Calcitonin gene-related peptide exerts anti-inflammatory property through regulating murine macrophages polarization in vitro

Publication date: November 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 91
Author(s): Jia-Xi Duan, Yong Zhou, Ai-Yuan Zhou, Xin-Xin Guan, Tian Liu, Hui-Hui Yang, Hui Xie, Ping Chen
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a condition resulting from direct or indirect lung injury associated with high mortality and morbidity. The phenotype of macrophages in lung contributes to the pathological progress of ALI. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is one of the most abundant neuropeptides in lung, and attenuates lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI in rats. However, the exact effect of CGRP on the activation of macrophages remains unknown. Here we investigate the effect of CGRP on the macrophages activation and inflammation in murine macrophages in vitro. We found that LPS increased the expression of CGRP in a LPS-induced ALI murine model and LPS-stimulated murine macrophages. Although CGRP didn't alter the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (a marker of pro-inflammatory phenotype of macrophages, M1 macrophages) or Arginase 1 (Arg1, a marker of M2 macrophages) in non-differentiated macrophages, CGRP significantly reduced the NLRP3 and pro-IL-1β mRNA expression induced by LPS, as well as NLRP3 protein and IL-1β secretion induced by LPS+ATP in macrophages in vitro. On the other hand, CGRP dramatically enhanced the Arg1 expression and activity induced by IL-4 in the time- and dose-dependent manners. CGRP also promoted the expression of markers of M2 macrophages (IL-10, Fizz1 and Mrc1) induced by IL-4 in murine macrophages. These effects of CGRP were also observed in primary murine peritoneal macrophages. In addition, we found that CGRP regulated macrophages polarization partially through calmodulin, PKC and PKA pathways. Specifically, CGRP could inhibit the degradation of I-κB induced by LPS, and enhance the phosphorylation of STAT6 induced by IL-4 in macrophages. In conclusion, our results indicate that CGRP regulates macrophage polarization and inhibits inflammation in murine macrophages.



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Microsomal glutathione transferase 2 modulates LTC4 synthesis and ROS production in Apostichopus japonicus

Publication date: November 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 91
Author(s): Zhen Zhang, Zhimeng Lv, Zhixin Wei, Chenghua Li, Yina Shao, Weiwei Zhang, Xuelin Zhao, Jinbo Xiong
Microsomal glutathione transferase 2 (mGST2) is an integral membrane protein involved in detoxication of xenobiotics, and has also been suggested to catalyze the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory mediator leukotriene C4 (LTC4) as homologous to LTC4 synthase (LTC4S) in mammals. In the present study, a novel mGST2 homology was identified from Apostichopus japonicus (designated as AjmGST2) by RACE approaches. The full-length cDNA of AjmGST2 was of 1917bp encoding a polypeptide of 161 amino acids residues. Multiple sequences alignment and phylogenetic analysis together supported that AjmGST2 belonged to a new member in invertebrate mGSTs family and close to mammalian LTC4S. Spatial expression analysis revealed that AjmGST2 was ubiquitously expressed in all examined tissues with the larger magnitude in intestine. AjmGST2 transcripts in coelomocytes were slightly induced post 6h challenge of pathogenic Vibrio splendidus and reached the peak expression at 48h. The increased expression profiles of AjmGST2 were also detected in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposed primary coelomocytes. Consistently, LTC4 contents were also induced by a 1.56-fold increase in the same condition. Functional assay further revealed that AjmGST2 might be functioned as LTC4S to promote LTC4 synthesis. AjmGST2 knock-down by specific siRNA significantly depressed LTC4 contents with 27.0% decrease at 24h. Meantime, ROS levels were elevated by 40.1% in vitro. All of these results indicated that AjmGST2 performed dual functions roles as LTC4S and ROS eliminator in sea cucumber immune response.



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Misdeed of the need: towards computational accounts of transition to addiction

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 46
Author(s): Mehdi Keramati, Serge H Ahmed, Boris S Gutkin
Drug addiction is a complex behavioral and neurobiological disorder which, in an emergent brain-circuit view, reflects a loss of prefrontal top-down control over subcortical circuits governing drug-seeking and drug-taking. We first review previous computational accounts of addiction, focusing on cocaine addiction and on prevalent dopamine-based positive-reinforcement and negative-reinforcement computational models. Then, we discuss a recent computational proposal that the progression to addiction is unlikely to result from a complete withdrawal of the goal-oriented decision system in favor the habitual one. Rather, the transition to addiction would arise from a drug-induced alteration in the structure of organismal needs which reorganizes the goal structure, ultimately favoring predominance of drug-oriented goals. Finally, we outline unmet challenges for future computational research on addiction.



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Computational models of basal ganglia dysfunction: the dynamics is in the details

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 46
Author(s): Jonathan E Rubin
The development, simulation, and analysis of mathematical models offer helpful tools for integrating experimental findings and exploring or suggesting possible explanatory mechanisms. As models relating to basal ganglia dysfunction have proliferated, however, there has not always been consistency among their findings. This work points out several ways in which biological details, relating to ionic currents and synaptic pathways, can influence the dynamics of models of the basal ganglia under parkinsonian conditions and hence may be important for inclusion in models. It also suggests some additional useful directions for future modeling studies relating to basal ganglia dysfunction.



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Modelling plasticity in dendrites: from single cells to networks

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 46
Author(s): Jacopo Bono, Katharina A Wilmes, Claudia Clopath
One of the key questions in neuroscience is how our brain self-organises to efficiently process information. To answer this question, we need to understand the underlying mechanisms of plasticity and their role in shaping synaptic connectivity. Theoretical neuroscience typically investigates plasticity on the level of neural networks. Neural network models often consist of point neurons, completely neglecting neuronal morphology for reasons of simplicity. However, during the past decades it became increasingly clear that inputs are locally processed in the dendrites before they reach the cell body. Dendritic properties enable local interactions between synapses and location-dependent modulations of inputs, rendering the position of synapses on dendrites highly important. These insights changed our view of neurons, such that we now think of them as small networks of nearly independent subunits instead of a simple point. Here, we propose that understanding how the brain processes information strongly requires that we consider the following properties: which plasticity mechanisms are present in the dendrites and how do they enable the self-organisation of synapses across the dendritic tree for efficient information processing? Ultimately, dendritic plasticity mechanisms can be studied in networks of neurons with dendrites, possibly uncovering unknown mechanisms that shape the connectivity in our brains.



