Gastric GDF15 levels are regulated by age, sex, and nutritional status in rodents and humans

AIM

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a stress response cytokine that has been proposed as a relevant metabolic hormone. Descriptive studies have shown that plasma GDF15 levels are regulated by short term changes in nutritional status, such as fasting, or in obesity. However, few data exist regarding how GDF15 levels are regulated in peripheral tissues. The aim of the present work was to study the variations on gastric levels of GDF15 and its precursor under different physiological conditions, such as short-term changes in nutritional status or overfeeding achieved by HFD. Moreover, we also address the sex- and age-dependent alterations in GDF15 physiology.

METHODS

The levels of gastric and plasma GDF15 and its precursor were measured in lean and obese mice, rats and humans by western blot, RT-PCR, ELISA, immunohistochemistry and by an in vitro organ culture system.

RESULTS

Our results show a robust regulation of gastric GDF15 production by fasting in rodents. In obesity an increase in GDF15 secretion from the stomach is reflected with an increase in circulating levels of GDF15 in rats and humans. Moreover, gastric GDF15 levels increase with age in both rats and humans. Finally, gastric GDF15 levels display sexual dimorphism, which could explain the difference in circulating GFD15 levels between males and females, observed in both humans and rodents.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide clear evidence that gastric GDF15 is a critical contributor of circulating GDF15 levels and can explain some of the metabolic effects induced by GDF15.

Estimated Energy Expenditure in Youth While Playing Active Video Games: A Systematic Review

Sedentary behavior and inadequate energy expenditure are serious global public health concerns among youngsters. The exponential growth in technology emerges as a valuable opportunity to foster physical activity, particularly through active video games. We performed a systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus to provide a comprehensive view of the literature on energy expenditure levels among adolescents while playing active video games. Among the 574 manuscripts identified at the first screening stage, 23 were retained for analysis. Ten studies were characterized by longitudinal and thirteen by cross-sectional designs. The results showed that short-term active video games elicited energy expenditure values comparable to moderate-intensity physical activity (3-6 METs). However, in intervention programs (with at least six weeks) the results indicate no significant effects of active video games on youngsters' energy expenditure levels and physical activity profiles between baseline and follow-up assessments. Overall, active video games based on sports and dance were the most used, and boys tended to achieve higher energy expenditure than girls. The diversity of methods implemented limits comparing results and drawing generalized conclusions. However, considering its attractiveness to youth, active video games might emerge as a complementary tool to traditional physical activities promoted in schools and local communities. Details regarding gender differences and contradictory results of longitudinal approaches should be considered in future research based on standardized methods.

Expression of NORAD correlates with breast cancer aggressiveness and protects breast cancer cells from chemotherapy

The recently discovered human lncRNA NORAD is induced after DNA damage in a p53-dependent manner. It plays a critical role in the maintenance of genomic stability through interaction with Pumilio proteins, limiting the repression of their target mRNAs. Therefore, NORAD inactivation causes chromosomal instability and aneuploidy, which contributes to the accumulation of genetic abnormalities and tumorigenesis. NORAD has been detected in several types of cancer, including breast cancer, which is the most frequently diagnosed and the second-leading cause of cancer death in women. In the present study, we confirmed upregulated NORAD expression levels in a set of human epithelial breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-436, and MDA-MB-468), which belong to the most aggressive subtypes (triple-negative breast cancer). These results are in line with previous data showing that high NORAD expression levels in basal-like tumors were associated with poor prognosis. Here, we demonstrate that NORAD downregulation sensitizes triple-negative breast cancer cells to chemotherapy, through a potential accumulation of genomic aberrations and an impaired capacity to signal DNA damage. These results show that NORAD may represent an unexploited neoadjuvant therapeutic target for chemotherapy-unresponsive breast cancer.

Laparoscopic repair of an anterior perineal hernia: a video presentation

BACKGROUND

The perineal hernia is a condition that occurs as a result of a defect in the pelvic diaphragm. It is classified as anterior or posterior, and as either a primary or secondary hernia. The best management of this condition remains controversial.

OBJECTIVES

To demonstrate the surgical steps of a laparoscopic repair with mesh of a perineal hernia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A video presentation showing the laparoscopic repair of a recurrent perineal hernia.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

A 46-year-old woman with a prior history of a primary perineal hernia repair had complaints of a symptomatic vulvar bulge. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging showed a 5 cm hernia sac at the right anterior pelvic wall containing adipose tissue. A laparoscopic perineal hernia repair was performed by dissection of the space of Retzius, reduction of the hernial sac, closure of the defect and mesh fixation.

