DL-3-n-butylphthalide ameliorates diabetes-associated cognitive decline by enhancing PI3K/Akt signaling and suppressing oxidative stress

DL3-n-Butylphthalide(DLNBP),a small molecular compound extracted from the seeds of Ap/um graveo/ens Linn(Chinese celery),has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects due to its anti-inflammatory,anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic activities.DL-NBP not only protects against ischemic cerebral injury,but also ameliorates vascular cognitive impairment in dementia patients including AD and PD.In the current study,we investigated whether and how DL-NBP exerted a neuroprotective effect against diabetes-associated cognitive decline(DACD)in db/db mice,a model of type-2 diabetes,db/db mice were orally administered DL-NBP(20,60,120 mg·kg^-1·d^-1)for 8 weeks.Then the mice were subjected to behavioral test,their brain tissue was collected for morphological and biochemical analyses.We showed that oral administration of DL-NBP significantly ameliorated the cognitive decline with improved learning and memory function in Morris water maze testing.Furthermore,DL-NBP administration attenuated diabetes-induced morphological alterations and increased neuronal survival and restored the levels of synaptic protein PSD95,synaptophysin and synapsin-1 as well as dendritic density in the hippocampus,especially at a dose of 60 mg/kg.Moreover,we revealed that DL-NBP administration suppressed oxidative stress by upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling,and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF)expression by activating PI3K/Akt/CREB signaling in the hippocampus.These beneficial effects of DL-NBP were observed in high glucose-treated PC12 cells.Our results suggest that DL-NBP may be a potential pharmacologic agent for the treatment of DACD.     

Breakfast: A Crucial Meal for Adolescents’ Cognitive Performance According to Their Nutritional Status. The Cogni-Action Project

This study aimed to determine whether pupils who have breakfast just before a cognitive demand, do not regularly skip breakfast, and consume a high-quality breakfast present higher cognitive performance than those who do not; furthermore, to establish differences according to their nutritional status. In this study, 1181 Chilean adolescents aged 10–14 years participated. A global cognitive score was computed through eight tasks, and the body mass index z-score (BMIz) was calculated using a growth reference for school-aged adolescents. The characteristics of breakfast were self-reported. Analyses of covariance were performed to determine differences in cognitive performance according to BMIz groups adjusted to sex, peak height velocity, physical fitness global score, and their schools. A positive association was found in adolescents’ cognitive performance when they had breakfast just before cognitive tasks, did not regularly skip breakfast, presented at least two breakfast quality components, and included dairy products. No significant differences were found between breakfast components, including cereal/bread and fruits/fruit juice. Finally, pupils who were overweight/obese who declared that they skipped breakfast regularly presented a lower cognitive performance than their normal-BMIz peers. These findings suggest that adolescents who have breakfast just prior to a cognitive demand and regularly have a high quality breakfast have better cognitive performance than those who do not. Educative nutritional strategies should be prioritized, especially in “breakfast skippers” adolescents living with overweight/obesity.     

Endothelins and their inhibition in the human skin microcirculation: ET[1-31], a new vasoconstrictor peptide

AIMS: Endothelin-1 (ET-1([1-21])) is an extremely potent vasoconstrictor in the human skin microcirculation and is generated from larger precursor peptides. The aims of the present study were to assess the vasoactive effects of these precursors as well as endothelin blockade in the human skin microcirculation, in vivo. METHODS: Six healthy volunteers received intradermal injections of a range of doses of big ET-1([1-38]), ET-1([1-31]), ET-1([1-21]), BQ-123 (ET(A) receptor antagonist), BQ-788 (ET(B) receptor antagonist), phosphoramidon [endothelin converting enzyme (ECE) inhibitor] or saline control (0.9%). Skin blood flow (SBF) was measured using standard laser Doppler flowmetry. RESULTS: Big ET-1([1-38]), ET-1([1-31]) and ET-1([1-21]) reduced SBF when compared with saline control (P < 0.01 for all). Big ET-1([1-38]) and ET-1([1-31]) were less potent than ET-1([1-21]) as defined by skin vasoconstriction. Phosphoramidon, BQ-123 and BQ-788, given alone, all caused vasodilatation in the human skin microcirculation (P < 0.01 for all). CONCLUSIONS: In the human skin microcirculation, big ET-1([1-38]) and ET-1([1-31]) are less potent vasoconstrictors than ET-1([1-21]). The effects of big ET-1([1-38]) and phosphoramidon suggest the presence of endogenous ECE activity in the skin. In contrast to skeletal muscle resistance vessels, ET-1([1-21]) contributes to the maintenance of skin microvascular tone through both ET(A) and ET(B) receptor-mediated vasoconstriction.     

