Medicine by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 01/22/16

Παρασκευή 22 Ιανουαρίου 2016

Downstream assessment of chlorinated organic compounds in the bed-sediment of Aiba Stream, Iwo, South-Western, Nigeria

This study investigated levels and distribution pattern of chlorinated organic compounds (COCs) otherwise known as organochlorine pesticides in sediment samples at downstream of Aiba watercourse in Iwo, South-western Nigeria. Soxhlet extraction method followed by GC–ECD analysis were used to ascertain levels of COCs in the sediment samples collected from four different locations along the stream. Eighteen COCs were detected with trans permethrin and endosulfan sulfate having highest and lowest concentrations of 375.70 ± 689.41 and 0.03 ± 0.05 µg/g, respectively. The varying levels of COCs as obtained in this study were attributed to organochlorine pesticides contamination emanated from different agricultural practices and domestic sewage loads of the study area.

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Respiratory hypoalgesia? Breath-holding, but not respiratory phase modulates nociceptive flexion reflex and pain intensity

Publication date: Available online 22 January 2016
Source:International Journal of Psychophysiology
Author(s): Hassan Jafari, Karlien Van de Broek, Léon Plaghki, Johan W.S. Vlaeyen, Omer Van den Bergh, Ilse Van Diest
Several observations suggest that respiratory phase (inhalation vs. exhalation) and post-inspiratory breath-holds could modulate pain and the nociceptive reflex. This experiment aimed to investigate the role of both mechanisms. Thirty-two healthy participants received supra-threshold electrocutaneous stimulations to elicit both the Nociceptive Flexion Reflex (NFR) and pain, either during spontaneous inhalations or exhalations, or during three types of instructed breath-holds: following exhalation, at mid-inhalation and at full-capacity inhalation. Whether the electrocutaneous stimulus was applied during inhalation or exhalation did not affect the NFR or pain. Self-reported pain was reduced and the NFR was increased during breath-holding compared to spontaneous breathing. Whereas the type of breath-hold did not impact on self-reported pain, breath-holds at full-capacity inhalation and following exhalation were associated with a lower NFR amplitude compared to breath-holds at mid-inhalation. The present findings confirm that breath-holding can modulate pain (sensitivity) and suggest that both attentional distraction and changes in vagal activity may underlie the observed effects.

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Eugenol, α-pinene and β-caryophyllene from Plectranthus barbatus essential oil as eco-friendly larvicides against malaria, dengue and Japanese encephalitis mosquito vectors

Abstract

Mosquito-borne diseases represent a deadly threat for millions of people worldwide. Eco-friendly mosquitocides are a priority. In Ayurvedic medicine, Plectranthus species have been used to treat heart disease, convulsions, spasmodic pain and painful urination. In this research, we evaluated the acute toxicity of essential oil from Plectranthus barbatus and its major constituents, against larvae of the malaria vector Anopheles subpictus, the dengue vector Aedes albopictus and the Japanese encephalitis vector Culex tritaeniorhynchus. The chemical composition of P. barbatus essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy. Nineteen components were identified. Major constituents were eugenol (31.12 %), α-pinene (19.38 %) and β-caryophyllene (18.42 %). Acute toxicity against early third-instar larvae of An. subpictus, Ae. albopictus and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was investigated. The essential oil had a significant toxic effect against larvae of An. subpictus, Ae. albopictus and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, with 50 % lethal concentration (LC₅₀) values of 84.20, 87.25 and 94.34 μg/ml and 90 % lethal concentration (LC₉₀) values of 165.25, 170.56 and 179.58 μg/ml, respectively. Concerning major constituents, eugenol, α-pinene and β-caryophyllene appeared to be most effective against An. subpictus (LC₅₀ = 25.45, 32.09 and 41.66 μg/ml, respectively), followed by Ae. albopictus (LC₅₀ = 28.14, 34.09 and 44.77 μg/ml, respectively) and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (LC₅₀ = 30.80, 36.75 and 48.17 μg/ml, respectively). Overall, the chance to use metabolites from P. barbatus essential oil against mosquito vectors seems promising, since they are effective at low doses and could be an advantageous alternative to build newer and safer mosquito control tools.

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Inactivation of Cryptosporidium parvum under laboratory conditions

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to evaluate alternatives for inactivating Cryptosporidium parvum under experimental conditions. Disinfectants against this protozoan are usually based on cresols and often difficult to handle in laboratories. Four different substances (ethanol, denatured ethanol, sodium hypochlorite and peroxide) at different concentrations were tested for several exposure times (30 min, 2 h, 4 h, 12 h and 24 h). The results show an inactivation over 99 % by using 10 % H₂O₂ at an exposure time over 2 h as well as 3 and 6 % NaOCl after 12 h of exposure. Furthermore, the ability of UV-C light to inactivate oocysts on smooth surfaces (e.g., laminar flow) was evaluated. To mimic laboratory conditions, oocysts were given on germ carriers. Best results (>99 %) were achieved at an exposure time of 30 min (100.8 mJ/cm²).

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Amebicidal activity of the essential oils of Lippia spp. (Verbenaceae) against Acanthamoeba polyphaga trophozoites

Abstract

Amoebic keratitis and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis are caused by some strains of free-living amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba. In the case of keratitis, one of the greatest problems is the disease recurrence due to the resistance of parasites, especially the cystic forms, to the drugs that are currently used. Some essential oils of plants have been used as potential active agents against this protist. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the amebicidal activity of essential oils from plants of the genus Lippia against Acanthamoeba polyphaga trophozoites. To that end, 8 × 10⁴ trophozoites were exposed for 24 h to increasing concentrations of essential oils from Lippia sidoides, Lippia gracilis, Lippia alba, and Lippia pedunculosa and to their major compounds rotundifolone, carvone, and carvacrol. Nearly all concentrations of oils and compounds showed amebicidal activity. The IC₅₀ values for L. sidoides, L. gracilis L. alba, and L. pedunculosa were found to be 18.19, 10.08, 31.79, and 71.47 μg/mL, respectively. Rotundifolone, carvacrol, and carvone were determined as the major compounds showing IC₅₀ of 18.98, 24.74, and 43.62 μg/mL, respectively. With the exception of oil from L. alba, the other oils evaluated showed low cytotoxicity in the NCI-H292 cell line. Given these results, the oils investigated here are promising sources of compounds for the development of complementary therapy against amoebic keratitis and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis and can also be incorporated into cleaning solutions to increase their amebicidal efficiency.

