LC-MS/MS quantitation of elastin crosslinker desmosines and histological analysis of skin aging characteristics in mice.

Elastic fibers consist of an insoluble inner core of elastin, which confers elasticity and resilience to vertebral organs and tissues. Desmosine (DES) and isodesmosine (IDES) are potential biomarkers of pathologies that lead to decreased elastin turnover. Mice are commonly used in research to mimic humans because of their similar genetics, physiology, and organ systems. The present study thus used senescent accelerated prone (SAMP10) and senescent accelerated resistant (SAMR1) mice to examine the connection between aging and histological or biomolecular changes. Mice were divided into three groups: SAMP10 fed a control diet (CD), SAMP10 fed a high-fat diet (HFD), and SAMR1 fed a CD. The percent liver to total body weight ratio (%LW/BW), desmosines (DESs or DES/IDES) content, and histological alterations in skin samples were evaluated. DESs were quantified using an isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method with isodesmosine-13C3,15N1 as the internal standard (ISTD). The assays were repeatable, reproducible, and accurate, with %CV values ≤ (1.90, 1.77, and 3.03), ISTD area %RSD of (1.54, 0.92, and 1.13), and %AC of (99.02 ± 1.86, 101.00 ± 2.30, and 101.30 ± 2.90) for the calibrations (equimolar DES/IDES, DES, and IDES, respectively). The average DESs content per dry-weight abdominal skin and %LW/BW were similar between the three groups. Histological analyses revealed elastin fibers in five randomly selected samples. The epidermis and dermal white adipose tissue layers were thicker in SAMP10 mice than SAMR1 mice. Thus, characteristic signs of aging in SAMP10 and SAMR1 mice could not be differentiated based on measurement of DESs content of the skin or %LW/BW, but aging could be differentiated based on microscopic analysis of histological changes in the skin components of SAMP10 and SAMR1 mice.

Proteomic analysis of anti-aging effects of Dendrobium nobile Lindl. alkaloids in aging-accelerated SAMP8 mice.

Senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice exhibit cognitive defects and neuron loss with aging, and were used to study anti-aging effects of Dendrobium nobile alkaloids (DNLA). DNLA (20 and 40 mg/kg) were orally administered to SAMP8 mice from 6 to 10 months of age. At 10-month of age, behavioral tests via Y-maze and Open-field and neuron damage via Nissl staining were evaluated. Protein was extracted and subjected to phosphorylated proteomic analysis followed by bioinformatic analysis. The cognitive deficits and neuron loss in hippocampus and cortex of aged SAMP8 mice were improved by DNLA. Hippocampal proteomic analysis revealed 196 differentially expressed protein/genes in SAMP8 compared to age-matched senescence-accelerated resistant SAMR1 mice. Gene Oncology enriched the tubulin binding, microtubule binding, and other activities. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) revealed endocytosis, mRNA surveillance, tight junction, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, aldosterone synthesis and secretion, and glucagon signaling pathway changes. Upregulated protein/genes in the hippocampus of SAMP8 mice, such as Lmtk3, Usp10, Dzip1, Csnk2b, and Rtn1, were attenuated by DNLA; whereas downregulated protein/genes, such as Kctd16, Psd3, Bsn, Atxn2l, and Kif1a, were rescued by DNLA. The aberrant protein/gene expressions of SAMP8 mice were correlated with transcriptome changes of Alzheimer's disease in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and the scores were attenuated by DNLA. Thus, DNLA improved cognitive dysfunction and ameliorated neuronal injury in aged SAMP8 mice, and attenuated aberrant protein/gene expressions.

