Effects of resveratrol on changes in trimethylamine-N-oxide and circulating cardiovascular factors following exercise training among older adults

PURPOSE

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is a gut-derived metabolite associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). In preclinical and observational studies, resveratrol and exercise training have been suggested as potential strategies to reduce the systemic levels of TMAO. However, evidence from experimental studies in humans remains unknown. This project examined the dose-dependent effects of a combined resveratrol intervention with exercise training on circulating TMAO and other related metabolite signatures in older adults with high CVD risk.

METHODS

Forty-one older adults [mean (±SD) age of 72.1 (6.8) years] participated in a 12-week supervised center-based, multi-component exercise training intervention [2×/week; 80 min/session] and were randomized to one of two resveratrol dosages [Low: 500 vs. High:1000 mg/day] or a cellulose-based placebo. Serum/plasma were collected at baseline and post-intervention and evaluated for TMAO and associated analytes.

RESULTS

After the 12-week intervention, TMAO concentration increased over time, regardless of treatment [mean (±SD) Placebo: 11262 (±3970); Low:13252 (±1193); High: 12661(±3359) AUC; p = 0.04]. Each resveratrol dose produced different changes in metabolite signatures. Low dose resveratrol upregulated metabolites associated with bile acids biosynthesis (i.e., glycochenodeoxycholic acid, glycoursodeoxycholic acid, and glycocholic acid). High dose resveratrol modulated metabolites enriched for glycolysis, and pyruvate, propanoate, β-alanine, and tryptophan metabolism. Different communities tightly correlated to TMAO and resveratrol metabolites were associated with the lipid and vascular inflammatory clinical markers [|r| > 0.4, p < 0.05].

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest a distinct dose-dependent adaptation response to resveratrol supplementation on circulating metabolite signatures but not on TMAO among high-risk CVD older adults when combined with an exercise training intervention.

Rapamycin-encapsulated nanoparticle delivery in polycystic kidney disease mice

Rapamycin slows cystogenesis in murine models of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) but failed in clinical trials, potentially due to insufficient drug dosing. To improve drug efficiency without increasing dose, kidney-specific drug delivery may be used. Mesoscale nanoparticles (MNP) selectively target the proximal tubules in rodents. We explored whether MNPs can target cystic kidney tubules and whether rapamycin-encapsulated-MNPs (RapaMNPs) can slow cyst growth in Pkd1 knockout (KO) mice. MNP was intravenously administered in adult Pkd1KO mice. Serum and organs were harvested after 8, 24, 48 or 72 h to measure MNP localization, mTOR levels, and rapamycin concentration. Pkd1KO mice were then injected bi-weekly for 6 weeks with RapaMNP, rapamycin, or vehicle to determine drug efficacy on kidney cyst growth. Single MNP injections lead to kidney-preferential accumulation over other organs, specifically in tubules and cysts. Likewise, one RapaMNP injection resulted in higher drug delivery to the kidney compared to the liver, and displayed sustained mTOR inhibition. Bi-weekly injections with RapaMNP, rapamycin or vehicle for 6 weeks resulted in inconsistent mTOR inhibition and little change in cyst index, however. MNPs serve as an effective short-term, kidney-specific delivery system, but long-term RapaMNP failed to slow cyst progression in Pkd1KO mice.

Sacral fracture stabilisation using dorsal transiliac locking plates: 12 cases (2017-2023)

OBJECTIVES

To describe the clinical presentations, outcomes and complications associated with the use of dorsal transiliac locking plates to stabilise sacral fractures in dogs and cats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-centre retrospective analysis of all patients that presented with sacral fractures between February 2017 and February 2023 that were managed surgically using paired dorsal transiliac locking plates. Twelve animals met the criteria for inclusion in a retrospective clinical case series. An owner questionnaire was employed to assess long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Eleven dogs and one cat with a mean age of 3.1 years (range 0.6 to 8.8) were included. Eleven patients presented following a motor vehicle accident and most were either non-ambulatory (n=8) or displayed severe unilateral hindlimb lameness (n=4). Nine sacral fractures were considered Anderson type II and three Anderson type V. The plate fixation was augmented with additional surgical stabilisation in 11 cases. Eleven patients were ambulatory at discharge and all cases healed uneventfully without major surgical or postoperative complications. Long-term follow-up (>60 days) was available in 10 animals at a mean of 694 days (range 65 to 1805) and owner-assessed outcomes via questionnaire were reported as good to excellent in all cases.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The application of transiliac locking plates provided sufficient stability to facilitate sacral fracture healing with minimal clinical complications. This method represents a robust and safe option to stabilise sacral fractures in dogs and cats, offering an alternative to iliosacral lag screw fixation.

