APP deficiency results in resistance to obesity but impairs glucose tolerance upon high fat feeding

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) generates a number of peptides when processed through different cleavage mechanisms, including the amyloid beta peptide that is implicated in the development of Alzheimer's disease. It is well established that APP via its cleaved peptides regulates aspects of neuronal metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests that amyloidogenic processing of APP can lead to altered systemic metabolism, similar to that observed in metabolic disease states. In the present study, we investigated the effect of APP deficiency on obesity-induced alterations in systemic metabolism. Compared with WT littermates, APP-deficient mice were resistant to diet-induced obesity, which was linked to higher energy expenditure and lipid oxidation throughout the dark phase and was associated with increased spontaneous physical activity. Consistent with this lean phenotype, APP-deficient mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) had normal insulin tolerance. However, despite normal insulin action, these mice were glucose intolerant, similar to WT mice fed a HFD. This was associated with reduced plasma insulin in the early phase of the glucose tolerance test. Analysis of the pancreas showed that APP was required to maintain normal islet and β-cell mass under high fat feeding conditions. These studies show that, in addition to regulating aspects of neuronal metabolism, APP is an important regulator of whole body energy expenditure and glucose homeostasis under high fat feeding conditions.

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Chorionic somatomammotropin impacts early fetal growth and placental gene expression

Several developmental windows, including placentation, must be negotiated to establish and maintain pregnancy. Impaired placental function can lead to preeclampsia and/or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), resulting in increased infant mortality and morbidity. It has been hypothesized that chorionic somatomammotropin (CSH) plays a significant role in fetal development, potentially by modifying maternal and fetal metabolism. Recently, using lentiviral-mediated in vivo RNA interference in sheep, we demonstrated significant reductions in near-term (135 days of gestation; dGA) fetal and placental size, and altered fetal liver gene expression, resulting from CSH deficiency. We sought to examine the impact of CSH deficiency on fetal and placental size earlier in gestation (50 dGA), and to examine placental gene expression at 50 and 135 dGA. At 50 dGA, CSH-deficient pregnancies exhibited a 41% reduction (P ≤ 0.05) in uterine vein concentrations of CSH, and significant (P ≤ 0.05) reductions (21%) in both fetal body and liver weights. Placentae harvested at 50 and 135 dGA exhibited reductions in IGF1 and IGF2 mRNA concentrations, along with reductions in SLC2A1 and SLC2A3 mRNA. By contrast, mRNA concentrations for various members of the System A, System L and System y⁺ amino acid transporter families were not significantly impacted. The IUGR observed at the end of the first-third of gestation indicates that the near-term IUGR reported previously, began early in gestation, and may have in part resulted from deficits in the paracrine action of CSH within the placenta. These results provide further compelling evidence for the importance of CSH in the progression and outcome of pregnancy.

https://ift.tt/2Gd91Pz

Soluble Klotho causes hypomineralization in Klotho-deficient mice

The type I transmembrane protein αKlotho (Klotho) serves as a coreceptor for the phosphaturic hormone fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) in kidney, while a truncated form of Klotho (soluble Klotho, sKL) is thought to exhibit multiple activities, including acting as a hormone, but whose mode(s) of action in different organ systems remains to be fully elucidated. FGF23 is expressed primarily in osteoblasts/osteocytes and aberrantly high levels in the circulation acting via signaling through an FGF receptor (FGFR)-Klotho coreceptor complex cause renal phosphate wasting and osteomalacia. We assessed the effects of exogenously added sKL on osteoblasts and bone using Klotho-deficient (kl/kl) mice and cell and organ cultures. sKL induced FGF23 signaling in bone and exacerbated the hypomineralization without exacerbating the hyperphosphatemia, hypercalcemia and hypervitaminosis D in kl/kl mice. The same effects were seen in rodent bone models in vitro, in which we also detected formation of a sKL complex with FGF23-FGFR and decreased Phex (gene responsible for X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH)/osteomalacia) expression. Further, sKL-FGF23-dependent hypomineralization in vitro was rescued by soluble PHEX. These data suggest that exogenously added sKL directly participates in FGF23 signaling in bone and that PHEX is a downstream effector of the sKL-FGF23-FGFR axis in bone.

https://ift.tt/2KWGIbo

The scaffold protein PDZK1 modulates expression and function of the organic anion transporting polypeptide 2B1

Publication date: 30 July 2018
Source:European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Volume 120
Author(s): Celio Ferreira, Paul Hagen, Melanie Stern, Janine Hussner, Uwe Zimmermann, Markus Grube, Henriette E. Meyer zu Schwabedissen
The protein family of Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides (OATPs) summarizes various transporters known to facilitate cellular uptake of xenobiotics. One member of this family is OATP2B1. This transporter is ubiquitously expressed and possesses a PDZ-binding motif at the C-terminus. PDZK1 (PDZ domain-containing 1) is a scaffold protein that influences function of different membrane proteins by sorting/stabilization of their membrane localization. It was aim of the herein reported study to investigate whether there is an interaction between OATP2B1 and PDZK1, and to further characterize its impact on transport function. At first expression of both OATP2B1 and PDZK1 was evaluated in liver, kidney and intestine. Based on the existence of a C-terminal PDZ-class I binding motif in OATP2B1 and the co-expression in all tested tissues an interaction was likely. Testing the influence of PDZK1 on OATP2B1 transport function revealed enhanced transport capacity for estrone 3-sulfate, thereby suggesting a change in OATP2B1 amount in the membrane. This assumption was validated by Western blot analysis. Finally, deletion of the C-terminal PDZ-binding motif in OATP2B1 lowered the impact of PDZK1 on transport function. Taken together, we report an interaction of PDZK1 with OATP2B1, which influences localization and function of the transporter. Changes in PDZK1 expression may therefore be one factor contributing to interindividual differences in OATP2B1 mediated pharmacokinetic processes.

Graphical abstract

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Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside ameliorates diabetic nephropathy through regulation of glutathione pool

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Yan Qin, Qianqian Zhai, Yan Li, Meng Cao, Yun Xu, Kelei Zhao, Tao Wang
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common complication of diabetes and the major cause of chronic kidney disease. Cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G) is the most widespread anthocyanin in nature. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the possible effects of C3G on DN in db/db mice. We found that body weights and high levels of fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, C-peptide, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, and systolic blood pressure in diabetic mice were significantly reduced by C3G. C3G also reduced the ratio of kidney to body weight and the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, urinary albumin content and albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), ameliorated the pathological changes of kidneys, reduced the surface area of Bowman's capsule, glomerular tuft, Bowman's space, and decreased renal expression of collagen IV, fibronectin, transforming growth factor β 1 (TGFβ1), matrix metalloprotein 9 (MMP9) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) in db/db mice. The Lee's index, perirenal white adipose tissue weight, and high levels of blood and renal triglyceride and cholesterol were decreased by C3G. Moreover, C3G reduced systemic levels and renal expression of tumor necrosis factor ɑ (TNFɑ), IL-1ɑ, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), indicating the inhibition of inflammation. Furthermore, C3G increased glutathione (GSH) level and decreased GSSG level in kidneys of diabetic mice. The renal mRNA expression of glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM) was increased by C3G in diabetic mice. Buthionine sulphoximine (BSO), an inhibitor of GSH synthesis, inhibited the effects of C3G on glucose metabolic dysfunction and DN. The data demonstrates that enhancement of GSH pool is involved in the renal-protective effects of C3G. Overall, C3G could be a promising therapeutic option for attenuation of diabetes and DN.

Graphical abstract

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CNPY2 enhances resistance to apoptosis induced by cisplatin via activation of NF-κB pathway in human non-small cell lung cancer

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Dou Yu, Yu Qin, Lei Jun-qiang, Guo Shun-lin
Platinum-based chemotherapeutic drugs, especial cisplatin, are the most common and effective anticancer drugs to treat the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but the major obstacle of this treatment is the resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs due to the anti-apoptosis of cancer cells. In our study, we found that Canopy homolog 2 (CNPY2) is increased in NSCLC tissues compared to the normal lung tissues, and the upregulation of CNPY2 is correlated with poor survival. Next, colony formation, annexin V-binding and TUNEL assays revealed that overexpression of CNPY2 inhibits the apoptosis of NSCLC cells induced by cisplatin. Further assays demonstrated that the anti-apoptosis may be aroused by the hyperactivation of NF-κB signaling pathway, and blocking the NF-κB pathway promotes the apoptosis of CNPY2-upregulating cells. The above results suggest that CNPY2 can serves as a therapeutic target to promote the effect of chemotherapy in NSCLC.



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Cognitive and hippocampus biochemical changes following sleep deprivation in the adult male rat

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 104
Author(s): Ebrahim Nabaee, Mahnaz Kesmati, Ali Shahriari, Lotfollah Khajehpour, Mozhgan Torabi
Sleep deprivation (SD) influences physiological processes such as cognitive function. The balance of oxidant and antioxidant markers, neurotrophic factors and magnesium are affected by sleep deprivation but there is no difference between pre and post training sleep deprivation. This study was designed to investigate memory retrieval and biochemical factors such as oxidant and antioxidant enzyme, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and magnesium levels in the hippocampus following pre and post-training sleep deprivation.Male Wistar rats (weighing 200 ± 20 g) in below groups were used: control 1, 24, 48 and 72 h SD before training groups, control2, 24 h SD1 after training (being evaluated 24 h after training) and SD2 24 after training (being evaluated 48 h after training). Memory was evaluated 90 min, 24 h or 48 h after training by step-through passive avoidance apparatus. Multiple platforms method was used to induce SD. Oxidant and antioxidant markers including glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GPx), malonedialdehyde (MDA), Total antioxidant concentration, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), magnesium and BDNF were assessed in the hippocampus or/and brain.72 h pre-training SD impaired short and long-term memory significantly. There was no significant difference in hippocampus oxidant and antioxidant markers compared to control. Hippocampal BDNF and magnesium did not show any changes in all SD groups.Lack of correlation between memory impairment and levels of BDNF, magnesium and/or oxidant and antioxidant balance in the hippocampus is likely to be related to animal locomotor activity in the multiple platforms method. More research is needed to clarify the role of neurochemical systems.