Age-related Changes in Trigeminal Ganglion Macrophages Enhance Orofacial Ectopic Pain After Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The ectopic pain associated with inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury has been reported to involve macrophage expression in the trigeminal ganglion (TG). However, the effect of age-related changes on this abnormal pain conditions are still unknown. This study sought to clarify the involvement of age-related changes in macrophage expression and phenotypic conversion in the TG and how these changes enhance ectopic mechanical allodynia after IAN transection (IANX). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used senescence-accelerated mouse (SAM)-prone 8 (SAMP8) and SAM-resistance 1 (SAMR1) mice, which are commonly used to study ageing-related changes. Mechanical stimulation was applied to the whisker pad skin under light anaesthesia; the mechanical head withdrawal threshold (MHWT) was measured for 21 d post-IANX. We subsequently counted the numbers of Iba1 (macrophage marker)-immunoreactive (IR) cells, Iba1/CD11c (M1-like inflammatory macrophage marker)-co-IR cells, and Iba1/CD206 (M2-like anti-inflammatory macrophage marker)-co-IR cells in the TG innervating the whisker pad skin. After continuous intra-TG administration of liposomal clodronate Clophosome®-A (LCCA) to IANX-treated SAMP8-mice, the MHWT values of the whisker pad skin were examined. RESULTS: Five days post-IANX, the MHWT had significantly decreased in SAMP8 mice compared to SAMR1-mice. Iba1-IR and Iba1/CD11c-co-IR cell counts were significantly increased in SAMP8 mice compared to SAMR1 mice 5 d post-IANX. LCCA administration significantly restored MHWT compared to control-LCCA administration. CONCLUSION: Ectopic mechanical allodynia of whisker pad skin after IANX is exacerbated by ageing, which involves increases in M1-like inflammatory macrophages in the TG.

Integration of ICTs in teaching practices: propositions to the SAMR model.

This article aims to analyze the experiences of teachers on the uses of ICTs in the development of teaching practices within the framework of a new learning ecology. We use the SAMR model to scale the levels of ICTs contributions in each practice. 116 teachers from a public educational institution in Brazil answered a questionnaire during the pandemic scenario, while conducting emergency remote teaching. Teachers declared to develop the teaching practices with the integration of ICTs at the levels of Augmentation and Modification by correspondence to the SAMR model. Based on the analyzes carried out, we propose some reflections that help to rethink this model and to understand the second-order barriers that prevent the effective integration of ICT in teachers' practices.

"We are still putting out fires": Considering educator intentionality in remote instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 Pandemic affected P-12 educators around the world, including an emergency move to remote instruction, inclusion of new technology tools to teach at a distance, and in many cases technology mandates for instruction. In the present study, we examine educators' self-reported survey responses about technology use during face to face and online instruction during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We use SAMR, a framework used to understand degrees of technology integration in teaching, as a way to interpret educators' responses and consider the ways that educators reported their use of technology in their face to face and online teaching.

Abscesos de córnea bilaterales en una paciente con SIDA. Presentación de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Corneal Abscess in a patient with aids: case report and literature review

El epitelio corneal es una importante barrera de defensa que impide el ingreso de una gran variedad de microorganismos. Cualquier alteración de la superficie ocular facilita la invasión bacteriana de la córnea. El germen más frecuentemente identificado es Staphylococcus aureus. Se presenta una paciente con enfermedad debida al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) con diagnóstico de sida, absceso corneal bilateral y lesiones cutáneas. S.aureus meticilino resistente se aisló en hemocultivos y en material obtenido por raspado de la córnea. El absceso corneal es una entidad poco frecuente en pacientes con infección por VIH y síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida.

The corneal epithelium is an important defense barrier that prevents the entry of great variety of microorganisms. Any alteration of the ocular surface facilitates bacterial invasion of the cornea. The most frequently reported germ is Staphylococcus aureus. Here, we present a patient with a diagnosis of HIV/ AIDS disease, who developed bilateral corneal abscess and skin lesions. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from blood cultures and corneal scrapings. Corneal abscess is a rare entity in patients with HIV and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

RNA-seq and miRNA-seq data from pharmacological inhibition of the G9a/GLP histone methyltransferase complex with UNC0642 in SAMP8 mice.

Growing evidence demonstrates the epigenetic modulation as a key event in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Furthermore, recent data suggests that the epigenetic regulation by the methyltransferase G9a is a crucial mechanism involved in learning and memory formation. Taking this into account, we hereby provide genomics data from pharmacological intervention with UNC0642, a potent and selective G9a/GLP in SAMP8 mice, a model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We have generated novel RNA-seq and miRNA-seq data for three groups, healthy SAMR1, SAMP8 control and SAMP8 treated with UNC0642 (5 mg/Kg). Thus, the new data can be used to find miRNA regulation, and the mRNA's modified in AD under G9a/GLP inhibition.

