Trace elements in loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) stranded in mainland Portugal: Bioaccumulation and tissue distribution

Publication date: July 2017
Source:Chemosphere, Volume 179
Author(s): Lídia Nicolau, Sílvia S. Monteiro, Andreia T. Pereira, Ana Marçalo, Marisa Ferreira, Jordi Torres, José Vingada, Catarina Eira
Pollution is among the most significant threats that endanger sea turtles worldwide. Waters off the Portuguese mainland are acknowledged as important feeding grounds for juvenile loggerheads. However, there is no data on trace element concentrations in marine turtles occurring in these waters. We present the first assessment of trace element concentrations in loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) occurring off the coast of mainland Portugal. Also, we compare our results with those from other areas and discuss parameters that may affect element concentrations. Trace element concentrations (As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mn, Hg, Ni, Se, Zn) were determined in kidney, liver and muscle samples from 38 loggerheads stranded between 2011 and 2013. As was the only element with higher concentrations in muscle (14.78 μg g⁻¹ ww) than in liver or kidney. Considering non-essential elements, Cd presented the highest concentrations in kidney (34.67 μg g⁻¹) and liver (5.03 μg g⁻¹). Only a weak positive link was found between renal Cd and turtle size. Inter-elemental correlations were observed in both liver and kidney tissues. Hepatic Hg values (0.30 ± 0.03 μg g⁻¹) were higher than values reported in loggerheads in the Canary Islands but lower than in Mediterranean loggerheads. Cd concentrations in the present study were only exceeded by values found in turtles from the Pacific. Although many endogenous and exogenous parameters related with complex life cycle changes and wide geographic range may influence trace element accumulation, the concentrations of Cd are probably related to the importance of crustaceans in loggerhead diet in the Portuguese coast.



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Improving light extraction in light-emitting diodes using zinc-tin-oxide layers

Publication date: 5 July 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 710
Author(s): T.G. Kim, D.S. Shin, K.-Y. Jung, A.N. Kadam, J. Park
In this study, we report on the synthesis and applications of zinc-tin-oxide (ZTO) as a light extraction layer for GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LED). The ZTO layers formed on top of an LED epi-structure with a variable Sn-ratio, which was deposited by the spin coating method. The transmission spectra of the ZTO layers with Zn to Sn ratios of 1:1 (ZTO-I) and 1:5 (ZTO-II) exhibited optical transmittances of 98% and 88% in the visible region, respectively. The electroluminescence (EL) and light power-current-voltage (L-I-V) measurements show that double ZTO layers consisting of various Zn to Sn ratios led to enhanced light extraction from blue LEDs. The improvement of light extraction in the LEDs can be attributed to the gradually reduced refractive index of the ZTO layers, which enlarges the photon escape cone and minimizes the Fresnel refraction loss at the interface between air and GaN.



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Interfacial reactions in the Au/Sn-xZn/Cu sandwich couples

Publication date: 5 July 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 710
Author(s): Yee-Wen Yen, Chung-Yung Lin, Gita Novian Hermana, Pei-Yu Chen, Yi-Pin Wu
The interfacial reactions in the Au/Sn-Zn/Cu sandwich couples were investigated. The Sn-xZn/Cu couples were reflowed at 270 °C for 1 h and then clamped together over an Au foil. These Au/Sn-Zn/Cu sandwich couples were aged at 160 °C for various periods of time. The AuSn, AuSn2, and AuSn4 phases were formed at the Sn-1Zn/Au interface when the Au/Sn-1 wt% Zn/Cu sandwich couple was aged for 20 h, the Cu6Sn5 phase was also observed between Au-Sn intermetallic compounds (IMCs) and solder. This result revealed that Cu atoms rapidly diffused through the Sn-1Zn solder to form Cu-Zn IMC on the Au side. The Au-Sn IMCs, Au-Zn IMCs, and an Au-Sn-Zn ternary metastable phase were formed at the interface in the Sn-5Zn/Au and Sn-9 wt% Zn/Au couple. When Zn contents were more than 20 wt%, only the Au-Zn IMCs, AuZn, Au3Zn7, and AuZn3 phase were formed at the Sn-xZn/Au interface. On the Cu side, when the Sn-Zn/Cu couple was reflowed at 270 °C for 1 h, the result indicated that the (Cu, Zn)6Sn5, (Cu, Sn)Zn phases were found at the Sn-1 wt.% Zn/Cu interface, the Cu5Zn8 phase was found at the Sn-5Zn/Cu interface and the (Cu, Sn)5Zn8, (Cu, Sn)Zn5 phases were found at the Sn-xZn/Cu interfaces (x = 9, 20 and 40 wt%). After 1000-h aging, the CuZn and Cu6Sn5 phases were formed at the Sn-1Zn/Cu interface, and only the Cu5Zn8 phase was observed at the Sn-(5 to 40) wt% Zn/Cu interfaces. The results indicated that no Au-Cu ordered phases were observed at both Au and Cu sides, and IMC formation in the Au/(Sn-xZn)/Cu sandwich couple strongly depended on the Zn concentration effect in the Sn-xZn alloys.



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Groundwater quality in Ghaziabad district, Uttar Pradesh, India: Multivariate and health risk assessment

Publication date: July 2017
Source:Chemosphere, Volume 179
Author(s): Mayuri Chabukdhara, Sanjay Kumar Gupta, Yatharth Kotecha, Arvind K. Nema
This study aimed to assess the quality of groundwater and potential health risk due to ingestion of heavy metals in the peri-urban and urban-industrial clusters of Ghaziabad district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Furthermore, the study aimed to evaluate heavy metals sources and their pollution level using multivariate analysis and fuzzy comprehensive assessment (FCA), respectively. Multivariate analysis using principle component analysis (PCA) showed mixed origin for Pb, Cd, Zn, Fe, and Ni, natural source for Cu and Mn and anthropogenic source for Cr. Among all the metals, Pb, Cd, Fe and Ni were above the safe limits of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and World Health Organization (WHO) except Ni. Health risk in terms of hazard quotient (HQ) showed that the HQ values for children were higher than the safe level (HQ = 1) for Pb (2.4) and Cd (2.1) in pre-monsoon while in post-monsoon the value exceeded only for Pb (HQ = 1.23). The health risks of heavy metals for the adults were well within safe limits. The finding of this study indicates potential health risks to the children due to chronic exposure to contaminated groundwater in the region. Based on FCA, groundwater pollution could be categorized as quite high in the peri-urban region, and absolutely high in the urban region of Ghaziabad district. This study showed that different approaches are required for the integrated assessment of the groundwater pollution, and provides a scientific basis for the strategic future planning and comprehensive management.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2ohqr97

Selective fluorescence sensors and photocatalysis of four new luminescent coordination complexes

Publication date: 5 August 2017
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1141
Author(s): Jun Wang, Chuan-Ti Li, Chao Bai, Huai-Ming Hu, Gang-Lin Xue
Four new complexes, [Cd(ox)0.5(nim)(2,2'-bipy)]n (1), [Cd(nim)2]n (2), [Cd(nim)2(H2O)2]n (3), and [Zn(nim)2(H2O)2]∙H2O (4) (Hnim = 4-nitroimidazolate, H2ox = oxalic acid and 2,2'-bipy = 2,2'-bipyridine) have been prepared. 1–3 exhibit 2D grid networks, while complex 4 shows mononuclear structure. The photoluminescent sensing of nitrobenzene indicates that the synthesized complexes 1 and 4 are potential candidates for detecting these nitroaromatic species. Furthermore, the photocatalytic activities of 1–4 were also discussed, in which exhibit efficient catalytic activity for the degradation of methylene violet (MV).

Graphical abstract

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A new application of anaerobic rotating biological contactor reactor for heavy metal removal under sulfate reducing condition

Publication date: 1 August 2017
Source:Chemical Engineering Journal, Volume 321
Author(s): M. Gopi Kiran, Kannan Pakshirajan, Gopal Das
This study evaluated the performance of a continuously operated laboratory scale anaerobic rotating biological contactor (An-RBC) reactor at 24h and 48h residence time (RT) for heavy metal removal from synthetic wastewater under sulfate reducing condition. A maximum removal of Cu(II) (97%) followed by Cd(II) (90%) and more than 77% removal in case of the other metals, viz Pb(II), Fe(III), Zn(II) and Ni(II) were obtained for a maximum inlet metal concentration in the range 50–175mg/L at 48h RT. Metal loading rates greater than 3.64mg/L·h in case of Cu(II) and 1.87mg/L·h, in case of Fe(III), Pb(II), Ni(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) are toxic and inhibitory to SRB activity and are therefore, detrimental to the performance of the An-RBC reactor. The metal removal values were slightly reduced at 24h RT and the heavy metal removal was in the order: Cu>Cd>Pb>Fe>Zn>Ni at both the RTs. Sulfate removal results further confirmed that the heavy metal removal is due to sulfide generation in the reactor system. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images clearly revealed the immobilized sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) onto the support material. Hence, this study demonstrated an excellent potential of the An-RBC reactor for treating metal containing wastewater even at high inlet concentration.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2ohiroC

Significantly enhancing back contact adhesion and improving stability of Cu2(Zn,Cd)Sn(S,Se)4 solar cell by a rational carbon doping strategy

Publication date: 5 July 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 710
Author(s): Lei Meng, Bin Yao, Yongfeng Li, Zhanhui Ding, Zhenyu Xiao, Kaisi Liu, Gang Wang
The back contact adhesion is the important factor of the microstructural performance which can determine the optoelectronic properties of the kesterite-based solar cells. Here, we present a rational and effective strategy to significantly enhance the back contact adhesion of Cu2(Zn,Cd)Sn(S,Se)4 (CZCTSSe) absorber layers by insetting the appropriate thickness carbon-doping CZCTS thin films. We chose the oleylamine as the carbon-doping reagent which can generate a small amount of carbon in the annealing process. The suitable thickness carbon-doping CZCTS films can significantly change the crystal growth mechanism of CZCTSSe absorber layers, and eliminate the holes in the back contact. The efficiency of CZCTSSe solar cells fabricated by insetting the appropriate thickness carbon-doping CZCTS films is above 7%, and shows the excellent repeatability and long-term air stability compared with the control devices.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2ohreHc

