Photoelectrocatalytic degradation of atrazine by boron-fluorine co-doped TiO 2 nanotube arrays

Abstract

Atrazine, one of the most widespread herbicides in the world, is considered as an environmental estrogen and has potential carcinogenicity. In this study, atrazine was degraded on boron-fluorine co-doped TiO₂ nanotube arrays (B, F-TiO₂ NTAs), which had similar morphology with the pristine TiO₂ NTAs. The structure and morphology of TiO₂ nanotube samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). It showed that the decoration of fluorine and boron made both the absorption in the visible region enhanced and the band edge absorption shifted. The efficiency of atrazine degradation by B, F-TiO₂ NTAs through photoelectrocatalysis was investigated by current, solution pH, and electrolyte concentration, respectively. The atrazine removal rate reached 76% through photoelectrocatalytic reaction by B, F-TiO₂ NTAs, which was 46% higher than that under the photocatalysis process. Moreover, the maximum degradation rate was achieved at pH of 6 in 0.01 M of Na₂SO₄ electrolyte solution under a current of 0.02 A and visible light for 2 h in the presence of B, F-TiO₂ NTAs. These results showed that B, F-TiO₂ NTAs exhibit remarkable photoelectrocatalytic activity in degradation of atrazine.

https://ift.tt/2tuZ9w1

Effectivity–ecosphere–economics in nZEB retrofit procedures

Abstract

Sustainable development has by now become an element deeply integrated in the everyday design. It has many shades and may be found under many names. We speak about resiliency in design and procurement of passive, ecologic, plus energy, or nZEB buildings. Nevertheless, if we look closely, we may distinguish certain characteristic ideas. First, sustainable development of societies and urbanization processes should be consistent on a deeper level than presently, and be included within design processes, organization, and planning, as well as modernization and redevelopment procedures of existing urban tissue. Secondly, urbanization should be perceived holistically, as an interaction and harmonious development of both natural and manmade environments, with solutions based on the best technical and technological standards available. Lastly, described ideas are achievable only, if we include continuous cooperation between urban planners, architects, specialist consultants, as well as energy-efficient interdisciplinary solutions to achieve high standard energy measures. One of the thresholds is economic feasibility; the other is health and well-being of the users which should always be discussed as a priority. This paper—outside a brief theoretical approach to initial procedures in design management—will dwell on transformation and modernization of an existing building belonging to the Warsaw University of Technology, one of the oldest universities in Poland, its founding dating back to the beginning of the twentieth century. In 2015, a Nordic Finance Mechanism grant dedicated to the nZEB technology transfer from Norway to Poland was awarded to a group of researchers from Warsaw University of Technology and NTNU Trondheim. The main aim of the project is implementation of nZEB knowledge in Poland, as well as preparation of two integrated concept designs for public (University) buildings as exemplary case studies which could act as the benchmarks for other public buildings.

https://ift.tt/2lvef16

Comparative efficacy of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection during early and static stage of pathological scarring

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2lrJoSV

Large Continuous Perspective Change With Noncoplanar Points Enables Accurate Slant Perception.

Author: Wang, Xiaoye Michael; Lind, Mats; Bingham, Geoffrey P.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000553

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 21 June 2018

https://ift.tt/2lrGnSD

Personal observations of Achenbach syndrome

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2MPWdmD

Evolution of Kaposi sarcoma in the past 30 years in a tertiary hospital of the European Mediterranean basin

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2ttc3ux

Immunoglobulin and T cell receptor genes in Chinese crocodile lizard Shinisaurus crocodilurus

Publication date: September 2018
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 101
Author(s): Francisco Gambón-Deza, David N. Olivieri
Squamata are reptiles that diverged from mammals 300 million years ago. During this period, the immunoglobulin (IG) and T lymphocyte receptor (TCR) genes evolved parallel to mammals. However, unlike mammals whose IG/TCR locus has retained a constant structure throughout evolution, Squamata have witnessed duplications, losses, and/or gains in the domains of their immunoglobulin genes. The recent genome sequencing of Shinisaurus crocodilurus, a representative species of the oldest reptiles, provides an opportunity to contrast the structure of IG and TCR genes from previously studied Squamata. This study revealed ten immunoglobulin genes: five genes for immunoglobulin M (IgM), two for immunoglobulin D (IgD), one for immunoglobulin D2 (IgD2), and two for immunoglobulin Y (IgY). As in other Squamata, there are genes for the λ light chain (IGLV) but not for the κ chain (IGKV). Here, the data shows that in some IgM genes, the cysteine needed to bind the λ chains does not exist, but we present evidence for possible non-covalent binding to the light chain. With respect to TCR, one gene is detected for the α constant chain (TRAC) and two genes for the β constant chain (TRBC); one of which is located in the locus of the variable regions of the heavy chain. As in the rest of the Squamata, genes for the γ/δ T cell receptor were not found. The V gene repertoire is found to be consistent with all other Squamata with few V genes for beta chain of TCR.



https://ift.tt/2MbQ4Qk

Ionizing radiation-induced cellular senescence promotes tissue fibrosis after radiotherapy. A review

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
Author(s): Hoang Quy Nguyen, Nhu Hanh To, Patricia Zadigue, Stéphane Kerbrat, Alexandre De La Taille, Sabine Le Gouvello, Yazid Belkacemi
Ionizing radiation-exposure induces a variety of cellular reactions, such as senescence and apoptosis. Senescence is a permanent arrest state of the cell division, which can be beneficial or detrimental for normal tissue via an inflammatory response and senescence-associated secretion phenotype. Damage to healthy cells and their microenvironment is considered as an important source of early and late complications with an increased risk of morbidity in patients after radiotherapy (RT). In addition, the benefit/risk ratio may depend on the radiation technique/dose used for cancer eradication and the irradiated volume of healthy tissues. For radiation-induced fibrosis risk, the knowledge of mechanisms and potential prevention has become a crucial point to determining radiation parameters and patients' intrinsic radiosensitivity. This review summarizes our understanding of ionizing radiation-induced senescent cell in fibrogenesis. This mechanism may provide new insights for therapeutic modalities for better risk/benefit ratios after RT in the new era of personalized treatments.



https://ift.tt/2MNA6gJ

How useful are geochemical and mineralogical indicators in assessing trace metal contamination and bioavailability in a post-restoration Mediterranean lagoon?