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Scholar : Chinese Law & Government, Volume 49, Issue 3, May 4, 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online

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The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content Chinese Law & Government, Volume 49, Issue 3, May 4, 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online. Chinese Christianity This new issue contains the following articles: Introduction Issues and Challenges for Chinese Christians as Seen Online Chris White & Mark McLeister Pages: 125-134 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368265 Articles How I Was Delivered From Being Bound by Evil Spirits Pages: 135-138 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368268 The True Jesus Church: Unique Doctrinal Views Pages: 139-143 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368269 Gifts of the Holy Spirit Pages: 144-148 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368271 No Headaches About Ji zu during Qingming Festival; Christians Should Take a Positive View of Ji zu Pages: 149-152 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368273 The Mid-Autumn Festival From the Perspective of the Bible Pages: 153-154 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368274 My Personal Opinion on "Draft Revision of Religious Affairs Regulations (Review Draft)" Xie Jiale Pages: 155-160 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368276 Differences Between House Churches and Three-Self Churches Pages: 161-166 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368279 Christian Times: 2013 Four Major Phenomena in the Development of Chinese Christianity Wang Xinyin Pages: 167-172 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368280 An Overview of the Guanjia Christian Businessperson Fellowship Pages: 173-175 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368281 Pastor at Urban Migrant Worker Church Discusses Church Vision: Integrating Evangelism and Establishing an Urban Church Shi Jia'nan Pages: 176-178 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368282 A Discussion of Challenges and Solutions for the Language Work of China's Christian Church Today Zhang Yuanlai Pages: 179-189 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368283 The Amity Foundation: A Pioneer Among Religious Welfare Endeavors Pages: 190-193 | DOI: 10.1080/00094609.2017.1368284 Interested in the political-economic topics surrounding China? You wouldn't want to miss this exclusive collection. To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Scholar : Sociological Spectrum, Volume 37, Issue 5, September 3, 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content Sociological Spectrum, Volume 37, Issue 5, September 3, 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online. This new issue contains the following articles: Original Articles Concealed Ownership: Americans' Perceived Comfort Sharing Gun Ownership Status with Others Lacey N. Wallace Pages: 267-281 | DOI: 10.1080/02732173.2017.1348278 The Reciprocal Relationship Between Religious Beliefs and Acceptance of One's Gay or Lesbian Family Member Katherine Zeininger, Mellisa Holtzman & Rachel Kraus Pages: 282-298 | DOI: 10.1080/02732173.2017.1348279 ATTRIBUTIONS AND INJUSTICE "It's Not My Fault!" Status, Attributions, and Perceptions of Injustice: The Case of Custodians and Teachers Heather L. Scheuerman, Karen A. Hegtvedt & Cathryn Johnson Pages: 299-318 | DOI: 10.1080/02732173.2017.1348277 Original Articles Examining Differences in Identity Disclosure Between Monosexuals and Bisexuals M. N. Barringer, J. E. Sumerau & David A. Gay Pages: 319-333 | DOI: 10.1080/02732173.2017.1348276 To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Not all immune-checkpoint inhibitors are created equal: Meta-analysis and systematic review of immune-related adverse events in cancer trials

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
Author(s): B. El Osta, F. Hu, R. Sadek, R. Chintalapally, S.-C. Tang
BackgroundTargeting immune checkpoints is a novel approach in cancer therapy. This strategy may trigger immune related adverse events (irAE). We hypothesize that the incidence of irAE will be greater in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) targeting only immune cells compared to those that also target tumor cells (PD-L1). In addition, we compared the specific irAE profile and overall response rate (ORR) for each ICI by target(s).Materials and methodsWe reviewed all ICI cancer clinical trials (90; 174 arms) that reported irAE and were published through MEDLINE. 114 arms from 73 trials were eligible for this meta-analysis (including 11,328 patients). We collected and compared arm-specific data including ICI target, number of patients with irAE of any grade, grade 3+ and grade 5, specific irAE, and ORR. The R package "meta" was used to conduct a meta-analysis to calculate and compare the percentage of patients with irAE and ORR.ResultsThe incidence (% of patients) of any grade irAE per ICI target was reported for 40 arms (3,418 patients) treated with ICI. Most arms (80%) and patients (53%) studied were on phase 1/2 clinical trials. Patients were treated for solid malignancy on 39 arms (97%), mainly melanoma (40%). Two arms included ICI combinations. The incidence of any grade irAE was higher in patients who received ICI targeting CTLA-4 (53.8%) than PD-1 (26.5%) and PD-L1 ICI (17.1%) (P <0.001). Comparative specific irAE rates were calculated for each ICI target.ConclusionsOur systematic review supported our mechanistic-driven hypothesis. We encourage investigators to report the incidence of irAE in future ICI combination trials.



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Scholar : These new articles for Voice and Speech Review are available online

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The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Voice and Speech Review and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Linguistics, feminism, and Three Sisters Judith M. Lejeck Pages: 1-17 | DOI: 10.1080/23268263.2017.1370828 To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Treatment of erythemato-telangiectatic rosacea with brimonidine alone or combined with vascular laser based on preliminary instrumental evaluation of the vascular component

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcome of a series of patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) affected by persistent erythema and varying degree of telangiectasias being treated with brimonidine alone or combined with a vascular laser based on the type of vascular components preliminarily evaluated by clinical and instrumental observation. Ten patients affected by ETR were enrolled in a pilot, open study. Instrumental evaluation included erythema-directed digital photography by VISIA-CR™ system and X10 dermoscopy. Those patients showing marked background erythema and minimal telangiectasias (group A) were treated with a single application of brimonidine 0.33% gel, while patients showing both marked background erythema and marked telangiectasias (group B) were treated with a session of Nd:YAG laser and reevaluated 1 month later after a single application of brimonidine. An Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) of treatment outcome was performed at the end of treatment in both groups. In group A, 6 h after brimonidine application, a marked reduction of the background erythema was observed in all patients, and IGA was rated as excellent. In group B, 6 h following the application of brimonidine, a marked reduction of the background erythema was observed in all cases, while telangiectasias remained unchanged. A further treatment with brimonidine 1 month after the Nd:YAG laser session determined complete clearing of facial erythema, and IGA was rated as excellent. In conclusion, a preliminary evaluation of the vascular component by erythema-directed digital photography and dermoscopy in ETR may be helpful to select the most appropriate therapeutic strategy.

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Scholar : These new articles for Art Therapy are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Art Therapy and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Articles Challenging Neoliberalism and Multicultural Love in Art Therapy Leah Gipson Pages: 1-6 | DOI: 10.1080/07421656.2017.1353326 Know History, Know Self: Art Therapists' Responsibility to Dismantle White Supremacy Cassie Hamrick & Christine Byma Pages: 1-6 | DOI: 10.1080/07421656.2017.1353332 2018 Future Directions Forum JOIN US at the 2018 Future Directions Forum for Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology - June 15-16, 2018 To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

The cellular selection between apoptosis and autophagy: roles of vitamin D, glucose and immune response in diabetic nephropathy

Abstract

Background and aims

Apoptosis, autophagy and cell cycle arrest are cellular responses to injury which are supposed to play fundamental roles in initiation and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The aims of the present study is to shed light on the potential effects of vitamin D analog 22-oxacalcitriol (OCT) on different cell responses during DN, and the possible interplay between both glucose, immune system and vitamin D in determining the cell fate.

