Circadian rhythm in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus): daily variation of blood metabolites in recirculating aquaculture systems.

INTRODUCTION: Animal welfare in aquaculture is becoming increasingly important, and detailed knowledge of the species concerned is essential for further optimization on farms. Every organism is controlled by an internal clock, the circadian rhythm, which is crucial for metabolic processes and is partially influenced by abiotic factors, making it important for aquaculture practices. OBJECTIVE: In order to determine the circadian rhythm of adult turbot (Scophthalmus maximus), blood samples were collected over a 24-h period and plasma metabolite profiles were analyzed by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. METHODS: The fish were habituated to feeding times at 9 am and 3 pm and with the NMR spectroscopy 46 metabolites could be identified, eight of which appeared to shift throughout the day. RESULTS: We noted exceptionally high values around 3 pm for the amino acids isoleucine, leucine, valine, phenylalanine, lysine, and the stress indicator lactate. These metabolic peaks were interpreted as either habituation to the usual feeding time or as natural peak levels in turbot in a 24-h circle because other indicators for stress (glucose, cortisol and lysozymes) showed a stable baseline, indicating that the animals had no or very little stress during the experimental period. CONCLUSION: This study provides initial insights into the diurnal variation of metabolites in adult turbot; however, further studies are needed to confirm present findings of possible fluctuations in amino acids and sugars. Implementing optimized feeding times (with high levels of sugars and low levels of stress metabolites) could lead to less stress, fewer disease outbreaks and overall improved fish welfare in aquaculture facilities.

Sterile water moisturizer of the skin of extremely low birth weight infants.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility of sterile water application to the skin of the extremely low birth weight (ELBW) newborns in the first week of life and examine its effects on their skin integrity and outcomes. DESIGN: Pilot randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Open-bay, 18 bed Level III NICU in the Eastern United States. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-eight ELBW neonates. Two newborns expired, sixteen newborns remained in the intervention group and twelve newborns in the control group. METHODS: ELBW neonates were either assigned to receive frequent sterile water wash to skin or not during care for the first week of life. Using the Neonatal Skin Condition Scale (NSCS), assessments were performed twice a day during the first week. Fluid intake, serum electrolytes, culture proven sepsis and other morbidities, and length of stay (LOS) were compared while controlling for confounding variables using multiple regression analysis. RESULTS: There was no difference in the demographic or clinical characteristics between both groups. Sterile water wash application to skin was not associated with differences in skin health indices or fluid intake. However, it was associated with higher median sodium level and with early regression of bilirubin level when compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Frequent skin washes with sterile water are feasible and safe. However, they may not be associated with improved skin integrity or fluid intake.

Metacognition, social cognition, and mentalizing in psychosis: are these distinct constructs when it comes to subjective experience or are we just splitting hairs?

Research using the integrated model of metacognition has suggested that the construct of metacognition could quantify the spectrum of activities that, if impaired, might cause many of the subjective disturbances found in psychosis. Research on social cognition and mentalizing in psychosis, however, has also pointed to underlying deficits in how persons make sense of their experience of themselves and others. To explore the question of whether metacognitive research in psychosis offers unique insight in the midst of these other two emerging fields, we have offered a review of the constructs and research from each field. Following that summary, we discuss ways in which research on metacognition may be distinguished from research on social cognition and mentalizing in three broad categories: (1) experimental procedures, (2) theoretical advances, and (3) clinical applications or indicated interventions. In terms of its research methods, we will describe how metacognition makes a unique contribution to understanding disturbances in how persons make sense of and interpret their own experiences within the flow of life. We will next discuss how metacognitive research in psychosis uniquely describes an architecture which when compromised - as often occurs in psychosis - results in the loss of persons' sense of purpose, possibilities, place in the world and cohesiveness of self. Turning to clinical issues, we explore how metacognitive research offers an operational model of the architecture which if repaired or restored should promote the recovery of a coherent sense of self and others in psychosis. Finally, we discuss the concrete implications of this for recovery-oriented treatment for psychosis as well as the need for further research on the commonalities of these approaches.