Abstract

Tunis's Lake North (LNT), located on the Mediterranean Sea, and Tunisia's most important lagoon due to its economic value and its strategic position within the city, has recently undergone a vast sanitation project. To study the lagoon's level of metal pollution, three sediment cores were taken and the sediments were analyzed for trace and major elements, acid volatile sulfides (AVS), total organic carbon (TOC), and minerals. Results showed that TOC concentrations (0.2–3.1%) decreased following the lagoon's restoration. In addition, in comparison to historical data, concentrations of Cu (16–69.5 μg g⁻¹), Zn (60.6–191.4 μg g⁻¹), and Pb (13–100.9 μg g⁻1) also decreased. Enrichment factor calculation with respect to the crust and local background showed that the sediment had long been contaminated by human pollution and especially by Pb, Zn, and Cu. The AVS to simultaneously extracted metal (SEM) ratio revealed values generally less than 1 indicating no sediment toxicity risks. Statistics revealed a detrital origin for certain metals and a diagenetic origin for FeS₂ and carbonate minerals.

https://ift.tt/2KiaKZG

Consensus statement on essential patient characteristics in systemic treatment trials for metastatic colorectal cancer: Supported by the ARCAD Group

Publication date: September 2018
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 100
Author(s): Kaitlyn K.H. Goey, Halfdan Sørbye, Bengt Glimelius, Richard A. Adams, Thierry André, Dirk Arnold, Jordan D. Berlin, György Bodoky, Aimery de Gramont, Eduardo Díaz-Rubio, Cathy Eng, Alfredo Falcone, Axel Grothey, Volker Heinemann, Howard S. Hochster, Richard S. Kaplan, Scott Kopetz, Roberto Labianca, Christopher H. Lieu, Neal J. Meropol, Timothy J. Price, Richard L. Schilsky, Hans-Joachim Schmoll, Einat Shacham-Shmueli, Qian Shi, Alberto F. Sobrero, John Souglakos, Eric Van Cutsem, John Zalcberg, Martijn G.H. van Oijen, Cornelis J.A. Punt, Miriam Koopman
BackgroundPatient characteristics and stratification factors are key features influencing trial outcomes. However, there is substantial heterogeneity in reporting of patient characteristics and use of stratification factors in phase 3 trials investigating systemic treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We aimed to develop a minimum set of essential baseline characteristics and stratification factors to include in such trials.MethodsWe performed a modified, two-round Delphi survey among international experts with wide experience in the conduct and methodology of phase 3 trials of systemic treatment of mCRC.ResultsThirty mCRC experts from 15 different countries completed both consensus rounds. A total of 14 patient characteristics were included in the recommended set: age, performance status, primary tumour location, primary tumour resection, prior chemotherapy, number of metastatic sites, liver-only disease, liver involvement, surgical resection of metastases, synchronous versus metachronous metastases, (K)RAS and BRAF mutation status, microsatellite instability/mismatch repair status and number of prior treatment lines. A total of five patient characteristics were considered the most relevant stratification factors: RAS/BRAF mutation status, performance status, primary tumour sidedness and liver-only disease.ConclusionsThis survey provides a minimum set of essential baseline patient characteristics and stratification factors to include in phase 3 trials of systemic treatment of mCRC. Inclusion of these patient characteristics and strata in study protocols and final study reports will improve interpretation of trial results and facilitate cross-study comparisons.



https://ift.tt/2MRjYL4

The effect of age on outcomes after isolated limb perfusion for advanced extremity malignancies

Publication date: September 2018
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 100
Author(s): H.G. Smith, M.J. Wilkinson, M.J.F. Smith, D.C. Strauss, A.J. Hayes
BackgroundIsolated limb perfusion (ILP) is a well-established treatment for patients with advanced extremity malignancies unsuitable for limb-conserving surgery. However, little is known about the outcomes of this treatment in elderly patients. We sought to determine the effects of age on the tolerability and efficacy of ILP for advanced extremity malignancy.Patients and methodsPatients undergoing ILP at our institution between January 2005 and January 2018 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Patients were stratified by pathology (melanoma, soft-tissue sarcoma, other) and age (<75 years and ≥75 years). Outcomes of interest were perioperative morbidity and mortality, locoregional toxicities, response rates and oncological outcomes.ResultsDuring the study period, a total of 189 perfusions were attempted. Successful perfusions were performed in 179 patients, giving a technical success rate of 94.7%. No difference in perfusion success rates, severe locoregional toxicity and perioperative morbidity or mortality was noted between those aged <75 years and ≥75 years. The overall response rate in melanoma was 82.4%, and no difference in response rates or oncological outcomes between age groups was noted in these patients. The overall response rate in soft-tissue sarcoma was 63.5%, with no difference in response rates noted between age groups. However, patients aged <75 years with soft-tissue sarcoma had prolonged local recurrence-free survival compared with older patients (13 versus 6 months), possibly due to the prevalence of chemosensitive subtypes in the younger age group.ConclusionILP is an effective treatment for advanced extremity malignancies in the elderly, with comparable response rates and toxicities to younger patients.



https://ift.tt/2KbnldW

Helminth–Bacterial Interactions: Cause and Consequence

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Trends in Immunology
Author(s): Alexis Rapin, Nicola L. Harris
Intestinal helminths, along with mutualistic microbes, have cohabited the intestine of mammals throughout evolution. Interactions between helminths, bacteria, and their mammalian hosts may shape not only host–helminth and host–microbiome interactions, but also the relationship between helminths and the microbiome. This 'ménage à trois' situation may not be completely balanced in that it may favor either the host or the parasite, possibly at the cost of the other partner. Similarly, helminths may favor the establishment of a particular microbiome with either positive or negative consequences for the overall health and well-being of the host. Recent studies indicate that infection with intestinal helminths can and does impact the intestinal microbiome, with important consequences for each partner in this tripartite relationship.



https://ift.tt/2yGeEqC

Endocrine Therapy in Premenopausal Hormone Receptor Positive/Human Epidermal Growth Receptor 2 Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer: Between Guidelines and Literature

AbstractThere is growing interest in the endocrine treatment (ET) of premenopausal women with hormone receptor positive (HR+) metastatic breast cancer (MBC). This review summarizes available data on endocrine therapy for this patient subset and aims to define the most appropriate treatment approach. The combination of luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists plus tamoxifen seems effective and safe and is considered as being superior to either approach alone; still, single‐agent therapy remains an acceptable treatment option. Due to their mechanism of action, aromatase inhibitors alone are not suitable for the treatment of premenopausal patients, but the combination with LHRH agonists may result in excellent disease control. Fulvestrant, in conjunction with LHRH agonists, also yields interesting results regarding clinical benefit rate and time to progression; currently, other orally available selective estrogen receptor downregulators are under clinical evaluation. Recently, targeted drugs have been added to ET in order to reverse endocrine resistance, but only limited information regarding their activity in premenopausal patients is available. The cyclin dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitor palbociclib when combined with fulvestrant and LHRH agonists was shown to prolong progression‐free survival over endocrine therapy alone in pretreated patients; similar results were obtained with the addition of abemacicilib or ribociclib to endocrine therapy. Currently, activity of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor everolimus in combination with letrozole and goserelin is under assessment in premenopausal patients after progression on tamoxifen (MIRACLE trial).Implications for Practice.This review provides clinicians with an overview on the available data regarding endocrine treatment of hormone receptor positive (HR+) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) in premenopausal women and summarizes the treatment options available in routine clinical practice. Knowledge of an up‐to‐date therapeutic approach in women with premenopausal HR+ MBC will lead to better disease management, thereby improving disease control and quality of life while minimizing side effects.

https://ift.tt/2KejhNu

Brain Metastases from Adult Sarcoma: Prognostic Factors and Impact of Treatment. A Retrospective Analysis from the French Sarcoma Group (GSF/GETO)

