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Ceruloplasmin precursor (EC 1.16.3.1) (Ferroxidase)

Publications[править]

A Life Course Perspective on Growing Older With Cerebral Palsy.

Despite most children with cerebral palsy (CP) now living within typical life spans, little is known about how the effects of CP unfold across the life course and impact participation in everyday life during adulthood. In this study, we explored the experiences of 38 adults growing older with CP. Data were gathered using semi-structured interviews focused on participants' engagement in activities in their community and analyzed using a life course perspective to deepen our understanding of the experiences of our participants. We found that individual agency, family and social contexts, as well as larger sociocultural contexts all shaped participants' experiences as they grew older. The findings highlight the usefulness of the life course perspective for understanding how the effects of a diagnosis of CP unfold over time. Further use of this perspective can better inform health care services to meet the needs of adults with CP aging with a lifelong disability.


Keywords

  • aging
  • cerebral palsy
  • midlife
  • neurological disorders
  • neurology
  • qualitative descriptive


The molecular anatomy and functions of the choroid plexus in healthy and diseased brain.

The choroid plexus (CP) is located in the ventricular system of the brain (one in each ventricle), and the CP epithelial cells form an important barrier between the blood and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Their main function comprises CSF secretion, maintenance of brain homeostasis, signalling, and forming a neuroprotective barrier against harmful external and internal compounds. The CPs mature early and demonstrate expressional changes of barrier-specific genes and proteins related to location and developmental stage of the CP. Important proteins for the barrier function include tight junction proteins, numerous transporters and enzymes. Natural senescence leads to structural changes in the CP cells and reduced or loss of function, while further loss of CP function and changes in immune status may be relevant in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Multiple Sclerosis. Neuroprotective genes expressed at CPs may be unexplored targets for new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.


Keywords

  • Aging
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Choroid plexus
  • Development
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Neuroprotection


The effects and mechanism of collagen peptide and elastin peptide on skin aging induced by D-galactose combined with ultraviolet radiation.

The content of collagen and elastin occupies a large proportion of skin evaluation, and collagen peptide (CP) and elastin peptide (EP) are widely used drugs, which have anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, CP and EP can also be used as therapeutic agents for skin repair. However, previous studies have never thoroughly verified the effects of oral administration of CP and EP on skin repair. To study the effects and mechanism of oral administration of CP and EP on skin aging induced by combinatorial treatment with D-galactose and ultraviolet radiation. In animal experiments, the combined oral administration of CP and EP increased the contents of collagen and elastin in animal skin, accompanying with significantly upregulated expression of hyaluronic acid and hydroxyproline, as well as significantly reduced expression of MMP-3 and IL-1α. In addition, the combined therapy also significantly increased the expression of seven collagen and elastin synthesis-related factors including IGF-1, LOX, SMAD2, JNK, SP1, TβRII and TGF-β. Oral administration of CP and EP can repair skin aging induced by the combined treatment with D-galactose and ultraviolet radiation and the effects of CP and EP appeared synergistic.


Keywords

  • Collagen
  • D-galactose
  • Elastin
  • Skin aging
  • Ultraviolet


Model based strategies towards protein A resin lifetime optimization and supervision.

The high cost of protein A resins drives the biopharmaceutical industry to maximize its lifetime, which is limited by several processes, usually referred to as resin aging. In this work, two model based strategies are presented, aiming to control and improve the resin lifetime. The first approach, purely statistical, enables qualitative monitoring of the column state and prediction of column performance indicators (e.g. yield, purity and dynamic binding capacity) from chromatographic on-line data (e.g. UV signal). The second one, referred to as hybrid modeling, is based on a lumped kinetic model, which includes two aging parameters fitted on several resin cycling experimental campaigns with varying cleaning procedures (CP). The first aging parameter accounts for binding capacity deterioration (caused by ligand degradation, leaching, and pore occlusion), while the second accounts for a decreased mass transfer rate (mainly caused by fouling). The hybrid model provides important insights into the prevailing aging mechanism as a function of the different CPs. In addition, it can be applied to model based CP optimization and yield forecasting with the capability of state estimation corrections based on on-line process information. Both approaches show promising results, which could help to significantly extend the resin lifetime. This comes along with increased understanding, reduced experimental effort, decreased cost of goods, and improved process robustness.

MeSH Terms

  • Algorithms
  • Chromatography
  • Kinetics
  • Least-Squares Analysis
  • Ligands
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Principal Component Analysis
  • Resins, Plant
  • Staphylococcal Protein A
  • Statistics as Topic

Keywords

  • Cleaning procedures
  • Hybrid modeling
  • Multivariate data analysis
  • Protein A chromatography
  • Resin aging
  • Resin lifetime


The influence of age and environmental conditions on supplement intake by beef cattle winter grazing northern mixed-grass rangelands.

This study evaluated the influence of cow age and temperature adjusted for wind chill (Twindchill) on supplement intake behavior of beef cattle winter grazing northern mixed grass prairie rangelands. A commercial herd of 272 (year 1) and 302 (year 2) bred cows (Angus, Simmental × Angus) ranging in age from 1- to 12-yr-old grazed a 329-ha rangeland pasture (~1.5 ha animal unit month- 1) from November to January. Cows were grouped into seven age classes (1 yr old, 2 yr old, 3 yr old, 4 yr old, 5 yr old, 6 yr old, and ≥ 7 yr old) and were provided free-choice access to a 30% CP self-fed canola meal-based pelleted supplement with 25% salt to limit intake. The target daily intake was 0.91 kg cow- 1 d- 1. Supplement was provided in a SmartFeed Pro self-feeder system to measure individual animal supplement intake and behavior. An Onset HOBO U30-NRC Weather Station was placed near the supplement feeders to collect weather data for the entirety of the grazing period. Average daily supplement intake and the coefficient variation in supplement intake displayed a Twindchill × cow age × year interaction (P ≤ 0.02). There was a negative linear effect of age on supplement intake (kg cow- 1 d- 1) for days with below average Twindchill conditions in both years (P < 0.01). There was also negative linear effect of age on supplement intake (g kg of BW- 1 d- 1) at average Twindchill in year 1 and below average Twindchill in year 2 (P < 0.01). Cow age had a quadratic effect on supplement intake for days with below average Twindchill in year 1 (P = 0.02); however, this was a curvilinear response where yearlings and 2-yr-olds consumed more supplement per kilogram of BW than other age cattle (P < 0.01). Cow age had positive linear effects on variation in supplement intake at below average Twindchill conditions in both years (P < 0.01). Daily visits to the supplement feeders displayed a Twindchill × cow age interaction (P < 0.01), where there was a linear decrease in visits with increasing age at below average Twindchill conditions (P < 0.01). In summary, both cow age and the winter environmental conditions interacted to influence animal supplement intake behavior and, as a result, nutrient delivery efficacy in winter grazing beef cattle.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animal Feed
  • Animal Husbandry
  • Animals
  • Cattle
  • Diet
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Ecosystem
  • Female
  • Poaceae
  • Seasons
  • Weather

Keywords

  • beef cattle
  • cow age
  • environment
  • supplement intake
  • winter grazing


Cyclophosphamide, a cancer chemotherapy drug-induced early onset of reproductive senescence and alterations in reproductive performance and their prevention in mice.

Although, cyclophosphamide (CP) treatment is known to cause degeneration of the ovarian follicular reserve, which may have a serious consequence of the onset of early reproductive senescence, thus far there is no experimental study either to demonstrate CP-induced early onset of reproductive senescence or its prevention. Intraperitoneal administration (ip) of CP [100 mg/kg body weight (bw)/mouse] resulted in a drastic reduction in reproductive life span as shown by the onset of reproductive senescence at a significantly early age (258 days) compared to controls (349 days), whereas treatment with the root extract of the herb [i]Decalepis hamiltonii[/i] (DH) (200 mg/Kg bw/day for 7 days), a cocktail of anti-oxidants prior to CP administration maintained normal reproductive life span in mice. Further, the CP treated mice showed a significant increase in pre-coital interval and a significant reduction in parturition index coupled with regressive changes in the uterine endometrium, whereas DH co-treatment prevented these changes. The results for the first time, demonstrate that the ovarian toxicity of CP could be prevented by an anti-oxidant to maintain a normal reproductive life span as well as reproductive outcome using mice model.


Keywords

  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Decalepis hamiltonii
  • premature ovarian failure
  • reproductive performance
  • reproductive senescence
  • uterus


Cepharanthine promotes the effect of dexmedetomidine on the deposition of β-amyloid in the old age of the senile dementia rat model by regulating inflammasome expression.

The present study evaluates the synergistic effect of cepharanthine (CP) with dexmedetomidine (DEM) on the deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) in the brain tissue of senile dementia (SD) rats. Senile dementia was induced by injecting D-gal intraperitoneally 60 mg/kg/day for six weeks and Aβ1-42 (5 µl) intracranially. The effect of cepharanthine and dexmedetomidine was estimated by determining the cognitive function and neurological function score. Moreover, mediators of inflammation, parameters of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined in the brain tissue of senile dementia rats. Mitochondrial membrane permeability and deposition of Aβ1-42 was estimated in senile dementia rats. Western blot assay and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed for the expression of proteins and genes in the brain tissue of senile dementia rats. Data of the study reveal that cepharanthine alone and in combination with dexmedetomidine improves the neurological function score and cognitive function in SD rats. Moreover, parameters of oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators and production of ROS in CP, DEM and CP DEM treated groups were compared to the SD group of rats. Treatment with CP, DEM and CP DEM ameliorates the altered expression of NLRP3 pathway and deposition of Aβ in the brain tissue of SD rats. In conclusion, data reveal that cepharanthine ameliorates the deposition of Aβ and NLRP3 pathway in SD rats. Moreover, cepharanthine treatment with dexmedetomidine shows the synergistic effect against the aged SD rat model.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Benzylisoquinolines
  • Brain
  • Dexmedetomidine
  • Inflammasomes
  • Inflammation
  • Male
  • Mitochondria
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Reactive Oxygen Species

Keywords

  • dementia
  • dexmedetomidine
  • inflammasomes
  • β-amyloid
  • cepharanthine


European LeukemiaNet 2020 recommendations for treating chronic myeloid leukemia.

The therapeutic landscape of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) has profoundly changed over the past 7 years. Most patients with chronic phase (CP) now have a normal life expectancy. Another goal is achieving a stable deep molecular response (DMR) and discontinuing medication for treatment-free remission (TFR). The European LeukemiaNet convened an expert panel to critically evaluate and update the evidence to achieve these goals since its previous recommendations. First-line treatment is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI; imatinib brand or generic, dasatinib, nilotinib, and bosutinib are available first-line). Generic imatinib is the cost-effective initial treatment in CP. Various contraindications and side-effects of all TKIs should be considered. Patient risk status at diagnosis should be assessed with the new EUTOS long-term survival (ELTS)-score. Monitoring of response should be done by quantitative polymerase chain reaction whenever possible. A change of treatment is recommended when intolerance cannot be ameliorated or when molecular milestones are not reached. Greater than 10% BCR-ABL1 at 3 months indicates treatment failure when confirmed. Allogeneic transplantation continues to be a therapeutic option particularly for advanced phase CML. TKI treatment should be withheld during pregnancy. Treatment discontinuation may be considered in patients with durable DMR with the goal of achieving TFR.

MeSH Terms

  • Aniline Compounds
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Clinical Decision-Making
  • Consensus Development Conferences as Topic
  • Dasatinib
  • Disease Management
  • Fusion Proteins, bcr-abl
  • Gene Expression
  • Humans
  • Imatinib Mesylate
  • Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive
  • Life Expectancy
  • Monitoring, Physiologic
  • Nitriles
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • Pyrimidines
  • Quality of Life
  • Quinolines
  • Survival Analysis


Asymptomatic [i]Clostridium perfringens[/i] Inhabitation in Intestine Can Cause Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Disorders in Brain.

[i]Clostridium perfringens[/i] (CP) is a foodborne pathogen. The bacterium can also inhabit human gut without symptoms of foodborne illness. However, the clinical symptoms of long-term inhabitation have not been known yet. Therefore, the objective of this study was to elucidate the relationship between intestinal CP and other internal organs. Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and CP were orally injected into 5-week-old (YOUNG) and 12-month-old C57BL6/J (ADULT) mice. Gene expression levels related to inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-α [[i]TNF-α[/i]], interleukin [[i]IL[/i]]-[i]1β[/i], and [i]IL-6[/i]) and oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase [[i]SOD[/i]][i]1[/i], [i]SOD2[/i], [i]SOD3[/i], glutathione reductase [[i]GSR[/i]], glutathione peroxidase [[i]GPx[/i]][i]3[/i], and catalase [[i]CAT[/i]]) responses were evaluated in the brain, small intestine, and liver. In addition, apoptosis-related (BCL2-associated X [[i]BAX[/i]][i]1[/i] and high-mobility group box-1 [[i]HMGB1[/i]]) and brain disorder-related genes (CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein [[i]C/EBP[/i]][i]-β[/i], [i]C/EBPδ[/i], C/EBP homologous protein [[i]CHOP[/i]], and amyloid precursor protein [[i]APP[/i]]) as brain damage markers were examined. The protein expressions in the brain were also measured. Gene expression levels of inflammation and oxidative stress responses were higher ([i]p[/i] < 0.05) in brains of CP-YOUNG and CP-ADULT mice, compared with PBS-YOUNG and PBS-ADULT, and the gene expression levels were higher ([i]p[/i] < 0.05) in brains of CP-ADULT mice than CP-YOUNG mice. Apoptosis-related ([i]BAX1[/i] and [i]HMGB1[/i]) and brain disorder-related genes ([i]C/EBPβ, C/EBPδ, CHOP,[/i] and [i]APP[/i]) were higher ([i]p[/i] < 0.05) in brains of CP-challenged mice, compared with PBS-challenged mice. Even oxidative stress response (GPx and SOD2), cell damage-related (HMGB1), and β-amyloid proteins were higher ([i]p[/i] < 0.05) in brains of CP- than in PBS-challenged mice. C/EBP protein was higher ([i]p[/i] < 0.05) in CP-YOUNG, compared with PBS-YOUNG mice. However, these clinical symptoms were not observed in small intestine and liver. These results indicate that although asymptomatic intestinal CP do not cause foodborne illness, their inhabitation may cause brain inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cell damage, which may induce disorders, especially for the aged group.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Apoptosis
  • Asymptomatic Infections
  • Brain
  • Brain Diseases
  • Clostridium Infections
  • Clostridium perfringens
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Feces
  • Food Microbiology
  • Gene Expression
  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Intestines
  • Liver
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Organ Size
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Risk Factors
  • Spleen

Keywords

  • Clostridium perfringens
  • brain damage
  • brain disorder
  • gut microbiota


The Role of the Clinical Pharmacist in the Management of People Living with HIV in the Modern Antiretroviral Era.

As the HIV epidemic has evolved, so too has the role of the clinical pharmacist (CP) in the management of people living with HIV (PLWH). The modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) era has resulted in PLWH living normal life spans with resulting increased comorbidities. CPs have long been a part of the multidisciplinary management of ART. However, with the changing demographics of PLWH and health-care system dynamics, CPs have had the opportunity to expand their role. This includes involvement in managing increasing comorbidities with expanding and more complicated medication regimens, drug interaction monitoring, and optimizing transitions of care, all while recognizing and addressing barriers to successful HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. In addition, with the expansion of HIV prevention and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services, CPs have the opportunity to be involved in HIV prevention. This study summarizes the literature evaluating the impact of CPs in the management of PLWH in the era of modern ART. We conducted a literature search to identify studies that assessed the CP role in HIV clinical practice since 2006. The identified studies were grouped into two categories. The first was HIV related outcomes, including interventions on regimen selection, adherence, regimen optimization, and management of treatment failure. The second group of studies pertained to aging and vulnerable populations, including management of comorbidities, transitions of care, medication-assisted treatment, hepatitis C, and HIV screening and PrEP. We concluded that the evidence supports the expanding role of CPs to positively impact a variety of aspects related to the care of PLWH.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents
  • Disease Management
  • Disease Transmission, Infectious
  • Female
  • HIV Infections
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence
  • Middle Aged
  • Pharmacists
  • Professional Role
  • Treatment Outcome

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Antiretroviral therapy
  • Clinical pharmacist
  • Comorbidities
  • HIV


A clinically feasible method for the assessment and characterization of pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis.

Pain is the primary symptom of chronic pancreatitis (CP), but methods for sensory testing and pain characterization have not previously been validated for clinical use. We present a clinically feasible method for the assessment and characterization of pain mechanisms in patients with CP based on quantitative sensory testing (QST). This was a cross-sectional, multicenter study of 122 control subjects without pancreatic disease and another 60 patients with painful CP. All subjects underwent standardized QST assessments including a cold pressor test, a conditioned pain modulation paradigm, repetitive pin-prick stimuli (temporal summation) and pressure stimulation of the upper abdominal (pancreatic) and control dermatomes. The effects of age and gender on QST assessment parameters were investigated and normative reference values based on quartile regression were derived and implemented in algorithms to categorize patients according to their patterns of central pain processing (normal vs. segmental sensitization vs. widespread sensitization). Absolute pressure thresholds were subject to clinically relevant gender effects (all p < 0.001), while the remainder of QST parameters were unaffected by age and gender. The algorithm with the best discriminatory capacity showed good separation between patients and controls (p < 0.001); 50% of patients had normal central pain processing, 23% had evidence of segmental sensitization and 27% had evidence of widespread sensitization. We show normative reference values for a clinically feasible method for assessment and characterization of pain mechanisms in patients with CP. Application of this method streamlines the evaluation of pancreatic pain and may be used to inform treatment. CLINICALTRIALS. NCT03434392.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain
  • Pain Measurement
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic
  • Sex Factors

Keywords

  • Central sensitization
  • Chronic pancreatitis
  • Nociception
  • Pain


Differences in geometric strength at the contralateral hip between men with hip fracture and non-fractured comparators.

