Captación de yoduro sódico 131I en un teratoma ovárico

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Revista Española de Medicina Nuclear e Imagen Molecular
Author(s): M. Oporto, N. Orta, F. Cepa, M. Pons, M. Cabrer, C. Peña




http://ift.tt/2vlcg3e

Incidental pituitary adenoma detected by 18F-FDG PET/CT and 18F-choline PET/CT in the same patient

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Revista Española de Medicina Nuclear e Imagen Molecular
Author(s): D. Albano, G. Bosio, F. Bertagna




http://ift.tt/2vDkO8r

Exploring the Interaction Network of the Bacillus subtilis Outer Coat and Crust Proteins

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Daniela Krajčíková, Vladimír Forgáč, Adam Szabo, Imrich Barák
Bacillus subtilis spores, representatives of an exceptionally resistant dormant cell type, are encircled by a thick proteinaceous layer called the spore coat. More than 80 proteins assemble into four distinct coat layers: a basement layer, an inner coat, an outer coat and a crust. As the spore develops inside the mother cell, spore coat proteins synthesized in the cytoplasm are gradually deposited onto the prespore surface. A small set of morphogenetic proteins necessary for spore coat morphogenesis are thought to form a scaffold to which the rest of the coat proteins are attached. Extensive localization and proteomic studies using wild type and mutant spores have revealed the arrangement of individual proteins within the spore coat layers. In this study we examined the interactions between the proteins localized to the outer coat and crust using a bacterial two hybrid system. These two layers are composed of at least 25 components. Self-interactions were observed for most proteins and numerous novel interactions were identified. The most interesting contacts are those made with the morphogenetic proteins CotE, CotY and CotZ; these could serve as a basis for understanding the specific roles of particular proteins in spore coat morphogenesis.



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Polyphosphate is a key factor for cell survival after DNA damage in eukaryotic cells

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:DNA Repair
Author(s): Samuel Bru, Bàrbara Samper-Martín, Eva Quandt, Sara Hernández-Ortega, Joan M. Martínez-Laínez, Eloi Garí, Marta Rafel, Javier Torres-Torronteras, Ramón Martí, Mariana P.C. Ribeiro, Javier Jiménez, Josep Clotet
Cells require extra amounts of dNTPs to repair DNA after damage. Polyphosphate (polyP) is an evolutionary conserved linear polymer of up to several hundred inorganic phosphate (Pi) residues that is involved in many functions, including Pi storage. In the present article, we report on findings demonstrating that polyP functions as a source of Pi when required to sustain the dNTP increment essential for DNA repair after damage. We show that mutant yeast cells without polyP produce less dNTPs upon DNA damage and that their survival is compromised. In contrast, when polyP levels are ectopically increased, yeast cells become more resistant to DNA damage. More importantly, we show that when polyP is reduced in HEK293 mammalian cell line cells and in human dermal primary fibroblasts (HDFa), these cells become more sensitive to DNA damage, suggesting that the protective role of polyP against DNA damage is evolutionary conserved. In conclusion, we present polyP as a molecule involved in resistance to DNA damage and suggest that polyP may be a putative target for new approaches in cancer treatment or prevention.



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Dendritic Cells but Not Macrophages Sense Tumor Mitochondrial DNA for Cross-priming through Signal Regulatory Protein α Signaling

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Meng Michelle Xu, Yang Pu, Dali Han, Yaoyao Shi, Xuezhi Cao, Hua Liang, Xiang Chen, Xiao-Dong Li, Liufu Deng, Zhijian J. Chen, Ralph R. Weichselbaum, Yang-Xin Fu
Inhibition of cytosolic DNA sensing represents a strategy that tumor cells use for immune evasion, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here we have shown that CD47-signal regulatory protein α (SIRPα) axis dictates the fate of ingested DNA in DCs for immune evasion. Although macrophages were more potent in uptaking tumor DNA, increase of DNA sensing by blocking the interaction of SIRPα with CD47 preferentially occurred in dendritic cells (DCs) but not in macrophages. Mechanistically, CD47 blockade enabled the activation of NADPH oxidase NOX2 in DCs, which in turn inhibited phagosomal acidification and reduced the degradation of tumor mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in DCs. mtDNA was recognized by cyclic-GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) in the DC cytosol, contributing to type I interferon (IFN) production and antitumor adaptive immunity. Thus, our findings have demonstrated how tumor cells inhibit innate sensing in DCs and suggested that the CD47-SIRPα axis is critical for DC-driven antitumor immunity.

Teaser

It is unclear how DNA sensing by DCs is superior to macrophages. Xu et al. show that DCs are specialized in sensing mtDNA after CD47 blockade through inhibiting uptaken DNA degradation in their phagosomes while macrophages rapidly degrade DNA.


http://ift.tt/2vNlkkJ

Anti-Inflammatory Chromatinscape Suggests Alternative Mechanisms of Glucocorticoid Receptor Action

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Kyu-Seon Oh, Heta Patel, Rachel A. Gottschalk, Wai Shing Lee, Songjoon Baek, Iain D.C. Fraser, Gordon L. Hager, Myong-Hee Sung
Despite the widespread use of glucocorticoids (GCs), their anti-inflammatory effects are not understood mechanistically. Numerous investigations have examined the effects of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activation prior to inflammatory challenges. However, clinical situations are emulated by a GC intervention initiated in the midst of rampant inflammatory responses. To characterize the effects of a late GC treatment, we profiled macrophage transcriptional and chromatinscapes with Dexamethasone (Dex) treatment before or after stimulation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The late activation of GR had a similar gene-expression profile as from GR pre-activation, while ameliorating the disruption of metabolic genes. Chromatin occupancy of GR was not predictive of Dex-regulated gene expression, contradicting the "trans-repression by tethering" model. Rather, GR activation resulted in genome-wide blockade of NF-κB interaction with chromatin and directly induced inhibitors of NF-κB and AP-1. Our investigation using GC treatments with clinically relevant timing highlights mechanisms underlying GR actions for modulating the "inflamed epigenome."

Graphical abstract

Teaser

Although glucocorticoids are widely used anti-inflammatory drugs, relevant mechanisms are unclear. Oh et al. monitored the epigenomic landscape of macrophages and found that the gene-inducing activity of GR is crucial for boosting inhibitors of inflammatory factors. This cautions the idea that GR ligands selectively promoting trans-repression should improve therapeutic outcome.


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T Cell Zone Resident Macrophages Silently Dispose of Apoptotic Cells in the Lymph Node

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Myriam Baratin, Léa Simon, Audrey Jorquera, Clément Ghigo, Doulaye Dembele, Jonathan Nowak, Rebecca Gentek, Stephan Wienert, Frederick Klauschen, Bernard Malissen, Marc Dalod, Marc Bajénoff
In lymph nodes (LNs), dendritic cells (DCs) are thought to dispose of apoptotic cells, a function pertaining to macrophages in other tissues. We found that a population of CX3CR1⁺ MERTK⁺ cells located in the T cell zone of LNs, previously identified as DCs, are efferocytic macrophages. Lineage-tracing experiments and shield chimeras indicated that these T zone macrophages (TZM) are long-lived macrophages seeded in utero and slowly replaced by blood monocytes after birth. Imaging the LNs of mice in which TZM and DCs express different fluorescent proteins revealed that TZM—and not DCs—act as the only professional scavengers, clearing apoptotic cells in the LN T cell zone in a CX3CR1-dependent manner. Furthermore, similar to other macrophages, TZM appear inefficient in priming CD4 T cells. Thus, efferocytosis and T cell activation in the LN are uncoupled processes designated to macrophages and DCs, respectively, with implications to the maintenance of immune homeostasis.

Graphical abstract

Teaser

Dendritic cells (DCs) in the lymph node (LN) T cell zone are thought to be central to the clearance of apoptotic cells and T cell priming. Baratin et al. identify a population of LN macrophages that act as the sole professional scavengers in this area, suggesting that silent efferocytosis and T cell activation in the LN paracortex involve two different cell types—macrophages and DCs, respectively.


http://ift.tt/2wFWmjE

Nlrp6- and ASC-Dependent Inflammasomes Do Not Shape the Commensal Gut Microbiota Composition

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Michail Mamantopoulos, Francesca Ronchi, Filip Van Hauwermeiren, Sara Vieira-Silva, Bahtiyar Yilmaz, Liesbet Martens, Yvan Saeys, Stefan K. Drexler, Amir S. Yazdi, Jeroen Raes, Mohamed Lamkanfi, Kathy D. McCoy, Andy Wullaert
The gut microbiota regulate susceptibility to multiple human diseases. The Nlrp6-ASC inflammasome is widely regarded as a hallmark host innate immune axis that shapes the gut microbiota composition. This notion stems from studies reporting dysbiosis in mice lacking these inflammasome components when compared with non-littermate wild-type animals. Here, we describe microbial analyses in inflammasome-deficient mice while minimizing non-genetic confounders using littermate-controlled Nlrp6-deficient mice and ex-germ-free littermate-controlled ASC-deficient mice that were all allowed to shape their gut microbiota naturally after birth. Careful microbial phylogenetic analyses of these cohorts failed to reveal regulation of the gut microbiota composition by the Nlrp6- and ASC-dependent inflammasomes. Our results obtained in two geographically separated animal facilities dismiss a generalizable impact of Nlrp6- and ASC-dependent inflammasomes on the composition of the commensal gut microbiota and highlight the necessity for littermate-controlled experimental design in assessing the influence of host immunity on gut microbial ecology.