Zn–Mn alloy coatings from acidic chloride bath: Effect of deposition conditions on the Zn–Mn electrodeposition-morphological and structural characterization

Publication date: 15 July 2017
Source:Applied Surface Science, Volume 410
Author(s): N. Loukil, M. Feki
Zn–Mn alloy electrodeposition on steel electrode in chloride bath was investigated using cyclic voltammetric, chronopotentiometric and chronoamperometric techniques. Cyclic voltammetries (CV) reveal a deep understanding of electrochemical behaviors of each metal Zn, Mn, proton discharge and Zn–Mn co-deposition.The electrochemical results show that with increasing Mn²⁺ ions concentration in the electrolytic bath, Mn²⁺ reduction occurs at lower over-potential leading to an enhancement of Mn content into the Zn–Mn deposits. A dimensionless graph model was used to analyze the effect of Mn²⁺ ions concentration on Zn–Mn nucleation process. It was found that the nucleation process is not extremely affected by Mn²⁺ concentration. Nevertheless, it significantly depends on the applied potential.Several parameters such as Mn²⁺ ions concentration, current density and stirring were investigated with regard to the Mn content into the final Zn–Mn coatings. It was found that the Mn content increases with increasing the applied current density jimp and Mn²⁺ ions concentration in the electrolytic bath. However, stirring of the solution decreases the Mn content in the Zn–Mn coatings. The phase structure and surface morphology of Zn–Mn deposits are characterized by means of X-ray diffraction analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. The Zn–Mn deposited at low current density is tri-phasic and consisting of η-Zn, ζ-MnZn13 and hexagonal close packed ε-Zn–Mn. An increase in current density leads to a transition from crystalline to amorphous structure, arising from the hydroxide inclusions in the Zn–Mn coating at high current density.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2nBY0iQ

Comprehensive assessment of heavy metal pollution in topsoil of historical urban park on an example of the Planty Park in Krakow (Poland)

Publication date: July 2017
Source:Chemosphere, Volume 179
Author(s): Michał Gąsiorek, Joanna Kowalska, Ryszard Mazurek, Marek Pająk
The Historic Centre of Krakow is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and includes the Main Market Square, which is surrounded by the historical Planty Park. Soils in the Planty Park are an example of a green area in an urban environment that is particularly exposed to heavy metal-rich pollution. To assess the relative content of heavy metals and evaluate the sources of the contamination, pollution indices were used: Enrichment Factor (EF), Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo), Nemerow Pollution Index (PINemerow), Potential Ecological Risk (RI), and Contamination Security Index (CSI). Pollution indices were calculated on the base of both reference and local geochemical backgrounds. Sources of heavy metals in soils of Planty Park are related to its historic role as a metallurgy centre, as well as the more recent urban and industrial development of Krakow centre and neighbouring areas. It is concluded that increased accumulation of heavy metals is an effect of growing numbers of emission sources. The variation of each element may not unambiguously reflect the natural or anthropogenic effect on the Planty Park soil cover. In general, the present and historical emission of pollutants and heavy metal-rich contamination has led to a mixed origin of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn. Moreover, it can be assumed that the content of Cr and Ni is derived from natural sources. Furthermore, a comparison of the quality of the Planty Park topsoil with the heavy metal content assessment in other urban parks in the world has been presented.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2nC0AWa

Metal(loid) speciation and size fractionation in sediment pore water depth profiles examined with a new meso profiling system

Publication date: July 2017
Source:Chemosphere, Volume 179
Author(s): Henning Schroeder, Anne-Lena Fabricius, Dennis Ecker, Thomas A. Ternes, Lars Duester
In an exemplary incubation study with an anaerobic sediment sampled at an oxbow of the river Lahn in Germany (50°18′56.87″N; 7°37′41.25″E) and contaminated by former mining activity, a novel meso profiling and sampling system (messy) is presented. Messy enables a low invasive, automated sampling of pore water profiles across the sediment water interface (SWI), down to ∼20 cm depth with a spacial resolution of 1 cm. In parallel to the pore water sampling it measures physicochemical sediment parameters such as redox potential and pH value. In an incubation experiment of 151 days the ability of the setup was proven to address several different aspects relevant for fresh water and marine sediment studies: (i) The influence of mechanical disturbance and oxygen induced acidification on the mobility of 13 metals and metalloids (Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sb, U, V, Zn) was quantified based on 11 profiles. The analytes were quantified by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Three groups of elements were identified with respect to the release into the pore water and the overlying water under different experimental conditions. (ii) The capability to investigate the impacts of changing physicochemical sediment properties on arsenic and antimony (III/V) speciation is shown. (iii) An approach to obtain information on size fractionation effects and to address the colloidal pore water fractions (0.45 μm–16 μm) was successfully conducted for the elements Ag, As, Cu, Fe and Mn.



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Editorial Board and Contents

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Trends in Immunology, Volume 38, Issue 4





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Structural laterality is associated with cognitive and mood outcomes: An assessment of 105 healthy aged volunteers

Publication date: June 2017
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 153
Author(s): M. Esteves, P. Marques, R. Magalhães, T.C. Castanho, J.M. Soares, A. Almeida, N.C. Santos, N. Sousa, H. Leite-Almeida
The human brain presents multiple asymmetries that dynamically change throughout life. These phenomena have been associated with cognitive impairments and psychiatric disorders although possible associations with specific patterns of cognitive aging are yet to be determined. We have therefore mapped and quantified morphological asymmetries in a heterogeneous and aged population (65.2±8.0 years old, 52 male and 53 female) to explore potential associations between the asymmetries in specific brain regions and cognitive performance. The sample was characterized in a battery of neuropsychological tests and in terms of brain structural asymmetries using a ROI-based approach. A substantial number of brain areas presented some degree of asymmetry. Such biases survived a stringent statistical correction and were largely confirmed in a voxel-based analysis. In specific brain areas, like the thalamus and insula, asymmetry was correlated with cognition and mood descriptors as the Stroop words/colors test or depressive mood scale, respectively. Curiously in the latter, the association was independent of its left/right direction. Altogether, results reveal that asymmetry is widespread in the aged brain and that area-specific biases (degree and direction) associate with the functional profile of the individual.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2nG4hf6

Extended hybrid-space SENSE for EPI: Off-resonance and eddy current corrected joint interleaved blip-up/down reconstruction

Publication date: June 2017
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 153
Author(s): Benjamin Zahneisen, Murat Aksoy, Julian Maclaren, Christian Wuerslin, Roland Bammer
IntroductionGeometric distortions along the phase encode direction caused by off-resonant spins are still a major issue in EPI based functional and diffusion imaging. If the off-resonance map is known it is possible to correct for distortions. Most correction methods operate as a post-processing step on the reconstructed magnitude images.Theory and methodsHere, we present an algebraic reconstruction method (hybrid-space SENSE) that incorporates a physics based model of off-resonances, phase inconsistencies between k-space segments, and T2*-decay during the acquisition. The method can be used to perform a joint reconstruction of interleaved acquisitions with normal (blip-up) and inverted (blip-down) phase encode direction which results in reduced g-factor penalty.ResultsA joint blip-up/down simultaneous multi slice (SMS) reconstruction for SMS-factor 4 in combination with twofold in-plane acceleration leads to a factor of two decrease in maximum g-factor penalty while providing off-resonance and eddy-current corrected images.ConclusionWe provide an algebraic framework for reconstructing diffusion weighted EPI data that in addition to the general applicability of hybrid-space SENSE to 2D-EPI, SMS-EPI and 3D-EPI with arbitrary k-space coverage along z, allows for a modeling of arbitrary spatio-temporal effects during the acquisition period like off-resonances, phase inconsistencies and T2*-decay. The most immediate benefit is a reduction in g-factor penalty if an interleaved blip-up/down acquisition strategy is chosen which facilitates eddy current estimation and ensures no loss in k-space encoding in regions with strong off-resonance gradients.



http://ift.tt/2nGmvNB

Intra- and inter-individual variability in the mechanical properties of the human skin from in vivo measurements on 20 volunteers

Background/purpose:

The mechanical properties and behavior of the human skin in vivo are of medical importance, particularly to surgeons who have to consider the skin extension capabilities in the preparation of surgical acts. Variable data can be found in literature that result from diverse kinds of tests (in vivo, ex vivo, and postmortem) performed with different instruments.

Methods

This paper presents the results of in vivo measurements performed on a cohort of 20 healthy volunteers with an ultralight homemade uniaxial extensometer. Different anatomical zones were explored under different directions of solicitation in order to document inter- and intra-individual variability as well as skin anisotropy.

Results

The experimental data obtained are fitted with a phenomenological exponential model allowing the identification of three parameters characteristic of the tested skin behavior. These parameters can be related to the concept of skin extensibility used by surgeons.

