Publication date: Available online 17 April 2017
Source:Materials Today
Author(s): Tarah N. Sullivan, Bin Wang, Horacio D. Espinosa, Marc A. Meyers
Flight is not the exclusive domain of birds; mammals (bats), insects, and some fish have independently developed this ability by the process of convergent evolution. Birds, however, greatly outperform other flying animals in efficiency and duration; for example the common swift (Apus apus) has recently been reported to regularly fly for periods of 10 months during migration. Birds owe this extraordinary capability to feathers and bones, which are extreme lightweight biological materials. They achieve this crucial function through their efficient design spanning multiple length scales. Both feathers and bones have unusual combinations of structural features organized hierarchically from nano- to macroscale and enable a balance between lightweight and bending/torsional stiffness and strength. The complementary features between the avian bone and feather are reviewed here, for the first time, and provide insights into nature's approach at creating structures optimized for flight. We reveal a novel aspect of the feather vane, showing that its barbule spacing is consistently within the range 8–16μm for birds of hugely different masses such as Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna) (4g) and the Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) (11,000g). Features of the feather and bone are examined using the structure-property relationships that define Materials Science. We elucidate the role of aerodynamic loading on observed reinforced macrostructural features and efficiently tailored shapes adapted for specialized applications, as well as composite material utilization. These unique features will inspire synthetic structures with maximized performance/weight for potential use in future transportation systems.
http://ift.tt/2oj4FOm
Δευτέρα 17 Απριλίου 2017
Extreme lightweight structures: avian feathers and bones
LALF 32-51 -E7 therapeutic vaccine induces antitumor immunity against human papillomavirus type 16 E7-expressing murine tumor metastases in the lungs
Abstract
One important goal of cancer immunotherapy is to prevent and treat tumor metastasis. We have previously reported the significant antitumor effect induced by the immunization with our human papillomavirus therapeutic protein-based vaccine (LALF32-51-E7) without adjuvant and admixed with clinically relevant adjuvants in the subcutaneous TC-1 tumor challenge model. In the present study, we evaluated the efficacy of the above mentioned vaccine formulations in controlling the hematogenous spread of TC-1 tumor cells using a more tumourigenic clone named TC-1* and other intravenous injection site less stressful than the tail vein. We generated a lung metastasis model by injecting TC-1* cells into the retro-orbital venous sinus and this is the first study describing it. Also, this is the first study that demonstrates the efficacy of the immunization with LALF32-51-E7 without adjuvant and admixed with VSSP or Al(OH)3 in controlling metastatic tumors increasing the survival of the mice. Our TC-1 lung metastasis model can be used to test the efficacy of other immunotherapeutic strategies based on E6/E7 antigens.
http://ift.tt/2pLlbqJ
Nasal ala reconstruction: Surgical conundrum
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):55-58
http://ift.tt/2nWO3jw
Should advertising by aesthetic surgeons be permitted?
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):48-48
http://ift.tt/2nWK2LK
Autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix in non-healing trophic ulcers in patients with Hansen's disease
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):3-7
Background: Non-healing trophic ulcers in Hansen's disease patients is one of the major causes for disability. It has been shown that autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) is effective in healing chronic non-healing leg ulcers. Aim: The objective of this study is to demonstrate the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) in non-healing trophic ulcers in patients treated for Hansen's disease. Design: A prospective study. Setting: An institution-based clinic. Participants: Seven treated patients with Hansen's disease, with a mean age of 38.33 years, with nine non-healing trophic ulcer of more than 6 weeks duration. Measurements: Photographs were taken before treatment and at every subsequent sitting. Area and volume were calculated at baseline and every subsequent sitting till the closure was achieved. Materials and Methods: The healthy ulcers were treated with PRFM at weekly intervals, repeated once a week for a maximum of five sittings as per requirement. Results: The mean percentage improvement in the area was 93.52%, and volume was 97.74% at the end of the second sitting. All ulcers closed by a maximum of five sittings. No adverse events were noted. Conclusion: PRFM for the treatment of trophic ulcers in treated patients with Hansen's disease is a feasible, safe, simple and inexpensive method.
http://ift.tt/2nWK2ve
Accelerated wound healing: Harnessing the power of platelets, biomaterials, stem cells and gene therapy
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):1-2
http://ift.tt/2pLl26R
Comparison of efficacy of autologous platelet-rich fibrin versus saline dressing in chronic venous leg ulcers: A randomised controlled trial
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):8-12
Background: Venous leg ulcer is a chronic condition, and various treatment modalities are available. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is one of the newer modalities and it contains fibroblast growth factor (GF), vascular endothelial GF, angiopoitin and platelet-derived GF which enhances the wound healing. Hence, we conducted a randomised controlled trial to compare the efficacy of PRF versus saline dressing in chronic venous leg ulcers. Aim: This study aims to compare the efficacy of autologous PRF with saline dressing in patients with chronic venous leg ulcer and to compare the mean reduction in ulcer area at the end of 4 weeks. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients with chronic venous leg ulcers of >6 months duration having an ulcer area of 1 cm × 1 cm to 5 cm × 5 cm were taken into the study and were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1: Patients received PRF dressing. Ten millilitres of patient's blood was taken and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 15 min. A fibrin clot obtained in the middle of the tube was removed and used for dressing over the wound surface. It was repeated every week for 4 weeks. Group 2: Patients received saline dressings once a week for 4 weeks. The assessment of the ulcer size was done with the help of photographs, and ulcer area was measured. Results: The mean reduction in the area of the ulcer size in PRF group was 85.51%, and the mean reduction in the area of the ulcer size in Saline group was 42.74% which was statistically significant with a P< 0.001 and t = 4.11. Conclusion: We conclude that PRF dressing can be used as it is effective, inexpensive, safe and an outpatient procedure.
http://ift.tt/2nWNOoJ
Plaque like giant dermatofibroma: A case report
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):51-53
Dermatofibroma, also known as benign fibrous histiocytoma, is a soft-tissue tumour that usually occurs in the mid-adult life and shows a slight female predominance. Giant dermatofibroma, a very rare clinical variant, is characterised by its unusually large size, benign biological behaviour despite its large size and same histopathological characteristics as conventional dermatofibroma. We report a 63-year-old woman who presented with a large tumour on the scapular region which showed histopathological features of benign dermatofibroma.
http://ift.tt/2pLhG3x
Using amniotic membrane as a novel method to reduce post-burn hypertrophic scar formation: A prospective follow-up study
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):13-17
Background: Several studies have shown that the application of amniotic membrane as a biological dressing in the management of burns is accompanied by rapid re-epithelialisation. In this follow-up study, we aimed to evaluate the possible role of amniotic membrane as an adjunct to split thickness skin grafting on reducing itching and severity of hypertrophic scar formation. Materials and Methods: From October 2013 to January 2015, in a prospective follow-up study, 54 patients (108 limbs) with second and third degree burns, covering 4%–15% of total body surface area (TBSA), were included in the study. All patients needed split-thickness skin grafts for burn-wound coverage. Selected patients had symmetric burns on two (upper or lower) extremities. Then, in every patient, the extremities were randomly divided into two groups: In one limb, the skin graft was traditionally fixed with skin staples (control group) and in the other limb, the skin graft was covered with an amniotic membrane (amnion group). Therefore, in every patient, the graft was covered with an amniotic membrane in one extremity and fixed with skin staples in the other extremity. Finally, after 6 months, the degree of itching and hypertrophic scar formation was compared between the two groups. Results: The study group was composed of 108 limbs in 54 patients (27 males and 27 females) with a mean age of 23.54 % 4.9 years and burn 9.03 % 2.69% TBSA. The patients were divided into two groups: 54 limbs in amnion group and 54 limbs in control group. In 59.25% of the cases, patient had less itching in the extremity covered with amniotic membrane. Furthermore, in 64.81% of the cases, patients had less hypertrophic scar formation in the extremity covered with amniotic membrane. These differences were statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Amniotic membrane used as an adjunct in split thickness skin grafting is a novel modality which significantly reduces scar formation and itching that can be greatly distressing to burn patients. However, still more prospective well designed studies are needed to prove it.
http://ift.tt/2nWDVXX
Successful management of dowling-degos disease with combination of Q-switched Nd: YAG and fractional carbon dioxide laser
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):60-62
http://ift.tt/2pLchK2
A comparative study of collagen dressing versus petrolatum gauze dressing in reducing pain at the donor area
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):18-21
Background: Skin graft is one of the commonly done procedures by plastic surgeons, dermato surgeons and general surgeons. Pain at the donor area is a common complaint by the patient. The skin graft donor site area is usually covered with petrolatum dressing dermatosurgeons. Aim: This study was done to compare collagen dressing with petroleum gauze dressing in control of post-operative pain on skin graft donor area. Materials and Methods: The study was done on forty patients, twenty as study group who received collagen dressing and twenty as control group who received petroleum gauze dressing. The procedure was randomly selected by permutated block size of four. The post-operative pain was assessed with numerical pain rating scale 0 to 10. Nursing staff did the recording of pain scale. The nursing staff was not aware whether patient had collagen or petroleum gauze dressing. Statistics: Statistical analysis used was independent 't'-test (two-sample test) and Levene's test. Results: Statistics proved that study group (collagen dressing) had lesser pain than control group (petroleum gauze dressing). Conclusion: The collagen sheet dressing on skin graft donor area reduces pain in post-operative period.
http://ift.tt/2pLelBz
Should advertising by aesthetic surgeons be permitted?
