High salivary testosterone to androstenedione (T/A4) ratio and adverse metabolic phenotypes in women with PCOS

Abstract

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by a combination of hormonal and metabolic disturbances, such as insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, anovulation and hyperandrogenism. Clinical phenotypes of PCOS show different patterns of steroid hormones that have been investigated to some extent. This study aimed to establish a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the quantification of salivary testosterone and androstenedione, and to describe the salivary testosterone to androstenedione (T/A4) ratio as a new tool for the assessment of hyperandrogenism and metabolic health.

Material and Methods

Saliva and serum samples of 274 PCOS patients and 51 healthy women were used for the quantification of steroid hormones. A comprehensive clinical and metabolic assessment was performed. Salivary testosterone and androstenedione were measured via LC-MS/MS. The salivary T/A4 ratio was calculated and correlated with hormones and metabolic parameters.

Results

Salivary testosterone (p<0.001), androstenedione (p<0.001) and the salivary T/A4 ratio (p<0.001) were significantly higher in PCOS patients compared to healthy women. In PCOS patients, a high salivary T/A4 ratio was associated with an adverse metabolic phenotype, i.e. glucose intolerance (p=0.019), insulin resistance (p<0.001), metabolic syndrome (p<0.001), obesity (p<0.001) and oligo-/anovulation (p=0.001). Significant correlations of the salivary T/A4 ratio with adverse metabolic parameters were found.

Conclusion

Quantification of salivary androgens provides an attractive alternative to serum analysis and helps in characterising metabolic health in women with PCOS. Our data show a strong link between a high salivary T/A4 ratio and an adverse metabolic phenotype in PCOS patients.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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First trimester isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia: adverse maternal metabolic profile and impact on the obstetrical outcome

Abstract

Background

Isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia (IH) is defined as low maternal FT4 (<5^th percentile) and normal TSH. There is concern on its potential negative effects on the mother and offspring.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of IH and to assess the consequences of hypothyroxinemia on the maternal and foetal outcomes.

Subjects and methods

From a total of 1300 consecutive pregnant women recruited during the prenatal screen (mean gestational age, 11.8 weeks), thyroid function parameters were assessed in 879 women. After exclusion of women with T4 supplements, with twin pregnancies and with diabetes, data from 783 women were included. Maternal and neonatal outcomes in 55 selected women with IH and negative thyroid auto antibodies, without thyroid disorders or pregnancy achieved through assisted reproductive techniques were compared with a selected euthyroid control group (N=165).

Results

Among the 783 non - diabetic singleton pregnant women, 68 women (8.7%) were identified with IH. When compared to the selected euthyroid controls, selected women with hypothyroxinemia had significantly increased BMI in preconception (p=0.003), in the first trimester (p=0.004) and at the time of delivery (p=0.001). At term, foetal breech presentation and caesarian section rate were significantly higher (p=0.006 and p=0.026, respectively) than in the euthyroid controls. A significantly increase in macrosomia was also noted (p=0.026).

Conclusion

The prevalence of hypothyroxinemia in early pregnancy was of 8.7%. IH is associated with an increased maternal BMI and is related with a risk of breech presentation, a significant increase in macrosomia and caesarian sections. Screening should consider overweight as risk factor for hypothyroxinaemia.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Basic discriminative and semantic processing in patients in the vegetative and minimally conscious state

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:International Journal of Psychophysiology
Author(s): Helena Erlbeck, Ruben G.L. Real, Boris Kotchoubey, Donatella Mattia, Jakob Bargak, Andrea Kübler
Patients who survive injuries to the brain following accidents or diseases often acquire a disorder of consciousness (DOC). Assessment of the state of consciousness in these patients is difficult since they are usually incapable of reproducible motor movements. The application of event-related potentials (ERP) recorded via EEG constitutes one promising approach to complement the assessment of cognitive functions in DOC patients. For these assessments, a hierarchical approach was suggested which means that paradigms aiming at higher order ERPs are only presented if early responses were found. In this study, 19 behaviorally unresponsive or low-responsive DOC patients were presented with three auditory paradigms using passive instructions. The paradigms aimed at eliciting the Mismatch Negativity (MMN) and N400 and were applied at two time points. One oddball paradigm (MMN) and two semantic paradigms (word-pairs: N400 Words; sentences: N400 Sentences) were included. The majority of patients (n=15) did not show any response to the stimulation. In the MMN paradigm, an MMN was identified in two patients, in the N400 Words paradigm, only an N1 was identified in one patient, and in the N400 Sentences paradigm, a late positive complex (LPC) was identified in two patients. These data contradict the hierarchical approach since the LPC was identified in patients who did not exhibit an MMN. They further support the notion that even higher information processing as addressed with the N400 paradigms is preserved in a minority of DOC patients. Thus, in this sample, around 10% of the DOC patients exhibited indicators of preserved consciousness.



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Improving the competency of dental hygiene students in detecting dental restorations using quantitative light-induced fluorescence technology

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Hye-Young Oh, Hoi-In Jung, Jeong-Woo Lee, Baek-Il Kim
ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of a quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) technology in detecting dental restorations by comparing the detection ability of dental hygiene students between using conventional visual inspections alone and visual inspections combined with QLF technology.MethodsThe subjects of this study comprised 92 dental hygiene students. The students assigned to the control group only used white-light images to visually assess the mouth environment, while those in the experimental group additionally used fluorescence images. Using the test results of an experienced inspector as a reference value, the agreement between the reference value and the evaluation results of the students in the experimental and control groups was evaluated using Cohen's kappa and the percentage agreement. The subjects were then classified into groups covering three percentage ranges according to the score distribution and agreement values of the three groups were compared. The percentage agreement was calculated according to the type of dental restorationsResultsThe mean kappa value was significantly higher in the experimental group than the control group (0.70 vs 0.60, p<0.01), as was the percentage agreement (80.06% vs 72.64%, p<0.01). The agreement rate when using QLF technology increased by 8% more in the middle and bottom percentage groups than in the top percentage group (p<0.01). The agreement rate also varied with the type of restoration, being significantly higher for a sound tooth or tooth-colored restoration in the experimental group (p<0.01).ConclusionsCombining QLF technology with conventional visual inspections could improve the ability to detect dental restorations and distinguish sound teeth from aesthetic restorations.



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Table of Contents

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology, Volume 66





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Editorial Board and Masthead

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology, Volume 66





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Meetings of Interest

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology, Volume 66





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Editorial Board

Publication date: January–February 2017
Source:Aggression and Violent Behavior, Volume 32





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Age-related alterations in human neocortical plasticity

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:Brain Research Bulletin
Author(s): M.J. Spriggs, C.J. Cadwallader, J.P. Hamm, L.J. Tippett, I.J. Kirk
Age-related changes in neuroplasticity may be central to the cognitive decline associated with even healthy ageing. Modulated Long-Term Potentiation (LTP) and Long-Term Depression (LTD) have been repeatedly demonstrated in aged rodents, however the translation to human research has been limited by a scarcity of non-invasive methods for doing so. We have previously demonstrated that, following a block of high frequency presentations of a visual stimulus (referred to as a "visual tetanus"), there is a LTP-like enhancement of the N1b component of the visually evoked potential (VEP) to subsequent low frequency presentations of the same stimulus. The aims of the current study were, firstly, to use this electroencephalography (EEG) paradigm to assess age group differences in neocortical plasticity in humans, and secondly, to expand on the visual LTP paradigm by examining plasticity in another component of the VEP; the P2a. While a young participant group (N=29, age range=19–35) demonstrated the expected LTP-like enhancement of the N1b immediately following the visual tetanus, an older participant group (N=19, age range=68–91) did not. However, both age groups demonstrated a positive shift of the P2a component after repeated presentations of low frequency baseline blocks, which is hypothesized to be an LTD-like shift in the VEP. These results support the rodent literature indicating an age-related shift in threshold for LTP, but a relative preservation of the threshold for LTD. This study not only provides valuable insight into healthy age-related alterations in neocortical plasticity, but is also the first to identify an LTD-like modulation of the VEP in humans.



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Neuronal expression of a thyroid hormone receptor α mutation alters mouse behaviour

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research, Volume 321
Author(s): S. Richard, N. Aguilera, M. Thévenet, O. Dkhissi-Benyahya, F. Flamant
In humans, alterations in thyroid hormone signalling are associated with mood and anxiety disorders, but the neural mechanisms underlying such association are poorly understood. The present study investigates the involvement of neuronal thyroid hormone receptor α (TRα) in anxiety, using mouse genetics and Cre/loxP technology to specifically alter TRα signalling in neurons. We evaluated the behaviour of mice expressing a dominant negative, neuron-specific mutation of TRα (TRα^AMI/Cre3 mice), using the elevated-plus maze, light-dark box and open-field tests. In a first experiment, mice were housed individually, and the behaviour of TRα^AMI/Cre3 mice differed significantly from that of control littermates in these 3 tests, suggesting heightened anxiety. In a second experiment, designed to evaluate the robustness of the results with the same 3 tests, mice were housed in groups. In these conditions, the behaviour of TRα^AMI/Cre3 mice differed from that of control littermates only in the light-dark box. Thus, TRα^AMI/Cre3 mice appear to be more likely to develop anxiety under stressful housing conditions than control mice. These results suggest that in adult mice, thyroid hormone signalling in neurons, via TRα, is involved in the control of anxiety behaviour.