Conclusion

The inter- and intra-variability observed on that cohort confirms the need for a patient-specific approach based on the in vivo measurement of the mechanical behavior of the human skin of interest. Even the direction of higher skin stiffness is found to be individual-dependent. The capability of the extensometer used in this study to fulfill such measurement needs is also demonstrated.

http://ift.tt/2nlif2M

Antibacterial mode of action of violacein from Chromobacterium violaceum UTM5 against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Abstract

Violacein, violet pigment produced by Chromobacterium violaceum, has attracted much attention recently due to its pharmacological properties including antibacterial activity. The present study investigated possible antibacterial mode of action of violacein from C. violaceum UTM5 against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains. Violet fraction was obtained by cultivating C. violaceum UTM5 in liquid pineapple waste medium, extracted, and fractionated using ethyl acetate and vacuum liquid chromatography technique. Violacein was quantified as major compound in violet fraction using HPLC analysis. Violet fraction displayed bacteriostatic activity against S. aureus ATCC 29213 and methicillin-resistant S. aureus ATCC 43300 with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3.9 μg/mL. Fluorescence dyes for membrane damage and scanning electron microscopic analysis confirmed the inhibitory effect by disruption on membrane integrity, morphological alternations, and rupture of the cell membranes of both strains. Transmission electron microscopic analysis showed membrane damage, mesosome formation, and leakage of intracellular constituents of both bacterial strains. Mode of action of violet fraction on the cell membrane integrity of both strains was shown by release of protein, K⁺, and extracellular adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) with 110.5 μg/mL, 2.34 μg/mL, and 87.24 ng/μL, respectively, at 48 h of incubation. Violet fraction was toxic to human embryonic kidney (HEK293) and human fetal lung fibroblast (IMR90) cell lines with LC₅₀ value of 0.998 ± 0.058 and 0.387 ± 0.002 μg/mL, respectively. Thus, violet fraction showed a strong antibacterial property by disrupting the membrane integrity of S. aureus and MRSA strains. This is the first report on the possible mode of antibacterial action of violet fraction from C. violaceum UTM5 on S. aureus and MRSA strains.

http://ift.tt/2oeVMsu

Integration of coagulation and adsorption for removal of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) precursors from biologically treated municipal wastewater

Abstract

This study investigated the N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) formation potential of various dissolved organic matter (DOM) fractions in biologically treated municipal wastewater by UF fractionation, XAD-8 resin adsorption isolation, and excitation and emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy. Removal of various NDMA precursor fractions was also analyzed to evaluate the efficiency of traditional water treatment processes (coagulation, adsorption, and coagulation-adsorption). Results showed that NDMA were mainly formed by low molecular weight (MW) fractions (<30 kDa) and hydrophilic fractions (HiS) in biologically treated municipal wastewater. Integrated coagulation-adsorption treatments showed the highest reduction capacity for NDMA formation potential (57%), followed by isolated adsorption treatment (50%) and isolated coagulation treatment (28%). The powdered activated carbon (PAC) adsorption process could reduce the high MW precursors (>30 kDa) by 48%, which was higher than other treatments. In contrast, the highest uptake (66%) of low MW precursors (<30 kDa) was achieved by the coagulation-adsorption process. All treatments preferentially removed the hydrophobic acids (HoA) fraction compared to other fractions. Coagulation could remove more fulvic acid-like substances and adsorption could remove more microbial by-products and aromatic proteins.

http://ift.tt/2ofesIS

The potential DNA toxic changes among workers exposed to antimony trioxide

Abstract

Occupational exposure to antimony has gained much interest when specific toxic effects were noticed among workers processing antimony. Thus, the aim of the present work was to investigate the potential DNA oxidative damage occurring among Egyptian workers occupationally exposed to antimony trioxide. The study was conducted on 25 subjects exposed to antimony trioxide while working in the polymerization process of polyester in Misrayon and Polyester Fiber Company, KafrEldawwar, Beheira, Egypt. Urinary antimony levels were assessed using inductive coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and considered as a biological exposure index. DNA damage and total oxidant capacity (TOC) were assessed using ELISA. DNA damage was detected in the form of increased apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites among antimony trioxide-exposed workers compared to control subjects, but it could not be explained by oxidative mechanisms due to lack of significant correlation between DNA damage and measured TOC. Antimony trioxide might have a genotoxic impact on occupationally exposed workers which could not be attributed to oxidative stress in the studied cases.

http://ift.tt/2mTBC7m

Synthesis and photocatalytic performance of reduced graphene oxide–TiO 2 nanocomposites for orange II degradation under UV light irradiation

Abstract

To enhance the photocatalytic activity of TiO₂, reduced graphene oxide–TiO₂ (RGO–TiO₂) composites with sandwich-like structure were synthesized using a simple solvothermal method. The morphology, crystalline information, and structural property of the photocatalyst were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performances of the RGO–TiO₂ composites were evaluated by the degradation of orange II (AO7) in water under UV light irradiation. The results showed that the RGO–TiO₂ composites exhibited much higher photocatalytic activity than TiO₂ and that the removal efficiency of AO7 could reach above 95% only after 20 min of UV light irradiation under the optimum condition. The improved photocatalytic activity might be attributed to the improved charge transfer and significant separation of the photoinduced electrons and holes in the presence of a two-dimensional graphene network. The results of recycling experiments show that RGO–TiO₂ composites have a high photostability, which is expected in the practical application. Radical trapping experiments indicated that ·OH plays a crucial role in the process of AO7 degradation.

http://ift.tt/2nzHyzL

Response of low-molecular-weight organic acids in mangrove root exudates to exposure of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract

Low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) represent an important component of root exudates. They play a pivotal role in the degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments as they influence PAH bioavailability and degrader colonization. This study examined variations of LMWOAs in mangrove root exudates (Aegiceras corniculatum and Kandelia obovata) after exposure in phenanthrene and pyrene solution for 7 and 40 days, respectively. After 7 days of treatment, total root exudates and six types of LMWOA in root exudates from both mangrove species were enhanced. The largest increase was found in oxalic acid, i.e., the dominant component in determined LMWOAs. Coupled with the enhancement in LMWOA exudation rates, root metabolism intensities, measured as the dehydrogenase activity, increased. In contrast, after 40 days of exposure, the exudation rate of total LMWOAs had dropped markedly in PAH-contaminated groups compared to the control, indicating that PAHs negatively impacted root metabolism and activities due to their toxicity. The largest decrease was also found in oxalic acid, suggesting that the biological reactions related with oxalic acid are vulnerable under PAH stresses.

http://ift.tt/2nkpbgm

Impact of highway traffic and the acoustic screen on the content and spatial distribution of heavy metals in soils

Abstract

Recent years have witnessed intensification of road traffic and, with it, the amount of substances emitted by vehicles. Such emissions need to be monitored for public health purposes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the highway traffic on the total content and bioavailability of Zn, Cu, Ni, Cd, Cr and Pb in nearby soils as well as influence of an acoustic screen on spatial distribution of the metals. The material included 40 soil samples collected from 15 research points located 5, 10, 25 and 50 m away from the road acoustic screen and from 4 points between the screen and the highway. Additionally, 5 research points were located next to the metal barrier. Selected physicochemical properties of soils were determined: soil texture, soil pH, TOC and CaCO₃ content. The total content of heavy metals in the soils was determined by AAS after digestion in aqua regia and bioavailable forms in 1 M diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid. The research found low impact of the highway traffic on the content of heavy metals in soils; however, due to a very short period of this potential impact (5 years), the moderately polluted category of geo-accumulation index of cadmium and high bioavailability of lead indicate the need of repeating the research within the next several years. Furthermore, the road acoustic screen significantly influenced spatial distribution of the metals in soils.

http://ift.tt/2nBzUFb

A two-stage fuzzy chance-constrained water management model

Abstract

In this study, an inexact two-stage fuzzy gradient chance-constrained programming (ITSFGP) method is developed and applied to the water resources management in the Heshui River Basin, Jiangxi Province, China. The optimization model is established by incorporating interval programming, two-stage stochastic programming, and fuzzy gradient chance-constrained programming within an optimization framework. The hybrid model can address uncertainties represented as fuzzy sets, probability distributions, and interval numbers. It can effectively tackle the interactions between pre-regulated economic targets and the associated environmental penalties attributed to water allocation schemes and reflect the tradeoffs between economic revenues and system-failure risk. Furthermore, uncertainties associated with the decision makers' preferences are considered in decision-making processes. The obtained results can provide decision support for the local sustainable economic development and water resources allocation strategies under multiple uncertainties.

http://ift.tt/2nzvDSp

Rosmarinus officinalis L. ameliorates titanium dioxide nanoparticles and induced some toxic effects in rats’ blood

Abstract

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) have been widely used as a white pigment in food and drugs. The most important route of human exposure to TiO₂ is through food and drug products containing TiO₂ additives. This study investigates the efficacy of an oral traditional use of rosemary extract in ameliorating some toxic effects induced on blood of TiO₂ NP-intoxicated rats. Rats were given rosemary extract via intragastric administration 1 h before the intragastric administration of 100 mg/kg/day TiO₂ NPs (10 nm) for 60 days. TiO₂ NPs significantly increased serum cholesterol, glucose, and triglyceride levels of rats. They also induced significant oxidative stress and inflammatory and caused DNA damage in peripheral blood leukocytes. The rosemary extract appears to have a significant protective effect by lowering glucose level properties, restoring the lipid profile and showing an antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antigenotoxic properties against TiO₂ NPs toxicity. In conclusion, this study gives an encouraging scientific basis for consumers of rosemary leaves to keep on with this culinary habit.

http://ift.tt/2nkDnpx

Bioaccumulation of gadolinium in freshwater bivalves

Abstract

In this study, the presence of anthropogenic gadolinium (Gd) was evaluated in rivers, close to wastewater treatment plant outputs. Then, one site was selected for in situ experiments to assess the bioaccumulation of Gd in the digestive gland and in the gills of two bivalves (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis and Corbicula fluminea). For both organisms, the results suggested that the bioaccumulation of Gd can be observed when organisms are exposed in a geogenic and anthropogenic Gd mixture. In order to observe if Gd can bioaccumulate in tissues of bivalves when the ion is only present as the main anthropogenic speciation of Gd, i.e., Gd-contrast agents (Gd-CAs), the gadoteric acid was used for a laboratory experiment. In this case, the presence of Gd was clearly detected in a significant amount in the digestive glands of D. rostriformis bugensis and C. fluminea while low concentrations are measured in the gills. For the first time, these results clearly showed that Gd can bioaccumulate in bivalve tissues even when it is only present as Gd-CAs. Biochemical activities were measured in the digestive gland and in the gills of the bivalves to assess the effects of Gd-CA bioaccumulation. No significant variations were observed in the gills. Concerning the digestive gland, after 7 days of exposure at 10 μg L⁻¹ of Gd as Gd-CA speciation, GST activity in D. rostriformis bugensis and lipid hydroperoxide and mitochondrial electron transfer system in C. fluminea had increased. The results suggest an acclimation of the organisms to the presence of Gd-CAs in the medium within less than 21 days.

