Importance of material matching in the calibration of asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation: material specificity and nanoparticle surface coating effects on retention time

Abstract

Asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) coupled with dynamic light scattering or multiangle light scattering detectors is a promising technique for the size-based separation of colloidal particles (nano- and submicron scale) and the online determination of the particle size of the separated fractions in aqueous suspensions. In most cases, the applications of these detectors are problematic due to the material-specific properties of the analyte that results in erroneous calculations, and as an alternative, different nanoparticle size standards are required to properly calibrate the size-based retention in AF4. The availability of nanoparticle size standards in different materials is limited, and this deviation from ideal conditions of retention is mainly due to material-specific and particle coating-specific membrane–particle interactions. Here, we present an experimental method on the applicability of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NP) as standard for AF4 calibration and compare with gold nanoparticle (Au NP) standards having different nominal sizes and surface functionalities.

http://ift.tt/2cOcR7S

Determining the composition of gold nanoparticles: a compilation of shapes, sizes, and calculations using geometric considerations

Abstract

Size, shape, overall composition, and surface functionality largely determine the properties and applications of metal nanoparticles. Aside from well-defined metal clusters, their composition is often estimated assuming a quasi-spherical shape of the nanoparticle core. With decreasing diameter of the assumed circumscribed sphere, particularly in the range of only a few nanometers, the estimated nanoparticle composition increasingly deviates from the real composition, leading to significant discrepancies between anticipated and experimentally observed composition, properties, and characteristics. We here assembled a compendium of tables, models, and equations for thiol-protected gold nanoparticles that will allow experimental scientists to more accurately estimate the composition of their gold nanoparticles using TEM image analysis data. The estimates obtained from following the routines described here will then serve as a guide for further analytical characterization of as-synthesized gold nanoparticles by other bulk (thermal, structural, chemical, and compositional) and surface characterization techniques. While the tables, models, and equations are dedicated to gold nanoparticles, the composition of other metal nanoparticle cores with face-centered cubic lattices can easily be estimated simply by substituting the value for the radius of the metal atom of interest.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2dqXn7H

Effect of bioactive dental adhesive on periodontal and endodontic pathogens

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to: (1) develop a new bioactive dental bonding agent with nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate and dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate for tooth root caries restorations and endodontic applications, and (2) investigate biofilm inhibition by the bioactive bonding agent against eight species of periodontal and endodontic pathogens for the first time. Bonding agent was formulated with 5 % of dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate. Nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate at 30 wt% was mixed into adhesive. Eight species of biofilms were grown on resins: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella nigrescens, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Parvimonas micra, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium. Colony-forming units, live/dead assay, biomass, metabolic activity and polysaccharide of biofilms were determined. The results showed that adding dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate and nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate into bonding agent did not decrease dentin bond strength (P > 0.1). Adding dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate reduced the colony-forming units of all eight species of biofilms by nearly three orders of magnitude. The killing efficacy of dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate resin was: P. gingivalis > A. actinomycetemcomitans > P. intermedia > P. nigrescens > F. nucleatum > P. micra > E. faecalis > E. faecium. Dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate resin had much less biomass, metabolic activity and polysaccharide of biofilms than those without dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (P < 0.05). In conclusion, a novel dental adhesive was developed for root caries and endodontic applications, showing potent inhibition of biofilms of eight species of periodontal and endodontic pathogens, and reducing colony-forming units by three orders of magnitude. The bioactive adhesive is promising for tooth root restorations to provide subgingival margins with anti-periodontal pathogen capabilities, and for endodontic sealer applications to combat endodontic biofilms.

http://ift.tt/2cYrkwu

Lamivudine and fingolimod co-administration in two patients with multiple sclerosis and occult hepatitis B virus infection

http://ift.tt/2dFHs42

Thrombolysis in dementia patients with acute stroke: is it justified?

Abstract

The administration of thrombolytic therapy in elderly patients with dementia and acute ischemic stroke may be controversial, because the reported risk of rt-PA associated intracerebral hemorrhage in these patients is higher compared with that of patients without dementia and because these patients are already disabled. Moreover, there are known risk factors for hemorrhagic transformation in patients with dementia: amyloid angiopathy, leukoaraiosis and the presence of microbleeds. In this review, we describe the impact of dementia on functional outcome following thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke and discuss some of the issues related to the use of this therapy in this specific patient's population.

http://ift.tt/2dn5Egs

Effect of Ar bombardment on the electrical and optical properties of low-density polyethylene films

Abstract

The influence of low-energy Ar ion beam irradiation on both electrical and optical properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films is presented. The polymer films were bombarded with 320 keV Ar ions with fuences up to 1×10¹⁵ cm⁻². Electrical properties of LDPE films were measured and the effect of ion bombardment on the DC conductivity, dielectric constant and loss was studied. Optically, the energy gap, the Urbach's energy and the number of carbon atoms in a cluster were estimated for all polymer samples using the UV–Vis spectrophotometry technique. The obtained results showed slight enhancement in the conductivity and dielectric parameters due to the increase in ion fluence. Meanwhile, the energy gap and the Urbach's energy values showed significant decrease by increasing the Ar ion fluence. It was found that the ion bombardment induced chain scission in the polymer chain causing some carbonization. An increase in the number of carbon atoms per cluster was also observed.

http://ift.tt/2dagXTZ

Computer-aided diagnosis system for lung nodules based on computed tomography using shape analysis, a genetic algorithm, and SVM

Abstract

Lung cancer is the major cause of death among patients with cancer worldwide. This work is intended to develop a methodology for the diagnosis of lung nodules using images from the Image Database Consortium and Image Database Resource Initiative (LIDC–IDRI). The proposed methodology uses image processing and pattern recognition techniques. To differentiate the patterns of malignant and benign forms, we used a Minkowski functional, distance measures, representation of the vector of points measures, triangulation measures, and Feret diameters. Finally, we applied a genetic algorithm to select the best model and a support vector machine for classification. In the test stage, we applied the proposed methodology to 1405 (394 malignant and 1011 benign) nodules from the LIDC–IDRI database. The proposed methodology shows promising results for diagnosis of malignant and benign forms, achieving accuracy of 93.19 %, sensitivity of 92.75 %, and specificity of 93.33 %. The results are promising and demonstrate a good rate of correct detections using the shape features. Because early detection allows faster therapeutic intervention, and thus a more favorable prognosis for the patient, herein we propose a methodology that contributes to the area.

http://ift.tt/2dFAj3R

Proceedings of the International Cancer Imaging Society (ICIS) 16th Annual Teaching Course

Table of contents

O1 Tumour heterogeneity: what does it mean?

Dow-Mu Koh

O2 Skeletal sequelae in adult survivors of childhood cancer

Sue Creviston Kaste

O3 Locoregional effects of breast cancer treatment

Sarah J Vinnicombe

O4 Imaging of cancer therapy-induced CNS toxicity

Giovanni Morana, Andrea Rossi

O5 Screening for lung cancer

Christian J. Herold

O6Risk stratification of lung nodules

Theresa C. McLoud

O7 PET imaging of pulmonary nodules

Kirk A Frey

O8 Transarterial tumour therapy

Bernhard Gebauer

O9 Interventional radiology in paediatric oncology

Derek Roebuck

O10 Image guided prostate interventions

Jurgen J. Fütterer

O11 Imaging cancer predisposition syndromes

Alexander J. Towbin

O12Chest and chest wall masses

Thierry AG Huisman

O13 Abdominal masses: good or bad?

Anne MJB Smets

O14 Hepatobiliary MR contrast: enhanced liver MRI for HCC diagnosis and management

Giovanni Morana

O15 Role of US elastography and multimodality fusion for managing patients with chronic liver disease and HCC

Jeong Min Lee

O16 Opportunities and challenges in imaging metastatic disease

Hersh Chandarana

O17 Diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and follow-up of lymphoma

Marius E. Mayerhoefer, Markus Raderer, Alexander Haug

O18 Managing high-risk and advanced prostate cancer

Matthias Eiber

O19 Immunotherapy: imaging challenges

Bernhard Gebauer

O20 RECIST and RECIST 1.1

Andrea Rockall

O21 Challenges of RECIST in oncology imaging basics for the trainee and novice

Aslam Sohaib

O22 Lymphoma: PET for interim and end of treatment response assessment: a users' guide to the Deauville Score

Victoria S Warbey

O23 Available resources

Hebert Alberto Vargas

O24 ICIS e-portal and the online learning community

Dow-Mu Koh

O25 Benign lesions that mimic pancreatic cancer

Jay P Heiken

O26 Staging and reporting pancreatic malignancies

Isaac R Francis, Mahmoud, M Al-Hawary, Ravi K Kaza

O27 Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm

Giovanni Morana

O28 Cystic pancreatic tumours

Mirko D'Onofrio

O29 Diffusion-weighted imaging of head and neck tumours

Harriet C. Thoeny

O30 Radiation injury in the head and neck

Ann D King

O31 PET/MR of paediatric brain tumours

Giovanni Morana, Arnoldo Piccardo, Maria Luisa Garrè, Andrea Rossi

O32 Structured reporting and beyond

Hebert Alberto Vargas

O33 Massachusetts General Hospital experience with structured reporting

Theresa C. McLoud

O34 The oncologist's perspective: what the oncologist needs to know

Nick Reed

O35 Towards the cure of all children with cancer: global initiatives in pediatric oncology

Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo

O36 Multiparametric imaging of renal cancers

Hersh Chandarana

O37 Linking imaging features of renal disease and their impact on management strategies

Hebert Alberto Vargas

O38 Adrenals, retroperitoneum and peritoneum

Isaac R Francis, Ashish P Wasnik

O39 Lung and pleura

Stefan Diederich

O40 Advances in MRI

Jurgen J. Fütterer

O41 Advances in molecular imaging

Wim J.G. Oyen

O42 Incorporating advanced imaging, impact on treatment selection and patient outcome

Cheng Lee Chaw, Nicholas van As

S1 Combining ADC-histogram features improves performance of MR diffusion-weighted imaging for Lymph node characterisation in cervical cancer

Igor Vieira, Frederik De Keyzer, Elleke Dresen, Sileny Han, Ignace Vergote, Philippe Moerman, Frederic Amant, Michel Koole, Vincent Vandecaveye

S2 Whole-body diffusion-weighted MRI for surgical planning in patients with colorectal cancer and peritoneal metastases

R Dresen, S De Vuysere, F De Keyzer, E Van Cutsem, A D'Hoore, A Wolthuis, V Vandecaveye

S3 Role of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) diffusion-weighted MRI for predicting extra capsular extension of prostate cancer.

