This volume reports on the conclusions of a scientific working group of 19 experts from 11 countries convened by the Monographs Programme of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) on the re-evaluation of the carcinogenic risk of airborne man-made vitreous fibres.
http://ift.tt/2gJQcYc
Παρασκευή 9 Δεκεμβρίου 2016
Man-made Vitreous Fibres.
Some Antiviral and Antineoplastic Drugs, and Other Pharmaceutical Agents.
This monograph evaluates the carcinogenic risks to humans posed by the use of four antiretroviral agents, four DNA topoisomerase II inhibitors used in the treatment of cancer, and an additional three pharmaceutical agents (hydroxyures, phenolphthalein, and vitamin K substances). The volume marks the first IARC evaluation of nucleoside analogs that act as antiviral agents. The evaluation responds in part to recent findings that zidovudine (AZT), an effective antiretroviral agent now being given to pregnant HIV-infected women to prevent maternal-to-fetal transmission of the virus, is a transplacental carcinogen in mice.
http://ift.tt/2gJQaQ4
Association of PDCD1 gene markers with susceptibility to thyroid cancer
Abstract
Purpose
PD-1 receptor is a co-signaling molecule with an important role in regulation of T-lymphocyte activity. Correlation between PD-1 gene (PDCD1) polymorphisms and some immune-related diseases has been reported before. In current study, we aimed to investigate the association of PD-1 polymorphisms at positions +7146 G/A (PD-1.3) and +7785 C/T (PD-1.5), as well as the emerged haplotypes with susceptibility to thyroid carcinoma.
Methods
One hundred five patients with confirmed thyroid cancer and 160 healthy individuals as control group were enrolled. Genotypes were identified using PCR–RFLP and nested PCR–RFLP methods. Results were analyzed by Arlequin and SPSS software packages.
Results
Analysis revealed a significant increase in the frequency of PD-1.5 mutant T allele and heterozygous CT genotype in patients with thyroid cancer in comparison with controls [79 (37.7%) vs. 71 (22.2%), and 51 (48.6%) vs. 51 (31.9%), p = 0.0001 and p = 0.009, receptively]. CC genotype at this position observed to be significantly higher among controls than the patients [99 (61.9%) vs. 40 (38.1%), p = 0.0002]. There were no significant differences in the frequencies of genotypes and alleles at locus PD-1.3 between patients and control group. Despite this, GT haplotype emerged from both positions (PD-1.3 G and PD-1.5 T) has also been observed with significant increased frequency between patients and controls [70 (36.8%) vs. 71 (22.2%), p = 0.0005].
Conclusion
As the first study to investigate two mentioned polymorphisms in thyroid cancer, current study confirmed the association of PD-1.5 C/T polymorphism and a haplotype resulted from both loci, PD-1.3 and PD-1.5, with susceptibility of Iranians to thyroid cancer.
http://ift.tt/2hfrZKj
Spontaneous temporomandibular joint herniation: a rare case
Abstract
Spontaneous herniation of temporomandibular joint into the external auditory canal through the foramen of Huschke is a very rare condition. We describe a case of spontaneous temporomandibular joint herniation in a 35-year-old male, who presented with otorrhea and aural fullness. The herniation was repaired using collagen mesh. A literature review of all the previous reported cases of spontaneous temporomandibular joint was done to study the presenting clinical features and the method of surgical repair.
http://ift.tt/2gseV5p
Immune modulation associated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) blockade in patients with glioblastoma
Abstract
Background
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), in addition to being pro-angiogenic, is an immunomodulatory cytokine systemically and in the tumor microenvironment. We previously reported the immunomodulatory effects of radiation and temozolomide (TMZ) in newly diagnosed glioblastoma. This study aimed to assess changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) populations, plasma cytokines, and growth factor concentrations following treatment with radiation, TMZ, and bevacizumab (BEV).
Methods
Eleven patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma were treated with radiation, TMZ, and BEV, following surgery. We measured immune-related PBMC subsets using multi-parameter flow cytometry and plasma cytokine and growth factor concentrations using electrochemiluminescence-based multiplex analysis at baseline and after 6 weeks of treatment.
Results
The absolute number of peripheral blood regulatory T cells (Tregs) decreased significantly following treatment. The lower number of peripheral Tregs was associated with a CD4+ lymphopenia, and thus, the ratio of Tregs to PBMCs was unchanged. The addition of bevacizumab to standard radiation and temozolomide led to the decrease in the number of circulating Tregs when compared with our prior study. There was a significant decrease in CD8+ cytotoxic and CD4+ recent thymic emigrant T cells, but no change in the number of myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Significant increases in plasma VEGF and placental growth factor (PlGF) concentrations were observed.
Conclusions
Treatment with radiation, TMZ, and BEV decreased the number but not the proportion of peripheral Tregs and increased the concentration of circulating VEGF. This shift in the peripheral immune cell profile may modulate the tumor environment and have implications for combining immunotherapy with anti-angiogenic therapy.