http://ift.tt/2ofcKaE

Comparison of two modified coal ash ferric-carbon micro-electrolysis ceramic media for pretreatment of tetracycline wastewater

Abstract

Application of modified sintering ferric-carbon ceramics (SFC) and sintering-free ferric-carbon ceramics (SFFC) based on coal ash and scrap iron for pretreatment of tetracycline (TET) wastewater was investigated in this article. Physical property, morphological character, toxic metal leaching content, and crystal component were studied to explore the application possibility of novel ceramics in micro-electrolysis reactors. The influences of operating conditions including influent pH, hydraulic retention time (HRT), and air-water ratio (A/W) on the removal of tetracycline were studied. The results showed that SFC and SFFC were suitable for application in micro-electrolysis reactors. The optimum conditions of SFC reactor were pH of 3, HRT of 7 h, and A/W of 10. For SFFC reactor, the optimum conditions were pH of 2, HRT of 7 h, and A/W of 15. In general, the TET removal efficiency of SFC reactor was better than that of SFFC reactor. However, the harden resistance of SFFC was better than that of SFC. Furthermore, the biodegradability of TET wastewater was improved greatly after micro-electrolysis pretreatment for both SFC and SFFC reactors.

http://ift.tt/2mTAl0o

Resistance to thyrotropin

Publication date: Available online 30 March 2017
Source:Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
Author(s): Helmut Grasberger, Samuel Refetoff
Resistance to thyrotropin (RTSH) is broadly defined as reduced sensitivity of thyroid follicle cells to stimulation by biologically active TSH due to genetic defects. Affected individuals have elevated serum TSH in the absence of goiter, with the severity ranging from nongoitrous isolated hyperthyrotropinemia to severe congenital hypothyroidism with thyroid hypoplasia. Conceptually, defects leading to RTSH impair both aspects of TSH-mediated action, namely thyroid hormone synthesis and gland growth. These include inactivating mutations in the genes encoding the TSH receptor and the PAX8 transcription factor. A common third cause has been genetically mapped to a locus on chromosome 15, but the underlying pathophysiology has not yet been elucidated. This review provides a succinct overview of currently defined causes of nonsyndromic RTSH, their differential diagnoses (autoimmune; partial iodine organification defects; syndromic forms of RTSH) and implications for the clinical approach to patients with RTSH.



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Cardiovascular alterations in adult GH deficiency

Publication date: Available online 30 March 2017
Source:Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
Author(s): Carolina Di Somma, Elisabetta Scarano, Silvia Savastano, Maria Cristina Savanelli, Rosario Pivonello, Annamaria Colao
There is a growing body of evidence indicating that patients with adult GH deficiency (GHD) are characterized by a cluster of traditional and emerging cardiovascular risk factors and markers, which can significantly increase their cardiovascular morbidity and mortality possibly linked to aberrations in GH status. Patients with adult GHD present multiple different cardiovascular abnormalities. In addition, cardiovascular risk in adult GHD is increased due to altered body composition, abnormal lipid profile, insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism. Cardiovascular risk factors can be reversed, at least partially, after GH replacement. However, evidence on the effects of GH replacement on cardiovascular events and mortality is too limited in adult GHD patients. Aim of this review is to provide an at-a-glance overview of the role of the GH/IGF-I on the cardiovascular system and the state of art of the effects of GH replacement on cardiovascular system.



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Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia masquerading as ovarian cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis, ascites, and elevated cancer antigen 125

Publication date: Available online 31 March 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Therapy
Author(s): Patrick Eulitt, Denise Fabian, Crystal Kelly, Jessica Hemminger, Basem M. William




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Hypochlorous acid gel technology—Its impact on postprocedure treatment and scar prevention

Summary

Background

A pre-and postprocedure regime aimed at prevention of infection, reduction of inflammation and risk of scarring, is to enable optimal outcomes.

Objectives

The role of a hypochlorous acid containing spray and translucent scar gel formulation that combines modified silicon oil with hypochlorous acid, was explored for pre- and postprocedure treatment and scar management.

Methods

For this purpose a literature review was conducted to explore the value of the technology used in pre-and postprocedural regimes. A panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons who practice in the United States discussed the summarized search results, taking into account their current clinical practice. A nominal group process for consensus was used, followed by online reviews of the manuscript.

Results

Based on panel discussions, consensus was reached regarding clinical recommendations given for postprocedure treatment and scar management. The hypochlorous acid products are produced with electrolysis and are classified among biocidal substances. The technology has demonstrated efficacy and safety for pre-and postprocedure use. The safety of hypochlorous solution use demonstrated to be comparable to that of standard local antiseptics. Small studies demonstrated better results with the scar gel compared to silicone gel regarding the appearance of hypertrophic and keloid scars, relief of associated pruritus and pain.

Conclusions

A postprocedure regime using this technology, aimed at preventing infection, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing is proposed to have benefits over current regimes as it appears to be effective, safe, and well tolerated.

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Anacardic acid ameliorates ultraviolet irradiation-induced damage to human skin

Publication date: Available online 30 March 2017
Source:Journal of Dermatological Science
Author(s): Min-Kyoung Kim, Mi Hee Shin, Yeon Kyung Kim, Ha Young Kim, Yu Ri Lee, Dong Hun Lee, Jin Ho Chung




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2-Year animal carcinogenicity results for crisaborole, a novel phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor for atopic dermatitis

Publication date: Available online 30 March 2017
Source:Journal of Dermatological Science
Author(s): Vic Ciaravino, Dina Coronado, Cheryl Lanphear, Sanjay Chanda
BackgroundCrisaborole is a novel, topical nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory, phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.ObjectiveAs part of a nonclinical safety testing program, these 2-year studies tested the carcinogenic potential of crisaborole.MethodsCrisaborole ointment, 2%, 5%, or 7%, was applied once daily topically to mice, and crisaborole was administered orally to rats at doses of 30, 100, or 300mg/kg/day for up to 104 weeks. Systemic exposure to crisaborole and its metabolites, moribundity/death, clinical signs, and tumor formation were assessed in each study.ResultsCrisaborole treatment was not tumorigenic in mice at any of the doses administered and did not increase the incidence of neoplastic or nonneoplastic microscopic lesions compared with controls. Oral administration of crisaborole at the high dose (300 mg/kg/day) to female rats increased the incidence of treatment-related benign granular cell tumors in the distal reproductive tract (uterus with cervix and vagina) but did not cause moribundity/death.ConclusionCrisaborole was well tolerated and not tumorigenic in mice. It was not tumorigenic in male rats at 300 mg/kg/day at exposures that were 3× the human area under the concentration-time curve (AUC24) and was nontumorigenic in female rats at 100 mg/kg/day at exposures that were 1× the human AUC24.



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Bilateral Lung Transplantation for Bleomycin-Associated Lung Injury

This report details the successful use of bilateral lung transplantation for the management of severe postoperative bleomycin-associated lung injury. This case highlights that the extremely favorable prognosis of advanced testicular germ cell tumors after systemic chemotherapy (>90% cure rate) should not preclude lung transplant consideration in all cases, despite current guidance that considers an advanced malignancy to be a contraindication for lung transplant listing. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–3

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Prolonged Temozolomide Maintenance Therapy in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma

Background.

The impact of prolonging temozolomide (TMZ) maintenance beyond six cycles in newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) remains a topic of discussion. We investigated the effects of prolonged TMZ maintenance on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Patients and Methods.

In this retrospective single-center cohort study, we included patients with GBM who were treated with radiation therapy with concomitant and adjuvant TMZ. For analysis, patients were considered who either completed six TMZ maintenance cycles (group B), continued with TMZ therapy beyond six cycles (group C), or stopped TMZ maintenance therapy within the first six cycles (group A). Patients with progression during the first six TMZ maintenance cycles were excluded.

Results.

Clinical data from 107 patients were included for Kaplan-Meier analyses and 102 for Cox regressions. Median PFS times were 8.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.1–12.4) in group A, 13.7 months (95% CI 10.6–17.5) in group B, and 20.9 months (95% CI 15.2–43.5) in group C. At first progression, response rates of TMZ/lomustine rechallenge were 47% in group B and 13% in group C. Median OS times were 12.7 months (95% CI 10.3–16.8) in group A, 25.2 months (95% CI 17.7–55.5) in group B, and 28.6 months (95% CI 24.4–open) in group C. Nevertheless, multivariate Cox regression for patients in group C compared with group B that accounted for imbalances of other risk factors showed no different relative risk (RR) for OS (RR 0.77, p = .46).

Conclusion.

Our data do not support a general extension of TMZ maintenance therapy beyond six cycles. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–6

Implications for Practice.

Radiation therapy with concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ) maintenance therapy is still the standard of care in patients below the age of 65 years in newly diagnosed glioblastoma. However, in clinical practice, many centers continue TMZ maintenance therapy beyond six cycles. The impact of this continuation is controversial and has not yet been addressed in prospective randomized clinical trials. We compared the effect of more than six cycles of TMZ in comparison with exactly six cycles on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) by multivariate analysis and found a benefit in PFS but not OS. Thus, our data do not suggest prolonging TMZ maintenance therapy beyond six cycles, which should be considered in neurooncological practice.