AbstractBackground.Brain metastases (BM) from adult soft tissue or bone sarcomas are rare, and sparse data exist on their prognostic factors and management.Subjects, Materials and Methods.A retrospective study was conducted in 15 centers of the French Sarcoma Group, plus one Canadian and one Swiss center, to report on clinical, histological, and treatment characteristics and to identify predictive factors of outcome.Results.Between 1992 and 2012, 246 patients with a median age of 50 years (range: 16–86) were managed for BM. BM included 221 cerebral and cerebellar metastases and 40 cases of meningeal sarcomatosis. The most frequent histopathological subtype was leiomyosarcoma (18.7%). Histological grade was high in 118 (48%) cases. Surgery of BM was carried out for 38 (15.5%) patients. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were administered in 168 (68.3%) and 91 (37.0%) patients, respectively. Irrespective of treatment modality, BM were controlled in 113 patients (45.9%), including 31 partial responses (12.6%) and 18 complete responses (7.3%). The median overall survival from diagnosis of brain metastasis was 2.7 months (range: 0–133). In the multivariate analysis, the following parameters influenced overall survival: chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.38; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26–0.48), surgery (HR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.22–0.72), stereotactic radiotherapy (HR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.19–0.90), whole‐brain radiotherapy (HR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.35–0.76), and grade (HR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.43–0.98).Conclusion.BM of sarcomas are rare and associated with a dismal outcome. Multidisciplinary management with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery is associated with a better survival. The OncologistImplications for Practice.The incidence of brain and meningeal metastasis in bone and soft tissue sarcomas is estimated between 1% and 8%. Published data are derived from small retrospective case series, often in the pediatric population. A prognostic index is important to guide both clinical decision‐making and outcomes research, but one such is lacking for adult sarcoma patients with brain metastases. The current study describes brain metastasis in a large cohort of sarcoma patients. This study, conducted within the French Sarcoma Group, describes the natural history of sarcoma brain metastasis and enables the proposal of strategic recommendations for subsequent clinical trials and for the management of such patients.

https://ift.tt/2Keyqep

Association of Immune‐Related Adverse Events with Clinical Benefit in Patients with Advanced Non‐Small‐Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Nivolumab

AbstractBackground.Immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) are frequently observed with nivolumab monotherapy. This study aimed to evaluate whether the development of irAEs correlates with treatment response in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Patients and Methods.We conducted a retrospective study of patients who received nivolumab monotherapy at Sendai Kousei Hospital (n = 70). The patients were categorized into two groups based on the incidence of irAEs: those with irAEs (irAE group) or those without (non‐irAE group). Treatment efficacy was evaluated in each group. The patients were further categorized into responders and nonresponders, and predictive factors of treatment response were determined.Results.The objective response rate was 57% in the irAE group versus 12% in the non‐irAE group. Median progression‐free survival was 12.0 months in the irAE versus 3.6 months in the non‐irAE group. The incidence of both irAEs and pre‐existing antithyroid antibody was significantly higher in responders than in nonresponders. Multivariate analysis identified incidence of irAEs and pre‐existing antithyroid antibody as an independent predictor of treatment response.Conclusion.Objective response rate and progression‐free survival were significantly better in the irAE than in the non‐irAE group in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with nivolumab monotherapy. The development of irAEs was associated with clinical efficacy, and the presence of pre‐existing antithyroid antibody might be correlated with treatment response to nivolumab monotherapy.Implications for Practice.Immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) are frequently observed with nivolumab monotherapy. This study evaluted whether the development of irAEs correlates with treatment response in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer. Results showed that the objective response rate and progression‐free survival were significantly better in the patients who developed irAEs than in the patients who did not develop irAEs, and the incidence of irAEs and positivity for antithyroid antibody at pretreatment were independent predictors of treatment response of nivolumab monotherapy. Therefore, the development of irAEs predicts clinical benefit and suggests that cautious management of irAEs can lead to achieving maximum clinical benefit from nivolumab monotherapy.

https://ift.tt/2KfYfxP

Barriers and Facilitators to Cervical Cancer Screening, Diagnosis, Follow‐Up Care and Treatment: Perspectives of Human Immunodeficiency Virus‐Positive Women and Health Care Practitioners in Tanzania

AbstractBackground.This study was conducted to identify barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening, diagnosis, follow‐up care, and treatment among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected women and clinicians and to explore the acceptability of patient navigators in Tanzania.Materials and Methods.In 2012, we conducted four focus groups, two with HIV‐positive women and two with clinicians who perform cervical cancer screening, diagnosis, follow‐up care, and treatment. Transcriptions were analyzed using thematic analysis.Results.Findings from the patient focus groups indicate the prevalence of fear and stigma surrounding cervical cancer as well as a lack of information and access to screening and treatment. The clinician focus groups identified numerous barriers to screening, diagnosis, follow‐up care, and treatment. Participants in both types of groups agreed that a patient navigation program would be an effective way to help women navigate across the cancer continuum of care including screening, diagnosis, follow‐up care, and treatment.Conclusion.Given the fear, stigma, misinformation, and lack of resources surrounding cervical cancer, it is not surprising that patient navigation would be welcomed by patients and providers. The OncologistImplications for Practice.This article identifies specific barriers to cervical cancer screening and treatment from the perspectives of both clinicians and patients in Tanzania and describes the acceptability of the concept of patient navigation.

https://ift.tt/2IkxxPx

Cognitive Changes After Adjuvant Treatment in Older Adults with Early‐Stage Breast Cancer

AbstractBackground.Group‐based trajectory modeling is particularly important to identify subgroups of patients with pathological cognitive changes after cancer treatment. To date, only one study has explored cognitive trajectories in older patients with cancer. The present article describes objective cognitive changes before to after adjuvant treatment in older adults with early‐stage breast cancer (EBC) after adjuvant treatment compared with healthy controls.Patients and Methods.Participants were patients ≥65 years of age with newly diagnosed EBC and healthy controls (age‐, sex‐, and education‐matched). The pretreatment assessment was conducted before adjuvant therapy, and the post‐treatment assessment after the end of the first adjuvant treatment. Objective cognitive changes before to after treatment were evaluated based on the Reliable Change Index for cognitive decline accounting for cognitive impairment status.Results.The sample consisted of women newly diagnosed with EBC (n = 118) and healthy controls (n = 62). Five patterns of changes before to after treatment were identified based on the presence of cognitive decline and cognitive impairment. The distribution of these five change patterns was statistically significant (p = .0001). Thirty‐six percent of patients had phase shift changes, 31% without initial objective cognitive impairment developed impairment, 15% had a normal aging, 12% had a nonpathological decline, and 6% experienced accelerated cognitive decline.Conclusion.This study described for the first time objective cognitive changes before to after treatment of older adults with EBC immediately after the end of adjuvant treatment. A longer‐term remote follow‐up of adjuvant treatment is needed to better understand the cognitive trajectories of older patients with EBC. The OncologistImplications for Practice.After the end of adjuvant treatment, 31% of older adults with early‐stage breast cancer without initial objective cognitive impairment developed impairment, and 6% experienced accelerated cognitive decline. Initial cognitive functioning should be included in the balance of benefits and harms of systemic therapy for patients who are likely to be at highest risk for cognitive decline after cancer treatments. Regular cognitive follow‐up of patients who had cognitive impairment before cancer treatment should monitor symptoms suggestive of neurodegenerative disease and avert the effect of cognitive disorders on patients' autonomy.

https://ift.tt/2K0pwoB

Protective Effects of an Obesity-Associated Polymorphism (CDKAL1 rs9356744) on Prediabetes: The Cardiometabolic Risk in Chinese (CRC) Study