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Arctigenin: A two-edged sword in ischemia/reperfusion induced acute kidney injury

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Feng Han, Xin-xin Xia, Meng dou, Yu-xiang Wang, Wu-Jun Xue, Xiao-Ming Ding, Jin Zheng, Chen-guang Ding, Pu-Xun Tian
Arctigenin (ATG) is one of the main active substances in fruit derived from Arctium lappa L. Previous studies have reported that ATG have antitumor, neuroprotective, antioxidant, antifibrosis and anti-inflammatory functions. However, the actions of ATG in kidney with acute injury following ischemia/ reperfusion (I/R) is still uncertain. In our study, mice were subjected to kidney I/R by having the kidney pedicles clamped and administered with vehicle or ATG (1, 3 or 9 mg/kg/d) via oral gavage for 7 consecutive days prior to I/R. Notably, ATG aggravated kidney I/R injury with the concentration increases. Multiple biochemical assays and histological examination showed ATG significantly alleviated the inflammatory response as reflected by a decreased expression of proinflammatory cytokine, TLR4/MyD88, and NF-κB, along with the infiltration of CD68⁺ macrophage and CD11b⁺Gr1⁺ neutrophil in the kidneys. Meanwhile, ATG alleviated I/R-induced oxidative stress proved by increasing kidney manganese superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity but reducing levels of malonaldehyde and inducible nitric oxide synthase. On the contrary, apoptosis was significantly increased in kidneys of ATG-treated mice compared with vehicle-treated controls, especially in tubular cells. There were increased numbers of TUNEL positive cells and increased Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-caspase-9 expression. The current study demonstrates that pretreatment of ATG aggravates I/R induced acute kidney injury by increasing apoptosis of tubular cells despite reducing infiltrating inflammatory cells and proinflammatory cytokine.

Graphical abstract

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Eupatilin inhibits adipogenesis through suppression of PPARγ activity in 3T3-L1 cells

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Jin Soo Kim, Seul Gi Lee, Kyoungjin Min, Taeg Kyu Kwon, Ha-Jeong Kim, Ju-Ock Nam
Eupatilin (5,7-dihydroxy-3′,4′,6-trimethoxyflavone) is a flavonoid compound from Artemisia species that possesses beneficial biological activities such as anti-cancer, anti-oxidation, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, an anti-adipogenic effect has not yet been reported. In this study, we found that eupatilin significantly inhibited the adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Eupatilin decreased intracellular lipid accumulation and suppressed the expression level of key adipogenic regulators in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), in a concentration-dependent manner. These results show that eupatilin significantly inhibits 3T3-L1 cell differentiation and suggest that it has potential as a novel anti-obesity therapy.

Graphical abstract

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Polyphenol-rich extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaves ameliorates colitis via attenuating colonic mucosa injury and regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines production and oxidative stress

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Quadri K. Alabi, Rufus O. Akomolafe, Joseph G. Omole, Modinat A. Adefisayo, Olaofe L. Ogundipe, Ayodeji Aturamu, Joseph O. Sanya
Colitis is a chronic inflammation and ulcer on the inner lining of the large intestine. For many centuries Ocimum gratissimum (OG) leaves have been used in folk medicine in Nigeria to treat inflammatory bowel diseases, however, to date, the anti-colitis effects of OG have not been scientifically proven. In this study we investigated the effects of polyphenol rich extract of Ocimum gratissimum (PREOG) leaf on colonic mucosa injury in colitis, its mechanisms, initial administration time and dosage. Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced rat colitis models was used. PREOG administration was initiated at 3 and 7 d after the model was established at doses of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg for 7 d. 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) was used as a reference drug. The disease activity index (DAI), vascular permeability, markers of oxidative stress, granulocyte infiltration, inflammation and histopathological alteration were evaluated. Obvious colonic inflammation and mucosa injuries were observed in DSS-induced colitis groups. PREOG administration promoted repair of colonic mucosa injuries, attenuated inflammation, and decreased DAI scores in rats with colitis. PREOG also decreased the plasma concentrations of Interleukin-(IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and concentrations of myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase-2 and malondialdehyde in the colon, and increased the plasma concentrations of IL-4 and IL-10 as well as the concentration of superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione in the colon. The efficacy of PREOG was dosage dependent. In conclusion, OG repairs colonic mucosa injury in experimental colitis through its ant-inflammatory and ant-oxidant. Its efficacy related to initial administration time and dose.

Graphical abstract

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NGF and PI3K/Akt signaling participate in the ventral motor neuronal protection of curcumin in sciatic nerve injury rat models

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Qiuling Sang, Daju Sun, Zonghan Chen, Weijia Zhao
ObjectiveIt has been reported that sciatic nerve injury (SNI) leads to degeneration, damage, and apoptosis of motor neurons. Nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a pivotal role in regeneration and reestablishment of neuronal function via activating PI3K/Akt survival signaling pathways. Curcumin owns neuroprotective effect following brain injury. In the present study, we attempt to investigate underlying mechanism of neuroprotective effect of curcumin through elucidating its correlation with NGF and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo.MethodsPC-12 cells were exposed H2O2 in order to induce neuron cell injury and cells were then treated with curcumin. Caspase-3, NGF level and Akt phosphorylation were determined using flow cytometry and western blotting. Then, cells were treated with NGF specific siRNA followed by measurement of apoptosis, NGF and Akt phosphorylation levels. In animal model, rats were subjected to SNI and then randomly designated into four different groups: curcumin, curcumin + LY294002, curcumin + NGF shRNA, and negative controls and 12 rats in each group (n = 12). After four weeks of continuous treatment, tissue samples were obtained and subjected to TUNEL, NeuN double staining and western blotting.ResultsCurcumin significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cells induced by H2O2 and this effect was associated with upregulation of TrkA, Akt and downregulation of p17. ProNGF level was significantly decreased while mature NGF level was increased with curcumin treatment. When NGF was suppressed, anti-apoptotic effect of curcumin was attenuated. In addition, inhibition of PI3K/Akt results in increased apoptotic rate compared to vehicles following curcumin treatment which was reflected by decreased p17, Ki67, and cyclin D1. Suppression of NGF and inhibition of PI3K led to increased neuron cell death through increasing proNGF and decreasing mNGF, Akt, TrkA, p75^NTR, and p17.ConclusionOur findings revealed that curcumin exerts its protective effect against injured neurons through stimulating NGF release which further activates TrkA and PI3K/Akt cell survival signaling.



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LncRNA ASAP1-IT1 positively modulates the development of cholangiocarcinoma via hedgehog signaling pathway

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Linqi Guo, Yu Zhou, Ying Chen, Huawei Sun, Yue Wang, Yikun Qu
Over the past decades, lncRNAs have attracted more and more attentions of researchers. It has been verified that lncRNAs can modulate multiple biological behaviors in various human cancers. LncRNA ASAP1-IT1 has been certified to be a tumor facilitator in several malignant tumors. This study aims to investigate the effects of dysregulated ASAP1-IT1 on biological processes of Cholangiocarcinoma. The high expression level of ASAP1-IT1 was tested in Cholangiocarcinoma tissues and cells with qRT-PCR. Upregulation of ASAP1-IT predicted the unfavorable prognosis for Cholangiocarcinoma patients. Next, ASAP1-IT1 was knocked down in cancerous cells for loss-of function assay. MTT, colony formation and transwell and western bot assays were performed to demonstrate the specific impacts of ASAP1-IT1 on proliferation, migration and EMT progression of Cholangiocarcinoma. Cells. As a results, the Cholangiocarcinoma progression was inhibited. Hedgehog signaling pathway has been discovered to be a treatment target in Cholangiocarcinoma. In this study, the interaction between ASAP1-IT1 and hedgehog pathway was specifically investigated. Smo and Gli1, two hedgehog-related proteins were examined in Cholangiocarcinoma cells. The results of qRT-PCR and western blot assay suggested that ASAP1-IT1 could positively modulate Smo and Gli1 in Cholangiocarcinoma. Finally, rescue assays were carried out to prove that ASAP1-IT1 could improve Cholangiocarcinoma progression and development via hedgehog signaling pathway.

Graphical abstract

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Anagliptin prevents apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells by modulating NOX-4 signaling pathways

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Qi Li, Jiade Li, Yanli Liu, Mingyu Zhang, Chang Chen
Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors are novel oral anti-hyperglycemic agents. Here, the anti-apoptotic effect of Anagliptin in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was evaluated. Cultured HUVECs were pre-incubated with Anagliptin, and then treated hydrongen peroxide (H2O2) to induce apoptosis. The apoptosis of HUVECs were detected by viability, LIVE/DEAD staining assay and flow cytometry assays. HUVECs were transfected with plasmid harboring human NADPH oxidases (NOX) 4 or an empty vector. The formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by immunofluorescence. Apoptotic and anti-apoptotic factor were detected by Western Blot. Pre-incubation with Anagliptin protected HUVECs from H2O2 induced apoptosis. The transfection assay also indicated that pre-incubation with Anagliptin inhibited the apoptosis of HUVECs induced by NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX-4) overexpression. Immunofluorescence demonstrated that pre-incubation with Anagliptin suppressed the formation of ROS in apoptotic HUVECs. Pre-incubation with Anagliptin inhibited NOX-4 mediated the Bax, caspase-3, cleave caspase-3 and Cyto C overexpression, but up-regulated the protein level of Bcl-2 in HUVECs. The data help us to better understand the effect of Anagliptin on apoptosis, and will be valuable in identifying new targets to prevent the endothelial cell apoptosis after injury.