Frequency, kinetics and determinants of viable SARS-CoV-2 in bioaerosols from ambulatory COVID-19 patients infected with the Beta, Delta or Omicron variants

Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 aerosol remains contentious. Importantly, whether cough or breath-generated bioaerosols can harbor viable and replicating virus remains largely unclarified. We performed size-fractionated aerosol sampling (Andersen cascade impactor) and evaluated viral culturability in human cell lines (infectiousness), viral genetics, and host immunity in ambulatory participants with COVID-19. Sixty-one percent (27/44) and 50% (22/44) of participants emitted variant-specific culture-positive aerosols <10μm and <5μm, respectively, for up to 9 days after symptom onset. Aerosol culturability is significantly associated with lower neutralizing antibody titers, and suppression of transcriptomic pathways related to innate immunity and the humoral response. A nasopharyngeal Ct <17 rules-in ~40% of aerosol culture-positives and identifies those who are probably highly infectious. A parsimonious three transcript blood-based biosignature is highly predictive of infectious aerosol generation (PPV > 95%). There is considerable heterogeneity in potential infectiousness i.e., only 29% of participants were probably highly infectious (produced culture-positive aerosols <5μm at ~6 days after symptom onset). These data, which comprehensively confirm variant-specific culturable SARS-CoV-2 in aerosol, inform the targeting of transmission-related interventions and public health containment strategies emphasizing improved ventilation.

Neutrophil elastase-dependent cleavage of LTA4H alters its aminopeptidase activity in cystic fibrosis

The enzyme leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H) is classically known for its epoxide hydrolase activity that converts leukotriene A4 (LTA4) to the neutrophil chemoattractant LTB4 [1]. In 2010, our group published a study in Science that demonstrated that during an influenza model of acute airway inflammation, LTA4H was released from cells to degrade proline-glycine-proline (PGP), a non-canonical CXCR1 and -2 agonist of polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) recruitment and activation [2], thereby attenuating PMN inflammation [3].

This study demonstrates that neutrophil elastase is a major enzyme responsible for the regulation of leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H) upon neutrophil activation, altering the aminopeptidase activity of LTA4H in the cystic fibrosis lung https://bit.ly/3SS1tKk

A modified triple tibial osteotomy for management of canine cranial cruciate ligament disease: retrospective assessment of 309 procedures (2017-2020)

CASE HISTORY

Medical records from a single referral hospital (Animal Referral Hospital, Sinnamon Park, Australia) of dogs treated with modified triple tibial osteotomy (TTO) for management of cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) disease from June 2017 to June 2020 were reviewed. Modifications to the originally described TTO procedure included a modified wedge angle calculation and performing the tibial osteotomies without the use of pre-drilled guide holes.

CLINICAL FINDINGS

A total of 253 dogs met the inclusion criteria. Two dogs were excluded, leaving 251 dogs that had undergone 309 procedures for assessment, and data from these, including complications, were reviewed. Complete, partial competent, and partial incompetent rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament was identified in 202/309 (65.4%), 79/309 (25.6%), and 28/309 (9.1%) stifles, respectively. Medial meniscal injury was identified in 207/309 (67.0%) stifles at the time of initial surgery.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME

