Type IV Hypersensitivity to Gold Weight Upper-Eyelid Implant: Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
Complications associated with gold-weight insertion for lagophthalmos are uncommon, recent reports have provided evidence to suggest that type IV hypersensitivity to gold can cause a persistent inflammatory reaction.

METHODS
We present a case of a 46-year-old man who experienced persistent post-operative inflammation, and summarize previously documented cases. This patient underwent uncomplicated insertion of an upper eyelid gold weight for right-sided facial nerve palsy. He had no allergies or implanted metalwork. Post-operatively erythema was noted at seven-weeks and did not resolve. The weight was removed after six-months.

RESULTS
The histopathological findings were in keeping with type IV hypersensitivity and similar to previous cases.

CONCLUSIONS
Although infrequent, this complication has poor outcomes. The definitive management is removal of the weight. Information regarding implanted gold, and previous reactions should be elicited pre-operatively. Type IV hypersensitivity should be considered in patients with persistent inflammation that do not respond to antibiotic or steroid therapy.

Kilduff|Caroline L S|CLS|
Casswell|Edward J|EJ|
Imonikhe|Richard|R|
Marjanovic|Branka|B|

type IV hypersensitivity
Gold weights
lagophthalmos
inflammation
persistent erythema


What are the predictive factors of caecal perforation in patients with obstructing distal colon cancer?

Abstract:
AIM
In the presence of large bowel obstruction, the choice of treatment is determined by the patient's general status, the tumour characteristics and the perceived risk of caecal perforation. This study was designed to evaluate the predictive factors of impending caecal perforation, and also investigated the use of caecal volumetry.

METHOD
From January 2011 to June 2016, patients with obstructive distal colon cancer undergoing emergency laparotomy, for whom a pretreatment CT scan was available, were included in this retrospective, case-control, two-centre study. Two patient groups were defined: patients with and without impending caecal perforation. The primary end-point of the study was a determination of predictive factors for caecal perforation.

RESULTS
A total of 72 patients (45 men, 62.5%) were included. Univariate analysis revealed that the presence of pericaecal fluid (P < 0.0001), caecal pneumatosis (P < 0.0001), mean maximum caecal diameter (P = 0.001), mean caecal diameter at the ileocaecal junction (P = 0.0001) and mean caecal volume (P = 0.001) were associated with caecal perforation. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that a caecal volume greater than 400 cm3 (P < 0.0001), a maximum caecal diameter > 9 cm (P = 0.002) and a caecal diameter at the ileocaecal junction > 7.5 cm (P = 0.001) were associated with impending caecal perforation. In multivariate analysis, only caecal volume > 400 cm3 (P = 0.001) was correlated with the risk of impending caecal perforation.

CONCLUSION
Caecal volumetry is an easy and useful tool to predict impending caecal perforation in patients with large bowel obstruction.

Sabbagh|C|C|
Siembida|N|N|
Yzet|T|T|
Robert|B|B|
Chivot|C|C|
Browet|F|F|
Mauvais|F|F|
Regimbeau|J M|JM|

CT scan
Colonic obstruction
cecal perforation


The PHAR-QA Project: Competency Framework for Pharmacy Practice-First Steps, the Results of the European Network Delphi Round 1.

Abstract: PHAR-QA, funded by the European Commission, is producing a framework of competences for pharmacy practice. The framework is in line with the EU directive on sectoral professions and takes into account the diversity of the pharmacy profession and the on-going changes in healthcare systems (with an increasingly important role for pharmacists), and in the pharmaceutical industry. PHAR-QA is asking academia, students and practicing pharmacists to rank competences required for practice. The results show that competences in the areas of "drug interactions", "need for drug treatment" and "provision of information and service" were ranked highest whereas those in the areas of "ability to design and conduct research" and "development and production of medicines" were ranked lower. For the latter two categories, industrial pharmacists ranked them higher than did the other five groups.


Detection and quantification of cytosolic DNA.

Abstract: Cytosolic DNA sensing is emerging to be a critical component of the antitumor immune response by jumpstarting innate immune responses subsequent to the stimulation of the cGAS and STING pathway. Investigating the accumulation of DNA species in the cytosol is therefore an essential readout for promising anticancer strategies. In this chapter, we present different techniques that can be utilized to detect and quantify cytosolic DNA accumulation.

D019085:Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Direct

Cytosolic DNA
DNA sensing
Innate immunity
cGAS
STING
Interferon type I


Arctium minus crude extract presents antinociceptive effect in a mice acute gout attack model.

Abstract: Gout is a disorder that triggers a severe inflammatory reaction which generates episodes of intense pain and discomfort to the patient. Arctium minus (Hill) Bernh. (Asteraceae) is known as "burdock" and displays anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, against rheumatic pain and radical-scavenging activities. Species of the genus Arctium have been used in assistant therapy of gout and other inflammatory processes. We investigated the antinociceptive and anti-edematogenic effects of the crude extract of A. minus seeds in an acute gout attack model induced by intra-articular injection of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in adult male Swiss mice (25-30 g). The crude extract of A. minus (100 mg/kg, p.o.) reduced the mechanical allodynia induced by the injection of MSU (1.25 mg/site, i.a.) from 4 until 8 h after its administration. A. minus seeds crude extract prevented mechanical allodynia at doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg, but not 10 mg/kg. Allopurinol (10 µg/mL) and A. minus crude extract (10-300 µg/mL) inhibited the xanthine oxidase activity in vitro. The A. minus seeds crude extract did not cause adverse effects since did not change the toxicological parameters evaluated. A. minus crude extract can be used as an assistant therapy of gout pain, supporting its traditional use, without causing adverse effects.

Pain
Burdock
MSU
Xanthine oxidase
Antioxidant
Joint


Antimicrobial agent triclosan is a proton ionophore uncoupler of mitochondria in living rat and human mast cells and in primary human keratinocytes.

Abstract: Triclosan (TCS) is an antimicrobial used widely in hospitals and personal care products, at ~10 mm. Human skin efficiently absorbs TCS. Mast cells are ubiquitous key players both in physiological processes and in disease, including asthma, cancer and autism. We previously showed that non-cytotoxic levels of TCS inhibit degranulation, the release of histamine and other mediators, from rat basophilic leukemia mast cells (RBL-2H3), and in this study, we replicate this finding in human mast cells (HMC-1.2). Our investigation into the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect led to the discovery that TCS disrupts adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in RBL-2H3 cells in glucose-free, galactose-containing media (95% confidence interval EC50 = 7.5-9.7 µm), without causing cytotoxicity. Using these same glucose-free conditions, 15 µm TCS dampens RBL-2H3 degranulation by 40%. The same ATP disruption was found with human HMC-1.2 cells (EC50 4.2-13.7 µm), NIH-3 T3 mouse fibroblasts (EC50 4.8-7.4 µm) and primary human keratinocytes (EC50 3.0-4.1 µm) all with no cytotoxicity. TCS increases oxygen consumption rate in RBL-2H3 cells. Known mitochondrial uncouplers (e.g., carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone) previously were found to inhibit mast cell function. TCS-methyl, which has a methyl group in place of the TCS ionizable proton, affects neither degranulation nor ATP production at non-cytotoxic doses. Thus, the effects of TCS on mast cell function are due to its proton ionophore structure. In addition, 5 µm TCS inhibits thapsigargin-stimulated degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells: further evidence that TCS disrupts mast cell signaling. Our data indicate that TCS is a mitochondrial uncoupler, and TCS may affect numerous cell types and functions via this mechanism. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Weatherly|Lisa M|LM|
Shim|Juyoung|J|
Hashmi|Hina N|HN|
Kennedy|Rachel H|RH|
Hess|Samuel T|ST|
Gosse|Julie A|JA|

triclosan
mast cell
RBL-2H3
HMC-1.2
mitochondrial uncoupler
triclosan-methyl


Investigating Research Hotspots and Publication Trends of Spinal Stenosis: A Bibliometric Analysis During 2000-2018.

Abstract: Spinal stenosis is a common disease affecting the elderly that is present in a various forms. Its high incidence forces researchers to pay more attention and offer countermeasures. We used the Web of Science Core collection and PubMed database to obtain 5,606 scientific studies concerning spinal stenosis, and the number of publications maintained a roughly increasing trend from 108 in 2000 to 512 in 2018, only declining in 2011. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using the online analysis software CiteSpace and Bibliographic Item Co-Occurrence Matrix Builder (BICOMB). The United States maintains academic leadership in this field. The journal SPINE was the most authoritative, with 695 articles and an average of 12.73 citations. The exported major MeSH terms were further biclustered with gCLUTO according to co-word analysis to reveal research hotspots, including etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, conservative treatment, operative indication, internal implantation, and postoperative complications. After combination, the main topics focused on pathogenesis and surgical treatment. Narrowing causes flavum ligamentum hypertrophy, and posterior longitudinal ligament ossification is widely accepted. Additionally, minimally invasive surgery and internal implantation fixation are more valid in the clinic. Refining pathological classification and optimizing surgical methods and instrument properties will be important future research directions for spinal stenosis.

Yang|Keda|K| Pei|Lei|L| Wen|Kaicheng|K| Zhou|Siming|S| Tao|Lin|L|

research hotspots
publication trends
spinal stenosis
bibliometric analysis
MeSH terms


Neural Stem Cell Transplantation Improves Locomotor Function in Spinal Cord Transection Rats Associated with Nerve Regeneration and IGF-1 R Expression.

Abstract: Transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) is a potential strategy for the treatment of spinal cord transection (SCT). Here we investigated whether transplanted NSCs would improve motor function of rats with SCT and explored the underlying mechanism. First, the rats were divided into sham, SCT, and NSC groups. Rats in the SCT and NSC groups were all subjected to SCT in T10, and were administered with media and NSC transplantation into the lesion site, respectively. Immunohistochemistry was used to label Nestin-, TUNEL-, and NeuN-positive cells and reveal the expression and location of type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1 R). Locomotor function of hind limbs was assessed by Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) score and inclined plane test. The conduction velocity and amplitude of spinal nerve fibers were measured by electrophysiology and the anatomical changes were measured using magnetic resonance imaging. Moreover, expression of IGF-1 R was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. The results showed that NSCs could survive and differentiate into neurons in vitro and in vivo. SCT-induced deficits were reduced by NSC transplantation, including increase in NeuN-positive cells and decrease in apoptotic cells. Moreover, neurophysiological profiles indicated that the latent period was decreased and the peak-to-peak amplitude of spinal nerve fibers conduction was increased in transplanted rats, while morphological measures indicated that fractional anisotropy and the number of nerve fibers in the site of spinal cord injury were increased after NSC transplantation. In addition, mRNA and protein level of IGF-1 R were increased in the rostral segment in the NSC group, especially in neurons. Therefore, we concluded that NSC transplantation promotes motor function improvement of SCT, which might be associated with activated IGF-1 R, especially in the rostral site. All of the above suggests that this approach has potential for clinical treatment of spinal cord injury.