Graphical abstract

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Knockdown of long non-coding RNA TP73-AS1 inhibits osteosarcoma cell proliferation and invasion through sponging miR-142

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Guangling Yang, Ruipeng Song, Limin Wang, Xuejian Wu
Long non-coding RNA P73 antisense RNA 1 T (lncRNA TP73-AS1) has been shown to involve in the progression of numerous tumors. Nevertheless, the expression as well as the functional mechanisms of TP73-AS1 in osteosarcoma (OS) are still largely unknown. This study aimed to explore the roles and underlying mechanism of TP73-AS1 in OS progression. In thye present study, TP73-AS1 expression was significantly increased in OS tissues and cell lines. High TP73-AS1 expression was associated with poor overall survival of OS patients. TP73-AS1 knockdown suppressed OS cells proliferation and invasion in vitro as well as tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, we identified that miR-142 could act as a direct target for TP73-AS1 and miR-142 inhibition reversed the suppression of OS cells proliferation and invasion induced by TP73-AS1 knockdown. In addition, we showed that TP73-AS1 could function as a sponge of miR-142 to positively regulate Rac1 in OS cells. Thus, our data suggested that TP73-AS1 served as an oncogenic lncRNA in OS progression, and could be regarded as an efficient therapeutic target in the treatment of OS.



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Current and future biomarkers in gastric cancer

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Muhammad Abbas, Alessia Faggian, Dahiru Nasiru Sintali, Ghulam Jilany Khan, Shagufta Naeem, Meiqi Shi, Chen Dingding
Gastric cancer is the fourth most common worldwide cause of cancer-related death. Early gastric cancer has no associated symptoms, for this reason, patients come to the attention of the clinicians only in advanced stages. This paper aims to give a global view on the biomarkers for gastric cancer and the therapy in use. We discuss VEGF family, HER family, E-cadherin, PD-L1, and PD-L2, FGFR, mTOR. Finally, we considered emerging biomarkers as MET, microsatellite instability, and microRNA variations. Furthermore, we have analyzed in depth the chemotherapeutic and adjuvant therapies used in the clinic nowadays, comparing the overall and progression-free survival between them. Identifying and validating diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers will be mandatory to the huge impact on patients' outcomes and for improving the efficiency of the drug development process.



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CDK16 overexpressed in non-small cell lung cancer and regulates cancer cell growth and apoptosis via a p27-dependent mechanism

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Hongtao Wang, Hongli Liu, Shengping Min, Yuanbing Shen, Wei Li, Yuqing Chen, Xiaojing Wang
Cyclin-dependent kinase 16 (CDK16, PCTAIRE1) expression is upregulated in a wide variety of human malignancies. However, the function(s) of CDK16 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remain unknown. Therefore, here we investigated the role of CDK16 in NSCLC. From 43 NSCLC tumors and matching healthy control lung tissues, immunohistochemistry revealed significantly greater CDK16 and phospho-p27^Ser10 staining levels in NSCLC samples relative to healthy controls. The NSCLC cell line EKVX was transfected with a control siRNA, a CDK16-siRNA, or CDK16-siRNA + p27-siRNA. We found significantly decreased proliferation levels and significantly increased apoptosis levels in CDK16-silenced NSCLC cells. However, these effects were abrogated in cells treated with both the CDK16-siRNA and the p27-siRNA. In CDK16-silenced NSCLC cells, we found upregulated p27 and downregulated phospho-p27^Ser10 protein expression but downregulated ubiquitinated p27 and ubiquitinated phospho-p27^Ser10 protein expression. Cycloheximide-treated CDK16-silenced NSCLC cells displayed a much milder reduction in p27 protein expression over time relative to untreated CDK16-silenced NSCLC cells. In summary, CDK16 is significantly upregulated in human NSCLC tumor tissue and plays an oncogenic role in NSCLC cells via promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis in a p27-dependent manner. Moreover, CDK16 negatively regulates expression of the p27 via ubiquination and protein degradation.



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Cassia grandis fruit extract reduces the blood glucose level in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 103
Author(s): Ariadna Lafourcade Prada, Jesús Rafael Rodríguez Amado, Hady Keita, Edgar Puente Zapata, Helison Carvalho, Emersom Silva Lima, Tatiane Pereira de Sousa, José Carlos Tavares Carvalho
IntroductionCassia grandis Lf fruits are ethnobotanically used for digestive disorders, anemia, and for reducing blood glucose. However, there are no studies about the antidiabetic activity nor the oral toxicity of the plant fruit-extracts. This paper aims to evaluate the hypoglycemic effect of C. grandis fruits extract in vivo, and assess the acute oral toxicity, and sub-acute oral toxicity. The antioxidant activity and the α-glycosidase inhibitor effect were also evaluated.MethodsThe extract was obtained by maceration of the fruit pulp with 70% hydroalcoholic solution (1:2, m:v). The extractive solution was concentrated in a vacuum rotary evaporator, up to a drug: solvent ratio of 2:1 (g/ml). Soluble solids, relative density, refractive index, pH, total phenolics, and flavonoids were determined. A preliminary phytochemical screening was made, followed by the quantitation of volatiles by GC/MS. The acute and sub-acute oral toxicity was evaluated in Sprague Dawley rats, by using biochemical and hematological parameters. The radical scavenging activity (DPPH, ABTS) and α-glycosidase inhibitory effect were tested. The hypoglycemic effect was assessed in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.ResultsThe extract of C. grandis contains alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids, free amino acids, amines, phenols, tannins, reduced sugars, resins, saponins, steroids, and triterpenes, plus 38 volatile compounds, being linalool the most abundant (1,66%). The extract exhibited an LD50 > 2000 mg/kg, and after a continuous administration (1000 mg/kg, 28-days), the hematological and biochemical parameters were normal. The extract showed hypoglycemic effect, being the dose 200 mg/kg no statistically different from glibenclamide at 25 mg/kg. Good antioxidant activity and a potent α-glycosidase inhibitory effect were also observed.ConclusionC. grandis extract is an excellent hypoglycemic and non-toxic plant product. The hypoglycemic mechanism could be associated with the antioxidant effect and with the α-glycosidase inhibition. Up to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the hypoglycemic effect in vivo of C. grandis fruits extract.

Graphical abstract

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Scholar : These new articles for Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Alcheringa: An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Middle–Upper Jurassic marine gastropods from central Saudi Arabia Mariel Ferrari, Magdy El-Hedeny, Mohamed Zakhera, Ahmed El-Sabbagh & Saleh Al Farraj Pages: 1-19 | DOI: 10.1080/03115518.2018.1465996 Hoping to have your article read by anyone, anywhere and at any time? Find out more about publishing open access with Ecosystem Health and Sustainability. To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. Unsubscribe from new content alerts for this journal (both new issue and latest article notifications) 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.

A Retrospective Cohort Study on Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is one of the most distressing conditions observed in dermatology and has a substantial negative effect on the quality of life of affected persons. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate different treatment strategies in patients with HS. Methods: In a retrospective cohort, all patients with HS (July 2015 to March 2017) were reviewed. Collected data consisted of patients' demographics, clinical characteristics, psychosocial situation, and previous and current treatments. In addition, therapy response to the most recent prescribed treatments was assessed. Results: 102 patients (38 females, 64 males; median age 37.5 years) were included in this study. 68.4% of patients had BMI ≥25, and 76.5% of patients were current smokers. Hurley stages I, II, and III were detected in 13.5, 53.1, and 33.3% of patients, respectively. The most commonly administered treatments were surgery (67.6%), nonantibiotic topical therapies (72.5%), antibiotic topical therapies (55.9%), systemic antibiotics (88.2%), and biologics in 11.8% of the patients. 84.6% of the patients showed a response (27.5 and 47.1% partial and complete response, respectively) to the treatments. Conclusion: HS as a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin disease is associated with smoking and obesity. Application of systemic antibiotics is the most frequent treatment strategy for this disease. However, surgical intervention seems to be the most effective treatment strategy.
Dermatology

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

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Role of hypothetical protein YicS in the pathogenicity of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli in vivo and in vitro

Publication date: Available online 13 May 2018
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Renu Verma, Thaís Cabrera Galvão Rojas, Renato Pariz Maluta, Janaína Luisa Leite, Gerson Nakazato, Wanderley Dias de Silveira
Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) strains belong to the extra-intestinal pathogenic group of E. coli (ExPEC) that causes colibacillosis in poultry. A variety of putative virulence factors of APEC are recognized as potent causes of pathogenicity, the mechanisms underlying their pathogenicity are still not fully understood. The role of yicS in the virulence of pathogenic E. coli is still unclear. Thus, yicS may be related to biofilm formation, which in some bacteria plays a role in pathogenicity. Therefore, the fact that this gene appears to be under positive selection pressure suggests that yicS may be associated with the pathogenicity of APEC. To better understand the role of yicS protein in APEC biological characteristics and pathogenicity, we deleted yicS in an APEC Swollen Head Syndrome strain (APEC strain SCI-07) and studied its effects by comparing wild type and isogenic mutants through comprehensive in vitro and in vivo assays. We demonstrated that yicS plays a role in pathogenicity of APEC. We suggest that the yicS gene, which encodes an exporter protein, has a significant role in biofilm formation, motility, invasion of CEC-32 and Hep-2 cells and APEC pathogenicity in a day-old chick model.