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Increased Gal-9 and Tim-3 expressions during liver damage in a murine malarial model

Abstract

Malaria has been one of the most devastating tropical parasite infectious diseases popular around the world. Severe malaria is characterized by multiple organ dysfunctions, especially liver damage. However, the mechanisms of malarial liver injury remain to be better clarified. In this study, Kunming mice inoculated intraperitoneally (i.p.) with 10⁶Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbANKA)-infected red blood cells (iRBCs) were investigated at days 5, 10, 15, and 20 post-infection (p.i.) to elucidate the profiles of T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-3 (Tim-3) and its ligand galecin-9 (Gal-9) in the development of liver injury. The histopathology of livers and spleens from PbANKA-infected mice were observed, the parasite burdens of the livers and spleens using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Tim-3- and Gal-9-positive cells in the livers and spleens using immunohistochemical staining, and the mRNA levels of Tim-3, Gal-9, and cytokines in both the livers and spleens using qRT-PCR were examined. Our results showed that parasite burdens in the livers and spleens were significantly increased with time after PbANKA infection. Histological scores of both the liver and spleen tissues were significantly increased with time; the numbers of Tim-3- and Gal-9-positive cells were significantly increased in both the livers and spleens using immunohistochemical staining, and the mRNA levels of Tim-3 and Gal-9 in the livers and spleens were also significantly increased after infection. Our data suggests that the increase of Tim-3/Gal-9 expressions may play an important role in the liver damage during P. berghei infection.

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Improvement on the extraction method of RNA in mites and its quality test

Abstract

To solve the long-existing difficult problems in extracting RNA and constructing a complementary DNA (cDNA) library for trace mites, we conducted a further comparative experiment among three RNA extraction methods (TRIzol method, Omega method, and Azanno method) based on our previous attempts at the construction of cDNA library of mites, with Psoroptes cuniculi still used as the experimental subject. By subsequently decreasing the number of mites, the least number of mites needed for RNA extraction of each method were found by criteria of completeness, concentration, and purity of the extracted RNA. Specific primers were designed according to the allergen Pso c1, Pso c2, and Actin gene sequences of Psoroptes to test the reliability of cDNA library. The results showed that Azanno method needed only 10 mites with sensitivity 204 times higher than previously used TRIzol method and 20 times higher than Omega method; clear RNA band was detected by agarose gel electrophoresis; and ultraviolet spectrophotometer determination showed that RNA concentration, 260/280, and 260/230 were in the range of 102 to 166 ng/μl, 1.83 to 1.99, and 1.49 to 1.72, respectively. Finally, specific primers detection showed that the amplified sequences had 98.33, 98.19, and 99.52 % identities with those of P. cuniculi or Psoroptes ovis in GenBank, respectively, indicating that the cDNA library constructed using 10 mites was successful and it could meet the requirements for molecular biology research. Therefore, we concluded that Azanno method was more effective than TRIzol method and Omega method in RNA extraction and cDNA library construction of trace mites.

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The potential application of plant essential oils to control Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae)

Abstract

The human head louse, Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae), is an ectoparasite confined to the scalp and human hairs. The repeated use of insecticides for the control of head lice during past decades has resulted in the development of marked levels of resistance. Natural compounds such as essential oils (EOs) have been suggested as alternative sources for insect control agents. In order to introduce a new pediculicide based on EOs, the effectiveness of the product and their effects on human being must be analyzed. In consequence, the biological activity of EOs from the leaves and fruits of Schinus areira (Anacardiaceae) and the leaves of Thymus vulgaris (Lamiaceae), Aloysia polystachya and Aloysia citriodora (Verbenacea) were evaluated against the eggs and adults of P. humanus capitis by fumigant and contact toxicity bioassays. Additionally, dermal corrosion/irritation tests were performed on New Zealand albino rabbits. In a fumigant bioassay, EOs from the leaves and fruits of S. areira were the most toxic against P. humanus capitis adults while these EOs and T. vulgaris were the most effective against the eggs. In contact bioassay, the EO from T. vulgaris was the most toxic against both stages. In the corrosion/irritation tests, the EOs did not produce dermal effects. According to the results, the essential oils from the leaves of T. vulgaris would be a valid tool for the management of P. humanus capitis. This EO produces a high knockdown effect in adults (followed by mortality) and toxicity in the eggs when it is applied for 21 min at a low concentration.

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Origins of Wohlfahrtia magnifica in Italy based on the identification of mitochondrial cytochrome b gene haplotypes

Abstract

To identify the geographical origins of larvae of Wohlfahrtia magnifica (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) causing myiasis of sheep in Italy, comparative DNA sequence analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene was performed, based on gene fragments amplified by PCR from genomic DNA isolated from individual specimens. DNA extractions of 19 larvae from Lazio, Molise, Puglia, and Sicilia generated 17 readable sequences homologous to 2 haplotypes, either CB_magn01 or CB_magn02; DNA extracts from 4 adult flies from Calabria (reared from larvae) produced 4 readable sequences belonging to the haplotype CB_magn01. The two haplotypes found represent both the East and West phylogenetic lineages of W. magnifica, which is consistent with the species' arrival from central/southeast Europe (East lineage) and/or from southwest Europe/northwest Africa (West lineage). This is the first report of the sympatric occurrence of the two lineages, which could have resulted from natural or human-assisted dispersal. Polymorphic nuclear loci will have to be characterized in order to explain the origins and lack of mitochondrial haplotype diversity of this pest in Italy, where it poses increasing veterinary problems.