Zhao|Xiao-Ming|XM|0000-0001-7992-1045 He|Xiu-Ying|XY| Liu|Jia|J| Xu|Yang|Y| Xu|Fei-Fei|FF| Tan|Ya-Xin|YX| Zhang|Zi-Bin|ZB| Wang|Ting-Hua|TH|

D000818:Animals
D005786:Gene Expression Regulation
D008124:Locomotion
D009416:Nerve Regeneration
D058953:Neural Stem Cells
D051381:Rats
D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley
D017526:Receptor, IGF Type 1
D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries

neural stem cells
transplantation
spinal cord transection
motor function
insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor


The ethics of ectogenesis-aided foetal treatment.

Abstract: In this paper, we aim to stimulate ethical debate about the morally relevant connection between ectogenesis and the foetus as a potential beneficiary of treatment. Ectogenesis could facilitate foetal interventions by treating the foetus independently of the pregnant woman and provide easier access to the foetus if interventions are required. The moral relevance hereof derives from the observation that, together with other developments in genetic technology and prenatal treatment, this may catalyse the allocation of a patient status to the foetus. The topic of foetal medicine is of growing interest to clinicians, and it also deserves due attention from an ethical perspective. To the extent that these developments contribute to the allocation of a patient status to the foetus (and to its respective interests for medical treatment), normative questions arise about how moral responsibilities towards foetal interests should be balanced against the interests of the pregnant woman. We conclude that, even if ectogenesis could facilitate foetal therapy, it is important to remain sensitive to the fact that it would not circumvent the key ethical concerns that come with in utero foetal treatment and that it may even exacerbate potential conflicts between directive treatment recommendations and the pregnant woman's autonomous decision to the contrary.

foetal treatment
ectogenesis
autonomy
foetal patient
foetal surgery


Inhibition of C298S mutant of human aldose reductase for antidiabetic applications: Evidence from in silico elementary mode analysis of biological network model.

Abstract: Human aldose reductase (hAR) is the key enzyme in sorbitol pathway of glucose utilization and is implicated in the etiology of secondary complications of diabetes, such as, cardiovascular complications, neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cataract genesis. It reduces glucose to sorbitol in the presence of NADPH and the major cause of diabetes complications could be the change in the osmotic pressure due to the accumulation of sorbitol. An activated form of hAR (activated hAR or ahAR) poses a potential obstacle in the development of diabetes drugs as hAR-inhibitors are ineffective against ahAR. The therapeutic efficacy of such drugs is compromised when a large fraction of the enzyme (hAR) undergoes conversion to the activated ahAR form as has been observed in the diabetic tissues. In the present study, attempts have been made to employ systems biology strategies to identify the elementary nodes of human polyol metabolic pathway, responsible for normal metabolic states, followed by the identification of natural potent inhibitors of the activated form of hAR represented by the mutant C298S for possible antidiabetic applications. Quantum Mechanical Molecular Mechanical docking strategy was used to determine the probable inhibitors of ahAR. Rosmarinic acid was found as the most potent natural ahAR inhibitor and warrants for experimental validation in the near future.

Khan|Saif|S|
Bhardwaj|Tulika|T|
Somvanshi|Pallavi|P|0000-0003-1214-9374
Mandal|Raju K|RK|
Dar|Sajad A|SA|0000-0003-2499-8701
Jawed|Arshad|A|
Wahid|Mohd|M|
Akhter|Naseem|N|
Lohani|Mohtashim|M|0000-0001-9414-4539
Alouffi|S|S|
Haque|Shafiul|S|0000-0002-2989-121X

D000449:Aldehyde Reductase
D003198:Computer Simulation
D003920:Diabetes Mellitus
D006801:Humans
D053858:Metabolic Networks and Pathways
D008954:Models, Biological
D008958:Models, Molecular
D009154:Mutation
D009243:NAD

mutant
aldose reductase
diabetes
C298S inhibitors
elementary flux mode analysis
mathematical modeling
metabolic pathway analysis


Down-regulation of the Tumor Suppressor CYLD Enhances the Transformed Phenotype of Human Breast Cancer Cells.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND/AIM
The cylindromatosis tumor suppressor (CYLD) has been implicated in the inhibition of human breast cancer development by virtue of the poor prognosis of patients with down-regulated CYLD expression. In order to investigate the mechanism of breast cancer suppression by CYLD, in the present study, cellular and molecular aspects of CYLD-dependent phenotypic regulation of different types of human breast cancer cell lines were analyzed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
CYLD expression was down-regulated by RNA interference in human breast cancer cell lines. Parental and CYLD-deficient cell lines were evaluated for their viability, migratory capacity, anchorage-independent growth and chemoresistance. Wild-type and mutated forms of CYLD were also evaluated for their ability to suppress the clonogenic potential of breast cancer cells.

RESULTS
CYLD down-regulation enhanced the survival and migratory properties of basal and luminal breast cancer cell lines. In addition, down-regulation of CYLD expression enhanced the ability of human breast cancer cells to grow in an anchorage-independent manner and could be associated with resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. The growth-suppressive properties of CYLD on breast cancer cell lines were dependent on its de-ubiquitinating activity and its amino terminal cytoskeleton-interacting region.

CONCLUSION
Our results establish a broad range of tumor-suppressive properties that are conferred by CYLD in basal and luminal human breast cancer cells and support the significance of targeted de-ubiquitination by CYLD in breast cancer cell growth suppression.

Orfanidou|Timoklia|T| Xanthopoulos|Konstantinos|K| Dafou|Dimitra|D| Pseftogas|Athanasios|A| Hadweh|Paul|P| Psyllaki|Claire|C| Hatzivassiliou|Eudoxia|E| Mosialos|George|G|

D001943:Breast Neoplasms
D002460:Cell Line
D045744:Cell Line, Tumor
D002465:Cell Movement
D002470:Cell Survival
D003599:Cytoskeleton
D000074749:Deubiquitinating Enzyme CYLD
D015536:Down-Regulation
D019008:Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
D005260:Female
D016147:Genes, Tumor Suppressor
D057809:HEK293 Cells
D006801:Humans
D061986:MCF-7 Cells
D034622:RNA Interference
D025521:Tumor Suppressor Proteins
D054875:Ubiquitination

tumor suppressor
CYLD
transformation
breast cancer
signal transduction


UVB-irradiated keratinocytes induce melanoma-associated ganglioside GD3 synthase gene in melanocytes via secretion of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6.

Abstract: Although expression of gangliosides and their synthetic enzyme genes in malignant melanomas has been well studied, that in normal melanocytes has been scarcely analyzed. In particular, changes in expression levels of glycosyltransferase genes responsible for ganglioside synthesis during evolution of melanomas from melanocytes are very important to understand roles of gangliosides in melanomas. Here, expression of glycosyltransferase genes related to the ganglioside synthesis was analyzed using RNAs from cultured melanocytes and melanoma cell lines. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that melanomas expressed high levels of mRNA of GD3 synthase and GM2/GD2 synthase genes and low levels of GM1/GD1b synthase genes compared with melanocytes. As a representative exogenous stimulation, effects of ultraviolet B (UVB) on the expression levels of 3 major ganglioside synthase genes in melanocytes were analyzed. Although direct UVB irradiation of melanocytes caused no marked changes, culture supernatants of UVB-irradiated keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) induced definite up-regulation of GD3 synthase and GM2/GD2 synthase genes. Detailed examination of the supernatants revealed that inflammatory cytokines such as TNFα and IL-6 enhanced GD3 synthase gene expression. These results suggest that inflammatory cytokines secreted from UVB-irradiated keratinocytes induced melanoma-associated ganglioside synthase genes, proposing roles of skin microenvironment in the promotion of melanoma-like ganglioside profiles in melanocytes.

Miyata|Maiko|M| Ichihara|Masatoshi|M| Tajima|Orie|O| Sobue|Sayaka|S| Kambe|Mariko|M| Sugiura|Kazumitsu|K| Furukawa|Koichi|K| Furukawa|Keiko|K|

D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic

Keratinocyte Melanocyte Melanoma TNFα ST8SIA1 UV-B


Systematic analysis of design and stratification for phase III trials in first-line advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
A recent study reviewed phase III trials of first-line advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) conducted from 1981 to 2010, and provided trends in the study outcome. However, such trials have never been analyzed in detail for design and stratification factors.

METHODS
Phase III studies of systemic treatment for first-line advanced or metastatic NSCLC published in English literature between 1981 and 2010 were identified. Characteristics, including sample size, number of trials, region, rate of meeting accrual goal, primary endpoint, type of phase III, interim analysis, allocation method, and stratification factors, were determined for each decade.

RESULTS
A total of 162 studies met the criteria. The number of studies and sample size increased over the three decades. The primary endpoint was reported more frequently in recent decades, and non-overall survival endpoints were chosen in European and Asian studies. Interim analysis was conducted more commonly during the 2000s. Allocation method was rarely reported throughout the three decades. The number of stratification factors increased significantly from one in 1980s to three in 2000s. Performance status, stage, and institution were most frequently selected, and at least one of the three factors was used in most of the studies in the 2000s. However, there are many other stratification factors that were used infrequently.

CONCLUSIONS
Despite Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials guidelines, allocation method has rarely been reported. The choice of stratification factor remains inconsistent across studies.

Komiya|Takefumi|T|
Perez|Raymond P|RP|
Erickson|Kirsten D|KD|
Huang|Chao H|CH|

phase III
First‐line
non‐small cell lung cancer


Mature Teratoma of Petrous Temporal Bone in an Infant: A Rare Clinical Entity.

Abstract: Laterally located intracranial mature teratomas are rare entities. We report an extremely rare case of an extra-axial mature teratoma of the left petrous temporal bone in an infant who was managed surgically. This is the second reported case of a mature teratoma of the petrous temporal bone in an infant.

Sharma|Ravi|R|
Kumar|Ambuj|A|
Borkar|Sachin A|SA|

Mature teratoma
Petrous temporal bone
Dermoid cyst
Germ cell tumor


The Effect of Interleukin-4 and Dexamethasone on RNA-Seq-Based Transcriptomic Profiling of Human Podocytes: A Potential Role in Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome.

