometric analysis, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy of lung sections. Inflammation was assessed by cytometric analysis and ELISA, and lung function was evaluated by invasive whole-body plethysmography.Key Results: In OVA mice, dasatinib, and dexamethasone led to significant reductions in airway hyperresponsiveness. Dasatinib was also able to attenuate alveolar collapse, contraction index, and collagen fibre deposition, as well as increasing elastic fibre content, in OVA mice. Concerning the inflammatory process, dasatinib reduced inflammatory cell influx to the airway and lung-draining mediastinal lymph nodes, without inducing the thymic atrophy promoted by dexamethasone.Conclusions and Implications: In this model of allergic asthma, dasatinib effectively blunted the inflammatory and remodelling processes in asthmatic lungs, enhancing airway repair and thus improving lung mechanics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents The ring-tailed coati ( Nasua nasua) is a procyonid whose population is in sharp decline. Therefore, studies are needed to better understand the reproduction of this animal. For this reason, this study aimed to evaluate the morphology, morphometry and sperm ultrastructure of ring-tailed coati sperm. Four captive adult males were used for this study. Slides stained with Bengal Rose were used for the morphometric and morphologic analyses. The length and width of the head were measured, as well as the length of the midpiece and tail and the total length of the sperm. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used for the ultrastructural analyses. The most obvious morphological abnormalities observed were coiled tails (6.1 ± 8.7%) and the lack of acrosomes (5.4 ± 4.4%). Regarding the morphometry, the measurements of the head (length × width), midpiece (length) and tail (length) were (mean ± SD) 6.2 ± 0.4 × 8.1 ± 0.6 μm, 14.1 ± 0.5 and 63.9 ± 4.1 μm, respectively, and the total length of the sperm was 86.1 ± 4.3 μm. Through electron microscopy, the presence of electron-lucent points in the nucleus and the presence of approximately 55 mitochondrial spirals in the midpiece were identified. The data obtained in this study provide detailed information on the sperm characteristics of coatis and may inform future research on germplasm conservation, both for this species and other threatened procyonids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors discuss the investigation, evaluation and management of chronic uterine pain. They are critical of the available measures to determine chronic pelvic pain. Also investigated is two closely related disorders, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and painful bladder syndrome or Interstitial Cystitis (PBS).

The article presents author's comments on the concept of maternal mortality as the public health concern in developing countries. It mentions that family planning, antenatal care and skilled delivery care helps in reducing the burden of maternal deaths. According to World Health Organization (WHO) the maternal death audit, identify factors focused on prevention of maternal deaths.

Contents This study analysed two non-invasive oocyte selection methods in relation to in vitro embryo development capacity and expression of apoptosis-related genes. Selection was based on morphological quality of oocytes or follicle diameter. Oocytes were classified as grade I ( GI ≥3 layers compact cumulus cells and homogeneous cytoplasm; grade II ( GII ≤3 layers compact cells and homogeneous cytoplasm;, and grade III ( GIII ≥3 layers, but cells with slight expansion and slightly granulated cytoplasm). Blastocyst development was lower for GII (28.5%) than for GIII (47.7%, p < 0.05), and GI was similar to both (36.9%, p > 0.05). Relative expression of Bcl-2 gene was lower in the GI (1.0, p < 0.05) than in the GII (1.8) and GIII (2.2), which were not different (p > 0.05). There was no difference (p > 0.05) between GI (1.0), GII (0.92) and GIII (0.93) regarding the Bax transcript. However, the Bax and Bcl-2 transcript ratios in GII (Bax; 0.92 and Bcl-2; 1.8) and GIII (Bax; 0.93 and Bcl-2; 2.2) were different (p < 0.05). Regarding oocytes from follicles of different sizes, cleavage and blastocyst rates for 1-3 mm (82.5; 23.7%) were lower (p < 0.05) than for 6-9 mm (95.6; 41.1%), but similar (p > 0.05) to 3-6 mm (93.7; 35.4%), which were not different (p > 0.05). Regarding Bax and Bcl-2 expression, the oocytes were similar (p > 0.05) for 1-3 mm (Bax; 1.0 and Bcl-2; 1.0), 3-6 mm (Bax; 1.0 and Bcl-2; 0.93) and 6-9 mm (Bax; 0.92 and Bcl-2; 0.91). In conclusion, oocyte selection based on morphological appearance does not guarantee the success of embryonic development. Additionally, the absence of apoptosis is not necessarily a benefit for the development of oocytes. Bovine COCs with initial signs of atresia may be used for the in vitro production of embryos, and COCs taken from follicles >3 mm in diameter are better suited to in vitro embryo development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents The aim of this study was to further clarify the mechanisms involved in inducing pluripotency using canine foetal fibroblast cells. The two pluripotency-related transcription factors, OCT4 and SOX2, coupled to a fluorescent reporter gene were transduced, individually or in combination, using a lentiviral system. Stable transgenic cell lineages were obtained and canine cells showed to be highly responsive to the integration and expression of human SOX2 and OCT4, also depending on the amount of virus used for incubation. Such positive