The neuropsychopharmacology of acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC): basic, translational and therapeutic implications

Mitochondrial metabolism can contribute to nuclear histone acetylation among other epigenetic mechanisms. A central aspect of this signaling pathway is acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC), a pivotal mitochondrial metabolite best known for its role in fatty acid oxidation. Work from our and other groups suggested LAC as a novel epigenetic modulator of brain plasticity and a therapeutic target for clinical phenotypes of depression linked to childhood trauma. Aberrant mitochondrial metabolism of LAC has also been implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to other processes implicated in the pathophysiology of both major depressive disorders and Alzheimer's disease, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance. In addition to the rapid epigenetic modulation of glutamatergic function, preclinical studies showed that boosting mitochondrial metabolism of LAC protects against oxidative stress, rapidly ameliorates insulin resistance, and reduces neuroinflammation by decreasing proinflammatory pathways such as NFkB in hippocampal and cortical neurons. These basic and translational neuroscience findings point to this mitochondrial signaling pathway as a potential target to identify novel mechanisms of brain plasticity and potential unique targets for therapeutic intervention targeted to specific clinical phenotypes.

Cold indoor temperatures and their association with health and well-being: a systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to identify, appraise and update evidence on the association between cold temperatures (i.e. <18°C) within homes (i.e. dwellings) and health and well-being outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

This study was a systematic review.

METHODS

Seven databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, APA PsycInfo, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts, Coronavirus Research Database) were searched for studies published between 2014 and 2022, which explored the association between cold indoor temperatures and health and well-being outcomes. Studies were limited to those conducted in temperate and colder climates due to the increased risk of morbidity and mortality during winter in those climatic zones. Studies were independently quality assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies.

RESULTS

Of 1209 studies, 20 were included for review. Study outcomes included cardiovascular (blood pressure, electrocardiogram abnormalities, blood platelet count), respiratory (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms, respiratory viral infection), sleep, physical performance and general health. Seventeen studies found exposure to cold indoor temperatures was associated with negative effects on health outcomes studied. Older individuals and those with chronic health problems were found to be more vulnerable to negative health outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Evidence suggests that indoor temperatures <18°C are associated with negative health effects. However, the evidence is insufficient to allow clear conclusions regarding outcomes from specific temperature thresholds for different population groups. Significant gaps in the current evidence base are identified, including research on the impacts of cold indoor temperatures on mental health and well-being, studies involving young children, and the long-term health effects of cold indoor temperatures.

Persistence with macitentan versus other endothelin receptor antagonists in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: experience from a real-world data repository in the USA

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive and fatal disease and as such, it is imperative that patients remain on therapy to delay progression and maintain functional status. Previous research has demonstrated differences in overall survival in the real-world by endothelin receptor antagonists (ERA) treatments with a lower risk of death with macitentan than ambrisentan and bosentan. However, real-world data on persistence to ERAs are limited.

Purpose

To compare persistence to macitentan versus ambrisentan and bosentan) in patients with PAH.

Methods

This retrospective, non-interventional, observational study identified patients between 10/21/2013–3/31/2021 (study period) from the Decision Resources Group (DRG) Real World Data Repository. The repository links medical and prescription claims from commercial, Medicaid, and Medicare plans with electronic health records (EHRs) to provide longitudinal patient-level data representative of over 300 million patients in the US. Patients selected must have been dispensed an ERA prescription from 4/14/14–3/31/20 AND 1) either an inpatient diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH), or 2) a right heart catheterization with any PH diagnosis, or 3) were taking a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (PDE5i). The primary outcome was persistence defined by time from index to drug discontinuation (90-day gap after the end of the last prescription's days of supply). Descriptive analysis comprised means, standard deviations, medians, and interquartile ranges for continuous variables and frequencies and percentages for categorical variables. Three-sample proportion tests were conducted at baseline to detect differences between the three cohorts and identify potentially confounding variables. Hazard ratios (HR) for pairwise comparisons (macitentan vs ambrisentan; macitentan vs bosentan) were calculated using an inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW)-adjusted Cox proportional regression model, to adjust for potential confounders (see Table 1) of the probability of receiving a specific ERA. Data were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

A total of 4,526 patients were included, of whom 1,205 received macitentan, 2,592 received ambrisentan and 729 received bosentan. Study population characteristics were representative of a general PAH population (Table 1). Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that median persistence was shortest for ambrisentan (12.6 months) followed by bosentan (13.6 months) and greatest for macitentan (15.8 months; overall log-rank p-value: 0.061). Compared to macitentan, patients on other ERAs had a greater risk of discontinuation: ambrisentan (10%) and bosentan (18%) (Table 2).

Conclusions

Persistence to therapy was significantly greater for macitentan-treated patients than in those receiving ambrisentan or bosentan. Further research examining variability in key sub-groups as well as the impact of improved persistence on long-term outcomes is warranted.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC

Dioscorea nipponica Makino Rhizome Extract and Its Active Compound Dioscin Protect against Neuroinflammation and Scopolamine-Induced Memory Deficits

Activation of microglial cells by intrinsic or extrinsic insult causes neuroinflammation, a common phenomenon in neurodegenerative diseases. Prevention of neuroinflammation may ameliorate many neurodegenerative disease progressions. Dioscorea nipponica Makino (DN) extract can alleviate muscular atrophy and inflammatory diseases; however, the efficacy and mechanism of action in microglial cells remain unknown. The current study investigates the possible anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of Dioscorea nipponica Makino ethanol extract and its steroidal saponin dioscin. Our in vitro study shows that Dioscorea nipponica rhizome ethanol extract (DNRE) and dioscin protect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated inflammatory responses in BV-2 microglial cells by inhibiting phosphorylation and the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), resulting in the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Consistent with our previous report of dioscin-mediated enhancement of neurotrophic factors in dopaminergic cells, here we found that dioscin upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation (pCREB) in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus regions of the mouse brain. Scopolamine treatment increased pro-inflammatory enzyme levels and reduced the expression of BDNF and pCREB in the hippocampus and cortex regions, which led to impaired learning and referencing memory in mice. Pre-treatment of dioscin for 7 days substantially enhanced mice performances in maze studies, indicating amelioration in cognitive deficits. In conclusion, DNRE and its active compound dioscin protect against neurotoxicity most likely by suppressing NF-κB phosphorylation and upregulating neurotrophic factor BDNF.