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Interference of a speB 5′ UTR partial deletion with mRNA degradation in Streptococcus pyogenes

SUMMARY

The 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR) of an mRNA molecule embeds important determinants that modify its stability and translation efficiency. In Streptococcus pyogenes, a strict human pathogen, a gene encoding a secreted protease (speB) has a large 5′ UTR with unknown functions. Here we describe that a partial deletion of the speB 5′ UTR caused a general accumulation of mRNA in the stationary phase, and that the mRNA accumulation was due to retarded mRNA degradation. The phenotype was observed in several M serotypes harboring the partial deletion of the speB 5′ UTR. The phenotype was triggered by the production of the truncated speB 5′ UTR, but not by the disruption of the intact speB 5′ UTR. RNase Y, a major endoribonuclease, was previously shown to play a central role in bulk mRNA turnover in stationary phase. However, in contrast to our expectations, we observed a weaker interaction between the truncated speB 5′ UTR and RNase Y as compared to the wild-type, which suggests other unidentified RNA degrading components are required for the pleiotropic effects observed from the speB UTR truncation. Our study demonstrates how S. pyogenes utilize distinct mRNA degradation schemes in exponential and stationary growth phases.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Noninvasive Follicular Thyroid Neoplasm with Papillary-Like Nuclear Features: Historical Context, Diagnosis, and Future Challenges

Abstract

The encapsulated/well-demarcated non-invasive form of follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC) that occurs annually in 45,000 patients worldwide was thought for 30 years to be a carcinoma. Many studies have now shown almost no recurrence in these non-invasive tumors, even in patients treated by surgery without radioactive iodine therapy. The categorization of the tumor as cancer has led to aggressive forms of treatment, with their side effects, financial costs, and the psychological and social impact of a cancer diagnosis. Recently, the encapsulated/well-demarcated non-invasive, FVPTC was renamed as noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) by an international group of experts. The new terminology lacks the carcinoma label enabling clinicians to avoid aggressive therapy. By taking the reader through the history of FVPTC, this article explains how diagnostic criteria for thyroid carcinoma of follicular cells have evolved over the last 60 years. It discusses the steps that led to the labeling of FVPTC as cancer and highlights the various studies that helped reclassify and rename this tumor. It also sheds light on the impact of this reclassification on cytologic diagnosis and focuses on the studies needed to refine and expand the histologic criteria of NIFTP. By understanding the history of this change in nomenclature, future classification of tumors will be greatly improved.

http://ift.tt/2nFDY8V

Testicular organoid generation by a novel in vitro three-layer gradient system

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 130
Author(s): João Pedro Alves-Lopes, Olle Söder, Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
A system that models the testicular microenvironment and spermatogonial stem-cell (SSC) niche in vitro has not been produced yet. Here, we developed and characterized a novel three-dimensional multilayer model, the Three-Layer Gradient System (3-LGS), which permits the generation of rat testicular organoids with a functional blood-testis barrier (BTB) and germ cell establishment and proliferation. The model is unique as regards the formation of cellular organizations that more closely represent the in vivo germ-to-somatic cell associations in vitro. Moreover, we also verified the roles of retinoic acid (RA), IL-1α, TNFα and RA inhibitors in germ cell maintenance and BTB organization in vitro. Treatment with RA was beneficial for germ cell maintenance, while IL-1α and TNFα were observed to impair the formation of testicular organoids and germ cell maintenance. Taking in account our characterization and validation results, we propose the 3-LGS as a new platform to investigate the SSC niche in vitro and to search for novel unknown factors involved in germ cell proliferation and differentiation. Moreover, we suggest that this model can be used in other scientific fields to study organogenesis and development by the generation of organoids.



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Charge convertibility and near infrared photon co-enhanced cisplatin chemotherapy based on upconversion nanoplatform

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 130
Author(s): Jiating Xu, Ye Kuang, Ruichan Lv, Piaoping Yang, Chunxia Li, Huiting Bi, Bin Liu, Dan Yang, Yunlu Dai, Shili Gai, Fei He, Bengang Xing, Jun Lin
Optimal nano-sized drug carrier requires long blood circulation, selective extravasation, and efficient cell uptake. Here we develop a charge-convertible nanoplatform based on Pt(IV) prodrug loaded NaYF4:Yb,Tm upconversion nanoparticles (UCNs), followed by coating a layer of PEG-PAH-DMMA polymer (UCNs-Pt(IV)@PEG-PAH-DMMA). The polymer endows the platform with high biocompatibility, initial nano-size for prolonged blood circulation and selective extravasation. Especially, the anionic polymer can response to the mild acidic stimulus (pH ∼6.5) of tumor extracellular microenvironment and experience charge-shifting to a cationic polymer, resulting in electrostatic repulsion and releases of positive UCNs-Pt(IV). The positive UCNs-Pt(IV) nanoparticles have high affinity to negative cell membrane, leading to efficacious cell internalization. Simultaneously, the ultraviolet (UV) light emitted from UCNs upon near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation, together with the reductive glutathione (GSH) in cancer cells efficiently activate the Pt(IV) prodrug to highly cytotoxic Pt(II), realizing NIR photon improved chemotherapy. The experimental results reveal the charge convertibility, low adverse effect and markedly enhanced tumor ablation efficacy upon NIR laser irradiation of this smart nanoplatform. Moreover, combining the inherent upconversion luminescence (UCL) and computed tomography (CT) imaging capabilities, an alliance of cancer diagnosis and therapy has been achieved.

Graphical abstract

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Synthetic vaccine nanoparticles target to lymph node triggering enhanced innate and adaptive antitumor immunity

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 130
Author(s): Sun-Young Kim, Young-Woock Noh, Tae Heung Kang, Jung-Eun Kim, Sohyun Kim, Soong Ho Um, Doo-Byoung Oh, Yeong-Min Park, Yong Taik Lim
In this study, synthetic vaccine nanoparticles (SVNPs) that efficiently targeted lymph nodes, where immune responses against foreign antigens are primed, were developed to enhance antitumor immunity. The size (20–70 nm) and surface character (amination) of poly(γ-glutamic acid)-based SVNPs were selected for effective loading and delivery (i.e., migration and retention) of model tumor antigen (OVA) and toll-like receptor 3 agonist (poly (I:C)) to immune cells in lymph nodes. Antigen-presenting cells treated with SVNP-OVA and SVNP-IC showed higher uptake of OVA and poly (I:C) and higher secretion of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and type I interferon (IFN-α, IFN-β) than those treated with OVA and poly (I:C) alone. In vivo analysis revealed higher levels of activation markers, inflammatory cytokines, and type I IFNs in the lymph nodes of mice immunized with SVNP-IC compared to those of mice in other groups. SVNP-IC-treated mice showed significantly greater in vivo natural killer cell expansion/activation (NK1.1⁺ cells) and CD8⁺ T cell response (CD8⁺ INF-γ⁺ cells) in innate and adaptive immunity, respectively. Both preventive and therapeutic vaccination of EG7-OVA tumor-bearing mice using the simultaneous injection of both SVNP-OVA and SVNP-IC induced higher antitumor immunity and inhibited tumor growth.

Graphical abstract

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Alpha-particle radiotherapy: For large solid tumors diffusion trumps targeting

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 130
Author(s): Charles Zhu, Michelle Sempkowski, Timothy Holleran, Thomas Linz, Thomas Bertalan, Anders Josefsson, Frank Bruchertseifer, Alfred Morgenstern, Stavroula Sofou
Diffusion limitations on the penetration of nanocarriers in solid tumors hamper their therapeutic use when labeled with α-particle emitters. This is mostly due to the α-particles' relatively short range (≤100 μm) resulting in partial tumor irradiation and limited killing.To utilize the high therapeutic potential of α-particles against solid tumors, we designed non-targeted, non-internalizing nanometer-sized tunable carriers (pH-tunable liposomes) that are triggered to release, within the slightly acidic tumor interstitium, highly-diffusive forms of the encapsulated α-particle generator Actinium-225 (²²⁵Ac) resulting in more homogeneous distributions of the α-particle emitters, improving uniformity in tumor irradiation and increasing killing efficacies.On large multicellular spheroids (400 μm-in-diameter), used as surrogates of the avascular areas of solid tumors, interstitially-releasing liposomes resulted in best growth control independent of HER2 expression followed in performance by (a) the HER2-targeting radiolabeled antibody or (b) the non-responsive liposomes. In an orthotopic human HER2-negative mouse model, interstitially-releasing ²²⁵Ac-loaded liposomes resulted in the longest overall and median survival.This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of a general strategy to bypass the diffusion-limited transport of radionuclide carriers in solid tumors enabling interstitial release from non-internalizing nanocarriers of highly-diffusing and deeper tumor-penetrating molecular forms of α-particle emitters, independent of cell-targeting.



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Exploring new packaging and delivery options for the immunization supply chain

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Darin Zehrung, Courtney Jarrahian, Birgitte Giersing, Debra Kristensen
A variety of vaccine packaging and delivery technologies may benefit the immunization supply chain. These include alternative primary packaging, such as blow-fill-seal polymer containers, and novel delivery technologies, such intradermal delivery devices, microarray patches, and sublingual formulations of vaccines, and others in development. The potential timeline to availability of these technologies varies and depends on their stage of development and the type of data necessary to achieve licensure. Some new delivery devices are anticipated to be introduced in 2017, such as intradermal devices for delivery of inactivated poliovirus vaccine to stretch vaccine supplies due to a supply limitation. Other new technologies requiring vaccine reformulation, such as microarray patches and sublingual vaccines, may become available in the long term (2021 and beyond). Development of many new technologies requires partnership between vaccine and technology manufacturers and identification of the applicable regulatory pathway. Interaction with public-sector stakeholders early on (through engagement with forums such as the World Health Organization's Immunization Practices Advisory Committee Delivery Technologies Working Group) is important to ensure suitability for immunization program use. Key considerations for programmatic suitability of a new vaccine, packaging, and delivery device include cold chain volume, costs, and health impact.