Abstract: Interleukin-4 (IL-4) expression is implicated in the pathogenesis of nephrotic syndrome (NS). This study aimed to investigate the changes in the transcriptomes of human podocytes induced by IL-4 treatment and to analyze whether these changes could be affected by simultaneous steroid treatment. Three groups of human podocytes were treated with control, IL-4, and IL-4 plus dexamethasone (DEX), respectively. We performed whole-transcriptome sequencing to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the groups. We investigated relevant biological pathways using Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses. We also attempted to compare and validate the DEGs with the genes listed in PodNet, a literature-based database on mouse podocyte genes. A total of 176 genes were differentially expressed among the three groups. GO analyses showed that pathways related to cytoskeleton organization and cell signaling were significantly enriched. Among them, 24 genes were listed in PodNet, and 12 of them were previously reported to be associated with IL-4-induced changes in human podocytes. Of the 12 genes, the expression levels of BMP4, RARB, and PLCE1 were reversed when podocytes were simultaneously treated with DEX. In conclusion, this study explored changes in the transcriptome profiles of human podocytes treated with IL-4. Few genes were reported in previous studies and were previously validated in experiments with human podocytes. We speculate that IL-4 may exert pathogenic effects on the transcriptome of human podocytes, and a few genes may be involved in the pathogenesis.

transcriptome
podocytes
nephrotic syndrome
gene
RNA-sequencing
interleukin


Missing Ingredients in Shared Decision-Making?

Abstract: Shared decision-making (SDM) is a collaborative approach to making decisions in health care, and is a cornerstone of person-centered care. While providers are increasingly expected to utilize SDM in routine practice, widespread and sustainable implementation has proven difficult, especially in the care of individuals diagnosed with serious mental illnesses, and physicians and patients continue to identify barriers to effective collaboration. To date, SDM research has largely focused on the provision of high-quality clinical information from doctors to patients to the neglect of what may be the most important, and transformative, aspect of SDM-the relationship itself. In this forum, the lack of attention to the relationship in SDM research and practice will be explored, along with the relational qualities that need to be in place to implement SDM in the care of persons with serious mental illness based on the findings from a mixed-methods, participatory research project.

Pavlo|Anthony J|AJ|0000-0001-9604-7097
O'Connell|Maria|M|
Olsen|Steve|S|
Snyder|Mary K|MK|
Davidson|Larry|L|

D000328:Adult
D000080536:Decision Making, Shared
D006302:Health Services Research
D006801:Humans
D001523:Mental Disorders
D010358:Patient Participation
D010817:Physician-Patient Relations

Shared decision-making
Chronic illness care
Patient engagement
Treatment relationships


Distributions and sources of volatile chlorocarbons and bromocarbons in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea.

Abstract: Six volatile halogenated organic compounds (VHOC), namely, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform, were studied in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea from April to May, 2009. The spatial variability of these VHOC was influenced by various factors, including anthropogenic inputs, biogenic production and complicated hydrographic features such as Changjiang Diluted Water, Yellow Sea Cold Water Mass, and Kuroshio Current. Diurnal study results showed that factors such as solar irradiation, biological activity, and tide affected the abundance of these VHOC. Correlation analyses revealed that bromodichloromethane was positively correlated with chlorophyll a in surface seawater. Principal component analysis suggested that chlorinated compounds like carbon tetrachloride originated from anthropogenic sources whereas brominated compounds such as bromodichloromethane originated from biogenic sources. Sources of other chlorinated and brominated compounds may not be governed by biological processes in the marine environment.

Yang|Bin|B| Yang|Gui-Peng|GP| Lu|Xiao-Lan|XL| Li|Li|L| He|Zhen|Z|

Distribution
Source
Chlorocarbons
Bromocarbons
Yellow Sea
East China Sea


Mechanism of 1-(1-propylsulfonic)-3-methylimidazolium chloride catalyzed transformation of D-glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in DMSO: an NMR study.

Abstract: The conversion of D-glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in the presence of 5.48 mol% 1-(1-propylsulfonic)-3-methylimidazolium chloride acidic ionic liquid catalyst in DMSO at 150°C was studied using (1)H, (13)C NMR, and visible spectroscopy. The HMF yield rapidly increases in the first 100 min of reaction, however yield drops beyond 100 min and levels off to a maximum yield of about 15.7% around 600 min. The visible spectroscopy study of the reaction mixture suggests that rate of HMF formation slows down after 100 min due to increase in the rate of humin formation after first 100 min. A mechanism has been proposed and key intermediates in the pathway could be identified by studying the (13)C NMR spectra of acidic ionic liquid catalyzed transformations of C-1 and C-2 (13)C labeled d-glucose under identical conditions. The proposed mechanism involves the isomerization of d-glucose to d-fructose via the complexation of the open chain sugar with the imidazolium cation of the acidic ionic liquid catalyst.

d-Glucose
5-Hydroxymethylfurfural
Acidic ionic liquid
Dehydration


A new method to locate the radial head "safe zone" on computed tomography axial views.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
Direct location of the "safe zone" on a CT axial view is impossible because the radial head is circular in shape. Previous "safe zone" location methods are not appropriate if the physician is unable to visualize the actual radial head. This study aims to introduce a new method to locate the "safe zone" on CT.

METHODS
CT scans were performed on 20 intact cadaveric upper limbs from 20 different corpses in full pronation and supination. The DICOM-format raw data were then re-sliced and analyzed in Mimics 17.0 (Materialise, Belgium). The radial interosseous border (IB) is shaped like a droplet on the axial view; its axis was selected as our reference line (RL). A parallel line in the radial head axial slice was created, and its position relative to the "safe zone" was studied. Deviation in RL direction was evaluated.

RESULTS
Safe-zone scope was 114.41°±11.99. The rotation angle from the RL to the safe-zone's anterior and posterior border was 215.03°±5.99 and 100.62°±8.12, respectively. Rotation direction (clockwise or anti-clockwise) depended on relative radius-ulna position. The safe zone was located by determining these two borders. The reference line's direction was stable in the upper half of the IB; its distance to the radial head fovea was 77.33° mm±6.24.

CONCLUSIONS
The radial head "safe zone" can be located on CT axial view based on the upper half of the IB using this new method. The method is clinically applicable to determine whether postoperative elbow malrotation results from plate impingement.


Oolonghomobisflavans from Camellia sinensis increase Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan and healthspan.

Abstract: Tea polyphenols are widely considered as excellent antioxidant agents which can contribute to human health and longevity. However, the identification of the active biomolecules in complex tea extracts that promote health and longevity are not fully known. Here we used the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans to analyze the health benefits and longevity effects of Camellia sinensis oolong tea extracts (QFT, NFT, and CFT) and oolonghomobisflavan A and oolonghomobisflavan B, which are present in oolong tea extracts. Our results showed that oolong tea extracts and oolonghomobisflavans prolong lifespan and improved healthspan by curtailing the age-related decline in muscle activity and the accumulation of age pigment (lipofuscin). We found that the lifespan and healthspan promoting effects of oolong tea extracts and oolonghomobisflavans were positively correlated with the stress resistance via DAF-16/FOXO transcription factor. Furthermore, oolong tea extracts and oolonghomobisflavans displayed protective effects against Aβ- and polyQ-induced neuro/proteotoxicity. Overall, our study provides new evidence to support the health benefits of oolong tea and importantly identify oolonghomobisflavans as potent bioactive molecules that promote health when supplemented with a normal diet. As such, oolonghomobisflavans represent a valuable new class of compounds that promote healthy aging.

Lifespan
Healthspan
Oolong tea
C. elegans
Natural products


Transient leukaemia: leukaemia or leukaemoid? A diagnostic dilemma.

Abstract: We report a case of a newborn male who had mongoloid slant and was hypotonic at birth. Routine investigations revealed leucocytosis (WBC > 70,000/cmm) with 50% blasts in peripheral blood film. Marrow examination confirmed the excess of blasts. Karyotyping revealed 47, XY + 21 chromosomes. Due to absence of clinical symptoms, the baby was kept on follow-up without treatment. Within 7 weeks, PBF and bone marrow findings returned to normal, and the child was diagnosed as having Transient leukaemia with Down syndrome.

Marwah|Nisha|N| Modi|Shilpi|S| Gupta|Veena|V| Gupta|Sumiti|S| Singh|Gajender|G| Sen|Rajeev|R|

Transient leukaemia
Down syndrome
Transient myeloproliferative disorder


Free-Radical Photopolymerization of Acrylonitrile Grafted onto Epoxidized Natural Rubber.

Abstract: The exploitation of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) in electrochemical applications is approaching its limits because of its poor thermo-mechanical properties. These properties could be improved by chemical and/or physical modification, including grafting and/or crosslinking techniques. In this work, acrylonitrile (ACN) has been successfully grafted onto ENR- 25 by a radical photopolymerization technique. The effect of (ACN to ENR) mole ratios on chemical structure and interaction, thermo-mechanical behaviour and that related to the viscoelastic properties of the polymer was investigated. The existence of the -C≡N functional group at the end-product of ACN-g-ENR is confirmed by infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses. An enhanced grafting efficiency (~57%) was obtained after ACN was grafted onto the isoprene unit of ENR- 25 and showing a significant improvement in thermal stability and dielectric properties. The viscoelastic behaviour of the sample analysis showed an increase of storage modulus up to 150 × 103 MPa and the temperature of glass transition (Tg) was between -40 and 10 °C. The loss modulus, relaxation process, and tan delta were also described. Overall, the ACN-g-ENR shows a distinctive improvement in characteristics compared to ENR and can be widely used in many applications where natural rubber is used but improved thermal and mechanical properties are required. Likewise, it may also be used in electronic applications, for example, as a polymer electrolyte in batteries or supercapacitor.

Whba|Rawdah|R|
Su'ait|Mohd Sukor|MS|
Tian Khoon|Lee|L|0000-0002-9490-4451
Ibrahim|Salmiah|S|
Mohamed|Nor Sabirin|NS|
Ahmad|Azizan|A|

grafting
epoxidized natural rubber
modified rubber
radical polymerization


Metabolites of the Anaerobic Degradation of n-Hexane by Denitrifying Betaproteobacterium Strain HxN1.

Abstract: The constitutions of seven metabolites formed during anaerobic degradation of n-hexane by the denitrifying betaproteobacterium strain HxN1 were elucidated by comparison of their GC and MS data with those of synthetic reference standards. The synthesis of 4-methyloctanoic acid derivatives was accomplished by the conversion of 2-methylhexanoyl chloride with Meldrum's acid. The β-oxoester was reduced with NaBH4 , the hydroxy group was eliminated, and the double bond was displaced to yield the methyl esters of 4-methyl-3-oxooctanoate, 3-hydroxy-4-methyloctanoate, (E)-4-methyl-2-octenoate, and (E)- and (Z)-4-methyl-3-octenoate. The methyl esters of 2-methyl-3-oxohexanoate and 3-hydroxy-2-methylhexanoate were similarly prepared from butanoyl chloride and Meldrum's acid. However, methyl (E)-2-methyl-2-hexenoate was prepared by Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction, followed by isomerization to methyl (E)-2-methyl-3-hexenoate. This investigation, with the exception of 4-methyl-3-oxooctanoate, which was not detectable in the cultures, completes the unambiguous identification of all intermediates of the anaerobic biodegradation of n-hexane to 2-methyl-3-oxohexanoyl coenzyme A (CoA), which is then thiolytically cleaved to butanoyl-CoA and propionyl-CoA; these two metabolites are further transformed according to established pathways.

anaerobic degradation
C−H activation
alkanes
metabolism
structure elucidation


Systematic Development and Optimization of Inhalable Pirfenidone Liposomes for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment.