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Hepatozoon ellisgreineri n. sp. (Hepatozoidae): description of the first avian apicomplexan blood parasite inhabiting granulocytes

Abstract

Blood parasites of the genus Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa, Hepatozoidae) infect all groups of terrestrial vertebrates, and particularly high prevalence and species diversity have been reported in reptiles and mammals. A few morphologically similar species, in which gamonts inhabit mononuclear leukocytes and red blood cells, have been described in birds. Here, we report a new Hepatozoon species, which was found in wild-caught secretary birds Sagittarius serpentarius, from Tanzania. Hepatozoon ellisgreineri n. sp. can be readily distinguished from all described species of avian Hepatozoon because its gamonts develop only in granulocytes, predominantly in heterophils, a unique characteristic among bird parasites of this genus. Additionally, this is the first reported avian apicomplexan blood parasite, which inhabits and matures in granulocytes. We describe H. ellisgreineri based on morphological characteristics of blood stages and their host cells. This finding broadens knowledge about host cells of avian Hepatozoon spp. and other avian apicomplexan blood parasites, contributing to the better understanding of the diversity of haematozoa. This is the first report of hepatozoonosis in endangered African birds of the Sagittariidae.

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New insights into diagnosis of Platynosomum fastosum (Trematoda: Dicrocoeliidae) in cats

Abstract

Platynosomum fastosum is a hepatic trematode which causes the so-called lizard poisoning in cats. This parasite is reported in tropical and sub-tropical areas infecting the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts of cats. Despite its clinical importance, the diagnosis of P. fastosum has been poorly investigated so far. In this study, three cases of infection by P. fastosum in cats are reported. The FLOTAC technique was utilized for the first time in the detection of eggs of this parasite. Three cats (two males and one female), being one of them with a history of diarrhea and vomiting, were diagnosed positive for the presence of P. fastosum eggs through the FLOTAC technique. In conclusion, this study provides important and new insights into the diagnosis of P. fastosum in cats, expanding the geographical knowledge of this parasite in Brazil.

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Dynamics of Th17 associating cytokines in Cryptosporidium parvum -infected mice

Abstract

Cryptosporidium parvum commonly inhabits the intestinal tract of animals and humans and can cause acute watery diarrhea and weight loss. However, host immune responses to Cryptosporidium infections are not fully understood. IL-17 (also called IL-17A) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine of Th17 cells that plays a role in the host response to Cryptosporidium baileyi infection. The present study examined levels of IL-17-specific messenger RNA (mRNA) and Th17 associating cytokines in C. parvum-infected immune-suppressed BALB/c mice using real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). Levels of IL-17 protein were determined by ELISA. The results showed that levels of IL-17 mRNA and Th17 cell-related cytokines, namely TGF-β, IL-6, STAT-3, RORγt, IL-22, TNF-α, and IL-23, were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and spleen. IL-17 protein levels in GALT were also significantly increased (P < 0.05) after infection. The present study suggested that Th17 cells play a role in host-C. parvum interaction. These results could inform future studies of the immune response against C. parvum infection in transient immunosuppressed populations.

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Screening and characterization of early diagnostic antigens in excretory–secretory proteins from Trichinella spiralis intestinal infective larvae by immunoproteomics

Abstract

The excretory–secretory (ES) antigens from Trichinella spiralis muscle larvae are the most commonly used diagnostic antigens for trichinellosis, but specific IgG antibodies were not detected in early stage of infection. The aim of this study was to identify early diagnostic antigens from ES proteins of intestinal infective larvae (IIL), the first invasive stage of T. spiralis. Six bands (92, 52, 45, 35, 32, and 29 kDa) of IIL ES proteins were recognized by infection sera in Western blotting as early as 10 days post infection. Total of 54 T. spiralis proteins in six bands were identified by shotgun LC-MS/MS, 30 proteins were annotated, and 27 had hydrolase activity. Several proteins (serine protease, putative trypsin, deoxyribonuclease II family protein, etc.) could be considered as the potential early diagnostic antigens for trichinellosis. Our study provides new insights for screening early diagnostic antigens from intestinal worms of T. spiralis.

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A new coccidian, Isospora parnaitatiaiensis n. sp. (Apicomplexa, Eimeriidae), from the white-shouldered fire-eye Pyriglena leucoptera (Passeriformes, Thamnophilidae) from South America

Abstract

A new coccidian species (Protozoa: Apicomplexa: Isospora) parasitizing the white-shouldered fire-eye Pyriglena leucoptera (Vieillot, 1818) is described in the Parque Nacional do Itatiaia. This park is a protected area in southeastern Brazil with a high degree of vulnerability, representing a "conservation island" of biodiversity. Isospora parnaitatiaiensis n. sp. has oocysts that are ellipsoidal, 23.8 × 19.4 μm, with smooth, bilayered wall, ~1.1 μm thick. Micropyle and oocyst residuum are absent, but one or two polar granules are present. Sporocysts are ellipsoidal, 14.6 × 9.3 μm. The Stieda body is nipple- to knob-like and sub-Stieda body rounded to rectangular. Sporocyst residuum is present, usually as a cluster of numerous granules. Sporozoites are vermiform with two refractile bodies and a nucleus. This is the second isosporoid coccidian described from antbirds (Thamnophilidae).