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No product, no program: The critical role of supply chains in closing the immunization gap

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Matshidiso Moeti, Robin Nandy, Seth Berkley, Steve Davis, Orin Levine




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Immunization supply chains: Why they matter and how they are changing

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Raja Rao, Benjamin Schreiber, Bruce Y. Lee




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National logistics working groups: A landscape analysis study

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Dorothy Leab, Benjamin Schreiber, Musonda Kasonde, Olivia Bessat, Son Bui, Carine Loisel
Several countries have acknowledged the contributions made by national logistics working groups (NLWG) to ensure equitable access to the expanded program on immunization's (EPI) vaccines against preventable diseases. In order to provide key insights to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) supply chain hub – as well as other players, including national EPI – a landscape analysis study was conducted from September 2015 to February 2016.This is a cross-sectional survey taken by 43 countries that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through a desk review, consultation, interviews, and distance questioning. References and guidance were used to determine and specify the underlying mechanisms of NLWGs.The key findings are:• Mandate of NLWG commonly declared by countries is improving immunization logistics and supply chain.• Of the 43 countries surveyed, 10 have formal NLWGs, 8 have informal or ad hoc NLWGs, and 25 have none.• The immunization supply chain and logistics (iSCL) decision-making process in countries, regardless of NLWG status, mainly depends on the EPI manager.• In countries with an NLWG, members with logistics and supply chain backgrounds are relatively common; they are mostly from EPI, UNICEF, and WHO.• Almost all NLWGs have terms of reference and primarily operate under EPI governance; however, three NLWGs have standard operation procedures (SOP), and four use monitoring and evaluation tools.• The coordination mechanism of these iSCL activities is mainly built into the immunization Comprehensive Multi-Year Plan (cMYP) and annual EPI plans, and organized by EPI/Immunization Coordination Committee (ICC).• Most countries that participated in this survey expressed their technical requirement for improving the function, positioning and influence of the immunization logistics working group, and capacity building for the group's members.This study has provided a general overview of the status of NLWGs for immunization in various countries. Based on the key insights of the study, technical assistance needs have been identified, and immunization partners will be required to help countries create and reinforce their NLWGs.



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The potential of next-generation supply chains to ease DRC’s “Casse-tête”

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Felix Kabange Mukwapa Numbi, Blanchard Mukengeshayi Kupa




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Transforming cold chain performance and management in lower-income countries

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Mike Brison, Yann LeTallec
In many countries, one of the common factors limiting full and equitable access to effective immunization is the existence of gaps in cold chain and logistics (CCL) systems. This article focuses on the critical contribution that better management of CCL performance can make in addressing these barriers, as well as some essential practices needed to achieve and sustain these gains. These include (i) an emphasis on continuous improvement in CCL performance indicators, (ii) strong coordination and accountability across multiple stakeholders, and (iii) making the most of limited financial resources.This article is informed by the Clinton Health Access Initiative's (CHAI's) experience working with National Immunization Programs (NIPs) and immunization partners to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of CCL systems (including CCE deployment and maintenance, temperature monitoring and control, stock management and distribution) across ten Gavi-supported "focus" countries.



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Making the leap into the next generation: A commentary on how Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance is supporting countries’ supply chain transformations in 2016–2020

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Alan Brooks, Denise Habimana, Gemma Huckerby




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Editorial Board/Aims and Scope

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17





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The origins of the vaccine cold chain and a glimpse of the future

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): John Lloyd, James Cheyne
International efforts to eradicate smallpox in the 1960s and 1970s provided the foundation for efforts to expand immunization programmes, including work to develop immunization supply chains. The need to create a reliable system to keep vaccines cold during the lengthy journey from the manufacturer to the point of use, even in remote areas, was a crucial concern during the early days of the Expanded Programme on Immunization. The vaccine cold chain was deliberately separated from other medical distribution systems to assure timely access to and control of vaccines and injection materials. The story of the early development of the vaccine cold chain shows how a number of challenges were overcome with technological and human resource solutions. For example, the lack of methods to monitor exposure of vaccines to heat during transport and storage led to many innovations, including temperature-sensitive vaccine vial monitors and better methods to record and communicate temperatures in vaccine stores. The need for appropriate equipment to store and transport vaccines in tropical developing countries led to innovations in refrigeration equipment as well as the introduction and widespread adoption of novel high performance vaccine cold-boxes and carriers. New technologies also helped to make injection safer. Underlying this work on technologies and equipment was a major effort to develop the human resources required to manage and implement the immunization supply chain. This included creating foundational policies and a management infrastructure; providing training for managers, health workers, technicians, and others. The vaccine cold chain has contributed to one of the world's public health success stories and provides three priority lessons for future: the vaccine supply chain needs to be integrated with other public health supplies, re-designed for efficiency and effectiveness and work is needed in the longer term to eliminate the need for refrigeration in the supply chain.



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Three urocortins in medaka: identification and spatial expression in the central nervous system

Abstract

The urocortin (UCN) group of neuropeptides includes urocortin 1/sauvagine/urotensin 1 (UTS1), urocortin 2 (UCN2), and urocortin 3 (UCN3). In recent years, evidence has accumulated showing that UCNs play pivotal roles in mediating stress response and anxiety in mammals. Evidence has also emerged regarding the evolutionary conservation of UCNs in vertebrates, but very little information is available about UCNs in non-mammalian vertebrates. In fact, at present, there are no reports of the empirical identification of ucn2 in non-mammalian vertebrates or of the distribution of ucn2 and ucn3 expression in the adult central nervous system (CNS) of these animals. To gain insight into the evolutionary nature of UCNs in vertebrates, we cloned uts1, ucn2, and ucn3 in a teleost fish, medaka, and examined the spatial expression of these genes in the adult brain and spinal cord. Although all known UCN2 genes except those in rodents have been reported to likely lack the necessary structural features to produce a functional pre-pro-protein, all three UCN genes in medaka, including ucn2, displayed all of these features, suggesting their functionality. The three UCN genes exhibited distinct spatial expression patterns in the medaka brain: uts1 was primarily expressed in broad regions of the dorsal telencephalon, ucn2 was expressed in restricted regions of the thalamus and brainstem, and ucn3 was expressed in discrete nuclei throughout many regions of the brain. We also found that these genes were all expressed throughout the medaka spinal cord, each with a distinct spatial pattern. Given that many of these regions have been implicated in stress responses and anxiety, the three UCNs may serve distinct physiological roles in the medaka CNS, including those involved in stress and anxiety, as shown in the mammalian CNS.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Innovations in cold chain equipment for immunization supply chains

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Joanie Robertson, Lauren Franzel, Denis Maire
BackgroundSince 2010, numerous new technologies have entered the immunization cold chain equipment market. The World Health Organization (WHO) Immunization Devices Programme—Performance, Quality and Safety (PQS)—has played a key role in bringing these to market. In this article, the authors explore the emergence of new cold chain equipment technologies from 2004 to 2016 and the role of PQS in this evolution.MethodsThis review focuses on three major vaccine cold chain technology innovations—solar direct-drive refrigerators, long-term passive cold boxes, and equipment with user-independent freeze prevention. For the review, we used online data from WHO PQS, a literature search, and unpublished research reports.ResultsTimelines with key milestones in the emergence of the three focus technologies show delays of between one and three years between earliest field trials and publication of WHO specifications; procurement builds after the WHO prequalification of initial devices.DiscussionThe timelines show the role of PQS as both gatekeeper and enabler for cold chain equipment technologies. The use of target product profiles by PQS has increased its ability to signal preferred attributes and to engage with manufacturers during the product-development stage. Procurement data show how demand for solar direct-drive refrigerators increased over time. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is employing demand-generation strategies to try to drive procurement of technologies with favorable technical attributes.Conclusions• PQS plays an important role in early product development.• Target product profiles have proven to be a successful way to communicate desired attributes and focus developer research.• Field evaluations provide PQS with invaluable data to help refine specifications in line with actual performance in immunization settings.• Establishing more systematic post-market surveillance systems for cold chain equipment after large-scale deployment could have positive effects.• Efforts to communicate to countries and other immunization stakeholders about new technologies is needed to accelerate their uptake.



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The regulation and role of carbohydrate response element binding protein in metabolic homeostasis and disease

Abstract

The transcription factor carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix leucine zipper transcription factor family. In high-glucose conditions, it has a role in regulating the expression of key genes involved in various pathways including glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. It does this by forming a tetrameric complex made up of two ChREBP/Mlx heterodimers, which enables it to bind to the carbohydrate response element (ChoRE) in the promoter region of its target genes to regulate transcription. As ChREBP plays a key role in glucose signaling and metabolism, and aberrations in glucose homeostasis are often present in metabolic diseases, this transcription factor presents itself as an enticing target to further understand metabolic disease mechanisms and potentially uncover new therapeutic targets.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Vaccine stockouts around the world: Are essential vaccines always available when needed?

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Patrick Lydon, Benjamin Schreiber, Aurelia Gasca, Laure Dumolard, Daniela Urfer, Kamel Senouci
IntroductionAs countries rise to the challenge of implementing the priorities of this "Decade of Vaccine" and their commitments delineated in the Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP), many continue to face important challenges of securing a continuous supply of essential vaccine for their national immunization programme. This study provides evidence on the incidence of vaccine stockouts in countries, their root causes and their potential impact on service delivery.MethodsVaccine stockout indicators collected from the WHO-UNICEF Joint Reporting Form (JRF) and UNICEF's Vaccine Forecasting Tool were analysed for the years covering the first half of the GVAP (2011 to 2015) and using 2010 as the baseline year. While the JRF collects annual information on national and subnational stockouts by vaccine, the UNICEF Vaccine Forecasting Tool has the advantage of requesting UNICEF procuring countries to report on the reasons underpinning any stockouts.ResultsEvery year on average, one in every three WHO Member States experiences at least one stockout of at least one vaccine for at least one month. The incidence is most pronounced in Sub-Saharan Africa where 38% of countries in this area of the world report national-level stockouts. The vaccines most affected are DTP containing vaccines (often combined with HepB and Hib) and BCG. They account for respectively 43% and 31% of stockout events reported. While national level vaccine stockouts occur in countries of all income groups, middle income countries are the most affected. In 80% of cases, national level stockouts were due to reasons internal to countries. More specifically, 39% of stockouts were attributable to government funding delays, 23% were caused by delays in the procurement processes, and poor forecasting and stock management at country level accounted for an additional 18%. When a national level stockout of vaccines occurs, there is an 89% chance that a subnational stockout will occur at district level. More concerning is that if a district level stockout occurs, this will lead to an interruption of vaccination services in 96% of cases.DiscussionThere continues to be important challenges of ensuring a continuous availability of essential vaccines. The global community, together with countries, urgently need to design effective interventions aimed at reducing the frequency and mitigating the impact of stockouts.