RESULTS

The laparoscopic repair with mesh of a recurrent perineal hernia is demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

We showed that the laparoscopic approach can be an effective and reproducible treatment for perineal hernia.

LEARNING OBJECTIVE

Understanding of the surgical steps involved in the laparoscopic repair with mesh of a recurrent perineal hernia.

Overview on biofuels production in a seaweed biorefinery

The policy makers gathered at COP27 set a goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 °C above the pre- industrial level which requires a reduction of CO₂ emissions of 43% by 2030 (relative to 2019 value). To meet this target, it is imperative to replace fossil derivatives (fuels and chemicals) with biomass derivatives. Given that 70% of planet Earth is the ocean, blue carbon can contribute significantly to the mitigation of anthropogenic carbon emissions. Marine macroalgal, or seaweed, that stores carbon, mostly, in the form of sugars rather than lignocellulosic, like terrestrial biomass, is suitable as input raw material for biorefineries. Seaweed biomass has high growth rates, does not require fresh water or arable land, and therefore does not compete with conventional food production. To make seaweed based biorefineries profitable the valorization of biomass has to be maximized through cascade processes with the production of several high-value products such as pharmaceuticals/chemicals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, food, feed, fertilizers/biostimulants and low-carbon fuels. The composition of macroalgae, which varies depending on the species (green, red, or brown), the region in which it is grown, and the time of year, determines the variety of goods that can be made from it. Fuels must be made from seaweed leftovers since the market value of pharmaceuticals and chemicals is substantially larger than that of fuels. The following sections present a literature review on seaweed biomass valorization in the context of biorefinery with particular emphasis on low-carbon fuel production processes. An overview of seaweed's geographical distribution, composition, and production processes is also presented.

Mitochondrial Metabolism Drives Low-density Lipoprotein-induced Breast Cancer Cell Migration

Most cancer-related deaths are due to metastases. Systemic factors, such as lipid-enriched environments [as low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol], favor breast cancer, including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) metastasis formation. Mitochondria metabolism impacts TNBC invasive behavior but its involvement in a lipid-enriched setting is undisclosed. Here we show that LDL increases lipid droplets, induces CD36 and augments TNBC cells migration and invasion in vivo and in vitro. LDL induces higher mitochondrial mass and network spread in migrating cells, in an actin remodeling-dependent manner, and transcriptomic and energetic analyses revealed that LDL renders TNBC cells dependent on fatty acids (FA) usage for mitochondrial respiration. Indeed, engagement on FA transport into the mitochondria is required for LDL-induced migration and mitochondrial remodeling. Mechanistically, LDL treatment leads to mitochondrial long-chain fatty acid accumulation and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Importantly, CD36 or ROS blockade abolished LDL-induced cell migration and mitochondria metabolic adaptations. Our data suggest that LDL induces TNBC cells migration by reprogramming mitochondrial metabolism, revealing a new vulnerability in metastatic breast cancer.

Significance

LDL induces breast cancer cell migration that relies on CD36 for mitochondrial metabolism and network remodeling, providing an antimetastatic metabolic strategy.

Mitochondria dysfunction and impaired response to oxidative stress promotes proteostasis disruption in aged human cells

The plastic architecture of the mitochondrial network and its dynamic structure play crucial roles ensuring that varying energetic demands are rapidly met. Given the brain's high energy demand, mitochondria play a particularly critical role in neuronal and axonal energy homeostasis. With ageing physiological properties of the organism deteriorate, and are associated with loss of cellular homeostasis, accumulation of dysfunctional organelles and damaged macromolecules. Thus, mitochondrial loss of efficiency is likely to be both a cause and a consequence of ageing. Additionally distinct cellular events can contribute to oxidative stress, disruption of metabolism and mitochondria homeostasis, resulting in neuropathology. However, although the correlation between ageing and mitochondria disfunction is well established, the response to oxidative stress, particularly proteostasis, remains to be fully elucidated. The work here described explores the degradation of mitochondria oxidative stress-response mechanisms with ageing in human cells, addressing the physiological effects on proteostasis, focused on its role in differentiating between healthy and pathological ageing. Increased protein aggregation appears to be tightly related to impairment of ageing mitochondria response to oxidative stress, and antioxidative agents are shown to have a progressive protective effect with age; cells from old individuals show higher susceptibility to oxidative stress, in terms of protein aggregation, cell viability, or mitochondria homeostasis. These results support the antioxidant properties of flavonoids as a good therapeutic strategy for age-related diseases. Given their protective effect, this family of compounds can be of strategic therapeutic value for protein-aggregation related diseases.