Method

All rats were randomly allocated into one of three groups: control, vehicle-treated DN group and OCT-treated DN group. Eight weeks after induction of diabetes, the rats were killed. Fasting blood glucose levels, serum 25 (OH) D, renal functions, cytokines and gene expression of autophagy, apoptotic and cell cycle arrest markers were assessed. In addition, the histological assessment of renal architecture was done.

Results

OCT treatment remarkably improved the renal functions and albuminuria. The reductions in mesangial cell hypertrophy, extracellular matrix as well as cell loss were significantly associated with upregulation of pro-autophagy gene expressions and downregulation of both pro-apoptotic and G1-cell cycle arrest genes expression. The reno-protective effects of OCT treatment were associated with significant attenuation of the fasting blood glucose, serum IL-6, renal TLR-4 and IFN-g gene expression.

Conclusion

Modulator effects of OCT on glucose and immune system play important roles in renal cell fate decision and chronic kidney disease progression.

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Assessing the potential for raw meat to influence human colonization with Staphylococcus aureus.

Assessing the potential for raw meat to influence human colonization with Staphylococcus aureus.

Sci Rep. 2017 Sep 07;7(1):10848

Authors: Carrel M, Zhao C, Thapaliya D, Bitterman P, Kates AE, Hanson BM, Smith TC

Abstract
The role of household meat handling and consumption in the transfer of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) from livestock to consumers is not well understood. Examining the similarity of S. aureus colonizing humans and S. aureus in meat from the stores in which those individuals shop can provide insight into the role of meat in human S. aureus colonization. S. aureus isolates were collected from individuals in rural and urban communities in Iowa (n = 3347) and contemporaneously from meat products in stores where participants report purchasing meat (n = 913). The staphylococcal protein A (spa) gene was sequenced for all isolates to determine a spa type. Morisita indices and Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance Using Distance Matrices (PERMANOVA) were used to determine the relationship between spa type composition among human samples and meat samples. spa type composition was significantly different between households and meat sampled from their associated grocery stores. spa types found in meat were not significantly different regardless of the store or county in which they were sampled. spa types in people also exhibit high similarity regardless of residential location in urban or rural counties. Such findings suggest meat is not an important source of S. aureus colonization in shoppers.

PMID: 28883621 [PubMed - in process]

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Scholar : These new articles for Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction are available online

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The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Updike's Creative So(u)rcery in Gertrude and Claudius George L. Geckle Pages: 1-14 | DOI: 10.1080/00111619.2017.1361268 "Observacion of these Articles": Surveillance and the 1970s in David Foster Wallace's The Pale King Mark West Pages: 1-12 | DOI: 10.1080/00111619.2017.1360833 Staging the Uneven World of Cybercapitalism on 47th Street in Don DeLillo's Cosmopolis Jung-Suk Hwang Pages: 1-14 | DOI: 10.1080/00111619.2017.1360832 To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Adherence to the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research recommendations and colorectal cancer risk

Publication date: November 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 85
Author(s): Federica Turati, Francesca Bravi, Matteo Di Maso, Cristina Bosetti, Jerry Polesel, Diego Serraino, Michela Dalmartello, Attilio Giacosa, Maurizio Montella, Alessandra Tavani, Eva Negri, Carlo La Vecchia
BackgroundThe World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) released in 2007 eight recommendations for cancer prevention on body fatness, diet and physical activity. Our aim is to evaluate the relation between adherence to these recommendations and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk.MethodsWe pooled data from two Italian case–control studies including overall 2419 patients with CRC and 4723 controls. Adherence to the WCRF/AICR guidelines was summarised through a score incorporating seven of the WCRF/AICR recommendations, with higher scores indicating higher adherence to the guidelines. Odds ratios (ORs) of colorectal cancer were estimated using multiple logistic regression models.ResultsHigher adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations was associated with a significantly reduced CRC risk (OR 0.67, 95% confidence interval, CI, 0.56–0.80 for a score ≥5 versus <3.5), with a significant trend of decreasing risk for increasing adherence (p < 0.001). Consistent results were found for colon (OR 0.67) and rectal cancer (OR 0.67). Inverse associations were observed with the diet-specific WCRF/AICR score (OR 0.71, 95% CI, 0.61–0.84 for ≥3.5 versus <2.5 points) and with specific recommendations on body fatness (OR 0.82, 95% CI, 0.70–0.97), physical activity (OR 0.86, 95% CI, 0.75–1.00), foods and drinks that promote weight gain (OR 0.70, 95% CI, 0.56–0.89), foods of plant origin (OR 0.56, 95% CI, 0.42–0.76), limiting alcohol (OR 0.87, 95% CI, 0.77–0.99) and salt intake (OR 0.63, 95% CI, 0.48–0.84).ConclusionOur study indicated that adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations is inversely related to CRC risk.



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Clinical trial simulations in paediatric oncology: A feasibility study from the Innovative Therapies for Children with Cancer Consortium

Publication date: November 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 85
Author(s): Julie M. Janssen, C. Michel Zwaan, Jan H.M. Schellens, Jos H. Beijnen, Alwin D.R. Huitema
IntroductionPaediatric dose-finding studies are challenging to perform due to ethical reasons, the limited number of available patients and restricted number of blood samples. In certain cases, the adult pharmacokinetic (PK) exposure can be used as target for dose finding in paediatrics. The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of a paediatric phase I dose-finding clinical trial in silico.MethodsUsing an adult pharmacokinetic model, clinical trial simulations were performed to determine the power of a proposed clinical trial design. Power was defined as the fraction of 1000 trials with an area under the plasma concentration–time curve at steady-state (AUC0-24,SS) within ±20% of the adult geometric mean AUC0-24,SS. Different scenarios were compared to optimise the design of the trial. To show the potential of this framework for similar compounds, the current simulation method was also evaluated with adult and paediatric data from literature on sunitinib.ResultsAt the starting dose of 300 mg/m², the power of the trial design was 66.9%. Power did not improve by dose escalation to 350 mg/m² (65.3%). Power increased to 78.9% with inclusion of 10 patients per trial. Paediatric sunitinib PK data were adequately predicted from adult data with a mean prediction error of 1.80%.ConclusionThe performance of PK-based clinical trials in paediatrics can be predicted and optimised through PK modelling and simulation. Application of this approach enables clinical trials in paediatrics to be performed as efficiently as possible while protecting the child from unnecessary harm.