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Environmental and hormonal regulation of epigenetic enzymes in the hypothalamus

Abstract

Neuroendocrine structures integrate a vast range of external cues and internal signals that, in turn, result in adaptive physiological responses. Emerging data indicate that light, social cues, stress and energy balance stimulate relatively short- as well as long-term genomic modifications in discrete neuroendocrine structures, which are mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Moreover, environmentally-induced fluctuations in the synthesis of local hypothalamic and circulating hormones provide an internal signal that contributes to the extensive neuroendocrine genomic plasticity. This review examines the impact of environmental stimuli and endogenous hormonal signals on the regulation of epigenetic enzymes in key neuroendocrine structures. The data discussed are predominantly derived from studies in the neuroendocrine control of seasonal reproduction and the impact of social stress in rodent models. The perspective presented considers the role of estrogen and glucocorticoids as the primary catalysts for inducing epigenetic modifications (e.g., DNA methylation) in specific neuroendocrine structures. Estrogen and glucocorticoid actions suggest: 1) a preferential action for specific epigenetic enzymes and 2) nucleus- and cell-specific modifications. Untangling the complex web of hormonal regulation of methylation and acetylation will enhance our understanding of short- and long-term changes in epigenetic enzymes that generate adaptive and pathological neuroendocrine responses.

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Is freezing in the vaccine cold chain an ongoing issue? A literature review

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Celina M. Hanson, Anupa M. George, Adama Sawadogo, Benjamin Schreiber
Vaccine exposure to temperatures below recommended ranges in the cold chain may decrease vaccine potency of freeze-sensitive vaccines leading to a loss of vaccine investments and potentially places children at risk of contracting vaccine preventable illnesses.This literature review is an update to one previously published in 2007 (Matthias et al., 2007), analyzing the prevalence of vaccine exposure to temperatures below recommendations throughout various segments of the cold chain. Overall, 45 studies included in this review assess temperature monitoring, of which 29 specifically assess 'too cold' temperatures. The storage segments alone were evaluated in 41 articles, 15 articles examined the transport segment and 4 studied outreach sessions. The sample size of the studies varied, ranging from one to 103 shipments and from three to 440 storage units. Among reviewed articles, the percentage of vaccine exposure to temperatures below recommended ranges during storage was 33% in wealthier countries and 37.1% in lower income countries. Vaccine exposure to temperatures below recommended ranges occurred during shipments in 38% of studies from higher income countries and 19.3% in lower income countries.This review highlights continuing issues of vaccine exposure to temperatures below recommended ranges during various segments of the cold chain. Studies monitoring the number of events vaccines are exposed to 'too cold' temperatures as well as the duration of these events are needed. Many reviewed studies emphasize the lack of knowledge of health workers regarding freeze damage of vaccines and how this has an effect on temperature monitoring. It is important to address this issue by educating vaccinators and cold chain staff to improve temperature maintenance and supply chain management, which will facilitate the distribution of potent vaccines to children.



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The people factor: An analysis of the human resources landscape for immunization supply chain management

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Musonda Kasonde, Pamela Steele
Human resources is the backbone of any system and the key enabler for all other functions to effectively perform. This is no different with the Immunization Supply Chain, more so in todays' complex operating environment with the increasing strain caused by new vaccines and expanding immunization programmes (Source: WHO, UNICEF).In order to drive the change that is required for sustainability and continuous improvement, every immunization supply chain needs an effective leader. A dedicated and competent immunization supply chain leader with adequate numbers of skilled, accountable, motivated and empowered personnel at all levels of the health system to overcome existing and emerging immunization supply chain (ISC) challenges. Without an effective supply chain leader supported by capable and motivated staff, none of the interventions designed to strengthen the supply chain can be effective or sustainable (Source: Gavi Alliance SC Strategy 2014).This landscape analysis was preceded by an HR Evidence Review (March 2014) and has served to inform global partner strategies and country activities, as well as highlight where most support is required. The study also aimed to define the status quo in order to create some form of baseline against which to measure the impact of interventions related to HR going forward.The analysis was comprised of a comprehensive desk review, a survey of 40 respondents from 32 countries and consultations with ISC practitioners in several forums.The findings highlight key areas that should inform the pillars of a HR capacity development plan. At the same time, it revealed that there are some positive examples of where countries are actively addressing some of the issues identified and putting in place mechanisms and structures to optimize the SC function.



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Understanding the policy environment for immunization supply chains: Lessons learned from landscape analyses in Uganda and Senegal

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Henry Luzze, Ousseynou Badiane, El Hadji Mamadou Ndiaye, Annette Seck Ndiaye, Brian Atuhaire, Phionah Atuhebwe, Phillippe Guinot, Erin Fry Sosne, Abdoulaye Gueye
As immunization programs around the world undergo rapid change and expansion, supply chain and logistics systems have become strained, making it increasingly challenging for national public health systems to provide reliable, safe, and efficient access to vaccines. Governments and immunization partners have been aware of this problem for several years, and in 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Effective Vaccine Management (EVM) process to help countries identify shortcomings in their immunization supply chains and develop plans for systematic improvement. EVM improvement plans now exist in all Gavi-eligible countries plus many middle- and upper-income countries; however, implementation has been slow and in many cases fraught with financial, managerial, structural, and political roadblocks. Recognizing that significant change of any kind requires a supportive policy environment and strong leadership, PATH began working in Uganda and Senegal to landscape the policy environment around immunization and identify relevant policies, administrative and technical roles and responsibilities, and other issues that may be affecting the supply chain for immunization.The policy landscape assessments included a desk review and a series of structured, in-depth interviews with key international, national, and local stakeholders. The findings highlighted a number of critical issues and challenges in both countries that may be preventing supply chains from functioning optimally. These challenges include a need for better coordination and planning between immunization programs and supply chain managers; the need for sufficient, timely and reliable financing for all aspects of immunization programs; the need for high-level managers trained in immunization supply chain management; and an urgent need for better, more timely data for decision-making. Overcoming these challenges will require the involvement of high-level political actors—including ministers of health and finance, parliamentarians, and other officials who have the ability to approve and influence policy, personnel, and structural changes; ensure work plans are backed with adequate resources for implementation; and hold program managers accountable for achieving agreed indicators.



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Equity and immunization supply chain in Madagascar

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Maya M.V.X. van den Ent, Andre Yameogo, Eric Ribaira, Celina M. Hanson, Ramiandrasoa Ratoto, Saholy Rasolomanana, Chrysanthus Foncha, François Gasse
Vaccination rates have improved in many countries, yet immunization inequities persist within countries and the poorest communities often bear the largest burden of vaccine preventable disease. Madagascar has one of the world's largest equity gaps in immunization rates. Barriers to immunization include immunization supply chain, human resources, and service delivery to reflect the health system building blocks, which affect poor rural communities more than affluent communities. The Reaching Every District (RED) approach was revised to address barriers and bottlenecks. This approach focuses on the provision of regular services, including making cold chain functional. This report describes Madagascar's inequities in immunization, its programmatic causes and the country's plans to address barriers to immunization in the poorest regions in the country.MethodsTwo cross-sectional health facility surveys conducted in November and December 2013 and in March 2015 were performed in four regions of Madagascar to quantify immunization system barriers.FindingsOf the four regions studied, 26–33% of the population live beyond 5km (km) of a health center. By 2015, acceptable (fridges stopped working for less than 6days) cold chains were found in 52–80% of health facilities. Only 10–57% of health centers had at least two qualified health workers. Between 65% and 95% of planned fixed vaccination sessions were conducted and 50–88% of planned outreach sessions were conducted. The proportion of planned outreach sessions that were conducted increased between the two surveys.ConclusionMadagascar's immunization program faces serious challenges and those affected most are the poorest populations. Major inequities in immunization were found at the subnational level and were mainly geographic in nature. Approaches to improve immunization systems need to be equitable. This may include the replacement of supply chain equipment with those powered by sustainable energy sources, monitoring its functionality at health facility level and vaccination services in all communities.