http://ift.tt/2hmKmQq
Cardiovascular effects of exogenous adrenomedullin and CGRP in Ramp and Calcrl deficient mice
Source:Peptides
Author(s): J.B. Pawlak, S.E. Wetzel-Strong, M.K. Dunn, K.M. Caron
Adrenomedullin (AM) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are potent vasodilator peptides and serve as ligands for the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR/Calcrl). Three GPCR accessory proteins called receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs) modify the ligand binding affinity of the receptor such that the CLR/RAMP1 heterodimer preferably binds CGRP, while CLR/RAMP2 and CLR/RAMP3 have a stronger affinity for AM. Here we determine the contribution of each of the three RAMPs to blood pressure control in response to exogenous AM and CGRP by measuring the blood pressure of mice with genetic reduction or deletion of the receptor components. Thus, the cardiovascular response of Ramp1−/−, Ramp2+/−, Ramp3−/−, Ramp1−/−/Ramp3−/− double-knockout (dKO), and Calcrl+/− mice to AM and CGRP were compared to wildtype mice. While under anesthesia, Ramp1−/− male mice had significantly higher basal blood pressure than wildtype males; a difference which was not present in female mice. Additionally, anesthetized Ramp1−/−, Ramp3−/−, and Calcrl+/− male mice exhibited significantly higher basal blood pressure than females of the same genotype. The hypotensive response to intravenously injected AM was greatly attenuated in Ramp1−/− mice, and to a lesser extent in Ramp3−/− and Calcrl+/− mice. However, Ramp1−/−/Ramp3−/− dKO mice retained some hypotensive response to AM. These results suggest that the hypotensive effect of AM is primarily mediated through the CLR/RAMP1 heterodimer, but that AM signaling via CLR/RAMP2 and CLR/RAMP3 also contributes to some hypotensive action. On the other hand, CGRP's hypotensive activity seems to be predominantly through the CLR/RAMP1 heterodimer. With this knowledge, therapeutic AM or CGRP peptides could be designed to cause less hypotension while maintaining canonical receptor-RAMP mediated signaling.
http://ift.tt/2h6gzdL
Assessment of trace metal concentrations and human health risk in clam ( Tapes decussatus ) and mussel ( Mytilus galloprovincialis ) from the Homa Lagoon (Eastern Aegean Sea)
Abstract
Seasonal variations of trace metal concentrations (Hg, Cd, Pb, Cr, Zn, and Cu) were investigated in the hepatopancreas and soft tissues (remaining parts of bivalves such as gill, mantle, foot, and muscle) of Tapes decussatus and Mytilus galloprovincialis from the Homa Lagoon. The highest metal concentrations were recorded frequently in February and July in M. galloprovincialis and T. decussatus, respectively. Trace metal levels (except Zn) in the hepatopancreas were higher than those in soft tissue for both bivalves. The results showed that the mean concentrations of Hg, Cd, and Zn for M. galloprovincialis were higher compared to T. decussatus in both tissues. The metal concentrations in both bivalves from the Homa Lagoon were generally below the values of provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) estimates, in terms of human health risk. According to hazard quotient (HQ), Cr values for both species and Cd values for only M. galloprovincialis were found greater than one. Also, total hazard index (THI) values were greater than one in both bivalves, having a potential risk for consumers.
http://ift.tt/2hcgrXJ
Spatial variation of air quality index and urban driving factors linkages: evidence from Chinese cities
Abstract
Daily air quality index (AQI) of 161 Chinese cities obtained from the Ministry of Environmental Protection of China in 2015 is conducted. In this study, to better explore spatial distribution and regional characteristic of AQI, global and local spatial autocorrelation is utilized. Pearson's correlation is introduced to determine the influence of single urban indicator on AQI value. Meanwhile, multiple linear stepwise regression is chosen to estimate quantitatively the most influential urban indicators on AQI. The spatial autocorrelation analysis indicates that the AQI value of Chinese 161 cities shows a spatial dependency. Higher AQI is mainly located in north and northwest regions, whereas low AQI is concentrated in the south and the Qinghai-Tibet regions. The low AQI and high AQI values in China both exhibit relative immobility through seasonal variation. The influence degree of three adverse urban driving factors on AQI value is ranked from high to low: coal consumption of manufacturing > building area > coal consumption of the power industry. It is worth noting that the risk of exposed population to poor quality is greater in the northern region than in other regions. The results of the study provide a reference for the formulation of urban policy and improvement of air quality in China.
http://ift.tt/2gtayaw
g-C 3 N 4 -promoted degradation of ofloxacin antibiotic in natural waters under simulated sunlight
Abstract
This is the first report on the photodegradation of ofloxacin under simulated solar light and in actual environmental matrices in the presence of a g-C3N4 suspension. The catalyst, prepared from the polymerization of dicyandiamide (650 °C, reaction yield 60%), was characterized by means of powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and BET surface area measurements. The experiments were carried out in a lab-scale batch reactor at concentrations in the range of micrograms/milligrams per liter. The course of the reaction was monitored by high-pressure liquid chromatography with UV-vis and fluorescence detectors. The g-C3N4-promoted photodegradation occurred at a rate 10 times faster than the direct photolysis and obeyed a first-order kinetics; in addition, the photodegradation kinetics of sonicated g-C3N4 resulted to be of the same order of that caused by P25 TiO2. Finally, the photochemical paths and the photoproducts have been identified and compared to those obtained by using P25 TiO2. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that g-C3N4 is a very attractive photocatalyst compared to P25 TiO2 in view of its ease of preparation, low cost, excellent oxidizing properties, large fraction of solar radiation absorbed, and intrinsically layered structure.
http://ift.tt/2hcaavc
Climate change mitigation: the potential of agriculture as a renewable energy source in Nigeria
Abstract
Energy is pivotal to the economic development of every nation. However, its production and utilization leads to undesirable carbon emissions that aggravate global warming which results in climate change. The agriculture sector is a significant user of energy. However, it has the potential to be a major contributor to Nigeria's energy supply mix in meeting its energy deficit. More so, in the light of current and impending adverse effects of climate change, there is a need to contain GHG's emissions. This paper focuses on bioenergy utilization as a climate change mitigation strategy and one that can, through effective waste management, enhance sustainable economic development in Nigeria. The paper employed a critical discourse analysis to examine the potential of the agricultural sector to provide biofuels from energy crops and other biomass sources. We conclude that Nigeria can reduce its GHG emissions and greatly contribute to global climate change mitigation while also alleviating its energy supply deficit if the agricultural and municipal wastes readily available in its towns and cities are converted to bioenergy. Such engagements will not only promote a clean and healthy environment but also create jobs for economic empowerment and a better standard of living for the people.