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-109607

Background Obesity is strongly associated with insulin resistance and elevated plasma glucose levels. The rs9356744 polymorphism in the CDKAL1 gene is associated with body mass index (BMI) only in East Asians. Here, we examined the effect of the rs9356744 polymorphism on glucose-related traits and prediabetes in Chinese adults. Methods A total of 2 357 participants were enrolled from the Cardiometabolic Risk in Chinese (CRC) Study, including 499 persons with prediabetes, 204 persons with type 2 diabetes, and 1 654 normoglycemic controls. The rs9356744 polymorphism in CDKAL1 was genotyped and analyzed in all participants. Results Despite the positive relationship between obesity and glucose traits, the T allele of rs9356744, which is associated with a predisposition to obesity, was correlated with lower levels of 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) plasma glucose (2hPG) (β=− 0.2104 and P=0.0233), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (β=− 0.0551 and P=0.0298) and higher levels of homeostasis model of assessment β-cell function (HOMA-B) (β=5.282 and P=0.0424). After further adjustment for BMI, the levels of HOMA-B maintained a similar increased trend across rs9356744 genotype (β=3.277 and P=0.1958). In stratified analyses, the associations of rs9356744 with 2hPG and HbA1c were significant for individuals with a low BMI. Moreover, an antagonism action of BMI and rs9356744 on 2hPG (P for interaction=0.0055) was observed. In addition, we found a protective effect of rs9356744 on prediabetes. Conclusions The CDKAL1 rs9356744 T allele associated with a predisposition to obesity showed a protective effect on HbA1c, 2hPG, and prediabetes. BMI was mediator of the association between the genetic variant and HbA1c, 2hPG, and prediabetes.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text

https://ift.tt/2yJPgAH

Development of homologous enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to quantify two forms of vitellogenin in guppy ( Poecilia reticulata )

Abstract

Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a promising model organism in toxicological studies, and vitellogenin (Vtg) is a commonly used biomarker for environmental estrogens. Although an ELISA for guppy Vtg has been developed previously, we found that guppy had two forms of Vtgs. In this study, two Vtgs were characterized and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for each Vtg were developed. Two Vtgs purified from 17β-estradiol (E₂)-exposed guppy were characterized as phospholipoglycoproteins with molecular weights of ~ 520 and ~ 480 kDa, respectively. In SDS-PAGE, one purified Vtg appeared as three major bands of ~ 210, ~ 126, and ~ 102 kDa, and the other revealed a clear band of ~ 68 kDa. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry analysis showed that they were VtgAb and VtgC. Using purified Vtgs and their corresponding antibodies, two sandwich ELISAs with working ranges of 7.8~1000 and 15.6~500 ng/mL were developed. Precision tests showed that intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variations of both ELISAs were below 10%. Parallelism between Vtg standard curves and serial dilutions of whole body homogenate from E₂-exposed guppy confirmed that two ELISAs could quantify guppy Vtgs. Furthermore, two ELISAs were used to measure Vtg inductions in liver, caudal fin and whole body of male guppy exposed to 17a-ethinylestradiol to validate their use for detecting estrogenic effects of exogenous chemicals. These homologous Vtg ELISAs will promote the use of guppy as a model organism to study estrogenic chemicals.

https://ift.tt/2tlTdX5

PLEASE DON’T STOP THE MUSIC: SONG COMPLETION IN PATIENTS WITH APHASIA

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Journal of Communication Disorders
Author(s): Anna Kasdan, Swathi Kiran
Aphasia, an acquired language disorder resulting from brain damage, affects over one million individuals in the United States alone. Many persons with aphasia (PWA), particularly those with non-fluent aphasia, have been observed to be able to sing the lyrics of songs more easily than they can speak the same words. The observation that not only singing, but even humming a melody, can facilitate speech output in PWA provided the foundation for Melodic Intonation Therapy (MIT). The current study examined PWA's ability to complete phrases from songs by either singing, speaking, or intoning them in an experimental stem-completion format. Twenty PWA of varying severity, all but one of whom had aphasia as a result of stroke, and 20 age-matched healthy controls participated in the task. The task consisted of three conditions (sung, spoken, and melodic) each consisting of 20 well-known songs. Participants heard the first half of a phrase that was either sung in its original format (sung condition), spoken (spoken condition), or intoned on the syllable "bum," (melodic condition) and were asked to complete the phrase according to the format in which the stimulus was presented. PWA scored highest in the sung condition, followed by the spoken and then melodic conditions, while controls scored comparably in the sung and spoken condition and much lower in the melodic condition. PWA and controls were better able to access both the melody and lyrics of songs in the sung condition than in the melodic and spoken conditions, respectively. Here, melody confers an advantage for word retrieval for PWA, as lyric production is better in a sung context, and these results support the theoretical framework of MIT. Additionally, the present results may be attributed to the integration hypothesis, which postulates that the text and tune of a song are integrated in memory such that there exists a stronger salience of the text of songs over the tune of songs in memory. Interestingly, a subset of the most severe PWA scored higher in the melodic condition relative to the spoken condition, while the opposite trend was found for less severe PWA and for controls. Taken together, our results suggest that singing appears to influence PWA when trying to access the lyrics of songs; access to melody is preserved in PWA even while they exhibit profound and diverse language impairments. Findings may have implications for using music as a more widely implemented tool in speech therapy for PWA.



https://ift.tt/2yC5QlO

Designer probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum expressing oxalate decarboxylase developed using group II intron degrades intestinal oxalate in hyperoxaluric rats

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Eldho Paul, Abhishek Albert, Sasikumar Ponnusamy, Srishti Rajkumar Mishra, Amalraj Ganesh Vignesh, Selvi Mariaraj Sivakumar, Gomathi Sivasamy, Selvam Govindan Sadasivam
Increased intestinal absorption of oxalate causes hyperoxaluria, a major risk factor for kidney stone disease. Intestinal colonization of recombinant probiotic bacteria expressing oxalate-degrading gene (OxdC) is an effective therapeutic option for recurrent calcium oxalate (CaOx) stone disease. Therefore, we aimed to develop food-grade probiotic L. plantarum secreting OxdC using lactococcal group II intron, Ll.LtrB and evaluate its oxalate degradation ability in vivo. Male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups. The rats of group I received normal rat chow and drinking water. Groups II, III and IV rats received 5 % potassium oxalate containing diet for 28 days. Groups III and IV rats received L. plantarum and food-grade recombinant L. plantarum respectively from 15 to 28 days. Biochemical parameters and crystalluria were analysed in 24 h urine samples. At the end of experimental period, rats were sacrificed; intestine and kidneys were dissected out for colonization studies and histopathological analysis. Herein, we found that the administration of recombinant probiotics significantly reduced the urinary oxalate, calcium, urea, and creatinine levels in rats of group IV compared to group II. Furthermore, colonization studies indicated that recombinant probiotics have gastrointestinal transit and intestinal colonization ability similar to that of wild-type bacteria. In addition, gene expression studies revealed down-regulation of OPN and KIM-1 among group IV rats. Histopathological analysis showed less evidence of nephrocalcinosis in group IV rats. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that food-grade L. plantarum secreting OxdC is capable of degrading intestinal oxalate and thereby prevent CaOx stone formation in experimental rats.



https://ift.tt/2tvEp7f

Degradation kinetics of chlorpyrifos and diazinon in volcanic and non-volcanic soils: influence of cyclodextrins