School-Based Family-Oriented Health Interventions to Promote Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to systematically review and analyse intervention programs in a school context centred on the family, focused on increasing youths' physical activity.

DATA SOURCE

The research was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases.

STUDY INCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies were included if participants were children or adolescents, focusing on school-based intervention studies with parental involvement and physical activity, sedentary behaviour or physical fitness outcomes.

DATA EXTRACTION

The search was performed according to the PRISMA protocol. A total of 416 articles were identified. After being considered for eligibility and duplicates, 22 studies were identified as relevant for inclusion.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Sample and intervention characteristics, objective, the role of the family, outcomes measures, main findings regarding the outcomes and risk of bias.

RESULTS

Ten studies reported improvements in physical activity, 6 in sedentary behaviour and 9 in the components of physical fitness and/or skills related to healthy behaviours and lifestyles. Most of the interventions adopted a multidisciplinary and multi-component approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Most interventions employed a school's multidisciplinary/multi-component approach to promoting physical activity, nutrition, and general education for healthier lifestyle behaviours. The impact of school-based interventions involving families on youth's physical activity levels is still a relatively emerging theme. Further research is needed given the diversity of the intervention's characteristics and the disparity in the results' efficacy.

Best practices during COVID-19 pandemic in solid organ transplant programs in Spain

Clinical management of transplant patients abruptly changed during the first months of COVID-19 pandemic (March to May 2020). The new situation led to very significant challenges, such as new forms of relationship between healthcare providers and patients and other professionals, design of protocols to prevent disease transmission and treatment of infected patients, management of waiting lists and of transplant programs during state/city lockdown, relevant reduction of medical training and educational activities, halt or delays of ongoing research, etc. The two main objectives of the current report are: 1) to promote a project of best practices in transplantation taking advantage of the knowledge and experience acquired by professionals during the evolving situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, both in performing their usual care activity, as well as in the adjustments taken to adapt to the clinical context, and 2) to create a document that collects these best practices, thus allowing the creation of a useful compendium for the exchange of knowledge between different Transplant Units. The scientific committee and expert panel finally standardized 30 best practices, including for the pretransplant period (n = 9), peritransplant period (n = 7), postransplant period (n = 8) and training and communication (n = 6). Many aspects of hospitals and units networking, telematic approaches, patient care, value-based medicine, hospitalization, and outpatient visit strategies, training for novelties and communication skills were covered. Massive vaccination has greatly improved the outcomes of the pandemic, with a decrease in severe cases requiring intensive care and a reduction in mortality. However, suboptimal responses to vaccines have been observed in transplant recipients, and health care strategic plans are necessary in these vulnerable populations. The best practices contained in this expert panel report may aid to their broader implementation.

Realistic simulation in nursing education: Testing two scenario-based models

AIM

To evaluate students' self-perceived pedagogical outcomes when using a digital scenario-based tool compared to traditional scenarios printed on paper.

DESIGN

This study used a within-subjects experiment.

METHOD

A digital platform for scenario development was developed, focusing on patients' regaining independence and returning home after an acute event. Students participated in two simulation activities, differing only in the type of scenario used and completed a questionnaire to evaluate their learning experience.

RESULTS

Students considered that the new scenario template provided a clearer understanding of the situation under analysis, allowing them to recognize the focuses of attention to be prioritized when formulating the intervention plan. No Patient or Public Contribution: A digital platform for a standardized process of scenario writing to help realistic simulation in nursing education is a novelty in this study and will likely contribute to substantial learning gains.

Non-coding antisense transcripts: fine regulation of gene expression in cancer

Natural antisense transcripts (NATs) are coding or non-coding RNA sequences transcribed on the opposite direction from the same genomic locus. NATs are widely distributed throughout the human genome and seem to play crucial roles in physiological and pathological processes, through newly described and targeted mechanisms. NATs represent the intricate complexity of the genome organization and constitute another layer of potential targets in disease. Here, we focus on the interesting and unique role of non-coding NATs in cancer, paying particular attention to those acting as miRNA sponges.