Evaluation of Cholera and Other Diarrheal Disease Surveillance System,Niger State,Nigeria-2012

Objective

To determine how the cholera and other diarrheal disease surveillance system in Niger state is meeting its surveillance objectives, to evaluate its performance and attributes and to describe its operation to make recommendations for improvement.

Introduction

Cholera causes frequent outbreaks in Nigeria, resulting in mortality. In 2010 and 2011, 41,936 cases (case fatality rate [CFR]-4.1%) and 23,366 cases (CFR-3.2%) were reported (1). Reported cases in Nigeria by week 26, 2012 was 309 (CFR-1.29%) involving 20 Local Government Areas in 6 States. In Nigeria, there are currently eleven (11) States including Niger state at high risk for cholera/bloodless diarrhea outbreaks.In 2011, Niger state had 2472 cholera cases (CFR-2%) and 45,111 other diarrhea diseases cases, recorded in more than half of state Purpose of surveillance system is to ensure early detection of cholera and other diarrheal cases and to monitor trends towards evidence-based decision for management, prevention and control.

Methods

We conducted evaluation in July, 2012. We used CDC guideline on surveillance system evaluation (2001) as guide to assess operation, performance and attributes (2). We conducted key informant/in-depth interviews with stakeholders. We examined cholera action plans for preparedness and response, conducted laboratory assessment, extracted and analyzed cholera surveillance (2005–2012) for frequencies/proportions using Microsoft Excel. Thematic analysis was done for qualitative data. We shared findings with stakeholders at all levels.

Results

Surveillance system was setup for early detection and monitoring towards evidence-based decision. State government funds system. Case definition used is highly sensitive and is any patient aged 5 years or more who develops acute watery diarrhea, with/without vomiting. Though simple case definition, laboratory confirmation makes surveillance complex. A passive system, active during outbreaks; has formal and informal sources of information and part of Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system and flow(fig.1). It takes 24–48 hours between outbreaks onset, confirmation and response.Line list showed undefined/poorly labeled outcomes. Of 2472 cases in 2011 1320 (49%) were found in line list. 2011 monthly data completeness was 75%. So far in 2012, 5(0.02%) of all diarrhea cases were cholera. System captures only age as sociodemographics.Of 11 suspected cholera cases tested during 2011 epidemic, 7 confirmed as cholera (PPV-63%). Of 3 rumours of cholera outbreaks (January 2011-July 2012), one (PPV-33%) was true. Acceptability of system is high among all stakeholders interviewed. Timeliness of monthly reporting was 68.7% (

Determination of Field-Incurred Chlorfluazuron Residues in the Peach

Chlorfluazuron residues were determined in the peaches that were sprayed at dosage (a.i. 0.0167 kg 10a⁻¹), using an analytical method that was validated as follows; r ² = 0.9999, 0.02 mg kg⁻¹ (LOQ) and 87.8–93.6% (recovery). The residues from all samples were lower than the MRL (0.5 mg kg⁻¹, Korea). A maximum 0.27 mg kg⁻¹ of chlorfluazuron was detected in the samples applied at 6 days before harvest. The results signify that the 10% SC product would be used safely as an insecticide if it is applied two or three times onto peaches, with applications given until 6 days prior to harvest.     

Validity and reliability of the Bengali version of the Hepatitis Quality of Life Questionnaire

Purpose  

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is endemic in Bangladesh, and the quality of life (QoL) of these patients remains unknown as there is no instrument available in the native language. In this study, we translated the 56-item Hepatitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (HQLQ) into Bengali and evaluated its validity and reliability.     

Distribution pattern of poliovirus potentially infectious materials in the phase 1b medical laboratories containment in conformity with the global action plan III

Background

The containment of poliovirus infectious/potentially infectious materials in all biomedical facilities in Nigeria remain crucial to maintaining gains recorded towards polio eradication. Activities involved in the Nigerian Poliovirus type 2-laboratory containment survey in line with the 3rd Global Action Plan III (GAP III) for poliovirus containment are documented in this study. Through these activities, the overall preparedness for poliovirus eradication in Nigeria is assessed.