MicroRNA Expression Profiling in Diabetic Kidney Disease.

The microRNAs (miRNAs) that can regulate diabetic kidney disease (DKD) have not been fully characterized. The aim of this study was to identify the miRNAs that affect DKD and could be used as specific biomarkers or therapeutic agents. First, kidney tissues from two DKD mouse models and control mice were screened for differences in miRNA expression by microarray analysis followed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR. Six miRNAs were differentially expressed from controls in both DKD mouse models. Among them, miRNA-125b-5p and miRNA-181b-5p were exclusively downregulated in the DKD mouse model. Next, we administered miRNA-181b-5p-mimic to DKD mice, which reduced the albuminuria and abnormal mesangial expansion. Pathway analysis and database research revealed that overexpression of miRNA-181b-5p significantly altered the expression of seven mRNAs in six known signaling pathways in the kidneys of DKD mice. Furthermore, the serum level of miRNA-125b-5p was significantly higher in patients with DKD (1.89±0.40-fold, P<0.05) compared with patients with other kidney diseases (0.94±0.13-fold) and healthy subjects (1.00±0.19-fold). Serum levels of miRNA-181b-5p were lower in patients with DKD (0.30±0.06-fold, P<0.05) compared with patients with other kidney diseases (1.06±0.20-fold) and healthy subjects (1.00±0.16-fold). These results suggest that miRNA-125b-5p and miRNA-181b-5p may represent novel diagnostic biomarkers and that miRNA-181b-5p may represent a therapeutic target for DKD.

Towards Post-pandemic Transformative Teaching and Learning: Case Studies of Microlearning Implementations in two Post-secondary Educational Institutions.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges to post-secondary education, including that campuses have been closed, removing face-to-face instruction options. Meanwhile, this crisis has also presented unique opportunities to create a "tipping point" or conditions that foster innovative teaching practices. In light of such a "danger-opportunity," the feasibility of introducing microlearning (ML), a technology-mediated teaching and learning (T&L) strategy, has recently been revisited by some institutions. ML offers learning opportunities through small bursts of training materials that learners can comprehend in a short time, according to their preferred schedule and location. Initially considered as "add-on" complementary online learning resources to provide learners with an active and more engaging learning experience through flexible learning modes, the possibility of an institution-wide implementation of ML has been further explored during the COVID-19 lockdown. This paper presents an exploratory case study examining two post-secondary education institutions' ML introductions. Using the SAMR model as the lens, their approaches to adopting ML are examined through analysis of quantitative questionnaires and qualitative teacher reflections. Overall, ML appears to be a promising direction that may not only be able to help institutions survive, but possibly offer an enhanced teaching and learning experience, post-pandemic. However, its current implementations face many challenges, both practical and pedagogical, and their impacts have yet to achieve transformation. With the insights gained, some possible strategies for moving the adoption of ML to the next level are offered.

Toward a model of learning innovation integration: TPACK-SAMR based analysis of the introduction of a digital learning environment in three Russian universities.

Digitalisation is penetrating higher education (HE) in Russia. The study explores how three Russian universities have been integrating the Skyes digital learning platform to transform English as a foreign language (EFL) educational practices. The article outlines the main characteristics of the platform, recounts the steps in adopting the technology and addresses the emerging changes to learning and teaching. Students' and teachers' perceptions are examined to review the implementation process. The research is designed as a case study; the methods used are semi-structured interviews and online questionnaires. The study framework combines the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) model and the Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition (SAMR) model for a holistic approach to investigating innovation integration in a university setting. TPACK is used to analyse the changes associated with teachers' knowledge of technology, pedagogy and content. SAMR helps to reflect on the current use of the platform showcasing technology integration along substitution, augmentation and modification levels. Based on the findings, the paper discusses the factors influencing the implementation of the Skyes platform and proposes recommendations for its successful integration; they highlight the importance of motivation, feedback both from teachers and students, clear assessment of the learning outcomes, TPACK transformation plan and alignment between the innovation and educational regulations.