Dioscin-Mediated Autophagy Alleviates MPP+-Induced Neuronal Degeneration: An In Vitro Parkinson's Disease Model

Autophagy is a cellular homeostatic process by which cells degrade and recycle their malfunctioned contents, and impairment in this process could lead to Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathogenesis. Dioscin, a steroidal saponin, has induced autophagy in several cell lines and animal models. The role of dioscin-mediated autophagy in PD remains to be investigated. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the hypothesis that dioscin-regulated autophagy and autophagy-related (ATG) proteins could protect neuronal cells in PD via reducing apoptosis and enhancing neurogenesis. In this study, the 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP⁺) was used to induce neurotoxicity and impair autophagic flux in a human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y). The result showed that dioscin pre-treatment counters MPP⁺-mediated autophagic flux impairment and alleviates MPP⁺-induced apoptosis by downregulating activated caspase-3 and BCL2 associated X, apoptosis regulator (Bax) expression while increasing B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression. In addition, dioscin pre-treatment was found to increase neurotrophic factors and tyrosine hydroxylase expression, suggesting that dioscin could ameliorate MPP⁺-induced degeneration in dopaminergic neurons and benefit the PD model. To conclude, we showed dioscin’s neuroprotective activity in neuronal SH-SY5Y cells might be partly related to its autophagy induction and suppression of the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.

Group I mGluRs in Therapy and Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease: Focus on mGluR5 Subtype

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs; members of class C G-protein-coupled receptors) have been shown to modulate excitatory neurotransmission, regulate presynaptic extracellular glutamate levels, and modulate postsynaptic ion channels on dendritic spines. mGluRs were found to activate myriad signalling pathways to regulate synapse formation, long-term potentiation, autophagy, apoptosis, necroptosis, and pro-inflammatory cytokines release. A notorious expression pattern of mGluRs has been evident in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and schizophrenia. Among the several mGluRs, mGluR5 is one of the most investigated types of considered prospective therapeutic targets and potential diagnostic tools in neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders. Recent research showed mGluR5 radioligands could be a potential tool to assess neurodegenerative disease progression and trace respective drugs’ kinetic properties. This article provides insight into the group I mGluRs, specifically mGluR5, in the progression and possible therapy for PD.

In vitro and in vivo antihyperglycemic activity of the ethanol extract of Heritiera fomes bark and characterization of pharmacologically active phytomolecules

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to demonstrate the mechanistic basis of Heritiera fomes, which has traditionally been used to treat diabetes.

METHODS

Clonal pancreatic β-cells and primary islets were used to measure insulin release. 3T3-L1 cells were used to analyse insulin action, and in vitro systems were used to measure further glucose-lowering activity. In vivo assessment was performed on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type-2 diabetic rats and reversed-phase-HPLC followed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to detect bioactive molecules.

KEY FINDINGS

Ethanol extract of Heritiera fomes (EEHF) significantly increased insulin release with stimulatory effects comparable to 1 µM glucagon-like peptide 1, which were somewhat reduced by diazoxide, verapamil and calcium-free conditions. Insulin release was stimulated by tolbutamide, isobutyl methylxanthine and KCl. EEHF induced membrane depolarization and increased intracellular Ca2+ levels. EEHF enhanced glucose uptake in 3T3L1 cells and decreased protein glycation. EEHF significantly inhibited postprandial hyperglycaemia following sucrose loading and inversely elevated unabsorbed sucrose concentration in the gut. It suppressed glucose absorption during in situ gut perfusion. Furthermore, EEHF improved glucose tolerance, plasma insulin and gut motility, and decreased plasma dipeptidyl peptidase IV activity. Procyanidins, epicatechin and proanthocyanidins were some of the identified bioactive constituents that may involve in β-cell actions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides some evidence to support the use of H. fomes as an antidiabetic traditional remedy.

Piperine and Its Metabolite’s Pharmacology in Neurodegenerative and Neurological Diseases

Piperine (PIP) is an active alkaloid of black and long peppers. An increasing amount of evidence is suggesting that PIP and its metabolite’s could be a potential therapeutic to intervene different disease conditions including chronic inflammation, cardiac and hepatic diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. In addition, the omnipresence of PIP in food and beverages made this compound an important investigational material. It has now become essential to understand PIP pharmacology and toxicology to determine its merits and demerits, especially its effect on the central nervous system (CNS). Although several earlier reports documented that PIP has poor pharmacokinetic properties, such as absorption, bioavailability, and blood–brain barrier permeability. However, its interaction with metabolic enzyme cytochrome P450 superfamily and competitive hydrophobic interaction at Monoamine oxide B (MAO-B) active site have made PIP both a xenobiotics bioenhancer and a potential MAO-B inhibitor. Moreover, recent advancements in pharmaceutical technology have overcome several of PIP’s limitations, including bioavailability and blood–brain barrier permeability, even at low doses. Contrarily, the structure activity relationship (SAR) study of PIP suggesting that its several metabolites are reactive and plausibly responsible for acute toxicity or have pharmacological potentiality. Considering the importance of PIP and its metabolites as an emerging drug target, this study aims to combine the current knowledge of PIP pharmacology and biochemistry with neurodegenerative and neurological disease therapy.

Neuroprotective Effects of Black Pepper and Its Bioactive Compounds in Age-Related Neurological Disorders

Age-related neurological disorders (ANDs), including neurodegenerative diseases, are multifactorial disorders whose risk increases with age. The main pathological hallmarks of ANDs include behavioral changes, excessive oxidative stress, progressive functional declines, impaired mitochondrial function, protein misfolding, neuroinflammation, and neuronal cell death. Recently, efforts have been made to overcome ANDs because of their increased age-dependent prevalence. Black pepper, the fruit of Piper nigrum L. in the family Piperaceae, is an important food spice that has long been used in traditional medicine to treat various human diseases. Consumption of black pepper and black pepper-enriched products is associated with numerous health benefits due to its antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective properties. This review shows that black pepper's major bioactive neuroprotective compounds, such as piperine, effectively prevent AND symptoms and pathological conditions by modulating cell survival signaling and death. Relevant molecular mechanisms are also discussed. In addition, we highlight how recently developed novel nanodelivery systems are vital for improving the efficacy, solubility, bioavailability, and neuroprotective properties of black pepper (and thus piperine) in different experimental AND models, including clinical trials. This extensive review shows that black pepper and its active ingredients have therapeutic potential for ANDs.