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):45-47
Cosmetic, aesthetic and cutaneous surgical procedures require qualified specialists trained in the various procedures and competent to handle complications. However, it also requires huge investments in terms of infrastructure, trained staff and equipment. To be viable advertising is essential to any establishment which provides cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. Business men with deep pockets establish beauty chains which also provide these services and advertise heavily to sway public opinion in their favour. However, these saloons and spas lack basic medical facilities in terms of staff or equipment to handle any complication or medical emergency. To have a level playing field ethical advertising should be permitted to qualified aesthetic surgeons as is permitted in the US and UK by their respective organisations.
http://ift.tt/2nWBzbG
Nasolabial perforator flap for one-stage reconstruction of nasal defects
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):22-27
Background: The excellent freedom of movement and range of this flap when based on a the nasolabial perforator flap have not been sufficiently explored. In this study, along with demonstrating the other key advantages of this flap over its traditional counterpart, we will endeavour to fill these lacunae in the available literature. Materials and Methods: From February 2009 to February 2012, twenty patients with nasal defects were repaired with a nasolabial perforator flap in the Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. Of these, two patients (10%) underwent the procedure bilaterally. Thus, a total of 22 nasolabial perforator flap procedures were carried out. Prospectively, collected clinical records and data of each patient were retrospectively retrieved and reviewed to study the nasal defect and surgery done. Results: All the twenty (100%) patients had good functional and aesthetic outcome. All patients who had nasal stenosis preoperatively had very good improvement in the patency of the nasal passages, breathing and nasal blockage with complete recovery of symptoms. The patients were entirely satisfied with the functional recovery. Conclusions: The reliability and versatility of the nasolabial perforator flap exceed its recognised application in reconstruction of nasal defects and it must form a part of every plastic surgeon's armamentarium.
http://ift.tt/2pL9OiS
Spring-loaded syringe for multiple rapid injections
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):49-50
Mesotherapy refers to multiple injections of small quantity of the drug over a large area. The mesoguns available are expensive and the motor-driven models tends to waste the expensive material to be injected since the plunger stops after injecting without recoil. We searched for a less expensive device which would inject like the mesogun and still not waste the solution. On searching the web, we identified a spring-loaded syringe. We describe the assembly and use of this inexpensive syringe for delivering multiple injections with minimal wastage.
http://ift.tt/2nWKxG0
Intra-individual right-left comparative study of medium depth peels in superficial nail abnormalities
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):28-32
Background: Superficial nail abnormalities include conditions which produce nail surface changes such as trachyonychia, pitting and ridging. Mostly, this is a neglected area due to the dearth of treatment options. Glycolic acid peeling has been reported to be effective in such cases. Aim: This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of medium depth peels (70% glycolic acid versus phenol combination peel [8% phenol with 15% trichloroacetic acid]) in patients with superficial nail abnormalities. Materials and Methods: A right-left comparative study in patients with superficial nail abnormalities was done. On the right finger or toenails phenol combination peels and on the left side 70% glycolic acid was used in a predefined protocol over 12 weeks. The severity was assessed objectively by a new devised index (Nail Surface abnormality Index (NSI]). Patient's subjective perception of severity was assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and that of the physician was assessed by Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) scores. Results: A total of 17 patients were enrolled, two dropped out and 15 patients were included in the final analysis (mean age 19.2 years, total 120 nails treated). The mean NSI score declined from 7.88 % 0.45 to 4.02 % 0.45 on the right side; and from 8.0 % 0.45 to 4.32 % 0.44 on left side, at the end of 12 weeks. The VAS declined from 6.57 % 0.26 to 3.87 % 0.33 on right side and from 6.32 % 0.28 to 3.78 % 0.32 on left side. According to PGA score, five patients showed good improvement, seven showed moderate improvement and three responded poorly. Conclusion: Both the medium depth peels were found to be safe and equally efficacious modalities for treatment of superficial nail abnormalities.
http://ift.tt/2pLfvgD
Reconstruction with dorsal nasal flap after excision of basal cell carcinoma of the nose
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):54-55
http://ift.tt/2nWI5PP
Comparative study of efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin a injections and subcutaneous curettage in the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):33-39
Background: Primary focal axillary hyperhidrosis is a chronic distressing disorder affecting both the sexes. When the condition is refractory to conservative management, we should go for more promising therapies like intradermal botulinum toxin A (BtxA) injections in the axilla, and surgical therapies like subcutaneous curettage of sweat glands. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy, safety and duration of action of intradermal BtxA injections in one axilla and subcutaneous curettage of sweat glands in the other axilla of the same patient with axillary hyperhidrosis. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients (40 axillae) received intradermal BtxA injections on the right side (20 axillae) and underwent tumescent subcutaneous curettage of sweat glands on the left side (20 axillae). Sweat production rate was measured using gravimetry analyses at baseline and at 3 months after the procedure. Subjective analyses were done using hyperhidrosis disease severity scale (HDSS) score at baseline, at 3rd and 6th month after the procedure. Results: At 3 months post-treatment, the resting sweat rate in the toxin group improved by 80.32% versus 79.79% in the subcutaneous curettage method (P = 0.21). Exercise-induced sweat rate in the toxin group improved by 88.76% versus 88.8% in the subcutaneous curettage group (P = 0.9). There was a significant difference in the HDSS score after treatment with both the modalities. There were no adverse events with BtxA treatment compared to very minor adverse events with the surgical method. Conclusion: Both intradermal BtxA injections and tumescent subcutaneous curettage of sweat glands had a significant decrease in the sweat rates with no significant difference between the two modalities. Hence, in resource poor settings where affordability of BtxA injection is a constraint, subcutaneous curettage of sweat glands can be preferred which has been found equally effective with no or minimal adverse events.
http://ift.tt/2nWRQgC
Squamous cell carcinoma of the nail bed: The great mimicker
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):59-60
http://ift.tt/2pLkVIt
Long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser and intense pulse light-755 nm for idiopathic facial hirsutism: A comparative study
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):40-44
Background: Hirsutism means excessive terminal hair growth in a female in male pattern distribution. Perception of hirsutism is subjective. Permanent laser hair reduction is a slow process taking many sessions and tracking of improvement parameters is tedious. Hence, a lot of confusion still exists regarding the type of laser most beneficial for treatment. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety profile of long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm) and intense pulse light (IPL)-755 nm in management of idiopathic facial hirsutism. Settings and Design: Open-labelled, randomly allocated experimental study. Subjects and Methods: The study included 33 cases of idiopathic facial hirsutism. Patients were randomly divided into Group A, treated with long-pulsed Nd: YAG laser and Group B, treated with IPL-755 for a total of six sessions at 1 month interval. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test was used in Medcalc® version 9.0 and the test of significance was taken to be P< 0.05. Results: Average percentage of improvement in Group A, according to patients at each sessions were 46.33%, 70.66%, 81.66%, 84.67%, 85.33%, 87.33% and that in Group B were 28.06%, 39.72%, 52.22%, 64.72%, 67.78%, 71.11%, respectively. Excellent response (>75% reduction in hair) after six sessions in Group A was seen in fourteen (93.33%) out of fifteen patients, whereas in Group B, it was seen only in three (16.66%) out of eighteen patients. In Group A, erythema was seen in 26.67%, perifollicular edema and hyperpigmentation in 13.33% each. In Group B, erythema was seen in 50% patients, perifollicular edema in 16.67% and hyperpigmentation in 38.89% patients. Conclusions: Long-pulsed Nd: YAG Laser (1064 nm) is better than IPL-755 nm in terms of safety and effectiveness in the management of idiopathic facial hirsutism.
http://ift.tt/2pLkXQB
Erratum: Recurrent adult nasal dermoid cyst
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery 2017 10(1):63-63
http://ift.tt/2pLjObR
The reliability and criterion validity of 2D video assessment of single leg squat and hop landing
Publication date: Available online 17 April 2017
Source:Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology
Author(s): Lee Herrington, Faisal Alenezi, Msaad Alzhrani, Hasan Alrayani, Richard Jones
The objective was to assess the intra-tester, within and between day reliability of measurement of hip adduction (HADD) and frontal plane projection angles (FPPA) during single leg squat (SLS) and single leg landing (SLL) using 2D video and the validity of these measurements against those found during 3D motion capture. 15 healthy subjects had their SLS and SLL assessed using 3D motion capture and video analysis. Inter-tester reliability for both SLS and SLL when measuring FPPA and HADD show excellent correlations (ICC2,1 0.97-0.99). Within and between day assessment of SLS and SLL showed good to excellent correlations for both variables (ICC3,1 0.72-91). 2D FPPA measures were found to have good correlation with knee abduction angle in 3-D (r = 0.79, p = 0.008) during SLS, and also to knee abduction moment (r = 0.65, p =0.009). 2D HADD showed very good correlation with 3D HADD during SLS (r = 0.81, p = 0.001), and a good correlation during SLL (r = 0.62, p =0.013). All other associations were weak (r<0.4). This study suggests that 2D video kinematics have a reasonable association to what is being measured with 3D motion capture.
