Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase correlate with FEV1 in patients with COPD associated with wood smoke exposure and tobacco smoking

Tobacco smoking is the primary risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, recent epidemiological studies have established domestic exposure to wood smoke and other biomass fuels as additional important risk factors, characteristic in developing countries. Oxidative stress is one of the mechanisms concerned with pathogenesis of COPD. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in the onset and progress of COPD associated with biomass and specifically that derived from wood smoke exposure remain unknown. We analyzed the relationship between forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1) with plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in COPD patients associated with wood smoke (WSG; n = 30), tobacco smoking (TSG; n = 30), and healthy control subjects (HCG; n = 30). Differences between FEV1 from WSG and TSG (58 ± 22% and 51 ± 24%, respectively) with HCG (100 ± 6%) were observed (P < 0.01). Plasma MDA concentration was higher in both WSG and TSG (1.87 ± 0.81 and 1.68 ± 0.82 nmol/mL, respectively) compared with HCG (0.42 ± 0.17 nmol/mL; P < 0.01). SOD activity showed a significant increase in both WSG and TSG (0.36 ± 0.12 and 0.37 ± 0.13 U/mL) compared with HCG (0.19 ± 0.04 U/mL; P < 0.01). No differences were shown regarding GPx, GR, and GST activities between COPD and control groups. Inverse correlations were founded between MDA and SOD with FEV1 in both COPD patients and control subjects (P < 0.001). These results indicate a role for oxidative stress in COPD associated with wood smoke similar to that observed with tobacco smoking in subjects who ceased at least 10 years previous to this study.
Winning the battle: A review of postnatal depression

Mental health problems are distressing at any time of life, but they may have greater impact during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Early detection and effective treatment are essential in managing postnatal mental health problems, from baby blues to psychosis. Midwives need a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the psychological changes that occur for women in pregnancy and postnatally, so that they can provide thorough holistic care. Many midwives feel inadequately prepared in the domain of maternal mental health and therefore training and education are essential to improve this lack in service. Furthermore, a clinically useful predictive tool needs to be developed in order that midwives can test and implement antenatal interventions in women at risk during the perinatal period. Most women find depression screening acceptable, although the stigma associated with depression can be a barrier to seeking treatment. Barriers to treatment include not wanting to disclose symptoms, stigma and lack .
Quantification of microsized fluorescent particles phagocytosis to a better knowledge of toxicity mechanisms

Background: The use of micro- or nanometric particles is in full expansion for the development of new technologies. These particles may exhibit variable toxicity levels depending on their physicochemical characteristics. We focused our attention on macrophages (MA), the main target cells of the respiratory system responsible for the phagocytosis of the particles. The quantification of the amount of phagocytosed particles seems to be a major element for a better knowledge of toxicity mechanisms. The aim of this study was to develop a quantitative evaluation of uptake using both flow cytometry (FCM) and confocal microscopy to distinguish entirely engulfed fluorescent microsized particles from those just adherent to the cell membrane and to compare these data to in vitro toxicity assessments. Methods: Fluorescent particles of variable and well-characterised sizes and surface coatings were incubated with MA (RAW 264.7 cell line). Analyses were performed using confocal microscopy and FCM. The biological toxicity of the particles was evaluated [lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production]. Results and conclusion: Confocal imaging allowed visualization of entirely engulfed beads. The amount of phagocytic cells was greater for carboxylate 2-µm beads (49 ± 11%) than for amine 1-µm beads (18 ± 5%). Similarly, side scatter geometric means, reflecting cellular complexity, were 446 ± 7 and 139 ± 12, respectively. These results confirm that the phagocytosis level highly depends on the size and surface chemical groups of the particles. Only TNF-α and global ROS production varied significantly after 24-h incubation. There was no effect on LDH and H2O2 production.
The future potential for cocaine vaccines