Abstract: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a global disorder, treatment options for which remain limited with resistance development by cancer cells and off-target events being major roadblocks for current therapies. The discovery of new drug molecules remains time-consuming, expensive, and prone to failure in safety/efficacy studies. Drug repurposing (i.e., investigating FDA-approved drug molecules for use against new indications) provides an opportunity to shorten the drug development cycle. In this project, we propose to repurpose pirfenidone (PFD), an anti-fibrotic drug, for NSCLC treatment by encapsulation in a cationic liposomal carrier. Liposomal formulations were optimized and evaluated for their physicochemical properties, in-vitro aerosol deposition behavior, cellular internalization capability, and therapeutic potential against NSCLC cell lines in-vitro and ex-vivo. Anti-cancer activity of PFD-loaded liposomes and molecular mechanistic efficacy was determined through colony formation (1.5- to 2-fold reduction in colony growth compared to PFD treatment in H4006, A549 cell lines, respectively), cell migration, apoptosis and angiogenesis assays. Ex-vivo studies using 3D tumor spheroid models revealed superior efficacy of PFD-loaded liposomes against NSCLC, as compared to plain PFD. Hence, the potential of inhalable liposome-loaded pirfenidone in NSCLC treatment has been established in-vitro and ex-vivo, where further studies are required to determine their efficacy through in vivo preclinical studies followed by clinical studies.

Parvathaneni|Vineela|V|
Kulkarni|Nishant S|NS|
Shukla|Snehal K|SK|
Farrales|Pamela T|PT|
Kunda|Nitesh K|NK|
Muth|Aaron|A|
Gupta|Vivek|V|

pirfenidone
liposomes
non-small cell lung cancer
repurposing
apoptosis
3D spheroid


WITHDRAWN: Research on the "integration of physical activity and medicine" prevention scheme of chronic disease population based on health risk assessment.

Abstract: Ahead of Print article withdrawn by publisher.


Bipartite mechanism for laminin-integrin interactions: Identification of the integrin-binding site in LG domains of the laminin α chain.

Abstract: Laminins are major cell-adhesive proteins consisting of α, β, and γ chains, in which the three C-terminal globular domains of the α chain (LMα/LG1-3) and the C-terminal tail region of the γ1 chain (LMγ1-tail) are required for binding to integrin. Despite the recent progress on the role of LMγ1-tail in coordinating the metal ion-dependent adhesion site of the integrin β subunit, the mechanism by which LMα/LG1-3 interacts with integrin remains to be elucidated. We found that basic residues on the bottom face of LMα5/LG2 are required for binding laminin-511 to α6β1 integrin. Intermolecular cysteine scanning assays demonstrated that the basic residues in LMα5/LG2 were in contact with the acidic residues within the laminin-binding X1 region of the integrin α subunit in the laminin-integrin complex. These results indicate that LMα5/LG2 interacts directly with the integrin α subunit and comprises a bipartite integrin binding site of laminin-511 with the LMγ1-tail.

Taniguchi|Yukimasa|Y| Takizawa|Mamoru|M| Li|Shaoliang|S| Sekiguchi|Kiyotoshi|K|

Laminin
Integrin
Basement membrane
Cell adhesion


Prognostic Factors Affecting Disease-Free Survival and Overall Survival in T4 Colon Cancer.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
It is known that as the T stage of a carcinoma progresses, the prognosis becomes poorer. However, there are few studies about factors that affect the prognosis of T4 advanced colon cancer. This study aimed to identify the prognostic factors associated with disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in T4 colon cancer.

METHODS
Patients diagnosed with stage T4 on histopathology after undergoing curative surgery for colon cancer between March 2009 and March 2018 were retrospectively analyzed for factors related to postoperative survival. Primary outcomes were DFS and OS.

RESULTS
Eighty-two patients were included in the study. DFS and OS of the pathologic (p) T4b group were not inferior to that of the pT4a group. Multivariate analysis showed that differentiation (hazard ratio [HR], 4.994; P = 0.005), and laparoscopic surgery (HR, 0.323; P = 0.008) were significant prognostic factors for DFS, while differentiation (HR, 7.904; P ≤ 0.001) and chemotherapy (HR, 0.344; P = 0.038) were significant prognostic factors for OS.

CONCLUSION
Tumor differentiation, laparoscopic surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy were found to be significant prognostic factors in patients with T4 colon cancer. Adjuvant chemotherapy and curative resections by laparoscopy might improve the prognosis in these patients.

Eom|Taeyeong|T| Lee|Yujin|Y| Kim|Jungbin|J| Park|Inseok|I| Gwak|Geumhee|G| Cho|Hyunjin|H| Yang|Keunho|K| Kim|Kiwhan|K| Bae|Byung-Noe|BN|

Prognosis
Adjuvant chemotherapy
Laparoscopy
Colorectal neoplasms


Analysis of 17 polyphenolic compounds in organic and conventional legumes by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) and evaluation of their antioxidant activity.

Abstract: Consumption of legumes has become popular among health-conscious consumers due to the high levels of nutrients such as proteins, dietary fibres, minerals, vitamins and micronutrients like polyphenols. Ten legumes cultivars organically and conventionally grown were compared regarding their chemical profiles in terms of total phenolic content (TPC), total anthocyanin content (TAC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and their antioxidant capacity. The chemical profiles (i.e. free phenolics and anthocyanins) were determined with aid of new high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) method able to identify two individual anthocyanins and 15 polyphenols. Results showed that phenolic acids, namely gallic acid, caffeic acid, syringic acid and ferulic acid, are mainly significantly higher in the organic samples with respect to the conventional ones. All organic legumes showed a higher antioxidant capacity with respect to conventional samples with the exception of red and yellow dehulled lentils.

Giusti|Federica|F| Caprioli|Giovanni|G| Ricciutelli|Massimo|M| Torregiani|Elisabetta|E| Vittori|Sauro|S| Sagratini|Gianni|G|

polyphenols Organic conventional legumes HPLC


Visualization of Biosurfactant Film Flow in a Bacillus subtilis Swarm Colony on an Agar Plate.

Abstract: Collective bacterial dynamics plays a crucial role in colony development. Although many research groups have studied the behavior of fluidic swarm colonies, the detailed mechanics of its motion remains elusive. Here, we developed a visualization method using submicron fluorescent beads for investigating the flow field in a thin layer of fluid that covers a Bacillus subtilis swarm colony growing on an agar plate. The beads were initially embedded in the agar plate and subsequently distributed spontaneously at the upper surface of the expanding colony. We conducted long-term live cell imaging of the B. subtilis colony using the fluorescent tracers, and obtained high-resolution velocity maps of microscale vortices in the swarm colony using particle image velocimetry. A distinct periodic fluctuation in the average speed and vorticity of flow in swarm colony was observed at the inner region of the colony, and correlated with the switch between bacterial swarming and growth phases. At the advancing edge of the colony, both the magnitudes of velocity and vorticity of flow in swarm colony were inversely correlated with the spreading speed of the swarm edge. The advanced imaging tool developed in this study would facilitate further understanding of the effect of micro vortices in swarm colony on the collective dynamics of bacteria.

D000362:Agar
D001412:Bacillus subtilis
D003470:Culture Media

flow
Bacillus subtilis
swarm colony
particle image velocimetry
bacterial swarming
fluorescent microbeads


A case-crossover analysis of the relationship of air pollution with out-of-hospital sudden unexpected death in Wake County, North Carolina (2013-2015).

Abstract: Out-of-hospital sudden unexpected deaths are non-accidental deaths that occur without obvious underlying causes and may account for 10% of natural deaths before age 65. Short-term exposure to ambient air pollution is associated with all-cause (non-accidental) and cause-specific (e.g., cardiovascular) mortality, and with immediate exposures often yielding the highest magnitude risk estimates. Few studies have focused on short-term exposure to air pollution and sudden unexpected deaths. Using the University of North Carolina Sudden Unexpected Death in North Carolina population, we examine associations between short-term criteria air pollutant exposures with sudden unexpected deaths using a time-stratified case-crossover design, with data on criteria air pollutants from the Environmental Protection Agency's Air Quality System. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic regression with air pollutant exposures scaled to roughly inter-quartile ranges; models were adjusted for average temperature and relative humidity on event day and preceding 3 days. Potential for confounding by co-pollutants were examined in two pollutant models. ORs for PM2.5 at lag day 1 were elevated (adjusted OR for 5 μg/m3 increase: 1.17 (0.98, 1.40)), and were robust to co-pollutant adjustment. Elevated odds were observed for SO2 at lag day 0, and reduced odds for O3 at lag day 0; however, these associations were somewhat attenuated toward the null (SO2) or were not robust (O3) to co-pollutant adjustment. This analysis in a racially and socioeconomically diverse cohort, with a more inclusive definition of sudden unexpected death than is typically employed offers evidence that PM2.5 may be a clinically relevant trigger of sudden unexpected deaths in susceptible individuals.

Rappazzo|Kristen M|KM|
Joodi|Golsa|G|
Hoffman|Sarah R|SR|
Pursell|Irion W|IW|
Mounsey|J Paul|JP|
Cascio|Wayne E|WE|
Simpson|Ross J|RJ|

Air pollution
Sudden unexpected death
Environmental epidemiology
Particulate matter


Factor Analysis of the Short-Form Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory and the Measurement Invariance by Gender.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) is a widely used measure of agitation. The purpose of this study was to test the internal consistency, reliability, and validity of short-form CMAI in a sample of nursing home residents with cognitive impairment and examine if it is invariant across gender.

METHODS
This study utilized baseline data from a randomized trial including 553 residents from 55 nursing homes. Data was analyzed using structural equation modeling.

RESULTS
Confirmatory factory analysis supported the three-factor structure including aggressive (α = .794), physically nonaggressive (α = .617), and verbally agitated (α = .718) behaviors. Invariance testing confirmed that the shortened measure is invariant across gender.

CONCLUSIONS
Findings provide validity evidence of short-form CMAI to assess agitation and gender differences in agitation in nursing home population.

factor analysis
agitation
short-form CMAI
nursing homes
psychometrics
reliability and validity


Shift in microbial community structure of anaerobic side-stream reactor in response to changes to anaerobic solid retention time and sludge interchange ratio.