Fifty-eight dogs had bilateral procedures, including both single-session and staged surgeries, and 48 of these were available for analyses. The modifications to the TTO procedure described herein resulted in a median wedge angle of 21° and a median post-operative tibial plateau angle of 5.8°. Tibial compression testing following surgery indicated elimination of cranial tibial thrust in all stifles in this series. The most common intra-operative complication was tibial tuberosity fracture (15/309; 4.9%). Minor post-operative complications occurred in 37/309 (12.0%) procedures, with infection being the most common (27/309; 8.7%). Major post-operative complications occurred in 9/309 (2.9%) procedures. The intra- and post-operative complication rates for dogs undergoing bilateral single-session TTO were both 8.3% (2/24). The intra- and post-operative complication rates for dogs undergoing bilateral staged TTO were both 4.2% (1/24). The low number of complications for both the bilateral single-session and bilateral staged TTO groups precluded statistical analysis. All complications resolved uneventfully as determined by the attending surgeon.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The modified TTO technique described here was safe and effective for the management of canine CrCL disease in the dogs included in the case series. Findings of this study suggest that, with careful case selection, the modified TTO may be performed as a bilateral single-session procedure in dogs with concurrent bilateral cranial cruciate ligament disease. Future studies analysing the effects of these modifications on stifle biomechanics would be beneficial.

ABBREVIATIONS

CrCL: Cranial cruciate ligament; SSI: Surgical site infection; TPA: Tibial plateau angle; TPLO: Tibial plateau levelling osteotomy; TTA: Tibial tuberosity advancement; TTO: Triple tibial osteotomy.

MRI prediction of fetal lung volumes and the impact on counselling

AIM

To assess whether lung volume percentages in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) differ depending on which formula is used to calculate the expected volume for gestation and any potential impact this may have on perinatal counselling.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-seven patients with left-sided CDH who had undergone fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals were reviewed. The lung volumes were measured on MRI and compared with the volumes that would be expected at the given gestation for each patient. Expected values were calculated using four formulae from the literature and the authors' in-house method. These measurements were used to calculate the percentage total lung volume observed compared with the expected lung volume in a healthy fetus of the same gestation. The differences in percentage lung volumes using these five methods were then compared with how they relate to predicted rates of survival. How predicted survival would change depending on which formula was used to calculate the percentage lung volume was investigated with a view to how this may change the counselling given to a family.

RESULTS

In 10/47 (21%) patients, there was no change in the predicted percentage chance of survival depending on which formula was used to calculate the predicted lung volume. In 37/47 (79%), the predicted chance of survival changed depending on which formula was used to calculate the expected lung volume at the given gestation. In 20 (47%) of these cases, the change in predicted survival depending on which formula used was 45% (i.e., from 25% to 70% survival in four and from 50% to 95% survival in 16) and in two cases (4%) this difference was 70% (i.e., from 25% predicted survival to 95% predicted survival).

CONCLUSION

There are several different methods for calculating expected lung volumes for any given gestation. When used to estimate the percentage lung volume in patients with CDH, there is a large difference in values depending on which method is used. This in turn leads to a large variation in predicted survival with some patients in this study having either a 25% or 95% chance of survival depending on which method is used. This has a huge impact on perinatal counselling and the difficult decisions made by families.

Evaluation of the effects of latanoprost and benzalkonium chloride on the cell viability and nonpolar lipid profile produced by human meibomian gland epithelial cells in culture

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a PGF2α analog, latanoprost, and its preservative, benzalkonium chloride (BAK), on the cell viability and lipidomic expression of immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells (HMGECs).

Methods

Differentiated HMGECs were exposed to latanoprost (0.05 to 50 µg/ml), BAK (0.2 to 200 µg/ml), or combined latanoprost-BAK (0.05-0.2 to 50-200 µg/ml). EP- and FP-type receptors, the cognate receptors of PGE2 and PGF2α, were inhibited, thereby sparing and isolating the function of each receptor to one condition. Cell viability was assessed by ATP quantitation, and lipid extracts were analyzed by ESI-MSMSALL with a Triple TOF 5600 Mass Spectrometer (SCIEX, Framingham, MA) using SCIEX LipidView 1.3.

Results

Latanoprost and BAK were found to be lethal to HMGECs at the highest concentrations (p < 0.001 for both). The cytotoxicity of latanoprost was mediated through FP- and EP-independent mechanisms. Both latanoprost and BAK significantly modulated the lipidomic expression of several cholesteryl esters (8% and 30%, respectively) and triacylglycerols (10% and 12%, respectively). The combined latanoprost-BAK agent appeared to be no more toxic and to only negligibly alter the lipid profile relative to its individual components.