Abstract

The intensive use of insecticides such as chlorpyrifos (CPF) and diazinon (DZN) in the agricultural activities worldwide has produced contamination of soils and/or transport to non-target areas including their distribution to surface and groundwaters. Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been proposed as an alternative in remediation technologies based on the separation of contaminants from soils because they could allow a higher bioavailability for their degradation with a low environmental impact. In this work, the degradation pattern of CPF and DZN and the formation and dissipation of the major degradation products 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP) and 2-isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol (IMPH) was established in four agricultural volcanic and non-volcanic soils belonging to Andisol, Ultisol, and Mollisol orders. Both pesticides were highly adsorbed in these soils, consequently, with a greater probability of contaminating them. In contrast, the adsorption of their two main metabolites was low or null; therefore, they are potential groundwater contaminants. The degradation processes were studied in the natural and amended soils with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and methyl-β-cyclodextrin (Mβ-CD) for CPF and DZN, respectively. A slow degradation of CPF and DZN was obtained for volcanic soils with observable residues until the end of the incubation time (150–180 days). In Mollisols, the higher degradation rate of CPF was favored by the neutral to basic pH, and for DZN it was related to the lower adsorption and higher bioavailability. The amendment of soils with CDs produced slower degradation rates which led to a greater concentration of the compounds at the end of the incubation time. This effect was more pronounced for DZN. The exception was the Andisol, with no significant changes for both compounds regarding the unamended soil. No residues of TCP were observed for this soil in both conditions during the whole incubation time; nevertheless, the accumulation of TCP was significant in the Ultisol and Mollisols, but the concentrations were lower for the amended soils. The accumulation of IMPH was important in Mollisol amended soils; however, their residues were observed in the volcanic soils during the whole incubation period in the natural and amended soils. An important enhancement of the microbial activity occurred in the system β-CD/CPF in Mollisols, without a more effective degradation of the insecticide. The opposite effect was observed in the system Mβ-CD/DZN mainly in the oxidative activity in all soils. The higher degradation of DZN and IMPH in natural Mollisols was related to the higher hydrolytic and oxidative activities. The stability of the inclusion complexes formed could play an important role for explaining the results obtained with the amendments.

https://ift.tt/2tspJG8

Paper-based electrochemical sensor for on-site detection of the sulphur mustard

Abstract

Herein, we report a novel paper-based electrochemical sensor for on-site detection of sulphur mustards. This sensor was conceived combining office paper-based electrochemical sensor with choline oxidase enzyme to deliver a sustainable sensing tool. The mustard agent detection relies on the evaluation of inhibition degree of choline oxidase, which is reversibly inhibited by sulphur mustards, by measuring the enzymatic by-product H₂O₂ in chronoamperometric mode. A nanocomposite constituted of Prussian Blue nanoparticles and Carbon Black was used as working electrode modifier to improve the electroanalytical performances. This bioassay was successfully applied for the measurement of a sulphur mustard, Yprite, obtaining a detection limit in the millimolar range (LOD = 0.9 mM). The developed sensor, combined with a portable and easy-to-use instrumentation, can be applied for a fast and cost-effective detection of sulphur mustards.

https://ift.tt/2luIcyk

Spinal fluid evacuation may provide temporary relief for patients with unexplained widespread pain and fibromyalgia

Publication date: September 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses, Volume 118
Author(s): M. Hulens, R. Rasschaert, W. Dankaerts, I. Stalmans, G. Vansant, F. Bruyninckx
Fibromyalgia (FM) exhibits characteristics of a neurological disorder, and similarities have been identified between FM and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IICH). When intracranial pressure rises, the drainage of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through the subarachnoid space of the cranial and spinal nerves increases. Higher CSF pressure irritates nerve fibers inside nerve root sheaths and may consequently cause radicular pain, as was reported in patients with IICH. Moreover, the cut-off of 20–25 cm H20 used to define IICH may be too high, as has been suggested in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. We hypothesize that the neurological symptoms of FM are caused by the dysregulation of cerebrospinal pressure (CSP) and that spinal fluid drainage can relieve this pain.Exploring the processes underlying increased CSP may provide an alternative explanation for the generation of unexplained widespread pain (WSP) and FM as opposed to central sensitization.Additionally, when performing a lumbar puncture for diagnostic reasons, it is useful to measure opening pressure in patients with chronic WSP.



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Letter to the editor: Evaluation of anatomical and round breast implant aesthetics and preferences in Dutch young lay and plastic surgeon cohort

We had the great pleasure of reading the interesting article entitled "Evaluation of anatomical and round breast implant aesthetics and preferences in Dutch young lay and plastic surgeon cohort" by van der Lei et al.1 We would like to congratulate the authors on their thorough work investigating the aesthetic results and preferences of anatomical and round breast implant.

https://ift.tt/2Ii2xzI

White matter connectivity between occipital and temporal regions involved in face and voice processing in hearing and early deaf individuals

Publication date: 1 October 2018
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 179
Author(s): Stefania Benetti, Lisa Novello, Chiara Maffei, Giuseppe Rabini, Jorge Jovicich, Olivier Collignon
Neuroplasticity following sensory deprivation has long inspired neuroscience research in the quest of understanding how sensory experience and genetics interact in developing the brain functional and structural architecture. Many studies have shown that sensory deprivation can lead to cross-modal functional recruitment of sensory deprived cortices. Little is known however about how structural reorganization may support these functional changes. In this study, we examined early deaf, hearing signer and hearing non-signer individuals using diffusion MRI to evaluate the potential structural connectivity linked to the functional recruitment of the temporal voice area by face stimuli in deaf individuals. More specifically, we characterized the structural connectivity between occipital, fusiform and temporal regions typically supporting voice- and face-selective processing. Despite the extensive functional reorganization for face processing in the temporal cortex of the deaf, macroscopic properties of these connections did not differ across groups. However, both occipito- and fusiform-temporal connections showed significant microstructural changes between groups (fractional anisotropy reduction, radial diffusivity increase). We propose that the reorganization of temporal regions after early auditory deprivation builds on intrinsic and mainly preserved anatomical connectivity between functionally specific temporal and occipital regions.



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Local volume fraction distributions of axons, astrocytes, and myelin in deep subcortical white matter

Publication date: 1 October 2018
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 179
Author(s): Santiago Coelho, Jose M. Pozo, Marina Costantini, J. Robin Highley, Meghdoot Mozumder, Julie E. Simpson, Paul G. Ince, Alejandro F. Frangi
This study aims to statistically describe histologically stained white matter brain sections to subsequently inform and validate diffusion MRI techniques. For the first time, we characterise volume fraction distributions of three of the main structures in deep subcortical white matter (axons, astrocytes, and myelinated axons) in a representative cohort of an ageing population for which well-characterized neuropathology data is available. We analysed a set of samples from 90 subjects of the Cognitive Function and Ageing Study (CFAS), stratified into three groups of 30 subjects each, in relation to the presence of age-associated deep subcortical lesions. This provides volume fraction distributions in different scenarios relevant to brain diffusion MRI in dementia. We also assess statistically significant differences found between these groups. In agreement with previous literature, our results indicate that white matter lesions are related with a decrease in the myelinated axons fraction and an increase in astrocytic fraction, while no statistically significant changes occur in axonal mean fraction. In addition, we introduced a framework to quantify volume fraction distributions from 2D immunohistochemistry images, which is validated against in silico simulations. Since a trade-off between precision and resolution emerged, we also performed an assessment of the optimal scale for computing such distributions.