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Isolation of Balamuthia mandrillaris from soil samples in North-Western Iran

Abstract

Balamuthia mandrillaris is an opportunistic free-living amoebae (FLA) which has been reported as the causative agent of the fatal Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE). Currently, the transmission dynamics of this pathogen remain poorly understood although the organism has been associated with soils, and thus, soil exposure has been identified as a risk factor for this pathogenic amoeba. Nevertheless, environmental isolation of B. mandrillaris is a rare event and strains of this amoebic species have been isolated from soil and dust sources only in seven previous reports (Iran, Mexico, USA, Peru, Costa Rica, Guinea Bissau, and Jamaica). In Iran, a previous study reported the isolation of B. mandrillaris from dust collected in the city of Tehran and free of known infectious involvement. Therefore, in this work, 55 soil samples collected from public and recreational areas of East Azerbaijan, North-Western Iran, were investigated for the presence of this pathogen. Samples were cultured in 2 % non-nutrient agar plates and were monitored for the presence of B. mandrillaris-like trophozoites and/or cysts. Those samples that were positive for these amoebae by microscopic criteria were then confirmed by PCR amplification and DNA sequencing of the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) of B. mandrillaris. The obtained results revealed the presence of this emerging pathogen in 5 of 55 samples included in the study. Homology analysis of the obtained DNA sequences revealed high similarity with previously isolated strains from clinical and environmental sources. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the isolation of B. mandrillaris from soil sources in Iran related to human activity and the second time that this pathogen is isolated from the environment in this country.

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Seroprevalence, isolation, first genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii , and possible congenital transmission in wild moose from Minnesota, USA

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii infections are widespread in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) but little is known of its prevalence in other cervids in the USA. Moose (Alces alces) is a popular large game animal, hunted for its meat and trophy antlers. Here, we report seroprevalence, isolation, and genetic characterization of T. gondii from moose from Minnesota. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 8 of 79 (10 %) moose tested by the modified agglutination test (MAT 1:25 or higher). The myocardium of 68 moose was bioassayed individually in mice, irrespective of serological status. T. gondii was detected in three moose (2 adults, 1 3 weeks old). The parasite from 2 adults was further propagated in cell culture. PCR-RFLP genotyping of cell culture derived tachyzoites using 10 genetic markers, SAG1, SAG2 (5′ and 3′ SAG2, and alt.SAG2), SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, and Apico revealed two different ToxoDB PCR-RFLP genotypes (#5, designated TgMooseUS1, and #7, TgMooseUS2). The mice inoculated with myocardium of the juvenile moose developed antibodies against T. gondii, and DNA extracted from infected mouse brain was only partially characterized by PCR-RFLP genotyping, which suggests a potential new genotype. Result documented prevalence of T. gondii in moose, and its possible transplacental/transmammary transmission of T. gondii in moose.

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Survey for Toxoplasma gondii by PCR detection in meat for human consumption in Colombia

Abstract

The overall risk for toxoplasmosis in meat produced in Colombia is unknown. We analyzed by PCR assay meat samples for human consumption in two types of plants in Colombia: 120 samples from class I plants (60 samples from chicken, 30 from swine and 30 from beef) and 60 from class II plants (30 samples from beef and 30 from swine). Presence of Toxoplasma DNA was established by targeted B1 nested PCR assay. We detected 79 (43 %) samples that were positive by B1 nested PCR (33 from chicken, 22 from beef, and 24 from pork). No differences were found by region or species. Eleven positive samples were confirmed by sequencing of the B1 repeated region. Some polymorphisms were detected without relation with clonal groups nor meat species. Food animals are highly exposed to Toxoplasma in Colombia. Detailed studies are needed to establish the reasons for differences in Toxoplasma prevalence between farms, regarding practices of animal food production.

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No evidence of Dirofilaria repens infection in red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ) and raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) from Brandenburg, Germany

Abstract

Dirofilaria (D.) repens is a nematode causing dirofilariasis in dogs, cats and in humans. Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) are well-known wildlife reservoirs for zoonotic diseases. These two species are highly abundant in Germany, frequently exposed to vector mosquitoes and potentially susceptible to Dirofilaria infections. To obtain data about D. repens infections in these animals, red fox and raccoon dog carcasses (hunted or found dead) were collected from January to September 2009 in the Federal State of Brandenburg, Germany. Lung tissue samples were subjected to DNA extraction and examined for the presence of Dirofilaria DNA by means of D. repens-specific PCR. D. repens-specific DNA could not be amplified from the lungs of red foxes (n = 122; 0 %) nor from the lungs of raccoon dogs (n = 13; 0 %), suggesting a limited role if a role at all in the natural transmission cycle of D. repens in Brandenburg.

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Larvicidal efficacy and chemical constituents of O. gratissimum L. (Lamiaceae) essential oil against Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae)

Abstract

The current study accentuates the use of botanicals as an alternative to the chemical compounds in vector control by estimating the mosquito larvicidal potential of Ocimum gratissimum L. leaf essential oil against the fourth instar larvae of Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae). The chemical composition of essential oil from leaves was evaluated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. GC/MS revealed that the essential oil of O. gratissimum contained 51 compounds. The major chemical constituents identified were 3-allyl-6-methoxyphenol (19.30 %), 4-(5-ethenyl-1-azabicyclo (2, 2, 2) octan-2) (16.82 %), 1-(2, 5-dimethoxyphenyl)-propanol (12.23 %) and 1-(1-hydroxybutyl)-2, 5-dimethoxybenzene (5.53 %). The essential oil showed pertinent larvicidal effect, and the LC₅₀ value in 24 h was 26.10 ppm (LC₉₀ = 82.83 ppm). Aromatic plants and their essential oils are very important sources of many compounds that are used for different applications, and they are more promising pesticides or insecticides for control of mosquito populations than synthetic ones. The results of the present investigation justify the larvicidal potential of leaf essential oil of O. gratissimum as a safer and more effective larvicide against A. albopictus.