Introduction: Addiction to cocaine is a major problem around the world, but especially in developed countries where the combination of wealth and user demand has created terrible social problems. Although only some users become truly addicted, those who are often succumb to a downward spiral in their lives from which it is very difficult to escape. From the medical perspective, the lack of effective and safe, non-addictive therapeutics has instigated efforts to develop alternative approaches for treatment, including anticocaine vaccines designed to block cocaine’s pharmacodynamic effects. Areas covered: This paper discusses the implications of cocaine pharmacokinetics for robust vaccine antibody responses, the results of human vaccine clinical trials, new developments in animal models for vaccine evaluation, alternative vaccine formulations and complementary therapy to enhance anticocaine effectiveness. Expert opinion: Robust anti-cocaine antibody responses are required for benefit to cocaine abusers, but since any reasonably achievable antibody level can be overcome with higher drug doses, sufficient motivation to discontinue use is also essential so that the relative barrier to cocaine effects will be appropriate for each individual. Combining a vaccine with achievable levels of an enzyme to hydrolyze cocaine to inactive metabolites, however, may substantially increase the blockade and improve treatment outcomes.
Screening for obstructive sleep apnoea based on the electrocardiogram-the computers in cardiology challenge

The authors present a method of screening for obstructive sleep apnoea based on the electrocardiogram (ECG). The algorithm combines information from the ECG-derived respiration (EDR) signal and the RR interval tachogram. Power spectral features from the EDR signal were computed using the discrete harmonic wavelet transform, considering the power at the respiratory frequency and at frequencies below 0.1 Hz. Cycles of tachy/bradycardia (consistent with an arousal from sleep, as would be expected at the end of an episode of apnoea) were identified front the RR interval tachogram. Features were collated into minute-by-minute vectors and passed to a classifier. The algorithm correctly classified 81% of all minutes in the test database, with 29/30 patients correctly identified as apnoea or normal. Visual classification produced 92% correct classification, with all 30 patients correct.
Targeting the microRNA-regulating DNA damage/repair pathways in cancer

Introduction: Maintenance of genome stability requires the integrity of the DNA repair machinery. DNA damage response (DDR) determines cell fate and regulates the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), which in turn may also regulate important components of the DNA repair machinery. Areas covered: In this review, we describe the bidirectional connection between miRNAs and DDR and their link with important biological functions such as, DNA repair, cell cycle and apoptosis in cancer. Furthermore, we highlight the potential implications of recent findings on miRNA/DDR in determining chemotherapy response in cancer patients, and the use of these biomarkers for novel potential therapeutic approaches. Expert opinion: Defects in the DDR and deregulation of miRNAs are important hallmarks of human cancer. A full understanding of the mechanisms underlying the connection between miRNAs and DDR/DNA repair pathways will positively impact our knowledge on human tumor biology and on different responses to distinct drugs. Specific miRNAs interact with distinct DDR components and are promising targets for enhancing the effects of, and/or to overcome the resistance to, conventional chemotherapeutic agents. Finally, the development of innovative tools to deliver miRNA-targeting oligonucleotides may represents novel types of cancer interventions in clinic.
Depleting antibody induction in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation: a prospective single-center comparison of alemtuzumab versus rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin

Background: The study purpose was to analyze midterm outcomes in a prospective trial of alemtuzumab (Alem) versus rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG) induction in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPKT). Methods: From February 2005 to October 2008, 46 SPKTs (45 portal-enteric drainage) were prospectively randomized as part of a larger kidney transplant study to receive either single-dose Alem (30 mg intraoperatively) or multiple-dose rATG antibody induction (starting intraoperatively, minimum three doses administered) with tacrolimus/mycophenolate ± steroids. Results: Of 222 kidney transplant patients enrolled in the study, 46 received SPKTs; 28 (61%) received Alem and 18 (39%) rATG induction. Follow-up ranged from 67 to 111 months (mean 80 months). There were no significant differences between the two groups in 5 years actual patient (86% Alem vs 89% rATG), kidney (82% Alem vs 61% rATG, p = 0.17) or pancreas (68% Alem vs 56% rATG) graft survival rates. Five years death-censored kidney (92% Alem vs 69% rATG, p = 0.09) and pancreas (76% Alem vs 56% rATG, p = 0.198) graft survival rates were slightly higher in patients receiving Alem. Acute rejection (21% Alem vs 44% rATG, p = 0.12) and major infection (39% Alem vs 67% rATG, p = 0.13) rates were slightly lower in the Alem group; cytomegalovirus infections were significantly lower (0 Alem vs 17% rATG, p = 0.05). The incidence of late acute rejection was low in both groups. There were no differences in early pancreas thrombosis (3.6% Alem vs 11% rATG), postoperative bleeding (11% Alem vs 0 rATG), other surgical complications, readmissions or freedom from steroids between groups. In patients with functioning grafts, 5 years mean serum creatinine (1.4 Alem vs 1.6 mg/dl rATG), calculated abbreviated modification of diet in renal disease glomerular filtration rate (55 Alem vs 52 ml/min/1.73 m2 rATG), hemoglobin A1c (both 5.4%) and C-peptide (2.6 Alem vs 2.3 ng/ml rATG) levels were similar. Conclusions: Single-dose Alem and multiple-dose rATG induction provide similar midterm patient survival and graft functional outcomes with no major differences in morbidity or resource utilization.
Predictors of Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Cirrhosis