http://ift.tt/2gt9a7I
Targeting nanocarriers containing antisense oligonucleotides to cancer cell
Publication date: Available online 9 December 2016
Source:Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology
Author(s): Parth Patel, Y.K. Grawal
Treatment of cancer is a furtive problem in the current era in spite of significant advancement in drug delivery systems and identification of new therapeutic molecules. The ration of lab to market translation of therapeutic research is quite low in anticancer therapy due to hidden and unnameable disease causing and disease progression mechanisms. Oncogene activation disturbs normal cell processes such as cell growth and apoptosis, which ultimately leads to cancer. Different ways, such as RNAi, antisense oligonucleotides, Translation suppressing oligonucleotide and external guide sequences which silences oncogenes are key techniques under investigation currently. The emerging way of formulating nanoparticles containing antisense oligonucleotides and the targeting approaches is illustrated with the brief information on key materials used for the same purpose. Gene targets identified and investigated by various companies and research groups are enumerated and reviewed for their potential to consider antisense gene therapy. Nanocarrier systems which have been reported to enhance feasibility of selective antisense oligonucleotides to treat the disease are assessed for their pros and cons.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2hnBJoO
Ignored fungal community in activated sludge wastewater treatment plants: diversity and altitudinal characteristics
Abstract
Fungi are important contributors to the various functions of activated sludge wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs); however, the diversity and geographic characteristics of fungal populations have remained vastly unexplored. Here, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and 454 pyrosequencing were combined to investigate the abundance and diversity of the activated sludge fungal communities from 18 full-scale municipal WWTPs in China. Phylogenetic taxonomy revealed that the members of the fungal communities were assigned to 7 phyla and 195 genera. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the most abundant phyla, dominated by Pluteus, Wickerhamiella, and Penicillium. Twenty-three fungal genera, accounting for 50.1 % of the total reads, were shared by 18 WWTPs and constituted a core fungal community. The fungal communities presented similar community diversity but different community structures across the WWTPs. Significant distance decay relationships were observed for the dissimilarity in fungal community structure and altitudinal distance between WWTPs. Additionally, the community evenness increased from 0.25 to 0.7 as the altitude increased. Dissolved oxygen and the C/N ratio were determined to be the most dominant contributors to the variation in fungal community structure via redundancy analysis. The observed data demonstrated the diverse occurrence of fungal species and gave a marked view of fungal community characteristics based on the previously unexplored fungal communities in activated sludge WWTPs.
http://ift.tt/2hcaD0E
Toxicity effect of graphene oxide on growth and photosynthetic pigment of the marine alga Picochlorum sp. during different growth stages
Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO), a recently discovered material, has been investigated for many applications in various fields. Thus, an immense awareness should be paid on the potential effects of the material on the environment as huge quantities of GO may get to the environment. Aquatic organisms, marine algae as an example, are exposed to such material when disposed to the environment. Accordingly, it is significant to assess the probable interactions of GO with algae in evaluating its possible environmental risks. In this study, we have examined the effect of different concentrations of GO on Picochlorum sp. during the different growth phases. The results showed that the toxicity of GO increases with increasing its concentration. The lowest concentration (0.5 mg L−1) was found to improve the algae growth and pigment content of Picochlorum sp. In contrast, higher GO concentrations had a negative consequence on the growth of algae and photosynthetic pigment concentration.
http://ift.tt/2gt94Nk
The characteristics of BTEX concentration in various types of environment in the Baltic Sea Region, Lithuania
Abstract
Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) form an important group of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) affecting troposphere and posing risk to human health. The article examines the Mažeikiai area in the northern part of Lithuania where one of the largest Central European companies and the only oil refinery in the Baltic region (200,000 barrels/day) are close to the Baltic Sea. The research carried out mainly focuses on the following objectives: quantitative assessment of the amounts of BTEX occurring in the impact zone of the oil refinery and transport; estimation of background BTEX concentrations in the region; establishing the main sources of BTEX in the region researched and evaluation of impact of meteorological parameters on BTEX concentrations in different seasons. The passive measurement method was used for analysing VOCs (benzene (C6H6), toluene (C7H8), ethylbenzene (C8H10) and ortho-, meta- para-xylene (C8H10)). The research was carried out in 2010–2012. Its results showed that the average annual concentration of benzene was below the threshold value of 5 μg/m3. Within the measurement period, the average concentration of benzene fluctuated from 1.2 to 2.4 μg/m3, that of toluene varied from 1.3 to 3.5 μg/m3, that of ethylbenzene varied from 0.3 to 0.7 μg/m3 and that of xylene (calculated as para-, meta- and ortho-xylene) varied from 1.0 to 2.4 μg/m3. Compared to the established BTEX concentration, the actual background BTEX concentration in the urban area is two times higher. The seasonal analysis suggests that the highest values of benzene concentration are observed in the winter season.
http://ift.tt/2hc4rpf
Analytical transport modelling of metabolites formed in dual-porosity media
Abstract
Contaminants like nitroaromatic compounds can be degraded in the subsurface to similar or even more toxic metabolites. Degradation or transformation rates are dependent on physical, chemical and biological properties which can be different in sedimentological layers or other heterogeneous structures of aquifers. Sediments with low hydraulic conductivity can even consist of immobile water. These regions are only accessible by diffusion. Most modelling approaches accounting for immobile water regions focused on the mathematical description of the transport and decay of the parent compound. The objective of this study was to develop an analytical model to quantify the transport and formation of a metabolite in dual-porosity media describing the exchange between mobile and immobile water regions based on the metabolite's diffusion coefficient. Column experiments with a well-defined immobile water region were performed under anoxic conditions at three different water flow velocities. The model compound 4-Cl-nitrobenzene was reduced to 4-Cl-aniline (4-Cl-An) by surface-bound Fe (II) species within the immobile water region. Transport and formation of the metabolite were quantified with a modified solution of the single fissure dispersion model assuming additionally for the region with immobile water first-order metabolite production, irreversible sorption and an instantaneous equilibrium sorption. The number of unknown fitting parameters was reduced to two (sorption rate and retardation factor) by stepwise parameter estimation using tracer and parent compound data. Experimental results of the metabolite for each water flow velocity were successfully described with a first-order production term (λ prod = 1.51 ± 0.08 h−1), retardation factor (R im = 2.94 ± 0.45) and first-order irreversible sorption rate (K im = 0.39 ± 0.16 h−1) within the immobile water region. Model results supported that 4-Cl-An was formed within the immobile water region. 4-Cl-An sorbed instantaneously onto the clay matrix while a fraction was irreversibly sorbed. Experimental results and the provided analytical solution help to improve the understanding about reactive transport and the formation of metabolites in dual-porosity media.