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Zoonotic ocular onchocercosis caused by Onchocerca lupi in dogs in Romania

Abstract

Onchocerca lupi is a filarial nematode, which infects the scleral conjunctival tissue of dogs, wolves and cats. Whilst adult nematodes localize in the conjunctive tissue of sclera or in the retrobulbar, microfilariae are found in the skin, and they are rarely diagnosed in asymptomatic animals. Since the first report of human ocular infection 5 years ago, up to 10 zoonotic cases have been identified in patients worldwide. We report, for the first time in Romania, three cases of canine ocular onchocercosis in dogs. Fragments of the harvested worms were characterized morphologically and molecularly. This article expands knowledge on the distribution of this parasite in Eastern Europe and sounds an alarm bell for ophthalmologists about the possible occurrence of human cases of O. lupi infection.

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Intraspecific and interspecific genetic variation of Gongylonema pulchrum and two rodent Gongylonema spp. ( G. aegypti and G. neoplasticum ), with the proposal of G. nepalensis n. sp. for the isolate in water buffaloes from Nepal

Abstract

The gullet worm (Gongylonema pulchrum) has been recorded from a variety of mammals worldwide. In an earlier study, we demonstrated two separate transmission cycles in cattle (Bos taurus) and wild mammals in Japan based on nucleotide sequences of the ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox-1) region of mitochondrial DNA of multiple isolates of different origins. Our earlier study additionally demonstrated two major cox-1 haplotypes of G. pulchrum prevalent in cattle in Japan. In the present study, we collected G. pulchrum from cattle and goats (Capra hircus) in Alashan League, Inner Mongolia, China; Gongylonema aegypti from spiny mice (Acomys dimidiatus) in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt; and Gongylonema neoplasticum from a black rat (Rattus rattus) in Okinawa Island, Japan, to analyze their genetic relationships with G. pulchrum in Japan. The gullet worms from Alashan League had almost identical rDNA nucleotide sequences and two cox-1 haplotypes as seen in G. pulchrum from the cattle in Japan. The two rodent Gongylonema spp. had distinct rDNA nucleotide sequences compared with those of G. pulchrum; only the 18S and 5.8S rDNA sequences showed high identities at 97.2–98.7 %, while the remaining sequences were less than 75 % identical. The 18S, 5.8S, and 28S rDNA sequences of the two rodent Gongylonema spp. showed nucleotide identities of 99.8 % (1811/1814), 100 % (158/158), and 98.9 % (3550/3590), respectively. The cox-1 regions showed 91.6 % (338/369)–92.1 % (340/369) identities, with completely identical amino acid sequences. The genetic diversities of three distinct Gongylonema spp. and their possible intraspecific genetic variation may allow us to resolve the taxonomic position of Gongylonema spp. which display few obvious morphological differences from their congeners. Consequently, the Gongylonema isolate from water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in Nepal reported in our previous study is concluded to be a new species, and Gongylonema nepalensis n. sp. is erected for it.

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Influence of season and site location on European cultured sea bass parasites in Corsican fish farms using indicator species analysis ( IndVal )

Abstract

The parasites of 536 European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax, were studied between January 2012 and December 2013 in six Corsican fish farms. The indicator value (IndVal) method, which combines measures of fidelity and specificity, has been used in this study. Because of its resilience to changes in abundance, IndVal is a particularly effective tool for ecological bioindicator. The IndVal method showed how season can influence the occurrence of parasite species in cultured sea bass and also identified parasites as bioindicators relative to fish farm location. The combination of specificity and fidelity highlighted several parasite species as significant indicators. A randomization test identified five parasite species as having a significant indicator value for season (the monogenean Diplectanum aequans; the copepods Lernanthropus kroyeri and Caligus minimus; the isopod Ceratothoa oestroides, and the myxosporidian Ceratomyxa labracis). If gills parasites are compared, they can be seen to be indicator species for two different seasons. The only Monogenea species D. aequans had fidelity and specificity more pronounced in winter, whereas both copepod species and the Isopoda revealed highest rates of infestation corresponding with an increase of water temperature. Four species have a significant indicator value for site location (D. aequans, L. kroyeri, C. minimus, and C. oestroides). The fact that the farm 6 was isolated on the east coast of Corsica may not have allowed the parasite to infect other farms. The presence of copepods on a single farm can also be explained according to salinity variations. Data for species composition and infection levels should help to improve the monitoring and management of parasitism in cultured sea bass populations.

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Metal-based biologically active azoles and β-lactams derived from sulfa drugs

Publication date: Available online 21 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Hossein Pasha Ebrahimi, Jabbar S. Hadi, Abdulelah A. Almayah, Zeinab Bolandnazar, Ali G. Swadi, Amirpasha Ebrahimi
Metal complexes of Schiff bases derived from sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) and sulfathiazole (STZ), converted to their β-lactam derivatives have been synthesized and experimentally characterized by elemental analysis, spectral (IR, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and EI-mass), molar conductance measurements and thermal analysis techniques. The structural and electronic properties of the studied molecules were investigated theoretically by performing density functional theory (DFT) to access reliable results to the experimental values. The spectral and thermal analysis reveals that the Schiff bases act as bidentate ligands via the coordination of azomethine nitrogen to metal ions as well as the proton displacement from the phenolic group through the metal ions; therefore, Cu complexes can attain the square planner arrangement and Zn complexes have a distorted tetrahedral structure. The thermogravimetric (TG/DTG) analyses confirm high stability for all complexes followed by thermal decomposition in different steps. In addition, the antibacterial activities of synthesized compounds have been screened in vitro against various pathogenic bacterial species. Inspection of the results revealed that all newly synthesized complexes individually exhibit varying degrees of inhibitory effects on the growth of the tested bacterial species, therefore, they may be considered as drug candidates for bacterial pathogens. The free Schiff base ligands (1-2) exhibited a broad spectrum antibacterial activity against Gram negative E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and Proteus spp, and Gram positive S. aureus bacterial strains. The results also indicated that the β-lactam derivatives (3-4) have high antibacterial activities on Gram positive bacteria as well as the metal complexes (5-8), particularly Zn complexes, have a significant activity against all Gram negative bacterial strains. It has been shown that the metal complexes have significantly higher activity than corresponding ligands due to chelation process which reduces the polarity of metal ion by coordinating with ligands.

