bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphodiesterase Activities in the Eye of Old and Young Rats in Normoxic, Hypoxic and Hyperoxic Atmospheres
Authors: Spoto G. , Contento A. , Di Nicola M. , Bianchi G. , Di Giulio C. , Lobefalo L. , Forcella S.
Published: January 2017

Phosphodiesterase activity was tested on homogenized eyes of young and old rats kept in hypoxic and hyperoxic conditions, with the aim of correlating any difference in PDE activity with aging and variations in atmospheric oxygen contents. The activities of the two enzymes, cAMP phosphodiesterase (cAMP-PDE) and cGMP phosphodiesterase (cGMP-PDE), were tested. Phosphodiesterases seem to be particularly susceptible to variations in oxygen tension, suggesting an important role of cyclic nucleotides in cellular adaptive processes. Particularly, cAMP-PDE activity increases lightly both in hypoxic and hyperoxic conditions in young and old rats. For cGMP-PDE activity of young rats, a similar behaviour to cAMP-PDE activity is observed with a similar increase in hypoxic and hyperoxic conditions respect to the control rats. Instead old rats seem to be quite insensible to hypoxia, while they show a fair increase in cGMP-PDE activity in the case of hyperoxia.

The second messengers cAMP and cGMP play important roles in mediating the biological effects of a wide variety of first messengers. The intracellular levels of cyclic nucleotides depend upon rates of synthesis and degradation, actuated, respectively, by cyclases and phosphodiesterases (PDEs). Therefore, PDEs seem to play an important role in a wide variety of physiological processes.
Evaluation of the Effects of a Cosmetic Cream on Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Results of a Multicentre Open Trial
Authors: Cassano N. , Foti C. , Centofanti S. , Del Brocco L. , Donato L. , Ferrari A. , Bandiera A. , Colella V. , D'Argento V. , Di Pierro G. , Giglio G. , Mastrolonardo M. , Marzocca V. , Pietrantonio V. , Schiraldi G. , Ottomano L. , Pugliese A. , Vena G.A.
Published: January 2017

The symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) are often controlled by topical corticosteroids, which, however, are not suitable for the long-term management owing to the risk of side effects. Moisturizers can be used to prevent ICD and to treat lesions of mild to moderate severity. In this study we want to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of a cosmetic cream (Efaderm® cream), containing a mixture of substances with moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects ( borago officinalis oil, soy sterol, urea, lithium glycyrrethinate, carbocysteine, tocopheryl acetate, coenzyme Q10, allantoin), in the treatment of ICD. Three hundred and twelve patients with ICD entered the study. ICD was induced by either occupational or non-occupational factors, affected various skin sites, especially the hands, and was characterized by a subacute, recurrent or chronic course in the majority of cases. The cream was applied on lesionai skin twice a day, or more frequently if needed, for approximately 4 weeks. Most patients (n. 179) did not adopt preventive measures (e.g., irritant avoidance, suspension of working activities, use of protective gloves). After treatment, there was a significant improvement (P<0.001) of symptoms and signs of ICD (erythema, scaling/dryness, oozing/crusting, excoriations/fissuring, pruritus/burning), independently on the use of prevention. Patient's assessment of overall effectiveness was positive in the majority of cases.
Fat Soluble Vitamins and Immune System: An Overview
Authors: Riccioni G. , D'Orazio N. , Menna V. , De Lorenzo A.
Published: January 2017

The immune system guards against invasion by foreign microrganisms and molecules. In this way, it protects from fatal illnesses and communicable diseases. Its proper functioning is fundamental for survival.

Research has demonstrated that proper nutrition plays a crucial role in the prevention of chronic disease. Protein-energy malnutrition is associated with a significant impairment of cell-mediated immunity, phagocyte function, the complement system, secretory immunoglobulin A antibody concentrations, and cytokine production. Deficiency of single nutrients also results in altered immune responses; this is observed even when the deficiency state is relatively mild. Of the micronutrients, zinc, selenium, iron, copper, vitamins A,C,E and B, and folic acid have important influences on the immune response.

It is now apparent that vitamin E and β-carotene have more subtle roles and that deficient dietary intake of these vitamins increases susceptibility to certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. This reflects, in part, the antioxidant properties of the vitamins and their ability to reduce free radical-mediated damage to DNA, proteins and lipid membranes. These findings have considerable practical and public health significance. The aim of this review is to give an up-to date account of the roles of selected fat-soluble vitamins in health and disease.
PLP Induced Inhibition of Thymidylate Synthase Activity in T Lymphocytes
Authors: Palasopoulou M. , Haitoglou C. , Papageorgiou G. , Dimitriadou A.
Published: January 2017