Method

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 19th September-31st October 2016 using structured Laboratory survey and inventory (LSI) questionnaires uploaded onto the SPSS software package in 560 biomedical facilities classified either as high risk or medium risk facilities across the 6 zones in Nigeria.

Results

In total, 560 biomedical facilities were surveyed in Nigeria in conformity with the GAP III. In total, 86% of the facilities surveyed were with laboratories while 14% were without laboratories.Twelve laboratories with poliovirus potentially infectious materials were identified in this exercise. In total, 50% of the 12 laboratories were under the ministry of education for research purposes. While 33% were among those laboratories surveyed in the phase 1a exercise without any recorded inventory, but have acquired some since the phase 1a survey.A total of 13,484 poliovirus infectious materials were found in the 12 laboratories. Only 8% of the materials were immediately destroyed while the remaining materials (62%) were found in Oyo and Borno states scheduled for destruction within 3–4 months according to WHO protocol for destruction of poliovirus infectious materials.

Conclusion

This study has revealed the successful containment of all poliovirus infectious materials in the laboratories surveyed. It has also revealed some surveillance gaps. We recommend that the surveillance system be improved to maintain the gains from the containment exercise and avoid reintroduction of infectious materials into biomedical facilities. This reduces the chances of viral reintroduction to the population in general.

     

Particulate black carbon and gaseous emission from brick kilns in Greater Dhaka region,Bangladesh

Eighteen brick kilns of three brick-making technologies (Fixed Chimney Kiln (FCK), Zigzag, and Hoffmann) were selected to measure the concentrations of particulate matter (PM_2.5) with Aerocet 531S (USA) sampler, black carbon (BC) with Magee Scientific, OT-21 Soot scan Transmissometer (USA), and gaseous pollutants (CO₂, CO, SO₂, NO_x, and volatile organic carbon (VOC)) with Aeroqual 500 gas sampler (New Zealand) to understand the emission scenario from brick sector in Greater Dhaka region, Bangladesh. Emission factor (EF) of each pollutant was computed from their respective concentration for three brick kiln technologies. Ambient PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ were measured in brick kiln premises and 1 km far from the respective kilns to see the effect on the surrounding areas. The PM_2.5 concentration was found on an average of 141?±?86, 128?±?72, and 110?±?53 mg/m³ in FCK, Zigzag, and Hoffmann kilns, respectively. The average BC concentration was found 16.6?±?7.1 (FCK), 11.8?±?4.2 (Zigzag), and 8.9?±?4.4 (Hoffmann) mg/m³. FCK has a greater emission of CO, whereas Zigzag has a higher CO₂ emission. A comparatively higher value of CO₂ and lower value of CO indicates effective combustion of coal, and this is found to be more efficient for Zigzag and Hoffmann compared to traditional FCK. SO₂ and VOC emissions were depending not only on the kiln types but also on the fuel qualities. From EF calculation, approximately 4526 t of PM_2.5, 340 t of BC, 209,776 t of CO₂, 8700 t of CO, 19,441 t of SO₂, and 835,450 t of VOC per year found to emit from 1000 brick kilns. The conversion of traditional FCK to improved one, i.e., Zigzag and/or Hoffman is not a straight forward solution, as CO₂ emission was higher in Zigzag whereas BC and PM_2.5 emissions were higher in FCK. Therefore, considering EF of various pollutants from these three types of kilns, conversion of FCK to Zigzag or Hoffmann could be a better choice.     

The impact of child welfare legislation on domestic violence‐related homicide rates

State‐specific statutes providing legal consequences for perpetrating domestic violence in the presence of a child have been enacted across the United States between 1996 and 2012. This paper examines the impact of this child welfare legislation, using a difference‐in‐differences approach. We find a significant drop in domestic violence‐related homicide rates, when considering a wide range of victim–offender relationships. However, this result does not hold for marital homicides, suggesting that for this subpopulation, the risk of reprisal and consequent reduction in reporting may be counterbalancing the hypothesized deterrent impacts of the legislation.