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An increase in BAG-1 by PD-L1 confers resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor in non–small cell lung cancer via persistent activation of ERK signalling

Publication date: November 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 85
Author(s): Po-Lin Lin, Tzu-Chin Wu, De-Wei Wu, Lee Wang, Chi-Yi Chen, Huei Lee
High programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in tumour tissues was associated with poor outcomes in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) due to evasion of tumour immune surveillance. However, the role of PD-L1 in tumour invasion and resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatments is not fully understood. Here, we provide evidence to support the involvement of PD-L1 expression in the invasiveness and TKI resistance in NSCLC cells by increased Bcl-2-associated athanogene-1 (BAG-1) expression. The upregulation of BAG-1 transcription by PD-L1 was verified by constructing the BAG-1 promoters using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and deletion mutations for luciferase reporter assays. The results indicated that C/EBPβ phosphorylation by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signalling was responsible for PD-L1-mediated BAG-1 transcription. Mechanistically, the PD-L1-induced BAG-1 expression reciprocally increased PD-L1 expression due to persistent activation of ERK signalling, and it consequently conferred TKI resistance in NSCLC cells. The mechanistic action of this cell model was further confirmed by an animal model, affirming that PD-L1 conferred tumour invasiveness and TKI resistance via persistent activation of ERK signalling by the PD-L1/BAG-1 axis. We therefore suggest a combination of an ERK inhibitor with a TKI as a potential strategy for conquering PD-L1-mediated tumour invasion and TKI resistance in NSCLC patients whose tumours harbour high PD-L1/high BAG-1 expression.



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Challenges and perspectives in the immunotherapy of Hodgkin lymphoma

Publication date: November 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 85
Author(s): Jean-Marie Michot, Julien Lazarovici, David Ghez, Alina Danu, Christophe Fermé, Amélie Bigorgne, Vincent Ribrag, Aurélien Marabelle, Sandrine Aspeslagh
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) was one of the first few cancers to be cured first with radiotherapy alone and then with a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Around 80% of the patients with HL will be cured by first-line therapy. However, the ionising radiation not only produces cytotoxicity but also induces alterations in the microenvironment, and patients often struggle with the long-term consequences of these treatments, such as cardiovascular disorders, lung diseases and secondary malignancies. Hence, it is essential to improve treatments while avoiding delayed side-effects. Immunotherapy is a promising new treatment option for Hodgkin lymphoma, and anti- programmed death-1 (PD1) agents have produced striking results in patients with relapsed or refractory disease. The microenvironment of Hodgkin lymphoma appears to be unique in the field of human disease: the malignant Reed-Sternberg cells only constitute 1% of the cells in the lymphoma, but they are surrounded by an extensive immune infiltrate. Reed-Sternberg cells exhibit 9p24.1/PD-L1/PD-L2 copy number alterations and genetic rearrangements associated with programmed cell death ligand 1/ ligand 2 (PD-L1/2) overexpression, together with major histocompatibility complex-I (MHC-I) and major histocompatibility complex-II (MHC-II) downregulation (which may facilitate the tumour's immune evasion). Although HL may be a situation in which defective immune surveillance is restored by anti-PD1 therapy, it challenges our current explanation of how anti-PD1 agents work because MHC-I expression is required for CD8-T-cell-mediated tumour antigen recognition. Here, we review recent attempts to understand the defects in immune recognition in HL and to design an optimal evidence-based treatment for combination with anti-PD1.



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Emission factors from different burning stages of agriculture wastes in Mexico

Abstract

Open-air burning of agricultural wastes from crops like corn, rice, sorghum, sugar cane, and wheat is common practice in Mexico, which in spite limiting regulations, is the method to eliminate such wastes, to clear the land for further harvesting, to control grasses, weeds, insects, and pests, and to facilitate nutrient absorption. However, this practice generates air pollution and contributes to the greenhouse effect. Burning of straws derived from the said crops was emulated in a controlled combustion chamber, hence determining emission factors for particles, black carbon, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitric oxide throughout the process, which comprised three apparent stages: pre-ignition, flaming, and smoldering. In all cases, maximum particle concentrations were observed during the flaming stage, although the maximum final contributions to the particle emission factors corresponded to the smoldering stage. The comparison between particle size distributions (from laser spectrometer) and black carbon (from an aethalometer) confirmed that finest particles were emitted mainly during the flaming stage. Carbon dioxide emissions were also highest during the flaming stage whereas those of carbon monoxide were highest during the smoldering stage. Comparing the emission factors for each straw type with their chemical analyses (elemental, proximate, and biochemical), some correlations were found between lignin content and particle emissions and either particle emissions or duration of the pre-ignition stage. High ash or lignin containing-straw slowed down the pre-ignition and flaming stages, thus favoring CO oxidation to CO₂.

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Scholar : These new articles for Arts & Health are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Arts & Health and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Reviews The personal benefits of musicking for people living with dementia: a thematic synthesis of the qualitative literature Robyn Dowlen , John Keady, Christine Milligan, Caroline Swarbrick, Nick Ponsillo, Lucy Geddes & Bob Riley Pages: 1-16 | DOI: 10.1080/17533015.2017.1370718 Journal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services FREE ACCESS to the TOP 2016 Volume Year Articles. Find out more To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

The cellular selection between apoptosis and autophagy: roles of vitamin D, glucose and immune response in diabetic nephropathy

Abstract

Background and aims

Apoptosis, autophagy and cell cycle arrest are cellular responses to injury which are supposed to play fundamental roles in initiation and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The aims of the present study is to shed light on the potential effects of vitamin D analog 22-oxacalcitriol (OCT) on different cell responses during DN, and the possible interplay between both glucose, immune system and vitamin D in determining the cell fate.

Method

All rats were randomly allocated into one of three groups: control, vehicle-treated DN group and OCT-treated DN group. Eight weeks after induction of diabetes, the rats were killed. Fasting blood glucose levels, serum 25 (OH) D, renal functions, cytokines and gene expression of autophagy, apoptotic and cell cycle arrest markers were assessed. In addition, the histological assessment of renal architecture was done.

Results

OCT treatment remarkably improved the renal functions and albuminuria. The reductions in mesangial cell hypertrophy, extracellular matrix as well as cell loss were significantly associated with upregulation of pro-autophagy gene expressions and downregulation of both pro-apoptotic and G1-cell cycle arrest genes expression. The reno-protective effects of OCT treatment were associated with significant attenuation of the fasting blood glucose, serum IL-6, renal TLR-4 and IFN-g gene expression.

Conclusion

Modulator effects of OCT on glucose and immune system play important roles in renal cell fate decision and chronic kidney disease progression.

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Scholar : These new articles for Asian Security are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Asian Security and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Great Power Rivalries, Domestic Politics and Malaysian Foreign Policy Elina Noor & T. N. Qistina Pages: 1-20 | DOI: 10.1080/14799855.2017.1354568 Find out more about the issues and challenges in Governing Asia. This collection includes free access papers on security challenges, the Abe and Modi administration, reflections on the Chinese Governance and more. Browse today! To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

In vivo study of medical and biological properties of functional bakery products with the addition of pumpkin flour

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre
Author(s): Lyubov Dyshlyuk, Olga Babich, Alexander Prosekov, Svetlana Ivanova, Valery Pavsky, Yong Yang
We studied the hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective and prebiotic properties of bakery products with the content of pumpkin flour. To study the functional quality of products with pumpkin flour, in vivo studies on the influence of feed mixtures with the addition of bakery products, formulation and manufacturing technology of which were developed by us, were performed on the group of laboratory animals. After six weeks, there was a decrease in hypocholesterolemic values in serum of laboratory animals. When functional bakery products were administered in the diet of laboratory animals, there was a reduction of pathogenic and growth of lactic- and bifidobacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of the studied groups of animals. However, the activity of any enzymes studied did not reach values comparable with healthy animals.