Older men sustain excess bone mineral density (BMD) declines after hip fracture; however, BMD provides no information on mechanical structure and strength. The aim was to assess whether changes in hip bone geometry in older men after hip fracture differ than that expected with aging. Two cohorts were used: Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort (BHS-7) and Baltimore Men's Osteoporosis Study (MOST). The sample (N = 170) included older Caucasian men with hip fracture that were propensity score matched (1:1) to community-dwelling non-fractured comparators. Hip Structural Analysis (HSA) calculated aerial BMD and metrics of bone structural strength: cross-sectional bone area (CSA), cortical outer diameter (OD), section modulus (SM), and centroid position (CP). Mixed-effect models estimated changes in HSA parameters and adjusted robust regression models evaluated between-cohort differences in annual percent change at the narrow neck (NN), intertrochanteric (IT), and femoral shaft (FS). Hip fracture was associated with statistically greater declines in NN CSA (β = -2.818; 95% CI: -3.300%, -2.336%), SM (β = -1.896%; 95% CI: -2.711%, -1.080%) and CP (β = -0.884%; 95% CI: -0.889%, -0.880%) and significantly larger increases in NN OD (β = 0.187%; 95% CI: 0.185%, 0.190%). Differences in IT HSA parameters were like the NN but larger in magnitude, while there were favorable changes in FS geometry where fragility fractures are rare. Findings indicate there are declines in bone structure and strength at the NN and IT regions of the proximal femur in older men during hip fracture recovery that far exceed what occurs during normal aging.


Keywords

  • Aging
  • DXA
  • Fracture prevention
  • Injury/fracture healing
  • Osteoporosis


Factors associated with the number of clinical pharmacy recommendations: findings from an observational study in geriatric inpatients.
Drug-related problems are prevalent in older inpatients and can be reduced by providing clinical pharmacy (CP) services. Details concerning implementation in clinical practice are frequently lacking. The aim was to describe the output of one such CP program and to identify factors associated with CP recommendations.  : A CP program was installed at three acute geriatric wards in a teaching hospital. A convenience sample was collected, consisting of inpatients who received a CP consultation at discharge. Medical conditions, patient demographics, and drug use were evaluated retrospectively. Number and type of the CP recommendations were determined. A Poisson regression analysis was performed to determine factors associated with the number of CP recommendations.  : A cohort of 524 patients, aged 85 (interquartile range (IQR): 82-89) years was included. On admission, 10.31 (standard deviation: 4.49) drugs were taken. Three (IQR: 2-4) CP recommendations were provided per patient, of which 70.2% targeted drug discontinuation. A model was derived, containing the following factors: number of drugs on admission (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 1.063; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.052-1.074), number of previous contacts with the geriatric department (IRR: 0.869; 95%CI: 0.816-0.926), presence of left-ventricular dysfunction (IRR: 1.179, 95% CI: 1.023-1.360), the number of new drugs (IRR: 1.046; 95% CI: 1.021-1.071) and use of colecalciferol (IRR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.088-1.367).  : Five factors were associated with the number of CP recommendations at discharge. This could allow for further patient stratification to increase the efficiency of the CP program.


Keywords

  • Clinical pharmacy
  • geriatrics
  • inpatients
  • polypharmacy
  • risk stratification


Protection against oxidative stress and anti-aging effect in Drosophila of royal jelly-collagen peptide.

Dietary peptide has been of great interest because of its perspective in nutrition and health of human body. The aim of this study was to develop a dietary nutritional supplement exerting both antioxidant and anti-aging effects. Peptide, named as ERJ-CP, was prepared by mixing enzyme-treated royal jelly (ERJ) with collagen peptide (CP), showing stronger antioxidant activity in vitro. Drosophila was used as model animal to investigate anti-aging effect of ERJ-CP in vivo. ERJ-CP significantly prolonged the average life span of Drosophila treated with H O and paraquat, reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PCO) levels in Drosophila. In addition, 3 mg/mL of ERJ-CP could prolong the lifespan of natural aging Drosophila by 11.16%. ERJ-CP could up-regulate the levels of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and down-regulate the contents of MDA and PCO. Moreover, the intake of ERJ-CP increased the food consumption, weight gain and exercise capacity of Drosophila. The results showed that ERJ-CP played a protective role in both antioxidant and anti-aging effects on Drosophila, and the anti-aging effect may be achieved by alleviating oxidative damage. It suggests that ERJ-CP could be developed as a health-promoting ingredient with antioxidant and anti-aging effects for human body.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Amino Acids
  • Animals
  • Body Weight
  • Collagen
  • Drosophila
  • Fatty Acids
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Longevity
  • Molecular Weight
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Paraquat

Keywords

  • Anti-aging
  • Antioxidant activity
  • Collagen
  • Drosophila
  • Royal jelly


[Investigation of signal molecules in saliva: prospects of application for diagnostics of myocardial infarction and the aging rate of different age people.]

Among the diseases of the cardiovascular system in elderly people, ischemic heart disease and myocardial infarction (MI) occupy the first place in the structure of mortality. One of the main causes of disability and death from MI is late diagnosis. In this regard, the search for new, highly informative and non-invasive methods for diagnosing MI is an important task of molecular gerontology. An enzyme immunoassay showed that the concentration of TNF-α, IL-8 cytokines and p16 aging marker in saliva in elderly people without cardiovascular pathologies (CP) increases in 2,1-4,8 times as compared with middle-aged people. At the same time, in elderly people without CP the concentration in the saliva of the hormone irisin (FNDC5) decreases by 1,8 times as compared with middle-aged people. In middle-aged patients with MI the concentration of IL-8, TNF-α, MMP8, MMP9 in saliva increases 4,3-15,3 times, and FNDC5 decreases 1,8 times compared with those parameters without CP in this age group. In elderly people with MI the concentration of IL-8, TNF-α, MMP8 and MMP9 in saliva increases 4,3-7,1 times as compared with elderly people without CP. Thus, the study of the concentration of signaling molecules IL-8, TNF-α, MMP8, MMP9 in saliva can be used as a non-invasive method for diagnosing MI in people of middle and elderly age. To assess the rate of aging of the organism in middle-aged and elderly people without CP, a study of the concentration of p16 and FNDC5 molecules in saliva is recommended.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Biomarkers
  • Cytokines
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Myocardial Infarction
  • Saliva
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Keywords

  • aging
  • diagnosis
  • myocardial infarction
  • saliva
  • signaling molecules


Prevalence of drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems in cerebral palsy across the lifespan: a systematic review and meta-analyses.

To determine the prevalence of drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems in persons with cerebral palsy (CP) across the lifespan. A systematic review was conducted using five different databases (AMED, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, and PubMed). The selection process was completed by two independent researchers and the methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the STROBE and AXIS guidelines. Meta-analyses were conducted to determine pooled prevalence estimates of drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems with stratified group analyses by type of assessment and Gross Motor Function Classification System level. A total of 42 studies were included. Substantial variations in selected outcome measures and variables were observed, and data on adults were limited. Pooled prevalence estimates determined by meta-analyses were as high as 44.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 35.6-52.7) for drooling, 50.4% (95% CI 36.0-64.8) for swallowing problems, and 53.5% (95% CI 40.7-65.9) for feeding problems. Group analyses for type of assessments were non-significant; however, more severely impaired functioning in CP was associated with concomitant problems of increased drooling, swallowing, and feeding. Drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems are very common in people with CP. Consequently, they experience increased risks of malnutrition and dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and poor quality of life. Drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems are very common in persons with cerebral palsy (CP). The prevalence of drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems is 44.0%, 50.4%, and 53.5% respectively. There are limited data on the prevalence of drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems in adults. Higher Gross Motor Function Classification System levels are associated with higher prevalence of drooling, swallowing, and feeding problems. There is increased risk for malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and poor quality of life in CP.

MeSH Terms

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Deglutition Disorders
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders
  • Humans
  • Longevity
  • Prevalence
  • Quality of Life
  • Sialorrhea


Longitudinal Development of Receptive Vocabulary in Children with Cerebral Palsy and Anarthria: Use of the MacArthur-Bates CDI.

To examine receptive language growth in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and anarthria using a parent-reported measure of vocabulary. Scores from 47 children (29 males) with CP and anarthria were obtained from the vocabulary checklists on the MacArthur-Bates Communication Development Inventories (MCDI) and analyzed to examine the distribution of receptive language growth. Linear trajectories of word composite scores were created using a linear-mixed model, incorporating between two and ten data points per child. Three different growth trajectories emerged: approximately 23% grew by 100 or more words per year, 13% grew by 50-100 words per year, and 64% grew by 50 words per year or less. Age-four vocabulary was strongly correlated with rate of increase in vocabulary. Receptive vocabulary scores from the MCDI are increasing at a reduced pace for most children with CP and anarthria. More sensitive measures of language assessment are necessary to gain a complete picture of their language ability levels.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Language Development
  • Language Development Disorders
  • Language Tests
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Speech
  • Speech Disorders
  • Vocabulary

Keywords

  • Cerebral palsy
  • anarthria
  • intellectual disability
  • longitudinal design
  • receptive language


[Problem of mineral insufficiency at chronic pancreatitis in dependence on age].

The high incidence of chronic pancreatitis (CP) which arise at young people of working age, the development of serious complications are pushing for the development of new diagnostic methods and the search for effective ways to treat this disease. In this regard, a relevant and promising direction is the further study of the mechanisms of pathogenesis and the formation of trophological (including mineral) deficiency in CP, followed by the development of comprehensive programs for their correction. is to study mineral status of patients with chronic pancreatitis, depending on their age. . A sample of 218 patients (140 women, 78 men) with CP with exocrine insufficiency aged 18 to 72 years was examined. The control group consisted of 20 healthy individuals who underwent a planned outpatient examination. To assess the mineral status, macronutrients were determined photometrically, iron by the bathophenanthroline method, the remaining trace elements (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd) were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry in blood serum. . Patients with CP at all age groups revealed a statistically significant (p<0.001) decrease in serum concentration of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, copper, zinc, and iron compared to the level in healthy individuals, which increased with age. In the group of patients older than 60 years, the state of hypomineralemia was detected by the level of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, copper, zinc, iron, which required correction of the mineral status. With increasing age of patients with CP, the content of toxic metals (lead and cadmium) increased compared with that in the group of healthy individuals. Сonclusions. The findings suggest that the age of patients with CP is a predictor of mineral deficiency and the accumulation of toxic elements, which must be considered when forming a complex treatment.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Minerals
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic
  • Trace Elements

Keywords

  • age
  • blood

serum

  • chronic pancreatitis
  • mineral status
  • minerals
  • trace elements


Systemic inflammation contributes to impairment of quality of life in chronic pancreatitis.

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a fibrotic disorder of the pancreas leading to clinical sequelae like pain and an excess of comorbidity including cardiovascular disease and cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between systemic inflammation and quality of life in patients with CP. Patients were prospectively recruited and underwent a quality of life assessment (EORTC QLQ-C30 and PAN 28). The serum inflammatory profile was assessed using an MSD 30-plex array. The relationship between clinical variables, inflammatory cytokines and quality of life was determined by a GLM-MANOVA and the individual impact of significant variables evaluated by a second ANOVA. In total, 211 patients with a median age of 53 years were recruited across 5 European centres. Gender, age, nicotine and alcohol abuse were clinical variables associated with altered quality of life. Systemic inflammation with high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (Eotaxin, IL-1β, IL-7, IL-8, IL-12/IL-23p40, IL-12p70, IL-13, IL-16, IP-10, MCP-1, MCP-4, MDC, MIP-1a, TARC, TNFß) was associated with diminished quality of life in general and specific domains including pain, physical and cognitive functioning. As conclusion, CP is associated with a systemic inflammatory response that has a negative impact on quality of life and accelerates aging.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Cognition
  • Cytokines
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic
  • Prospective Studies
  • Quality of Life
  • Sex Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
  • Young Adult


A Genotypic Comparison Reveals That the Improvement in Nitrogen Remobilization Efficiency in Oilseed Rape Leaves Is Related to Specific Patterns of Senescence-Associated Protease Activities and Phytohormones.

Oilseed rape ([i]Brassica napus[/i] L.) is an oleoproteaginous crop characterized by low N use efficiency (NUE) that is mainly related to a weak Nitrogen Remobilization Efficiency (NRE) during the sequential leaf senescence of the vegetative stages. Based on the hypothesis that proteolysis efficiency is crucial for the improvement of leafNRE, our objective was to characterize key senescence-associated proteolytic mechanisms of two genotypes (Ténor and Samouraï) previously identified with contrasting NREs. To reach this goal, biochemical changes, protease activities and phytohormone patterns were studied in mature leaves undergoing senescence in two genotypes with contrasting NRE cultivated in a greenhouse under limiting or ample nitrate supply. The genotype with the higher NRE (Ténor) possessed enhanced senescence processes in response to nitrate limitation, and this led to greater degradation of soluble proteins compared to the other genotype (Samouraï). This efficient proteolysis is associated with (i) an increase in serine and cysteine protease (CP) activities and (ii) the appearance of new CP activities (RD21-like, SAG12-like, RD19-like, cathepsin-B, XBCP3-like and aleurain-like proteases) during senescence induced by N limitation. Compared to Samouraï, Ténor has a higher hormonal ratio ([salicylic acid] [abscisic acid])/([cytokinins]) that promotes senescence, particularly under low N conditions, and this is correlated with the stronger protein degradation and serine/CP activities observed during senescence. Short statement: The improvement in N recycling during leaf senescence in a genotype of [i]Brassica napus[/i] L. characterized by a high nitrogen remobilization efficiency is related to a high phytohormonal ratio ([salicylic acid] [abscisic acid])/([cytokinins]) that promotes leaf senescence and is correlated with an increase or the induction of specific serine and cysteine protease activities.


Keywords

  • Brassica napus L.
  • nitrogen remobilization efficiency
  • phytohormones
  • protease activity
  • regulation
  • senescence


Keeping a 'watch-full' eye on metabolic disease.

Evaluation of: Coomans CP, van den Berg SA, Houben T et al. Detrimental effects of constant light exposure and high-fat diet on circadian energy metabolism and insulin sensitivity. FASEB J. 27(4), 1721-1732 (2013). The synergy of metabolic homeostasis and biological clock function is at the forefront of chronobiology research. We now have a broad appreciation of the role that the molecular clock plays in glucose homeostasis, fat metabolism, oxidative stress and metabolic sensing. Furthermore, it is clear that environmental circadian disruption, as occurs during shiftwork, can have significant negative impacts on metabolism. The implication is that misalignment among central and peripheral oscillators facilitates the appearance of metabolic disease. Coomans and colleagues provide additional insight into the link between circadian disruption and metabolic disease. They have determined that brief exposure to constant light, a paradigm known to alter central clock function, disrupts circadian rhythms of insulin sensitivity and energy metabolism and increases bodyweight. Besides the basic implications for central clock control of glucose homeostasis, their data reveal that reduced output of the pacemaker may have implications for metabolic health in the aged.


Keywords

  • aging
  • circadian
  • constant light
  • high-fat diet
  • hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp
  • metabolism


Age and Sex-Associated Changes of Complement Activity and Complement Levels in a Healthy Caucasian Population.

The complement system is essential for an adequate immune response. Much attention has been given to the role of complement in disease. However, to better understand complement in pathology, it is crucial to first analyze this system under different physiological conditions. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate the inter-individual variation in complement activity and the influences of age and sex. Complement levels and functional activity were determined in 120 healthy volunteers, 60 women, 60 men, age range 20-69 year. Serum functional activity of the classical pathway (CP), lectin pathway activated by mannan (MBL-LP) and alternative pathway (AP) was measured in sera, using deposition of C5b-9 as readout. In addition, levels of C1q, MBL, MASP-1, MASP-2, ficolin-2, ficolin-3, C2, C4, C3, C5, C6, C7, C8, C9, factor B, factor D, properdin, C1-inhibitor and C4b-binding protein, were determined. Age- and sex-related differences were evaluated. Significantly lower AP activity was found in females compared to males. Further analysis of the AP revealed lower C3 and properdin levels in females, while factor D concentrations were higher. MBL-LP activity was not influenced by sex, but MBL and ficolin-3 levels were significantly lower in females compared to males. There were no significant differences in CP activity or CP components between females and males, nevertheless females had significantly lower levels of the terminal components. The CP and AP activity was significantly higher in the elderly, in contrast to MBL-LP activity. Moreover, C1-inhibitor, C5, C8, and C9 increased with age in contrast to a decrease of factor D and C3 levels. In-depth analysis of the functional activity assays revealed that MBL-LP activity was predominantly dependent on MBL and MASP-2 concentration, whereas CP activity relied on C2, C1-inhibitor and C5 levels. AP activity was strongly and directly associated with levels of C3, factor B and C5. This study demonstrated significant sex and age-related differences in complement levels and functionality in the healthy population. Therefore, age and sex analysis should be taken into consideration when discussing complement-related pathologies and subsequent complement-targeted therapies.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Complement Activation
  • Complement System Proteins
  • European Continental Ancestry Group
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sex Characteristics

Keywords

  • complement
  • gender
  • health
  • innate imunity
  • sex and age


Radiologic changes in the aging nasal cavity.

With an aging population, it is important to understand age-related anatomic changes in the nasal cavity and cribriform plate (CP) that may have clinical implications. Computed tomography (CT) scans obtained for non-rhinologic conditions were divided into a young cohort (N=35, 18-34 years old) and an older adult cohort (N=32, 80-99 years old). Intranasal airspace volumes and bony anatomy of the CP were manually segmented using OsiriX software. The CP was assessed for mean Hounsfield Units (HU) and percentage of olfactory foramina. Deformation based morphometry (DBM) was then performed on the same cohort and correlated with manual measurements. Individual nasal cavity volumes increased 17-75% with age. Regression analysis of all scans revealed age to be the predominant variable influencing intranasal volume differences when controlling for sex and head size. Mean HU of the CP negatively correlated with age. No age-related differences in bone stenosis of olfactory foramina were identified. Automated DBM measurements of intranasal volumes, as well as CP and zygoma mean HU correlated with manual measurements. Older subjects have a global increase in intranasal volumes and diffuse bone density loss in the CP. The clinical impact of age-related anatomic changes in the nasal cavity and CP requires further investigation.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Ethmoid Bone
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nasal Cavity
  • Smell
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Young Adult


Influence of various concentrate-to-roughage ratios on dietary intake and nutrient digestibilities of weanling horses.