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Characteristics and processing of Pol IV transcripts in Arabidopsis

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:Journal of Genetics and Genomics
Author(s): Hsuan Yu Kuo, Elise L. Jacobsen, Yanping Long, Xinyuan Chen, Jixian Zhai




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Adaptive responses of heart and skeletal muscle to spermine oxidase overexpression: Evaluation of a new transgenic mouse model

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): Roberta Ceci, Guglielmo Duranti, Alessia Leonetti, Stefano Pietropaoli, Federico Spinozzi, Lucia Marcocci, Roberto Amendola, Francesco Cecconi, Stefania Sabatini, Paolo Mariottini, Manuela Cervelli
Spermine oxidase oxidizes spermine to produce H2O2, spermidine, and 3-aminopropanal. It is involved in cell drug response, apoptosis, and in the etiology of several pathologies, including cancer. Spermine oxidase is an important positive regulator of muscle gene expression and fiber size and, when repressed, leads to muscle atrophy. We have generated a transgenic mouse line overexpressing Smox gene in all organs, named Total-Smox. The spermine oxidase overexpression was revealed by β-Gal staining and reverse-transcriptase/PCR analysis, in all tissues analysed. Spermine oxidase activity resulted higher in Total-Smox than controls. Considering the important role of this enzyme in muscle physiology, we have focused our study on skeletal muscle and heart of Total-Smox mice by measuring redox status and oxidative damage. We assessed the redox homeostasis through the analysis of the reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio. Chronic H2O2 production induced by spermine oxidase overexpression leads to a cellular redox state imbalance in both tissues, although they show different redox adaptation. In skeletal muscle, catalase and glutathione S-transferase activities were significantly increased in Total-Smox mice compared to controls. In the heart, no differences were found in CAT activity level, while GST activity decreased compared to controls. The skeletal muscle showed a lower oxidative damage than in the heart, evaluated by lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation. Altogether, our findings illustrate that skeletal muscle adapts more efficiently than heart to oxidative stress H2O2-induced. The Total-Smox line is a new genetic model useful to deepen our knowledge on the role of spermine oxidase in muscle atrophy and muscular pathological conditions like dystrophy.

Graphical abstract

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Orbital Imaging Manifestations of Neurocutaneous Syndromes Revisited

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Abanti Das, Sanjay Sharma
Neurocutaneous syndromes or phakomatosis represent a heterogeneous group of multi-systemic disorders involving structures of ectodermal origin. Characteristic ocular manifestations are described for individual entities which are often the first clues to the underlying diagnosis. However, opaque ocular media or involvement of retrobulbar orbit limits adequate clinical evaluation. This underlines the role of imaging, especially cross-sectional imaging modalities like Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which offer a comprehensive evaluation of orbit and its contents. This review aims to summarize the cross-sectional imaging features of orbital manifestations of common neurocutaneous syndromes encountered in clinical practice.



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Effect of ambient temperature on species lumping for total organic gases in gasoline exhaust emissions

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 152
Author(s): Anirban Roy, Yunsoo Choi
Volatile organic compound (VOCs) emissions from sources often need to be compressed or "lumped" into species classes for use in emissions inventories intended for air quality modeling. This needs to be done to ensure computational efficiency. The lumped profiles are usually reported for one value of ambient temperature. However, temperature-specific detailed profiles have been constructed in the recent past - the current study investigates how the lumping of species from those profiles into different atmospheric chemistry mechanisms is affected by temperature, considering three temperatures (−18 °C, −7 °C and 24 °C). The mechanisms considered differed on the assumptions used for lumping: CB05 (carbon bond type), SAPRC (ozone formation potential) and RACM2 (molecular surrogate and reactivity weighting). In this space, four sub-mechanisms for SAPRC were considered. Scaling factors were developed for each lumped model species and mechanism in terms of moles of lumped species per unit mass. Species which showed a direct one-to-one mapping (SAPRC/RACM2) reported scaling factors that were unchanged across mechanisms. However, CB05 showed different trends since one compound often is mapped onto multiple model species, out of which the paraffinic double bond (PAR) is predominant. Temperature-dependent parameterizations for emission factors pertaining to each lumped species class and mechanism were developed as part of the study. Here, the same kind of model species showed varying lumping parameters across the different mechanisms. These differences could be attributed to differing approaches in lumping. The scaling factors and temperature-dependent parameterizations could be used to update emissions inventories such as MOVES or SMOKE for use in chemical transport modeling.



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External validation of a published nomogram for prediction of brain metastasis in patients with extra-cerebral metastatic breast cancer and risk regression analysis

Publication date: February 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 72
Author(s): Ludivine Genre, Henri Roché, Léonel Varela, Dorra Kanoun, Monia Ouali, Thomas Filleron, Florence Dalenc
BackgroundSurvival of patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) suffering from brain metastasis (BM) is limited and this event is usually fatal. In 2010, the Graesslin's nomogram was published in order to predict subsequent BM in patients with breast cancer (BC) with extra-cerebral metastatic disease. This model aims to select a patient population at high risk for BM and thus will facilitate the design of prevention strategies and/or the impact of early treatment of BM in prospective clinical studies.Patients and methodsNomogram external validation was retrospectively applied to patients with BC and later BM between January 2005 and December 2012, treated in our institution. Moreover, risk factors of BM appearance were studied by Fine and Gray's competing risk analysis.ResultsAmong 492 patients with MBC, 116 developed subsequent BM. Seventy of them were included for the nomogram validation. The discrimination is good (area under curve = 0.695 [95% confidence interval, 0.61–0.77]). Risk factors of BM appearance are: human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression/amplification, triple-negative BC and number of extra-cerebral metastatic sites (>1). With a competing risk model, we highlight the nomogram interest for HER2+ tumour subgroup exclusively.ConclusionGraesslin's nomogram external validation demonstrates exportability and reproducibility. Importantly, the competing risk model analysis provides additional information for the design of prospective trials concerning the early diagnosis of BM and/or preventive treatment on high risk patients with extra-cerebral metastatic BC.



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Are rapidly growing cancers more lethal?

Publication date: February 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 72
Author(s): Hans-Olov Adami, Peter Csermely, Daniel V. Veres, Louise Emilsson, Magnus Løberg, Michael Bretthauer, Mette Kalager
The view, that rapidly growing tumours are more likely than slow-growing tumours to metastasize and become lethal, has remained almost axiomatic for decades. Unaware of any solid evidence supporting this view, we undertook an exhaustive system-level analysis of intra- and intercellular signalling networks. This analysis indicated that rapid growth and metastasis are often different outcomes of complex integrated molecular events. Evidence from humans can be derived chiefly from screening interventions because interval cancers that surface clinically shortly after a negative screening test are, on average, more rapidly growing than cancers not detected by screening. We reviewed all available data limited to cancers of the breast, cervix and large bowel. The evidence from humans provides no support for the theory that rapidly growing cancers are more prone to metastasize. These findings indicate that the prevailing view should be reconsidered, as should the impact of length-biased sampling in cancer screening, and the findings provide no support for treating interval cancers more aggressively than non-interval cancers.



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Unusual bifid crista galli in a patient with cleft lip and palate

Abstract

One of the most common craniofacial malformations observed in newborn babies is cleft lip and palate (CLP). This syndrome presents with some anatomic variations. The aim of this study was to understand an anatomic variation of the crista galli that had not been reported previously in patients with CLP. A 17-year-old boy with CLP was referred to an orthodontic clinic for cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging before treatment. Axial and coronal sections and three-dimensional images showed that the crista galli had bifid heads that were attached to each other. Incomplete ossification had resulted in a bifid crista galli and the appearance of a suture in the anterior coronal section of the CBCT images. This anatomic variation could allow penetration of the anterior fossa during endoscopic surgery, which could be dangerous for the patient.

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Diagnostic value of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and scintigraphy in diagnosing actinomycosis of the mandible

Abstract

Mandibular actinomycosis is an uncommon disease caused by Actinomyces israelii. Actinomycosis infection typically manifests as a chronic disease resulting in multiple abscesses, firm soft tissue mass, and presence of sulfur granules in exudates or tissues. A few reports have provided imaging findings of actinomycosis in the head and neck, but computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and scintigraphy of mandibular actinomycosis have not been fully described. Here, we report a case of mandibular actinomycosis with CT, MRI, and scintigraphy. The purpose of this article is to characterize the CT, MRI, and scintigraphy findings in cases of actinomycosis. Contrast-enhanced CT of the masticator space showed heterogeneous enhancement and a nonenhancing portion, suggestive of necrotic foci. Bone tissue algorithm CT showed an osteolytic lesion in the ramus of the left mandible only. On post-contrast T1-weighted images, the masticator space showed heterogeneous enhancement and nonenhancing portion, suggestive of necrotic foci. Bone scintigraphy revealed monostatic involvement of the mandible with a homogeneous intense uptake pattern. Gallium scintigraphy revealed significantly increased uptake in the left side of the face. These findings can be helpful for differentiating actinomycosis from other tumors of the mandible.

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Prevalence of and outcomes from Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia among hospitalized patients in the United States, 2009-2012

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:American Journal of Infection Control
Author(s): David M. Jacobs, Amy Shaver
BackgroundThe burden of Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia is unknown despite being a major cause of mortality. We investigated national estimates of methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible S aureus (MSSA) pneumonias and predictors of in-hospital mortality and hospital length of stay (LOS).MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis of the National Inpatient Sample from 2009-2012. Adult patients with an ICD-9-CM primary diagnosis code for MRSA or MSSA pneumonia were included. Data weights were used to derive national estimates. Prevalence rates were reported per 100,000 hospital discharges, with trends presented descriptively.ResultsThere were 104,562 patients who had a primary diagnosis of S aureus pneumonia, with 81,275 from MRSA. MRSA pneumonia prevalence decreased steadily from 2009 (75.6 cases per 100,000 discharges) to 2012 (56.6 cases per 100,000 discharges), with MSSA pneumonia experiencing a slight decrease. Mortality rates decreased between 2009 and 2012 for MRSA pneumonia (7.9% to 6.4%) and MSSA pneumonia (6.9% to 4.7%; P = .008). LOS was higher for MRSA (6.9-7.8 days) compared with MSSA (6.1-6.4 days).ConclusionsThe prevalence of MRSA pneumonia has decreased among hospitalized adults in the United States in recent years accompanied by improvements in mortality and LOS. Although the prevalence of MRSA pneumonia is declining, national vigilance is still warranted.



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Trial of Lenvatinib Plus Pembrolizumab in Subjects With Selected Solid Tumors

Condition:   Solid Tumors
Interventions:   Drug: lenvatinib;   Drug: pembrolizumab
Sponsor:   Eisai Co., Ltd.
Not yet recruiting - verified December 2016

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EUS-FNA for Retropharyngeal Lymph Node (RPLN) in Recurrent Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) Patients

Condition:   Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Intervention:   Procedure: EUS-FNA for RPLN in NPC patients
Sponsor:   Sun Yat-sen University
Recruiting - verified December 2016

http://ift.tt/2hB2mFt

Relationship of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components With Thyroid Cancer

Condition:   Thyroid Cancer
Intervention:  
Sponsor:   Lin Liao
Not yet recruiting - verified December 2016

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Influence of the SPInal MANipulation on Muscle Spasticity and Manual Dexterity in Cerebral Palsy.