P. Pricolo (paola.pricolo@ieo.it), S. Alessi, P. Summers, E. Tagliabue, G. Petralia

S4 Generating evidence for clinical benefit of PET/CT – are management studies sufficient as surrogate for patient outcome?

C. Pfannenberg, B. Gückel, SC Schüle, AC Müller, S. Kaufmann, N. Schwenzer, M. Reimold,C. la Fougere, K. Nikolaou, P. Martus

S5 Heterogeneity of treatment response in skeletal metastases from breast cancer with 18F-fluoride and 18F-FDG PET

GJ Cook, GK Azad, BP Taylor, M Siddique, J John, J Mansi, M Harries, V Goh

S6 Accuracy of suspicious breast imaging—can we tell the patient?

S Seth, R Burgul, A Seth

S7 Measurement method of tumour volume changes during neoadjuvant chemotherapy affects ability to predict pathological response

S Waugh, N Muhammad Gowdh, C Purdie, A Evans, E Crowe, A Thompson, S Vinnicombe

S8 Diagnostic yield of CT IVU in haematuria screening

F. Arfeen, T. Campion, E. Goldstraw

S9 Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of unresectable locally advanced pancreatic cancer: preliminary results

D'Onofrio M, Ciaravino V, Crosara S, De Robertis R, Pozzi Mucelli R

S10 Iodine maps from dual energy CT improve detection of metastases in staging examinations of melanoma patients

M. Uhrig, D. Simons, H. Schlemmer

S11Can contrast enhanced CT predict pelvic nodal status in malignant melanoma of the lower limb?

Kate Downey

S12 Current practice in the investigation for suspected Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndromes (PNS) and positive malignancy yield.

S Murdoch, AS Al-adhami, S Viswanathan

P1 Technical success and efficacy of Pulmonary Radiofrequency ablation: an analysis of 207 ablations

S Smith, P Jennings, D Bowers, R Soomal

P2 Lesion control and patient outcome: prospective analysis of radiofrequency abaltion in pulmonary colorectal cancer metastatic disease

S Smith, P Jennings, D Bowers, R Soomal

P3 Hepatocellular carcinoma in a post-TB patient: case of tropical infections and oncologic imaging challenges

TM Mutala, AO Odhiambo, N Harish

P4 Role of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) diffusion-weighted MRI for predicting extracapsular extension of prostate cancer

P. Pricolo, S. Alessi, P. Summers, E. Tagliabue, G. Petralia

P5 What a difference a decade makes; comparison of lung biopsies in Glasgow 2005 and 2015

M. Hall, M. Sproule, S. Sheridan

P6 Solid pseudopapillary tumour of pancreas: imaging features of a rare neoplasm

KY Thein, CH Tan, YL Thian, CM Ho

P7 MDCT - pathological correlation in colon adenocarcinoma staging: preliminary experience

S De Luca, C Carrera, V Blanchet, L Alarcón, E Eyheremnedy

P8 Image guided biopsy of thoracic masses and reduction of pneumothorax risk: 25 years experience

B K Choudhury, K Bujarbarua, G Barman

P9 Tumour heterogeneity analysis of 18F-FDG-PET for characterisation of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours in neurofibromatosis-1

GJ Cook, E Lovat, M Siddique, V Goh, R Ferner, VS Warbey

P10 Impact of introduction of vacuum assisted excision (VAE) on screen detected high risk breast lesions

L Potti, B Kaye, A Beattie, K Dutton

P11 Can we reduce prevalent recall rate in breast screening?

AA Seth, F Constantinidis, H Dobson

P12 How to reduce prevalent recall rate? Identifying mammographic lesions with low Positive Predictive Value (PPV)

AA Seth (archana.seth@nhs.net), F Constantinidis, H Dobson

P13 Behaviour of untreated pulmonary thrombus in oncology patients diagnosed with incidental pulmonary embolism on CT

R. Bradley, G. Bozas, G. Avery, A. Stephens, A. Maraveyas

P14 A one-stop lymphoma biopsy service – is it possible?

S Bhuva, CA Johnson, M Subesinghe, N Taylor

P15 Changes in the new TNM classification for lung cancer (8^th edition, effective January 2017)

LE Quint, RM Reddy, GP Kalemkerian

P16 Cancer immunotherapy: a review of adequate imaging assessment

G González Zapico, E Gainza Jauregui, R Álvarez Francisco, S Ibáñez Alonso, I Tavera Bahillo, L Múgica Álvarez

P17 Succinate dehydrogenase mutations and their associated tumours

O Francies, R Wheeler, L Childs, A Adams, A Sahdev

P18 Initial experience in the usefulness of dual energy technique in the abdomen

SE De Luca, ME Casalini Vañek, MD Pascuzzi, T Gillanders, PM Ramos, EP Eyheremendy

P19 Recognising the serious complication of Richter's transformation in CLL patients

C Stove, M Digby

P20 Body diffusion-weighted MRI in oncologic practice: truths, tricks and tips

M. Nazar, M. Wirtz, MD. Pascuzzi, F. Troncoso, F. Saguier, EP. Eyheremendy

P21 Methotrexate-induced leukoencephalopathy in paediatric ALL Patients

D.J. Quint, L. Dang, M. Carlson, S. Leber, F. Silverstein

P22 Pitfalls in oncology CT reporting. A pictorial review

R Rueben, S Viswanathan

P23 Imaging of perineural extension in head and neck tumours

B Nazir, TH Teo, JB Khoo

P24 MRI findings of molecular subtypes of breast cancer: a pictorial primer

K Sharma, N Gupta, B Mathew, T Jeyakumar, K Harkins

P25 When cancer can't wait! A pictorial review of oncological emergencies

K Sharma, B Mathew, N Gupta, T Jeyakumar, S Joshua

P26 MRI of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours: an approach to interpretation

D Christodoulou, S Gourtsoyianni, A Jacques, N Griffin, V Goh

P27 Gynaecological cancers in pregnancy: a review of imaging

CA Johnson, J Lee

P28 Suspected paraneoplastic neurological syndromes - review of published recommendations to date, with proposed guideline/flowchart

JA Goodfellow, AS Al-adhami, S Viswanathan

P29 Multi-parametric MRI of the pelvis for suspected local recurrence of prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy

R Bradley

P30 Utilisation of PI-RADS version 2 in multi-parametric MRI of the prostate; 12-months experience

R Bradley

P31 Radiological assessment of the post-chemotherapy liver

A Yong, S Jenkins, G Joseph

P32 Skeletal staging with MRI in breast cancer – what the radiologist needs to know

S Bhuva, K Partington

P33 Perineural spread of lympoma: an educational review of an unusual distribution of disease

CA Johnson, S Bhuva, M Subesinghe, N Taylor

P34 Visually isoattenuating pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Diagnostic imaging tools.

C Carrera, A Zanfardini, S De Luca, L Alarcón, V Blanchet, EP Eyheremendy

P35 Imaging of larynx cancer: when is CT, MRI or FDG PET/CT the best test?

K Cavanagh, E Lau

http://ift.tt/2dMy9Uj

Lipiodol retention pattern assessed by cone beam computed tomography during conventional transarterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma: accuracy and correlation with response

Abstract

Background

To investigate accuracy of intraprocedural cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) compared to fluoroscopy for detection of lipiodol retention pattern during conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its correlation with short-term response.

Methods

Between September 2013 and July 2014, 29 patients with HCC underwent chemoembolization of 51 tumors (mean diameter 28.1 mm, range 10.0–136.3 mm). Lipiodol retention pattern was assessed by CBCT at the endpoint of cTACE compared by fluoroscopy. Depending on the pattern of tumor covered by lipiodol three classes were defined: complete (more than 90 %, no peripheral defects), moderate (50–90 %, some with or without peripheral defects), and poor (less than 50 %). Tumor response was assessed by modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST) based on follow-up contrast enhanced (CE) computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) obtained 4–6 weeks post-cTACE. Correlations between lipiodol retention patterns on CBCT and fluoroscopy as well as tumor response were assessed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of 51 hepatic tumors, 40 (78.4 %) had complete response (CR); 8 (15.7 %) had partial response (PR); 1 (2.0 %) had stable disease (SD); and 2 (3.9 %) had progressive disease (PD). The degree of lipiodol retention scored excellent, moderate, and poor, in fluoroscopic images vs CBCT images were 23 (45.1 %) vs 39 (76.5 %), 19 (37.3 %) vs 11 (21.6 %), and 9 (17.6 %) vs 1 (2.0 %), respectively. Lipiodol retention assessment with CBCT (A_z = 0.75) is more accurate than fluoroscopy (A_z = 0.54) in predicting target tumor response. Other than lipiodol retention pattern assessed with CBCT (p = 0.01), tumor size (p = 0.04) is an independent predictors of CR.

Conclusion

CBCT is more accurate than fluoroscopy in classification of lipiodol retention pattern in HCC tumors at the time of cTACE. CBCT could be used as a reliable intra precedural monitoring modality of cTACE.

http://ift.tt/2dojxHU

Comparison of computed tomography features between follicular neoplasm and nodular hyperplasia

Abstract

Background

To date, appropriate management for Bethesda IV thyroid nodules is controversial, and no specific features of follicular neoplasm and nodular hyperplasia on ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), or other imaging modalities have been reported. This study aimed to compare CT features of follicular neoplasm and nodular hyperplasia and to determine the specific CT features that could be used to distinguish follicular neoplasm from nodular hyperplasia.

Methods

In 122 patients who underwent preoperative CT of the neck and thyroid surgery, 59 follicular neoplasms and 65 nodular hyperplasias were included. In each case, non-enhanced and contrast-enhanced CT images were obtained, and a single radiologist retrospectively analyzed CT images, including degree and pattern of attenuation, nodular configuration, margin, shape, pattern of calcification, degree and pattern of nodular enhancement, and CT halo sign. A univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the predictive power of each variable and CT features with a high predictive power, respectively.