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Nucleoside diphosphate kinase (Ndk): A pleiotropic effector manipulating bacterial virulence and adaptive responses

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Hua Yu, Xiancai Rao, Kebin Zhang
Nucleoside diphosphate kinase (Ndk) is a housekeeping enzyme that balances cellular nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) pools by catalyzing the reversible transfer of γ-phosphate from NTPs to nucleoside diphosphates (NDPs). In addition to its fundamental role in nucleotide metabolism, Ndk has roles in protein histidine phosphorylation, DNA cleavage/repair, and gene regulation. Recent studies have also revealed that Ndk secreted from bacteria is important in modulating virulence-associated phenotypes including quorum sensing regulation, type III secretion system activation, and virulence factor production. Moreover, after infection, Ndks released from bacteria are involved in regulating host defense activities, such as cell apoptosis, phagocytosis, and inflammatory responses. Given that Ndk exerts a pleiotropic effect on bacterial virulence and bacteria-host interactions, the biological significance of the bacterial Ndks during infection is intriguing. This review will provide a synopsis of the current knowledge regarding the biological properties and roles of Ndks in regulating bacterial virulence and adaptation and will discuss in depth the biological significance of Ndk during bacteria-host interactions.



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Anti-apoptotic role of spermine against lead and/or gamma irradiation-induced hepatotoxicity in male rats

Abstract

Exposure to either lead (Pb) or γ-irradiation (IR) results in oxidative stress in biological systems. Herein, we explored the potential anti-apoptotic effect of spermine (Spm) against lead and/or γ-irradiation-induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. Rats were divided into eight experimental groups of ten rats each: groups including negative control, whole body γ-irradiated (6 Gray (Gy)), lead acetate (PbAct) trihydrate orally administered (75 mg/kg bw ≡ 40 mg/kg bw Pb for 14 consecutive days), and Spm intraperitoneally dosed (10 mg/kg bw for 14 consecutive days) rats and groups subjected to combinations of Pb + IR, Spm + IR, Spm + Pb, and Spm + Pb followed by IR on day 14 (Spm + Pb + IR). A significant decrease in arginase activity as well as mRNA and protein levels of Bcl-2 and p21 was observed in rats intoxicated with Pb and/or γ-irradiation compared to controls, whereas Bax mRNA and protein levels were significantly increased. Also, an increased level of nitric oxide (NO) with a reduced arginase activity was observed in liver tissues of intoxicated rats. Spm co-treatment with lead and/or γ-irradiation attenuated the increase in Bax mRNA and protein expression, while it restored those of Bcl-2 and p21 together with NO levels and arginase activity to control values. Altogether, we suggest that Spm may be useful in combating free radical-induced apoptosis in Pb-intoxicated and/or γ-irradiated rats.

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Coupled Monte Carlo simulation and Copula theory for uncertainty analysis of multiphase flow simulation models

Abstract

Simulation-optimization techniques are effective in identifying an optimal remediation strategy. Simulation models with uncertainty, primarily in the form of parameter uncertainty with different degrees of correlation, influence the reliability of the optimal remediation strategy. In this study, a coupled Monte Carlo simulation and Copula theory is proposed for uncertainty analysis of a simulation model when parameters are correlated. Using the self-adaptive weight particle swarm optimization Kriging method, a surrogate model was constructed to replace the simulation model and reduce the computational burden and time consumption resulting from repeated and multiple Monte Carlo simulations. The Akaike information criterion (AIC) and the Bayesian information criterion (BIC) were employed to identify whether the t Copula function or the Gaussian Copula is the optimal Copula function to match the relevant structure of the parameters. The results show that both the AIC and BIC values of the t Copula function are less than those of the Gaussian Copula function. This indicates that the t Copula function is the optimal function for matching the relevant structure of the parameters. The outputs of the simulation model when parameter correlation was considered and when it was ignored were compared. The results show that the amplitude of the fluctuation interval when parameter correlation was considered is less than the corresponding amplitude when parameter estimation was ignored. Moreover, it was demonstrated that considering the correlation among parameters is essential for uncertainty analysis of a simulation model, and the results of uncertainty analysis should be incorporated into the remediation strategy optimization process.

http://ift.tt/2eTJKCc

Production of verbs related to body movement in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson’s Disease (PD)

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Katheryn AQ. Cousins, Sharon Ash, Murray Grossman




http://ift.tt/2eMZ8g9

Efficiency of soft tissue incision with a novel 445-nm semiconductor laser

Abstract

Using a 445-nm semiconductor laser for tissue incision, an effective cut is expected due to the special absorption properties of blue laser light in soft tissues. The aim of the present study was the histological evaluation of tissue samples after incision with a 445-nm diode laser. Forty soft tissue specimens were obtained from pork oral mucosa and mounted on a motorized linear translation stage. The handpiece of a high-frequency surgery device, a 970-nm semiconductor laser, and a 445-nm semiconductor laser were connected to the slide, allowing a constant linear movement (2 mm/s) and the same distance of the working tip to the soft tissue's surface. Four incisions were made each: (I) 970-nm laser with conditioned fiber tip, contact mode at 3-W cw; (II–III): 445-nm laser with non-conditioned fiber tip, contact mode at 2-W cw, and non-contact mode (1 mm) at 2 W; and (IV): high-frequency surgery device with straight working tip, 90° angulation, contact mode at 50 W. Histological analysis was performed after H&E staining of the embedded specimens at 35-fold magnification. The comparison of the incision depths showed a significant difference depending on the laser wavelength and the selected laser parameters. The highest incision depth was achieved with the 445-nm laser contact mode (median depth 0.61 mm, min 0.26, max 1.17, interquartile range 0.58) (p < 0.05) with the lowest amount of soft tissue denaturation (p < 0.05). The lowest incision depth was measured for the high-frequency surgical device (median depth 0.36 mm, min 0.12, max 1.12, interquartile range 0.23) (p < 0.05). Using a 445-nm semiconductor laser, a higher cutting efficiency can be expected when compared with a 970-nm diode laser and high-frequency surgery. Even the 445-nm laser application in non-contact mode shows clinically acceptable incision depths without signs of extensive soft tissue denaturation.