Sodium butyrate ameliorates neurotoxicity and exerts anti-inflammatory effects in high fat diet-fed mice

The prevalence of high-fat diet consumption-related disorders is increasing, and it is often associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysregulation in the brain may lead to neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Our study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of sodium butyrate (NaB) on HFD-fed mice. In this study, four-week-old male C57Bl/6NTac mice were divided into three groups; the control group, the HFD group, and the HFD + NaB group where mice received 11 mg/kg body weight of NaB with HFD. Western blotting, reverse transcription-PCR, and ELISA were used for biochemical analysis of brain specimens. We found that NaB restored bodyweight and attenuated P-53, Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX), and caspase cascades in the brains of HFD-fed mice. In addition. NaB reduced the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines and positively modulated antioxidant biomarkers. NaB treatment upregulated the expression of the growth factor-related factors PPARγ, CREB, and BDNF in the brain tissues of HFD-fed mice. Furthermore, we found that NaB significantly ameliorated glucocorticoid receptor and NLRP3 inflammasome expression. Based on our findings, NaB suppressed apoptotic and inflammatory cytokines and enhanced the expression of endogenous antioxidants in brain tissues of HFD-fed mice. Our data strongly suggests that NaB could be utilized as an effective therapeutic agent for NDDs.

The Health and wellbeing impacts of Home and agile working in Wales: A HIA Approach

The SARS-COV-02 pandemic has globally resulted in a number of policies and interventions to address and reduce the transmission of the disease throughout the population. Mitigation measures have ranged from ‘Staying at Home' or ‘Lockdowns' to social distancing policies and requirements to work from home when you can. Whilst there are a number of papers which discuss the effects of home or remote working on employees and their families the large scale shift, accelerated pace and wider impacts of such a shift has not been well explored in the literature or has been focussed on specific topics, for example, productivity. HIA is promoted as a beneficial tool to identify the wider impacts of a policy, plan or intervention across a population and as such is well placed to examine and articulate who in a population may be affected and how, and the inequalities that may be created by an intervention such as home working. Using the lens of social determinants and equity focussed-HIA, this work examines the wider impact of home working in Wales during the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides a coherent overview of the major impacts on health and the particular populations affected. It articulates the process followed, the key evidence based findings, discusses the gaps in the evidence base that require further exploration and the impact and influence it has had to date. Finally, it shares the transferable learning, which will be of use to researchers, policy and decision makers, organisations and public health agencies.

A mixed methods study of lived experiences of homelessness in Wales and childhood adversity

Background

Homelessness is a serious and complex societal and public health issue with multiple causes and solutions. Dealing with homelessness involves both supporting people at risk of homelessness and addressing personal and structural causes occurring through the life-course, including Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). We examine the relationship between ACEs and homelessness in Wales, and consider priority areas for early intervention and prevention.

Methods

Data was retrospectively analysed from a 2017 cross-sectional national 2017 (n = 2452) of adults aged 16-69 years living in Wales using a stratified random probability sampling methodology. Outcome measures included number of ACEs, lifetime homelessness, and childhood resilience assets and were analysed using bivariate statistics. Pathways interviews with people experiencing homelessness (n = 27) and services (n = 16) explored experiences and views, and were analysed thematically.

Results

Homelessness affects 1 in 14 (7%) of the Welsh population in their lifetime. 87% of those with lived experience of homelessness had experienced at least one ACE compared with a Welsh average of 46%; and 50% of those with lived experience of homelessness had experienced 4+ ACEs, compared to 11% in the wider population. Compared with those with no ACEs, individuals with 4+ ACEs were 16 times more likely to report experiencing homelessness (95% CI 9.73,26.43), but Childhood Resilience Assets were protective reducing this by half (adjusted odds ratio 8.073, 95% CI 4.68,13.93). From interviews, early years/schools are critical in supporting children with ACEs, and services through the life-course need to be ACE-aware and better able to cope with impacts of ACEs.

Conclusions

A clear association is seen between ACEs and homelessness. Early intervention that prevents ACEs is needed, as well as better addressing support needs of both child and adult vulnerable populations to prevent homelessness and intervene earlier.

Key messages

In a national Welsh study, 87% of those reporting lived experience of homelessness had experienced at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE), and 50% reported four or more ACEs. Early intervention that prevents ACEs, combined with a trauma-informed approach that builds resilience in at-risk children and adults, is likely to contribute to reducing and preventing homelessness.

184 Effects of The Coronavirus Pandemic on Medical and Surgical Education: Results of An International Survey by The International Association of Student Surgical Societies (IASSS)

Aim

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presents a variety of unforeseen challenges to medical students and surgical trainees. Adaptations to the content and delivery of medical education are inevitable as institutions respond to the virus. Departments face significant restructuring, with important implications for training. Our aim was to assess the global impact of the first wave of COVID-19 on medical and surgical education.

Method

Between 12 May and 26 May 2020, an online survey was conducted and circulated to contacts of the International Association of Student Surgical Societies, including medical students and healthcare practitioners. All data were anonymous; no personal identifiable information was collected. Consent was implied by participation in the survey, which was on a voluntary basis.

Results

We collated 527 responses from 111 institutions across 26 countries. Globally, 93.5% of medical student placements were affected by the first wave of COVID-19, with examination restructuring and alternative teaching methods employed by 87.8% of medical schools. Trainee redeployment was common in both surgical (61.5%) and non-surgical (77.1%) disciplines. Surgical services were significantly affected, with reduced elective procedures in 93% of institutions. On an individual level, COVID-19 resulted in prolonged absence from clinical duties and mental health concerns at all levels of training.

Conclusions

Our data highlight drastic changes in medical and surgical education and practice as a result of the first wave of COVID-19. These changes are significant at all levels of training, both institutionally and individually. The pandemic is likely to have persistent consequences for future trainees in terms of education and career progression.