Conclusions

The use of latanoprost and BAK in glaucoma may alter the viability of the meibomian glands and their lipid expression in vivo. Sublethal concentrations of BAK appear to modulate meibum lipid expression, particularly in relation to sterol biosynthesis. Non-preserved latanoprost had less cytotoxicity at lower doses and fewer lipidomic effects compared to BAK, further strengthening the argument in favor of BAK-free pharmaceutical preparations.

Natural Clearance of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection Is Associated With Distinct Differences in Cervicovaginal Metabolites

BACKGROUND

Natural clearance of Chlamydia trachomatis in women occurs in the interval between screening and treatment. In vitro, interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-mediated tryptophan depletion results in C. trachomatis clearance, but whether this mechanism occurs in vivo remains unclear. We previously found that women who naturally cleared C. trachomatis had lower cervicovaginal levels of tryptophan and IFN-γ compared to women with persisting infection, suggesting IFN-γ-independent pathways may promote C. trachomatis clearance.

METHODS

Cervicovaginal lavages from 34 women who did (n = 17) or did not (n = 17) naturally clear C. trachomatis were subjected to untargeted high-performance liquid chromatography mass-spectrometry to identify metabolites and metabolic pathways associated with natural clearance.

RESULTS

In total, 375 positively charged metabolites and 149 negatively charged metabolites were annotated. Compared to women with persisting infection, C. trachomatis natural clearance was associated with increased levels of oligosaccharides trehalose, sucrose, melezitose, and maltotriose, and lower levels of indoline and various amino acids. Metabolites were associated with valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

The cervicovaginal metabolome in women who did or did not naturally clear C. trachomatis is distinct. In women who cleared C. trachomatis, depletion of various amino acids, especially valine, leucine, and isoleucine, suggests that amino acids other than tryptophan impact C. trachomatis survival in vivo.

LC-MS/MS method for proline-glycine-proline and acetylated proline-glycine-proline in human plasma

The extracellular cellular matrix (ECM) maintains tissue structure and regulates signaling functions by continuous degradation and remodeling. Inflammation or other disease conditions activate proteases including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade ECM proteins and in particular generate fragments of collagen and elastin, some of which are biologically active ECM peptides or matrikines. Stepwise degradation of collagen by MMP 8, 9 and prolyl endopeptidase release the matrikine proline-glycine-proline (PGP) and its product acetyl-PGP (AcPGP). These peptides are considered as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for many disease conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, and cancer. However, there is no published, validated method for the measurement of PGP and AcPGP in plasma and therefore, we developed a sensitive, selective and reliable, isotope dilution LC-multiple reaction monitoring MS method for their determination in human plasma. The chromatographic separation of PGP and AcPGP was achieved in 3 min using Jupiter column with a gradient consisting of acidified acetonitrile and water at a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min. The limit of detection (LOD) for PGP and AcPGP was 0.01 ng/ml and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.05 ng/ml and 0.1 ng/ml, respectively. Precision and accuracy values for all analytes were within 20 % except for the lowest QC of 0.01 ng/ml. The mean extraction recoveries of these analytes were > 90 % using a Phenomenex Phree cartridge and the matrix effect was < 15 % for all the QCs for PGP and AcPGP except the lowest QC. The stability of PGP and AcPGP was > 90 % in several tested conditions including autosampler use, storage at -80 °C, and after 6 times freeze-thaw cycles. Using this method, we successfully extracted and determined PGP levels in human plasma from healthy and COPD subjects. Therefore, this method is suitable for quantification of these peptides in the clinical setting.

Randomised controlled trial of the short-term effects of osmotic-release oral system methylphenidate on symptoms and behavioural outcomes in young male prisoners with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: CIAO-II study

BACKGROUND

Research has shown that 20-30% of prisoners meet the diagnostic criteria for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylphenidate reduces ADHD symptoms, but effects in prisoners are uncertain because of comorbid mental health and substance use disorders.

AIMS

To estimate the efficacy of an osmotic-release oral system methylphenidate (OROS-methylphenidate) in reducing ADHD symptoms in young adult prisoners with ADHD.