Abstract: A laboratory scale nutrient removal activated sludge system coupled with an anaerobic side-stream reactor was operated for 300 days treating real urban wastewater. A significant decrease in sludge production was obtained increasing the anaerobic solid retention time (SRTASSR) and decreasing the sludge interchange ratio (IR). In this study, the microbial community structure was analyzed and compared with the sludge reduction performance. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses encoding 16 ribosomal RNA and functional genes revealed a wide diversity of phylogenetic groups in each experimental period, resulting from long solids retention time and recirculation of sludge under aerobic, anoxic and anaerobic conditions. However, decreasing SRTASSR from 10 to 2.5d and increasing IR from 27 to 100%, an increasing selection of both fermenting bacteria able to release extracellular polymeric substances and hydrolyze organic matter and slow growing bacteria involved in nutrient removal were detected and linked to the sludge reduction mechanisms.

Ferrentino|Roberta|R| Langone|Michela|M| Gandolfi|Isabella|I| Bertolini|Valentina|V| Franzetti|Andrea|A| Andreottola|Gianni|G|

Microbial community
Anaerobic side-stream reactor
Sludge reduction
DPAO
SRB
Taxonomic identification


WNT Ligand Dependencies in Pancreatic Cancer.

Abstract: WNT signaling promotes the initiation and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) through wide-ranging effects on cellular proliferation, survival, differentiation, stemness, and tumor microenvironment. Of therapeutic interest is a genetically defined subset of PDAC known to have increased WNT/β-catenin transcriptional activity, growth dependency on WNT ligand signaling, and response to pharmacologic inhibitors of the WNT pathway. Here we review mechanisms underlying WNT ligand addiction in pancreatic tumorigenesis, as well as the potential utility of therapeutic approaches that functionally antagonize WNT ligand secretion or frizzled receptor binding.

Aguilera|Kristina Y|KY|
Dawson|David W|DW|

intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms


Psychometric validation of a pre-existing questionnaire used to measure patient satisfaction following orthodontic treatment in a UK population.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To determine the psychometric properties of a pre-existing orthodontic satisfaction questionnaire and to assess patient satisfaction of their orthodontic treatment.

DESIGN
Psychometric assessment of a pre-existing orthodontic satisfaction questionnaire.

SETTING
Two sites at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

PARTICIPANTS
Individuals aged 12-15 years who had completed fixed orthodontic treatment.

METHODS
An expert panel assessed a pre-existing orthodontic treatment satisfaction questionnaire for validity and readability. As a result, revisions were made to the questionnaire and it was distributed to 103 participants aged 12-15 years, on completion of their fixed orthodontic treatment (T1). Test-retest reliability of the questionnaire was assessed through completion of a second questionnaire by 17 participants, at a two-week interval (T2). The questionnaire was assessed for reliability using item-total correlations (I-TC) and Cronbach's alpha. Factor analysis allowed exploration of the underlying factor structure of the questionnaire. Test-retest reliability was assessed using Cohen's kappa coefficient. Multiple regression analysis was used to find out the significant demographic variables that predicts the satisfaction level of treatment.

RESULTS
Following validity and readability assessment by the expert panel, the questionnaire was revised. Eleven items were removed following item analysis (with I-TC ⩽ 0.3). Factor analysis was deemed uninterpretable. The overall scale demonstrated greater reliability than the underlying sub-scales. Therefore, the sub-scales were removed, resulting in one scale which assessed overall orthodontic satisfaction, comprising 37 items, with a Cronbach alpha of 0.92. The test-retest reliability of the revised 37-item scale was deemed to be poor (kappa coefficient = 0.39). Multiple regression analysis identified ethnicity as a significant predictor of orthodontic treatment satisfaction (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION
This study provides a valid measure to assess orthodontic treatment satisfaction for use in a UK population aged 12-15 years on completion of fixed orthodontic treatment.

D006801:Humans
D017060:Patient Satisfaction
D011594:Psychometrics
D015203:Reproducibility of Results
D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D006113:United Kingdom

psychometric validation
patient satisfaction
satisfaction questionnaire


The prognostic role of end of treatment FDG-PET-CT in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma can be improved by considering it with absolute monocyte count at diagnosis.

Abstract: It is well established that some patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and the negative end of treatment PET-CT (EOT-PET-CT) will relapse, while a proportion with positive uptake can still obtain long-term EFS. We reviewed data of 200 consecutive, previously untreated patients with DLBCL recorded in Italy and Israel between 2007 and 2015. We found that patients with negative EOT-PET-CT with AMC > 630/mmc have a 3-years EFS of 72%, compared to those with AMC ≤ 630/mmc that have an EFS of 84%. Furthermore, considering patients with positive EOT-PET-CT, those with AMC > 630/mmc have a 3-years EFS of 8%, while those with AMC ≤ 630/mmc have an EFS of 38%. Thus, it appears that combining the gold standard for response evaluation EOT-PET-CT with a simple and inexpensive parameter like AMC at diagnosis, further improves prognostication in DLBCL. Applying this simple method can be useful for all doctors working in lymphoma clinical practice.

Marcheselli|Raffaella|R|
Franceschetto|Antonella|A|
Sacchi|Stefano|S|
Bari|Alessia|A|
Levy|Ilana|I|
Pizzichini|Patrizia|P|
Prosperi|Daniela|D|
D'Apollo|Rosaria|R|
Massi|Lucia|L|
Casolo|Alessandra|A|
Pozzi|Samantha|S|
Marcheselli|Luigi|L|
Tadmor|Tamar|T|
Prandini|Napoleone|N|
Cox|Maria Christina|MC|

D000072078:Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography


Adoption of a research-based program for neck disorders implemented in primary care physiotherapy: a short- and long-term follow-up survey study.

Abstract: Neck disorders are common in primary health care (PHC) physiotherapy. A neck-specific exercise program based on research findings was implemented among physiotherapists in Swedish PHC. The aim of the study was to evaluate the adoption of the program. We invited PHC physiotherapists to an educational session including theoretical information and practical training. Before the educational session the participants (n = 261) completed a baseline questionnaire. After 3 and 12 months, we distributed surveys to identify changes in practice and in confidence regarding diagnosis and treatment. We compared data from 3-months and 12-months follow-up, respectively, with baseline data. Self-reported frequency of most of the included assessment methods was unchanged after 12 months. Frequency of assessment of neck proprioception had increased significantly. Specific neck muscle exercise for treatment of whiplash associated disorders was applied more frequently after 3 and after 12 months than at baseline. Frequency of other treatment methods remained unchanged. Confidence in diagnosis and treatment increased significantly, particularly among women. The program was not adopted as expected, but resulted in increased confidence regarding diagnosis and treatment. The provision of a short educational session seemed not to be sufficient to obtain a sustained change in practice.

Carlfjord|Siw|S|
Landén Ludvigsson|Maria|M|
Peolsson|Anneli|A|
Peterson|Gunnel|G|

D000328:Adult
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine
D005260:Female
D005500:Follow-Up Studies
D006801:Humans
D008297:Male
D008875:Middle Aged
D019838:Neck Injuries
D019547:Neck Pain
D059825:Physical Therapists
D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities
D011320:Primary Health Care
D016730:Program Development
D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D013548:Sweden

neck disorders
implementation
physiotherapy
primary health care
Education


A site check prior to regional anaesthesia to prevent wrong-sided blocks.

Abstract: This paper describes the implementation of the 'Stop Before You Block' (SB4YB) initiative in an Australian teaching hospital. This process, which began in the UK in 2010, is a pre-procedure pause to confirm the correct side of a regional anaesthetic block. A change in practice was implemented with the formal roll out of a SB4YB educational program. Use of the initiative was then audited over a subsequent three-month period. It was hoped that after implementing the initiative, at least 80% of blocks would have a site check performed. However, despite apparent support for the initiative, uptake was less than expected with only about 57% of blocks having a site check performed. A site check was less frequent if the block was done as an emergency procedure, outside of an operating theatre or by a locum or visiting anaesthetist. Our conclusion from the audit was that education is insufficient to promote a change in this practice. We propose that Stop Before You Block or a block time-out should be performed prior to all unilateral nerve blocks. Success of this initiative requires education, and both cultural and systems changes to occur. We propose that a formal block time-out should become part of the surgical safety checklist and this activity should be endorsed and promoted by anaesthetic professional bodies.

anaesthesia
nerve block
checklist
local
patient care
quality improvement


Patient reported outcome of adult perioperative anaesthesia in the United Kingdom: a cross-sectional observational study.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Understanding the patient perspective on healthcare is central to the evaluation of quality. This study measured selected patient-reported outcomes after anaesthesia in order to identify targets for research and quality improvement.

METHODS
This cross-sectional observational study in UK National Health Service hospitals, recruited adults undergoing non-obstetric surgery requiring anaesthesia care over a 48 h period. Within 24 h of surgery, patients completed the Bauer questionnaire (measuring postoperative discomfort and satisfaction with anaesthesia care), and a modified Brice questionnaire to elicit symptoms suggestive of accidental awareness during general anaesthesia (AAGA). Patient, procedural and pharmacological data were recorded to enable exploration of risk factors for these poor outcomes.

RESULTS
257 hospitals in 171 NHS Trusts participated (97% of eligible organisations). Baseline characteristics were collected on 16,222 patients; 15,040 (93%) completed postoperative questionnaires. Anxiety was most frequently cited as the worst aspect of the perioperative experience. Thirty-five per cent of patients reported severe discomfort in at least one domain: thirst (18.5%; 95% CI 17.8-19.1), surgical pain (11.0%; 10.5-11.5) and drowsiness (10.1%; 9.6-10.5) were most common. Despite this, only 5% reported dissatisfaction with any aspect of anaesthesia-related care. Regional anaesthesia was associated with a reduced burden of side-effects. The incidence of reported AAGA was one in 800 general anaesthetics (0.12%)

CONCLUSIONS
Anxiety and discomfort after surgery are common; despite this, satisfaction with anaesthesia care in the UK is high. The inconsistent relationship between patient-reported outcome, patient experience and patient satisfaction supports using all three of these domains to provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality of anaesthesia care.

Walker|E M K|EMK|
Bell|M|M|
Cook|T M|TM|
Grocott|M P W|MPW|
Moonesinghe|S R|SR|
|||
|||

D000071066:Patient Reported Outcome Measures

outcome
anaesthesia
awareness
patient satisfaction
health care
quality indicators


Effects of selected leisure activities on preventing loneliness among older Chinese.