Strength of Association between Infarct Volume and Clinical Outcome Depends on the Magnitude of Infarct Size: Results from the ESCAPE-NA1 Trial.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Infarct volume is an important predictor of clinical outcome in acute stroke. We hypothesized that the association of infarct volume and clinical outcome changes with the magnitude of infarct size. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were derived from the Safety and Efficacy of Nerinetide in Subjects Undergoing Endovascular Thrombectomy for Stroke (ESCAPE-NA1) trial, in which patients with acute stroke with large-vessel occlusion were randomized to endovascular treatment plus either nerinetide or a placebo. Infarct volume was manually segmented on 24-hour noncontrast CT or DWI. The relationship between infarct volume and good outcome, defined as mRS 0-2 at 90 days, was plotted. Patients were categorized on the basis of visual grouping at the curve shoulders of the infarct volume/outcome plot. The relationship between infarct volume and adjusted probability of good outcome was fitted with linear or polynomial functions as appropriate in each group. RESULTS: We included 1099 individuals in the study. Median infarct volume at 24 hours was 24.9 mL (interquartile range [IQR] = 6.6-92.2 mL). On the basis of the infarct volume/outcome plot, 4 infarct volume groups were defined (IQR = 0-15 mL, 15.1-70 mL, 70.1-200 mL, >200 mL). Proportions of good outcome in the 4 groups were 359/431 (83.3%), 219/337 (65.0%), 71/201 (35.3%), and 16/130 (12.3%), respectively. In small infarcts (IQR = 0-15 mL), no relationship with outcome was appreciated. In patients with intermediate infarct volume (IQR = 15-200 mL), there was progressive importance of volume as an outcome predictor. In infarcts of > 200 mL, outcomes were overall poor. CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between infarct volume and clinical outcome varies nonlinearly with the magnitude of infarct size. Infarct volume was linearly associated with decreased chances of achieving good outcome in patients with moderate-to-large infarcts, but not in those with small infarcts. In very large infarcts, a near-deterministic association with poor outcome was seen.

Automated Measurement of Intracranial Volume Using Three-Dimensional Photography.

BACKGROUND: Current methods to analyze three-dimensional photography do not quantify intracranial volume, an important metric of development. This study presents the first noninvasive, radiation-free, accurate, and reproducible method to quantify intracranial volume from three-dimensional photography. METHODS: In this retrospective study, cranial bones and head skin were automatically segmented from computed tomographic images of 575 subjects without cranial abnormality (average age, 5 ± 5 years; range, 0 to 16 years). The intracranial volume and the head volume were measured at the cranial vault region, and their relation was modeled by polynomial regression, also accounting for age and sex. Then, the regression model was used to estimate the intracranial volume of 30 independent pediatric patients from their head volume measured using three-dimensional photography. Evaluation was performed by comparing the estimated intracranial volume with the true intracranial volume of these patients computed from paired computed tomographic images; two growth models were used to compensate for the time gap between computed tomographic and three-dimensional photography. RESULTS: The regression model estimated the intracranial volume of the normative population from the head volume calculated from computed tomographic images with an average error of 3.81 ± 3.15 percent (p = 0.93) and a correlation (R) of 0.96. The authors obtained an average error of 4.07 ± 3.01 percent (p = 0.57) in estimating the intracranial volume of the patients from three-dimensional photography using the regression model. CONCLUSION: Three-dimensional photography with image analysis provides measurement of intracranial volume with clinically acceptable accuracy, thus offering a noninvasive, precise, and reproducible method to evaluate normal and abnormal brain development in young children. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic, V.