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Cytoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanism related to antiulcer activity of Cissampelos sympodialis Eichl. in animal models

Publication date: 10 August 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 222
Author(s): Igor Rafael Praxedes De Sales, Rodrigo De Oliveira Formiga, Flávia Danniele Frota Machado, Raphaela Francelino Nascimento, Matheus Marley Bezerra Pessoa, Monique Emanuela Frutuoso Xavier Barros, Giciane Carvalho Vieira, Francisco Allysson Assis Ferreira Gadelha, Alexsandro Fernandes Marinho, José Maria Barbosa Filho, Raimundo Fernandes De Araújo Júnior, Aurigena Araújo Antunes, Leônia Maria Batista
Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe leaves and roots of Cissampelos sympodialis (Menispermaceae) are used by indian tribes and in folk medicine to treat genitourinary infections, inflammation, asthma and gastrointestinal disorders.Material and methodsThe standardized ethanolic extract (Cs-EtOHE) and alkaloids total fraction (Cs-TAF) obtained from aerial parts of C. sympodialis were evaluated in several models of acute gastric ulcers. The antisecretory and/or neutralizing mechanisms of the gastric acid secretion, cytoprotective, antioxidant and immunoregulatory mechanisms were also evaluated.ResultsCs-EtOHE and Cs-TAF presented a reduction in gastric mucosa lesions against ethanol, NSAIDs, hypothermic restraint-stress and gastric juice containment induced ulcer models. This activity is related to alkaloids present in the extract, and involves the participation of sulfhydryl compounds, nitric oxide, KATP channels, prostaglandins, decreased levels of IL-1β and TNF-α and increased levels of GSH and IL-10.ConclusionThe data indicate gastroprotective activity, due to the participation of the cytoprotective, antioxidant and immunoregulatory mechanisms.

Graphical abstract

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The effects of overwintering and habitat type on body condition and locomotion of the wolf spider Pardosa alacris

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Acta Oecologica, Volume 89
Author(s): Kapilkumar Ingle, Ádám Horváth, Nikolett Gallé-Szpisjak, Levente Gellért, Enikő Csata, Róbert Gallé
Overwintering in temperate regions is a prominent mortality risk for invertebrates and may affect their behaviour and body condition. Pardosa alacris is a common ground dwelling spider in central European native and plantation forests, and habitat type and prey availability may play important roles in their overwintering. The effect of overwintering on body condition and behaviour of spiders in semi natural and exotic habitats is relatively unknown. Here we assess the effects of winter on spiders from native poplar and exotic pine plantations. The locomotory behaviour of P. alacris (distance covered and speed) was assessed by tracking their movement in a white circular plastic arena. We assessed body condition, body size, and total fat content. Forest type and sex had significant effects on body length. Fat content was significantly higher in the spring than in autumn, and spiders covered larger distances and were faster in autumn than in spring. Fat content had a significant negative effect on average speed. Spiders in native forests were smaller but grew more during the winter than in exotic plantations, possibly due to higher prey availability in native forests. Visually-hunting predators may significantly affect spiders. Fat spiders with better body condition moved less, and were thus less detectable by predators. However the low movement rate may result in a low rate of encountering prey items, thus lowering feeding efficiency.



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Near-infrared light-activated red-emitting upconverting nanoplatform for T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and photodynamic therapy

Publication date: Available online 12 May 2018
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Xiang-long Tang, Jun Wu, Ben-lan Lin, Sheng Cui, Hong-mei Liu, Ru-tong Yu, Xiao-dong Shen, Ting-wei Wang, Wei Xia
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has increasingly become an efficient and attractive cancer treatment modality based on reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can induce tumor death after irradiation with ultraviolet or visible light. Herein, to overcome the limited tissue penetration in traditional PDT, a novel near-infrared (NIR) light-activated NaScF4: 40% Yb, 2% Er@CaF2 upconversion nanoparticle (rUCNP) is successfully designed and synthesized. Chlorin e6, a photosensitizer and a chelating agent for Mn²⁺, is loaded into human serum albumin (HSA) that further conjugates onto rUCNPs. To increase the ability to target glioma tumor, an acyclic Arg–Gly–Asp peptide (cRGDyK) is linked to rUCNPs@HSA(Ce6-Mn). This nanoplatform enables efficient adsorption and conversion of NIR light (980 nm) into bright red emission (660 nm), which can trigger the photosensitizer Ce6-Mn complex for PDT and T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (T1-weighted MRI) for glioma diagnosis. Our in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that NIR light-activated and glioma tumor-targeted PDT can generate large amounts of intracellular ROS that induce U87 cell apoptosis and suppress glioma tumor growth owing to the deep tissue penetration of irradiated light and excellent tumor-targeting ability. Thus, this nanoplatform holds potential for applications in T1-weighted MRI diagnosis and PDT of glioma for antitumor therapy.Statement of SignificanceA near-infrared (NIR) light-activated nanoplatform for photodynamic therapy (PDT) was designed and synthesized. The Red-to-Green (R/G) ratio of NaScF4: 40% Yb, 2% Er almost reached 9, a value that was much higher than that of a traditional Yb/Er-codoped upconversion nanoparticle (rUCNP). By depositing a CaF2 shell, the red-emission intensities of the rUCNPs were seven times strong as that of NaScF4: 40% Yb, 2% Er. The enhanced red-emitting rUCNPs could be applied in many fields such as bioimaging, controlled release, and real-time diagnosis. The nanoplatform had a strong active glioma-targeting ability, and all results achieved on subcutaneous glioma demonstrated that our NIR light-activated red-emitting upconverting nanoplatform was efficient for PDT. By loading Ce6-Mn complex into rUCNPs@HSA-RGD, the nanoplatform could be used as a T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging agent for tumor diagnosis.

Graphical abstract

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Comparison of two analytical methods validated for the determination of volatile compounds in virgin olive oil: GC-FID vs GC-MS

Publication date: 1 September 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 187
Author(s): R. Aparicio-Ruiz, D.L. García-González, M.T. Morales, A. Lobo-Prieto, I. Romero
The utility of volatile compounds to explain virgin olive oil aroma descriptors is fully accepted and demanded by the olive oil sector. However, the methodology, and particularly the kind of detector to be used, is a matter of discussion because the high number of volatiles and their different nature. The SPME-GC-MS method has recently been validated for the most relevant volatiles but SPME-GC-FID method still needs to be validated to evaluate its performance in this application. A comparison between these two GC methods in determining 26 volatiles has been carried out in terms of analytical quality parameters (repeatability, intermediate precision, calibration curves, limits of detection and quantification, linear working ranges, selectivity and sensitivity). Good selectivity, linearity and higher upper values of the working range are the main advantages of SPME-GC-FID versus low bottom values of working ranges, better sensitivity and lower limits of detection and quantification of SPME-GC-MS. The limit of blank associated to each individual volatile was also determined and it allowed perfecting the empirical limit of detection. This procedure was carried out for SPME-GC-FID, which resulted in 21 volatiles with empirical limits of detections lower than their odor thresholds, and hence they can be used as markers of virgin olive oil sensory descriptors. Finally, with all the analytical quality parameters checked, a practical example of the ability of the volatiles quantified by SPME-GC-FID to discriminate the different categories (extra-virgin, virgin and lampante) and their main aroma descriptors is also provided.

Graphical abstract

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Development and characterization of poly(ethylene terephthalate) based injection molded self-reinforced composites. Direct reinforcement by overmolding the composite inserts

Publication date: 5 September 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 153
Author(s): Jacek Andrzejewski, Piotr Przyszczypkowski, Marek Szostak
This work presents the concept of using the self-reinforced inserts, suitable for overmolding during the standard injection molding procedure. The reinforcing inserts made from self-reinforced poly(ethylene terephtahalte) sheets (srPET) were overmolded by the matrix polymer. Two types of poly(ethylene terephthalate) were used as the matrix material, PET (pure bottle grade resin) and G-PET (amorphous PET based copolymer). Samples prepared under different conditions of the injection molding process were tested in terms of mechanical properties, DMA and DSC analysis. The results of mechanical tests confirmed the different fracture behavior, more favorable for G-PET samples, where the increase of tensile strength and E modulus reached 60% and 32% respectively. The most significant increase was observed for impact resistance values, for both types of polyesters the impact strength reach around 50 kJ/m², from the initial value below 5 kJ/m². The SEM microscopy was used to investigate the morphology of matrix-reinforcement interface. The observations of the bonding interface indicate the lack of delamination process and high level of adhesion between the matrix materials and reinforcing srPET insert. The presented results confirm that the proposed concept of using the overmolding technology for preparation of self-reinforced composites has the potential for industrial implementation.

Graphical abstract

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Development and evaluation of a methodology to integrate technical and sensorial properties in materials selection

Publication date: 5 September 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 153
Author(s): Agnese Piselli, Weston Baxter, Michele Simonato, Barbara Del Curto, Marco Aurisicchio
In the materials selection process, the use of different tools, languages and perspectives frequently causes disagreement between engineers and industrial designers.The aim of the paper is to define an integrated method for materials selection that provides industrial designers with measurable data to support and explain aesthetic decisions on materials.A new method for materials selection consisting of multiple tools structured in a two-step framework is presented. The method is tested through a case study of professional kitchen appliances where metal components are replaced with polymers. The first step involved the application of an established technique to identify polymeric bulk solutions, based on their technical properties. The second step employed a sensory analysis test to choose suitable finishes. Thirty-seven individuals performed the test: the subjects highlighted their main perceptions of metal and metal-look polymer finishes.The research demonstrates that the proposed method is suitable for the evaluation of both technical and sensorial properties of materials. In particular, Mapping test represents a rapid, low cost and effective tool to help industrial designers justify Colour Materials and Finish (CMF) choices with quantifiable information.