The present study was undertaken in order to examine whether pyridoxine may be used as an inhibitor of thymidylate synthase, and thus, as an antiproliferative agent. It has already been shown by others that pyridoxal phosphate binds thymidylate synthase in vitro. Phytohemagglutinin-stimulated T lymphocytes were cultured in the presence of pyridoxine in various concentrations. Enzyme activity was measured in supernatants of sonicated cell extracts. Our results show that pyridoxine effectively inhibits thymidylate synthase (up to 60–70%) and therefore DNA synthesis (up to 42%) and cell division. We also present evidence that pyridoxine must be phosphorylated to PLP in order to exert its inhibitory effect. Our results suggest that pyridoxal phosphate, in addition to its function as a coenzyme, may have a role in regulating DNA synthesis through modulation of thymidylate synthase activity. Our findings also indicate that pyridoxal phosphate might be tested for its potential immunosuppressive and/or chemotherapeutic action, alone or in combination with other antiproliferative agents.
Cox-2 Expressed with Insulin in Pancreatic Beta-Cells, and in the Infiltrated Leukocytes in Inflamed Islets of Diabetic Mice
Authors: Luo C. , Simell O. , Kung H.F. , He M.L.
Published: January 2017

In the event of the onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D) the circulating autoantibodies against the beta-cell of the pancreas are attacked by macrophages and autoreactive lymphocytes under the influence of different cytokines. Eventually, beta-cells are destroyed through apoptosis, or natural killer cells, or a scavenger process. Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 is constitutively expressed in beta-cells, the possible role in insulin secretion and insulitis has been suggested. However, COX-2 with lymphocytes and other infiltrated leukocytes on diabetogenesis remains largely elusive. We injected diabetic lymphocytes of non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice to NOD/SCID mice for adoptive transfer. The diabetogenesis of adoptive transferred NOD/SCID mice was tested with supplements of COX-2 inhibitor or the substrate, arachidonic acid, in the diets under placebo control. The tissues of intestine and pancreas of BALB/c, NOD and NOD/SCID mice were immunohistochemically analyzed. COX-2 and insulin were revealed in the vesicles of beta-cells in intact islets of BALB/c mice. The lymphocyte tracking of the transferred lymphocytes and COX-2 expression in beta-cells and emerged leukocytes showed that celecoxib, or the substrate did not change the pattern of lymphocyte accumulation in the pancreas compared to placebo, even though the development of severe diabetes was slightly different. COX-2 was only expressed in macrophages, rather than infiltrated lymphocytes. Morphology showed that the emerged lymphocytes migrated from outside islets indicating that the disructive impact of COX-2 on beta cells is probably limited. The enhanced expression of COX-2 and insulin in random beta-cells is likely associated with the genesis of diabetes, a possible mechanism to increase or extend insulin secretion in the late period of insulitis.
The Role of Alteration of Glutamic Acid and Gaba in Learning and Memory Impairment of Rats Induced by Aluminum
Authors: Niu Q. , Niu P. , Zhang Q. , Wang L. , He S. , Di Gioacchino M. , Boscolo P.
Published: January 2017

Aluminum exposure has been reported to be related to learning and memory impairment. This study examines the role of aluminum in alterating amino acids of the cerebral cortex of rats. The Step-down type tests were performed to investigate the alteration of learning and memory of rats induced by aluminum. The amino acids in the cerebral cortex were detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HLPC). Results show that the amounts of aluminum in the cerebral cortex increased by 5.0mgAl3+/(Kg·BW) group and 10.0mg Al3+/(Kg·BW) group. In the Step-down type test, the EN1 increased significantly in the Al3+ 10.0mg/(Kg·BW) group. The latency shortened obviously and the EN2 increased significantly in the 10.0mg Al3+/(Kg·BW) group. The content of Glu (Glutamic acid) increased but the content of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) decreased significantly in the 10.0mg Al3+/(Kg·BW) group. This present study shows evidence that the disorder of amino acid neurotransmitters system plays an important role in the impairment of learning and memory of rats induced by aluminum.
Focus on Vitiligo: A Generalized Skin Disorder
Authors: Moretti S. , Amato L. , Bellandi S. , Fabbri P.
Published: January 2017

Vitiligo is an acquired pigmentation disorder due to a disappearance of functioning melanocytes from the epidermis and clinically characterized by achromic patches, often spreading over time. It is still not fully understood how melanocytes disappear in vivo, inducing these peculiar lesions. There are three major hypotheses for the pathogenesis of the disease: the autoimmune hypothesis considers that the disappearance of melanocytes is due to an autoimmune effector mechanism, the neural hypothesis suggests that an accumulation of neurochemical substances is able to damage epidermal melanocytes, and the metabolic hypothesis indicates that an increased sensitivity of melanocytes to oxidative stress is the crucial factor of the disease. Besides these well accepted hypotheses there are also some new interpretations based on a defective adhesion of melanocytic cells, an imbalance in the epidermal production of cytokines and an altered expression of melanocyte receptors. All these theories seem to be based on convincing evidence, indicating that they may contribute in variable proportions to the disease. There is also reasonable evidence at present that vitiligo potentially involves the whole integument, suggesting that it is a generalized skin disorder probably including different cell types during the active phase of the disease. It appears that the different theories may integrate with each other, supporting the concept that in vitiligo there is a final common step, i.e. a loss of pigment in the epidermis as well as different, possibly interacting, pathways leading up to this conclusive result.
Susceptibility and Resistance to Canine Leishmaniose is Associated to Polymorphisms of the Canine TNF-α Gene
Authors: Symeonidou I. , Hatzistilianou M. , Papadopoulos E. , Dovas C.I. , Karagouni E. , Pappa S. , Pantzartzi C.N. , Kourelis A. , Frydas S.
Published: January 2017