Abstract: This study examined three types of leisure activities (playing cards/mahjong, watching TV/listening to the radio, and participation in social activities) among the older segment of the Chinese population, and the effects of these activities in preventing the feelings of loneliness. Data came from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), conducted in 2005, 2008, and 2011. The males, those who were educated, the young-old (aged between 65 and 74 years), urban dwellers, and living in institutions were more likely to participate in all three activities frequently. Frequent or occasional participation in these three activities was negatively associated with feelings of loneliness. The longitudinal study from 2005 to 2011 showed that respondents who frequently played cards/mahjong at baseline were less likely to feel persistent loneliness at the end of the 2011 wave. Instead, frequently watching TV/listening to the radio in 2008 was associated with lower odds in feeling persistent loneliness at the end of 2011. Hence, active participation in playing cards/mahjong and TV/radio entertainment can be effective treatment intervention against persistent loneliness among older Chinese. For the Chinese, a leisure activity steeped in a nation's culture and heritage, such as playing mahjong, may be used as an intervention strategy to prevent and alleviate chronic loneliness among older adults.


Dengue Virus Inhibition Targets: A Review and Docking Study.

Abstract: Dengue like any neglected tropical disease affects a large part of the world population. In this disease, the infection is caused by arboviruses transmitted by the A. aegypti and A. albopictus mosquito, in which its most severe manifestation is known as dengue hemorrhagic fever. The infected person presents symptoms characteristic of such as fever and rash. Among the ways of fighting dengue by bioactives is the inhibition of NS2B-NS3 protease, inhibition of protein E, and inhibition of sclerotization of the vector cuticle. The cuticle is indispensable for the survival of the mosquito that can be compromised through the inhibition of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (aaNAT). In the studies shown, in silico tests were performed as molecular docking, functional density analysis, molecular orbitals energies with the analyses of the interactions between bioactives and the targets studied. However, in addition to discussing the fight against dengue virus infection through different routes, in this paper, some in silico results of 27 analogs of myricetin have been presented, which showed action on the cuticle sclerotization mechanism.

Scotti|Luciana|L|
Scotti|Marcus Tullius|MT|
Yarla|Nagendra Sastry|NS|
Monteiro|Alex France Messias|AFM|
de Oliveira Viana|Jessika|J|
Dantzger|Derli Ranieri Costa|DRC|
Ishiki|Hamilton Mitsugu|HM|

D000998:Antiviral Agents
D003716:Dengue Virus
D006801:Humans
D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests
D062105:Molecular Docking Simulation

Dengue
Virus
Neglected tropical disease
NS2B-NS3
Molecular docking
aaNAT.


Effect of metal chelators on the aggregation of beta-amyloid peptides in the presence of copper and iron.

Abstract: Amyloid β (Aβ) fibrils and amorphous aggregates are found in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and are implicated in the etiology of AD. The metal imbalance is also among leading causes of AD, owing to the fact that Aβ aggregation takes place in the synaptic cleft where Aβ, Cu(II) and Fe(III) are found in abnormally high concentrations. Aβ40 and Aβ42 are the main components of plaques found in afflicted brains. Coordination of Cu(II) and Fe(III) ions to Aβ peptides have been linked to Aβ aggregation and production of reactive oxygen species, two key events in the development of AD pathology. Metal chelation was proposed as a therapy for AD on the basis that it might prevent Aβ aggregation. In this work, we first examined the formation of Aβ40 and Aβ42 aggregates in the presence of metal ions, i.e. Fe(III) and Cu(II), which were detected by fluorescence spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. Second, we studied the ability of the two chelators, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and 5-chloro-7-iodo-8-hydroxyquinoline (clioquinol), to investigate their effect on the availability of these metal ions to interact with Aβ and thereby their effect on Aβ accumulation. Our findings show that Fe(III), but not Cu(II), promote aggregation of both Aβ40 and Aβ42. We also found that only clioquinol decreased significantly iron ion-induced aggregation of Aβ42. The presence of ions and/or chelators also affected the morphology of Aβ aggregates.

Fe(III) ion
Clioquinol
Cu(II) ion
EDTA
β amyloid peptide


Reliability of lower limb transcranial magnetic stimulation outcomes in the ipsi- and contralesional hemispheres of adults with chronic stroke.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the ability of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) outcomes in the chronic stroke population to (i) track individual plastic changes and (ii) detect differences between individuals. To this end, intrarater "test-retest" reliability (relative and absolute) was tested for the ipsilesional and contralesional hemispheres.

METHODS
Thirteen participants with a unilateral stroke (≥6months ago) and sensorimotor impairments were enrolled. Single and paired-pulse TMS outcomes were obtained from the primary motor cortex (M1) representation of the tibialis anterior muscle in both hemispheres and at two sessions separated by one week. The standard error of the measurement (SEMeas), minimal detectable change (MDC) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were studied.

RESULTS
Active motor threshold and latency of motor evoked potentials provided the lowest SEMeas and highest ICCs for both ipsi- and contralesional hemispheres. However, MDC were generally large, thus questioning the use of TMS outcomes to track individual plastic changes of M1.

CONCLUSIONS
Our study provided supporting evidence of good to excellent intrarater reliability for a few TMS outcomes and proposed recommendations on the interpretation and the use of that knowledge in future work.

SIGNIFICANCE
Psychometric properties of TMS measures should be further addressed in order to better understand how to refine their use in clinical settings.

Beaulieu|Louis-David|LD| Massé-Alarie|Hugo|H| Ribot-Ciscar|Edith|E| Schneider|Cyril|C|

Reliability
Transcranial magnetic stimulation
Chronic stroke
Tibialis anterior muscle
Minimal detectable change


Quadruplex Ligands in Cancer Therapy.

Abstract: Nucleic acids can adopt alternative secondary conformations including four-stranded structures known as quadruplexes. To date, quadruplexes have been demonstrated to exist both in human chromatin DNA and RNA. In particular, quadruplexes are found in guanine-rich sequences constituting G-quadruplexes, and in cytosine-rich sequences forming i-Motifs as a counterpart. Quadruplexes are associated with key biological processes ranging from transcription and translation of several oncogenes and tumor suppressors to telomeres maintenance and genome instability. In this context, quadruplexes have prompted investigations on their possible role in cancer biology and the evaluation of small-molecule ligands as potential therapeutic agents. This review aims to provide an updated close-up view of the literature on quadruplex ligands in cancer therapy, by grouping together ligands for DNA and RNA G-quadruplexes and DNA i-Motifs.


Multitasking antimicrobial peptides in plant development and host defense against biotic/abiotic stress.

Abstract: Crop losses due to pathogens are a major threat to global food security. Plants employ a multilayer defense against a pathogen including the use of physical barriers (cell wall), induction of hypersensitive defense response (HR), resistance (R) proteins, and synthesis of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Unlike a complex R gene-mediated immunity, AMPs directly target diverse microbial pathogens. Many a times, R-mediated immunity breaks down and plant defense is compromised. Although R-gene dependent pathogen resistance has been well studied, comparatively little is known about the interactions of AMPs with host defense and physiology. AMPs are ubiquitous, low molecular weight peptides that display broad spectrum resistance against bacteria, fungi and viruses. In plants, AMPs are mainly classified into cyclotides, defensins, thionins, lipid transfer proteins, snakins, and hevein-like vicilin-like and knottins. Genetic distance lineages suggest their conservation with minimal effect of speciation events during evolution. AMPs provide durable resistance in plants through a combination of membrane lysis and cellular toxicity of the pathogen. Plant hormones - gibberellins, ethylene, jasmonates, and salicylic acid, are among the physiological regulators that regulate the expression of AMPs. Transgenically produced AMP-plants have become a means showing that AMPs are able to mitigate host defense responses while providing durable resistance against pathogens.

D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides
D054884:Host-Pathogen Interactions
D007113:Immunity, Innate
D063245:Plant Development
D057865:Plant Immunity
D013312:Stress, Physiological

Biotechnology
Hypersensitive response
Microbe interactions
Plant immunity
Reactive oxygen species
Transgenic plants


Foxc1 is required by pericytes during fetal brain angiogenesis.

Abstract: Brain pericytes play a critical role in blood vessel stability and blood-brain barrier maturation. Despite this, how brain pericytes function in these different capacities is only beginning to be understood. Here we show that the forkhead transcription factor Foxc1 is expressed by brain pericytes during development and is critical for pericyte regulation of vascular development in the fetal brain. Conditional deletion of Foxc1 from pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells leads to late-gestation cerebral micro-hemorrhages as well as pericyte and endothelial cell hyperplasia due to increased proliferation of both cell types. Conditional Foxc1 mutants do not have widespread defects in BBB maturation, though focal breakdown of BBB integrity is observed in large, dysplastic vessels. qPCR profiling of brain microvessels isolated from conditional mutants showed alterations in pericyte-expressed proteoglycans while other genes previously implicated in pericyte-endothelial cell interactions were unchanged. Collectively these data point towards an important role for Foxc1 in certain brain pericyte functions (e.g. vessel morphogenesis) but not others (e.g. barriergenesis).

Siegenthaler|Julie A|JA|
Choe|Youngshik|Y|
Patterson|Katelin P|KP|
Hsieh|Ivy|I|
Li|Dan|D|
Jaminet|Shou-Ching|SC|
Daneman|Richard|R|
Kume|Tsutomu|T|
Huang|Eric J|EJ|
Pleasure|Samuel J|SJ|

foxc1
Pericyte
Angiogenesis
Blood brain barrier
Neurovascular development


Mechanistic study of carvacrol processing and stabilization as glassy solid solution and microcapsule.

Abstract: Essential oils and other liquid active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are frequently microencapsulated to improve shelf life, handling, and for tailoring release. A glassy solid solution (GSS), a single-phase system, where the excipient is plasticized by the API, could be an alternative formulation system. Thus this study focuses on the investigation of two formulation strategies using carvacrol as a model compound, namely a microcapsule (MC) and a glassy solid solution (GSS). Applying the solubility parameter approach, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was chosen as a suitable matrix material for a GSS system, whereas maltodextrin and sucrose served as excipients for a microcapsule (MC) system. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements of the excipients' glass transition temperatures and the melting point of carvacrol verified plasticizing properties of carvacrol on PVP. Batch mixing processes, as preliminary experiments for future extrusion processes, were performed to prepare GSSs and MCs with various amounts of carvacrol, followed by crushing and sieving. Maximally 4.5% carvacrol was encapsulated in the carbohydrate material, whereas up to 16.3% were stabilized as GSS, which is an outstanding amount. However, grinding of the samples led to a loss of up to 30% of carvacrol.

Tackenberg|Markus W|MW|
Geisthövel|Carola|C|
Marmann|Andreas|A|
Schuchmann|Heike P|HP|
Kleinebudde|Peter|P|
Thommes|Markus|M|

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PubChem CID: 6917)


Decreased concentration of Klotho in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Abstract: Recent investigations support that an anti-aging protein, namely Klotho, protects neurons against the oxidative stress and demyelination. We evaluated the protein concentration of Klotho and total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Klotho concentration and TAC were significantly lower in patients as compared to controls. Klotho values showed a significant negative correlation with expanded disability status scale (EDSS). Moreover, a significantly positive correlation between TAC levels and Klotho concentrations was detected. Klotho may play an important role in the pathogenesis of MS, at least in part, through the regulation of redox system.