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Into the void: a giant aneurysm mimicking a macroprolactinoma

http://ift.tt/2wgdCLP

Response of anaerobic membrane bioreactor to the presence of nano-Bi 2 WO 6 : reactor performance, supernatant characteristics, and microbial community

Abstract

Considering the increasing incorporation of manufactured nano-material into consumer products, there is a concern about its potential impacts in biological wastewater treatment. In this study, the response of anaerobic sludge to the presence of Bi₂WO₆ nano-particles (NPs) was investigated in the anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR). As the concentration of Bi₂WO₆ in the reactor was controlled around 1 mg/L, there was no significant difference in effluent water quality or bacterial activities before and after NP exposure, partially due to the microbial-induced NP aggregation and stable complex formation. However, with the increasing dosage of Bi₂WO₆ from 5 to 40 mg/L, great influences on the AnMBR performance were observed, including the reduction of COD removal efficiency, inhibition of the mechanization step, increased production of soluble microbial products, and enhanced secretion of extracellular polymer substrates. Additional investigation with high-throughput sequencing was conducted, clearly demonstrating that Bi₂WO₆ NPs induced changes in the bacterial community.

http://ift.tt/2eMvlUB

Mitochondrial Dynamics at the Interface of Immune Cell Metabolism and Function

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Trends in Immunology
Author(s): Angelika S. Rambold, Erika L. Pearce
Immune cell differentiation and function are crucially dependent on specific metabolic programs dictated by mitochondria, including the generation of ATP from the oxidation of nutrients and supplying precursors for the synthesis of macromolecules and post-translational modifications. The many processes that occur in mitochondria are intimately linked to their morphology that is shaped by opposing fusion and fission events. Exciting evidence is now emerging that demonstrates reciprocal crosstalk between mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism. Metabolic cues can control the mitochondrial fission and fusion machinery to acquire specific morphologies that shape their activity. We review the dynamic properties of mitochondria and discuss how these organelles interlace with immune cell metabolism and function.



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Tissue-Specific Immunity at the Oral Mucosal Barrier

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Trends in Immunology
Author(s): Niki M. Moutsopoulos, Joanne E. Konkel
The oral mucosal barrier is constantly exposed to a plethora of triggers requiring immune control, including a diverse commensal microbiome, ongoing damage from mastication, and dietary and airborne antigens. However, how these tissue-specific cues participate in the training of immune responsiveness at this site is minimally understood. Moreover, the mechanisms mediating homeostatic immunity at this interface are not yet fully defined. Here we present basic aspects of the oral mucosal barrier and discuss local cues that may modulate and train local immune responsiveness. We particularly focus on the immune cell network mediating immune surveillance at a specific oral barrier, the gingiva – a constantly stimulated and dynamic environment where homeostasis is often disrupted, resulting in the common inflammatory disease periodontitis.



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Valsalva-induced elevation of intracranial pressure selectively decouples deoxygenated hemoglobin concentration from neuronal activation and functional brain imaging capability

Publication date: 15 November 2017
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 162
Author(s): Martin Knauth, Marcus Heldmann, Thomas F. Münte, Georg Royl
During neuronal activation, neurovascular coupling leads to a local decrease of deoxygenated hemoglobin concentration (deoxy-Hb) and thus forms the basis of many functional brain mapping methods. In animals, an elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) can attenuate or even reverse this deoxy-Hb signaling. To study the effect of an elevated ICP on functional brain imaging in humans, we used different breathing tasks to modify ICP and analyzed the resulting effect on neurovascular coupling in the motor cortex. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was performed on 45 subjects during alternating conditions of finger tapping and resting state combined with four different breathing maneuvers (normal breathing (NB), breath holding without Valsalva maneuver (BH), Valsalva maneuver with 15 mm Hg forced expiratory pressure against resistance (V15) and Valsalva maneuver with 35 mm Hg forced expiratory pressure against resistance (V35)) in randomized order. With escalation of breathing tasks the median amplitude of the functional deoxy-Hb decrease during finger tapping became smaller. In contrast, functional oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (oxy-Hb) and total hemoglobin concentration (total-Hb) responses did not show a significant alteration. The functional oxy-Hb map evoked by finger tapping withstood Valsalva challenges while the functional deoxy-Hb map identified the correct motor cortex in normal breathing conditions only and did not reveal a functional contrast during Valsalva maneuvers. In summary, we conclude that during ICP elevation, deoxy-Hb is not a reliable basis for functional brain imaging. This suggests that the validity of BOLD fMRI during increased ICP might be impaired.



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Neurochemical dynamics of acute orofacial pain in the human trigeminal brainstem nuclear complex

Publication date: 15 November 2017
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 162
Author(s): Nuno M.P. de Matos, Andreas Hock, Michael Wyss, Dominik A. Ettlin, Mike Brügger
The trigeminal brainstem sensory nuclear complex is the first central relay structure mediating orofacial somatosensory and nociceptive perception. Animal studies suggest a substantial involvement of neurochemical alterations at such basal CNS levels in acute and chronic pain processing. Translating this animal based knowledge to humans is challenging. Human related examining of brainstem functions are challenged by MR related peculiarities as well as applicability aspects of experimentally standardized paradigms.Based on our experience with an MR compatible human orofacial pain model, the aims of the present study were twofold: 1) from a technical perspective, the evaluation of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 3 T regarding measurement accuracy of neurochemical profiles in this small brainstem nuclear complex and 2) the examination of possible neurochemical alterations induced by an experimental orofacial pain model.Data from 13 healthy volunteers aged 19–46 years were analyzed and revealed high quality spectra with significant reductions in total N-acetylaspartate (N-acetylaspartate + N-acetylaspartylglutamate) (−3.7%, p = 0.009) and GABA (−10.88%, p = 0.041) during the pain condition. These results might reflect contributions of N-acetylaspartate and N-acetylaspartylglutamate in neuronal activity-dependent physiologic processes and/or excitatory neurotransmission, whereas changes in GABA might indicate towards a reduction in tonic GABAergic functioning during nociceptive signaling.Summarized, the present study indicates the applicability of ¹H-MRS to obtain neurochemical dynamics within the human trigeminal brainstem sensory nuclear complex. Further developments are needed to pave the way towards bridging important animal based knowledge with human research to understand the neurochemistry of orofacial nociception and pain.



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Into the void: a giant aneurysm mimicking a macroprolactinoma

http://ift.tt/2wgdCLP

The effect of academic achievement on aggression and violent behavior: A meta-analysis

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Aggression and Violent Behavior
Author(s): Joanne Savage, Christopher J. Ferguson, Lesli Flores




http://ift.tt/2xkQr87

Cosmetics, Vol. 4, Pages 33: Water-Soluble Organic Germanium Promotes Both Cornified Cell Envelope Formation and Ceramide Synthesis in Cultured Keratinocytes

Cosmetics, Vol. 4, Pages 33: Water-Soluble Organic Germanium Promotes Both Cornified Cell Envelope Formation and Ceramide Synthesis in Cultured Keratinocytes