The objective of this study was to compare the feed intake and the apparent digestibilities of three different diets varying in concentrate-to-roughage ratios in weanling horses (n = 24) at 5 and 8 months of age. Horses were stratified by breed, gender, birth date and body weight and assigned to one of three dietary treatments containing the following concentrate-to-roughage ratios on an as-fed basis: 70:30 (High Con), 50:50 (Equal) and 30:70 (Low Con). All horses were fed their respective diets for a 10-day adaptation period and a 4-day collection period at 5 and 8 months. There were no differences in BW or daily feed intake among treatments during both trials. The horses consuming Low Con had a greater amount of faecal output than High Con at both 5 and 8 months (p < 0.01). At 5 months, High Con had the highest crude protein (CP) digestibility (p < 0.05). At 8 months, High Con had a higher CP digestibility than Low Con (p < 0.01) and tended to be higher than Equal (p = 0.07). Acid detergent fibre (ADF) digestibility did not differ among treatments; however, horses fed the Low Con tended to digest a higher percentage of neutral detergent fibre (NDF) than both the Equal and High Con treatments (p = 0.09). Horses in the High Con treatment tended to digest a higher percentage of energy than those in the Low Con treatment (p = 0.06). Weanlings seem to digest protein more thoroughly when fed high-concentrate diets and may digest fibre more efficiently when fed diets higher in fibre.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animal Feed
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Animals
  • Diet
  • Digestion
  • Female
  • Horses
  • Male
  • Nutrients
  • Random Allocation

Keywords

  • digestion
  • equine
  • fibre
  • intake
  • weanling


Ameliorative effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on cyclophosphamide induced testicular injury in adult rat.

Despite its wide range of application, cyclophosphamide (CP) exhibits a wide range of adverse effects including reproductive toxicity. The emerging field of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) therapy may provide a new hope for prevention of CP induced gonadal toxicity. Herein, we aim to investigate the possible role of ZnO NPs as a new strategy to protect against CP induced testicular injury. Sixty adult male albino rats were divided into 3 groups; control, CP treated and CP   ZnO NPs treated groups. CP group was injected with CP (5 mg/kg/day), whereas CP   ZnO NPs group was concomitantly injected with CP and ZnO NPs (5 mg/kg/day). Testicular specimens were processed for histological, ultrastructural and c-kit immunohistochemical study. Biochemical analysis for tissue malondialdehyde and serum testosterone was done in addition to sperm morphology assay and cytogenetic study. Our results revealed that CP induced deleterious testicular histopathological, biochemical and genetic alterations that were effectively prevented by ZnO NPs.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Male
  • Nanoparticles
  • Protective Agents
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Testis
  • Zinc Oxide

Keywords

  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Rat testis
  • Zinc oxide nanoparticles
  • c-kit


A Brain without Brakes: Reduced Inhibition Is Associated with Enhanced but Dysregulated Plasticity in the Aged Rat Auditory Cortex.

During early developmental windows known as critical periods (CPs) of plasticity, passive alterations in the quality and quantity of sensory inputs are sufficient to induce profound and long-lasting distortions in cortical sensory representations. With CP closure, those representations are stabilized, a process requiring the maturation of inhibitory networks and the maintenance of sufficient GABAergic tone in the cortex. In humans and rodents, however, cortical inhibition progressively decreases with advancing age, raising the possibility that the regulation of plasticity could be altered in older individuals. Here we tested the hypothesis that aging results in a destabilization of sensory representations and maladaptive dysregulated plasticity in the rat primary auditory cortex (A1). Consistent with this idea, we found that passive tone exposure is sufficient to distort frequency tuning in the A1 of older but not younger adult rats. However, we also found that these passive distortions decayed rapidly, indicating an ongoing instability of A1 tuning in the aging cortex. These changes were associated with a decrease in GABA neurotransmitter concentration and a reduction in parvalbumin and perineuronal net expression in the cortex. Finally, we show that artificially increasing GABA tone in the aging A1 is sufficient to restore representational stability and improve the retention of learning.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Auditory Cortex
  • Auditory Perception
  • Electroencephalography
  • Female
  • Learning
  • Male
  • Neural Inhibition
  • Neuronal Plasticity
  • Rats
  • Rats, Long-Evans
  • Retention, Psychology
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid

Keywords

  • Aging
  • GABA
  • auditory cortex
  • cortical plasticity
  • inhibition
  • training


Energy expenditure is associated with age, anthropometric indicators and body composition in children with spastic cerebral palsy.

proper estimation of energy requirements in children with cerebral palsy (CP) is essential in ensuring that their energy needs are optimally met. therefore, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate that resting energy expenditure (REE) and total energy expenditure (TEE) are associated with age, anthropometric indicators and body composition in children with spastic cerebral palsy. a cross-sectional study included 79 participants with spastic CP from 24 months to 16 years nine months. Weight and height (estimated by lower leg length) were obtained; body composition and energy expenditure were estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis. ANOVA, post hoc tests, the Pearson correlation and determination coefficients (R2) were performed. significant gradual increases according to age in REE and TEE (both in kcal/d) were observed. There were highly significant positive correlations between REE and TEE (kcal/d, kcal/cm/d) with fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM), but negative correlations between REE (kcal/ kg/d) with body composition and energy indicators. FFM and total body water, and to a lesser extent FM, explained a high percentage of the direct variability of REE and TEE in kcal/d and the inverse in kcal/kg/d. as age increased, energy expenditure also increased. The estimated energy expenditure in kcal/cm/d did not differ with age and sex. The estimated energy expenditure, based on height, would be a practical and reliable method for estimating energy expenditure and ensuring adequate nutritional status.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aging
  • Anthropometry
  • Body Composition
  • Body Height
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male


Microstructure and selected mechanical properties of aged Ti-15Zr-based alloys for biomedical applications.

In this study, Ti-15Zr-xMo (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) alloys were submitted to solution and aging treatments and their effects evaluated in terms of phase composition and selected mechanical properties (Vickers microhardness and Young's modulus) for use as biomedical implants. The solution treatment was performed at 1123 K for 2 h, while aging treatments were carried out at 698 K for 4, 8, and 12 h, followed by water quenching. Phase composition and microstructure were dependent of the heat treatments, with Ti-15Zr-5Mo (α   β type) and Ti-15Zr-10Mo (metastable β type) alloys exhibiting intense α phase precipitation. The α-phase precipitates were related to α″ → α and β → α phase decompositions. The Ti-15Zr-10Mo alloy exhibited an intermediary isothermal ω-phase precipitation after aging for 4 h. Vickers microhardness and Young's modulus values changed gradually with the amount of α phase. Aged Ti-15Zr-15Mo and Ti-15Zr-20Mo alloys presented better combinations of hardness and Young's modulus than CP-Ti and Ti-64 ELI for biomedical applications.

MeSH Terms

  • Alloys
  • Biomedical Technology
  • Materials Testing
  • Mechanical Phenomena
  • Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission
  • Titanium
  • X-Ray Diffraction
  • Zirconium

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Mechanical properties
  • Microstructure
  • Titanium alloys


The Impact of Aging, Psychotic Symptoms, Medication, and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor on Cognitive Impairment in Japanese Chronic Schizophrenia Patients.

Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia can result in considerable difficulty in performing functions of daily life or social rehabilitation. Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia is related to various factors, such as the psychotic severity, aging, medication, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). To date, however, no studies investigating the impact of these factors on cognitive functioning in chronic schizophrenia patients have been performed. The aim of this study is to identify those factors that influence the cognitive functioning in patients with chronic schizophrenia. Sixty-five of 116 long-term hospitalized chronic schizophrenia patients (63.8 ± 12.1 years old, M/F = 29/36) were enrolled this cross-sectional study. We investigated the relationship among the patients' age, psychotic severity, treatment medication, serum BDNF levels, and cognitive functioning (measured by the Japanese-language version of the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia; BACS-J). Additionally, we performed a multivariable linear regression analysis. According to the partial correlation analysis, certain parameters [i.e., age, chlorpromazine (CP) equivalent, biperiden (BP) equivalent, and serum BDNF] were significantly correlated with cognitive functioning, including working memory (WM), motor function (MF), attention and processing speed (AP), and executive function (EF). For the multivariate analysis, the MF component, which had the highest correlation, was selected as the dependent variable, and the independent variables included age, Manchester Scale for chronic psychosis (ManS) total score, CP equivalent, BP equivalent, serum BDNF, estimated full scale IQ, and years of education. According to the multiple regression analysis of this model, [i]R[/i] (multiple regression coefficient) was 0.542, the adjusted [i]R[/i] (coefficient of determination) was 0.201, and only BP equivalent (β = -0.305, [i]p[/i] = 0.030), but not age, ManS score, CP equivalent, or serum BDNF, could significantly explain MF at the 5% significant level. In conclusion, aging, medication (administering more antipsychotics or anticholinergics), and serum BDNF concentration are significantly correlated with cognitive dysfunction in chronic schizophrenia patients but not with the severity of psychotic symptoms. Furthermore, only the anticholinergic dosage had a significant causal relationship with MF. Thus, the use of anticholinergics in chronic schizophrenia patients with deteriorating cognitive functioning must be reconsidered.


Keywords

  • Japanese-language version of the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia
  • aging
  • brain-derived neurotrophic factor
  • cognitive impairment
  • schizophrenia


CTC1-STN1 coordinates G- and C-strand synthesis to regulate telomere length.

Coats plus (CP) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in CTC1, a component of the CST (CTC1, STN1, and TEN1) complex important for telomere length maintenance. The molecular basis of how CP mutations impact upon telomere length remains unclear. The CP CTC1 mutation has been previously shown to disrupt telomere maintenance. In this study, we used CRISPR/Cas9 to engineer this mutation into both alleles of HCT116 and RPE cells to demonstrate that CTC1:STN1 interaction is required to repress telomerase activity. CTC1 interacts poorly with STN1, leading to telomerase-mediated telomere elongation. Impaired interaction between CTC1  :STN1 and DNA Pol-α results in increased telomerase recruitment to telomeres and further telomere elongation, revealing that C:S binding to DNA Pol-α is required to fully repress telomerase activity. CP CTC1 mutants that fail to interact with DNA Pol-α resulted in loss of C-strand maintenance and catastrophic telomere shortening. Our findings place the CST complex as an important regulator of both G-strand extensions by telomerase and C-strand synthesis by DNA Pol-α.

MeSH Terms

  • DNA Polymerase I
  • DNA Replication
  • HCT116 Cells
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • Telomere
  • Telomere Homeostasis
  • Telomere-Binding Proteins

Keywords

  • DNA repair
  • stem cell aging
  • telomerase
  • telomere


Health conditions, functional status and health care utilization in adults with cerebral palsy.

Health conditions in children with cerebral palsy (CP) are well described, yet health is less defined with advancing age. We examined health conditions, functional status and health care utilization in adults with CP across age groups. We collected cross-sectional data on health conditions, functional status and utilization from the medical records of adults with CP across a large university-affiliated primary care network using the Rochester Health Status Survey IV (RHSS-IV), a 58-item validated survey. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and National Health Interview Survey provided prevalence estimates for the general population as comparison. Compared to the general population, adults with CP had higher rates of seizure disorder, obesity and asthma across all ages. Adults with CP under 30 years of age had higher rates of hypertension (16.7 versus 5.6%; P = 0.04), urinary incontinence (41.7 versus 10.5%; P < 0.001) and depression (16.7 versus 6.9%; P = 0.07). Conversely, there were lower rates of alcohol misuse, tobacco/nicotine and sexually transmitted illnesses. Independence with all activities of daily living decreased from 37.5% at 18-29 years of age to 22.5% in those 60 and over. Seizure disorders, urinary incontinence and gastroesophageal reflux disease were all independently associated with lower functional status. As expected, health care utilization increased with advancing age. Adults with CP should be monitored for conditions occurring at higher prevalence in CP, as well as common conditions occurring with advancing age. Age-related functional decline should be anticipated, especially with coexisting seizure disorders and urinary incontinence.

MeSH Terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Prevalence
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States


Age-related Changes in Postural Sway During Sit-to-stand in Typical Children and Children with Cerebral Palsy.

To assess age-related changes in postural sway during sit-to-stand (STS) in typical children (TC) and children with mild cerebral palsy (CP). Thirty-five TC and 23 children with mild CP were allocated in four different age groups: 5-6, 7-9, 10-12, and 13-15 years; they all performed STS movements over a force plate. Anterior-posterior and medial-lateral amplitude of center of pressure (CoP) displacement, area and velocity of CoP sway were analyzed and compared between the age groups for TC and children with CP. TC at 5 to 6 years of age showed higher values of anterior-posterior CoP displacement and Area of CoP sway than at 10-12 years, during the stabilization phase. There were no age-related changes for CP. TC change their postural sway during the last STS phase over the years, reducing their body sway. Children with CP did not show age-related changes in sway during STS, reflecting a distinct rhythm of postural control development in this population.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aging
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Movement
  • Postural Balance

Keywords

  • Cerebral palsy
  • development
  • postural control
  • sit-to-stand


The choroid plexus is an important circadian clock component.

Mammalian circadian clocks have a hierarchical organization, governed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the hypothalamus. The brain itself contains multiple loci that maintain autonomous circadian rhythmicity, but the contribution of the non-SCN clocks to this hierarchy remains unclear. We examine circadian oscillations of clock gene expression in various brain loci and discovered that in mouse, robust, higher amplitude, relatively faster oscillations occur in the choroid plexus (CP) compared to the SCN. Our computational analysis and modeling show that the CP achieves these properties by synchronization of "twist" circadian oscillators via gap-junctional connections. Using an in vitro tissue coculture model and in vivo targeted deletion of the Bmal1 gene to silence the CP circadian clock, we demonstrate that the CP clock adjusts the SCN clock likely via circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, thus finely tuning behavioral circadian rhythms.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Circadian Clocks
  • Circadian Rhythm
  • Circumventricular Organs
  • Female
  • Male
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Suprachiasmatic Nucleus


Early development and reproductive lifespan of rabbit females: implications of growth rate, rearing diet and body condition at first mating.

Factors influencing early development such as birth weight, nest competition, and the diet received during rearing have been proposed as elements conditioning the future reproductive performance of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) females. To evaluate their effects, we followed the life of 1513 females from birth to time of death, culling or censoring (animals alive at a fixed date). Between 0 and 63 days of age 353 females died. From the remaining 1160 females, 864 were chosen based on their birth weight to be transferred from the selection to the production farm. At this farm, 431 females received the control diet (184 g of CP, 381 g of NDF and 11.8 MJ of DE per kg DM), while the other 433 received the fibrous diet (134 g of CP, 436 g of NDF and 10.0 MJ of DE per kg DM). Throughout the rearing period, we checked for the individual live weight and body condition (perirenal fat thickness) at first artificial insemination. Reproductive lifespan was defined as the number of days between the first parturition and the time of death, culling or censoring. Birth weight affected the survival of newborn females during lactation and the presence of a milk spot at birth (related to nest competition) increased the survivability of newborns weighing <45 g (P<0.001). Rearing diet altered the growth curve of females and their body condition at first insemination. The diet also altered the relative risk of death during the rearing period, which was lower among females fed on the fibrous diet (-12.5%; P<0.001). Therefore, a higher number of females fed with this diet reached their reproductive life, directly affecting the productivity measured per housed female. Fatter females at first insemination had smaller litter sizes and a higher risk of being culled than lean ones (P<0.05). In general, the fibrous diet reduced the risk of leaving the herd at early rearing, and both birth weight and perirenal fat thickness affected female's reproductive lifespan. An excess of fat (positive change in one unit of perirenal fat) at their first insemination represented an increased the risk of death or elimination of 13%.

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Diet
  • Dietary Fiber
  • Female
  • Insemination, Artificial
  • Lactation
  • Litter Size
  • Longevity
  • Pregnancy
  • Rabbits
  • Reproduction

Keywords

Oryctolagus cuniculus

  • birth weight
  • nutrition
  • reproduction
  • survival


Functional Capacity in Adults With Cerebral Palsy: Lower Limb Muscle Strength Matters.

To investigate the relation between lower limb muscle strength, passive muscle properties, and functional capacity outcomes in adults with cerebral palsy (CP). Cross-sectional study. Tertiary institution biomechanics laboratory. Adults with spastic-type CP (N=33; mean age, 25y; range, 15-51y; mean body mass, 70.15±21.35kg) who were either Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I (n=20) or level II (n=13). Not applicable. Six-minute walk test (6MWT) distance (m), lateral step-up (LSU) test performance (total repetitions), timed up-stairs (TUS) performance (s), maximum voluntary isometric strength of plantar flexors (PF) and dorsiflexors (DF) (Nm.kg ), and passive ankle joint and muscle stiffness. Maximum isometric PF strength independently explained 61% of variance in 6MWT performance, 57% of variance in LSU test performance, and 50% of variance in TUS test performance. GMFCS level was significantly and independently related to all 3 functional capacity outcomes, and age was retained as a significant independent predictor of LSU and TUS test performance. Passive medial gastrocnemius muscle fascicle stiffness and ankle joint stiffness were not significantly related to functional capacity measures in any of the multiple regression models. Low isometric PF strength was the most important independent variable related to distance walked on the 6MWT, fewer repetitions on the LSU test, and slower TUS test performance. These findings suggest lower isometric muscle strength contributes to the decline in functional capacity in adults with CP.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Ankle Joint
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Foot Joints
  • Humans
  • Isometric Contraction
  • Lower Extremity
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Strength
  • Muscle, Skeletal
  • Walk Test
  • Walking
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Muscle strength
  • Muscle weakness
  • Rehabilitation
  • Walk test


Investigation of Petal Senescence by TRV-Mediated Virus-Induced Gene Silencing in Rose.