Multimodal CT in Acute Stroke.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Multimodal CT imaging (non-contrast CT, NCCT; CT angiography, CTA; and CT Perfusion, CTP) is central to acute ischemic stroke diagnosis and treatment. We reviewed the purpose and interpretation of each component of multimodal CT, as well as the evidence for use in routine care. RECENT FINDINGS: Acute stroke thrombolysis can be administered immediately following NCCT in acute ischemic stroke patients assessed within 4.5 h of symptom onset. Definitive identification of a large vessel occlusion (LVO) requires vascular imaging, which is easily achieved with CTA. This is critical, as the standard of care for LVO within 6 h of onset is now endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). CTA source images can also be used to estimate the efficacy of collateral flow in LVO patients. The final component (CTP) permits a more accurate assessment of the extent of the ischemic penumbra. Complete multimodal CT, including objective penumbral measurement with CTP, has been used to extend the EVT window to 24 h. There is also randomized controlled trial evidence for extension of the IV thrombolysis window to 9 h with multimodal CT. Although there have been attempts to assess for responders to reperfusion strategies beyond 6 h ("late window") using collateral grades, the only evidence for treatment of this group of patients is based on selection using multimodal CT including CTP. The development of fully automated software providing quantitative ischemic penumbral and core volumes has facilitated the adoption of CTP and complete multimodal CT into routine clinical use. Multimodal CT is a powerful imaging algorithm that is central to current ischemic stroke patient care.

Impact of prenatal diagnosis of fetus-in-fetu.

Fetus in fetu (FIF) is an extremely rare condition (1/500,000 live births) in which a fetiform structure is incorporated into the body of its twin. FIF can be a diagnostic dilemma due to its similarity to a teratoma, but identification of FIF is important for subsequent medical and surgical management. We compare two cases of fetal masses diagnosed on prenatal imaging that were later identified as FIF through further radiological, surgical, and pathologic evaluation. We use these cases to illustrate key pre- and postnatal features of FIF and highlight the benefits of prenatal detection and follow-up for postnatal management.

Influence of immunostimulant polysaccharides, nucleic acids, and Bacillus strains on the innate immune and acute stress response in turbots (Scophthalmus maximus) fed soy bean- and wheat-based diets.

Immunostimulants are widely applied in aquaculture practice and may have beneficial effects on the immune system and physical functions allowing higher tolerance to stress. In the current study, the impact of four (i-iv) dietary active ingredients on the immune and stress response of turbot was examined in two experiments (I and II). A basal low fish meal (FM; 32%) diet was formulated and supplemented with (i) yeast ß-glucan and mannan oligosaccharide (GM), (ii) alginic acid (AC), (iii) yeast nucleotides and RNA (NR), or (iv) Bacillus strains (BS). The basal diet (C-LF) and a high FM (59%) control (C-HF) were maintained. All six diets were fed to juvenile turbots for 84 days in experiment I and for additional 28 days prior to experiment II. Immunological and hematological parameters were determined in experiment I. In experiment II, physical stress response to a typical short-term (<1 day) aquaculture handling procedure (combination of capture, netting/transfer, and crowding) was investigated. For this, turbot blood was sampled before and at 0.5, 1, 4, and 24 h post stress. Plasma lysozyme activity, neutrophil reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and total plasma protein levels did not significantly differ between treatment groups; however, plasma cholesterol increased significantly in fish fed GM, AC, NR, and C-HF compared to C-LF (I). A significant increase in plasma glucose and triglyceride was observed in GM and NR treatments, while glucose levels were significantly higher in C-HF compared to C-LF. Moreover, the immunostimulant-supplemented diets exhibited significantly lower cortisol levels compared to controls C-LF (at 0.5 h) and C-HF (at 1 h) post stress, respectively (II). According to our findings, FM substitution did not modulate the innate immune response but was associated with reduced levels of cholesterol. Dietary immunostimulants were not effective enough to boost the immune response, but we believe they might be helpful to trigger metabolic advantages during stressful handling events on fish farms.

Co-location of passive gear fisheries in offshore wind farms in the German EEZ of the North Sea: A first socio-economic scoping.