http://ift.tt/2gtbNGF
Research on the influencing factors of reverse logistics carbon footprint under sustainable development
Abstract
With the concerns of ecological and circular economy along with sustainable development, reverse logistics has attracted the attention of enterprise. How to achieve sustainable development of reverse logistics has important practical significance of enhancing low carbon competitiveness. In this paper, the system boundary of reverse logistics carbon footprint is presented. Following the measurement of reverse logistics carbon footprint and reverse logistics carbon capacity is provided. The influencing factors of reverse logistics carbon footprint are classified into five parts such as intensity of reverse logistics, energy structure, energy efficiency, reverse logistics output, and product remanufacturing rate. The quantitative research methodology using ADF test, Johansen co-integration test, and impulse response is utilized to interpret the relationship between reverse logistics carbon footprint and the influencing factors more accurately. This research finds that energy efficiency, energy structure, and product remanufacturing rate are more capable of inhibiting reverse logistics carbon footprint. The statistical approaches will help practitioners in this field to structure their reverse logistics activities and also help academics in developing better decision models to reduce reverse logistics carbon footprint.
http://ift.tt/2hc9Ook
Assessment of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) in the preconcentration of disperse red 73 dye prior to photoelectrocatalytic treatment
Abstract
Magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers (MMIPs) have become a research hotspot due to their two important characteristics: target recognition and magnetic separation. This paper presents the preparation, characterization, and optimization of an MMIP for the preconcentration of disperse red 73 dye (DR73) and its subsequent efficient degradation by photoelectrocatalytic treatment. The MMIPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed homogeneous distribution of the particles. Excellent encapsulation of magnetite was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A study of dye binding showed that the dye was retained more selectively in the MIP, compared to the NIP. The release of DR73 from the imprinted polymers into methanol and acetic acid was analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The extracts showed higher absorbance values for MMIP, compared to MNIP, confirming greater adsorption of dye in the MMIP material. The extracts were then subjected to photoelectrocatalytic treatment. LC-MS/MS analysis following this treatment showed that the dye was almost completely degraded. Hence, the combination of MMIP extraction and photoelectrocatalysis offers an alternative way of selectively removing an organic contaminant, prior to proceeding with its complete degradation.
http://ift.tt/2gHf8PR
Early Detection of Desiccation and Curettage Failure in the Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Background/Aims: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a malignant neoplasm of keratinocytes. Electrodessication and curettage (EDamp;C) published cure rates vary widely, and the authors of this study are unaware of any previous literature which has attempted to rapidly identify treatment failures. Objective: To identify BCC EDamp;C failures by histologically analyzing the fragments produced by the third round of curettage. Methods: The monitoring of routine therapy of 862 cases of BCC that were treated by EDamp;C followed by the submission of cautery fragments of the third round of curettage for histological and immunohistochemical testing. Results: Of the 862 cases, 764 (89%) had no residual BCC seen in their curetting. Of these patients, zero recurrences (0%) were noted. Forty-eight of the 862 cases had residual BCC seen in their curetting and elected to receive no additional therapy. Eighteen (38%) had a recurrence detected. Fifty of the 862 cases had residual BCC seen in their curetting and elected for immediate re-excision. Thirty-five (70%) had histological evidence of residual BCC. Limitations: The study was performed at a single center with 2 years of follow-up. Conclusion: Pathological examination of curettage fragments in combination with immunohistochemistry testing appears to be beneficial in predicting which patients are likely to have recurrence of BCC after EDamp;C.
Dermatology
http://ift.tt/2glmMU3
Dermatology
http://ift.tt/2glmMU3
Enhanced expression of TREM-1 in splenic cDCs in lupus prone mice and it was modulated by miRNA-150
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 81
Author(s): Sheng Gao, Linbo Yuan, Yongyu Wang, Chunyan Hua
Over activation of conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) contributes to the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1) is emerging as a potent amplifier of the inflammatory responses. We sought to determine the expression level of TREM-1 on cDCs in a mice model of SLE and to identify miRNA which could modulate TREM-1 expression. In the present study, TREM-1 expression in splenocytes and on cDCs was strongly up-regulated in vivo, and was enhanced with LPS stimulation in vitro. Blockade of TREM-1 signal impaired the TLR4-induced cytokines production. These indicated that TREM-1 potently amplified the function of TLR4 which enhanced the inflammation responses. A common set of dysregulated miRNAs (miRNA-98, -150 and -494) were identified in splenocytes of mice. Moreover, the results of bioinformatics and the immunoblotting, demonstrated that miRNA-150 inhibited the expression of TREM-1. Together, these data suggested that TREM-1 signaling pathway may be a therapeutic target to prevent the effects of the inflammatory cDCs in SLE and miRNA-150 serves as the important regulator.
http://ift.tt/2hdrHGm
Enhanced expression of TREM-1 in splenic cDCs in lupus prone mice and it was modulated by miRNA-150
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 81
Author(s): Sheng Gao, Linbo Yuan, Yongyu Wang, Chunyan Hua
Over activation of conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) contributes to the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1) is emerging as a potent amplifier of the inflammatory responses. We sought to determine the expression level of TREM-1 on cDCs in a mice model of SLE and to identify miRNA which could modulate TREM-1 expression. In the present study, TREM-1 expression in splenocytes and on cDCs was strongly up-regulated in vivo, and was enhanced with LPS stimulation in vitro. Blockade of TREM-1 signal impaired the TLR4-induced cytokines production. These indicated that TREM-1 potently amplified the function of TLR4 which enhanced the inflammation responses. A common set of dysregulated miRNAs (miRNA-98, -150 and -494) were identified in splenocytes of mice. Moreover, the results of bioinformatics and the immunoblotting, demonstrated that miRNA-150 inhibited the expression of TREM-1. Together, these data suggested that TREM-1 signaling pathway may be a therapeutic target to prevent the effects of the inflammatory cDCs in SLE and miRNA-150 serves as the important regulator.