results are essential for the establishment of pluripotency induction through the incorporation of known transcription factors into the genome of somatic cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents The aim of the study was to evaluate the seasonality of andrological characteristics and hormonal profile of captive maned wolves ( Chrysocyon brachyurus, Illiger 1811). Three adult males were evaluated from the Companhia Brasileira de Metalurgia e Mineração Scientific Breeding Center in Araxá, MG, Brazil, over 13 months. Semen was collected 2-3 times weekly and analysed. Scrotal circumference, biometrics and testicular volume were measured. Stool samples were collected 2-3 times weekly to analyse corticosteroid and testosterone metabolite concentrations. A success rate of 100% was achieved in the collection attempts during the breeding season ( BS) and 77.8% during the non-breeding season ( NBS). The interval to achieve penile erection was 1-5 min in the BS and 6-10 in the NBS (p < 0.001). Of the ejaculates collected, 80.0% contained sperm during BS, while 28.6% did during the NBS. The ejaculate had only one fraction, was odourless, predominantly translucent (72.4%), with a watery appearance, p H 6.7 and osmolarity of 352.8 mOsmol. Seasonal influences were seen in ejaculate volume (1.3 ml vs 0.4 ml), number of spermatozoa per ejaculate (73.9 × 106 vs 6.1 × 106) and percentage of live sperm (82.0% vs 66.1%) between the BS and NBS (p < 0.05), respectively. A high percentage of major sperm defects were observed in both seasons (50.1% in BS; 65.7% in NBS). Testicular volume was larger (p < 0.05; right testicles 13.1 cm3 in BS vs 4.0 cm3 in NBS, while left testicles 12.9 cm3 in BS vs 5.3 cm3 in NBS) and testicular consistency increased in the BS. No difference was seen in the basal faecal metabolite concentrations of testosterone; however, the corticosteroid concentrations were higher in the BS. Based on these results, it is possible to conclude that the collection of semen is feasible in captive maned wolves without compromising libido, seminal characteristics and reproductive behaviour and that sperm production is influenced by seasonality; however, it appears that there is no seasonal influence on basal testosterone concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Gouty arthritis is a frequent and disabling complication in heart failure patients. This study aimed to investigate which factors are associated with the occurrence of gouty arthritis in these patients. Methods and Results: A case-control study was performed in heart failure patients (February 2007 to October 2009). Cases were defined as patients with gouty arthritis. Factors that are possibly associated with gouty arthritis and/or heart failure were evaluated. Echocardiographic dimensions and laboratory values including glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and fractional excretion of uric acid (FEUA) were measured. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for possibly associated factors. In total, 188 patients (59 with gouty arthritis) were included. Spironolactone use was associated with a decreased occurrence of gouty arthritis (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13-0.77). Independently associated with an increased occurrence of gouty arthritis were hypertensive heart failure (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6-8.2), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.8-11.0), lower GFR (P < 0.001), and FEUA <4% (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4-7.9). Among the four age/gender groups, the strongest association with gouty arthritis was found in men <65 years. Conclusion: Our identification of factors that are associated with the occurrence of gouty arthritis makes it possible to develop strategies to improve further the quality of life in heart failure patients. The possible decreased occurrence of gouty arthritis in spironolactone users has to be confirmed in prospective studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To compare intra-articular morphine or bupivacaine against no treatment following unilateral elbow joint arthroscopy using force plate analysis and pain scoring. Methods Thirty-one dogs were randomly allocated to receive 0·1 mg/kg intra-articular morphine, 0·5 mg/kg bupivacaine or no treatment following elbow arthroscopy. Force plate analysis, pain scoring and kinematic evaluation were performed before anaesthesia, 4 and 24 hours after surgery. Peak vertical force index, symmetry index, rate of loading, rate of unloading, stance time and range of motion were obtained from gait analysis. Pain scoring was performed every 4 hours and interventional analgesia (0·3 mg/kg methadone) was administered if necessary. Results Of 29 dogs analysed, peak vertical force index (P<0·001), symmetry index (P=0·01) and rate of unloading (P=0·01) decreased significantly over time in each group; however, this was not affected by treatment. No significant differences were observed in stance time or rate of loading over time. Kinematic (range of motion) evaluation was not complete for all dogs. Pain scores increased significantly at both time points postoperatively in the no treatment group (P=0·007) and in morphine-treated dogs at 4 hours compared to baseline (P=0·03). For intra-articular bupivacaine significant increases in pain scores were not detected (P=0·28). Clinical Significance No benefit to intra-articular bupivacaine or morphine was detected using peak vertical force index from force plate analysis. Bupivacaine prevented increases in pain scores at both time points as did morphine at the 24-hour evaluation, compared to no treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most studies comparing prevalence of periodontal disease and risk factors by using partial protocols were performed in adult populations, with several studies being conducted in clinical settings. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of partial protocols in estimating the prevalence of periodontal outcomes in adolescents and young adults from two population-based birth cohorts from Pelotas, Brazil, and to assess differences in the estimation and strength of the effect measures when partial protocols are adopted compared to full-mouth examination.Methods: Gingival bleeding at probing among adolescents (n = 339) and young adults (n = 720) and dental calculus and periodontal probing depth among young adults were assessed using full-mouth examinations and four partial protocols: Ramfjord teeth (RT), community periodontal index (CPI), and two random diagonal quadrants (1 and 3, 2 and 4). Socioeconomic, demographic, and periodontal health-related variables were also collected. Sensitivity, absolute and relative bias, and inflation factors were calculated. Prevalence ratio for each periodontal outcome for the risk factors was estimated.Results: Two diagonal quadrants showed better accuracy; RT had the worst, whereas CPI presented an intermediate pattern when compared to full-mouth examination. For bleeding assessment in adolescence, RT and CPI underestimated by 18.4% and 16.2%, respectively, the true outcome prevalence, whereas among young adults, all partial protocols underestimated the prevalence. All partial protocols presented similar magnitude of association measures for all investigated periodontal potential risk factors.Conclusion: Two diagonal quadrants protocol may be effective in identifying the risk factors for the most relevant periodontal outcomes in adolescence and in young adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) affects first-trimester maternal serum PAPP-A and free [beta]-hCG levels. METHOD: An observational study was conducted in 115 cases of HG and 110 control pregnancies who attended the first-trimester prenatal screening program between January 2006 and July 2010. RESULTS: Maternal serum TSH levels were lower and free T4, and transaminases (ALT, AST) levels were higher in pregnancies complicated with HG compared with controls (p < 0.05 for all). In HG cases, median values of maternal serum PAPP-A were significantly higher with respect to normal pregnancies (1.2 vs 1.0 MoM; p = 0.009). Similarly, median values of free [beta]-hCG were 1.3 MoM in HG pregnancies and 1.0 MoM in controls (p = 0.006). Multivariate analysis revealed that PAPP-A and hCG were independently associated with HG after controlling for TSH, free T4, AST, and ALT. CONCLUSION: HG is associated with elevated levels of PAPP-A and free [beta]-hCG, and such changes are independent of serum indicators of thyroid and liver function. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

J Oral Pathol Med (2010) 40: 405-411 Background: Several signaling pathways are involved in the progression of squamous cell carcinoma. Among them, activated PI3K/Akt may result in NF-[kappa]B nuclear translocation, thus leading to the transcription of genes enrolled in cellular invasion and proliferation, such as cyclin D1. This study sought to evaluate the expression of pAkt, NF-[kappa]B and cyclin D1 proteins in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines and their respective in vitro-obtained invasive clones. Methods: Squamous cell carcinoma cell lines originating from the tongue, pharynx and the metastatic lymph node were submitted to an in vitro invasion assay to select invasive clones. All experimental groups were submitted to immunofluorescence and Western blot assays. Statistical analysis was performed through a Student's t-test with a significance level of 5%. Results: The pAkt and NF-[kappa]B expression differed from cytoplasm and nucleus depending on the studied cell line. The invasive clone from the tongue presented a network-like structure of pAkt's cytoplasmic expression. This lineage as well as the invasive clone from pharynx also showed pAkt and NF-[kappa]B nuclear transportation. Significant pAkt and NF-[kappa]B increases were observed in the tongue and pharynx invasive clones. Cyclin D1 was detected in the nucleus of all studied cells and was significantly enhanced in the invasive clones from tongue and pharynx. Conclusion: This study suggests the participation of pAkt, NF-[kappa]B and cyclin D1 in the invasion process of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Moreover, cytoplasmic pAkt network-like structure was probably related to cytoskeleton changes presented during invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Adenosine is an endogenous modulator, interacting with four G-protein coupled receptors (A(1), A(2A), A(2B) and A(3)) and acts as a potent inhibitor of inflammatory processes in several tissues. So far, the functional effects modulated by adenosine receptors on human synoviocytes have not been investigated in detail. We evaluated mRNA, the protein levels, the functional role of adenosine receptors and their pharmacological modulation in human synoviocytes.Experimental Approach: mRNA, Western blotting, saturation and competition binding experiments, cyclic AMP, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB activation, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) release were assessed in human synoviocytes isolated from patients with