Worldwide the renewable energy sector is expanding at sea to address increasing demands. Recently the race for space in heavily used areas such as the North Sea triggered the proposal of co-locating other activities such as aquaculture or fisheries with passive gears in offshore wind farms (OWFs). Our interdisciplinary approach combined a quantification of spatial overlap of activities by using Vessel Monitoring System and logbook data with a stakeholder consultation to conclude and verify on the actual feasibility of co-location. In the German Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the North Sea up to 90% of Danish and 40% of German annual gillnet fleet landings of plaice overlapped with areas where OWFs are developed. Our results indicated further that the international gillnet fishery could lose up to 50% in landings within the North Sea German EEZ when OWF areas are closed entirely for fisheries. No spatial overlap was found for UK potters targeting brown crab in the German EEZ. We further identified a number of key issues and obstacles that to date hinder an actual implementation of co-location as a measure in the marine spatial planning process: defining the legal base; implementation of safety regulations; delineation of minimum requirements for fishing vessels such as capacities, quotas, technical equipment; implementation of a licensing process; and scoping for financial subsidies to set up business. The stakeholder consultation verified the scientific findings and highlighted that all those points need to be addressed in a planning process. In the German EEZ we have shown that the socio-economic importance of spatial overlap varies within planning boundaries. Therefore we recommend an interdisciplinary bottom-up approach when scoping for suitable areas of co-location. Hence, an informed marine spatial planning process requires comprehensive and spatial explicit socio-economic viability studies factoring in also ecological effects of OWFs on target species.

Oxidative stress and lung pathology following geogenic dust exposure.

This study was designed to evaluate markers of systemic oxidative stress and lung histopathology following subacute exposure to geogenic dust with varying heavy metal content collected from a natural setting prone to wind erosion and used heavily for off-road vehicle recreation. Adult female B6C3F1 mice were exposed to several concentrations of dust collected from seven different types of surfaces at the Nellis Dunes Recreation Area in Clark County, Nevada, designated here as CBN 1-7. Dust representing each of the seven surface types, with an average median diameter of 4.2 µm, was selected and administered via oropharyngeal aspiration to mice at concentrations from 0.01 to 100 mg of dust kg(-1) of body weight. Exposures were given four times spaced a week apart over a 28 day period to mimic a month of weekend exposures. Lung pathology was evaluated while plasma markers of oxidative stress included levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity and total glutathione. Overall, results of these assays to evaluate markers of oxidative stress indicate that no single CBN surface type was able to consistently induce markers of systemic oxidative stress at a particular dose or in a dose-response manner. All surface types were able to induce some level of lung inflammation, typically at the highest exposure levels. These data suggest that dust from the Nellis Dunes Recreation Area may present a potential health risk, but additional studies are necessary to characterize the full extent of health risks to humans. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effective treatment for sensitive skin: 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and licochalcone A.

BACKGROUND: More than 50% of adults report to suffer from sensitive skin. This common condition is characterized by subjective sensations such as prickling, burning, skin tightness or pruritus, and is often accompanied by objective symptoms like inflammation and erythema. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to develop an active ingredient concept for the treatment of sensitive skin. We tested compounds regarding their potential to (i) decrease the release of proinflammatory mediators, which among others induce erythema and (ii) counteract the hyperresponsiveness of nerve fibres and, thus, exert effects on cutaneous neurosensory dysfunction. METHODS: 4-t-butylcyclohexanol, licochalcone A and acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester were analysed in vitro regarding their potential to (i) decrease the release of PGE2 and activation of NFκB and to (ii) inhibit TRPV1 activation or the release of neuronal CGRP. To assess subjective and objective symptoms of skin sensitivity in vivo, two controlled, single-blind, randomized studies were conducted with 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and the combination with licochalcone A. RESULTS: In vitro, 4-t-butylcyclohexanol significantly reduced TRPV1 activation, while acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester had no effect on receptor activation. Licochalcone A significantly decreased NFκB signalling and PGE2 secretion, at lower concentrations than acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester. A formulation containing 4-t-butylcyclohexanol showed a significant immediate anti-stinging/anti-burning effect in vivo, and a cream base containing a combination of 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and a licochalcone A-rich licorice extract reduced shaving-induced erythema. CONCLUSION: In vitro and in vivo data indicate that the combination of the TRPV1 antagonist 4-t-butylcyclohexanol and the potent anti-inflammatory licochalcone A provide an effective active ingredient concept for the treatment of sensitive skin, as the topical application resulted in an immediate relief from symptoms such as erythema and stinging.