http://ift.tt/2hdrHGm
Delusional infestation may be caused by recreational drug usage in some patients, but they may not disclose their habit
Summary
Background
Patients with delusional infestation (DI) believe that their skin is infested with organisms or inanimate particles, despite objective evidence to the contrary. Previous studies indicate a higher rate of recreational drug use among patients with DI. It is known that symptoms of infestation such as formication can be secondary to use of recreational drugs and alcohol. We carried out a pilot study observing the prevalence of recreational drug use in patients with DI.
Aim
To observe the prevalence of recreational drug use in patients with DI.
Methods
A retrospective review of 86 consecutive patient records was carried out over a 3-year period (1 March 2012 to 1 March 2015) to determine current or previous recreational drug use. Additionally, 24 consecutive patients with DI attending clinic between 1 December 2014 and 1 March 2015 were prospectively offered a urine test for recreational drugs.
Results
Of the 86 patients, 19 had recreational drug use documented in their medical notes (22.1%). Of the 24 patients offered a urine test, 18 accepted (75%); the remaining 6 patients agreed to provide a urine sample immediately after consultation, but did not do so. Of the 18 samples collected, 6 were positive (33.3% of completed tests) for recreational drugs. Cannabis was the most commonly used drug.
Conclusions
This study indicates that the prevalence of recreational drug use in patients with DI is high, and that patients do not always disclose their habit. It is hoped that this pilot study will lead to further research into this finding.
http://ift.tt/2gJg7zb
Mechanical properties of different esthetic and conventional orthodontic wires in bending tests
Abstract
Aims
The goal of this study was to determine the mechanical properties of different esthetic and conventional orthodontic wires in three-point and four-point bending tests, and in a biomechanical test employing three bracket systems.
Methods
The behavior of round wires with a diameter of 0.46 mm (0.018″) were investigated: uncoated nickel titanium (NiTi) wires, surface modified NiTi wires; FLI® Orthonol Wire® and glass fiber reinforced plastic wires. The biomechanical bending test was performed using the following bracket types: metal brackets (Discovery®, Dentaurum), ceramic brackets (Fascination®, Dentaurum), and plastic brackets (Elegance®, Dentaurum). All bending tests were performed in the orthodontic measurement and simulation system (OMSS) at a temperature of 37 °C. The classical three-point bending test was performed according to an ISO standard (DIN EN ISO 15841:2007) using the appropriate thrust die and supports with a predefined span of 10 mm. In the other tests the supports or interbracket distances were chosen such that the free wire length was also 10 mm (5 mm between adjacent brackets). All wires were loaded centrally to a maximum of 3.1 and 3.3 mm in the biomechanical test, respectively. The force was measured upon unloading with a loading velocity of 1 mm/min. Each specimen was loaded twice and a total of 10 specimens tested for each product. Weighted means and the error of the weighted mean were calculated for each product.
Results
Fiber reinforced wires displayed lowest forces in three-point bending with values of 0.4 N at a displacement of 1 mm and 0.7 N at a 2 mm displacement. In four-point bending the forces were 0.9 N and 1.4 N, respectively, at the same displacements. Almost all of the translucent wires showed fracture upon bending at displacements greater than 3 mm, independent of the bending test and bracket type. The different investigated NiTi wires, surface modified or conventional, only showed minor variation, e.g., 2.2 N for rematitan® Lite White and 2.0 N for rematitan®, 2.1 N for FLI® Coated Orthonol® and 1.7 N for Orthonol® in four-point bending. The rhodinized wire generated forces between these values (2.1 N).
Conclusion
The translucent wires had the lowest forces in all three bending tests; however, displacements above 3 mm resulted in increased risk of fracture. Forces of investigated NiTi wires were very high and in part above clinically recommended values.
http://ift.tt/2h5UyvQ
Solvothermal syntheses of Bi and Zn co-doped TiO2 with enhanced electron-hole separation and efficient photodegradation of gaseous toluene under visible-light
Publication date: 5 March 2017
Source:Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 325
Author(s): Juan-Juan Li, Song-Cai Cai, Zhen Xu, Xi Chen, Jin Chen, Hong-Peng Jia, Jing Chen
This study investigated the effects of Bi doped and Bi-Zn co-doped TiO2 on photodegradation of gaseous toluene. The doped TiO2 with various concentration of metal was prepared using the solvothermal route and characterized by SEM, XRD, Raman, BET, DRS, XPS, PL and EPR. Their photocatalytic activities under visible-light irradiation were drastically influenced by the dopant content. The results showed that moderate metal doping levels were obviously beneficial for the toluene degradation, while high doping levels suppressed the photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic degradation of toluene over TiBi1.9%O2 and TiBi1.9%Zn1%O2 can reach to 51% and 93%, respectively, which are much higher than 25% of TiO2. Bi doping into TiO2 lattice generates new intermediate energy level of Bi below the CB edge of TiO2. The electron excitation from the VB to Bi orbitals results in the decreased band gap, extended absorption of visible-light and thus enhances its photocatalytic efficiency. Zn doping not only further enhances the absorption in this visible-light region, but also Zn dopant exists as the form of ZnO crystallites located on the interfaces of TiO2 agglomerates and acts as a mediator of interfacial charge transfer to suppress the electron-hole recombination. These synergistic effects are responsible for the enhanced photocatalytic performance.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2hdewVR
Aging: Somatic Mutations, Epigenetic Drift and Gene Dosage Imbalance
Source:Trends in Cell Biology
Author(s): Reiner A. Veitia, Diddahally R. Govindaraju, Samuel Bottani, James A. Birchler
Aging involves a progressive decline of metabolic function and an increased incidence of late-onset degenerative disorders and cancer. To a large extent, these processes are influenced by alterations affecting the integrity of genome architecture and, ultimately, its phenotypic expression. Despite the progress made towards establishing causal links between genomic and epigenomic changes and aging, mechanisms underlying metabolic dysregulation and age-related phenotypes remain obscure. Here, we present a model linking genome-wide changes and their age-related phenotypic consequences via the alteration of macromolecular complexes and cellular networks. This approach may provide a better understanding of the dynamically changing genome–phenome map with age, but also deeper insights to developing more targeted therapies to prevent and/or manage late-onset degenerative disorders as well as decelerate aging.