Targeting α-synuclein aggregation and its role in mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease

Lewy bodies that contain aggregated α-synuclein (α-syn) in the dopaminergic (DA) neuron are the main culprit behind neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD). Besides, mitochondrial dysfunction has a well established and prominent role in the pathogenesis of PD. However, the exact mechanism by which α-syn causes dopaminergic neuronal loss was unclear. Recent evidence suggests that aggregated α-syn localises in the mitochondria and contributes to oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis in neurons. Therefore, the involvement of aggregated α-syn in mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated neuronal loss has made it an emerging drug target for the treatment of PD. However, the exact mechanism by which α-syn permeabilises through the mitochondrial membrane and affects the electron transport chain remains under investigation. In the present study, we describe mitochondria-α-syn interactions and how α-syn aggregation modulates mitochondrial homeostasis in PD pathogenesis. We also discuss recent therapeutic interventions targeting α-syn aggregation that may help researchers to design novel therapeutic treatments for PD.

The Ageing Brain: Molecular and Cellular Basis of Neurodegeneration

Ageing is an inevitable event in the lifecycle of all organisms, characterized by progressive physiological deterioration and increased vulnerability to death. Ageing has also been described as the primary risk factor of most neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and frontotemporal lobar dementia (FTD). These neurodegenerative diseases occur more prevalently in the aged populations. Few effective treatments have been identified to treat these epidemic neurological crises. Neurodegenerative diseases are associated with enormous socioeconomic and personal costs. Here, the pathogenesis of AD, PD, and other neurodegenerative diseases has been presented, including a summary of their known associations with the biological hallmarks of ageing: genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, deregulated nutrient sensing, stem cell exhaustion, and altered intercellular communications. Understanding the central biological mechanisms that underlie ageing is important for identifying novel therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases. Potential therapeutic strategies, including the use of NAD+ precursors, mitophagy inducers, and inhibitors of cellular senescence, has also been discussed.

Natural Phytochemicals as Novel Therapeutic Strategies to Prevent and Treat Parkinson's Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative chronic disease affecting both cognitive performance and motor functions in aged people. Yet despite the prevalence of this disease, the current therapeutic options for the management of PD can only alleviate motor symptoms. Research has explored novel substances for naturally derived antioxidant phytochemicals with potential therapeutic benefits for PD patients through their neuroprotective mechanism, targeting oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, abnormal protein accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, neurotrophic factor deficit, and apoptosis. The aim of the present study is to perform a comprehensive evaluation of naturally derived antioxidant phytochemicals with neuroprotective or therapeutic activities in PD, focusing on their neuropharmacological mechanisms, including modulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, growth factor induction, neurotransmitter activity, direct regulation of mitochondrial apoptotic machinery, prevention of protein aggregation via modulation of protein folding, modification of cell signaling pathways, enhanced systemic immunity, autophagy, and proteasome activity. In addition, we provide data showing the relationship between nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and PD is supported by studies demonstrating that antiparkinsonian phytochemicals can activate the Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway and Nrf2-dependent protein expression, preventing cellular oxidative damage and PD. Furthermore, we explore several experimental models that evaluated the potential neuroprotective efficacy of antioxidant phytochemical derivatives for their inhibitory effects on oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the brain. Finally, we highlight recent developments in the nanodelivery of antioxidant phytochemicals and its neuroprotective application against pathological conditions associated with oxidative stress. In conclusion, naturally derived antioxidant phytochemicals can be considered as future pharmaceutical drug candidates to potentially alleviate symptoms or slow the progression of PD. However, further well-designed clinical studies are required to evaluate the protective and therapeutic benefits of phytochemicals as promising drugs in the management of PD.

E. coli expression and immunological assessment of expressed recombinant Newcastle disease virus hemagglutinin-neuraminidase protein in chickens

Every year, the poultry industry experiences significant economic losses due to epidemics of Newcastle disease virus (NDV). Developing new vaccines by identifying and using the immunogenic hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) protein can protect the poultry industry. In the present study, the full-length HN protein was expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) BL21 (DE3) cells, purified via affinity chromatography and detected via western blot analysis using His-specific antibodies. The purified HN protein was further evaluated in chickens to study the immune response against NDV. The successful production of HN-specific IgY proved the activity of the purified HN protein. IgY was present in the serum of immunized chickens. However, the immune response was higher in chickens immunized with purified HN protein along with complete and incomplete adjuvants than in chickens immunized with only the HN protein. Keywords: protein; Newcastle disease virus; poultry; infectious diseases; vaccines.

Therapeutic Potential of Lindera obtusiloba: Focus on Antioxidative and Pharmacological Properties

Lindera obtusiloba (LO) BLUME from the genus Lindera (Lauraceae) is a medicinal herb traditionally used in Southeast Asian countries. Indigenously, extracts of different parts of the plant have been used to improve blood circulation and treat allergy, inflammation, rheumatism, and liver diseases. LO is a rich source of therapeutically beneficial antioxidative phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, butenolides, lignans and neolignans. Moreover, recent studies have unravelled the pharmacological properties of several newly found active constituents of LO, such as anti-inflammatory antioxidants (+)-syringaresinol, linderin A, anti-atherosclerotic antioxidant (+)-episesamin, anti-melanogenic antioxidants quercitrin and afzelin, cytotoxic 2-(1-methoxy-11-dodecenyl)-penta-2,4-dien-4-olide, (2Z,3S,4S)-2-(11-dodecenylidene)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl butanolide, anti-allergic koaburaside, (6-hydroxyphenyl)-1-O-beta-d-glucopyranoside and 2,6-dimethoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl-1-O-beta-d-glucopyranoside and the antiplatelet-activity compound Secolincomolide A. These findings demonstrate that LO can be a potential source of antioxidants and other prospective therapeutically active constituents that can lead to the development of oxidative stress-mediated diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, allergies, inflammation, hepatotoxicity, and cancer. Here, the antioxidant properties of different species of Lindera genus are discussed briefly. The traditional use, phytochemistry, antioxidative and pharmacological properties of LO are also considered to help researchers screen potential lead compounds and design and develop future therapeutic agents to treat oxidative stress-mediated disorders.