METHOD

We conducted an 8-week parallel-arm, double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial of OROS-methylphenidate versus placebo in male prisoners (aged 16-25 years) meeting the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD. Primary outcome was ADHD symptoms at 8 weeks, using the investigator-rated Connors Adult ADHD Rating Scale (CAARS-O). Thirteen secondary outcomes were measured, including emotional dysregulation, mind wandering, violent attitudes, mental health symptoms, and prison officer and educational staff ratings of behaviour and aggression.

RESULTS

In the OROS-methylphenidate arm, mean CAARS-O score at 8 weeks was estimated to be reduced by 0.57 points relative to the placebo arm (95% CI -2.41 to 3.56), and non-significant. The responder rate, defined as a 20% reduction in CAARS-O score, was 48.3% for the OROS-methylphenidate arm and 47.9% for the placebo arm. No statistically significant trial arm differences were detected for any of the secondary outcomes. Mean final titrated dose was 53.8 mg in the OROS-methylphenidate arm.

CONCLUSIONS

ADHD symptoms did not respond to OROS-methylphenidate in young adult prisoners. The findings do not support routine treatment with OROS-methylphenidate in this population. Further research is needed to evaluate effects of higher average dosing and adherence to treatment, multi-modal treatments and preventative interventions in the community.

Rationale and study protocol for a randomized controlled feeding study to determine the structural- and functional-level effects of diet-specific interventions on the gut microbiota of non-Hispanic black and white adults

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC), the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, has been associated with an overrepresentation or paucity of several microbial taxa in the gut microbiota, but causality has not been established. Black men and women have among the highest CRC incidence and mortality rates of any racial/ethnic group. This study will examine the impact of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on gut microbiota and fecal metabolites associated with CRC risk.

METHODS

A generally healthy sample of non-Hispanic Black and white adults (n = 112) is being recruited to participate in a parallel-arm randomized controlled feeding study. Participants are randomized to receive the DASH diet or a standard American diet for a 28-day period. Fecal samples are collected weekly throughout the study to analyze changes in the gut microbiota using 16 s rRNA and selected metagenomics. Differences in bacterial alpha and beta diversity and taxa that have been associated with CRC (Bacteroides, Fusobacterium, Clostridium, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Ruminococcus, Porphyromonas, Succinivibrio) are being evaluated. Covariate measures include body mass index, comorbidities, medication history, physical activity, stress, and demographic characteristics.

CONCLUSION

Our findings will provide preliminary evidence for the DASH diet as an approach for cultivating a healthier gut microbiota across non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White adults. These results can impact clinical, translational, and population-level approaches for modification of the gut microbiota to reduce risk of chronic diseases including CRC.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04538482, on September 4, 2020 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04538482).

A modified standard American diet induces physiological parameters associated with metabolic syndrome in C57BL/6J mice

Investigations into the causative role that western dietary patterns have on obesity and disease pathogenesis have speculated that quality and quantity of dietary fats and/or carbohydrates have a predictive role in the development of these disorders. Standard reference diets such as the AIN-93 rodent diet have historically been used to promote animal health and reduce variation of results across experiments, rather than model modern human dietary habits or nutrition-related pathologies. In rodents high-fat diets (HFDs) became a classic tool to investigate diet-induced obesity (DIO). These murine diets often relied on a single fat source with the most DIO consistent HFDs containing levels of fat up to 45-60% (kcal), higher than the reported human intake of 33-35% (kcal). More recently, researchers are formulating experimental animal (pre-clinical) diets that reflect mean human macro- and micronutrient consumption levels described by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). These diets attempt to integrate relevant ingredient sources and levels of nutrients; however, they most often fail to include high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) as a source of dietary carbohydrate. We have formulated a modified Standard American Diet (mSAD) that incorporates relevant levels and sources of nutrient classes, including dietary HFCS, to assess the basal physiologies associated with mSAD consumption. Mice proffered the mSAD for 15 weeks displayed a phenotype consistent with metabolic syndrome, exhibiting increased adiposity, fasting hyperglycemia with impaired glucose and insulin tolerance. Metabolic alterations were evidenced at the tissue level as crown-like structures (CLS) in adipose tissue and fatty acid deposition in the liver, and targeted 16S rRNA metagenomics revealed microbial compositional shifts between dietary groups. This study suggests diet quality significantly affects metabolic homeostasis, emphasizing the importance of developing relevant pre-clinical diets to investigate chronic diseases highly impacted by western dietary consumption patterns.