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Structural correlates of literacy difficulties in the second language: Evidence from Mandarin-speaking children learning English

Publication date: 1 October 2018
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 179
Author(s): Hehui Li, James R. Booth, Nathalie N. Bélanger, Xiaoxia Feng, Mengyu Tian, Weiyi Xie, Manli Zhang, Yue Gao, Chen Ang, Xiujie Yang, Li Liu, Xiangzhi Meng, Guosheng Ding
Several neuroimaging studies have explored the neural basis of literacy difficulties in the second language (L2). However, it remains unclear whether the associated neural alterations are related to literacy abilities in the first language (L1). Using magnetic resonance imaging, we explore this issue with two experiments in Mandarin-speaking children learning English as second language. In the first experiment, we investigated children with literacy difficulties in L2 and L1 (poor in both, PB) and children with literacy difficulties only in L2 (poor in English, PE). We compared the brain structure in these two groups to a control literacy (CL) group. The results showed that the CL group had significantly less gray matter volume in the left supramarginal gyrus compared to the PB group and moderately less gray matter volume compared to the PE group. In addition, the PB group had significant greater gray matter volume in the left medial fusiform gyrus compared to the PE group and had marginally greater gray matter volume compared to the CL group. In the second experiment, we explored the relationship between the two atypical regions and literacy abilities in the two languages in an independent sample consisting of children with typical literacy. Correlation analyses revealed that the left supramarginal gyrus was significantly associated with literacy performance only in the second language, English, whereas the left medial fusiform gyrus did not correlate with the performances in either L1 or L2. Taken together, these findings suggest that literacy difficulties in an alphabetic L2 are associated with a structural abnormality in the left supramarginal gyrus, a region implicated in phonological processing, which is independent of literacy abilities in the native language.



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Scholar : Molecular and Clinical Oncology - Volume:9 Number:2

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TABLE OF CONTENTS August-2018 Volume 9 Issue 2

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Cell cycle checkpoint control: The cyclin G1/Mdm2/p53 axis emerges as a strategic target for broad‑spectrum cancer gene therapy - A review of molecular mechanisms for oncologists Erlinda M. Gordon, Joshua R. Ravicz, Seiya Liu, Sant P. Chawla, Frederick L. Hall View Abstract ❯
Impact of multidisciplinary tumor boards on patients with rectal cancer (Review) Argyrios Ioannidis, Michael Konstantinidis, Sotirios Apostolakis, Christos Koutserimpas, Nikolaos Machairas, Konstantinos M. Konstantinidis View Abstract ❯
Prognostic significance of pre‑treatment neutrophil‑to‑lymphocyte and platelet‑to‑lymphocyte ratios in non‑surgically treated uterine cervical carcinoma Kohei Nakamura, Kentaro Nakayama, Nagisa Tatsumi, Toshiko Minamoto, Tomoka Ishibashi, Kaori Ohnishi, Hitomi Yamashita, Ruriko Ono, Hiroki Sasamori, Sultana Razia, Shanta Kamrunnahar, Masako Ishikawa, Satoru Kyo View Abstract ❯
Extraskeletal osteosarcoma in right neck subcutaneous tissue: A case report of an extremely rare tumour Jin‑Shan Zhang, Ge Wen, Yuan Liu, Zhao‑Hong Wu, Gang‑Dong Chen, Hao Wang, Tong‑Chong Zhou View Abstract ❯
Induction chemotherapy in patients with resectable laryngeal cancer: A meta-analysis Pei Gao, Liang Gong, Xuefeng Wang View Abstract ❯
Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration associated with breast cancer: A case report and review of the literature Lanyun Yan, Xin Dong, Huan Xu, Jingjing Huang, Wei Wang, Lin Huang, Qi Wan, Jie Gong View Abstract ❯
Atypical presentation of a cushion sign-positive stomach gastrointestinal stromal tumor with cystic formation: A case report Yutaka Okagawa, Tetsuya Sumiyoshi, Hideyuki Ihara, Shutaro Oiwa, Kaho Tokuchi, Masahiro Yoshida, Ryoji Fujii, Takeyoshi Minagawa, Kohtaro Morita, Michiaki Hirayama, Hitoshi Kondo, Yumiko Oyamada, Yo Kawarada, Shuji Kitashiro, Shunichi Okushiba View Abstract ❯
Safe administration of bevacizumab combination chemotherapy for the patients with recurrent cervical cancer after pelvic radiotherapy: Two case reports Tadahiro Shoji, Ryosuke Takeshita, Rika Mukaida, Eriko Takatori, Takayuki Nagasawa, Hideo Omi, Toru Sugiyama View Abstract ❯
Ultrasound-guided intranodal lymphangiography with lipiodol for treatment of chylous ascites following surgery for ovarian cancer: A case report Kohei Nakamura, Kentaro Nakayama, Toshiko Minamoto, Tomoka Ishibashi, Kaori Ohnishi, Hitomi Yamashita, Ruriko Ono, Hiroki Sasamori, Sultana Razia, Shanta Kamrunnahar, Masako Ishikawa, Satoru Kyo View Abstract ❯
Double cancer comprising malignant pleural mesothelioma and squamous cell carcinoma of the lung treated with radiotherapy: A case report Yoshiki Negi, Kozo Kuribayashi, Hiroshi Doi, Norihiko Funaguchi, Yuichi Koda, Eriko Fujimoto, Koji Mikami, Toshiyuki Minami, Takashi Yokoi, Takashi Kijima View Abstract ❯
Lymphoproliferative disorder with pathological fracture of the femur in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis treated with methotrexate: A case report Naoto Oebisu, Manabu Hoshi, Makoto Ieguchi, Tadashi Iwai, Sayaka Tanaka, Masahiko Osawa, Hiroaki Nakamura View Abstract ❯
Favorable response to pemetrexed, cisplatin and bevacizumab in invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma: A case report and literature review Xian Wen Sun, Yong Jie Ding, Yu Yan Zhang, Pei Li Chen, Ya Ru Yan, Ji Min Shen, Qing Yun Li View Abstract ❯
Pure small-cell carcinoma of the prostate presenting with increasing prostate-specific antigen levels: A case report and review of the literature Jia Hu, Tao He, Lu Jin, Yifan Li, Yang Zhao, Wenhua Li, Benlin Wei, Xiang Ming Mao, Yong Qing Lai, Liang Chao Ni View Abstract ❯
Cost-effectiveness and safety of the molecular targeted drugs afatinib, gefitinib and erlotinib as first-line treatments for patients with advanced EGFR mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer M. Kimura, F. Yasue, E. Usami, S. Kawachi, M. Iwai, M. Go, Y. Ikeda, T. Yoshimura View Abstract ❯
Tuberculoma with phlegmon‑like symptoms mimicking soft tissue sarcoma in the wrist: A case report Kazuhiko Hashimoto, Shunji Nishimura, Naohiro Oka, Ryosuke Kakinoki, Masao Akagi View Abstract ❯
Primary ovarian signet ring cell carcinoma: A rare case report Ji Hye Kim, Hee Jeong Cha, Kyu-Rae Kim, Kyungbin Kim View Abstract ❯
Descending necrotizing mediastinitis after sequestrectomy in a patient with bisphosphonate‑induced osteonecrosis of the jaw: A case report Tamaki Tamanuki, Tomoyoshi Aoyagi, Akiyuki Murano, Hiroshi Matsuzaki View Abstract ❯
Management of MANEC of the colon and rectum: A comprehensive review of the literature Anna Paspala, Nikolaos Machairas, Anastasia Prodromidou, Eleftherios Spartalis, Argyrios Ioannidis, Ioannis D. Kostakis, Dimetrios Papaconstantinou, Nikolaos Nikiteas View Abstract ❯
Ruptured hepatoblastoma successfully treated with cisplatin monochemotherapy: A case report Tianyou Yang, Tianbao Tan, Jiliang Yang, Jing Pan, Chao Hu, Jiahao Li, Tao Xu, Yan Zou View Abstract ❯
Malignant potential of epithelioid angiomyolipomas of the liver: A case report and comprehensive review of the literature Zoe Garoufalia, Nikolaos Machairas, Ioannis D. Kostakis, Aliki Liakea, Petros Tsaparas, George Liapis, Georgios C. Sotiropoulos View Abstract ❯
Coexistence of adenomyosis, adenocarcinoma, endometrial and myometrial lesions in resected uterine specimens Seza Tetikkurt, Elif Çelik, Hazal Taş, Tugce Cay, Selman Isık, Abdullah Taner Usta View Abstract ❯
[Corrigendum] Adrenal collision tumor (parachordoma and ganglioneuroma): A case report Yulin Lai, Liang Zhou, Jia Hu, Wenhua Li, Lin Cui, Yongqing Lai, Liangchao Ni View Abstract ❯