osteoarthritis.Key Results: mRNA and protein for A(1), A(2A), A(2B) and A(3) adenosine receptors are expressed in human synoviocytes. Standard adenosine agonists and antagonists showed affinity values in the nanomolar range and were coupled to stimulation or inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. Activation of A(2A) and A(3) adenosine receptors inhibited p38 MAPK and NF-kappaB pathways, an effect abolished by selective adenosine antagonists. A(2A) and A(3) receptor agonists decreased TNF-alpha and IL-8 production. The phosphoinositide 3-kinase or G(s) pathways were involved in the functional responses of A(3) or A(2A) adenosine receptors. Synoviocyte A(1) and A(2B) adenosine receptors were not implicated in the inflammatory process whereas stimulation of A(2A) and A(3) adenosine receptors was closely associated with a down-regulation of the inflammatory status.Conclusions and Implications: These results indicate that A(2A) and A(3) adenosine receptors may represent a potential target in therapeutic modulation of joint inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Human Hsp60 is expressed in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and can elicit a regulatory T cell response in the peripheral blood and synovial fluid. However, Hsp60 can also trigger strong proinflammatory pathways. Thus, to understand the nature of these Hsp60-directed responses in RA, it is necessary to study such responses at the molecular, epitope-specific level. This study was undertaken to characterize the disease specificity and function of pan-DR-binding Hsp60-derived epitopes as possible modulators of autoimmune inflammation in RA. METHODS: Lymphocyte proliferation assays (using (3)H-thymidine incorporation and carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester [CFSE] staining) and measurement of cytokine production (using multiplex immunoassay and intracellular staining) were performed after in vitro activation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with RA, compared with healthy controls. RESULTS: A disease (RA)-specific immune recognition, characterized by T cell proliferation as well as increased production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), and IL-10, was found for 3 of the 8 selected peptides in patients with RA as compared with healthy controls (P < 0.05). Intracellular cytokine staining and CFSE labeling showed that CD4+ T cells were the subset primarily responsible for both the T cell proliferation and the cytokine production in RA. Interestingly, the human peptides had a remarkably different phenotype, with a 5-10-fold higher IL-10:TNFalpha ratio, compared with that of the microbial peptides. CONCLUSION: These results suggest a disease-specific immune-modulatory role of epitope-specific T cells in the inflammatory processes of RA. Therefore, these pan-DR-binding epitopes could be used as a tool to study the autoreactive T cell response in RA and might be suitable candidates for use in immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. The use of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors during pregnancy is contraindicated because of their association with increased risks of fetopathy, including central nervous systems malformations. In addition, some reports have shown that renin–angiotensin system components are expressed differently during embryonic development and adulthood in the rat. 2. Because angiotensin II and its derivative peptides have been implicated in anxiety and modulation of nociception, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether inhibiting ACE during prenatal and neonatal periods would alter behavioural plasticity in adult male offspring rats. 3. Female Wistar rats were treated with captopril (2 mg/mL water; approximately 200 mg/kg per day) during pregnancy and lactation. At adulthood, the offspring were subjected to the open field, elevated plus maze, social interaction, forced swimming and tail flick tests. 4. Perinatal captopril treatment significantly increased ambulation (33%; P < 0.05) and decreased resting time (37.5%; P < 0.05) in the open field test. Perinatal captopril treatment did not alter any of the behavioural parameters of the elevated plus maze; however, captopril treatment did cause a significant increase in social interaction (75.3%; P < 0.05). In the forced swimming test, there was an increased latency period (102.9%; P < 0.001) and a decreased immobility period (38.7, P < 0.05) in rats treated with perinatal captopril. In the tail flick test, perinatal captopril treatment significantly reduced the latency time (26.3%; P < 0.01). 5. The data show that ACE inhibition during prenatal and neonatal periods affects behavioural responses in adult offspring rats, suggesting that ACE is required for the development of neural systems that are associated with adult anxiety and nociceptive behavioural responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the study on evolutionary forces that drive the emergence and spread of quinone outside inhibitors (QoI) resistance in the fungal pathogens, Mycosphaerella graminicola. Since 1996, QoI has been used for the control of several plant pathogenic fungi. Several of the fungi have developed resistance against QoI. It has been demonstrated by the study that the QoI resistance allele was independently introduced by the recurring G143A mutations into different genetic and geographical backgrounds. The frequency of the resistant halotypes was increased as a result of strong fungicide selection and it spread eastwards through the dispersal of ascospores by wind.