A ‘futures’ approach towards the wellbeing of future generations in Wales and beyond

'Futures' is a way of thinking about future uncertainty. It is not about predicting the future but is about developing alternative futures or scenarios and using them to inform how best to move towards the preferred future. This approach has been explored and applied to Wales, the UK, which has the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015. This Act has been globally recognised as a unique sustainable development legislation, putting Wales at the forefront of creating a different future for generations to come. Whilst most public bodies have always had responsibilities in delivering a range of services to support health and wellbeing, one of the key innovative requirements of the Act is the focus on the 'future', which by definition requires new and different approaches. This in turn means new tools, new skills and a new and different mind-set in which planners, commissioners, policy makers and service providers need to take a long-term view to addressing health and well-being. The presentation will explore the various approaches, methods and tools for 'futures' thinking and how this innovative agenda is progressing in Wales.

Perioperative intravenous contrast administration and the incidence of acute kidney injury after major gastrointestinal surgery: prospective, multicentre cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine the impact of preoperative exposure to intravenous contrast for CT and the risk of developing postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery.

METHODS

This prospective, multicentre cohort study included adults undergoing gastrointestinal resection, stoma reversal or liver resection. Both elective and emergency procedures were included. Preoperative exposure to intravenous contrast was defined as exposure to contrast administered for the purposes of CT up to 7 days before surgery. The primary endpoint was the rate of AKI within 7 days. Propensity score-matched models were adjusted for patient, disease and operative variables. In a sensitivity analysis, a propensity score-matched model explored the association between preoperative exposure to contrast and AKI in the first 48 h after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 5378 patients were included across 173 centres. Overall, 1249 patients (23·2 per cent) received intravenous contrast. The overall rate of AKI within 7 days of surgery was 13·4 per cent (718 of 5378). In the propensity score-matched model, preoperative exposure to contrast was not associated with AKI within 7 days (odds ratio (OR) 0·95, 95 per cent c.i. 0·73 to 1·21; P = 0·669). The sensitivity analysis showed no association between preoperative contrast administration and AKI within 48 h after operation (OR 1·09, 0·84 to 1·41; P = 0·498).

CONCLUSION

There was no association between preoperative intravenous contrast administered for CT up to 7 days before surgery and postoperative AKI. Risk of contrast-induced nephropathy should not be used as a reason to avoid contrast-enhanced CT.

Anti-hyperglycaemic activity of H. rosa-sinensis leaves is partly mediated by inhibition of carbohydrate digestion and absorption, and enhancement of insulin secretion

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (HRS) is a tropical flowery plant, widely distributed in Asian region and an important traditional medicine used in many diseases including cough, diarrhoea and diabetes.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (HRS) leaves have been reported to possess anti-hyperglycaemic activity, but little is known concerning the underlying mechanism. This study investigated effects of ethanol extract of HRS on insulin release and glucose homeostasis in a type 2 diabetic rat model.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Effects of ethanol extract of grinded H. rosa-sinensis (HRS) leaves on insulin release, membrane potential and intracellular calcium were determined using rat clonal β-cells (BRIN-BD11 cells) and isolated mouse pancreatic islets. Effects on DPP-IV enzyme activity were investigated in vitro. Acute effects of HRS on glucose tolerance, gut perfusion in situ, sucrose content, intestinal disaccharidase activity and gut motility were measured. Streptozotocin induced type 2 diabetic rats treated for 28 days with ethanol extract of HRS leaf (250 and 500 mg/kg) were used to assess glucose homeostasis.

RESULTS

HRS, significantly increased insulin release from clonal rat BRIN-BD11 cells and this action was confirmed using isolated mouse pancreas islets with stimulatory effects equivalent to GLP-1. HRS induced membrane depolarization and increased intracellular Ca²⁺ in BRIN BD11 cells and significantly inhibited DPP-IV enzyme activity in vitro. HRS administration in vivo improved glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetic rats, inhibited both glucose absorption during gut perfusion and postprandial hyperglycaemia and it reversibly increased unabsorbed sucrose passage through the gut following sucrose ingestion. HRS decreased intestinal disaccharidase activity and increased gastrointestinal motility in non-diabetic rats. In a chronic 28-day study with type 2 diabetic rats, HRS, at 250 or 500 mg/kg, significantly decreased serum glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and increased circulating insulin, HDL cholesterol and hepatic glycogen without increasing body weight.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest the antihyperglycaemic activity of HRS is mediated by inhibiting carbohydrate digestion and absorption, while significantly enhancing insulin secretion in a dose dependent manner. This suggests that HRS has potential as a novel antidiabetic therapy or a dietary supplement for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

G-Protein-Coupled Receptors in CNS: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Intervention in Neurodegenerative Disorders and Associated Cognitive Deficits

Neurodegenerative diseases are a large group of neurological disorders with diverse etiological and pathological phenomena. However, current therapeutics rely mostly on symptomatic relief while failing to target the underlying disease pathobiology. G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are one of the most frequently targeted receptors for developing novel therapeutics for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Many currently available antipsychotic therapeutics also act as either antagonists or agonists of different GPCRs. Therefore, GPCR-based drug development is spreading widely to regulate neurodegeneration and associated cognitive deficits through the modulation of canonical and noncanonical signals. Here, GPCRs’ role in the pathophysiology of different neurodegenerative disease progressions and cognitive deficits has been highlighted, and an emphasis has been placed on the current pharmacological developments with GPCRs to provide an insight into a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of neurodegeneration.