Teaser

Inflammasomes were proposed to shape gut ecology based on dysbiosis in mutant mice versus non-littermate wild-types. Mamantopoulos et al. show that inflammasomes do not affect gut microbiota composition when controlling for non-genetic confounders. This finding dismisses the suggested role for inflammasomes in controlling host health through regulation of intestinal ecology.


http://ift.tt/2vN9Aih

The use of electrical resistivity tomography and borehole to characterize leachate distribution in Laogang landfill, China

Abstract

Leachate is a polluting liquid which may cause harmful effects on human health or the environment without a tightly control manner. The leachate management is an important part of the design and operation of bioreactor landfills. To detect the leachate distribution in Laogang Landfill, China, the measurement of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) was carried out in three areas with different ages. ERT method proved to be an effective non-invasive geophysical method in bioreactor landfills, and the physical properties of waste samples obtained by boreholes were tested in a laboratory. The correlation between the resistivity and the moisture content was described by Archie's law. The result shows that the moisture content of fresh waste is inhomogeneous, while that of aged waste increases with depth. A pseudo 3D model of the moisture content was proposed to improve the understanding of leachate distribution and exhibit the accuracy of the ERT method.

http://ift.tt/2unKENP

Lipogels responsive to near-infrared light for the triggered release of therapeutic agents

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Francisco Martín-Saavedra, Eduardo Ruiz-Hernández, Clara Escudero-Duch, Martin Prieto, Manuel Arruebo, Negar Sadeghi, Roel Deckers, Gert Storm, Wim E. Hennink, Jesús Santamaría, Nuria Vilaboa
Here we report a composite system based on fibrin hydrogels that incorporate in their structure near-infrared (NIR) responsive nanomaterials and thermosensitive liposomes (TSL). Polymerized fibrin networks entrap simultaneously gold-based nanoparticles (NPs) capable of transducing NIR photon energy into heat, and lysolipid-incorporated TSL (LTSL) loaded with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX). NIR irradiation of the resulting hydrogels (referred to as "lipogels") with 808 nm laser light increased the temperature of the illuminated areas, leading to the release of the liposomal cargo. Levels of DOX that release from the "smart" composites were dependent on the concentration of NIR nanotransducers loaded in the lipogel, the intensity of the electromagnetic energy deposited and the irradiation regime. Released DOX retained its bioactivity, as shown in cultures of epithelial carcinoma cells. Finally, the developed drug delivery platform was refined by using NIR-photoabsorbers based on copper sulfide NPs to generate completely biodegradable composites as well as through the incorporation of cholesterol (Ch) in LTSL formulation, which lessens leakiness of the liposomal cargo at physiological temperature. This remotely controlled system may suit well for those therapies that require precise control over the dose of delivered drug in a defined spatiotemporal framework.Statement of SignificanceHydrogels composed of fibrin embedding nanoparticles responsive to near infrared (NIR) energy and thermosensitive liposomes loaded with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX), were prepared by in situ polymerization. NIR light irradiation of these constructs, referred to as "NIR responsive lipogels", results in the controlled release of DOX to the surrounding medium. This technology may use fully degradable components and can preserve the bioactivity of liposomal cargo after remote triggering to finely regulate the dose and bioavailability of delivered payloads. NIR responsive lipogels technology overcomes the limitations of drug release systems based on the combination of liposomes and degradable polymeric materials, which in many cases lead to insufficient release at therapy onset or to overdose during high degradation period.

Graphical abstract

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Primum non nocere - the effects of sodium hypochlorite on dentin as used in endodontics

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Li-sha Gu, Xue-qing Huang, Brandon Griffin, Brian R. Bergeron, David H. Pashley, Li-na Niu, Franklin R. Tay
The medical literature is replete with the maxim 'primum non nocere', cautioning health care providers to avoid doing any harm to human subjects in their delivery of medical care. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is a well-established irrigant for root canal treatment because of its antimicrobial and organic tissue remnant dissolution capability. However, little is known about the deleterious effect of this strong oxidizing agent on the integrity of human mineralized dentin. Iatrogenically-induced loss of dentin integrity may precipitate post-treatment root fracture and has potential medico-legal complications. In the present work, transmission electron microscopy provided evidence for collagen destruction in the surface/subsurface of dentin treated with high NaOCl concentrations and long contact times. Size exclusion chromatography showed that the hypochlorite anion, because of its small size, penetrated the water compartments of apatite-encapsulated collagen fibrils, degraded the collagen molecules and produced a 25-35 µm thick, non-uniform "ghost mineral layer" with enlarged, coalesced dentinal tubules and their lateral branches. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy identified increases in apatite/collagen ratio in NaOCl-treated dentin. The apatite-rich, collagen-sparse dentin matrix that remained after NaOCl treatment is more brittle, as shown by the reductions in flexural strength. Understanding the deleterious effects of NaOCl on mineralized dentin enables one to balance the risks and benefits in using high NaOCl concentrations for lengthy periods in root canal debridement. Delineating the mechanism responsible for such a phenomenon enables high molecular weight, polymeric antimicrobial and tissue dissolution irrigants to be designed that abides by the maxim of 'primum non nocere' in contemporary medical practices.Statement of significanceThe antimicrobial and tissue-dissolution capacities of NaOCl render it a well-accepted agent for root canal debridement. These highly desirable properties, however, appear to be intertwined with the untoward effect of collagen matrix degradation within mineralized dentin. Because of its small size, the hypochlorite anion is capable of infiltrating mineralized collagen and destroying the collagen fibrils, producing a mineral-rich, collagen sparse ghost mineral matrix with reduced flexural strength. Findings from the present work challenge the biosafety of NaOCl when it is used in high concentrations and for lengthy time periods during root canal treatment, and laid the background work for future biomaterials design in debridement of the canal space.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2vC6ZHu

Elastin-PLGA Hybrid Electrospun Nanofiber Scaffolds for Salivary Epithelial Cell Self-Organization and Polarization

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Zahraa I. Foraida, Tim Kamaldinov, Deirdre A. Nelson, Melinda Larsen, James Castracane
Development of electrospun nanofibers that mimic the structural, mechanical and biochemical properties of natural extracellular matrices (ECMs) is a promising approach for tissue regeneration. Electrospun fibers of synthetic polymers partially mimic the topography of the ECM, however, their high stiffness, poor hydrophilicity and lack of in vivo-like biochemical cues is not optimal for epithelial cell self-organization and function. In search of a biomimetic scaffold for salivary gland tissue regeneration, we investigated the potential of elastin, an ECM protein, to generate elastin hybrid nanofibers that have favorable physical and biochemical properties for regeneration of the salivary glands. Elastin was introduced to our previously developed poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanofiber scaffolds by two methods, blend electrospinning (EP-blend) and covalent conjugation (EP-covalent). Both methods for elastin incorporation into the nanofibers improved the wettability of the scaffolds while only blend electrospinning of elastin-PLGA nanofibers and not surface conjugation of elastin to PLGA fibers, conferred increased elasticity to the nanofibers measured by Young's modulus. After two days, only the blend electrospun nanofiber scaffolds facilitated epithelial cell self-organization into cell clusters, assessed with nuclear area and nearest neighbor distance measurements, leading to the apicobasal polarization of salivary gland epithelial cells after six days, which is vital for cell function. This study suggests that elastin electrospun nanofiber scaffolds have potential application in regenerative therapies for salivary glands and other epithelial organs.Statement of significanceRegenerating the salivary glands by mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) is a promising approach for long term treatment of salivary gland damage. Despite their topographic similarity to the ECM, electrospun fibers of synthetic polymers lack the biochemical complexity, elasticity and hydrophilicity of the ECM. Elastin is an ECM protein abundant in the salivary glands and responsible for tissue elasticity. Although it's widely used for tissue regeneration of other organs, little is known about its utility in regenerating the salivary tissue. This study describes the use of elastin to improve the elasticity, hydrophilicity and biochemical complexity of synthetic nanofibers and its potential in directing in vivo-like organization of epithelial salivary cells which helps the design of efficient salivary gland regeneration scaffolds.

Graphical abstract

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Positron emission tomography (PET) guided glioblastoma targeting by a fullerene-based nanoplatform with fast renal clearance

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Yayun Peng, Dongzhi Yang, Weifei Lu, Xiongwei Hu, Hao Hong, Ting Cai
Various carbonaceous nanomaterials, including fullerene, carbon nanotube, graphene, and carbon dots, have attracted increasing attention during past decades for their potential applications in biological imaging and therapy. In this study, we have developed a fullerene-based tumor-targeted positron emission tomography (PET) imaging probe. Water-soluble functionalized C60 conjugates were radio-labeled with ⁶⁴Cu and modified with cyclo (Arg-Gly-Asp) peptides (cRGD) for targeting of integrin αvβ3 in glioblastoma. The specificity of fluorescein-labeled C60 conjugates against cellular integrin αvβ3 was evaluated in U87MG (integrin αvβ3 positive) and MCF-7 cells (integrin αvβ3 negative) by confocal fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Our results indicated that cRGD-conjugated C60 derivatives showed better cellular internalization compared with C60 derivatives without the cRGD attachment. Moreover, an interesting finding on intra-nuclei transportation of cRGD-conjugated C60 derivatives was observed in U87MG cells. In vivo serial PET studies showed preferential accumulation of cRGD-conjugated C60 derivatives at in U87MG tumors. In addition, the pharmacokinetic profiles of these fullerene-based nanoparticles conjugated with cRGD and 1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triacetic acid (NOTA) fit well with the three compartment model. The renal clearance of C60-based nanoparticles is remarkably fast, which makes this material very promising for safer cancer theranostic applications.Statement of SignificanceSafety is one of the major concerns for nanomedicine and nanomaterials with fast clearance profile are highly desirable. Fullerene is a distinct type of zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterial with ultrasmall size, uniform dispersity, and versatile reactivity. Here we have developed a fullerene-based tumor-targeted positron emission tomography imaging probe using water-soluble functionalized C60 conjugates radio-labeled with ⁶⁴Cu and modified with cyclo (Arg-Gly-Asp) peptides (cRGD) for glioblastoma targeting. The improved tumor targeting property along with fast renal clearance behavior of C60-based nanoparticles makes this material very promising for future safer cancer theranostic applications.