Cosmetics doi: 10.3390/cosmetics4030033

Authors: Megumi Kato Haifeng Zeng Lihao Gu Kazuhisa Maeda

We investigated whether 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid increases the formation of cornified cell envelopes and the level of ceramide in cultured epidermal keratinocytes and in a three-dimensional human epidermis model. The activity and mRNA expression of transglutaminase were increased when 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid was added to the cell cultures. The formation of cornified cell envelopes in cultured human epidermal keratinocytes was increased in the presence of 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid. Ceramide levels were increased in the presence of 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid. The activity of serine palmitoyltransferase and mRNA levels of serine palmitoyltransferase 2 were also increased when 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid was added to the cultures. The extent to which ceramide levels were increased in the presence of 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid appeared dependent on serine palmitoyltransferase 2 upregulation. These results suggest that 3-(trihydroxygermyl) propionic acid can promote cornified cell envelope formation by inducing transglutaminase expression and ceramide synthesis via the induction of serine palmitoyltransferase activity, thereby improving the barrier function and moisture of dry, rough skin.

http://ift.tt/2wPFZ6R

Municipal solid waste management planning for Xiamen City, China: a stochastic fractional inventory-theory-based approach

Abstract

In this study, a stochastic fractional inventory-theory-based waste management planning (SFIWP) model was developed and applied for supporting long-term planning of the municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Xiamen City, the special economic zone of Fujian Province, China. In the SFIWP model, the techniques of inventory model, stochastic linear fractional programming, and mixed-integer linear programming were integrated in a framework. Issues of waste inventory in MSW management system were solved, and the system efficiency was maximized through considering maximum net-diverted wastes under various constraint-violation risks. Decision alternatives for waste allocation and capacity expansion were also provided for MSW management planning in Xiamen. The obtained results showed that about 4.24 × 10⁶ t of waste would be diverted from landfills when p _i is 0.01, which accounted for 93% of waste in Xiamen City, and the waste diversion per unit of cost would be 26.327 × 10³ t per $10⁶. The capacities of MSW management facilities including incinerators, composting facility, and landfills would be expanded due to increasing waste generation rate.

http://ift.tt/2xWoNvh

Effective adsorbent for arsenic removal: core/shell structural nano zero-valent iron/manganese oxide

Abstract

Recently, nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) has emerged as an effective adsorbent for the removal of arsenic from aqueous solutions. However, its use in various applications has suffered from reactivity loss resulting in a decreased efficiency. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop an effective arsenic adsorbent as a core/shell structural nZVI/manganese oxide (or nZVI/Mn oxide) to minimize the reactivity loss of the nZVI. As the major result, the arsenic adsorption capacities of the nZVI/Mn oxide for As(V) and As(III) were approximately two and three times higher than that of the nZVI, respectively. In addition, the As(V) removal efficiency of the nZVI/Mn oxide was maintained through 4 cycles of regeneration whereas that of the nZVI was decreased significantly. The enhanced reactivity and reusability of the nZVI/Mn oxide can be successfully explained by the synergistic interaction of the nZVI core and manganese oxide shell, in which the manganese oxides participate in oxidation reactions with corroded Fe²⁺ and subsequently retard the release of aqueous iron providing additional surface sites for arsenic adsorption. In summary, this study reports the successful fabrication of a core/shell nZVI/Mn oxide as an effective adsorbent for the removal of arsenic from aqueous solutions.

http://ift.tt/2vUOM8H

Nuclear Lamins: Thin Filaments with Major Functions

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Trends in Cell Biology
Author(s): Rebecca de Leeuw, Yosef Gruenbaum, Ohad Medalia
The nuclear lamina is a nuclear peripheral meshwork that is mainly composed of nuclear lamins, although a small fraction of lamins also localizes throughout the nucleoplasm. Lamins are classified as type V intermediate filament (IF) proteins. Mutations in lamin genes cause at least 15 distinct human diseases, collectively termed laminopathies, including muscle, metabolic, and neuronal diseases, and can cause accelerated aging. Most of these mutations are in the LMNA gene encoding A-type lamins. A growing number of nuclear proteins are known to bind lamins and are implicated in both nuclear and cytoskeletal organization, mechanical stability, chromatin organization, signaling, gene regulation, genome stability, and cell differentiation. Recent studies reveal the organization of the lamin filament meshwork in somatic cells where they assemble as tetramers in cross-section of the filaments.



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A systematic review of synthetic CT generation methodologies for use in MRI-only radiotherapy

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Emily Johnstone, Jonathan J. Wyatt, Ann M. Henry, Susan C. Short, David Sebag-Montefiore, Louise Murray, Charles G. Kelly, Hazel M. McCallum, Richard Speight
MRI offers superior soft tissue contrast as compared to CT, which is conventionally used for radiotherapy treatment planning (RTP) and patient positioning verification, resulting in improved target definition. The two modalities are co-registered for RTP, however this introduces a systematic error. Implementing an MRI-only radiotherapy workflow would be advantageous as this error would be eliminated, the patient pathway simplified and patient dose reduced. Unlike CT, in MRI there is no direct relationship between signal intensity and electron density, however various methodologies for MRI-only RTP have been reported. A systematic review of these methods was undertaken.The PRISMA guidelines(1) were followed. Embase and Medline databases were searched (1996-03/2017) for studies which generated synthetic CTs (sCT)s for MRI-only radiotherapy. 61 articles met the inclusion criteria.This review showed that MRI-only RTP techniques could be grouped into three categories: i]bulk density override ii]atlas-based and iii]voxel-based techniques, which all produce an sCT scan from MR image(s).Bulk density override techniques either used a single homogeneous or multiple tissue override. The former produced large dosimetric errors (>2%) in some cases and the latter frequently required manual bone contouring. Atlas-based techniques used both single and multiple atlases and included methods incorporating pattern recognition techniques. Clinically acceptable sCTs were reported, but atypical anatomy led to erroneous results in some cases. Voxel-based techniques included methods using routine and specialised MRI sequences, namely ultra-short echo time imaging. High quality sCTs were produced, however use of multiple sequences led to long scanning times increasing the chances of patient movement. Using non-routine sequences would currently be problematic in most radiotherapy centres.Atlas-based and voxel-based techniques were found to be the most clinically useful methods, with some studies reporting dosimetric differences of <1% between planning on the sCT and CT and <1mm deviations when using sCTs for positional verification.



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IGRT strategies for pelvic lymph node irradiation in high-risk prostate cancer: motion and margins