Graphical abstract

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Classification of Foreign Body Reactions due to Industrial Silicone Injection

BACKGROUND A foreign body reaction (FBR) is a typical tissue response to a biomaterial that has been injected or implanted in human body tissue. There has been a lack of data on the classification of foreign body reaction to silicone injection, which can describe the pattern of body tissue responses to silicone. OBJECTIVE Determine the foreign body reaction to silicone injection. METHOD We modified the classification proposed by Duranti and colleagues, which has categorized a FBR to hyaluronic acid injection into a new classification of an FBR to silicone injection. A cohort study of 31 women suffering from silicone-induced granulomas on their chin was conducted. Granulomatous tissue and submental skin were stained with hematoxylin–eosin and evaluated. RESULTS Our data revealed that there were at least 7 categories of FBRs to silicone injection that could be developed. Categories 1 to 4 showed inflammatory activity, and categories 5 to 8 showed tissue repair by fibrosis. CONCLUSION Using histopathological staining, we are able to sequence the steps of body reactions to silicone injection. Initial inflammatory reaction is then replaced by fibrosis process repairing the damaged tissues. The process depends on the host immune tolerance. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Ago Harlim, MD, MHA, PhD, Head of Dermatology and Venereology Division, Medical Faculty, Christian University of Indonesia, Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Kristen Indonesia, Jl. Mayjen Sutoyo No. 2, RT5/RW11, Cawang, Kramatjati, Jakarta Timur, Jakarta 13630, Indonesia, or e-mail: agoharlim@yahoo.com The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. © 2018 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Nail Brace Application: A Noninvasive Treatment for Ingrown Nails in Pediatric Patients

No abstract available

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Confluent Verruca Vulgaris Arising Within Bilateral Eyebrow Tattoos: Successful Treatment With Ablative Laser and Topical 5% Imiquimod Cream

No abstract available

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Why Do a Fellowship in Advanced Dermatologic Surgery?

No abstract available

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Surgical Cadaver Curriculum

No abstract available

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Efficacy Using a Modified Technique for Tissue Stabilized-Guided Subcision for the Treatment of Mild-to-Moderate Cellulite of the Buttocks and Thighs

BACKGROUND Cellulite can be significantly improved using vacuum-assisted tissue stabilized-guided subcision (TS-GS). However, the treatment of shallow and linear cellulite has remained problematic. OBJECTIVE In this retrospective study, we describe a modified technique of vacuum-assisted TS-GS. The aim is to demonstrate that this new limited-release technique is an effective treatment for long ripples and interconnected shallow dimples, which are characteristic of mild-to-moderate cellulite. METHODS Patients with mild-to-moderate cellulite were treated with limited-release vacuum-assisted TS-GS. All subcisions were performed at the 6-mm depth and a minimum of 3 mm between each dimple. Using a 4-point scale, 2 raters graded cellulite improvement on evaluation of prephotographs and postphotographs. RESULTS A total of 23 female patients were included in this study. The pre- and post-treatment photographs were correctly identified in 22 of the 23 patients (95.6%). The average cellulite improvement was 2.9 of 4 for the buttocks and 2.8 of 4 for the posterior thighs. Global cellulite improvement was reported at 3.1 of 4. CONCLUSION The results demonstrate that modified, limited-release, vacuum-assisted TS-GS can be an effective and safe method for the treatment of long ripples and shallow dimples that are characteristics of mild-to-moderate cellulite. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Omer Ibrahim, MD, 3533 N Wilton, Avenue #2, Chicago, IL 60657, or e-mail: oibrahim@chicagodermatolog.y.com M.S. Kaminer serves as a research consultant for Merz. The remaining authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. © 2018 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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BRCA1-Associated Protein-1 Tumor Predisposition Syndrome in a Patient With Numerous Basal Cell Carcinomas

No abstract available

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A modified CO2/O2 Guedel airway improves capnographic accuracy compared with a CO2/O2 nasal cannula: An infant manikin study

BACKGROUND Capnography via a CO2/O2 nasal cannula is commonly used for respiratory monitoring during sedation. However, signal disturbances are frequently encountered, especially in young children. OBJECTIVE Sampling ports placed closer to the trachea have been shown to result in improved signal quality. In a manikin model of a 6-month-old infant we compared capnography from a modified Guedel airway with a CO2 port located at the tip with that from a CO2/O2 nasal cannula. DESIGN A comparison study using an artificial model of a breathing 6-month-old infant. SETTING Department of Paediatrics, Inselspital Bern, Switzerland, from March 2016 to June 2016. MATERIAL Modified CO2/O2 Guedel airway. INTERVENTIONS Capnography using a modified CO2/O2 Guedel airway or a CO2/O2 nasal cannula was performed for tidal volumes of 20 to 80 ml (in steps of 20 ml), respiratory rates of 20 to 60 min−1 (in steps of 10 min−1) and with different O2 flows (0 to 2 l min−1, in steps of 0.5 l). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Comparison of differences between tracheal and device CO2. Secondary outcomes included the effect of various respiratory settings and O2 flows on the CO2 difference. RESULTS The tracheal to device CO2 difference was significantly smaller when using a modified CO2/O2 Guedel airway vs. a CO2/O2 nasal cannula: Mean ± SD, 16.8 ± 4.9 vs. 24.1 ± 5.9 mmHg, P less than 0.0001. An O2 flow of 0.5 to 2 l min−1 did not influence the tracheal to device CO2 difference with the modified CO2/O2 Guedel airway in contrast to the CO2/O2 nasal cannula where there were significant differences (P 

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Duration of the action of rocuronium in patients with BMI of less than 25: An observational study

BACKGROUND The duration of rocuronium in patients with BMI more than 30 kg m−2 is prolonged. Whether the reverse is true when BMI is less than 18.5 kg m−2 is unclear. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate whether a BMI less than 25 kg m−2 affects the duration of rocuronium in doses adjusted for actual body weight. DESIGN A prospective, observational, single-centre study. SETTING The operating room of a teaching hospital from 1 June 2008 to 30 June 2015. PATIENTS Thirty patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II who were scheduled to undergo elective surgery (BMI 

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Placebo versus low-dose ketamine infusion in addition to remifentanil target-controlled infusion for conscious sedation during oocyte retrieval: A prospective, double-blinded, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND Currently, there is no gold standard for monitored anaesthesia care during oocyte retrieval. OBJECTIVE In our institution, the standard is a conscious sedation technique using a target-controlled infusion (TCI) of remifentanil, titrated to maintain a visual analogue pain score less than 30 mm. This protocol is well accepted by patients but is associated with frequent episodes of respiratory depression. The main objective of this study was to evaluate whether the addition of a continuous intravenous infusion of ketamine could reduce these episodes. DESIGN Controlled, randomised, prospective, double-blinded study. SETTING The current study was conducted in a tertiary-level hospital in Brussels (Belgium) from December 2013 to June 2014. PATIENTS Of the 132 women undergoing oocyte retrieval included, 121 completed the study. INTERVENTION After randomisation, patients received either a ketamine infusion (40 μg kg−1 min−1 over 5 min followed by 2.5 μg kg−1 min−1) or a 0.9% saline infusion in addition to the variable remifentanil TCI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the number of respiratory depression episodes. Effect site target remifentanil concentrations, side effects, pain score, patient satisfaction and incidence of pregnancy were also recorded. RESULTS No significant difference in the incidence of respiratory events was noted (pulse oximetry oxygen saturation 

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Combining Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Medical Infrared Thermography (MIT) in the pre- and per-operating management of severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Publication date: Available online 12 May 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Stéphane Derruau, Yohann Renard, Hervé Pron, Redha Taiar, Ellie Abdi, Guillaume Polidori, Sandrine Lorimier
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory, and recurrent skin disease. Surgical excision of wounds appears to be the only curative treatment for the prevention of recurrence of moderate to severe stages. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a standard reference examination for the detection of HS peri-anal inflammatory fistula. In this case study, the use of real-time medical infrared thermography, in combination with MRI as appropriate imaging, is proposed. The aim is to assist surgeons in the pre- and peri-surgical management of severe perianal hidradenitis suppurativa with the intent to ensure that all diseased lesions were removed during surgery and therefore to limit recurrence.The results show that medical infrared thermography (MIT), coupled with MRI, could be highly effective strategy to address thermally distinguished health tissues and inflammatory sites during excision, as characterised by differential increases in temperature. Medical infrared thermography could be used to check the total excision of inflammatory lesions as a noninvasive method that is not painful, not radiant, and is easily transportable during surgery. Ultimately, this method could be complementary with MRI in providing clinicians with objective data on the status of tissues below the perianal skin surface in the pre- and per-operating management of severe hidradenitis suppurativa.



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Antimicrobial effect of the photodynamic therapy using erythrosine/methylene blue combination on Streptococcus mutans biofilm

Publication date: Available online 12 May 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Laíse Midori Tokubo, Pedro Luiz Rosalen, Janaina de Cássia Orlandi Sardi, Irlan Almeida Freires, Mitsue Fujimaki, Josely Emiko Umeda, Patricia Magalhães Barbosa, Gabriela Ortolan Tecchio, Noboru Hioka, Camila Fabiano de Freitas, Raquel Sano Suga Terada
BackgroundPhotodynamic therapy (PDT) has demonstrated promising results in the treatment of several clinical pathologies through the photochemical reaction caused by the combination of a photosensitizer and a light source. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of the combination of the photosensitizers (PSs) erythrosine/methylene blue activated by a white halogen light device on Streptococcus mutans biofilm.MethodsTwo separate experiments were conducted, the first using the PSs at the concentration of 100 μM, and the second 250 μM. The PSs were tested on S. mutans biofilms cultured for 24 hours in isolation, in combination, with and without light activation for 2 minutes fractionated in 4 periods of 30 seconds. After treatment, biofilms were diluted and plated on BHI medium and incubated for 24 hours for colony forming units (CFU) counting. The results (log10) were analyzed with ANOVA followed by Tukey test (p < 0.05).ResultsThe erythrosine/methylene blue combination activated by white halogen light at 100 and 250 μM, and erythrosine at 250 μM, methylene blue at 250 μM presented significantly reduced cell counts (3.2 log10, 5.3 log10, 4.5 log10, 4.3 log10, respectively) when compared to controls (p < 0.05).ConclusionPDT with the combination of erythrosine/methylene blue demonstrated better results that the PSs in isolation regardless of the concentration. The use of this combination at the concentration of 250 μM shows promise as an antibacterial treatment for carious lesions and should be further assessed.