Purpose To count in the Belgian ambulatory prescription database Pharmanet, the number of elderly people treated with ACE inhibitors (ACEI) and/or angiotensine receptor blockers (ARB) (±diuretics ± β-blockers) who eventually also received a prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) or spironolactone. Method All prescriptions dispensed in community pharmacies are collected in the Pharmanet database. The data of 2005 were used. Two age groups were studied: 65-79 years (label 1) and 80+ years (label 2). The following chronic treatments (subgroups) were studied: (A) ACEI/ARB; (B) ACEI/ARB + diuretics; (C) ACEI/ARB + spironolactone; (D) ACEI/ARB + β-blocker + diuretic and (E) ACEI/ARB + β-blocker + spironolactone. Results In 2005, 7.3% of Belgian population was chronically treated with ACEI/ARB. Twenty-five per cent of 65-79 year-old-patients (subgroup A1) and 36.15% of 80+ year-old-patients (subgroup A2) received ACEI/ARB. At least one package of NSAID or spironolactone was prescribed to subgroup A1 in 25.44 and 5.80%, respectively, and to subgroup A2 in 22.04 and 9.89%, respectively. In all studied subgroups and age categories, NSAID were coprecribed in more than 20-35% of cases. Conclusions NSAID are frequently prescribed in elderly patients treated with ACEI or ARB in combination with diuretics. Severe renal adverse effects may result in this high-risk population. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Some extremely preterm infants experience spontaneous closure of the ductus arteriosus. On the other side, a high percentage (22-30%) of preterm infants born at the lower gestational age fail to respond to a single course of ibuprofen. Aim: To assess if there are clinical characteristics effective as predictive factors for spontaneous closure of the ductus arteriosus, development of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and ibuprofen-resistant PDA. Methods: A cohort of inborn infants less than 28 weeks of gestation were prospectively studied. We distinguished infants who had spontaneous closure of ductus arteriosus, who developed PDA and who developed ibuprofen-resistant PDA. Results: We studied 34 infants. Eight infants (24%) had spontaneous closure of PDA, 17 infants (50%) had a closure of PDA following the first ibuprofen course, while 9 infants (26%) failed to respond to the first ibuprofen course. Infants born at 23-25 weeks of gestation were found to have lower likelihood of PDA spontaneous closure, and higher risk of developing PDA refractory to ibuprofen therapy. Sepsis was found to increase significantly the risk of ibuprofen failure in closing PDA. Conclusion: An important percentage of extremely preterm infants exhibited spontaneous closure of PDA. Among clinical characteristics lowest gestational ages predict PDA and ibuprofen-resistant PDA, while sepsis predicts only ibuprofen-resistant PDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. In the present study, we investigated the effects of exercise training on cardiac hypertrophy and oxidative stress in a monocrotaline (MCT)-induced cor pulmonale model. Male Wistar rats were assigned to one of three groups: sedentary control (SC); sedentary MCT (SM); or trained MCT (TM). 2. Right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) was induced by a single injection of MCT (60 mg/kg, i.p.). Exercise training consisted of running on a treadmill (five times a week, during Weeks 3, 4 and 5). Systemic oxidative stress was evaluated in erythrocytes by chemiluminescence (CL) and the activity of the anti-oxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) was determined. 3. At Week 3, MCT-treated animals exhibited RVH, lung congestion, decreased SOD activity and increased CAT activity. Exercise training reduced MCT-induced RVH and increased GST activity. At Week 4, MCT-induced RVH was accompanied by an increase in CL and GST activity. However, in TM animals there was a decrease in CL and augmented SOD activity. At Week 5, there were no survivors in the SM group, whereas GST activity was elevated in TM rats compared with SC rats. There was no difference in GPx activity throughout the experimental protocol between the groups. 4. Taken together, our results indicate that exercise training is able to ameliorate RVH and improve survival, which is associated with a reduction in oxidative stress in MCT-treated rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]