Graphical abstract

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Corrigendum to ‘Redox and pH dual responsive poly(amidoamine) dendrimer-poly(ethylene glycol) conjugates for intracellular delivery of doxorubicin’ [Acta Biomater. 36 (2016) 241–253]

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Wen Hu, Lipeng Qiu, Liang Cheng, Qing Hu, Yang Liu, Ziyang Hu, Dawei Chen, Lifang Cheng




http://ift.tt/2vC6Una

Enhanced photothermal therapy of biomimetic polypyrrole nanoparticles through improving blood flow perfusion

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 143
Author(s): Xuejun Wang, Haichun Li, Xianping Liu, Ye Tian, Huishu Guo, Ting Jiang, Zimiao Luo, Kai Jin, Xinping Kuai, Yao Liu, Zhiqing Pang, Wuli Yang, Shun Shen
In this study, we reported a strategy to improve delivery efficiency of a long-circulation biomimetic photothermal nanoagent for enhanced photothermal therapy through selectively dilating tumor vasculature. By using a simply nanocoating technology, a biomimetic layer of natural red blood cell (RBC) membranes was camouflaged on the surface of photothermal polypyrrole nanoparticles (PPy@RBC NPs). The erythrocyte-mimicking PPy NPs inherited the immune evasion ability from natural RBC resulting in superior prolonged blood retention time. Additionally, excellent photothermal and photoacoustic imaging functionalities were all retained attributing to PPy NPs cores. To further improve the photothermal outcome, the endothelin A (ETA) receptor antagonist BQ123 was jointly employed to regulate tumor microenvironment. The BQ123 could induce tumor vascular relaxation and increase blood flow perfusion through modulating an ET-1/ETA transduction pathway and blocking the ETA receptor, whereas the vessel perfusion of normal tissues was not altered. Through our well-designed tactic, the concentration of biomimetic PPy NPs in tumor site was significantly improved when administered systematically. The study documented that the antitumor efficiency of biomimetic PPy NPs combined with specific antagonist BQ123 was particularly prominent and was superior to biomimetic PPy NPs (P < 0.05) and PEGylated PPy NPs with BQ123 (P < 0.01), showing that the greatly enhanced photothermal treatment could be achieved with low-dose administration of photothermal agents. Our findings would provide a promising procedure for other similar enhanced photothermal treatment by blocking ETA receptor to dramatically increase the delivery of biomimetic photothermal nanomaterials.



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Assessing beans as a source of intrinsic fiber on satiety in men and women with metabolic syndrome

Publication date: 1 November 2017
Source:Appetite, Volume 118
Author(s): Elizabeth J. Reverri, Jody M. Randolph, C. Tissa Kappagoda, Eunyoung Park, Indika Edirisinghe, Britt M. Burton-Freeman
Dietary fiber is well-known for its satiety inducing properties. Adding fibers to mixed dishes is one way to increase fiber intake. However, adding fibers to foods versus including foods inherently containing fiber may reveal differing effects on satiety. The present study aimed to explore the satiety effects of adding fiber to a mixed meal versus using beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) as a source of intrinsic fiber in the meal. In this pilot study, 12 men and women with metabolic syndrome were randomly assigned to eat three standard meals in a crossover design on three different occasions that contained either no added fiber (control (NF)), extrinsic or added fiber (AF), or whole black beans as the source of intrinsic fiber (BN). Meals were matched for energy and macronutrient composition. Five hour postprandial subjective satiety was measured along with blood glucose, insulin, and the GI hormones, cholecystokinin (CCK) and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY3-36). All meals induced fullness to a similar degree; however, the AF meal suppressed prospective consumption (F2,187 = 9.05, P = 0.0002) compared to the BN or NF meals. The NF meal tended to result in more satisfaction than the BN meal (F2,187 = 5.91, P = 0.003). The BN meal produced significantly higher postprandial CCK concentrations compared to the AF (F2,187 = 6.82, P = 0.001) and NF meals (F2,187 = 6.82, P = 0.002). Similar findings were observed for PYY3-36 response for BN > AF meal (F2,170 = 9.11, P < 0.0001). Postprandial insulin was significantly reduced after the BN meal, compared to the NF (F2,187 = 22.36, P < 0.0001) meal. These findings suggest that incorporating whole black beans into a meal has acute beneficial metabolic and GI hormone responses in adults with metabolic syndrome and are preferred over adding equivalent amounts of fiber from a supplement.



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Comparative effects of intraduodenal fat and glucose on the gut-incretin axis in healthy males

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Peptides
Author(s): Tongzhi Wu, Christopher K. Rayner, Linda E. Watson, Karen L. Jones, Michael Horowitz, Tanya J. Little
BackgroundThe interaction of nutrients with the small intestine stimulates the secretion of numerous enteroendocrine hormones that regulate postprandial metabolism. However, differences in gastrointestinal hormonal responses between the macronutrients are incompletely understood. In the present study, we compared blood glucose and plasma hormone concentrations in response to standardised intraduodenal (ID) fat and glucose infusions in healthy humans.MethodsIn a parallel study design, 16 healthy males who received an intraduodenal fat infusion were compared with 12 healthy males who received intraduodenal glucose, both at a rate of 2kcal/min over 120min. Venous blood was sampled at frequent intervals for measurements of blood glucose, and plasma total and active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), insulin and glucagon.ResultsPlasma concentrations of the incretin hormones (both total and active GLP-1 and GIP) and glucagon were higher, and plasma insulin and blood glucose concentrations lower, during intraduodenal fat, when compared with intraduodenal glucose, infusion (treatment by time interaction: P<0.001 for each).ConclusionsCompared with glucose, intraduodenal fat elicits substantially greater GLP-1, GIP and glucagon secretion, with minimal effects on blood glucose or plasma insulin in healthy humans. These observations are consistent with the concept that fat is a more potent stimulus of the 'gut-incretin' axis than carbohydrate.



http://ift.tt/2vLstBc

The Longevity of Statistical Learning: When Infant Memory Decays, Isolated Words Come to the Rescue.

Author: Karaman, Ferhat; Hay, Jessica F.

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000448

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 7 August 2017

http://ift.tt/2unapdj

A Switch is Not a Switch: Syntactically-Driven Bilingual Language Control.

Author: Gollan, Tamar H.; Goldrick, Matthew

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000462

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 7 August 2017

http://ift.tt/2unO6DW

The Effect of Background Noise on the Word Activation Process in Nonnative Spoken-Word Recognition.

Author: Scharenborg, Odette; Coumans, Juul M. J.; van Hout, Roeland

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000441

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 7 August 2017

http://ift.tt/2vLBxWW

Ayurvedic management of recurrent abortions due to uterine fibroid

Shailendra Dadarao Katakdound

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):159-162

Uterine fibroids are present in 30-70% of women of reproductive age. Uterine fibroids distort the uterine cavity. Therefore there is consensus of a negative impact on both the clinical pregnancy and delivery rates.[2] In addition, studies have also reported an increased risk of spontaneous miscarriage with submucosal fibroids. In biomedicine, myomectomy is considered the treatment of choice and Assisted Reproductive Technology is advised to overcome infertility. In Hārita Saṃhitā treatment is given for recurrent abortion (Garbhasrāvī). In this study, considering pitta doṣa and altered uterine receptivity (kṣetra duṣṭi) as causative factors, purgation (virecana karma) was done, enema (yoga basti) was given after post purgation protocol (saṃsarjana karma). After body purification (śodhana), garbhasthāpaka drugs were given to the patient for one month. Patient conceived in the second month with this treatment. In Antenatal Care, haematinics and calcium supplements and month wise Ayurvedic medication (Māsānumāsika kaṣāya) were given for nine months. Elective caesarean section as done after GA 38 weeks (USG) followed by inj. Wymesone 8 mg. The procedure uneventful. Thus proving Ayurvedic management of recurrent abortion due to uterine fibroid. It is cost effective and improves and normalises uterine receptive environment.

http://ift.tt/2wGqo6Q

Predatory conferences in the field of Ayurveda and alternative medicine: Need for quality checks

P Ram Manohar

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):115-116



http://ift.tt/2vNzTF1

An open label, randomized, comparative, parallel group, multicenter, prospective, interventional, clinical study to evaluate efficacy and safety of “AHPL/AYTOP/0113” in comparison with “Framycetin sulphate cream” in acute wounds

Sanjay U Nipanikar, Kamalakar V Gajare, Vidyadhar G Vaidya, Amol B Kamthe, Sachin A Upasani, Vidyadhar S Kumbhar

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):117-128

Objectives: The main objective of the present study was to assess efficacy and safety of AHPL/AYTOP/0113 cream, a polyherbal formulation in comparison with Framycetin sulphate cream in acute wounds. Methodology: It was an open label, randomized, comparative, parallel group and multi-center clinical study. Total 47 subjects were randomly assigned to Group-A (AHPL/AYTOP/0113 cream) and 42 subjects were randomly assigned to Group-B (Framycetin sulphate cream). All the subjects were advised to apply study drug, thrice daily for 21 days or up to complete wound healing (whichever was earlier). All the subjects were called for follow up on days 2, 4, 7, 10, 14, 17 and 21 or up to the day of complete wound healing. Data describing quantitative measures are expressed as mean ± SD. Comparison of variables representing categorical data was performed using Chi-square test. Results: Group-A subjects took significantly less (P < 0.05) i.e., (mean) 7.77 days than (mean) 9.87 days of Group-B subjects for wound healing. At the end of the study, statistically significant better (P < 0.05) results were observed in Group-A than Group-B in mean wound surface area, wound healing parameters and pain associated with wound. Excellent overall efficacy and tolerability was observed in subjects of both the groups. No adverse event or adverse drug reaction was noted in any subject of both the groups. Conclusion: AHPL/AYTOP/0113 cream proved to be superior to Framycetin sulphate cream in healing of acute wounds.

http://ift.tt/2vNzUsz

Good pharmacovigilance practice: Accountability of Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies

Rohit Sharma, R Galib, PK Prajapati

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):167-169



http://ift.tt/2wGqjQA

Physicochemical screening and shelf life evaluation of Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta prepared using Kesara and Nāgakesara

Pradeep Kumar Prajapati, Rohit Sharma, Amee Amrutia, BJ Patgiri

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):129-135

Introduction: Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta (KG) is an Ayurvedic formulation commonly recommended in skin disorders, especially Mukhadūṣikā (Acne vulgaris). Kesara (stigma of Crocus sativus Linn.) is a prime ingredient in the formulation. However, due to high cost and increased adulteration in Kesara, 'Nāgakesara' (Mesua ferrea Linn.) is suggested by Ayurvedic experts as a substitute. Nāgakesara is relatively lower in cost and possesses similar therapeutic attributes to that of Kesara. Recent studies have established standard manufacturing procedures and clinical efficacies of Kesarayukta (with Kesara) Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta (KKG) and Nāgakesara yukta (with Nāgakesara) Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta (NKG) in Mukhadūṣikā. In spite of wide utility of KG in Ayurvedic practice, no published work on its shelf life is available so far. Aims and Objectives: To establish the physicochemical profile and evaluate the shelf life of KKG and NKG. Materials and Methods: Total three batches of KKG and NKG each were prepared in the laboratory by adopting Ayurvedic classical guidelines and the findings were systematically recorded. Comparative differences in organoleptic characters (colour, odour, taste, touch) and values of different physicochemical parameters (Ash value, pH value, Total solid content, Specific gravity, Refractive index, Loss on drying, Acid value, Iodine value, Saponification value, Peroxide value and Rancidity tests) of raw materials [herbal ingredients, Go Ghṛta, Mūrcchita Ghṛta (MG)] as well as finished products (KKG and NKG) were recorded. Long term (real time) shelf life testing was carried out at the intervals i.e., at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 16 months. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis of samples was also carried out. Results and Conclusion: The average percentage loss in final product was 10.18% in KKG and 7.58% in NKG. The shelf life of MG, KKG and NKG is 16 months. After 16 months, Go Ghṛta showed negative rancidity test, while MG, KKG and NKG showed positive rancidity, indicative of onset of deterioration after 16 months. Present findings validate the Ayurvedic principles stipulating medicated Ghṛta to have a shelf life of 16 months. Chromatographic study showed few differences between KKG and NKG samples. Data obtained by present study may be considered as standard for future researches.

