Serum IL-23 significantly decreased in obese patients with psoriatic arthritis six months after a structured weight loss intervention

INTRODUCTION

Patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are frequently obese. We have previously shown decreased disease activity in patients with PsA with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 33 kg/m² following weight loss treatment with Very Low Energy Diet (VLED), resulting in a median weight loss of 18.6% at six months (M6) after baseline (BL). In this study we assessed the effects of VLED on cytokines and adipokines at M6 in the same patients with PsA and controls (matched on sex, age and weight).

METHODS

VLED (640 kcal/day) during 12 or 16 weeks, depending on BL BMI < 40 or ≥ 40 kg/m², was taken and followed by an energy-restricted diet. Cytokines and adipokines were measured with Magnetic Luminex Assays at BL and M6.

RESULTS

Serum interleukin (IL)-23, (median (interquartile range) 0.40 (0.17-0.54) ng/mL vs. 0.18 (0.10-0.30) ng/mL, p < 0.001) and leptin (26.28 (14.35-48.73) ng/mL vs. 9.25 (4.40-16.24) ng/mL, p < 0.001) was significantly decreased in patients with PsA. Serum total (tot)-adiponectin and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin increased significantly. Similar findings were found in controls. Also, in patients with PsA, ∆BMI was positively correlated with ∆IL-23 (r_S = 0.671, p < 0.001). In addition, significant positive correlations were found between ΔBMI and ΔDisease Activity Score (DAS28CRP), ΔCRP, Δtumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, ΔIL-13, ∆IL-17 and Δleptin, and negative correlations between ΔBMI and Δtot-adiponectin.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight loss was associated with decreased levels of leptin and cytokines, in particular IL-23. These findings may partly explain the anti-inflammatory effect of weight reduction in PsA.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02917434, registered on September 21, 2016, retrospectively registered.

The Need for a Framework Addressing the Temporal Aspects of Fish Sperm Motility Leading to Community-Level Standardization

Motility is a widely available parameter that can be used to assess sperm quality of aquatic species. Sperm from fishes with external fertilization usually undergo a dynamic and short-lived period of motility after activation. The common practice of assigning a single value at an arbitrary peak of motility presents challenges for reproducibility, community-level standardization, and comparisons across studies. This study aimed to explore statistical approaches to standardize motility reporting, and to develop an initial framework for community-level standards. Sperm samples from 14 zebrafish (Danio rerio) with a total of 21,705 cells were analyzed by use of computer-assisted sperm analysis with data collection starting at 10 s after activation at 5-s intervals for 50 s. Four common motility variables were selected for analyses: curvilinear velocity, straight-line velocity, beat cross frequency, and amplitude of lateral head displacement. Cluster analysis was used to evaluate sperm subpopulations within and among males over time, least-square means was used to explore temporal aspects, and the first derivative of the regression equations was used to calculate the rate of change for the motility parameters. Cluster analysis proved informative, but overlapping ephemeral clusters were not valuable for providing standardization options. Analysis of temporal aspects and rate of change indicated opportunities for standardization by reporting the overall motility-time functions or reporting during stable time windows instead of peak motility or at random times. These approaches could minimize the inconsistencies caused by male-to-male variation and dynamic changes of subpopulations while providing comparable information. An overall temporal framework was identified for motility reporting along the collection-processing-cryopreservation-thawing sequence to provide a basis to support efforts of community-level standardization.

Clozapine-induced myocarditis: a case report and literature review

Introduction

We present the case of a male patient, 47 years old, diagnosed with schizophrenia, that was admitted at our hospital presenting a confusional state, with agitation, motor discoordination and difficulty breathing. At the blood analyses there was evidence of an increase in cardiac enzymes. The clinical manifestations had begun 5 days before, with slight leucocytosis showing in a routine blood test made after initiating clozapine, followed by fever, vomiting and progressive impairment of general clinical state.

Objectives

To describe a case of clozapine-induced myocarditis, which is a known, but rare, side effect of clozapine and to do a brief review of the existing knowledge on this matter.

Methods

The authors undertook an article review using PubMed database and a thorough analysis of the clinical case.

Results

The hypothesis of clozapine-induced myocarditis was the main diagnosis considered since the beginning, nevertheless, a thorough clinical examination and complementary tests were made and all the previous psychopharmacological treatment was suspended. The final diagnosis was based on the clinical presentation (fever, vomiting, shortness of breath, confusion and impairment of general state), the elevation of CRP, PCT and TnI and findings on echocardiogram that suggested myocarditis (moderate systolic dysfunction of the left ventricle due to global hypokinesia and a non dilated left ventricle).

Conclusions

The clinical manifestations observed, the results of the complementary diagnostic tests and the review of the existing literature, allowed to make the diagnosis of clozapine-induced myocarditis. We find of considerable importance to continue to publish and study this matter as it is still insufficiently known.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Development of an open hardware 3-D printed conveyor device for continuous cryopreservation of non-batched samples