Condition:   Cerebral Palsy, Spastic
Interventions:   Procedure: Spinal manipulation;   Procedure: Imitation of the spinal manipulation
Sponsor:   International Clinic of Rehabilitation, Ukraine
Recruiting - verified December 2016

http://ift.tt/2hAJcQ4

Exercise Program Based on Motor Learning and Forward Head Posture Correction

Conditions:   Musculoskeletal Abnormalities;   Deformity
Intervention:   Other: Exercise program based on motor learning principles
Sponsor:   Eleni Kapreli
Not yet recruiting - verified December 2016

http://ift.tt/2iykWww

Enhancement of Chlorella vulgaris harvesting via the electro-coagulation-flotation (ECF) method

Abstract

This article explores the potential of using an electro-coagulation-flotation (ECF) harvester to allow flotation of microalgae cells for surface harvesting. A response surface methodology (RSM) model was used to optimize ECF harvesting by adjusting electrode plate material, electrode plate number, charge of the electrodes, electrolyte concentration, and pH value of the culture solution. The result revealed that three aluminum electrode plates (one anode and two cathodes), brine solution (8 g/L), and acidity (pH = 4) of culture solution (optimized ECF harvester) The highest flocculant concentration was measured at 2966 mg/L after 60 min and showed a 79.8 % increase of flocculation concentration. Such results can provide a basis for designing a large-scale microalgae harvester for commercial use in the future.

http://ift.tt/2hUrt46

Elemental content of mosses and lichens from Livingston Island (Antarctica) as determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA)

Abstract

The total content of 8 major and 32 trace elements in four species of mosses and two of lichens as well as neighboring soil and rocks collected from different places of the Livingston Island Antarctica was determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis. The main goals of the project consisted of evidencing the possible trace of anthropogenic contamination as well as the influence of altitude on the distribution of considered elements. In the absence of a unanimously accepted descriptor, enrichment factor, geo-accumulation, and pollution load indices with respect to soil and rocks were used. The data, interpreted within the model of a reference plant, were compared with previous studies regarding the same organisms in similar geographic and climatological areas. The experimental results evidenced different capacity of mosses and lichens to retain the considered elements, but within experimental uncertainties, no traces of anthropogenic pollution were found. At the same time, it was found that the content of most of the elements decreased with the altitude.

http://ift.tt/2hCNqbO

Forecasting residential electricity demand in provincial China

Abstract

In China, more than 80% electricity comes from coal which dominates the CO2 emissions. Residential electricity demand forecasting plays a significant role in electricity infrastructure planning and energy policy designing, but it is challenging to make an accurate forecast for developing countries. This paper forecasts the provincial residential electricity consumption of China in the 13th Five-Year-Plan (2016–2020) period using panel data. To overcome the limitations of widely used predication models with unreliably prior knowledge on function forms, a robust piecewise linear model in reduced form is utilized to capture the non-deterministic relationship between income and residential electricity consumption. The forecast results suggest that the growth rates of developed provinces will slow down, while the less developed will be still in fast growing. The national residential electricity demand will increase at 6.6% annually during 2016–2020, and populous provinces such as Guangdong will be the main contributors to the increments.

http://ift.tt/2hCXkdg

Carbon and water footprints of irrigated corn and non-irrigated wheat in Northeast Spain

Abstract

Irrigation increases yields and allows several crops to be produced in regions where it would be naturally impossible due to limited rainfall. However, irrigation can cause several negative environmental impacts, and it is important to understand these in depth for the correct application of mitigation measures. The life cycle assessment methodology was applied herein to compare the main irrigated and non-irrigated crops in Northeast Spain (corn and wheat, respectively), identifying those processes with greater contribution to environmental impacts (carbon and water footprint categories) and providing scientifically-sound information to facilitate government decisions. Due to concerns about climate change and water availability, the methods selected for evaluation of environmental impacts were IPCC 2013 GWP (carbon footprint) and water scarcity indicator (water footprint). The area studied, a 7.38-km² basin, was monitored for 12 years, including the period before, during, and after the implementation of irrigation. The functional unit, to which all material and energy flows were associated with, was the cultivation of 1 ha, throughout 1 year. The overall carbon footprint for irrigated corn was higher, but when considering the higher productivity achieved with irrigation, the emissions per kilogram of corn decrease and finally favor this irrigated crop. When considering the water footprint, the volumes of irrigation water applied were so high that productivity could not compensate for the negative impacts associated with water use in the case of corn. Nevertheless, consideration of productivities and gross incomes brings the results closer. Fertilizer use (carbon footprint) and irrigation water (water footprint) were the main contributors to the negative impacts detected.

http://ift.tt/2hUxOfV

The influence of maternal exposure history to virus and medicine during pregnancy on congenital heart defects of fetus

Abstract

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect. It is due to dysfunction of the heart and great vessels during embryo development stage, or the channel was not closed after birth. This study focuses on investigating the influence of virus infection and medicine history during pregnancy on the incidence rate of CHD of fetus. We conducted a retrospective birth cohort study of infant born in the maternal and child health hospital of Fanyu district in Guangzhou. Five thousand three hundred eighty one cases with complete medical records, including mothers, fathers, and infants, were enrolled. The exposure history of mothers to virus and medicine from 6 months before pregnancy to prenatal examination was investigated, including mflu, mumps, measles, rubella, chickenpox, and hepatitis and antibiotics, tocolytic agent, anticonvulsants, antipyretic and analgesic, antitumor drug, folic acid supplement, and contraceptive. The relationship between virus infection and medicine history during pregnancy and CHD was analyzed. There was statistical difference between a normal group and a defected group in influenza infection and tocolytic agent and contraceptive pill. The exposure history to influenza and medicines, such as tocolytic agent and contraceptive pill, during pregnancy influenced the incidence rate of CHD of fetus.

http://ift.tt/2hCM00Q

Estimation of students’ exposure to metal concentrations from river-dust episodes during 1994–2012

Abstract

Two elementary schools (Shiuguang and Fongrong) from Yulin County in Taiwan, near a main area of potential exposure to Aeolian river-dust, were selected to collect outdoor and indoor PM₁₀ aerosols and to measure five metals in PM₁₀ (As, Ni, Cr, Cd, and Mn). Significant relationships (p < 0.01) were found between outdoor PM₁₀ concentrations at Lunbei's air quality monitoring station and the two elementary schools. The outdoor PM₁₀ concentrations at the monitoring station and the schools' indoor PM₁₀ concentrations also showed significant correlations. This study also established a relationship between the outdoor and indoor concentrations of PM₁₀ and metals in the schools. Estimations were made regarding students' 8 h of exposure to metal concentrations from river-dust episodes during 1994–2012, based on correlation equations that were shown to be statistically significant.

http://ift.tt/2hUq90S

Bacterial community profile of contaminated soils in a typical antimony mining site

Abstract

The soils around the world's largest antimony mine have been contaminated by high concentrations of Sb and As, which might influence microbial diversity in the surrounding soils. The ecological effects of bioavailable Sb and As on the composition and diversity of microbial community in soils remain unknown. In this study, the relative abundance, taxonomic diversity and composition of bacterial community in soils from a typical Sb mine area, and the relationship between the bacterial community and bioavailable concentrations as well as environmental factors have been investigated comprehensively using high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT). The results indicated that Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, and Cyanobacteria were the dominant bacterial populations at phylum level in all soil samples, accounting for more than 80% of the bacteria sequenced. The abundance and diversity of bacterial community vary along a metal contamination gradient. Redundancy discriminate analysis (RDA) revealed that 74.74% of bacterial community variation in the contaminated soils was explained by six environmental factors (pH, Sb_DGT, As_DGT, potential ecological risk index (RI), TC, TN), among which pH, Sb_DGT, and As_DGT were dominant factors influencing the composition and diversity of bacteria. This study contributes to our understanding of microbial diversity in a local ecosystem and introduces the option of studying bioavailable Sb and As using DGT.

http://ift.tt/2hCNGrf

Sublethal effect assessment of a low-power and dual-frequency anti-cyanobacterial ultrasound device on the common carp ( Cyprinus carpio ): a field study

Abstract

The use of ultrasonication for cyanobacterial control in freshwater bodies has become increasingly popular during the last decades despite controversial efficiency on large scale application. Apart from that, little information is currently available regarding ultrasound toxicity potential towards non-target species. This work was designed to address this issue in the common carp using a low-power (7–9 W output) and dual-frequency (23 and 46 kHz) anti-cyanobacterial ultrasound device. Results showed that carps were unaffected by ultrasound exposure when exposed in floating cages in fish ponds over a 30-day period. The experiment duration was the main factor influencing all measured biological parameters in exposed and non-exposed organisms. Indeed, it was positively associated with an increase in fish condition factor. Cortisol level also tended to slightly increase over the number of days of experiment but its variation did not enable to sort out any ultrasound exposure-related stress. Moreover, an overall diminution along the experimental period of the expression level of a set of biomarkers could be reported, encompassing cellular antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxydase (GPx), catalase and glutathione S-transferase (GST), and lactate dehydrogenase activity. Subtle changes in these biomarkers were dependent of the type of enzyme activity and especially of the origin of fish (i.e., sampled pond) regardless of the presence of ultrasound equipment, reflecting thereby fish adaptation to local environmental conditions in each pond. In conclusion, this study does not provide indication that ultrasonication in the aforementioned conditions affects the welfare and physiological homeostasis of carps.

http://ift.tt/2hUpaOi

Alkyl amine and vegetable oil mixture—a viable candidate for CO 2 capture and utilization

Abstract

In this present work, the absorption of CO₂ in alkyl amines and vegetable oil mixture has been evaluated. The results showed that the absorption is higher in alkyl amines and vegetable oil mixture compared with the aqueous alkyl amines. In addition to that, by employing the greener and non-toxic vegetable oil media, the CO₂ gas has been captured as well as converted into value-added products, such as carbamates of ethylenediamine, diethylenetriamine, and triethylenetetramine. The carbamates have been isolated and characterized by Fourier transform infrared and ¹H and ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques. The formation of these products in precipitate form has not been observed in the case of aqueous medium. Among the various alkyl amine and vegetable oil combinations, triethylenetetramine in coconut oil medium showed the maximum CO₂ capture capacity of 72%. The coconut oil used for the process has been recovered, recycled, and reused for 3 cycles. Thus, this novel scheme seems to be a better alternative to conquer the drawback of aqueous amine-based CO₂ capture as well as for the capture and utilization of the CO₂ gas to gain the value-added products.