http://ift.tt/2pb7fKr
Prevalence and Descriptive Epidemiology of Atopic Dermatitis and Its Impact on Quality of Life in Singapore
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic, pruritic skin condition that is known to negatively impact the quality of life (QOL) of patients1,2. Due to its increasing prevalence, AD can impose a substantial economic burden on a country's healthcare system.3 A study in 2002 found a prevalence of 20.8% of AD in Singapore schoolchildren aged between 7 and 12 years4.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2oFK9se
Label-free electrochemical biosensing of small-molecule inhibition on O-GlcNAc glycosylation
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 95
Author(s): Yu Yang, Yuxin Gu, Bin Wan, Xiaomin Ren, Liang-Hong Guo
O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) transferase (OGT) plays a critical role in modulating protein function in many cellular processes and human diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and type II diabetes, and has emerged as a promising new target. Specific inhibitors of OGT could be valuable tools to probe the biological functions of O-GlcNAcylation, but a lack of robust nonradiometric assay strategies to detect glycosylation, has impeded efforts to identify such compounds. Here we have developed a novel label-free electrochemical biosensor for the detection of peptide O-GlcNAcylation using protease-protection strategy and electrocatalytic oxidation of tyrosine mediated by osmium bipyridine as a signal reporter. There is a large difference in the abilities of proteolysis of the glycosylated and the unglycosylated peptides by protease, thus providing a sensing mechanism for OGT activity. When the O-GlcNAcylation is achieved, the glycosylated peptides cannot be cleaved by proteinase K and result in a high current response on indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. However, when the O-GlcNAcylation is successfully inhibited using a small molecule, the unglycosylated peptides can be cleaved easily and lead to low current signal. Peptide O-GlcNAcylation reaction was performed in the presence of a well-defined small-molecule OGT inhibitor. The results indicated that the biosensor could be used to screen the OGT inhibitors effectively. Our label-free electrochemical method is a promising candidate for protein glycosylation pathway research in screening small-molecule inhibitors of OGT.
http://ift.tt/2oFggZr
Lateral hypothalamic circuits for sleep–wake control
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 44
Author(s): Takayuki Yamashita, Akihiro Yamanaka
The lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) of the diencephalon is crucially involved in controlling instinctive behavior such as sleep–wake cycle and feeding behavior. LHA is a heterogeneous structure that contains spatially intermingled, genetically distinct cell populations. Among LHA neurons, orexin/hypocretin (OX) neuron is the key cell type that promotes waking, and specific loss of OX neurons results in narcolepsy. Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) containing neurons are known to be active during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and stimulation of these neurons promotes REM sleep. Here we review the classical and more recent findings in this field and discuss the molecular and cellular network organization of LHA neurons that could ultimately regulate the switch between wakefulness and general states of sleep.
http://ift.tt/2nVRBCI
Editorial overview: Neurobiology of learning and plasticity 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology
Author(s): Tim P Vogels, Leslie C Griffith
http://ift.tt/2nVV2Jk
Acute Noncardiovascular Illness in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit
AbstractBackground
Fifty years after the inception of the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU), noncardiovascular illnesses have become more prevalent and may contribute to morbidity and mortality.
ObjectivesThe authors performed multivariate statistical analyses to determine the association of acute noncardiovascular illnesses with outcomes, including length of stay (LOS), mortality, and hospital readmission.
MethodsWe studied 1,042 admissions between October 12, 2013 and November 28, 2014 to the CICU at the University of Virginia Health System, a tertiary-care academic medical center. Through systematic inspection of individual charts, we identified primary and secondary diagnoses, vital sign measurements, length of stay (LOS), hospital readmissions, and mortality.
ResultsThe most common primary diagnosis was acute coronary syndrome (25%), which consisted of both non–ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (14%) and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (11%). Sepsis was the most frequent noncardiovascular primary diagnosis (5%), but it only occurred in 16% of all admissions. Acute kidney injury and acute respiratory failure each occurred in 30% of admissions. One-half of all admissions (n = 524; 50%) were marked by acute respiratory failure, acute kidney injury, or sepsis. Median LOS in the CICU and the hospital were 2 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 1 to 5 days) and 6 days (IQR: 3 to 11 days). Mortality was 7% in the CICU and 12% in the hospital. Of the 920 patients who survived to hospital discharge, 171 (19%) were readmitted within 30 days. Sepsis, acute kidney injury, and acute respiratory failure were associated with mortality. Acute kidney injury, acute respiratory failure, and new-onset subclinical atrial fibrillation, which occurred in 8% of admissions, were all associated with CICU LOS.
ConclusionsMany patients in the modern CICU have acute noncardiovascular illnesses that are associated with mortality and increased LOS.
http://ift.tt/2oPNZBb
Clinical Trial Principles and Endpoint Definitions for Paravalvular Leaks in Surgical Prosthesis: An Expert Statement
Abstract
The VARC (Valve Academic Research Consortium) for transcatheter aortic valve replacement set the standard for selecting appropriate clinical endpoints reflecting safety and effectiveness of transcatheter devices, and defining single and composite clinical endpoints for clinical trials. No such standardization exists for circumferentially sutured surgical valve paravalvular leak (PVL) closure. This document seeks to provide core principles, appropriate clinical endpoints, and endpoint definitions to be used in clinical trials of PVL closure devices. The PVL Academic Research Consortium met to review evidence and make recommendations for assessment of disease severity, data collection, and updated endpoint definitions. A 5-class grading scheme to evaluate PVL was developed in concordance with VARC recommendations. Unresolved issues in the field are outlined. The current PVL Academic Research Consortium provides recommendations for assessment of disease severity, data collection, and endpoint definitions. Future research in the field is warranted.
http://ift.tt/2oizHWX
Bleeding-Related Deaths in Relation to the Duration of Dual-Antiplatelet Therapy After Coronary Stenting
AbstractBackground
Although some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have suggested that prolonged dual-antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) may be associated with increased mortality, the mechanistic underpinnings of this association remain unclear.
ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to analyze the associations among bleeding, mortality, and DAPT duration after drug-eluting stent implantation in a meta-analysis of RCTs.
MethodsRCTs comparing different DAPT durations after drug-eluting stent placement were sought through the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases and the proceedings of international meetings. Deaths were considered possibly bleeding related if occurring within 1 year of the episodes of bleeding. Primary analysis was by intention-to-treat. Secondary analysis was performed in a modified intention-to-treat population in which events occurring when all patients were on DAPT were excluded.
ResultsIndividual patient data were obtained for 6 RCTs, and aggregate data were available for 12 RCTs. Patients with bleeding had significantly higher rates of mortality compared with those without, and in a time-adjusted multivariate analysis, bleeding was an independent predictor of mortality occurring within 1 year of the bleeding episode (hazard ratio: 6.93; 95% confidence interval: 4.53 to 10.60; p < 0.0001). Shorter DAPT was associated with lower rates of all-cause death compared with longer DAPT (hazard ratio: 0.85; 95% confidence interval: 0.73 to 1.00; p = 0.05), which was driven by lower rates of bleeding-related deaths with shorter DAPT compared with prolonged DAPT (hazard ratio: 0.65; 95% confidence interval: 0.43 to 0.99; p = 0.04). Mortality unrelated to bleeding was comparable between the 2 groups. Similar results were apparent in the modified intention-to-treat population.
ConclusionsBleeding was strongly associated with the occurrence of mortality within 1 year after the bleeding event. Shorter compared with longer DAPT was associated with lower risk for bleeding-related death, a finding that may underlie the lower all-cause mortality with shorter DAPT in the RCTs of different DAPT durations after DES.
http://ift.tt/2oPGOcy
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators With Versus Without Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With a QRS Duration >180 ms
AbstractBackground
More than 20% of Medicare beneficiaries receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT-D) have a very wide (≥180 ms) QRS complex duration (QRSD). Outcomes of CRT-D in these patients are not well-established because they have been underrepresented in clinical trials.
ObjectivesThis study examined outcomes in patients with CRT-D in a very wide QRSD with left bundle branch block (LBBB) versus those without LBBB.
MethodsMedicare patients from the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Registry (January 1, 2005, through April 30, 2006) with a CRT-D and confirmed Class I or IIa indications for CRT-D were matched to implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) patients without CRT despite having Class I or IIa indications for CRT. Mortality and heart failure hospitalizations longer than 4 years with CRT-D versus standard ICDs based on a QRSD and morphology were analyzed.