Targeting the microglial NLRP3 inflammasome and its role in Parkinson's disease

Excessive activation of microglia and subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines play a crucial role in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD). Components of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain and leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome complex, leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3, caspase-1, and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD, are highly expressed in activated microglia in PD patient brains. Findings suggest that neurotoxins, aggregation of α-synuclein, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and disrupted mitophagy are the key regulators of microglial leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome activation and release of interleukin-1β and interleukin-18 caspase-1-mediated pyroptotic cell death in the substantia nigra of the brain. Although this evidence suggests the leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome may be a potential drug target for treatment of PD, the exact mechanism of how the microglia sense these stimuli and initiate leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome signaling is unknown. Here, the molecular mechanism and regulation of microglial leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome activation and its role in the pathogenesis of PD are discussed. Moreover, the potential of both endogenous and synthetic leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome modulators, long noncoding RNA, microRNA to develop novel therapeutics to treat PD is presented. Overall, we recommend that the microglial leucine-rich-repeat- and pyrin-domain-containing 3 inflammasome can be a potential target for PD treatment. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

The Methanol Extract of Allium cepa L. Protects Inflammatory Markers in LPS-Induced BV-2 Microglial Cells and Upregulates the Antiapoptotic Gene and Antioxidant Enzymes in N27-A Cells

Neuroinflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress are connected to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Targeting these three factors, the intervention of neuroprotective agents may have great potential in the treatment of NDDs. In the current study, the anti-inflammatory effects of the methanol extract of Allium cepa (MEAC) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV-2 microglial cells were investigated. MEAC has been studied in regard to the regulation of the antiapoptotic gene (Bcl-2) and various antioxidant enzyme (HO-1, NQO-1, and catalase) expressions in N27-A cells. Additionally, the protective action of MEAC has also been studied against MPP⁺-induced death in N27-A cells. The results suggest that MEAC is significantly protected from NO release and increase iNOS expression at the mRNA and protein levels in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells. MEAC treatment also protects COX-2 expression at the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, MEAC treatment prevents LPS-stimulated increases of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. In N27-A cells, MEAC treatment significantly upregulates antiapoptotic gene (Bcl-2) and antioxidant enzyme (HO-1, NQO1, and catalase) expressions. Moreover, MEAC treatment protects against MPP⁺-induced death in N27-A cells. To conclude, A cepa extract takes protective action against LPS and MPP⁺, and upregulates the antioxidant enzymes that could potentially be used in the therapy of NDDs.

Taurine and its analogs in neurological disorders: Focus on therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms

Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid and known as semi-essential in mammals and is produced chiefly by the liver and kidney. It presents in different organs, including retina, brain, heart and placenta and demonstrates extensive physiological activities within the body. In the several disease models, it attenuates inflammation- and oxidative stress-mediated injuries. Taurine also modulates ER stress, Ca2+ homeostasis and neuronal activity at the molecular level as part of its broader roles. Different cellular processes such as energy metabolism, gene expression, osmosis and quality control of protein are regulated by taurine. In addition, taurine displays potential ameliorating effects against different neurological disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, epilepsy and diabetic neuropathy and protects against injuries and toxicities of the nervous system. Several findings demonstrate its therapeutic role against neurodevelopmental disorders, including Angelman syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, sleep-wake disorders, neural tube defects and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Considering current biopharmaceutical limitations, developing novel delivery approaches and new derivatives and precursors of taurine may be an attractive option for treating neurological disorders. Herein, we present an overview on the therapeutic potential of taurine against neurological disorders and highlight clinical studies and its molecular mechanistic roles. This article also addresses the neuropharmacological potential of taurine analogs.

Regulation of Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) Signaling Pathway by Polyphenols in the Treatment of Age-Linked Neurodegenerative Diseases: Focus on TLR4 Signaling

Neuronal dysfunction initiates several intracellular signaling cascades to release different proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, as well as various reactive oxygen species. In addition to neurons, microglia, and astrocytes are also affected by this signaling cascade. This release can either be helpful, neutral or detrimental for cell survival. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) activate and signal their downstream pathway to activate NF-κB and pro-IL-1β, both of which are responsible for neuroinflammation and linked to the pathogenesis of different age-related neurological conditions. However, herein, recent aspects of polyphenols in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases are assessed, with a focus on TLR regulation by polyphenols. Different polyphenol classes, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenolic alcohols, stilbenes, and lignans can potentially target TLR signaling in a distinct pathway. Further, some polyphenols can suppress overexpression of inflammatory mediators through TLR4/NF-κB/STAT signaling intervention, while others can reduce neuronal apoptosis via modulating the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB-pathway in microglia/macrophages. Indeed, neurodegeneration etiology is complex and yet to be completely understood, it may be that targeting TLRs could reveal a number of molecular and pharmacological aspects related to neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, activating TLR signaling modulation via natural resources could provide new therapeutic potentiality in the treatment of neurodegeneration.

Molecular Insights into NR4A2(Nurr1): an Emerging Target for Neuroprotective Therapy Against Neuroinflammation and Neuronal Cell Death

NR4A2 is a nuclear receptor and a transcription factor, with distinctive physiological features. In the cell nuclei of the central nervous system, it is widely expressed and identified as a crucial regulator of dopaminergic (DA) neuronal differentiation, survival, and maintenance. Importantly, it has regulated different genes crucial for dopaminergic signals, and its expression has been diminished in both aged and PD post-mortem brains and reduced in PD patients. In microglia and astrocytes, the expression of NR4A2 has been found where it can be capable of inhibiting the expression of proinflammatory mediators; hence, it protected inflammation-mediated DA neuronal death. In addition, NR4A2 plays neuroprotective role via regulating different signals. However, NR4A2 has been mainly focused on Parkinson's research, but, in recent times, it has been studied in Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and stroke. Altered expression of NR4A2 is connected to AD progression, and activation of its may improve cognitive function. It is downregulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of MS patients; nonetheless, its role in MS has not been fully clear. miR-145-5p known as a putative regulator of NR4A2 and in a middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion model, anti-miR-145-5p administration promoted neurological outcomes in rat. To date, various activators and modulators of NR4A2 have been discovered and investigated as probable therapeutic drugs in neuroinflammatory and neuronal cell death models. The NR4A2 gene and cell-based therapy are described as promising drug candidates for neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, microRNA might have a crucial role in neurodegeneration via affecting NR4A2 expression. Herein, we present the role of NR4A2 in neuroinflammation and neuronal cell death focusing on neurodegenerative conditions and display NR4A2 as a promising therapeutic target for the therapy of neuroprotection.

Clinical profile of nonsmall cell lung carcinoma patients treated in a single unit at a tertiary cancer care center

BACKGROUND

Recent advances and understanding in the field of lung cancer and advent of newer treatments have shown a significant improvement in survival in the patients. The present study was conducted to analyze the clinical profile of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated in a single unit at a tertiary cancer care center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective analysis, 322 consecutive NSCLC patients from the year 2011 to 2012 treated in a single unit were included in the study. Patients with proven NSCLC were included in the study. The details of the patients included the demographic profile, pathological diagnosis as well as imaging data, tumor profile, details of treatment, and follow-up information.