A great challenge among communities participating in germplasm repository development is to obtain suitable cryopreservation equipment and devices. Commercial programmable freezers are costly and thus unaffordable to many users. Self-made devices have substantial variability among users, resulting in few opportunities for standardization across communities. The development of open hardware with the increasing accessibility of three-dimensional (3-D) printing offers rapid prototyping and easy fabrication of devices by users around the world at low cost. The present study explored the feasibility of developing operational prototypes of 3-D printed motorized cryopreservation devices for continuous freezing of non-batched samples. A controlled cooling conveyor device (CCCD) was designed and fabricated to cryopreserve sperm samples in straws that were loaded onto chain links suspended over liquid nitrogen held in a Styrofoam box. Cooling rates of 5 to 34 °C/min for 0.5-ml French straws were produced by adjusting the height of conveyor chains, slopes, and liquid nitrogen mass. The plunge temperature (-47 °C to -61 °C) was controlled by adjustment of conveyor speed. The cooling curves from the CCCD were comparable to a commercial programmable freezer. There were no significant differences in post-thaw motility of sperm from ornamental (Koi) common carp (Cyprinus carpio) among samples frozen with the CCCD and those frozen with a commercial programmable freezer. The post-thaw sperm motility was consistent among samples frozen in the CCCD across a 15-min time span. The CCCD prototypes in the present study proved to be feasible and functional as low-cost, customizable, portable, and yet standardizable options for freezing of individual (non-batched) samples. Additional design alternatives are proposed to facilitate further adaptation and development by diverse user communities.

POS1064 SERUM BIOMARKERS BEFORE AND AFTER A SIX MONTHS STRUCTURED WEIGHT LOSS INTERVENTION IN PATIENTS WITH PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS AND OBESITY COMPARED WITH CONTROLS

Background:

Obesity is highly overrepresented in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and associated with increased disease activity. We have previously shown in 41 patients with PsA (Caspar criteria) and obesity (here body mass index BMI ≥33 kg/m2) that weight loss treatment including Very Low Energy Liquid Diet (VLED) resulted in a median weight loss of 18.6% and concomitantly a significant improvement in CRP and disease activity in joints, entheses and skin at six months (M6) follow up.

Objectives:

To analyze serum biomarkers associated with inflammation, cartilage and bone metabolism before and after weight loss treatment in PsA patients compared with controls, without PsA or psoriasis, matched for age, sex and weight.

Methods:

The weight loss treatment included VLED (640 kcal/day) during 12 or 16 weeks (depending on baseline (BL) BMI <40 or ≥40 kg/m2), followed by a structured reintroduction of an energy restricted diet. cs/bDMARDs were held unchanged from 3 months before BL until M6. The patients were assessed with 66/68 joints counts.

Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), S100A8, S100A9, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-3, 8 and 13), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), B-cell activating factor (BAFF), Dickkopf (DKK)-1, sclerostin (SOST), soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB ligand (RANKL), osteprotegerin (OPG) and aggrecan were measured at BL and M6 in PsA patients and controls with Magnetic Luminex Assays (R&D-systems) following the manufacturer’s instructions using a Bio-Plex 200 system (BioRad). Serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) (R&D-systems), carboxyterminal telopeptide of type-1 collagen (CTX-1) (Immunodiagnostics systems: IDS) and osteocalcin (IDS) were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results:

Totally 41 PsA patients [age median 54 (IQR 48-62) yrs; 63 % women] and 39 controls [age 55 (46-60) yrs, 72 % women] were included. At M6 the weight-loss since BL was 18.7 (14.6-26.5) kg in the PsA patients and 22.6 (14.7-28.4) kg in the controls (p=0.546). Significant reductions in DAS28CRP [2.9 (2.1–3.7) vs. 2.4 (1.7–3.0)] and DAPSA [15.3(6.6-29.1) vs. 11.0 (2.8–17.6)] (p<0.001) were seen in the PsA patients.

At BL serum levels of the biomarkers were not significantly different in patients vs. controls.

After weight-loss significant reductions were seen in serum VEGF, S100A8, MMP-8, HGF, BAFF, COMP and DKK-1, whereas serum SOST and CTX-1 were significantly increased in both patients and controls (Table 1). The other biomarkers were not significantly changed.

Conclusion:

Weight loss in patients with PsA and controls was associated with lowered serum levels of several biomarkers related to inflammation and cartilage degradation, along with increased levels of biomarkers for bone turnover.

Table 1.PsA (N=41)BL median (IQR)PsA (N=41)M6 median (IQR)PsAp-valueCtrl (N=39)BL median (IQR)Ctrl (N=39)M6 median (IQR)Ctrlp-valueBMI (kg/m2)35.2 (34.1-38.1)29.8 (26.6-31.5)<0.00137.7 (36.7–41.5)30.4 (27.9–33.2)<0.001CRP (mg/L)4 (2–8.5)2 (1–6.5)0.0414 (2–6)2 (1–4)<0.001VEGF (pg/mL)79.6 (55.9–113.5)69.6 (53.1–105.3)0.01082.3 (48.0–125.9)65.0 (42.2-85.5)<0.001S100A8 (pg/mL)75.5 (48.0–99.5)63.3 (42.8–93.6)0.02171.8 (40.5–101.0)63.3 (40.3-85.7)0.006MMP-8 (pg/mL)9975.4(6811.8–14154.8)9202.6(5767.1–12049.6)0.0177494.7(4805.2-12616.9)7218.3(3466.0-9785.3)0.112HGF (pg/mL)327.9 (250.3–413.6)271.3 (206.9–331.0)<0.001307.9 (239.1–348.3)239.8 (200.3-276.0)<0.001BAFF (pg/mL)794.4 (716.4–868.2)674.6 (613.2–790.5)<0.001760.8 (664.1–827.3)678.1 (603.7–719.8)<0.001COMP (pg/mL)266.1 (209.8–366.0)217.0 (156.0–272.0)0.008293.6 (185.2–340.5)221.6 (163.5-300.0)0.018Dkk-1 (pg/mL)3608.4(3055.0–4401.3)3382.6(2802.5–4218.2)0.0023635.8(3212.8-4380.6)3480.4(2948.9–4087.3)0.007SOST (pg/mL)52.9 (32.5–65.4)60.3 (37.2–85.6)0.01450.0 (30.8–79.3)61.3(35.7–81.4)0.019CTX-1 (ng/mL)0.27 (0.20–0.39)0.51 (0.35–0.64)<0.0010.23 (0.16–0.34)0.50(0.30–0.61)<0.001

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.