Results

According to the univariate analysis, iso-attenuation, intraglandular configuration, smooth margin, ovoid shape, decreased enhancement, and absence of CT halo sign were more frequently observed in nodular hyperplasia (p < 0.05), whereas low attenuation, expansile configuration, lobulated margin, taller-than-wide shape, increased enhancement, and presence of computed tomography halo sign were more frequently observed in follicular neoplasm (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed significant differences in configuration (OR: 2.73, 1.13–6.57), degree of enhancement (OR: 2.14, 1.21–3.78), and presence of CT halo sign (OR: 7.97, 2.74–23.37) between follicular neoplasm and nodular hyperplasia (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Neck CT may be helpful for distinguishing follicular neoplasm from nodular hyperplasia.

Trial registration

Rretrospectively registered.

http://ift.tt/2dMxEt5

Passive and post-exercise cold-water immersion augments PGC-1α and VEGF expression in human skeletal muscle

Abstract

Purpose

We tested the hypothesis that both post-exercise and passive cold water immersion (CWI) increases PGC-1α and VEGF mRNA expression in human skeletal muscle.

Method

Study 1 Nine males completed an intermittent running protocol (8 × 3-min bouts at 90 % \(\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} \hbox{max}\) , interspersed with 3-min active recovery (1.5-min at 25 % and 1.5-min at 50 % \(\dot{V}{\text{O}}_{2} \hbox{max}\) ) before undergoing CWI (10 min at 8 °C) or seated rest (CONT) in a counterbalanced, randomised manner. Study 2 Ten males underwent an identical CWI protocol under passive conditions.

Results

Study 1 PGC-1α mRNA increased in CONT (~3.4-fold; P < 0.001) and CWI (~5.9-fold; P < 0.001) at 3 h post-exercise with a greater increase observed in CWI (P < 0.001). VEGFtotal mRNA increased after CWI only (~2.4-fold) compared with CONT (~1.1-fold) at 3 h post-exercise (P < 0.01). Study 2 Following CWI, PGC-1α mRNA expression was significantly increased ~1.3-fold (P = 0.001) and 1.4-fold (P = 0.0004) at 3 and 6 h, respectively. Similarly, VEGF165 mRNA was significantly increased in CWI ~1.9-fold (P = 0.03) and 2.2-fold (P = 0.009) at 3 and 6 h post-immersion.

Conclusions

Data confirm post-exercise CWI augments the acute exercise-induced expression of PGC-1α mRNA in human skeletal muscle compared to exercise per se. Additionally CWI per se mediates the activation of PGC-1α and VEGF mRNA expression in human skeletal muscle. Cold water may therefore enhance the adaptive response to acute exercise.

http://ift.tt/2dWiCAs

Erratum to: Syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) associated with lateral medullary syndrome: case report and literature review

http://ift.tt/2dDIsVM

Anxiety and depression symptoms among caregivers of care-recipients with subjective cognitive decline and cognitive impairment

Abstract

Background

Caregivers of care-recipients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia experience high caregiver burden; however, the psychiatric burden of caregivers of care-recipients with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) has not been investigated. We aimed to explore the prevalence of and risk factors for anxiety and depression symptoms among the caregivers of care-recipients with SCD and cognitive impairment.

Methods

The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to examine the anxiety and depression symptoms among the caregivers of 343 care-recipients (84 with SCD, 120 with MCI and 139 with dementia) treated at the Memory Clinic of Huashan Hospital in Shanghai, China from May 2012 to October 2014. A logistic regression was used to explore the factors associated with caregiver's anxiety and depression symptoms.

Results

In total, 26.5 % of caregivers had anxiety symptoms, and 22.4 % had depression symptoms. Totals of 17.9, 30.0 and 28.8 % of caregivers of care-recipients with SCD, MCI or dementia, respectively, had anxiety symptoms (P = 0.1140), whereas 22.6, 24.2 and 20.9 %, respectively, had depression symptoms (P = 0.8165). The risk factors for caregiver's anxiety symptoms were increased caregiver age as well as having care-recipients who were male, had higher Cohen Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) scores, and higher Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) scores. The risk factors for caregiver's depression symptoms were increased caregiver age as well as caring for care-recipients with MCI or SCD, those with lower Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ) scores, and those with higher GDS scores.

Conclusions

Caregivers of care-recipients with SCD showed the same level of depression symptoms as those of care-recipients with MCI. Caregiver's depression and anxiety symptoms were associated with their care-recipients' psychiatric and behavioral syndromes.

http://ift.tt/2cYOW3W

Oropharyngeal Syphilis: Imaging and Pathologic Findings in Two Patients

Abstract

Syphilis is a widespread infection with increasing frequency in developed countries, especially among men who have sex with men. We present two cases of oropharyngeal syphilis in two middle-aged men who presented with a painless tonsillar ulcer and progressive enlargement of cervical lymph nodes suspected of being a tonsillar tumour. A pathologic analysis of the ulcer led to an accurate diagnosis. We review the imaging and pathologic findings to emphasize the importance of taking syphilis into account in the differential diagnosis.

http://ift.tt/2dMoz3x

Commentary of the Special Panel at the Hopkinton Conference Working Group on Workplace Disability Prevention

http://ift.tt/2dqMGlu

Implementation of a Multidisciplinary Guideline for Low Back Pain: Process-Evaluation Among Health Care Professionals

Abstract

Background To reduce the burden of low back pain (LBP) in the Netherlands, a multidisciplinary guideline for LBP has been implemented in Dutch primary care using a multifaceted implementation strategy targeted at health care professionals (HCPs) and patients. The current paper describes the process evaluation of the implementation among HCPs. Methods The strategy aimed to improve multidisciplinary collaboration and communication, and consisted of 7 components. This process evaluation was performed using the Linnan and Steckler framework. Data were collected using a mixed methods approach of quantitative and qualitative data. Results 128 HCPs participated in the implementation study, of which 96 participated in quantitative and 21 participated in qualitative evaluation. Overall dose delivered for this study was 89 %, and the participants were satisfied with the strategy, mostly with the multidisciplinary approach, which contributed to the mutual understanding of each other's disciplines and perspectives. While the training sessions did not yield any new information, the strategy created awareness of the guideline and its recommendations, contributing to positively changing attitudes and aiding in improving guideline adherent behaviour. However, many barriers to implementation still exist, including personal and practical factors, confidence, dependence and distrust issues among the HCPs, as well as policy factors (e.g. reimbursement systems). Conclusions The data presented in this paper have shown that the strategy that was used to implement the guideline in a Dutch primary care setting was feasible, especially when using a multidisciplinary approach. However, identified barriers for implementation have been identified and should be addressed in future implementation.

http://ift.tt/2cO3vJ8

A Constitutive Model for Isothermal Pseudoelasticity Coupled with Plasticity

Abstract

In this paper, a new constitutive model for isothermal pseudoelastic shape memory alloys is presented. The model is based upon a kinematic hardening framework that was previously developed for ferroelastic and ferroelectric switching behavior. The basis of the model includes a transformation surface, an associated flow rule for transformation strain, and kinematic hardening with the back stresses represented by a transformation potential that is dependent upon the transformation strain. In contrast to many models that introduce tension/compression asymmetry by devising transformation surfaces in terms of invariants of the stress tensor, this model achieves this capability by means of expressing the transformation potential from which the back stresses are derived as a weighted mix of two potentials that are, respectively, calibrated to measured tensile and compressive responses. Additionally, in this model, plastic deformation is allowed to occur at high stresses by employing a standard \(J_{2}\) -based yield surface with isotropic hardening. Finally, to demonstrate the ability of the constitutive model to perform in highly non-proportional loading states, some finite element simulations on crack tip fields are presented.

http://ift.tt/2dMjlow

Erratum to: Validity of data collected in BIOREG, the Austrian register for biological treatment in rheumatology: current practice of bDMARD therapy in rheumatoid arthritis in Austria

http://ift.tt/2dW0k2h

Biodegradable starch derivatives with tunable charge density—synthesis, characterization, and transfection efficiency

Abstract

Regioselective oxidation of water-soluble starch and conversion with alkyl diamines resulted in defined cationic starch derivatives. Those were assessed in their potential for polyplex formation, biocompatibility, and transfection efficacy. The new polymers have the advantage of being biodegradable, being not cytotoxic at rather high concentrations (LC₅₀ > 400 μg/ml) for C2 substitution, and reach transfection efficiencies comparable to commercial transfection reagents. The polymer with the highest transfection efficacy is a C12 substituted polymer (degree of substitution = 30 %) at N/P 3. The LC₅₀ value of that highly modified polymer is still one order of magnitude lower than that of PEI 25 kDa.

http://ift.tt/2drIqlf

Time dependence of the aggregation of star-shaped poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazolines) in aqueous solutions

Abstract

The paper concerns the analysis of time t _eq required to equilibrium state achievement in aqueous solutions of star-shaped poly(2-isopropyl-2-oxazolines) (PiPrOx) after changing temperature. The discussed data were obtained for PiPrOx differing in arm number and length. For all samples, high t _eq values, half an hour at least, were obtained because of rather high intramolecular density. The dependence t _eq on temperature displayed maximum near the phase separation beginning due to the aggregate growth and redistribution of scattering particles. The maximum times t _eq increased symbatically with arm number and length. The higher energy of the hydrogen bond formed by deuterium isotope leads to the growth of the t _eq values as compared to solutions in H₂O.

http://ift.tt/2dMETxJ

M2 macrophages do not fly into a “RAGE”

Abstract

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key elements in orchestrating host responses inside tumor stroma. This population may undergo a polarized activation process, thus rendering a heterogeneous spectrum of phenotypes, where the classically activated type 1 macrophages (M1) and the alternative activated type 2 macrophages (M2) represent two extreme phenotypes. In this commentary, based on very recent research findings, we intend to highlight how complex could be the crosstalk among all components of tumor stroma, where the coexistence of non-natural partners may even skew the canonical responses that we can expect.

http://ift.tt/2dkOSyl

Ovarian mature cystic teratoma with fistula formation into the rectum: a case report

While ovarian mature cystic teratomas are benign ovarian germ-cell tumors and the most common type of all ovarian tumors, the formation of fistulas into surrounding organs such as the bladder and the intestina...

http://ift.tt/2dVSS7m

Antifungal activity of dual combination of hydroxychavicol with commercialized agents against oral Candida species

Candida spp. is the most prevalent species causing systemic fungal infections. The effect of antifungal agents were screened in vitro and their synergism effect were determined between hy...

http://ift.tt/2drBNzf

Erratum to: Effects of dietary supplementation of golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) egg on survival, pigmentation and antioxidant activity of Blood parrot

http://ift.tt/2dVSQw0

Population genetic analysis reveals a low level of genetic diversity of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma aurantifolia’ causing witches’ broom disease in lime

Witches' broom disease of lime (WBDL) is a serious phytoplasma disease of acid lime in Oman, the UAE and Iran. Despite efforts to study it, no systemic study attempted to characterize the relationship among th...

http://ift.tt/2drBGUs

Magnesium-permeable TRPM6 polymorphisms in patients with meningomyelocele

To evaluate whether there is an association between single nucleotide polymorphisms in magnesium-permeable TRPM6 ion channel and development of meningomyelocele (MMC). Therefore, we examined a total of 150 childr...

http://ift.tt/2dVS9mv

Randomized Comparison of Subcuticular Sutures Versus Staples for Skin Closure After Open Abdominal Surgery: a Multicenter Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background

The incisional surgical site infection (SSI) is an extremely common complication following open abdominal surgery and imposes a considerable treatment and cost burden.