P11.74.A Plexiform Neurofibromas prevalence and treatment modalities in a referral comprehensive cancer center

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is the most common tumor predisposition syndrome, with an incidence of 1/3500. Plexiform neurofibromas (PN) are benign tumors that can occur along the nerve sheath throughout the body, with unpredictable growth and with risk of malignant transformation. Symptoms will depend on their size and location, and include pain, deformity and functional impairment. There is a great variability in the PN severity and impact on quality-of-life (QOL). An unknown percentage of NF1 patients may need treatment, either medical and/or surgical.

Objectives

To assess the frequency of PN in a NF1 population followed in a comprehensive cancer center.

Material and Methods

Retrospective study. All patients with NF1 and PN followed in our center, between 31/12/2000 and 31/12/2021.

Results

Of 438 NF1 patients, 185 had PN (42%). 52 NF1 patients with PN were children (≤ 18). The most common symptoms were pain in 71 people (38,4%), deformity in 70 (37,8%) and functional impairment in 69 (37,3%). Several patients had a combination of these symptoms. Different treatment modalities were used for PN: medical, surgical or both. In this study, 54 patients (29,1%) were treated with MEK inhibitors (selumetinib), 74 patients (40%) were treated surgically and 12,4% (23) needed a combined approach (medical and surgical treatment).

Conclusion

PN are frequent in NF1 patients. A significant percentage is symptomatic and will require treatment, surgical, medical or both. There is no standard of care for PN NF1. The timing and sequence of medical and surgical treatment is yet to be defined.

MACROSCOPIC AND MICROSCOPIC DESCRIPTION OF ALPACA (Vicugna pacos) OVARIES DURING THE FETAL STAGE

The aim of this work was to describe macroscopically and microscopically the ovaries of alpacas during the fetal stage. We worked with 18 female fetuses collected at the Huancavelica Municipal Slaughterhouse, from alpacas destined for human consumption. The process and analysis of the collected samples was performed at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - UNMSM, in Lima, Peru. Fetal age was calculated by measuring the biparietal diameter and divided into three groups: Group I (60 - 150 days), Group II (151 - 239 days) and Group III (240 - 335 days). The weight of the ovaries was 0.02 ± 0.01, 0.03 ± 0.01 and 0.03 ± 0.01 grams in the first, second and third group, respectively. The ovaries were paired, oval-shaped, with a smooth, cream surface, located in the sublumbar region at the level of the 6th and 7th lumbar vertebrae. The cortex and medulla were visible from the third month. Microscopically, in Group I, we observed oogonium, the distinction between cortex and medulla, unilaminar primary follicles, atresia and segmentation of the germ cells. In Group II, we observed preantral primary follicles. In Group III, we observed preovulatory follicles. We concluded that, from day 68 of the fetal stage of the alpaca, ovaries have macroscopic characteristics similar to those of an adult alpaca. Microscopically, they presented ovogonia, primordial follicles, unilaminar primary follicles, preantral follicles, preovulatory follicle, as well as the degeneration of the germ cells.

New insights into ruthenium(ii) metallodendrimers as anticancer drug nanocarriers: from synthesis to preclinic behaviour

Pre-clinical results highlight the potential of the low-generation poly(alkylidenamine)-based dendrimers as ruthenium metallodrug nanocarriers.

Antioxidant Properties of Croton zehntneri Pax et Hoffm. Essential Oil and Its Inclusion Complex with β-Cyclodextrin Prepared by Spray Drying

Croton zehntneri Pax et Hoffm. is a plant from Northeastern Brazil, whose main component of its essential oil is estragole. Its thermal instability and low aqueous solubility prevent its technological application. This study aimed to prepare and characterize the Croton zehntneri essential oil (CZEO) complexed with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), and to evaluate antioxidant activity of free and complexed-CZEO in vitro systems by the elimination of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals (DPPH•), 2,2’-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+), hydroxyl and nitric oxide, as well as their ability to transfer electrons by the reducing potential. The infrared spectroscopy and thermal techniques demonstrated the formation of the inclusion complex (Est/β-CD) obtained by spray drying method. The free CZEO and its Est/β-CD at 0.9, 1.8, 3.6, 7.2, 14.4 and 28.8 μg mL–1 showed the ability to remove DPPH• (EC50 (half maximal effective concentration) 26.06 and 9.46 μg mL–1, respectively) and ABTS•+ (EC50 22.73 and 4.47 μg mL–1, respectively), nitric oxide inhibition (EC50 17.65 and 2.68 μg mL–1, respectively), hydroxyl radical sequestration (EC50 23.42 and 2.34 μg mL–1, respectively) and reducing potential (EC50 46.48 and 12.47 μg mL–1, respectively). The formation of the inclusion complex significantly increases its antioxidant potential.