Enhanced carotenoid production by Rhodopseudomonas palustris ATCC 17001 under low light conditions

Carotenoids (CD) are biological pigments produced for commercial purposes. Therefore, it is necessary to study and determine the optimal conditions for increased CD production. There is no consensus in the literature about the conditions that increase CD production. Some authors stated that CD will be preferentially produced at low light intensities, at this adverse condition, microorganism will increase CD production as a survival response mechanism to get more energy. Other authors have mentioned that CD concentrations increase as the light intensity supplied increases, to avoid the overexposure of light and in turn photo-inhibition. Additionally, to increase the specific CD production is also necessary to increase the amount of biomass. In this work, the ammonium concentration (high (HAC) and low (LAC)) and the low light (LL) intensity effect on the CD production was evaluated. Data showed that a high CD-specific concentration of 8.8 mg/g_cell was obtained by using R. palustris ATCC 17001 under HAC and LL intensity. CD production was similar at HAC and LAC, suggesting that the light intensity has a greater effect on the specific CD concentration than the nitrogen concentration. In general, the results showed a low biomass production compared to the literature, with high CD synthesis.

Beneficial Effects of Soluble Guanylyl Cyclase Stimulation and Activation in Sickle Cell Disease Are Amplified by Hydroxyurea: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

The complex pathophysiology of sickle cell anemia (SCA) involves intravascular hemolytic processes and recurrent vaso-occlusion, driven by chronic vascular inflammation, which result in the disease’s severe clinical complications, including recurrent painful vaso-occlusive episodes. Hydroxyurea, the only drug frequently used for SCA therapy, is a cytostatic agent, although it appears to exert nitric oxide/soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) modulating activity. As new drugs that can complement or replace the use of hydroxyurea are sought to further reduce vaso-occlusive episode frequency in SCA, we investigated the effects of the sGC agonists BAY 60-2770 (sGC activator) and BAY 41-2272 (sGC stimulator) in the presence or absence of hydroxyurea on SCA vaso-occlusive mechanisms and cell recruitment both ex vivo and in vivo. These agents significantly reduced stimulated human SCA neutrophil adhesive properties ex vivo in association with the inhibition of surface β2-integrin activation. A single administration of BAY 60-2770 or BAY 41-2272 decreased tumor necrosis factor cytokine–induced leukocyte recruitment in a mouse model of SCA vaso-occlusion. Importantly, the in vivo actions of both agonists were significantly potentiated by the coadministration of hydroxyurea. Erythroid cell fetal hemoglobin (HbF) elevation is also a major goal for SCA therapy. BAY 41-2272 but not BAY 60-2770 at the concentrations employed significantly induced γ-globin gene transcription in association with HbF production in cultured erythroleukemic cells. In conclusion, sGC agonist drugs could represent a promising approach as therapy for SCA, for use either as stand-alone treatments or in combination with hydroxyurea.

Positive prostate biopsy following radiotherapy can predict metastasis-free survival in localized prostate cancer

Background/aims

To determine the impact of post-treatment biopsy results on 10-year metastasis-free survival (MFS), overall survival (OS) and cause-specific survival (CSS) in localized prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with high-dose radiotherapy (RT).

Materials/Methods

Retrospective analysis of 232 patients with T1c-T3bN0M0 PCa who underwent a prostate biopsy 24-36 months after high-dose RT. Biopsies were categorized as positive biopsy (PB) if H&E staining showed evidence of residual malignancy and negative biopsy (NB) if no malignant cells were present. Kaplan-Meier estimates of 10-year MFS, OS and CSS rates were calculated for each group and Cox proportional-hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratios. The median follow-up was 124 months (range 26-267).

Results

Sixty-two of 232 (26.7%) patients had post-treatment positive biopsies (PB). A positive post-treatment biopsy was significantly associated with a lower 10-year MFS (78.4% vs. 95.4%, p = 0.001, HR: 3.9, 95% CI: 1.8-8.3). Although patients with PB had worse outcomes that those with NB, we could not show a statistically significant difference in OS (81.0% vs. 87.9%, p = 0.282, HR: 1.3, 95% CI: 0.7-2.3) or CSS (96.2% vs. 99.4% (p = 0.201, HR. 2.4, 95% CI: 0.6-9.7). After multivariate analysis, the strongest predictor of MFS was the post-treatment biopsy status (p < 0.001, HR: 5.4, 95% CI 2.26-12.85) followed by Gleason score (p = 0.002, HR: 2.24, 95% CI 1.33-3.79).

Conclusion

A positive biopsy following RT can predict MFS in localized prostate cancer. These data highlight the relevance of achieving a local control and support the use of aggressive local therapeutic interventions for PCa.