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Pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies of Helleborus niger L root

V Kishor Kumar, KG Lalitha

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):151-158

Background: Helleborus niger L (Ranunculaceae) is used Ayurvedic and Unani systems and other herbal medicine systems. The roots of H. niger have a good medicinal value. Aims: To conduct a pharmacognostical and phytochemical study of H. niger. Materials and Methods: The pharmacognostical studies on roots including parameters such as taxonomical, macroscopic, microscopic characters, physico-chemical, ultra-violet analysis and phytochemical studies are established. Results: Macroscopically, the roots are brownish-black in colour, cylindrical in shape, feeble odour, slightly acrid taste with irregularly branched. Microscopically the root showed the presence of epidermis, air-chambers, fissure periderm, periderm, inner cortex, pith, phloem, xylem, vessels and xylem vessels. Microscopic examination of the powder showed the presence of parenchyma cells, parenchyma mass, periderm, cell inclusion, laticifer, lateral wall pith, perforation, xylem bundle and xylem elements. Ultra-violet and ordinary light analyses with different reagents were conducted to identify the drug in powder form. Physico-chemical evaluation established, Ash values - Total, acid insoluble, water soluble and sulphated ash values were 7.3%, 4.1%, 3.7% and 5.2%, respectively. Extractive values - Alcohol soluble, water soluble and ether soluble extractive values were 22.8%, 7.4% and 5.6%, respectively. Loss on drying was 3.3%. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of carbohydrate, glycoside, saponins, flavonoid, phytosterols, tannins and phenolic compounds. Conclusions: The results of the study can serve as a valuable resource of pharmacognostic and phytochemical information. This will serve as appropriate, standards for discovery of this plant material in future investigations and applications and also contribute towards establishing pharmacopoeial standards.

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Ethnopharmacological based evaluation of Anogeissus pendula Edgew extracts for antioxidant and hepatoprotective potential

Deeksha Singh, Uttam Singh Baghel, Manmeet Singh Pannu, Rakesh Yadav

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):136-140

Background: Anogeissus pendula has various reported ethnomedicinal uses and is reported to contain phenolic compounds which have antioxidant potential. Aim: The present study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant potential and in vivo hepatoprotective activity along with the oxidative stress parameters of stem bark and leaves of Anogeissus pendula for the first time. Settings and Design: Albino rats were divided into seven groups of six animals each. Healthy control (Group I) and toxic control (Group II) received the vehicle. Group III, IV, V, VI and VII were treated with silymarin (100 mg/kg body weight, orally) and two hydro-alcoholic extracts i.e., APB (stem bark) and APL (leaves) at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg b. w., orally, respectively. Hepatotoxicity was induced by allyl alcohol. Materials and Methods: Albino Wistar rats of either sex between 8-12 weeks old were used. The plant parts were collected from Sawai Madhopur (Rajasthan, India) and extracted with hydro-alcoholic solvent to get two extracts i.e., APB (stem bark) and APL (leaves) which were investigated for the in vitro antioxidant potential through DPPH radical and H2O2scavenging assay along with in vivo hepatoprotective potential through allyl alcohol induced hepatotoxicity. Statistical Analysis: Statistical comparisons between different groups were done by using one-way ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni test. P< 0.05 was considered significant. Results and Conclusions: APB showed more potent activity than APL in case of in vitro antioxidant potential with IC50of 44.29 μg/ml in DPPH radical scavenging activity and 53.09 μg/ml in hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay. Both the extracts revealed antioxidant and hepatoprotective potentials in a dose dependent manner but more significant results were obtained in case of APB at 400 mg/kg. More amounts of phytoconstituents might be the reason behind the more significant activity of extract of stem bark than that of the leaves.

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Effect of integrative naturopathy and yoga in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis associated with type 2 diabetes and hypertension

A Mooventhan, Geetha B Shetty

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):163-166

A 54-year old married woman was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2002, essential hypertension in 2008, type-2 diabetes in 2011 and gangrene over 2nd toe of right foot. She underwent conventional management in private hospitals. Her symptoms, began with moderate to severe pain associated with swelling, stiffness (more in the morning) in multiple joints especially over small joints. In July-2014 she visited our college hospital with the complaints of pain, mild swelling and stiffness over multiple joints associated with poor quality of sleep (QOS) and quality of life (QOL). Subject received integrative Naturopathy and Yoga therapies (INYT) with conventional medicine daily for 10-days. After 10-days, improvements in pain, blood sugar, depression, anxiety, stress, QOS, QOL, blood analysis with normal blood pressure (BP) was observed. This suggests that INYT could be considered as an adjuvant to conventional medicine in RA associated with type-2 diabetes and essential hypertension.

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Evaluation of Cyavanaprāśa on health and immunity related parameters in healthy children: A two arm, randomized, open labeled, prospective, multicenter, clinical study

Arun Gupta, Sunil Kumar, Sanjeeva Dole, Shailesh Deshpande, Vaishali Deshpande, Sudha Singh, V Sasibhushan

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):141-150

Context: Cyavanaprāśa (CP) is an Ayurvedic immune booster formulation that confers vigor and vitality while delaying the ageing process. Benefits of CP have been studied widely in adult population. Objectives: Current study assessed beneficial effects of CP on health and immunity related parameters in healthy children. Methods: This study was a 6 month long two armed, randomized, open labeled, prospective clinical study. School going healthy children between ages of 5-12 years were randomized to receive orally daily either CP (approx. 6 g) followed by a cup of milk (100 – 200 ml) or cup of milk only twice a day while continuing with their normal/routine diet. Results were analyzed based on number of episodes, severity, duration of illness (infections and allergies) and number of absent days due to illness during the study duration and changes in levels of energy, physical fitness, strength, stamina and quality of life in children which were recorded in subject diary by their parents/Legally Acceptable Representative (LAR). Results: 702 participants were randomized, out of which 627 completed the study (CP n = 313; Control n = 314). Results of immunity (episodes of infections or allergy related conditions) showed more than 2 times protection from immunity related illness in CP Group as compared to the control. CP also showed better percentage improvement in energy levels, physical fitness, strength, stamina and quality of life assessed through KIDSCREEN QOL-27 questionnaires in children. Conclusion: Regular consumption of CP for a period of six months could significantly improve immunity, energy levels, physical fitness, strength, stamina and quality of life in school going healthy children. Study Registration: Clinical Trail Registry of India vide CTRI/2015/02/005574, Dated 24 February 2015.

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Angamardhana: A treatise on massage techniques of ancient India

BS Praveen

Ancient Science of Life 2017 36(3):170-171



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Impact of Pharmacist Immunization Authority on Seasonal Influenza Immunization Rates Across States

Publication date: Available online 7 August 2017
Source:Clinical Therapeutics
Author(s): Edward M. Drozd, Laura Miller, Michael Johnsrud
PurposeThe goal of this study was to investigate the impact on immunization rates of policy changes that allowed pharmacists to administer influenza immunizations across the United States.MethodsInfluenza immunization rates across states were compared before and after policy changes permitting pharmacists to administer influenza immunizations. The study used Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey data on influenza immunization rates between 2003 and 2013. Logistic regression models were constructed and incorporated adjustments for the complex sample design of the BRFSS to predict the likelihood of a person receiving an influenza immunization based on various patient health, demographic, and access to care factors.FindingsOverall, as states moved to allow pharmacists to administer influenza immunizations, the odds that an adult resident received an influenza immunization rose, with the effect increasing over time. The average percentage of people receiving influenza immunizations in states was 35.1%, rising from 32.2% in 2003 to 40.3% in 2013. The policy changes were associated with a long-term increase of 2.2% to 7.6% in the number of adults aged 25 to 59 years receiving an influenza immunization (largest for those aged 35–39 years) and no significant change for those younger or older.ImplicationsThese findings suggest that pharmacies and other nontraditional settings may offer accessible venues for patients when implementing other public health initiatives.



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Risk Factors for Nocturnal Hypoglycemia in Insulin-Treated Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of Observational Data Derived From an Integrated Clinical Trial Database

Publication date: Available online 7 August 2017
Source:Clinical Therapeutics
Author(s): Jay P. Bae, Ran Duan, Haoda Fu, Byron J. Hoogwerf
PurposeA trade-off exists in most diabetes therapies between the benefits of good glycemic control and the morbidity of hypoglycemia. Balancing these factors to achieve desired outcomes is a key consideration for personalized diabetes therapy. Hypoglycemia at night (nocturnal hypoglycemia [NH]) is a common but often under-reported problem in insulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes. To better understand the risk for NH, we pooled data from multiple clinical trials of insulin treatment and specifically examined NH risk factors in relation to glycemic goals.MethodsOf 53 randomized trials involving insulin treatment, 18 trials that collected NH data were included. Risk factors associated with NH were identified by using gradient-boosting methods. A proportional hazards model was used to quantify the hazard ratio (HR) for risk factors. By modeling with individual patient data, a patient-level NH risk score distribution was created. Finally, results of the model were used to quantify an adjustment to the glycemic goal that would fully offset each risk factor, all other factors being equal.FindingsData pooling resulted in the inclusion of 7341 patients with type 2 diabetes from 18 randomized clinical trials. In the mean 6-month treatment period, 43% of patients experienced at least 1 episode of NH (mean [SD], 1.1 [1.5] events/month). Reduction of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels during the trial was a risk factor for NH (HR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.38-1.43] per –1% of HbA1c). Higher baseline HbA1c level was a protective factor against NH (HR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.74–0.77] per +1% of HbA1c); and the adjustment to HbA1c goal required to offset 1% higher baseline HbA1c was –0.825%. Patient characteristics for risk of NH included older age (HR, 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01–1.02]) per 1-year increase), female sex (HR, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.15–1.22]), black or African-American race (HR, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.33–1.50] vs white race), longer diabetes duration (HR, 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01–1.02] per 1-year increase), diabetic nephropathy (HR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.27–1.54]), and concomitant sulfonylurea use (HR, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.05–1.15]). Asian race was associated with a lower risk of NH (HR, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.48–0.53] vs white race); this finding could be offset with a 2.03% adjustment to the HbA1c goal.ImplicationsData on NH are scarce. By pooling multiple clinical trials, this study was able to evaluate patient-level data. A quantitative understanding of the trade-off between individual risk factors for NH and glycemic reduction may help clinicians to personalize patients' glycemic goals, while effectively managing NH risk. Limitations of the study include that patients were selected through inclusion/exclusion criteria and that patient compliance may be better in a trial setting. Validating the findings in the real world will be helpful.