RESULTS

The majority of the patients (95.6%) were in the age group >40 years. A large group of the patients (57.1%) were present/reformed smokers. The major histological type was adenocarcinoma (60.9%), of which 22.8% patients were found to be epidermal growth factor receptor positive. Anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangement positivity rate was 4.8%. Furthermore, 68% patients had Stage 4 disease. Upfront palliative chemotherapy (CT) was offered in 61.8% patients and pemetrexed with platinum compounds was the main CT regimen (46.6%). Partial response was achieved in 45.7% patients, whereas stable disease was observed in 10.9% cases. Median progression-free survival was 5 months and overall survival was 55% at 36 months.

CONCLUSION

NSCLC forms the largest subgroup of lung cancer with the patients presenting with advanced stages of disease. This area needs to be explored for the early detection and subsequently the radical treatment of the patients. Personalized approach may be considered for the management of lung cancer by identifying new predictive and prognostic biomarkers of this disease.

Investigation of antinociceptive activity of methanolic extract of Persicaria orientalis leaves in rodents

BACKGROUND

This study aims to evaluate the scientific basis of traditional application of Persicaria orientalis for reducing pain and inflammation.

METHODS

An in vitro method was performed to investigate the presence of the anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic crude extract of P. orientalis. In addition, an in vivo study was conducted in which the hot-plate and tail immersion methods were applied to explore the acute effect of P. orientalis on analgesia. The potency to inhibit chronic inflammation in mice was justified by the carrageenan-induced paw edema and formalin-induced edema methods. For all in vivo testing in animal models (albino mice and rats), plant extract was given via the oral route at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg.

RESULTS

The methanolic extract of P. orientalis produced a significant (p<0.001) inhibition of analgesia with a prolongation of pain response time by 61.80% at 500 mg/kg. The extract also exhibited a potential anti-inflammatory (56.99%) effect, which was also statistically significant (p<0.001). The present study suggests that the methanolic extract of P. orientalis has potential anti-inflammatory as well as analgesic activity and this extract is effective in the treatment of both acute and chronic pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Our current study revealed pharmacological properties of the methanolic extract of P. orientalis and also gave a solid scientific platform against its traditional use. The protecting ability of P. orientalis against inflammatory stimuli may be due to phenolic or flavonoid compounds which we have found through phytochemical analysis.

In Vitro Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Microbial Potentiality Investigation of Different Fractions of Caryota urens Leaves

Background: Caryota urens is a member of the Arecaceae family and a common plant in the Southeast Asian region. This plant has been reported as an anti-microbial agent in recent years. Thus, we aimed to find out the MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) against different pathogenic microorganism. Methods: The leaves of C. urens were extracted and fractioned using different reagents (chloroform, n-hexane and carbon tetrachloride). Disc diffusion method was implemented for the assessment of in vitro anti-microbial potency (500 and 250 µg/disc). Result: The entire fraction showed good effect (with the zone of inhibition 19–25 mm) against both gram positive (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus cereus, Sarina lutea) and gram negative (Vibrio mimicus, Shigella boydii, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacterial pathogens and fungal strains (Aspergillus niger, Saccharomyces cerevisiae). The plants also possess effective free radical scavenging potency with an IC₅₀ of 130.32 µg/mL. Conclusion: This finding reflects a link between the presence of anti-oxidative material and a substantial anti-microbial activity, and substantiates all previous claims against C. urens.

Evaluation of antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of methanolic crude extract of Lophopetalum javanicum (bark)

BACKGROUND

The aim of the current study was to investigate the scientific basis of the traditional application of Lophopetalum javanicum for measuring anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity and phytochemical screening.

METHODS

Present study includes the preliminary screening of the phytochemical composition and in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extract of L. javanicum (MELJ). Hot-plate test and tail immersion method were used to investigate acute analgesic effects of L. javanicum, and the potency in inhibition of chronic inflammation in mice was tested by carrageenan-induced paw edema and formalin-induced edema method.

RESULTS

One hour after the administration of carrageenan, rat's paw was inflamed, and after treating it with 500 mg/kg dose, increase in the significant inhibitory effect on paw was observed. At the third hour after carrageenan injection, extreme inhibition (55.61%±0.015%; p<0.001) resulted by methanolic extract. By using hot plate method, it was found that L. javanicum increases pain tolerance time up to 17.89±0.079 min, whereas the compared standard's interval was 21.48±0.397 min. In tail immersion method, the pain threshold was 3.02±0.074 (p<0.001) at 400 mg/kg by L. javanicum at 90 min of experiment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study manifested that the methanolic extract of L. javanicum is efficient in inhibiting pain mediators to release, and conceivably, this report should get priority while searching for a new analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Accuracy of intra-operative frozen section and its role in the diagnostic evaluation of ovarian tumors

Summary

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate the accuracy and role of intra-operative frozen section in the diagnosis of ovarian tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of 804 ovarian frozen section results between June 2010 and June 2014 was examined to determine the accuracy of frozen section diagnosis. The intra-operative frozen section diagnosis was compared with the permanent (paraffin) section and the overall accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the frozen section were studied.

RESULTS

The overall accuracy to determine the status of malignancy was 92.6%. There were 38 (7.4%) false negative and no false positive frozen section diagnoses.The sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive and negative predictive values for benign ovarian tumors were 100.0%, 97.0%, 91.3%, and 100.0%, respectively; for borderline tumors they were 64.3%, 97.0%, 91.5%, and 94.0%, respectively, and for malignant tumors they were 90.0%, 100.0%, 100.0%, and 85.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that frozen section appears to be an adequate technique for the histopathological diagnosis of ovarian tumors, with some limitations observed among borderline and mucinous tumors.

Clinical and epidemiological study of EGFR mutations and EML4-ALK fusion genes among Indian patients with adenocarcinoma of the lung

Background

Mutation in the tyrosine kinase domain of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a common feature observed in lung adenocarcinoma. A fusion gene between echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 (EML4) and the intracellular domain of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), named EML4-ALK, has been identified in a subset of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of EGFR mutations and EML4-ALK fusions in Indian patients with NSCLC (adenocarcinoma) as well as evaluate their clinical characteristics.