ResultsWe analyzed 24,960 patients. Among those with LBBB, patients with a QRSD ≥180 ms had a greater adjusted survival benefit with CRT-D versus standard ICD (hazard ration [HR] for death: 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.59 to 0.72) compared with those having a QRSD 120 to 149 ms (HR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.80 to 0.92) and 150 to 179 ms (HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.81 to 0.93). CRT-D versus ICD was associated with an improvement in survival in those with LBBB and a QRSD ≥180 ms (adjusted HR for death: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.68 to 0.91), but not in those with LBBB and a QRSD 150 to 179 ms (adjusted HR for death: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.95 to 1.19).
ConclusionsImprovements in both survival and heart failure hospitalizations with CRT-D were greatest in patients with a QRSD ≥180 ms with or without LBBB, whereas patients with a QRSD 150 to 179 ms without LBBB had no improvement in survival with CRT-D, and those with a QRSD 150 to 179 ms and LBBB had only a modest improvement.
http://ift.tt/2oPvE7q
Improving Atrial Fibrillation Therapy: Is There a Gene for That?
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an all-too-common and often challenging reality of clinical care. AF leads to significant morbidity and mortality; however, currently available treatments for AF have modest efficacy and high recurrence rates. In recent years, genetic therapy approaches have been explored in preclinical models of AF, and offer potential as a treatment modality with targeted delivery, tissue specificity, and therapy tailored to address mechanisms underlying the arrhythmia. However, many challenges remain before gene therapy can advance to a clinically relevant AF treatment. In this review, we summarize the available published data on gene therapy and discuss the challenges, opportunities, and limitations of this approach.
http://ift.tt/2oiBTxq
Quality of Life After Surgery or DES in Patients With 3-Vessel or Left Main Disease
AbstractBackground
In the SYNTAX (Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery) trial, patients with 3-vessel or left main coronary artery disease (CAD) had improved long-term outcomes with coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery compared with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents (DES), improvements driven mainly by differences in myocardial infarction and repeat revascularization.
ObjectivesThis study compared the long-term quality-of-life benefits of DES-PCI versus CABG for patients with 3-vessel or left main CAD.
MethodsBetween 2005 and 2007, the SYNTAX trial randomized 1,800 patients with 3-vessel or left main CAD to either CABG or DES-PCI. Health status was assessed at baseline and at 1, 6, 12, 36, and 60 months by using the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey.
ResultsAt 5-year follow-up, CABG was superior to DES-PCI on several SAQ domains including angina frequency and physical function, as well as the role physical and role emotional scales of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a significant interaction between angiographic complexity (as assessed by the SYNTAX score) and angina relief (mean difference in the SAQ angina frequency score for CABG vs. PCI of –0.9, 3.3, and 3.9 points for low, intermediate, and high SYNTAX score patients, respectively; p = 0.048 for interaction).
ConclusionsAmong patients with 3-vessel or left main CAD, both CABG and DES-PCI were associated with substantial and sustained quality-of-life benefits over 5 years of follow-up. In general, CABG resulted in greater angina relief, although the absolute treatment benefit was small. Angina relief at 5 years was enhanced with CABG among patients with high SYNTAX scores, a finding reinforcing the recommendation that CABG should be strongly preferred for such patients. (Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery [SYNTAX]; NCT00114972)
http://ift.tt/2oPypWe
ANGPTL3 Deficiency and Protection Against Coronary Artery Disease
AbstractBackground
Familial combined hypolipidemia, a Mendelian condition characterized by substantial reductions in all 3 major lipid fractions, is caused by mutations that inactivate the gene angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3). Whether ANGPTL3 deficiency reduces risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) is unknown.
ObjectivesThe study goal was to leverage 3 distinct lines of evidence—a family that included individuals with complete (compound heterozygote) ANGPTL3 deficiency, a population based-study of humans with partial (heterozygote) ANGPTL3 deficiency, and biomarker levels in patients with myocardial infarction (MI)—to test whether ANGPTL3 deficiency is associated with lower risk for CAD.
MethodsWe assessed coronary atherosclerotic burden in 3 individuals with complete ANGPTL3 deficiency and 3 wild-type first-degree relatives using computed tomography angiography. In the population, ANGPTL3 loss-of-function (LOF) mutations were ascertained in up to 21,980 people with CAD and 158,200 control subjects. LOF mutations were defined as nonsense, frameshift, and splice-site variants, along with missense variants resulting in <25% of wild-type ANGPTL3 activity in a mouse model. In a biomarker study, circulating ANGPTL3 concentration was measured in 1,493 people who presented with MI and 3,232 control subjects.
ResultsThe 3 individuals with complete ANGPTL3 deficiency showed no evidence of coronary atherosclerotic plaque. ANGPTL3 gene sequencing demonstrated that approximately 1 in 309 people was a heterozygous carrier for an LOF mutation. Compared with those without mutation, heterozygous carriers of ANGPTL3 LOF mutations demonstrated a 17% reduction in circulating triglycerides and a 12% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Carrier status was associated with a 34% reduction in odds of CAD (odds ratio: 0.66; 95% confidence interval: 0.44 to 0.98; p = 0.04). Individuals in the lowest tertile of circulating ANGPTL3 concentrations, compared with the highest, had reduced odds of MI (adjusted odds ratio: 0.65; 95% confidence interval: 0.55 to 0.77; p < 0.001).
ConclusionsANGPTL3 deficiency is associated with protection from CAD.
http://ift.tt/2oiqca6
Impact of season and different vitamin D thresholds on prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in epidemiological cohorts—a note of caution
Abstract
Purpose
We investigated the impact of different cut-offs on the prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-(OH)D] deficiency.
Methods
We used baseline data of 4149 participants (45–75 years, 50% women) of the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall study. Serum 25-(OH)D was measured with the Roche Cobas assay. Quartiles (p25, p50, and p75) were calculated. Data were stratified by months, sex, and age. According to the recommendations of 'Dachverband Osteologie', Endocrine Society and National Institute of Health we used 25-(OH)D thresholds of 12, 20, and 30 ng/ml to estimate vitamin D deficiency.
Results
Overall the median of 25-(OH)D was 19.8 ng/ml (p25 = 14.4 ng/ml, p75 = 26.6 ng/ml), with highest concentrations in July (p50 = 23.8 ng/ml, p25 = 18.2 ng/ml, and p75 = 31.2 ng/ml) and lowest in March (p50 = 15.8 ng/ml, p25 = 11.5 ng/ml, and p75 = 20.6 ng/ml). Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency rose from 16, 51 up to 83% using the cut-offs of <12, <20 ng/ml, and <30 ng/ml, respectively. With respect to seasonal variance, prevalence of vitamin D deficiency rose to 92% in February/March using the cut-off <30 ng/ml (<12: 28%, <20 ng/ml: 71%) whereas in June/July prevalence of vitamin D deficiency decreased to 71% (<12: 6%, <20 ng/ml: 30%). The chance to attest the diagnosis of vitamin D deficiency for cut-off 12 ng/ml in March is 6.4-fold higher than in June, for cut-off 20 ng/ml, 5.5-fold higher and for cut-off 30 ng/ml, 3.1-fold higher.
Conclusions
Guidelines to define vitamin D deficiency revealed extremely different prevalence rates ranging between 6 and 92%. Accounting for collection time and antecedent sun exposure are important to reduce bias in research studies and improve decision-making in clinical care. Vitamin D thresholds have to be rethought.
http://ift.tt/2pqkdE6
Characterization and pyrolysis of Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis: potential of bio-oil and chemical production by Py-GC/MS analysis
Abstract
Biofuels have been seen as potential sources to meet future energy demand as a renewable and sustainable energy source. Despite the fact that the production technology of first-generation biofuels is consolidated, these biofuels are produced from foods crops such as grains, sugar cane, and vegetable oils competing with food for crop use and agricultural land. In recent years, it was found that microalgae have the potential to provide a viable alternative to fossil fuels as source of biofuels without compromising food supplies or arable land. On this scenario, this paper aims to demonstrate the energetic potential to produce bio-oil and chemicals from microalgae Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis. The potential of these biomasses was evaluated in terms of physical-chemical characterization, thermogravimetric analysis, and analytical pyrolysis interfaced with gas chromatograph (Py-GC/MS). The results show that C. vulgaris and A. platensis are biomasses with a high heating value (24.60 and 22.43 MJ/kg) and low ash content, showing a high percentage of volatile matter (72.49 and 79.42%). These characteristics confirm their energetic potential for conversion process through pyrolysis, whereby some important aromatic compounds such as toluene, styrene, and phenol were identified as pyrolysis products, which could turn these microalgae a potential for biofuels and bioproduct production through the pyrolysis.