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A potent and selective inhibitor targeting human and murine 12/15-LOX

Publication date: Available online 21 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Michelle M. Armstrong, Cody J. Freedman, Joo Eun Jung, Yi Zheng, Chakrapani Kalyanaraman, Matthew P. Jacobson, Anton Simeonov, David J. Maloney, Klaus van Leyen, Ajit Jadhav, Theodore R. Holman
Human reticulocyte 12/15-Lipoxygenase (h12/15-LOX) is a lipid-oxidizing enzyme that can directly oxidize lipid membranes in the absence of a phospholipase, leading to a direct attack on organelles, such as the mitochondria. This cytotoxic activity of h12/15-LOX is up-regulated in neurons and endothelial cells after a stroke and thought to contribute to both neuronal cell death and blood-brain barrier leakage. The discovery of inhibitors that selectively target recombinant h12/15-LOX in vitro, as well as possessing activity against the murine ortholog ex vivo, could potentially support a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of stroke. Herein, we report a new family of inhibitors discovered in a High Throughput Screen (HTS) that are selective and potent against recombinant h12/15-LOX and cellular mouse 12/15-LOX (m12/15-LOX). MLS000099089 (compound 99089), the parent molecule, exhibits an IC50 potency of 3.4 ± 0.5 μM against h12/15-LOX in vitro and an ex vivo IC50 potency of approximately 10 μM in a mouse neuronal cell line, HT-22. Compound 99089 displays greater than 30-fold selectivity versus h5-LOX and COX-2, 15-fold versus h15-LOX-2 and 10-fold versus h12-LOX, when tested at 20 μM inhibitor concentration. Steady-state inhibition kinetics reveals that the mode of inhibition of 99089 against h12/15-LOX is that of a mixed inhibitor with a Kic of 1.0 ± 0.08 μM and a Kiu of 6.0 ± 3.3 μM. These data indicate that 99089 and related derivatives may serve as a starting point for the development of anti-stroke therapeutics due to their ability to selectively target h12/15-LOX in vitro and m12/15-LOX ex vivo.

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Structure–activity relationship study of 4-(thiazol-5-yl)benzoic acid derivatives as potent protein kinase CK2 inhibitors

Publication date: Available online 22 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Hiroaki Ohno, Daiki Minamiguchi, Shinya Nakamura, Keito Shu, Shiho Okazaki, Maho Honda, Ryosuke Misu, Hirotomo Moriwaki, Shinsuke Nakanishi, Shinya Oishi, Takayoshi Kinoshita, Isao Nakanishi, Nobutaka Fujii
Two classes of modified analogs of 4-(thiazol-5-yl)benzoic acid-type CK2 inhibitors were designed. The azabenzene analogs, pyridine- and pyridazine-carboxylic acid derivatives, showed potent protein kinase CK2 inhibitory activities [IC50 (CK2α) = 0.014–0.017 μM; IC50 (CK2α') = 0.0046–0.010 μM]. Introduction of a 2-halo- or 2-methoxy-benzyloxy group at the 3-position of the benzoic acid moiety maintained the potent CK2 inhibitory activities [IC50 (CK2α) = 0.014–0.016 μM; IC50 (CK2α') = 0.0088–0.014 μM] and led to antiproliferative activities [CC50 (A549) = 1.5–3.3 μM] three to six times higher than those of the parent compound.

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Sulfonamide inhibition studies of the β-carbonic anhydrase from the pathogenic bacterium Vibrio cholerae

Publication date: Available online 22 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Sonia Del Prete, Daniela Vullo, Viviana De Luca, Vincenzo Carginale, Marta Ferraroni, Sameh M. Osman, Zeid AlOthman, Claudiu T. Supuran, Clemente Capasso
The genome of the pathogenic bacterium Vibrio cholerae encodes for three carbonic anhydrases (CAs, EC 4.2.1.1) belonging to the α-, β- and γ-classes. VchCA, the α-CA from this species was investigated earlier, whereas the β-class enzyme, VchCAβ was recently cloned, characterized kinetically and its X-ray crystal structure reported by this group. Here we report an inhibition study with sulfonamides and one sulfamate of this enzyme. The best VchCAβ inhibitors were deacetylated acetazolamide and methazolamide and hydrochlorothiazide, which showed inhibition constants of 68.2 – 87.0 nM. Other compounds, with medium potency against VchCAβ, (KIs in the range of 275 – 463 nM), were sulfanilamide, metanilamide, sulthiame and saccharin whereas the clinically used agents such as acetazolamide, methazolamide, ethoxzolamide, dorzolamide, zonisamide and celecoxib were micromolar inhibitors (KIs in the range of 4.51 – 8.57 μM). Identification of potent and possibly selective inhibitors of VchCA and VchCAβ over the human CA isoforms, may lead to pharmacological tools useful for understanding the physiological role(s) of this under-investigated enzymes.

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In vitro interactions between Anidulafungin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on biofilms of Candida spp

Publication date: Available online 22 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Antonio Rosato, Alessia Catalano, Alessia Carocci, Antonio Carrieri, Addolorata Carone, Giuseppina Caggiano, Carlo Franchini, Filomena Corbo, Maria Teresa Montagna
Candida spp. are responsible for many biomaterial-related infections; they give rise to infective pathologies typically associated with biofilm formation. We recently reported that the echinocandin anidulafungin (ANF) showed a strong in vitro activity against both planktonic and biofilms cells. Herein, we report the antifungal activities of ANF alone and in association with some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) against nine Candida strain biofilms: four C. albicans, two C. glabrata and three C. guilliermondii. The activity of ANF was assessed using an in vitro microbiological model relevant for clinical practice. ANF proved oneself to be active against biofilms cells, and a clear-cut synergism was found against Candida species biofilms when ANF was used in combination with three NSAIDs: aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen. The positive synergism against Candida spp. of ANF in association with aspirin or the other NSAIDs proved to be a very effective antifungal treatment (FICI < 0.5). These results may provide the starting point for new combination therapies of ANF with NSAIDs against Candida biofilm pathologies.