Aging-Related Phenotypic Conversion of Medullary Microglia Enhances Intraoral Incisional Pain Sensitivity.

Activated microglia involved in the development of orofacial pain hypersensitivity have two major polarization states. The aim of this study was to assess the involvement of the aging-related phenotypic conversion of medullary microglia in the enhancement of intraoral pain sensitivity using senescence-accelerated mice (SAM)-prone/8 (SAMP8) and SAM-resistant/1 (SAMR1) mice. Mechanical head-withdrawal threshold (MHWT) was measured for 21 days post palatal mucosal incision. The number of CD11c-immunoreactive (IR) cells [affective microglia (M1)] and CD163-IR cells [protective microglia (M2)], and tumor-necrosis-factor-α (TNF-α)-IR M1 and interleukin (IL)-10-IR M2 were analyzed via immunohistochemistry on days 3 and 11 following incision. The decrease in MHWT observed following incision was enhanced in SAMP8 mice. M1 levels and the number of TNF-α-IR M1 were increased on day 3 in SAMP8 mice compared with those in SAMR1 mice. On day 11, M1 and M2 activation was observed in both groups, whereas IL-10-IR M2 levels were attenuated in SAMP8 mice, and the number of TNF-α-IR M1 cells increased, compared to those in SAMR1 mice. These results suggest that the mechanical allodynia observed following intraoral injury is potentiated and sustained in SAMP8 mice due to enhancement of TNF-α signaling, M1 activation, and an attenuation of M2 activation accompanying IL-10 release.

The endophytic bacterium relieved healthy risk of pakchoi intercropped with hyperaccumulator in the cadmium polluted greenhouse vegetable field.

Planting leafy vegetables, especially pakchoi, in cadmium (Cd) polluted farmland is easy to lead to excessive Cd content in edible parts, which results in high risk of food chain. In this study, a field experiment was carried out to study the effects of intercropping of pakchoi with Cd hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii Hance, and the roles of endophytic bacterium SaMR12 was also investigated. When intercropping with Sedum, the growth of pakchoi was not affected but their Cd concentration and accumulation were significantly increased, while which were obviously decreased by SaMR12 inoculation. After intercropping, the biomass of Sedum was significantly reduced, but their Cd concentration increased. SaMR12 inoculation significantly increased Cd accumulation of Sedum, and which increased to 3 times in Sedum monoculture. Those results showed that although intercropping with hyperaccumulator could lead to higher risk of pakchoi in Cd polluted field, intercropping with SaMR12 inoculated Sedum can decrease Cd concentration of pakchoi and promote Cd absorption of Sedum, which indicated that this endophyte can be made into a microbial inoculum as a soil additive for the safe production of vegetables and the soil Cd pollution remediation.

Chronic Mild Stress Modified Epigenetic Mechanisms Leading to Accelerated Senescence and Impaired Cognitive Performance in Mice.

Cognitive and behavioural disturbances are a growing public healthcare issue for the modern society, as stressful lifestyle is becoming more and more common. Besides, several pieces of evidence state that environment is crucial in the development of several diseases as well as compromising healthy aging. Therefore, it is important to study the effects of stress on cognition and its relationship with aging. To address these queries, Chronic Mild Stress (CMS) paradigm was used in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) and resistant 1 (SAMR1). On one hand, we determined the changes produced in the three main epigenetic marks after 4 weeks of CMS treatment, such as a reduction in histone posttranslational modifications and DNA methylation, and up-regulation or down-regulation of several miRNA involved in different cellular processes in mice. In addition, CMS treatment induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage accumulation and loss of antioxidant defence mechanisms, as well as inflammatory signalling activation through NF-κB pathway and astrogliosis markers, like Gfap. Remarkably, CMS altered mTORC1 signalling in both strains, decreasing autophagy only in SAMR1 mice. We found a decrease in glycogen synthase kinase 3 ß (GSK-3ß) inactivation, hyperphosphorylation of Tau and an increase in sAPPß protein levels in mice under CMS. Moreover, reduction in the non-amyloidogenic secretase ADAM10 protein levels was found in SAMR1 CMS group. Consequently, detrimental effects on behaviour and cognitive performance were detected in CMS treated mice, affecting mainly SAMR1 mice, promoting a turning to SAMP8 phenotype. In conclusion, CMS is a feasible intervention to understand the influence of stress on epigenetic mechanisms underlying cognition and accelerating senescence.