Method

We conducted a multicenter open-label randomized controlled trial at three Tokyo Metropolitan medical institutions. We enrolled adult patients who underwent either an elective or an emergency open laparotomy. Eligible patients were allocated preoperatively to undergo wound closure with either subcuticular sutures or staples. A central Web-based randomization tool was used to assign participants randomly by a permuted block sequence with a 1:1 allocation ratio and a block size of 4 before mass closure to each group. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of a superficial SSI within 30 days after surgery in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. This trial was registered with UMIN-CTR as UMIN 000004836 (http://ift.tt/1zqOmCP).

Results

Between September 1, 2010 and August 31, 2015, 401 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to either group. One hundred and ninety-nine patients were allocated to the subcuticular suture and 202 patients to the staple groups (hereafter the "suture" and "staple" group, respectively). Three hundred and ninety-nine were eligible for the primary endpoint. Superficial SSIs occurred in 25 of 198 suture patients and in 27 of 201 staple patients. Overall, the rate of superficial SSIs did not differ significantly between the suture and staple groups.

Conclusion

Subcuticular sutures did not increase the occurrence of superficial SSIs following open laparotomies mainly consisting of clean-contaminated surgical procedures. The applicability of the wound closure material and method is likely to depend on individual circumstances of the patient and surgical procedure.

http://ift.tt/2dqBsxm

The thnR gene is a negative transcription regulator of the thurincin H genetic cassette in Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. morrisoni

Abstract

Thurincin H is a bacteriocin synthesized by some strains of Bacillus thuringiensis. In this study, the thurincin H genetic cassette, which contains ten genes, from a Mexican strain of B. thuringiensis subsp. morrisoni (Btm) was cloned and sequenced. To study the function of the thnR gene component in the cassette, we generated various constructs with or without thnR for expression in Btm. All transformants harboring thnR in recombinant plasmids showed a decrease of ~15 to ~90 % in inhibitory activity against the target strain, Bacillus cereus 183. Importantly, a ~90 % reduction in inhibition occurred with Btm harboring a construct containing thnR alone, suggesting that ThnR, indeed, functions as a negative transcription regulator of the thurincin H cassette. Based on sequence homology, ThnR was classified as a member of the YtrA subfamily of the GntR superfamily of transcriptional regulators.

http://ift.tt/2dFan8n

A Public Tribute to the Editors and Publishers of Digestive Diseases and Sciences : Personal Experience with Authorship of 43 Publications in this Journal During the Last 29 Years

http://ift.tt/2dqApgM

Plasma Level of Interleukin-35 as an Independent Prognostic Indicator in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a major type of liver cancer with poor prognosis.

Aim

The aim of the study was to determine the prognostic significance of plasma interleukin-35 level in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

A total of 153 hepatocellular carcinoma patients and 153 healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were obtained at admission. Plasma interleukin-35 level was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Distribution of T cell subset and expression of Fas/FasL protein were detected by flow cytometry. The patients were followed up for 2 years. Poor prognosis was defined as death of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Results

The plasma levels of interleukin-35 were significantly higher in the patients than the controls (25.1 ± 13.1, 9.3 ± 6.3 pg/mL, P < 0.001). After adjusted for multiple confounding factors, the multivariate logistic regression analyses reported that high level of interleukin-35 (≥25.0 pg/mL) was associated with the poor prognosis in the patients (OR 6.63, 95 % CI 3.27–13.47). Compared with the patients with low level of interleukin-35 (<25.0 pg/mL), the patients with high level of interleukin-35 showed higher frequencies of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ and CD3+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001) and also showed higher apoptosis levels of CD8+ T cells (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Circulating interleukin-35 concentration might be an independent prognostic indicator in hepatocellular carcinoma. Such prognostic significance could be partly involved in the activation of regulatory T cell and the apoptosis of CD8+ T cell.

http://ift.tt/2cNRraY

Efficacy of long-term tenofovir-based rescue therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B refractory to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs

Abstract

Background

Few studies have investigated the efficacy of long-term tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-based rescue therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B refractory to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 40 Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis B refractory to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs who received TDF-based rescue therapy [TDF monotherapy, TDF plus lamivudine (LAM) combination therapy, or TDF plus entecavir (ETV) combination therapy] followed up for a median of 45 months (range 14–99 months). Viral response, changes in hepatitis B surface antigen levels from the baseline, and viral breakthrough during therapy were analyzed.

Results

The proportion of patients with undetectable serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels (less than 2.1 log copies per milliliter) (viral response) during TDF-based rescue therapy was 68, 78, 85, 88, 83, 81, 88, and 100 % at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, and 4 years respectively. There were no differences in the viral response rate between the TDF plus LAM group and the TDF plus ETV group. The mean reduction from the baseline in hepatitis B surface antigen levels in patients with LAM-resistant HBV was greater than the reductions in patients with adefovir dipivoxil (ADV)-resistant or ETV-resistant HBV at 2 and 3 years (P = 0.024, and P = 0.025 respectively). However, two patients with ADV- or ETV-resistant HBV at the baseline developed viral breakthrough during TDF-based rescue therapy.

Conclusions

Long-term therapy with a TDF-based rescue regimen demonstrated high viral suppression in patients in whom LAM plus ADV combination therapy, ETV plus ADV combination therapy, or ETV monotherapy had failed. However, patients with ADV- or ETV-resistant HBV at the baseline may develop viral breakthrough and resistance, and careful follow-up is advised.

http://ift.tt/2dDf9Cs

Imaging as an Outcome Measure in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is sensitive to lesion formation both in the brain and spinal cord. Imaging plays a prominent role in the diagnosis and monitoring of MS. Over a dozen anti-inflammatory therapies are approved for MS and the development of many of these medications was made possible through the use of contrast-enhancing lesions on MRI as a phase II outcome. A similar phase II outcome method for the neurodegeneration that underlies progressive courses of the disease is still unavailable. Although magnetic resonance is an invaluable tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of treatment effects in MS, several imaging barriers still exist. In general, MRI is less sensitive to gray matter lesions, lacks pathological specificity, and does not provide quantitative data easily. Several advanced imaging methods including diffusion tensor imaging, magnetization transfer, functional MRI, myelin water fraction imaging, ultra-high field MRI, positron emission tomography, and optical coherence tomography of the retina study promising ways of overcoming the difficulties in MS imaging.

http://ift.tt/2dqwl02

Wrist Injuries in Tennis Players: A Narrative Review

Abstract

The wrist/hand complex forms the crucial final link in the kinetic chain between the body and the racquet and therefore has a number of important roles in the production of all tennis strokes. However, the internal and external loads that are created at the wrist during these strokes have the potential to contribute to pain and injury. Therefore, the purposes of this narrative review are to (1) determine the extent of the problem of wrist pain/injury in tennis players, (2) identify bony and soft tissue structures of the wrist that are susceptible to damage as a result of tennis play and (3) explore factors that may influence the development of wrist pain/injury in tennis players. The epidemiological data revealed two important points. First, some evidence suggests wrist pain/injury accounts for a higher percentage of total injuries in more recent studies (2014–2015) than in early studies (1986–1995). Second, the relative frequency of wrist pain/injury compared with other well-recognized problem areas for tennis players such as the shoulder complex, elbow and lumbar spine is noticeably higher in more recent studies (2014–2015) than in early studies (1986–1995), particularly among females. Collectively, this would seem to indicate that the problem of wrist pain/injury has increased in the modern game. In fact, some wrist injuries appear to be related to the use of certain forehand grip types and the predominant use of the two-handed backhand. While the loads experienced at the wrist during tennis stroke production seem to be below threshold levels for a single event, the cumulative effects of these loads through repetition would appear to be an important consideration, especially when inadequate time is allowed to complete normal processes of repair and adaptation. This is supported by the evidence that most wrist injuries in tennis are associated with overuse and a chronic time course. The complex interaction between load, repetition, and training practices in tennis, particularly among young developing players who choose a path of early specialization, needs to be further explored.

http://ift.tt/2dnEjaP

The Optimal Load for Maximal Power Production During Upper-Body Resistance Exercises: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background

External mechanical power is considered to be one of the most important characteristics with regard to sport performance.

Objective

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the effect of load on kinetic variables such as mean and peak power during bench press and bench press throw, thus integrating the findings of various studies to provide the strength and conditioning professional with more reliable evidence upon which to base their program design.

Methods

A search of electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) was conducted to identify all publications up to 31 October 2015. Hedges' g (95 % confidence interval) was estimated using a weighted random-effect model, due to the heterogeneity (I ²) of the studies. Egger's test was used to evaluate possible publication bias in the meta-analysis. A total of 11 studies with 434 subjects and 7680 effect sizes met the inclusion criterion and were included in the statistical analyses. Load in each study was labeled as one of three intensity zones: zone 1 represented an average intensity ranging from 0 to 30 % of one repetition maximum (1RM); zone 2 between 30 and 70 % of 1RM; and zone 3 ≥ 70 % of 1RM.

Results

These results showed different optimal loads for each exercise examined. Moderate loads (from >30 to <70 % of 1RM) appear to provide the optimal load for peak power and mean power in the bench press exercise. Lighter loads (<30 % of 1RM) appear to provide the highest mean and highest peak power production in the bench press throw exercise. However, a substantial heterogeneity was detected I ² > 75 %.