The classic reverse genetic screening, such as EMS-induced or T-DNA-mediated mutation, is a powerful tool to identify senescence-related genes in many model plants. For most non-model plants, however, this strategy is hard to achieve. Even for model plants, construction of a mutant library is usually labor and time-consuming. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) provides an alternative to characterize gene function in a wide spectrum of plants through transient gene expression. To date, more than a dozen of VIGS vector systems have been developed from different RNA and DNA viruses, while Tobacco rattle virus (TRV) system might be one of the most used due to its wide host range and ease of use. Here, we describe a modified TRV vector, TRV-GFP, in which a green fluorescent protein (GFP) is fused to 3'-end of the coat protein (CP) gene in the TRV2 vector. Since the GFP-tagged CP protein could be traced under UV light in planta, identification of TRV-GFP-infected plants is easy. Application of this system in identifying genes regulating petal senescence in rose is described.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Agrobacterium
  • Flowers
  • Gene Expression
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
  • Gene Order
  • Gene Silencing
  • Genes, Reporter
  • Genetic Vectors
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions
  • Phenotype
  • Plant Development
  • Plant Diseases
  • Plant Viruses
  • Plants, Genetically Modified
  • Rosa

Keywords

  • Functional analysis
  • Petal senescence
  • Rose
  • Vacuum infiltration
  • Virus-induced gene silencing
  • pTRV
  • pTRV-GFP


Immediate and late effects of chronic stress in the testes of prepubertal and adult rats.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of chronic stress on the testes of prepubertal and adult rats and to evaluate whether any alterations could be reversed when stress induction is ended. Seventy-six male rats were assigned to eight groups depending on the type of treatment (control or stressed), the age at which stress was initiated (prepubertal or adult), and the time of evaluation (immediate or late). Stress stimuli were applied for 6 weeks. Stressed prepubertal and adult rats evaluated immediately after the last stress stimulus were included in SP-I and SA-I groups, respectively. The late prepubertal (SP-L) and adult (SA-L) groups of stressed rats were evaluated 6 weeks after the last stress stimulus. Age-matched rats were used as controls (CP-I, CA-I, CP-L, and CA-L groups). Application of stress stimuli to rats in the SP-I group resulted in body weight and seminiferous tubule diameter reduction. The rats in the SA-I group also showed several functional (testosterone level and sperm parameter) and morphological (testicular weight and seminiferous tubule diameter) reductions. The rats in the SP-L group showed increased body weight and intertubular compartment volumetric and absolute densities and reduced tubular compartment volumetric density. The rats in the SA-L group presented only reduced sperm viability. Stress stimuli promoted changes in the rats in all the study groups. The testes of the adult rats were the most affected by chronic stress. However, the stressed adult rats recovered well from the testicular alterations.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Body Weight
  • Chronic Disease
  • Male
  • Organ Size
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Restraint, Physical
  • Semen Analysis
  • Seminiferous Tubules
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Stress, Psychological
  • Testis
  • Testosterone

Keywords

  • chronic stress
  • morphometry
  • rat
  • testis


Age related changes in balance performance during self-selected and narrow stance testing.

Various balance tests have been considered as fall risk screening tools however there is a lot of variability in the methods and outcome measures reported. Based on previous research examining age-related changes in balance and differences between fallers and nonfallers, the purpose of this investigation was to examine age-related balance changes, as reflected in medial-lateral center of pressure (CP) velocity, in community-dwelling/independently living adults (≥60years) during self-selected and narrow stance testing with eyes opened and closed. Two hundred and thirty adults aged 60yrs or older completed one 45s trial under two stances (self-selected, narrow) and two visual conditions (eyes opened, eyes closed). Average medial-lateral CP velocity was computed from the CP data, with preliminary analysis demonstrating positive skewness and association with body height. A sway velocity index (SVI) was created by a natural logarithm transformation and dividing by body height. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the association between age, visual condition, stance, and sex with SVI. Age, visual condition, stance and sex were all demonstrated to be significant predictors of SVI, with the combination of the predictors explaining 25% of the variance in the SVI. These results confirm the balance testing protocol and SVI to be sensitive to age-related changes in balance performance. The results of this study should help future research aimed towards establishing a quick, easy to administer, and readily interpretable instrumented test for assisting with identifying potential balance impairments in older adults who have yet to demonstrate outward deficits.

MeSH Terms

  • Accidental Falls
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Body Height
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Independent Living
  • Male
  • Mass Screening
  • Middle Aged
  • Postural Balance
  • Pressure

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Center of pressure
  • Posturography


EEG correlates of visual short-term memory in older age vary with adult lifespan cognitive development.

Visual short-term memory (vSTM) is a cognitive resource that declines with age. This study investigated whether electroencephalography (EEG) correlates of vSTM vary with cognitive development over individuals' lifespan. We measured vSTM performance and EEG in a lateralized whole-report task in a healthy birth cohort, whose cognitive function (intelligence quotient) was assessed in youth and late-middle age. Higher vSTM capacity (K; measured by Bundesen's theory of visual attention) was associated with higher amplitudes of the contralateral delay activity (CDA) and the central positivity (CP). In addition, rightward hemifield asymmetry of vSTM (K ) was associated with lower CDA amplitudes. Furthermore, more severe cognitive decline from young adulthood to late-middle age predicted higher CDA amplitudes, and the relationship between K and the CDA was less reliable in individuals who show higher levels of cognitive decline compared to individuals with preserved abilities. By contrast, there was no significant effect of lifespan cognitive changes on the CP or the relationship between behavioral measures of vSTM and the CP. Neither the CDA, nor the CP, nor the relationships between K or K and the event-related potentials were predicted by individuals' current cognitive status. Together, our findings indicate complex age-related changes in processes underlying behavioral and EEG measures of vSTM and suggest that the K-CDA relationship might be a marker of cognitive lifespan trajectories.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Attention
  • Cognition
  • Cognitive Aging
  • Cognitive Dysfunction
  • Cohort Studies
  • Electroencephalography
  • Healthy Aging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Memory, Short-Term
  • Middle Aged
  • Photic Stimulation
  • Reaction Time
  • Visual Perception
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Contralateral delay activity
  • Electroencephalography
  • Healthy aging
  • Lifespan cognitive development
  • Visual short-term memory


The Effect of Insecticidal Stress on Reproductive Output of Susceptible and Field Strains of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae).

The phenomenon of high egg reproduction when mortality risk rises is common in mosquitoes. However, the phenomenon may vary between insecticide susceptible and field-collected strains, due to the latter's decreased energy allocation in reproduction in the presence of insecticide resistance. In this study, we evaluated the effect of chlorpyrifos (CP) and temephos (TP) exposure on the oviposition and survival of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Culicidae) using a susceptible strain (KHsm) and two field strains (KHly and TNnorth). We also dissected the female mosquitoes of each strain on fifth day after the first blood meal to examine the total number of eggs produced. Neither CP nor TP exhibited oviposition deterrent against female mosquitoes of any of the three strains, as the females did not show decreased reproduction activity on the insecticide-treated sites. Of the two insecticides tested, only CP had an adulticidal effect on Ae. aegypti. High mortality was recorded in KHsm after contacting the CP-treated oviposition sites on day 4. Before death, KHsm mosquitoes oviposited significantly more eggs compared to the two field strains. However, the difference of total egg production between susceptible and field-collected strains was subtle. Thus, the decreased reproductive output in field-collected strains might not be directly linked to energy and resource allocation. In this respect, we should consider the possible involvement of biogenic amines in the egg retention in field-collected strains when mortality risk rises. The phenomenon was not observed in nonadulticidal TP treatment.

MeSH Terms

  • Aedes
  • Animals
  • Chlorpyrifos
  • Female
  • Insecticide Resistance
  • Insecticides
  • Longevity
  • Oviposition
  • Temefos

Keywords

  • dengue
  • detoxification
  • fecundity
  • octopamine
  • tyramine


The effect of five kinds of surface treatment agents on the bond strength to various ceramics with thermocycle aging.

This study evaluated the effects of ceramic surface treatment agents on shear bond strengths to ceramic materials with and without thermocycling. Ceramic plates were prepared from feldspathic ceramic; AAA, lithium disilicate ceramic material; IPS e.max Press, zirconia ceramic; Lava. Ceramic surfaces were pretreated with one of five surface treatment agents (Clearfil PhotoBond mixed with Porcelainbond activator (PB), Clearfil SE One mixed with Porcelainbond activator (SO), Ceramic Primer (CP), Universal Primer (UP), Scotchbond Universal (SU)), and then a resin cement (Clapearl DC) was filled. After 0, 5,000, and 10,000 thermocycles, micro-shear bond strengths between ceramic-cement interfaces were determined. SU exhibited significantly lower initial bond strength to AAA and e.max than PB, SO, CP, and UP. For Lava, PB, SO, CP and SU exhibited higher initial bond strengths than UP. Thermocycles reduced bond strengths to all the ceramic materials with any surface treatment.

MeSH Terms

  • Ceramics
  • Cold Temperature
  • Dental Bonding
  • Dental Cements
  • Dental Porcelain
  • Dental Restoration Failure
  • Dentin-Bonding Agents
  • Hot Temperature
  • Materials Testing
  • Resin Cements
  • Shear Strength
  • Surface Properties
  • Time Factors

Keywords

  • Ceramic materials
  • Ceramic surface treatment agents
  • Micro-shear bond strength
  • Thermocycle aging


Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the assessment of choroid plexus aging.

Recent studies have pointed out dysfunction and histopathological changes of the choroid plexuses (CPs) with aging. This paper reviews apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the CPs for age-related changes. All the brain MR images of the patients between January 2013 and June 2014 in our Radiology Department were retrospectively investigated. Patients with major cranial abnormalities (brain tumors, hyperacute or acute ischemia, developmental anomalies, hemorrhage, hydrocephaly) were excluded. Diffusion-weighted images were obtained at the parameter values of b = 1000 s/mm in the axial plane. The transverse diameters of the lateral ventricles (LVs) and ADC values of both CPs were measured. Brain MRIs of 202 individuals, 97 men (48%), 105 women (52%), were studied. There were statistically significant positive correlations between the ADC values of CP and patient ages. (Right CP: r = 0.623; p < 0.05. Left CP: r = 0.654; p < 0.05). There were positive correlations between LV diameters and age ( r = 0.624, p < 0.05 for the right LV; r = 0.621, p < 0.05 for the left LV). The ADC values of age groups significantly differed ( p < 0.05); the ≥61-year-old group was significantly higher compared to younger individuals. There is a progressive increase of water diffusivity in the CPs during aging. ADC values should be considered as a neuroimaging quantitative biomarker in normal aging-dementia syndromes.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies

Keywords

  • Aging
  • brain
  • choroid plexus
  • diffusion magnetic resonance imaging


Prenatal ethanol exposure modifies locomotor activity and induces selective changes in Met-enk expression in adolescent rats.

Several studies suggest that prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) facilitates ethanol intake. Opioid peptides play a main role in ethanol reinforcement during infancy and adulthood. However, PEE effects upon motor responsiveness elicited by an ethanol challenge and the participation of opioids in these actions remain to be understood. This work assessed the susceptibility of adolescent rats to prenatal and/or postnatal ethanol exposure in terms of behavioral responses, as well as alcohol effects on Met-enk expression in brain areas related to drug reinforcement. Motor parameters (horizontal locomotion, rearings and stereotyped behaviors) in pre- and postnatally ethanol-challenged adolescents were evaluated. Pregnant rats received ethanol (2g/kg) or water during gestational days 17-20. Adolescents at postnatal day 30 (PD30) were tested in a three-trial activity paradigm (habituation, vehicle and drug sessions). Met-enk content was quantitated by radioimmunoassay in several regions: ventral tegmental area [VTA], nucleus accumbens [NAcc], prefrontal cortex [PFC], substantia nigra [SN], caudate-putamen [[[CP]]], amygdala, hypothalamus and hippocampus. PEE significantly reduced rearing responses. Ethanol challenge at PD30 decreased horizontal locomotion and showed a tendency to reduce rearings and stereotyped behaviors. PEE increased Met-enk content in the PFC, CP, hypothalamus and hippocampus, but did not alter peptide levels in the amygdala, VTA and NAcc. These findings suggest that PEE selectively modifies behavioral parameters at PD30 and induces specific changes in Met-enk content in regions of the mesocortical and nigrostriatal pathways, the hypothalamus and hippocampus. Prenatal and postnatal ethanol actions on motor activity in adolescents could involve activation of specific neural enkephalinergic pathways.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Amygdala
  • Animals
  • Endopeptidases
  • Ethanol
  • Female
  • Hypothalamus
  • Locomotion
  • Nucleus Accumbens
  • Prefrontal Cortex
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Ventral Tegmental Area

Keywords

  • Adolescence
  • Enkephalins
  • Ethanol-induced locomotor activity
  • Ontogeny
  • Opioid peptides


Fatigue and its relationship with physical activity, age, and body composition in adults with cerebral palsy.

The objectives of this exploratory study were (1) to describe the experience of fatigue in adults with cerebral palsy (CP) inclusive of all levels of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS); and (2) to determine if physical activity level, sedentary time, age, or body composition can predict fatigue in adults with CP. An observational study was conducted in an outpatient setting in Ontario, Canada. Participants included adults with CP (n=41; GMFCS levels I-V; mean age 33.7y, standard deviation [SD] 12.3y). Fatigue was measured using the Fatigue Impact and Severity Self-Assessment (FISSA) questionnaire. Habitual physical activity and sedentary time were measured using accelerometry. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were reported as measures of body composition. The mean (SD) FISSA score for all participants was 84.5 (30.6), ranging from 54.0 (18.3) (GMFCS level I) to 93.6 (21.9) (GMFCS level V). Significant positive relationships (regression coefficient β [95% confidence intervals]) were observed between BMI and FISSA scores (1.9 [0.73-3.1]), waist circumference and FISSA scores (0.71 [0.19-1.2]), and age and FISSA scores (0.99 [0.26-1.7]). A significant negative relationship was observed between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per hour and FISSA scores -6.4 [-12 to -0.83]). Backwards stepwise regression analysis revealed BMI (1.8 [0.61-2.9]) and MVPA per hour (-5.4 [-10 to -0.30]) were significant predictors of FISSA scores. Health care providers should consider the importance of weight management and physical activity to prevent and treat fatigue in this population.

MeSH Terms

  • Accelerometry
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Body Composition
  • Body Mass Index
  • Canada
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Exercise
  • Fatigue
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Statistics as Topic
  • Waist Circumference
  • Young Adult


Motor sequencing in older adulthood: relationships with executive functioning and effects of complexity.

Older adults' motor sequencing performance is more reliant on executive functioning (EF) and more susceptible to complexity than that of younger adults. This study examined for which aspects of motor sequencing performance these relationships hold. Fifty-seven younger and 90 non-demented, community-dwelling, older adults completed selected subtests from the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System as indices of EF and component processes (CP; graphomotor speed; visual scanning; etc.), as well as a computerized motor sequencing task (Push Turn Taptap task; PTT). The PTT requires participants to perform motor sequences that become progressively more complex across the task's four blocks, and is designed to assess action planning, action learning, and motor control speed and accuracy. Hierarchical regressions using each discrete aspect of performance as the dependent variable revealed that action planning is the only aspect of motor sequencing that is uniquely related to EF (beyond the CP composite) for both age groups. Action learning and motor control accuracy are uniquely associated with EF for older adults only, and only if the sequences are complex. Component processes do not fully account for the unique relationships between motor sequencing and EF in older adults. These results clarify prior findings by showing (a) more aspects of motor sequencing relate to EF for older compared to younger adults and (b) for these unique relationships, EF is only related to action during the generation of sequences that are complex. These findings further our understanding of how aging shapes the links between EF and motor actions, and can be used in evidence-based and theoretically driven intervention programs that promote healthy aging.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Attention
  • Cognition
  • Executive Function
  • Female
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Intelligence Tests
  • Learning
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Skills
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Visual Perception
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Executive functioning
  • action planning
  • aging
  • motor control
  • motor sequence learning


Ageing with cerebral palsy; what are the health experiences of adults with cerebral palsy? A qualitative study.

To enhance understanding of the experiences of ageing with cerebral palsy (CP) in adulthood with a particular focus on experiences with health services. A qualitative descriptive methodology was applied to capture adults' views of ageing with CP and related interactions with health services. Semistructured interviews were undertaken with data systematically coded and interpreted by grouping information into categories. Themes that encompassed the categories were identified through thematic analysis. All healthcare settings. 28 adults (14 women) with CP, aged 37-70 years. 5 themes covered the breadth of participants' experiences: (1) acceptance of change; (2) exploring identity: cerebral palsy as only one part of self; (3) taking charge of help; (4) rethinking the future and (5) interacting with health professionals. Being seen and being heard were the features described in positive healthcare interactions. Participants also valued health professionals who reflected on who holds the knowledge?; demonstrated a willingness to learn and respected participants' knowledge and experience. Our findings could, and arguably should, inform more responsive strategies for disabled people in health services and, indeed, all health consumers. Our study supports other findings that impairments related to CP change and, for many, severity of disabling impact increases with age. Increased interactions with health and rehabilitation professionals, as a consequence of these changes, have the potential to impact the person's healthcare experience either positively or negatively. A 'listening health professional' may bridge their knowledge gap and, in recognising the person's own expertise, may achieve three things: a more contextualised healthcare intervention; a better healthcare experience for the person with CP and positive impact on the person's sense of autonomy and identity by recognising their expertise. Future research should identify whether this approach improves the healthcare experience for adults living with CP.