20-22 September, 2018, Metropolitan Hotel, Athens, Greece 23nd World Congress on Advances in Oncology & 22th International Symposium on Molecular Medicine 18-19 September 2018, Pre-Congress Workshop: 'MicroRNA Analysis'

28-30 March, 2019, Tawana Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand 23 rd International Symposium on Molecular Medicine

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Ionizing radiation-induced cellular senescence promotes tissue fibrosis after radiotherapy. A review

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
Author(s): Hoang Quy Nguyen, Nhu Hanh To, Patricia Zadigue, Stéphane Kerbrat, Alexandre De La Taille, Sabine Le Gouvello, Yazid Belkacemi
Ionizing radiation-exposure induces a variety of cellular reactions, such as senescence and apoptosis. Senescence is a permanent arrest state of the cell division, which can be beneficial or detrimental for normal tissue via an inflammatory response and senescence-associated secretion phenotype. Damage to healthy cells and their microenvironment is considered as an important source of early and late complications with an increased risk of morbidity in patients after radiotherapy (RT). In addition, the benefit/risk ratio may depend on the radiation technique/dose used for cancer eradication and the irradiated volume of healthy tissues. For radiation-induced fibrosis risk, the knowledge of mechanisms and potential prevention has become a crucial point to determining radiation parameters and patients' intrinsic radiosensitivity. This review summarizes our understanding of ionizing radiation-induced senescent cell in fibrogenesis. This mechanism may provide new insights for therapeutic modalities for better risk/benefit ratios after RT in the new era of personalized treatments.



https://ift.tt/2MNA6gJ

Consideration of future consequences as a moderator of the willingness-behavior relationship for young adult marijuana use and consequences

Publication date: December 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 87
Author(s): Melissa A. Lewis, Dana M. Litt, Kevin M. King, Tracey A. Garcia, Katja A. Waldron, Christine M. Lee
The Prototype Willingness Model is a dual-processing (i.e., intentional and socially reactive) health-risk behavior model. The socially reactive path includes behavioral willingness, descriptive normative perceptions, and favorable images of individuals who engage in health-risk behavior (prototype favorability) as important predictors of health behaviors. Individual differences (such as consideration of future consequences) may potentiate the effects of behavioral willingness on health-risk outcomes, such as marijuana use. Given limited research investigating marijuana use and the Prototype Willingness Model, the goals of the current study were: 1) examine consideration of future consequences and Prototype Willingness Model social reaction pathway variables in relation to behavioral willingness to use marijuana longitudinally; and 2) determine if consideration of future consequences moderated the behavioral willingness-marijuana use relation prospectively. Young adults (N = 769) from a larger longitudinal study completed baseline and 3 follow-up assessments (Months 3, 4, 5). Behavioral willingness was positively related to a higher likelihood of use, more days having used marijuana, and more consequences prospectively, over and above baseline use. Consideration of future consequences moderated the association between behavioral willingness and hours high in a typical week. These findings support the willingness-behavior association of the Prototype Willingness Model and preliminarily demonstrate consideration of future consequences' differential impact on behavioral willingness-future marijuana use relation. Intervention and prevention implications are discussed.



https://ift.tt/2MQz1EO

Personal and perceived peer use and attitudes towards use of non-prescribed prescription sedatives and sleeping pills among university students in seven European countries

Publication date: December 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 87
Author(s): Gesa Lehne, Hajo Zeeb, Claudia R. Pischke, Rafael Mikolajczyk, Bridgette M. Bewick, John McAlaney, Robert C. Dempsey, Guido Van Hal, Christiane Stock, Yildiz Akvardar, Ondrej Kalina, Olga Orosova, Ines Aguinaga-Ontoso, Francisco Guillen-Grima, Stefanie M. Helmer
IntroductionThe use of non-prescribed prescription sedatives and sleeping pills (NPPSSP) among university students has been described as an important public health issue. However, the impact of perceived social norms on students' use and attitudes towards use of NPPSSP is still unclear. Our aim was to investigate whether perceptions of peer use and approval of use are associated with students' personal use and approval of NPPSSP use.MethodsCross-sectional data from the Social Norms Intervention for the prevention of Polydrug Use (SNIPE) project containing 4482 university students from seven European countries were analyzed to investigate self-other discrepancies regarding personal use and attitudes towards NPPSSP use. Associations between personal and perceived peer use and between personal and perceived approval of use were examined using multivariable logistic regression.ResultsThe majority (51.0%) of students perceived their peers' NPPSSP use to be higher than their personal use. 92.6% of students perceived their peers' approval of NPPSSP use to be identical or higher than their personal approval. Students perceiving that the majority of peers had used NPPSSP at least once displayed higher odds for personal lifetime use (OR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.49–2.55). Perceived peer approval of NPPSSP use was associated with higher odds for personal approval (OR: 5.49, 95% CI: 4.63–6.51).ConclusionsAmong European university students, perceiving NPPSSP use and approval of use to be the norm was positively associated with students' personal NPPSSP use and approval of use, respectively. Interventions addressing perceived social norms may prevent or reduce NPPSSP use among university students.Final trial registration number: DRKS00004375 on the 'German Clinical Trials Register'.