The Covering Radius and a Discrete Surface Area for Non-Hollow Simplices

We explore upper bounds on the covering radius of non-hollow lattice polytopes. In particular, we conjecture a general upper bound of d/2 in dimension d, achieved by the "standard terminal simplices" and direct sums of them. We prove this conjecture up to dimension three and show it to be equivalent to the conjecture of González-Merino and Schymura (Discrete Comput. Geom. 58(3), 663-685 (2017)) that the d-th covering minimum of the standard terminal n-simplex equals d/2, for every n ≥ d . We also show that these two conjectures would follow from a discrete analog for lattice simplices of Hadwiger's formula bounding the covering radius of a convex body in terms of the ratio of surface area versus volume. To this end, we introduce a new notion of discrete surface area of non-hollow simplices. We prove our discrete analog in dimension two and give strong evidence for its validity in arbitrary dimension.

An update of advanced nanoplatforms for Glioblastoma Multiforme Management

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a very aggressive and heterogeneous glioma. Currently, GBM is treated with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy (e.g. temozolamide) and Tumour Treating Fields. Unfortunately, the mean survival is still around 15 months. This poor prognosis is associated with therapy resistance, tumor recurrence, and limited delivery of drugs due to the blood-brain barrier nature. Nanomedicine, the application of nanotechnology to medicine, has revolutionized many health fields, specifically cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review explores the particularities of different nanosystems (i.e., superparamagnetic, polymeric and gold nanoparticles, and liposomes) as well as how they can be applied to the treatment and diagnosis of GBM. As described, the most of the cited examples are on the preclinical phase; however, positive results were obtained and thus, the distance to achieve an effective treatment is shorter every day.

Age-Related Pathways in Cardiac Regeneration: A Role for lncRNAs?

Aging imposes a barrier for tissue regeneration. In the heart, aging leads to a severe rearrangement of the cardiac structure and function and to a subsequent increased risk of heart failure. An intricate network of distinct pathways contributes to age-related alterations during healthy heart aging and account for a higher susceptibility of heart disease. Our understanding of the systemic aging process has already led to the design of anti-aging strategies or to the adoption of protective interventions. Nevertheless, our understanding of the molecular determinants operating during cardiac aging or repair remains limited. Here, we will summarize the molecular and physiological alterations that occur during aging of the heart, highlighting the potential role for long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as novel and valuable targets in cardiac regeneration/repair.

Deciphering Adipose Tissue Extracellular Vesicles Protein Cargo and Its Role in Obesity

The extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players in metabolic disorders rising as an alternative way of paracrine/endocrine communication. In particular, in relation to adipose tissue (AT) secreted EVs, the current knowledge about its composition and function is still very limited. Nevertheless, those vesicles have been lately suggested as key players in AT communication at local level, and also with other metabolic peripheral and central organs participating in physiological homoeostasis, and also contributing to the metabolic deregulation related to obesity, diabetes, and associated comorbidities. The aim of this review is to summarize the most relevant data around the EVs secreted by adipose tissue, and especially in the context of obesity, focusing in its protein cargo. The description of the most frequent proteins identified in EVs shed by AT and its components, including their changes under pathological status, will give the reader a whole picture about the membrane/antigens, and intracellular proteins known so far, in an attempt to elucidate functional roles, and also suggesting biomarkers and new paths of therapeutic action.

Environmental and economical assessment for a sustainable Zn/air battery

Metal/Air batteries are being developed and soon could become competitive with other battery technologies already in the market, such as Li-ion battery. The main problem to be addressed is the cyclability, although some progress has been recently achieved. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the manufacturing process of a Zn/Air battery is presented in this article, including raw extraction and process of materials and battery assembly at laboratory scale (cradle to gate approach). The results indicate that Zn/Air battery can be fabricated with low environmental impacts in most categories and only four deserve attention (still being low impacts), such as Human Toxicity (cancer and non-cancer), Freshwater Ecotoxicity and Resource Depletion (the later one depending mainly on Zn use, which is not a critical material, but has a strong impact on this category). Cathode fabrication arises as the subassembly with higher impacts, followed by membrane, then anode and finally electrolyte. An economic cost calculation indicates that if cyclability of Zn/Air batteries is achieved, they can become competitive with other technologies already in the market.