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From Indole to Pyrrole, Furan, Thiophene and Pyridine: Search for Novel Small Molecule Inhibitors of Bacterial Transcription Initiation Complex Formation

Publication date: Available online 21 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Oscar Thach, Marcin Mielczarek, Cong Ma, Samuel K. Kutty, Xiao Yang, David StC. Black, Renate Griffith, Peter J. Lewis, Naresh Kumar
The search for small molecules capable of inhibiting transcription initiation in bacteria has resulted in the synthesis of N,N′-disubstituted hydrazines and imine-carbohydrazides comprised of indole, pyridine, pyrrole, furan and thiophene using the respective trichloroacetyl derivatives, carbohydrazides and aldehydes. Replacement of the indole moiety by smaller heterocycles linked by -CO-NH-N=C- linkers afforded a broad variety of compounds efficiently targeting the RNA polymerase-σ⁷⁰/σ^A interaction as determined by ELISA and exhibiting increased inhibition of the growth of Escherichia coli compared to Bacillus subtilis in culture. The structural features of the synthesized transcription initiation inhibitors needed for antibacterial activity were identified employing molecular modelling and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies.

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Heptapeptide Ligands against Receptor-Binding Sites of Influenza Hemagglutinin toward Anti-Influenza Therapy

Publication date: Available online 21 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Teruhiko Matsubara, Ai Onishi, Daisuke Yamaguchi, Toshinori Sato
The initial attachment of influenza virus to cells is the binding of hemagglutinin (HA) to the sialyloligosaccharide receptor; therefore, the small molecules that inhibit the sugar-protein interaction are promising as HA inhibitors to prevent the infection. We herein demonstrate that sialic acid-mimic heptapeptides are identified through a selection from a primary library against influenza virus HA. In order to obtain lead peptides, an affinity selection from a phage-displayed random heptapeptide library was performed with the HAs of the H1 and H3 strains, and two kinds of the HA-binding peptides were identified. The binding of the peptides to HAs was inhibited in the presence of sialic acid, and plaque assays indicated that the corresponding N-stearoyl peptide strongly inhibited infections by the A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2) strain of the virus. Alanine scanning of the peptides indicated that arginine and proline were responsible for binding. The affinities of several mutant peptides with single-amino-acid substitutions against H3 HA were determined, and corresponding docking studies were performed. A Spearman analysis revealed a correlation between the affinity of the peptides and the docking study. These results provide a practicable method to design of peptide-based HA inhibitors that are primising as anti-influenza drugs.

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Synthesis of 3-acyloxyxanthone derivatives as α-glucosidase inhibitors: a further insight into the 3-substituents’ effect

Publication date: Available online 21 January 2016
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Gai-Li Li, Chao-Yun Cai, Jia-Yun He, Li Rao, Lin Ma, Yan Liu, Bo Wang
Considerable interest has been attracted in xanthone and its derivatives because of their important biological activities. In this paper, a series of novel 3-arylacyloxyxanthone derivatives 2a-p were synthesized and evaluated for their biological activities toward α-glucosidase. In comparison to the parent 1,3-dihydroxylxanthone 1a, 3-arylacyloxy derivatives 2a-p with additional aromatic ester groups at 3-position show up to 13.7-fold higher inhibitory activities. In particular, the IC50 values of compounds 2i, 2m, 2p reach 13.3, 10.6, 11.6 μM, respectively. These results suggest that addition of aromatic moieties by esterification at the 3-OH of the parent 1, 3-dihydroxylxanthone is an efficient way to increase the inhibition against α-glucosidase. Different from previous multi-hydroxylxanthones, these 3-arylacyloxyxanthone derivatives show efficient inhibitory activities may due to the π-stacking or hydrophobic effects of the additional aromatic moieties rather than the H-bonding donor interaction of 3-OH. Structure-activity relationship analysis shows that the substituents on the additional aromatic ring also influence the inhibition. All the oxygen or nitrogen-containing groups, like hydroxyl, methoxy, methaminyl, and alkylsilyloxy, can enhance the inhibitory activities. In addition, the kinetics of enzyme inhibition measured by using Lineweaver-Burk plots shows that selected compounds 2i, 2m and 2p are non-competitive inhibitors. Docking simulations further support our structure-activity relationship analysis that additional aromatic moieties enhance inhibitory activities via hydrophobic effects. The new developed 3-arylacyloxyxanthone derivatives probably bind with α-glucosidase in an allosteric site different from traditional multi-hydroxylxanthones.

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Geosciences, Vol. 6, Pages 6: Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Geosciences in 2015

The editors of Geosciences would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]

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JDB, Vol. 4, Pages 4: Cell Fate Decisions During Breast Cancer Development

During the formation of breast cancer, many genes become altered as cells evolve progressively from normal to a pre-malignant to a malignant state of growth. How mutations in genes lead to specific subtypes of human breast cancer is only partially understood. Here we review how initial genetic or epigenetic alterations within mammary epithelial cells (MECs) can alter cell fate decisions and put pre-malignant cells on a path towards cancer development with specific phenotypes. Understanding the early stages of breast cancer initiation and progression and how normal developmental processes are hijacked during transformation has significant implications for improving early detection and prevention of breast cancer. In addition, insights gleaned from this understanding may also be important for developing subtype-specific treatment options.