Emami Aleagha|Mohammad Sajad|MS|
Siroos|Bahaadin|B|
Ahmadi|Mona|M|
Balood|Mohammad|M|
Palangi|Alireza|A|
Haghighi|Afsaneh Nazari|AN|
Harirchian|Mohammad Hossein|MH|

Klotho
Multiple sclerosis
Redox system
FRAP assay


Identification of critical genes to predict recurrence and death in colon cancer: integrating gene expression and bioinformatics analysis.

Abstract:
Background
The purpose of this study was to screen the critical genes for future diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer by bioinformatics method.

Methods
In this study, we used bioinformatics approaches to identify gene alteration that contribute to colon cancer progression via analysis of TCGA RNA sequencing data and other publicly GEO microarray data. The Random forest survival model was used to screen gene sets related to the prognosis in DEGs. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed to determine the potential function of DEGs.

Results
We identified versican (VCAN), a member of the aggrecan/versican proteoglycan family, as a key regulator in human colon cancer development and progression involved in cell adhesion, proliferation, migration and angiogenesis and plays a central role in tissue morphogenesis and maintenance. Interestingly, we found that VCAN is highly over-expressed in colon cancer and increased expression of VCAN was associated with the progression of colon cancer. High VCAN levels also predict shorter overall survival of colon cancer patients. Furthermore, in vitro assays of silencing VCAN inhibit HCT116 cell proliferation and invasion.

Conclusions
These data demonstrated VCAN were associated with tumorigenesis and may be as biomarker for identification of the pathological grade of colon cancer.

Long|Xuan|X| Deng|Zhigang|Z| Li|Guoqiang|G| Wang|Ziwei|Z|


Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band Slippage Rates Following Laparoscopic Gastric Band Insertion: a Single Centre Experience.

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands (LAGB) are placed around the superior aspect of the stomach to aid weight loss and co-morbidity resolution in morbidly obese patients. Slippage of the LAGB from its original position to lower in the fundus of the stomach leads to gastric obstruction, and sometimes ischaemia or perforation, necessitating LAGB repositioning or removal. This study aimed to identify the incidence of LAGB slippage, as well as predisposing factors that may influence its development.

METHODS
All LAGBs inserted at one centre, via a pars flaccida technique, by four Bariatric specialist consultants, were reviewed utilising a prospectively maintained Bariatric database, computer records and case notes review.

RESULTS
Seven hundred nineteen LAGBs were inserted and 33 slips treated; however, only 22 slips had their LAGB inserted at our centre (local slip rate 3.1 %). Multivariate analysis demonstrated a significant association between LAGB slip and younger median age at LAGB insertion (41 years slip vs. 45 years non-slip; p = 0.027), higher median total excess weight loss (64 % slip vs. 36 % non-slip; p < 0.001) and higher mean excess weight loss per month (2.41 % slip vs. 1.00 % non-slip; p < 0.001). There was no significant effect by sex, BMI at insertion or band type.

CONCLUSIONS
Band slips are associated with greater excess weight loss and younger age. Larger studies may be necessary to further elucidate the risk factors contributing to, and mechanisms of, band slippage.

Skipworth|J R A|JR|
Fanshawe|A E|AE|
Hewitt|M|M|
Raptis|D A|DA|
Efthimiou|E|E|
Smellie|W J B|WJ|

Laparoscopic
Gastric band
Band slippage
LAGB
Complications


Does the Quality of Life in Operated Patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis correspond with the Radiographic Parameters?

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES
Traditionally, scoliosis surgery is aimed at attaining a fused, balanced and painless spine. With improvement in surgical and instrumentation techniques, spine surgeons strive to achieve higher degree of Cobb's angle and rib hump correction with the idea of greater patient satisfaction. The aim of this study was to determine the patients' satisfaction using SRS-22 questionnaire and their correlations with the radiographic changes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary referral cen re using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire during the patients' annual follow up, betwee February to April 2014. Thirtyseven patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled.

RESULTS
The mean pre-operative Cobb's angles were 57.8o ± 12.7o and mean post-operative angle of 20.0o ± 10.4o, resulting in average correction of 65.9 ± 14.4%. Mean preoperative rib hump was 61.1 ± 15.4 mm with mean postoperative rib hump of 15.8 ± 17.8 mm, resulting in average reduction of 77.7 ± 23.7%. Mean of post-operative total SRS score was 4.1 ± 0.5. Using Spearman rank correlation, the percentage of Cobb's angle correction versus the SRS-22 score showed correlation of 0.17 (P=0.33) while the percentage of rib hump reduction versus SRS-22 score showed a correlation of 0.11 (P=0.53).

CONCLUSION
In this study, the average total SRS-22 score was 4.1 ± 0.5 (range, 3.1-4.9) post-operatively indicating very high satisfaction rate overall. Despite attempts at greater curve correction and rib hump reduction, there is no direct correlation between patient satisfaction and radiographic parameters.

Hisam|M A|MA|
Siti|N S|NS|
Jou|N P|NP|
Ghaneshinee|S|S|
Shaharuddin|A R|AR|
Azmi|B|B|
Mohd|Kfmm|K|

Quality of life
adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
SRS-22


Improving the organic and biological fouling resistance and removal of pharmaceutical and personal care products through nanofiltration by using in situ radical graft polymerization.

Abstract: In this study, an insitu radical graft polarization technique using monomers of 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium salt (SPM) and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) was applied to a commercial nanofiltration membrane (NF90) to improve its removal of six commonly detected pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) and mitigate organic and biological fouling by humic acid (HA) and sodium alginate (SA). Compared with the virgin membrane, the modified NF90 membrane exhibited considerably improved fouling resistance and an increased reversible fouling percentage, especially for SA+HA composite fouling Moreover, the PPCP removal of the modified NF90 membrane was higher than that of the virgin membrane after SA and SA+HA fouling, respectively. Triclosan and carbamazepine, which are poorly rejected, could be effectively removed by modified membrane after SA or SA+HA fouling. Both monomers modified the membrane surface by increasing the hydrophilicity and decreasing the contact angle. The degree of grafting was quantified using attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The mitigation in the fouling was evident from the low quantity of deposit formed on the modified membrane, as observed using scanning electron microscopy. A considerable amount of highly hydrophobic triclosan was adsorbed on the SA-fouled virgin membrane and penetrated through it. By contrast, the adsorption of triclosan was substantially lower in the SPM-modified membrane. After membrane modification, the fouling mechanism changed from solely intermediate blocking to both intermediate blocking and complete blocking after membrane modification. Thus, the in situ radical graft polymerization method effectively reduces organic and biological fouling and provides high PPCP removal, which is beneficial for fouling control and produces permeate of satisfactory quality for application in the field of membrane technology.

D057927:Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions

Pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs)

Organic and biological fouling mitigation


Activation of transcription factor Nrf2 to counteract mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease.

Abstract: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, for which no disease-modifying therapies are available to date. Although understanding of the precise aetiology of PD is incomplete, it is clear that age, genetic predisposition and environmental stressors increase the risk. At the cellular level, oxidative stress, chronic neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and aberrant protein aggregation have been implicated as contributing factors. These detrimental processes are counteracted by elaborate networks of cellular defence mechanisms, one of which is orchestrated by transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2; gene name NFE2L2). A wealth of preclinical evidence suggests that Nrf2 activation is beneficial in cellular and animal models of PD. In this review, we summarise the current understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction in PD, the role of Nrf2 in mitochondrial function and explore the potential of Nrf2 as a therapeutic target for mitochondrial dysfunction in PD.

D000818:Animals
D005786:Gene Expression Regulation
D008928:Mitochondria
D051267:NF-E2-Related Factor 2
D018384:Oxidative Stress
D010300:Parkinson Disease

Nrf2
Parkinson's disease
oxidative stress


Ceftriaxone, a GLT-1 transporter activator, disrupts hippocampal learning in rats.

Abstract: Glutamate transporters (GluTs) are important for maintaining optimal glutamate concentrations at the synapse. This allows proper synaptic response, plasticity and prevents neurotoxicity. It has been shown that the β-lactam antibiotic ceftriaxone (Rocephin) induces an up-regulation of the glutamate transporter GLT-1. This GLT-1 up-regulation blocks the metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) dependent long-term depression (LTD) at the mossy fiber (MF)-CA3 hippocampal synapse. It also has negative effects on long-term potentiation (LTP). However, the effects of GLT-1 up-regulation on hippocampal learning in rats are not known. In this study, we examine the role of chronic administration of ceftriaxone on novel object recognition, which is a hippocampal-dependent spatial learning task. Male Sprague Dawley rats (2-3 months old) were administered ceftriaxone (via i.p. injections, 200 mg/kg) for 8 consecutive days prior to training and testing on a standard novel object recognition task. We found that rats administered with ceftriaxone display memory impairments in novel object recognition, when compared to control rats (p<0.05). Our findings show that a potential up-regulation of GLT-1 via ceftriaxone administration has detrimental effects on spatial learning and memory in rats. Our results further support the notion that glutamate transporters provide an essential regulatory role in hippocampal learning and memory.

Matos-Ocasio|Félix|F|
Hernández-López|Anixa|A|
Thompson|Kenira J|KJ|

D027342:Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter 2

Ceftriaxone GLT-1 Learning Memory Hippocampus


Practical strategies for the evaluation of high-affinity protein/nucleic acid interactions.

Abstract: The quantitative evaluation of binding interactions between proteins and nucleic acids is highly sensitive to a variety of experimental conditions. Optimization of these conditions is critical for obtaining high quality, reproducible data, particularly in the context of very high affinity interactions. Here, we discuss the practical considerations involved in optimizing the apparent binding constant of an interaction as measured by two common quantitative assays, electrophoretic mobility shift assay and double-filter binding when measuring extremely tight protein/nucleic acid interactions with sub-nanomolar binding affinities. We include specific examples from two telomere end-binding protein systems, Schizo -saccharomyces pombe Pot1 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae Cdc13, to demonstrate potential experimental pitfalls and some useful strategies for optimization.

Altschuler|Sarah E|SE|
Lewis|Karen A|KA|
Wuttke|Deborah S|DS|

high-affinity
protein
nucleic acid
EMSA
filter binding


Viral infections and implications for male reproductive health.