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Image manipulation and image plagiarism – what's fine and what's not?

Feroze Kaliyadan

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):519-521



http://ift.tt/2wG1kNj

Chemical environmental factors: Can they affect acne?

Maria Mazioti

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):522-524



http://ift.tt/2vNkHHE

Hidradenitis suppurativa unresponsive to canakinumab treatment: A case report

Burak Tekin, Andac Salman, Tulin Ergun

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):615-617



http://ift.tt/2wFZ6xd

Occupational dermatoses: An Asian perspective

Riti Bhatia, Vinod Kumar Sharma

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):525-535

Occupational dermatoses contribute to a significant portion of work-related diseases, especially in Asia, where a major portion of the workforce is in the unorganized sector. This review article is focussed on the frequency and pattern of occupational skin diseases reported across Asian countries and type of allergens implicated in different occupations. The literature was searched systematically using key words 'occupational dermatoses,' 'occupational skin disease' and name of each Asian country. Ninty five full-text articles were considered relevant and evaluated. Some of the dermatoses seen in industrial workers in Asian countries are similar to those in Western countries, including dermatoses due to chromate in construction and electroplating workers, epoxy resin, and chromate in painters, wood dust in workers in the furniture industry, azo dyes in textile workers and formaldehyde and chromates in those working in the leather and dyeing industries, dermatoses in domestic workers, chefs and health-care workers. Dermatoses in workers engaged in agriculture, beedi (tiny cigars) manufacture, agarbatti (incense sticks) production, fish processing, carpet weaving, sanitation and those working in coffee plantations and coal mines appear to be unique to Asian countries. Recognition of clinical patterns and geographic variations in occupational skin diseases will provide an impetus to further strengthen future research in these areas, as well as improving their management.

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Wickham's striae-like appearance in a case of nodular Kaposi's sarcoma: A dermoscopic pitfall

Biswanath Behera, Raj Remya, Laxmisha Chandrashekar, Devinder Mohan Thappa, Debasis Gochhait, Biswajit Dey

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):604-606



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Onychoscopy: A practical guide

Chander Grover, Deepak Jakhar

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):536-549

Onychoscopy refers to the examination of the nail unit using a dermoscope. Since the advent of dermoscopy, attempts have been made to use it for the diagnosis of nail disorders, most commonly pigmented lesions. As of now, onychoscopy has carved out a distinct niche for itself in the diagnostic work up of nail disorders. The nail is capable of mounting only a limited number of reaction patterns to the large number of disorders affecting it. Therefore, simple visual inspection may not be helpful in diagnosing many conditions reliably. Even a nail biopsy may not give a definitive answer every time. Onychoscopy is thus a valuable aid not only in enhancing visible nail features but also in revealing cryptic features of diagnostic value. This review aims to summarize the current level of knowledge about onychoscopic features of various diseases of the nail unit. It also aims to offer practical tips on how to conduct onychoscopy. For the purpose of review, a PubMed search about the indications and results of onychoscopy was done using the keywords "onychoscopy," "nail fold capillaroscopy," "dermoscopy nail" and "dermatoscopy nail." All the articles were retrieved and classified into case reports, reviews and clinical studies. The final data was then analyzed and presented in a narrative fashion.

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Erythroderma: A clinicopathological study of 370 cases from a tertiary care center in Kerala

Rani Mathew, V Sreedevan

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):625-625



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Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita and anti-p200 pemphigoid as major subepidermal autoimmune bullous diseases diagnosed by floor binding on indirect immunofluorescence microscopy using human salt-split skin

Nupur Goyal, Raghavendra Rao, Shrutakirthi D Shenoi, Sathish Pai, Pramod Kumar, Balbir S Bhogal, Enno Schmidt, Detlef Zillikens

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):550-555

Background: Subepidermal autoimmune bullous diseases are a diverse group of diseases with overlapping clinical and immunopathological features. Indirect immunofluorescence microscopy on artificially split skin helps to classify these conditions into those with staining on the epidermal side of the split ("roof-binding") and those with staining on the dermal side ("floor-binding"). Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita is the prototype of "floor-binding" subepidermal autoimmune bullous diseases. However, not all floor-binding sera are associated with epidermolysis bullosa acquisita. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and immunological profile of patients with floor-binding subepidermal autoimmune bullous disease by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy and to identify the target antigens in them. Methods: Ten patients who showed a floor-binding pattern were studied with regard to their clinical and immunopathological characteristics. Target antigens were identified by modified indirect immunofluorescence microscopy using recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa skin, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, and immunoblotting. Results: Diagnosis of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita was confirmed in six patients. Three patients with an inflammatory subepidermal autoimmune bullous disease mimicking bullous pemphigoid reacted with a 200 kDa protein on immunoblotting with dermal extract, as is characteristic of anti-p200 pemphigoid. One serum showed both roof and floor binding, and reacted with the BP180 antigen. Limitation: We could not perform serration pattern analysis in our patients. Conclusion: In this study, we report three cases of anti-p200 pemphigoid from India. These cases, though indistinguishable clinically from bullous pemphigoid, revealed a floor-binding pattern on indirect immunofluorescence using salt-split skin.

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Cholinergic urticaria: Clinicoepidemiological paradigms from a tertiary care center in North India

Muthu Sendhil Kumaran, Amanjot Kaur Arora, Davinder Parsad

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):599-601



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Receptor for advanced glycation end products is overexpressed in psoriatic plaques independent of disease severity

Ozkay Ozgor, Gulsen Akoglu, Nuran Sungu, Eda Karaismailoglu, Akin Aktas

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):556-560

Background: Enhanced expression and excitation of the receptor for advanced glycation end products is considered to play a role in the regulation of many pro-inflammatory genes involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Aim: We investigated the expression of receptor for advanced glycation end product in various cell types, in lesional and peri-lesional skin of patients with psoriasis, and its correlation with disease severity. Methods: Paraffin-embedded punch biopsy tissue taken from psoriatic plaques and peri-lesional normal appearing skin tissue of twenty patients with psoriasis, and normal skin samples of eleven healthy participants, were enrolled in the study. The sections were stained immunohistochemically with anti-receptor for advanced glycation end product antibody. The intensity of receptor for advanced glycation end product expression was assessed semi-quantitatively on epidermal cells, microvascular endothelium, dermal fibroblasts and inflammatory cells. They were graded as follows: 0 (no staining), 1 (weak), 2 (moderate) and 3 (strong) intensity. Results: Receptor for advanced glycation end product expression on epidermis, microvascular endothelium, inflammatory cells and fibroblasts in the psoriatic plaques was more intense than perilesional and normal tissue (all P < 0.05). It did not correlate with disease severity. Limitations: The main limitation of our study is that this was a semi-quantitative assessment, detected immunohistochemically in skin biopsies. Conclusion: Receptor for advanced glycation end product expression may have an important role in psoriasis pathogenesis, independent of disease severity.

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Demodex folliculorum associated Bacillus pumilus in lesional areas in rosacea

Alin Laurentiu Tatu, Marius Anton Ionescu, Violeta Corina Cristea

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):610-611



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Effectiveness and safety of levocetirizine 10 mg versus a combination of levocetirizine 5 mg and montelukast 10 mg in chronic urticaria resistant to levocetirizine 5 mg: A double-blind, randomized, controlled trial

Tushar Kanti Sarkar, Amrita Sil, Santasmita Pal, Chinmoy Ghosh, Nilay Kanti Das

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):561-568

Background: Chronic urticaria is a vexing problem for patients and treating physicians alike. The EAACI/GA[2]LEN/EDF/WAO guidelines advocate an increased antihistamine dosage up to four times the standard, before adding leukotriene receptor antagonists. Patients are frequently intolerant of these higher dosages. We conducted this study to determine whether the addition of leukotriene receptor antagonists to the standard antihistamine dose was comparable to higher dosages of antihistamines alone, in terms of efficacy, safety and quality of life changes. We compared levocetirizine 10 mg (double dose of standard) versus a combination of levocetirizine 5 mg and montelukast 10 mg in cases of chronic urticaria not responding to single daily dose of 5 mg levocetirizine. Methods: A single-center, double-blind, randomized, active-controlled, parallel group phase IV trial (CTRI/2014/12/005261) was conducted on 120 patients of chronic urticaria of either sex not responding to 5 mg levocetirizine. Patients were randomized into receiving either levocetirizine 10 mg or levocetirizine 5 mg + montelukast 10 mg for 4 weeks. Primary outcome measures were Urticaria Activity Score (UAS) and Urticaria Total Severity Score (TSS). Routine hematological and biochemical tests and treatment-emergent adverse events were monitored for safety. Results: Fifty-two patients on levocetirizine 10 mg group and 51 patients on levocetirizine 5 mg + montelukast 10 mg group were analyzed. UAS and TSS reduced significantly in both treatment groups and reduction of score were comparable in between the groups (P = 0.628, P = 0.824, respectively). Among adverse effects, sedation was noted significantly more (P = 0.013) in levocetirizine 10 mg group. Quality of life was significantly improved in levocetirizine 5 mg + montelukast 10 mg group (P = 0.031). Limitations: The limitation of the study was that the follow-up period was 4 weeks. Conclusion: EAACI/GA[2]LEN/EDF/WAO guidelines need to be more flexible in allowing usage of montelukast before escalation of anti-histamine dosage.