Conclusion

The current meta-analysis of published literature provides evidence for exercise-specific optimal power loading for upper body exercises.

http://ift.tt/2dNfa8b

Sport and Transgender People: A Systematic Review of the Literature Relating to Sport Participation and Competitive Sport Policies

Abstract

Background

Whether transgender people should be able to compete in sport in accordance with their gender identity is a widely contested question within the literature and among sport organisations, fellow competitors and spectators. Owing to concerns surrounding transgender people (especially transgender female individuals) having an athletic advantage, several sport organisations place restrictions on transgender competitors (e.g. must have undergone gender-confirming surgery). In addition, some transgender people who engage in sport, both competitively and for leisure, report discrimination and victimisation.

Objective

To the authors' knowledge, there has been no systematic review of the literature pertaining to sport participation or competitive sport policies in transgender people. Therefore, this review aimed to address this gap in the literature.

Method

Eight research articles and 31 sport policies were reviewed.

Results

In relation to sport-related physical activity, this review found the lack of inclusive and comfortable environments to be the primary barrier to participation for transgender people. This review also found transgender people had a mostly negative experience in competitive sports because of the restrictions the sport's policy placed on them. The majority of transgender competitive sport policies that were reviewed were not evidence based.

Conclusion

Currently, there is no direct or consistent research suggesting transgender female individuals (or male individuals) have an athletic advantage at any stage of their transition (e.g. cross-sex hormones, gender-confirming surgery) and, therefore, competitive sport policies that place restrictions on transgender people need to be considered and potentially revised.

http://ift.tt/2dnunPc

Neuromechanical Modulation of the Achilles Tendon During Bilateral Hopping in Patients with Unilateral Achilles Tendon Rupture, Over 1 Year After Surgical Repair

Abstract

Background

Patients who have had an Achilles tendon (AT) rupture repaired are potentially at higher risk for re-rupture than those without previous rupture. Little attention has been given to the neuromechanical modulation of muscle–tendon interaction and muscle activation profiles during human dynamic movements after AT rupture repair.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine muscle–tendon behavior and muscle activation during bilateral hopping.

Methods

We enrolled nine subjects who had undergone surgical repair of unilateral AT rupture within the past 1–2 years. Subjects performed bilateral hopping while we took ultrasound, kinematic, and electromyogram recordings and measurements. AT behaviors were also recorded. We then compared responses between values obtained from the ruptured AT leg (LEG_ATR) and non-ruptured AT leg (LEG_NOR).

Results

During hopping, the AT stretching amplitudes were greater in the LEG_ATR than in the LEG_NOR, although the peak AT force and stiffness were smaller in the LEG_ATR than in the LEG_NOR. The AT negative mechanical work did not show any significant differences between both legs. However, positive works were significantly lower in the LEG_ATR than in the LEG_NOR. Electromyogram patterns in both soleus and tibialis anterior muscles clearly differed after ground contact for the LEG_ATR and the LEG_NOR.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the repaired ruptured AT can be compliant and have insufficient Young's modulus, which can influence mechanical responses in muscle activities. The modulation of agonist–antagonist muscle activities corresponding to the different levels of stiffness between the LEG_ATR and the LEG_NOR may not be fully functioning during the pre-activation phase.

http://ift.tt/2dLTJbo

Ultrasound-guided gastrocnemius recession: a new ultra–minimally invasive surgical technique

Abstract

Background

Isolated gastrocnemius contracture is thought to lead to numerous conditions. Although many techniques have been described for gastrocnemius recession, potential anesthetic, cosmetic, and wound-related complications can lead to patient dissatisfaction. Open and endoscopic recession techniques require epidural anesthesia, lower limb ischemia, and stitches and may lead to damage of the sural nerve, which is not under the complete control of the surgeon at all stages of the procedure.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new technique based on ultrasound-guided ultra–minimally invasive gastrocnemius recession.

Methods

We performed a pilot study with 22 cadavers to ensure that the technique was effective and safe. In the second phase, we prospectively performed gastrocnemius recession in 23 patients (25 cases) with chronic non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy, equinus foot, and other indications. In the clinical study, we evaluated the range of dorsiflexion before and after the procedure, clinical outcomes with VAS and AOFAS scores, and potential complications, including neurovascular injuries.

Results

We achieved complete release of the gastrocnemius tendon in all cases in the cadaveric study, with no damage to the sural nerve or vessels and minimal damage to the underlying muscle fibers. Ankle dorsiflexion increased for every patient in the study (mean, 14°; standard deviation, 3°) and was maintained throughout follow-up. The mean preoperative VAS score was 7 (6–9), which improved to 0 (0–1). The AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Score improved from a mean of 30 (20–40) to 93 (85–100) at 6 months. No major complications were observed. All patients returned to their previous sports after 6 months.

Conclusions

After cadaveric and clinical study, we considered the technique to be safe and effective to perform ultrasound-guided ultra–minimally invasive gastrocnemius recession using a 1-mm incision in vivo. This novel technique represents an alternative to open techniques, with encouraging results and with the advantages of reducing pain, obviating lower limb ischemia, deeper anaesthesia, thus decreasing complications and contraindications and accelerating recovery.

http://ift.tt/2drqzuK

Grayscale inversion radiographic view provided improved intra- and inter-observer reliabilities in measuring spinopelvic parameters in asymptomatic adult population

Abstract

Background

Recently, a grayscale inversion view was reported to improve intra- and inter-observer reliabilities in measuring coronal curvature with Cobb and pedicle methods in scoliosis patients. However, the grayscale transformation has never been applied to the measurements of spinopelvic parameters. The purpose of this study was to compare the measurement reliabilities of the spinoplevic sagittal parameters between the 'Standard View' and the 'Grayscale Inversion View' in normal adult populations.

Methods

A total of 30 asymptomatic subjects aged between 30 and 40 years were included in this study. Whole-spine posteroanterior radiographs were used to measure the spinoplevic sagittal parameters including thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS) and pelvic tilt (PT) in both standard view and grayscale inversion view. Two independent observers measured the parameters twice at a 2-week interval. Intra- and inter-observer reliabilities were compared between the two radiographic views. The absolute differences between the two sets of measurements on each view were calculated and compared.

Results

The intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) of PI, PT and SVA were greater in the grayscale inversion view than in the standard view (0.972 vs 0.817, 0.937 vs 0.833 and 0.964 vs 0.901 for observer 1, respectively; 0.990 vs 0.826, 0.995 vs 0.842 and 0.969 vs 0.919 for observer 2, respectively). Overall, the improvement of ICC was greater in parameters of sagittal pelvic alignment than in those of sagittal spinal alignment. As for the mean absolute differences between two measurements, significant differences existed between the two views in terms of PI, PT and SVA (p = 0.014, 0.016 and 0.011 for observer 1, respectively; p = 0.014, 0.025 and 0.046 for observer 2, respectively).

Conclusions

A grayscale inversion view provided improved intra- and inter-observer reliabilities in measuring spinoplevic alignment when compared with a standard view. This view was more useful in subjects whose pelvic anatomical structures can't be identified clearly on the standard X-ray view.

http://ift.tt/2dVIqfW

Alterations in neuromuscular function in girls with generalized joint hypermobility

Abstract

Background

Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH) is associated with increased risk of musculoskeletal joint pain. We investigated neuromuscular performance and muscle activation strategy.

Methods

Girls with GJH and non-GJH (NGJH) performed isometric knee flexions (90°,110°,130°), and extensions (90°) at 20 % Maximum Voluntary Contraction, and explosive isometric knee flexions while sitting. EMG was recorded from knee flexor and extensor muscles.

Results

Early rate of torque development was 53 % faster for GJH. Reduced hamstring muscle activation in girls with GJH was found while knee extensor and calf muscle activation did not differ between groups. Flexion-extension and medial-lateral co-activation ratio during flexions were higher for girls with GJH than NGJH girls.

Conclusions

Girls with GJH had higher capacity to rapidly generate force than NGJH girls which may reflect motor adaptation to compensate for hypermobility. Higher medial muscle activation indicated higher levels of medial knee joint compression in girls with GJH. Increased flexion-extension co-activation ratios in GJH were explained by decreased agonist drive to the hamstrings.

http://ift.tt/2drq9EO

Detection of a New Hainan Gibbon ( Nomascus hainanus ) Group Using Acoustic Call Playback

Abstract

Targeted management actions informed by robust data are needed to conserve species of extreme rarity, and assessing the effectiveness of different field methods for detection and monitoring of such species is a conservation priority. Gibbons are typically detected by their daily song through passive listening surveys, but lone gibbon individuals and low-density populations are less likely to sing, making detection difficult or impossible using standard survey techniques. Call playback represents an alternative potential method for detecting gibbon presence, but there has been no empirical evaluation of the usefulness of this method in the field. We investigated the efficacy of call playback as a survey method for detecting previously unconfirmed or unknown individuals of the Critically Endangered Hainan gibbon (Nomascus hainanus), the world's rarest primate, in patches of good-quality forest outside the current home ranges of the three known Hainan gibbon social groups in Bawangling National Nature Reserve, Hainan, China. Call playback led to detection of a male-only call likely to have been made by a solitary male, and a previously unknown social group comprising an adult male, adult female, and an infant, increasing the number of known breeding females in the global Hainan gibbon population from five to six. Call playback therefore represents an effective tool for improved monitoring of Hainan gibbons, as well as other gibbon populations; however, it is a moderately disruptive survey technique, and should be employed sparingly, in key locations, and for short periods of time only when attempting to detect gibbon presence.

http://ift.tt/2doE4vq

The safety and effectiveness profile of eldecalcitol in a prospective, post-marketing observational study in Japanese patients with osteoporosis: interim report