http://ift.tt/2h5FnTp
Atopic characteristics of patients with vocal cord dysfunction
Source:Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Author(s): Meagan W. Shepherd, Casey Curtis, Shawn Long, Gary Phillips, Princess U. Ogbogu
http://ift.tt/2gsE0xl
Upper Limb Claudication From a Rare Congenital Vascular Anomaly
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Author(s): S.H. Koter, T.U. Cohnert
http://ift.tt/2heWzUk
Commentary on “Development and External Validation of a Model Predicting Death After Surgery in Patients With a Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm”
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Author(s): J.P. Archie
http://ift.tt/2gkRWLa
Commentary on “Analysis of the Elective Treatment Process for Critical Limb Ischemia with Tissue Loss: Diabetic Patients Require Rapid Revascularisation”
Publication date: Available online 9 December 2016
Source:European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Author(s): R.S.M. Davies
http://ift.tt/2heU4Bo
Data on the effect of pro-fibrotic cytokine TGF-β on hepatic stellate cell autophagy
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Paul G. Thomes, Elizabeth Brandon-Warner, Ting Li, Terrence M. Donohue, Laura W. Schrum
Our data describe autophagic flux in primary rat hepatic stellate cells (rHSCs) treated with pro-fibrotic growth factor, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). An autophagy flux experiment determines the rate of synthesis and degradation of the autophagosome marker, LC3-II in the presence and absence of the lysosomal inhibitor bafilomcyin, which blocks LC3-II degradation in lysosomes. The effects of a test agent on LC3-II flux through the autophagic pathway is determined immunochemically by its relative amounts detected in lysates of cells treated with and without bafilomycin. This measurement helps to validate whether exposure to an agent affects the biogenesis or the degradation of autophagosomes during autophagy, a major macromolecular degrading mechanism in eukaryotic cells. ("Rev-erb Agonist and TGF-β Similarly Affect Autophagy but Differentially Regulate Hepatic Stellate Cell Fibrogenic Phenotype" (Thomes et al., in press) [1].
http://ift.tt/2hnlecv
Western blot data using two distinct anti-O-GlcNAc monoclonal antibodies showing unique glycosylation status on cellular proteins under 2-deoxy-D-glucose treatment
Publication date: Available online 9 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Tetsuya Okuda
Protein modification by O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAcylation) is one of the post transcriptional modifications occurring on cellular proteins. This article provides a data set relating to the O-GlcNAcylation of cellular proteins detected by RL2 and CTD110.6 antibodies, which are commonly used for detection of protein O-GlcNAcylation, in 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG)-treated human teratocarcinoma NCCIT cells in support of the research article entitled "A novel, promoter-based, target-specific assay identifies 2-deoxy-D-glucose as an inhibitor of globotriaosylceramide biosynthesis" [1]. The main article described a suppressive effect of 2DG on an Sp1 target gene in NCCIT cells and discussed the relationship between the effect of 2DG and O-GlcNAcylation status of Sp1. The data in this article complements this relationship by Western blotting and clearly showed that the 2DG treatment increased O-GlcNAcylation of cellular proteins in NCCIT cells, whereas the RL2 and CTD110.6 epitopes were detected in a different manner. The RL2 epitope was detected on Sp1 during 2DG treatment, and the level was transiently increased at 24 hours. In contrast, the CTD110.6 epitope became detectable on Sp1 over 72 hours after 2DG treatment, and then the other proteins containing CTD110.6 epitopes also appeared in the cell lysates and the anti-Sp1 antibody precipitates.
http://ift.tt/2gJnfvt
Total energy of sigma-phase Fe-Cr-X (X=Co, Ni) alloys: Calculated and modeled data
Publication date: Available online 9 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): J. Cieślak, J. Tobola
The article contains computational data of electronic structure and crystal stability of two sigma-phases, namely Fe-Cr-Co and Fe-Cr-Ni, using the Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker method (KKR) for electronic band structure calculations. Total energy values, ET, calculated for the number of ordered unit cells with various atomic concentrations and sublattice occupancies are reported. In parallel, obtained data are modelled assuming polynomial dependence of the ET-values versus sublattice occupancies. For more details, please see the article "Site occupancies in sigma-phase Fe–Cr–X (X = Co, Ni) alloys: Calculations versus experiment" [1].
http://ift.tt/2hnlacL
Data on Rad51 amino acid sequences from higher and lower eukaryotic model organisms and parasites
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Andrew A. Kelso, Steven D. Goodson, Lesly A. Temesvari, Michael G. Sehorn
This article contains data related to the research article titled "Characterization of the recombination activities of the Entamoeba histolytica Rad51 recombinase" (Kelso et al., 2016) [1]. The known and putative amino acid sequence of Rad51, the central enzyme of homologous recombination, from nineteen different higher and lower eukaryotic organisms was analyzed. Here, we show amino acid conservation using a multiple sequence alignment, overall sequence identities using a percent identity matrix, and the evolutionary relationship between organisms using a neighbor-joining tree.