http://ift.tt/2wGg6Ud

Subungual osteochondroma

Sewon Hwang, Miri Kim, Hyun Jeong Park

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):620-621



http://ift.tt/2hHSiNb

Methotrexate iontophoresis versus coal tar ointment in palmoplantar psoriasis: A pilot study

K Haseena, Sandhya George, Najeeba Riyaz, Sarita Sasidharanpillai, Paul V Puthussery

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):569-573

Background: Palmoplantar psoriasis is often disabling and refractory to conventional therapy. Systemic drugs are indicated in its severe form, but side effects are a concern with their use. Methotrexate is one such systemic drug which is effective and cheap. To reduce systemic toxicity, methotrexate has been tried topically but results have been inconsistent due to poor drug penetration into the skin by passive diffusion. Iontophoresis may enhance its absorption and efficacy. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical methotrexate iontophoresis in comparison with coal tar ointment in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis. Methods: Thirty-one patients with palmar and/or plantar psoriasis were selected for the study and 28 patients completed it. The side having more severe involvement was treated while the other palm/sole served as a control. Iontophoresis using methotrexate solution was carried out on the study palm/sole with the injectable preparation of methotrexate (50 mg/2 ml) once a week for the first 4 weeks and subsequently every two weeks, for a total of six sittings. The control palm/sole was treated with coal tar ointment on other days. Erythema, scaling, induration and fissuring scores were noted in both groups before and after treatment. Results: Both study and control groups showed decreases in scores but the reduction was more in the study group, the difference being statistically significant. Limitations: Drawbacks of our study include the small sample size and the lack of follow-up. The study and control arms were not exactly matched and the study was not blinded. Conclusion: Methotrexate iontophoresis was safe and more effective than coal tar ointmentin palmoplantarpsoriasis.

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Angiosarcoma of the gingiva: Metastasis from a primary tumor of the scalp

Jingmei Yang, Kai Mei, Chenzhou Wu, Yafei Wu, Yi Xu

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):626-626



http://ift.tt/2fr3TiN

Syringocystadenocarcinoma papilliferum with coexisting trichoblastoma: A case report with review of literature

Rajeshwari K Muthusamy, Sangita S Mehta

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):574-576

We present a unique case of syringocystadenoma with malignant transformation into syringocystadenocarcinoma papilliferum and coexisting trichoblastoma arising de novo in a scalp swelling of long duration in a 78-year-old woman. Syringocystadenocarcinoma papilliferum was described by the World Health Organization as an extremely rare malignant adnexal tumor of apocrine origin with varied histology with some cases reported in literature.

http://ift.tt/2hIriNH

Partial dysautonomia: An interesting presentation

Subuhi Kaul, Chander Grover, Gopal K Das

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):596-598



http://ift.tt/2frU58p

Adult Henoch–Schönlein purpura: Clinical and histopathological predictors of systemic disease and profound renal disease

Ruoxi Cao, Sandra Lau, Virlynn Tan, Hong Liang Tey

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):577-582

Background: A major challenge in the management of adult Henoch–Schönlein purpura is the difficulty in assessing the risk of systemic involvement. There is currently a paucity of data in this area. Aims: This study sought to determine specific clinical and histopathological features associated with systemic involvement in adult Henoch–Schönlein purpura. Methods: We reviewed the records of 99 adult Henoch–Schönlein purpura patients who presented at the National Skin Centre, Singapore, between January 2008 and May 2015. Results: Renal involvement was found in 56 (56.6%) patients, joint involvement in 21 (21.2%) and gastrointestinal involvement in 13 (13.1%). Age > 30 years was an independent predictor of renal involvement with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.97 (95% confidence interval, 1.08–8.16; P = 0.04). Risk factors for significant renal involvement necessitating nephrology referral were further evaluated: the odds were approximately 60% higher for every 10-year increase in age (95% confidence interval, 1.02–2.57; P = 0.04) and patients with cutaneous bullae and/or necrosis had an almost six times higher risk (95% confidence interval, 1.43–25.00; P = 0.01). Limitations: This study was limited by its retrospective design. We also lacked long-term data to examine how clinical and histopathological characteristics correlated with long-term disease outcomes. Conclusions: Adult Henoch–Schönlein purpura patients older than 30 years have a threefold increased risk of renal involvement. The risk of profound renal disease necessitating nephrology referral rose significantly with age and the presence of cutaneous bullae and/or necrosis.

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Livedo reticularis after intra-articular hyaluronic acid injection

Sara Leite de Azevedo Campos, Ana Brasileiro, Alexandre João, Maria João Paiva Lopes

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):602-603



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Capecitabine-induced acral and mucosal hyperpigmentation

Parul Verma

Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 2017 83(5):583-583



http://ift.tt/2vCtRWZ

Fluorescent molecularly imprinted membranes as biosensor for the detection of target protein

Publication date: January 2018
Source:Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, Volume 254
Author(s): Xin Zhang, Shu Yang, Rui Jiang, Liquan Sun, Siping Pang, Aiqin Luo
Combining quantum dots with molecular imprinting techniques, a fluorescent molecularly imprinted membrane (MIM) is prepared by embedding l-cysteine-capped Mn²⁺-doped ZnS quantum dots (QDs) into molecularly imprinted polymer matrix. This fluorescent MIM is used as biosensor for specific recognition of a target protein (lysozyme). The key point of this approach is that the fluorescent quantum dots embedded into a molecularly imprinted membrane, which enables the optical readout characteristic and high selectivity within a thin hydrogel membrane. When the fluorescent MIM selectively captures the target protein, the electron transfer between the QDs and the target protein will result in the fluorescence quenching of the membrane. And the quenched fluorescence emission intensity was proportional to the concentration of the analytes. The as-prepared membrane was successfully applied to selectively and sensitively detect target proteins without any time-consuming pretreatments. Under optimal conditions, the linear detection of the fluorescence MIM ranged from 1.0×10⁻⁷ to 1.0×10⁻⁶molL⁻¹ with the detection limit of 10.2nM. Furthermore, the MIM was applied to determine lysozyme in real samples with recoveries of 93%–103%. Experimental results showed that the fluorescent MIM might serve as a simple and sensitive fluorescent biosensor for detecting target protein in complex biological samples.



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Implementing the adapted physical education E-learning program into physical education teacher education program

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 69
Author(s): Eun Hye Kwon, Martin E. Block
According to the Ministry of Education Korea (2014), the approximately 70.4% of all students with disabilities are included in general schools in Korea. However, studies show that Korean GPE teachers do not feel comforatble or prepared to include students with disabilities (Oh & Lee, 1999; Roh, 2002; Roh & Oh, 2005). The purpose of this study was to explore whether an APE e-learning supplement would have an impact on the level of self-efficacy and content knowledge of pre-service teachers related to including students with intellectual disabilities. An APE supplement was developed based on the InstructionalDesign Model (Dick, Carey, & Carey, 2005) to provide three sources of self-efficacy, mastery experience, vicarious experience, and social persuasions. Three groups of pre-service teachers (N=75) took the same content supplement with different delivery system, E-learning group (n=25) with online, traditional group (n=25) with printed handout, and control group (n=25) without supplement. Two instruments, the Physical Educators' Situation-Specific Self-efficacy and Inclusion Student with Disabilities in Physical Education (SE-PETE-D) and the content knowledge test, were given to all participants twice (i.e., pretest and posttest). A 3×2 mixed effect ANOVA revealed that pre-service teachers' perceived self-efficacy (p=0.023) improved after taking the e-learning supplement. However, there was no significant difference in the level of content knowledge (p=0.248) between the learning group and tranditional group.



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Intra and Extra-Thoracic Muscle Flaps and Chest Wall Reconstruction following Resection of Thoracic Tumors

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI
Author(s): Sonia L. Betancourt Cuellar, Lior Heller, Diana P. Palacio, Wayne L. Hofstetter, Edith M. Marom
Improvements in surgical technique over the last decade enable surgeons to perform extensive resection and reconstruction in patients presenting with tumors involving the soft tissue and/or bony structures of the chest wall. The type of surgical resection and its size, depend on the type of tumor resected and its location. In addition to providing a better aesthetic result, the reconstruction restores support and functionality of the thoracic cage. The approach to chest wall repair includes primary closure or reconstruction by using transposition flaps, free flaps, prosthetic material, or a mixture of a flap and prosthetic material.



http://ift.tt/2wrGC4k

PET/CT in Esophageal Carcinoma: Applications and Limitations

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI
Author(s): Sonia L. Betancourt Cuellar, Diana P. Palacio, Marcelo F. Benveniste, Brett W. Carter, Wayne L. Hofstetter, Edith M. Marom
Squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC) and adenocarcinoma represent approximately 98 % of esophageal malignant tumors. During the last 30 years, the incidence of adenocarcinoma has increased in Western countries (including the USA) where adenocarcinoma currently represents more than 60% of esophageal malignancies, although, worldwide, SqCC continues to be the predominant histologic type. Integrated positron emission tomography (PET)/CT with 2-[fluorine18] fluro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) is used in many institutions routinely as a tool in the initial staging and then repeated after therapy for the assessment of response to neoadjuvant therapy and detection of recurrent disease in patients with esophageal carcinoma. As with any other imaging modality, FDG-PET/CT has strengths and limitations that should be understood in order to maximize its utility.



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Discordance between Imaging and Immunohistochemistry in Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism

Abstract

Objective

Correct subtyping of primary aldosteronism (PA) is essential for good surgical outcomes. Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) and/or computed tomography (CT) are used for PA sub-classification. Clinical and/or biochemical improvement after surgery, however, is not always achieved in patients with presumed unilateral PA. We aimed to identify the pitfalls in PA sub-classification leading to surgical treatment failures.

Patients and Design

We retrospectively studied 208 patients who underwent adrenal vein sampling (AVS) for PA sub-classification in a tertiary referral centre, between January 2009 and August 2016. Simultaneous bilateral AVS was performed before and after cosyntropin administration. We implemented immunohistochemistry for aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) and 17α-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase (CYP17A1) in adrenal glands resected from patients without improvement of PA after surgical treatment and from those with limitations in AVS interpretation.

Results

Of 55 patients who underwent adrenalectomy, three (5.5%) had no improvement of PA. All three patients underwent partial adrenalectomy to remove a CT-detected nodule present on the same side with AVS lateralization. Immunohistochemistry revealed a CYP11B2-negative nodule in both cases available. All patients who underwent total adrenalectomy based on AVS lateralization benefitted from surgery, including three patients with unilateral unsuccessful AVS and aldosterone suppression in the catheterized side vs. inferior vena cava.