http://ift.tt/2hCQcO9

Development of a PCR-free DNA-based assay for the specific detection of Vibrio species in environmental samples by targeting the 16S rRNA

Abstract

A novel PCR-free DNA-based assay was developed for the detection of Vibrio spp. A sandwich hybridization format using an immobilized capture probe and a labeled signal probe was selected and combined with chemiluminescent method for the detection of the RNA target. In a first step, probes were validated using positive controls (PCs). A linearity was observed between 0.1 and 2.5 nM of PC, and detection limit was determined as 0.1 nM. In a second step, specificity was checked by using RNA extracted from a panel of 31 environmental bacterial strains. Detection limit of 5 ng μL⁻¹ of total fragmented RNA was obtained, and the assay allowed a good discrimination between the 21 Vibrio and the 10 non-Vibrio strains tested. Finally, the DNA-based assay was successfully applied to analysis of spiked and natural environmental samples. Stability and analysis time of the DNA-based assay were also investigated to optimize working conditions. We demonstrated that microplates can be coated beforehand with capture probe and stored at 4 °C without any buffer in wells for at least 30 days. The use of the pre-made plates enables the assay to be completed in 2 h. The developed assay appeared as an interesting tool to determine the presence of bacteria in environmental samples.

http://ift.tt/2hUl9tq

Comparative study on toxicity of ZnO and TiO 2 nanoparticles on Artemia salina : effect of pre-UV-A and visible light irradiation

Abstract

This study evaluated the toxicity potential of ZnO and TiO₂ nanoparticles under pre-UV-A irradiation and visible light condition on Artemia salina. The nanoparticle suspension was prepared in seawater medium and exposed under pre-UV-A (0.23 mW/cm²) and visible light (0.18 mW/cm²) conditions. The aggregation profiles of both nanoparticles (NPs) and dissolution of ZnO NPs under both irradiation conditions at various kinetic intervals (1, 24, 48 h) were studied. The 48-h LC₅₀ values were found to be 27.62 and 71.63 mg/L for ZnO NPs and 117 and 120.9 mg/L for TiO₂ NPs under pre-UV-A and visible light conditions. ZnO NPs were found to be more toxic to A. salina as compared to TiO₂ NPs. The enhanced toxicity was observed under pre-UV-A-irradiated ZnO NPs, signifying its phototoxicity. Accumulation of ZnO and TiO₂ NPs into A. salina depends on the concentration of particles and type irradiations. Elimination of accumulated nanoparticles was also evident under both irradiation conditions. Other than ZnO NPs, the dissolved Zn²⁺ also had a significant effect on toxicity and accumulation in A. salina. Increased catalase (CAT) activity in A. salina indicates the generation of oxidative stress due to NP interaction. Thus, this study provides an understanding of the toxicity of photoreactive ZnO and TiO₂ NPs as related to the effects of pre-UV-A and visible light irradiation.

http://ift.tt/2hCSvk4

Nano silver-embedded electrospun nanofiber of poly(4-chloro-3-methylphenyl methacrylate): use as water sanitizer

Abstract

Water contaminated with microorganisms causes numerous diseases and is a major concern for public health. In search of a simple material which can provide clean water free from pathogens, nanofibers of poly(4-chloro-3-methylphenyl methacrylate, abbreviated as CMPMA, and nano Ag-doped poly(CMPMA) composite nanofibers were used to decontaminate water from microorganisms such as Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. Nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provide the diameters of the Ag nanoparticles which are in the range 18–21 and 13–18 nm. The diameter of the poly(CMPMA) and nano Ag-doped poly(CMPMA) composite nanofiber is seen to vary between 400 and 700 nm with the change of the processing parameters. Optimum parameters for uniform nanofibers have been obtained. The morphology of the fibers is derived from scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The superiority of the nano Ag-doped poly(CMPMA) composite nanofiber was established.

http://ift.tt/2hUxNsn

Understanding interactions in the adsorption of gaseous organic compounds to indoor materials

Abstract

We studied adsorption of organic compounds to a wide range of indoor materials, including plastics, gypsum board, carpet, and many others, under various relative humidity conditions by applying a conceptual model of the free energy of interfacial interactions of both van der Waals and Lewis acid-base (e-donor/acceptor) types. Data used for the analyses were partitioning coefficients of adsorbates between surface and gas phase obtained from three sources: our sorption experiments and two other published studies. Target organic compounds included apolars, monopolars, and bipolars. We established correlations of partitioning coefficients of adsorbates for a considered surface with the corresponding hexadecane/air partitioning coefficients of the adsorbates which are used as representative of a van der Waals descriptor instead of vapor pressure. The logarithmic adsorption coefficients of the apolars and weak bases, e.g., aliphatics and aromatics, to indoor materials linearly correlates well with the logarithmic hexadecane/air partitioning coefficients regardless of the surface polarity. The surface polarity in terms of e-donor/acceptor interactions becomes important for adsorption of the strong bases and bipolars, e.g., amines, phenols, and alcohols, to unpainted gypsum board. Under dry or humid conditions, the adsorption to flat plastic materials still linearly correlates well with the van der Waals interactions of the adsorbates, but no correlations were observed for the adsorption to fleecy or plush materials, e.g., carpet. Adsorption of highly bipolar compounds, e.g., phenol and isopropanol, is strongly affected by humidity, attributed to Lewis acid-base interactions with modified surfaces.

http://ift.tt/2hCIOCr

Airing ‘clean air’ in Clean India Mission

Abstract

The submission explores the possibility of a policy revision for considering clean air quality in recently launched nationwide campaign, Clean India Mission (CIM). Despite of several efforts for improving availability of clean household energy and sanitation facilities, situation remain still depressing as almost half of global population lacks access to clean energy and proper sanitation. Globally, at least 2.5 billion people do not have access to basic sanitation facilities. There are also evidences of 7 million premature deaths by air pollution in year 2012. The situation is even more disastrous for India especially in rural areas. Although, India has reasonably progressed in developing sanitary facilities and disseminating clean fuel to its urban households, the situation in rural areas is still miserable and needs to be reviewed. Several policy interventions and campaigns were made to improve the scenario but outcomes were remarkably poor. Indian census revealed a mere 31% sanitation coverage (in 2011) compared to 22% in 2001 while 60% of population (700 million) still use solid biofuels and traditional cook stoves for household cooking. Further, last decade (2001–2011) witnessed the progress decelerating down with rural households without sanitation facilities increased by 8.3 million while minimum progress has been made in conversion of conventional to modern fuels. To revamp the sanitation coverage, an overambitious nationwide campaign CIM was initiated in 2014 and present submission explores the possibility of including 'clean air' considerations within it. The article draws evidence from literatures on scenarios of rural sanitation, energy practises, pollution induced mortality and climatic impacts of air pollution. This subsequently hypothesised with possible modification in available technologies, dissemination modes, financing and implementation for integration of CIM with 'clean air' so that access to both sanitation and clean household energy may be effectively addressed.

http://ift.tt/2hUARok

Effects of enamel matrix derivative on non-surgical management of peri-implant mucositis: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background

Peri-implant diseases have been recognized as being among the ever-increasing complications related to dental implants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the adjunctive use of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) to mechanical debridement (MD) in patients with these conditions in terms of clinical parameters and cytokine levels of peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF).

Methods

In the present double-blind clinical trial, 46 patients with peri-implant mucositis (PM) were randomly divided into control and test groups. Two different therapeutic protocols, consisting of non-surgical MD alone (control group) and MD with the application of EMD (test group), were considered for the two groups. Clinical parameters [bleeding on probing (BOP) and probing depth (PD)] and sampling from PICF were carried out before treatment and 3 months postoperatively. The levels of IL-6 and IL-17 cytokines in PICF were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA).

Results

Three-month post-interventional assay revealed significant improvements in BOP and PD in the test group in comparison to the control group (P < 0.0001). Relative to control, IL-6 and IL-17 levels were reduced significantly (p < 0.05) in the test group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Application of EMD can be considered an adjunct to MD in the non-surgical treatment of PM. However, complete recovery was not observed using either treatment approach showing that management of implant-associated disease is still a significant clinical problem.

http://ift.tt/2igc9lo

Predictive and prognostic biomarkers in colorectal cancer: A systematic review of recent advances and challenges

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 87
Author(s): Vishal Das, Jatin Kalita, Mintu Pal
BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Since CRC is largely asymptomatic until alarm features develop to advanced stages, the implementation of the screening programme is very much essential to reduce cancer incidence and mortality rates. CRC occurs predominantly from accumulation of genetic and epigenetic changes in colon epithelial cells, which later gets transformed into adenocarcinomas.Scope of reviewThe current challenges of screening paradigm and diagnostic ranges are from semi-invasive methods like colonoscopy to non-invasive stool-based test, have resulted in over-diagnosis and over-treatment of CRC. Hence, new screening initiatives and deep studies are required for early diagnosis of CRC. In this regard, we not only summarise current predictive and prognostic biomarkers with their potential for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, but also describe current limitations, future perspectives and challenges associated with the progression of CRC.Major conclusionsCurrently many potential biomarkers have already been successfully translated into clinical practice eg. Fecal haemoglobin, Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA19.9, although these are not highly promising diagnostic target for personalized medicine. So there is a critical need for reliable, minimally invasive, highly sensitive and specific genetic markers of an individualised and optimised patient treatment at the earliest disease stage possible.General significanceIdentification of a new biomarker, or a set of biomarkers to the development of a valid, and clinical sensible assay that can be served as an alternative tool for early diagnosis of CRC and open up promising new targets in therapeutic intervention strategies.



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Recent advances in cardiac regeneration: Stem cell, biomaterial and growth factors

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 87
Author(s): Mostafa Cheraghi, Mehrdad Namdari, Babak Negahdari, Ali Eatemadi
Myocardial infarction has been reported to be responsible for about 7.3 million deaths each year globally. Present treatments for myocardial infarction have been more palliative rather than curative. Over the past few years, stem cells have demonstrated its potency in regenerating damaged cardiac tissue, especially after myocardial infarction. However, limited short half-life of the protein and cell therapy and low transplanted cell survival rate as demonstrated via several clinical trials have lead to development of more potent and novel delivery systems like biomaterial delivery system and the use of various growth factors. In this review, we will be enumerating and discussing the recent advances in cardiac regeneration with focus on stem cell, biomaterial and growth factors.