The prevalence of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) infection in an enzootic area is considerably higher than the overall prevalence of the disease, suggesting a role of host genetics related to the outcome of the disease. It is accepted that one determining factor for the outcome of CanL is the type of the triggered immune response, which seems to be genetically determined. TNF-α is a cytokine which plays a crucial role during the immune response against Leishmania parasites. In the present study a case-control study with 20 resistant and 20 susceptible dogs was performed. The distribution of breeds was equal in both groups. By Sanger method the nucleotide sequence upstream the Open Reading Frame of the canine TNF-α gene was determined and four polymorphisms were identified (−40 C/A, −1134 T/G, −1150 T/C κα −1243 C/G). Statistical analysis showed that the polymorphism TNF-α −40 C/A is correlated with susceptibility to CanL, while the polymorphism TNF-α −1243 C/G is correlated with resistance to CanL. Further statistical analysis, regarding the possible correlation of gender as well as clinical manifestations of the disease with the above-mentioned polymorphisms of the TNF-α gene, showed no significant findings. Further analysis of the above polymorphisms, as well as identification of more polymorphisms in candidate genes, is required to provide a better understanding of the complex underlying immune response in CanL.
Post-Traumatic and Psychiatric Symptoms among Young Earthquake Survivors in Primary Care Camp Hospital
Authors: Pollice R. , Bianchini V. , Marola V. , Verni L. , Di Mauro S. , Ussorio D. , Cavicchio A. , Ortenzi R. , Roncone R. , Casacchia M.
Published: January 2017

Earthquakes have been found to be associated with increased prevalence of psychiatric disorders: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with a diagnosis range of 1.5%-74%, depression, anxiety and sleep disorders and substance abuse. Risk factors are varied: exposure to the earthquake, closeness to the epicenter, disruption of social network, financial loss, female sex, low educational level, etc. PTSD diagnosis is difficult because people unconsciously neglect traumatic history and ignore consequences. Between April 6th 2009 and September 2009, 323 young survivors aged between 18 and 30 years were screened for PTSD symptoms at the S.M.I.L.E., a psychiatric service for young people at the L'Aquila Camp Hospital. The screening assessment consisted of: a socio-demographic schedule with questions about earthquake experience, the General Health Questionnaire-12 items (GHQ-12), Impact Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) and Semi-structured Clinical Interview Diagnosis II (SCID-II). Regarding psychiatric morbidity, 44.2% and 37.4% had respectively moderate and high stress levels. Female gender and unemployment were significantly correlated (p<.001) with stress level and Obsessive-Compulsive (OC) trait. After screening assessment, the 66.7% (N=215) of total sample showed a positive post-traumatic symptomatology with 13.8% of PTSD diagnosis. Obsessive-Compulsive trait, female gender, destruction of housing and high level of stress (GHQ ≥ 20) were significant predictors for a PTSD diagnosis when compared with subjects positive for PTSD symptomatology but without a PTSD diagnosis according to DSM-IV criteria. Personality features must be considered important risks for post-traumatic consequences: OC trait was significantly associated with a high score on the GHQ-12 (≥20) and is a significant predictor of PTSD symptoms (“re-experiencing” dimension). Houses destroyed, gender and unemployed were also important risk factors. Our study confirms that a natural disaster produces high levels of mental disorders with significant long-term risk of chronic impairment, such as the development of a PTSD diagnosis (13.8%) with enormously costly consequences for the mental health care system and society. This should be a high priority in a public health program.
The Role of Osteoprotegrin/Nuclear Factor kB Ligand in Coronary Collateral Development
Authors: Maghbooli Z. , Hossein-Nezhad A. , Shirzad M. , Behzadi H.
Published: January 2017