MeSH Terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Disabled Persons
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Needs Assessment
  • New Zealand
  • Qualitative Research
  • Social Identification
  • Social Stigma
  • Social Support

Keywords

  • ageing
  • cerebral palsy
  • health professional
  • identity
  • interaction


Influence of low protein diets on gene expression of digestive enzymes and hormone secretion in the gastrointestinal tract of young weaned piglets.

To investigate dietary protein level effects on digestive mechanisms, weaned piglets were fed for 45 d with diets containing 20%, 17%, or 14% crude protein (CP) supplemented to meet requirements for essential amino acids. This article describes the influence of dietary protein on gastrointestinal hormones and expression of an array of digestive enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas. Results indicated that there were no significant differences in expression of enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion, except for maltase in the duodenum. In the jejunum, amylase expression in pigs fed 20% CP was much higher than that in pigs fed other diets (P<0.05) and maltase expression in those fed 17% CP was higher than that in other treatments (P<0.05). Although there were no remarkable differences in expression of aminopeptidase in the small intestine or carboxypeptidase in the pancreas (P>0.05), there was a trend towards higher expression of various proteases in pigs fed 17% CP. The duodenal expression of enteropeptidase in diets with 14% and 17% CP was significantly higher than that with 20% CP (P<0.05), but treatment differences did not existed in jejunum (P>0.05). The expression of GPR93 as a nutrient-responsive G protein-coupled receptor in 14% and 17% CP diets was significantly higher than that in 20% CP diet in the small intestine (P<0.05). The expressions of genes for pancreatic enzymes, lipase and elastase, were significantly higher in pigs fed diets with low CP, while similar trends occurred for carboxypeptidase, chymotrypsin and amylase. Conversely, the gastric expressions of pepsinogen A and progastricsin were lower with the 17% CP diet. Differences between treatments were found in the gastric antral contents of cholecystokinin and somatostatin: both increased in pigs fed 17% CP, accompanied by decreased content of motilin, which was also seen in plasma concentrations. These patterns were not reflected in duodenal contents. In general, 17% dietary CP was beneficial to the digestion of nutrient substance in the gastrointestinal tract.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Aminopeptidases
  • Animals
  • Dietary Proteins
  • Gastrointestinal Hormones
  • Gastrointestinal Tract
  • Gene Expression
  • Glucosidases
  • Lipase
  • Pancreatic Elastase
  • Sucrase
  • Swine

Keywords

  • Dietary protein
  • Digestion
  • Gastrointestinal tract
  • Hormone
  • Pancreas
  • Piglet


Problematic clinical features of children and adults with cerebral palsy who use electric powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs: A cross-sectional study.

This article aims to describe the clinical features of electric powered indoor/outdoor wheelchair (EPIOC) users with cerebral palsy (CP) that are problematic to optimal prescription and to explore comorbidities, features of CP, and conditions secondary to disability impacting on equipment provision for children and adults. The method is a cross-sectional study of EPIOC users (n = 102) with a primary diagnosis of CP. This is a retrospective review of electronic and case note records of EPIOC recipients attending a specialist wheelchair service in 2007-2008. Records were reviewed by a rehabilitation consultant. Data were extracted under three themes; demographic, diagnostic/clinical and wheelchair factors. There were 48 males mean age 27.5 (range 8-70, SD 13.9) years and 54 females, mean age 29.5 (range 7-68, SD 14.6) years with CP. Sixteen comorbidities, nine features of CP, and five features of disability influenced wheelchair prescription. Sixty-four users were provided with specialized seating (SS) and 47 with tilt-in-space (TIS) seats. Complex controls were provided to 16 users, 12 tray-mounted. The majority of users had both SS and TIS. Powered wheelchair prescription has important therapeutic roles in clinical management in addition to enhancing mobility, independence and participation. Clinical features such as spasticity and problematic pain appeared less well managed in adults than in children.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child
  • Comorbidity
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Equipment Design
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Wheelchairs
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • adaptive seating
  • aging
  • cerebral palsy
  • comorbidity
  • powered wheelchairs


Providing Acute Care at Home: Community Paramedics Enhance an Advanced Illness Management Program-Preliminary Data.

Models addressing urgent clinical needs for older adults with multiple advanced chronic conditions are lacking. This observational study describes a Community Paramedicine (CP) model for treatment of acute medical conditions within an Advanced Illness Management (AIM) program, and compares its effect on emergency department (ED) use and subsequent hospitalization with that of traditional emergency medical services (EMS). Community paramedics were trained to evaluate and, with telemedicine-enhanced physician guidance, treat acute illnesses in individuals' homes. They were also able to transport to the ED if needed. The CP model was implemented between January 1, 2014, and April 30, 2015 in a suburban-urban AIM program. Participants included 1,602 individuals enrolled in the AIM program with high rates of dementia, decubitus ulcers, diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Participants had a median age of 83 and an average of five activity of daily living dependencies (range 0-6). During the study period, there were 664 CP responses and 1,091 traditional EMS transports to the ED among 773 individuals. Only 22% of CP responses required transport; 78% were evaluated and treated in the home. Individuals that community paramedics transported to the ED had higher rates of hospitalization (82.2%) than those using traditional EMS (68.9%) (P < .001). Post-CP surveys showed that all respondents felt the program was of high quality. Results support the potential benefits of CP and invite further evaluation of this innovative care model.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Allied Health Personnel
  • Community Health Services
  • Female
  • Geriatrics
  • Health Services for the Aged
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mobile Health Units
  • New York City
  • Professional Competence
  • Telemedicine
  • Workforce

Keywords

  • Advanced Illness Management
  • Community Paramedicine
  • Mobile Integrated Healthcare
  • acute care
  • community paramedics


Impact of aging on TREM-1 responses in the periodontium: a cross-sectional study in an elderly population.

Aging is associated with altered immune response, which increases susceptibility to infections. sTREM-1 is involved in the amplification of the inflammatory response to bacterial infection. The present cross-sectional study aims to investigate local sTREM-1 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) as well as key periodontal pathogen levels in the subgingival plaque in an elderly cohort with periodontal health, gingivitis, and chronic periodontitis (CP). Subjects were 51 systemically healthy, elderly individuals (mean age, 68 ± 4.5 years) who had undergone full-mouth periodontal examinations. Subgingival plaque and GCF samples were collected from the healthy sites of participants without periodontal disease (n = 17), the sites with gingival inflammation from patients with gingivitis (n = 19), and the periodontitis sites of patients with CP (n = 15). GCF volumes were measured by an electronic impedance device, and total protein levels were assessed by a flouremetric assay. sTREM-1 levels in GCF were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The subgingival plaque total bacteria, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Prevotella intermedia levels were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Statistical analysis was performed using nonparametric methods. GCF volume, total protein concentrations, and sTREM-1 levels in GCF were similar among the groups (p > 0.05). Significantly higher T. forsythia levels were observed in subgingival plaque samples harvested from patients with gingivitis and CP, than in those from healthy participants (p < 0.05). However, the subgingival levels of the other four periodontal pathogens and total bacteria were not statistically different among the groups (p > 0.05). Our findings suggest that there are no differences in GCF volume, total protein, and sTREM-1 levels between healthy and periodontally diseased elderly adults. We found only limited differences in the studied subgingival microbial profile. This finding indicates an already deregulated, local inflammatory response in this elderly cohort, on which bacterial biofilm challenge may have a limited further impact.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • DNA, Bacterial
  • Dental Plaque
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Female
  • Fusobacterium nucleatum
  • Gingival Crevicular Fluid
  • Gingivitis
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Membrane Glycoproteins
  • Middle Aged
  • Periodontitis
  • Periodontium
  • Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Receptors, Immunologic
  • Tannerella forsythia
  • Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells-1

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Elderly
  • Gingival crevicular fluid
  • Subgingival plaque
  • sTREM-1


Factors contributing to the longitudinal development of social participation in individuals with cerebral palsy.

We aimed to determine factors associated with the longitudinal development of social participation in a Dutch population of individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP) aged 1-24 years. For this multicentre prospective longitudinal study, 424 individuals with CP aged 1-24 years were recruited from various rehabilitation centers in The Netherlands. Social participation was measured with the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. We assessed associations with age, intellectual impairment, level of gross motor function, gender, type of CP, manual ability, epilepsy, hearing-, visual-, speech impairment and pain, internalizing- and externalizing behavioral problems, type of education and parental level of education. Each individual was measured 3 or 4 times. The time between measurements was 1 or 2 years. Epilepsy and speech impairment were each independently associated with the longitudinal development of social participation. The effects were rather small and did not change with age. Also, a trend was found that children attending special education develop less favorably in social participation. Our results might provide parents and caregivers with starting points to further develop tailored support for individuals with epilepsy, with speech impairment and/or attending special education at risk for suboptimal social participation.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Development
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child
  • Child Development
  • Child, Preschool
  • Education, Special
  • Educational Status
  • Epilepsy
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Mainstreaming, Education
  • Male
  • Netherlands
  • Prospective Studies
  • Social Participation
  • Speech Disorders
  • Vision Disorders
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Associated factors
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Lifespan expectations
  • Longitudinal development
  • Social functioning
  • Social participation


Advanced maternal age causes adverse programming of mouse blastocysts leading to altered growth and impaired cardiometabolic health in post-natal life.

Does advanced maternal age (AMA) in mice affect cardiometabolic health during post-natal life in offspring derived from an assisted reproduction technology (ART) procedure? Offspring derived from blastocysts collected from aged female mice displayed impaired body weight gain, blood pressure, glucose metabolism and organ allometry during post-natal life compared with offspring derived from blastocysts from young females; since all blastocysts were transferred to normalized young mothers, this effect is independent of maternal pregnancy conditions. Although studies in mice have shown that AMA can affect body weight and behaviour of offspring derived from natural reproduction, data on the effects of AMA on offspring cardiometabolic health during post-natal development are not available. Given the increasing use of ART to alleviate infertility in women of AMA, it is pivotal to develop ART-AMA models addressing the effects of maternal aging on offspring health. Blastocysts from old (34-39 weeks) or young (8-9 weeks) C57BL/6 females mated with young CBA males (13-15 weeks) were either subjected to differential cell staining (inner cell mass and trophectoderm) or underwent embryo transfer (ET) into young MF1 surrogates (8-9 weeks) to produce young (Young-ET, 9 litters) and old (Old-ET, 10 litters) embryo-derived offspring. Offspring health monitoring was carried out for 30 weeks. All animals were fed with standard chow. Blood pressure was measured at post-natal Weeks 9, 15 and 21, and at post-natal Week 30 a glucose tolerance test (GTT) was performed. Two days after the GTT mice were killed for organ allometry. Blastocyst cell allocation variables were evaluated by T-test and developmental data were analysed with a multilevel random effects regression model. The total number of cells in blastocysts from aged mice was decreased (P < 0.05) relative to young mice due to a lower number of cells in the trophectoderm (mean ± SEM: 34.5 ± 2.1 versus 29.6 ± 1.0). Weekly body weight did not differ in male offspring, but an increase in body weight from Week 13 onwards was observed in Old-ET females (final body weight at post-natal Week 30: 38.5 ± 0.8 versus 33.4 ± 0.8 g, P < 0.05). Blood pressure was increased in Old-ET offspring at Weeks 9-15 in males (Week 9: 108.5 ± 3.13 versus 100.8 ± 1.5 mmHg, Week 15: 112.9 ± 3.2 versus 103.4 ± 2.1 mmHg) and Week 15 in females (115.9 ± 3.7 versus 102.8 ± 0.7 mmHg; all P < 0.05 versus Young-ET). The GTT results and organ allometry were not affected in male offspring. In contrast, Old-ET females displayed a greater (P < 0.05) peak glucose concentration at 30 min during the GTT (21.1 ± 0.4 versus 17.8 ± 1.16 mmol/l) and their spleen weight (88.2 ± 2.6 ± 105.1 ± 4.6 mg) and several organ:body weight ratios (g/g × 10(3)) were decreased (P < 0.05 versus Young-ET), including the heart (3.7 ± 0.06 versus 4.4 ± 0.08), lungs (4.4 ± 0.1 versus 5.0 ± 0.1), spleen (2.4 ± 0.06 versus 3.2 ± 0.1) and liver (36.4 ± 0.6 versus 39.1 ± 0.9). Results from experimental animal models cannot be extrapolated to humans. Nevertheless, they are valuable to develop conceptual models that can produce hypotheses for eventual testing in the target species (i.e. humans). Our data show that offspring from mouse embryos from aged mothers can develop altered phenotypes during post-natal development compared with embryos from young mothers. Because all embryos were transferred into young mothers for the duration of pregnancy to normalize the maternal in vivo environment, our findings indicate that adverse programming via AMA is already established at the blastocyst stage. Whilst human embryos display increased aneuploidy compared with mouse, we believe our data have implications for women of AMA undergoing assisted reproduction, including surrogacy programmes. This work was supported through the European Union FP7-CP-FP Epihealth programme (278418) to T.P.F. and the BBSRC (BB/F007450/1) to T.P.F. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

MeSH Terms

  • Age Factors
  • Animals
  • Blastocyst
  • Blood Pressure
  • Body Weight
  • Female
  • Glucose Tolerance Test
  • Male
  • Maternal Age
  • Mice
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted

Keywords

  • blastocysts
  • developmental programming
  • gender effects
  • maternal aging
  • offspring health


Communication changes experienced by adults with cerebral palsy as they age.

Adults with cerebral palsy (CP) experience multiple, functional changes as they age, including changes to communication modes and methods that enable development and maintenance of relationships, communicative participation and quality-of-life. Little is known about the nature of communication changes experienced by this group. The aim of this study was to better understand how adults with CP experience changes in their communication abilities as they age and the subsequent psychosocial impact. Twenty adults with cerebral palsy aged 40-72 years with complex communication needs (CCN) participated in a series of in-depth interviews, framing their experiences of loss and grief throughout their lives. The impact of changing communication abilities emerged as an important area of focus. Data were analysed using constructivist grounded theory methodology. Themes arising from the participants' perceptions of their communication included experiencing communication change as a loss with subsequent impact on self-concept; and how communication is integral to the process of managing losses associated with older age. Implications for speech-language pathologists working with older people with cerebral palsy and CCN include the need to understand the psychosocial impact of communication changes on social interaction, relationships and communicative participation. It is important to promote positive and meaningful communication options that maintain a coherent sense of self in addition to promoting functional communication skills and communicative participation.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Communication
  • Communication Disorders
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Quality of Life

Keywords

  • Communication
  • ageing
  • cerebral palsy
  • complex communication needs (CCN)
  • identity


Effect of at-home bleaching with different thickeners and aging on physical properties of a nanocomposite.

To evaluate the influence of 16% carbamide peroxide (CP) containing different thickeners on the physical characteristics of a nanocomposite resin submitted or not to accelerated artificial aging (AAA). One hundred samples were randomly distributed into two groups (n = 50) according to AAA. Each group was divided into 5 subgroups (n = 10) depending on the bleaching/thickener treatment: CP carbopol, CP natrosol, carbopol, natrosol, and no treatment (control). The physical properties tested were color (ΔE), gloss (GU), mean roughness (Ra), and Knoop microhardness (KHN). The resin surface was performed with atomic force microscopy (AFM). The color (variable Δ E) was assessed with two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and additionally with Tukey's and Dunnett's tests, the roughness values were submitted to Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's, and Mann-Whitney's tests. Data on gloss and KHN were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Among the physical properties evaluated, CP carbopol promoted a reduction in composite microhardness only, thus differing statistically from the controls. As for CP natrosol, such a change was not observed. The aging process reduced all the physical properties, thus differing statistically from the nonaging group. CP carbopol increased the roughness and decreased the gloss of aged resins, whereas natrosol reduced gloss only, which differed statistically from the controls. AFM showed evidence of the loss of organic matrix and exposure to load particles in the aged samples. Therefore, the replacement of carbopol with natrosol provided maintenance of the composite microhardness following bleaching. The aging process reduced the physical properties evaluated, and some changes were enhanced by the application of bleaching.


Keywords

  • Accelerated aging
  • bleaching agents
  • color stability
  • composite resin
  • gloss
  • microhardness
  • surface roughness


Digestive evaluation of soy isolate protein as affected by heat treatment and soy oil inclusion in broilers at an early age.

Soy protein isolate (SPI) mixed with soybean oil (SPIO) incubated at 100°C for 8 h was used to evaluate changes of solubility and digestibility of SPI in vitro and digestive function in broilers at an early age. Arbor Acres broilers were allocated to three groups with six replicates of 12 birds, receiving basal diet (CON), 8 h heat-oxidized SPI diet (HSPI) and 8 h heat-oxidized mixture of SPI and 2% soybean oil diet (HSPIO) for 21 days, respectively. Nitrogen solubility index (NSI) declined and soybean oil accelerated the decline of NSI during incubation (P < 0.05). Decreased in vitro digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were observed in SPIO (P < 0.05). HSPI and HSPIO decreased body weight gain, relative jejunum weight and pancreatic trypsin activity at day 21 (P < 0.05). HSPIO decreased anterior intestinal trypsin activity at day 14 and amylase and trypsin activity at day 21, pancreatic amylase activity at day 21 and apparent digestibility of DM, organic matter and CP of broilers from days 18 to 20 (P < 0.05). Heat treatment and soybean oil could induce oxidative modification of SPI, and oxidized SPI negatively affected growth and digestion of broilers. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animal Feed
  • Animals
  • Body Weight
  • Chickens
  • Diet
  • Digestion
  • Hot Temperature
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Proteolysis
  • Solubility
  • Soybean Oil
  • Soybean Proteins
  • Time Factors

Keywords

  • broiler
  • digestion
  • growth performance
  • oxidative modification
  • soy protein isolate


Cold plasma: a novel approach to treat infected dentin-a combined ex vivo and in vitro study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of cold plasma (CP) on infected dentin surfaces in vitro and ex vivo. To examine the effect of cold plasma on root surfaces, 24 root surfaces were infected with Streptococcus mitis. Specimens were randomly divided into three groups: Within the control group (C), root surfaces were rinsed with NaCl; root surfaces in the second group were additionally scaled and root planed (SRP), and in the third group, root surfaces were rinsed, scaled, root planed, and in addition, CP was applied (SRP   CP). To examine the effect of CP on root caries lesions (RCLs), 16 freshly extracted teeth with symmetrical carious lesions were equally divided into two groups. In the control group, carious lesions were treated with chlorhexidine (CHX), whereas CHX was applied in conjunction with CP in the test group (CHX   CP). For microbiological analysis, dentin samples were serially diluted and CFU counts were estimated after 24 h of incubation. Compared to C, mean CFU values for SRP and SRP   CP were significantly lower (p < 0.05). In addition, mean CFUs for SRP   CP were reduced to 0 and, therefore, significantly lower than SRP (2.98 log CFU/mL) alone (p = 0.000, Mann-Whitney U). Regarding RCLs, significantly lower mean CFU values were observed for CHX   CP when compared to CHX (4.45 vs. 2.67 log CFU/mL, p = 0.002, Mann-Whitney U test). For disinfection of exposed root surfaces, the adjunctive application of CP is promising. In addition, the combined application of CHX   CP has the potential to disinfect root dentin surfaces. It was shown that the combination of cold plasma with CHX is the best available option for the disinfection of root surfaces.