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Vaccine vial monitor availability and use in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review

Publication date: 19 April 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 17
Author(s): Pär Eriksson, Bradford D. Gessner, Philippe Jaillard, Christopher Morgan, Jean Bernard Le Gargasson
IntroductionThe vaccine vial monitor (VVM) registers cumulative heat exposure on vaccines over time. As low- and lower-middle-income countries transition beyond support from the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi), they will assume full responsibility for vaccine financing and procurement. It is unclear to what extent countries transitioning out of Gavi support will continue to include VVMs on their vaccines. This paper aims to systematically review evidence on VVM availability and use in low- and middle-income countries to document factors behind global access to and country demand for VVMs. Such results could help identify actions needed to ensure continued use of VVMs in countries that transition out of Gavi support.MethodsWe performed a systematic review of electronic databases, reference lists, and grey literature in English and French languages with publication dates from 2005 onwards. The studies included were analyzed for the following outcomes: (1) availability and deployment of VVM-labeled vaccines; (2) VVM practices and perceptions in the immunization system; (3) vaccine introduction and decision-making processes; (4) Gavi graduation and vaccine program sustainability.ResultsThe study found that VVM availability and use was affected by multiple sourcing of vaccines and the extent to which VVM was included in the vaccine specification in the tendering documents when procuring vaccines. Knowledge about VVM and its impact on the EPI program was found to be high among health workers as well as decision-makers. However, the study also found that weak capacity in key national institutions such as NRA and NPA might impact on demand for VVM. As countries take decisions regarding the adoption of new vaccines, factors such as disease burden and vaccine price may assume greater importance than vaccine characteristics and presentation. Finally, the study found that countries rely largely on the advice and recommendations from technical partners such as WHO and PAHO.ConclusionThe study concludes that global access to and country demand for VVM are dependent on policy statements and recommendations about VVM by key policy institutions such as WHO and UNICEF. The study also concludes that despite Gavi-eligible countries having access to VVM-labeled vaccines, inclusion is often below 100%. Weak institutional capacity in key national agencies such as NRA and NPA seems to be a contributing factor, while other factors include the procurement of clear national policies on the inclusion of VVM on vaccines, along with the capacity to enforce the policy. Finally, the study concludes that knowledge about VVM and its impact on vaccine program efficiency, safety, and cost is critical for transitioning countries' continuous demand for VVM.



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Trait-based food-cravings are encoded by regional homogeneity in the parahippocampal gyrus

Publication date: 1 July 2017
Source:Appetite, Volume 114
Author(s): Shuaiyu Chen, Debo Dong, Todd Jackson, Qian Zhuang, Hong Chen
Food cravings can reflect an intense trait-like emotional-motivational desire to eat palatable food, often resulting in the failure of weight loss efforts. Studies have linked trait-based food-cravings to increased risk of overeating. However, little is known about resting-state neural mechanisms that underlie food cravings. We investigated this issue using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to test the extent to which spontaneous neural activity occurs in regions implicated in emotional memory and reward motivation associated with food cravings. Spontaneous regional activity patterns correlating to food cravings were assessed among 65 young healthy women using regional homogeneity analysis to assess temporal synchronization of spontaneous activity. Analyses indicated that women with higher scores on the Food Cravings Questionnaire displayed increased local functional homogeneity in brain regions involved in emotional memory and visual attention processing (i.e., parahippocampal gyrus and fusiform gyrus) but not reward. In view of parahippocampal gyrus involvement in hedonic learning and incentive memory encoding, this study suggests that trait-based food cravings are encoded by emotional memory circuits.



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Why do Dutch people use dietary supplements? Exploring the role of socio-cognitive and psychosocial determinants

Publication date: 1 July 2017
Source:Appetite, Volume 114
Author(s): E.M. Pajor, S.M. Eggers, K.C.J. Curfs, A. Oenema, H. de Vries
BackgroundIn the Netherlands, the prevalence of dietary supplement use has doubled (from 17 to 40 per cent) since the 1980s. Yet, limited data is available on which socio-cognitive factors are associated with dietary supplement use. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to explain dietary supplement use with determinants deriving from the Integrated Change Model (ICM) and from formative research.Method/designSocio-cognitive and psychosocial factors were measured among users and non-users of dietary supplements in a longitudinal survey study, with measurements at baseline (N = 1448) and at one-month follow-up (N = 1161). Negative binomial regression analysis was applied to de data.ResultsIntention emerged as the main predictor of dietary supplement use (OR = 1.99). Further predictors of dietary supplement use with smaller effect-sizes were: health regulatory focus (promotion, OR = 1.46), social modelling (OR = 1.44), attitude (pros, OR = 1.37), attitude (cons, OR = 0.87), health locus of control (OR = 0.77), and risk perception (chance of getting ill, OR = 1.22).ConclusionsIndividuals tend to use dietary supplements if they are promotion oriented, notice dietary supplement users in their social environment, estimate their chances of getting ill higher, and have positive attitudes towards dietary supplements. In contrast, non-users believe that external factors affect their health, and hold negative attitudes towards dietary supplements.Practical implicationsMapping out individuals' socio-cognitive profile may contribute to the development of online health communication. Based on socio-cognitive and demographical factors, personalised advice can be given about dietary supplement use.



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Adjuvant Psychological Therapy in Long Term Endocrine Conditions

Summary

Consideration of psychological distress in long term endocrine conditions is of vital importance given the prevalence of anxiety and depression in such disorders. Poor mental health can lead to compromised self-care, higher utilisation of health services, lower rates of adherence, reduced quality of life and ultimately poorer outcomes. Adjuvant psychological therapy offers an effective resource to reduce distress in endocrinological disorders. While the vast majority of work in this area has focused on psychological screening and intervention in diabetes, identification and recognition of psychological distress is equally important in other endocrinological conditions, with supportive evidence in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Addison's disease. Referral pathways and recommendations set out by UK guidelines and the Department of Health mandate requires greater attention across a wider range of long term endocrine disorders to facilitate improved quality of life and health outcome.

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Dose-response effects of sex hormone concentrations on body composition and adipokines in medically castrated healthy men administered graded doses of testosterone gel

Abstract

Objective

Serum sex steroid concentrations may alter body composition and glucose homeostasis in men in a dose-response manner. We evaluated these endpoints in healthy men rendered medically castrate through use of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (acyline) with incremental doses of exogenous testosterone (T) gel.

Design

Subjects (n=6-9 per group) were randomly assigned to injections of acyline every 2 weeks plus transdermal T gel (1.25 g, 2.5 g, 5.0 g, 10 g or 15 g) daily or double placebo (injections and gel) for 12 weeks.

Patients

Healthy men, ages 25-55 years, with normal serum total T concentrations.

Measurements

Serum T, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol (E2) were measured at baseline and every 2 weeks. Body composition was analyzed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry at baseline and week 12. Fasting serum adiponectin, leptin, glucose and insulin concentrations were measured at baseline and week 10.

Results

Forty-eight men completed the study. A significant treatment effect was observed for change in lean mass (ANOVA p=0.01) but not fat mass (p=0.14). Lean mass increased in the 15g T group relative to all lower dose groups, except the 10g T group. When all subjects were analyzed together, changes in lean mass correlated directly and changes in fat mass correlated inversely with serum T, E2 and DHT. No changes were noted in serum glucose, insulin, or adipokine levels.

Conclusions

In healthy men higher serum concentrations of T, DHT and E2 were associated with greater increases in lean mass and decreases in fat mass but not with changes in serum glucose, insulin, or adipokines

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Copyright

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2





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Contributors

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2





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Contents

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2





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Forthcoming Issues

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2





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Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma: The Beginning of the End of the Beginning

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Eric D. Jacobsen




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T-Cell Lymphoma

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Eric D. Jacobsen




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Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma, Not Otherwise Specified

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Musa Al-Zahrani, Kerry J. Savage

Teaser

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS), corresponds with a heterogeneous group of mature T-cell lymphomas. Recent gene expression profiling studies have identified at least two molecular subgroups (GATA3 and TBX2). Standard treatment and outcomes remain poor. High-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation is incorporated into primary therapy for young fit patients but remains ineffective for most and has not been tested in a randomized study. Several novel agents have been approved for use in relapsed/refractory PTCLs, and although response rates are modest for most, durable remissions have been reported. Selecting rationale combinations and incorporating predictive biomarkers will be important moving forward to improve outcomes in patients with PTCL.


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Management of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Dai Chihara, Michelle A. Fanale

Teaser

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is one of the most common peripheral T-cell lymphomas, and the incidence is higher in blacks than non-Hispanic whites. ALK-positive and ALK-negative ALCL are distinct subtypes that have different characteristics and clinical outcomes. Breast implant–associated ALCL is a rare lymphoma that has a good survival outcome, and a recent study showed that total capsulectomy is essential for treatment. Brentuximab vedotin (BV) is a standard treatment for relapsed/refractory ALCL. The response rate is high at 80–90%; however, once the disease progresses in patients on BV, survival outcome is very poor, with a median overall survival of less than two months.


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Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Alessandro Broccoli, Pier Luigi Zinzani

Teaser

Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma is a follicular T-helper–derived neoplasm displaying a peculiar morphologic appearance and biological complexity. New mutations have been described that contribute to elucidating the underlying pathogenetic events. The disease behaves aggressively and typically affects elderly patients. The outcomes reported with anthracycline-containing regimens are poor; therefore autologous transplantation in first remission should be offered whenever possible. Newer approaches are urgently needed for relapsed and refractory patients. Newly approved agents show activity in pretreated patients but response durations are short. Innovative induction strategies (CHOP + biologic agent) should be designed to enhance response quality, facilitate transplantation, and prolong survival.


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Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Christopher Dittus, J. Mark Sloan

Teaser

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a rare T-cell disorder that is etiologically linked to chronic infection with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1. ATLL is divided into four subtypes: acute, lymphomatous, chronic, and smoldering. The acute and lymphomatous variants are often described clinically as the aggressive types of ATLL. Treatment strategies traditionally have focused on antiviral therapy with zidovudine and interferon-alpha and combination chemotherapy. Novel therapeutic approaches include the use of monoclonal antibodies, anti-CCR4 therapy, immunomodulatory therapy, and anti-TAX vaccines. Future research must focus on multi-institutional clinical trial participation because of the rarity of this deadly hematologic malignancy.


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T-cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 31, Issue 2
Author(s): Amit Sud, Claire Dearden

Teaser

T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL) is a rare and aggressive T-cell malignancy. T-PLL can be distinguished from other lymphoid diseases by the evaluation and integration of clinical features, morphology, immunophenotyping, cytogenetics, and molecular features. The current therapeutic approach relies on immunotherapy followed by a hematopoietic stem cell transplant in selected cases. Clinical outcomes are generally poor, although insights from genomic and molecular studies may increase our understanding of this disease, with the promise of additional effective therapeutic options.


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