Fitting of experimental data using a fractional Kalman-like observer

In this paper, a fractional order Kalman filter (FOKF) is presented, this is based on a system expressed by fractional differential equations according to the Riemann-Liouville definition. In order to get the best fitting of the FOKF, the cuckoo search optimization algorithm (CS) was used. The purpose of using the CS algorithm is to optimize the order of the observer, the fractional Riccati equation and the FOKF tuning parameters. The Grünwald-Letnikov approximation was used to compute the numerical solution of the FOKF. To show the effectiveness of the proposed FOKF, four examples are presented, the brain activity, the cutaneous potential recordings of a pregnant woman, the earthquake acceleration, and the Chua's circuit response.

Hepatocyte growth factor is a potential biomarker for osteoproliferation and osteoporosis in ankylosing spondylitis

We explored relations between serum hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), disease activity, osteoproliferation, and bone mineral density (BMD) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS), in comparison with healthy controls. HGF was increased especially in male AS patients and smokers and associated with both lower BMD and more chronic radiographic changes in the spine.

INTRODUCTION

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is characterized by both osteoproliferation and increased bone loss. Biomarkers are requested to predict the processes. The aims of this study were to compare serum levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in AS patients with healthy controls (HC) and to explore the associations with disease activity, osteoproliferation, and bone mineral density (BMD).

METHODS

Serum from AS patients (modified NY-criteria) and HC was analyzed for HGF, MMP-3, and VEGF with ELISA. Disease activity parameters were collected. Osteoproliferation was assessed with modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score (mSASSS) and BMD was measured in femoral neck.

RESULTS

Totally, 204 AS patients and 80 sex and age matched HC were included. Serum HGF was higher in the AS patients compared with the HC, whereas serum MMP-3 and VEGF were not. Serum HGF was also higher in smokers and in the male AS patients positively correlated with age, BASMI, and mSASSS, and negatively correlated with BMD. The biomarkers were all positively associated with ESR, CRP, and WBC. In multiple linear regression analysis serum HGF remained associated with higher mSASSS and lower BMD, after adjusting for age, sex, CRP, smoking, and body mass index.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum HGF was increased in male AS patients and associated with higher mSASSS and lower BMD. In addition, serum HGF was positively associated with risk factors for osteoproliferation such as age, CRP and smoking. HGF could be a potential biomarker of importance for the bone metabolism in AS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT00858819.

Fractional observer to estimate periodical forces

In the present work we propose a fractional state observer with constant gain to estimate the periodical force exerted on a mechanical system by measuring only its displacement. The state observer is designed from both the Fourier series that approximates the periodical force and the equations of the damped harmonic oscillator that represents the behavior of the system. Specifically, the reconstruction of the force is carried out from the estimates of the series coefficients, which in fact are part of the dynamical system that composes the observer. Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method is used to compute the fractional derivatives of the observer in the Liouville-Caputo sense. Experiments based on real data are presented to show the advantages of using a fractional observer in the reconstruction of forces.

Addressing Reproducibility in Cryopreservation, and Considerations Necessary for Commercialization and Community Development in Support of Genetic Resources of Aquatic Species

For the past six decades a repeated cycle of developing new cryopreservation protocols or simply reinventing them to counteract a lack of reproducibility has led to hundreds of published studies that have offered little to the establishment of a genetic resources community for aquatic species. This has hampered repository development and inhibited industrial application. Most protocols were developed without standardized approaches, leading to irreproducible studies and questionable or meaningless comparisons. Thus cryopreservation of germplasm in aquatic species would greatly benefit from strategies to facilitate reproducibility. Our objectives were to: (1) identify major sources of irreproducibility across research, small-scale, repository, and commercial-scale development levels, (2) provide recommendations to address reproducibility challenges, and (3) offer suggestions on how researchers can directly influence commercial development and application of cryopreservation research. Sources of irreproducibility include lack of standardized procedural approaches, lack of standardized terminology, and lack of reporting guidelines. To address these challenges, we propose implementation of standard operating procedures (SOP), support of stock centers and internet content for development of training programs, and strengthening of the role of scientific journals and reviewers in reducing the frequency of irreproducible outcomes. Reproducibility is the foundation for quality management programs and product reliability, and therefore standardization is necessary to assure efficient transition to commercial-scale application and repository development. Progress can only be possible through community-based approaches focused on coalescence and consensus of disparate groups involved in aquatic species cryopreservation and management of genetic resources.

Sperm quality biomarkers complement reproductive and endocrine parameters in investigating environmental contaminants in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) from the Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreational Area (LMNRA) serves as critical habitat for several federally listed species and supplies water for municipal, domestic, and agricultural use in the Southwestern U.S. Contaminant sources and concentrations vary among the sub-basins within LMNRA. To investigate whether exposure to environmental contaminants is associated with alterations in male common carp (Cyprinus carpio) gamete quality and endocrine- and reproductive parameters, data were collected among sub-basins over 7 years (1999-2006). Endpoints included sperm quality parameters of motility, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, count, morphology, and DNA fragmentation; plasma components were vitellogenin (VTG), 17ß-estradiol, 11-keto-testosterone, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine. Fish condition factor, gonadosomatic index, and gonadal histology parameters were also measured. Diminished biomarker effects were noted in 2006, and sub-basin differences were indicated by the irregular occurrences of contaminants and by several associations between chemicals (e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene, galaxolide, and methyl triclosan) and biomarkers (e.g., plasma thyroxine, sperm motility and DNA fragmentation). By 2006, sex steroid hormone and VTG levels decreased with subsequent reduced endocrine disrupting effects. The sperm quality bioassays developed and applied with carp complemented endocrine and reproductive data, and can be adapted for use with other species.