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Radiolabeled bombesin derivatives for preclinical oncological imaging

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 87
Author(s): Carolina de Aguiar Ferreira, Leonardo Lima Fuscaldi, Danyelle M. Townsend, Domenico Rubello, André Luís Branco de Barros
Despite efforts, cancer is still one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with approximately 14 million new cases and 8.2 million cancer-related deaths each year, according to the World Health Organization. Among the strategies to reduce cancer progression and improving its management, implementing early detection technologies is crucial. Based on the fact that several types of cancer cells overexpress surface receptors, small molecule ligands, such as peptides, have been developed to allow tumor identification at earlier stages. Allied with imaging techniques such as PET and SPECT, radiolabeled peptides play a pivotal role in nuclear medicine. Bombesin, a peptide of 14 amino acids, is an amphibian homolog to the mammalian gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), that has been extensively studied as a targeting ligand for diagnosis and therapy of GRP positive tumors, such as breast, pancreas, lungs and prostate cancers. In this context, herein we provide a review of reported bombesin derivatives radiolabeled with a multitude of radioactive isotopes for diagnostic purposes in the preclinical setting. Moreover, since animal models are highly relevant for assessing the potential of clinical translation of this radiopeptides, a brief report of the currently used GRP-positive tumor-bearing animal models is described.



http://ift.tt/2hAph40

Euphorbia denticulata Lam.: A promising source of phyto-pharmaceuticals for the development of novel functional formulations

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 87
Author(s): Gokhan Zengin, Ahmet Uysal, Abdurrahman Aktumsek, Andrei Mocan, Adriano Mollica, Marcello Locatelli, Luisa Custodio, Nuno R. Neng, José M.F. Nogueira, Zaahira Aumeeruddy-Elalfi, M. Fawzi Mahomoodally
In this study, Methanolic extracts of Euphorbia denticulata parts (flowers, leaf, stem, and mix of aerial parts) were assessed for a panoply of bioactivities. Inhibitory potential against key enzymes involved in diabetes (α-glucosidase and α-amylase), obesity (pancreatic lipase), neurodegenerative diseases (cholinesterases), and hyperpigmentation (tyrosinase) was evaluated. The antioxidant and antibacterial properties were also assessed. The total phenolic, flavonoid, and phytochemical profile were established using HPLC/DAD and molecular modelling studies on specific target compounds were performed in silico. The flower extract was found to be rich in phenolics and flavonoids, (60.11±1.40mgGAE/g and 42.04±0.16mgRE/g respectively), which tend to correlate with the high radical scavenging activity of this extract (120.34±3.33mgTE/g and 165.42±2.16mgTE/g for DPPH and ABTS respectively). Catechin, epicatechin, gallic acid, p-OH-Benzoic acid, rosmarinic acid, and epigallocatechin gallate, found in significant abundance in the extracts were assessed using molecular modelling with the aim to study their docking properties on a set of six enzymes used in this study. The extracts were moderately effective with MIC values ranging between 1.56 to 6.25mg/ml, but potent growth inhibitors of MRSA strains. Results amassed herein can be used as a stimulus for further studies geared towards the development of novel phyto-pharmaceuticals.



http://ift.tt/2ixXmjn

Green tea epigallocatechin 3-gallate alleviates hyperglycemia and reduces advanced glycation end products via nrf2 pathway in mice with high fat diet-induced obesity

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 87
Author(s): Chethan Sampath, Muhammed Raihan Rashid, Shengmin Sang, Mohamed Ahmedna
Epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG) from green tea may reduce plasma glucose and alleviate complications of diabetes by attenuating advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation. We hypothesized that EGCG would mitigate AGEs formation via activating the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related-factor-2 (Nrf2) pathway in a mouse model of high fat diet-induced obesity. Dietary EGCG was tested in C57BL/6 mice that were placed on a high-fat diet with or without ECGC for 17 weeks and compared to a control group placed on low-fat diet for the same period. Weight gain and fasting blood glucose were measured throughout the study duration. Supplementation of high fat diet with dietary EGCG significantly reduced weight gain, plasma glucose, insulin level, liver and kidney weight. EGCG administration also decreased the levels of AGEs in both plasma and liver while inhibiting the receptor for AGE (RAGE) expression of, activating Nrf2 and enhancing GSH/GSSG ratio compared to mice on high fat diet without added EGCG. This study demonstrated that EGCG has the potential to help control hyperglycemia, reduce weight, and alleviate diabetes complications.



http://ift.tt/2hAp8O3

A novel elastic liposome for skin delivery of papain and its application on hypertrophic scar

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 87
Author(s): Yan-Yan Chen, Ye-Hui Lu, Chun-Hua Ma, Wei-Wei Tao, Jing-Juan Zhu, Xu Zhang
This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects of papain elastic liposomes (PEL) on hypertrophic scar through topical application. PEL were prepared using the reverse-phase evaporation method and optimized by response surface methodology. The transdermal absorption of optimized PEL was tested by vertical Franz diffusion cells in vitro. The effects of PEL were investigated in rabbit model of hypertrophic scar in vivo, histological analysis and scar-related proteins were detected to reveal potential scar repair mechanism. The best formulation of PEL had EE (43.8±1.4%), particle size (100.9±2.2nm), PDI (0.037±0.003), zeta potential (−26.3±1.3mV), and DI (21.9±3.1). PEL gave the cumulative amounts and steady state fluxes in the receiver solution of 381.9±32.4μg/cm², 11.4±1.5μg/cm²/h, and showed drug deposition in skin of 19.1±3.2% after 24h. After topical application, the scar elevation index, microvascular density, and collagen fiber were significantly decreased with regular arrangement. The expressions of TGF-β1, P-Smad-3, P-NF-κB p65, and P-IKBa in hypertrophic scar were significantly down regulated in contrast with those in model group. PEL were proven as an excellent topical preparation for hypertrophic scar treatment.

Graphical abstract

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ACTIVLIM-CP a new Rasch-built measure of global activity performance for children with cerebral palsy

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 60
Author(s): Yannick Bleyenheuft, Julie Paradis, Anne Renders, Jean-Louis Thonnard, Carlyne Arnould
ObjectiveChildren with cerebral palsy (CP) often have upper extremity (UE) and lower extremity (LE) impairments. While tools measuring separately UE and LE abilities are currently used, activities in which UE and LE are used in combination – numerous in everyday life – cannot be assessed because no instrument allows capturing global activity performance in children with CP. This study aimed to develop a clinical tool for measuring their global activity performance using the Rasch model.Study designThe caregivers of 226 children with CP (2–18 years old) answered a 154-item experimental questionnaire. Within 4–6 weeks, 129 of them filled in the questionnaire a second time. Responses were analyzed using the Rasch RUMM2020 software.ResultsThe final 43 item scale presented a high reliability (R=0.98) and reproducibility (R=0.97). The item difficulty hierarchy was consistent over time and did not vary according to age, gender, or clinical form, allowing the follow-up of children from 2 to 18 years old.ConclusionsACTIVLIM-CP is a unidimensional scale specifically developed to measure global activity performance in children with CP providing a reliable tool to follow children's evolution and document changes related to neurorehabilitation, especially where a combination of UE and LE is targeted. Its responsiveness is still to be tested.



http://ift.tt/2hAg0sI

Longitudinal changes in health-related quality of life in preschool children with cerebral palsy of different levels of motor severity

Publication date: February 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 61
Author(s): Chih-Jou Lai, Chung-Yao Chen, Chia-Ling Chen, Pei-Ying Sarah Chan, I-Hsuan Shen, Ching-Yi Wu
BackgroundWhen setting goals for cerebral palsy (CP) interventions, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important outcome.AimsTo compare longitudinal changes in HRQoL in children with CP of different levels of motor severity.Methods and proceduresSeventy-three children with CP were collected and classified into three groups based on Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels. HRQoL was assessed by parent's proxy of the TNO-AZL Preschool Quality of Life (TAPQOL) at baseline and 6 months later.Outcomes and resultsChildren with GMFCS level V had a lower total TAPQOL score and scores in all domains than those with level I–IV (p<0.01), except for the non-motor subdomain of physical functioning at follow-up. With regards to longitudinal changes, the children with GMFCS level V had greater improvements in physical (p=0.016) and cognitive functioning (p=0.042), but greater deterioration in emotional functioning (p=0.008) than those with levels I–II at 6 months of follow-up.Conclusions and implicationsMotor severity was associated with TAPQOL scores in all domains and changes in some domains in children with CP. Clinicians should early identify children at risk of a poor HRQoL and plan timely treatment strategies to enhance the HRQoL of children with CP.



http://ift.tt/2ixSz1t

IFC-EDITORIAL BOARD

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 60





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Gross motor function in children with spastic Cerebral Palsy and Cerebral Visual Impairment: A comparison between outcomes of the original and the Cerebral Visual Impairment adapted Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88-CVI)

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 60
Author(s): M. Salavati, E.A.A. Rameckers, A. Waninge, W.P. Krijnen, B. Steenbergen, C.P. van der Schans
PurposeTo investigate whether the adapted version of the Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) for children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) results in higher scores. This is most likely to be a reflection of their gross motor function, however it may be the result of a better comprehension of the instruction of the adapted version.MethodThe scores of the original and adapted GMFM-88 were compared in the same group of children (n=21 boys and n=16 girls), mean (SD) age 113 (30) months with CP and CVI, within a time span of two weeks. A paediatric physical therapist familiar with the child assessed both tests in random order. The GMFCS level, mental development and age at testing were also collected. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare two different measurements (the original and adapted GMFM-88) on a single sample, (the same child with CP and CVI; p<0.05).ResultsThe comparison between scores on the original and adapted GMFM-88 in all children with CP and CVI showed a positive difference in percentage score on at least one of the five dimensions and positive percentage scores for the two versions differed on all five dimensions for fourteen children.For six children a difference was seen in four dimensions and in 10 children difference was present in three dimensions (GMFM dimension A, B& C or C, D & E) (p<0.001).ConclusionThe adapted GMFM-88 provides a better estimate of gross motor function per se in children with CP and CVI that is not adversely impacted bytheir visual problems. On the basis of these findings, we recommend using the adapted GMFM-88 to measure gross motor functioning in children with CP and CVI.