Osteoprotegrin (OPG), as a member of the TNF family is demonstrated to be a potential regulator of the endothelial function and angiogenesis by neutralization of nuclear factor kB ligand (RANKL). We investigated the OPG and RANKL gene expressions in circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of Coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with different extents of coronary collateral development. In a cross-sectional study, 206 individuals with angiographically documented CAD were recruited. Severity of CAD was defined by the number of involved coronary vessels. The Rentrop scoring system was used to grade the extent of collateral development. Grade 0 or 1 collateralization was considered poor collateralization. RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis were performed. OPG and RANKL gene expressions were evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR. Among patients with CAD, 48.5% (100), 16.5%(34) and 35%(72) were considered to have one to three degrees of coronary artery involvement, respectively. The OPG and the ratio of OPG to RANKL expression were significantly elevated in patients with well-developed collateralization. In a logistic regression, severity of CAD was associated with a better collateral development, and OPG gene over expression was correlated with a better collateralization, independently of other variables. In conclusion, it seems that OPG might have an important role in prognosis of CAD; its up-regulation is parallel with CAD severity while it can enhance collateral development.
Anti-Frostbite Effects of Prunus Tomentosa Thunb Total Flavone
Authors: Zhang C-Y. , Shao S-H. , Chen X. , Shi Y-L.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study is to assess the influence of Prunus Tomentosa Thunb Total Flavone (PTTTF) on rabbits' frostbitten ears and on expressions of Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP-9) in mouse frostbitten tissues and IL-1β in mouse Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs). Twelve New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into two groups, both ears of each rabbit were frostbitten by liquid nitrogen. PTTTF and triamcinolone acetonide acetate ointment (TAAO) were spread on the left ear for 7 days, and the right ear was not treated as control. Therapeutic effects of the drugs and the pathological changes were observed. Drugs (PTTTF and TAAO) were prophylactically spread on the skin of the paws of mice for 5 days. After paw frostbitten models were established, the agents were consecutively spread for another 2 days. Expressions of MMP-9 in frostbitten tissues and IL-1β in PBMCs were respectively detected by the immunohistochemical method and RT-PCR. Compared with controls, four days later, the swelling inhibiting rate of PTTTF was 26.84%, and was 32.52% seven days later. The therapeutic effect of PTTTF was better than that of TAAO. Pathological changes of PTTTF group showed the effusion of a small quantity of neutrophil granulocytes and the tissue dropsy was not obvious. Expressions of both MMP-9 and IL-1β were significantly decreased in PTTTF group compared with those in model control group. There was no significant difference in expressions of MMP-9 and IL-1β between PTTTF group and TAAO group. We concluded that PTTTF produced a significant therapeutic effect on the frostbite of the rabbits' ears. PTTTF could inhibit expressions of MMP-9 in frostbite tissues and IL-1β in PBMCs to relieve the frostbite inflammation.
Raynaud's Phenomenon and Scleroderma Associated with Silicone Gel Breast Implants: An Example of Asia Syndrome
Authors: Del Giacco S.R. , Firinu D. , Piludu G. , Settembrini A.M. , Tulli M. , Pirari P. , Nalli E. , Mura M.N. , Manconi P.E. , Del Giacco G.S.
Published: January 2017

Silicone-gel breast implants (SBI) have been widely used for breast augmentation. Although silicone is generally considered an inert substance, there has been much debate recently on its role in inducing chronic inflammation and systemic connective tissue diseases. The case of a young woman affected by Raynaud's Phenomenon (RP), worsening of vitiligo and of autoimmune thyroiditis following SBI is reported in this paper. Removal of SBI led to temporary RP remission; however, despite notable clinical improvement, nailfold capillary microscopy showed progressive microcirculatory abnormalities consistent with a diagnosis of early scleroderma. Follow-up of the patient led to the diagnosis of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) with pulmonary hypertension. The development of SSc after SBI is described, a condition that falls into the recently recognized “ASIA” (Autoimmune/inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants) syndrome. Nailfold capillary microscopy is a valuable tool in early SSc diagnosis, in monitoring disease activity and in establishing the risk of an aggressive course of connective tissue disease following silicone breast implantation. The relationship between silicone and the immune system requires further reports and investigation in order to determine the main individual risk factors predisposing to the wide spectrum of adjuvant-induced responses.
Synergistic Effect of Regeneration and Inflammation via Ibuprofen-Loaded Electrospun Fibrous Scaffolds for Repairing Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Yuan Z. , Zhao J. , Yang Z. , Li B. , Yang H. , Cui W. , Zheng Q.
Published: January 2017

Adult skeletal muscle regeneration involves serial steps among which inflammation in the wounded area is critical for the healing process. However, accelerated tissue regeneration and the inhibition of excessive inflammation are always the targets of tissue engineering, because excessive inflammation in the early stage can impede the regeneration in the following step. In this study, a feasible ibuprofen-loaded poly (L-lactide) (PLLA) fibrous scaffold was designed to evaluate the ability of preventing excessive inflammatory response and promoting regeneration using 35 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. The cytotoxicity assay of PLLA and ibuprofen-loaded PLLA fibrous scaffolds (IBU/PLLA) showed that there were no significant cell cytotoxicity on L6 cells. The histological results showed that the IBU/PLLA group had slighter inflammation than PLLA and control groups during the whole process. In the later stage, the regeneration process of the IBU/PLLA group took place on the 7th day, which was almost more than one week earlier than the PLLA and control groups. qRT-PCR analysis further displayed that the IBU/PLLA group had a lower level of inflammatory factors and higher expression of repair factors than the PLLA and control groups, especially from the 7th day, and lasted until the 21st day. Furthermore, there were no statistical differences between the PLLA group and the control group from histological results and qRT-PCR analysis. Taken together, through the muscle wound healing process, the results demonstrated that the ibuprofen-loaded PLLA fibrous scaffolds had better control of excessive inflammation and faster process of healing than non-ibuprofen-loaded groups.
Viral Anti-Inflammatory Proteins Target Diverging Immune Pathways with Converging Effects on Arterial Dilatation, Plaque and Apoptosis
Authors: Davids J.A. , Dai E. , Chen H. , Bartee M.Y. , Liu L. , Fortunel A. , Moyer R. , McFadden G. , Lucas A.R.
Published: January 2017