http://ift.tt/2pulh6W
Effect of Home and Community-Based Physical Activity Interventions on Physical Function among Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Publication date: Available online 17 April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Maria C. Swartz, Zakkoyya H. Lewis, Elizabeth J. Lyons, Kristofer Jennings, Addie Middleton, Rachel R. Deer, Demi Arnold, Kaitlin Dresser, Kenneth J. Ottenbacher, James S. Goodwin
ObjectiveWe reviewed randomized trials to examine the effect of home and community-based physical activity interventions on physical functioning among cancer survivors based on the most prevalent physical function measures.Data SourcesFive electronic databases—Medline Ovid, Pubmed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsychINFO—were searched from inception to March 2016 for relevant articles.Study SelectionSearch terms included: community-based interventions, physical functioning, and cancer survivors. A reference librarian trained in systematic reviews conducted the final search. Detail protocol is registered on PROSPERO (http://ift.tt/W2LRof) CRD42016036730.Data ExtractionFour reviewers evaluated eligibility and two reviewers evaluated methodological quality. Data were abstracted from studies that used the most prevalent physical function measurement tools—Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36, Late Life Function and Disability Instrument, European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire, and six minute walk test. Random or fixed effects models were conducted to obtain overall effect size per physical function measure.Data SynthesisFourteen studies met inclusion criteria and were used to compute standardized mean differences using inverse variance statistical method. The median sample size was 83 participants. The majority of the studies were conducted among breast cancer survivors (n = 7). The interventions produced short-term positive effects on physical functioning with overall effect sizes ranging from small (0.17, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.27) to medium (0.45, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.67). Community-based interventions that met in groups and used behavioral change strategies produced the largest effect sizes.ConclusionsHome and community-based physical activity interventions may be a potential tool to combat functional deterioration among aging cancer survivors. More studies are needed among other cancer types using clinically relevant objective functional measures (e.g., gait speed) to accelerate translation into the community and clinical practice.
http://ift.tt/2pJDRqZ
Development and Preliminary Psychometrics of the Exercise Therapy Burden Questionnaire for Patients with Chronic Conditions
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): William Martin, Clémence Palazzo, Serge Poiraudeau
http://ift.tt/2pJnPNO
Impact of season and different vitamin D thresholds on prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in epidemiological cohorts—a note of caution
Abstract
Purpose
We investigated the impact of different cut-offs on the prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-(OH)D] deficiency.
Methods
We used baseline data of 4149 participants (45–75 years, 50% women) of the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall study. Serum 25-(OH)D was measured with the Roche Cobas assay. Quartiles (p25, p50, and p75) were calculated. Data were stratified by months, sex, and age. According to the recommendations of 'Dachverband Osteologie', Endocrine Society and National Institute of Health we used 25-(OH)D thresholds of 12, 20, and 30 ng/ml to estimate vitamin D deficiency.
Results
Overall the median of 25-(OH)D was 19.8 ng/ml (p25 = 14.4 ng/ml, p75 = 26.6 ng/ml), with highest concentrations in July (p50 = 23.8 ng/ml, p25 = 18.2 ng/ml, and p75 = 31.2 ng/ml) and lowest in March (p50 = 15.8 ng/ml, p25 = 11.5 ng/ml, and p75 = 20.6 ng/ml). Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency rose from 16, 51 up to 83% using the cut-offs of <12, <20 ng/ml, and <30 ng/ml, respectively. With respect to seasonal variance, prevalence of vitamin D deficiency rose to 92% in February/March using the cut-off <30 ng/ml (<12: 28%, <20 ng/ml: 71%) whereas in June/July prevalence of vitamin D deficiency decreased to 71% (<12: 6%, <20 ng/ml: 30%). The chance to attest the diagnosis of vitamin D deficiency for cut-off 12 ng/ml in March is 6.4-fold higher than in June, for cut-off 20 ng/ml, 5.5-fold higher and for cut-off 30 ng/ml, 3.1-fold higher.
Conclusions
Guidelines to define vitamin D deficiency revealed extremely different prevalence rates ranging between 6 and 92%. Accounting for collection time and antecedent sun exposure are important to reduce bias in research studies and improve decision-making in clinical care. Vitamin D thresholds have to be rethought.
http://ift.tt/2pqkdE6
The Blood Brain Barrier and Neuropsychiatric Lupus: New perspectives in light of advances in understanding the neuroimmune interface
Source:Autoimmunity Reviews
Author(s): Ariel D. Stock, Sivan Gelb, Ofer Pasternak, Ayal Ben-Zvi, Chaim Putterman
Experts have previously postulated a linkage between lupus associated vascular pathology and abnormal brain barriers in the immunopathogenesis of neuropsychiatric lupus. Nevertheless, there are some discrepancies between the experimental evidence, or its interpretation, and the working hypotheses prevalent in this field; specifically, that a primary contributor to neuropsychiatric disease in lupus is permeabilization of the blood brain barrier. In this commonly held view, any contribution of the other known brain barriers, including the blood-cerebrospinal fluid and meningeal barriers, is mostly excluded from the discussion. In this review we will shed light on some of the blood brain barrier hypotheses and try to trace their roots. In addition, we will suggest new research directions to allow for confirmation of alternative interpretations of the experimental evidence linking the pathology of intra-cerebral vasculature to the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric lupus.
http://ift.tt/2pqbdi8
Timing of high-efficacy therapy in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: A systematic review
Source:Autoimmunity Reviews
Author(s): Bernd Merkel, Helmut Butzkueven, Anthony L. Traboulsee, Eva Havrdova, Tomas Kalincik
BackgroundImmunotherapy initiated early after first presentation of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is associated with improved long-term outcomes. One can therefore speculate that early initiation of highly effective immunotherapies, with an average efficacy that is superior to the typical first-line therapies, could further improve relapse and disability outcomes. However, the most common treatment strategy is to commence first-line therapies, followed by treatment escalation in patients who continue to experience on-treatment disease activity. While this monitoring approach is logical, the current lack of effective regenerative or remyelinating therapies behoves us to consider high-efficacy treatment strategies from disease onset (including induction therapy) in order to prevent irreversible disability.ObjectiveIn this systematic review, we evaluate the effect of high-efficacy immunotherapies at different stages of MS.MethodsA systematic review of literature reporting outcomes of treatment with fingolimod, natalizumab or alemtuzumab at different stages of MS was carried out.Results and conclusionsTwelve publications reporting relevant information were included in the systematic review. The literature suggests that treatment with high-efficacy immunotherapies is more potent in suppressing relapse activity when initiated early vs. with a delay after the MS diagnosis. The evidence reported for disability and MRI outcomes is inconclusive.
http://ift.tt/2ppX3xG
A time series analysis of environmental and metrological factors impact on cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence in an endemic area of Dehloran, Iran
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the environmental and metrological variables and cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) transmission and its prediction in a region susceptible to this disease prevalence using a time series model. The accurate locations of 4437 CL diagnosed from 2011 to 2015 were obtained to be used in the time series model. Temperature, number of days with temperature over 30 °C, and number of earthquake were related to CL incidence using the Seasonal Auto-correlated Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) model according to the Box-Jenkins method. In addition, the relationship between land use and surface soil type in 500- and 1000-m radius around the CL patients were investigated. The SARIMA models showed significant associations between environmental and meteorological variables and CL incidence adjusted for seasonality and auto-correlation. The result indicated that there are need more robust preventive programs in earthquake-prone areas with high temperature and inceptisol soil type than other areas. In addition, the region with these characteristics should be considered as high-risk areas for CL prevalence.
http://ift.tt/2pIJVzS
Influence of land use and land cover on the spatial variability of dissolved organic matter in multiple aquatic environments
Abstract
Water quality of lakes, estuaries, and coastal areas serves as an indicator of the overall health of aquatic ecosystems as well as the health of the terrestrial ecosystem that drains to the water body. Land use and land cover plays not only a significant role in controlling the quantity of the exported dissolved organic matter (DOM) but also influences the quality of DOM via various biogeochemical and biodegradation processes. We examined the characteristics and spatial distribution of DOM in five major lakes, in an estuary, and in the coastal waters of the Mississippi, USA, and investigated the influence of the land use and land cover of their watersheds on the DOM composition. We employed absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy including excitation-emission matrix (EEM) combined with parallel factor (PARAFAC) analysis modeling techniques to determine optical properties of DOM and its characteristics in this study. We developed a site-specific PARAFAC model to evaluate DOM characteristics resulting in five diverse DOM compositions that included two terrestrial humic-like (C1 and C3), two microbial humic-like (C2 and C5), and one protein-like (C4) DOM. Our results showed elevated fluorescence levels of microbial humic-like or protein-like DOM in the lakes and coastal waters, while the estuarine waters showed relatively high fluorescence levels of terrestrial humic-like DOM. The results also showed that percent forest and wetland coverage explained 68 and 82% variability, respectively, in terrestrial humic-like DOM exports, while 87% variability in microbially derived humiclike DOM was explained by percent agricultural lands. Strong correlations between microbial humic-like DOM and fluorescence-derived DOM indices such as biological index (BIX) and fluorescence index (FI) indicated autochthonous characteristics in the lakes, while the estuary showed largely allochthonous DOM of terrestrial origin. We also observed higher concentrations of total dissolved phosphorous (TDP) and ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N) in coastal waters potentially due to photodegradation of refractory DOM derived from the sediment-bound organic matter in the coastal wetlands. This study highlights the relationships between the DOM compositions in the water and the land use and land cover in the watershed. The spatial variability of DOM in three different types of aquatic environments enhances the understanding of the role of land use and land cover in carbon cycling through export of organic matter to the aquatic ecosystems..