Abstract

This large-scale post-marketing surveillance study was conducted to assess the safety and effectiveness of eldecalcitol treatment in patients with osteoporosis in a Japanese clinical setting. A total of 3567 patients with osteoporosis were enrolled and received eldecalcitol 0.75 μg/day for 12 months. For this interim report, 3285 patients were eligible for analysis. Mean age was 74.9 ± 8.7 years; 86.8 % (2854/3285) were women. There were 142 reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in 129 patients (3.92 % of the total 3285 patients): the most common were hypercalcemia and increased blood calcium (0.88 %), renal impairment (0.27 %), abdominal discomfort (0.24 %), constipation (0.24 %), and pruritus (0.24 %). The incidence of ADRs was 5.10 % in men and 3.74 % in women. Although 10 serious ADRs were reported in 9 patients (0.27 %), no clinically significant safety issues were identified. Incidence of hypercalcemia or increased blood calcium was 8.47 % in patients with renal impairment and only 0.74 % in patients without renal impairment. At last observation, the incidence of new vertebral and nonvertebral fractures was 2.44 % and 1.70 %, respectively. There was a significant increase in bone mineral density at the lumbar spine and distal radius. The bone turnover markers BAP, serum NTX, urinary NTX, and TRACP-5b were suppressed by eldecalcitol treatment in both sexes. In conclusion, consistent with the findings of the phase III pivotal clinical trial, eldecalcitol was shown to have a favorable safety profile and effectiveness in Japanese patients with osteoporosis. However, periodic measurements of serum calcium were required to prevent occurrence of hypercalcemia during eldecalcitol treatment, especially in patients with renal impairment.

http://ift.tt/2dCZUtA

Involvement of cell surface TG2 in the aggregation of K562 cells triggered by gluten

Abstract

Gluten-induced aggregation of K562 cells represents an in vitro model reproducing the early steps occurring in the small bowel of celiac patients exposed to gliadin. Despite the clear involvement of TG2 in the activation of the antigen-presenting cells, it is not yet clear in which compartment it occurs. Herein we study the calcium-dependent aggregation of these cells, using either cell-permeable or cell-impermeable TG2 inhibitors. Gluten induces efficient aggregation when calcium is absent in the extracellular environment, while TG2 inhibitors do not restore the full aggregating potential of gluten in the presence of calcium. These findings suggest that TG2 activity is not essential in the cellular aggregation mechanism. We demonstrate that gluten contacts the cells and provokes their aggregation through a mechanism involving the A-gliadin peptide 31-43. This peptide also activates the cell surface associated extracellular TG2 in the absence of calcium. Using a bioinformatics approach, we identify the possible docking sites of this peptide on the open and closed TG2 structures. Peptide docks with the closed TG2 structure near to the GTP/GDP site, by establishing molecular interactions with the same amino acids involved in stabilization of GTP binding. We suggest that it may occur through the displacement of GTP, switching the TG2 structure from the closed to the active open conformation. Furthermore, docking analysis shows peptide binding with the β-sandwich domain of the closed TG2 structure, suggesting that this region could be responsible for the different aggregating effects of gluten shown in the presence or absence of calcium. We deduce from these data a possible mechanism of action by which gluten makes contact with the cell surface, which could have possible implications in the celiac disease onset.

http://ift.tt/2dprzjf

Concurrent Chemotherapy Based on Genetic Testing in Patients With High-Risk Salivary Gland Tumors

Conditions:   Salivary Gland Tumors;   Head and Neck Cancer
Interventions:   Drug: Docetaxel;   Radiation: Intensity-modulated radiotherapy;   Drug: Pemetrexed;   Drug: Cisplatin
Sponsor:   Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Recruiting - verified September 2016

http://ift.tt/2dqkAqq

ReIrradiation With FDG-PET Guided Dose Painting

Condition:   Recurrent and Second Primary Head and Neck Cancer
Intervention:   Radiation: FDG-PET guided dose painting
Sponsors:   Oslo University Hospital;   Norwegian Cancer Society
Recruiting - verified September 2016

http://ift.tt/2cNBnpB

Participatory Research for Fine-tuning of a 2.0 System to Optimise Home Management of Oral Cancer Therapies.

Conditions:   Cancer;   Oral Drug Administration
Intervention:   Device: TreC-Onco
Sponsors:   Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la cura dei Tumori;   Kessler Foundation
Recruiting - verified September 2016

http://ift.tt/2dqkTBx

Click inspired synthesis of triazole-linked vanillin glycoconjugates

Abstract

The 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of deoxy-azido sugars 1 with alkyne derivatives of p-vanillin, 3-methoxy-4-(prop-2-ynyloxy)benzaldehyde (2) and 2-methoxy-1-(prop-2-ynyloxy)-4-((prop-2-ynyloxy)methyl)benzene) (4) to afford regioselective triazole-linked vanillinglycoconjugates 5 and 6 was investigated in the presence of CuI/DIPEA in dichloromethane. All the developed glycoconjugates were characterized on the basis of IR, NMR, and MS.

Graphical abstract

Triazolyl vanillin glycoconjugates via click chemistry

http://ift.tt/2dlZHAm

Safety Precautions and Operating Procedures in an (A)BSL-4 Laboratory: 2. General Practices

Performing viral assays in a BSL-4 laboratory is more involved compared to work in a BSL-2 laboratory due to required additional safety precautions. Here, we present an overview of practices and procedures used inside a BSL-4 laboratory illustrating proper Class II biosafety cabinet usage, waste management/disposal, and sample removal.

http://ift.tt/2d9hdmd

Safety Precautions and Operating Procedures in an (A)BSL-4 Laboratory: 1. Biosafety Level 4 Suit Laboratory Suite Entry and Exit Procedures

Although researchers are generally knowledgeable about procedures and safety precautions required for biosafety level 1 or 2 (BSL-1/2) experiments, they may not be familiar with experimental procedures in BSL-4 suit laboratories. This article provides a detailed visual demonstration of BSL-4 suit laboratory systems check, laboratory entry, movement, and exit procedures.

http://ift.tt/2d9gDEZ

Effect of Fluid Viscosity on the Cilia-Generated Flow on a Mouse Tracheal Lumen

Abstract

Mucous flow in a tracheal lumen is generated by the beat motion of ciliated cells to provide a clearance function by discharging harmful dust particles and viruses. Due to its physiological importance, the cilia-generated flow and the rheological properties of mucus have been investigated intensively. The effects of viscosity on the cilia-generated flow, however, have not been fully clarified. In this study, we measured bulk background velocity of ciliary flow using a micro particle tracking velocimetry method under various viscosity conditions in mice. The results showed that the flow velocity decreased as the increase with viscosity of ambient fluid. Moreover, no previous study has clarified the pump power generated by cilia, which provides important information with regard to understanding the molecular motor properties of cilia. Measurements of both the ciliary flow and the ciliary motion were conducted to determine the cilia pump power. Our results indicated that the cilia pump during the effective stroke did not drive the ciliary flow efficiently under high viscosity conditions; these findings are necessary to resolve the clearance function.

http://ift.tt/2dpRVSp

Ex Vivo Methods for Informing Computational Models of the Mitral Valve

Abstract

Computational modeling of the mitral valve (MV) has potential applications for determining optimal MV repair techniques and risk of recurrent mitral regurgitation. Two key concerns for informing these models are (1) sensitivity of model performance to the accuracy of the input geometry, and, (2) acquisition of comprehensive data sets against which the simulation can be validated across clinically relevant geometries. Addressing the first concern, ex vivo micro-computed tomography (microCT) was used to image MVs at high resolution (~40 micron voxel size). Because MVs distorted substantially during static imaging, glutaraldehyde fixation was used prior to microCT. After fixation, MV leaflet distortions were significantly smaller (p < 0.005), and detail of the chordal tree was appreciably greater. Addressing the second concern, a left heart simulator was designed to reproduce MV geometric perturbations seen in vivo in functional mitral regurgitation and after subsequent repair, and maintain compatibility with microCT. By permuting individual excised ovine MVs (n = 5) through each state (healthy, diseased and repaired), and imaging with microCT in each state, a comprehensive data set was produced. Using this data set, work is ongoing to construct and validate high-fidelity MV biomechanical models. These models will seek to link MV function across clinically relevant states.

http://ift.tt/2cN8Pwo

Footprint area analysis of binary imaged Cupriavidus necator cells to study PHB production at balanced, transient, and limited growth conditions in a cascade process

Abstract

Statistical distribution of cell and poly[3-(R)-hydroxybutyrate] (PHB) granule size and number of granules per cell are investigated for PHB production in a five-stage cascade (5CSTR). Electron microscopic pictures of cells from individual cascade stages (R1–R5) were converted to binary pictures to visualize footprint areas for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) and non-PHA biomass. Results for each stage were correlated to the corresponding experimentally determined kinetics (specific growth rate μ and specific productivity π). Log-normal distribution describes PHA granule size dissimilarity, whereas for R1 and R4, gamma distribution best reflects the situation. R1, devoted to balanced biomass synthesis, predominately contains cells with rather small granules, whereas with increasing residence time τ, maximum and average granule sizes by trend increase, approaching an upper limit determined by the cell's geometry. Generally, an increase of intracellular PHA content and ratio of granule to cell area slow down along the cascade. Further, the number of granules per cell decreases with increasing τ. Data for μ and π obtained by binary picture analysis correlate well with the experimental results. The work describes long-term continuous PHA production under balanced, transient, and nutrient-deficient conditions, as well as their reflection on the granules size, granule number, and cell structure on the microscopic level.

http://ift.tt/2doENga

Bioactive Natural Molecules and Traditional Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Airways Diseases

http://ift.tt/2dKrs4S

IJGI, Vol. 5, Pages 182: Smartphone-Based Pedestrian’s Avoidance Behavior Recognition towards Opportunistic Road Anomaly Detection

Road anomalies, such as cracks, pits and puddles, have generally been identified by citizen reports made by e-mail or telephone; however, it is difficult for administrative entities to locate the anomaly for repair. An advanced smartphone-based solution that sends text and/or image reports with location information is not a long-lasting solution, because it depends on people's active reporting. In this article, we show an opportunistic sensing-based system that uses a smartphone for road anomaly detection without any active user involvement. To detect road anomalies, we focus on pedestrians' avoidance behaviors, which are characterized by changing azimuth patterns. Three typical avoidance behaviors are defined, and random forest is chosen as the classifier. Twenty-nine features are defined, in which features calculated by splitting a segment into the first half and the second half and considering the monotonicity of change were proven to be effective in recognition. Experiments were carried out under an ideal and controlled environment. Ten-fold cross-validation shows an average classification performance with an F-measure of 0.89 for six activities. The proposed recognition method was proven to be robust against the size of obstacles, and the dependency on the storing position of a smartphone can be handled by an appropriate classifier per storing position. Furthermore, an analysis implies that the classification of data from an "unknown" person can be improved by taking into account the compatibility of a classifier.