Comparison of skin calming effects of cosmetic products containing 4-t-butylcyclohexanol or acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester on capsaicin-induced facial stinging in volunteers with sensitive skin.

OBJECTIVE: To assess and compare the skin calming effect of cosmetic products containing 4-t-butylcyclohexanol (Eucerin(®) UltraSensitive Soothing Care Dry Skin) or acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester (La Roche-Posay Toleriane(®) Ultra Intense Soothing Care) on subjective symptoms of skin sensitivity, a controlled, single-blind, randomized split-face capsaicin-induced stinging test was conducted. METHODS: Thirty-one female test subjects, ranging from 19 to 65 years of age, with self-perceived sensitive to very sensitive skin were enrolled. After a 3-day preconditioning period with no application of facial products and positive reaction to stimulation with a 40 ppm capsaicin cream, the test products were randomly applied to either the right or left nasolabial fold. Burning severity was assessed immediately after capsaicin application, and 1, 2, 5, 10 and 15 min after application of the test products. RESULTS: All 31 subjects reported a stinging/burning sensation on both nasolabial folds after application of capsaicin. Treatment with the 4-t-butylcyclohexanol containing product resulted in significant lower values for burning/stinging after one, and two minutes post-application in comparison to the values for the acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester containing product. No significant difference was determined between the two test products for the point in time with most intense burning sensation, the severity of burning and the duration of burning after capsaicin application and subsequent application of the test products. CONCLUSION: Both products alleviated capsaicin-induced burning during the first 15 min after application. A faster and more pronounced soothing effect in vivo was demonstrated for the 4-t-butylcyclohexanol containing cosmetic product in comparison to the acetyl dipeptide-1 cetyl ester containing cosmetic formulation.

Cerebral Perfusion Pressure is Maintained in Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A CT Perfusion Study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Although blood pressure reduction has been postulated to result in a fall in cerebral perfusion pressure in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, the latter is rarely measured. We assessed regional cerebral perfusion pressure in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage by using CT perfusion source data. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with acute primary intracerebral hemorrhage were randomized to target systolic blood pressures of <150 mm Hg (n = 37) or <180 mm Hg (n = 36). Regional maps of cerebral blood flow, cerebral perfusion pressure, and cerebrovascular resistance were generated by using CT perfusion source data, obtained 2 hours after randomization. RESULTS: Perihematoma cerebral blood flow (38.7 ± 11.9 mL/100 g/min) was reduced relative to contralateral regions (44.1 ± 11.1 mL/100 g/min, P = .001), but cerebral perfusion pressure was not (14.4 ± 4.6 minutes(-1) versus 14.3 ± 4.8 minutes(-1), P = .93). Perihematoma cerebrovascular resistance (0.34 ± 0.11 g/mL) was higher than that in the contralateral region (0.30 ± 0.10 g/mL, P < .001). Ipsilateral and contralateral cerebral perfusion pressure in the external (15.0 ± 4.6 versus 15.6 ± 5.3 minutes(-1), P = .15) and internal (15.0 ± 4.8 versus 15.0 ± 4.8 minutes(-1), P = .90) borderzone regions were all similar. Borderzone cerebral perfusion pressure was similar to mean global cerebral perfusion pressure (14.7 ± 4.7 minutes(-1), P ≥ .29). Perihematoma cerebral perfusion pressure did not differ between blood pressure treatment groups (13.9 ± 5.5 minutes(-1) versus 14.8 ± 3.4 minutes(-1), P = .38) or vary with mean arterial pressure (r = -0.08, [-0.10, 0.05]). CONCLUSIONS: Perihematoma cerebral perfusion pressure is maintained despite increased cerebrovascular resistance and reduced cerebral blood flow. Aggressive antihypertensive therapy does not affect perihematoma or borderzone cerebral perfusion pressure. Maintenance of cerebral perfusion pressure provides physiologic support for the safety of blood pressure reduction in intracerebral hemorrhage.