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are often fatal due to atherosclerosis, thromboembolism, rupture, and hemorrhage, however, treatment is limited to expectant monitoring and surgical intervention. Inflammation is detected in aneurysms and in plaque with associated increased apoptosis, chemokines, cytokines, hemorrhage, and thrombosis. We compared treatment with three different myxomavirus-derived anti-inflammatory proteins targeting apoptosis, thrombosis, and chemokine pathways. The effect of each protein on aortic dilatation and plaque growth was assessed after angioplasty in Apolipoprotein Enull mice. Four myxomavirus-derived proteins were studied; Serp-1 a serine protease inhibitor (serpin) targeting thrombotic and thrombolytic proteases, Serp-2 a cross-class serpin inhibiting granzyme B and caspases 1 and 8, M-T7 a broad spectrum C, CC, and CXC chemokine inhibitor, and R171E, an inactive M-T7 mutant. Cell invasion, elastin breaks, plaque progression, and aortic dilatation were significantly reduced by Serp-1, Serp-2, or M-T7 protein treatment, but not by R171E. PCR array analysis detected altered expression of a group of shared 40 apoptotic genes in monocytes after treatment with each active protein, but not R171E. Interference with inflammatory cell responses, through highly divergent inflammatory response pathways, produces similar reductions in monocyte invasion, arterial dilatation, and plaque growth potentially through modified expression of apoptotic genes.
Osteoclast Generation and Cytokine Profile at Prosthetic Interfaces: A Study on Tissue of Patients with Aseptic Loosening or Implant-Associated Infections
Authors: Dapunt U. , Giese T. , Lasitschka F. , Lehner B. , Ewerbeck V. , Hänsch G.M.
Published: January 2017

Aseptic loosening of implants or loosening due to persistent bacterial infection remains a severe complication in orthopaedic surgery. To investigate underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms, particularly with regard to bone loss, tissue samples of patients requiring surgery were examined. By histological methods and by quantitative RT-PCR, respectively, infiltration of leukocytes, expression of osteoclast-typical genes and of proinflammatory cytokines was determined. Samples were taken directly from osteolytic sites and for comparison from adjacent sites, distant sites and from muscle. At osteolytic sites, cathepsin K and the metalloproteinases MMP1 and MMP9 were found, as was expression of inflammation-related cytokines, particularly of interleukin (IL)-1β, CXCL8, S100A9 and a very moderate expression of receptor activator of NfκB ligand (RANKL) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) a. Of note, expression of these parameters gradually decreased from sites of osteolysis to adjacent tissue, to distant tissue to muscle. In patients with infection and osteolysis, expression of cytokines, notably of CXCL8, was markedly enhanced, especially in adjacent and distant tissues, where expression was 10- to 20-fold higher compared to tissue of aseptic patients. A possible source of CXCL8 could be infiltrated cells, particularly neutrophils, because they were found in infected tissue only. Histological examination of the biopsies revealed an additional CXCL8 source, namely endothelial cells of small blood vessels. In conclusion, aseptic loosening and implant-associated infection are associated with osteoclast generation and a local inflammatory response. The proinflammatory environment could promote the differentiation of precursor cells to osteoclasts, thereby linking inflammation to bone resorption. The higher expression of cytokines, particularly of CXCL8 in tissue of patients with bacterial infection, could explain the accelerated time course of bone resorption as it occurs in infection compared to aseptic loosening.
Paths to Understand and to Limit Inflammation in Transfusions
Authors: Garraud O. , Hamzeh-Cognasse H. , Laradi S. , Cognasse F.
Published: January 2017

Transfusion is generally very safe. However, in a small number of cases, it leads to mild and even serious - life-threatening - hazards (most often after platelet component transfusion). In cases where no preventable accident happens (that exclude infection, chain error, malpractice, antigen-antibody conflict), the symptomatology resembles inflammation. The present essay reports on the causes of inflammation in transfusion and in which way one may intervene on the different steps of the process -from donor to patient - to limit such incidents/accidents.
Macrophage Activation and Patterns of Inflammation in Obese and Non-Obese Women with Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Renne M. , Conforti F. , Camastra C. , Donato A. , Donato G.
Published: January 2017

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) with M2 phenotype provide an immunosuppressive microenvironment for tumor growth. In contrast, A great deal of evidence indicates that macrophages in obese patients' adipose tissue undergo a phenotypic change from M2 to Ml polarization accelerating adipose tissue inflammation. Interestingly, obesity is considered a major risk factor for breast cancer. Here, we report a case-control study comparing normal-weight and obese women with breast cancer. Activation states of macrophages and patterns of inflammation associated to breast invasive ductal carcinoma were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. iNOS positive macrophages were counted as a Ml polarized population. Our study demonstrates that classically activated macrophages in obese patients outnumber classically activated macrophages in the breast of non-obese patients with infiltrating ductal carcinoma. However, cancer cell linked factors may strongly antagonize Ml macrophages' positive effects by both stimulating their switching to M2 TAMs and inhibiting their effects.
Alzheimer's Disease: From Genes to Nutrition
Authors: Venturini L. , Perna S. , Sardi F. , Faliva M.A. , Cavagna P. , Bernardinelli L. , Ricevuti G. , Rondanelli M.
Published: January 2017