Is Biceps Femoris Aponeurosis Size an Independent Risk Factor for Strain Injury?

This study examined whether professional footballers with previous biceps femoris long head (BF_LH) injury in the last 3-years present a smaller proximal aponeurosis (Apo-BF_LH) size compared to footballers with no previous injury. We examined the Apo-BF_LH and BF_LH size using magnetic resonance imaging and tested the knee flexor maximal isometric strength in 80 thighs of 40 footballers. Apo-BF_LH size parameters were processed using a semi-automated procedure. Outcomes were compared between thighs with (n=9) vs. without (n=71) previous BF_LH injury. No differences were observed between injured and non-injured thighs for the Apo-BF_LH and BF_LH size parameters (p>0.05) except for Apo-BF_LH volume, which was higher in the non-injured thighs of athletes with previous injury (3692.1±2638.4 mm3, p<0.006) compared to the left (2274.1±798.7 mm3) thighs of athletes without previous injury. A higher knee flexor isometric strength was observed in the injured limb of athletes with previous BF_LH injury (196.5±31.9 Nm, p<0.003) compared to the left (156.2±31.4 Nm) and right (160.0±31.4 Nm) thighs of non-injured athletes. The present results suggest that BF_LH proximal aponeurosis size should not be considered as an independent risk factor for strain injury.

Task-Based Automatic Evaluation of People with Intellectual Disabilities Performed on a Robotic Table Soccer

This paper is concerned with the automatic evaluation of selected tasks performed by people with intellectual Disabilities. According to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) system, subjects must be divided into two groups: group with no difficulty (N) and group with difficulty (D) being this classification based on performances obtained in a conventional table (CT) soccer. Three tasks, with different levels of difficulty, were proposed for performance evaluation. Experimental results were obtained on the basis of the task execution in both a CT and a robotics table (RT) soccer. All participants were able to perform tasks with the joystick on the RT soccer and the automatic evaluation system identified differences in reaction times with and without red color flag in the participants, on RT soccer. One of the tasks was completely performed by all the participants by using the RT soccer.

Immunomodulatory effect of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells on peripheral blood T cells from rheumatoid arthritis patients

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a Th1/Th17-mediated autoimmune disease whose current treatment, consisting in the blockage of inflammatory cytokines by disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, is not effective for all patients. The therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells' (MSCs) immunomodulatory properties is being explored in RA. Here, we investigate the effect of human bone marrow (BM)-MSCs on the expression of cytokines involved in RA physiopathology by the distinct functional compartments of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells from RA patients. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy individuals (n = 6) and RA patients (n = 12) were stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate plus ionomycin and cultured in the presence/absence of BM-MSCs. The expression of (interleukin) IL-2, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) was evaluated in naive, central memory, effector memory, and effector CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, whereas IL-6, IL-9, and IL-17 expression was measured in total CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells. mRNA expression of IL-4, IL-10, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4, and/or forkhead box P3 was quantified in fluorescence-activated cell sorting-purified CD4⁺ T cells, CD8⁺ T cells, and CD4⁺ Treg. BM-MSCs inhibited the production of TNF-α, IL-17, IL-6, IL-2, IFN-γ, and IL-9 by T cells from RA patients, mainly by reducing the percentage of cells producing cytokines. This inhibitory effect was transversal to all T cell subsets analyzed. At mRNA level, BM-MSCs increased expression of IL-10 and TGF-β by CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells. BM-MSCs displayed a striking inhibitory action over T cells from RA patients, reducing the expression of cytokines involved in RA physiopathology. Remarkably, BM-MSC-derived immunomodulation affected either naive, effector, and memory T cells.

Uncovering sperm metabolome to discover biomarkers for bull fertility

Background

Subfertility decreases the efficiency of the cattle industry because artificial insemination employs spermatozoa from a single bull to inseminate thousands of cows. Variation in bull fertility has been demonstrated even among those animals exhibiting normal sperm numbers, motility, and morphology. Despite advances in research, molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the causes of low fertility in some bulls have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the metabolic profile of bull spermatozoa using non-targeted metabolomics. Statistical analysis and bioinformatic tools were employed to evaluate the metabolic profiles high and low fertility groups. Metabolic pathways associated with the sperm metabolome were also reported.