http://ift.tt/2p9V5S7
Microscopic and spectroscopic characterization of humic substances from a compost amended copper contaminated soil: main features and their potential effects on Cu immobilization
Abstract
We characterized humic substances (HS) extracted from a Cu-contaminated soil without compost addition (C) or amended with a wheat straw-based compost (WSC) (H1), co-composted with Fe2O3 (H2), or co-composted with an allophane-rich soil (H3). Extracted HS were characterized under electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (X-EDS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. In addition, HS extracted from WSC (H4) were characterized at pH 4.0 and 8.0 with descriptive purposes. At pH 4.0, globular structures of H4 were observed, some of them aggregating within a large network. Contrariwise, at pH 8.0, long tubular and disaggregated structures prevailed. TEM microscopy suggests organo-mineral interactions at scales of 1 to 200 nm with iron oxide nanoparticles. HS extracted from soil–compost incubations showed interactions at nanoscale with minerals and crystal compounds into the organic matrix of HS. Bands associated to acidic functional groups of HS may suggest potential sorption interactions with transition metals. We conclude that metal ions and pH have an important role controlling the morphology and configuration of HS from WSC. Characterization of H4 extracted from WSC showed that physicochemical protection of HS could be present in composting systems treated with inorganic materials. Finally, the humified fractions obtained from compost-amended soils may have an important effect on metal-retention, supporting their potential use in metal-contaminated soils.
http://ift.tt/2pIYweZ
Docetaxel and Loplatin Induction Chemotherapy Followed by Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced SCCHN
Interventions: Drug: Lobaplatin; Drug: Cisplatin
Sponsor: Guiyang Medical University
Recruiting - verified April 2017
http://ift.tt/2omJLgR
A dramatic response to a single dose of infliximab in a patient with prolonged pustular psoriasis derived from inverse psoriasis
Abstract
We report a case of a 25-year-old Chinese man with an exceptionally prolonged history of pustular psoriasis derived from inverse psoriasis who was unsatisfied with conventional treatment and was successfully treated with a single dose of infliximab without noticeable adverse effects. No recurrence or flaring was observed after 3 months of follow-up. This case illustrates that infliximab may be an effective and safe therapeutic option for patients with refractory pustular psoriasis derived from inverse psoriasis.
http://ift.tt/2ppf1jS
How can we restrict the sale of sports and energy drinks to children?
Abstract
High sugar drinks (HSD) including fruit drinks, soft drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks, are of no nutritional value and contribute to the burden of dental disease in all age groups. The manufacturers of sports and energy drinks have elected to target children in their marketing campaigns and promote a misleading association between their products, healthy lifestyles and sporting prowess. The WHO has acknowledged that strategies aimed at prevention of dental disease are the only economically viable options for managing the oral health of children in low and middle income countries. Developed nations will also be advantaged by preventive programs given that the cost of providing dental care to those who cannot pay draws valuable resources away from more pressing health issues. The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) obligates governments to develop legislation to protect the health of children. A framework convention modelled on the existing Framework Convention for Tobacco Control, supported by the WHO, would assist governments to proactively legislate to restrict the sale of sports and energy drinks to children. This article will consider how a framework convention would be an advantage with reference to the strategies used by sports and energy drink manufacturers in Australia.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2omdMxe
Excessive heat associated gingival necrosis: a case report
Abstract
Heat delivery devices have been associated with relatively high temperatures. Previous basic research studies suggest that the risk for periodontal tissues is negligible, as the presence of the root filling materials, amongst other factors, reduce the risk of overheating.
This report describes the case of a 45-year old male, who was undergoing restorative treatment in a multi-specialty dental practice. As part of his overall treatment planning, orthograde root canal retreatment for his maxillary left incisor teeth was deemed necessary, due to chronic apical periodontitis. Following cold lateral compaction, the coronal portion of the core material was severed using a System B Heat Source (Kerr Dental, Orange, CA, USA), with the patient reporting pain as well as a burning sensation. The following day the patient was seen by a periodontist and gingival necrosis in relation to the central incisor was found. The most likely cause of the complication was considered to be excessive heat during the operative procedure. The patient was followed up for a two year period and the soft tissues returned to their original condition without the need for periodontal treatment.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2oFmzxs
Colonization by multidrug-resistant organisms in long-term care facilities in Italy: a point-prevalence study.
Colonization by multidrug-resistant organisms in long-term care facilities in Italy: a point-prevalence study.
Clin Microbiol Infect. 2017 Apr 12;:
Authors: Giufrè M, Ricchizzi E, Accogli M, Barbanti F, Monaco M, Pimentel de Araujo F, Farina C, Fazii P, Mattei R, Sarti M, Barozzi A, Buttazzi R, Cosentino M, Nardone M, Savini V, Spigaglia P, Pantosti A, Moro ML, Cerquetti M
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine prevalence and risk factors for colonization by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in long-term care facility (LTCF) residents in Italy. Genotypes of MDRO isolates were investigated.
METHODS: A point-prevalence study was conducted at 12 LTCFs located in 4 Italian cities (2 February-14 March 2015). Rectal swabs, faeces and nasal/auxiliary swabs were cultured for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)- and/or carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae, Clostridium difficile and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing, detection of ESBL and/or carbapenemase genes and molecular typing of MDROs were performed. Risk factors for colonization were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis.
RESULTS: A total of 489 LTCF residents aged ≥65 years were enrolled. The prevalence of colonization by ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, MRSA and C. difficile was 57.3% (279/487), 17.2% (84/487) and 5.1% (21/409), respectively. Carriage rate of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae was 1% (5/487). Being bedridden was a common independent risk factor for colonization by all MDROs, although risk factors specific for each MDRO were identified. ESBL-producing E. coli carriage was associated with the ST131-H30 subclone, but other minor STs predominated in individual LTCF or in LTCFs located in the same city, suggesting a role for intra-facility or local transmission. Similarly, MRSA from LTCF residents belonged to the same spa types/ST clones (t008/ST8 and t032/ST22) commonly found in Italian acute-care hospitals, but infrequent spa types were recovered in individual LTCFs. The prevalent C. difficile PCR-ribotypes were 356/607 and 018, both common in Italian acute-care hospitals.
CONCLUSIONS: MDRO colonization is common among residents in Italian LTCFs.
PMID: 28412380 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2oFruP6
Screening nasal swabs for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A regional burn center's experience.
Screening nasal swabs for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A regional burn center's experience.
Burns. 2017 Apr 12;:
Authors: Tejiram S, Johnson LS, Mete M, Desale S, Johnson K, Zhang J, Moffatt LT, Shupp JW
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a pathogen that can result in substantial morbidity and mortality. Early detection of MRSA colonization by screening nasal swabs may be important in the management of burn-injured patients. However, studies examining its use in this population are limited. The aim of this study was to study the utility of admission MRSA screening nasal swabs and determine if being positive for MRSA on admission impacted outcomes.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of burn patients who presented to a single regional burn center between June 2012 and December 2014. Electronic medical records and charts were reviewed for patient demographics and management. MRSA screening swabs were obtained from the anterior nares of burn patients upon admission. Patients without a MRSA nasal swab within 48h of admission were excluded. Outcomes analyzed included overall length of stay, ICU admission and length of stay, mechanical ventilation, procedure count, time to excision, and wound complications after normalizing to total body surface area burn size (%TBSA).
RESULTS: During the study period, 601 patients received a MRSA screening nasal swab upon admission. Of these, 24 patients screened positive for MRSA (4%). Patients who screened positive for MRSA had a significantly increased mean length of stay (3.95v 2.36 days; p<0.05) and number of surgical procedures (1.92v 1.06; p<0.05). Positively screened patients also had a higher proportion of wound infections (50% v 18.2%; p<0.05), half of which were caused by MRSA. Subsequent graft complications were seen in 50% of patients with a wound complication. Only 2 positively screened patients were started on empiric antibiotics.
CONCLUSIONS: Burn patients who screened positive for MRSA had greater lengths of stay, more surgical procedures, and higher wound complications. Early identification of MRSA colonized patients in this patient population might allow for treatment modifications that improve outcomes. Further study is warranted in a prospective clinical trial.