αA and αB peptides from human cataractous lenses show antichaperone activity and enhance aggregation of lens proteins

Purpose

To identify and characterize properties of αA- and αB-crystallins' low molecular weight peptides (molecular weight [Mr] < 5 kDa) that were present in a 62-year-old human nuclear cataract, but not in normal 62-year-old human lenses.

Methods

Low molecular weight peptides (< 5 kDa) were isolated with a trichloroacetic acid (TCA) solubilization method from water-soluble (WS) and water-insoluble (WI) proteins of nuclear cataractous lenses of a 62-year-old donor and normal human lenses from an age-matched donor. Five commercially synthesized peptides (found only in cataractous lenses and not in normal lenses) were used to determine their chaperone and antichaperone activity and aggregation properties.

Results

Mass spectrometric analysis showed 28 peptides of αA-crystallin and 38 peptides of αB-crystallin were present in the cataractous lenses but not in the normal lenses. Two αA peptides (named αAP1 and αAP2; both derived from the αA N-terminal domain (NTD) region) and three αB peptides (named αBP3, αBP4, and αBP5, derived from the αB NTD-, core domain (CD), and C-terminal extension (CTE) regions, respectively) were commercially synthesized. αAP1 inhibited the chaperone activity of αA- and αB-crystallins, but the other four peptides (αAP2, αBP3, αBP4, and αBP5) exhibited mixed effects on chaperone activity. Upon incubation with human WS proteins and peptides in vitro, the αBP4 peptide showed higher aggregation properties relative to the αAP1 peptide. During in vivo experiments, the cell-penetrating polyarginine-labeled αAP1 and αBP4 peptides showed 57% and 85% aggregates, respectively, around the nuclei of cultured human lens epithelial cells compared to only 35% by a scrambled peptide.

Conclusions

The antichaperone activity of the αAP1 peptide and the aggregation property of the αBP4 peptide with lens proteins could play a potential role during the development of lens opacity.

Cereal grain mineral micronutrient and soil chemistry data from GeoNutrition surveys in Ethiopia and Malawi

The dataset comprises primary data for the concentration of 29 mineral micronutrients in cereal grains and up to 84 soil chemistry properties from GeoNutrition project surveys in Ethiopia and Malawi. The work provided insights on geospatial variation in the micronutrient concentration in staple crops, and the potential influencing soil factors. In Ethiopia, sampling was conducted in Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray regions, during the late-2017 and late-2018 harvest seasons. In Malawi, national-scale sampling was conducted during the April–June 2018 harvest season. The concentrations of micronutrients in grain were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Soil chemistry properties reported include soil pH; total soil nitrogen; total soil carbon (C); soil organic C; effective cation exchange capacity and exchangeable cations; a three-step sequential extraction scheme for the fractionation of sulfur and selenium; available phosphate; diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)-extractable trace elements; extractable trace elements using 0.01 M Ca(NO₃)₂ and 0.01 M CaCl₂; and isotopically exchangeable Zn. These data are reported here according to FAIR data principles to enable users to further explore agriculture-nutrition linkages.

Measurement(s)	Trace Element • soil chemical properties
Technology Type(s)	Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
Factor Type(s)	Geography • Staple cereal crop
Sample Characteristic - Organism	Staple cereal food crops
Sample Characteristic - Environment	Smallholder farming
Sample Characteristic - Location	Ethiopia • Malawi

Soluble Fc Receptor for IgM in Sera From Subsets of Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia as Determined by a New Mouse Monoclonal Antibody