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Prediction of early caries prognosis after fluoride application based on the severity of lesions: An in situ study

Publication date: Available online 12 May 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Hee-Eun Kim, Baek-Il Kim
PurposeThe aim of thisin situ study was to measure baseline fluorescence loss values (ΔF(0)) using the quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) technology to screen enamel lesions for effective remineralization following fluoride application.MethodsIn this single-blindedin situ study, 20 adult volunteers wore intraoral appliances containing 4 specimens of human enamel. The surfaces of the specimens were divided into 3 regions: sound, demineralized, and treated regions. After generating 80 artificial enamel lesions with varying ΔF values, all specimens were covered with 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride gel for 1 min. Three repeated QLF-digital measures of ΔF values were then obtained for the lesions, immediately after demineralization and at 1 and 4 weeks after fluoride application.Results and conclusionFluoride application was found to increase the ΔF values of lesions significantly over time (p < 0.001). The groups with lower ΔF(0) values showed significantly larger changes in ΔF values over time (p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristics analysis showed that baseline lesion values of ΔF(0) = -17.50 and -25.50 would allow for lesion ΔF to recover to -10 at 1 and 4 weeks after fluoride application, respectively (p < 0.001). The findings of this study indicate that clinicians can establish prognostic criteria for early carious lesions using the QLF technology, and hence predict the efficacy of fluoride treatment and devise effective lesion-specific treatment plans.



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Protective effects of echinacoside against anoxia/reperfusion injury in H9c2 cells via up-regulating p-AKT and SLC8A3

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 104
Author(s): Min Chen, Xiaodong Wang, Bo Hu, Jian Zhou, Xin Wang, Wei Wei, Hua Zhou
Echinacoside is a natural ingredient with various pharmacological activities. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of echinacoside on cardiomyocytes (rat H9c2 cells) in an anoxia/reperfusion (A/R) model. Further, the regulatory function of sodium-calcium exchanger protein 3 (SLC8A3/NCX3) as well as the protein kinase B (AKT) signaling were studied. The present results indicated that echinacoside protected against A/R-induced apoptosis in a dose manner, which was characterized by a decrease in the apoptosis and caspase 3 protein levels in H9c2 cells. Further, Ca²⁺ uptake were dose-dependently reduced in H9c2 cells by echinacoside under A/R conditions. Whereas, relative mRNA expression of SLC8A3 and protein levels of SLC8A3 and p-AKT showed opposite tendency. On the one hand, the A/R-induced abnormalities in H9c2 cells were remarkably ameliorated by activated p-AKT and over-expression of SLC8A3 but aggravated by inhibited p-AKT, and the aggravated effection were ameliorated by echinacoside. Moreover, protein levels of SLC8A3 were positively regulated by p-AKT signaling. On the other hand, apoptosis and Ca²⁺ uptake as well as protein levels of caspase 3 were significantly increased by SLC8A3 silencing in H9c2 cells under normoxic conditions, and this symptom was remarkably reversed by echinacoside or Nimodipine (an antagonis of Ca²⁺) treatment. Collectively, echinacoside has showed a cardioprotective effect against A/R treatment in a dose dependent manner in vitro, and this cardioprotective effect was potentially achieved via up-regulating p-AKT and SLC8A3.

Graphical abstract

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MicroRNA-1247 inhibits lipopolysaccharides-induced acute pneumonia in A549 cells via targeting CC chemokine ligand 16

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 104
Author(s): Jinjing Guo, Ying Cheng
ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the potential roles and mechanism of miR-1247 in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced acute pneumonia.Materials and methodsThe miR-1247 expression in acute stage patients with infantile pneumonia was detected. To establish the cell model of acute pneumonia, A549 cells were treated with 1 mg/mL lipopolysaccharides (LPS). The effects of miR-1247 dysregulation on the cell viability, apoptosis, inflammation and autophagy of LPS-induced A549 cells were investigated. Moreover, the functional targets of miR-1247 were identified and the regulatory relationships between miR-1247 and JNK or NF-κB pathways were explored.ResultsThe miR-1247 was lowly expressed in acute phage patients with infantile pneumonia. In addition, LPS treatment significantly inhibited A549cell viability, induced apoptosis, promoted the production of cytokines and decreased autophagy, thus causing A549 cell injury. Moreover, miR-1247 was decreased expression after LPS treatment, and overexpression of miR-1247 alleviated LPS-induced A549 cell injury. Furthermore, CC chemokine ligand (CCL) 16 was a functional target gene of miR-1247. Knockdown of CCL16 alleviated LPS-induced cell injury, and the combination of miR-1247 inhibition and CCL16 knockdown reversed the effects of CCL16 knockdown alone on LPS-induced A549 cell injury. Besides, inhibition of miR-1247 activated JNK and NF-κB pathways, while knockdown of CCL16 inhibited the activation of these pathways.ConclusionsOur data reveals that miR-1247 is lowly expressed in acute stage patients with infantile pneumonia. Overexpression of miR-1247 may alleviate LPS-induced A549 cell injury through targeting CCL16. JNK and NF-κB pathways may be key mechanisms to regulate the role of miR-1247 in LPS-induced lung injury.

Graphical abstract

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Precisely controlled delivery of magnesium ions thru sponge-like monodisperse PLGA/nano-MgO-alginate core-shell microsphere device to enable in-situ bone regeneration

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 174
Author(s): Zhengjie Lin, Jun Wu, Wei Qiao, Ying Zhao, Karen H.M. Wong, Paul K. Chu, Liming Bian, Shuilin Wu, Yufeng Zheng, Kenneth M.C. Cheung, Frankie Leung, Kelvin W.K. Yeung
A range of magnesium ions (Mg²⁺) used has demonstrated osteogenic tendency in vitro. Hence, we propose to actualize this concept by designing a new system to precisely control the Mg²⁺ delivery at a particular concentration in vivo in order to effectively stimulate in-situ bone regeneration. To achieve this objective, a monodisperse core-shell microsphere delivery system comprising of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) biopolymer, alginate hydrogel, and magnesium oxide nano-particles has been designed by using customized microfluidic capillary device. The PLGA-MgO sponge-like spherical core works as a reservoir of Mg²⁺ while the alginate shell serves as physical barrier to control the outflow of Mg²⁺ at ∼50 ppm accurately for 2 weeks via its adjustable surface micro-porous network. With the aid of controlled release of Mg²⁺, the new core-shell microsphere system can effectively enhance osteoblastic activity in vitro and stimulate in-situ bone regeneration in vivo in terms of total bone volume, bone mineral density (BMD), and trabecular thickness after operation. Interestingly, the Young's moduli of formed bone on the core-shell microsphere group have been restored to ∼96% of that of the surrounding matured bone. These findings indicate that the concept of precisely controlled release of Mg²⁺ may potentially apply for in-situ bone regeneration clinically.

Graphical abstract

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Glycosaminoglycan-based hybrid hydrogel encapsulated with polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles for endogenous stem cell regulation in central nervous system regeneration

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 174
Author(s): Wei-Hong Jian, Huan-Chih Wang, Chen-Hsiang Kuan, Ming-Hong Chen, Hsi-Chin Wu, Jui-Sheng Sun, Tzu-Wei Wang
The poor regenerative capability of stem cell transplantation in the central nervous system limits their therapeutic efficacy in brain injuries. The sustained inflammatory response, lack of structural support, and trophic factors deficiency restrain the integration and long-term survival of stem cells. Instead of exogenous stem cell therapy, here we described the synthesis of nanohybrid hydrogel containing sulfated glycosaminoglycan-based polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles (PCN) to mimic the brain extracellular matrix and control the delivery of stromal-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α) and basic fibroblast factor (bFGF) in response to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) for recruiting endogenous neural stem cells (NSC) and regulating their cellular fate. Bioactive factors are delivered by electrostatic sequestration on PCN to amplify the signaling of SDF-1α and bFGF to regulate NSC in vitro. In in vivo ischemic stroke model, the factors promoted neurological behavior recovery by enhancing neurogenesis and angiogenesis. These combined strategies may be applied for other tissue regenerations by regulating endogenous progenitors through the delivery of different kinds of glycosaminoglycan-binding molecules.



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Quality Reporting

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2
Author(s): DeLaine Schmitz, Matthew T. Popovich

Teaser

Since the 1990s, the use of quality measures in healthcare has grown exponentially. Practices must maintain current knowledge of measures that affect their clinicians locally and understand how assessment of these medical professionals affects the priorities and quality activities of practices and facilities. Because quality measures are increasingly used by hospital administrators, health plans, and payers, practices are being asked to shoulder the additional burdens of collecting and reporting data to various entities. Part of the solution to this increased burden often includes contracting with vendors and outside experts, as well as identifying effective local physician and practice champions.