Cryopreservation of sperm bundles (spermatozeugmata) from endangered livebearing goodeids

More than half of fishes in the family Goodeidae are considered to be endangered, threatened, or vulnerable. Sperm cryopreservation is an effective tool for conserving genetic resources of imperiled populations, but development of protocols with livebearing fishes faces numerous challenges including the natural packaging of sperm into bundles. In this study the cryopreservation of sperm bundles (spermatozeugmata) of three goodeids species was evaluated. Sperm quality was evaluated by activation with NaCl-NaOH solution (at 300 mOsmol/kg and pH 11.8), and analysis of dissociable bundles and dissociation duration. Using Redtail Splitfin (Xenotoca eiseni) as a model, the effects of cryoprotectants (dimethyl sulfoxide, methanol, and glycerol) with different concentrations (5-15% v/v %), equilibration exposure times (1-60 min), cooling rates (5-40 °C/min), concentrations (4 × 10⁴-4 × 10⁶ bundles/ml), buffers (HBSS, PBS and NaCl), and buffer osmolalities (200-400 mOsmol/kg) were investigated. After cooling and thawing, sperm bundles maintained their packed form. A specific protocol was developed (10% dimethyl sulfoxide, 20-min equilibration, 10 °C/min cooling rate, 4 × 10⁶ bundles/ml, and 300 mOsmol/kg HBSS). This protocol yielded 89 ± 5% of post-thaw dissociable bundles with 209 ± 10 s of dissociation duration for X. eiseni, 96 ± 9% with 814 ± 14 s for Blackfin Goodea (Goodea atripinni), and 66 ± 2% with 726 ± 25 s for Striped Goodeid (Ataeniobius toweri). This is the first study of cryopreservation of sperm within bundles for livebearing fishes and provides a basis for establishment of germplasm repositories for goodeids and other livebearers.

Abstract P5-22-04: Efficacy of thoracic paravertebral block for reducing acute post-mastectomy pain

Background: Mastectomy is associated with acute and chronic postoperative pain. This study investigated the efficacy of thoracic paravertebral block (TPB) compared to local anesthetic of surgical wound (LASW) in breast cancer patients undergoing mastectomy.

Methods: This phase 3, randomized controlled, single blind, parallel arms and superiority clinical trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of TPB compared to LASW on acute pain at rest and motion at 24 hours post-mastectomy, measured by a visual analog scale (VAS). The study size of 60 patients is determined to have 90% power to detect a difference of 20% in acute pain in favor of TPB. In TPB group use of ultrasound was mandatory to guide puncture of intervertebral space T3 for infiltrating 0.5% bupivacaine at dose of 1.5 mg/kg. In LASW group was used bupivacaine 0.5% at dose of 1.5mg/kg on subcutaneous tissue of surgical area. VAS was used to measure surgical pain at rest and motion in 2,4,6,12 and 24 hours post-operatives for both groups. Trial Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; Identifier:NCT02609321.

Findings: From 08-2015 to 09-2016, 60 breast cancer patients were enrolled; 3 dropped off consent. Mean age was 51 year; 78% had stage II and III; and 65% receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy.There were no significant differences in the VAS pain measurement for the groups of BWT compared to LASW in the 24 hour measurement, neither at rest (P=0.6525) nor in movement (P=0.7929). There were no significant differences in both groups for repeated pain measurements (5 measures mean), total dose of opioid administration, time to first dose of opioids or adverse events.

Conclusions: There were not statistical differences for post-mastectomy acute pain in first 24 hours between TPB and LASW patients. According our findings the use of TPB should not routinely recommended for breast cancer patients undergoing mastectomy.

Citation Format: Herazo-Maya F, Egurrola J, Restrepo CE, Torres L, Palacios L, Ossa CA, Borrero M, Angel GA, Marquez JJ, Valencia S, Perez A, Oyola JC, Lobo L, Gomez R, Garcia H. Efficacy of thoracic paravertebral block for reducing acute post-mastectomy pain [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-22-04.

Quality evaluation of sperm from livebearing fishes: Standardized assessment of sperm bundles (spermatozeugmata) from Xenotoca eiseni (Goodeidae)

Standardized evaluation of sperm quality is essential for research, commercial-scale cryopreservation, and induced spawning. However, standardized methods for evaluation of sperm bundles (spermatozeugmata or spermatophores) have not been established. The purpose of the present study was to use Redtail Splitfin (Xenotoca eiseni) as a model for freshwater livebearing fishes to establish initial standardized methods to collect sperm bundles, and quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate quality-related attributes. No sperm or sperm bundles were able to be collected by stripping. Testes were removed, rinsed, weighed, placed in 50 μL of buffer solution on a glass slide, and crushed gently 3-5 times with angled spade-tip forceps. Sperm bundles were released into the buffer solution and collected with a pipette into 1.5-mL centrifuge tubes. To quantify size and shape, images of bundles were captured with a CCD camera connected to a microscope, and measured with computer software. There was no significant correlation between body wet weight and major bundle axis length (P = 0.6759), minor axis length (P = 0.5658), average axis length (P = 0.5869), aspect ratio (P = 0.7839), and observed area (P = 0.5727). The concentrations of sperm bundles, estimated with the three methods (Makler^® counting chamber, a hemocytometer, and direct counting) were significantly different (P < 0.0001). Hemocytometers were suitable for estimation of bundles from X. eiseni. To evaluate activation of sperm, bundles were viewed with a microscope, and classified into one of five phases by evaluating morphology of the bundles and motion of sperm within the bundles as Phase 0 through Phase 4 that represented early through late activation stages. The frequencies and duration of each activation phase were used to evaluate dissociation of sperm bundles and motility capability of sperm within the bundles. Within 180 min of activation, all five phases were observed. Overall, this study for the first time established standardized methods to collect and evaluate quality-related attributes of sperm bundles. These standardized evaluations provide a basis for further modification, standardization, and generalization, which are useful in research on livebearing fishes involving male gametes, such as studies on cryopreservation, artificial insemination, and in development of germplasm repositories for imperiled species including goodeids.