The FcR for IgM (FcµR) is the newest member of the FcR family, selectively expressed by lymphocytes, and distinct from FcRs for switched Ig isotypes that are expressed by various immune cell types and non-hematopoietic cells. From studies of Fcmr-ablated mice, FcµR was shown to have a regulatory function in B-cell tolerance, as evidenced by high serum titers of autoantibodies of the IgM and IgG isotypes in mutant mice. In our previous studies, both cell-surface and serum FcµR levels were elevated in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), where antigen-independent self-ligation of BCR is a hallmark of the neoplastic B cells. This was assessed by sandwich ELISA using two different ectodomain-specific mAbs. To determine whether the serum FcµR is derived from cleavage of its cell-surface receptor (shedding) or its alternative splicing to skip the transmembrane exon resulting in a 70-aa unique hydrophilic C-terminus (soluble), we developed a new mouse IgG1κ mAb specific for human soluble FcμR (solFcμR) by taking advantages of the unique nature of transductant stably producing His-tagged solFcµR and of an in vivo differential immunization. His-tagged solFcμR attached to exosomes and plasma membranes, allowing immunization and initial hybridoma screening without purification of solFcμR. Differential immunization with tolerogen (membrane FcμR) and immunogen (solFcμR) also facilitated to generate solFcμR-specific hybridomas. The resultant solFcμR-specific mAb reacted with serum FcµR in subsets of CLL patients. This mAb, along with another ectodomain-specific mAb, will be used for verifying the hypothesis that the production of solFcµR is the consequence of chronic stimulation of BCR.

The relationship between cannabis use and taurine: A MRS and metabolomics study

Taurine is an essential amino acid. It has been shown to be neuroprotective including protecting against the neurotoxic effects of glutamate. The goal of the current study was to examine the relationship between CB use and taurine measured in brain using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and peripherally from a urine sample. Two experiments are presented. The first is a reanalysis of published data that examined taurine and glutamate in the dorsal anterior cingulate of a CB user group and non-user group using MRS. The second experiment, in a separate CB user group, used metabolomics analysis to measure taurine levels in urine. Because body composition has been associated with the pharmacokinetics of cannabis and taurine levels, a moderation model was examined with body composition included as the covariate. The MRS study found taurine levels were correlated with glutamate in both groups and taurine was correlated with frequency of CB use in the CB user group. The moderation model demonstrated significant effects of CB use and BMI; the interaction was marginally significant with lower BMI individuals showing a positive relationship between CB use and taurine. A similar finding was observed for the urine analysis. Both CB use and weight, as well as the interaction were significant. In this case, individuals with higher weight showed an association between CB use and taurine levels. This study shows the feasibility and potential importance of examining the relationship between taurine and CB use as it may shed light on a mechanism that underlies the neuroprotective effects of CB.

A multimodality intervention to improve musculoskeletal health, function, metabolism, and well-being in spinal cord injury: study protocol for the FIT-SCI randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating, life-changing event that has profoundly deleterious effects on an individual's health and well-being. Dysregulation of neuromuscular, cardiometabolic, and endocrine organ systems following an SCI contribute to excess morbidity, mortality and a poor quality of life. As no effective treatments currently exist for SCI, the development of novel strategies to improve the functional and health status of individuals living with SCI are much needed. To address this knowledge gap, the current study will determine whether a Home-Based Multimodality Functional Recovery and Metabolic Health Enhancement Program that consists of functional electrical stimulation of the lower extremity during leg cycling (FES-LC) plus arm ergometry (AE) administered using behavioral motivational strategies, and testosterone therapy, is more efficacious than FES-LC plus AE and placebo in improving aerobic capacity, musculoskeletal health, function, metabolism, and wellbeing in SCI.

METHODS

This single-site, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial will enroll 88 community-dwelling men and women, 19 to 70 years of age, with cervical and thoracic level of SCI, ASIA Impairment Scale grade: A, B, C, or D, 6 months or later after an SCI. Participants randomized to the multimodality intervention will undergo 16 weeks of home-based FES-LC and AE training plus testosterone undecanoate. Testosterone undecanoate injections will be administered by study staff in clinic or by a visiting nurse in the participant's home. The control group will receive 16 weeks of home-based FES-LC and AE exercise plus placebo injections. The primary outcome of this trial is peak aerobic capacity, measured during an incremental exercise testing protocol. Secondary outcomes include whole body and regional lean and adipose tissue mass; muscle strength and power; insulin sensitivity, lipids, and inflammatory markers; SCI functional index and wellbeing (mood, anxiety, pain, life satisfaction and depressive symptoms); and safety.