Background/Aim: Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) impairs patient’s daily functioning of life. Predictors of MHE in cirrhotic patients have not been evaluated. Patients and Methods: A total of 200 cirrhotic patients (Child A, 74 [37%]; Child B, 72 [36%]; Child C, 54 [27%]) were evaluated by psychometry, P300 auditory event-related potential (P300ERP) and critical flicker frequency (CFF). MHE was diagnosed by abnormal psychometry (>2 S.D.) and P300ERP (>2.5 S.D.). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the predictors of MHE. Results: Eighty-two (41%) patients were diagnosed to have MHE – 26/74 (35%) in Child A, 26/72 (36%) in Child B and 30/54 (56%) in Child C. Ninety-seven (48.5%) patients had abnormal psychometric tests, and 96 (48%) had prolonged P300ERP (>358 ms). Sixteen (16.5%) patients with abnormal psychometry had P300ERP < 358 ms, and 15 (14.5%) patients with normal psychometry results had P300ERP > 358 ms. One hundred and three patients had CFF value < 39 Hz with specificity of 86.6% and sensitivity of 72.9% for MHE. Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) (17.9 ± 5.7 vs. 13.4 ± 4.2, P = 0.005), Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score (8.4 ± 2.5 vs. 7.7 ± 2.2, P = 0.02), ammonia (104.8 ± 37.9 vs. 72.5 ± 45.2 µmol/L, P = 0.001) and CFF (37.0 ± 2.8 vs. 41.0 ± 3.4 Hz, P = 0.001) were significantly higher in MHE as compared to non-MHE patients. Ninety-one (45.5%) patients had MELD > 15.5, 115 (57.5%) had CTP score > 7.5, while 93 (46.5%) had venous ammonia > 84.5 µmol/L. On univariate analysis, MELD (8.52 [95% CI, 4.46-16.26; P = 0.001]), CFF (17.34 [95% CI, 8.16-36.85; P = 0.001]) and venous ammonia (7.80 [95% CI, 4.11-14.81; P = 0.003]) were associated with MHE; while CTP score (1.51 [95% CI, 0.85-2.69; P = 0.30]) was not significant. On multivariate analysis, MELD, CFF and venous ammonia were predictive of MHE. Conclusion: Prevalence of MHE in this study was 41%; and MELD > 15.5, CFF < 39 Hz and venous ammonia > 84.5 µmol/L were predictive of MHE.
Men's Arrack Drinking and Domestic Violence against Women in a Bangladeshi Village

Arrack, indigenously made and known as tari, is a widely-used alcoholic beverage among poor drinkers in rural Bangladesh. This study examines the influences of men's arrack drinking habits on violence against women at the family level in Parbattipur, a typical village of northwest Bangladesh. Fifty purposively-selected married male arrack drinkers as well as their wives were interviewed singly by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Results show that arrack drinkers suffer from behavioral abnormalities. It creates family problems and women are often victimized by their husbands' drunken behaviors. Although violence against women is a common phenomenon in rural Bangladesh, it is argued that men's habitual arrack drinking behaviors, through the interplay of a patriarchal family structure, are directly linked with incidences of violence against women within marriage.
Strategies to circumvent humoral immunity to adeno-associated viral vectors