MeSH Terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Chlorhexidine
  • Dental Scaling
  • Dentin
  • Disinfection
  • Humans
  • Plasma Gases
  • Root Planing
  • Sodium Chloride
  • Streptococcus mitis
  • Therapeutic Irrigation
  • Tooth Root

Keywords

  • Aging society
  • Cold plasma
  • Periodontitis
  • Root caries
  • Tissue tolerable plasma


Age and adaptation to Ca and P deficiencies: 2. Impacts on amino acid digestibility and phytase efficacy in broilers.

A total of 1,152 straight-run hatchling Heritage 56M×fast feathering Cobb 500F broiler birds were used to determine Ca, age, and adaptation effects on apparent ileal digestibility of crude protein (AID of CP), amino acids (AID of AA) and phytase efficacy. Twelve treatments with 8 replicates, each were fed from 7 to 9 d (6 birds per replicate), 7 to 21 d (6 birds per replicate) and 19 to 21 d (3 birds per replicate) d of age. Diets were prepared with 3 Ca (0.65, 0.80, and 0.95%) and 2 non-phytate P, (0.20 and 0.40%) concentrations. A 6-phytase was added at 500 or 1,000 FTU/kg to the 0.20% nPP diet at each Ca concentration. The age and adaptation effects were determined by comparing the responses between birds fed from 7 to 9 and 19 to 21 d of age, 19 to 21, and 7 to 21 d of age, respectively. An age effect was observed regardless of Ca, nPP, or phytase concentration, with older birds (19 to 21 d) having greater apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of amino acids (AA) and CP than younger birds (7 to 9 d; P<0.05). Response to adaptation varied depending on Ca, nPP, and phytase concentrations. Constant lower AID of CP and AA was seen in adapted birds (7 to 21 d) compared to unadapted bird (19 to 21 d) when 0.20% nPP diets were fed at 0.95% Ca concentrations (P<0.05). At 0.40% nPP, there was no effect of adaptation on AID of CP and AA at any Ca concentration. Phytase efficacy was significantly lower in younger (7 to 9 d) compared to older birds (19 to 21 d; P<0.05), except at 0.65% Ca. Phytase inclusion increased AID of CP and AA regardless of Ca (P<0.05). In conclusion, the AID of CP and AA can be affected by diet, age, and adaptation.

MeSH Terms

  • 6-Phytase
  • Adaptation, Physiological
  • Amino Acids
  • Animal Feed
  • Animals
  • Calcium, Dietary
  • Chickens
  • Diet
  • Dietary Proteins
  • Longevity
  • Phosphorus, Dietary

Keywords

  • adaptation effect
  • age effect
  • amino acids
  • digestibility
  • phytase efficacy


A randomized controlled 27 years follow up of three resin composites in Class II restorations.

To evaluate the durability of three conventional resin composites in Class II restorations during 27 years. Thirty participants, 25 female and 5 male (mean age 38.2 years, range 25-63), received at least three (one set) as similar as possible Class II restorations of moderate size. The three cavities were chosen at random to be restored with a chemical-cured (Clearfil Posterior) and two visible light-cured resin composites (Adaptic II, Occlusin). A chemical-cured enamel bonding agent (Clearfil New Bond) was applied after Ca(OH)2 covering of dentin and enamel etch. Marginal sealing of the restorations was performed after finishing. One operator placed 99 restorations (33 sets). Evaluation was performed with slightly modified USPHS criteria at baseline, 2, 3, 10 and 27 years. Postoperative sensitivity was observed in 5 patients. Three participants with 11 restorations (11%) could not be evaluated at the 27 year recall. Thirty-seven restorations failed (13 AII, 10 CP and 14 O). The overall success rate after 27 years was 56.5% (AII 55.2%, CP 63.0%, O 51.7%; p=0.70), with an annual failure rate of 1.6%. The main reason for failure was secondary caries (54.1%), followed by occlusal wear (21.6%) and material fracture (18.9%). Non-acceptable color match was seen in 24 (28.3%) of the restorations (AII 2, CP 16, O 6). Cox regression-analysis showed significant influence of the covariates tooth type, caries risk, and bruxing activity of the participants. Class II restorations of the three conventional resin composites showed an acceptable success rate during the 27 year evaluation.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Bicuspid
  • Composite Resins
  • Dental Cavity Preparation
  • Dental Enamel
  • Dental Materials
  • Dental Restoration Failure
  • Dental Restoration, Permanent
  • Dentin-Bonding Agents
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Molar
  • Resin Cements
  • Surface Properties
  • Treatment Outcome

Keywords

  • Caries
  • Chemical cured
  • Clinical
  • Composite
  • Longevity
  • Posterior
  • Resin
  • Restorations


The head-shaft angle of the hip in early childhood: a comparison of reference values for children with cerebral palsy and normally developing hips.

The recognition of hips at risk of displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP) is a difficult problem for the orthopaedic surgeon. The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and head-shaft angle (HSA) are prognostic factors for hip displacement. However, reference values for HSA are lacking. This study describes and compares the development of HSA in normal hips and children with CP. We selected 33 children from a retrospective cohort with unilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) (five boys, 28 girls) and 50 children (35 boys, 15 girls) with CP with GMFCS levels II to V. HSA of normal developing hips was measured at the contralateral hip of unilateral DDH children (33 hips) and HSA of CP children was measured in both hips (100 hips). Measurements were taken from the radiographs of the children at age two, four and seven years. The normal hip HSA decreased by 2° per year (p < 0.001). In children with CP with GMFCS levels II and III HSA decreased by 0.6° (p = 0.046) and 0.9° (p = 0.049) per year, respectively. The HSA did not alter significantly in GMFCS levels IV and V. Between the ages of two and eight years, the HSA decreases in normal hips and CP children with GMFCS level, II to III but does not change in GMFCS levels IV to V. As HSA has a prognostic value for hip displacement, these reference values may help the orthopaedic surgeon to predict future hip displacement in children with CP.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hip Dislocation
  • Hip Joint
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prognosis
  • Radiography
  • Reference Values
  • Retrospective Studies

Keywords head-shaft angle; HSA; Southwick angle; femoral head; hip displacement; hip dislocation; hip subluxation; Cerebral Palsy


One-year follow-up of at-home bleaching in smokers before and after dental prophylaxis.

This clinical study evaluated the color longevity after one-year of at-home bleaching with 10% carbamide peroxide (CP) in smokers and nonsmokers. Sixty patients, 30 smokers and 30 non-smokers were subjected to bleaching with 10% CP during three hours daily for three weeks. The color was measured at baseline and one week, one month and one year after the completion of dental bleaching using the spectrophotometer Vita Easyshade (ΔE*), shade guide Vita classical organized by value and Vita Bleachedguide 3D-MASTER (ΔSGU). In the one-year recall, the color was assessed before and after dental prophylaxis with Robinson brush and prophylaxis paste. Data from color evaluation were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's test for the contrast of means (α=0.05). Twenty-seven smokers and 28 non-smokers attended the one-year recall. For both study groups, only the main factor assessment time was statistically significant for ΔSGU (Vita classical) and ΔE* (p<0.001). Effective whitening was observed for both groups at baseline, which was stable at one-month and one year after dental prophylaxis. A slight darkening was observed after one year when the color was measured without prophylaxis. For the Vita Bleachedguide 3D-MASTER, color rebound was observed irrespectively of dental prophylaxis. The bleaching with 10% CP remained stable in both groups as long as extrinsic stains from diet and cigarette smoke were removed by professional dental prophylaxis. NCT02017873. The results of this study indicate that the bleaching is effective in smokers even after one-year, but dental prophylaxis may be necessary to remove extrinsic stains caused by diet and smoking.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Dental Prophylaxis
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Home Care Services
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Smoking
  • Tooth Bleaching
  • Tooth Discoloration
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • At-home bleaching
  • Color longevity
  • Dental prophylaxis
  • Smokers


Effects of chronic exposure to 950 MHz ultra-high-frequency electromagnetic radiation on reactive oxygen species metabolism in the right and left cerebral cortex of young rats of different ages.

To assess the effect of 950 MHz ultra-high-frequency electromagnetic radiation (UHF-EMR) on biomarkers of oxidative damage to DNA, proteins and lipids in the left cerebral cortex (LCC) and right cerebral cortex (RCC) of neonate and 6-day-old rats. Twelve rats were equally divided into two groups as controls (CR) and exposed (ER), for each age (0 and 6 days). The LCC and RCC were examined in ER and CR after exposure. Radiation exposure lasted 30 min per day for up to 27 days (throughout pregnancy and 6 days postnatal). The specific absorption rate ranged from 1.32-1.14 W/kg. The damage to lipids, proteins and DNA was verified by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, carbonylated proteins (CP) and comets, respectively. The concentration of glucose in the peripheral blood of the rats was measured by the Accu-Chek Active Kit due to increased CP in RCC. In neonates, no modification of the biomarkers tested was detected. On the other hand, there was an increase in the levels of CP in the RCC of the 6-day-old ER. Interestingly, the concentration of blood glucose was decreased in this group. Our results indicate that there is no genotoxicity and oxidative stress in neonates and 6 days rats. However, the RCC had the highest concentration of CP that do not seem to be a consequence of oxidative stress. This study is the first to demonstrate the use of UHF-EMR causes different damage responses to proteins in the LCC and RCC.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Cerebral Cortex
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Female
  • Male
  • Microwaves
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiation Exposure
  • Rats
  • Reactive Oxygen Species

Keywords

  • AGE
  • Cerebral cortex
  • UHF-EMR
  • oxidative damage


Broiler responses to digestible threonine at different ages: a neural networks approach.

Three experiments were conducted with broiler chickens to evaluate the effects of digestible threonine (DThr) and crude protein (CP) on their performance at three different phases of age: 1-14, 15-28 and 29-42 days. The measured traits included the following: average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass crude protein (CCP), body lipid (BL), feather weight gain (FWG), protein deposited in feather (FCP), carcass plus feather protein (CFCP), carcass Thr deposition (CDThr) and nitrogen excretion (NE). A dilution technique was used to create seven diets (with eight replicates) increasing the DThr content from 1.5 to 10 g/kg of diet for phase 1, 1.3-8.9 g/kg of diet for phase 2, and 1.2-8.2 g/kg of diet for phase 3. Data measured were imported into neural networks (NNs) to: (i) predict the measured traits in response to DThr and CP, (ii) rank the importance of DThr and CP on these traits through sensitivity analysis and (iii) find the optimal levels of DThr and CP that lead to the desired (maximum or minimum) responses. For each trait investigated, 50 different random groups of data were generated using a bootstrapping method. These 50 data groups were then used to develop 50 separate NNs which were subsequently combined to construct the final ensemble NN model. In general, accuracy of the models constructed was acceptable, although models of high (ADG, FCR, CFCP, BL, DThr and NE; 0.64 ≤ R(2)  ≤ 0.99) and low (CCP, FWG and FCP; 0.26 ≤ R(2)  ≤ 0.79) accuracy were obtained. All models developed showed the greatest sensitivity to DThr. This may be explained by the dilution technique diet preparation used in these experiments. Optimization results showed decreases in optimal values of DThr and CP with increasing age for all traits. The highest level of DThr was suggested for minimum BL, followed by minimum FCR, maximum ADG, maximum CFCP, minimum NE and maximum CCP respectively. Results showed that the optimal values of DThr for minimum FCR in phases 1-3 were 8.5, 7.4 and 6.4 g/kg of diet, while these values for maximum ADG were 8.2, 7.2 and 6.4 g/kg of diet respectively.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animal Feed
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Animals
  • Chickens
  • Diet
  • Female
  • Male
  • Models, Biological
  • Neural Networks, Computer
  • Threonine

Keywords

  • broiler
  • digestible threonine
  • neural network


Effect of feeding guanidinoacetic acid and L-arginine on the fertility rate and sperm penetration in the perivitelline layer of aged broiler breeder hens.

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) and L-arginine (ARG) on fertility and sperm penetration (SP) rate of broiler breeder hens. In the first experiment, a total of 200 broiler breeder hens (Ross 308) aged 53 weeks were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments (0, 0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 g GAA/kg diet) with five replicates of 10 birds each. In the second experiment, 320 broiler breeder hens (Ross 308) were used from 53 to 62 weeks of age in a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement (0 or 1.2 g GAA/kg diet along with 0, 3, 6 or 9 g ARG/kg diet). The hens received a diet containing 2800 kcal ME/kg and 14% CP. Sixteen sexually mature Ross 308 breeder roosters (34 weeks old) were used to artificially inseminate the hens. Fertility of the hens was determined in 61 and 62 weeks of age. The sperm penetration holes in the inner perivitelline layer (IPL) overlying the germinal disc were enumerated on days 3 and 7 following each insemination. Adding GAA to the breeder diet increased the number of SPs in the IPL and fertility in both experiments (p < 0.01). The interactive effect of ARG and GAA on the SP and fertility was significant. Supplementary ARG increased the SP rate in the IPL (p < 0.01). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of GAA and ARG might be potentially used to improve the fertility of broiler breeder hens at the later phase of the egg production period.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animal Feed
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Animals
  • Arginine
  • Chickens
  • Diet
  • Female
  • Fertility
  • Glycine
  • Humans
  • Insemination, Artificial
  • Male
  • Sperm-Ovum Interactions
  • Vitelline Membrane

Keywords

  • ageing
  • dietary supplementation
  • egg production
  • reproduction


Does low serum TSH within the normal range have negative impact on physical exercise capacity and quality of life of healthy elderly people?

Investigate the differences in cardiopulmonary (CP) capacity and Quality of Life (QOL) between healthy elderly (≥ 65 years) with different TSH levels (< 1.0 and ≥ 1.0 μIU/mL) both within the normal range. Also, evaluate the effects of TSH elevation on CP test and QOL, by administering methimazole to subjects with initial lower-normal TSH, in order to elevate it to superior-normal limit. Initially, a cross-sectional study was performed to compare CP capacity at peak exercise and QOL (using WHOQOL-OLD questionnaire) between healthy seniors (age ≥ 65 years) with TSH < 1.0 μIU/mL vs. TSH ≥1.0 μIU/mL. In the second phase, participants with TSH < 1.0 μIU/mL were included in a non-controlled-prospective-interventional study to investigate the effect of TSH elevation, using methimazole, on QOL and CP capacity at peak exercise. From 89 elderly evaluated, 75 had TSH ≥ 1 μIU/mL and 14 TSH < 1 μIU/mL. The two groups had similar basal clinical characteristics. No difference in WHOQOL-OLD scores was observed between groups and they did not differ in terms of CP function at peak exercise. QOL and CP variables were not correlated with TSH levels. Twelve of 14 participants with TSH < 1.0 μIU/mL entered in the prospective study. After one year, no significant differences in clinical caracteristics, QOL, and CP variables were detected in paired analysis before and after methimazole intervention. We found no differences in CP capacity and QOL between health elderly with different TSH levels within normal range and no impact after one year of methimazole treatment. More prospective-controlled-randomized studies are necessary to confirm or not the possible harm effect in normal low TSH.

MeSH Terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Antithyroid Agents
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Exercise Tolerance
  • Female
  • Heart Rate
  • Humans
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Male
  • Methimazole
  • Oxygen Consumption
  • Prospective Studies
  • Quality of Life
  • Reference Values
  • Statistics, Nonparametric
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Thyrotropin
  • Thyroxine


[Association between carbonyl proteins and tumor necrosis factor alpha with muscle strength in young and older women: exploratory study].

It has recently been proposed that there is a close relationship between oxidative stress and low-grade chronic inflammation. Both processes have been related separately to muscle function in older adults (OA). Nevertheless, it still has not been determined if this relationship is present particularly in OA. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the plasma levels of TNF-α and carbonyl proteins (CP) and muscle strength in a group of young and older women. An exploratory study was conducted on 13 older and 8 young women, in whom the plasma levels of CP and TNF-α were measured. Muscle strength was measured by handgrip test, quadriceps voluntary maximal isometric strength, arm curl, and the 30 second sit to stand test. There were no differences in the plasma levels of CP and TNF-α between the groups, but there was relationship between the biomarkers only in the OA group. A non-linear relationship was observed between CP and quadriceps voluntary maximal isometric strength only in the OA group (R(2)=36.2; P=.038). For TNF-α there were no significant association with any of the applied tests. There is an association between CP and quadriceps voluntary maximal isometric strength only in the OA group, which could indicate a deleterious action of oxidative stress on muscle function, particularly in aging.