PMID: 28412131 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2ohM9G4
Scholar : These new articles for Amyloid are available online
|
Scholar : These new articles for Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica, Section B — Soil & Plant Science are available online
|
Scholar : These new articles for American Review of Canadian Studies are available online
|
Unraveling molecular pathways of poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas of the Gastroenteropancreatic System: A Systematic Review
Source:Cancer Treatment Reviews
Author(s): Daniel M. Girardi, Andrea C.B. Silva, Juliana Florinda M. Rêgo, Renata A. Coudry, Rachel P. Riechelmann
BackgroundPoorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are rare and aggressive tumors. Their molecular pathogenesis is still largely unknown, and consequently, the best therapeutic management also remains to be determined. We conducted a systematic review on molecular alterations found in gastroenteropancreatic NECs (GEP-NECs) and discuss potential applications of targeted therapies in setting.Materials and MethodsSystematic review of studies about molecular features in tumor tissues of patients with GEP-NECs. The Medline, Lilacs, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus and Opengrey databases were sought, without time, study design or language restrictions.ResultsOf the 1.564 studies retrieved, 41 were eligible: 33 were retrospective studies and eight were case reports. The studies spanned the years 1997-2017 and involved mostly colorectal, stomach and pancreas primary tumors. Molecular alterations in the TP53 gene and the p53 protein expression were the most commonly observed, regardless of the primary site. Other consistently found molecular alterations were microsatellite instability (MSI) in approximately 10% of gastric and colorectal NEC, and altered signaling cascades of p16/Rb/cyclin D1, Hedgehog and Notch pathways, and somatic mutations in KRAS, BRAF, RB1 and Bcl2. In studies of mixed adeno-neuroendocrine carcinomas (MANECs) the molecular features of GEP-NEC largely resemble their carcinoma/adenocarcinomas tumor counterparts.ConclusionsDespite the paucity of data about the molecular drivers associated with GEP-NEC, some alterations may be potentially targeted with new cancer-directed therapies. Collaborative clinical trials for patients with advanced GEP-NEC are urgently needed.
http://ift.tt/2oF9696
Giant Proliferating Trichilemmal Cyst Arising from a Nevus Sebaceus Growing for Thirty Years
ABSTRACT
Nevus sebaceus of Jadassohn, a congenital cutaneous hamartoma, has the potential to develop into various epidermal adnexal-origin neoplasms. While the most common neoplasms are trichoblastoma or syringocystadenoma, proliferating trichilemmal cysts are exceptionally rare. We report a case of a 63-year-old Cuban male with a giant proliferating trichilemmal cyst arising from a nevus sebaceus on the right shoulder which had been growing for 30 years. Proliferating trichilemmal cysts arising from nevus sebaceus cases are difficult to diagnose clinically and histologically since they are very rare and have not been defined by exact diagnostic criteria. Our case creates awareness of this particular tumor in nevus sebaceus and shares clinical and histological diagnostic information that can be used to make a proper diagnosis.
http://ift.tt/2oCNW9N
Κυριακή 16 Απριλίου 2017
Targeted Peripheral Nerve-directed Onabotulinumtoxin A Injection for Effective Long-term Therapy for Migraine Headache
Background: Onabotulinumtoxin A (BOTOX) is an FDA-approved treatment for chronic migraine headaches (MHs) that involves on-label, high-dose administration across 31 anatomic sites. Anatomically specific peripheral nerve trigger sites have been identified that contribute to MH pathogenesis and are amenable to both BOTOX injection and surgical decompression. These sites do not always correlate with the on-label FDA-approved injection pattern, but represent a more targeted approach. The efficacy of peripheral nerve–directed BOTOX injection as an independent long-term therapeutic option has not been investigated. Methods: The technique for peripheral nerve–directed therapeutic long-term BOTOX injection is described. A retrospective review was subsequently completed for 223 patients with MH. Sixty-six patients elected to proceed with diagnostic BOTOX injections. Of these, 24 continued long-term therapeutic BOTOX injections, whereas 42 matriculated to surgery. Outcomes were tracked. Results: Initial outcomes included significant improvement in migraine headache index (MHI) (53.5 ± 83.0, Phttp://ift.tt/2ohdRDc
Neprilysin inhibitors: A new hope to halt the diabetic cardiovascular and renal complications?
Publication date: June 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 90
Author(s): Vajir Malek, Anil Bhanudas Gaikwad
Diabetes is an enormous and ever-growing calamity and a global public health threat of the 21st century. Besides insulin and oral hypoglycaemic drugs, blockage of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) denotes a key pharmacotherapy for the management of cardiovascular (CVD) and chronic kidney diseases (CKD), which are the leading causes of disability and death among diabetic patients. Neprilysin (NEP) inhibition, auxiliary to RAS blockage increases the bioavailability of natriuretic peptides and benefits the cardio-renal system. Omapatrilat, a dual angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and NEP inhibitor has been reported to show superior anti-hypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic, insulin-sensitizing, cardiovascular and renoprotective effects to ACE inhibitors in experimental animal models for diabetes. In clinical trials on hypertensive subjects Omapatrilat increased the risk of angioedema due to which its further development as anti-hypertensive drug was hampered. This event prompted the development of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNi). The first representative of ARNi, LCZ696 (Sacubitril/ Valsartan) halted cardiovascular and renal functional decline and hence protected against CKD and CVD. Recently, LCZ696 was approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of heart failure. This concise review intends to summarise the currently available reports on NEPi as a therapeutic intervention to treat CVD and CKD associated with diabetes.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2olgH9d
Antibacterial, antifungal and antimycobacterial compounds from cyanobacteria
Publication date: June 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 90
Author(s): Shasank S. Swain, Sudhir K. Paidesetty, Rabindra N. Padhy
Infections from multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogenic bacteria, fungi and Mycobacterium tuberculosis remain progressively intractable. The search of effective antimicrobials from other possible non-conventional sources against MDR pathogenic bacteria, fungi and mycobacteria is call of the day. This review considers 121 cyanobacterial compounds or cyano-compounds with antimicrobial activities. Chemical structures of cyano-compounds were retrieved from ChemSpider and PubChem databases and were visualized by the software ChemDraw Ultra. Chemical information on cyano-compounds pertaining to Lipinski rules of five was assessed. The reviewed cyano-compounds belong to the following chemical classes (with examples): alkaloids (ambiguine isonitriles and 12-epi-hapalindole E isonitrile), aromatic compounds (benzoic acid and cyanobacterin), cyclic depsipeptides (cryptophycin 52 and lyngbyabellin A), cyclic peptides (calophycin and tenuecyclamides), cyclic undecapeptides (kawaguchipeptins and lyngbyazothrin A), cyclophane (carbamidocyclophane), extracellular pigment (nostocine A), fatty acids (alpha-dimorphecolic acid and majusculonic acid), linear peptides (muscoride A), lipopeptides (fischerellins and scytonemin A), nucleosides (tolytoxin and tubercidin), phenols (ambigols and 4-4′-hydroxybiphenyl), macrolides (scytophycin A and tolytoxin), polyketides (malyngolide and nostocyclyne), polyphenyl ethers (crossbyanol A), porphinoids (tolyporphin J) and terpenoids (noscomin and scytoscalarol). Cyanobacteria appear to be a diverse source of compounds with antimicrobial activity. Further attention is required to elucidate whether those could be applied as pharmaceuticals.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2ol8Atw
Preparation of pure tungsten via various rolling methods and their influence on macro-texture and mechanical properties
Publication date: 15 July 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 126
Author(s): Xiaoxin Zhang, Qingzhi Yan, Shaoting Lang, Yijia Wang, Changchun Ge
It's necessary to investigate the texture characteristics of tungsten (W) to improve the functional properties and structural performance simultaneously. Rolling route is an important factor influencing texture evolution of metal. Thus W billets were deformed via unidirectional rolling (UNR), cross rolling (CRR) and clock rolling (CLR) respectively to figure out the effect of strain path on the evolution of microstructures, macro-textures and mechanical properties. The results indicated that the unidirectional rolled pure W exhibited moderate dynamic recrystallization level, pronounced θ-fiber texture and weak γ-fiber texture. Besides, the unidirectional rolled sample showed lower bending strength compared to the cross and clock rolled samples. Crack-tips and high texture level resulted in the low bending strength of the unidirectional rolled pure W. Summarily, to obtain more low crystallographic index texture components and high bending strength simultaneously, W can be deformed via UNR with moderate deformation degree but not CRR and CLR.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2oEyAU7
Fc-Optimized Anti-CD25 Depletes Tumor-Infiltrating Regulatory T Cells and Synergizes with PD-1 Blockade to Eradicate Established Tumors
Publication date: Available online 11 April 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Frederick Arce Vargas, Andrew J.S. Furness, Isabelle Solomon, Kroopa Joshi, Leila Mekkaoui, Marta H. Lesko, Enrique Miranda Rota, Rony Dahan, Andrew Georgiou, Anna Sledzinska, Assma Ben Aissa, Dafne Franz, Mariana Werner Sunderland, Yien Ning Sophia Wong, Jake Y. Henry, Tim O'Brien, David Nicol, Ben Challacombe, Stephen A. Beers, Samra Turajlic, Martin Gore, James Larkin, Charles Swanton, Kerry A. Chester, Martin Pule, Jeffrey V. Ravetch, Teresa Marafioti, Karl S. Peggs, Sergio A. Quezada
CD25 is expressed at high levels on regulatory T (Treg) cells and was initially proposed as a target for cancer immunotherapy. However, anti-CD25 antibodies have displayed limited activity against established tumors. We demonstrated that CD25 expression is largely restricted to tumor-infiltrating Treg cells in mice and humans. While existing anti-CD25 antibodies were observed to deplete Treg cells in the periphery, upregulation of the inhibitory Fc gamma receptor (FcγR) IIb at the tumor site prevented intra-tumoral Treg cell depletion, which may underlie the lack of anti-tumor activity previously observed in pre-clinical models. Use of an anti-CD25 antibody with enhanced binding to activating FcγRs led to effective depletion of tumor-infiltrating Treg cells, increased effector to Treg cell ratios, and improved control of established tumors. Combination with anti-programmed cell death protein-1 antibodies promoted complete tumor rejection, demonstrating the relevance of CD25 as a therapeutic target and promising substrate for future combination approaches in immune-oncology.