http://ift.tt/2dKb84r

Genes, Vol. 7, Pages 81: The SaeRS Two‐Component System of Staphylococcus aureus

In the Gram‐positive pathogenic bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, the SaeRS twocomponent system (TCS) plays a major role in controlling the production of over 20 virulence factors including hemolysins, leukocidins, superantigens, surface proteins, and proteases. The SaeRS TCS is composed of the sensor histidine kinase SaeS, response regulator SaeR, and two auxiliary proteins SaeP and SaeQ. Since its discovery in 1994, the sae locus has been studied extensively, and its contributions to staphylococcal virulence and pathogenesis have been well documented and understood; however, the molecular mechanism by which the SaeRS TCS receives and processes cognate signals is not. In this article, therefore, we review the literature focusing on the signaling mechanism and its interaction with other global regulators.

http://ift.tt/2cWVbVS

Reduced port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: single and a half incision lap chole

Indian Journal of Surgery

http://ift.tt/2cMTneK

Reduction of covalently closed circular dna with long-term nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment in chronic hepatitis b

Journal of Hepatology

http://ift.tt/2dDiiaM

The individual and combined effects of obesity- and ageing-induced systemic inflammation on human skeletal muscle properties

International Journal of Obesity

http://ift.tt/2cMTkQh

Methylferulate from Tamarix aucheriana inhibits growth and enhances chemosensitivity of human colorectal cancer cells: Possible mechanism of action

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

http://ift.tt/2dDjgE2

Combined assessment using optical colonoscopy and computed tomographic colonography improves the determination of tumor location and invasion depth

Asian Journal of Endoscopic Surgery

http://ift.tt/2cMTt6o

Aerobic versus resistance exercise in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review

Journal of Hepatology

http://ift.tt/2dDjbA2

Nadolol reduces insulin sensitivity in liver cirrhosis: A double-blind randomized cross-over trial

Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews

http://ift.tt/2cMXgjK

Classification and regression tree analysis of acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure: Seeing the forest for the trees

Journal of Viral Hepatitis

http://ift.tt/2dDitTG

The benefit of sleeve gastrectomy in obese adolescents on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatic fibrosis

The Journal of Pediatrics

http://ift.tt/2cMTjvH

Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in newly arrived refugees attending the Migrant Health Service, South Australia

Helicobacter

http://ift.tt/2dDjMlh

Maternal adipokines and insulin as biomarkers of pregnancies complicated by overweight and obesity

Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome

http://ift.tt/2cMThnz

The operative management of children with complex perianal Crohn's disease

Journal of Pediatric Surgery

http://ift.tt/2dDixCM

A 1-year prospective study of the effect of infliximab on bone metabolism in inflammatory bowel disease patients

European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology

http://ift.tt/2cMSlj5

Seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B and C viruses, and Treponema pallidum infections among blood donors at Shiyan, Central China

BMC Infectious Diseases

http://ift.tt/2dDjPO3

The impact of margin status determined by the one-millimeter rule on tumor recurrence and survival following pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Surgery Today

http://ift.tt/2cMRWx9

Mitigation of stomach dehiscence risk during gastrostomy tube changes - A retrospective analysis of patient outcomes

Journal of Pediatric Surgery

http://ift.tt/2dDjlrc

Assessing the relationship between A Body Shape Index and mortality in a group of middle-aged men

Clinical Nutrition

http://ift.tt/2cMSdjm

Somatostatin analogues compared to placebo and other pharmacological agents in the management of symptoms of inoperable malignant bowel obstruction: A systematic review

Journal of Pain and Symptom Management

http://ift.tt/2dDi17V

Randomized clinical trial of observational versus antibiotic treatment for a first episode of CT-proven uncomplicated acute diverticulitis

British Journal of Surgery

http://ift.tt/2cMRVt5

Predictors for bowel resection and the presence of a pathological lead point for operated childhood intussusception: A multi-center study

Journal of Pediatric Surgery

http://ift.tt/2dDiqqY

IJMS, Vol. 17, Pages 1675: Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization and Expression Analysis of the Solute Carrier 6 Gene Family in Silkworm (Bombyx mori)

The solute carrier 6 (SLC6) gene family, initially known as the neurotransmitter transporters, plays vital roles in the regulation of neurotransmitter signaling, nutrient absorption and motor behavior. In this study, a total of 16 candidate genes were identified as SLC6 family gene homologs in the silkworm (Bombyx mori) genome. Spatio-temporal expression patterns of silkworm SLC6 gene transcripts indicated that these genes were highly and specifically expressed in midgut, brain and gonads; moreover, these genes were expressed primarily at the feeding stage or adult stage. Levels of expression for most midgut-specific and midgut-enriched gene transcripts were down-regulated after starvation but up-regulated after re-feeding. In addition, we observed that expression levels of these genes except for BmSLC6-15 and BmGT1 were markedly up-regulated by a juvenile hormone analog. Moreover, brain-enriched genes showed differential expression patterns during wandering and mating processes, suggesting that these genes may be involved in modulating wandering and mating behaviors. Our results improve our understanding of the expression patterns and potential physiological functions of the SLC6 gene family, and provide valuable information for the comprehensive functional analysis of the SLC6 gene family.

http://ift.tt/2dxxQLJ

Insects, Vol. 7, Pages 52: Biological Control of Mosquito Vectors: Past, Present, and Future

Mosquitoes represent the major arthropod vectors of human disease worldwide transmitting malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and arboviruses such as dengue virus and Zika virus. Unfortunately, no treatment (in the form of vaccines or drugs) is available for most of these diseases andvectorcontrolisstillthemainformofprevention. Thelimitationsoftraditionalinsecticide-based strategies, particularly the development of insecticide resistance, have resulted in significant efforts to develop alternative eco-friendly methods. Biocontrol strategies aim to be sustainable and target a range of different mosquito species to reduce the current reliance on insecticide-based mosquito control. In thisreview, weoutline non-insecticide basedstrategiesthat havebeenimplemented orare currently being tested. We also highlight the use of mosquito behavioural knowledge that can be exploited for control strategies.

http://ift.tt/2cWTUOB

Dentistry Journal, Vol. 4, Pages 34: Hardness, Cohesiveness, and Adhesiveness of Oral Moisturizers and Denture Adhesives: Selection Criteria for Denture Wearers

The mechanical properties of seven denture adhesives and eight oral moisturizers, all of which are commercially available, were evaluated using a texture profile analysis. A new assessment chart is proposed for the selection criteria of denture adhesive and oral moisturizers using a radar chart with three axes: hardness, cohesiveness, and adhesiveness.

http://ift.tt/2dDoNGe

Economies, Vol. 4, Pages 22: Technical Efficiency and Its Determinants of Rice Production in Cambodia

The present study aims to measure the technical efficiency and establish core factors  affecting rice production in Cambodia. A four‐year dataset generated from the central government  document "Profile on Economics and Social" of 25 entire provinces between 2012 and 2015 and the  stochastic production frontier model (SFA) was applied. The results indicated that the level of  output (quantity) of Cambodian rice production varied according to the different level of capital  investment  in  agricultural  machineries,  total  rice  actual  harvested  area,  and  technical  fertilizer  application within provinces. Furthermore, evidence revealed that the overall mean efficiency of  rice production is 78.4%, which implies that there is still room to further improve technical  efficiency given the same level of inputs and technology. More importantly, the findings revealed  that  irrigation,  production  techniques  and  amount  of  agricultural  supporting  staff  are  the  most important influencing factors of rice production's technical efficiency in Cambodia. In conclusion,  the present study strongly recommends the development of irrigation systems and good water  management practices to be considered and bring about more effective actions by the central  government as well as related agencies for improving rice production in Cambodia in addition to  capital investment and improving technical skills of supporting staff and rural farmers

http://ift.tt/2cWV8td

IJMS, Vol. 17, Pages 1676: In Vitro Metabolic Studies of REV-ERB Agonists SR9009 and SR9011

SR9009 and SR9011 are attractive as performance-enhancing substances due to their REV-ERB agonist effects and thus circadian rhythm modulation activity. Although no pharmaceutical preparations are available yet, illicit use of SR9009 and SR9011 for doping purposes can be anticipated, especially since SR9009 is marketed in illicit products. Therefore, the aim was to identify potential diagnostic metabolites via in vitro metabolic studies to ensure effective (doping) control. The presence of SR9009 could be demonstrated in a black market product purchased over the Internet. Via human liver microsomal metabolic assays, eight metabolites were detected for SR9009 and fourteen metabolites for SR9011 by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS). Structure elucidation was performed for all metabolites by LC–HRMS product ion scans in both positive and negative ionization mode. Retrospective data analysis was applied to 1511 doping control samples previously analyzed by a full-scan LC–HRMS screening method to verify the presence of SR9009, SR9011 and their metabolites. So far, the presence of neither the parent compound nor the metabolites could be detected in routine urine samples. However, to further discourage use of these potentially harmful compounds, incorporation of SR9009 and SR9011 into screening methods is highly recommended.

http://ift.tt/2dJWqdx

Metabolites, Vol. 6, Pages 33: The Redox Status of Cancer Cells Supports Mechanisms behind the Warburg Effect

To better understand the energetic status of proliferating cells, we have measured the intracellular pH (pHi) and concentrations of key metabolites, such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) in normal and cancer cells, extracted from fresh human colon tissues. Cells were sorted by elutriation and segregated in different phases of the cell cycle (G0/G1/S/G2/M) in order to study their redox (NAD, NADP) and bioenergetic (ATP, pHi) status. Our results show that the average ATP concentration over the cell cycle is higher and the pHi is globally more acidic in normal proliferating cells. The NAD+/NADH and NADP+/NADPH redox ratios are, respectively, five times and ten times higher in cancer cells compared to the normal cell population. These energetic differences in normal and cancer cells may explain the well-described mechanisms behind the Warburg effect. Oscillations in ATP concentration, pHi, NAD+/NADH, and NADP+/NADPH ratios over one cell cycle are reported and the hypothesis addressed. We also investigated the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of human and mice normal and cancer cell lines. A drastic decrease of the MMP is reported in cancer cell lines compared to their normal counterparts. Altogether, these results strongly support the high throughput aerobic glycolysis, or Warburg effect, observed in cancer cells.