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is widely identified as the most common cause of sporadic dementia. Its aetiology is still debated, as despite several hypotheses, different factors seem to play a role in its establishment and development. Recent studies have proposed a possible preventing role of nutrition. The weight loss typical of earlier phase of disease and the finding of malnutrition as a common trait between patients leads to hypothesize that a supplementation of specific nutrients seems to be useful and effective in terms of improvement of cognitive functions. Malnourished patients show also altered parameters when investigating inflammation markers: for example, hyperhomocysteinemia is a typical finding in elderly affected by dementia, and it can be prevented and corrected by using a proper nutrients supplementation. Pro-inflammatory state can be reduced with supplementation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins of the group B and phosphatidylserine, that can act reducing IL-1β (pro-inflammatory cytokine) and improving IL-10 (anti-inflammatory cytokine) synthesis. While investigating the role of nutrition, it seems to be deeply linked with genetic; a genetic onset AD-related could be latent and can be influenced by nutritional attitude. AD can be considered a sort of latent clinical condition that would disclose or not, depending also on micro-environment and nutritional parameters. The genetic expression can be influenced by assumptions or not of specific nutrients, with the promotion of different pro- or anti-inflammatory settings. The specific role of each micronutrient (in particular vitamins) and trace elements still needs to be punctuated, as they are involved in a pool of different reactions. Also genes acts not independently but in an interconnected pattern, in which the role of a single gene needs to be cleared, depending on others. This complex system of predisposing conditions and a possible role of nutrition as modulator of the inflammatory state is the object of this review.
Feasibility and Safety of Intraoperative Electrochemotherapy in Locally Advanced Pancreatic Tumor: A Preliminary Experience
Authors: Granata V. , Fusco R. , Piccirillo M. , Palaia R. , Lastoria S. , Petrillo A. , Izzo F.
Published: January 2017

Electrochemotherapy is an effective treatment for various cutaneous tumors and could be translated into treatment of deep-seated tumors. With this aim, a prospective clinical phase I/II study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility and safety of intraoperative Electrochemotherapy (ECT) in locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma: the preliminary results are reported in this study. The secondary endpoint was to assess treatment response in terms of morphological and functional criteria based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Eleven consecutive patients were enrolled in a clinical phase I/II study approved by the Ethics Committee of the National Cancer Institute G. Pascale Foundation - IRCCS of Naples. Electrochemotherapy with bleomycin was performed during open surgery. All patients underwent MR and CT scan, before and after ECT treatment, using morphological and functional imaging. RECIST criteria were used to evaluate ECT response on CT and MR images. Functional parameters were also used to evaluate ECT response on MR images. No acute (intraoperative) and/or postoperative serious adverse events related to electrochemotherapy were observed; no clinically significant electrocardiographic, hemodynamic, or serum biologic changes were noted. No clinically relevant elevation of amylase or lipase levels was observed and no bleeding or damage to surrounding viscera occurred. Electrochemotherapy of locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma proved to be a feasible and safe treatment modality. Dynamic and diffusion MR imaging is more suitable to assess ECT treatment response than CT imaging and morphological MR alone, after one month of treatment.
Silencing of Yap Gene Inhibits Metastasis in a Severe Combined Immune Deficiency Mice Orthotopic Implantation Gastric Cancer Model
Authors: Xia L.Q. , Zhang R. , Zhu J.S. , Zhang J. , Lu W.W. , Chen N.W.
Published: January 2017

YAP signaling has been proved to be involved in cell growth, invasion and metastasis in multiple malignancies. But little has been reported about the effects of YAP transduction on gastric cancer metastases. The present study was aimed to explore the effects of shRNA-mediated targeting of YAP gene on human gastric cancer metastases in severe combined immune deficiency (SCID) mice. Human gastric carcinoma cell line SGC7901 was implanted into the stomach of SCID mice, which were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=10). Via intraperitoneal injection, mice received YAP-shRNA, negative control, or normal saline respectively. The results of TUNEL and FQ-PCR showed an obvious induction of apoptosis in the YAP-shRNA group. Intratumoral vascular density and lymphatic density were suppressed in the YAP-shRNA group. In conclusion, silencing of YAP gene effectively induces the cell apoptosis and inhibits microvascular angiogenesis and lymphagiogenesis of gastric cancer cells in vivo, suggesting that YAP may serve as a promising therapeutic target for treatment of cancer.
On the right side of the heart: Medical and mechanical support of the failing right ventricle
Authors: de Asua Ignacio , Rosenberg Alex
Published: January 2017

Acute right ventricular failure remains an immensely challenging clinical condition associated with a high mortality rate. In this narrative review, we highlight the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying right ventricular failure and suggest an initial diagnostic approach to this critically ill group of patients. Based on the best available evidence and our cumulative clinical experience as a national cardiothoracic centre, we summarize the basic principles of medical management and mechanical salvage therapy, finalizing with a series of recommendations for the management of right ventricular failure in specific clinical scenarios.
Developing obstetric medicine training in Latin America
Authors: Rojas-Suarez José , Suarez Niza , Ateka-Barrutia Oier
Published: January 2017