MeSH Terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Biomarkers
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength
  • Protein Carbonylation
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Carbonilación proteica
  • Envejecimiento
  • Factor necrótico tumoral alfa
  • Fuerza muscular
  • Muscle strength
  • Protein carbonylation
  • Tumor necrosis factor-alpha


The choroid plexus transcriptome reveals changes in type I and II interferon responses in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a marked decline in cognition and memory function. Increasing evidence highlights the essential role of neuroinflammatory and immune-related molecules, including those produced at the brain barriers, on brain immune surveillance, cellular dysfunction and amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology in AD. Therefore, understanding the response at the brain barriers may unravel novel pathways of relevance for the pathophysiology of AD. Herein, we focused on the study of the choroid plexus (CP), which constitutes the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier, in aging and in AD. Specifically, we used the PDGFB-APPSwInd (J20) transgenic mouse model of AD, which presents early memory decline and progressive Aβ accumulation, and littermate age-matched wild-type (WT) mice, to characterize the CP transcriptome at 3, 5-6 and 11-12months of age. The most striking observation was that the CP of J20 mice displayed an overall overexpression of type I interferon (IFN) response genes at all ages. Moreover, J20 mice presented a high expression of type II IFN genes in the CP at 3months, which became lower than WT at 5-6 and 11-12months. Importantly, along with a marked memory impairment and increased glial activation, J20 mice also presented a similar overexpression of type I IFN genes in the dorsal hippocampus at 3months. Altogether, these findings provide new insights on a possible interplay between type I and II IFN responses in AD and point to IFNs as targets for modulation in cognitive decline.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Alzheimer Disease
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides
  • Animals
  • Astrocytes
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Interferon Type I
  • Interferon-gamma
  • Male
  • Maze Learning
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Neurons
  • Transcriptome

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Cerebrospinal fluid
  • Choroid plexus
  • Glial cells
  • Hippocampus
  • Interferons
  • Memory
  • Neuroinflammation
  • Transcriptome


Differences in skeletal components of temporomandibular joint of an early medieval and contemporary Croatian population obtained by different methods.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the human body. The anatomical configuration of the TMJ allows for a large range of mandibular movements as well as transmission of masticatory forces and loads to the skull base. The measurements of the TMJ's anatomical structures and their interpretations contribute to the understanding of how pathological changes, tooth loss, and the type of diet (changing throughout human history) can affect biomechanical conditions of the masticatory system and the TMJ. The human TMJ and its constituent parts are still the subject of extensive investigation and comparisons of measurement methods are being made in order to determine the most precise and suitable measurement methods. The aim of this study has been to examine the morphology of skeletal components of TMJ of an early medieval population (EMP) in Croatia and to compare measured values with TMJ values of the contemporary Croatian population (CP) using various methods of measurement. The study was performed on 30 EMP specimens - human dry skulls, aged from 18 to 55 years, and 30 CP human dry skulls, aged from 18 to 65 years. Only fully preserved specimens (in measured areas) were included. The articular eminence (AE) inclination was measured in relation to the Frankfurt horizontal using two methods. Also, the AE height (glenoid fossa depth) and the length of the curved line - highest to the lowest point of the AE were measured. Measurements were performed on lateral skull photographs, panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms using VistaMetrix software on skull images. The results were statistically analyzed using SPSS statistical software. No statistically significant differences were obtained for AE parameters between the EMP and CP populations independent of age and gender. However, statistically significant (p<0.05) differences were revealed when comparing results of three different measuring methods. It could not be determined which of the used measurement methods is the most accurate due to the different results obtained as well as the presence of possible shortcomings and limitations of the various methods (measuring points are difficult to determine and/or they are not clearly observed in the investigated images to be precisely marked and measured; distortion and magnification of structures on radiographic images are present). Therefore, due to the limitations of this study, the obtained results could serve only as orienting information.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Croatia
  • Female
  • History, Medieval
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mandibular Condyle
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography, Panoramic
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Skeleton
  • Skull
  • Temporomandibular Joint
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Articular eminence inclination
  • Medieval human
  • Temporomandibular joint


Annual changes in radiographic indices of the spine in cerebral palsy patients.

We estimated the annual changes in radiographic indices of the spine in cerebral palsy (CP) patients and analyzed the factors that influence its progression rate. We included CP patients who had undergone whole-spine radiography more than twice and were followed for at least 1 year. The scoliosis Cobb angle, coronal balance, apical vertebral translation, apical rotation, and pelvic obliquity were measured on anteroposterior (AP) radiographs; thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles, and sagittal balance was measured on lateral radiographs; and migration percentage was measured on AP hip radiographs to determine hip instability. For each gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) level, the Cobb angles, apical vertebral translation, coronal and sagittal balance, and pelvic obliquity were adjusted by multiple factors with a linear mixed model. A total of 184 patients (774 radiographs) were included in this study. There was no significant annual change in scoliosis Cobb, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis angles in the GMFCS level I-II and III groups. In the GMFCS level IV-V group, there was an annual increase of 3.4° in the scoliosis Cobb angle (p = 0.020). The thoracic kyphosis angle increased by 2.2° (p = 0.018) annually in the GMFCS level IV-V group. Apical vertebral translation increased by 5.4 mm (p = 0.029) annually in the GMFCS level IV-V group. Progression of coronal and sagittal balance and pelvic obliquity with aging were not statistically significant. Sex, hip instability, hip surgery, and triradiate cartilage did not affect the progression of scoliosis and the balance of the spine and pelvis. The scoliosis Cobb angle, thoracic kyphosis angle, and apical vertebral translation in the GMFCS level IV-V CP patients progressed with age. These findings can predict radiographic progression of scoliosis in CP patients.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kyphosis
  • Linear Models
  • Lordosis
  • Male
  • Pelvic Bones
  • Radiography
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Rotation
  • Scoliosis
  • Spine
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Gross motor function classification system
  • Scoliosis
  • Scoliosis Cobb angle
  • Thoracic kyphosis


The choroid plexus and the paradox of interferons in the aging brain.

The choroid plexus (CP) function is largely viewed as the source of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and as a barrier between the blood and the CSF. Other functions of the CP are becoming increasingly recognized as in the recent publication by Baruch et. al. who demonstrate increased expression of interferon type I mRNA signature (irf7, ifnß and ifit1) in CP of aged brains compared to younger brains, whereas interferon type II dependent genes (icam1, cxcl10, and ccl17) are reduced in the aging CP. The authors speculate an IFN-dependent mechanism that plays a role in the aging process and cognitive decline. This short communication summarizes the findings by the authors and highlights the seemingly paradoxical roles of IFN type I and type II in neuroinflammation.

MeSH Terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Brain
  • Carrier Proteins
  • Chemokine CCL17
  • Chemokine CXCL10
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1
  • Interferon Regulatory Factor-7
  • Interferon-beta
  • Interferons
  • Mice
  • Neurogenesis
  • Neurons
  • RNA-Binding Proteins

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Choroid plexus
  • Interferon
  • Neurogenesis
  • Neuroinflammation


Carotid plaque as a predictor of dementia in older adults: the Three-City Study.

The contribution of carotid atherosclerosis to incident dementia remains unclear. We examined the association between carotid plaques (CP) and common carotid intima media thickness (CCA-IMT) with incident dementia and its subtypes, and their added value for dementia risk prediction. At baseline, 6025 dementia-free subjects aged 65-86 years underwent bilateral carotid ultrasonography measures of CP and plaque-free CCA-IMT. Subjects were followed-up over 7 years for the detection of dementia. After a mean 5.4 years of follow-up, 421 subjects developed dementia including 272 Alzheimer's disease and 83 vascular/mixed dementia (VaD). Only CP were independently related to VaD (HR(≥2 sites with plaques) = 1.92; 95% confidence interval or CI = 1.13-3.22) and improved VaD risk prediction (continuous Net Reclassification Index = 30.1%; 95% CI = 8.4-51.7) beyond known dementia risk factors. Accounting for stroke or competing risk by death marginally modified the results. In older adults, CP are independent predictors of incident VaD and may improve VaD risk prediction.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carotid Arteries
  • Carotid Artery Diseases
  • Carotid Intima-Media Thickness
  • Dementia
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Male
  • Plaque, Atherosclerotic
  • Prognosis
  • Prospective Studies
  • Risk
  • Risk Factors
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Keywords

  • Aging
  • Atherosclerosis
  • Dementia
  • Epidemiology
  • Risk factors


Expression of hepcidin at the choroid plexus in normal aging rats is associated with IL-6/Stat3 signaling pathway.

Accumulating evidence has revealed that brain iron concentrations increase with aging, and the choroid plexus (CP) may be at the basis of iron-mediated toxicity and the increase in inflammation and oxidative stress that occurs with aging. The mechanism involves not only hepcidin, the key hormone in iron metabolism, but also iron-related proteins and signaling-transduction molecules, such as IL-6 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3). The aim of the present study was to investigate the correlation between the IL-6/Stat3 signaling pathway and hepcidin at the CP in normal aging. Quantitative real time PCR and Western blot were used to determine the alterations in specific mRNA and corresponding protein changes at the CP at ages of 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33 and 36 months in Brown-Norway/Fischer (B-N/F) rats. The results demonstrated that hepcidin mRNA level at the CP kept stable in young rats (from 3 to 18 months), and increased with aging (from 21 to 36 months). The alterations of IL-6/p-Stat3 mRNA and protein expressions in normal aging were in accordance with that of hepcidin mRNA. Our data suggest that IL-6 may regulate hepcidin expression at the CP, upon interaction with the cognate cellular receptor, and through the Stat3 signaling transduction pathway.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Hepcidins
  • Interleukin-6
  • Iron
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Rats
  • Rats, Inbred F344
  • STAT3 Transcription Factor
  • Signal Transduction


Standardized ileal digestibility of proteins and amino acids in sesame expeller and soya bean meal in weaning piglets.

Apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of diets containing sesame expeller (SE) and soya bean meal (SBM) was determined using 15 piglets (Genetiporc(®)), weaned at 17 ± 0.4 days with average body weight of 6.4 ± 0.7 kg (Fertilis 20 × G Performance, Genetiporc(®), PIC México, Querétaro, México). Piglets were randomly assigned to three treatments: (i) a reference diet with casein as the sole protein source; (ii) a mixed diet of casein-SE; and (iii) a mixed diet of casein-SBM. The chemical composition of SE and SBM was determined, and AID and standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AAs) were determined for each protein source. SE contained greater quantities of ether extract, neutral detergent fibre, phytic acid, methionine and arginine than SBM. Lysine and proline contents and trypsin inhibitor activity were higher in SBM than in SE. The AID and SID of CP and AA (except for lysine and proline) were similar in SE and SBM. The AID of lysine and proline was higher in SBM than in SE (p < 0.05), and the SID of proline was higher in SE than in SBM (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that SE is an appropriate alternative protein source for early weaned pigs.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Amino Acids
  • Animal Feed
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Animals
  • Diet
  • Dietary Proteins
  • Digestion
  • Ileum
  • Sesamum
  • Soybeans
  • Swine

Keywords

  • casein
  • oilseed meal
  • piglets
  • standardized ileal digestibility
  • weaning


Effects of protein and fat concentration in coproduct-based growing calf diets on performance and carcass composition.

Angus×Simmental crossbred heifers (n=150) and steers (n=100) were used to evaluate 1 of 5 growing diets: 1) a corn-based growing diet (CRN); 2) a high-fat, high-protein coproduct blend; 3) a high-fat, low-protein coproduct blend; 4) a low-fat, high-protein coproduct blend; and 5) a low-fat, low-protein coproduct blend in a 2×2 1 factorial arrangement. Low-protein and low-fat diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isofat to CRN (16.0% CP and 3.0% fat), and high-protein and high-fat diets were formulated to have 20.0% CP and 5.0% fat, respectively. Calves were weaned at 85±1.2 d, blocked by weight, and allotted to pens (10 calves/pen) within sex (10 pens of steers and 15 pens of heifers). The objective of this experiment was to determine if the concentration of protein or fat or their interaction in coproducts used in growing diets fed to early-weaned calves affects feedlot performance or carcass composition. Starting on d 0, calves (141±1.2 d of age) were fed experimental diets for 112 d and then fed a common feedlot diet for an additional 112 d. Body weight, hip height, and ultrasound data were collected at the end of each 112-d feeding phase. Carcass data included HCW, LM area (LMA), 12th-rib back fat (BF), marbling score (MS), KPH, and USDA quality grade. There was no fat×protein interaction (P≥0.27); therefore, only main effects are discussed. No effects (P≥0.47) of CRN, protein, or fat were detected for BW at d 112 or 224. Increased dietary protein resulted in greater (P=0.04) ADG at d 112 compared to calves fed low protein. Feeding cattle CRN decreased (P=0.04) DMI and increased (P<0.01) G:F during the growing phase compared to coproducts. High-fat diets increased (P=0.05) BF in calves at d 112 compared to low-fat diets. High-protein diets decreased (P=0.02) ultrasound MS at d 112 compared to low-protein diets. Carcasses from cattle fed high-fat diets had greater (P=0.03) MS compared to those from cattle fed low-fat diets. No differences (P≥0.14) were observed for HCW, LMA, BF, KPH, or yield grade. These data indicate that final BW was unaffected by protein and fat content of growing calf diets but that increased dietary fat and low dietary protein increased MS.

MeSH Terms

  • Adipose Tissue
  • Aging
  • Animal Feed
  • Animals
  • Body Composition
  • Body Weight
  • Cattle
  • Diet
  • Diet, Fat-Restricted
  • Diet, Protein-Restricted
  • Dietary Fats
  • Dietary Proteins
  • Female
  • Male
  • Random Allocation
  • Ultrasonography
  • Weaning
  • Zea mays

Keywords

  • beef calves
  • coproduct
  • early weaning
  • marbling


The validation of a care partner-derived frailty index based upon comprehensive geriatric assessment (CP-FI-CGA) in emergency medical services and geriatric ambulatory care.

The derivation of a frailty index (FI) based on deficit accumulation from a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) has been criticised as cumbersome. To improve feasibility, we developed a questionnaire based on a CGA that can be completed by care partners (CP-FI-CGA) and assessed its validity. We enrolled a convenience sample of patients aged 70 or older (n=203) presenting to emergency medical services (EMS) or geriatric ambulatory care (GAC). To test construct validity, we evaluated the shape of the CP-FI-CGA distribution, including its maximum value, relationship with age and gender. Criterion validity was evaluated by survival analysis and by the correlation between the CP-FI-CGA and specialist-completed FI-CGA. The mean age was 82.2±5.9 years. Most patients were women (62.1%), unmarried (widowed, divorced and single) (59.6%) and lived in their own home or apartment (78.3%). The mean CP-FI-CGA was 0.41±0.15 and was higher in the EMS group (0.45±0.15) than in GAC (0.37±0.14) (P<0.001). The CP-FI-CGA correlated well with the specialist-completed FI-CGA (0.7; P<0.05). People who died had a higher CP-FI-CGA than did survivors (0.48±0.13 versus 0.38±0.15). Each 0.01 increase in the FI was associated with a higher risk of death (HR 1.04; 95% CI 1.02-1.06). The CP-FI-CGA has properties that resemble other published FIs and may be useful in busy clinical practice for grading degrees of frailty. It efficiently integrates information from care partners so that it can help guide decision-making.

MeSH Terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Ambulatory Care
  • Caregivers
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Female
  • Frail Elderly
  • Geriatric Assessment
  • Humans
  • Kaplan-Meier Estimate
  • Male
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Proportional Hazards Models
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Keywords

  • comprehensive geriatric assessment
  • emergency medicine
  • frail elderly
  • older people
  • paramedics


Collagen peptide and vitamin C additively attenuate age-related skin atrophy in Sod1-deficient mice.

Age-related skin thinning is correlated with a decrease in the content of collagen in the skin. Accumulating evidence suggests that collagen peptide (CP) and vitamin C (VC) transcriptionally upregulate type I collagen in vivo. However, the additive effects of CP and VC on age-related skin changes remain unclear. We herein demonstrate that CP and a VC derivative additively corrected age-related skin thinning via reduced oxidative damage in superoxide dismutase 1 (Sod1)-deficient mice. Co-treatment with these compounds significantly normalized the altered gene expression of Col1a1, Has2, and Ci1, a proton-coupled oligopeptide transporter, in Sod1(-/-) skin. The in vitro analyses further revealed that collagen oligopeptide, a digestive product of ingested CP, significantly promoted the bioactivity of the VC derivative with respect to the migration and proliferation of Sod1(-/-) fibroblasts. These findings suggest that combined treatment with CP and VC is effective in cases of age-related skin pathology.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Ascorbic Acid
  • Atrophy
  • Collagen
  • Drug Synergism
  • Fibroblasts
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Peptide Fragments
  • Phenotype
  • Skin
  • Superoxide Dismutase
  • Superoxide Dismutase-1
  • Transcriptome

Keywords

  • collagen peptide
  • proton-coupled oligopeptide transporter
  • skin atrophy
  • superoxide dismutase
  • vitamin C


Iron accumulation confers neurotoxicity to a vulnerable population of nigral neurons: implications for Parkinson's disease.

The substantia nigra (SN) midbrain nucleus is constitutively iron rich. Iron levels elevate further with age, and pathologically in Parkinson's disease (PD). Iron accumulation in PD SN involves dysfunction of ceruloplasmin (CP), which normally promotes iron export. We previously showed that ceruloplasmin knockout (CP KO) mice exhibit Parkinsonian neurodegeneration (~30% nigral loss) by 6 months, which is prevented by iron chelation. Here, we explored whether known iron-stressors of the SN (1) aging and (2) MPTP, would exaggerate the lesion severity of CP KO mice. We show that while 5 month old CP KO mice exhibited nigral iron elevation and loss of SN neurons, surprisingly, aging CP KO mice to 14 months did not exacerbate iron elevation or SN neuronal loss. Unlike young mice, iron chelation therapy in CP KO mice between 9-14 months did not rescue neuronal loss. MPTP exaggerated iron elevation in young CP KO mice but did not increase cell death when compared to WTs. We conclude that there may exist a proportion of substantia nigra neurons that depend on CP for protection against iron neurotoxicity and could be protected by iron-based therapeutics. Death of the remaining neurons in Parkinson's disease is likely caused by parallel disease mechanisms, which may call for additional therapeutic options.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Brain Chemistry
  • Ceruloplasmin
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Iron
  • Iron Metabolism Disorders
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases
  • Neurons
  • Parkinsonian Disorders
  • Substantia Nigra


Ageing does not affect flexion relaxation of erector spinae.