http://ift.tt/2gJmMsY
Dataset concerning the analytical approximation of the Ae3 temperature
Publication date: Available online 9 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): B.L. Ennis, E. Jimenez-Melero, R. Mostert, B. Santillana, P.D. Lee
In this article we present a new polynomial function for calculating the local phase transformation temperature (Ae3) between the austenite + ferrite and the fully austenitic phase fields during heating and cooling of steel:Ae3(°C)=c0+∑X,kcXkXk+∑X,Y,k,mcXkYmXkYm+∑X,Y,Z,k,m,ncXkYmZnXkYmZnThe dataset includes the terms of the function and the values for the polynomial coefficients for major alloying elements in steel. A short description of the approximation method used to derive and validate the coefficients has also been included. For discussion and application of this model, please refer to the full length article entitled "The role of aluminium in chemical and phase segregation in a TRIP-assisted dual phase steel" doi:10.1016/j.actamat.2016.05.046 [1].
http://ift.tt/2hnjxM2
Further intracellular proteins and signaling pathways regulated by angiotensin-(1–7) in human endothelial cells
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Christian Meinert, Franziska Kohse, Ilka Böhme, Florian Gembardt, Anja Tetzner, Thomas Wieland, Barry Greenberg, Thomas Walther
In 2016, Meinert et al. (doi: 10.1016/j.jprot.2015.09.020) published the first 25 proteins in a protein array regulated in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVEC) by the heptapeptide angiotensin (Ang)-(1–7) and the first 10 intracellular signaling cascades at different time points. This supporting data article shows further proteins and pathways stimulated by Ang-(1–7) in human endothelial cells at time points of 1h, 3h, 6h, and 9h. HUVECs were stimulated with Ang-(1–7), and regulated proteins were identified via antibody microarray. Bioinformatics software IPA was used for association of regulated proteins to metabolic pathways.
http://ift.tt/2gJtvU4
Data on Evolution of Intrinsically Disordered Regions of the human kinome and Contribution of FAK1 IDRs to Cytoskeletal Remodeling
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Jaymin J. Kathiriya, Ravi Ramesh Pathak, Alexandr Bezginov, Bin Xue, Vladimir N. Uversky, Elisabeth R.M. Tillier, Vrushank Davé
We present data on the evolution of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) taking into account the entire human protein kinome. The evolutionary data of the IDRs with respect to the kinase domains (KDs) and kinases as a whole protein (WP) are reported. Further, we have reported its post translational modifications of FAK1 IDRs and their contribution to the cytoskeletal remodeling. We also report the data to build a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of primary and secondary FAK1-interacting hybrid proteins. Detailed analysis of the data and its effect on FAK1-related functions have been described in "Structural pliability adjacent to the kinase domain highlights contribution of FAK1 IDRs to cytoskeletal remodeling" (Kathiriya et. al., 2016) [1].
http://ift.tt/2hneVFM
Data on genome analysis of Mycoplasma gallisepticum during intracellular infection
Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Daria Matyushkina, Olga Pobeguts, Irina Garanina, Vladislav Babenko, Maria Vakhitova, Gleb Fisunov, Vadim Govorun
The genus Mycoplasma relates to Gram-positive bacteria that lack a cell wall and are capable to cause chronic disease in humans and animals. Among the agents of infection and disease in domestic poultry and wild birds, Mycoplasma gallisepticum is the most important mycoplasma species, causing considerable losses in the poultry industry. In the present paper, we provide data on adaptation of M. gallisepticum to the eukaryotic host cells on the genomic level. The major changes were predominantly localized in the VlhA-hemagglutinin genes which are important components of pathogenesis. The ability of mycoplasmas to change dramatically the repertoire of surface antigens and to vary the immunogenicity of these components allows them to remain undetected by the immune system of the host. The data presented in this article are related to the article entitled "Phase Transition of the Bacterium upon Invasion of a Host Cell as a Mechanism of Adaptation: a Mycoplasma gallisepticum Model." (Matyushkina et al., 2016) [1]. Data posted in repository http://ift.tt/2hnc2Vk. Bioproject ID: PRJNA315515.
http://ift.tt/2gJlLkG
Recurrent oropharyngeal cancer after organ preserving treatment: pattern of failure and survival
Abstract
The objectives is to thoroughly analyze the pattern of failure and oncologic outcome in recurrent oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) after (chemo)radiotherapy and correlate the site of failure to the planned radiation dose. Between January 2010 and April 2014, 57 patients with recurrent OPC after (chemo)radiotherapy were analyzed. Endpoints were pattern of failure and overall survival (OS). Local (LF) and regional failure (RF) were classified as in-field [>50% within gross tumor volume (GTV)], marginal [<50% within GTV but >50% within clinical target volume (CTV)], or out-of-field (>50% outside CTV) recurrences. In the whole group, 70 recurrences were reported. Of the 31 LF, 29 (93.5%) were in-field and 2 (6.5%) were marginal. No out-field LF was reported. Of the 21 RF, 13 RF (62%) were in-field, 6 (28.5%) marginal, and 2 (9.5%) out-of-field recurrences. Forty-three percent of RF was developed in an electively treated neck level, and 2 of them were contralateral. OS at 2 years in recurrent HPV positive, compared to HPV-negative OPC, were 66 and 18%, respectively (p = 0.011). OS was also significantly better in patients that were salvage treatment which was possible (70 vs. 6%, p < 0.001). Median survival after distant failure was 3.6 months. The great majority of LFs were located within the GTV and 43% of RFs developed in an electively treated neck level. The currently used margins and dose recipe and the indication for bilateral nodal irradiation need to be reevaluated. OS was significantly better in recurrent HPV-positive OPC and in patients, where salvage treatment was possible.