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Viruses, Vol. 8, Pages 29: Experimental Inoculation of Egyptian Fruit Bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) with Ebola Virus

Colonized Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus), originating in South Africa, were inoculated subcutaneously with Ebola virus (EBOV). No overt signs of morbidity, mortality, or gross lesions were noted. Bats seroconverted by Day 10–16 post inoculation (p.i.), with the highest mean anti-EBOV IgG level on Day 28 p.i. EBOV RNA was detected in blood from one bat. In 16 other tissues tested, viral RNA distribution was limited and at very low levels. No seroconversion could be demonstrated in any of the control bats up to 28 days after in-contact exposure to subcutaneously-inoculated bats. The control bats were subsequently inoculated intraperitoneally, and intramuscularly with the same dose of EBOV. No mortality, morbidity or gross pathology was observed in these bats. Kinetics of immune response was similar to that in subcutaneously-inoculated bats. Viral RNA was more widely disseminated to multiple tissues and detectable in a higher proportion of individuals, but consistently at very low levels. Irrespective of the route of inoculation, no virus was isolated from tissues which tested positive for EBOV RNA. Viral RNA was not detected in oral, nasal, ocular, vaginal, penile and rectal swabs from any of the experimental groups.

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Healthcare, Vol. 4, Pages 12: Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Healthcare in 2015

The editors of Healthcare would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]

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IJFS, Vol. 4, Pages 2: Acknowledgement to Reviewers of the International Journal of Financial Studies in 2015

The editors of the International Journal of Financial Studies Editorial Office, would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]

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Insects, Vol. 7, Pages 4: Oviposition by Female Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae): Description and Time Budget Analysis of Behaviors in Laboratory Studies

The oviposition behavior of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a major insect pest of durable stored foods, was studied in small experimental arenas under laboratory conditions using videography, and a time budget analysis of its behaviors was documented. Resting gravid females typically became active shortly after the start of the scotophase. The characteristic behaviors exhibited by mated females prior to oviposition included antennal movement, grooming of antennae and mouth parts using the forelegs, walking or flying, and abdomen bending and dragging. Pre-oviposition behaviors such as antennal grooming and walking or flying were observed to alternate several times before females commenced the abdominal dragging behavior that preceded egg laying. Eggs were laid singly or sometimes in groups, either freely or stuck to food material. Gravid females showed little or no movement during the photophase; however, they actively flew and oviposited during the scotophase. Females allocated only a small portion of their time to oviposition while the rest of the time was spent away from food. Females oviposited on food material by making repeated visits, predominantly during the first four hours of the scotophase. Visits and time spent on food declined as the scotophase advanced.

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JFB, Vol. 7, Pages 3: Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Journal of Functional Biomaterials in 2015

The editors of Journal of Functional Biomaterials would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]

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Land, Vol. 5, Pages 1: Assessing and Governing Ecosystem Services Trade-Offs in Agrarian Landscapes: The Case of Biogas

This paper develops a method to explore how alternative scenarios of the expansion of maize production for biogas generation affect biodiversity and ecosystem services (ES). Our approach consists of four steps: (i) defining scenario targets and implementation of assumptions; (ii) simulating crop distributions across the landscape; (iii) assessing the ES impacts; and (iv) quantifying the impacts for a comparative trade-off analysis. The case study is the region of Hannover, Germany. One scenario assumes an increase of maize production in a little regulated governance system; two others reflect an increase of biogas production with either strict or flexible environmental regulation. We consider biodiversity and three ES: biogas generation, food production and the visual landscape. Our results show that the expansion of maize production results in predominantly negative impacts for other ES. However, positive effects can also be identified, i.e., when the introduction of maize leads to higher local crop diversity and, thus, a more attractive visual landscape. The scenario of little regulation portrays more negative impacts than the other scenarios. Targeted spatial planning, implementation and appropriate governance for steering maize production into less sensitive areas is crucial for minimizing trade-offs and exploiting synergies between bioenergy and other ES.

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Editorial Board

Publication date: February 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 97, Issue 2, Supplement

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Publication date: February 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 97, Issue 2, Supplement

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Sex, Gender, and Traumatic Brain Injury: A Commentary

Publication date: February 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Volume 97, Issue 2, Supplement
Author(s): Angela Colantonio
The goal of this supplemental issue is to address major knowledge, research, and clinical practice gaps regarding the limited focus on brain injury in girls and women as well as limited analysis of the effect of sex and gender in research on acquired brain injury. Integrating sex and gender in research is recognized as leading to better science and, ultimately, to better clinical practice. A sex and gender analytical approach to rehabilitation research is crucial to understanding traumatic brain injury and improving quality of life outcomes for survivors. Put another way, the lack of focus on sex and gender reduces the rigor of research design, the generalizability of study findings, and the effectiveness of clinical implementation and knowledge dissemination practices. The articles in this supplement examine sex and gender using a variety of methodological approaches and research contexts. Recommendations for future research on acquired brain injury that consciously incorporates sex and gender are made throughout this issue. This supplement is a product of the Girls and Women with ABI Task Force of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.

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Chemosensors, Vol. 4, Pages 2: Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Chemosensors in 2015

The editors of Chemosensors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]

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Electronics, Vol. 5, Pages 6: Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Electronics in 2015

The editors of Electronics would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]

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Approach-motivated pregoal states enhance the reward positivity

Abstract

Past work has demonstrated that the reward positivity (RewP) indexes a performance-monitoring system sensitive to positive outcomes. However, studies have not investigated how approach-motivated states occurring in goal pursuit influence performance monitoring. Using a modified monetary incentive delay task, participants played a reaction time game evoking approach-motivated pregoal (reward trials) or neutral (no-reward trials) states. Then, they received trial feedback resulting in monetary gain or no gain. Results revealed that the RewP was larger to win feedback on reward trials than win or no-win feedback after neutral trials. P3 amplitudes were larger to infrequent feedback than frequent feedback, regardless of trial type or outcome. Furthermore, faster reaction times on reward trials related to larger RewP amplitudes after approach-motivated pregoal states. Approach-motivated pregoal states enhance RewP amplitudes for both successful and unsuccessful goal outcomes. Enhanced performance, as measured by faster reaction times, in approach-motivated pregoal states relates to enhanced performance monitoring.

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Παρασκευή 22 Ιανουαρίου 2016

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