Results

A total of 22 distinct metabolites were detected in spermatozoa from bulls with high fertility (HF) or low fertility (LF) phenotype. The major metabolite classes of bovine sperm were organic acids/derivatives and fatty acids/conjugates. We demonstrated that the abundance ratios of five sperm metabolites were statistically different between HF and LF groups including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), carbamate, benzoic acid, lactic acid, and palmitic acid. Metabolites with different abundances in HF and LF bulls had also VIP scores of greater than 1.5 and AUC- ROC curves of more than 80%. In addition, four metabolic pathways associated with differential metabolites namely alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, β-alanine metabolism, glycolysis or gluconeogenesis, and pyruvate metabolism were also explored.

Conclusions

This is the first study aimed at ascertaining the metabolome of spermatozoa from bulls with different fertility phenotype using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. We identified five metabolites in the two groups of sires and such molecules can be used, in the future, as key indicators of bull fertility.

Transparency and accuracy in funding investigator-initiated clinical trials: a systematic search in clinical trials databases

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to identify the sources of funding for investigator-initiated clinical trials (IICTs) in Portugal, and to recommend ways to improve the quality of information collected from clinical trial databases about funding.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A systematic search of trial registrations over the last 13 years-using the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO-ICTRP) and four clinical trials registries (CTRs)-was carried out to identify IICTs in Portugal, used as a case study. Data from the databases were compared with data contained in publications to evaluate the consistency of information on funding sources. The term 'database' is used in this study to refer to both the WHO-ICTRP and the CTRs. When mentioned separately, the WHO-ICTRP is referred to as a 'platform', while the CTRs are referred to as 'registries'.

OUTCOME

Suggestions to improve clinical trials databases to clearly identify the funding sources and data ownership in IICTs.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty-two IICTs were identified in Portugal. Twenty per cent of trials were supported by industry with unclear information on the ownership of the results. Inaccuracy was found in the information about sponsors and funders. The information about funding in all resulting publications (77 out of 133 completed studies) was also inconsistent between databases in 35 out of 77 (45%) of the studies. Notably, 23% of the trials funded by non-profit organisations (n=226) received funds from international and/or national funding agencies.

CONCLUSIONS

Identification of IICT funding and ownership of results is unclear in the databases used for this study, which may lead to misunderstandings about the independence of the obtained results. Transparency and accuracy are desirable so that public decision makers and strategic partners can accurately evaluate national performance in this particular type of clinical research.

Correction to: X-linked hypophosphatemia and growth

The authors of the article would like to note an error in the acknowledgements section of this paper.

153 Sperm metabolomic landscape associated with bull fertility

Sub-fertility fertility in bulls decreases the efficiency and profitability of cattle production because AI allows a single bull to inseminate thousands of cows. In recent decades, there has been a general decline in fertility of bulls, even among those exhibiting normal sperm motility and morphology. Despite advances in technology and knowledge, molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying the causes of low fertility in bulls are currently unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify sperm metabolites associated with fertility in Holstein bulls. The metabolome of sperm from 10 mature bulls with high fertility (HF, n=5) and low fertility (LF, n=5) was identified by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Bull fertility was based on the sire conception rates deviating from the average. Statistical analysis was performed by using MetaboAnalyst 3.0 (http://www.metaboanalyst.ca/). A total of 22 metabolites were detected and categorized according to their major chemical classes, including amino acids, peptides/analogues, carbohydrates/carbohydrate conjugates, fatty acids, steroids/steroid derivatives, keto acids and derivatives, carboxylic acids, and other organic and inorganic compounds. Organic acids and derivatives as well as fatty acids were the major compounds in bull spermatozoa. Seven organic acids and derivatives were detected, including benzoic acid, carbonate, carbamate dimethyl, carbamate trimethyl, lactic acid, oxalic acid, and urea. Five fatty acids were identified including oleic acid, oleanitrile, nonanoic acid, and palmitic acid. Oleic acid, phosphoric acid, phosphine, carbamate trimethyl, and glycerol were the most abundant metabolites in bull sperm, whereas benzoic acid, acetic acid, l-serine, carbamate, and 2-ketobutyric acid were the least predominant metabolites present in bull sperm. Multivariate analysis (partial least squares-discriminant analysis) of the sperm metabolome showed a clear separation between HF and LF bulls. Variable importance in projection (VIP) score demonstrated that metabolites with VIP &gt;1.5 were gamma-aminobutyric acid (VIP=2.01), carbamate trimethyl (VIP=1.88), benzoic acid (VIP=1.86), and lactic acid (VIP=1.81). Abundance ratios of gamma-aminobutyric acid, carbamate trimethyl, benzoic acid, and lactic acid was greater in HF bulls compared with LF animals. According to univariate analysis, abundance ratios of gamma-aminobutyric acid (P=0.03) and carbamate trimethyl (P=0.047) were greater in HF than in LF bulls. Gamma-aminobutyric acid was positively correlated with carbamate trimethyl (r=0.94; P&lt;0.0001) and benzoic acid (r=0.74; P=0.0139). Benzoic acid was positively correlated with carbamate trimethyl (r=0.75; P=0.0107) and carbamate dimethyl (r=0.68; P=0.0274). The identified metabolites can serve as potential markers to evaluate semen quality and predict bull fertility.