DISCUSSION

We anticipate that a multimodality intervention that simultaneously addresses multiple physiological impairments in SCI will result in increased aerobic capacity and greater improvements in other musculoskeletal, metabolic, functional and patient-reported outcomes compared to the control intervention. The findings of this study will have important implications for improving the care of people living with an SCI.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov :  ( NCT03576001 ). Prospectively registered: July 3, 2018.

Soil and landscape factors influence geospatial variation in maize grain zinc concentration in Malawi

Dietary zinc (Zn) deficiency is widespread globally, and in particular among people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In Malawi, dietary sources of Zn are dominated by maize and spatially dependent variation in grain Zn concentration, which will affect dietary Zn intake, has been reported at distances of up to ~ 100 km. The aim of this study was to identify potential soil properties and environmental covariates which might explain this longer-range spatial variation in maize grain Zn concentration. Data for maize grain Zn concentrations, soil properties, and environmental covariates were obtained from a spatially representative survey in Malawi (n = 1600 locations). Labile and non-labile soil Zn forms were determined using isotopic dilution methods, alongside conventional agronomic soil analyses. Soil properties and environmental covariates as potential predictors of the concentration of Zn in maize grain were tested using a priori expert rankings and false discovery rate (FDR) controls within the linear mixed model (LMM) framework that informed the original survey design. Mean and median grain Zn concentrations were 21.8 and 21.5 mg kg⁻¹, respectively (standard deviation 4.5; range 10.0–48.1). A LMM for grain Zn concentration was constructed for which the independent variables: soil pH_(water), isotopically exchangeable Zn (Zn_E), and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) extractable Zn (Zn_DTPA) had predictive value (p < 0.01 in all cases, with FDR controlled at < 0.05). Downscaled mean annual temperature also explained a proportion of the spatial variation in grain Zn concentration. Evidence for spatially dependent variation in maize grain Zn concentrations in Malawi is robust within the LMM framework used in this study, at distances of up to ~ 100 km. Spatial predictions from this LMM provide a basis for further investigation of variations in the contribution of staple foods to Zn nutrition, and where interventions to increase dietary Zn intake (e.g. biofortification) might be most effective. Other soil and landscape factors influencing spatially dependent variation in maize grain Zn concentration, along with factors operating over shorter distances such as choice of crop variety and agronomic practices, require further exploration beyond the scope of the design of this survey.

Prostaglandin E2 and F2α Alter Expression of Select Cholesteryl Esters and Triacylglycerols Produced by Human Meibomian Gland Epithelial Cells

PURPOSE

PGF2α analogs are commonly used to treat glaucoma and are associated with higher rates of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physiological effects of PGF2α and PGE2 on immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells (HMGECs).

METHODS

HMGECs were immunostained for the 4 PGE2 receptors (EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4) and 1 PGF2α receptor (FP) and imaged. Rosiglitazone-differentiated HMGECs were exposed to PGF2α and PGE2 (10-9 to 10-6 M) for 3 hours. Cell viability was assessed by an adenosine triphosphate-based luminescent assay, and lipid extracts were analyzed for cholesteryl esters (CEs), wax esters (WEs), and triacylglycerols (TAGs) by ESI-MSMSALL in positive ion mode by a Triple TOF 5600 Mass Spectrometer using SCIEX LipidView 1.3.

RESULTS

HMGECs expressed 3 PGE2 receptors (EP1, EP2, and EP4) and the 1 PGF2α receptor (FP). Neither PGE2 nor PGF2α showed signs of cytotoxicity at any of the concentrations tested. WEs were not detected from any of the samples, but both CEs and TAGs exhibited a diverse and dynamic profile. PGE2 suppressed select CEs (CE 22:1, CE 26:0, CE 28:1, and CE 30:1). PGF2α dose dependently increased several CEs (CE 20:2, CE 20:1, CE 22:1, and CE 24:0) yet decreased others. Both prostaglandins led to nonspecific TAG remodeling.

CONCLUSIONS

PGE2 and PGF2α showed minimal effect on HMGEC viability. PGF2α influences lipid expression greater than PGE2 and may do so by interfering with meibocyte differentiation. This work may provide insight into the mechanism of MGD development in patients with glaucoma treated with PGF2α analogs.