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Prescription tranquilizer/sedative misuse prevalence and correlates across age cohorts in the US

Publication date: December 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 87
Author(s): Ty S. Schepis, Christian J. Teter, Linda Simoni-Wastila, Sean Esteban McCabe
BackgroundPrescription tranquilizer/sedative (e.g., alprazolam, zolpidem) misuse (i.e., use in ways not intended by the prescriber or without a prescription) is understudied, with little research identifying misuse correlates. Identification of key correlates could identify subgroups more likely to engage in misuse, allowing for targeted treatment. This work examines tranquilizer/sedative use and misuse prevalence rates and misuse correlates across U.S. age cohorts, using nationally representative data.MethodsData were from the 2015–16 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (n = 114,043). Analyses used design-based logistic regression for past-year tranquilizer/sedative misuse correlates across participants or those engaged in past-year use; past-month misuse correlates were also examined in those with past-year misuse.ResultsYoung adults (18–25 years) had the highest prevalence of past-year and past-month tranquilizer/sedative misuse, with 42.8% of those with past-year use also engaged in misuse. Mental health correlates were associated with past-year misuse, while substance use, particularly opioid misuse, was associated with both past-year and past-month misuse. Substance use correlate strength was most likely to vary by age group, with older adults (65 years and older) having fewer significant correlates overall.ConclusionsThis work highlighted young adults and those with other substance use as most likely to engage in tranquilizer/sedative misuse. In particular, those endorsing suicidality and reporting opioid misuse are a subgroup of concern, given their especially elevated rates of misuse and the increased risk for overdose imparted by tranquilizer/sedative medication. Workplace-based interventions for young adults and school-based universal prevention may be warranted to limit tranquilizer/sedative misuse in these groups.



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Cigarette smoking duration mediates the association between future thinking and norepinephrine level

Publication date: December 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 87
Author(s): Jenny E. Ozga, Nicholas J. Felicione, Melissa D. Blank, Nicholas A. Turiano
Fixating on the present moment rather than considering future consequences of behavior is considered to be a hallmark of drug addiction. As an example, cigarette smokers devalue delayed consequences to a greater extent than nonsmokers, and former smokers devalue delayed consequences more than nonsmokers, but less than current smokers. Further, cigarette smokers have higher norepinephrine levels than nonsmokers, which is indicative of poor future health outcomes. It is unclear how duration of cigarette smoking may impact these associations. The current secondary analysis of publicly available data investigated whether extent of future thinking is associated with smoking duration, as well as norepinephrine level, in a large national US sample (N = 985) of current, former, and never smokers. Individuals scoring lower on future thinking tended to smoke for longer durations and had higher norepinephrine levels relative to individuals scoring higher on future thinking. In addition, duration of cigarette abstinence interacted significantly with future thinking and smoking duration for former smokers. Specifically, the mediation relationship between future thinking, smoking duration, and norepinephrine level for former smokers was strongest at shorter durations of cigarette abstinence and decreased as a function of increasing duration of cigarette abstinence. Overall, results from this study suggest the potential importance of implementing smoking cessation treatments as early as possible for smokers and support future thinking as a potential therapeutic target for smoking cessation treatment.



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Tips for dyeing hair when you have psoriasis

People with psoriasis can dye their hair safely. However, there are factors to consider before, during, and after applying the dye. In this article, learn about the risks, and seven tips developed to help people with psoriasis to dye their hair safely. We also describe how to prevent flare-ups on the scalp.

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Transcranial magnetic stimulation in hereditary ataxias: Diagnostic utility, pathophysiological insight and treatment

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology, Volume 129, Issue 8
Author(s): Roberto Rodríguez-Labrada, Luis Velázquez-Pérez, Ulf Ziemann
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a valuable technique to assess and modulate human brain function in normal and pathological conditions. This critical review surveys the contributions of TMS to the diagnosis, insight into pathophysiology and treatment of genetically confirmed hereditary ataxias, a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders that can affect motor cortex and the corticospinal tract. Most studies were conducted on small sample sizes and focused on diagnostic approaches. The available data demonstrate early involvement of the corticospinal tract and motor cortex circuitry, and support the possible efficacy of cerebellar repetitive TMS (rTMS) as therapeutic approach. Further TMS-based studies are warranted, to establish biomarkers for early diagnosis and disease monitoring, explore the involvement of the cerebello-dentato-thalamo-cortical projection, study the effects of rTMS-induced plasticity, and utilize rTMS for treatment.



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Parenting styles, food-related parenting practices, and children's healthy eating: A meditation analysis to examine relationships between parenting and child diet

Publication date: 1 September 2018
Source:Appetite, Volume 128
Author(s): Nanette V. Lopez, Susan Schembre, Britni R. Belcher, Sydney O'Connor, Jaclyn P. Maher, Reout Arbel, Gayla Margolin, Genevieve F. Dunton
Parents exert a strong influence on their children's diet. While authoritative parenting style is linked to healthier weight and dietary outcomes in children, and authoritarian and permissive parenting styles with unhealthy eating, little is known about the mechanisms that mediate these relationships. Feeding styles are often examined in relation to child diet, but they do not consider the social and physical environmental contexts in which dietary behaviors occur. Therefore, this study examined whether parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive) were associated with three specific food-related parenting practices - mealtime structural practices (e.g., eating meals as a family), parent modeling of healthy food, and household food rules and whether these parenting practices mediated the association between parenting styles and children's diet. Participants were 174 mother-child dyads. Mothers (68% married, 58% college graduates, Mage = 41 years [SD = 6.2]) reported on their parenting practices using validated scales and parenting style using the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire. Children (52% female, Mage = 10 years [SD = 0.9]) completed two telephone-based 24-hour dietary recalls. Dietary outcomes included the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2010 score, and fruit and vegetables and added sugar intake. Using PROCESS, multiple mediation cross-sectional analyses with parallel mediators using 10,000 bootstraps were performed. Significant indirect effects were observed with mealtime structure and the relationships between authoritative parenting and HEI-2010 score (b = 0.045, p < .05, CI = [0.006, 0.126]), authoritarian parenting and HEI-2010 score (b = −0.055, p < .05, CI = [-0.167, −0.001]), and permissive parenting and HEI-2010 score (b = −0.093, p < .05, CI = [-0.265, −0.008]). Child diet quality is affected by mealtime structural practices. Further examination of the features by which mealtime structural practices serve as a mechanism for parents to support healthy eating among their children may improve children's diet quality.



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Mobility and natural attenuation of metals and arsenic in acidic waters of the drainage system of Timok River from Bor copper mines (Serbia) to Danube River

Abstract

Bor, Krivelj, and Bela Rivers belong to the watershed of Timok River, which is a tributary of transboundary Danube River. These rivers receive metal-rich acidic wastewater from metallurgical facilities and acid mine drainage (AMD) from mine wastes around Bor copper mines. The aim of this study was to determine the mobility and natural attenuation of metals and arsenic in rivers from Bor copper mines to Danube River during the year 2015. The results showed that metallurgical facilities had the largest impact on Bor River by discharging about 400 t of Cu per year through highly acidic wastewater (pH = 2.6). The highest measured concentrations of Cu in river water and sediments were 40 mg L⁻¹ and 1.6%, respectively. Dissolution of calcite from limestone bedrock and a high concentration of bicarbonate ions in natural river water (about 250 mg L⁻¹) enhanced the neutralization of acidic river water and subsequent chemical precipitation of metals and arsenic. Decreases in the concentrations of Al, Fe, Cu, As, and Pb in river water were mainly due to precipitation on the river bed. On the other hand, dilution played an important role in the decreases in concentrations of Mn, Ni, Zn, and Cd. Chemically precipitated materials and flotation tailings containing Fe-rich minerals (fayalite, magnetite, and pyrite) were transported toward Danube River during the periods of high discharge. This study showed that processes of natural attenuation in catchments with limestone bedrock play an important role in reducing concentrations of metals and arsenic in AMD-bearing river water.

https://ift.tt/2tsauwV