http://ift.tt/2ixWVG2

A connective tissue disorder may underlie ESSENCE problems in childhood

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 60
Author(s): Carolina Baeza-Velasco, Rodney Grahame, Jaime F. Bravo
BackgroundEhlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type, also known as Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (EDS-HT/JHS), is the most common hereditary disorder of the connective tissue (HDCT). It is characterized by tissue fragility, joint hypermobility and a wide range of articular and non-articular manifestations, which often appear in infancy. The clinical picture of EDS-HT/JHS is poorly known by the medical community, as is the presence of "ESSENCE" (Early Symptomatic Syndromes Eliciting Neurodevelopmental Clinical Examinations) problems in affected children.AimThe present work reviews the clinical and empirical evidence for ESSENCE difficulties in children with EDS-HT/JHS.MethodA narrative review of the literature was undertaken following a comprehensive search of scientific online databases and reference lists. This included publications of quantitative and qualitative research.ResultsMotor abnormality, hyperactivity/hypoactivity, inattention, speech/language, social interaction, behavioral, sleep, feeding and emotional problems are ESSENCE difficulties for which there is some evidence of an association with EDS-HT/JHS.ConclusionChildren with EDS-HT/JHS present ESSENCE problems that often coexist and tend to be recognized before the HDCT. Clinicians encountering children with ESSENCE problems should consider the possibility of an underlying HDCT such as EDS-HT/JHS, probably influencing neurodevelopmental attributes in a subgroup of children. Awareness of these interconnected clinical problems might help improve early referral, diagnosis and treatment of EDS-HT/JHS.



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Use of behaviour change techniques in lifestyle change interventions for people with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 60
Author(s): Mariël Willems, Thessa I.M. Hilgenkamp, Else Havik, Aly Waninge, Craig A. Melville
BackgroundPeople with intellectual disabilities (ID) experience more health problems and have different lifestyle change needs, compared with the general population.AimsTo improve lifestyle change interventions for people with ID, this review examined how behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were applied in interventions aimed at physical activity, nutrition or physical activity and nutrition, and described their quality.Methods and proceduresAfter a broad search and detailed selection process, 45 studies were included in the review. For coding BCTs, the CALO-RE taxonomy was used. To assess the quality of the interventions, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used. Extracted data included general study characteristics and intervention characteristics.Outcomes and resultsAll interventions used BCTs, although theory-driven BCTs were rarely used. The most frequently used BCTs were 'provide information on consequences of behaviour in general' and 'plan social support/social change'. Most studies were of low quality and a theoretical framework was often missing.Conclusion and implicationsThis review shows that BCTs are frequently applied in lifestyle change interventions. To further improve effectiveness, these lifestyle change interventions could benefit from using a theoretical framework, a detailed intervention description and an appropriate and reliable intervention design which is tailored to people with ID.



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Pain report and musculoskeletal impairment in young people with severe forms of cerebral palsy: A population-based series

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 60
Author(s): Brona C. McDowell, Catherine Duffy, Claire Lundy
BackgroundWhile pain is reportedly more prevalent in more functionally impaired children with cerebral palsy, information is scant in those with poor communication skills.MethodsYoung people (4–27 years) with severe forms of cerebral palsy were recruited from a population-based register. The Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) provided information on general health and bodily pain; the Paediatric Pain Profile (PPP) was used for participants with limited communication; and the Spinal Alignment and Range of Motion Measure (SAROMM) described musculoskeletal impairment.Results123 young people (GMFCS IV=55 and V=68) and their families/carers participated. Fourteen percent of CHQ responses (n=123) reported severe/very severe pain in recent weeks, whilst 7% reported pain every/almost every day. CHQ pain report was significantly higher for young people in GMFCS level V and correlated significantly with both global health and musculoskeletal impairment. High levels of pain were recorded on the PPP for non-communicating children but only a weak correlation between PPP and CHQ scores was detected.ConclusionManaging pain in young people with severe musculoskeletal and cognitive impairment presents a huge challenge to carers and professionals. The PPP may represent a useful adjunct in those young people with severe communication difficulties.



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Editorial Board and Contents

Publication date: January 2017
Source:Trends in Immunology, Volume 38, Issue 1





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Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion—an opportunity for better care but not a “magic pill”

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An integrated rotary microfluidic system with DNA extraction, loop-mediated isothermal amplification, and lateral flow strip based detection for point-of-care pathogen diagnostics

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 91
Author(s): Byung Hyun Park, Seung Jun Oh, Jae Hwan Jung, Goro Choi, Ji Hyun Seo, Do Hyun Kim, Eun Yeol Lee, Tae Seok Seo
Point-of-care (POC) molecular diagnostics plays a pivotal role for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. In spite of recent advancement in microfluidic based POC devices, there are still rooms for development to realize rapid, automatic and cost-effective sample-to-result genetic analysis. In this study, we propose an integrated rotary microfluidic system that is capable of performing glass microbead based DNA extraction, loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and colorimetric lateral flow strip based detection in a sequential manner with an optimized microfluidic design and a rotational speed control. Rotation direction-dependent coriolis force and siphon valving structures enable us to perform the fluidic control and metering, and the use of the lateral flow strip as a detection method renders all the analytical processes for nucleic acid test simplified and integrated without the need of expensive instruments or human intervention. As a proof of concept for point-of-care DNA diagnostics, we identified the food-borne bacterial pathogen which was contaminated in water or milk. Not only monoplex Salmonella Typhimurium but also multiplex Salmonella Typhimurium and Vibrio parahaemolyticus were analysed on the integrated rotary genetic analysis microsystem with a limit of detection of 50 CFU in 80min. In addition, three multiple samples were simultaneously analysed on a single device. The sample-to-result capability of the proposed microdevice provides great usefulness in the fields of clinical diagnostics, food safety and environment monitoring.



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Bio-sniffer (gas-phase biosensor) with secondary alcohol dehydrogenase (S-ADH) for determination of isopropanol in exhaled air as a potential volatile biomarker

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 91
Author(s): Po-Jen Chien, Takuma Suzuki, Masato Tsujii, Ming Ye, Koji Toma, Takahiro Arakawa, Yasuhiko Iwasaki, Kohji Mitsubayashi
Exhaled breath analysis has attracted lots of researchers attention in the past decades due to its advantages such as its non-invasive property and the possibility of continuous monitoring. In addition, several volatile organic compounds in breath have been identified as biomarkers for some diseases. Particularly, studies have pointed out that concentration of isopropanol (IPA) in exhaled air might relate with certain illnesses such as liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD), and lung cancer. In this study, a highly sensitive and selective biochemical gas sensor (bio-sniffer) for the breath IPA concentration determination was constructed and optimized. This bio-sniffer measures the concentration of IPA according to the fluorescence intensity of oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), which was produced by an enzymatic reaction of secondary alcohol dehydrogenase (S-ADH). The NADH detection system employed an UV–LED as the excitation light, and a highly sensitive photomultiplier tube (PMT) as a fluorescence intensity detector. A gas-sensing region was developed using an optical fiber probe equipped with a flow-cell and enzyme immobilized membrane, and connected to the NADH measurement system. The calibration range of the IPA bio-sniffer was confirmed from 1ppb to 9060ppb that was comparable to other IPA analysis methods. The results of the analysis of breath IPA concentration in healthy subjects using the bio-sniffer showed a mean concentration of 16.0ppb, which was similar to other studies. These results have demonstrated that this highly sensitive and selective bio-sniffer could be used to measure the IPA in exhaled air, and it is expected to apply for breath IPA research and investigation of biomarkers for clinical diagnosis.

Graphical abstract

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A sensitive, label-free electrochemical detection of telomerase activity without modification or immobilization

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 91
Author(s): Xu Liu, Min Wei, Ensheng Xu, Haitang Yang, Wei Wei, Yuanjian Zhang, Songqin Liu
Telomerase has become one of the most typical tumor marker because it is closely related to cancers. In this paper, a simple label-free electrochemical detection of telomerase activity by using methylene blue (MB) as a G-quadruplex binding probe was proposed, avoiding commonly used complex label procedures, nano-probe synthesis, complicated electrode modification, probe immobilization or signal amplification. In the presence of telomerase substrate (TS) primer, the binding of MB on primer was weak. When repeats of (TTAGGG) were extended on the TS primer under the action of telomerase, they formed multiple G-quadruplexes with the help of K⁺. As a result, a large amount of MB bounded to multiple G-quadruplexes because they have more strong interaction with G-quadruplexes than TS primer. As a result, the diffusion current of MB decreased sharply, which was strongly dependent on the telomerase activity. The DPV current change has a linear correlation with the logarithm of HeLa cell number in the range of 10–10,000 cells, with the detection limit of 3 cells. The high sensitivity was due to the formed multiple G-quadruplexes. Using indium tin oxide (ITO) as working electrode without modification ensured the good reproducibility of the method. The method was also simple, rapid, and has been successfully applied in the telomerase activity detection in urine with good selectivity and reproducibility, which is significant for cancer diagnosis, anticancer drugs screening, and cancer therapy evaluation.



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Stimulation of the human medial temporal lobe between learning and recall selectively enhances forgetting

Publication date: Available online 29 December 2016
Source:Brain Stimulation
Author(s): Maxwell B. Merkow, John F. Burke, Ashwin G. Ramayya, Ashwini D. Sharan, Michael R. Sperling, Michael J. Kahana
BackgroundDirect electrical stimulation applied to the human medial temporal lobe (MTL) typically disrupts performance on memory tasks, however, the mechanism underlying this effect is not known.ObjectiveTo study the effects of MTL stimulation on memory performance.MethodsWe studied the effects of MTL stimulation on memory in five patients undergoing invasive electrocorticographic monitoring during various phases of a memory task (encoding, distractor, recall).ResultsWe found that MTL stimulation disrupted memory performance in a timing-dependent manner; we observed greater forgetting when applying stimulation during the delay between encoding and recall, compared to when it was applied during encoding or recall.ConclusionsThe results suggest that recall is most dependent on the MTL between learning and retrieval.