Maternal mortality is an important indicator of health in populations around the world. The distribution of maternal mortality ratio globally shows that middle- and low-income countries have ∼99% of the mortality burden. Most countries of Latin America are considered to be middle- or low-income countries, as well as areas of major inequities among the different social classes. Medical problems in pregnancy remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality in this region. Previous data indicate the need for a call to action for adequate diagnosis and care of medical diseases in obstetric care. The impact of nonobstetric and medical pathologies on maternal mortality in Latin America is largely unknown. In Latin America, two educational initiatives have been proposed to improve skills in maternity care. The Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO®) was first started to address obstetric emergencies, and subsequently adapted for low-middle-income country settings as the Global ALSO®. In parallel, the Latin American obstetric anesthesia community has progressively focused on improvement of several intrapartum/intraoperative issues, which has secondarily taken them to embrace the obstetric medicine area on interest and join the former initiatives. In the present review, we summarize the available data regarding medical morbidity and mortality in pregnancy in Latin America, as well as the challenges, achievements, issues, initiatives, and future directions encouraging maternal health educators, health care trainers, and physicians in middle- and low-income countries, such as many Latin American ones, to improve and/or change attitudes, if needed, on current clinical practice.
Aqueous synthesis of thioglycollic acid-capped Tb3+-doped cadmium sulfur quantum dots
Authors: Wang Rongfang , Wei Xingming , Tao Pingfang , Wei Qinmin , Zhang Pei , Tan Yiguang
Published: January 2017

Cadmium sulfur nanocrystals doped with the rare earth ion Tb3+were synthesized using an easy aqueous method. Powder X-ray diffraction was used for the crystallography analysis of the nanocrystals. Results showed that cadmium sulfur: Tb3+quantum dots had a cubic crystal structure. Effects of the pH of the original solution and Tb3+-dopant amount on luminescence properties of cadmium sulfur quantum dots were also systematically investigated. The luminescence properties of cadmium sulfur quantum dots were further improved using an appropriate Tb3+-dopant amount.
Tibialis Anterior Tendon Reconstruction Using Augmented Half-Thickness Tendon Segment Transposition
Authors: Reb Christopher W. , Stenson James F. , Daniel Joseph N.
Published: January 2017

Tibialis anterior tendon rupture causes substantial morbidity. The present study describes the outcomes of augmented, half-thickness tibialis anterior tendon segment transposition, a novel reconstruction technique. This was an institutional review board–approved retrospective review of 3 patients with surgically treated attritional distal rupture with 1-year follow-up. The postdebridement tendon defect prohibited primary repair and was managed by distal transposition of a half-thickness healthy segment. This repair was augmented with human acellular dermal matrix allograft (Graftjacket, Wright Medical Technology, Memphis, TN). The mean age was 68 years (range, 59-73 years). Mean interval between injury and surgery was 59.3 days (range, 15-146 days). All patients regained symmetrical range of motion, motor power, and the ability to heel walk. Mean pain scores improved from 4.6 (range, 2.5-8.5) preoperatively to 0.7 (range, 0-2) postoperatively. Mean Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scores increased from 30.6 (range, 23.8-43.8) preoperatively to 78.7 (range, 72.6-97.6) postoperatively. No postoperative complications occurred. One patient was satisfied and 2 were very satisfied with their outcome. Although limited, the present findings appear to indicate that this technique produces short-term clinical results comparable to those described for other techniques for tibialis anterior tendon reconstruction.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Vulnerable carotid plaque imaging and histopathology without a dedicated MRI receiver coil
Authors: Fitzpatrick Laura A , Berkovitz Nadav , dos Santos Marlise P , Majeed Nevin , Glikstein Rafael , Chakraborty Santanu , Veinot John P , Stotts Grant , Berthiaume Alain , Chatelain Robert
Published: January 2017

Stroke is associated with vulnerable carotid artery plaques showing specific histopathologic features, namely a lipid-rich necrotic core, intraplaque hemorrhage, ulceration, and thin fibrous cap. While ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) can identify carotid plaques and determine the extent of stenosis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides further information regarding plaque composition and morphology.

In this feasibility study, three patients with symptomatic, moderately stenosed plaques were imaged with CT angiography (CTA) and MRI (3T and 1.5T) without a dedicated receiver coil. The patients subsequently underwent carotid endarterectomy with en-bloc excision of the plaque. The CT and MR images were analyzed independently by three neuroradiologists to identify vulnerable plaque features. The images were correlated with the histopathology to confirm the findings.

All three patients had one or more vulnerable plaque features on histopathology. MRI allowed for better characterization of these features when compared to CTA. The pre- and post-contrast T1-weighted (T1W) images were most helpful for identifying the lipid-rich necrotic core and thin fibrous cap, while the time of flight-magnetic resonance angiography (TOF-MRA) and contrast-enhanced (CE)-MRA were excellent for detecting plaque hemorrhage and ulceration, respectively. The 3T images showed superior spatial and contrast resolution compared to the 1.5T images for all sequences.