http://ift.tt/2gIQmPk
The removal of an implant beneath the optic canal by modified endoscopic-assisted sinus surgery
Abstract
Displacement of dental implants into the maxillary sinus is one of the rare complications during the implant surgery. However, it is always possible that clinicians confront with this unexpected result and patients should be informed ahead of maxillary implant surgery. For clinicians, it is important to be aware of how to deal with the complication, because the migrated implant must be removed as early as possible. There have been several classical ways to approach the maxillary sinus, such as the Caldwell-Luc procedure and endoscopic sinus surgery and these methods still have been chosen by many surgeons although quite a lot of complications exist. In this study, the author introduced a new sinus approach technique, modified endoscopic-assisted sinus surgery (MESS) as an efficient, easy and less complication-inducing sinus approach. A clinical case was described where a displaced dental implant beneath the optic nerve was successfully removed by MESS. Furthermore, essential considerations to avoid medical litigation and maintain close rapport with the patients were discussed when dealing with the case of displaced implant in the maxillary sinus.
http://ift.tt/2hmPynv
Outcomes and prognostic factors for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue in young adults: a single-institution case-matched analysis
Abstract
There is controversy regarding prognosis and treatment of young patients with oral cavity cancer compared to their older counterparts. We conducted a retrospective case-matched analysis of all adult patients younger than 40 years and treated at our institution for a squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity. Only non-metastatic adult patients (age >18) with oral tongue cancer were eventually included and matched 1:1 with patients over 40 years of age, at least 20 years older than the cases, with same T and N category and treatment period. Sixty-three patients younger than 40 had an oral cavity squamous cell cancer out of which 57 had an oral tongue primary during the period 1999–2012, and 50 could be matched with an older control. No difference could be seen between younger and older patients with regard to overall, cancer-specific, or progression-free survival. The patterns of failure were similar, although in young patients, almost all failures occurred during the first 2 years following treatment. Although overall survival shows a trend toward lower survival in older patients, cancer-specific survival and analysis of pattern failure suggest that disease prognosis is similar between young and older adults with oral tongue cancer. Further work is needed to identify the younger patients with poorer prognosis who overwhelmingly fail during the first year after treatment and could benefit from treatment intensification. Until then, young adults ought to be treated using standard guidelines.
http://ift.tt/2gIU3od
Recurrent oropharyngeal cancer after organ preserving treatment: pattern of failure and survival
Abstract
The objectives is to thoroughly analyze the pattern of failure and oncologic outcome in recurrent oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) after (chemo)radiotherapy and correlate the site of failure to the planned radiation dose. Between January 2010 and April 2014, 57 patients with recurrent OPC after (chemo)radiotherapy were analyzed. Endpoints were pattern of failure and overall survival (OS). Local (LF) and regional failure (RF) were classified as in-field [>50% within gross tumor volume (GTV)], marginal [<50% within GTV but >50% within clinical target volume (CTV)], or out-of-field (>50% outside CTV) recurrences. In the whole group, 70 recurrences were reported. Of the 31 LF, 29 (93.5%) were in-field and 2 (6.5%) were marginal. No out-field LF was reported. Of the 21 RF, 13 RF (62%) were in-field, 6 (28.5%) marginal, and 2 (9.5%) out-of-field recurrences. Forty-three percent of RF was developed in an electively treated neck level, and 2 of them were contralateral. OS at 2 years in recurrent HPV positive, compared to HPV-negative OPC, were 66 and 18%, respectively (p = 0.011). OS was also significantly better in patients that were salvage treatment which was possible (70 vs. 6%, p < 0.001). Median survival after distant failure was 3.6 months. The great majority of LFs were located within the GTV and 43% of RFs developed in an electively treated neck level. The currently used margins and dose recipe and the indication for bilateral nodal irradiation need to be reevaluated. OS was significantly better in recurrent HPV-positive OPC and in patients, where salvage treatment was possible.
http://ift.tt/2gIQmPk
The removal of an implant beneath the optic canal by modified endoscopic-assisted sinus surgery
Abstract
Displacement of dental implants into the maxillary sinus is one of the rare complications during the implant surgery. However, it is always possible that clinicians confront with this unexpected result and patients should be informed ahead of maxillary implant surgery. For clinicians, it is important to be aware of how to deal with the complication, because the migrated implant must be removed as early as possible. There have been several classical ways to approach the maxillary sinus, such as the Caldwell-Luc procedure and endoscopic sinus surgery and these methods still have been chosen by many surgeons although quite a lot of complications exist. In this study, the author introduced a new sinus approach technique, modified endoscopic-assisted sinus surgery (MESS) as an efficient, easy and less complication-inducing sinus approach. A clinical case was described where a displaced dental implant beneath the optic nerve was successfully removed by MESS. Furthermore, essential considerations to avoid medical litigation and maintain close rapport with the patients were discussed when dealing with the case of displaced implant in the maxillary sinus.
http://ift.tt/2hmPynv
Outcomes and prognostic factors for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue in young adults: a single-institution case-matched analysis
Abstract
There is controversy regarding prognosis and treatment of young patients with oral cavity cancer compared to their older counterparts. We conducted a retrospective case-matched analysis of all adult patients younger than 40 years and treated at our institution for a squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity. Only non-metastatic adult patients (age >18) with oral tongue cancer were eventually included and matched 1:1 with patients over 40 years of age, at least 20 years older than the cases, with same T and N category and treatment period. Sixty-three patients younger than 40 had an oral cavity squamous cell cancer out of which 57 had an oral tongue primary during the period 1999–2012, and 50 could be matched with an older control. No difference could be seen between younger and older patients with regard to overall, cancer-specific, or progression-free survival. The patterns of failure were similar, although in young patients, almost all failures occurred during the first 2 years following treatment. Although overall survival shows a trend toward lower survival in older patients, cancer-specific survival and analysis of pattern failure suggest that disease prognosis is similar between young and older adults with oral tongue cancer. Further work is needed to identify the younger patients with poorer prognosis who overwhelmingly fail during the first year after treatment and could benefit from treatment intensification. Until then, young adults ought to be treated using standard guidelines.
http://ift.tt/2gIU3od
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