Stress Dependence of the Small Angle Magnetization Rotation Signal in Commercial Amorphous Ribbons.

The results of the investigation on tensile stress dependence of the SAMR (small angle magnetization rotation) signal in soft magnetic amorphous ribbons are presented. Exemplary results for commercially available, negatively magnetostrictive 2705M, 2714A, and 6030D amorphous ribbons show significant stress dependence, in contrast to positively magnetostrictive 2826MB alloy. The magnetoelastic hysteresis of the obtained characteristics is compared, as well as the influence of the biasing H field and supply current variations. Based on the results, 2705M alloy with near-zero negative magnetostriction is proposed as best suited for a SAMR-based, magnetoelastic force sensor.

Orengedokuto and san'oshashinto improve memory deficits by inhibiting aging-dependent activation of glycogen synthase kinase-3ß.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The aging-dependent activation of glycogen synthase kinase-3ß (GSK-3ß) has been suggested to be important in the onset of dementia. To discover novel therapeutic Kampo medicines for dementia, we examined the effects of orengedokuto (OGT; huáng lián jiedú tang) and san'oshashinto (SST; san huáng xiè xin tang) on memory deficits and GSK-3ß activity in senescence-accelerated prone mice (SAMP8). EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE: The object recognition test (ORT) and conditioned fear memory test (CFT) were employed to elucidate short-term working memory and long-term fear memory. The activity of GSK-3ß and the phosphorylation of related molecules were measured using a kinase assay and Western blotting. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: OGT and SST attenuated memory deficits in SAMP8 in ORT, but not in CFT. In ex vivo experiments, cortical GSK-3ß activity was significantly stronger in SAMP8 than in SAMR1. The enhanced cortical GSK-3ß activity in SAMP8 was accompanied by a significant increase in the level of phosphorylated collapsin response mediator protein-2 (CRMP2), an important factor that is involved in the regulation of microtubule stability. OGT and SST attenuated not only increases in cortical GSK-3ß activity, but also the levels of phosphorylated CRMP2 in SAMP8. In vitro experiments, flavonoids contained in these kampo medicines, inhibited GSK-3ß activity in concentration-dependent manners. These results suggest that OGT and SST prevent aging-induced short-term working memory deficits by inhibiting aging-dependent elevations in the cortical GSK-3ß activity and subsequent CRMP2 phosphorylation.

Neumonía grave en la comunidad: ¿cuándo pensar en SAMR-AC? / Severe community pneumonia: when to think about CA-MRSA

ntroducción: Aunque la incidencia de neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC) por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMR-AC) es inferior al 10%, por su elevada mortalidad debe considerarse en los pacientes graves.Objetivo: Identificar factores de riesgo asociados con SAMR-AC en pacientes con NAC grave. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, que analizó pacientes con NAC con diagnóstico etiológico ingresados en terapia intensiva en un hospital público entre 2006 y 2017.Resultados: Se incluyeron 250 episodios de NAC, 53 por SAMR-AC y 197 por otros agentes. Los pacientes con SAMR fueron más jóvenes (35,6±13,4 vs 43,1±12,4, p<0,001) y mostraron mayores tasas de infecciones de piel y estructuras relacionadas (IPER) (58,4% vs 2,0%, p<0,001), empiema (15,9% vs 5,0%, p=0,006), compromiso radiológico bilateral (81,1% vs 36,0%, p<0,001), promedio de score APACHE II basal (16,7±3,8 vs 13,2±4,3, p<0,001) y requerimiento de ventilación mecánica (VM) (33,9 vs 17,6 p=0,009). La tasa de mortalidad fue significativamente mayor para los pacientes con SAMR-AC (35,8% vs 11,1%, p<0,001). Las variables que se asociaron con SAMR-AC fueron IPER (OR 67,99, IC 5% 21,94-210,65), compromiso radiológico bilateral (OR 7,63, IC 95% 3,67-16,11), scoreAPACHE II ≥ 15 (OR 4,37, IC 95% 2,08-9,16), edad ≤ 35 años RESUMENTRABAJO COMPLETO(OR 3,60, IC 95% 1,77-7,29), empiema (OR 3,32, IC 95% 1,24-8,10) y VM (OR 2,85, IC 95% 1,36-5,86). Conclusión: En pacientes con NAC grave, la presencia de IPER, compromiso radiológico bilateral, score APACHE II ≥ 15, edad ≤ 35 años, empiema y VM se asociaron significativamente con mayor probabilidad de infección por SAMR-AC