By providing direct correlation between imaging and histopathology, this study demonstrates that 3T MRI without a dedicated surface coil is an excellent tool for assessing plaque vulnerability. In smaller hospitals or those with limited resources, it is reasonable to consider conventional MRI for patient risk stratification. Further studies are needed to determine how MRI and plaque vulnerability can be incorporated into routine clinical practice.
Indications for Direct Laryngoscopic Examination of Vocal Cord Function Prior to Anterior Cervical Surgery
Authors: Gowd Anirudh , Nazemi Alireza , Carmouche Jonathan , Albert Todd , Behrend Caleb
Published: January 2017

Recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy (RLNP) is among the most common complications in both thyroid surgeries and anterior approaches to the cervical spine, having both a diverse etiology and presentation. Most bilateral paresis, with subsequent devastating impact on patients, are due to failure to recognize unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis and, although rare, are entirely preventable with appropriate history and screening. Recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy has been shown to present asymptomatically in as high as 32% of cases, which yields limitations on exclusively screening with physical examination. Based on the available literature, diagnosis of unilateral RLNP is the critical factor in preventing the occurrence of bilateral RLNP as the surgeon may elect to operate on the injured side to prevent bilateral paresis. Analysis of incidence rates shows postoperative development of unilateral RLNP is 13.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.1-28.1) and 13.90 (95% CI: 6.6-29.3) times more likely in anterior spine and thyroid surgery, respectively, in comparison with intubation. Currently, there is no consensus on when to order a preoperative laryngoscopic examination prior to anterior cervical spine surgery. The importance of patient history should be emphasized, as it is the basis for indications of preoperative laryngoscopy. Efforts to minimize postoperative complications must be made, especially when considering the rising rate of cervical fusion. This study presents a systematic review of the literature defining key causes of RLNP, with a probability-based protocol to indicate direct laryngoscopy prior to anterior cervical surgery as a screening tool in the prevention of bilateral RLNP.
Odontoid Fracture in a Patient With Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis
Authors: Omar Adan , Mesfin Addisu
Published: January 2017

Nonoperative management of fractures in the setting of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) or ankylosing spondylitis is often unsuccessful. The subaxial spine is a common site of hyperextension fractures in the setting of DISH. Fractures of the upper cervical spine are uncommon in DISH. We report, to our knowledge, the first case describing successful nonoperative management of a type 2 odontoid fracture in a patient with DISH. We discuss the patient’s initial presentation, physical examination, imaging findings, and management. A 73-year-old male presented with neck pain to the emergency department after sustaining a ground-level fall. Computed tomography of the cervical spine demonstrated a minimally displaced type 2 odontoid fracture in the setting of extensive DISH. He was immobilized with a hard cervical collar as the definitive management of his fracture. The collar was discontinued after 3 months. At his 2-year follow-up, he had a stable fibrous nonunion at the fracture site with tolerable neck pain. Flexion–extension radiographs demonstrated a stable alignment, and nonoperative management was continued. In selected patients with odontoid fractures in the setting of DISH, there is a role for nonoperative management alongside close monitoring.
Palliative Management of Nonoperative Femoral Neck Fractures With Continuous Peripheral Pain Catheters
Authors: Rashidifard Christopher H. , Romeo Nicholas M. , Muccino Paul , Richardson Mark , DiPasquale Thomas G.
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

To identify the success of pain catheters in the management of pain in nonoperatively treated femoral neck fractures (FNFs) in supplement to current multimodal protocols for end-of-life pain management.

Methods:

Twenty patients aged older than 50 years with FNFs were selected in a retrospective fashion at a level 1 trauma center. These patients were treated nonoperatively with indwelling continuous peripheral pain catheters to palliate pain. Adjunctive pain control for patients undergoing nonoperative management of FNFs was provided with an indwelling continuous intra-articular/peripheral nerve ropivacaine pain catheters. Pain scores 24 hours before/after continuous pain catheter placement, ambulation status before/after continuous pain catheter placement, mortality at 30 days/1 year, and length of hospital stay were measured.

Results:

Twenty patients were identified with an average age of 84.55 years. The average length of stay was 4.85 days with a decrease of 4.45 points on the visual analog scale and an improvement of 90% in ambulation status. Thirty-day and one-year mortality were 65% and 95%, respectively.

Conclusion:

This case series provides orthopedic surgeons with an option for and data on the success of this adjunct to palliate patients who elect to undergo nonoperative management of FNFs. This study also helps define which patients may be candidates for nonoperative management of geriatric hip fractures.
Impact of Consumers’ Self-Image and Demographics on Preference for Healthy Labeled Foods
Authors: Hanspal Savita , Devasagayam P. Raj
Published: January 2017

Consumers are becoming more health conscious. Increasingly, products that are labeled “healthy” are being marketed as new retailers and new brands vie for the consumers’ share of wallet. This research identifies the self-image factors that constitute a health conscious image of the self and examines how self-image impacts consumer buying of foods that are labeled healthy. It also makes an effort to find out whether specific self-image factors are significantly associated with demographics. This study employs a scale consisting of 15 statements that included four statements from the Health Consciousness scale developed by Gould. The psychometric properties of the scale used in the study are reported. The study uses factor analysis to identify five factors of consumer self-image as they relate to health consciousness. Furthermore, the study explores the relationship between demographics such as age, gender, education, and relationship status with the self-image factors and reports results for consumer preferences for choosing healthy foods when hungry. This research has important implications for marketers in the health food industry and for such other companies that might use consumer health consciousness as a basis for market segmentation and strategy design.