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Comprehensive Preoperative Assessment and Global Optimization

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2
Author(s): Neil N. Shah, Thomas R. Vetter

Teaser

To successfully deliver greater perioperative value-based care and to effectively contribute to sustained and meaningful perioperative population health management, the scope of existing preoperative management and its associated services and care provider skills must be expanded. New models of preoperative management are needed, which rely extensively on continuously evolving evidence-based best practice, as well as telemedicine and telehealth, including mobile technologies and connectivity. Along with conventional comorbidity optimization, prehabilitation can effectively promote enhanced postoperative recovery. This article focuses on the opportunities and mechanisms for delivering value-based, comprehensive preoperative assessment and global optimization of the surgical patient.


https://ift.tt/2KlxILN

Copyright

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2





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Contributors

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2





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Contents

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2





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Forthcoming Issues

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2





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Practice Management: Successfully Guiding Your Group into the Future

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2
Author(s): Amr E. Abouleish, Stanley W. Stead




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Overlapping Surgery

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 36, Issue 2
Author(s): Amanda J. Morris, Joseph A. Sanford, Edward J. Damrose, Samuel H. Wald, Bassam Kadry, Alex Macario

Teaser

A keystone of operating room (OR) management is proper OR allocation to optimize access, safety, efficiency, and throughput. Access is important to surgeons, and overlapping surgery may increase patient access to surgeons with specialized skill sets and facilitate the training of medical students, residents, and fellows. Overlapping surgery is commonly performed in academic medical centers, although recent public scrutiny has raised debate about its safety, necessitating monitoring. This article introduces a system to monitor overlapping surgery, providing a surgeon-specific Key Performance Indicator, and discusses overlapping surgery as an approach toward OR management goals of efficiency and throughput.


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Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in cord blood and perinatal outcomes from Laizhou Wan Birth Cohort, China

Abstract

We explored whether polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) exposed in cord blood could have any potential relationship with perinatal outcomes. Participants were pregnant females (n = 222) who were recruited from a prospective birth cohort (Laizhou Wan Birth Cohort, LWBC) between September 2010 and February 2012. We measured eight PBDE congeners (BDE-28, BDE-47, BDE-85, BDE-99, BDE-100, BDE-153, BDE-154, and BDE-183) in cord serum and examined their relationship with perinatal outcomes. The median levels of BDE-28, BDE-47, BDE-85, BDE-99, BDE-100, BDE-153, BDE-154, and BDE-183 were 2.92, 3.93, 2.29, 7.03, 3.03, 3.14, 1.46, and 2.55 ng/g lipids, respectively. For each log unit increase in BDE-47, BDE-100, and ∑₄PBDEs, gestational age increased by 0.70 weeks (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.25, 1.15), 0.48 weeks (95% CI 0.03, 0.94), and 0.73 weeks (95% CI 0.12, 1.34), respectively. We also found that BDE-47 was positively associated with head circumference (β = 0.42, 95% CI 0.00, 0.84). Given that our study area is one of the major brominated flame retardant production areas in China, and the cord PBDEs levels were relatively higher than those reported in most other Asian areas, more studies on the effects of in utero PBDE exposure on fetal growth and child development are warranted.

https://ift.tt/2jQDxWC

The formation of unsaturated zones within cemented paste backfill mixtures—effects on the release of copper, nickel, and zinc

Abstract

Flooding of cemented paste backfill (CPB) filled mine workings is, commonly, a slow process and could lead to the formation of unsaturated zones within the CPB fillings. This facilitates the oxidation of sulfide minerals and thereby increases the risk of trace metal leaching. Pyrrhotitic tailings from a gold mine (cyanidation tailing (CT)), containing elevated concentrations of nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn), were mixed with cement and/or fly ash (1–3 wt%) to form CT-CPB mixtures. Pyrrhotite oxidation progressed more extensively during unsaturated conditions, where acidity resulted in dissolution of the Ni, Cu, and Zn associated with amorphous Fe precipitates and/or cementitious phases. The establishment of acidic, unsaturated conditions in CT-CBP:s with low fractions (1 wt%) of binders increased the Cu release (to be higher than that from CT), owing to the dissolution of Cu-associated amorphous Fe precipitates. In CT-CPB:s with relatively high proportions of binder, acidity from pyrrhotite oxidation was buffered to a greater extent. At this stage, Zn leaching increased due the occurrence of fly ash-specific Zn species soluble in alkaline conditions. Irrespective of binder proportion and water saturation level, the Ni and Zn release were lower, compared to that in CT. Fractions of Ni, Zn, and Cu associated with acid-soluble phases or amorphous Fe precipitates, susceptible to remobilization under acidic conditions, increased in tandem with binder fractions. Pyrrhotite oxidation occurred irrespective of the water saturation level in the CPB mixtures. That, in turn, poses an environmental risk, whereas a substantial proportion of Ni, Cu, and Zn was associated with acid-soluble phases.

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Contents Continued

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67





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Analysis of ATXN2 trinucleotide repeats in Korean patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67
Author(s): Young-Eun Kim, Ki-Wook Oh, Min-Young Noh, Jinseok Park, Hee-Jung Kim, Jong Eun Park, Chang-Seok Ki, Seung Hyun Kim
ATXN2 intermediate-length trinucleotide repeat expansions have been reported as a risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in various ethnicities. We tried to confirm this finding in Korean patients with ALS by screening ATXN2 cytosine-adenine-guanine nucleotide sequences (CAG) repeat lengths in 464 unrelated ALS patients and 703 controls. The most common and the highest CAG repeat lengths in the controls were 22 and 28, respectively, whereas those in ALS patients were 22 and 33, respectively. The frequency of CAG repeat lengths of 30 or more was significantly different between the 2 groups after Bonferroni correction (1.5% in ALS vs. 0% in controls, corrected p = 0.0075). There were no significant differences in gender, age at onset, site of onset, functional rating scale–revised score at initial visit, calculated progression rate, or survival between patients with CAG repeat lengths of 30–33 and patients with CAG repeat lengths <30. These findings support the notion that intermediate-length ATXN2 repeat expansions might be a risk factor in Korean patients with ALS.



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Polygenic link between blood lipids and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67
Author(s): Xu Chen, Solmaz Yazdani, Fredrik Piehl, Patrik K.E. Magnusson, Fang Fang
Dyslipidemia is common among patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We aimed to test the association and causality between blood lipids and ALS, using polygenic analyses on the summary results of genome-wide association studies. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) based on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC) risk alleles were significantly associated with a higher risk of ALS. Using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) specifically associated with LDL-C and TC as the instrumental variables, statistically significant causal effects of LDL-C and TC on ALS risk were identified in Mendelian randomization analysis. No significant association was noted between PRSs based on triglycerides or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol risk alleles and ALS, and the PRSs based on ALS risk alleles were not associated with any studied lipids. This study supports that high levels of LDL-C and TC are risk factors for ALS, and it also suggests a causal relationship of LDL-C and TC to ALS.



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Cover 2: Editorial Advisory Board

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67





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Analysis of GWAS-linked variants in multiple system atrophy

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67
Author(s): XiaoJing Gu, YongPing Chen, QingQing Zhou, Ying-Che Lu, Bei Cao, LingYu Zhang, Ming-Che Kuo, Yih-Ru Wu, Ruey-Meei Wu, Eng-King Tan, Hui-Fang Shang
A recent genome-wide association study performed in European population identified 4 potentially interesting gene loci of multiple system atrophy (MSA), including the EDN1 rs16872704, MAPT rs9303521, FBXO47 rs78523330, and ELOVL7 rs7715147. Because of the genetic heterogeneity, we aimed to explore the possible genetic association between above 4 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and MSA in Chinese Han population from Mainland China, Taiwan, and Singapore. A total of 1847 subjects comprising 906 MSA patients and 941 unrelated healthy controls were genotyped by directly sequencing for these SNPs. No significant differences in the genotype distributions, minor allele frequency of EDN1 rs16872704, MAPT rs9303521, FBXO47 rs78523330, and ELOVL7 rs7715147 between MSA patients and healthy controls, and between subtypes of MSA patients (MSA-C and MSA-P), were found. In conclusion, we demonstrated that genome-wide association study–linked SNPs in Caucasians do not confer a significant risk for MSA in the Chinese population.



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Genetic analysis of TIA1 gene in Chinese patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67
Author(s): Kang Zhang, Qing Liu, Dongchao Shen, Hongfei Tai, Hanhui Fu, Shuangwu Liu, Zhili Wang, Jiayu Shi, Qingyun Ding, Xiaoguang Li, Mingsheng Liu, Liying Cui, Xue Zhang
Mutations in the low-complexity domain (LCD) of T cell–restricted intracellular antigen-1 (TIA1) was recently identified to be associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in non-Hispanic white populations. We sequenced the TIA1 exons 11-13 encoding LCD in a series of 588 Chinese ALS/ALS-FTD patients (Familial ALS = 29; Sporadic ALS = 546; ALS-FTD = 13) and 500 neurologically normal control subjects. We found a novel heterozygous missense mutation (c.973A>G, p.N325D) in a sporadic ALS patient, which suggests that TIA1 LCD mutations are not common in Chinese ALS/ALS-FTD.



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No association between 5 new GWAS-linked loci in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy in a Chinese population

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67
Author(s): Yongping Chen, Bei Cao, Xiaojing Gu, Ruwei Ou, Qianqian Wei, Hui Liu, Lingyu Zhang, Xiaoqin Yuan, Wei Song, Bi Zhao, Ying Wu, Lixing Yuan, Jingqiu Cheng, Huifang Shang
Recently, 17 new Parkinson's disease (PD) risk loci were identified in a genome-wide association studies meta-analysis in Caucasians; however, their association with PD in Chinese patients is largely unknown. Therefore, we performed a replication study of 5 of the most commonly identified candidate variants, including SORBS3 rs2280104, SCN3A rs353116, TOX3 rs4784227, GLAC rs8005172, and ZNF184 rs9468199, in a large sample of patients with PD (1506) and multiple system atrophy (MSA, 496) in a Chinese population. These 5 variants were found to not be associated with PD and MSA in the Chinese population. Our results suggest that these variants are not risk factors for PD or MSA in the Chinese population.