Patients and methods

Patients with NSCLC, adenocarcinoma histology, whose tumors had been tested for EGFR mutational status, were considered for this study. ALK gene rearrangement was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization using the Vysis ALK Break Apart Rearrangement Probe Kit. ALK mutation was tested in samples that were negative for EGFR mutation.

Results

A total of 500 NSCLC adenocarcinoma patients were enrolled across six centers. There were 337 (67.4%) men and 163 (32.6%) women with a median age of 58 years. One hundred and sixty-four (32.8%) blocks were positive for EGFR mutations, whereas 336 (67.2%) were EGFR wild-type. Of the 336 EGFR-negative blocks, EML4-ALK fusion gene was present in 15 (4.5%) patients, whereas 321 (95.5%) tumors were EML4-ALK negative. The overall incidence of EML4-ALK fusion gene was 3% (15/500).

Conclusion

The incidence of EGFR mutations (33%) in this Indian population is close to the reported incidence in Asian patients. EML4-ALK gene fusions are present in lung adenocarcinomas from Indian patients, and the 3% incidence of EML4-ALK gene fusion in EGFR mutation-negative cases is similar to what has been observed in other Western and Asian populations. The mutual exclusivity of EML4-ALK and EGFR mutations suggests implementation of biomarker testing for tumors harboring ALK rearrangements in order to identify patients that can benefit from newer targeted therapies.

Mapping and identification of a Cicer arietinum NSP2 gene involved in nodulation pathway

For the first time the putative NSP2 gene in chickpea has been identified using pairs of NILs differing for the Rn1 / rn1 nodulation gene that was located in LG5 of chickpea genetic map. An intraspecific cross between the mutant non-nodulating genotype PM233, carrying the recessive gene rn1, and the wild-type CA2139 was used to develop two pairs of near-isogenic lines (NILs) for nodulation in chickpea. These pairs of NILs were characterized using sequence tagged microsatellite site (STMS) markers distributed across different linkage groups (LGs) of the chickpea genetic map leading to the detection of polymorphic markers located in LG5. Using this information, together with the genome annotation in Medicago truncatula, a candidate gene (NSP2) known to be involved in nodulation pathway was selected for mapping in chickpea. The full length sequence obtained in chickpea wild-type (CaNSP2) was 1,503 bp. Linkage analysis in an F3 population of 118 plants derived from the cross between the pair of NILS NIL7-2A (nod) × NIL7-2B (non-nod) revealed a co-localization between CaNSP2 and Rn1 gene. These data implicate the CaNSP2 gene as a candidate for identity to Rn1, and suggest that it could act in the nodulation signaling transduction pathway similarly to that in other legumes species.

Association analysis identifies Melampsora ×columbiana poplar leaf rust resistance SNPs

Populus species are currently being domesticated through intensive time- and resource-dependent programs for utilization in phytoremediation, wood and paper products, and conversion to biofuels. Poplar leaf rust disease can greatly reduce wood volume. Genetic resistance is effective in reducing economic losses but major resistance loci have been race-specific and can be readily defeated by the pathogen. Developing durable disease resistance requires the identification of non-race-specific loci. In the presented study, area under the disease progress curve was calculated from natural infection of Melampsora ×columbiana in three consecutive years. Association analysis was performed using 412 P. trichocarpa clones genotyped with 29,355 SNPs covering 3,543 genes. We found 40 SNPs within 26 unique genes significantly associated (permutated P<0.05) with poplar rust severity. Moreover, two SNPs were repeated in all three years suggesting non-race-specificity and three additional SNPs were differentially expressed in other poplar rust interactions. These five SNPs were found in genes that have orthologs in Arabidopsis with functionality in pathogen induced transcriptome reprogramming, Ca²⁺/calmodulin and salicylic acid signaling, and tolerance to reactive oxygen species. The additive effect of non-R gene functional variants may constitute high levels of durable poplar leaf rust resistance. Therefore, these findings are of significance for speeding the genetic improvement of this long-lived, economically important organism.

Functional changes of the cortical motor system in hereditary spastic paraparesis

BACKGROUND

Hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by progressive bilateral lower limb spasticity. Functional imaging studies in patients with corticospinal tract involvement have shown reorganization of motor circuitry. Our study investigates functional changes in sensorimotor brain areas in patients with HSP.

METHODS

Twelve subjects with HSP and 12 healthy subjects were studied. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to measure brain activation during right-hand finger tapping. Image analysis was performed using general linear model and regions of interest (ROI)-based approach. Weighted laterality indices (wLI) and anterior/posterior indicies (wAI and wPI) were calculated for predefined ROIs.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Comparing patients and controls at the same finger-tapping rate (1.8 Hz), there was increased fMRI activation in patients' bilateral posterior parietal cortex and left primary sensorimotor cortex. No differences were found when comparing patients and controls at 80% of their individual maximum tapping rates. wLI of the primary sensorimotor cortex was significantly lower in patients. Subjects with HSP also showed a relative increase in the activation of the posterior parietal and premotor areas compared with that of the primary sensorimotor cortex. Our findings demonstrate an altered pattern of cortical activation in subjects with HSP during motor task. The increased activation probably reflects reorganization of the cortical motor system.

Classification of chemicals according to mechanism of aquatic toxicity: an evaluation of the implementation of the Verhaar scheme in Toxtree

A number of mechanisms have been identified that can lead to (acute) aquatic toxicity. The assignment of compounds to a particular mechanism of action is important in the development and utilisation of (quantitative) structure-activity relationships ((Q)SARs) for ecotoxicity. Assignment to a mechanism can be difficult; however in 1992 Verhaar et al. published a series of structural rules which aimed to classify compounds according to mechanism of action. Recent interest has seen the Verhaar rules coded into freely available software such as Toxtree available from the European Chemicals Bureau. To date, a complete critical evaluation of these rules has been lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the Toxtree implementation of the Verhaar rules using two well characterised aquatic toxicity datasets (Pimephales promelas and Tetrahymena pyriformis phenol databases) for which mechanisms of toxic action are well established. The present study highlights rule, and possible coding, errors that may lead to misclassifications. Improvements to both the rules and prediction architecture are suggested. In particular further rules to improve predictions for polar narcosis (class 2) are suggested.