Challenges in Development of Sperm Repositories for Biomedical Fishes: Quality Control in Small-Bodied Species

Quality control (QC) is essential for reproducible and efficient functioning of germplasm repositories. However, many biomedical fish models present significant QC challenges due to small body sizes (<5 cm) and miniscule sperm volumes (<5 μL). Using minimal volumes of sperm, we used Zebrafish to evaluate common QC endpoints as surrogates for fertilization success along sequential steps of cryopreservation. First, concentrations of calibration bead suspensions were evaluated with a Makler^® counting chamber by using different sample volumes and mixing methods. For sperm analysis, samples were initially diluted at a 1:30 ratio with Hanks' balanced salt solution (HBSS). Motility was evaluated by using different ratios of sperm and activation medium, and membrane integrity was analyzed with flow cytometry at different concentrations. Concentration and sperm motility could be confidently estimated by using volumes as small as 1 μL, whereas membrane integrity required a minimum of 2 μL (at 1 × 10⁶ cells/mL). Thus, <5 μL of sperm suspension (after dilution to 30-150 μL with HBSS) was required to evaluate sperm quality by using three endpoints. Sperm quality assessment using a combination of complementary endpoints enhances QC efforts during cryopreservation, increasing reliability and reproducibility, and reducing waste of time and resources.

Combining a hybrid robotic system with a bain-machine interface for the rehabilitation of reaching movements: A case study with a stroke patient

Reaching and grasping are two of the most affected functions after stroke. Hybrid rehabilitation systems combining Functional Electrical Stimulation with Robotic devices have been proposed in the literature to improve rehabilitation outcomes. In this work, we present the combined use of a hybrid robotic system with an EEG-based Brain-Machine Interface to detect the user's movement intentions to trigger the assistance. The platform has been tested in a single session with a stroke patient. The results show how the patient could successfully interact with the BMI and command the assistance of the hybrid system with low latencies. Also, the Feedback Error Learning controller implemented in this system could adjust the required FES intensity to perform the task.

Cardiovascular risk protection from the Mediterranean diet and olive oil. A transcriptomic update in humans

This review highlights the human studies that explore the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and olive oil, based on gene expression analysis. We summarized consistent human transcriptomic studies on cardiovascular risk, based on TMD and olive oil interventions, with real life doses and conditions. A literature review was carried out leading up to February 2016. The results show that the TMD, specially supplemented with virgin olive oil, produces beneficial changes in the transcriptomic response of relevant genes in cardiovascular risk such as CAT, GPX1 and SIRT2. p65 and MCP-1, IL1B, IL6, CXCL1, INF-γ, ARHGAP15 and IL7R, which are involved in inflammation; and ABCA1, SR-B1, PPARBP, PPARα, PPARγ, PPARδ, CD-36 and COX-1, which play an important role in cholesterol efflux. The available data illustrate a transcriptomic effect on atherosclerosis, inflammation and oxidative stress pathways as well as the mentioned genes.

Synthetic biology approaches to biological containment: pre-emptively tackling potential risks

Biocontainment comprises any strategy applied to ensure that harmful organisms are confined to controlled laboratory conditions and not allowed to escape into the environment. Genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs), regardless of the nature of the modification and how it was established, have potential human or ecological impact if accidentally leaked or voluntarily released into a natural setting. Although all evidence to date is that GEMs are unable to compete in the environment, the power of synthetic biology to rewrite life requires a pre-emptive strategy to tackle possible unknown risks. Physical containment barriers have proven effective but a number of strategies have been developed to further strengthen biocontainment. Research on complex genetic circuits, lethal genes, alternative nucleic acids, genome recoding and synthetic auxotrophies aim to design more effective routes towards biocontainment. Here, we describe recent advances in synthetic biology that contribute to the ongoing efforts to develop new and improved genetic, semantic, metabolic and mechanistic plans for the containment of GEMs.

Sensor fault detection and isolation system for a condensation process

This article presents the design of a sensor Fault Detection and Isolation (FDI) system for a condensation process based on a nonlinear model. The condenser is modeled by dynamic and thermodynamic equations. For this work, the dynamic equations are described by three pairs of differential equations which represent the energy balance between the fluids. The thermodynamic equations consist in algebraic heat transfer equations and empirical equations, that allow for the estimation of heat transfer coefficients. The FDI system consists of a bank of two nonlinear high-gain observers, in order to detect, estimate and to isolate the fault in any of both outlet temperature sensors. The main contributions of this work were the experimental validation of the condenser nonlinear model and the FDI system.