Introduction: Recent success in gene therapy of certain monogenic diseases in the clinic has infused enthusiasm into the continued development of recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors as next-generation biologics. However, progress in clinical trials has also highlighted the challenges posed by the host humoral immune response to AAV vectors. Specifically, while pre-existing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) limit the cohort of eligible patients, NAb generation following treatment prevents vector re-dosing. Areas covered: In this review, we discuss a spectrum of complementary strategies that can help circumvent the host humoral immune response to AAV. Expert opinion: Specifically, we present a dual perspective, that is, vector versus host, and highlight the clinical attributes, potential caveats and limitations as well as complementarity associated with the various approaches.
Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells as a strategy to improve recovery after stroke

Introduction: Based on the positive results observed in experimental animal models, adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) constitute a promising therapy for stroke treatment. However, several aspects need to be clarified to identify the optimal conditions for successful clinical translation. Areas covered: This review focuses on AD-MSC treatment for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in experimental animal models. In addition, we will explore the optimization of treatment conditions including AD-MSC production, administration routes and therapeutic windows for their appropriate use in patients. Finally we will provide an update on clinical trials on this therapy. Expert opinion: Compared with other cell types, AD-MSCs have been less investigated in stroke studies. Currently, experimental animal models have shown safety and efficacy with this treatment after stroke. Due to several advantages of AD-MSCs, such as their abundance and accessibility, they can be considered a promising strategy for use in patients. However, many questions are still to be resolved regarding their mechanisms of action, immune system modulation and the effects of AD-MSCs on all components of the brain that may be affected after ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.
Stem cell therapy for kidney disease

Introduction: Kidney diseases are a global public health problem whose incidence is rapidly growing due to a global rise in the aged population and the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes. With the emergence of stem cells as potential therapeutic agents, attempts in using them to significantly reduce the burden of these diseases have increased. Areas covered: Several types of stem cells have been proven to be likely candidates for treating kidney diseases. We discuss in detail the potential use of mesenchymal stem cells in preclinical and clinical works, with additional populations that have been studied briefly described. Moreover, we discuss current knowledge on endogenous kidney regeneration ability and on the possibility to modulate it using chemical and biological agents. Expert opinion: Stem cell therapy is a promising new treatment for kidney disease documented in many animal studies. Mesenchymal stem cells have emerged as a promising cell type, but their efficacy in clinical trials is still controversial. Identification of progenitor cells in the adult kidney is another step forward in regenerative medicine, suggesting the repair potential of the adult kidney and the possible modulation of renal progenitors in situ using pharmacological approaches.
Epidemiology and prevention of metabolic syndrome

The metabolic syndrome (SM) is an assembly of associated conditions such as dislipidemia, arterial hypertension, intolerance to the glucose and obesity. At the beginning was described in 1988, and currently very is approved that is a matter of a situation of health that promotes the aterosclerosis. The Systems of Health of the diverse countries have increasing their interest in the SM, to the extent of
Labeling and Biological Evaluation of 99mTc-HYNIC-Trastuzumab as a Potential Radiopharmaceutical for In Vivo Evaluation of HER2 Expression in Breast Cancer

The amplification of HER2 gene has been described in several tumor types, mainly breast cancer with a subsequent increase in HER2 protein expression. Trastuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that recognizes selectively the HER2 extracellular domain. The objective of the present work was to standardize the conjugation of Trastuzumab with Succinimidyl-hydrazinonicotinamide (HYNIC) and labeling with 99mTc to obtain 99mTc-HYNIC-Trastuzumab for use as in vivo tracer of the HER2 expression in breast cancer. The labeling procedure involved derivatization of 0.067 μmol of Trastuzumab with 0.33 μmols of HYNIC in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The mixture was incubated for 30 min. A mixture of Tricine and SnCl2.2H2O was prepared by add a solution of 44.6 μmols Tricine in 0.05 mL HCl 2.0 M and a similar volume of another solution containing 44.3 μmols SnCl2.2H2O in 0.5 mL HCl 2.0 M. Then, 0.05 mL of this mixed was added to the conjugated with 296 MBq of 99mTcO-4. The final mixture was incubated at room temperature (18-25°C) for 30 min. Radiochemical purity of the labeled solution was studied by chromatography, to evaluate 99mTc-Tricine, 99mTcO2.H2O, and free 99mTcO4−. Radiochemical purity was also evaluated by HPLC. Stability studies were tested in solution at 4°C and lyophilized at 4°C. Biodistribution studies were performed in healthy CD-1 female mice at 2, 5, and 24 h (n = 3) and CD-1 female mice spontaneous breast adenocarcinoma (n = 3). Scintigraphic images of spontaneous breast adenocarcinoma in female CD-1 mice were acquired in a gamma camera at 2, 5, and 24 h post-injection. Labeling was easily performed with high yields (>90%) and radiopharmaceutical stability for 24 h post-labeling. Stability studies revealed that antibody derivative must be lyophilized for undamaged storage. Biodistribution studies and imaging revealed excellent uptake in the tumor. Based on the results it was concluded that 99mTc-HYNIC-Trastuzumab could be a promising radiopharmaceutical for in vivo diagnosis of the HER2 status in breast with impact on treatment planning.
Autologous and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in follicular lymphoma