[Congenital embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the head in a red and white German Holstein calf]. / Kongenitales embryonales Rhabdomyosarkom am Kopf eines rotbunten Deutsche-Holstein-Kalbes.

Tumours with skeletal-muscle differentiation are rare in companion animals. They are differentiated into benign rhabdomyomas and malignant rhabdomyosarcomas. A female German Holstein calf displayed a congenital, spherical, subcutaneous mass at the lateral side of the head. Histology revealed an encapsulated, expansile, highly cellular mass consisting of a reticular meshwork of moderately pleomorphic, small spindle-shaped to round cells within a fibrovascular to myxoid stroma as well as multifocal, large, blunt, multinucleated myotube-like cells (strap cells). Electron microscopy demonstrated characteristic cytoplasmic bundles of myofilaments and Z-stripes within the strap cells. Immunoreactivity for vimentin was observed in the small spindle-shaped cells and for desmin in the strap cells. The results are consistent with the spectrum of findings characteristic for a bovine congenital embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.

Multi-biomarker approach using the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis L.) to assess the quality of marine environments: season and habitat-related impacts.

Using a comprehensive approach, intertidal, near- and offshore sites in the German Bight were analysed for their environmental quality by assessing the health of blue mussels (Mytilus edulis). During a ten month sampling period mussels were studied with a set of biomarkers comprising lysosomal membrane stability and accumulation of lipofuscin, supplemented by biomarkers indicating nutritional status such as neutral lipids and glycogen in the cells of the digestive gland. Data were analysed in relation to sex, gonadal status, condition index and for the presence of parasites, to determine the overall health status of mussels at the respective sites. Mussels from all sites showed clear signs of stress, indicating an inferior environmental quality throughout the southern German Bight. Further, habitat characteristics such as inundation time and growing on- or off-bottom, as well as seasonal factors, can clearly influence the response of biomarkers in mussels exposed to similar levels of chemical environmental stress.

Fatal rectal perforation following boar-to-boar mounting.

Although abnormal sexual behavior, including boar-to-boar mounting with anal penetration, is recognized in pubescent pigs, reports of the pathologic consequences are scarce. A 7-month-old male minipig, housed with age-matched males, died within 1 day of the onset of lethargy and reluctance to rise. At necropsy, 2 rectal tears were identified as the cause for fibrinous peritonitis, and spermatozoa were identified in the pelvic and peritoneal cavity by light and transmission electron microscopy. According to DNA typing results, using 11 porcine microsatellites, the intraperitoneal semen was from at least 2 pen mates. The prohibition of castration of fattening pigs, implemented or planned in multiple European countries, could increase the risk of rectal perforation in co-housed pigs.

[Osteopenia as a result of copper deficiency in a dwarf Thuringian Forest goat]. / Osteopenie infolge eines Kupfermangels bei einer zwergwüchsigen Thüringerwald Ziege.

In a female Thuringian forest goat osteoporosis, dwarfism and anaemia were found. The animal was kept on a hobby farm with 30 further goats that did not show clinical signs. Radiological examination, computed tomographic imaging and pathological examination revealed reduced bone density and numerous fractures associated with limited or completely absent callus formation. Incineration of selected bones did not show any differences concerning the contents of calcium and phosphorus when compared to two control goats. Therefore, a regular mineralisation of the bone matrix was indicated. The dysfunction associated with the osteogenesis was assumed to be a copper deficiency.

Role of autoinducer-2 on the adhesion ability of Lactobacillus acidophilus.