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Achyranthes bidentate saponins protect rat articular chondrocytes against interleukin-1β-induced inflammation and apoptosis in vitro

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
Author(s): Xian-Xiang Xu, Xiao-Hong Zhang, Yong Diao, Yu-Xiang Huang
Achyranthes bidentate Blume (Niuxi) is often employed for treatment of arthritis in Traditional Chinese Medicine and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Phytochemical and pharmacological studies proved the oleanane-type saponins to be the main bioactive principles. In the present study, protective effects of A. bidentata saponins (ABS) on inflammation and apoptosis in interleukine-1β (IL-1β)-induced chondrocytes were investigated. Rat chondrocytes were pretreated with ABS at 3 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL, and 30 μg/mL, and subsequently stimulated with IL-1β (10 ng/mL). Methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay and annexin V/propidium iodide dual staining demonstrated that ABS could protect IL-1β-induced chondrocyte injury. ABS suppressed IL-1β-induced apoptosis by suppressing the activation of caspase-3, inhibiting levels of proapoptotic proteins Bax and Bad, decreasing p53 protein phosphorylation, and promoting the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. IL-1β-induced inflammation and matrix degradation were also alleviated by ABS through the downregulation of the expressions of matrix metalloproteinases 3 and 9 and cyclooxygenase-2. Moreover, ABS inhibited IL-1β-induced nuclear factor κB activation in rat chondrocytes. We demonstrated, for the first time, the protective effects of ABS on IL-1β-stimulated chondrocytes and their molecular mechanisms. Thus, it is suggested that ABS might be a potential drug in the treatment of osteoarthritis.



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A meta-analysis of three identified single nucleotide polymorphisms at 1p13.3 and 1q41 and their associations with lipid levels and coronary artery disease

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
Author(s): Qian-Chao He, Yu-Ying Hu, Qing-Ping Zhang, Lu-Lu Tan, Yong-Hui Liu, Tai Liu, Yue-Qiang Hu, Qing Li, Ni Liang
The aim of this meta-analysis was to detect whether three identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs646776, rs599839, and rs17465637) at 1p13.3 and 1q41 are associated with lipid levels and the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and BIOSIS were systematically searched. The pooled effects were expressed as odds ratio or standardized mean difference or mean difference with 95% confidence intervals. A total of 14 studies with 57,916 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled effects showed that the AA group of 1p13.3 rs599839 had higher total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC), and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) levels than the GA/GG group, and the CAD group had higher AA genotype frequency than the control group. The TT group of 1p13.3 rs646776 had higher TC and LDLC levels and lower HDLC levels than the CT/CC group. The CAD group also had higher CC genotype frequency of 1q41 rs17465637 than the control group. The SNPs of 1p13 rs599839 and rs646776 were associated with serum lipid levels. The genetic variants of 1p13 rs599839 and 1q41 rs17465637 SNPs were prominently related to CAD, and the genetic variants of chromosome 1p13 promote the risk of CAD by increased TC and LDLC levels and decreased HDLC levels.



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Effect of obturator nerve block during transurethral resection of lateral bladder wall tumors on the presence of detrusor muscle in tumor specimens and recurrence of the disease

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences
Author(s): Guven Erbay, Fethi Akyol, Mehmet Karabakan, Bulent Celebi, Ercument Keskin, Erkan Hirik
We investigated the effect of spinal anesthesia combined with obturator nerve block (ONB) during the transurethral resection of lateral bladder wall tumors (TUR-BT) on the presence of detrusor muscle tissue in tumor specimens and on tumor recurrence. TUR-BT was performed on 96 patients with a lateral bladder wall tumor under spinal anesthesia in our clinic between January 2011 and December 2015. The patients were divided into two groups: 49 patients only received spinal anesthesia and 47 patients received spinal anesthesia combined with ONB. The groups were retrospectively compared in terms of adductor muscle contraction, bladder perforation, complete tumor resection, presence of muscle tissue in the pathology material, and recurrence rate during follow-up. The obturator reflex was significantly observed in the non-ONB group (p < 0.05). In the ONB group, the percentages of complete resection and detrusor muscle tissue were significantly higher (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001, respectively). The postoperative recurrence rate was found to be significantly higher in the non-ONB group than in the ONB group (p = 0.025). Spinal anesthesia combined with ONB during TUR-BT prevent obturator reflex and facilitate complete resection including detrusor muscle tissue, independent from the size or number of tumors, thus reducing the recurrence of the disease.



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End of Life Care for Infants, Children and Young People with Life-Limiting Conditions: Planning and Management.

This guideline covers the physical, emotional, social and spiritual elements of end of life care, and focuses on improving the child or young person's quality of life and supporting their family and carers. There are, for instance, recommendations on managing distressing symptoms and providing care and bereavement support after death. Recommendations have also been made about how services should be delivered. The guideline is aimed at all providers of paediatric end of life care, whatever their level of practise, and also for children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their parents or carers.

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Exploring Data and Metrics of Value at the Intersection of Health Care and Transportation: Proceedings of a Workshop.

Evidence from the public health sector demonstrates that health care is only one of the determinants of health, which also include genes, behavior, social factors, and the built environment. These contextual elements are key to understanding why health care organizations are motivated to focus beyond their walls and to consider and respond in unprecedented ways to the social needs of patients, including transportation needs. In June 2016 the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine held a joint workshop to explore partnerships, data, and measurement at the intersection of the health care and transportation sectors. This publication summarizes the presentations and discussions from the workshop.

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WHO Guideline: Fortification of Maize Flour and Corn Meal with Vitamins and Minerals.

Industrial fortification of maize flour and corn meal with at least iron has been practiced for many years in several countries in the Americas and Africa, where these ingredients are used in the preparation of many common national dishes.

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The Neurobiology of Human Attachments

Publication date: Available online 30 December 2016
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences
Author(s): Ruth Feldman
Attachment bonds are a defining feature of mammals. A conceptual framework on human attachments is presented, integrating insights from animal research with neuroimaging studies. Four mammalian bonds are described, including parent–infant, pair–bonds, peers, and conspecifics, all built upon systems shaped by maternal provisions during sensitive periods, and evolution from rodents to humans is detailed. Bonding is underpinned by crosstalk of oxytocin and dopamine in striatum, combining motivation and vigor with social focus, and their time sensitivity/pulsatility enables reorganization of neural networks. Humans' representation-based attachments are characterized by biobehavioral synchrony and integrate subcortical with cortical networks implicated in reward/motivation, embodied simulation, and mentalization. The neurobiology of love may open perspectives on the 'situated' brain and initiate dialog between science and humanities, arts, and clinical wisdom.



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Adult neurogenesis beyond the niche: its potential for driving brain plasticity

Publication date: February 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 42
Author(s): Kurt A Sailor, Alejandro F Schinder, Pierre-Marie Lledo
Adult neurogenesis emerges as a tremendous form of plasticity with the continuous addition and loss of neurons in the adult brain. It is unclear how preexisting adult circuits generated during development are capable of modifying existing connections to accommodate the thousands of new synapses formed and exchanged each day. Here we first make parallels with sensory deprivation studies and its ability to induce preexisting non-neurogenic adult circuits to undergo massive reorganization. We then review recent studies that show high structural and synaptic plasticity in circuits directly connected to adult-born neurons. Finally, we propose future directions in the field to decipher how host circuits can accommodate new neuron integration and to determine the impact of adult neurogenesis on global brain plasticity.



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Modeling interactions and toxicity of Cu-Zn mixtures to zebrafish larvae

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Volume 138
Author(s): Yongfei Gao, Jianfeng Feng, Cancan Wang, Lin Zhu
Quantitative predictions of metal-metal interactions and toxicity in aquatic organisms meet a unique challenge. Accumulation and toxicity of Cu and Zn mixtures in zebrafish larvae has been quantified in binary metal system with variable combinatorial concentrations in order to understand the interactions between essential trace metals and assess availability of the toxicokinetic-toxicodynamic (TK-TD) model which simulated the uptake of metals over time as well as metal toxicity after 24h of exposure. Competitive uptake experiments showed a straightforward antagonistic competition, as would be predicted by Michaelis–Menten competitive equilibrium model. Zn uptake decreased significantly in the presence of Cu²⁺ concentrations higher than 10⁻⁶M. Cu²⁺ was shown to compete strongly with Zn for uptake, having a higher affinity constant to biotic ligand (BL) sites (KCuBL=10^5.42M⁻¹) than Zn (KZnBL=10^4.13M⁻¹). TK-TD model considering potential metal-metal antagonism interactions showed good predictive power in predicting accumulation and toxicity of Cu-Zn mixtures in zebrafish larvae with the high coefficient of determination (r²) and significant level (p). In particular, with the elevated Zn concentrations in mixtures, the TD model showed better predictive power in predicting toxicity of 10⁻⁶M Cu concentration in Cu-Zn mixtures. The TK-TD analysis provided some new insights into the interactive mechanism of binary Cu and Zn exposure in aquatic animals and may have important implications for our understanding of quantitative predictions of metal-metal interactions and toxicity in a field where animals are simultaneously exposed to several metals.



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Photophysics, TiO2 sensitization and photovoltaic performance of Zn-ProtoporphyrinIX

Publication date: 15 April 2017
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1134
Author(s): Venkatesan Srinivasan, Nagaraj Pavithra, Sambandam Anandan, Madhavan Jaccob, Arunkumar Kathiravan
Chlorophylls are playing an important role in natural photosynthesis. Hence, in the present investigation, a chlorophyll analogue Zn-Protoporphyrin IX (ZnPPIX) was selected for dye sensitized solar cell applications. The properties of ZnPPIX were fully investigated by optical spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), density functional theory (DFT) calculations, electrochemical and photovoltaic measurements. The optical and electrochemical HOMO-LUMO gaps were consistent with those estimated by PBE functional. The nature of the binding of ZnPPIX onto the TiO2 surface was investigated using ATR-FTIR and XPS measurements. The amount of adsorbed ZnPPIX on TiO2 surface was reasonably fit using the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, with a binding constant value of 25,800 M⁻¹. The power conversion efficiency of ZnPPIX is smaller than those of reference cell under the optimized conditions (η = 0.6% for ZnPPIX; η = 6.3% for N3).