Abstract: Viral infections have haunted humankind since times immemorial. Overpopulation, globalization, and extensive deforestation have created an ideal environment for a viral spread with unknown and multiple shedding routes. Many viruses can infect the male reproductive tract, with potential adverse consequences to male reproductive health, including infertility and cancer. Moreover, some genital tract viral infections can be sexually transmitted, potentially impacting the resulting offspring's health. We have summarized the evidence concerning the presence and adverse effects of the relevant viruses on the reproductive tract (mumps virus, human immunodeficiency virus, herpes virus, human papillomavirus, hepatitis B and C viruses, Ebola virus, Zika virus, influenza virus, and coronaviruses), their routes of infection, target organs and cells, prevalence and pattern of virus shedding in semen, as well as diagnosis/testing and treatment strategies. The pathophysiological understanding in the male genital tract is essential to assess its clinical impact on male reproductive health and guide future research.

Teixeira|Thiago A|TA|
Oliveira|Yasmin C|YC|
Bernardes|Felipe S|FS|
Kallas|Esper G|EG|
Duarte-Neto|Amaro N|AN|
Esteves|Sandro C|SC|
Drevet|Joël R|JR|
Hallak|Jorge|J|

reproduction
viruses
semen
male genital tract
sexual transmission
sperm
testis
viral persistence


Adiponectin inhibits oxidized low density lipoprotein-induced increase in matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression in vascular smooth muscle cells.

Abstract:
BACKGROUND
High expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) during vascular injury and inflammation plays an important role in atherosclerotic plaque formation and rupture. In the process of atherosclerosis, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) upregulates MMP9 in human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA/VSMCs). Adiponectin is an adipose tissue-derived hormone that has been shown to exert anti-atherogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of adiponectin on MMP9 expression under pathogenic condition created by oxLDL in HA/VSMCs.

METHODS
In this experimental study, HA/VSMC were stimulated with oxLDL alone and in the presence of adiponectin for 24 and 48 h. The expression of MMP9 gene was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction method. The protein level of this gene was investigated by western blotting technique.

RESULTS
An oxLDL increased MMP9 expression 2.16 ± 0.24- and 3.32 ± 0.25-fold after 24 and 48 h, respectively and adiponectin decreased oxLDL-induced MMP9 expression in a time-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION
These results show that adiponectin changes extracellular matrix by reducing MMP9 mRNA and protein, therefore, may stabilize lesions and reduce atheroma rupture.

Saneipour|Maryam|M| Ghatreh-Samani|Keihan|K| Heydarian|Esfandiar|E| Farrokhi|Effat|E| Abdian|Narges|N|

Adiponectin
Matrix Metalloproteinase 9
Oxidized Low Density Lipoprotein


Private groundwater contamination and extreme weather events: The role of demographics, experience and cognitive factors on risk perceptions of Irish private well users.

Abstract: Extreme weather events (EWEs) may significantly increase pathogenic contamination of private (unregulated) groundwater supplies. However, due to the paucity of protective guidance, private well users may be ill-equipped to undertake adaptive actions. With rising instances of waterborne illness documented in groundwater-dependent, developed regions such as the Republic of Ireland, a better understanding of well user risk perceptions pertaining to EWEs is required to establish appropriate educational interventions. To this end, the current study employed an online and physical questionnaire to identify current risk perceptions and correspondent predictors among Irish private well users concerning extreme weather. Respondents were elicited via purposive sampling, with 515 private well users elucidating perceived supply contamination risk in the wake of five EWEs between the years 2013-2018 including drought and pluvial flooding. A novel scoring protocol was devised to quantify overall risk perception (i.e. perceived likelihood, severity and consequences) of extreme weather impacts. Overall risk perception of EWEs was found to demonstrate a significant relationship with gender (p = 0.017) and event experience (p < 0.001), with female respondents and those reporting prior event experience exhibiting higher median risk perception scores. Risk perception was additionally mediated by perceived self-efficacy in undertaking supply maintenance (p = 0.001), as well users citing confidence in ability scored significantly lower than those citing no confidence. Two-step cluster analysis identified three distinct respondent subsets based on risk perception of EWEs (high, moderate and low perception), with female respondents and those with a third-level education significantly more likely to fall within the high perception cluster. Study findings affirm that certain demographic, experiential and cognitive factors exert a significant influence on private well user risk perceptions of EWE impacts and highlight potential focal points for future educational interventions seeking to reduce the risk of human infection associated with groundwater and extreme weather.

Mooney|S|S|
O'Dwyer|J|J|
Lavallee|S|S|
Hynds|P D|PD|

Groundwater contamination
Extreme weather events
Risk perception
Climate change


The effect of malocclusion on dating prospects.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
To establish whether the appearance of malocclusion affected dating prospects. The secondary objective was to identify any significant predictors relating to likelihood of dating.

DESIGN
Cross-sectional study.

SETTING
King's College London.

PARTICIPANTS
A total of 232 undergraduate students.

METHODS
Participants were shown images of either one man or one woman. The images had been manipulated using computer software to represent one of three differing dental appearances: post-orthodontic aligned teeth; pre-orthodontic crowded teeth; or pre-orthodontic missing teeth (developmentally absent maxillary lateral incisors). Sealed envelopes were randomly assigned to participants, who rated the individual in the image in relation to: attractiveness; intelligence; happiness; nervousness; and how much they would want to go on a date with them. The response format was a 100-mm visual analogue scale.

RESULTS
The aligned dental appearance received statistically significant higher ratings of attractiveness (P < 0.001), intelligence (P = 0.031), likelihood of dating (P = 0.017) as well as lower ratings of nervousness (P = 0.020). There was no statistically significant difference in relation to happiness (P = 0.43), neither were there any statistically significant differences between the crowded and missing dental appearances. Regression analysis revealed that rated attractiveness was the most significant predictor in relation to likelihood of dating (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION
Malocclusion did influence dating prospects. Photographs of individuals with aligned teeth were more likely to be rated highly in relation to attractiveness, intelligence and likelihood of dating, when compared with images of malocclusions. The most significant predictor of likelihood of dating was rated attractiveness.

Khela|Sonia|S|0000-0003-2559-790X
Newton|J Timothy|JT|
Jeremiah|Huw G|HG|

malocclusion
dating
dental appearance
orthodontics


In vitro fertilization in women under 35: counseling should differ by age.

Abstract:
PURPOSE
The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF), including cumulative live birth rate, among women <25 years, 25 to <30 years, and 30 to <35 years.

METHODS
A retrospective cohort study of all women 18 to <35 years of age at their first fresh-embryo, non-donor IVF cycle from January 1995 through December 2012 at a single center was conducted. A competing-risk regression model was used to estimate the cumulative probability and 95 % confidence interval (CI) of the first live birth in up to 6 cycles during the study period with IVF cycle number as the time metric.

RESULTS
Among 7243 women who underwent 16,792 cycles, there were 163 (2.3 %) women <25 years, 1691 (23.3 %) women 25 to <30 years, and 5389 (74.4 %) women 30 to <35 years. Women <25 years had the lowest cumulative live birth rate after each cycle, followed by women 30 to <35 years. In both groups, the cumulative live birth rate after 6 cycles was significantly lower than that of women 25 to <30 years; these rates were 58 % (95 % CI 0.51-0.66) among women <25 years, 69 % (95 % CI 0.67-0.71) among women 25 to <30 years, and 64 % (95 % CI 0.63-0.65) among women 30 to <35 years.

CONCLUSIONS
Our findings are consistent with other reports of less favorable IVF treatment outcomes in women <25 years of age following their first IVF cycle. This indicates that there are underlying factors in couples with a female <25 years of age that should lead to different treatment counseling when they attempt IVF.

Humm|K C|KC|
Dodge|L E|LE|
Wu|L H|LH|
Penzias|A S|AS|
Malizia|B A|BA|
Sakkas|D|D|
Hacker|M R|MR|

In vitro fertilization
IVF
Cumulative live birth rate
Young women


Surgical outcomes among elderly women with endometrial cancer treated by laparoscopic hysterectomy: a NRG/Gynecologic Oncology Group study.

Abstract:
OBJECTIVE
Tolerance of and complications caused by minimally invasive hysterectomy and staging in the older endometrial cancer population is largely unknown despite the fact that this is the most rapidly growing age group in the United States. The objective of this retrospective review was to compare operative morbidity by age in patients on the Gynecologic Oncology Group Laparoscopic Surgery or Standard Surgery in Treating Patients With Endometrial Cancer or Cancer of the Uterus (LAP2) trial.

STUDY DESIGN
This is a retrospective analysis of patients from Gynecologic Oncology Group LAP2, a trial that included clinically early-stage uterine cancer patients randomized to laparotomy vs laparoscopy for surgical staging. Differences in the rates and types of intraoperative and perioperative complications were compared by age. Specifically complications between patients <60 vs ≥60 years old were compared caused by toxicity analysis showing a sharp increase in toxicity starting at age 60 years in the laparotomy group.

RESULTS
LAP2 included 1477 patients ≥60 years old. As expected, with increasing age there was worsening performance status and disease characteristics including higher rates of serous histology, high-stage disease, and lymphovascular space invasion. There was no significant difference in lymph node dissection rate by age for the entire population or within the laparotomy or laparoscopy groups. Toxicity analysis showed a sharp increase in toxicity seen in patients ≥60 years old in the laparotomy group. Further analysis showed that when comparing laparotomy with laparoscopy in patients <60 years old vs ≥60 years old and controlling for race, body mass index, stage, grade, and performance status, patients <60 years old undergoing laparotomy had more hospital stays >2 days (odds ratio, 17.48; 95% confidence interval, 11.71-27.00, P < .001) compared with patients <60 years old undergoing laparoscopy. However, when comparing laparotomy with laparoscopy in patients ≥60 years old, in addition to hospital stay >2 days (odds ratio, 12.77; 95% confidence interval, 8.74-19.32, P < .001), there were higher rates of the following postoperative complications: antibiotic administration (odds ratio, 1.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-2.14, P < .001), ileus (odds ratio, 2.16; 95% confidence interval, 1.42-3.31, P <0.001), pneumonias (odds ratio, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-5.66, P = .048), deep vein thromboses (odds ratio, 2.87; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-8.03, P = .035), and arrhythmias (odds ratio, 3.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.60-6.65, P = .001) in the laparotomy group.

CONCLUSION
Laparoscopic staging for uterine cancer is associated with decreased morbidity in the immediate postoperative period in patients ≥60 years old. These results allow for more accurate preoperative counseling. A minimally invasive approach to uterine cancer staging may decrease morbidity that could affect long-term survival.

Bishop|Erin A|EA|
Java|James J|JJ|
Moore|Kathleen N|KN|
Spirtos|Nick M|NM|
Pearl|Michael L|ML|
Zivanovic|Oliver|O|
Kushner|David M|DM|
Backes|Floor|F|
Hamilton|Chad A|CA|
Geller|Melissa A|MA|
Hurteau|Jean|J|
Mathews|Cara|C|
Wenham|Robert M|RM|
Ramirez|Pedro T|PT|
Zweizig|Susan|S|
Walker|Joan L|JL|