ntroduction: Despite the incidence of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) due to community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) being less than 10%, its presence should be considered in critical patients because of its high rate of mortality.Objectives: To identify risk factors associated with CA-MRSA in patients with severe CAP.Materials and method: A retrospective, observational study analysed episodes of etiological diagnosis in patients admitted in Intensive Care Unit in a public hospital between 2006 and 2017.Results: 250 episodes of NAC were included, among which 53 were caused by SAMR-AC and 197 by other agents. Patients with MRSA were the youngest (35.6±13.4 vs 43.1±12.4, p<0.001), and showed higher rates of skin and skin-structure infections (SSSI) (58.4% vs 2.0%, p<0.001), empyema (15.9% vs 5.0%, p=0.006), bilateral radiological compromise (81.1% vs 36.0%, p<0.001), average base-line APACHE II score (16.7±3.8 vs 13.2±4.3, p<0.001) and mechanical ventilation requirement rate (MV) (33.9 vs 17.6 p=0.009). The mortality rate was significantly higher than the one in CA-MRSA patients (35.8% vs 11.1%, p<0.001). The variables associated with CA-MRSA were SSSI (OR 67.99, IC 5% 21.94-210.65), bilateral radiological compromise (OR 7.63, IC 95% 3.67-16.11), APACHE II score ≥ 15 (OR 4.37, IC 95% 2.08-9.16), age ≤35 years (OR 3.60, IC 95% 1.77-7,29), empyema (OR 3.32, IC 95% 1.24-8.10) and MV (OR 2.85, IC 95% 1.36-5.86).Conclusion: The presence of SSSI, bilateral radiological compromise, APACHE II score ≥ 15, age ≤35 years, empyema and MV in patients with severe CAP was largely associated with higher probability of CA-MRSA infection

Prevalence and characterisation of Staphylococcus aureus causing community-acquired skin and soft tissue infections on Java and Bali, Indonesia.

OBJECTIVES: To define the role of Staphylococcus aureus in community settings among patients with skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) in Indonesia. METHODS: Staphylococcus aureus were cultured from anterior nares, throat and wounds of 567 ambulatory patients presenting with SSTI. The mecA gene and genes encoding Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL; lukF-PV and lukS-PV) and exfoliative toxin (ET; eta and etb) were determined by PCR. Clonal relatedness among methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and PVL-positive S. aureus was analysed using multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) typing, and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) for a subset of isolates. Staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) was determined for all MRSA isolates. Moreover, determinants for S. aureus SSTI, and PVL/ET-positive vs PVL/ET-negative S. aureus were assessed. RESULTS: Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from SSTI wounds of 257 (45.3%) patients, eight (3.1%) of these were MRSA. Genes encoding PVL and ETs were detected in 21.8% and 17.5% of methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), respectively. PVL-positive MRSA was not detected. Nasopharyngeal S. aureus carriage was an independent determinant for S. aureus SSTI (odds ratio [OR] 1.8). Primary skin infection (OR 5.4) and previous antibiotic therapy (OR 3.5) were associated with PVL-positive MSSA. Primary skin infection (OR 2.2) was the only factor associated with ET-positive MSSA. MLVA typing revealed two more prevalent MSSA clusters. One ST1-MRSA-SCCmec type IV isolate and a cluster of ST239-MRSA-SCCmec type III were found. CONCLUSIONS: Community-acquired SSTI in Indonesia was frequently caused by PVL-positive MSSA, and the hospital-associated ST239-MRSA may have spread from the hospital into the community.