Graphical abstract

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Influence of Camellia sinensis extract on Zinc Oxide nanoparticle green synthesis

Publication date: 15 April 2017
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1134
Author(s): O.J. Nava, P.A. Luque, C.M. Gómez-Gutiérrez, A.R. Vilchis-Nestor, A. Castro-Beltrán, M.L. Mota-González, A. Olivas
This work addresses low cost, non-toxic green synthesis of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles prepared using different amounts of Camellia sinensis extract. The Synthesized material was studied and characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The Zinc Oxide nanoparticles presented the desired ZnO bond at 618 cm⁻¹, demonstrated growth in a purely hexagonal Wurtzite crystal structure, and, depending on the amount of extract used, they presented different size and shape homogeneity. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained Zinc Oxide nanoparticles was studied. The photocatalytic degradation studies were done at a 1:1 M ratio of methylene blue to Zinc Oxide nanoparticles under UV light. The obtained results presented a better degradation rate than commercially available Zinc Oxide nanoparticles.

Graphical abstract

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Heteroleptic complexes of Zn(II) based on 1-(5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-phenylthiosemicarbazide: Synthesis, structural characterization, theoretical studies and antibacterial activity

Publication date: 15 April 2017
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1134
Author(s): Mohammad Azarkish, Alireza Akbari, Tahereh Sedaghat, Jim Simpson
Four new ternary complexes, [ZnL (2,2′-bipy)] (1), Zn2L2(4,4′-bipy)] (2), [ZnL(Imd)]·H2O (3) and [ZnL³(MeImd)] (4), have been synthesized from the reaction of Zn(II) acetate with 1-(5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-phenylthiosemicarbazide (H2L) in the presence of a heterocyclic base, 2,2′-bipyridine, 4,4′-bipyridine, imidazole or 2-methylimidazole, as an auxiliary ligand. The complexes have been investigated by elemental analysis and FT-IR, UV–Vis and ¹HNMR spectroscopy. These data show that the thiosemicarbazone acts as a tridentate dianionic ligand and coordinates via the thiol group, imine nitrogen, and phenolic oxygen. The coordination sphere was completed by the nitrogen atom(s) of the secondary ligand. The structure of 1 was also confirmed by X-ray crystallography and shown to be a five coordinate complex with coordination geometry between the square-pyramidal and trigonal-bipyramidal. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations including geometry optimization, vibrational frequencies and electronic absorptions have been performed for 1 with the B3LYP functional at the TZP(6-311G*) basis set using the Gaussian 03 or ADF 2009 packages. The optimization calculation showed that the crystallographically determined geometry parameters can be reproduced with that basis set. Experimental IR frequencies and calculated vibration frequencies also support each other. The in vitro antibacterial activities of the ligand and complexes have been evaluated against Gram-positive (B. subtilis and S. aureus) and Gram-negative (P. aeruginosa) bacteria and compared with the standard antibacterial drugs. The results reveal that all of the complexes show much better activity in comparison to the individual thiosemoicarbazone ligand (H2L), against all bacterial strains used, with complex 3 showing the most promising results.

Graphical abstract

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Elevated CO2 levels increase the toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles to goldfish (Carassius auratus) in a water-sediment ecosystem

Publication date: 5 April 2017
Source:Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 327
Author(s): Ying Yin, Zhengxue Hu, Wenchao Du, Fuxun Ai, Rong Ji, Jorge L. Gardea-Torresdey, Hongyan Guo
Concerns about the environmental safety of metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) in aquatic ecosystems are increasing. Simultaneously, elevated atmospheric CO2 levels are a serious problem worldwide, making it possible for the combined exposure of MNPs and elevated CO2 to the ecosystem. Here we studied the toxicity of nZnO to goldfish in a water-sediment ecosystem using open-top chambers flushed with ambient (400±10μL/L) or elevated (600±10μL/L) CO2 for 30days. We measured the content of Zn in suspension and fish, and analyzed physiological and biochemical changes in fish tissues. Results showed that elevated CO2 increased the Zn content in suspension by reducing the pH value of water and consequently enhanced the bioavailability and toxicity of nZnO. Elevated CO2 led to higher accumulation of Zn in fish tissues (increased by 43.3%, 86.4% and 22.5% in liver, brain and muscle, respectively) when compared to ambient. Elevated CO2 also intensified the oxidative damage to fish induced by nZnO, resulting in higher ROS intensity, greater contents of MDA and MT and lower GSH content in liver and brain. Our results suggest that more studies in natural ecosystems are needed to better understand the fate and toxicity of nanoparticles in future CO2 levels.



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The Cogne magnetite deposit (Western Alps, Italy): A Late Jurassic seafloor ultramafic-hosted hydrothermal system?

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Ore Geology Reviews, Volume 83
Author(s): Luca Toffolo, Paolo Nimis, Silvana Martin, Simone Tumiati, Wolfgang Bach
The Cogne magnetite deposit (Western Alps, Italy) is the largest in a series of apatite and sulphide-free magnetite orebodies that are hosted in serpentinites belonging to western Alpine ophiolitic units. The nearly endmember composition of magnetite, which is unusual for an ultramafic setting, and the relatively high tonnage of the deposit (18·10⁶tonnes at 45–50wt% Fe) make Cogne an intriguing case study to explore magnetite-forming processes in ophiolites. The Cogne magnetite shows variable textures, including nodular ores, veins and fine-grained disseminations in serpentinites after mantle peridotites and totally serpentinized melt-impregnated peridotites (troctolites). An increase in Co/Ni ratio from magnetite-poor serpentinized peridotites (0.05) to nodular magnetite ores (>1) is observed. Trace element analyses of magnetite from different sites and lithologies by laser-ablation inductively-coupled mass spectrometry indicate that magnetites have typical hydrothermal compositions, characterized by high Mg and Mn (median values up to ∼24,100 and ∼5000ppm, respectively), and low Cr, Ti and V (median values up to ∼30, ∼570 and ∼60ppm, respectively). Moreover, the variations in trace element compositions distinguish magnetite that is hydrothermal fluid-controlled [highest (Mg, Mn, Co, Zn)/Ni ratios] from magnetite whose composition is affected by host-rock chemistry (highest Ni±Ti±V). U-Th-Pb dating of magnetite-associated uraninite constrains the formation of the deposit to the Late Jurassic (ca. 150Ma), during an advanced stage of the opening of the Alpine Tethys. Thermodynamic modelling of fluid-rock interactions indicates that fluids produced by seawater–peridotite or seawater–Fe-gabbro are not sufficiently Fe-rich to account for the formation of the Cogne deposit. This suggests that fractionation processes such as phase separation were critical to generate hydrothermal fluids capable to precipitate large amounts of magnetite in various types of ultramafic host-rocks. The oceanic setting and geochemical and mineralogical similarities with some modern ultramafic-hosted volcanogenic massive sulphide deposits on mid-ocean ridges suggest that the exposed mineralized section at Cogne may represent the deep segment of a seafloor, high-temperature (∼300–400°C) hydrothermal system. The occurrence of similar magnetite enrichments in present-day oceanic settings could contribute to explain the presence of significant magnetic anomalies centred on active and inactive ultramafic-hosted hydrothermal fields.

Graphical abstract

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Gene expression profiling reveals genes and transcription factors associated with dilated and ischemic cardiomyopathies

Publication date: Available online 29 December 2016
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Aiqing Qiao, Zhenying Zhao, Hui Zhang, Zhenyu Sun, Xiao Cui
AimsDilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) can cause heart failure, and this study aims to identify genes and transcription factors (TFs) associated with DCM and ICM.MethodsGene expression dataset GSE42955 was generated from GEO database, and it contained 12 DCM, 12 ICM, and 5 control samples. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between DCM (or ICM) and controls. Gene functions were investigated, and their associations were analyzed using Enrichmentmap plugin in Cytoscape. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) between DEGs were determined, and DEGs with high degree were defined as key DEGs. Potential TFs of key DEGs were predicted using iRegulon plugin. Common DEGs were found, and their functional interactions were investigated using GeneMANIA.ResultsA total of 362 and 300 DEGs were respectively identified for DCM and ICM in comparison with controls, and these DEGs mainly participated in similar functions about extracellular region, membrane, immune process, and defense response. PPI networks were respectively constructed for DCM and ICM, and 26 key DEGs (e.g. CXCL10, IL6, TLR3, and VCAM1) were found, which might be targeted by 35 TFs (e.g. IRF1). Besides, 47 common up-regulated DEGs were found, which participated in 14 pathways like Apoptosis, Collagen formation, as well as 127 common down-regulated DEGs that involved in 20 pathways like Adaptive immune system, Interferon γ signaling (e.g. IRF1, VCAM1), and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway (e.g. CXCL10, IL6, TLR3).ConclusionDCM and ICM may share similar mechanism, and TFs (e.g. IRF1) play crucial roles in their development via regulating gene expression.



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Elevated expression of microRNA-19a predicts a poor prognosis in patients with osteosarcoma

Publication date: Available online 29 December 2016
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Pingzhou Zou, Jian Ding, Shiping Fu
MicroRNA (miR)-19a, a member of the miR-17-92 cluster, functions as an oncomiRNA in multiple kinds of cancers. However, its involvement in human osteosarcomas remains unclear. In this study, to analyze the expression pattern of miR-19a and to investigate its clinical implication in human osteosarcomas, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect expression levels of miR-19a in 166 self-pairs of osteosarcoma and noncancerous bone tissues. Associations between miR-19a expression and various clinicopathological parameters and patients' prognosis of osteosarcomas were further evaluated. As a results, miR-19a expression in osteosarcoma tissues was significantly higher than that in corresponding noncancerous bone tissues (P<0.001). Osteosarcoma patients with high miR-19a expression more frequently had large tumor size (P=0.03), advanced clinical stage (P=0.01), positive distant metastasis (P=0.008) and poor response to chemotherapy (P=0.01) than those with low miR-19a expression. Additionally, kaplan-Meier analysis showed that both overall and disease-free survivals of osteosarcoma patients with high miR-19a expression were shorter than those with low miR-19a expression (both P<0.001). Further multivariate analysis identified miR-19a expression as an independent prognostic factor for both overall (P=0.001) and disease-free (P=0.006) survivals. In conclusion, the aberrant expression of miR-19a may play a crucial role in development and progression of human osteosarcomas. MiR-19a may act as a novel prognostic marker for patients with this malignancy.



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