Conclusions

Radiographically identified adrenal nodules are not always a source of PA, even when ipsilateral with AVS lateralization. These data caution against reliance on imaging findings, either alone or in conjunction with AVS, to guide surgery for PA.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Phytoextraction of potentially toxic elements by six tree species growing on hazardous mining sludge

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the phytoextraction abilities of six tree species (Acer platanoides L., Acer pseudoplatanus L., Betula pendula Roth, Quercus robur L., Tilia cordata Miller, Ulmus laevis Pall.), cultivated on mining sludge contaminated with arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), thallium (Tl), and zinc (Zn). All six tree species were able to survive on such an unpromising substrate. However, A. platanoides and T. cordata seedlings grown on the polluted substrate showed significantly lower biomass than control plants (55.5 and 45.6%, respectively). As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Tl predominantly accumulated in the roots of all the analyzed tree species with the following highest contents: 1616, 268, 2432, 547, and 856 mg kg⁻¹, respectively. Zn was predominantly localized in shoots with the highest content of 5801 and 5732 mg kg⁻¹ for U. laevis and A. platanoides, respectively. A. platanoides was the most effective in Zn phytoextaction, with a bioconcentration factor (BCF) of 8.99 and a translocation factor (TF) of 1.5. Furthermore, with the exception of A. pseudoplatanus, the analyzed tree species showed a BCF > 1 for Tl, with the highest value for A. platanoides (1.41). However, the TF for this metal was lower than 1 in all the analyzed tree species. A. platanoides showed the highest BCF and a low TF and could, therefore, be a promising species for Tl phytostabilization. In the case of the other analyzed tree species, their potential for effective phytoextraction was markedly lower. Further studies on the use of A. platanoides in phytoremediation would be worth conducting.

http://ift.tt/2vLqbSr

The carnivorous feeding behavior of early Homo at HWK EE, Bed II, Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania

Publication date: Available online 7 August 2017
Source:Journal of Human Evolution
Author(s): Michael C. Pante, Jackson K. Njau, Blaire Hensley-Marschand, Trevor L. Keevil, Carmen Martín-Ramos, Renata Franco Peters, Ignacio de la Torre
The regular consumption of large mammal carcasses, as evidenced by butchery marks on fossils recovered from Early Stone Age archaeological sites, roughly coincides with the appearance of Homo habilis. However, the significance of this niche expansion cannot be appreciated without an understanding of hominin feeding behavior and their ecological interactions with mammalian carnivores. The Olduvai Geochronology and Archaeology Project (OGAP) has recovered a large and well-preserved fossil assemblage from the HWK EE site, which was deposited just prior to the first appearance of Acheulean technology at Olduvai Gorge and likely represents one of the last H. habilis sites at Olduvai. This taphonomic analysis of the larger mammal fossil assemblage excavated from HWK EE shows evidence of multiple occupations over a long period of time, suggesting the site offered resources that were attractive to hominins. There was a water source indicated by the presence of fish, crocodiles, and hippos, and there was possible tree cover in an otherwise open habitat. The site preserves several stratigraphic intervals with large fossil and artifact assemblages within two of these intervals. Feeding traces on bone surfaces suggest hominins at the site obtained substantial amounts of flesh and marrow, particularly from smaller size group 1–2 carcasses, and exploited a wide range of taxa, including megafauna. A strong carnivore signal suggests hominins scavenged much of their animal foods during the two main stratigraphic intervals. In the later interval, lower carnivore tooth mark and hammerstone percussion mark frequencies, in addition to high epiphyseal to shaft fragment ratios, suggest hominins and carnivores did not fully exploit bone marrow and grease, which may have been acquired from nutritionally-stressed animals that died during a dry period at Olduvai. The diversity of fauna that preserve evidence of butchery suggests that the HWK EE hominins were opportunistic in their acquisition of carcass foods.



http://ift.tt/2hHCA4K

Characterisation and risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils and plants around e-waste dismantling sites in southern China

Abstract

Environmental pollution due to primitive e-waste dismantling activities has been intensively investigated over the last decade in the south-eastern coastal region of China. In the present study, we investigated the distribution and composition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soils and plants around e-waste recycling sites in Longtang, Guangdong province, South China. The results indicated that PAH concentrations in rhizosphere soil and non-rhizosphere soil were in the range of 133 to 626 ng/g and 60 to 816 ng/g, respectively, while PAH levels in plant tissue were 96 to 388 ng/g in shoots and 143 to 605 ng/g in roots. PAHs were enriched in rhizosphere soils in comparison with non-rhizosphere soils. The concentrations of PAHs in plant tissues varied greatly among plant cultivars, indicating that the uptake of PAHs by plants is species-dependent. Different profiles of PAHs in the soil and the corresponding plant tissue implied that PAH uptake and translocation by plants were selective.The total daily intakes of PAHs and carcinogenic PAHs through vegetables at the e-waste recycling site were estimated to be 99 and 22 ng/kg/day, respectively, suggesting that potential health risks associated with the consumption of contaminated vegetables should not be ignored.

http://ift.tt/2un8ZPG

Evaluation of migration of heavy metals and performance of product during co-pyrolysis process of municipal sewage sludge and walnut shell

Abstract

A feasible and efficient type of biological sludge-activated carbon (BSAC) was produced by co-pyrolysis of municipal sewage sludge (MSS) and walnut shell (4:1, w/w) at 500 °C. It was found that BSAC was typical mesoporous material with favorable pore structure and abundant surface functional groups, whose performance was improved compared with conventional sludge-activated carbon (CSAC), combined with walnut shell-activated carbon (WSAC). The migration and transformation behavior of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Ni, Cd, and Cr) in raw material after co-pyrolysis process were investigated. The results indicated that co-pyrolysis could promote mobile fraction (acid soluble/exchangeable and reducible fractions) of heavy metals to stable fraction (oxidizable and residual fractions). The leaching concentrations Cu, Ni, Cd, Cr, and Zn were lower than restrictive standards in China, and the environmental risk assessment results showed that after co-pyrolysis, the risk levels of Cu, Ni, and Cd were decreased to low risk, especially Cr in product was confirmed to no risk.

http://ift.tt/2vMIQ1c

Biomarker responses of earthworms ( Eisenia fetida ) to soils contaminated with perfluorooctanoic acid

Abstract

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is considered a persistent environmental pollutant. The aim of this study was to assess the potential toxicity of PFOA to earthworms (Eisenia fetida) in artificial soil. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) as well as the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured after exposure to 0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg kg⁻¹ PFOA in soils for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The results showed that SOD activity increased at 14 days and decreased from 21 to 28 days; MDA levels were highest in the treatment with 40 mg kg⁻¹ PFOA after 28 days of exposure. In contrast, CAT and POD activities increased after 14–21 days of exposure and significantly decreased with long-term exposure (28 days). GST activity increased significantly from 14 to 28 days. Our results indicate that PFOA has biochemical effects on E. fetida, thereby contributing to our understanding of the ecological toxicity of PFOA on soil invertebrates.

http://ift.tt/2wG2J6q

Ultrastructure alterations induced by gamma irradiation in spermiogenesis of the ground beetle, Blaps sulcata : reference to environmental radiation protection

Abstract

Ultrastructure alterations in spermiogenesis of the ground beetle, Blaps sulcata (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) were studied in normal adult males and in two male groups irradiated by gamma rays of 3 and 16 μSv/h dose rate. Ultrastructure examination of irradiated sperms revealed many alterations both in the head and in the flagellum regions of mature sperm. Alterations of the head region included nuclei with uncondensed chromatin materials and irregular nuclear envelope. Abnormal flagella contained malformed mitochondrial derivatives and damaged axonemes in addition to the absence of accessory bodies. Bi- and multi-flagellate sperms (with two, three, and four axonemes) were the most common alterations. Sperm cells with residual bodies were also obtained. Agglutinated sperms and sperms with enlarged and/or vacuolated cytoplasm were common. Sperm abnormalities were more pronounced in males irradiated by 16 μSv/h dose rate than those irradiated by 3 μSv/h. Spermiogenesis alterations induced by irradiation of B. sulcata may be used as a monitoring model for predicting the effects of environmental radioactivity.

http://ift.tt/2vMV8H0

Biochar increased photosynthetic and accessory pigments in tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum L . ) plants by reducing cadmium concentration under various irrigation waters

Abstract

Fresh surface water supplies are gradually becoming insufficient in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Thus, farmers in these areas are being forced to use poor quality sewage water. Irrigating vegetable crops with sewage water having high metal concentration may affect growth and biochemical processes of plants. Biochar (BC) can sorb these metals and may reduce their toxic effects on plants. Thus, a greenhouse experiment was conducted to study the influence of cotton stalks derived biochar (CSDB) at control (0%) and 1%; ground water (GW; 0.01 ppm Cd); cadmium-contaminated water (CCW; 2 ppm Cd); and sewage water (SW; 0.13 ppm Cd) on growth and biochemical processes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants. On an average, additions of 1% BC significantly (p ≤ 0.05) enhanced dry weight of roots (36%) and shoots (52%) of plants as compared to without BC application. Biochar (1%) decreased shoot Cd concentration by 33% at SW and 100% at CCW. The Cd uptake was increased by 33% with the BC + CCW treatment. Soil organic matter (SOM) was increased 1.2 times while pH and EC were increased by 5 and 47%, respectively, in 1% BC amended soil. Biochar application alleviated toxic effects of Cd and improved growth as well as productions of photosynthetic and accessory pigments in tomato plants.

http://ift.tt/2wFPzGM

Human capital accumulation and its effect on agribusiness performance: the case of China

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of accumulated human capital on the performance of agribusinesses in China. Four hundred fifty agribusiness owners were interviewed for the study. Growth in sales over the last 5 years was used as a measure of performance. The following variables were reviewed and captured as those constituting human capital: education, raised in the area, parents being entrepreneurs, attending business seminars/trade fairs, managerial experience, similar work experience, cooperative membership, and training. Logit regression model and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The logit regression model was used to analyze the effect of accumulated human capital on growth in sales. The inferential statistics on the other hand was used to measure the association between age, education, sex, provinces, and the categories of growth. Our study found that parents who are entrepreneurs and attend business seminars/trade fairs, as well as have managerial experience, similar work experience, education, and training, display a statistically significant positive effect on the growth in sales.