Factores de riesgo asociados a infecciones por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente en pacientes con neumonía adquirida en la comunidad asistidos en terapia intensiva / RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH METHICILLIN STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS RESISTANT IN PATIENTS WITH ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA IN THE COMMUNITY, ASSISTED AT INTENSIVE CARE UNITS

Introducción: La incidencia creciente de infecciones invasivas por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad (SAMR-AC) obliga a considerar a este patógeno como posible agente etiológico de la neumonía adquirida en la comunidad (NAC). Es importante reconocer variables específicas que se asocien con un mayor riesgo de padecer esta enfermedad, a fin de mejorar la terapia antibiótica empírica y limitar el tratamiento anti-SAMR. Objetivos: Identificar factores de riesgo asociados a SARM-AC en pacientes con NAC hospitalizados en Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI). Materiales y métodos: Se analizaron de manera retrospectiva todos los episodios de NAC ingresados en la UCI de un hospital público entre los años 2006 y 2014 en los que se logró identificar el agente etiológico. Se dividió a la población en dos grupos según el agente causal: SAMR-AC (NAC-S) o no SAMR-AC (NAC- no S). Se compararon diferentes variables demográficas, epidemiológicas y clínicas entre ambos grupos (análisis univariado). Para identificar factores de riesgo asociados con NAC por SAMR-AC se realizó análisis de regresión logística de las variables que resultaron significativamente diferentes en el análisis univariado. Para valorar diferencias entre ambos grupos se utilizó estadística descriptiva, test de Fisher y análisis de regresión logística. Se utilizó el software EPIcalc-2000. Se consideró significativo un valor de p<0.05. Resultados: Se incluyeron 239 episodios de NAC, de las cuales 39 fueron causadas por SAMR-AC, y 200 por otros agentes, con la siguiente distribución:niae 6 (3%), H1N1 5 (2,5%), Mycoplasma pneunoniae 4 (2%), Moraxella catharralis 3 (1,5%), SAMS 3 (1,5%), otros 6 (3%). Los pacientes del grupo NAC-S fueron significativamente más jóvenes (edad promedio 35.7 años ± 13.0 vs 43.2 ±12.4, p<0.0001), tuvieron en menor proporción infección por virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) (23.1% vs 56.0%, p<0.0001) y presentaron con mayor frecuencia requerimiento de ventilación mecánica (VM) en las primeras 24 horas (38.5% vs 18.0%, p=0.008). Los pacientes del grupo NAC-S mostraron un promedio de score de APACHE II significativamente mayor al ingreso (17.0 ±5.3 vs 13.3 ±4.4, p<0.0001). La mortalidad fue significativamente más elevada en el grupo de NAC-S (35.9% vs 11.0%, p=0.0002). En el resto de las variables analizadas no se observaron diferencias significativas. El análisis de regresión logística mostró que las variables que se asociaron con NAC-S fueron edad ≤35 años (OR 3.60, IC 95% 1.77-7.29), score de APACHE II ≥ 15 (OR 4.37, IC 95% 2.08-9.16) y requerimiento de VM (OR 2.85, IC 95% 1.36-5.86). En cambio, la infección por VIH fue una variable que se asoció con menor probabilidad de desarrollar NAC-S (OR 0.24, IC 95% 0.11-0.52). Conclusión: En los pacientes con NAC que ingresan en una UCI, la edad ≤35 años, el score de APACHE II ≥ 15 y la necesidad de VM se asociaron significativamente con mayor probabilidad de infección por SAMR-AC Streptococcus pneumoniae 113 (56,5%); Haemophillus influenzae 39 (19,5%), Chlamydia psitacii 13 (6,5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 8 (4%), Klebsiella pneumo