Erector spinae (ES) activity during trunk flexion in 22 young (20-25 years) and 16 older (60-92 years) normal females was examined with surface EMG. The trunk movements and simultaneous EMG oscillograph of ES were recorded with two synchronised video cameras. The ES relaxed at the critical position (CP) which was 67 and 82 per cent of full trunk flexion for young and older subjects respectively. The vertebral movements to the CP were not different between groups, but the older subjects demonstrated more hip movement to the CP and less full trunk flexion range. The implications of these age related changes in trunk kinematics are yet to be developed with further clinical studies.


Keywords

  • Aging
  • Electromyography
  • Muscle Contraction
  • Spine


Amyloid-beta transporter expression at the choroid plexus in normal aging: the possibility of reduced resistance to oxidative stress insults.

Accumulation of amyloid-beta peptides (Aβ) results in amyloid burden in normal aging brain. Clearance of this peptide from the brain occurs via active transport at the interfaces separating the central nervous system (CNS) from the peripheral circulation. The present study was to investigate the change of Aβ transporters expression at the choroid plexus (CP) in normal aging. Morphological modifications of CP were observed by transmission electron microscope. Real-time RT-PCR was used to measure mRNA expressions of Aβ(42) and its transporters, which include low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 and 2 (LRP-1 and -2), P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE), at the CP epithelium in rats at ages of 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33 and 36 months. At the same time, the mRNA expressions of oxidative stress-related proteins were also measured. The results showed that a striking deterioration of the CP epithelial cells and increased Aβ(42) mRNA expression were observed in aged rats, and there was a decrease in the transcription of the Aβ efflux transporters, LRP-1 and P-gp, no change in RAGE mRNA expression and an increase in LRP-2, the CP epithelium Aβ influx transporter. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and caspase-3 expressions at the CP epithelium increased with age at the mRNA level. These results suggest the efficacy of the CP in clearing of Aβ deceases in normal aging, which results in the increase of brain Aβ accumulation. And excess Aβ interferes with oxidative phosphorylation, leads to oxidative stress and morphological structural changes. This in turn induces further pathological cascades of toxicity, inflammation and neurodegeneration process.

MeSH Terms

  • ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B
  • Aging
  • Amyloid beta-Peptides
  • Animals
  • Caspase 3
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Heme Oxygenase (Decyclizing)
  • LDL-Receptor Related Proteins
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Peptide Fragments
  • Rats
  • Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products
  • Receptors, Immunologic


Randomized phase II trial comparing carboplatin plus weekly paclitaxel and docetaxel alone in elderly patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: north japan lung cancer group trial 0801.

Standard first-line chemotherapy for elderly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients has been monotherapy with vinorelbine or gemcitabine. Docetaxel has also been considered as an alternative option for the elderly population in Japan. We have previously demonstrated the high efficacy of carboplatin plus weekly paclitaxel for elderly NSCLC patients. Consequently, we conducted a randomized phase II study to select the proper regimen for a future phase III trial. Eligible patients were aged 70 years or older with newly diagnosed advanced NSCLC. Patients were randomly assigned either to a combination of carboplatin (area under the curve: 6 mg/mL per minute) with weekly paclitaxel (70 mg/m²) (CP regimen) or to single-agent docetaxel (60 mg/m²). The primary endpoint of this study was objective response rate. Secondary endpoints were progression-free survival, overall survival, and toxicity profile. Among 83 eligible patients (41 to CP, 42 to docetaxel), the objective response rates were 54% (95% confidence interval: 39%-69%) and 24% (95% confidence interval: 11%-37%) and median progression-free survival was 6.6 months and 3.5 months in the CP arm and the docetaxel arm, respectively. Severe neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, and nausea were significantly frequent in the docetaxel arm, whereas toxicities in the CP arm were generally moderate. One treatment-related death was observed in the docetaxel arm. The CP regimen achieved higher activity with less toxicity than single-agent docetaxel. Considering the results of this phase II trial and the IFCT-0501 trial, we have selected the CP regimen for a future phase III trial in elderly patients with advanced NSCLC.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols
  • Carboplatin
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung
  • Disease-Free Survival
  • Docetaxel
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Humans
  • Japan
  • Lung Neoplasms
  • Paclitaxel
  • Taxoids
  • Treatment Outcome


High-velocity resistance exercise protocols in older women: effects on cardiovascular response.

Acute cardiovascular responses to different high-velocity resistance exercise protocols were compared in untrained older women. Twelve apparently healthy volunteers (62.6 ± 2.9 y) performed three different protocols in the bench press (BP). All protocols involved three sets of 10 repetitions performed with a 10RM load and 2 minutes of rest between sets. The continuous protocol (CP) involved ten repetitions with no pause between repetitions. The discontinuous protocols were performed with a pause of five (DP5) or 15 (DP15) seconds between the fifth and sixth repetitions. Heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), rate pressure product (RPP), Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), and blood lactate (BLa) were assessed at baseline and at the end of all exercise sets. Factorial ANOVA was used to compare the cardiovascular response among different protocols. Compared to baseline, HR and RPP were significantly (p < 0.05) higher after the third set in all protocols. HR and RPP were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in DP5 and DP15 compared with CP for the BP exercise. Compared to baseline, RPE increased significantly (p < 0.05) with each subsequent set in all protocols. Blood lactate concentration during DP5 and DP15 was significantly lower than CP. It appears that discontinuous high-velocity resistance exercise has a lower cardiovascular demand than continuous resistance exercise in older women. Key pointsThe assessment of cardiovascular responses to high-velocity resistance exercise in older individuals is very important for exercise prescription and rehabilitation in elderly population.Discontinuous protocol decrease myocardial oxygen consumption (HR x SBP) during the performance of dynamic high-velocity resistance exercise in older women.The decrease in RPP (~ 8.5%) during the discontinuous protocol has clinical implications when developing high-velocity resistance exercise strategies for elderly individuals.


Keywords

  • Aging
  • blood pressure
  • heart rate
  • perceived exertion
  • weight training


Measurement of choroid plexus perfusion using dynamic susceptibility MR imaging: capillary permeability and age-related changes.

The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) plays a major role in the physiology of the central nervous system. The continuous turnover of CSF is mainly attributed to the highly vascularized choroid plexus (CP) located in the cerebral ventricles which represent a complex interface between blood and CSF. We propose a method for evaluating CP functionality in vivo using perfusion MR imaging and establish the age-related changes of associated parameters. Fifteen patients with small intracranial tumors were retrospectively studied. MR Imaging was performed on a 3T MR Scanner. Gradient-echo echo planar images were acquired after bolus injection of gadolinium-based contrast agent (CA). The software developed used the combined T1- and T2-effects. The decomposition of the relaxivity signals enables the calculation of the CP capillary permeability (K2). The relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV), mean transit time (MTT), and signal slope decrease (SSD) were also calculated. The mean permeability K2 of the extracted CP was 0.033 /-0.18 s(-1). K2 and SSD significantly decreased with subject's age whereas MTT significantly increased with subject's age. No significant correlation was found for age-related changes in rCBV and rCBF. The decrease in CP permeability is in line with the age-related changes in CSF secretion observed in animals. The MTT increase indicates significant structural changes corroborated by microscopy studies in animals or humans. Overall, DSC MR-perfusion enables an in vivo evaluation of the hemodynamic state of CP. Clinical applications such as neurodegenerative diseases could be considered thanks to specific functional studies of CP.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Blood Flow Velocity
  • Capillary Permeability
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Young Adult


Health, functioning, and participation of adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy: a review of outcomes research.

With medical advances, more individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) syndromes who reside in developed countries are surviving to adolescence and adulthood. However, there continues to be a paucity of research examining long-term health, functional activities, and participatory outcomes over their life-course. This article reviews the current literature assessing adult outcomes for individuals with CP within the framework of the International Classification of Functioning (ICF), Disability, and Health model of enablement. Preliminary data over the last decade indicate that among adults with cerebral palsy without intellectual disability, 60-80% completed high school, 14-25% completed college, up to 61% were living independently in the community, 25-55% were competitively employed, and 14-28% were involved in long term relationships with partners or had established families. These outcomes occurred with biomedical advances in the management of spasticity, deformity, and medical co-morbidities, as well as with concurrent policy initiatives to increase access to a continuum of habilitative and education services. Although we have incomplete population data to inform comprehensive life-course planning, there are opportunities to create clinical and translational community networks with improved measures of functioning and participation that can better inform us about the factors influencing lifespan development of people with CP.

MeSH Terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Comorbidity
  • Educational Status
  • Humans
  • Independent Living
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Transition to Adult Care

Keywords

  • cerebral palsy
  • lifecourse health development development
  • motor functioning
  • participation


Gains and losses in creative personality as perceived by adults across the life span.

In this study, we used a life span model to study the subjective perception of creative personality (CP) in emerging, young, middle-aged, and older Hong Kong Chinese adults. We also asked participants to estimate the approximate age by which people develop and lose CP across adulthood. We expected an interesting interplay between internalized age stereotypes and age-related differentiation in beliefs about personality development. Older adults perceived increases in both gains and losses in CP in old age. But they still maintained a similar level of self-perceived CP traits when compared with young participants. Emerging, young, and middle-aged adults were less optimistic about their creativity development into old age. Young adults, in contrast to older adults, believed that gains in CP began and ceased at an earlier age. Positive perceptions of CP in one's aging process may have implications for aging successfully.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Asian Continental Ancestry Group
  • Creativity
  • Female
  • Hong Kong
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Personality Assessment
  • Personality Development
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult


Postural stability in vestibular neuritis: age, disease duration, and residual vestibular function.

To assess the influence of factors that can affect postural instability in vestibular neuritis (VN). Retrospective data collection study. Foam posturography was performed in 58 VN patients. We examined six variables: the velocity of movement of the center of pressure and the envelopment area in eyes closed/foam rubber condition, Romberg's ratios of velocity and area with foam rubber, and the foam ratios of velocity and area with eyes closed. Multiple regression analyses were performed to explore the relationship between these variables and the following independent variables: gender, age, canal paresis (CP) percentage, and disease duration. All six variables were positively associated with age, CP percentage, and a disease duration of 10 days or less (P < .05) except for Romberg's ratio of velocity with foam rubber, which was positively associated with CP percentage and a disease duration of 10 days or less (P < .05), but not with age (P > .05). VN patients show poor postural performance, which is affected by age, residual vestibular function, and disease duration. Once a VN patient passes the acute phase of the vertigo attack, it is likely that age and residual vestibular function make a greater contribution to postural control. 3b.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Caloric Tests
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postural Balance
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Time Factors
  • Vestibular Function Tests
  • Vestibular Neuronitis
  • Vestibule, Labyrinth

Keywords

  • Aging
  • caloric tests
  • postural balance
  • vestibular neuritis


CNS-specific T cells shape brain function via the choroid plexus.

Adaptive immunity was repeatedly shown to play a role in maintaining lifelong brain function. Under physiological conditions, this activity was associated with CD4 T cells specific for brain self-antigens. Nevertheless, direct interactions of T cells with the healthy neuronal parenchyma are hardly detectable. Recent studies have identified the brain's choroid plexus (CP) as an active neuro-immunological interface, enriched with CNS-specific CD4 T cells. Strategically positioned for receiving signals from both the central nervous system (CNS) through the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and from the circulation through epithelium-immune cell interactions, the CP has recently been recognized as an important immunological compartment in maintaining and restoring brain homeostasis/allostasis. Here, we propose that CNS-specific T cells shape brain function via the CP, and suggest this immunological control to be lost as part of aging, in general, and immune senescence, in particular. Accordingly, the CP may serve as a novel target for immunomodulation to restore brain equilibrium.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Brain
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Humans
  • Mice

Keywords

  • Blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier
  • CNS-specific T cells
  • Choroid plexus
  • Cognitive function
  • Immunomodulation


Gait function and decline in adults with cerebral palsy: a systematic review.

The aim of this systematic review was to identify, appraise and synthesize the evidence describing gait decline in adults with cerebral palsy (CP). Comprehensive searches were conducted in MEDLINE (1970-), EMBASE (1980-), CINAHL (1982-) and AMED (1985-) databases to June 2012. Two reviewers independently completed data extraction and analysis using a modified version of the Downs and Black quality tool. From the 485 papers identified, 16 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies used samples of convenience. The reported mean ages of the study groups varied from 22 to 42.6 years. Decline in gait function was measured variably with the period of decline undefined or from an unknown reference time during childhood. Results suggest that mobility decline occurs in 25% or more of adults with CP. Those at higher risk of gait decline are those with worse initial gait ability, bilateral rather than unilateral motor impairment, older age and higher levels of pain or fatigue. Many ambulant adults with CP experience mobility decline earlier than their nondisabled peers. More information regarding the natural history of mobility change over the lifespan in adults with CP augmented with self-efficacy qualitative data is needed to direct health advice and appropriate interventions for this group. The literature suggests 25% or more of ambulant adults with cerebral palsy experience gait decline. Higher risk of gait decline occurs in those who are older, less independent in gait, have bilateral motor impairment and higher levels of pain or fatigue. Use of standardized gait measurement tools augmented with self-efficacy measures will aid provision of health advice and interventions.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Gait
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Walking


CNS-specific immunity at the choroid plexus shifts toward destructive Th2 inflammation in brain aging.

The adaptive arm of the immune system has been suggested as an important factor in brain function. However, given the fact that interactions of neurons or glial cells with T lymphocytes rarely occur within the healthy CNS parenchyma, the underlying mechanism is still a mystery. Here we found that at the interface between the brain and blood circulation, the epithelial layers of the choroid plexus (CP) are constitutively populated with CD4( ) effector memory cells with a T-cell receptor repertoire specific to CNS antigens. With age, whereas CNS specificity in this compartment was largely maintained, the cytokine balance shifted in favor of the T helper type 2 (Th2) response; the Th2-derived cytokine IL-4 was elevated in the CP of old mice, relative to IFN-γ, which decreased. We found this local cytokine shift to critically affect the CP epithelium, triggering it to produce the chemokine CCL11 shown to be associated with cognitive dysfunction. Partial restoration of cognitive ability in aged mice, by lymphopenia-induced homeostasis-driven proliferation of memory T cells, was correlated with restoration of the IL-4:IFN-γ ratio at the CP and modulated the expression of plasticity-related genes at the hippocampus. Our data indicate that the cytokine milieu at the CP epithelium is affected by peripheral immunosenescence, with detrimental consequences to the aged brain. Amenable to immunomodulation, this interface is a unique target for arresting age-related cognitive decline.

MeSH Terms

  • Adaptive Immunity
  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Blood-Brain Barrier
  • Brain
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Choroid Plexus
  • Epithelium
  • Hippocampus
  • Immunologic Memory
  • Lymphopenia
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Neuroimmunomodulation
  • Receptors, Interferon
  • Th2 Cells


Metabolizable protein supply while grazing dormant winter forage during heifer development alters pregnancy and subsequent in-herd retention rate.

Two studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of postweaning management of British crossbred heifers on growth and reproduction. In Exp. 1, 239 spring-born, crossbred heifers were stratified by weaning BW (234 ± 1 kg) and allotted randomly to 1 of 2 treatments. Treatments were fed at a rate equivalent to 1.14 kg/d while grazing dormant forage (6.5% CP and 80% NDF, DM basis) and were 1) 36% CP containing 36% RUP (36RUP) or 2) 36% CP containing 50% RUP (50RUP). Supplementation was initiated in February (1995 and 1996) or November (1997 and 1998) and terminated at the onset of breeding season (mid May). Heifers were weighed monthly up to breeding and again at time of palpation. After timed AI, heifers were exposed to breeding bulls for 42 ± 8 d. In Exp. 2, 191 spring-born, crossbred heifers were stratified by weaning BW to treatments. Heifer development treatments were 1) pasture developed and fed 0.9 kg/day of a 36% CP supplement containing 36% RUP (36RUP), 2) pasture developed and fed 0.9 kg/day of a 36% CP supplement containing 50% RUP (50RUP), and 3) corn silage-based growing diet in a drylot (DRYLOT). Heifers receiving 36RUP and 50RUP treatments were developed on dormant forage. Treatments started in February and ended at the onset of a 45-d breeding season in May. Heifer BW and hip height were taken monthly from initiation of supplementation until breeding and at pregnancy diagnosis. In Exp. 1, BW was not different (P ≥ 0.27) for among treatments at all measurement times. However, 50RUP heifers had greater (P = 0.02; 80 and 67%) pregnancy rates than 36RUP heifers. In Exp. 2, DRYLOT heifers had greater (P < 0.01) BW at breeding than 36RUP or 50RUP developed heifers. However, BW at pregnancy diagnosis was not different (P = 0.24) for between treatments. Pregnancy rates tended to be greater (P = 0.10) for 50RUP heifers than 36RUP and DRYLOT. Net return per heifer was US$99.71 and $87.18 greater for 50RUP and 36RUP heifers, respectively, compared with DRYLOT heifers due to differences in pregnancy and development costs. Retention rate after breeding yr 3 and 4 was greatest (P ≤ 0.01) for 50RUP heifers. Thus, increasing the supply of MP by increasing the proportion of RUP in supplements fed to heifers on dormant forage before breeding increased pregnancy rates, cow herd retention, and net return compared with heifers fed in drylot.

MeSH Terms

  • Animal Feed
  • Animal Husbandry
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
  • Animals
  • Body Weight
  • Cattle
  • Diet
  • Dietary Proteins
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Female
  • Longevity
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Rate
  • Reproduction
  • Seasons