Amine reactive dyes: an alternative to estimate membrane integrity in fish sperm cells

Fluorescent dyes that binds irreversibly to cellular amines, come in several available emission spectra, and do not poses health concerns were used to evaluate membrane integrity in fish sperm cells. The objectives of the present study were to determine: (1) a working dye concentration for fish sperm samples, and (2) if the traditional propidium iodide/SYBR-14 staining combination was comparable with the amine reactive dye (ARD) methods at identifying cell populations with intact and compromised membranes after sperm activation, refrigerated storage, and exposure to cryoprotectant and surfactant. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) sperm were obtained by stripping, and pooled samples (in triplicate) were used in all tests. Six dilutions of the amine dye (ranging from 0.625 to 0.02 μL/mL) were evaluated, and compared with the traditional staining protocol. A concentration of 0.5 μL/mL ARD was selected to be used in subsequent assays. Sperm suspensions were activated with deionized water to simulate urine contamination. After 10 sec, osmolality was increased to stop activation, and the procedure was repeated in 10-sec intervals until the sperm remained activated for 120 consecutive sec; membrane integrity was analyzed at each time interval. For the storage assay, sperm suspensions were prepared in Hanks' balanced salt solution at 302 mOsm/kg osmolality (HBSS302), HBSS354 and HBSS402, and evaluated every 2 hr for 8 hr, and every 24 hr for 72 hr. Cryoprotectant toxicity was tested by diluting sperm suspensions in HBSS340 with methanol at 5, 10 and 15% final concentrations. Surfactant toxicity was tested by diluting sperm suspensions in HBSS354 with Triton X-100 at 0.2, 0.15 and 0.1 mM final concentrations. In each toxicity assay, membrane integrity was tested every 20 min for 80 min. The number of membrane-intact cells significantly decreased across time in all treatments (p < 0.05). Significant differences between staining protocols were observed after activation and after exposure to methanol at 10 and 15%, and to Triton X-100 (p < 0.05). The average difference, however, was minor (between 1 and 6% in average) in relation to the typical values used for decision making based on this assay. Results showed that this method has the potential to contribute greatly to the standardization of cryopreservation in aquatic species.

Evaluation of native plant flower characteristics for conservation biological control of Prays oleae

Several studies have shown that manipulating flowering weeds within an agroecosystem can have an important role in pest control by natural enemies, by providing them nectar and pollen, which are significant sources of nutrition for adults. The aim of this study was to assess if the olive moth, Prays oleae (Bernard, 1788) (Lepidoptera: Praydidae), and five of its main natural enemies, the parasitoid species Chelonus elaeaphilus Silvestri (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Apanteles xanthostigma (Haliday) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), Ageniaspis fuscicollis (Dalman) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Elasmus flabellatus (Fonscolombe) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), as well as the predator Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), can theoretically access the nectar from 21 flowering weeds that naturally occur in olive groves. Thus, the architecture of the flowers as well as the mouthpart structure and/or the head and thorax width of the pest and its enemies were analyzed. The results suggested that all beneficial insects were able to reach nectar of the plant species from Apiaceae family, i.e. Conopodium majus (Gouan) Loret, Daucus carota L. and Foeniculum vulgare Mill., as well as Asparagus acutifolius L., Echium plantagineum L., Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik., Raphanus raphanistrum L., Lonicera hispanica Boiss. et Reut., Silene gallica L., Spergula arvensis L., Hypericum perforatum L., Calamintha baetica Boiss. et Reut, Malva neglecta Wallr. and Linaria saxatilis (L.) Chaz. P. oleae was not able to access nectar from five plant species, namely: Andryala integrifolia L., Chondrilla juncea L., Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter, Sonchus asper (L.) Hill and Lavandula stoechas L.

Cryopreservation in fish: current status and pathways to quality assurance and quality control in repository development

Cryopreservation in aquatic species in general has been constrained to research activities for more than 60 years. Although the need for application and commercialisation pathways has become clear, the lack of comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programs has impeded the progress of the field, delaying the establishment of germplasm repositories and commercial-scale applications. In this review we focus on the opportunities for standardisation in the practices involved in the four main stages of the cryopreservation process: (1) source, housing and conditioning of fish; (2) sample collection and preparation; (3) freezing and cryogenic storage of samples; and (4) egg collection and use of thawed sperm samples. In addition, we introduce some key factors that would assist the transition to commercial-scale, high-throughput application.

Detection of diabetic foot hyperthermia by infrared imaging

In diabetic foot, the occurrence of an ulcer is often associated with hyperthermia. Hyperthermia is defined as a temperature greater than 2.2°C in a given region of one of the foot compared to the temperature of the same region of the contralateral foot. Unfortunately, hyperthermia is not yet assessed in current diabetic foot therapy. In this paper, we propose an easy way to detect a possible hyperthermia by using an infrared camera. A specific acquisition protocol of the thermal images is proposed. A dedicated image analysis is developed: it is composed of a contour detection of the 2 feet using the Chan and Vese active contour method associated to the ICP rigid registration technique. Among 85 type II diabetes persons recruited in the Dos de Mayo hospital in Lima, Peru, 9 individuals show significant hyperthermia. It is expected that the new possibility of detecting hyperthermia in hospitals or in diabetic health centers which is now available, thanks to the proposed method, will help in reducing foot ulcer occurrence for diabetic persons.

Are endocrine and reproductive biomarkers altered in contaminant-exposed wild male Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) of Lake Mead, Nevada/Arizona, USA?