Introduction: High-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) improve survival in follicular lymphoma; however, relapse remains the most common cause of death. The lower risk of relapse with allogeneic SCT (alloSCT) is offset by a high transplant-related mortality (TRM). Areas Covered: English articles indexed in the MEDLINE database were reviewed to discuss the role of graft purging, rituximab maintenance after ASCT, reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) alloSCT, T-cell depletion, donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) and alternate donor sources. Expert Opinion: Optimal salvage consolidation strategy may utilize ASCT following non-total body irradiation-based conditioning regimen in second remission. Rituximab maintenance after ASCT may improve molecular remission but is not yet shown to improve overall survival. RIC alloSCT permits its use in older and less-fit patients. Studies with T-cell depleted graft failed to reduce TRM despite a decline in graft-versus-host disease; however, these studies did demonstrate a therapeutic role of DLI in post-transplant relapses. In recent years, haploidentical and umbilical cord blood donors have emerged as alternative donor sources, with outcomes comparable to matched unrelated donor SCT. In the future, incorporation of novel therapeutic agents, improved risk-adapted treatment strategies, and advancement of transplant techniques may provide a better chance of survival.
False Negative 99mTc-Hydroxymethane Diphosphonate Three-phase Bone Scintigraphy and 99mTc-besilesomab Scan in Detecting Tibia Osteomyelitis Concomitant with Necrotizing Fasciitis

We described a case of 51-year-old female patient presented with a right calf necrotising fasciitis (NF) where osteomyelitis (OM) was suspected. 99mTc-hydroxymethane diphosphonate three-phase bone scintigraphy and 99mTc-besilosomab scan failed to demonstrate classical features of OM. The final diagnosis was only made by isolating Acinetobacter sp. in both intra-operative bone and tissue cultures from below-knee amputation. As conclusions, the detection of lower limb OM by 99mTc-besilosomab scan is not easy when there is concurrence overlying NF. The unusual three-phase bone scan finding of pericortical accumulation of tracer as an early sign of OM is highlighted in this case.
Update on emerging drugs for cancer cachexia

Cancer cachexia is a complex syndrome that describes the progressive muscle wasting and weakness in many cancer patients. Muscle wasting reduces the ability of affected patients to perform the tasks of daily living and causes severe fatigue, leading to a reduction in quality of life. Cancer cachexia reduces patient response to anti-neoplastic treatments, increases the risk of postoperative complications and accounts for > 20% of cancer-related deaths. The pathogenesis of cancer cachexia is multifactorial and includes anorexia, inflammation, metabolic disturbances and enhanced muscle proteolysis, and each of these presents as a potential therapeutic target for ameliorating cancer cachexia. Objective: This review provides an update on some of the emerging drugs for cancer cachexia. Methods: This is a review of the current status of emerging therapies for cancer cachexia. Results: An increasing number of studies are focused on the development of novel therapies for cancer cachexia. Initial studies concentrated on the treatment of anorexia, but now aim to attenuate inflammation or muscle proteolysis, or to use different drugs in combination so as to treat several aspects of cachexia simultaneously. Conclusions: There are several existing and emerging drugs with the potential to ameliorate cancer cachexia, but the most efficacious treatment will probably come from combined drug therapies.