AIMS: Lactobacilli adhere to the intestinal epithelium and this intimate association likely promotes retention in the gastrointestinal tract and communication with the immune system. The aim of this study was to investigate whether or not the quorum-sensing signalling molecule, autoinducer (AI)-2, was produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus and affected adherence to intestinal epithelial cells. METHODS: Microarray analysis of concentrated cells of L. acidophilus NCFM revealed several genes involved in a classic stress response and potentially adhesion. Putative genes linked to the synthesis of the interspecies signalling molecule, AI-2, were overexpressed. Examination of the NCFM genome revealed the complete pathway for AI-2 synthesis. AI-2 activity from NCFM was detected using the Vibrio harveyi BB170 assay system. Using site-specific integration, an isogenic mutation was created in luxS and the resulting mutant did not produce AI-2. In addition to some minor metabolic effects, the luxS mutation resulted in 58% decrease in adherence to Caco-2 cells. CONCLUSION: L. acidophilus NCFM encodes the genes for synthesis of the quorum-sensing signal, AI-2, and produces this molecule during planktonic growth. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The ability to produce AI-2 affects the ability of L. acidophilus to attach to intestinal epithelial cells.

Renal safety of CT angiography and perfusion imaging in the emergency evaluation of acute stroke.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Multimodal CT imaging with contrast-enhanced CT angiography (CTA) and CT perfusion (CTP) is increasingly being used to guide emergency management of acute stroke. However, little has been reported about the safety of intravenous contrast administration associated with these studies in the acute stroke population, including cases in which baseline creatinine values are unknown. We investigated the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), defined as a 25% or more increase in baseline creatinine levels within 72 hours of contrast administration and chronic kidney disease in patients receiving CTA+/-CTP at our regional stroke center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed 198 patients who underwent contrast CT studies for evaluation of acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke at our center (2003-2007). Through retrospective chart abstraction, we analyzed serial creatinine levels (baseline to day 3) and later values (>/=day 4) where available. The incidences of CIN and/or chronic kidney disease were documented. After power analysis, CIN and non-CIN groups were compared by using the unpaired t test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, or Fisher exact test. RESULTS: None of the 198 patients developed chronic kidney disease or required dialysis. Of 175 patients with serial creatinine measurements between baseline and day 3, 5 (2.9%) developed CIN. The incidence of CIN was 2% in patients who were scanned before a baseline creatinine level was available. CONCLUSION: The incidence of renal sequelae is relatively low in acute stroke patients undergoing emergent multimodal CT scanning. Prompt CTA/CTP imaging of acute stroke, if indicated, need not be delayed in those with no history of renal impairment.

Analysis of the genome sequence of Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323 reveals the molecular basis of an autochthonous intestinal organism.

This study presents the complete genome sequence of Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323, a neotype strain of human origin and a native species found commonly in the gastrointestinal tracts of neonates and adults. The plasmid-free genome was 1,894,360 bp in size and predicted to encode 1,810 genes. The GC content was 35.3%, similar to the GC content of its closest relatives, L. johnsonii NCC 533 (34%) and L. acidophilus NCFM (34%). Two identical copies of the prophage LgaI (40,086 bp), of the Sfi11-like Siphoviridae phage family, were integrated tandomly in the chromosome. A number of unique features were identified in the genome of L. gasseri that were likely acquired by horizontal gene transfer and may contribute to the survival of this bacterium in its ecological niche. L. gasseri encodes two restriction and modification systems, which may limit bacteriophage infection. L. gasseri also encodes an operon for production of heteropolysaccharides of high complexity. A unique alternative sigma factor was present similar to that of B. caccae ATCC 43185, a bacterial species isolated from human feces. In addition, L. gasseri encoded the highest number of putative mucus-binding proteins (14) among lactobacilli sequenced to date. Selected phenotypic characteristics that were compared between ATCC 33323 and other human L. gasseri strains included carbohydrate fermentation patterns, growth and survival in bile, oxalate degradation, and adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells, in vitro. The results from this study indicated high intraspecies variability from a genome encoding traits important for survival and retention in the gastrointestinal tract.