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Cover 4: Contents

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 67





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Predictors of reduced smoking quantity among recovering alcohol dependent men in a smoking cessation trial

Publication date: September 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 84
Author(s): Matthew J. Worley, Melodie Isgro, Jaimee L. Heffner, Soo Yong Lee, Belinda E. Daniel, Robert M. Anthenelli
IntroductionAdults with alcohol dependence (AD) have exceptionally high smoking rates and poor smoking cessation outcomes. Discovery of factors that predict reduced smoking among AD smokers may help improve treatment. This study examined baseline predictors of smoking quantity among AD smokers in a pharmacotherapy trial for smoking cessation.MethodsThe sample includes male, AD smokers (N = 129) with 1–32 months of alcohol abstinence who participated in a 12-week trial of medication (topiramate vs. placebo) and adjunct counseling with 6 months of follow-up. Baseline measures of nicotine dependence, AD severity, psychopathology, motivation to quit smoking, and smoking-related cognitions were used to predict smoking quantity (cigarettes per day) at post-treatment and follow-up.ResultsOverall, the sample had statistically significant reductions in smoking quantity. Greater nicotine dependence (Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) = 0.82–0.90), motivation to quit (IRRs = 0.65–0.85), and intrinsic reasons for quitting (IRRs = 0.96–0.98) predicted fewer cigarettes/day. Conversely, greater lifetime AD severity (IRR = 1.02), depression severity (IRRs = 1.05–1.07), impulsivity (IRRs = 1.01–1.03), weight-control expectancies (IRRs = 1.10–1.15), and childhood sexual abuse (IRRs = 1.03–1.07) predicted more cigarettes/day.ConclusionsSmokers with AD can achieve large reductions in smoking quantity during treatment, and factors that predict smoking outcomes in the general population also predict greater smoking reductions in AD smokers. Treatment providers can use severity of nicotine dependence and AD, motivation to quit, smoking-related cognitions, and severity of depression to guide treatment and improve outcomes among AD smokers.



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Organic cattle products: Authenticating production origin by analysis of serum mineral content

Publication date: 30 October 2018
Source:Food Chemistry, Volume 264
Author(s): Ruth Rodríguez-Bermúdez, Carlos Herrero-Latorre, Marta López-Alonso, David E. Losada, Roberto Iglesias, Marta Miranda
An authentication procedure for differentiating between organic and non-organic cattle production on the basis of analysis of serum samples has been developed. For this purpose, the concentrations of fourteen mineral elements (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, I, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se and Zn) in 522 serum samples from cows (341 from organic farms and 181 from non-organic farms), determined by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, were used. The chemical information provided by serum analysis was employed to construct different pattern recognition classification models that predict the origin of each sample: organic or non-organic class. Among all classification procedures considered, the best results were obtained with the decision tree C5.0, Random Forest and AdaBoost neural networks, with hit levels close to 90% for both production types. The proposed method, involving analysis of serum samples, provided rapid, accurate in vivo classification of cattle according to organic and non-organic production type.



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Monodisperse Zn-doped Fe3O4 formation and photo-Fenton activity for degradation of rhodamine B in water

Publication date: October 2018
Source:Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, Volume 121
Author(s): Huoshi Cen, Zhaodong Nan
Zn-doped Fe3O4 can be used as a catalyst in the photo-Fenton process to degrade dye molecules dissolved in water, in which cluster-shaped Zn-doped Fe3O4 (CSZnFe) was synthesized. To enhance the catalytic activity, monodisperse Zn-doped Fe3O4 (MZnFe) was facilely synthesized by a modified solvothermal method through replacement of sodium acetate by urea as a base. The particle size of MZnFe was about 9–16 nm. MZnFe exhibits a larger surface area and higher photo-Fenton catalytic activity for degradation of rhodamine B in water than CSZnFe. Additionally, MZnFe exhibits high saturation magnetization (about 80 emu/g), which is very convenient for separation of MZnFe from solution by a magnet. The growth processes for MZnFe were proposed on the basis of results from in situ calorimetry and other techniques, which indicated different formation mechanisms for MZnFe and CSZnFe.

Graphical abstract

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The impact of seasonal varied human activity on characteristics and sources of heavy metals in metropolitan road dusts

Publication date: 1 October 2018
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 637–638
Author(s): Cong Men, Ruimin Liu, Qingrui Wang, Lijia Guo, Zhenyao Shen
Due to significant human activity, road dust is becoming contaminated by heavy metals in many cities. To comprehensively investigate the variation of contamination level and sources of heavy metals in road dust, 10 heavy metals in road dust samples from Beijing, China, in both summer and winter, were evaluated by spatial analysis using geographic information system (GIS) mapping technology and the positive matrix factorization (PMF) Model. Although the concentrations of some heavy metals between summer and winter had similarities, the differences of others and spatial distributions of heavy metals between summer and winter were considerable. The mean concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, and Fe were lower in winter, while those of Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn were higher. According to the values of the Pollution Index (PI) and Nemerow Integrated Pollution Index (NIPI), there were no obvious differences between summer and winter, but the range between different sites in winter was nearly twice that of summer. Based on the PMF model, four sources of heavy metals in the dust samples were identified. Although the types of sources were consistent, the relative contributions of each source differed between summer and winter. Non-exhaust vehicle emissions was the most important source in summer (34.47 wt%), while fuel combustion contributed the largest proportion to the total heavy metals in winter (32.40 wt%). The impact of each source also showed spatial variation different trends in summer and winter. With the alteration of seasons, intensity of human activities also changed, such as the number of tourists, energy needs for building temperature regulation, construction, and the amount of pesticides and fertilizer. That might be the reason for the variation of heavy metal concentrations and relative contribution of their sources between summer and winter.

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Contamination of heavy metals and isotopic tracing of Pb in surface and profile soils in a polluted farmland from a typical karst area in southern China

Publication date: 1 October 2018
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 637–638
Author(s): Jing Kong, Qingjun Guo, Rongfei Wei, Harald Strauss, Guangxu Zhu, Siliang Li, Zhaoliang Song, Tongbin Chen, Bo Song, Ting Zhou, Guodi Zheng
Farmland top soils and soil profiles situated in the karst area of Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China, reveal different degrees of heavy metal pollution, both in respect to the lateral as well as the vertical dimension. Pb isotope ratios clearly identify that heavy metal contributions to the soil represent the legacy of former Pb-Zn mining and smelting in the area. Depending upon soil properties, differences in the intensity of the vertical penetration of heavy metal pollution are discernible. Top soil coverage by local farmers provides little remediation. Consequently, hazardous conditions for the regional ecology, for agricultural usage and ultimately for human health remain in place. Based on chemical and isotopic results obtained, more effective remediation strategies need to be developed.

Graphical abstract

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Facile synthesis of mesoporous ZnO sheets assembled by small nanoparticles for enhanced NO2 sensing performance at room temperature

Publication date: 1 October 2018
Source:Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, Volume 270
Author(s): Ruosong Chen, Jing Wang, Lan Xiang
Here we demonstrate a facile synthesis of nanoparticle-assembled mesoporous ZnO sheets by calcination of a novel sheet-like δ-Zn(OH)2 precursor at low temperature (100 °C). The mesoporous ZnO sheets were assembled by ultrasmall ZnO nanoparticles with an average crystal size less than 10 nm, having a high specific surface area of 87.63 m² g⁻¹. The high specific surface area, rich mesopores and oxygen vacancies, and the small crystal size of the ZnO nanoparticles contributed to the good NO2 sensing performance of the sensors. The comparison study indicated that the mesoporous ZnO sheets assembled by the smallest nanoparticles exhibited the highest response to ppm level of NO2 at room temperature (the response to 1 ppm of NO2 was 135%). Moreover, the sensor exhibited high response/recovery rates, full reversibility and good selectivity to NO2. Based on the surface depletion model, the higher response of the mesoporous ZnO sheets assembled by the smaller nanoparticles was attributed to their more significant narrowing of the conduction channel upon exposure to NO2.



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Effects of heavy metal species, concentrations, and speciation on pentachlorophenol sorption by river biofilms

Abstract

The sorption of trace organic pollutants at solid/liquid interfaces is one of the most important processes that influence their fate and behaviours in the aquatic environment. Sorption is affected by coexisting contaminants. The process and extent to which coexisting heavy metals affect the sorption of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), especially acid radical anion heavy metals, are still unclear. Here, the effects of the species, concentrations, and speciation of the heavy metals Cu, Pb, and Cr, and the metalloid As on the sorption of pentachlorophenol (PCP), as a model OCP, by river biofilms were investigated through batch experiments. The results show that the presence of Cu, Pb, Cr, and As decreased the maximum sorption quantity of PCP onto the biofilms by 67.7, 9.2, 58.4, and 14.4%, respectively. The inhibitory effect of heavy metals on sorption decreased as the initial concentration ratios of heavy metals to PCP increased. In addition, the impact of heavy metals on PCP sorption was attributed to differences in heavy metal speciation. Cu and Pb commonly existed as divalent cations, but Cr and As existed as anionic acid radicals under the experimental conditions. The inhibitory effects of heavy metals on PCP sorption by biofilms were enhanced as the cation valence state increased, while the effects were weakened as the anionic acid radical valence state increased. Although all four heavy metals had inhibitory effects on PCP sorption by biofilms, there were distinct differences in the mechanisms causing these effects.

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Determinants of CO 2 emissions in the MERCOSUR: the role of economic growth, and renewable and non-renewable energy

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to analyze the impact of energy consumption (divided into renewable and non-renewable sources) and income on CO₂ emissions within the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) model for the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR). To do so, the annual panel data collected during the 1990–2014 periods was used. The CO₂ variable, representing carbon dioxide emissions in metric tons per capita, was used as a proxy for the emission of pollutants. The annual data were obtained from the World Bank (World Development Indicators). The sample consisted of the five MERCOSUR member countries: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela, comprising a period of 25 consecutive years. The results showed that energy consumption from renewable sources had a negative impact on CO₂ emissions, while the energy consumption from non-renewable sources had a positive impact. The positive impact of economic development on CO₂ emissions was also seen. In addition, this study supports the validity of the EKC hypothesis for the MERCOSUR because GDP (real output) leads to environmental degradation while GDP² reduces the level of gas emissions.

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