Male Largemouth Bass were sampled from two locations in Lake Mead (USA), a site influenced by treated municipal wastewater effluent and urban runoff (Las Vegas Bay), and a reference site (Overton Arm). Samples were collected in summer (July '07) and spring (March '08) to assess general health, endocrine and reproductive biomarkers, and compare contaminant body burdens by analyzing 252 organic chemicals. Sperm count and motility were measured in spring. Contaminants were detected at much higher frequencies and concentrations in fish from Las Vegas Bay than Overton Arm. Those with the highest concentrations included PCBs, DDTs, PBDEs, galaxolide, and methyl triclosan. Fish from Las Vegas Bay also had higher Fulton condition factor, hepatosomatic index, and hematocrit, and lower plasma 11-ketotestosterone concentration (KT). Gonadosomatic index (GSI) and sperm motility did not differ between sites, but sperm count was lower by nearly 50% in fish from Las Vegas Bay. A positive association between KT and GSI was identified, but this association was nonlinear. On average, maximal GSI was reached at sub-maximal KT concentrations. In conclusion, the higher concentration of contaminant body burdens coupled with reduced levels of KT and sperm count in fish from Las Vegas Bay suggest that male reproductive condition was influenced by contaminant exposures. Also, the nonlinear KT-GSI association provided a framework to understand why GSI was similar between male bass from both sites despite their large difference in KT, and also suggested the existence of post-gonadal growth functions of KT at high concentrations.

Novel associations between contaminant body burdens and biomarkers of reproductive condition in male Common Carp along multiple gradients of contaminant exposure in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, USA

Adult male Common Carp were sampled in 2007/08 over a full reproductive cycle at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Sites sampled included a stream dominated by treated wastewater effluent, a lake basin receiving the streamflow, an upstream lake basin (reference), and a site below Hoover Dam. Individual body burdens for 252 contaminants were measured, and biological variables assessed included physiological [plasma vitellogenin (VTG), estradiol-17β (E2), 11-ketotestosterone (11KT)] and organ [gonadosomatic index (GSI)] endpoints. Patterns in contaminant composition and biological condition were determined by Principal Component Analysis, and their associations modeled by Principal Component Regression. Three spatially distinct but temporally stable gradients of contaminant distribution were recognized: a contaminant mixture typical of wastewaters (PBDEs, methyl triclosan, galaxolide), PCBs, and DDTs. Two spatiotemporally variable patterns of biological condition were recognized: a primary pattern consisting of reproductive condition variables (11KT, E2, GSI), and a secondary pattern including general condition traits (condition factor, hematocrit, fork length). VTG was low in all fish, indicating low estrogenic activity of water at all sites. Wastewater contaminants associated negatively with GSI, 11KT and E2; PCBs associated negatively with GSI and 11KT; and DDTs associated positively with GSI and 11KT. Regression of GSI on sex steroids revealed a novel, nonlinear association between these variables. Inclusion of sex steroids in the GSI regression on contaminants rendered wastewater contaminants nonsignificant in the model and reduced the influence of PCBs and DDTs. Thus, the influence of contaminants on GSI may have been partially driven by organismal modes-of-action that include changes in sex steroid production. The positive association of DDTs with 11KT and GSI suggests that lifetime, sub-lethal exposures to DDTs have effects on male carp opposite of those reported by studies where exposure concentrations were relatively high. Lastly, this study highlighted advantages of multivariate/multiple regression approaches for exploring associations between complex contaminant mixtures and gradients and reproductive condition in wild fishes.

Cost analysis of different cervical cancer screening strategies in Mexico

Objective. To compare the costs and number of unde- tected cases of four cervical cancer screening strategies (CCSS) in Mexico. Materials and methods. We estimated the costs and outcomes of the following CCSS: a) conventional Papanicolaou smear (Pap) alone; b) high-risk human papilloma virus testing (HR-HPV) as primary screening with Pap as reflex triage; c) HR-HPV as primary screening with HPV-16/18 typing, liquid-based cytology (LBC) and immunostaining for p16/Ki67 testing as reflex triage, and d) co-testing with HR-HPV and LBC with HPV-16/18 typing and immunostaining for p16/Ki67 as reflex triage. The outcome of interest was high-grade cervical lesions or cervical cancer. Results. HR-HPV testing, HPV typing, LBC testing and immunostaining is the best alternative because it is the least expensive option with an acceptable number of missed cases. Conclusions. The opportunity costs of a poor quality CCSS is many false negatives. Combining multiple tests may be a more cost-effective way to screen for cervical cancer in Mexico.

Cost analysis of different cervical cancer screening strategies in Mexico

OBJECTIVE

To compare the costs and number of undetected cases of four cervical cancer screening strategies (CCSS) in Mexico.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We estimated the costs and outcomes of the following CCSS: a) conventional Papanicolaou smear (Pap) alone; b) high-risk human papilloma virus testing (HR-HPV) as primary screening with Pap as reflex triage; c) HR-HPV as primary screening with HPV-16/18 typing, liquid-based cytology (LBC) and immunostaining for p16/Ki67 testing as reflex triage, and d) co-testing with HR-HPV and LBC with HPV-16/18 typing and immunostaining for p16/Ki67 as reflex triage. The outcome of interest was high-grade cervical lesions or cervical cancer.

RESULTS

HR-HPV testing, HPV typing, LBC testing and immunostaining is the best alternative because it is the least expensive option with an acceptable number of missed cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The opportunity costs of a poor quality CCSS is many false negatives. Combining multiple tests may be a more cost-effective way to screen for cervical cancer in Mexico.