http://ift.tt/2d7R9aX

Sensors, Vol. 16, Pages 1639: Quasi-3D Modeling and Efficient Simulation of Laminar Flows in Microfluidic Devices

A quasi-3D model has been developed to simulate the flow in planar microfluidic systems with low Reynolds numbers. The model was developed by decomposing the flow profile along the height of a microfluidic system into a Fourier series. It was validated against the analytical solution for flow in a straight rectangular channel and the full 3D numerical COMSOL Navier-Stokes solver for flow in a T-channel. Comparable accuracy to the full 3D numerical solution was achieved by using only three Fourier terms with a significant decrease in computation time. The quasi-3D model was used to model flows in a micro-flow cytometer chip on a desktop computer and good agreement between the simulation and the experimental results was found.

http://ift.tt/2dDnSFN

IJMS, Vol. 17, Pages 1676: In Vitro Metabolic Studies of REV-ERB Agonists SR9009 and SR9011

SR9009 and SR9011 are attractive as performance-enhancing substances due to their REV-ERB agonist effects and thus circadian rhythm modulation activity. Although no pharmaceutical preparations are available yet, illicit use of SR9009 and SR9011 for doping purposes can be anticipated, especially since SR9009 is marketed in illicit products. Therefore, the aim was to identify potential diagnostic metabolites via in vitro metabolic studies to ensure effective (doping) control. The presence of SR9009 could be demonstrated in a black market product purchased over the Internet. Via human liver microsomal metabolic assays, eight metabolites were detected for SR9009 and fourteen metabolites for SR9011 by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS). Structure elucidation was performed for all metabolites by LC–HRMS product ion scans in both positive and negative ionization mode. Retrospective data analysis was applied to 1511 doping control samples previously analyzed by a full-scan LC–HRMS screening method to verify the presence of SR9009, SR9011 and their metabolites. So far, the presence of neither the parent compound nor the metabolites could be detected in routine urine samples. However, to further discourage use of these potentially harmful compounds, incorporation of SR9009 and SR9011 into screening methods is highly recommended.

http://ift.tt/2dJWqdx

Expression Profiling of Genes Related to Endothelial Cells Biology in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Patients with Prediabetes

Endothelial dysfunction appears to be an early sign indicating vascular damage and predicts the progression of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disorders. Extensive clinical and experimental evidence suggests that endothelial dysfunction occurs in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and prediabetes patients. This study was carried out with an aim to appraise the expression levels in the peripheral blood of 84 genes related to endothelial cells biology in patients with diagnosed T2DM or prediabetes, trying to identify new genes whose expression might be changed under these pathological conditions. The study covered a total of 45 participants. The participants were divided into three groups: group 1, patients with T2DM; group 2, patients with prediabetes; group 3, control group. The gene expression analysis was performed using the Endothelial Cell Biology RT2 Profiler PCR Array. In the case of T2DM, 59 genes were found to be upregulated, and four genes were observed to be downregulated. In prediabetes patients, increased expression was observed for 49 genes, with two downregulated genes observed. Our results indicate that diabetic and prediabetic conditions change the expression levels of genes related to endothelial cells biology and, consequently, may increase the risk for occurrence of endothelial dysfunction.

http://ift.tt/2dJVnKL

Protective Effect of Yinhua Miyanling Tablet on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation through Suppression of NLRP3/Caspase-1 Inflammasome in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells

Yinhua Miyanling Tablet (YMT), the Chinese formula, has long been administrated in clinical practice for the treatment of acute pyelonephritis and acute urocystitis. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of YMT in vitro and to evaluate the association between anti-inflammation and innate immune response. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated using Ficoll density gradient centrifugation and then were stimulated by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The differential gene expression of inflammation-related genes after drug administration was assessed using PCR array, and the protein levels of differential genes were measured by ELISA and Western blot. The result showed that YMT significantly inhibited the expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and the downstream cytokine IL-1β and suppressed the production of inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and MCP-1 in a dose-dependent manner compared to the LPS group . The finding indicated that YMT exhibited anti-inflammatory effect in vitro by suppressing the NLRP3/Caspase-1 inflammasome, and that may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

http://ift.tt/2dlH0JP

Economies, Vol. 4, Pages 21: Breaking up Is Hard to Do: Why the Eurozone Will Survive

Since revelations of the Greek fiscal deficit in the fall of 2009, the breakup of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) has moved from unthinkable to plausible. The debate over the future  of the EMU has become increasingly relevant, as numerous efforts to solve the Greek crisis have not  been successful. Neither have basic competitiveness differences between countries in the core and  periphery of the European Union been eliminated. Proposed solutions include development of a  banking union, regulatory measures to monitor trade and capital imbalances, fiscal reforms on the  part of countries in trouble, and centralized fiscal capacity on the part of the EMU itself to offset the liabilities of the indebted states. While the crisis seems to be contained, it is by no means solved.  This leads to the question: "Will the euro survive?" We answer this question in the affirmative, but  in doing so we argue that continuation of the EMU is different from the question of whether the  EMU should have been created in the first place. Some reasons for continuation of the EMU were  present at its creation; others have developed in a path‐dependent way as the Eurozone has evolved.

http://ift.tt/2d7PHoP

Applied Sciences, Vol. 6, Pages 282: Effects of Coupling Agents on the Structure and Electrical Properties of PZT-Poly (Vinylidene Fluoride) Composites

Piezoelectricceramictransducer(PZT)-Poly(vinylidenefluoride)compositeswereprepared by the hot-pressing method. Before addition, PZT particles were firstly modified with two different coupling agents. The micromorphology, microstructure, dielectric properties, and piezoelectric propertiesofthecompositeswerecharacterizedandinvestigated. ResultsindicatedthatPZTparticles were homogeneously dispersed in the poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) matrix by the addition of coupling agents. The electric properties of PZT-PVDF composites with NDZ-101 were the best. Especially when the volume ratio of the titanate coupling agent NDZ-101 was 1%, the piezoelectric strain constant d33 of PZT-PVDF composites reached maximum value 19.23 pC/N; its relative dielectric constant εr was 67.45; at the same time its dielectric loss tan δ was 0.0766.

http://ift.tt/2d7QwxU

Energies, Vol. 9, Pages 793: Switching Control of Wind Turbine Sub-Controllers Based on an Active Disturbance Rejection Technique

Wind power generation systems require complex control systems with multiple working conditions and multiple controllers. Under different operating conditions, switching without disturbancebetweenthesub-controllersplaysacriticalroleinensuringthestabilityofpowersystems. The sub-controllers of two typical cases in the permanent magnet direct drive (PMDD) wind turbine running process are studied, one is the proportional integral (PI) controller in the maximum power points tracking (MPPT) stage, the other is the fuzzy pitch angle controller in the constant power stage. The switching strategy of the two sub-controllers is the emphasis in this research. Based on the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC), the switching mode of the sub-controllers is proposed, which can effectively restrain the sudden changes of the rotor current during the switching process, and improve the quality of power generation. The feasibility and effectiveness of the sub-controller switching strategy is verified by Matlab/Simulink simulation for a 2 MW PMDD wind turbine.

http://ift.tt/2dxq5FB

Sensors, Vol. 16, Pages 1638: Methodological Comparison between a Novel Automatic Sampling System for Gas Chromatography versus Photoacoustic Spectroscopy for Measuring Greenhouse Gas Emissions under Field Conditions

Trace gases such as nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2) are climate-related gases, and their emissions from agricultural livestock barns are not negligible. Conventional measurement systems in the field (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); photoacoustic system (PAS)) are not sufficiently sensitive to N2O. Laser-based measurement systems are highly accurate, but they are very expensive to purchase and maintain. One cost-effective alternative is gas chromatography (GC) with electron capture detection (ECD), but this is not suitable for field applications due to radiation. Measuring samples collected automatically under field conditions in the laboratory at a subsequent time presents many challenges. This study presents a sampling designed to promote laboratory analysis of N2O concentrations sampled under field conditions. Analyses were carried out using PAS in the field (online system) and GC in the laboratory (offline system). Both measurement systems showed a good correlation for CH4 and CO2 concentrations. Measured N2O concentrations were near the detection limit for PAS. GC achieved more reliable results for N2O in very low concentration ranges.

http://ift.tt/2dxqPdG

Tolerability in the elderly population of high-dose alpha lipoic acid: a potential antioxidant therapy for the eye

http://ift.tt/2dlNjy2

Energies, Vol. 9, Pages 803: Smooth Switching Technique for Voltage Balance Management Based on Three-Level Neutral Point Clamped Cascaded Rectifier

This paper discussed the topology of in the three-level neutral point clamped cascaded rectifier (3LNPC-CR) for designing the Chinese Power Electronic Traction Transformer (PETT). To balance the DC-link voltage (Vdc) in 3LNPC-CR, a smooth switching technique is proposed in this paper. The controlling processes of each module are relatively independent when the proposed technique is applied in 3LNPC-CR. The proposed technique can keep the switching frequency constantandchangetheswitchstatesmoothlywhilebalancingVdc. TheVdc balanceabilityisanalyzed by calculating the unbalance degree of the loads. Simulation and experiment of three-module 3LNPC-CR are built, and then the effectiveness of the proposed technique is verified.

http://ift.tt/2dJPXiz

Replication of Toxoplasma gondii in chicken erythrocytes and thrombocytes compared to macrophages

Abstract

Toxoplasma (T.) gondii is able to infect various cell types in different hosts. The replication of this parasite within different peripheral mononuclear blood cell populations in chicken has not yet been fully understood. Aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of chicken erythrocytes and thrombocytes as potential host cells for T. gondii. Cultures of primary avian erythrocytes and thrombocytes were inoculated with tachyzoites of T. gondii type II strain ME49. Parasite replication was detected by a quantitative real-time PCR at different times postinoculation until 24 or 48 h, respectively, displaying long-term investigations for the chosen cultures. The parasite replication curve showed a continuous decrease of parasite stages in erythrocytes and thrombocytes. Observations by light microscopy showed massive destruction for both cell populations. Few macrophages in between the infected thrombocytes were viable during the investigation period and showed internalised tachyzoites by confocal laser scanning microscopy. These findings show that T. gondii is not capable of replication in chicken erythrocytes and thrombocytes; therefore, both cannot be considered as potential host cells. In further consequence, monocyte-derived macrophages seem to be the key to the dissemination mechanisms for T. gondii in chicken.

http://ift.tt/2cWI86K