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Lucy Kershaw, Laila van Zadelhoff, Wilma Heemsbergen, Floris Pos, Marcel van Herk
PurposeFor optimal irradiation of pelvic lymph nodes (LN) in high-risk prostate cancer, definition of margins to determine the planning target volume(s) is essential. Detailed quantification of the relative motion of the LN, seminal vesicles (SV) and prostate is currently lacking. This work aimed to quantify these motions and define margins for image-guided radiotherapy based on bony anatomy or prostate correction strategies for a 3 or 6 degrees-of-freedom couch.Material and MethodsNineteen patients had a planning CT followed by a mean of 11 repeated CTs during radiotherapy. The prostate, SV, external and internal iliac LN regions on the left and right were outlined on each CT. Systematic and random uncertainties were determined along with correlations between the motion of these regions. CTV-PTV margins required to take only motion into account were calculated for each guidance method.ResultsFor bone guidance, motion of prostate and LNs was largely uncorrelated. Margins to compensate for motion ((LR, SI, AP) in cm) based on a 3 degrees-of-freedom couch were; prostate: (0.2, 0.6, 0.8), SV: (0.4, 0.9, 1.0) and LN: (0.3, 0.4, 0.6). For prostate guidance, margins were calculated for correlated motion; prostate: (0, 0, 0), SV: (0.3, 0.5, 0.4) and LN: (0.3, 0.5, 0.9). For a 6 degrees-of-freedom couch, these margins were; prostate: (0.2, 0.6, 0.8), SV: (0.3, 0.9, 1.0) and LN: (0.3, 0.4, 0.3) for bone guidance. For prostate guidance, margins were; prostate: (0, 0, 0), SV: (0.2, 0.5, 0.4) and LN: (0.3, 0.6, 0.6)ConclusionsImage-guided radiotherapy based on bony anatomy requires larger prostate and SV margins, and guidance on prostate requires larger LN margins. Neither guidance strategy is optimal, and a combination of the two, or treatment adaption after a number of fractions might be preferable. Calculation of the total margin should also include delineation uncertainties.

Teaser

Definition of margins to determine the optimal image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) strategy for pelvic lymph node irradiation is essential in high-risk prostate cancer. In this work, these margins were derived from systematic and random motions measured using repeated CT scans in 19 patients, based on matching to either bony anatomy or prostate for a 3 or 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) couch. When matching to bony anatomy, margins were smaller for lymph nodes than when matching to prostate, but larger for prostate and seminal vesicles. The prostate and seminal vesicle margins were unchanged when using a 3 vs 6 DOF couch, but lymph node margins were smaller in the anterior-posterior direction.


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Subcutaneous implant-based breast reconstruction, a modern challenge in post mastectomy radiation planning

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Melissa P. Mitchell, Jamie Wagner, James Butterworth
As survival rates for breast cancer continue to improve, there has been increasing interest in reducing toxicity of therapy. In the field of breast surgery, we have seen advancements in the surgical approach from total mastectomy to skin and nipple sparing mastectomy. Nodal surgery has also been significantly impacted by a "less is more" approach, sparing patients with healthy lymph nodes the side effect of axillary lymph node dissection by performing sentinel lymph node dissection to accurately assess the draining nodal basin. More recently, there have been increasing reports of techniques to improve options for reconstruction. A growing trend has been use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM). This has been reported to improve cosmesis and reduce the number of surgical procedures required to obtain desired aesthetic results. Additionally, there have been increasing reports of use of prepectoral ADM covered implants. As compared to traditional methods of using submuscular tissue expanders, devices placed in the prepectoral plane have been reported to reduce animation deformities and postoperative pain. There is also the benefit that muscular function will be preserved with a subcutaneous expander. Furthermore, there is a growing push for single stage procedures made possible through the use of ADM. This benefits the patient by subjecting them to less operations and benefits the health care system by decreasing health care costs, as compared to multiple stage surgeries.



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Factors Associated with Fatigue in Prostate Cancer (PC) Patients Undergoing External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Hann-Hsiang Chao, Abigail Doucette, David M. Raizen, Neha Vapiwala
PurposeFatigue is a common adverse effect among cancer patients undergoing external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), yet the underlying disease- and treatment-related factors influencing its development are poorly understood. We hypothesized that clinical, demographic, and treatment-related factors differentially affect fatigue and aimed to better characterize variables related to fatigue development in prostate cancer (PC) patients during EBRT.MethodsWe identified a 681 patient cohort with non-metastatic PC undergoing a 6–9week EBRT course. Patient fatigue scores (range 0–3) were prospectively recorded by providers during treatment visits using standardized criteria. Clinical and demographic factors including age, race, EBRT details, disease staging, smoking status, comorbidities, urinary symptoms, employment status, weight, and concurrent medication use were assessed for their relationship to fatigue levels. Significant differences in fatigue severity by each variable at the beginning and end of EBRT were assessed by non-parametric-means testing, and differences in the level of fatigue increase over the treatment course were assessed using an ordered logistic regression model.ResultsSignificant increases in reported fatigue severity were seen in patients with: age<60years (p=0.006), depressive symptoms (p<0.001) and use of androgen deprivation therapy prior to radiation start (p=0.04). In addition, the prescription of antiemetics prior to radiation start was associated with reduced fatigue severity (p=0.03).ConclusionsWe identify factors associated with increased (young age, depressive symptoms, androgen deprivation therapy) and decreased (antiemetic prescription) fatigue in a large cohort of PC patients receiving EBRT. Continued investigation is needed to further elucidate clinical drivers and biological underpinnings of increased fatigue to guide potential interventions.



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HPV related Nasopharyngeal and Cervical Cancer in a Married Couple in North America

Publication date: Available online 8 September 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Daniel B. Vanderbilt, Quoc-Anh Ho, Uma Goyal, Robert C. Bell, Robert R. Klein, Sun K. Yi




http://ift.tt/2vMgBw4

Plasma-rich plasma, the ultimate secret for youthful skin elixir and hair growth triggering

Summary

The clinical application of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is based on the increase in the concentration of growth factors that are released from alpha-granule of the concentrated platelets and in the secretion of proteins which are able to capitalize on the healing process at the cellular level. It has been invented to restore the natural beauty by starting the natural rejuvenation process of the skin and aiming to make it function as a younger one and to keep the skin youthful and maintain it. Besides that, it is also emerged to include hairs as a new injectable procedure to enable stimulating hair growth locally and topically; preventing its fall; improving hair shaft, hair stem, and its caliber; increasing its shine, vitality, and pliability; and declining hair splitting and breakage. Thus, youth is in your blood as it has a magical power imposed in the platelet factors. There is, however, no standardization of the techniques besides insufficient description of the adopted procedures. Not long, autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has surfaced strongly in diverse medical specialties including plastic, wound healing and diabetic ulcers, orthopedic, trauma, ocular surgery, dry eye for eyelid injection, urology for urinary incontinence, sexual wellness, cutaneous surgery, sport medicine, dentistry and dermatology, and aesthetic applications. PRP proved to promote wound healing and aid in facelift, volumetric skin, skin rejuvenation, regeneration, and reconstruction; improve wrinkling; stimulate hair growth; increase hair follicle viability and its survival rate; prevent apoptosis; increase and prolong the anagen hair growth stage; and delay the progression to catagen hair cycle stage with increased density in hair loss and hair transplantation. The aims of this extensive review were to cover all PRP application aspects that are carried out in aesthetic dermatology and to assess the literature on platelet-rich plasma outcomes on main aesthetic practices of general dermatology. A literature review was conducted by searching through PubMed, Biomedical Library database, Google Scholar, and Research Gate for the terms PRP, platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich fibrin matrix, platelet preparations, platelet application therapy, platelet growth factors, platelet facial, platelet facial rejuvenation, platelet hairs, and platelet wound healing, from inception till 2017, and they were combined using Boolean operators. All those retrieved articles in English language were looked at and explored thoroughly.

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