Risk factors associated with methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus community acquired pneumonia in patients assisted at Intensive Care Units Introduction: The increasing incidence of invasive infections by Community Acquired methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) makes it necessary to consider this pathogen as a possible etiological agent in Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP). It is important to recognize specific variables that are associated with an increased risk of this disease, in order to improve empirical antibiotic therapy and to limit anti-MRSA treatment. Objectives: To identify risk factors associated with CA-MRSA in patients with CAP hospitalized in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Material and methods: We analyse retrospectively all CAP episodes admitted to the ICU of a public hospital between 2006 and 2014 in which the etiologic agent was identified. The population was divided in two groups, according the etiological agent: CA-MRSA (CAP-MRSA) o not CA-MRSA (CAP-no MRSA). Different demographic, epidemiological and clinical variables were compared between both groups (univariate analysis). Logistic regression analysis of variables that were significantly different in the univariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with CAP by CA-MRSA. Descriptive statistic was used, Fisher´s test was performed to assess differences between both groups and logistic regression test was made to know risks factors associated. EPIcalc-2000 software was used. A value of p <0.05 was considered significant. Results: 239 CAP episodes were includes; 39 were caused by CA-MRSA and 200 by others agents. The etiological distribution was: Streptococcus pneumoniae 113 (56,5%); Haemophillus influenzae 39 (19,5%), Chlamydia psitacii 13 (6,5%), Pseudomona aeruginosa 8 (4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 6 (3%), H1N1 5 (2,5%), Mycoplasma pneunoniae 4 (2%), Moraxella catharralis 3 (1,5%), MSSA 3 (1,5%), others 6 (3%). Patients in the CAP-MRSA group were significant younger (mean age 35.7 years old ± 13.0 vs 43.2 ±12.4, p<0.0001), had a lower proportion of HIV infections (23.1% vs 56.0%, p<0.0001) and needed of mechanical ventilation (MV) in the first 24 hours with higher frequency (38.5% vs 18.0%, p=0.008). Patients in the CAP-MRSA showed a significantly higher APACHE II score on admission (17.0 ±5.3 vs 13.3 ±4.4, p<0.0001). Mortality rate was significantly higher in CAP-MRSA group (35.9% vs 11.0%, p=0.0002). In the other analysed variables, no significant range differences were observed. Logistic regression analysis showed that the variables that were associated with CAP by MRSA were age ≤35 years (OR 3.60, 95% CI 1.77-7.29), APACHE II score ≥ 15 (OR 4.37, CI 95% 2.08-9.16) and MV requirement (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.36-5.86). HIV infection was associated with lower probability to have CAP-MSA (OR 0.24, CI 95% 0.11-0.52). Conclusion: In patients with CAP who entered an ICU, age ≤35 years, APACHE II score ≥15 and the need for MV were significantly associated with a greater likelihood of CAP-MRSA infection.

Data on the optimization of behavioral tasks for senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8).

This data article contains the supporting information for the research article entitled "Early onset of behavioral alterations in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8)" [1]. Senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8), which originally developed from AKR/J mice, shows learning and memory impairments at the age of 8-12 months. However, little information is still available on phenotypical characteristics of younger SAMP8. To fully understand the phenotype of younger SAMP8, we optimized two behavioral tasks for SAMP8. In the object recognition task, 4-month-old SAMP8 made significantly more contacts with the familiar objects compared to age-matched SAMR1, however, distance traveled for both strains of mice were comparable. In the fear conditioning task, conventionally-used CS-US combination failed to induce robust conditioned fear in both strains of mice.

The anti-aging effects of LW-AFC via correcting immune dysfunctions in senescence accelerated mouse resistant 1 (SAMR1) strain.

Although there were considerable advances in the anti-aging medical field, it is short of therapeutic drug for anti-aging. Mounting evidence indicates that the immunosenescence is the key physiopathological mechanism of aging. This study showed the treatment of LW-AFC, an herbal medicine, decreased the grading score of senescence, increased weight, prolonged average life span and ameliorated spatial memory impairment in 12- and 24-month-old senescence accelerated mouse resistant 1 (SAMR1) strain. And these anti-aging effects of LW-AFC were more excellent than melatonin. The administration of LW-AFC enhanced ConA- and LPS-induced splenocyte proliferation in aged SAMR1 mice. The treatment of LW-AFC not only reversed the decreased the proportions of helper T cells, suppressor T cells and B cells, the increased regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood of old SAMR1 mice, but also could modulate the abnormal secretion of IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, TNF-α, TNF-ß, RANTES, eotaxin, MCP-1, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and G-CSF. These data indicated that LW-AFC reversed the immunosenescence status by restoring immunodeficiency and decreasing chronic inflammation and suggested LW-AFC may be an effective anti-aging agent.