Fostering Scientific Collaborations for Cancer Research Between High and Low/Middle Income Countries Through International Partnerships

Background: Much remains to be learned about the causes of several major cancers. Implementing and sustaining global initiatives aimed to advance cancer research requires concerted efforts among government agencies, the industry and philanthropic institutions. Aiming to tackle this challenge, in 2015 the Azrieli Foundation, Canada's International Development Research Centre, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and the Israel Science Foundation launched the Joint Canada-Israel Health Research Program (JCIHRP), a 7-year CA$35 million partnership that draws on the scientific strengths of Canadian, Israeli and low and middle income countries (LMICs) researchers in the broad field of biomedicine. Aim: JCIHRP aims to advance research and discovery in the biomedical sciences; encourage scientific collaboration between Canadian and Israeli researchers; and build capacity and foster scientific relations and collaborations with researchers and trainees in LMICs. Methods: JCIHRP will fund up to 30 research projects from 2015 to 2022 in diverse areas of the biomedical sciences (neurosciences, immunology, cancer and metabolism). So far, the program is supporting 9 projects in cancer research. Teams are led by a Canadian and Israeli principal investigators and a collaborator from a LMIC. Three years is the maximum duration of each grant and teams can request up to CA$1.17 million. The program launches 1 competition each year and activities are coordinated by a directors working group, which is responsible for program implementation and coordination among the agencies. Annual implementation timeline can be divided into 4 phases: competition development and application; proposals' eligibility, selection and decision; research phase; and reporting and monitoring. In deploying these phases, the funding partners have shared effort and costs. Results: Among cancer research projects, 4 teams are developing strategies to improve effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy. Five other teams use advanced genomics and protein engineering techniques to elucidate molecular mechanisms associated with tumor development, progression and resistance to therapy in pancreatic, breast, hepatic and brain cancer. These projects are supporting 26 established researchers in 7 Canadian, 6 Israeli and 9 institutions based in Brazil, Mexico, China, India, Argentina and Turkey. Additionally, 19 graduate students and 9 postdoctoral fellows are directly involved in research activities. Type of collaboration can be grouped into 2 categories: research and training (5 projects) and research, training and exchange (4 projects). Conclusion: JCIHRP multicentre funding model allows international integration of researchers promoting scientific advances, new collaborations and enhancing teams' overall competitiveness by prioritizing research topics with potential for global impact in cancer research.

Paediatric interventional cardiology in Costa Rica: diagnostic reference levels and estimation of population dose

The goal of the present study was to propose a set of national diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) in Costa Rica for paediatric interventional cardiology (IC) procedures classified by age and weight and to estimate the collective dose of the paediatric population from these intervention practices. The data collection period was May 2016 to May 2017. The third quartile of patient dose data distributions for kerma-area product (KAP) values was set as the national DRLs. A sample of 154 paediatric IC procedures (collected in the national paediatric hospital with a single x-ray system) was used and divided into four age ranges and five weight ranges. The national DRLs obtained for KAPs by age range were 1.79 Gy cm² (<1 year) to 23.0 Gy cm² (10-15 years). The national DRLs obtained for KAPs by weight range were 1.0 Gy cm² (<10 kg) to 49.6 Gy cm² (50-79 kg). The contribution to the collective dose of the population of Costa Rica amounted to 0.78 person Sv.