Graphical abstract
Teaser
Anti-CD25 antibodies have displayed only modest therapeutic activity against established tumors. Arce Vargas et al. demonstrate that existing anti-CD25 antibodies fail to deplete intra-tumoral Treg cells due to upregulation of FcγRIIb within tumors. Fc-optimized anti-CD25 mediates effective depletion of tumor-infiltrating Treg cells and synergizes with PD-1 blockade to promote tumor eradication.http://ift.tt/2pH1l07
NAIP-NLRC4 Inflammasomes Coordinate Intestinal Epithelial Cell Expulsion with Eicosanoid and IL-18 Release via Activation of Caspase-1 and -8
Publication date: Available online 11 April 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Isabella Rauch, Katherine A. Deets, Daisy X. Ji, Jakob von Moltke, Jeannette L. Tenthorey, Angus Y. Lee, Naomi H. Philip, Janelle S. Ayres, Igor E. Brodsky, Karsten Gronert, Russell E. Vance
Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) form a critical barrier against pathogen invasion. By generation of mice in which inflammasome expression is restricted to IECs, we describe a coordinated epithelium-intrinsic inflammasome response in vivo. This response was sufficient to protect against Salmonella tissue invasion and involved a previously reported IEC expulsion that was coordinated with lipid mediator and cytokine production and lytic IEC death. Excessive inflammasome activation in IECs was sufficient to result in diarrhea and pathology. Experiments with IEC organoids demonstrated that IEC expulsion did not require other cell types. IEC expulsion was accompanied by a major actin rearrangement in neighboring cells that maintained epithelium integrity but did not absolutely require Caspase-1 or Gasdermin D. Analysis of Casp1–/–Casp8–/– mice revealed a functional Caspase-8 inflammasome in vivo. Thus, a coordinated IEC-intrinsic, Caspase-1 and -8 inflammasome response plays a key role in intestinal immune defense and pathology.
Graphical abstract
Teaser
Rauch et al. show that selective activation of the NLRC4 inflammasome in intestinal epithelial cells leads to a coordinated response that includes cell expulsion and eicosanoid and cytokine release. This is not fully dependent on Caspase-1, as cell expulsion can also be caused by Caspase-8 activated by NLRC4.http://ift.tt/2pH22Xc
Polycomb Repressive Complex 2-Mediated Chromatin Repression Guides Effector CD8+ T Cell Terminal Differentiation and Loss of Multipotency
Publication date: Available online 11 April 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Simon M. Gray, Robert A. Amezquita, Tianxia Guan, Steven H. Kleinstein, Susan M. Kaech
Understanding immunological memory formation depends on elucidating how multipotent memory precursor (MP) cells maintain developmental plasticity and longevity to provide long-term immunity while other effector cells develop into terminally differentiated effector (TE) cells with limited survival. Profiling active (H3K27ac) and repressed (H3K27me3) chromatin in naive, MP, and TE CD8+ T cells during viral infection revealed increased H3K27me3 deposition at numerous pro-memory and pro-survival genes in TE relative to MP cells, indicative of fate restriction, but permissive chromatin at both pro-memory and pro-effector genes in MP cells, indicative of multipotency. Polycomb repressive complex 2 deficiency impaired clonal expansion and TE cell differentiation, but minimally impacted CD8+ memory T cell maturation. Abundant H3K27me3 deposition at pro-memory genes occurred late during TE cell development, probably from diminished transcription factor FOXO1 expression. These results outline a temporal model for loss of memory cell potential through selective epigenetic silencing of pro-memory genes in effector T cells.
Graphical abstract
Teaser
Cytotoxic CD8+ T cells either terminally differentiate and die or form a rapidly responding population of memory T cells after pathogen clearance. Gray et al. define a temporal model for how effector T cells lose memory cell potential through selective epigenetic silencing of pro-memory genes.http://ift.tt/2pGWICU
Tyrosine Kinase SYK Licenses MyD88 Adaptor Protein to Instigate IL-1α-Mediated Inflammatory Disease
Publication date: Available online 11 April 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Prajwal Gurung, Gaofeng Fan, John R. Lukens, Peter Vogel, Nicholas K. Tonks, Thirumala-Devi Kanneganti
Mice carrying a hypomorphic point mutation in the Ptpn6 gene (Ptpn6spin mice) develop an inflammatory skin disease that resembles neutrophilic dermatosis in humans. Here, we demonstrated that interleukin-1α (IL-1α) signaling through IL-1R and MyD88 in both stromal and immune cells drive inflammation in Ptpn6spin mice. We further identified SYK as a critical kinase that phosphorylates MyD88, promoted MyD88-dependent signaling and mediates dermatosis in Ptpn6spin mice. Our studies further demonstrated that SHP1 encoded by Ptpn6 binds and suppresses SYK activation to inhibit MyD88 phosphorylation. Downstream of SHP1 and SYK-dependent counterregulation of MyD88 tyrosine phosphorylation, we have demonstrated that the scaffolding function of receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) and tumor growth factor-β activated kinase 1 (TAK1)-mediating signaling were required to spur inflammatory disease. Overall, these studies identify SHP1 and SYK crosstalk as a critical regulator of MyD88 post-translational modifications and IL-1-driven inflammation.
Graphical abstract
Teaser
Skin inflammation observed in a mouse model of neutrophilic dermatosis (Ptpn6spin mice) is instigated by RIPK1 and IL-1α signaling axes, independently of IL-1β and inflammasomes. In this issue, Gurung et al. elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying RIPK1 and IL-1α mediated inflammatory disease in Ptpn6spin mice. SHP1 regulates activation of spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), which phosphorylates MyD88, to regulate inflammation.http://ift.tt/2pHq5oC
Lathyrol and epoxylathyrol derivatives: modulation of Cdr1p and Mdr1p drug-efflux transporters of Candida albicans in Saccharomyces cerevisiae model
Publication date: Available online 16 April 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Andreia Mónico, Shweta Nim, Noélia Duarte, Manpreet Kaur Rawal, Rajendra Prasad, Attilio Di Pietro, Maria-José U. Ferreira
Macrocyclic diterpenes were previously found to be able to modulate the efflux pump activity of Candida albicans multidrug transporters. Most of these compounds were jatrophanes, but only a few number of lathyrane-type diterpenes was evaluated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of nineteen structurally-related lathyrane diterpenes (1-19) to overcome the drug-efflux activity of Cdr1p and Mdr1p transporters of C. albicans, and get some insights on their structure-activity relationships. The transport assay was performed by monitoring Nile Red (NR) efflux in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain overexpressing the referred efflux pumps from C. albicans. Moreover, a chemosensitization assay was performed in order to evaluate the type of interaction between the inhibitory compounds and the antifungal drug fluconazole. Compounds 1-13 were previously isolated from Euphorbia boetica or obtained by derivatization, and compounds 14-19 were prepared by chemical transformations of compound 4. In the transport assays, compounds 14-19 revealed the strongest inhibitory activity of the Cdr1p efflux pump, ranging from 65 to 85%. Concerning Mdr1p efflux pump, the most active compounds were 1, 3, 6, 8, and 12 (75 to 85%). When used in combination with fluconazole, epoxyboetirane K (2) and euphoboetirane N (18) revealed synergistic effects in the AD-CDR1 yeast strain, overexpressing the Cdr1p transporter, through their ability to reduce the effective concentration of the antifungal drug by 23- and 52 fold, respectively.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2pnXpo9
Sugar, perceived healthfulness, and satiety: When does a sugary preload lead people to eat more?
Source:Appetite, Volume 114
Author(s): Naomi Mandel, Daniel Brannon
In this research, we examine the interplay between physiological and psychological factors that determine whether the sugar level of a preload increases or decreases consumption on a subsequent snack-eating task. In study 1, participants who drank a high-sugar protein shake (which they believed to be healthy) consumed more subsequent snacks than participants who drank a low-sugar protein shake. Study 2 replicated these findings, but only when the shake was labeled as "healthy." When the shake was labeled as "indulgent," the effect was mitigated.
http://ift.tt/2okdkiT
-
Ειδοποίηση Μελετητή:[ ωτα ] [HTML] Gender, identity and material: Film screening C Brand - 2017 ftypM4V *M4V M4A mp42isom*a┌moovlmvhd...
-
Publication date: September 2017 Source: Free Radical Biology and Medicine, Volume 110 Author(s): Lucía Fernández-del-Río, Anish Nag, Elen...