http://ift.tt/2vMKvUq

Comparative results of three short brachytherapy schedules as exclusive treatment in postoperative endometrial carcinoma

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Ángeles Rovirosa, Antonio Herreros, Cristina Camacho, Carlos Ascaso, Joan Sánchez, Stepphania Cortés, Sebastià Sabater, Jordi Solà, Aureli Torné, Meritxell Arenas
PurposeTo compare vaginal control and treatment toxicity of three different high-dose-rate brachytherapy schedules as exclusive treatment in postoperative endometrial carcinoma.Methods and MaterialsFrom 2003 to 2015, three different schedules were used as postoperative treatment for 146 patients (p) with intermediate-risk endometrial carcinoma. Group 1 (41 p): six fractions of 4–6 Gy, 3–4 fractions per week; Group 2 (59 p): four fractions of 5–6 Gy administered daily; Group 3 (46 p): 6 Gy × 3 fractions in three consecutive days. The dose was prescribed at 5 mm of applicator surface using an active treatment length of 2.5 cm. Toxicity scores were evaluated using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scores for bladder and rectum and the objective criteria of late effects of normal tissues–subjective, objective, management, analytic for vagina. Statistics used were group descriptions calculating their means, medians, and ranges. Bivariate analysis was evaluated using variance models and χ² tests.ResultsThe mean followup was as follows: Group 1: 88 months, Group 2: 75 months, and 41 months in Group 3. No vaginal relapses were found. Late toxicity ≥ G2: rectum: 0 p in the three groups (0%). Bladder: Group 1: 1 p (2.4%), Group 2: 0%, and Group 3: 0%. Vagina: Group 1: 4 p (9.5%); Group 2: 9 p (15.3%); and Group 3:10 p (21.8%). There were no differences in late toxicity among the three groups of patients for rectum (p = 0.83), bladder (p = 0.58), and vagina (p = 0.67); the expected global risk of complications for rectum, bladder, and vagina is 0.8%, 0.8%, and 28.8%, respectively.ConclusionsSimilar results in vaginal control and complications were achieved with the three schedules. The use of three fractions of 6 Gy administered daily is the best option for patient comfort and convenience and use of resources. Nonetheless, specific studies are needed to demonstrate the best cost-efficacy regime.



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Incidence and prediction of seed migration to the chest after iodine-125 brachytherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma

Publication date: Available online 8 August 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Junqing Lin, Weizhu Yang, Na Jiang, Qubin Zheng, Jingyao Huang, Ning Huang, Ang Li, Han Jiang
PurposeThe aims were to determine the incidence of seed migration to the chest and to analyze the predictive factors after iodine-125 brachytherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma.Methods and MaterialsThree hundred ninety-nine patients with hepatocellular carcinoma underwent iodine-125 seed brachytherapy. After seed implantation, chest X-ray radiograph or computerized tomography were undertaken to assess the occurrence and location of seed migration at 3 months after brachytherapy. The incidence of seed migration to the lung and heart was calculated. A statistical analysis of the influences of seed loss to the chest was performed between patients with and without seed migration.ResultsA total of 13,977 seeds were implanted in 399 patients. One hundred fifty of the 13,977 (1.07%) seeds migrated to the chest in 81 of the 399 (20.30%) patients. Of all the migrated seeds, 112 (74.67%) migrated to the lungs in 59 (67.82%) patients, and 38 (25.33%) seeds migrated to the heart in 28 (47.46%) patients. No case exhibited clinical symptoms related to the migrated seeds. The number of seeds implanted and the number of seed implantations were significantly associated with seed migration.ConclusionsThe occurrence of seed migration to the lungs and heart was evaluated. Furthermore, the number of seeds implanted and the number of seed implantation procedures are significant predictors of seed migration.



http://ift.tt/2vjBhMu

Protective role of antioxidants capacity of Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract against mixture of persistent organic pollutants (POPs)-induced hepatic toxicity in mice liver: biomarkers and ultrastructural study

Abstract

The current study investigates the hepatoprotective effect of Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract against POPs intoxication on endogenous antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation in mice liver tissue. In the present study, the mice BALB/C were assigned into four groups: group I: received saline subcutaneously for 7 days and served as negative control; group II: received subcutaneously for 7 days, 130.6 mg/100 g/b. w/day POPs mixture(mixture of PCB 28, PCB 52,, PCB 101, PCB 118, PCB 153, PCB 138 and PCB 180, alpha-Hexachlorocyclohexane, beta-Hexachloro-cyclohexane, gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane, Aldrin, O,P′-DDE, Dieldrin, P,p DDE, O,P DDD, Endrin, P,p DDD and P,pDDT were extracted from sediments collected from Lake Mariout), and served as induced group; group III: pretreated with Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract for 7 days, as a protection dose and then treated with POPs as group II and served as protective group; and group IV: received i.p Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract of dose 0.7 mg/100 g b.wt/day for 7 days and served as positive control. After 7 days (experimental period), mice were scarified and the liver was harvested for biochemical estimation. Significant reduction in lipid peroxidation (p < 0.002) was noticed compared to POPs-protected group. The antioxidant biomarkers levels were significantly increase as the hepatic GSH and GST increased by 69.9 and 89.9%, respectively. Such increase was accompanied by a decrease in tyrosine kinase activity by 59.82%, additionally remarkable histopathological changes in liver tissue indicate the protective effect of Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract. The results of this study revealed that the Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract has the potential to diminish the destructive effect of POPs intoxication through enhancement of the endogenous antioxidant status. The hepatoprotective activity of Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract is mediated, by the antioxidant effect of its active constituents. The active constituents of Hyrtios aff. Erectus sponge extract were identified by LC-MS/MS.

http://ift.tt/2un8rxi

Oxidative damage to Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27833 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 24213 induced by CuO-NPs

Abstract

The cytotoxicity of nanoparticles (NPs) and their properties are important issues in nanotechnology research. Particularly, NPs affect the metabolism of microorganisms due to NP interactions with some biomolecules. In order to assess the mechanisms underlying NPs toxicity, we studied the damage caused by copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) on Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 24213 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27833. Spherical CuO-NPs characterized by their diameter (13 ± 3 nm) were synthesized with a maximum of 254 nm. These NPs reduced cell viability, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 500 and 700 ppm for Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. Surfactant was added to reduce the NP agglomeration, but it did not present any effect. The mechanism of CuO-NPs as antimicrobial agent was assessed by analyzing solubilized Cu²⁺, quantifying DNA release in the culture media, and measuring intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). CuO-NPs induced severe damage on cells as revealed by confocal optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Our results indicated that CuO-NPs interacted with bacteria, triggering an intracellular signaling network which produced oxidative stress, leading to ROS generation. Finally, we concluded that CuO-NPs exhibited higher antibacterial activity on Gram-negative bacteria than on Gram-positive ones.

http://ift.tt/2uDVxpY

Palm oil mill effluent treatment and CO 2 sequestration by using microalgae—sustainable strategies for environmental protection

Abstract

In this era of globalization, various products and technologies are being developed by the industries. While resources and energy are utilized from processes, wastes are being excreted through water streams, air, and ground. Without realizing it, environmental pollutions increase as the country develops. Effective technology is desired to create green factories that are able to overcome these issues. Wastewater is classified as the water coming from domestic or industrial sources. Wastewater treatment includes physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes. Aerobic and anaerobic processes are utilized in biological treatment approach. However, the current biological approaches emit greenhouse gases (GHGs), methane, and carbon dioxide that contribute to global warming. Microalgae can be the alternative to treating wastewater as it is able to consume nutrients from wastewater loading and fix CO₂ as it undergoes photosynthesis. The utilization of microalgae in the system will directly reduce GHG emissions with low operating cost within a short period of time. The aim of this review is to discuss the uses of native microalgae species in palm oil mill effluent (POME) and flue gas remediation. In addition, the discussion on the optimal microalgae cultivation parameter selection is included as this is significant for effective microalgae-based treatment operations.

http://ift.tt/2uEkn97

Scholar : These new articles for Xenobiotica are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Xenobiotica and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Effects of Safflower Injection on the Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics of Warfarin in Rats Yan Liu, Shuang Liu, Yuan Shi, Mengnan Qin, Zhidan Sun & Gaofeng Liu Pages: 1-25 | DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2017.1361051This is the author accepted version which has not been proofed or edited Toluene and methylethylketone: effect of combined exposure on their metabolism in rat Frédéric Cosnier, Hervé Nunge, Élodie Bonfanti, Stéphane Grossmann, Anne-Marie Lambert-Xollin, Samuel Muller, Sylvie Sébillaud, Aurélie Thomas, Laurent Gaté & Pierre Campo Pages: 1-30 | DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2017.1362604This is the author accepted version which has not been proofed or edited To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Sirolimus in the treatment of three infants with diffuse congenital hyperinsulinism

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2uDA0xW

Cardiovascular and metabolic risk in pediatric patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2umOtCQ

Assessment of the correlation between the atherogenic index of plasma and cardiometabolic risk factors in children and adolescents: might it be superior to the TG/HDL-C ratio?

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2uE17J4

Long-term daily temozolomide with dose-dependent efficacy in MGMT promotor methylation negative recurrent high-grade astrocytoma

Abstract

Temozolomide (TMZ) for malignant gliomas is traditionally dosed in 5 out of a 28-day cycle, however alternative regimens exist, including dose-dense. Continuous daily dosing is available, but the acceptable dose and duration of therapy is unknown. We document a 40-year-old male with recurrent anaplastic astrocytoma, IDH mutant and MGMT promotor methylation negative, who has well-tolerated continuous daily TMZ for 20 months at 100 mg per day for nearly the length of this period. A trial at 80 mg per day demonstrated disease progression with response upon return to 100 mg per day. Prior to the daily TMZ, the patient underwent three surgical resections, radiation therapy with concurrent TMZ according to the EORTC-NCIC protocol, and subsequently bevacizumab in combination with use of the Optune device. Long-term survival of patients with recurrent malignant gliomas is uncommon, and currently no standard treatment strategies exist for these patients. We present this case to demonstrate the tolerability and dose dependency of prolonged daily TMZ dosing as a therapeutic option for recurrent anaplastic astrocytomas.

http://ift.tt/2umhaQF